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!

(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)

My thoughts: MOVING FORWARD is a dual sweet romance. it is not Christian, so there are some soft swear words and drinking involved, so if that bothers you, you might want to skip this book. I did find it interesting some of the stuff firefighters have to do to earn a place on the force, but it surprised me because my son never had to do it when he worked as a volunteer fight fighter. But then again, this is a small town and the force is volunteer... Otherwise, this is written in Ms Gray's traditional style and voice and her fans will love it. I identified with both heroines and liked both heroes, I was given a copy free and all opinions are my own.

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.

Ms. Gray does it again. Her stories have a way of drawing the reader into the story line. Kristen Werner is a fiery red head with a heart defect. Greg Tebo is a former military man with PTSD. When fate brings them together, will their defects be their undoing? Or will they be able to Move Forward and form a life together? This is a tender romance of learning at times living with limitations together is better. Earning Kristen's trust may just be the one thing Greg cannot fix. You will fall in love with them and their romance. I received a copy through Netgalley. A review was not required.

Moving 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.

I loved this book. Greg is a firefighter battling PTSD due to being in the military and guilt for what happened while being in command. Kristen was born with a heart condition and runs a garden center. They meet because there is a fire at her work and causes Kristen to have to go to the hospital because of her heart condition. Both needing to overcome personal issues and learn to trust each other. Can they do that for the sake of love? Will they put it in God’s hands? You won’t be disappointed!
I was given an advanced reader’s book for leaving my honest review.

The second in the Woodland Park Firefighters series can be read as a standalone. Readers who enjoy sweet, clean romances will enjoy this story. I really enjoyed Greg and his easy going attitude. The firefighters are all so supportive of each other.
I like the way PTSD was addressed. Kristen's empathy toward Jen and her situation was spot-on. Relationships are a big part of this moving story. Recommended.

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.

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.

Moving Forward is the latest release in the Woodland Park Firefighters series by Shelley Shepard Gray. This is a sweet story about learning to trust, about taking care of yourself, and accepting that nobody’s perfect.
I really enjoyed reading Greg and Kristen’s story and can’t wait for more. I highly recommend Moving Forward to anyone who is looking for a sweet and clean romance set in a small town.

Moving Forward by Shelley Shepard Gray is an ideal title for a heartwarming and enchanting clean romance that will surely tug at your heartstrings. Although it is part of a series centered around firefighters, this book can be enjoyed as a standalone novel.

In this captivating tale, Gray skillfully weaves a story that is both wholesome and sweet, leaving readers with a warm and fuzzy feeling. The title itself hints at the theme of personal growth and progress, which resonates throughout the narrative.

While being part of a series, Moving Forward stands on its own, allowing readers to delve into the story without feeling lost or disconnected. Gray's masterful storytelling ensures that even newcomers to the series will be able to fully appreciate and enjoy the book.

Prepare to be swept away by the tender romance that unfolds within these pages. Gray's vivid descriptions and well-developed characters bring the story to life, making it easy for readers to become emotionally invested in their journey.

Furthermore, the author's attention to detail and impeccable grammar make for a seamless reading experience. The writing flows effortlessly, allowing readers to immerse themselves in the story without any distractions.

Moving Forward is a testament to Gray's talent for crafting heartfelt and engaging stories. Whether you are a fan of the series or new to Gray's work, this book promises to be a delightful and satisfying read. So, grab a cozy blanket, settle into your favorite reading nook, and prepare to be captivated by this charming tale of love and personal growth.

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.”

Moving Forward
Woodland Park Firefighters Romance Series - Book 2
By Shelley Shepard Gray

Berkley - August 2023

Contemporary Romance


Greg Tebo didn't make it a habit to date women he saved, but from the moment he met Kristen Werner, he was interested. So after the fire at her garden center, he had followed up by checking in on her at the hospital. It wasn't uncommon for a firefighter to follow-up with someone who had needed their assistance, but a flat out rejection to his interest in a date was. However, Kristen was willing to be friends. He could work with that.

Kristen had been burned before by someone who had promised to be with her forever. Instead, she had been abandoned. She wasn't sure she was ready to test another relationship, but she was always willing to have a friend. Not that she actually wanted Greg only as a friend. The more time she spent with Greg, the more Kristen realized that she would have to decide how much of an emotional risk she would be willing to take with him.

