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The History Between
A quiet life shattered by secrets, gold, and a man she says she doesn’t want.
Rue Conway values one thing above all stability. Between running the family antique store, a reliable fiancé, and providing her daughter with the best life possible, she has it. But Rue’s carefully structured world is thrown into chaos when she’s simultaneously hit by financial ruin, her mother’s unexpected illness, the emergence of a treasure-hunting father she never knew . . . and the truth about a man she’s spent years trying to forget.
Desperate and out of options, Rue makes an impulsive decision to travel to Charleston and find the gold her father has been searching for.
But the more time Rue spends dealing with the past, the more she questions her future. With bills piling up and foreclosure looming, Rue must decide between a life of stability and one filled with unpredictable love.
Rue Conway values one thing above all stability. Between running the family antique store, a reliable fiancé, and providing her daughter with the best life possible, she has it. But Rue’s carefully structured world is thrown into chaos when she’s simultaneously hit by financial ruin, her mother’s unexpected illness, the emergence of a treasure-hunting father she never knew . . . and the truth about a man she’s spent years trying to forget.
Desperate and out of options, Rue makes an impulsive decision to travel to Charleston and find the gold her father has been searching for.
But the more time Rue spends dealing with the past, the more she questions her future. With bills piling up and foreclosure looming, Rue must decide between a life of stability and one filled with unpredictable love.
452 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 20, 2026
151 people are currently reading
1149 people want to read
About the author
Ashley Manley
7 books570 followersGive me all the unexpected characters, snark, and gasms. Please and thank you.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 192 reviews
March 27, 2026
Positively lovely. Ashley can do no wrong in my eyes.
January 31, 2026
Some authors are a gamble. Ashley Manley is an auto-read—no hesitation, no questions. Her books are wholesome, genuinely funny, and always full of heart. The History Between is a perfect example: a story layered with a charming treasure hunt, unexpected discoveries that reshape the past, and the possibility of rekindling something you thought was long gone.
Ashley has such a gift for blending humor with emotional depth. She makes big moments feel intimate and hopeful without ever being heavy. You laugh, you ache a little, and you close the book feeling good. If you’re craving a story that’s comforting, heartfelt, and impossible not to smile through—and you haven’t picked up a book by Ashley Manley yet—what are you waiting for? 📚✨
Ashley has such a gift for blending humor with emotional depth. She makes big moments feel intimate and hopeful without ever being heavy. You laugh, you ache a little, and you close the book feeling good. If you’re craving a story that’s comforting, heartfelt, and impossible not to smile through—and you haven’t picked up a book by Ashley Manley yet—what are you waiting for? 📚✨
February 10, 2026
**I would love to extend an extra special thank you to the author, Ashley Manley for entrusting me with a beta-read of this gem. I still feel so incredibly special and overwhelmed with love for this author. I cannot even explain how much I love the words Manley puts together on pages. I will try to leave a most honest review here without any spoilers. ❤️😘
This book had me hooked from that freaking prologue. Are you kidding me?! That in itself was a five-star novella. This prologue felt like a hallmark movie in all of its beauty and perfection. I was completely captivated and spellbound. I got swept up in the insta-love in a way that I just never do. I HATTTTE insta-love, but I absolutely LOVED this one. I have no idea why, but if you’ve ever read a Manley, then you probably get it. The characters are just everything.
There is simply no one else who develops their characters in a way quite like Ashley Manley does. While devouring this book, I could perfectly see, smell & feel these characters. They were so real!!! I felt their feelings as if they were my own, and I laughed & cried along with them. When I tell you that they were real…I mean that I felt like I could hug these people. They were my friends for the three days that I had them in my life. I couldn’t get enough of them, and they will stay with me for a long time.
Almost the entire book is written in first person POV from our FMC with a few scattered chapters in first person from Nash & Cap. Rue, that hag, with her quirky and fun personality had me loving her immediately. She takes on so much to make sure the ones she loves are taken care of, but she never puts her wants and needs first. Watching her blossom throughout the book into the best version of herself was so fun and great for my soul. She learned so much, and her character growth was very clear in so many ways.
Nash, omg NASHHHHHHHYYYYY!!! Obsessed!!! This handsome, tatted, sculpted man may be smooth with his side smiles and harmonica, but he has a soft and silly side with his fun shirts and his passion for history. Wait until you experience the passion in this man & the ANNNGGGGSSSSTTTTTT he causes….woooooffff 🥵🥵🥵
Cap is absolutely hysterical!!! This guy was written so well, and the amount of tiny details that went into his character were perfectly thought out. The open shirt, chest hair, gold chain, oxygen tank, prosthetic leg, and X-rated cane may seem like a lot…but each of these details describes him so freaking well. He captured my heart with his witty comments, his grunts, his dance moves, cane taps, and Penny.
Sunny was a great addition to the story, and I seriously loved the way she and Rue butted heads throughout the book. They got off with a hell of a start, lol, and they kinda kept that tension throughout the book. I loved that!! Not every relationship in every book should be perfect, and this one was really fun to read. It made me laugh so many times.
The tears I cried in this book just from feeling all of the characters’ emotions…I really needed it. I’ve been in a horrendous book slump for a couple of months. I haven’t read a book I really liked in too long. I was scared to beta read this one during a book slump. I was even more scared because I thought it was going to be a corny as hell treasure hunt book. It was not at all! It was a great book where a bunch of characters come together to go on a treasure hunt. Pieces of history are scattered in this story as well as some great vintage furniture for those of you who love that stuff. This was a really fun story with incredible characters. Every single one of the characters had something to learn, and they all came together to teach each other something spectacular. There is more than just gold to find in this one, and I believe this book is my treasure.
