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Nugget #1
Going Home
The small mountain town of Nugget, California, has a strange way of giving people unexpected reasons to start over and find the most irresistible chances to fall in love "Maddy Breyer needs to prove she can make her own life after betrayal blew up her previous happily-ever-after. Staying totally focused on renovating a decrepit mansion into a bed-and-breakfast might help her and this recession-hit town finally turn things around. But the mysterious new sheriff is the kind of lawbreaking temptation that s an even bigger challenge to resist
Detective Rhys Shepard is only back in Nugget long enough to care for his ailing father. He s got a big-city promotion far away from this place that never accepted him. He does not need a sudden crime wave to solve. Or one leggy case of heartbreak stirring up all kinds of trouble and challenging his rules. Which might explain why he s suddenly finding it hard to leave
98,000 Words
Detective Rhys Shepard is only back in Nugget long enough to care for his ailing father. He s got a big-city promotion far away from this place that never accepted him. He does not need a sudden crime wave to solve. Or one leggy case of heartbreak stirring up all kinds of trouble and challenging his rules. Which might explain why he s suddenly finding it hard to leave
98,000 Words
ebook
First published January 1, 2014
309 people are currently reading
990 people want to read
About the author
Stacy Finz
37 books543 followersStacy Finz is an award-winning former newspaper reporter. After more than twenty years covering notorious serial killers, naked-tractor-driving farmers, fanatical foodies, aging rock stars and weird Western towns, she figured she finally had enough material to launch a career writing fiction. She is the author of the Nugget Romance series (Kensington/Lyrical Press) about a small mountain town that has a strange way of giving people unexpected reasons to start over--and find the most irresistible chances to fall in love. Look for her Garner Brothers series (Zebra) in 2017.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 116 reviews
October 7, 2014
1.5 stars
****Full Review****
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review
The town of Nugget is fairly remote, small, and surprisingly full of possibilities, Maddy hopes for just a little of those possibilities to come her way. After discovering that her husband has been sleeping with his cousin's widow and the added bonus of he was in love with the widow before even marrying Maddy, she hightails it out of dodge. Nugget just so happens to have an abandoned hotel, Maddy and her family is hotel mavens, so her and her brother moves there to not only return it to its former glory but hopefully Maddy too. Rhys on the other hand sees Nugget only as the rinky dinky town he escaped as soon as he turned eighteen. Now the father that was never much of one is showing signs of Alzheimer's disease and Rhys must find a way to deal with that, half-siblings coming out of the woodwork, being interim sheriff, and an attraction to his new neighbor Maddy.
The beginning of the book deals a lot with Rhys and his issues with his father; Rhys resents having to take care of his father when he feels this wasn't reciprocated when he was younger. I get what the author was trying to portray, anger issues, but the way it is written has Rhys coming off extremely callous because of the brusque writing. A couple times Rhys's father wanders off lost and confused, Rhys reacts with severe annoyance instead of understanding it’s the disease and his father isn't doing this on purpose to ruin Rhys day. Are Rhys's actions and feelings commonly found in the real world? Yes, but it doesn't mean I want to read about them in this type of genre book; it doesn't make you feel bad for Rhys, it’s all just very draining. Maddy wasn't that fun of a character to read about either, she doesn't send divorce papers until the second half of the book to her cheating husband. This makes it hard to invest in a relationship between her and Rhys. Maddy and Rhys also spend less time together than what I personally like to see in stories with this theme. They're neighbors, they find each other aesthetically attractive, and then they kiss with fireworks exploding over their heads.
The story overall was slow moving with a lot of subplots and povs for what I'm guessing will be following books. As a consequence this book falls to first in a series syndrome and it loses its focus on the main couple and what the reader originally wanted to enjoy. I've seen mentions that this is for people who like the Lucky Harbor series by Jill Shalvis. The components are comparable, small town and wide cast of townie characters but quality and delight is missing in this one. I also have to question where a book is inspired by and plain written to be Lucky Harbor; Nugget has a "Lucille" down to her colorful clothing matchmaking ways.
This is a debut book and perhaps the author's style isn't for me. There is a story here but I'm not sure there is any entertainment factor.
****Full Review****
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review
The town of Nugget is fairly remote, small, and surprisingly full of possibilities, Maddy hopes for just a little of those possibilities to come her way. After discovering that her husband has been sleeping with his cousin's widow and the added bonus of he was in love with the widow before even marrying Maddy, she hightails it out of dodge. Nugget just so happens to have an abandoned hotel, Maddy and her family is hotel mavens, so her and her brother moves there to not only return it to its former glory but hopefully Maddy too. Rhys on the other hand sees Nugget only as the rinky dinky town he escaped as soon as he turned eighteen. Now the father that was never much of one is showing signs of Alzheimer's disease and Rhys must find a way to deal with that, half-siblings coming out of the woodwork, being interim sheriff, and an attraction to his new neighbor Maddy.
