Moving Forward by Shelley Shepard Gray: Review

I’ve read this author a few times, diving into her Amish romance stories that included a lot of family, friends, and community. While this book includes the same things, it is not an Amish romance, but a contemporary romance.

Known for her clean romance, this author has a beautiful, warm writing style that will leave you with a big sigh and a smile on your heart. Read on for my full review.

Moving Forward by Shelley Shepard Gray
Publisher: ‎ Berkley (August 22, 2023)
ISBN-13: ‎ 978-0593438107

SYNOPSIS:
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….

Moving Forward by Shelley Shepard Gray Review

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!

4 STARS!

Disclaimer: Chris has personally reviewed the product listed above. She has not received any monetary compensation for her review but did receive a free ebook so she could evaluate and use it for this post. Her thoughts & opinions in this review are unbiased & honest and your opinions may differ.