I absolutely adored this one, and I truly believe you will too!
This book had me hooked from that freaking prologue. Are you kidding me?! That in itself was a five-star novella. This prologue felt like a hallmark movie in all of its beauty and perfection. I was completely captivated and spellbound. I got swept up in the insta-love in a way that I just never do. I HATTTTE insta-love, but I absolutely LOVED this one. I have no idea why, but if you’ve ever read a Manley, then you probably get it. The characters are just everything.
There is simply no one else who develops their characters in a way quite like Ashley Manley does. While devouring this book, I could perfectly see, smell & feel these characters. They were so real!!! I felt their feelings as if they were my own, and I laughed & cried along with them. When I tell you that they were real…I mean that I felt like I could hug these people. They were my friends for the three days that I had them in my life. I couldn’t get enough of them, and they will stay with me for a long time.
Almost the entire book is written in first person POV from our FMC with a few scattered chapters in first person from Nash & Cap. Rue, that hag, with her quirky and fun personality had me loving her immediately. She takes on so much to make sure the ones she loves are taken care of, but she never puts her wants and needs first. Watching her blossom throughout the book into the best version of herself was so fun and great for my soul. She learned so much, and her character growth was very clear in so many ways.
Nash, omg NASHHHHHHHYYYYY!!! Obsessed!!! This handsome, tatted, sculpted man may be smooth with his side smiles and harmonica, but he has a soft and silly side with his fun shirts and his passion for history. Wait until you experience the passion in this man & the ANNNGGGGSSSSTTTTTT he causes….woooooffff 🥵🥵🥵
Cap is absolutely hysterical!!! This guy was written so well, and the amount of tiny details that went into his character were perfectly thought out. The open shirt, chest hair, gold chain, oxygen tank, prosthetic leg, and X-rated cane may seem like a lot…but each of these details describes him so freaking well. He captured my heart with his witty comments, his grunts, his dance moves, cane taps, and Penny.
Sunny was a great addition to the story, and I seriously loved the way she and Rue butted heads throughout the book. They got off with a hell of a start, lol, and they kinda kept that tension throughout the book. I loved that!! Not every relationship in every book should be perfect, and this one was really fun to read. It made me laugh so many times.
The tears I cried in this book just from feeling all of the characters’ emotions…I really needed it. I’ve been in a horrendous book slump for a couple of months. I haven’t read a book I really liked in too long. I was scared to beta read this one during a book slump. I was even more scared because I thought it was going to be a corny as hell treasure hunt book. It was not at all! It was a great book where a bunch of characters come together to go on a treasure hunt. Pieces of history are scattered in this story as well as some great vintage furniture for those of you who love that stuff. This was a really fun story with incredible characters. Every single one of the characters had something to learn, and they all came together to teach each other something spectacular. There is more than just gold to find in this one, and I believe this book is my treasure.
I absolutely adored this one, and I truly believe you will too!
April 11, 2026
This was the most difficult Ashley Manley book I’ve read. Why? Because my eyes kept wanting to jump sentences, paragraphs, pages ahead to get sneak peeks about what was going to happen. Ugh! That’s not normal for me.
Of course I made sure to go back and read everything I had skipped over, so I wouldn’t miss a single detail or clue. This was such a beautiful story with charismatic characters. It might be my new favorite Manley novel.
As with all of her books, I cried. The good news is I made it past the 90% mark before it happened. Progress!
If you’d like a sweet, Southern romance with a treasure hunting twist, make this your next read, especially if you’re craving summer beach vibes.
Of course I made sure to go back and read everything I had skipped over, so I wouldn’t miss a single detail or clue. This was such a beautiful story with charismatic characters. It might be my new favorite Manley novel.
As with all of her books, I cried. The good news is I made it past the 90% mark before it happened. Progress!
If you’d like a sweet, Southern romance with a treasure hunting twist, make this your next read, especially if you’re craving summer beach vibes.
Want to Read
March 6, 2026One of my fav author. I absolutely love the Forever and Back series. Here’s to hoping I can read this early but if i can’t I will wait patiently for the release date
March 17, 2026
Ashley Manley does it again. Rue and Nash….I couldn’t get enough of them. The mom, the sisters, Bee, Cap, Sunny, I loved all of the characters SO much. A must read…. Just like the rest of her books.
Did Not Finish
April 11, 2026DNFed halfway through. At around 52% I put an end to this one. I couldn't get into it. Absolutely nothing was happening, and I could careless about the characters, unfortunately. I LOVED Every Beautiful Mile, Forever and Back, and Now to Forever, but these last two books were big misses for me.
April 25, 2026
Did I laugh? Yes. Did I cry? 100%. 😭 I needed to clean my house but I couldn’t seem to put this down 😅 whoops 💁♀️
April 27, 2026
4.5⭐️
April 20, 2026
I love when an author becomes an instant “yes” for you…and that is exactly what happened here. I discovered her a year ago and she had me from the very first page. Her stories feel so real, so lived-in, that sometimes I catch myself thinking I know her personally, and honestly, I think her presence on IG is part of that magic. If you are not following her yet, you should. Watching her creative process unfold makes falling in love with her books inevitable.
What makes her writing stand out is how deeply she immerses herself in her stories. She does not just write them, she lives them. I knew going into this one that a harmonica would play a role (because she has shared videos of herself learning it “for research”), and somehow even that small detail added so much authenticity. She has taken pottery classes for past characters too, and it showed in one of her previous stories. There is intention behind every detail, and you can feel the care on every page.
