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Shifting Gears
A spicy, small-town, opposites attract lesbian romance about learning to let go, no matter the cost.
Workaholic Eleanor Cromwell blows into rural Canada, laser focused on her real estate development project. Given the locals already hate her father's company, she plans to hide away in a cabin and conceal her identity to get the job done. And then her car breaks down…
Sweet, smart, goofy mechanic Dani Cooper is about as laid-back as they come, all rumpled flannels and cheeky grins. Meeting an uptight, out-of-town stranger sparks more than just a tire change. What starts as a whirlwind summer fling might turn into something more…except Eleanor's secret threatens to tear everything apart.
Workaholic Eleanor Cromwell blows into rural Canada, laser focused on her real estate development project. Given the locals already hate her father's company, she plans to hide away in a cabin and conceal her identity to get the job done. And then her car breaks down…
Sweet, smart, goofy mechanic Dani Cooper is about as laid-back as they come, all rumpled flannels and cheeky grins. Meeting an uptight, out-of-town stranger sparks more than just a tire change. What starts as a whirlwind summer fling might turn into something more…except Eleanor's secret threatens to tear everything apart.
274 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 8, 2025
606 people are currently reading
4586 people want to read
About the author
Jazz Forrester
2 books192 followersJazz Forrester spends her days getting lost in research rabbit holes over insignificant details. Growing up in rural Ontario, she spent her life constantly reading and creating stories in her head without ever thinking to write them down. Once she started putting pen to paper in 2018, she never looked back. When she’s not writing, she spends her time with fandom nonsense, gaming, playing D&D, and trying out new recipes on her partner.
Jazz currently lives in Niagara, Ontario, and enjoys her day job talking to people about history.
Jazz currently lives in Niagara, Ontario, and enjoys her day job talking to people about history.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 369 reviews
November 4, 2025
**'Let your characters be one of the main thing that entices readers to your story -- combative, witty, be conversational, can blend in anywhere/anytime etc. etc..'
Okay read!
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Okay read!
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March 17, 2025
Me the whole book: (ᗒᗩᗕ) ಥ_ಥ ( ˘ ³˘)♥
So. Fucking. CUTE
SO FUCKING WHOLESOME
Dani is THE LOVE OF MY LIFE.
MY SUNSHINE. MY MUSCULAR CUTE ADORABLE AMAZING KIND SWEET FUTURE WIFE
Well, no, but only because she and Nora makes such an amazing couple and OMG how I do love them 😭🤌🏻
I enjoyed this book so so much. It was like a balm to my soul. Just what I needed.
This book is everything those shitty straight hallmark movies about your workaholic woman going to a small town and falling for your usual mediocre boy dream to be lolol
But with lesbians and without the misogyny and a WHOLESOME found family and a WHOLESOME arc of Nora finding herself and what makes her happy.
This book isnt perfect I guess but I dont give a shit, It made me so happy AGH I was constantly SMILING AT THE PAGES LIKE OMG DANI THE WOMAN YOU ARE THE STANDARD YOU ARE
I know the solution for all my problems would be a hug from Dani. No proofs but no doubt either lolol
ANYWAY READ IT ✨💜🛐
Rep: both lesbians MCs (yes, there is a pattern in the lesbians books I choose: ✨lesbians✨😏)
So. Fucking. CUTE
SO FUCKING WHOLESOME
Dani is THE LOVE OF MY LIFE.
MY SUNSHINE. MY MUSCULAR CUTE ADORABLE AMAZING KIND SWEET FUTURE WIFE
Well, no, but only because she and Nora makes such an amazing couple and OMG how I do love them 😭🤌🏻
I enjoyed this book so so much. It was like a balm to my soul. Just what I needed.
This book is everything those shitty straight hallmark movies about your workaholic woman going to a small town and falling for your usual mediocre boy dream to be lolol
But with lesbians and without the misogyny and a WHOLESOME found family and a WHOLESOME arc of Nora finding herself and what makes her happy.
This book isnt perfect I guess but I dont give a shit, It made me so happy AGH I was constantly SMILING AT THE PAGES LIKE OMG DANI THE WOMAN YOU ARE THE STANDARD YOU ARE
I know the solution for all my problems would be a hug from Dani. No proofs but no doubt either lolol
ANYWAY READ IT ✨💜🛐
Rep: both lesbians MCs (yes, there is a pattern in the lesbians books I choose: ✨lesbians✨😏)
December 30, 2024
4⭐️
Shifting Gears is a solid debut novel by Jazz Forrester.
Eleanor, CEO of CromTech, is almost coerced by her friends and deputies to take a vacation/work trip to a small town in Canada before she works herself to death. She should relax and recharge her batteries. She was also supposed to carry out a field study for a larger project that would provide her with the necessary capital for other projects. But thanks to her father, CromTech has a very bad reputation here. So she tries to remain anonymous at first.
Charming Dani, who grew up here and runs an auto repair shop with her cousin, is attracted to Nora from the start but doesn't think Nora could feel the same. After a few chance and not-so-chance encounters, an easy friendship is formed and slowly develops. They both swear by casual since Nora will be returning to Toronto. But as is the way with casual, most of the time it doesn't work out as desired. A sweet slow-burn romance takes its course.
