While It Was Snowing

Restoring Heritage #2.5

by Tari Faris

Return to Heritage with this heart warming Christmas novella.

Had Danielle known that delivering a message would land her holding a bouquet of red roses and wearing the first dress of her life, she would not have volunteered.

Danielle Fair has been working at her dad’s mechanic shop since she could talk, and she loves fixing cars. To everyone at the garage, she’s just Dan, one of the guys, and that’s fine by her…after all, without sisters or a mother, Danielle is lost when it comes to girly stuff. However, when she is forced to embrace her inner girly girl at Nate and Olivia’s winter wedding, her makeover wakes up not just the attention of the guys she works with, but also the one man she has secretly loved for some time—her best friend, Gideon Mathews—Danielle is suddenly beset with way too much attention and struggles to figure out who she is underneath it all.

There were always two things Gideon Mathews could count on: his beloved Detroit Lions not making it to the playoffs and Dan Fair being his best friend. But when Dan—no, Danielle—shows up to his sister’s wedding dressed as, of all things, a girl—no, a very beautiful, breathtaking, heart-stopping girl—he isn’t sure what to do with his sudden rush of emotions. Of course, he’s always known she was a girl, but suddenly he can’t keep his eyes, or mind…or heart away from her. Only now every guy in town seems to have the same problem. Did he lose his chance with Danielle by missing what had been in front of him for so long? Or can he convince her to be his by Christmas?

It’s Miss Congeniality goes to a winter wedding in a Christmas Cinderella tale. From snowed-in to snowball fights, Christmas trees to Christmas dances, this story has everything you need for a perfect holiday read.

Fuzzy socks and hot cocoa not included but encouraged while you read.

Genres: Christmas, Contemporary, Fiction, Romance, Christian Fiction, Novella, Christian Romance

180 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 1, 2020

About the author

I have been writing fiction for more than twelve years. It has been an exciting journey for this math-loving-dyslexic girl. I had read less than a handful of novels by the time I graduated from college and I thought I would end up in the field of science or math. But God had other plans and I wouldn't trade this journey for anything. As someone told me once, God's plans may not be easy, and they may not always make sense but they are never boring.


In addition to my writing, I also work for My Book Therapy as a special project project manager and write for LearnHowToWriteAnNovel.com and you can find me blogging over there on occasion.

​When I am not writing or working, I spend time with my amazing husband. We have been married for fifteen wonderful years and have three sweet children. In my free time, I love coffee, rock hounding with my husband and kids, and distracting myself from housework.

Reviews

[Susan Snodgrass · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really, really enjoy the work of Tari Faris and this Christmas novella is just so incredibly delightful! Take a wonderful woman mechanic and a friend who is also a mechanic and then dress them both for a wedding and see what happens. Will it push them towards each other in the way they've been thinking for a while or will it push them farther apart. This was just so wonderful and there are some really cool surprises along the way that just made my heart smile. I devoured it in one sitting. Well done!

*My thanks to the publisher and author for a digital copy of this book. I received no compensation and the review here is my own opinion.

[Staci · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love a good tomboy finds romance story. Readers were introduced to Dan (Danielle) in a prior Restoring Heritage novel. It's great that she gets her own story. Dan grew up with her dad and brothers. To survive she became one of the boys and that stuck into adulthood.

Gideon has worked with Dan as a mechanic for several years but only saw her as a friend. When she is in his sister's wedding in a dress with make-up and hair in something other than a ponytail, his eyes are opened.

Sweet Christmas novella.

My gratitude to the author for a complimentary copy of the novel. I was not required to post a review and all opinions expressed are my own.

[MJSH · Rating 4 out of 5]

"God's timing. She hadn't really thought about that. She'd always assumed there was something wrong with her."

What a charming Christmas novella! I loved getting to know Olivia's younger brother Gideon better through this story and his relationship with tomboy Danielle is fun and tender. Despite being best friends, there are insecurities in both of their hearts that they hide and it takes courage, vulnerability, and trust to overcome these fears. Heritage, Michigan has to be one of my favorite fictional towns and it was good to catch up with the old gang and attend Olivia and Nate's wedding.

If you enjoy sweet Christmas novellas, this book is a must for your shelf. I read this book in one sitting and I'm sure you will too.

I received a copy of the book from the author and was under no obligation to post a positive review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.