Going in, all I knew was: treasure hunt, a harmonica, and Charleston. What I did not expect was how Charleston would completely come alive. It truly felt like a character of its own. The atmosphere, the charm, the sense of place…it all wrapped around the story in the best way.
This one took me on a full emotional ride. I cried, I laughed, I loved, and yes…I swooned. And I am so excited this is going to be a series, because it means we are not done with these lovable characters yet.
I actually finished this a few weeks ago and held onto my review just to post it today…so Ashley, happy Pub Day on another absolute banger. Please keep doing exactly what you are doing. Every bit of it.
If you love Abby Jimenez, Annabel Monaghan, or Emily Henry, you are going to fall hard for Ashley’s books too.
And one last thing, Julia Whelan, I an asking again…please narrate her stories. The two of you would be absolute perfection. And Julia, if you do pick this one up, just know we are going to need full commitment which means playing the harmonica. We need to hear it in the audiobook. No pressure, but also…all the pressure. 😉
Pair this one with a London fog 🫖 and just sink in.
5/5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️from me!
Follow me on Instagram at @i.am.book.a.licious for more bookish content.
What makes her writing stand out is how deeply she immerses herself in her stories. She does not just write them, she lives them. I knew going into this one that a harmonica would play a role (because she has shared videos of herself learning it “for research”), and somehow even that small detail added so much authenticity. She has taken pottery classes for past characters too, and it showed in one of her previous stories. There is intention behind every detail, and you can feel the care on every page.
Going in, all I knew was: treasure hunt, a harmonica, and Charleston. What I did not expect was how Charleston would completely come alive. It truly felt like a character of its own. The atmosphere, the charm, the sense of place…it all wrapped around the story in the best way.
This one took me on a full emotional ride. I cried, I laughed, I loved, and yes…I swooned. And I am so excited this is going to be a series, because it means we are not done with these lovable characters yet.
I actually finished this a few weeks ago and held onto my review just to post it today…so Ashley, happy Pub Day on another absolute banger. Please keep doing exactly what you are doing. Every bit of it.
If you love Abby Jimenez, Annabel Monaghan, or Emily Henry, you are going to fall hard for Ashley’s books too.
And one last thing, Julia Whelan, I an asking again…please narrate her stories. The two of you would be absolute perfection. And Julia, if you do pick this one up, just know we are going to need full commitment which means playing the harmonica. We need to hear it in the audiobook. No pressure, but also…all the pressure. 😉
Pair this one with a London fog 🫖 and just sink in.
5/5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️from me!
Follow me on Instagram at @i.am.book.a.licious for more bookish content.
April 11, 2026
Thank you Ashley Manley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Ashley Manley is an auto buy author for me and always will be.
I’ll be honest to say the treasure hunt was a curveball I didn’t expect and it totally worked. The added “mystery” and history (accurate and not) was really fun.
There are so many things in this book that shouldn’t work but do because the characters are flawed and human, life is messy and people make mistakes.
I’m not going to go into details because this book is delightful with some sneaky twists that add to the experience. I will tell you - be prepared to laugh and it wouldn’t be Ashley Manley if she didn’t force you into your feelings and added some nuggets of wisdom to make you contemplate all your life choices.
The characters in her stories are always so quirky and unique you cannot help but fall in love with them. I got so excited when Aunt Mabel got a shoutout.
I cannot wait to learn more about Reese and Remy in their books and find more out about this crazy family!
Ashley Manley is an auto buy author for me and always will be.
I’ll be honest to say the treasure hunt was a curveball I didn’t expect and it totally worked. The added “mystery” and history (accurate and not) was really fun.
There are so many things in this book that shouldn’t work but do because the characters are flawed and human, life is messy and people make mistakes.
I’m not going to go into details because this book is delightful with some sneaky twists that add to the experience. I will tell you - be prepared to laugh and it wouldn’t be Ashley Manley if she didn’t force you into your feelings and added some nuggets of wisdom to make you contemplate all your life choices.
The characters in her stories are always so quirky and unique you cannot help but fall in love with them. I got so excited when Aunt Mabel got a shoutout.
I cannot wait to learn more about Reese and Remy in their books and find more out about this crazy family!
April 8, 2026
This book was just absolutely magical ✨
This author has such a way with storytelling that always makes you feel so fully immersed in the world, smelling what the character smells, seeing the sights the character sees, even down to feeling the temperature of the water in the swimming pool or feeling the shovel in your hands as the character digs up a grave 🤭
I always look forward to reading Ashley’s books, knowing the characters will end up feeling like family because of the life that is breathed into them. Ashley is so good at crafting perfectly imperfect characters with everyday flaws and real life problems. Even if I may not like a character all the way through a book, which makes them feel like your real family would.
I am not typically a crier, but the attachment I felt to these characters absolutely had the tears flowing. The heartfelt moments that occurred throughout this story pulled on all my heart strings.
The amount of research I’m sure this author had to do in order to give us an accurate representation of the deep rooted Charleston history was impressive, coming across on the page and teaching me a thing or two while not feeling like a history lesson. I loved getting to go along on the historic tour of the city and the secret historic treasure hunt letter that the characters were studying to try to find the buried treasure.
