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Lost History Between Us
A hidden legacy. A buried truth. And a second chance at love that could cost them everything.History teacher Olivia James just inherited her grandmother's remote cabin—a place filled with memories of her childhood and her first love. But when she arrives during a storm to find the cabin ransacked and mysterious boot prints in the mud, she realizes her grandmother left behind more than just a cozy retreat.
Natural Resources Ranger Cameron Ellis was the last person Olivia expected to see investigating the break-in. Three years ago, he walked away without explanation, leaving her heart in pieces. Now he's back, more ruggedly handsome than ever, but hiding a secret that's slowly destroying him.
As they uncover her grandmother's connection to a decades-old museum robbery and the Civil Rights movement, Olivia and Cameron are forced together in a dangerous dance of trust and mistrust. Hidden journals, coded messages, and a network of Underground Railroad safe houses lead them deeper into a mystery that's claimed at least one life already. But the closer they get to the truth, the closer danger creeps, and soon they're dodging bullets as well as their rekindled feelings.
With a powerful trafficking ring closing in and Cameron's health failing, Olivia must decide if exposing the truth is worth risking everything—including her second chance at love.
Lost History Between Us is a steamy romantic suspense novel
A strong Black heroine fighting to preserve historyA sexy park ranger with a devastating secretSecond chance romance wrapped in deadly stakesRich historical mysteries and Civil Rights era connectionsForced proximity in a remote cabinPassion that burns hotter than the danger surrounding them
Perfect for readers who love their romantic suspense with complex characters, rich history, and steam that'll fog up your windows.
Natural Resources Ranger Cameron Ellis was the last person Olivia expected to see investigating the break-in. Three years ago, he walked away without explanation, leaving her heart in pieces. Now he's back, more ruggedly handsome than ever, but hiding a secret that's slowly destroying him.
As they uncover her grandmother's connection to a decades-old museum robbery and the Civil Rights movement, Olivia and Cameron are forced together in a dangerous dance of trust and mistrust. Hidden journals, coded messages, and a network of Underground Railroad safe houses lead them deeper into a mystery that's claimed at least one life already. But the closer they get to the truth, the closer danger creeps, and soon they're dodging bullets as well as their rekindled feelings.
With a powerful trafficking ring closing in and Cameron's health failing, Olivia must decide if exposing the truth is worth risking everything—including her second chance at love.
Lost History Between Us is a steamy romantic suspense novel
A strong Black heroine fighting to preserve historyA sexy park ranger with a devastating secretSecond chance romance wrapped in deadly stakesRich historical mysteries and Civil Rights era connectionsForced proximity in a remote cabinPassion that burns hotter than the danger surrounding them
Perfect for readers who love their romantic suspense with complex characters, rich history, and steam that'll fog up your windows.
- GenresRomance
352 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 27, 2025
19 people want to read
About the author
Barbara Howard
34 books98 followersRevealing secrets. Igniting passion. One page at a time.
Author of mystery stories featuring a strong female protagonist, a diverse cast of characters, and a dash of romance.
Barbara Howard is a mystery, romantic suspense, and contemporary romance author based in Cleveland, Ohio with a passion for creating stories that delve into complex relationships and hidden truths. Her works often explore themes of love, trust, and the past's influence on the present. With extensive experience as a Department of Defense/Pentagon Project Manager, KPMG Eastern Region Project Leader, and Corporate Sales Representative for Borders Books & Music, Ms. Howard brings a unique perspective to her writing. Now back in her hometown, she spends her days treasure hunting, spoiling her fur-babies, growing veggies, and plotting whodunits.
Board President (2024-2025), Great Lakes Fiction Writers
Memberships/Affiliations: Mystery Writers of America (MWA), Sisters in Crime (SinC), Great Lakes Fiction Writers (GLFW), Crime Writers of Color (CWoC), Authors Guild (AG)
She has also published a collection of books on food-related topics, food safety, and heirloom recipe cookbooks under the pen name, Arlene Lee.
Author of mystery stories featuring a strong female protagonist, a diverse cast of characters, and a dash of romance.