One of the best parts of the story is Eleanor's transformation. From an early age, she has been prepared for the big, oh-so-important business world. With Dani, she experiences for the first time how much joy small and silly things and gestures can bring that she had never experienced before. Her sense of duty and her loyalty to her family had forced her into a corset that was becoming increasingly uncomfortable and she began to question whether she was doing the right thing or whether she shouldn't be pursuing her own interests. And, last but not least, follow her heart. The transformation from a tough businesswoman to a caring and helpful friend is heartwarming.
Nora and Eleanor are interesting and lovable women, very different at first glance, but who ultimately complement each other very well. The banter and fun with Dani's friends is entertaining. The humor and the serious themes are well-balanced. The second characters, Nora's two best friends and Dani's friends, also contribute a lot to the story. The writing style is fluid, the plot is well thought out and balanced, with enough drama and emotion, but without overdoing it.
ARC received from Ylva Publishing through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Shifting Gears is a solid debut novel by Jazz Forrester.
Eleanor, CEO of CromTech, is almost coerced by her friends and deputies to take a vacation/work trip to a small town in Canada before she works herself to death. She should relax and recharge her batteries. She was also supposed to carry out a field study for a larger project that would provide her with the necessary capital for other projects. But thanks to her father, CromTech has a very bad reputation here. So she tries to remain anonymous at first.
Charming Dani, who grew up here and runs an auto repair shop with her cousin, is attracted to Nora from the start but doesn't think Nora could feel the same. After a few chance and not-so-chance encounters, an easy friendship is formed and slowly develops. They both swear by casual since Nora will be returning to Toronto. But as is the way with casual, most of the time it doesn't work out as desired. A sweet slow-burn romance takes its course.
One of the best parts of the story is Eleanor's transformation. From an early age, she has been prepared for the big, oh-so-important business world. With Dani, she experiences for the first time how much joy small and silly things and gestures can bring that she had never experienced before. Her sense of duty and her loyalty to her family had forced her into a corset that was becoming increasingly uncomfortable and she began to question whether she was doing the right thing or whether she shouldn't be pursuing her own interests. And, last but not least, follow her heart. The transformation from a tough businesswoman to a caring and helpful friend is heartwarming.
Nora and Eleanor are interesting and lovable women, very different at first glance, but who ultimately complement each other very well. The banter and fun with Dani's friends is entertaining. The humor and the serious themes are well-balanced. The second characters, Nora's two best friends and Dani's friends, also contribute a lot to the story. The writing style is fluid, the plot is well thought out and balanced, with enough drama and emotion, but without overdoing it.
ARC received from Ylva Publishing through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
January 27, 2025
Once again great, but I'm like 95% sure I've read it as a Supercorp fanfic previously, so I put it in the nope pile, simply because I'd spend my whole time reading it dissecting differences from the fic.
April 29, 2025
I've been seeing this all over my timeline with rave reviews, but have given it a pass until now. I thought this was going to be a stereotypical city girl falls for small town girl. Though this does have the typical city girl, small town romance tropes, this story has an edge - it's more introspective. There are no words wasted, everything is intentional. We have Nora's POV here, and with her, we fall in love with Dani - with all her softness and endearing qualities. All the rave reviews are right, I will give this 11 ⭐️ out of 5. I can't wait to see what this author comes up with next, and the fact that this is set in Canada is just an icing on the cake for a Canadian like me.
February 23, 2025
4.2 ⭐️ My word, I love Jazz’s writing. I have inhaled Jazz’s fanfics for years so am glad I can finally read a published work.
Cozy, spicy, and leaves you smiling.
This is such a warm read to slip into on a rainy day but does also have a fair amount of spice that is immaculate too. What was most refreshing is how well the couples communicate in Jazz’s books, there’s not drama merely for the sake of a miscommunication trope and everything is nicely paced. This is more slowburn learning ish.
Breezed through this so fast and it will be one I re read so glad I grabbed a paperback.
Rep// White Sapphic MC, White Lesbian MC. Romance is WLW / sapphic.
TWs listed below, please skip if you don’t want vague spoilers.
TW// stresses surrounding family pressure (past), death of a parent (past), mild violence, alcohol/bar mentions.
Spice CW’s// oral, fingering, strap-ons, hair pulling, semi public sex.
Cozy, spicy, and leaves you smiling.
This is such a warm read to slip into on a rainy day but does also have a fair amount of spice that is immaculate too. What was most refreshing is how well the couples communicate in Jazz’s books, there’s not drama merely for the sake of a miscommunication trope and everything is nicely paced. This is more slowburn learning ish.
Breezed through this so fast and it will be one I re read so glad I grabbed a paperback.
Rep// White Sapphic MC, White Lesbian MC. Romance is WLW / sapphic.
TWs listed below, please skip if you don’t want vague spoilers.
TW// stresses surrounding family pressure (past), death of a parent (past), mild violence, alcohol/bar mentions.
Spice CW’s// oral, fingering, strap-ons, hair pulling, semi public sex.
April 2, 2025
Enjoyable sapphic romance. This first third was a bit rough for me. It was almost painful with Dani physically fighting a dude that she beat arm wrestling. I am assuming that came from the fanfic parts of the story that had been developed prior to this becoming a book.