[Abigail Harris · Rating 5 out of 5]

Okay, um, I don't know what it is but I am not able to resist any of Tari Faris' books.

Novella or novel, either way, it doesn't matter.

Her small home town feel, the sweet and adorable romance, along with a good dose of God's Word and truth make her stories need to read, "While It Was Snowing" was no different.

Honestly, I was so intrigued for this story since I read Faris' second novel. The way she made us want to know what happened with Gideon and Dan who we may not at the time have known to be who she was... I just think that if you are a romance reader you MUST try this book.

There is a little bit of kissiness but otherwise, this is a super sweet story that I highly recommend.

I voluntarily received and reviewed a complimentary e/copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

[Tamara · Rating 4 out of 5]

While It Is Snowing was a cute friend-to-something more, and I was grinning the entire time I was reading it. Dan/Danielle loves to work on cars and be one of the guys, but she also hasn't really known anything different having grown up in a strictly all-male household. Her mother died when she was a year old, and she never really ventured into anything girly. It was while Danielle is a bridesmaid that her best friend Gideon has his eyes open to his very beautiful best friend, and this begins to cause conflicts in the very best way for both of them. This is my favourite book of Restoring Heritage series.

[Lou Allen · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this short Christmas romance. I haven’t read any of the other books in the series but that did not matter. I could tell that some of the side characters must have been part of previous books but I was never confused by it.

This story follows Dan (aka Danielle Rose) who is a mechanic at her father’s garage and Gideon who is looking to start up a 3D printing business. They have been friends for years and he has alway seen her as one of the guys, that is until she shows up at his sister’s wedding in a bride’s maid’s dress.

This is a friends to lovers, will they won’t they, kind of story. It had a lot of fun, winter and Christmas elements woven in. I loved the characters and their inner struggles. I also enjoyed the Christian faith references throughout.

The romance got a little cheesy at times but I can deal with that at Christmas!

To sum up, it was a short fun winter romance with a good amount of character development and emotional jeopardy.

[Nicole · Rating 4 out of 5]

Originally posted on Inkwell Inspirations

It’s the most wonderful time of the year!

Get ready for a fun and heartwarming return to Heritage, Michigan in the Christmas novella, While It Was Snowing. This wonderful novella follows the second book in author Tari Faris’ Restoring Heritage series. Readers will enjoy the developing romance between best friends Danielle and Gideon and the appearance of many familiar characters from the first two books in the Restoring Heritage series.

Christmas novellas are my favorite novellas to read because they always get me in the Christmas spirit, and Tari Faris does not disappoint. While It Was Snowing is highly recommended for readers of inspirational contemporary romance.

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

[Sherry Deatrick · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this book! It came at the right time for me, I loved the feelings it evoked. It is romantic and clever. And I loved getting to return to the charming town of Heritage, Mi.

This story had a couple of welcome differences from a lot of romances. For one, I‘m not sure there are any with two mechanics in a garage that are falling in love and second, the whole issue of ‘avoiding conflict’ is something I am well acquainted with in real life but haven’t seen it fiction.

And of course there is always a good life lesson in Tari’s books.
“Maybe God didn’t open Gideon’s eyes fully to you until it was the right time for both of you. God’s timing. She hadn’t thought about that.”

Tari Faris once again does not disappoint. If you are looking for a wonderful Christmas read,
this is it!
I received a complimentary copy from the author but the opinions are entirely my own.

[Andrea Cox · Rating 4 out of 5]

This cute romance had an interesting premise, with a female mechanic on a journey of discovering her worth. It was charming with fun dates and fantastic Christmas vibes. While I don’t think it was entirely realistic that practically every secondary character would play matchmaker for the leads, I did enjoy that someone pointed a character back to God in their darkest moment. This point to true faith was exquisite and well written and made me wish there were a few more chapters to this little beauty.

Content: replacement expletives

[Martha · Rating 3 out of 5]

Cute novella, which I don't always enjoy, but it was fun to see more of this amazing town that the author set up.

[Toni Shiloh · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love friends to more stories and this one had the added bonus of the Christmas season

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

Okay, this book was adorable, and everything I love about Tari Fari's writing. She has great relatable characters, awesome on page chemistry and stories that make me smile, all wrapped up in small town charm.
Though this is a novella it felt like nothing was missing, it gave you that character and story arc and I just loved seeing how Danielle and Gideon had to grow and face their own struggles. And she can write a kiss!
Wouldn't change a thing, perfect Christmas Novella that wasn't over the top with Christmas cliches!