Moving Forward is a poignant romance between two individuals overcoming their pasts. Greg still had nightmares from his service, and Kristen had a nightmare of an ex-fiance. I loved the slow, gentle pace they set for getting to truly know one another. There is a secondary romance for a young employee of Kristen, but it was equally fascinating to see her learn about how to start the process to become a firefighter. Shelley Shepard Gray delivers comfort reads, and Moving Forward is no exception. Between beautiful settings, and warm, caring characters, readers want to visit her books again and again.

Kathy Andrico - KathysReviewCorner.com

Wholesome and sweet. 4.5 STARS!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
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!

Thank you Netgalley and Berkley for providing access to this arc.

I enjoyed last year’s first book in this series and was looking forward to this one. I liked it, I think some heavy issues were included and dealt with but … well, I had a few issues with it as well.

I love the relationship between Greg and his mother. Mom raised seven children so there isn’t much that gets by her. The relationships between all the firefighters seems realistic. There is one guy who gives someone grief then after a confrontation, suddenly he reverses course. Nice but it was too fast for me. Anderson and Chelsea are in some scenes but I don’t think readers need to read their book first.

The second relationship in this book is a “YA just graduated from high school” one rather than the older couple in the first book. The teens – one of whom works for Kristen and wants to become a firefighter and one of whom is trying out as a football walk-on at a local college – play a larger role in the story as well compared to “Coming Home.” There is a home issue for Jen which is resolved but I feel it was too easy given how long term it is.

This is a very easy going book that doesn’t smack you with the angst that’s there. And that was a bit of a problem for me after a while. Kristen has a congenital heart issue that she’s lived with her entire life while Greg has resisted getting help dealing with his PTSD. Both know how serious these issues are but more than once, Kristen knows she needs at least to take things more slowly if not outright call for help but doesn’t. Greg wakes himself and his fellow firefighters up with his nightmares but repeatedly puts off seeing a therapist.

There is a lot of good communication between Greg and Kristen ..until there isn’t. Greg’s pretty good at reading people and when he sees expressions on Kristen’s face or that her body language is shuttered, he asks about why, he makes sure it isn’t because of something he did. He does push a little at one point and apologizes then later berates himself for it and also for the fact that she’s now opened up about her issues while he’s still hiding some of the things he’s brought home with him from his tours of duty in Iraq and Afghanistan. Kristen asks him if there’s anything he needs to tell her, after she discloses her medical issues, but Greg denies and then shuts down. So yeah Greg, that bit of communication would have been nice. As with Jen and her mother, things are resolved but the resolution is mainly off page and appears too easy. The epilogue is sweet but again, problem too easily solved. I liked reading another book in this series but this one’s issues make it a C for me.

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.

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 high school 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. I did find that the pacing was a little slow in a couple of areas and there were some 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 enjoyed catching 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.” Moving Forward is a clean romance with a floral center fire, frightening nightmares, mama drama, trust troubles, youthful love, and a mighty mouse.

I just reviewed moving forward by Shelley Shepard Gray! Loved it! Letting go of your secrets can help you move forward in a relationship and help you to feel better in life!

Read until chapter three. A bit too slowly paced for me. Nice people falling in love. One has ptsd one has a heart defect.

I was given an e-copy of this book by the author/publisher. This is my honest opinion about this book:

Moving Forward is another wonderful book by author Shelley Shepard Gray. This is the second book in the Woodland Park Firefighters series, (I did not realize this until I was almost done with the book, it did not matter, you can read it without the first).
The main characters: Greg Tebo former military captain now a firefighter. Greg has to confront the reality that his PTSD due to his overseas military duty is not gone and he needs help. 

Kristen Werner owner of Garden Center she is fiesty, hardworking, and stubborn woman in her late twenties with congenital heart disease. Kristen's previous relationship has left weary and not so trusting.  
Greg and Kristen meet under stressful circumstances, but Greg is drawn to her immediately and a relationship starts to blossom. But can they move forward and make this relationship work?

There is a second romance between two recently graduated high schoolers Ryan and Jennifer. Ryan is heading off to college and  Jennifer is staying behind to pursue a job opportunity. Will their relationship withstand the distance?
The romances in the book are not inappropriate and are very sweet.