The beginning of the book deals a lot with Rhys and his issues with his father; Rhys resents having to take care of his father when he feels this wasn't reciprocated when he was younger. I get what the author was trying to portray, anger issues, but the way it is written has Rhys coming off extremely callous because of the brusque writing. A couple times Rhys's father wanders off lost and confused, Rhys reacts with severe annoyance instead of understanding it’s the disease and his father isn't doing this on purpose to ruin Rhys day. Are Rhys's actions and feelings commonly found in the real world? Yes, but it doesn't mean I want to read about them in this type of genre book; it doesn't make you feel bad for Rhys, it’s all just very draining. Maddy wasn't that fun of a character to read about either, she doesn't send divorce papers until the second half of the book to her cheating husband. This makes it hard to invest in a relationship between her and Rhys. Maddy and Rhys also spend less time together than what I personally like to see in stories with this theme. They're neighbors, they find each other aesthetically attractive, and then they kiss with fireworks exploding over their heads.
The story overall was slow moving with a lot of subplots and povs for what I'm guessing will be following books. As a consequence this book falls to first in a series syndrome and it loses its focus on the main couple and what the reader originally wanted to enjoy. I've seen mentions that this is for people who like the Lucky Harbor series by Jill Shalvis. The components are comparable, small town and wide cast of townie characters but quality and delight is missing in this one. I also have to question where a book is inspired by and plain written to be Lucky Harbor; Nugget has a "Lucille" down to her colorful clothing matchmaking ways.
This is a debut book and perhaps the author's style isn't for me. There is a story here but I'm not sure there is any entertainment factor.
October 10, 2014
Maddy is renovating an old mansion and turning it into a bed and breakfast. She's just ending her marriage after her husband has been cheating on her and she's focusing all her energy into opening her bed and breakfast. Rys is the interim police chief when he moves home to take care of his father. I enjoyed these characters and really was hoping for a HEA for Maddy and Rys. I enjoyed this book but thought it was a little slow and had so much going on it was hard to follow at times. I would've liked more Maddy and Rys. I still really enjoyed this book and look forward to reading the next book in this series.
** ARC provided in exchange for an honest review **
** ARC provided in exchange for an honest review **
October 6, 2015
" Going Home" , the first book in the Nugget. Series was a charming story about what else coming home .
In the case of this story it is a coming home for Rhys Shepard; Rhys tries not to come home to Nugget often he has no real reason to, other than his best freind Clay , Nugget does not hold much of a draw for him even though his father still lives there Rhys has never had That type of relationship with Shep. A phone call from the Sherrifs office changes that, his father has been arrested for theft which is totally out of character for his father.
When Shep arrives back in Nugget from Houston , he comes back to learn that his father is suffering from dementia ; and in Shep's mind he truly believed what he took was his ; Shep's health forces Rhys to take leave if absence from the Houston PD until he can find a care center for Shep. Thanks to his freind Clay , Rhys is offered. A position as interim Sherrifs in Nugget while he is in town which he embraces and starts to put his mark on.
The story is not only a coming home for Rhys but also a coming home in a sense for new comer Maddy Wellmont ; Maddy with encouragement from her brother Nate., has come to Nugget to start over after discovering her husband has cheated on her and has been doing so for quite some time. Nugget offers her that chance to rebuild her life and be her own person . Nate discovered an abandoned Mansion , the Lumber Baron which he encourages Maddy to help him renovate into a bed and breakfast giving her a reason to get up in the morning .
Unable,to live and the Lumber Baron Maddy winds up renting an apartment from Rhys Shepard and finds herself undeniably attracted to him.
As time moves in these two people are drawn to each other and the Sparks start to fly, however the road is never easy in Nugget, the townspeople are not the most open and accepting and then add Rhys determination to head back to Houston to spite how well accepted and loved he seems to be now in Nugget; when his six month leave is over he is determined to head back to Houston and accept his promotion to Luitenenat .
Maddy may have him second guessing his de ion though, then just through in the unexpected half brother. And sister he never new about, Lina and Sam, the lone Rhys has drawn in the for verbal sand starts to blur. This man however has a hard time loving and accepting love, but the more time Maddy and he spend together the more he questions if he can leave town , but the fear she will return to her wealthy cheating. Ex is.a huge fear.
Maddy , in the meantime Finds herself fighting the very town that she is looking to help revitalize with her bed and breakfast and desire to put Nugget ion the map and promote the towns link to the infamous Donned party .the very town council that issued her permits are trying to revoke them. Then through in a hidden Meth lab discovered in the basement of the Limber Baron, and then a Robbery at gunpoint if the local feed store has the town in a tizzy .
Rhys finds himself juggling a lot , but Maddy is always on his mind, can these two somewhat damaged people come to a happy ending ? Maybe. Will the town of Nugget accept Maddy and the updated Lumber Baron ? Will they try to Keep Rhys on permantly ? Or will these two give up on there second chances.
Stacy Finz has created some wonderfully deep layered characters that draws you in to the story and sets you up for future stories well in Going Home.
Recommend for anyone who enjoys a sweet contemporary second chance romance with some twists and turns .
I received a copy of this Arc from Lyrical Press, Kensington publishing via Netgalley for an honest review.