Barbara Howard is a mystery, romantic suspense, and contemporary romance author based in Cleveland, Ohio with a passion for creating stories that delve into complex relationships and hidden truths. Her works often explore themes of love, trust, and the past's influence on the present. With extensive experience as a Department of Defense/Pentagon Project Manager, KPMG Eastern Region Project Leader, and Corporate Sales Representative for Borders Books & Music, Ms. Howard brings a unique perspective to her writing. Now back in her hometown, she spends her days treasure hunting, spoiling her fur-babies, growing veggies, and plotting whodunits.
Board President (2024-2025), Great Lakes Fiction Writers
Memberships/Affiliations: Mystery Writers of America (MWA), Sisters in Crime (SinC), Great Lakes Fiction Writers (GLFW), Crime Writers of Color (CWoC), Authors Guild (AG)
She has also published a collection of books on food-related topics, food safety, and heirloom recipe cookbooks under the pen name, Arlene Lee.
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Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews
April 3, 2025
This was such a good story. I'm a suckered for a good second chance romance, and this one didn't disappoint. Olivia and Cameron were determined to keep Olivia's grandmother's legacy alive despite all the obstacles they faced. The history of the Underground Railroad that was explored in this book was interesting, especially the trail markers. The romance and suspense were well put together. I couldn't wait to see who was behind the break-ins and theft. Olivia and Cameron, finding their way back to each other, was everything. I will be reading more by this author.
April 12, 2025
Protecting Legacies: A Review of Lost History Between Us
Forget dusty archives and sterile museum displays; Lost History Between Us throws you headfirst into where the past isn't just buried – it's actively being hunted. Olivia, a history teacher finds herself unexpectedly thrust into the heart of a mystery. When she and Cameron, the handsome historical park ranger, stumble upon documents detailing the untold history of their small town, their lives are forever changed.
This isn't just any collection of old papers; these documents are the legacy of Olivia's grandmother, a town legend and historian who dedicated her life to preserving Mason's Crossing's rich, and previously hidden, past. Now, with her grandmother gone, the weight of that legacy falls on Olivia's shoulders – a legacy that suddenly feels far more dangerous than she imagined. The discovery sparks a game of cat and mouse, as Olivia and Cameron find themselves pursued by shadowy figures determined to claim the documents for their own purposes.
The novel blends historical intrigue with romantic suspense. The tension between Olivia and Cameron, fueled by a shared past with unanswered questions, adds another layer of complexity to the already gripping narrative. Their partnership is not just about protecting the documents; it's about forging a connection rooted in shared purpose and mutual respect. As they delve deeper into the secrets of Mason's Crossing.
Lost History Between Us is more than just a mystery; it's a captivating exploration of legacy, the enduring power of community, and the courage it takes to stand up for what you believe in. The author weaves together historical detail with slow burn, If you crave a story that blends romance, suspense, and a touch of historical magic, then this is the book for you. Prepare to be swept away.
Forget dusty archives and sterile museum displays; Lost History Between Us throws you headfirst into where the past isn't just buried – it's actively being hunted. Olivia, a history teacher finds herself unexpectedly thrust into the heart of a mystery. When she and Cameron, the handsome historical park ranger, stumble upon documents detailing the untold history of their small town, their lives are forever changed.
This isn't just any collection of old papers; these documents are the legacy of Olivia's grandmother, a town legend and historian who dedicated her life to preserving Mason's Crossing's rich, and previously hidden, past. Now, with her grandmother gone, the weight of that legacy falls on Olivia's shoulders – a legacy that suddenly feels far more dangerous than she imagined. The discovery sparks a game of cat and mouse, as Olivia and Cameron find themselves pursued by shadowy figures determined to claim the documents for their own purposes.
The novel blends historical intrigue with romantic suspense. The tension between Olivia and Cameron, fueled by a shared past with unanswered questions, adds another layer of complexity to the already gripping narrative. Their partnership is not just about protecting the documents; it's about forging a connection rooted in shared purpose and mutual respect. As they delve deeper into the secrets of Mason's Crossing.
Lost History Between Us is more than just a mystery; it's a captivating exploration of legacy, the enduring power of community, and the courage it takes to stand up for what you believe in. The author weaves together historical detail with slow burn, If you crave a story that blends romance, suspense, and a touch of historical magic, then this is the book for you. Prepare to be swept away.