[maiaisreading · Rating 4 out of 5]

While It Was Snowing (Restoring Heritage Novella -2.5) by Tari Faris

I have enjoyed the Restoring Heritage series and this time it’s about Gideon and Daniella or known as Dan to many. I have met them in the other books so I was excited to read their friends-to-lovers story. Dan has always been one of the guys until Olivia’s wedding when she had to wear a dress as an impromptu bridesmaid. It was a shock to many, especially to her best friend Gideon. Dan has secretly loved Gideon for two years now and it was interesting to read how Gideon processed this new side of Dan and his changing feelings towards her. One favorite scene was when Dan arrived at Adam's dance in red sneakers! Cute! I also found it interesting learning more about Gideon’s character. How he can’t express much in words but is more comfortable writing them. I enjoyed this snowy and sweet Christmas story. 4 stars

#kindleunlimited

[Melmo2610 · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was another lovely trip to Heritage. I enjoyed this Christmas novella where we get to see Danielle and Gideon's romance blossom during a snow storm and the holiday season. It was a fun short read with a sweet ending. Cute story!

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm a sucker for books about young women who come to the self-realization of who they really are and love what they find. Two thumbs up for "While It Was Snowing!"

[Dana Michael · Rating 5 out of 5]

While it Was Snowing is a sweet and heartwarming read. I thoroughly enjoyed this romance. In fact, this is my favorite in the series.

[Sophia · Rating 5 out of 5]

So sweet! I always love Tari Faris’ novellas. They’re short, super sweet, and endlessly romantic!

[Teresa Snyder · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cute Christmas (or a little later) read.

[Mandy Boerma · Rating 5 out of 5]

A light-hearted, sweet Christmas romance. This book will check off all the boxes for an enjoyable holiday read—Snowball fights, power outages, Christmas trees and a dance, with a brass hippo to join in the fun. I've read all of Tari's books to this point, and she is a fantastic author. Heritage comes to life with her expertise, and I cannot wait to return in her next book.

[Marie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you in advance to the author, Tari Faris, for providing a complimentary electronic advanced review copy. A positive review was not required and all words are my own.

Until I signed up for the launch team for Until I Met You (UIMY), I hadn’t heard of the author. But, I bought and quickly read her debut book You Belong With Me (YBWM) which is the first book in the series. That is unless you count the prequel P.S Goodbye (available in Kindle or Paperback) that was released shortly after.

While it Was Snowing picks up after UIMY and features Danielle the “serial reader” from that story along with Gideon.

The whimsical cover definitely matches the whimsical story herein with Gideon having some serious thoughts about Danielle after seeing her in a dress at his sister’s wedding (hint –> Nate and Olivia). But, he is reluctant to lose their friendship.

Danielle wants her father’s repair shop and Gideon needs to prove to his family that his business venture is going to pan out. And, Danielle begins trying to attract Gideon and learn to “act like a girl”. That definitely makes for some drama in this sweet little story. It gets even more interesting when Danielle’s father sees a good partnership with Gideon’s venture and Danielle owning the auto shop, in addition – dad is a bit of a matchmaker.

Gideon, while good looking, is awkward with girls. He doesn’t date and has never had a girlfriend despite the number of girls who are smitten with him.

Some of my discord was the lack of communication (carrying over from UIMY) between Gideon and Danielle. But, it was definitely interesting to see the character growth and development with Libby who returns in this story to guide Danielle. She even provided some value guy and girl emotional insight.

While getting to know each other, Gideon realizes Danielle doesn’t do Christmas because of how her father treated the day when she was growing up. As a result, Gideon sets out to help her celebrate Christmas.

Gideon eventually realizes that he does want to be with Danielle but is unsure of what she wants. He knows one thing – the nickname “Dan” doesn’t suit her anymore, and with changing their status, it is a big risk. And, Danielle finds it is hard to be a girl among not only the guys she works with, but her brothers and father. She even asks why she can’t she be both and why should she have to choose to be a great mechanic and a girl.

Fans and readers of the previous books will definitely enjoy this novella which definitely has that “Hallmark” movie vibe and there is even a reference to that in this story.

This has that “feel good, snow-fights, love, and other emotions” vibe that gets one ready for the holidays and injects some holiday spirit.

As a novella, this is a short story so there isn’t a lot of room for character or plot development and was a fairly quick read. I read it in one sitting, about an hour or so.