In the case of this story it is a coming home for Rhys Shepard; Rhys tries not to come home to Nugget often he has no real reason to, other than his best freind Clay , Nugget does not hold much of a draw for him even though his father still lives there Rhys has never had That type of relationship with Shep. A phone call from the Sherrifs office changes that, his father has been arrested for theft which is totally out of character for his father.
When Shep arrives back in Nugget from Houston , he comes back to learn that his father is suffering from dementia ; and in Shep's mind he truly believed what he took was his ; Shep's health forces Rhys to take leave if absence from the Houston PD until he can find a care center for Shep. Thanks to his freind Clay , Rhys is offered. A position as interim Sherrifs in Nugget while he is in town which he embraces and starts to put his mark on.
The story is not only a coming home for Rhys but also a coming home in a sense for new comer Maddy Wellmont ; Maddy with encouragement from her brother Nate., has come to Nugget to start over after discovering her husband has cheated on her and has been doing so for quite some time. Nugget offers her that chance to rebuild her life and be her own person . Nate discovered an abandoned Mansion , the Lumber Baron which he encourages Maddy to help him renovate into a bed and breakfast giving her a reason to get up in the morning .
Unable,to live and the Lumber Baron Maddy winds up renting an apartment from Rhys Shepard and finds herself undeniably attracted to him.
As time moves in these two people are drawn to each other and the Sparks start to fly, however the road is never easy in Nugget, the townspeople are not the most open and accepting and then add Rhys determination to head back to Houston to spite how well accepted and loved he seems to be now in Nugget; when his six month leave is over he is determined to head back to Houston and accept his promotion to Luitenenat .
Maddy may have him second guessing his de ion though, then just through in the unexpected half brother. And sister he never new about, Lina and Sam, the lone Rhys has drawn in the for verbal sand starts to blur. This man however has a hard time loving and accepting love, but the more time Maddy and he spend together the more he questions if he can leave town , but the fear she will return to her wealthy cheating. Ex is.a huge fear.
Maddy , in the meantime Finds herself fighting the very town that she is looking to help revitalize with her bed and breakfast and desire to put Nugget ion the map and promote the towns link to the infamous Donned party .the very town council that issued her permits are trying to revoke them. Then through in a hidden Meth lab discovered in the basement of the Limber Baron, and then a Robbery at gunpoint if the local feed store has the town in a tizzy .
Rhys finds himself juggling a lot , but Maddy is always on his mind, can these two somewhat damaged people come to a happy ending ? Maybe. Will the town of Nugget accept Maddy and the updated Lumber Baron ? Will they try to Keep Rhys on permantly ? Or will these two give up on there second chances.
Stacy Finz has created some wonderfully deep layered characters that draws you in to the story and sets you up for future stories well in Going Home.
Recommend for anyone who enjoys a sweet contemporary second chance romance with some twists and turns .
I received a copy of this Arc from Lyrical Press, Kensington publishing via Netgalley for an honest review.
January 24, 2019
Reviewed for Romancing the Readers: https://romancingthereaders.blogspot....
We all know how much I love to read books in order. What you might not know about me is that I also like to read series in order. Let me explain. If one series comes out for the past five years and then the author starts a whole new series I'd rather read the one before the this new one coming out.
Unfortunately that doesn't always happen. Sometimes I'll start a series and then say to myself, why the hell didn't you read the other one. Or I'll read the new series and like it so much that I have to go back and read the other one.
That's what happened here. I read Finz's The Garner Brothers series and enjoyed them and decided I'd try the first one in her Nugget series. Little did I know that I would enjoy it so much that I couldn't help myself and I read all the books in the series. All ten books and the novella. It was a great start to January.
I usually don't read the same author back to back because the story might be different but the author isn't. Writing style is writing style. With this series I just couldn't help myself. I totally glad I did.
I feel in love with this town and the people who live in it!
First up with have Rhys and Maddy. These two are so much fun. I'm not sure if Rhys would like to be thought of as fun but he's not here so...
Poor Rhys, he is in for so many shocks when he first gets into town. I won't get into it all you need to learn it for yourself but believe me when I say it's not going to be easy for him. So what does he do, he adds a new temporary job and relationship to the mix. Not smart if you have one foot out of town.
I also felt very sorry for Maddy. No one should be treat the way she was by her soon to be ex. She is a hard worker and cares about those around her. She's perfect for Rhys, these two just mesh. Poor Rhys doesn't see it yet but the town does. Ha!
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We all know how much I love to read books in order. What you might not know about me is that I also like to read series in order. Let me explain. If one series comes out for the past five years and then the author starts a whole new series I'd rather read the one before the this new one coming out.
Unfortunately that doesn't always happen. Sometimes I'll start a series and then say to myself, why the hell didn't you read the other one. Or I'll read the new series and like it so much that I have to go back and read the other one.
That's what happened here. I read Finz's The Garner Brothers series and enjoyed them and decided I'd try the first one in her Nugget series. Little did I know that I would enjoy it so much that I couldn't help myself and I read all the books in the series. All ten books and the novella. It was a great start to January.