I am stoked this is a series because as soon as I finished reading I NEEDED more!! I also love every single character and would be so happy to read a book about each and every one of them (which is how I always feel after reading an Ashley Manley book)
Thank you endlessly to Ashley for my arc copy and for another masterpiece, these opinions are my own 💕
This author has such a way with storytelling that always makes you feel so fully immersed in the world, smelling what the character smells, seeing the sights the character sees, even down to feeling the temperature of the water in the swimming pool or feeling the shovel in your hands as the character digs up a grave 🤭
I always look forward to reading Ashley’s books, knowing the characters will end up feeling like family because of the life that is breathed into them. Ashley is so good at crafting perfectly imperfect characters with everyday flaws and real life problems. Even if I may not like a character all the way through a book, which makes them feel like your real family would.
I am not typically a crier, but the attachment I felt to these characters absolutely had the tears flowing. The heartfelt moments that occurred throughout this story pulled on all my heart strings.
The amount of research I’m sure this author had to do in order to give us an accurate representation of the deep rooted Charleston history was impressive, coming across on the page and teaching me a thing or two while not feeling like a history lesson. I loved getting to go along on the historic tour of the city and the secret historic treasure hunt letter that the characters were studying to try to find the buried treasure.
I am stoked this is a series because as soon as I finished reading I NEEDED more!! I also love every single character and would be so happy to read a book about each and every one of them (which is how I always feel after reading an Ashley Manley book)
Thank you endlessly to Ashley for my arc copy and for another masterpiece, these opinions are my own 💕
March 26, 2026
Ashley Manley has done it again! This is the third book I’ve read by her and she will be always be an auto-read for me. I feel so honored to have snagged an early copy of her newest book and it did not disappoint! Ashley does an incredible job with character development and telling stories full of heart and humor. The History Between is a fun ride set around a treasure hunt while exploring the impacts of history between family and romantic relationships. I absolutely loved it and can’t wait for the next one!! Add this one to your TBR!
March 15, 2026
Review of advanced copy received from Author
4.5⭐️
Ashley Manley is an auto-read author for me. In every book, I have found myself laughing, crying, uplifted, and moved for people I wish could walk right out of the book. The History Between was no exception. This wasn’t my favorite book of hers, but I still loved it all the same.
Rue’s journey was at times frustrating, but only because I was rooting so hard for her and wanted things to go well for her. And at times I wanted to tell Nash to grow up and take some things a little more seriously, but that probably says more about my personality than about him as a character. He won me over though, and I enjoyed their romance. Love, family, forgiveness, and the times we have to make tough choices (sometimes the wrong ones) are themes explored with heart and honesty.
I think my favorite thing about this book was that while it was a *treasure hunt* story, that isn’t where the heart of the story lies. Ashley Manley writes such compelling character-driven stories and relationships, they could almost take place anytime and anywhere.
4.5⭐️
Ashley Manley is an auto-read author for me. In every book, I have found myself laughing, crying, uplifted, and moved for people I wish could walk right out of the book. The History Between was no exception. This wasn’t my favorite book of hers, but I still loved it all the same.
Rue’s journey was at times frustrating, but only because I was rooting so hard for her and wanted things to go well for her. And at times I wanted to tell Nash to grow up and take some things a little more seriously, but that probably says more about my personality than about him as a character. He won me over though, and I enjoyed their romance. Love, family, forgiveness, and the times we have to make tough choices (sometimes the wrong ones) are themes explored with heart and honesty.
I think my favorite thing about this book was that while it was a *treasure hunt* story, that isn’t where the heart of the story lies. Ashley Manley writes such compelling character-driven stories and relationships, they could almost take place anytime and anywhere.
March 9, 2026
I received this book as an ARC. I loved it and based on what I knew about it, I wasn’t sure I’d even like it. I absolutely love how Ashley develops her characters and I crave that in every book I read now. I like how you’re in their heads but not annoyingly so. You can’t help but feel like you know and love the characters. I was extremely skeptical of this book given the treasure hunt aspect of it for fear of it being cheesy and cringe-worthy but I like how the hunt was used as a vehicle to learn some history of Charleston. It made me want to go back and visit there. Rue’s overalls had me envisioning Ashley too; I feel like maybe she wore them in an Instagram story or post 🤷🏻♀️. I can’t wait for the audiobook version to come out because I will definitely buy it. Excited for the next book in the series too!
March 13, 2026
Dare I say this is my favorite one yet… so so so good 😭
Review of advance copy
Love, love, loved it! Ashley Manley has a gift. Her stories take you on an adventure and strongly tug on your heartstrings. Her loveable cast of characters here are as endearing and funny as they are stubborn and frustrating. Rue is on a mission, determined and holding on to so many secrets. Nash has his own secrets and is positively swooney. Feisty ole Cap is cagey. Sunny speaks her mind and is full of sass, you'll adore her.
While occasionally shedding a tear (ok, it was twice), I loved every minute of Rue's treasure hunting journey. Marking this as another Ashley favorite to re-read.
*Received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
While occasionally shedding a tear (ok, it was twice), I loved every minute of Rue's treasure hunting journey. Marking this as another Ashley favorite to re-read.
*Received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
April 18, 2026
ARC Review ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫— T‑minus 3 days until release!
A quick add-to-cart for anyone craving a fun, sweet, and heartfelt romantic adventure.
Wowzers! Getting to read an ARC of The History Between Us has been such a pleasure. Ashley Manley has become an automatic must‑read for me, and this book reminded me exactly why. From page one, I was rooting for this second‑chance romance and the treasure hunt woven through it — even when I was yelling at Rue.
Ashley creates such relatable, realistic characters, supported by memorable side characters who bring so much colour and life to the story. I laughed out loud more than once, learned US history I didn’t know, and felt completely transported by the rich setting. I could practically feel the heat — though maybe that was just my hot flashes.