April 4, 2025
I was struggling to determine how I wanted to rate this, so I've settled at 3.75⭐
I loved the exploration of history, not only in the preservation of histories that are actively silenced and hidden, but also the character's passion for sharing that history with others. I don't usually read books with big mystery elements, and it turns out all I was missing was romance because I had been hooked from the beginning.
The only reason I was struggling to figure out my rating was a result of my preferences and is truly no reflection on the quality of the story. I always forget why I struggle with second chance romances until I read another and it hits me again. I get too emotionally invested in the stories I read, imagining myself in the position of the character. It becomes all too easy for me to truly start feeling those emotions and when the characters aren't reflecting those emotions or actions, I get frustrated. It was largely the beginning of the book that I struggled with the most. When they come together for the first time in three years, I need some sort of true tension, I need to see her feelings of loss, hurt, and betrayal because I am feeling the loss, hurt, and betrayal. It felt like almost immediately they were falling right back into each other with little to no reflection on what had happened between them, and for me to feel it with them, I would have had to have some sort of proper conversation between them (or even a more verbal acknowledgment). It's difficult because logically I understand this is because they never stopped loving each other and all they truly wanted from the beginning was to be together, so it does make sense, but I was too busy feeling betrayed for her to let it go.
Despite my early reservations I quickly got over it as I got more invested in the story and the couple as they came together again. I loved learning about the history of the Underground Railroad in such a way. I think it is so easy to forget that learning about these things can be done in fun ways that don't always mean academia, and for those who do love that aspect of learning the author included discussion questions at the end of the book, which were incredibly intriguing to go through and reflect on after finishing the story. I am so grateful that I had the opportunity to read and review this book, which I received a copy of through NetGalley.
I loved the exploration of history, not only in the preservation of histories that are actively silenced and hidden, but also the character's passion for sharing that history with others. I don't usually read books with big mystery elements, and it turns out all I was missing was romance because I had been hooked from the beginning.
The only reason I was struggling to figure out my rating was a result of my preferences and is truly no reflection on the quality of the story. I always forget why I struggle with second chance romances until I read another and it hits me again. I get too emotionally invested in the stories I read, imagining myself in the position of the character. It becomes all too easy for me to truly start feeling those emotions and when the characters aren't reflecting those emotions or actions, I get frustrated. It was largely the beginning of the book that I struggled with the most. When they come together for the first time in three years, I need some sort of true tension, I need to see her feelings of loss, hurt, and betrayal because I am feeling the loss, hurt, and betrayal. It felt like almost immediately they were falling right back into each other with little to no reflection on what had happened between them, and for me to feel it with them, I would have had to have some sort of proper conversation between them (or even a more verbal acknowledgment). It's difficult because logically I understand this is because they never stopped loving each other and all they truly wanted from the beginning was to be together, so it does make sense, but I was too busy feeling betrayed for her to let it go.
Despite my early reservations I quickly got over it as I got more invested in the story and the couple as they came together again. I loved learning about the history of the Underground Railroad in such a way. I think it is so easy to forget that learning about these things can be done in fun ways that don't always mean academia, and for those who do love that aspect of learning the author included discussion questions at the end of the book, which were incredibly intriguing to go through and reflect on after finishing the story. I am so grateful that I had the opportunity to read and review this book, which I received a copy of through NetGalley.
May 26, 2025
Lost History Between Us blends two of my favourite genres -mystery/suspense and romance - for an intriguing story steeped in history and lessons about the importance of preserving a legacy for future generations.
This was a gift from the author Barbara Howard I didn't mind unwrapping, and although it was my first, it won't be my last.
Olivia James is a history teacher who unexpectedly gets caught up in a mystery after finding her late grandmother's cabin ransacked.
Located in Mason's Crossing, she inherited the cabin where she spent many days as a girl, from Martha, the town's revered historian and museum curator, who worked diligently to preserve artefacts and documents - the "stories, sacrifices, centuries of survival wrapped in cloth and paper" - related to the Underground Railroad and their town's role in it.
Shortly after getting there, the love of her life Cameron (they were together for three years until he left without a word to her leaving her heartbroken) who is now a ranger at the historic Two Rivers State Forest, arrives and together they agree (not willingly initially) to work to protect the artefacts which Cameron's grandfather Jon Ellis was also involved in.