I usually don't read the same author back to back because the story might be different but the author isn't. Writing style is writing style. With this series I just couldn't help myself. I totally glad I did.
I feel in love with this town and the people who live in it!
First up with have Rhys and Maddy. These two are so much fun. I'm not sure if Rhys would like to be thought of as fun but he's not here so...
Poor Rhys, he is in for so many shocks when he first gets into town. I won't get into it all you need to learn it for yourself but believe me when I say it's not going to be easy for him. So what does he do, he adds a new temporary job and relationship to the mix. Not smart if you have one foot out of town.
I also felt very sorry for Maddy. No one should be treat the way she was by her soon to be ex. She is a hard worker and cares about those around her. She's perfect for Rhys, these two just mesh. Poor Rhys doesn't see it yet but the town does. Ha!
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June 20, 2021
This was apparently my first Stacy Finz book, much to my surprise. It was okay, but not great. I'll chalk that up to this being the author's first book and won't hold it against any future reads I'll do.
There were WAY too many characters to keep up with. I get that with a new series, it's to be expected to have character introductions made. But more than 10 is too much and this had probably 20+ names we had to try and remember. The POV changes in the middle of chapters, which is normally fine if it's just the H/h doing the storytelling. But the author throws in POVs from a couple other characters and it isn't until you've read several paragraphs that you figure out which character is speaking. So that was frustrating.
Because of all the characters and even their storylines being brought into the plot, it means the H/h weren't always the focus. They didn't spend as much time together as one would expect and I wasn't really feeling the 'love' they expressed by the end. It doesn't help that even by the end of this book, Maddy still isn't even divorced. She's technically recently separated and didn't file for divorce until halfway through the book. So I had some issues with the relationship she had with Rhys given that. I'm no prude, but at least file for divorce before you go around getting intimate with another guy.
Rhys wasn't my favorite hero because he came off judgmental, uncaring and callous. I get that his dad wasn't really there for him growing up and he resents his dad for that. But his dad was suffering from Alzheimer's and you can't be mean to someone simply because they get lost or do something they weren't aware they were doing because of the disease. Having a close family member suffer from that, I know all too well how much patience and care is required, but Rhys seemed to not care and instead pushed off the responsibilities to his 'new to him' 17-year-old half-sister. He wasn't the best sibling to his new-found brother and sister either and I pretty much disliked him from the start because of that uncaring behavior.
There were WAY too many characters to keep up with. I get that with a new series, it's to be expected to have character introductions made. But more than 10 is too much and this had probably 20+ names we had to try and remember. The POV changes in the middle of chapters, which is normally fine if it's just the H/h doing the storytelling. But the author throws in POVs from a couple other characters and it isn't until you've read several paragraphs that you figure out which character is speaking. So that was frustrating.
Because of all the characters and even their storylines being brought into the plot, it means the H/h weren't always the focus. They didn't spend as much time together as one would expect and I wasn't really feeling the 'love' they expressed by the end. It doesn't help that even by the end of this book, Maddy still isn't even divorced. She's technically recently separated and didn't file for divorce until halfway through the book. So I had some issues with the relationship she had with Rhys given that. I'm no prude, but at least file for divorce before you go around getting intimate with another guy.
Rhys wasn't my favorite hero because he came off judgmental, uncaring and callous. I get that his dad wasn't really there for him growing up and he resents his dad for that. But his dad was suffering from Alzheimer's and you can't be mean to someone simply because they get lost or do something they weren't aware they were doing because of the disease. Having a close family member suffer from that, I know all too well how much patience and care is required, but Rhys seemed to not care and instead pushed off the responsibilities to his 'new to him' 17-year-old half-sister. He wasn't the best sibling to his new-found brother and sister either and I pretty much disliked him from the start because of that uncaring behavior.
June 13, 2021
3.5 stars
December 17, 2015
****An ARC of Going Home by Stacy Finz was generously provided to me via NetGalley in exchange of honest review.
I enjoyed this book!
It's light, it's fluffy and if you like light romance, you certainly love this book. To be honest I'm not exactly in the mood for light romance, lately I'm craving for dark ones and that's why I didn't really connect with the characters. It's solely my fault, not the book.
I love Maddy's attitude. She's focused and she's determined. I find myself wanting to be like her. So yeah, overall great book but I'm not sure I'll continue with the series. But hey, this author definitely got talent! Her writing is simple yet deep and I understand it even though English is not my first language.
I enjoyed this book!
It's light, it's fluffy and if you like light romance, you certainly love this book. To be honest I'm not exactly in the mood for light romance, lately I'm craving for dark ones and that's why I didn't really connect with the characters. It's solely my fault, not the book.
I love Maddy's attitude. She's focused and she's determined. I find myself wanting to be like her. So yeah, overall great book but I'm not sure I'll continue with the series. But hey, this author definitely got talent! Her writing is simple yet deep and I understand it even though English is not my first language.
