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A vulnerable reporter. A hidden truth.
Lost Lake Locator Hayden Kraus is thrust into a high-stakes investigation when he’s hired to investigate the disappearance of a prominent local figure. The case quickly unravels into a complex web of deception, corruption, and danger. As Hayden delves deeper, he crosses paths with Cadence Vaughn, a fearless and resourceful investigative journalist determined to uncover the truth behind her father’s mysterious murder—a case she believes is connected to the current investigation.

And an investigator pushed to extremes.
Despite initial friction, Hayden and Cadence realize they need each other to expose the powerful forces at play. As they piece together clues, they uncover evidence pointing to a sinister cover-up. The threats escalate, and they face increasing danger, but the bond between them strengthens. When they have to risk everything to bring the truth to light will that include risking a future together too?

339 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 7, 2025

196 people are currently reading
55 people want to read

About the author

Susan Sleeman

134 books810 followers
SUSAN SLEEMAN is the bestselling author of over sixty romantic suspense and mystery novels with more than two million books sold. She writes romantic suspense novels that are clean with inspiring messages of faith. Readers love her series for the well-drawn characters and edge-of-your-seat action. She graduated from the FBI and local police citizen academies, so her research is spot-on and her characters are real.

In addition to writing, Susan also hosts The Suspense Zone. She has lived in nine states but now calls Oregon home. Her husband is a retired church music director, and they have two beautiful daughters, two special sons-in-law, and four amazing grandsons

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
Profile Image for Julie Graves.
981 reviews37 followers
July 7, 2025
Hayden Kraus is part of the Lost Lake Locators team. They have been hired to find a local man who's son has reported missing. Cadence Vaughn is a reporter looking into her father's death which she has just found out was murder. Both Hayden and Cady are focused on their careers. Hayden needs to control every situation in his life including not falling in love with someone like Cady whom he would risk losing if he were unable to protect her. Cady has no desire to become involved with anyone because she has goals for her career and after her mother left her father and herself what makes Cady think she wouldn't do the same thing? Can they each learn to trust that God has control of their lives and step out in faith?

Such an exciting read! As always! I loved Hayden and Cady's relationship. I thought they fit perfectly together and I also loved how they learned to tentatively lean into their trust in God to work in all situations. The mystery was exciting and had me hoping the good guys would win! The subject material was a hard one for me to read. But I knew that the bad guys would get their comeuppance and the author did not disappoint in that area! This team is developing in my affections and with each story I enjoy them more and more.
Profile Image for Allyson Anthony.
1,173 reviews49 followers
June 9, 2025
This was a great read. Cady is investigating her father's murder, and her path crosses with Hayden who is searching for a missing person. As they dive into Cary's father's murder and search for the missing person, they unearth secrets, deception, and a shocking truth that both investigations are tied to each other. The chemistry between Cady and Hayden was great, the storyline drew me straight in, and there were plenty of action and suspense with twists and turns. I am looking forward to the next installment in this series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Edward Arrington.
1,179 reviews12 followers
June 7, 2025
Cady and Hayden had seen each other a few times in the past when the Lost Lake Locators were trying to find the murderer of the mayor. They both felt a slight tug of attraction, but neither was inclined to pursue the other. But when Cady returns to Lost Lake to try to figure out who murdered her own father, her path again crosses the path of Hayden. He and his team have been hired to locate the owner of a local surf shop, and he discovers Cady searching through storage boxes in the living room of the missing person after dark one night. Fortunately, she was not a criminal and made no false moves that could have resulted in getting shot. The question is whether they can work together. They are on different paths with different end results in view. Hayden’s team has to weigh in on whether there is any reason to help Cady since there is no reason to believe a connection exists between the two cases. They are searching for a missing person who may be in serious danger of being killed. Cady is seeking someone who has already committed murder. One involves a life that may be at stake while the other involves a life that has already ended. But their paths have already crossed, and Hayden is not willing to leave Cady to go it alone. The entire LLL team is on board with allowing Cady to put her investigative reporting skills to work to help them while they seek to help her where they can. Meanwhile, the local sheriff is trying to rein them all in so they will not interfere with her investigation. Susan Sleeman always comes up with numerous unexpected twists in her stories that keep the reader moving from chapter to chapter trying to guess what comes next. I enjoy the way she weaves an undercurrent of romance as well as a faith thread into the story. So, fasten your seatbelt and hang on for the ride. I received an advance copy of this book from the author. This is my honest review. All opinions are strictly my own.
3,562 reviews40 followers
June 10, 2025
We are back in Oregon with the Lost Lake Locators , as the author delivers another clean, Christian suspense story with some romance .
Hayden Kraus is one of the Locators and lead in finding the local surf shop owner. A man everyone in the community likes, and one that has gone missing.
Meanwhile, investigative reporter Cadence/Cady Vaughn is in town as her father has recently passed away . She suspects that it wasn’t the dementia that killed him but rather that he was poisoned and wants LLL to help her find the truth.
The two cases seemed to be intertwined and more dangerous than first believed as human trafficking appears to part of the sinister plot.
As Cady works with the LLL group and in particular with Hayden, feelings develop. But the past of these two, one feeling abandoned by a parent, as well as wanting a career that rarely leads to successful relationships and the other losing his parents and his faith in God at a young age, has them cautious of thinking of a future together.
Will LLL and Cady figure out the truth of what and who is involved ? Will they solve the mystery as well as realize they are meant to be together?
The plot is engaging, and the main and secondary characters well developed.
Faith was an important element throughout the story.
The author also reminds the readers that God is whom we need to trust, and He is our anchor and guide.
I was entrusted a copy of this book. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
Profile Image for Marylin.
1,309 reviews44 followers
June 18, 2025
From the first page to the very end of this book, the reader is taken on a wild ride searching for what is truly happening around this coastal town in Oregon.
This story is packed with drama, tension, action, modern-day heart-wrenching crimes, and a touch of romance.
It’s another great book by Susan Sleeman! This is the second book in the series, and we’re just now getting to know all the characters on this wonderful team. I love all their quirks and personalities. Each one brings a special part to the team.
In this story, we get to know Hayden a little more. He is a person who always wants to protect and have control, so he needs to learn the hard lesson of trusting others.
I love reading Susan Sleeman's books!
She also weaves beautiful truths and lessons about God’s love in a way that is neither offensive nor preachy.
I’m looking forward to reading all the upcoming books in this series, learning how the characters navigate their quirks, and seeing how they allow God to lead them.
This book has action, tension, intrigue, and suspense, as well as a bit of romance—well, maybe a little more than a bit.
I highly recommend you pick up this book and start reading! However, I must warn you that once you begin reading, you won’t be able to stop! I stayed up way too late to finish this book. WOW!
The publisher provided me with this book, but this did not influence my review in any way; all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
3,948 reviews1,764 followers
August 22, 2025
Look at me, keeping up with Susan Sleeman’s latest series! (I still have two to catch up on, I think.) This is the second book in the Lost Lake Investigator series but can easily be read as a standalone, though there is a bit of carry over with characters and a few plot points. No book one spoilers though.

