Review: Since You've Been Gone

 

Since You’ve Been Gone

by Tari Faris

About the Book

Leah Williams is back in the quaint town of Heritage, Michigan, and ready to try again to make her business a success. But blank slates are hard to come by and a piece of her past is waiting for her there. Heir to the Heritage Fruits Company, Jonathan Kensington is the guy who not only made Leah’s past difficult, he also seems determined to complicate her present as well.

Jon is trying to prove to the Heritage Fruits board that he, not his manipulative uncle, should be running the business. The board insists Jon find a new owner for the building that will house Leah’s business. To avoid forcing a buyout of Leah’s part of the building, Jon strikes a compromise with Leah, and the two go into business together. With her vision and his know-how, it might work. And Leah might realize he’s loved her since high school. If only he didn’t keep on shooting himself in the foot by boxing her out of important decisions.

Sparks fly in this romantic story of two people who must to trust both each other and the one who called them to this journey.

My Thoughts

I must admit; I enjoyed this book more than the typical contemporary romance. While I read contemporary fiction from time to time, it is usually just for fun when I am in a rut. But this book had more depth to it than a lot of books in the genre. It is a story that I think will stick with me for a long time.

Leah was a stand-out heroine. She was unique in many ways and set herself apart from many of her contemporaries. I loved that she had her own sense of style and was a very driven person. Her dedication to reopening her grandfather’s store was stirring. I liked Jon. He’s not my favorite sort of hero, but his love for Leah and dedication to his sister was endearing, making him a solid character.

Heritage is most definitely a character itself in the book. I love these small town settings that offer plenty of quirks. Descriptions of the quaint little town, its diner and small businesses, as well as Otis, the moving brass hippo, will have readers wishing they could head to Michigan themselves to spend a week in this charming place.

Fans of Melissa Tagg and Becky Wade will love this book. If you’re looking for a contemporary romance with a charming setting and a solid faith message, Since You’ve Been Gone is your ticket.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell through NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.