July 30, 2020
Overall I liked this book. I will admit in the beginning I wasn't a big fan. The author gave Rhys so much to deal with. Then it took him and Maddy too long to get together. Thankfully in the end it all worked out. Everyone was finally happy.
August 18, 2015
ARC REVIEW
I really enjoy this series, I love small town romance and for the most part these are second chance at love stories. Each character has a past that has jaded them and it creates a very believable and likeable characters (for the exception of Clay from Finding Hope I still don't like him).
Maddy needed a place to start over after her disastrous marriage and divorce and Nugget California was the perfect place. She convinced her brother into buying the old dilapidated Lumber Baron and turn it into a Bed and Breakfast. Although she isn't exactly welcomed with open arms she is slowly working over the locals. The owners of the local motel are self important and keep finding ways to try and keep Maddy from opening the Inn.
They say you can't go home but going home was the only option for Detective Rhys Shepard. It was only suppose to be temporary, take care of his father until he recuperates. But the longer Rhys is there the more he realizes his ailing father is worse off than he thought. The town is dangling the Sheriff position to keep him there he is torn between a father he never got along with and a town that wasn't very welcoming when he was younger or the promotion to Sergeant and a six figure raise back in Texas. The choice was easy until he found out about the two siblings he never knew about and is now he is responsible for them and the closeness he has started to feel toward his father after realizing all the sacrifices that were made for Rhys. The sexy new owner of the Lumber Baron Inn isn't helping matters.
It was all just suppose to be temporary, the position as Sheriff, staying with his father, and his affair with Maddy. Rhys realizes lots of things during his stay in Nugget but it takes but it takes Maddy almost killed by a meth head looking for his stash for him to realize where he belongs.
I really enjoy this series, I love small town romance and for the most part these are second chance at love stories. Each character has a past that has jaded them and it creates a very believable and likeable characters (for the exception of Clay from Finding Hope I still don't like him).
Maddy needed a place to start over after her disastrous marriage and divorce and Nugget California was the perfect place. She convinced her brother into buying the old dilapidated Lumber Baron and turn it into a Bed and Breakfast. Although she isn't exactly welcomed with open arms she is slowly working over the locals. The owners of the local motel are self important and keep finding ways to try and keep Maddy from opening the Inn.
They say you can't go home but going home was the only option for Detective Rhys Shepard. It was only suppose to be temporary, take care of his father until he recuperates. But the longer Rhys is there the more he realizes his ailing father is worse off than he thought. The town is dangling the Sheriff position to keep him there he is torn between a father he never got along with and a town that wasn't very welcoming when he was younger or the promotion to Sergeant and a six figure raise back in Texas. The choice was easy until he found out about the two siblings he never knew about and is now he is responsible for them and the closeness he has started to feel toward his father after realizing all the sacrifices that were made for Rhys. The sexy new owner of the Lumber Baron Inn isn't helping matters.
It was all just suppose to be temporary, the position as Sheriff, staying with his father, and his affair with Maddy. Rhys realizes lots of things during his stay in Nugget but it takes but it takes Maddy almost killed by a meth head looking for his stash for him to realize where he belongs.
October 27, 2014
I got this book free from Firstreads. This is my honest review.
This was such a fun and diverse read. It was part romance, part mystery and part history. It took place in the fictional town of Nugget, California, which is based on the present day place where the Donner Party got stranded in huge snow blizzards on their trek west in 1846. Fortunately, nobody eats anybody else in this story, but there is someone who is attacking people connected with an old Victorian mansion that is being refurbished into a B&B.
Mandy Breyer has left her wealthy, philandering husband to start up the B&B but not everyone in town is happy about this and she has to diplomatically deal with these folks while avoiding someone who is attaching her. Actually, she is hoping to help renew the town after the recession that has closed down many businesses.
Detective Rhys Shepard is a local who left this town as a young man and has found much success in the Houston Police Department. Unfortunately, his crotchety father is suffering from Alzheimer's and needs Rhys to help him, but only till Rhys can figure a better plan for his father's care--or so he thinks.
I really enjoyed all the characters in this story and also all of the difficulties and problems that everyone faces. The historical connection to Donner's Crossing added depth, along with the issues that faced everyone in this small, close knit town. The different kinds of love that blossomed spoke of hope and healing, along with some strong passions. Sure looking forward to reading about more people and situations in Nugget, California!!
This was such a fun and diverse read. It was part romance, part mystery and part history. It took place in the fictional town of Nugget, California, which is based on the present day place where the Donner Party got stranded in huge snow blizzards on their trek west in 1846. Fortunately, nobody eats anybody else in this story, but there is someone who is attacking people connected with an old Victorian mansion that is being refurbished into a B&B.
Mandy Breyer has left her wealthy, philandering husband to start up the B&B but not everyone in town is happy about this and she has to diplomatically deal with these folks while avoiding someone who is attaching her. Actually, she is hoping to help renew the town after the recession that has closed down many businesses.
Detective Rhys Shepard is a local who left this town as a young man and has found much success in the Houston Police Department. Unfortunately, his crotchety father is suffering from Alzheimer's and needs Rhys to help him, but only till Rhys can figure a better plan for his father's care--or so he thinks.