What follows is an intriguing story of intrigue, suspicion, secrets, and figures hiding in the shadows, one which serves up expected tension between the former lovers as they race headlong into unravelling the mystery of who is behind the nefarious actions, why they want to possess the documents and what they had to do with an organised theft ring.
We meet Regina Washington, who set off my spidey senses from the time I met her and the shady Ezra Thompson who, as it turned out, was not what he appeared to be, along with other characters who helped move the story along to an exciting crescendo.
Even though the story was gripping and the author delighted me with her descriptive prose, there were moments that were achingly repetitive in reinforcing the historical significance of it all. There were also moments that I wanted to shake the stubborn Olivia for repeatedly wondering what happened THREE YEARS ago and why Cam was so tightlipped about it.
I mean she went on and on about it at different points in the story and I was going to stop reading because it annoyed me so much that in the middle of trying to solve the mystery and unearth what her grandmother wanted her to find out, she wouldn't stop harping about it. I was too invested in the mystery itself to put it aside, though, and had to see it through to the end.
Was the mystery solved? Yes, but I won't spoil it for you and say what happened or giveaway other details that are pertinent parts of the story.
If you're in the mood for a story that explores legacy, provides historic details in a take you there manner, one that's about the courage it takes for people to stand up to people mightier than themselves, and the power of community, read Lost History Between Us. And, if romantic suspense with a slow burn and history sounds like your jam, read this novel.
This was a gift from the author Barbara Howard I didn't mind unwrapping, and although it was my first, it won't be my last.
Olivia James is a history teacher who unexpectedly gets caught up in a mystery after finding her late grandmother's cabin ransacked.
Located in Mason's Crossing, she inherited the cabin where she spent many days as a girl, from Martha, the town's revered historian and museum curator, who worked diligently to preserve artefacts and documents - the "stories, sacrifices, centuries of survival wrapped in cloth and paper" - related to the Underground Railroad and their town's role in it.
Shortly after getting there, the love of her life Cameron (they were together for three years until he left without a word to her leaving her heartbroken) who is now a ranger at the historic Two Rivers State Forest, arrives and together they agree (not willingly initially) to work to protect the artefacts which Cameron's grandfather Jon Ellis was also involved in.
What follows is an intriguing story of intrigue, suspicion, secrets, and figures hiding in the shadows, one which serves up expected tension between the former lovers as they race headlong into unravelling the mystery of who is behind the nefarious actions, why they want to possess the documents and what they had to do with an organised theft ring.
We meet Regina Washington, who set off my spidey senses from the time I met her and the shady Ezra Thompson who, as it turned out, was not what he appeared to be, along with other characters who helped move the story along to an exciting crescendo.
Even though the story was gripping and the author delighted me with her descriptive prose, there were moments that were achingly repetitive in reinforcing the historical significance of it all. There were also moments that I wanted to shake the stubborn Olivia for repeatedly wondering what happened THREE YEARS ago and why Cam was so tightlipped about it.
I mean she went on and on about it at different points in the story and I was going to stop reading because it annoyed me so much that in the middle of trying to solve the mystery and unearth what her grandmother wanted her to find out, she wouldn't stop harping about it. I was too invested in the mystery itself to put it aside, though, and had to see it through to the end.
Was the mystery solved? Yes, but I won't spoil it for you and say what happened or giveaway other details that are pertinent parts of the story.
If you're in the mood for a story that explores legacy, provides historic details in a take you there manner, one that's about the courage it takes for people to stand up to people mightier than themselves, and the power of community, read Lost History Between Us. And, if romantic suspense with a slow burn and history sounds like your jam, read this novel.
Read
April 27, 2025This cover design is gorgeous, that’s what initially drew me to the book.
But this might be a dnf for me. While I love the history and set up of uncovering a mystery around the Underground Railroad, I’m too frustrated with Olivia and Cameron.
Olivia and Cameron are childhood sweethearts. Cameron left 3 years ago without saying anything to Olivia. But… he did come back and get a job as a park ranger. They just avoided each other for 3 years.
1. There is SO MUCH brushing of fingers, shoulders bumping, casual touches that MEAN THINGS, but takes forever to result in a kiss. It’s a slow burn if that’s what you’re looking for.