I so enjoy the way this author builds up a team. Hayden’s investigative team is made up of an eclectic mix of law enforcement talent. They’ve formed a ‘found family’ bond and that comes with all the good natured ribbing you’d expect, along with a more serious ‘I’ve got your back’ moments.

Lots of action along with some cunning investigative work keeps the plot moving forward at a steady pace. Punctuated with lovely snippets of romance sprinkled generously throughout.

I love the way Sleeman develops Hayden and Cadence’s relationship. She’s strong-willed and opinionated and completely fixated on exposing her father’s murderer. He’s working a parallel case that makes it beneficial for them to work together…as long as they can tamp down the sizzling tension between them. Lovely balance between their working dynamics and the personal, getting to know you moments.

And mercy, but there are some riveting, heart-in-throat action moments that bring resolution to the suspense and clear the way for some serious romancing. Makes for a thrilling escape read. I’m excited now to continue on with the series and get the personal back stories for all the team.
Profile Image for Glenda Parker.
Author 14 books22 followers
July 8, 2025
My review today is on the Christian Suspense Romance, Lost Truth. This is book two in the series Lost Lake Locators. I'm such a big fan of Susan's books. I'm thrilled when I receive one of her books in the mail. I automatically drop whatever else I'm reading. This one was not a disappointment, it was incredible! I know you are going to love it.

Lost Lake Locator Hayden Kraus is hired to find Kai Nakoa. A surfer who has a small shop. As he goes to his home to check it out, he runs into an investigative journalist. She is a woman he has met before, one he couldn't stop thinking of. What is she doing here in the middle of the night?

Investigative Journalist Cadence Vaughn is trying to find proof that her father was murdered. At first they thought his death was of natural causes. He did have dementia. The ME did say that an overdose could have caused the body to respond like it did. She is out to find the person who poisoned her father. They decide to work together.

