"Since You've Been Gone" by Tari Faris has a slow start, and it's subplot between a "bad girl" and Christian music artist is more interesting than that of its lead characters, who are trying to open a "locally made" craft store (a business choice I don't find very realistic). The antagonists, a financially-driven businessman and a judgmental small town, are also rather one-note.
But I will say this: If you're patient and willing to witness the character development behind the two romances, you'll be rewarded with some very raw and relatable moments. Faris even includes more of the actual Christian lingo than what is typically found in Christian romances. In fact, I felt so attached to these characters and their challenges (lost family members, abuse, failure, remorse over sin), that I wished Faris had gone even deeper. For example, one character is slowly accepting Christianity and beginning to turn to God, but we never see anything definitive to tell us where she is really at spiritually. Her romantic interest is a popular Christian musician, but he never considers the question of whether or not she is saved. I would have loved to have seen an authentic come-to-Jesus moment for her.
Unfortunately, "Since You've Been Gone" is also weighed down by the number of additional characters and references to things you would have needed to read the previous books in the Restoring Heritage series to understand. I had not read the previous books, so I often felt lost. If you're willing to read the entire series, Faris' novel may be more enjoyable, but based on reading this final book in the series by itself, I would not recommend it.
*Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
