Death Takes a Detour by Shereen Veeam is a fast paced paranormal young adult mystery. The main character Abbie is an EMT from London who is headed to her family home after a tragic accident involving her coworkers. She stop at a church that was her favorite spot as a child and come across a family in need. She agrees to watch and protect the children while they work to solve the murder of the children's mother. The main character along with the supporting characters are very likable. The story line take many twists and turns. The ending leaves it open for sequels! If you like a family fun mystery with witches, demons, seers and Hindu Gods you should absolutely read this book! I can't wait to read the future books in this series as I couldn't put this book down! Highly recommended!

This book immediately drew me in with its fast-paced plot and intriguing premise. Abbie Grimshaw’s journey, recovering from tragedy, discovering her powers, and stepping into the role of protector, felt both compelling and heartfelt. The supernatural elements and the mix of characters with unique abilities added an exciting dynamic, and the story kept me turning pages.
That said, because the story moves along at such a rapid pace, there were moments where I wished for a little more breathing room. Some scenes and character developments felt rushed, and I think slowing down in certain places could have allowed for even deeper emotional impact. Abbie’s transition into her role as a Grimm, for example, might resonate even more if her discoveries and struggles were given more space to unfold.
The characters themselves are vivid and well-developed, which makes them easy to connect with. Still, a few of the secondary characters’ powers and motivations could have used more explanation or backstory, as I occasionally found myself wanting additional context to fully understand their place in the group.
Overall, this is a well-written and engaging start to a series. The pacing, action, and strong central character make it a page-turner, while a bit more depth and slower build in certain areas could elevate it even further. I’m excited to see where the series goes next.

Are you a fan of all things Grimm? Please let me introduce you to Abigail Grimshaw. Little did she know that her life was going to quickly change. Can she keep up?

Unlike most Grimm stories, this one follows a matriarchal line. A fact she later finds out from her mother after returning home to try and recover from a tragedy, one she was almost part of.

In a fit of independence on her way home to her parents, at least that’s what she tells herself, she stops at the church and graveyard in which she found such peace growing up.

Unfortunately, this time was anything but peaceful. A murder, a promise to a ghost and two scared children later, she finds herself at the police station, trying to keep the children calm with a plausible enough story to be believed.

As her mother tries to help her the best way she knows how, sharing the Grimm artifacts that have been collected over the years. Abbie does everything she can to keep herself and the children safe.

Together, with the help of those she trusts, they embark on a mystery she never could have imagined.

If you enjoy twists on stories, fantastical magic, strong female characters and supportive family and friends, this may just be a story you would enjoy. I loved it and can’t wait to read more!

I would like to thank the author and NetGalley for a copy of this book. All opinions are my own and my review is voluntarily given. As always, I wish you happy reading!

I liked this but found the middle a bit of a slog and the ending a bit too simple; a lot was left unexplained.

I also didn’t love that the catalyst for the MC moving to town was apparently a Muslim suicide bomb alluded to in the beginning with zero followup or explanation; while the author is Sri-Lankan-Canadian and quite a bit of the included characters/culture/food/music/deities etc were of the global majority, it felt racist and disrespectful towards the Muslim faith.

Excellent series debut by Shereen Vedam, thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review.
Abbie Grimshaw is still recovering from a horrendous attack that took the lives of her EMT crew in London, when she decides that a move back to her hometown is just what she needs to further that recovery.
But on her return, paying a visit to a childhood haunt, she encounters both the supernatural and a terrible murder - and ends up the de facto guardian of two children.
What Abbie doesn't know at the time is that she's a Grimm (yes, like the fairytale family) and that her powers are beginning to manifest.
This story romps along at the speed of light, and much happens as, slowly but surely, Abbie begins to gather a group around her - each with either supernatural or technological powers as they work to thwart a demon and a human who are set on destroying these children.
I cannot wait to see how this all turns out, as the series continues.

A well written story that kept me hooked from the very beginning.
The characters draw you in and keeps you flipping the pages.
They are realistic and very well developed.
I really enjoyed the writing style. I found myself hooked, turning the pages.

A Magical Page-Turner That Delivers on Every Front
"Death Takes a Detour" by Shereen Vedam is an absolutely captivating read that kept me glued to the pages from beginning to end. This out-of-the-ordinary story encompasses just about every aspect of magical being one could imagine: a ghost, a witch, seers, a cat shifter, and even a murderous god.

What I loved most about this book was how Vedam masterfully weaves together all these supernatural elements without making the story feel cluttered or overwhelming. Each magical character serves a purpose and adds depth to the overall narrative.
The pacing is excellent – this is definitely a quick read that maintains momentum throughout. I found myself completely absorbed in the world Vedam created, and the story held my attention from start to finish without any dull moments.
Who would I recommend this to?

Fans of paranormal fiction
Readers who enjoy ensemble casts of supernatural characters
Anyone looking for a fast-paced, engaging story
Those who appreciate creative world-building with diverse magical elements

If you're in the mood for an entertaining paranormal read that combines multiple supernatural elements into one cohesive, engaging story, "Death Takes a Detour" is definitely worth your time. Highly recommended!