I really enjoyed all the characters in this story and also all of the difficulties and problems that everyone faces. The historical connection to Donner's Crossing added depth, along with the issues that faced everyone in this small, close knit town. The different kinds of love that blossomed spoke of hope and healing, along with some strong passions. Sure looking forward to reading about more people and situations in Nugget, California!!
September 20, 2015
Thank you to NetGalley for an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
#1 in the Nugget series. Rated 2.5 stars but rounded up for Goodreads.
I loved the 2nd in this series and was looking forward to filling in some of the blanks by reading this, the 1st in the series. But it was disappointing. The main characters had flawed personalities that, instead of making them more interesting, just made them annoying. Maddie is impulsive and tends to act without thinking. And Rhys has a huge chip on his shoulder from his less-than-desirable childhood, and can't seem to grow up and move on when he returns to his home town to care for his aging father. Throw an unexpected family into the mix, and he has a hard time handling life. All that being said, the story is interesting and the town is full of intriguing characters and side stories. I will continue with this series and assume that this was just a fluke with characters that I found less-than appealing.
#1 in the Nugget series. Rated 2.5 stars but rounded up for Goodreads.
I loved the 2nd in this series and was looking forward to filling in some of the blanks by reading this, the 1st in the series. But it was disappointing. The main characters had flawed personalities that, instead of making them more interesting, just made them annoying. Maddie is impulsive and tends to act without thinking. And Rhys has a huge chip on his shoulder from his less-than-desirable childhood, and can't seem to grow up and move on when he returns to his home town to care for his aging father. Throw an unexpected family into the mix, and he has a hard time handling life. All that being said, the story is interesting and the town is full of intriguing characters and side stories. I will continue with this series and assume that this was just a fluke with characters that I found less-than appealing.
October 22, 2014
I love a good small town romance and Stacy Finz's newest did not disappoint. I liked that this isn't one of those small town impossibly full of boutiques and fancy stores. Nugget is struggling to survive and beginning to figure out that they need to do something different to keep going. While both Maddy and Rhys are both interesting characters who make rational decisions but for the most part this reads more like a fiction. To me this wasn't a problem as I really enjoyed getting to know the characters and the town. I also liked the history aspect as Maddy tries to pull the history of the area including the Donnor Party into her Inn. I'm really looking forward to Clay's book!
Full Review: http://iwishilivedinalibrary.blogspot...
Full Review: http://iwishilivedinalibrary.blogspot...
September 1, 2014
What a wonderful book! This one is set in a lovely little mountain town called Nugget IN California.
After splitting from a cheating husband Maddy sets about turning an old mansion into a Bed and Breakfast. Can she overcome her neighbours reservations and befriend them. At the same time Detective Rhys Shepard has taken leave from his job to work back home whilst he cares for his father.
I really loved Maddy's character- really warm and well rounded. I was willing her to make a success of the project and hoping she'd find happiness with Rhys.
With thanks to the publisher Kensington and Net Galley for the chance to read this book.
After splitting from a cheating husband Maddy sets about turning an old mansion into a Bed and Breakfast. Can she overcome her neighbours reservations and befriend them. At the same time Detective Rhys Shepard has taken leave from his job to work back home whilst he cares for his father.
I really loved Maddy's character- really warm and well rounded. I was willing her to make a success of the project and hoping she'd find happiness with Rhys.
With thanks to the publisher Kensington and Net Galley for the chance to read this book.
June 14, 2015
What a great first book in a series. I enjoyed this story so much. Maddy moves to the town of Nugget after discovering her husband has been unfaithful. While renovating an old mansion into an inn, she meets Rhys, the police chief. He is only in town temporarily while he makes arrangements for his ailing father. There is so much going on in this story, there are criminals and busy bodies and a strong theme of family loyalty. I think this is a great start for the series, I am excited to read the next! Book Four, Starting Over, doesn't release until August so I have plenty of time to get caught up!
I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
June 2, 2015
It started out okay but then it involved way to many people and what was going on with them. I think the couple was lost in all this and the other stories took away from them in general.
For the two main characters I enjoyed them but the side stepping of one another got a little old. I hope the next book in the series is better and doesn't involve so many of the townspeople.
For the two main characters I enjoyed them but the side stepping of one another got a little old. I hope the next book in the series is better and doesn't involve so many of the townspeople.
January 18, 2019
Enjoyed writing in later books in series much more. Heroine flips back and forth too much but big challenge is the Hero who treats his step siblings atrociously for most of the book and his negative self-talk is wearying. However I did like the intro to town and quirky characters and locations.
January 22, 2023
Not great
Not sure why but I just couldn't get a good feel for this book. It was jumpy, and had no real depth. Still not sure why the author spent so much time on the Donner party history , no notes to support what she wrote, which is concerning.
Not sure why but I just couldn't get a good feel for this book. It was jumpy, and had no real depth. Still not sure why the author spent so much time on the Donner party history , no notes to support what she wrote, which is concerning.