Given that this is an uncorrected ARC, there are a few typos. And, eagle-eyed readers will find a continuity error when it comes to Danielle’s age when her mother died. In UIMY she is 5, in this novel she is 1. I found this out when researching if she was the “serial reader” from UIMY as it has been over two dozen (27) books I’ve read after that, and it has been roughly three (3) months. That error doesn’t hinder the enjoyment of it though. As I am on the author’s launch team, she was advised to leave everything as it was and make a note at the back of the book. And, I am making the note to the same.

I didn’t care for how Gideon’s father reacted when he finally learned of the young man’s project. This coldness was in stark contrast to Gideon’s wise, loving mother who doled out this fantastic gem of advice – “make sure you’re thinking with your head. Don’t walk into something because it feels good in the moment”. This definitely seems so relevant in life.

Since it is independently published by the author and connected to the Revell books, it is a clean read and there are some references to God, but no overt preaching or biblical references.

As it is connected to the series, it is best that the books be read in order so the reader has a complete idea of who everyone is, even Otis. While no antics this round, he is mentioned as are some of the exploits.

Since I have read Faris’ previous novels (except P.S. Goodbye), and am on the launch team for the third (3rd) Revell book in the series, it goes without saying I will definitely be reading future novels. And, I would like to get the prequel novella in print as well as this one.

As always, the title comes from one of the last lines in the book.

Those who have read the other novels and love Faris’ work should definitely consider this little gem.

[Kim - Inside the Wong Mind · Rating 4 out of 5]

While It Was Snowing
by Tari Faris
Book 2.5 in the Restoring Heritage series
Rating: 4/5
Release Date: November 5, 2020

I am a huge fan of Tari Faris and this novella was such a sweet, charming holiday story about two best friends. I highly recommend reading the other books in this series but it is not required.

Growing up without a mother, Danielle "Dan" Fair is a young mechanic working at her father's garage in Heritage. When Danielle gets pulled into becoming the last minute replacement bridesmaid, she puts on her first dress ever. After a quick makeover, she is walking down the aisle with her hair in curls and hoping that maybe Gideon Mathews, her best friend and secret crush of two years, will start seeing her as a woman and not "just one of the guys". Of course, Gideon can't take his eyes off his best friend, but despite being a sought-after bachelor, he's never been good at talking with the opposite sex. With Gideon trying to forge his own career path and Danielle trying to convince her dad that she's ready to takeover the business, can the two of them admit their feelings and trust that they deserve their own happily ever after?

I love returning to Heritage. It's always fun "seeing" characters from other books and getting a life update. I always enjoy Tari Faris' writing and her characters. They are not perfect. They are flawed and have insecurities just like you and me. They have fears about taking a risk for love. They find it hard to trust and like to avoid conflict.

Don't hesitate to read this cozy Christmas story!

My thanks to the author for providing me with an ARC of the book. All opinions expressed here are entirely my own. No positive review was expected and no compensation received.

[Marylin · Rating 4 out of 5]

From the very first page of this book to the end I was delighted and had a fun time reading this book.
I love small-town stories where the community is warm and inviting and sometimes in everyone’s business! The town of Heritage is just that type of small town. I’m enjoying getting to know many of the town folk in these books by Tari Faris. They are delightful, funny, and quirky.
This latest book is a sweet story of two people dealing with self-esteem and feelings for each other that they haven’t really realized were there all along.
Tari Faris is a wonderful author that I’ve recently started reading. Her book flows smoothly and is very entertaining. I loved all the characters in this story and can see great books to come from more of the community members. It was delightful, funny, yet also thought-provoking. Tari Faris wove sweet life lessons throughout this story. One of the lessons I took away from this book is that no matter what others think, we are just who God made us and we shouldn’t try to be someone else. Also, with God’s help, we can pursue our dreams.
I’m looking forward to reading more from this author! I highly recommend you pick this book up. It might touch your heart just like it did mine.

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Welcome back to Heritage, Michigan.  This is the Christmas novella that follows the second novel, Until I Met You, in Tari Faris's Restoring Heritage series. If you like really great Christmas books that include romance and small-town charm, then this book is for you.  The characters in this series are so lovable and relatable.  And do not worry if you have read the previous novels in this series then you will remember Otis the Hippo and he makes an appearance in this one as well.  This book is one that you really do not want to put down so make sure to carve out enough time to read it in one sitting.  Also, even though you do not have to read the previous books in this series, I would recommend that you do because it makes this one even more enjoyable.

Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book in order to give an honest review.

[Joan Arning · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tari Faris returns to Heritage for the best book yet! Danielle known as Dan so that she will be accepted as a mechanic in her dad's garage will win your heart! Danielle's mother died when she was a toddler and she grew up with her dad and several brothers who did nothing to encourage her feminine side. She has always been "one of the guys". Danielle knows she loves one of the mechanics and her best friend, Gideon, but he doesn't seem to realize she is female! You will love how Gideon is shocked when Danielle fills in for a bridesmaid at his sister's wedding and wears a dress for the second time in her life! Gideon has a hard time knowing how to deal with the truth that his best friend is an attractive woman. I recommend While It Was Snowing to others who enjoy contemporary romance. I received a complimentary e-book from the author. This is my honest opinion.

[Jana · Rating 5 out of 5]

great book

Dan, Dani, Danielle, was introduced in Until I Met You. When we met her she was a “closet” book reader, unsure of herself and who she really was or wanted to be. Being raised by her father and brothers she didn’t know how to be a girl. The only way for her to fit in was to be like them. Fast forward to this book where she finds herself unexpectedly in a dress but also in a wedding. That began her journey of finding herself and who she was meant to be. In the end she realizes she can be a great mechanic and a beautiful woman that loves deeply. Plus she gets to keep her best friend, the man she loves!

For me it was extra fun because I’ve lived in West Michigan all my life. It was great recognizing so many places. Kudos to Tari for being so accurate with all the Michigan stuff.

I’m so glad Danielle got her own story.

[Patty Montoro · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love returning to charming town of Heritage. This is wonderful friends to lovers Christmas novella. Danielle was always like a friend and sister to Gideon. Danielle has feelings for Gideon she is afraid to show her true self to him. After his sisters wedding he realizes his feelings are more. He realizes he has always loved her. Danielle is his best friend and the first person he wants to call or hear from. Now he is afraid she might not feel the same way. Danielle has hidden her feminine side she wanted to be one of boys. Gideon's feelings for her are real and he wants all of her. He loves her deeply and he does not want Danielle to fit in a box or mold. It took a snow storm for him to wake up and realize he loves her.

[Michelle Castaneda · Rating 5 out of 5]

While it was Snowing by Tari Faris is the perfect Christmas novella for this season. I honestly had just one complaint— I’m ready to read the next book in the Heritage series NOW! Ms Faris has created the most amazing community with wonderful characters you want to meet again and again. Here, Danielle is a strong, independent woman. I loved her character and her struggle to figure out her identity and what it means to transition friendship to love. I adored every minute of this novella and highly recommend it to readers of romance. I received a digital copy of this book from the author with no obligations. These opinions are entirely my own.

[Becky · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a sweet Christmas novella! Fans of Tari Faris's Restoring Heritage series will love this glimpse into the love story of Gideon Mathews and Danielle "Dan" Fair. (It also would work well as an entry point into Faris's novels ... and I guarantee you'll want to go back and read the others!) It's a sweet friends-to-more story about best friends falling for each other. It was fun to watch Gideon slowly realize his love for Danielle, while she had been pining for him for a while but tried to content herself with friendship.

As always, Faris writes some great chemistry and kisses, and I can't wait to see where these two go in future novels! 4-1/2 stars.

[Life of Literature · Rating 4 out of 5]

This novella is one of those cozy Christmas reads that is best enjoyed with a fire and some hot chocolate! The characters are fun and quirky, the setting is snowy and quaint, and the plot has romance and surprises that make it such a joy to read! This novella can stand on its own, but it is enjoyable to read more about the characters from the first two books in the series if you are familiar with them. The story is charming and sweet and a perfect read for the winter season. I recommend this to those who enjoy contemporary romance novels!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.

[Margaret Nelson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a fun Christmas novella that fits in between Until I Met You and the next book coming in Faris’ Restoring Heritage series. She does a really good job with the friends to lovers trope, with good plot twists, miscommunications, swoon-worthy moments, and great snow scenes. If you haven’t read the other books yet, they’ll fill you in on the background and characters that show up in this one, but you don’t have to have read them to enjoy While It Was Snowing.

I received an Advance Reader Copy (ARC) of this book with no obligation to post a review