THE DETOUR

Manuscript-examiner Edward Fleming’s search for his missing colleague leads to Saudi Arabia—and the unveiling of deadly secrets that threaten the entire foundation of Islam—in Hussaini’s action-packed historical thriller. 

When Kimberly, an American researcher, takes her interest in Fatima, the oppressed daughter of the Prophet Mohammed, to Dr. Fayazi, she sets in motion a chain of events that range from the murder of a prominent builder, Abdul Zahra, to a worldwide Internet virus claiming to reveal the truth of the Musehaf Fatima, or Book of Fatima. From the beginning, Hussaini’s novel, in the spirit of Dan Brown, thrusts readers into a powerful murder scene. Weaving intriguing dialogue with crisp storytelling and an electric plot, Hussaini ensures that the adrenaline flow never stops. In addition to an exotic setting, the dynamic, entertaining cast of characters will keep the pages turning. Every character adds an intriguing element to the story, whether it’s Princess Safiya driving everyone around in her Bentley and Hummer, Zain’s mysterious behavior when speaking of the Musehaf Fatima, Dr. Fayazi’s fanaticism for the Musehaf, Vane’s calm demeanor and killer mentality or the partial amnesia that erases parts of Edward’s life. More importantly, the author does an exceptional job of accurately providing historical insight into a religion and a way of life that many are oblivious to and label as controversial. As each clue is unveiled in the desert landscape, readers learn about the warrior Emam Ali, the injustice done unto Fatima, the noble life of the Prophet Mohammed and perhaps the golden nuggets of wisdom that are buried within the Musehaf Fatima. The fact that the entire ordeal spans only 24 hours is a bit difficult to digest, especially because Edward and company travel from Mecca to Medina and to a host of holy Islamic sites; however, this is hardly a flaw as it only adds to the heart-wrenching pace and excitement for the reader. There are those that will kill to keep the Musehaf Fatima hidden; there are others who will die to reveal the truth of Fatima.  

Hussaini seamlessly blends compelling characters, thought-provoking situations, an impeccable discourse on Islamic history and a unique style and language to deliver an unparalleled historical thriller that will have readers anticipating his next novel, Echos of Fatima.