I am glad I stuck with it. Seeing Eleanor sincerely becoming Nora and the communication regarding intimacy that developed was worth the mediocrity of the story before Dani and Nora got together. Once the two MCs get together, the book goes at a decent pace and the spice was quite sweet. Speaking of sweet, Dani is a the epitome of a golden retriever and I only wish we had her POV instead of just Nora’s.
There is a 3 act separation, but you know it’s coming. It’s no spoiler that Nora will return to her life after her summer is over. This is a solid debut and I look forward to reading more from Jazz.
I am glad I stuck with it. Seeing Eleanor sincerely becoming Nora and the communication regarding intimacy that developed was worth the mediocrity of the story before Dani and Nora got together. Once the two MCs get together, the book goes at a decent pace and the spice was quite sweet. Speaking of sweet, Dani is a the epitome of a golden retriever and I only wish we had her POV instead of just Nora’s.
There is a 3 act separation, but you know it’s coming. It’s no spoiler that Nora will return to her life after her summer is over. This is a solid debut and I look forward to reading more from Jazz.
December 1, 2025
REREAD 2025. I really really enjoyed this, but I think I'm going to lower my rating from 4.5 stars to 4. Maybe 4.25? It's still a perfectly tropey, low-angst, low-conflict slow burn romance with just the right amount of steam and a love interest that made me feral. Seriously, I fell so head over heels for Dani. I guess this time around I just noticed a few things that irked me. Not worth putting in a review, but IDK, Eleanor's attitude about a few things rubbed me the wrong way. But make no mistake, I still had such a good time with it, and I'm glad I reread it.
This time, I listened to the audiobook as read by Krystal Hammond, and it was great! Not quite the voice I'd imagined for either of these ladies, but still really well narrated and acted. Looking forward to more from Forrester!
--
4.5 stars. I loved this! I grinned and giggled all the way through it. A pretty simple small town romance between a big city CEO who comes to town to make plans for her company's new project, and the sweet, buff, golden retriever mechanic that she meets there. There's hidden identity, small town cosiness, and a whole lot of heart for something relatively short. And I mean, if the plot itself sounds like a lot of other books you've read or shows you've watched, it's because it is, obviously. But the sheer tropeyness works! There are no frills, but it distinguishes itself in a lot of small ways, and gave me characters that I really really came to love.
Eleanor is a workaholic whose friends have pushed her into finally taking a vacation, which she promptly decides to make a working vacation. The small town that she plans to spend the summer in hates her late father and his company, so she's careful not to let her identity get out as she makes her real estate development plans. But almost immediately, she meets the sweet, funny, friendly mechanic, Dani, and all her usual coldness and pragmatism starts seeping away. Weeks turn into months, they slowly get closer as friends, Nora learns more about the town, and her company's plans start falling by the wayside.
Honestly, one of the biggest strengths of this is how simple it is. Like listening to an old radio station that plays all the hits, but revitalised enough so that you still get new joy out of it. I know I'm in the minority, but I LOVE single POV romances, and Nora was great as a main character. An ice queen, but never too cold or cruel; just enough of a fish-out-of-water that it was refreshing and super cute to see her interact with Dani. (Her ego was sometimes a bit much, but not too off-putting.) As much as she doesn't want to, as much as she knows she can't afford to, she's just so CHARMED by Dani, and I loved the way the author built up that attraction and chemistry in the first half. The way she sees Dani through Nora, because of the single POV, was perfect for me. And it was really well-paced! I remember thinking that the slowness seemed a little artificial at times (like, would they really not have exchanged phone numbers at all in the first half? I don't remember when it finally happened, but it was way later than expected). But I think it still worked perfectly in the end, the way it was drawn out. And the two of them together just made me SWOON. Dani is the perfect butch dream; kinda and sensitive and funny, but also really tough and a caretaker at heart. I was MELTING. Any really good single POV romance will still convince you of the love interest's feelings, and this more than accomplished that. Dani is so gone for her girl, ahhhh. <333
And I REALLY loved the way the third act conflict was handled. It's genuinely my favourite thing, and I was hoping for something like it since 9% into the book. This gets spoilery.
I just enjoyed this so much! I wasn't surprised to find out that it was fic in a previous life. I always seem to love published f/f fic, whether I'm familiar with the fandom or not. Very happy to have read this, and I hope the author has more in store.
This time, I listened to the audiobook as read by Krystal Hammond, and it was great! Not quite the voice I'd imagined for either of these ladies, but still really well narrated and acted. Looking forward to more from Forrester!
--
It still astounds Eleanor sometimes how attracted she is to Dani. It’s a wild thing, something deep and alive in her chest that wakes up and howls at the moon when Dani laughs in that endearing way, where her eyes squint up and she sounds so utterly delighted that she can’t hold it in.
4.5 stars. I loved this! I grinned and giggled all the way through it. A pretty simple small town romance between a big city CEO who comes to town to make plans for her company's new project, and the sweet, buff, golden retriever mechanic that she meets there. There's hidden identity, small town cosiness, and a whole lot of heart for something relatively short. And I mean, if the plot itself sounds like a lot of other books you've read or shows you've watched, it's because it is, obviously. But the sheer tropeyness works! There are no frills, but it distinguishes itself in a lot of small ways, and gave me characters that I really really came to love.