December 14, 2021
Eh. So I found this series out of order. I read 11 and 12 first, then came back to the beginning. By 11 and 12 it's the stereotypical small town series where everyone looks out for each other. Or at least that's what the characters say. In this book - yikes! This town is a mess. It's fully of petty, obnoxious people who don't really care for each other while the physical town is falling to pieces and they're just standing around letting it happen.
I mean honestly, that's a bit refreshing. But having read later books and knowing it will eventually get white washed over into small town propaganda, it was just confusing.
But overall, there were just a lot of things that left me cold here. Like the domestic violence scene that seemed to be played for laughs.
A few times in the book it's mentioned how no one locks their doors (because apparently there's no crime in small town america) but then we have a big side plot of a junkie who robs a store, knocks out someone and then takes a hostage (3 separate incidences). The character is a 2 dimensional one, an outsider, not a resident because of course the residents of the town would never do anything like this (other than domestic abuse and a troubled teen pulling a knife on someone - but this is all ok because . . . ?). Seriously, there's a lot of crime in this town where no one locks their doors.
My biggest problem with the book though was Rhys. I get he had a bad childhood and totally understand where he's coming from but man, Maddy could do so much better. So many red flags. He keeps pulling her in and then pushing her away. He's uncomfortably physical with her (he rubs his thumb over her lip when they are pretty much just acquaintances - in what world is that normal behavior?). He's weirdly obsessed with her soon to be ex. Yes it's obviously too soon to get into a relationship and she should take some time for herself rather than have this rebound, but she tells him multiple times that she's done with Dave and Rhys keeps doubting her and saying she isn't. He's actually pretty cruel about it a few times.
Then there's a scene where he throws his present to her into the garbage and she takes it out and then THANKS HIM for it - yikes. This man is not good enough for her, but her ex left her self esteem so beat up that she'll put up with treatment like this. That's not romantic, that's sad. Rhys needs a lot of therapy and time to reflect before he's good enough for anyone.
Overall, not something I'd recommend. I like her writing style though. And apparently the series does get better (12 was pretty good).
I mean honestly, that's a bit refreshing. But having read later books and knowing it will eventually get white washed over into small town propaganda, it was just confusing.
But overall, there were just a lot of things that left me cold here. Like the domestic violence scene that seemed to be played for laughs.
A few times in the book it's mentioned how no one locks their doors (because apparently there's no crime in small town america) but then we have a big side plot of a junkie who robs a store, knocks out someone and then takes a hostage (3 separate incidences). The character is a 2 dimensional one, an outsider, not a resident because of course the residents of the town would never do anything like this (other than domestic abuse and a troubled teen pulling a knife on someone - but this is all ok because . . . ?). Seriously, there's a lot of crime in this town where no one locks their doors.
My biggest problem with the book though was Rhys. I get he had a bad childhood and totally understand where he's coming from but man, Maddy could do so much better. So many red flags. He keeps pulling her in and then pushing her away. He's uncomfortably physical with her (he rubs his thumb over her lip when they are pretty much just acquaintances - in what world is that normal behavior?). He's weirdly obsessed with her soon to be ex. Yes it's obviously too soon to get into a relationship and she should take some time for herself rather than have this rebound, but she tells him multiple times that she's done with Dave and Rhys keeps doubting her and saying she isn't. He's actually pretty cruel about it a few times.
Then there's a scene where he throws his present to her into the garbage and she takes it out and then THANKS HIM for it - yikes. This man is not good enough for her, but her ex left her self esteem so beat up that she'll put up with treatment like this. That's not romantic, that's sad. Rhys needs a lot of therapy and time to reflect before he's good enough for anyone.
Overall, not something I'd recommend. I like her writing style though. And apparently the series does get better (12 was pretty good).
August 14, 2017
As with most books that are the first in a series there's a lot more than just a romance going on in Going Home, the first book in the Nugget series. We're introduced to the main characters, Maddy a soon to be divorcee starting her life over and Rhys who grew up in Nugget Ca. on the wrong side of the tracks and couldn't wait to leave when he finished high school 18 years prior. But Rhys's estranged father whom only gave him the minimum attention and support he needed growing up has Alzheimers so Rhys is forced to return to Nugget to take care of him. Of course Rhys and Maddy (who rents the other side of his father's duplex have immediate chemistry and their relationship is the main focal point of the book. But along with them we meet several other secondary characters some of whom will be featured in future books in the series and these characters also have their own stories going on. Like the lesbian couple who were friends of Maddy and her brother Nate in San Francisco who came to Nugget a year earlier to re-open a restaurant/bowling alley and start a family but can't agree on a sperm donor daddy. There's Collin the socially awkward and extremely introverted as well as extremely talented carpenter who is helping Maddy and Nate restore the Lumber Baron into a B&B. There's Cal McCreedy, Rhys's childhood best friend who is a recent widower and single dad to two young sons. And if Rhy's and Maddy's relationship isn't enough going on along with Rhys dealing with his father and Maddy her estranged husband and a bunch of townies who don't want her to open her B&B, Rhys discovers he has a much younger half-sister and half-brother whose mother was recently killed in a hit and run and are now dumped on his doorstep. Oh and Rhys who is on leave from the Houston P.D. accepts the temporary job as Chief of Police in Nugget where a crime spree that directly threatens Maddy breaks out.Whew! That's a lot going on!