As someone who grew up on an island and spent childhood summers searching the water for “sunken treasure,” this story hit a nostalgic sweet spot. The History Between Us delivered everything I love about a good treasure hunt, even when Rue had me wanting to shake her.
My only frustration? That I had to put the book down too many times and couldn’t inhale it in one sitting. Embarrassing that it took a month for me to finish.
I’m so excited for readers to join this adventure filled with love, joy, and heart. And Ashley — I cannot wait for Reese and Remy’s stories. My signed copy is already on its way, and I can’t wait to add it to my shelves.
A quick add-to-cart for anyone craving a fun, sweet, and heartfelt romantic adventure.
Wowzers! Getting to read an ARC of The History Between Us has been such a pleasure. Ashley Manley has become an automatic must‑read for me, and this book reminded me exactly why. From page one, I was rooting for this second‑chance romance and the treasure hunt woven through it — even when I was yelling at Rue.
Ashley creates such relatable, realistic characters, supported by memorable side characters who bring so much colour and life to the story. I laughed out loud more than once, learned US history I didn’t know, and felt completely transported by the rich setting. I could practically feel the heat — though maybe that was just my hot flashes.
As someone who grew up on an island and spent childhood summers searching the water for “sunken treasure,” this story hit a nostalgic sweet spot. The History Between Us delivered everything I love about a good treasure hunt, even when Rue had me wanting to shake her.
My only frustration? That I had to put the book down too many times and couldn’t inhale it in one sitting. Embarrassing that it took a month for me to finish.
I’m so excited for readers to join this adventure filled with love, joy, and heart. And Ashley — I cannot wait for Reese and Remy’s stories. My signed copy is already on its way, and I can’t wait to add it to my shelves.
May 3, 2026
Ashley, Ashley, Ashley—you’ve done it again. I don’t know how you manage to make me love the supporting characters just as much as the main ones, but you do every single time. Cappy was my absolute favorite, and I loved every second I spent reading this book.
I don’t buy many books—I usually stick to Kindle Unlimited, Audible, and Libby—but I would gladly preorder and pay full price for yours. That’s saying a lot.
I’m already excited about your Christmas book and can’t wait to get my hands on it!
I don’t buy many books—I usually stick to Kindle Unlimited, Audible, and Libby—but I would gladly preorder and pay full price for yours. That’s saying a lot.
I’m already excited about your Christmas book and can’t wait to get my hands on it!
April 30, 2026
4.5 ☆
I love Ashley Manley and her story telling.
Humor, heart, depths of characters.
While I hesitated to start this based on the premise of a treasure hunt, I am so glad I didn't wait too long.
So good. Had me laughing, smiling, in tears and all the feels.
I love Ashley Manley and her story telling.
Humor, heart, depths of characters.
While I hesitated to start this based on the premise of a treasure hunt, I am so glad I didn't wait too long.
So good. Had me laughing, smiling, in tears and all the feels.
May 2, 2026
Such a cute story! My favorite parts is the change in narration- it almost makes me want to lose my husband and find him again. Rue is a very unique character and I enjoyed her development.
May 9, 2026
This was cute. The lack of communication/ telling the truth kind of drove me nuts.
March 7, 2026
If Ashley Manley writes it then I’m absolutely reading it!
This book was unique compared to her other books while still having all the feels like an AM book does. The treasure hunt angle tied with history was a fun plot choice. The classic humor you get when you read a book by this author was top tier. And as always, the side cast was full of some of the quirkiest and loveable characters. I particularly loved the sisters relationship between the Conway girls. I found myself smiling during the scenes with Nash and Rue and laughing during the moments between Rue and Cap. I was really rooting for Rue and Nash, even though I had a hard time getting on board with her secret, it felt unjustified no matter how much she tried to in her mind. And while it was her master plan that made this story possible, I can’t say I didn’t want to wring Rue’s mother’s neck several times. That woman made some seriously questionable decisions that were quickly glossed over.
While I did like this book for the most part, I think it was just a little too long. I understand there is a benefit for indie authors that place their books on KU to add more words to their stories. But this could have been tighter. And I found myself hitting a point where the bouncing between the treasure hunting pieces and the romance angle was throwing off the flow.
Overall it did end up being a 3.5 read for me but I’m rounding up because I like this author so much and I’m looking forward to the rest of the Conway stories.
This early review was possible because of an advanced readers copy made available by the author.
This book was unique compared to her other books while still having all the feels like an AM book does. The treasure hunt angle tied with history was a fun plot choice. The classic humor you get when you read a book by this author was top tier. And as always, the side cast was full of some of the quirkiest and loveable characters. I particularly loved the sisters relationship between the Conway girls. I found myself smiling during the scenes with Nash and Rue and laughing during the moments between Rue and Cap. I was really rooting for Rue and Nash, even though I had a hard time getting on board with her secret, it felt unjustified no matter how much she tried to in her mind. And while it was her master plan that made this story possible, I can’t say I didn’t want to wring Rue’s mother’s neck several times. That woman made some seriously questionable decisions that were quickly glossed over.
While I did like this book for the most part, I think it was just a little too long. I understand there is a benefit for indie authors that place their books on KU to add more words to their stories. But this could have been tighter. And I found myself hitting a point where the bouncing between the treasure hunting pieces and the romance angle was throwing off the flow.
Overall it did end up being a 3.5 read for me but I’m rounding up because I like this author so much and I’m looking forward to the rest of the Conway stories.
This early review was possible because of an advanced readers copy made available by the author.
April 29, 2026
I loved the whole story line of this one. Laughed a lot and unexpected tears at some points. A beautifully written story with twists and emotion. Patiently waiting for the next book.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Submitted as a review from a copy received from net galley.