Eleanor is a workaholic whose friends have pushed her into finally taking a vacation, which she promptly decides to make a working vacation. The small town that she plans to spend the summer in hates her late father and his company, so she's careful not to let her identity get out as she makes her real estate development plans. But almost immediately, she meets the sweet, funny, friendly mechanic, Dani, and all her usual coldness and pragmatism starts seeping away. Weeks turn into months, they slowly get closer as friends, Nora learns more about the town, and her company's plans start falling by the wayside.
Honestly, one of the biggest strengths of this is how simple it is. Like listening to an old radio station that plays all the hits, but revitalised enough so that you still get new joy out of it. I know I'm in the minority, but I LOVE single POV romances, and Nora was great as a main character. An ice queen, but never too cold or cruel; just enough of a fish-out-of-water that it was refreshing and super cute to see her interact with Dani. (Her ego was sometimes a bit much, but not too off-putting.) As much as she doesn't want to, as much as she knows she can't afford to, she's just so CHARMED by Dani, and I loved the way the author built up that attraction and chemistry in the first half. The way she sees Dani through Nora, because of the single POV, was perfect for me. And it was really well-paced! I remember thinking that the slowness seemed a little artificial at times (like, would they really not have exchanged phone numbers at all in the first half? I don't remember when it finally happened, but it was way later than expected). But I think it still worked perfectly in the end, the way it was drawn out. And the two of them together just made me SWOON. Dani is the perfect butch dream; kinda and sensitive and funny, but also really tough and a caretaker at heart. I was MELTING. Any really good single POV romance will still convince you of the love interest's feelings, and this more than accomplished that. Dani is so gone for her girl, ahhhh. <333
And I REALLY loved the way the third act conflict was handled. It's genuinely my favourite thing, and I was hoping for something like it since 9% into the book. This gets spoilery.
I just enjoyed this so much! I wasn't surprised to find out that it was fic in a previous life. I always seem to love published f/f fic, whether I'm familiar with the fandom or not. Very happy to have read this, and I hope the author has more in store.
May 21, 2025
Good story, well told. Especially loved Dani who takes everything in her stride. Recommended
March 19, 2025
This novel follows Eleanor (or Nora for many), a CEO of her late father’s company who doesn’t know how to slow down and take a break. She has been attempting to present her ideas to the board for years, but hasn’t had any luck. Finally, one idea she throws out sticks, but someone has to go to this rural area and document on their potential findings. Eleanor’s friends (amazing as they are) volunteer her to take a getaway while also working on the project.
She reluctantly agrees and spends a few months in Riverwalk. Her luck runs out and her car breaks down in the small town with only one mechanic shop where she meets Dani. As hesitant as Eleanor may be, she lets Dani show her how to have fun, and that small towns may not be as boring as she originally thought.
I want to start with Dani’s character because she stuck out the most for me. She’s such a happy-go-lucky person to the point where she’s almost annoyingly peppy. Most of the novel she’s always TOO happy and giddy, but as the story progressed she grew on me, a LOT. It took me about 70% to really get into the novel, but once I got to a turning point, I couldn’t put the book down.
A warning for some, there is a good amount of smut. Personally it was just enough to not be cringy to me, often times it can be too much and make me uncomfortable, but the author wrote it well.
The LOVE that these two main characters have is just the absolute biggest goals. My heart was so warm for them both, and the love they had for each other was contagious. There was so much growth between the two of them and I enjoyed the book so much. I was worried I wouldn’t at first, but once finishing this book I can easily say it’s on my recommended list!
She reluctantly agrees and spends a few months in Riverwalk. Her luck runs out and her car breaks down in the small town with only one mechanic shop where she meets Dani. As hesitant as Eleanor may be, she lets Dani show her how to have fun, and that small towns may not be as boring as she originally thought.
I want to start with Dani’s character because she stuck out the most for me. She’s such a happy-go-lucky person to the point where she’s almost annoyingly peppy. Most of the novel she’s always TOO happy and giddy, but as the story progressed she grew on me, a LOT. It took me about 70% to really get into the novel, but once I got to a turning point, I couldn’t put the book down.
A warning for some, there is a good amount of smut. Personally it was just enough to not be cringy to me, often times it can be too much and make me uncomfortable, but the author wrote it well.
The LOVE that these two main characters have is just the absolute biggest goals. My heart was so warm for them both, and the love they had for each other was contagious. There was so much growth between the two of them and I enjoyed the book so much. I was worried I wouldn’t at first, but once finishing this book I can easily say it’s on my recommended list!
August 13, 2025
4.5 stars, rounded up to 5
That was just so sweet. So comforting, balm for the soul.
Workaholic Eleanor/Nora is sent by her concerned friends to a small town to relax. Unfortunately, her car breaks down and she ends up at Dani's repair shop. And from then on, they keep running into each other...