A terrifying journey into the world of corruption right there in the small community of Lost Lake. God has a plan for these two, a plan for hope and a future. God has a plan for you too. A plan for peace and not for harm. Give Him your heart and let Him lead you down the right path. You won't be sorry.
Profile Image for Judy.
3,299 reviews
July 8, 2025
Lost Truth by Susan Sleeman
Lost Lake Locators Book Two
Hayden Kraus is part of the Lost Lake Locators. After losing his parents at fourteen, his five fellow LLLs were his family. They had another job to find a missing local man, and his son was concerned. What Hayden didn’t expect to see in this case was Cady Vaughn. He’d met her and was intrigued with her when he met her on a case, and he still found that she pulled him in.
Cadence “Cady” Vaughn was hoping to find out who murdered her father. At first, they thought it was his dementia, but she pushed for further testing and found he’d been murdered. When she runs into Hayden in an unlikely place, they discover that their cases may be intertwined, and so LLL agrees to work with her. Their missing man, Kai, will come first, though. The clock was always ticking for the window to find someone who’d gone missing.
Hayden always needed control, and Cady was after the next big job to move up the ranks as a reporter. That didn’t leave much room for them to start a relationship…but you never know how things work out.
Another fabulous story in this series.
https://justjudysjumbles.blogspot.com...
1,767 reviews33 followers
June 17, 2025
I'm enjoying this series a lot and it's no surprise since I love this author's work! She presents clean suspense romance with realistic characters and situations that was page turners! This time the Lost Lake Locators are tasked with finding a local surf shop owner who has suddenly disappeared. He is well known in the community and although he told his son and others that he would be gone for a week, it's out of character for him. As the Locators delve deeper into his whereabouts, surprising information comes to light. Hayden Kraus begins to work with Cady Vaughn because she's sure her father was murdered, and it appears this is somehow connected with the case the Locators are working. Hayden and Cady have met before and felt that tug of attraction but perhaps now will be the right time for them - or is it?
High stakes investigation skills are required when people's lives are at stake in this page-turning story! I loved getting to know the Locators more and how their personalities mesh as they try to save lives in this book! I definitely recommend!
Profile Image for Another_Book_to_Ponder.
564 reviews
July 26, 2025
Grab This Book! It Will Make Your Weekend Better!

I’m really enjoying this series! The Lost Lake Locators Series has been amazing! No surprise as Susan Sleeman has written so many amazing books and the greatest part is that some of the characters in those books will pop up now and again!

This story will draw you in with many feelings. I laughed, was surprised, got angry and sad. Not in that order! Each character had depth and the storyline will keep you hooked..

If you enjoy CSI or Criminal Minds or BAU type of shows then you can’t go wrong diving into this book or any of Susan Sleeman’s books!

Audiobook:
I loved all of the voices that Whitney Dykhouse brought to the story. I always love when the Narrator doesn’t distract and actually adds depth and personality to the books that it draws you in even further. Whitney does this!!!

I sat and read while I could and listened when I was doing things like the dishes. Makes cleaning so much easier!

I received a complimentary ARC and Audio copy of this book from the Author and was under no obligation to post a favorable review.
Profile Image for Marilyn Johnson.
601 reviews1 follower
July 6, 2025
I love everything about this series, this is book two in the Lost Lake Locators series, however as most of Susan Sleemans book, they are a stand a lone. I look forward to reading more of all the characters in this series. Susan Sleeman is one of my favorite authors and she always grabs and keeps my attention. I love how so many of her books and series include people from other books and series, so you can stay connected, yet you do not have to read them all to enjoy any other book. This book is full of mystery, drama, friendship, romance, and so much more. We met the Lost Lake locators in the first book. Hayden, one of the LLL team are searching for a local, when Cadence is found in an unexpected place, the must work together to help find a killer and a lost local. I would recommend this book. I was given a copy of this book for my honest opinion.
Profile Image for Carolyn Bryant.
919 reviews79 followers
June 28, 2025
Lost Truth is a compelling addition to the Lost Lake Locators series. I love the awesome Lost Lake Locators private investigating team and was waiting eagerly to return to the Oregon coast to dig into their next case. This story exceeded my expectations keeping me reading attentively and sometimes breathlessly as the suspense and danger mounted! The masterfully woven plot, with unexpected twists and turns, kept me guessing at the outcome. Characters, main and secondary, are well-crafted and memorable. The story features as its lead characters Lost Lake Locator Hayden Kraus and investigative journalist Cadence "Cady" Vaughan. Despite the unrelenting attraction between the two, they have intense personal issues that challenge their future as a couple. Their evolving romantic relationship enhances the story. The meaningful faith message on the importance of trusting God in all circumstances is a much-needed reminder. I totally enjoyed this story and look forward to the next case! This book has my highest recommendation.
I read an advanced copy of this book from the author/publisher with no obligation to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Mary Hake.
Author 4 books413 followers
July 16, 2025
Another exciting installment in the Lost Lake Locaters series. This book focuses on team member Hayden and Cady, who has lost her father under mysterious circumstances. Who knew his death might be connected to the murder in the first book of the series, so it’s best to read them in order. The twists and surprising developments as the team unravels the case and works to bring the criminals to justice make for great suspense reading. I enjoy seeing the connections to characters from previous series and the Oregon setting of my home state. I received a copy from the author. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Ethelann.
431 reviews
June 17, 2025
Lost Truth is a great new Lost Lake Locators story and a real page-turner.
Cady is a reporter looking into why and who murdered her father.
Hayden is investigating the disappearance of a much-loved resident. When they run into each other Hayden doesn't trust the reporter, but for Cady this is her family and she doesn't report on them.
Together they figure out that the murder of her father and the disappearance of another are linked together by something evil going on. Can they get to the bottom of things before they're taken out?
This book was totally awesome!
Profile Image for Debbie.
287 reviews13 followers
July 7, 2025
The latest book by Susan Sleeman does not disappoint. It has all the mystery, suspense, action and complex characters that a great book should have. When reporter Cadence Vaughn suspects her father was murdered but no one wants to investigate, she does it herself. With the help of Hayden Kraus and his team, they begin to investigate the evidence which leads to a much deeper and sinister event that has so many twists, turns and connections that I couldn't put it down. I received an advance copy from the author but all opinions are my own.
769 reviews4 followers
July 22, 2025
sawyer and cady

