Review: Shifting Gears by Melanie Moreland

Rating: 4/5  PoP: 41%     Reynolds Restorations Book 3

Brett and Kelly have been in the fringes of the previous Reynolds Restorations books. They have an on again off again relationship that is very dependent on Kelly’s job that requires a lot of traveling. Kelly has never really felt at home anywhere and she is up front with Brett that she cannot/will not give him more. Brett agrees but as they spend more time together and Kelly stays in Littleburn for longer periods of time, feelings grow. When he puts his heart on the line and Kelly runs. 

Kelly has returned once again but something is different this time. She seems depressed and hurt, with no current plans. Brett is sure that something has happened to cause this change but at the same time he wants to guard his heart. He does not push for answers but quickly realizes he cannot stay away. Brett is such a sweet and quiet guy, that is really trying to do what is best. However, he envies his friends and coworkers that are happy, in love, and growing their families. Kelly’s past was not great, she has never felt wanted and does not know how to deal with big feelings. 

I thought that this story would be straight forward, she would realize her mistake and return for them to live happily ever after. However, it was more complex and I welcomed the layers these characters revealed. Not only did Kelly have to reconcile with her past, she helped Brett do the same. As always the side characters in Melanie’s stories are a treat. Brett’s dad has a budding relationship with Stefano’s mom, that breaks up some of the heaviness of the main plot. And the way Kelly and Brett find compromise and happiness, reiterates a theme in all the Reynolds Restorations books: communication is key to any relationship.