I was so excited to get to read this book early. As soon as I read my first Ashley Manley book , I knew I wanted to read them all. She has a way of bringing you into the characters story in such a realistic and heartwarming way that you are rooting for them and feel as if you have known them forever.
I loved the story and all the side characters, all the charm, sarcasm and truth when you needed it. I love the whole story on how Rue and Nash's love story coincides with some historical things brought in from Nash's point if view. They added another layer and more depth to his character as well about his love for history and how love and romance stands through time in the treasure hunt.
Ashley Manleys stories make you laugh out loud, make you cry, have you squealing with excitement for the main character and finding their true love but also finding the strength to do what was right for them while looking out for their loved ones beyond all else. It was another one that I just didnt want to put down and am excited for the series because it brings you into the other characters orbit and you root for them too. I loved the romance between Nash and Rue but also the relationships between friends, between father and daughter, relationship between Nash and Bennie, grandpa and Bennie, Rue and sisters and mom, but also new friends along the way like Sunny and how Cap and Nash get along. I loved it all!! Such an amazing book that will stay with me!!
I was so excited to get to read this book early. As soon as I read my first Ashley Manley book , I knew I wanted to read them all. She has a way of bringing you into the characters story in such a realistic and heartwarming way that you are rooting for them and feel as if you have known them forever.
I loved the story and all the side characters, all the charm, sarcasm and truth when you needed it. I love the whole story on how Rue and Nash's love story coincides with some historical things brought in from Nash's point if view. They added another layer and more depth to his character as well about his love for history and how love and romance stands through time in the treasure hunt.
Ashley Manleys stories make you laugh out loud, make you cry, have you squealing with excitement for the main character and finding their true love but also finding the strength to do what was right for them while looking out for their loved ones beyond all else. It was another one that I just didnt want to put down and am excited for the series because it brings you into the other characters orbit and you root for them too. I loved the romance between Nash and Rue but also the relationships between friends, between father and daughter, relationship between Nash and Bennie, grandpa and Bennie, Rue and sisters and mom, but also new friends along the way like Sunny and how Cap and Nash get along. I loved it all!! Such an amazing book that will stay with me!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 4, 2026
A long lost father
A treasure hunt
A love from the past
An Ashley Manley masterpiece!
Rue's life is falling apart rapidly, between the fact that she might lose her family's antique store and her mother needing surgery. She needs money and she needs it fast!
When her mother drops a huge bomb that the father who raised her is not her real father and is actually a boat captain in Charleston who has been searching for a lost treasure, Rue decides to take a chance, meet her father and help him search for the treasure. While in Charleston she also comes face to face with her past in the form of her (not so) ex-husband who she hasn't seen or spoke to in 8 years.
As these unlikely three follow the clues and go on adventures, Rue must face the fact that she is not completely over her ex and also learn to trust others and allow people to help her when she needs it most.
While Nash was the perfect dreamboat with his smooth words and oozing charm, I honestly was so invested in Cap! He was such a grumpy pirate dad and the relationship that formed between him and Rue in such a short time was so special. Finding your dad at age 42 must have been daunting but the easy way he stepped up and was there for her was so heartwarming.
Now back to Nash….SWOON! He was a little cocky and arrogant, easygoing, funny and a tad bit mysterious. I would have loved more chapters from his viewpoint just to see what was going on in his head because the angst, the tension, the magnetic pull between these two was everything. He can suck my finger anytime 😉
I honestly can't even pinpoint one specific thing I loved about this book because I just loved the entire thing. The flow was perfect, the romance was swoony, the relationships were simultaneously complicated and satisfying, the characters were fun and engaging, the treasure hunt was so enjoyable. It was all there and it worked perfectly!
This is the first book in a trilogy, one for each sister, and there were enough breadcrumbs left to make me want to dive into each of their books when they come out.
She writes the perfect flawed female characters who you can relate to and are rooting for, but at the same time want to slap some sense into. Ashley Manley is an auto read for me and I am so grateful and blessed for me, an old hag, to have stumbled upon her books.
Favorite quote: I’d recognize the sounds of my wife’s voice anywhere - Nash
Huge thanks to Ashley Manley for sharing this book’s digital advanced review copy with me in exchange for an honest review.
#mycuppacoffeebooks #AshleyManley #TheHistoryBetween #Romance #RachRocksReads
A treasure hunt
A love from the past
An Ashley Manley masterpiece!
Rue's life is falling apart rapidly, between the fact that she might lose her family's antique store and her mother needing surgery. She needs money and she needs it fast!
When her mother drops a huge bomb that the father who raised her is not her real father and is actually a boat captain in Charleston who has been searching for a lost treasure, Rue decides to take a chance, meet her father and help him search for the treasure. While in Charleston she also comes face to face with her past in the form of her (not so) ex-husband who she hasn't seen or spoke to in 8 years.
As these unlikely three follow the clues and go on adventures, Rue must face the fact that she is not completely over her ex and also learn to trust others and allow people to help her when she needs it most.
While Nash was the perfect dreamboat with his smooth words and oozing charm, I honestly was so invested in Cap! He was such a grumpy pirate dad and the relationship that formed between him and Rue in such a short time was so special. Finding your dad at age 42 must have been daunting but the easy way he stepped up and was there for her was so heartwarming.