There are so many aspects that I loved: the small-town atmosphere, the found family, the extremely great chemistry, the character development, the delicious slow burn, the longing. I could go on and on. We only have Nora's perspective, and because of that, I fell in love not only with Dani, but with the people of this small town. Everything is described so intensely, be it nature, the town, or the relationships between the individual characters. And Dani... wow, such a loving character. I think everyone needs a Dani in their life.
It was simply beautiful, and I'm sad that I've already finished the book. Especially in the last few chapters, I found it impossible to put the book down. I cried my eyes out, that's how much the story of Nora and Dani moved me. Oh, and I think the cover is so beautiful. That's exactly how I imagined the two women.
My only minor criticism is the writing. In some places, it seemed a little bumpy, or the pace suddenly became so fast. But even that didn't stop me from enjoying this novel so much.
A beautiful book with a sweet and emotional love story. I will definitely visit Riverwalk again!
That was just so sweet. So comforting, balm for the soul.
Workaholic Eleanor/Nora is sent by her concerned friends to a small town to relax. Unfortunately, her car breaks down and she ends up at Dani's repair shop. And from then on, they keep running into each other...
There are so many aspects that I loved: the small-town atmosphere, the found family, the extremely great chemistry, the character development, the delicious slow burn, the longing. I could go on and on. We only have Nora's perspective, and because of that, I fell in love not only with Dani, but with the people of this small town. Everything is described so intensely, be it nature, the town, or the relationships between the individual characters. And Dani... wow, such a loving character. I think everyone needs a Dani in their life.
It was simply beautiful, and I'm sad that I've already finished the book. Especially in the last few chapters, I found it impossible to put the book down. I cried my eyes out, that's how much the story of Nora and Dani moved me. Oh, and I think the cover is so beautiful. That's exactly how I imagined the two women.
My only minor criticism is the writing. In some places, it seemed a little bumpy, or the pace suddenly became so fast. But even that didn't stop me from enjoying this novel so much.
A beautiful book with a sweet and emotional love story. I will definitely visit Riverwalk again!
May 28, 2025
Story-wise this was nothing ground breaking...predictable even! But this one worked well for me.
The biggest reason is that it was paced a lot slower than most other stories with this trope (big city CEO visits a small town, falls in love with the badass local blue-collar worker). Eleanor and Dani don't even go on a date until 50% of the way through, and it really paid off. I was more invested in the romance, and the spice was spicier and actually sat with me rather than sliding right off my eyes. The epilogue tied all the remaining storylines closed nice and neat-- just the way I need from an epilogue.
I was ready to wave my fist around about the third act miscommunication trope, but without giving anything away, there was a nice little twist that made me shut up. Even as a prolific reader in this genre, this was a solidly enjoyable book.
One thing I didn't understand was the scratched out name in the tree. I wasn't able to read between the lines on that one so if anyone figured it out please let me know LOL.
The biggest reason is that it was paced a lot slower than most other stories with this trope (big city CEO visits a small town, falls in love with the badass local blue-collar worker). Eleanor and Dani don't even go on a date until 50% of the way through, and it really paid off. I was more invested in the romance, and the spice was spicier and actually sat with me rather than sliding right off my eyes. The epilogue tied all the remaining storylines closed nice and neat-- just the way I need from an epilogue.
I was ready to wave my fist around about the third act miscommunication trope, but without giving anything away, there was a nice little twist that made me shut up. Even as a prolific reader in this genre, this was a solidly enjoyable book.
One thing I didn't understand was the scratched out name in the tree. I wasn't able to read between the lines on that one so if anyone figured it out please let me know LOL.
March 22, 2025
It’s like this— I am easily charmed by women with muscles, so I immediately understand.
This was actually a cute story, I believed in the relationship between the main characters 100% of the time. This was real love! And a lil’ smut.
If you want to read about lesbians being in love (and being spicy because we know the real reason why you’re reading these books, yah little pervert), I would recommend this.
4 Muscle Mommy mechanics out of 5
This was actually a cute story, I believed in the relationship between the main characters 100% of the time. This was real love! And a lil’ smut.
If you want to read about lesbians being in love (and being spicy because we know the real reason why you’re reading these books, yah little pervert), I would recommend this.
4 Muscle Mommy mechanics out of 5
January 22, 2025
(rounded up from 4.5)
This was a slow-burn, character-rich romance and I appreciate that approach a great deal. It's the little things, like the characters not immediately falling for each other or jumping into bed together, but forming a solid friendship and attraction while learning to grow and become comfortable with each other. Eleanor being called her full name for the first part of the book and gradually transitioning to being called Nora was very smooth, author, I'm not going to lie. It's one of the fantastic little things that contribute towards creating an atmosphere in this little town where people are accepted, some folks can be dickheads, but for the most part, everyone is welcome and can grow and be themselves.
TL:DR; delightful, slow-burn, and great characters, primary and supporting.
This was a slow-burn, character-rich romance and I appreciate that approach a great deal. It's the little things, like the characters not immediately falling for each other or jumping into bed together, but forming a solid friendship and attraction while learning to grow and become comfortable with each other. Eleanor being called her full name for the first part of the book and gradually transitioning to being called Nora was very smooth, author, I'm not going to lie. It's one of the fantastic little things that contribute towards creating an atmosphere in this little town where people are accepted, some folks can be dickheads, but for the most part, everyone is welcome and can grow and be themselves.
