About

Barbara Howard

Author of stories featuring strong female protagonists, a diverse cast of characters, and a dash of romance.

Barbara Howard is a mystery, romantic suspense, and contemporary romance author based in Northeast 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), Author 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.

Media & Presentations:

Cuyahoga County Public Library: Self-Publish Your Book with IngramSpark
Cuyahoga County Public Library: Self-Publish Your Book with Amazon KDP & Draft2Digital
Cleveland Magazine: Cleveland’s Literary Scene 2024
Literary Cleveland: Self-Publishing Made Simple
Cuyahoga County Public Library: Self-Publishing Success
Voyage Ohio Magazine – Conversations with Barbara Howard Phipps

interests:
  • Podcaster
  • Gardener
  • Veganism
  • Quilter
  • Animal Rights Advocate