Now back to Nash….SWOON! He was a little cocky and arrogant, easygoing, funny and a tad bit mysterious. I would have loved more chapters from his viewpoint just to see what was going on in his head because the angst, the tension, the magnetic pull between these two was everything. He can suck my finger anytime 😉
I honestly can't even pinpoint one specific thing I loved about this book because I just loved the entire thing. The flow was perfect, the romance was swoony, the relationships were simultaneously complicated and satisfying, the characters were fun and engaging, the treasure hunt was so enjoyable. It was all there and it worked perfectly!
This is the first book in a trilogy, one for each sister, and there were enough breadcrumbs left to make me want to dive into each of their books when they come out.
She writes the perfect flawed female characters who you can relate to and are rooting for, but at the same time want to slap some sense into. Ashley Manley is an auto read for me and I am so grateful and blessed for me, an old hag, to have stumbled upon her books.
Favorite quote: I’d recognize the sounds of my wife’s voice anywhere - Nash
Huge thanks to Ashley Manley for sharing this book’s digital advanced review copy with me in exchange for an honest review.
#mycuppacoffeebooks #AshleyManley #TheHistoryBetween #Romance #RachRocksReads
March 10, 2026
I have been eagerly awaiting Rue’s story since I saw Ashley say she began writing it. I have loved every single book that Ashley has written so far, and I knew I would love this one as well. The History Between was a bit out of her usual style, but it was the perfect blend of emotional and hilarious, just like her other books.
The History Between follows Rue, whose life is falling apart around her. Her business ran out of money & her mom is sick. Desperate to figure out a way to save her business and help her mom, she goes on a “ treasure hunt” with the father she had no idea existed and her husband she hasn’t seen in 8 years.
Rue is a beautifully written character, just like all of Ashley’s female leads. She wears her heart on her sleeve, and she shows her insecurities honestly. I loved seeing her character grow throughout the story. I only wish we had a chance to see more flashbacks from her and Nash’s marriage.
Nash, yet again a complete unicorn of a man. He was patient, kind, considerate and reliable. A contrast to Rue’s character, who was anxiously processing so much in her own head. I loved the banter between Nash and Rue. You could tell from the second they met up again that they had an undeniable spark.
Cap, this man was one of my favourites. I LOVED his character. He is such a teddy bear, even with his gruff, worn exterior. His heart for Rue and her mom was beautiful. I loved how he would dance even with his prosthetic leg.
I can’t wait to read the other stories with Reese and Remy!
This story is amazing, pick it up when it comes out! I know I will be grabbing a physical copy so I can read this story again and again.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ ♾️
I recieved an e-arc in exchange for an honest review
The History Between follows Rue, whose life is falling apart around her. Her business ran out of money & her mom is sick. Desperate to figure out a way to save her business and help her mom, she goes on a “ treasure hunt” with the father she had no idea existed and her husband she hasn’t seen in 8 years.
Rue is a beautifully written character, just like all of Ashley’s female leads. She wears her heart on her sleeve, and she shows her insecurities honestly. I loved seeing her character grow throughout the story. I only wish we had a chance to see more flashbacks from her and Nash’s marriage.
Nash, yet again a complete unicorn of a man. He was patient, kind, considerate and reliable. A contrast to Rue’s character, who was anxiously processing so much in her own head. I loved the banter between Nash and Rue. You could tell from the second they met up again that they had an undeniable spark.
Cap, this man was one of my favourites. I LOVED his character. He is such a teddy bear, even with his gruff, worn exterior. His heart for Rue and her mom was beautiful. I loved how he would dance even with his prosthetic leg.
I can’t wait to read the other stories with Reese and Remy!
This story is amazing, pick it up when it comes out! I know I will be grabbing a physical copy so I can read this story again and again.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ ♾️
I recieved an e-arc in exchange for an honest review
March 9, 2026
Ashley Manley has become an auto read/buy author for me. I read "Every Beautiful Mile" last year and have loved every one of her books since. "The History Between" was no exception. Before I started reading, I wasn't sure about a book with a treasure hunt for gold. However, as I already said, I will read anything by Ashley Manley. This was an easy 5 star read. I couldn't and did not want to put it down. I was hooked from the prologue.
Ashley's books always have such strong character development. As you read, you become so invested in the lives of the characters. You feel like you know them and root for them. Rue is the responsible one in her family, she's the one trying to take care of everyone but herself. Nash, in all his Nashishness (how Rue describes him at one point - I loved that), is so charming with his side smiles, harmonica playing, fun shirts and love of history. They had so much chemistry instantly and it did not diminish during 8 years of no contact. Cap is one of my most favorite characters. I have never met a character like him. And as always, Ashley has some of the most developed side characters. This is something I always love about her books.
"The History Between" is a story about the history of a city, but also the history between humans and families. It is a story that will stay with you long after the last page.
Thank you so much to the author for the advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
Ashley's books always have such strong character development. As you read, you become so invested in the lives of the characters. You feel like you know them and root for them. Rue is the responsible one in her family, she's the one trying to take care of everyone but herself. Nash, in all his Nashishness (how Rue describes him at one point - I loved that), is so charming with his side smiles, harmonica playing, fun shirts and love of history. They had so much chemistry instantly and it did not diminish during 8 years of no contact. Cap is one of my most favorite characters. I have never met a character like him. And as always, Ashley has some of the most developed side characters. This is something I always love about her books.
"The History Between" is a story about the history of a city, but also the history between humans and families. It is a story that will stay with you long after the last page.
