Waiting in the Shadows: Forbidden Love

by Sarah Lamb

Her whole life, Ellen Grayson has lived by one stay away from the Claytons. They’re dangerous, evil, and sworn enemies of her family. But when she finds herself on Clayton land, the one who protects her doesn't match the monster from her parents’ stories. Drawn to him, Ellen is determined to uncover the bitter feud that has kept them apart.

Derek Clayton has loved Ellen from afar since childhood, stealing glimpses of her whenever their paths cross in town. As the third generation caught in a family war, he knows the only way to keep her safe is to stay away, no matter how much he wishes otherwise. It’s gotten more difficult to hide his feelings, and he can no longer deny the powerful pull between them.

But are they doomed to love only in secret for a chance that may never come? Ellen and Derek must decide if their forbidden love is strong enough to finally end the feud that has haunted their families for generations. Or if they’ll be forever waiting in the shadows.

This kisses only historical romance can be read as a standalone.

131 pages, Kindle Edition

Expected publication February 2, 2026

About the author

Librarian Note: There is more than one author with this name in the Goodreads database.

Reviews

[Anna Marie Leffew · Rating 5 out of 5]

Waiting in the Shadows: Forbidden Love by Sarah Lamb

My review

This book is an absolute masterpiece that I couldn't put down from start to finish. The vivid storytelling immerses you directly into the town of Deepwater, making you feel as if you're right there with the characters. The atmosphere—laden with tension, emotion, and passion—is so richly portrayed that it pulls you in entirely. I was deeply invested in Derek and Ellen's story; I laughed with them, cried with them, and shared in their moments of happiness, joy, and heartbreak. If you're looking for a compelling, emotionally resonant read that will stay with you long after the last page, I highly recommend this book.

[Lana Burton · Rating 5 out of 5]

This very well written book reminds me of the Hatfield’s and McCoy’s bitter feud. The families in this book have been feuding for going on three generations. When Ellen gets lost and the handsome young man who she’s stared at every single Sunday, Derek, saves her from certain death, she bravely thanks him. Little does Ellen know that Derek has had a crush on her for years! He dares her to kiss him as her thanks, so she does-right on the cheek and runs away in the direction he told her to take. Every week it gets harder and harder for them to find ways to say hello or even touch their hands together without getting caught! Ellen is the brave heroine in this story for sure, because she decides to get down to the bottom of this stupid feud. The clever ways they come up with to see or speak to each other are adorable yet, very dangerous for the two of them. Will they get kicked out of their respective homes?? Will they run away?? You will love this book by Sarah Lamb. I was on the arc team and was advised that I was not required to write a positive review. This review is my own opinion!

[Shonda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Waiting in the shadow is a concise yet compelling story that captivated me from the start. It’s a Western Romeo and Juliet, and I found myself rooting for Ellen and Derek as they fought for their love against family. Their courage and passion made them well-developed characters that ignited my own enthusiasm. This is definitely a five-star read!

[Jody · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a captivating Romeo and Juliet type story that hooked me in from the very first line. I read it faster than many books because it was so good. Highly recommend!