I didn’t know at first if these two would make it past the first 2 or 3 chapters and all in between the rest f the novel.
Can you imagine having your father murdered and then come face to face w/the killer? Thank goodness Sawyer was there and others to keep Cady safe. Enjoy every page of another great Susan Sleeman Novel.
Profile Image for Becky Smith.
385 reviews5 followers
November 23, 2025
Another Great Book!

I really enjoy how the characters from other books keep appearing throughout her next books. The suspense and mystery are well done. I especially like the extra twists at the end of this book. I suspected some but had not figured out all of them. I can't wait to read the next one!
71 reviews
July 15, 2025
A Good Read

The author keeps your interest all the way through. You are taken through an investigation by Lost Lake Locators in this coastal town in Oregon, as they dig to find out who is responsible for the human trafficking of women from China
128 reviews4 followers
August 3, 2025
Very enjoyable

I have grown too find this author’s books very enjoyable. This book had many twists and turns to keep one entertained. The beginning was a bit slow but picked up about a fourth of the way through. The book left the story incomplete so I look forward to book 3.
314 reviews9 followers
September 27, 2025
Fantastic

What a wonderful work of Christian fiction. It's a thriller with a lot of twists and turns and has the theme of human trafficking.
It is so worth reading and will keep you engaged.
Profile Image for Kristen.
1,186 reviews
July 8, 2025
Good complex mystery with lots many intertwined facets - a missing person, a suspicious death, human trafficking, and many questions! It was an easy read, fast-paced, and included a bit of romance.
273 reviews
July 10, 2025
Amazing!

Susan Sleeman writes a compelling story of loss, heartache, friendship, community, love, suspense and prayful requests for God to help restore Faith!
Profile Image for Mark.
2,506 reviews52 followers
July 10, 2025
Great read. And there was little involvement from the high priced group that always helps out for free ...that gets old and predictable 😎
Profile Image for Renee Helton.
872 reviews4 followers
July 15, 2025
I received a copy of this book.
Great Story and Wonderful Characters.
Full of Action and Plot Twists.
Looking forward to reading more books by this author.
417 reviews1 follower
July 31, 2025
full of twists and turns more info on what the Mayor was doing with all that money For a small town they have a lot of shady people living there and coming through! Looking forward to book 3
22 reviews1 follower
August 9, 2025
A great read

Thanks again for another great read. I am grateful for Christian authors who write so well. Keep writing. I look forward to the next book.
1 review
November 22, 2025
Lost Truth

Loved this chapter in Lost Lake Locaters series, lots of mystery and suspense, with romance too of course. Thanks Susan
106 reviews
January 13, 2026
Fantastic!

This was a brilliant and intriguing mystery with some great characters combined with romance. A super series ... looking forward to the next book.
103 reviews1 follower
July 13, 2025
After meeting all of the Lost Lake Locators in the first book in this series, I thoroughly enjoyed plunging straight into the action with this one, already knowing all of the characters. (If you haven’t read Lost Hours yet, go read it first – you’ll love it!)

When investigative reporter Cadence shows up in Lost Lake looking for her father’s murderer, she crosses paths with Hayden, whose team is scouring the county, looking for a missing local business owner. At first, there doesn’t appear to be a lot of cross-over between the two cases, and the team finds it difficult to trust Cady, whose job seems at odds with their need for confidentiality in the investigation. Hayden chooses to trust her, however, and the deeper they dig, the more they realize that the scope of the danger is far beyond what they had initially imagined.

I loved the slow build of the relationship between Hayden and Cady. The two of them met in the previous book, so their relationship wasn’t completely new, which made it easier to see their bond deepen in the time frame of the book. This entire series is shaping up so well, and I can’t wait to see where else the team’s stories lead!
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