Thank you so much to the author for the advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The History Between is Ashley Manley's first book in her new series, Back to Fontain, which focuses on Rue Conway, the eldest daughter and oldest of two sisters. Rue works with her mother at the family antique store, where she meets Nash Fletcher, who is a traveling substitute, and the two share an instant attraction. Eight years later, Rue is now a single mother; she and Nash have a falling out, Rue is engaged to a dentist, and the family antique store is struggling financially. In addition to that, Rue discovers her mother has been harboring a health problem; she learns the truth about her birth father, but most importantly, the truth about Nash and his whereabouts. As Rue goes on a treasure hunting journey in an attempt to save her family's failing antique store, she reunites with her estranged father, reconciles with Nash, and discovers history never goes away, no matter how deep you bury it.
Rue is the responsible sister, the one who’s serious and predictable. Nash is the opposite of her, more adventurous and spontaneous. Their attraction and chemistry upon first meeting were instantaneous and palpable. Furthermore, despite not having any contact with each other, their ardent chemistry didn’t waver or dissipate within those eight years. Rue needed Nash to bring life back into her mundane life, while Nash needed Rue to ground him. Their love for each other is fervent and steady, and the relationship between the two allows acceptance and forgiveness for their faults and flaws.
Can Ashley Manley ever write a book that doesn’t make me cry? Emotionally tender and just overall gorgeously written, Manley takes the reader on a historical adventure, weaving past and present together while showcasing how a person’s past doesn’t define their future as long as they’re actively making changes during their present time. Manley is an exhilarating voice in women’s fiction, and every book she writes is promising and trustworthy. This is such a heartwarming and beautiful start to a new series, and I’m so excited to read the other two books and learn more about each sister’s backstory.
Thank you to Victory Editing and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Rue is the responsible sister, the one who’s serious and predictable. Nash is the opposite of her, more adventurous and spontaneous. Their attraction and chemistry upon first meeting were instantaneous and palpable. Furthermore, despite not having any contact with each other, their ardent chemistry didn’t waver or dissipate within those eight years. Rue needed Nash to bring life back into her mundane life, while Nash needed Rue to ground him. Their love for each other is fervent and steady, and the relationship between the two allows acceptance and forgiveness for their faults and flaws.
Can Ashley Manley ever write a book that doesn’t make me cry? Emotionally tender and just overall gorgeously written, Manley takes the reader on a historical adventure, weaving past and present together while showcasing how a person’s past doesn’t define their future as long as they’re actively making changes during their present time. Manley is an exhilarating voice in women’s fiction, and every book she writes is promising and trustworthy. This is such a heartwarming and beautiful start to a new series, and I’m so excited to read the other two books and learn more about each sister’s backstory.
Thank you to Victory Editing and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to Netgalley and the publishing company/ co-op for this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
Tropes:
💄 Mystery/ adventure ( treasure hunting)
💄 Secret child ( heroine kicked out nomadic hero and found out after he left she was pregnant)
💄 Force Proximity with Found Family ( heroine goes on treasure hunting adventure with newly discovered father amd estranged husband ( hero)
💄 Second chance romance ( engaged heroine finds out she never divorced hero husband 8 years ago and is determined to get him to sign the divorce papers)
💄 Marriage in trouble ( Heroine falls in love with a nomadic hero who never stays in one place, after impulsively getting married, he tells her his plans to move from her small town hometown and she tells him to leave..8 years prior)
I was excited to see a new book from Ashley Manning as I knew I was in for a angsty adventure in this romance book. This book did not dissapoint a bit. I liked the added adventure and Mystery ( plus lots of history info on Charleston, SC). Plus kooky family and friends mixes in with a second chance romance with an estranged hisband made for an interesting read.
The heroine is about to get married to her dentist fiancée who she sees as a good influence on hee 7 year daughter. However she finds out that her kooky mother sent her life savings to a scammer on the internet and shes about to lose their family antique shop. She finds out that her father who raised her was not her actual father..ge was a treasure hunter who smoke and drank too much. She goes to Charleston for 2 weeks with only a few hundred dollars hoping to find a mysterious lost treasure and reconnect with her real father..she also reconnect with her husband with divorce papers ( her mother said she mailed the divorce papers but never did) in hand.
She goes on an adventure of a lifetime and discovers maybe destiny is pointing her in the direction.
Tropes:
💄 Mystery/ adventure ( treasure hunting)
💄 Secret child ( heroine kicked out nomadic hero and found out after he left she was pregnant)
💄 Force Proximity with Found Family ( heroine goes on treasure hunting adventure with newly discovered father amd estranged husband ( hero)
💄 Second chance romance ( engaged heroine finds out she never divorced hero husband 8 years ago and is determined to get him to sign the divorce papers)
💄 Marriage in trouble ( Heroine falls in love with a nomadic hero who never stays in one place, after impulsively getting married, he tells her his plans to move from her small town hometown and she tells him to leave..8 years prior)
I was excited to see a new book from Ashley Manning as I knew I was in for a angsty adventure in this romance book. This book did not dissapoint a bit. I liked the added adventure and Mystery ( plus lots of history info on Charleston, SC). Plus kooky family and friends mixes in with a second chance romance with an estranged hisband made for an interesting read.
The heroine is about to get married to her dentist fiancée who she sees as a good influence on hee 7 year daughter. However she finds out that her kooky mother sent her life savings to a scammer on the internet and shes about to lose their family antique shop. She finds out that her father who raised her was not her actual father..ge was a treasure hunter who smoke and drank too much. She goes to Charleston for 2 weeks with only a few hundred dollars hoping to find a mysterious lost treasure and reconnect with her real father..she also reconnect with her husband with divorce papers ( her mother said she mailed the divorce papers but never did) in hand.
She goes on an adventure of a lifetime and discovers maybe destiny is pointing her in the direction.
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