After adoring the prequel novella to this series I was severely disappointed by the first book but decided to give the second a chance anyway. Sadly it fell short as well. Overall the book was not hard to read it was fast and there wasn’t anything overly heavy to bog you down. It was in the details that things started to fall apart. I can best describe it as being like a sweater that is being knit by someone who doesn’t know how in a comedy tv show and when they show the finished product it resembles a sweater shape but there are holes and random threads just hanging from nowhere. There wasn’t much to the plot (and there were a lot of plot holes), the characters were altogether unlikeable (except Nate and Austin’s dad lol), and there were a lot of things that felt contrived, forced, or cliche.

This was a sweet, PG rated novel revolving around a small town in Michigan. Living in Michigan myself, I liked seeing Grand Rapids, U of M, Linden, etc. mentioned. I didn't realize that this was a more religious-focused and faith based read, and the topics of forgiveness and grace are brought up frequently. Much like a Hallmark movie, it's very wholesome and there's not much to not like about it.

Perhaps I missed it in the ARC, but what happened to the key after Nate found it? Also, it is me or does the Libby on the cover of the book look like LeAnn Rimes?

Kindly received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

Until I Met You by Tari Faris is a mesmerizing read. To classify it as simply romance would be such a disservice to the brilliance of this work. This book follows the author’s debut novel, You Belong to Me. I loved that book, but this book is her best yet. Ms Faris skillfully weaves issues of forgiveness and past hurts into the lives of her characters and does not avoid hard questions about God and His nature. Her characters are so real and vivid that their wrestling with their pasts feels just as real to the reader. There are no easy answers here. But this book is such a ray of hope, hope in a God who sees us as we are and loves us thoroughly. Add to these themes the idyllic town of Heritage and lovely, clean romance— I cannot imagine a better read. I highly recommend this book and think it would appeal widely to readers. I cannot wait for book 3! I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher with no obligations. These opinions are entirely my own.

With small town charm and beautifully crafted characters, Until I Met You, the second installment of author Tari Faris’ Restoring Heritage series, is sure to delight readers of contemporary romance. Readers can start with this book and fully understand the storyline, but to get the full enjoyment of the Restoring Heritage series, I recommend reading P.S. Goodbye (the prequel novella) and You Belong With Me (book one) first. These books are a great introduction to many of the characters who will play an important role in the Restoring Heritage series.

Realistically flawed characters, estranged brothers, strong bonds of friendship, and small town life…I loved everything about this novel! I have been looking forward to reading Until I Met You ever since I read book one when it released last year. This book focuses on Libby and Austin’s story, along with Pastor Nate and Olivia’s secondary storyline. Beloved characters from book one including Hannah, Luke, Thomas, Janie, and many more familiar townspeople have appearances throughout the book. With her stellar writing and bits of humor sprinkled throughout her books, Tari Faris has quickly risen to the top as one of my favorite contemporary romance authors.

Until I Met You is highly recommended for fans of contemporary romance, especially readers who enjoy novels by authors such as Denise Hunter, Becky Wade, Courtney Walsh, Melissa Tagg, and Susan May Warren. In future installments of the Restoring Heritage series, I would love for Luke’s brothers to have their stories told, especially Liam, who I have been curious about ever since I was introduced to him in book one.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine.

This is a wonderful book. Austin is trying to find his way in life and Libby is trying to rebuild her life.
Libby has moved to Heritage to be closer to her brother. And to resuscitate the library that has been closed for years. Austin is landscape architect working in Heritage. Libby is sweet, funny and shy.
Austin is complex and moody. Austin has issues with his brother sometimes he lets this get the best of him. Austin teaches Libby how to trust her self again. Libby feels safe and protected with Austin. Austin gives Libby the courage and support she needs. Libby brings Austin closer to peace with his brother. Libby brings chaos, love and life to his world. There are so many wonderful themes in this book and one of them is to not be afraid when you have a know God. I loved secondary story of Nate and Olivia. I am really excited for Leah and Jon's story.