TL:DR; delightful, slow-burn, and great characters, primary and supporting.
April 30, 2025
This novel isis THE small-town romance. Forrester takes you to a tiny town where community is everything. Eleanor/Nora is a workaholic, leading a life out of duty more than love. She is unhappy but doesn't realize it until she goes to that little town and meets Dani. It's written with a single POV. Eleanor was a bit frustrating. Avoidance is her go-to. Her spirit animal is clearly an ostrich. I was even siding with her previous stepmother when she tried to fire her, saying she abandoned her job. It didn’t prevent me from really liking how Dani and Nora's relationship evolves, building a true friendship first. Dani is a true angel, : respectful, patient, loyal, especially in the end. She truly helps Noa realize she was surviving and not living, with zero pressure and only kindness. The small town atmosphere was definitely warm. Overall I enjoyed this small town romance.
February 10, 2025
Present tense writing really messes me up, but this is basically a hallmark movie with straps.
February 9, 2025
The love I have for this book!! Now, when I first started reading it I got Hallmark movie vibes, which isn’t a bad thing, but it’s definitely not something that keeps me engaged. However, I quickly fell in love with Nora & Dani’s dynamic and chemistry. They had so much longing and tension, when they finally got together I was giggling and kicking my feet. One of the things I loved most about them as a couple though, were the honest and raw discussions about intimacy they had with each other. It was so healthy and genuinely added to the passion of the sex scenes. These kinds of discussions in romance books are soooo important and I loved that Jazz included them.
There were also plenty of thoughtful details about this community of characters. Such as this Queer friend group and what it was like being Queer in a small town, and how they thrive by living loudly together. As a Queer person living in a small town I adored this detail. There’s also a scene with a Trans character that was beautiful and yet so simple, but made me tear up all the same. I don’t want to spoil it, but wow I loved it.
Additionally, the criticisms of big corporations and how they ruin communities for profit was a significant part of the plot. Nora is the CEO of a company that was run poorly by her piece of shit father who then gives her the company after he died. So she is currently trying to make improvements. Now, is this part of the plot a little cliche at times? Yeah, but honestly it didn’t bother me that much given that this is a fairly light hearted romance.
Overall, this was a beautifully done romance (I even enjoyed the third act break up y’all) that had me racing to buy a paperback copy for my shelves. I honestly can’t wait to see what else Jazz has in store for us. I’m hoping for a dual pov next time because I was dying to know all of Dani’s thoughts!!
There were also plenty of thoughtful details about this community of characters. Such as this Queer friend group and what it was like being Queer in a small town, and how they thrive by living loudly together. As a Queer person living in a small town I adored this detail. There’s also a scene with a Trans character that was beautiful and yet so simple, but made me tear up all the same. I don’t want to spoil it, but wow I loved it.
Additionally, the criticisms of big corporations and how they ruin communities for profit was a significant part of the plot. Nora is the CEO of a company that was run poorly by her piece of shit father who then gives her the company after he died. So she is currently trying to make improvements. Now, is this part of the plot a little cliche at times? Yeah, but honestly it didn’t bother me that much given that this is a fairly light hearted romance.
Overall, this was a beautifully done romance (I even enjoyed the third act break up y’all) that had me racing to buy a paperback copy for my shelves. I honestly can’t wait to see what else Jazz has in store for us. I’m hoping for a dual pov next time because I was dying to know all of Dani’s thoughts!!
November 14, 2025
would like to thank netgalley and the publisher for letting me read this book
eleanor is fed up.... she is ceo of her company left by her father, the one she was trying to impress all her life
she has a plan for her company but faces the boards decision is hard... they never want to go with any of her ideas and she needs a break she is working so hard she hardly goes home to sleep anymore....
so when a plan comes together eleanor goes undercover to find out if her plan will work in the backwards town that she has designs on making better
what she hadnt expected was meeting dani.... and her summer just got longer....
its a well thought out book with some interesting characters that you can get behind....
cant wait to read more from this author
eleanor is fed up.... she is ceo of her company left by her father, the one she was trying to impress all her life
she has a plan for her company but faces the boards decision is hard... they never want to go with any of her ideas and she needs a break she is working so hard she hardly goes home to sleep anymore....
so when a plan comes together eleanor goes undercover to find out if her plan will work in the backwards town that she has designs on making better
what she hadnt expected was meeting dani.... and her summer just got longer....
its a well thought out book with some interesting characters that you can get behind....
cant wait to read more from this author
September 15, 2025
A beautiful love story!
Nora (Eleanor) is CEO of Chom Tech and is not happy, is working herself to the bone. When she decides to do the work for a project she wants the company to move on.
There she meets Dani Cooper, mechanic extraordinare! In her time there, Nora realizes that her original idea would hurt the town. She also falls in love with Dani!
This is a beautiful slow burn, steamy love story! I LOVE THIS BOOK! 5 stars!!
Nora (Eleanor) is CEO of Chom Tech and is not happy, is working herself to the bone. When she decides to do the work for a project she wants the company to move on.
There she meets Dani Cooper, mechanic extraordinare! In her time there, Nora realizes that her original idea would hurt the town. She also falls in love with Dani!
This is a beautiful slow burn, steamy love story! I LOVE THIS BOOK! 5 stars!!
March 24, 2025
3.35/5 - Nora reminded me so much of Aussie from The Ultimatum (Queer Edition) with her constant avoidance and not wanting to deal with her shit, that it became extremely annoying and infuriating around 80% of the book. Dani is endearing and very likeable, which I could not say the same for Nora.
Some parts of the book seemed dragged out, while other parts felt rushed (such as the ending).
Steamy scenes were plentiful, but I wouldn't say they were very hot or did anything for me (personally). Just seemed meh.
Some parts of the book seemed dragged out, while other parts felt rushed (such as the ending).
Steamy scenes were plentiful, but I wouldn't say they were very hot or did anything for me (personally). Just seemed meh.
Want to read
March 2, 2025supercorp?????????????????????
August 14, 2025
4.75/5 ✨
Oh. My. GODDDD!!! This book gave me all the feels!!! I loved it so much, definitely one of my favorite books and one of the best books I’ve read this year!
The plot and story of this book was amazing!!! It was a little difficult to get over that it was third person and singular pov, but everything else about the writing was so good!!! And the spice? I personally thought it was really good. It wasn’t annoying or cringy, it was super sweet and showed affection rather than them just hooking up and the sex just being there because.
Character wise, let’s start off with Nora (Eleanor). I loved her character development so much!! Her character went from being a CEO, lonely, business women, to learning how to be carefree and that she deserves to be truly happy! It made me so happy she got her happily ever after. The only I didn’t like about her was in the beginning when she came off as judgmental, but that was important to her character development so I forgive it!
And Dani…OH MY GOD!!! I VOLUNTEER! I VOLUNTEER AS TRIBUTE!!! Honestly, can she please be real? I love her. Like literally I love her…is that bad? No…heh… But seriously, she’s such an adorable character. She’s strong and carefree on the outside, but she gets nervous around Nora and is so loving to everyone! Like I said, being her to life please 🙏 I also love how she’s such a helper and giver. Though, she doesn’t really think about her own needs. Thank you Nora for letting Dani know that she deserves the love back!
Like you can tell, I loved this book! It’s great for a short read and it’s slow burn (ish) but it goes at the right pace (if that makes sense). Live, laugh, love lesbian romance! 🥰
Oh. My. GODDDD!!! This book gave me all the feels!!! I loved it so much, definitely one of my favorite books and one of the best books I’ve read this year!
The plot and story of this book was amazing!!! It was a little difficult to get over that it was third person and singular pov, but everything else about the writing was so good!!! And the spice? I personally thought it was really good. It wasn’t annoying or cringy, it was super sweet and showed affection rather than them just hooking up and the sex just being there because.
Character wise, let’s start off with Nora (Eleanor). I loved her character development so much!! Her character went from being a CEO, lonely, business women, to learning how to be carefree and that she deserves to be truly happy! It made me so happy she got her happily ever after. The only I didn’t like about her was in the beginning when she came off as judgmental, but that was important to her character development so I forgive it!
And Dani…OH MY GOD!!! I VOLUNTEER! I VOLUNTEER AS TRIBUTE!!! Honestly, can she please be real? I love her. Like literally I love her…is that bad? No…heh… But seriously, she’s such an adorable character. She’s strong and carefree on the outside, but she gets nervous around Nora and is so loving to everyone! Like I said, being her to life please 🙏 I also love how she’s such a helper and giver. Though, she doesn’t really think about her own needs. Thank you Nora for letting Dani know that she deserves the love back!
Like you can tell, I loved this book! It’s great for a short read and it’s slow burn (ish) but it goes at the right pace (if that makes sense). Live, laugh, love lesbian romance! 🥰
July 27, 2025
This was a book club pick that had been on my TBR for a little while, so I was excited to get into it.
The beginning took its time to get going, but once it got going… it went. I absolutely loved Dani. Because of her I was hooked. I loved absolutely everything about her, and I did enjoy her dynamic with Eleanor. Unlike many popular romance novels these days, this book was a single POV. I would have liked to get some of Dani’s POV, but Eleanor was at times a humorous narrator. Even in third person, her personality came through. I thought it was funny the lengths she went to in order to “accidentally” run into Dani. This was both relatable and a tiny bit crazy at times, but it was an enjoyable ride, that’s for sure. I would be interested in reading future works by this author!
Spice level: 3/5
The beginning took its time to get going, but once it got going… it went. I absolutely loved Dani. Because of her I was hooked. I loved absolutely everything about her, and I did enjoy her dynamic with Eleanor. Unlike many popular romance novels these days, this book was a single POV. I would have liked to get some of Dani’s POV, but Eleanor was at times a humorous narrator. Even in third person, her personality came through. I thought it was funny the lengths she went to in order to “accidentally” run into Dani. This was both relatable and a tiny bit crazy at times, but it was an enjoyable ride, that’s for sure. I would be interested in reading future works by this author!