2. They spend a lot of time forced together, but takes forever to actually talk to each other.
3. Past the 50% mark Cameron finally has to explain why he left, but the timeline doesn’t really make sense.
4. The baddie is so obvious. Theresa might as well be mustache twirling and maniacal laughing.
This might be better in a visual medium. A movie would be great with the history and flashbacks and action moments.
Arc provided by the publisher
But this might be a dnf for me. While I love the history and set up of uncovering a mystery around the Underground Railroad, I’m too frustrated with Olivia and Cameron.
Olivia and Cameron are childhood sweethearts. Cameron left 3 years ago without saying anything to Olivia. But… he did come back and get a job as a park ranger. They just avoided each other for 3 years.
1. There is SO MUCH brushing of fingers, shoulders bumping, casual touches that MEAN THINGS, but takes forever to result in a kiss. It’s a slow burn if that’s what you’re looking for.
2. They spend a lot of time forced together, but takes forever to actually talk to each other.
3. Past the 50% mark Cameron finally has to explain why he left, but the timeline doesn’t really make sense.
4. The baddie is so obvious. Theresa might as well be mustache twirling and maniacal laughing.
This might be better in a visual medium. A movie would be great with the history and flashbacks and action moments.
Arc provided by the publisher
August 7, 2025
“Love Protects. Love Preserves. Love Leaves a legacy worth fighting for.”
Star Rating: 4.5⭐️
Ugh I loved this book so much! This book was sent to me by Barbara Howard. However all thought are completely my own.
I loved loved loved so much about this book. Its a romantic suspense that follows the FMC Olivia. The story takes place in a small town called Masons Crossing. I loved Olivia. She’s extremely relatable and admirable. She has a really strong sense of self with a weak/soft spot for the MMC. PLEASE do not go into this book thinking it’s a romance. It is, but it’s so so so much more than that. The plot was PLOTTING. This was a page turner for me (y’all should see the tabbbbies on this book lmao). The plot twists got me for sure! And I ate up the romance in this! Love love loved the historical elements of this book. I definitely have not read anything like this yet. Such a hidden gem ❤️
Star Rating: 4.5⭐️
Ugh I loved this book so much! This book was sent to me by Barbara Howard. However all thought are completely my own.
I loved loved loved so much about this book. Its a romantic suspense that follows the FMC Olivia. The story takes place in a small town called Masons Crossing. I loved Olivia. She’s extremely relatable and admirable. She has a really strong sense of self with a weak/soft spot for the MMC. PLEASE do not go into this book thinking it’s a romance. It is, but it’s so so so much more than that. The plot was PLOTTING. This was a page turner for me (y’all should see the tabbbbies on this book lmao). The plot twists got me for sure! And I ate up the romance in this! Love love loved the historical elements of this book. I definitely have not read anything like this yet. Such a hidden gem ❤️
January 29, 2025
Love and history is the main theme of this book. How history shape us to be what we are. To preserve history is to left your legacy for future generations. The main characters Cameron and Hannah worked together to unravel the secrets her grandmother worked so hard to prevent from being exposed. To keep the artifacts her grandmother kept safe from being stolen. This book is full of love, mystery and history. I love it, enjoyed it from start to finish and read it in one go.
April 30, 2025
Tropes: Mystery, suspense and Second Chances Romance
General thought : I loved the story about legacy and preserving family heritage and heirlooms .
This was a nice blend of romance , suspense and mystery.
Book overview: Olivia a history teacher has to return to Mason crossing after her grandmother passed and willed her , her childhood holiday cabin.
Olivia didn’t know that she will discover the true essence of her grandmother work and also a second chance at love.
General thought : I loved the story about legacy and preserving family heritage and heirlooms .
This was a nice blend of romance , suspense and mystery.
Book overview: Olivia a history teacher has to return to Mason crossing after her grandmother passed and willed her , her childhood holiday cabin.
Olivia didn’t know that she will discover the true essence of her grandmother work and also a second chance at love.
January 7, 2026
The more books I read from this author, the more I truly believe her writing needs to be on the big screen. This would be a great thriller to watch and the romance sprinkled into it is just the perfect touch. I enjoyed Cameron’s character and the strength it took for him to keep pushing day by day. I also loved the support from Olivia and how their love was rekindled. Looking forward to more books from this author.
Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews