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Woodland Park Firefighters #2
Moving Forward
Romance blossoms in the Colorado foothills in this sweet romance by New York Times bestselling author Shelley Shepard Gray
Former Army captain Greg Tebo loves his new life in Woodland Park. In the two years since he joined the WPFD, he’s gained a reputation as a fearless firefighter, and after being stationed all around the country and overseas, he can’t wait to settle down with a wife and kids.
When a call comes in about a possible heart attack at the scene of a fire at the Garden Center, Greg assumes they’re going to be helping an elderly customer—not the beautiful, feisty proprietor in her late twenties. Kristen Werner has been determined to pretend everything is fine. She refuses to leave the company she’s carefully nurtured and move home to her loving but meddling family in Houston. Since her devastating diagnosis caused her fiancé to dump her, she’s given up on love and thrown herself into cultivating her blooming business instead—even if the hard work further weakens her heart.
Greg is drawn to Kristen’s vibrant, independent spirit and hopes romance will flower. But she’s had enough trouble with her heart to last a lifetime, and can’t trust Greg not to break it—especially if he finds out she can never give him the houseful of children he longs for....
Former Army captain Greg Tebo loves his new life in Woodland Park. In the two years since he joined the WPFD, he’s gained a reputation as a fearless firefighter, and after being stationed all around the country and overseas, he can’t wait to settle down with a wife and kids.
When a call comes in about a possible heart attack at the scene of a fire at the Garden Center, Greg assumes they’re going to be helping an elderly customer—not the beautiful, feisty proprietor in her late twenties. Kristen Werner has been determined to pretend everything is fine. She refuses to leave the company she’s carefully nurtured and move home to her loving but meddling family in Houston. Since her devastating diagnosis caused her fiancé to dump her, she’s given up on love and thrown herself into cultivating her blooming business instead—even if the hard work further weakens her heart.
Greg is drawn to Kristen’s vibrant, independent spirit and hopes romance will flower. But she’s had enough trouble with her heart to last a lifetime, and can’t trust Greg not to break it—especially if he finds out she can never give him the houseful of children he longs for....
304 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published August 22, 2023
38 people are currently reading
186 people want to read
About the author
Shelley Shepard Gray
126 books2,316 followersLibrarian Note: AKA Shelley Gray (Western Romance).
Shelley Shepard Gray has published over seventy novels. She currently writes Amish romances for Harper Collins, Kensington, and Simon & Schuster and contemporary women’s fiction for Blackstone Publishing.
Her novels have been Holt Medallion winners and Inspirational Readers Choice and Carol finalists. Shelley’s novels have appeared on both the New York Times and USA Today bestseller lists.
Her novels have been highlighted in the Philadelphia Enquirer, Washington Post, Time Magazine, and USA Today. She has also been interviewed on NPR as well as numerous regional radio stations.
Before writing romances, Shelley lived in Texas and Colorado, where she taught school and earned both her bachelor’s degree in English literature and elementary education and later obtained her master’s degree in educational administration. She currently lives in Colorado Springs and writes full time. Shelley is married, the mother of two young adults, and always has a dachshund by her side. She is an active member of her church, on Facebook and on Twitter. She also has a website, www.shelleyshepardgray.com.
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Shelley Shepard Gray has published over seventy novels. She currently writes Amish romances for Harper Collins, Kensington, and Simon & Schuster and contemporary women’s fiction for Blackstone Publishing.
Her novels have been Holt Medallion winners and Inspirational Readers Choice and Carol finalists. Shelley’s novels have appeared on both the New York Times and USA Today bestseller lists.
Her novels have been highlighted in the Philadelphia Enquirer, Washington Post, Time Magazine, and USA Today. She has also been interviewed on NPR as well as numerous regional radio stations.
Before writing romances, Shelley lived in Texas and Colorado, where she taught school and earned both her bachelor’s degree in English literature and elementary education and later obtained her master’s degree in educational administration. She currently lives in Colorado Springs and writes full time. Shelley is married, the mother of two young adults, and always has a dachshund by her side. She is an active member of her church, on Facebook and on Twitter. She also has a website, www.shelleyshepardgray.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
August 20, 2023
Oh, I love this one. Wholesome and sweet. 4.5 STARS!
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I have to say, I love firefighter and police romance stories. I am not sure why but they always are a go-to when I find a promising one. This story is that promising one!
Gray brings a story full of characters that are down-to-earth, warm, and comforting. What I love about Gray’s writing is that even though there may be trials and issues, such as in this story, there is an overlying calmness and peace. No frenzy and minimal drama. This makes for such a lovely reading experience.
Both main characters are facing health issues but together they are stronger. Their connection is fitting and tender. I love the way Greg’s character is strong and capable. Caring, and so loving.
Kristin is a lovely match with her tough exterior and sweet interior. These two are beautifully developed for a long and loving relationship.
Also inside this story is a secondary young adult romance that is developing alongside the main characters for a different look at the caring community and firefighter family. At first, I was wondering why it was developing along with our main characters, but by the end, I felt it was a nice addition to tie everyone together.
Moving Forward is a perfect title for a wholesome and sweet clean romance that tugs at your heartstrings! While this is a part of a series about the firefighters, it can totally be read as a standalone. Check it out!
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* I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
* full review - https://amidlifewife.com/moving-forwa...
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I have to say, I love firefighter and police romance stories. I am not sure why but they always are a go-to when I find a promising one. This story is that promising one!
Gray brings a story full of characters that are down-to-earth, warm, and comforting. What I love about Gray’s writing is that even though there may be trials and issues, such as in this story, there is an overlying calmness and peace. No frenzy and minimal drama. This makes for such a lovely reading experience.
Both main characters are facing health issues but together they are stronger. Their connection is fitting and tender. I love the way Greg’s character is strong and capable. Caring, and so loving.
Kristin is a lovely match with her tough exterior and sweet interior. These two are beautifully developed for a long and loving relationship.
Also inside this story is a secondary young adult romance that is developing alongside the main characters for a different look at the caring community and firefighter family. At first, I was wondering why it was developing along with our main characters, but by the end, I felt it was a nice addition to tie everyone together.
Moving Forward is a perfect title for a wholesome and sweet clean romance that tugs at your heartstrings! While this is a part of a series about the firefighters, it can totally be read as a standalone. Check it out!
~~~~~~
* I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
* full review - https://amidlifewife.com/moving-forwa...
August 25, 2023
Greg, a former Army Captain and now firefighter, hasn’t felt a serious attraction for someone until he encounters a feisty woman while putting out the fire at her garden center. He can’t help but check in on her while she’s at the hospital, and it seems their attraction is mutual.
Kristen knows she is better to be safe and get checked out after the fire but resists as she’s tired of doctors and hospital visits. When Greg shows up at her hospital room and declares an interest, Kristen is hesitant to take a risk even if he is gorgeous and sweet. Her last relationship ended after her fiancé found out the extent of her health issues and she’s not keen on another rejection. However, Greg isn’t easily discouraged.
Greg has his own struggles dealing with PTSD and doesn’t want to reveal just how bad it can be for him. Both Kristen and Greg had reasons they didn’t feel good enough, and Kristen was skittish on top of that because of her failed engagement, but their attraction made it impossible to stay just friends. Their romance was a gradual, sweet and touching!
There’s also a secondary romance between Jen, Kristen’s employee at her garden center, a recent high school graduate, and Ryan one of the more popular kids in high school. Jen had a crush on Ryan while in school but figured he never noticed her since they moved in very different social circles. Jen had also been dealing with the death of her father and her mother’s depression.
Despite some of the issues the characters face, this was an easy-going, small-town romance that’ll warm your heart! I love how both couples were supportive and accepting of each other! I loved the close-knit community of Woodland Park! They were ready to offer a helping hand, a listening ear, or some sage advice.
Moving Forward was the second in the Woodland Park Firefighters series but can be read as a standalone.
A copy was kindly provided by Berkley in exchange for an honest review.
Kristen knows she is better to be safe and get checked out after the fire but resists as she’s tired of doctors and hospital visits. When Greg shows up at her hospital room and declares an interest, Kristen is hesitant to take a risk even if he is gorgeous and sweet. Her last relationship ended after her fiancé found out the extent of her health issues and she’s not keen on another rejection. However, Greg isn’t easily discouraged.
Greg has his own struggles dealing with PTSD and doesn’t want to reveal just how bad it can be for him. Both Kristen and Greg had reasons they didn’t feel good enough, and Kristen was skittish on top of that because of her failed engagement, but their attraction made it impossible to stay just friends. Their romance was a gradual, sweet and touching!
There’s also a secondary romance between Jen, Kristen’s employee at her garden center, a recent high school graduate, and Ryan one of the more popular kids in high school. Jen had a crush on Ryan while in school but figured he never noticed her since they moved in very different social circles. Jen had also been dealing with the death of her father and her mother’s depression.
Despite some of the issues the characters face, this was an easy-going, small-town romance that’ll warm your heart! I love how both couples were supportive and accepting of each other! I loved the close-knit community of Woodland Park! They were ready to offer a helping hand, a listening ear, or some sage advice.
Moving Forward was the second in the Woodland Park Firefighters series but can be read as a standalone.
A copy was kindly provided by Berkley in exchange for an honest review.
January 30, 2024
No matter what genre Shelley Shepard Gray writes in she does it well.
This is the second book in the Woodland Park Firefighters series taking place in the scenic foothills of Colorado.
Former Army captain Greg Tebo has retired and settled into life in Woodland Park, Colorado as a firefighter. Though not dating right now he's very interested in having a wife and children someday.
Just another day in the office when a call comes in from a garden shop about someone having a possible heart attack, figuring he'd get the elderly person to the hospital quickly he's very surprised to see young Kristen Werner. She's in her twenties and doesn't want to be a burden to her family and move back home after her medical diagnosis. Owning and running a garden shop has been a dream of hers and this is where she feels comfortable after being dumped by her fiancée hours before her wedding because he wasn't able to deal with the knowledge, she had a medical condition. If he couldn't deal with it, she's better off without the jerk.
Finding himself drawn to Kristen he feels she would be a great match for him. She's going the friend's route though, not trusting him or any man to start a relationship. As love seems to be blooming will she let love into her heart and trust into her soul? Can this relationship possibly progress when they are hiding pretty big secrets from each other that if found out they believe the other won't want to be with them? I really enjoy this author's books and have read quite a few of them including Amish, contemporary and suspense. I'm not sure if this series will continue but would enjoy if it does. You can't have trust without truthfulness in any relationship.
Pub Date 22 Aug 2023
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.
This is the second book in the Woodland Park Firefighters series taking place in the scenic foothills of Colorado.
Former Army captain Greg Tebo has retired and settled into life in Woodland Park, Colorado as a firefighter. Though not dating right now he's very interested in having a wife and children someday.
Just another day in the office when a call comes in from a garden shop about someone having a possible heart attack, figuring he'd get the elderly person to the hospital quickly he's very surprised to see young Kristen Werner. She's in her twenties and doesn't want to be a burden to her family and move back home after her medical diagnosis. Owning and running a garden shop has been a dream of hers and this is where she feels comfortable after being dumped by her fiancée hours before her wedding because he wasn't able to deal with the knowledge, she had a medical condition. If he couldn't deal with it, she's better off without the jerk.
Finding himself drawn to Kristen he feels she would be a great match for him. She's going the friend's route though, not trusting him or any man to start a relationship. As love seems to be blooming will she let love into her heart and trust into her soul? Can this relationship possibly progress when they are hiding pretty big secrets from each other that if found out they believe the other won't want to be with them? I really enjoy this author's books and have read quite a few of them including Amish, contemporary and suspense. I'm not sure if this series will continue but would enjoy if it does. You can't have trust without truthfulness in any relationship.
Pub Date 22 Aug 2023
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.
August 22, 2023
This is a sweet romance about two couples learning about trust, commitment and moving forward in life when the odds seem to be against you. Greg, a firefighter in Woodland Park, used to be a captain in the military and suffers from PTSD. He understands fear firsthand and is great at dealing with it when others are afraid to face a traumatic experience. He meets Kristen when he attends to her as a reported cardiac victim at a local fire. Kristen is attracted to Greg but is reluctant to form a relationship with him, even friendship, because she has a congenital heart defect. A prior situation with an ex-fiancé has left her unwilling to trust another male with her heart and her defects. The secondary plot is about Jen, an employee of Kristen’s greenhouse, who wants to make her own way in the world, independent of the reputation she and her family have around town. When college-bound Ryan is attracted to her, she is reluctant to date him because she knows that he is leaving for college and doesn’t think that she deserves him. This book is all about getting to know someone well enough to trust them. The plot with its dual storyline is unwrapped methodically and well, with plenty of interesting moments as the couples get to know one another. I enjoyed meeting these characters, especially Greg since he has so much compassion for others and senses when Kristen needs space and when she needs comfort. Although I did not read the first book in the series, I had no difficulty following the story and getting to know each character that was introduced in this book as well as the story behind some characters in the previous book in the series. Thus, the book works well as a standalone. This is a warm romance that tells the engrossing story of wounded people who need each other, even though they don’t recognize their need at first.
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author via Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16th CFR, Part 255, “Guidelines Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author via Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16th CFR, Part 255, “Guidelines Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”
August 20, 2024
While this is the second in a series - it easily reads as a standalone. Shelley Shepard Gray has penned another firefighter romance in a small Colorado mountain town and as one can expect - there is definitely a happy ending. Greg is veteran and current firefighter. Staying busy at work helps keep his mind off of the horrors he experienced over in Iraq and Afghanistan. While at work he goes on a run and helps rescue a gorgeous women having heart issues. The two hit it off, but they are keeping secrets from each other - will they learn to trust each other enough to open up fully? Or will they keep their hearts locked down. Sweet, sentimental, and chaste.
July 22, 2023
Moving Forward is exactly what firefighter, Greg, and business owner, Kristen, need to do. When they meet they are both drawn to each other but he suffers from PTSD and she had a broken heart from a previous relationship. They are both holding those things close to themselves and need to learn to trust one another with their secrets. This is a great follow-up to Coming Home in the Woodland Park Firefighters series. I'm definitely looking forward to the next one!
If you're in the mood for a good clean contemporary romance, this just might be what you're looking for! I read Shelley Shepard Gray's books every chance I get!
Thank you Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review. All opinions are my own.
Publication date: 22 August 2023
If you're in the mood for a good clean contemporary romance, this just might be what you're looking for! I read Shelley Shepard Gray's books every chance I get!
Thank you Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review. All opinions are my own.
Publication date: 22 August 2023
August 24, 2023
A long time ago, I read Shelley Shepard Gray’s Lone Star Hero series. I loved all three stories and wanted more from the author, but realized most of her work tends toward Amish fiction. Amish fiction is not my thing, so I sort of forgot about Gray and her work. Then a few weeks ago, I was asked to review Moving Forward and I jumped at the opportunity to read this book. Moving Forward is a 3-STAR story for me. I did enjoy it and I am glad I read it. It is a very sweet and endearing Contemporary Romance that has a distinct Hallmark-movie vibe. This book follows four main characters: Greg and Kristen, and Ryan and Jen. Of the two storylines, I found the teenage story the most engaging. I really loved the chapters and scenes with Ryan and Jen. Gray captures teens very well. I love how Jen sets out on her own course and refuses to follow what others think she should do. And I really love her personality. She is so well-rounded. I also really appreciate how Ryan bucks his social system and carves out the life and love he wants. And their relationship is super cute. I totally cheered them on! As far as Greg and Kristen go, they are fine. I didn’t really connect well to either of them. This is through no fault of the author; I just couldn’t connect deeply to Greg or Kristen. Sometimes it happens. When it comes to the various themes discussed, the idea of moving forward resonated with me. All of the characters deal with being metaphorically paralyzed by their lives. There is a lot of indecision, conversations that should happen but don’t, major family issues, personal-health issues, and traumas. Each character is bogged down by something and each has to figure out how to move forward with their lives. This facet to each character is totally relatable. I fully know what it feels like to have life blow up in your face and then feel like you can’t breathe, let alone think. Each character deals with their issues uniquely, but all figure out that they have to stop worrying about all the potential bad that could happen because it’s just keeping them from so much potential good. I really loved this reminder!
Moving Forward is a sweet Contemporary Romance that I recommend. If you love Hallmark-esque Romances with realistic characters and timely themes then Moving Forward is definitely the book for you!
I received a galley copy of this novel in eBook form the publisher, Berkley Publishing Group, via NetGalley, in order to review. In no way has this influenced my review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Moving Forward is a sweet Contemporary Romance that I recommend. If you love Hallmark-esque Romances with realistic characters and timely themes then Moving Forward is definitely the book for you!
I received a galley copy of this novel in eBook form the publisher, Berkley Publishing Group, via NetGalley, in order to review. In no way has this influenced my review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.
August 9, 2023
Moving Forward is a sweet romance that features characters who work as firemen in a small town in Colorado. This is the second book in the series, but it can be read as a stand-alone. I haven't read the first one yet and didn't feel I was missing anything. This book's hero is Greg, and he is a handsome guy who suffers from ptsd. The heroine is a feisty woman who owns a nursery and has a congenital heart disease. There is also a second romance between a young couple straight out of high school. It was so sweet. I enjoyed the story. I look forward to reading more in this series.
*I was given a copy of this book by the publisher. This is my honest opinion.
*I was given a copy of this book by the publisher. This is my honest opinion.
June 20, 2023
Digital copy courtesy of Berkley and NetGalley in exchange for my review.
Moving Forward is the second book in the Woodland Park Firefighters series. It can stand alone but I recommend reading the first book Coming Home. I really enjoyed it and couldn’t wait to read more in the series.
The lead characters in Moving Forward are Kristen and Greg. She owns a local garden center and he’s a firefighter – they meet when there’s a fire at the garden center. The author fully developed these characters making them relatable and easy to cheer on. Both have very personal issues that will become apparent as the novel moves forward adding drama and emotional upset. There’s also another plot line involving recent high school graduates getting to know each other before heading off for college and new job opportunities. I liked how Gray handled their story.
Moving Forward is a nice combination of romance and women’s fiction. It includes themes of health issues, PTSD, and learning to trust. A very good story that has me anticipating the next book in the series.
4.5 stars
Moving Forward is the second book in the Woodland Park Firefighters series. It can stand alone but I recommend reading the first book Coming Home. I really enjoyed it and couldn’t wait to read more in the series.
The lead characters in Moving Forward are Kristen and Greg. She owns a local garden center and he’s a firefighter – they meet when there’s a fire at the garden center. The author fully developed these characters making them relatable and easy to cheer on. Both have very personal issues that will become apparent as the novel moves forward adding drama and emotional upset. There’s also another plot line involving recent high school graduates getting to know each other before heading off for college and new job opportunities. I liked how Gray handled their story.
Moving Forward is a nice combination of romance and women’s fiction. It includes themes of health issues, PTSD, and learning to trust. A very good story that has me anticipating the next book in the series.
4.5 stars
August 29, 2023
Moving Forward is a nice addition to the clean contemporary series, Woodland Park Firefighters, by Shelley Shepard Gray. It is book two in the series. Book one, Coming Home, was a favorite of mine last year. Moving Forward can easily be read as a stand alone if you haven’t read book one. It is a clean story, not one of the author’s Christian novels, so be aware that there are a couple of mild curse words and some mentions of drinking beer and wine, in case that is something you are sensitive to. Nothing is done to excess, however, and I found this to be a compelling story.
I liked that there was a main couple, Kristen and Greg, as well as a side couple, the recently graduated young adults, Ryan and Jen. I really enjoyed reading about both couples. It was interesting in this story that not only Kristen and Greg felt that they had to carry the weight of their burdens on their own before they could share about them with each other, but Jen had also been struggling silently under the weight of her mother’s mental health issues for the last couple of years. I really enjoyed seeing her receive support from her siblings, as well as Ryan, to help her move forward with her own life.
This story kept me turning the pages to find out what happened next and the characters felt very real to me. I enjoyed the sweet epilogue and look forward to more in this series.
(4.5 stars)
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
I liked that there was a main couple, Kristen and Greg, as well as a side couple, the recently graduated young adults, Ryan and Jen. I really enjoyed reading about both couples. It was interesting in this story that not only Kristen and Greg felt that they had to carry the weight of their burdens on their own before they could share about them with each other, but Jen had also been struggling silently under the weight of her mother’s mental health issues for the last couple of years. I really enjoyed seeing her receive support from her siblings, as well as Ryan, to help her move forward with her own life.
This story kept me turning the pages to find out what happened next and the characters felt very real to me. I enjoyed the sweet epilogue and look forward to more in this series.
(4.5 stars)
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
August 20, 2023
Sweet and Endearing
This is a lovely story about two wounded souls that need saving and need love. I fully enjoyed their sweet story, but I especially enjoyed getting to know the rough and tough Greg Tebo. It was so refreshing to see his sweet and caring disposition come through. My heart went out to him as he remained steadfast and would not give up, no matter the situation. And Miss Kristen Werner most certainly gave him quite the run for his money in his endeavor to remain steadfast. The story is sweet and endearing and promises to definitely put a smile on your face as it reminds you that if you want to see change, you've just got to keep moving forward.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an advanced copy of this book. All comments and opinions are voluntary and completely my own.
This is a lovely story about two wounded souls that need saving and need love. I fully enjoyed their sweet story, but I especially enjoyed getting to know the rough and tough Greg Tebo. It was so refreshing to see his sweet and caring disposition come through. My heart went out to him as he remained steadfast and would not give up, no matter the situation. And Miss Kristen Werner most certainly gave him quite the run for his money in his endeavor to remain steadfast. The story is sweet and endearing and promises to definitely put a smile on your face as it reminds you that if you want to see change, you've just got to keep moving forward.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an advanced copy of this book. All comments and opinions are voluntary and completely my own.
January 18, 2024
Light romance between gardener & firefighter. Pretty tame
May 17, 2024
I really enjoyed this heartwarming, realistic story of two characters trying to move forward from their traumatic pasts to live their best lives.
I borrowed this book from the local public library.
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I borrowed this book from the local public library.
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August 10, 2023
Read until chapter three. A bit too slowly paced for me. Nice people falling in love. One has ptsd one has a heart defect.
October 10, 2023
If you are looking for a sweet, heartfelt romance to read this fall, then you should read Moving Forward by Shelley Shepard Gray.
As soon as I read the synopsis for this book, I knew I needed to read it. I love a small-town romance that I know will have a lot of charm. This book did not disappoint me; in fact, it actually surprised me. I thought I would only be reading the love story between Greg and Kristen, but Shelley also surprised readers with another main love story between Jen and Ryan, who are two teenagers who just graduated from high school. I found myself enjoying both love stories. There is this cool blend of adult romance and YA romance; you wouldn’t think it would work, but it does.
Moving Forward is a clean closed-door romance with a lot of charm but also a lot of depth. It has a lot of those characteristics that many Hallmark movies have. It takes place in a small town where everyone knows everyone, and there is this real sense of community. The main heroine owns her own business, and the hero is a gorgeous firefighter. There are plenty of sweet moments between both couples; it sometimes borders on cheesiness (which I loved), but the journey these couples have to go through to be together isn’t smooth sailing. Greg and Kristin both have emotional baggage that they bring to the table. Greg has PTSD from his time in the army, and Kristen is weary of starting another relationship after her ex broke off their engagement a day before their wedding. Kristen also has major health problems and is afraid that Greg will run away when he realizes how all-consuming those health problems can be at times. Kristin’s fear that Greg will run away or break her heart is the main hurdle these two have to overcome. For most of the book, Kristin hems and haws about whether she should start a relationship with Greg. If I had only one wish for this book, I wish that Kristin’s hemming and hawing would have been a bit shorter. I found that it dragged on at times.
Jen and Ryan’s love story was fabulous. I wasn’t expecting them to get so much page time, but I am glad that they did. Even though I could classify their story as a YA romance, there is this real maturity to their story. Jen is dealing with difficult family situations and doesn’t know what she wants to do with her life. Ryan is a real sweetheart, and I loved how he supported and adored Jen. It just melted my heart. The only thing I have to complain about is that I felt their story was a bit incomplete, but I am hoping that is because they will be getting their own book in this series. Fingers crossed.
Moving Forward is a sweet small-town romance and is perfect for those looking to escape our crazy world for a few hours.
Click on the link to read more of our reviews on our blog: https://romancebythebook.com/book-rev...
As soon as I read the synopsis for this book, I knew I needed to read it. I love a small-town romance that I know will have a lot of charm. This book did not disappoint me; in fact, it actually surprised me. I thought I would only be reading the love story between Greg and Kristen, but Shelley also surprised readers with another main love story between Jen and Ryan, who are two teenagers who just graduated from high school. I found myself enjoying both love stories. There is this cool blend of adult romance and YA romance; you wouldn’t think it would work, but it does.
Moving Forward is a clean closed-door romance with a lot of charm but also a lot of depth. It has a lot of those characteristics that many Hallmark movies have. It takes place in a small town where everyone knows everyone, and there is this real sense of community. The main heroine owns her own business, and the hero is a gorgeous firefighter. There are plenty of sweet moments between both couples; it sometimes borders on cheesiness (which I loved), but the journey these couples have to go through to be together isn’t smooth sailing. Greg and Kristin both have emotional baggage that they bring to the table. Greg has PTSD from his time in the army, and Kristen is weary of starting another relationship after her ex broke off their engagement a day before their wedding. Kristen also has major health problems and is afraid that Greg will run away when he realizes how all-consuming those health problems can be at times. Kristin’s fear that Greg will run away or break her heart is the main hurdle these two have to overcome. For most of the book, Kristin hems and haws about whether she should start a relationship with Greg. If I had only one wish for this book, I wish that Kristin’s hemming and hawing would have been a bit shorter. I found that it dragged on at times.
Jen and Ryan’s love story was fabulous. I wasn’t expecting them to get so much page time, but I am glad that they did. Even though I could classify their story as a YA romance, there is this real maturity to their story. Jen is dealing with difficult family situations and doesn’t know what she wants to do with her life. Ryan is a real sweetheart, and I loved how he supported and adored Jen. It just melted my heart. The only thing I have to complain about is that I felt their story was a bit incomplete, but I am hoping that is because they will be getting their own book in this series. Fingers crossed.
Moving Forward is a sweet small-town romance and is perfect for those looking to escape our crazy world for a few hours.
Click on the link to read more of our reviews on our blog: https://romancebythebook.com/book-rev...
August 24, 2023
There’s something so swoony about firefighters in fiction, isn’t there? Which is one reason I was eager to read the next book in the Woodland Park Firefighters series by Shelley Shepard Gray. I so enjoyed the characters in Coming Home, and I couldn’t wait to visit with them again in Moving Forward. As I happily reacquainted myself with Anderson, Greg (swoon!) and Mark (three firefighters in Woodland Park who also served together in the military), I also got to meet the delightful Kristen – a strong-willed woman who continues to overcome significant health challenges with grace, grit, and pure stubbornness. She refuses to let her illness define her or dictate her life … except, of course, when it comes to potential romances. I loved her warm personality and the bit of Texas sass that peeked out on occasion.
Greg is also a southern transplant to Colorado, and that southern drawl he pulls out when it suits him is … whew. Basically, he exudes hotness (still fanning) and has just enough swagger to know what he wants and expect to get it… but not so much that he’s a jerk about it. That’s a very fine line for an author to tread but I thought Gray pulled it off perfectly. Greg’s heart is clear – and stronger than his ego – leaving him extremely likable and extremely swoony, even if you do shake your head fondly at him sometimes. Like Kristen, he’s got some personal struggles as well, stemming from his time in the military, and I appreciated that he was given wise advice about this. It was interesting to me how both Greg and Kristen felt that they needed to bear their burdens on their own, and while Greg is frustrated at Kristen shutting him out, he doesn’t recognize that he is doing the same thing with his friends. And don’t we do that exact thing in our own lives, too?
Bottom Line: Moving Forward is another warm and touching romance from Shelley Shepard Gray, written in her signature style including a secondary romance to enjoy (which I very much did). Greg & Kristen’s love story is engaging to read and easy to invest in, and the layers in each character add depth to the swoon factor. The supporting characters were exactly that – supportive – and they make a great ensemble cast for this series. Woodland Park is a quaint small town, and the author skillfully brings the setting to life. Additionally, I absolutely loved the sweet epilogue! Looking forward to book three!
Reviewer’s Note: Readers of my blog may want to be aware that there are some mild curse words scattered throughout this novel.
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
Greg is also a southern transplant to Colorado, and that southern drawl he pulls out when it suits him is … whew. Basically, he exudes hotness (still fanning) and has just enough swagger to know what he wants and expect to get it… but not so much that he’s a jerk about it. That’s a very fine line for an author to tread but I thought Gray pulled it off perfectly. Greg’s heart is clear – and stronger than his ego – leaving him extremely likable and extremely swoony, even if you do shake your head fondly at him sometimes. Like Kristen, he’s got some personal struggles as well, stemming from his time in the military, and I appreciated that he was given wise advice about this. It was interesting to me how both Greg and Kristen felt that they needed to bear their burdens on their own, and while Greg is frustrated at Kristen shutting him out, he doesn’t recognize that he is doing the same thing with his friends. And don’t we do that exact thing in our own lives, too?
Bottom Line: Moving Forward is another warm and touching romance from Shelley Shepard Gray, written in her signature style including a secondary romance to enjoy (which I very much did). Greg & Kristen’s love story is engaging to read and easy to invest in, and the layers in each character add depth to the swoon factor. The supporting characters were exactly that – supportive – and they make a great ensemble cast for this series. Woodland Park is a quaint small town, and the author skillfully brings the setting to life. Additionally, I absolutely loved the sweet epilogue! Looking forward to book three!
Reviewer’s Note: Readers of my blog may want to be aware that there are some mild curse words scattered throughout this novel.
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
August 28, 2023
Shelley Shepard Gray delights her fans with a tender, touching and terrific new contemporary romance, Moving Forward.
Former Army Captain Greg Tebo feels like he has found somewhere he belongs in Woodland Park, Colorado. Having joined the fire department at Woodland Park and gained a reputation for being a fearless firefighter, Greg cannot wait to settle down and have a family of his own. When he is called out to a fire at the Garden Center and is informed that somebody at the store had a heart attack, Greg thinks that he is going to be assisting an elderly customer – not beautiful and spirited twenty-something Kristen Werner to whom he is instantly drawn to.
Kristen has put her blood, sweat and tears into her business and is not about to let her heart condition get in the way of making all of her professional dreams a reality. Having left her loving but meddlesome family behind in Houston, Kirsten has made far too many sacrifices and given up far too much for her business and nothing and nobody is going to stand in her way – not even a gorgeous firefighter who might just make her believe in love…
Kirsten has had her heart broken in a million pieces by her ex and she had vowed never to go through that pain ever again. But is Greg worth taking a chance on? Is she ready to put her heart on the line again? Or will Greg end up running for the hills when she tells him that she cannot give him the family he craves?
Shelley Shepard Gray’s Moving Forward is a gorgeous contemporary romance that sparkles with humor, charm, pathos and heart. A book that will make you laugh and cry, Moving Forward is a wonderful page-turner about belonging, second chances, healing from the past and falling in love that I couldn’t read fast enough.
I adored Greg and Kirsten and their love story was one that kept me glued to its pages and hopeful that these two flawed, complex and believable characters would get the happy ending they so richly deserved.
Shelley Shepard Gray’s Moving Forward is another enjoyable contemporary romance by a talented writer who never misses.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Former Army Captain Greg Tebo feels like he has found somewhere he belongs in Woodland Park, Colorado. Having joined the fire department at Woodland Park and gained a reputation for being a fearless firefighter, Greg cannot wait to settle down and have a family of his own. When he is called out to a fire at the Garden Center and is informed that somebody at the store had a heart attack, Greg thinks that he is going to be assisting an elderly customer – not beautiful and spirited twenty-something Kristen Werner to whom he is instantly drawn to.
Kristen has put her blood, sweat and tears into her business and is not about to let her heart condition get in the way of making all of her professional dreams a reality. Having left her loving but meddlesome family behind in Houston, Kirsten has made far too many sacrifices and given up far too much for her business and nothing and nobody is going to stand in her way – not even a gorgeous firefighter who might just make her believe in love…
Kirsten has had her heart broken in a million pieces by her ex and she had vowed never to go through that pain ever again. But is Greg worth taking a chance on? Is she ready to put her heart on the line again? Or will Greg end up running for the hills when she tells him that she cannot give him the family he craves?
Shelley Shepard Gray’s Moving Forward is a gorgeous contemporary romance that sparkles with humor, charm, pathos and heart. A book that will make you laugh and cry, Moving Forward is a wonderful page-turner about belonging, second chances, healing from the past and falling in love that I couldn’t read fast enough.
I adored Greg and Kirsten and their love story was one that kept me glued to its pages and hopeful that these two flawed, complex and believable characters would get the happy ending they so richly deserved.
Shelley Shepard Gray’s Moving Forward is another enjoyable contemporary romance by a talented writer who never misses.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 6, 2024
What does it take to be a firefighter? A lot! A lot of physical and mental strength, courage, commitment to saving others, and stamina. Also, focus, alertness, decisiveness, and the ability to follow orders.
Moving Forward introduces some current and potential firefighters and their families and friends. The protagonists are the very handsome (Mr. March for a charity calendar) and kind firefighter Greg, and the sweet owner of a plant/landscape shop Kristen. Greg is a former Major in the Marines, and he has lived through a lot of horrible events in Iraq and Afghanistan. He has PTDS, and he tries to keep it a secret. Kristen’s life is deeply affected by a congenital heart condition which means she has several secrets of her own. The two need to get beyond their pasts and secrets if they are going to share a life together.
There is a side plot involving Jen, a new high school graduate. Her mother’s alcoholism, which developed after Jen’s father died, has curtailed Jen’s social life and future plans. She works for Kristen at the plant shop, but she develops a desire to become a firefighter. To accomplish this goal, however, she will need to establish some independence from her mom, engage in tough academic and physical training, learn how to drive, and spend a lot of time at the fire station doing grunt work. Fortunately, she has a supportive boyfriend and siblings.
Many of the characters in this book have painful backgrounds, but face life and the future with courage and moral standards. They have to learn to trust again and to share their secrets to develop meaningful relationships with others.
This appears to be a series that follows a group of firefighters focusing on individuals for the course of each book. The very nature of firefighting means teamwork so other members of the team are part of the plot.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Moving Forward introduces some current and potential firefighters and their families and friends. The protagonists are the very handsome (Mr. March for a charity calendar) and kind firefighter Greg, and the sweet owner of a plant/landscape shop Kristen. Greg is a former Major in the Marines, and he has lived through a lot of horrible events in Iraq and Afghanistan. He has PTDS, and he tries to keep it a secret. Kristen’s life is deeply affected by a congenital heart condition which means she has several secrets of her own. The two need to get beyond their pasts and secrets if they are going to share a life together.
There is a side plot involving Jen, a new high school graduate. Her mother’s alcoholism, which developed after Jen’s father died, has curtailed Jen’s social life and future plans. She works for Kristen at the plant shop, but she develops a desire to become a firefighter. To accomplish this goal, however, she will need to establish some independence from her mom, engage in tough academic and physical training, learn how to drive, and spend a lot of time at the fire station doing grunt work. Fortunately, she has a supportive boyfriend and siblings.
Many of the characters in this book have painful backgrounds, but face life and the future with courage and moral standards. They have to learn to trust again and to share their secrets to develop meaningful relationships with others.
This appears to be a series that follows a group of firefighters focusing on individuals for the course of each book. The very nature of firefighting means teamwork so other members of the team are part of the plot.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
August 22, 2023
Read my review on NovelsAlive.com by clicking the link below. It is also posted in full.
https://novelsalive.com/2023/08/22/st...
Moving Forward is a nice continuation of The Woodland Park Firefighters series by author Shelley Shepard Gray, and I can’t wait for more.
The story is a sweet romance between Greg, a firefighter, and Kristen, a garden center owner. Neither expects to find love, but when Kristen’s center catches fire, Greg’s one of the firefighters who respond and steps forward to keep her calm when she has a medical emergency, which leads to an instant attraction.
Neither is originally from Colorado, but they have another connection. There are secrets and awkward conversations, and they both have many layers they tend to hide from others as we get to know them a little at a time. Unfortunately, they take one step forward and so many back before finally getting on the same page due to their poor communication skills.
Many stories are being told that are tied together nicely, and so many characters we get to know. The story has unexpected twists and turns, which adds more depth. There are sweet moments between Greg and Kristen but also between some of the secondary characters, especially newly graduated high schoolers Jen and Ryan.
There is some closure but also loose ends, which I hope will get tied up in future books. The ending felt rushed since we jump to the epilogue with little knowledge of what transpired between Greg and Kristen making peace with each other and acknowledging their attraction. Still, there’s a better-than-expected portrayal of their happily ever after.
Moving Forward is a clean romance set in a small town in Colorado with multiple storylines within the general arc. Getting to know many of the characters was fun, and I can’t wait to see whose story is next.
https://novelsalive.com/2023/08/22/st...
Moving Forward is a nice continuation of The Woodland Park Firefighters series by author Shelley Shepard Gray, and I can’t wait for more.
The story is a sweet romance between Greg, a firefighter, and Kristen, a garden center owner. Neither expects to find love, but when Kristen’s center catches fire, Greg’s one of the firefighters who respond and steps forward to keep her calm when she has a medical emergency, which leads to an instant attraction.
Neither is originally from Colorado, but they have another connection. There are secrets and awkward conversations, and they both have many layers they tend to hide from others as we get to know them a little at a time. Unfortunately, they take one step forward and so many back before finally getting on the same page due to their poor communication skills.
Many stories are being told that are tied together nicely, and so many characters we get to know. The story has unexpected twists and turns, which adds more depth. There are sweet moments between Greg and Kristen but also between some of the secondary characters, especially newly graduated high schoolers Jen and Ryan.
There is some closure but also loose ends, which I hope will get tied up in future books. The ending felt rushed since we jump to the epilogue with little knowledge of what transpired between Greg and Kristen making peace with each other and acknowledging their attraction. Still, there’s a better-than-expected portrayal of their happily ever after.
Moving Forward is a clean romance set in a small town in Colorado with multiple storylines within the general arc. Getting to know many of the characters was fun, and I can’t wait to see whose story is next.
August 23, 2023
Book 2 in the Woodland Park Firefighters Series is an engaging story of characters who have been hurt in the past and find themselves stuck where they are. The title theme of moving forward is one we all deal with at some point in life. We can continue to wallow in our troubles, or chose to get help and find a way forward through pain, grief, and difficult circumstances. Another theme of being good enough, whether in a job, school, or relationship, goes along well with the idea of moving forward and breaking through the lies that can easily get into our minds and blind us to the truth.
After reading book 1 in this series, I did not expect a distinctly Christian message in this one. I do wish the author had brought in the God factor though, for how is it possible to find our worth and move forward successfully without Him? And while I enjoyed it as a whole, I felt like Gray, for a Christian author, pushed the boundaries more than I am used to where her books are concerned. Drinking alcohol, an unmarried couple staying overnight together (although nothing happened), and a pinup calendar depicting the firemen are all included. The one that surprised me the most, however, was one character exclaiming “Oh h*ll.” It is impossible to be out in the world and not hear certain things, and I can choose not to be offended. But I expect more from what I read and feel these things are completely unnecessary to a good story, especially from a Christian author. It is okay to disagree with me, and if these things don’t bother you, this is a quick, easy read that you may enjoy.
*I received a complimentary copy of this e-book from NetGalley and the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
After reading book 1 in this series, I did not expect a distinctly Christian message in this one. I do wish the author had brought in the God factor though, for how is it possible to find our worth and move forward successfully without Him? And while I enjoyed it as a whole, I felt like Gray, for a Christian author, pushed the boundaries more than I am used to where her books are concerned. Drinking alcohol, an unmarried couple staying overnight together (although nothing happened), and a pinup calendar depicting the firemen are all included. The one that surprised me the most, however, was one character exclaiming “Oh h*ll.” It is impossible to be out in the world and not hear certain things, and I can choose not to be offended. But I expect more from what I read and feel these things are completely unnecessary to a good story, especially from a Christian author. It is okay to disagree with me, and if these things don’t bother you, this is a quick, easy read that you may enjoy.
*I received a complimentary copy of this e-book from NetGalley and the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 23, 2023
Full review to come soonMoving Forward by Shelley Shepard Gray, book two in A Woodland Park Firefighters series, is a sweet and heartwarming romance that features characters who work as firemen in a small town in Colorado. This is a lovely story about two wounded souls that need saving and need love. The rough and tough Greg Tebo is a handsome guy who suffers from PTSD. Feisty business owner Kristen Werner owns a nursery and has a congenital heart disease. While they both are dealing with health issues, they find that being together they are stronger. Greg is strong, capable, sweet and caring; standing resolute, not giving up, no matter the situation. Kristen was the perfect match for him with her tough shell and sweet interior. giving him a run for his money in his attempt to remain steadfast. They are both holding those things close to themselves and need to learn to trust one another with their secrets. This story is sweet and endearing and promises to definitely put a smile on your face as it reminds you that if you want to see change, you've just got to keep moving forward.
There is a secondary romance between a young couple straight out of high school that runs alongside the main characters, giving an alternative look at the caring community and firefighter family. It was a nice addition to tie everyone together.
This book is a wonderful follow-up to book one, Coming Home, in the Woodland Park Firefighters series. I'm definitely looking forward to the next one and I highly recommend Moving Forward to other readers.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
There is a secondary romance between a young couple straight out of high school that runs alongside the main characters, giving an alternative look at the caring community and firefighter family. It was a nice addition to tie everyone together.
This book is a wonderful follow-up to book one, Coming Home, in the Woodland Park Firefighters series. I'm definitely looking forward to the next one and I highly recommend Moving Forward to other readers.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
August 30, 2023
Moving Forward by Shelley Shepard Gray
Woodland Park Firefighters #2
7h 58m narrated by Andrew Eiden, 304 pages
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Featuring: Epigraphs, June, Army Vet, Firefighters, Colorado, Small Town, Texan, West Virginian, Garden Center, Widowed Mothers, Life After High School, Second Chances, Insecurities, Not Good Enough Trope
Rating as a movie: PG-13 for adult content
My rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟👨🚒💐
My thoughts:📱8% 36:16 Ch. 3 - I'm mad I didn't discover this series sooner. I could have waited to read book 1 but I need my SSG fix. No regrets, I feel like I'm at the beginning of a new story and so far there are no inside jokes. I'm wide awake but I need to get some rest, otherwise, I could stay up all night with this one. It's very carefree and breezy.
📱44% 3:29:50 Ch. 16 - Seriously regretting not staying up last night and finishing this book, because now I'm all into the story but have to stop for errands.
I don't know the theme of this series but 2 of the featured characters have lost their father. Obviously, the theme of this story is moving on from situations that have you in a rut, moving forward. I think I got the recap of the previous book in chapter 9 but it wasn't confirmed. The friend Chelsea is probably the MC from book 1. I loved this story and town, I didn't want it to end. I'm looking forward to both the first book and the next book.
Recommend to others?: Yes! Another carefree wholesome small-town romance that's well-written.
Woodland Park Firefighters
1 Coming Home (2022)
✔︎ 2 Moving Forward (2023)
Woodland Park Firefighters #2
7h 58m narrated by Andrew Eiden, 304 pages
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Featuring: Epigraphs, June, Army Vet, Firefighters, Colorado, Small Town, Texan, West Virginian, Garden Center, Widowed Mothers, Life After High School, Second Chances, Insecurities, Not Good Enough Trope
Rating as a movie: PG-13 for adult content
My rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟👨🚒💐
My thoughts:📱8% 36:16 Ch. 3 - I'm mad I didn't discover this series sooner. I could have waited to read book 1 but I need my SSG fix. No regrets, I feel like I'm at the beginning of a new story and so far there are no inside jokes. I'm wide awake but I need to get some rest, otherwise, I could stay up all night with this one. It's very carefree and breezy.
📱44% 3:29:50 Ch. 16 - Seriously regretting not staying up last night and finishing this book, because now I'm all into the story but have to stop for errands.
I don't know the theme of this series but 2 of the featured characters have lost their father. Obviously, the theme of this story is moving on from situations that have you in a rut, moving forward. I think I got the recap of the previous book in chapter 9 but it wasn't confirmed. The friend Chelsea is probably the MC from book 1. I loved this story and town, I didn't want it to end. I'm looking forward to both the first book and the next book.
Recommend to others?: Yes! Another carefree wholesome small-town romance that's well-written.
Woodland Park Firefighters
1 Coming Home (2022)
✔︎ 2 Moving Forward (2023)
August 22, 2023
A contemporary story that I thoroughly enjoyed and finished in one evening!
Did I lose sleep over it? Yes!
I loved Kristen and Greg's story but I thought that the romance was way too soon. I wish it was a little more drawn out. I don't much care for insta romance. I'd like to know that person first especially after what happened to Kristen.
I sorely can relate to her so much! I too have a heart defect. But where she felt broken I didn't. I still don't. I have the Lord on my side.
I felt at first that Greg was a pushover. And selfish kind of. If things didn't go his way well.....
Learning how to forgive oneself is tue most important and hardest part. We have to do that in order to move forward so we can be at peace with ourselves
5 stars for a fantastic story. I love a good story especially with firefighters in them.
Gray has done another wonderful job in keeping my attention because I just had to see what happens between Kristen and Greg. And really, in my opinion, they made a great team and an awesome couple.
I highly recommend this sweet tale of love forgiveness and a 2nd chance to move forward!
Will Kristen and Greg be able to? You'll just have to read this book to find out!
My thanks to Berkeley and Netgalley for a copy of this sweet book. I'd reread it again. Never know what you might miss the first time!
I was NOT required to write a positive review of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
Did I lose sleep over it? Yes!
I loved Kristen and Greg's story but I thought that the romance was way too soon. I wish it was a little more drawn out. I don't much care for insta romance. I'd like to know that person first especially after what happened to Kristen.
I sorely can relate to her so much! I too have a heart defect. But where she felt broken I didn't. I still don't. I have the Lord on my side.
I felt at first that Greg was a pushover. And selfish kind of. If things didn't go his way well.....
Learning how to forgive oneself is tue most important and hardest part. We have to do that in order to move forward so we can be at peace with ourselves
5 stars for a fantastic story. I love a good story especially with firefighters in them.
Gray has done another wonderful job in keeping my attention because I just had to see what happens between Kristen and Greg. And really, in my opinion, they made a great team and an awesome couple.
I highly recommend this sweet tale of love forgiveness and a 2nd chance to move forward!
Will Kristen and Greg be able to? You'll just have to read this book to find out!
My thanks to Berkeley and Netgalley for a copy of this sweet book. I'd reread it again. Never know what you might miss the first time!
I was NOT required to write a positive review of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
September 28, 2023
Two very different romances develop slowly, while exploring the effects heart-breaking hardships can have on relationships of any kind.
Like the previous book in this series, this one tackles plenty of hard issues in a thoughtful way, such as PTSD and learning to trust again after getting burned. Kristen’s issues were thoroughly explored throughout the book. In contrast, we didn’t learn much about Greg and his demons until much later on.
I feel as if the focus was more on Jen and Ryan’s budding relationship and Jen’s dreams of becoming a firefighter. They had more relationship development than Greg and Kristen. The two teens were super cute together and I loved the way they navigated all the challenges thrown their way.
This book’s title is spot on. Both Greg and Kristen desperately needed to move on from their ghosts. While I didn’t really connect with them as a couple, they did help each other with this moving forward process. I love this author’s writing and that kept my interest all the way to the end. The characters are real and flawed, but capable of making changes.
Moving Forward stands well on its own, though I can definitely recommend reading Coming Home as well.
Thank you to Netgalley for providing me with a copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 15, 2024
MOVING FORWARD is the second book in the new series by Shelley Shepard Gray called A Woodland Park Firefighters Romance. Usually I am reading one of Ms. Gray’s Amish Fiction books, but this one is small town romance and it is fantastic! I really love the small-town setting of Woodland Park, Colorado, where everyone knows everyone else and the people are always there to help whenever they are needed. I loved the characters in the first book, Coming Home and couldn’t wait to meet new ones as well as check in with my firefighter friends once again.
MOVING FORWARD starts off increasing the reader’s heart rate right away. Kristen is trying to live her life on her own, away from her hovering mother while taking care of her faulty heart. Her health is the reason why her fiance ended things with her. My heart immediately goes out to Kristen and I just want to hug her. Will she ever be able to tell Greg how she really feels? While she is struggling with all of this, Greg finds himself wanting to protect Kristen, but he must be careful because he doesn’t want Kristen to feel smothered. Greg has his own issues with PTSD, doesn’t let anyone know how bad it can be, and thinks he is handling it on his own. Until he isnt. What a crazy story that will pull at the reader’s heart strings.
MOVING FORWARD is a quick read and you will be flipping the pages like mad trying to hurry to see what they are going to do next! I know I did! Meeting a new person that fills your heart with hope feels like coming home and this story is sure to give the reader all the feels! MOVING FORWARD is such an emotional read, you won’t be able to help yourself from getting into all of the characters business. I have read many of Shelley Shepard Gray’s other series as well as some of her other stand alone books, and I really feel like she writes with a heart for people. I know this series will definitely be a great one!
My emotions were all over the place as they always are reading a Shelley Shepard Gray story and I can hardly wait to see what firefighter gets the next story! I loved how she made me feel all of the anxiety and tension that the characters were dealing with. Besides all of that, there is also romance, forgiveness, and healing. Kristen and Greg’s romance is sweet and heart warming. I just wanted them to be happy. A perfect way to spend the day on the couch with your favorite beverage, lost in the pages of a heart tugging but beautiful story. MOVING FORWARD is the perfect name for this wonderful story.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Berkley through Netgalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
MOVING FORWARD starts off increasing the reader’s heart rate right away. Kristen is trying to live her life on her own, away from her hovering mother while taking care of her faulty heart. Her health is the reason why her fiance ended things with her. My heart immediately goes out to Kristen and I just want to hug her. Will she ever be able to tell Greg how she really feels? While she is struggling with all of this, Greg finds himself wanting to protect Kristen, but he must be careful because he doesn’t want Kristen to feel smothered. Greg has his own issues with PTSD, doesn’t let anyone know how bad it can be, and thinks he is handling it on his own. Until he isnt. What a crazy story that will pull at the reader’s heart strings.
MOVING FORWARD is a quick read and you will be flipping the pages like mad trying to hurry to see what they are going to do next! I know I did! Meeting a new person that fills your heart with hope feels like coming home and this story is sure to give the reader all the feels! MOVING FORWARD is such an emotional read, you won’t be able to help yourself from getting into all of the characters business. I have read many of Shelley Shepard Gray’s other series as well as some of her other stand alone books, and I really feel like she writes with a heart for people. I know this series will definitely be a great one!
My emotions were all over the place as they always are reading a Shelley Shepard Gray story and I can hardly wait to see what firefighter gets the next story! I loved how she made me feel all of the anxiety and tension that the characters were dealing with. Besides all of that, there is also romance, forgiveness, and healing. Kristen and Greg’s romance is sweet and heart warming. I just wanted them to be happy. A perfect way to spend the day on the couch with your favorite beverage, lost in the pages of a heart tugging but beautiful story. MOVING FORWARD is the perfect name for this wonderful story.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Berkley through Netgalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
August 27, 2023
Book 2 in the Woodland Park Firefighters Romance series, author Shelley Shepard Gray writes a story that is sometimes hard to read (think PTSD) and sometimes so funny (think calendars). I will admit I enjoyed book 1, Coming Home, much more than I did this one but it was still a good read.
We meet two adults trying to find their way through the hurts of life, as well as two recent high school graduates who are just starting in adult life and are looking for guidance. The characters in this book are well developed and realistic. There is always something behind an attitude, isn’t there?
For myself, I would have preferred just the “grown up” story line and leave the kids out but Gray did weave them together skillfully. As always, I love stories about small towns.
Do note that this is not Gray’s typical Christian fiction but is clean romance. It does have a few cuss words and drinking. Nothing horrible, just not CF. I did appreciate the main characters determination to remain celibate. And the ending was so sweet. As I said, she does deal with PTSD as well as alcoholism and loss just in case any of those are triggers. But it’s done honestly and definitely not gratuitously. Give it a read. You’ll enjoy it!
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.
We meet two adults trying to find their way through the hurts of life, as well as two recent high school graduates who are just starting in adult life and are looking for guidance. The characters in this book are well developed and realistic. There is always something behind an attitude, isn’t there?
For myself, I would have preferred just the “grown up” story line and leave the kids out but Gray did weave them together skillfully. As always, I love stories about small towns.
Do note that this is not Gray’s typical Christian fiction but is clean romance. It does have a few cuss words and drinking. Nothing horrible, just not CF. I did appreciate the main characters determination to remain celibate. And the ending was so sweet. As I said, she does deal with PTSD as well as alcoholism and loss just in case any of those are triggers. But it’s done honestly and definitely not gratuitously. Give it a read. You’ll enjoy it!
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.
August 11, 2023
Moving Forward by Shelley Shepard Gray is the second A Woodland Park Firefighters Romance. It can be read as a standalone for those who have not read Coming Home. I thought Moving Forward was a sweet story. I enjoyed getting to know Greg Tebo and Kristen Werner. Each of them has issues that keep them from having a romantic relationship. We also got to meet Ryan and Jen who are recent college graduates. We get to see that appearances can be deceiving. Plus, you never know what goes on behind closed doors. I liked Jen’s goals and admired her determination. I thought the characters were developed and realistic. I enjoyed the descriptions of Woodland Park and Werner’s Garden Center owned by Kristen. I found Moving Forward to be easy to read. The pacing was a little slow in a couple of areas and there were repetitive details. I appreciated the epilogue at the end that allowed readers to see how Kristen and Greg were doing, but I would have liked an update on Jen. I hope the author will include her in the next A Woodland Fire Park Firefighters Romance. I like that we get to catch up with Anderson Kelly and Chelsea Davis from Coming Home. My favorite quote from Moving Forward is, “If you weren’t moving forward, you risked being stuck and not going anywhere at all.”
August 26, 2023
Moving Forward the second book in a series of A Woodland Park Firefighters Romance by Shelley Shepard Gray is another must read book and can be read as a stand-alone book.
Two characters both struggle with real world problems from their past, both afraid to move forward because of fear of rejection one from a past love, made to feel not good enough, one who suffers from PTSD, but both feeling broken.
What could have become a tragic event brings Greg and Kristen together, while we also catch up with the characters from book one Coming Home.
We are also introduced to Jen a young lady with a depressing home life that, is trying to make a better life for herself after her father has died and her mother has fallen in to a deep depression.
I highly recommend this and all of Shelley Shepard Gray’s book.
Two characters both struggle with real world problems from their past, both afraid to move forward because of fear of rejection one from a past love, made to feel not good enough, one who suffers from PTSD, but both feeling broken.
What could have become a tragic event brings Greg and Kristen together, while we also catch up with the characters from book one Coming Home.
We are also introduced to Jen a young lady with a depressing home life that, is trying to make a better life for herself after her father has died and her mother has fallen in to a deep depression.
I highly recommend this and all of Shelley Shepard Gray’s book.
August 28, 2023
In the normal, delightful fashion of this author, she brings us another sweet romance that you will be sure to want to add to your collection. This is the second book in her Woodland Park Firefighter romance series. However, it can be read and enjoyed as a stand-alone book.
We meet main characters, former Army captain turned fireman, Greg Tebo, and nursery owner, Kristen Werner. They meet when her nursery caught fire and she had a medical emergency.
As friendship develops between them, they both have issues they have to come to terms with before they can be totally truthful with each other. It is very interesting to get into their heads and hearts as they learn to work through their issues and develop this friendship.
This is a book you will not want to put down until you finish it. Thanks to Berkley Publishing Group and NetGalley for the advanced copy of the book.
We meet main characters, former Army captain turned fireman, Greg Tebo, and nursery owner, Kristen Werner. They meet when her nursery caught fire and she had a medical emergency.
As friendship develops between them, they both have issues they have to come to terms with before they can be totally truthful with each other. It is very interesting to get into their heads and hearts as they learn to work through their issues and develop this friendship.
This is a book you will not want to put down until you finish it. Thanks to Berkley Publishing Group and NetGalley for the advanced copy of the book.
August 24, 2023
Things I loved-
This story did a great job highlighting the heroism of those with long term health conditions, PTSD, firefighters, Veterans, & those suffering from mental health break downs.
Those who struggle are still lovable & worth of love, just as those who don’t struggle also are worthy of love.
As a country girl with a large family, the plot really resonated with me.
For those who enjoy a dual story plot this one does a good job juggling all the characters stories!
Things I didn’t love-
A couple cuss words.
Lots of drinking/alcohol
Personally if you cleaned up the cuss words & alcohol it’s a story my teen would also enjoy reading.
I received a copy for review. I received no financial compensation. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.
This story did a great job highlighting the heroism of those with long term health conditions, PTSD, firefighters, Veterans, & those suffering from mental health break downs.
Those who struggle are still lovable & worth of love, just as those who don’t struggle also are worthy of love.
As a country girl with a large family, the plot really resonated with me.
For those who enjoy a dual story plot this one does a good job juggling all the characters stories!
Things I didn’t love-
A couple cuss words.
Lots of drinking/alcohol
Personally if you cleaned up the cuss words & alcohol it’s a story my teen would also enjoy reading.
I received a copy for review. I received no financial compensation. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.
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