Spice level: 3/5
February 19, 2025
Hi, my name is Angie, and this book ruined me. Dani is my dream girl - tall, strong (throw me around plz), smart, sweet, sexy, and a little bit scared of everything except being unfathomably hot? And Nora, bless her heart, is the perfect realistically-flawed woman for her (sad for me). Anyways, read this because it’s good but also their first time together made me sweat (I love women) and yes they’re sweet and they fall in love and blah blah blah but also they are so hot for each other (I LOVE WOMEN) I’m obsessed. That’s all, go forth and read now.
December 31, 2024
3,5⭐️
Shifting Gears by Jazz Forrester is a fast-paced lesbian romance book.
I really enjoyed the characters and the relationship between Eleanor and Dani.
I also particularly loved the small-town vibes and the queer found family aspect.
In addition, I appreciated how the author handled all the discussions about intimacy between the main couple.
Overall, it was a pretty solid debut and I’ll definitely check out future books by this author.
Shifting Gears by Jazz Forrester is a fast-paced lesbian romance book.
I really enjoyed the characters and the relationship between Eleanor and Dani.
I also particularly loved the small-town vibes and the queer found family aspect.
In addition, I appreciated how the author handled all the discussions about intimacy between the main couple.
Overall, it was a pretty solid debut and I’ll definitely check out future books by this author.
May 27, 2025
Rep: lesbian mc/ lesbian love interest
What a gem of a book! When the overworked CEO Eleanor Cromwell arrives to survey the small town of Riverwalk for new development, almost ruined in the past by her father, she instead finds a lovable group of friends and a hot and helpful local mechanic, Dani. The chemistry and heat between the two of them was incredible, and the romance slow and sweet. There wasn't excessive drama, the side characters were likeable, and the small town setting was really cute and romantic. I loved so many details about it. Just the perfect read for romance lovers.
What a gem of a book! When the overworked CEO Eleanor Cromwell arrives to survey the small town of Riverwalk for new development, almost ruined in the past by her father, she instead finds a lovable group of friends and a hot and helpful local mechanic, Dani. The chemistry and heat between the two of them was incredible, and the romance slow and sweet. There wasn't excessive drama, the side characters were likeable, and the small town setting was really cute and romantic. I loved so many details about it. Just the perfect read for romance lovers.
April 4, 2025
I didn’t expect to love this as much as I did!
It was written well, the small town was realistic and I could picture it. The characters weren’t flat, even the side characters. The slow burn romance between the main two was so GOOD, it made me actually care about them both. Nora’s own character growth was good, and a lot of it was helped by Dani. They were so good together.
Dani was such a good love interest. She was interesting, and so upbeat, and strong and caring. I loved everything about her, and loved that the romance didn’t do everything I expected. The story itself is predictable, but the characters bring some new feeling into it. It was sweet, caring and made me want to live in a small town in the woods. With a muscular lesbian who smells like vanilla.
For me, Dani is now the best book girlfriend ever.
It was written well, the small town was realistic and I could picture it. The characters weren’t flat, even the side characters. The slow burn romance between the main two was so GOOD, it made me actually care about them both. Nora’s own character growth was good, and a lot of it was helped by Dani. They were so good together.
Dani was such a good love interest. She was interesting, and so upbeat, and strong and caring. I loved everything about her, and loved that the romance didn’t do everything I expected. The story itself is predictable, but the characters bring some new feeling into it. It was sweet, caring and made me want to live in a small town in the woods. With a muscular lesbian who smells like vanilla.
For me, Dani is now the best book girlfriend ever.
November 7, 2025
4.5 Stars
I really enjoyed this. It was a cute small town girl meet big city girl romance! The narrator did a fantastic job of the audiobook as well.
I don’t know about you but any time there is a miscommunication trope or hidden identity trope, I’m yelling at the book for them to “tell her the truth!” “Talk to each other” 🤣🤣 I love it though. The twists and turns are great reading.
Highly recommend.
Written in third person with a single POV. Narrated by Krystal Hammond. Small Town, Opposites Attract, Friends to Lovers, Found Family, Hidden Identity, Butch/Femme. 4x Spicy Scene.
I really enjoyed this. It was a cute small town girl meet big city girl romance! The narrator did a fantastic job of the audiobook as well.
I don’t know about you but any time there is a miscommunication trope or hidden identity trope, I’m yelling at the book for them to “tell her the truth!” “Talk to each other” 🤣🤣 I love it though. The twists and turns are great reading.
Highly recommend.
Written in third person with a single POV. Narrated by Krystal Hammond. Small Town, Opposites Attract, Friends to Lovers, Found Family, Hidden Identity, Butch/Femme. 4x Spicy Scene.
December 24, 2025
⭐⭐✨ Two and a half stars
Whomp whomp. Deeply boring. Maybe Dani's POV could've saved it. Guess we'll never know!
Sorry to the team at Rainbow Crate, but Shifting Gears is a miss for me. What a massive disappointment. If anybody wants my Rainbow After Dark edition, it'll be on my Depop.
Whomp whomp. Deeply boring. Maybe Dani's POV could've saved it. Guess we'll never know!
Sorry to the team at Rainbow Crate, but Shifting Gears is a miss for me. What a massive disappointment. If anybody wants my Rainbow After Dark edition, it'll be on my Depop.
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