If you like the small town vibe with lots of different characters and personalities (which I do) you'll probably enjoy this book. My only real issue with this book was Rhy's character who remained adamannat to the end of the story despite his dad's issues, Maddy's profession of love and his younger siblings that he was going to return to Houston to take a promotion in the P.D. there and then his whiplash without warning 180 degree turn around. Okay we all knew it would happen but it just seemed to come out of nowhere since the author never gave us any indication leading up to the big moment that he was having a change of heart despite his feeling for Maddy, responsibilities for his father and siblings or even the town's expressed respect and appreciation for him, making it all feel rushed at the end of the story. Still a good enough book to give it 4 stars and a hope that the rest of the series can live up to the opening act.
If you like the small town vibe with lots of different characters and personalities (which I do) you'll probably enjoy this book. My only real issue with this book was Rhy's character who remained adamannat to the end of the story despite his dad's issues, Maddy's profession of love and his younger siblings that he was going to return to Houston to take a promotion in the P.D. there and then his whiplash without warning 180 degree turn around. Okay we all knew it would happen but it just seemed to come out of nowhere since the author never gave us any indication leading up to the big moment that he was having a change of heart despite his feeling for Maddy, responsibilities for his father and siblings or even the town's expressed respect and appreciation for him, making it all feel rushed at the end of the story. Still a good enough book to give it 4 stars and a hope that the rest of the series can live up to the opening act.
March 15, 2021
Love. Drama. Mystery. Cannibalism. Why are more people not reading this series? I just finished reading book one and I'm already in love.
Maddy Breyer recently discovered her husband has been cheating on her. Her brother, Nate, decides that she needs a change and they buy a dilapidated Inn in Nugget, California. Since the Inn is in such bad shape, she moves into a duplex with a cute neighbor.
Rhys Shepard is a Houston narcotics detective who came back home for a funeral, only to discover that his father is sick. He decides to temporarily stay in Nugget, a place that has never felt like home, to figure out how he can help his dad. He takes a 6 month post as the town sheriff with the hopes of leaving for his promotion, but things happen.
You're not reading a story just about Maddy and Rhys, you're reading a story about Nugget and I loved it. There are quite a few side stories that happen through out the book, but I didn't feel that it took away from the story, but just enhanced it. I also loved that we got a little bit of insight into some of the side characters because it makes me more excited to read the next book and see what happens.
I also read this whole thing in one sitting, so you can tell I really enjoyed it. Now to the next one!
Maddy Breyer recently discovered her husband has been cheating on her. Her brother, Nate, decides that she needs a change and they buy a dilapidated Inn in Nugget, California. Since the Inn is in such bad shape, she moves into a duplex with a cute neighbor.
Rhys Shepard is a Houston narcotics detective who came back home for a funeral, only to discover that his father is sick. He decides to temporarily stay in Nugget, a place that has never felt like home, to figure out how he can help his dad. He takes a 6 month post as the town sheriff with the hopes of leaving for his promotion, but things happen.
You're not reading a story just about Maddy and Rhys, you're reading a story about Nugget and I loved it. There are quite a few side stories that happen through out the book, but I didn't feel that it took away from the story, but just enhanced it. I also loved that we got a little bit of insight into some of the side characters because it makes me more excited to read the next book and see what happens.
I also read this whole thing in one sitting, so you can tell I really enjoyed it. Now to the next one!
September 7, 2023
DNF at 22%. I understand Rhys had a terrible childhood but that does not give him an excuse for mistreating his father. His father has Alzheimer’s so if he didn’t want to deal with him why did he come home. He was not at all likeable.
As for Maddy - I was turned off when she had the phone call with her husband. They’ve been married for five years and he’s been cheating on her the whole time with his cousins wife. The husband and girlfriend broke up and he’s confessing his love to her on the phone. Are you kidding me? Why is Maddy even talking to this jerk?
It was time for me to call it quits and move on.
As for Maddy - I was turned off when she had the phone call with her husband. They’ve been married for five years and he’s been cheating on her the whole time with his cousins wife. The husband and girlfriend broke up and he’s confessing his love to her on the phone. Are you kidding me? Why is Maddy even talking to this jerk?
It was time for me to call it quits and move on.
December 10, 2025
I think I’m in love 😻
Rhys is just perfect in my opinion. Yes there was miscommunication in this story but it was done well. It wasn’t this big moment when someone just wouldn’t listen though Rhys could have figured it out a bit quicker but small moments that seemed very human / realistic.
I really loved Rhys and Maddy’s story and can’t wait to dive deeper into Nugget.
The end seemed a tad bit disjointed with him being admitted he was leaving then the next day grand gesturing. But it was my first read and maybe I missed something and it explained the suddenness a bit more than I processed. Just means I have to give this one a second read ♥️
Rhys is just perfect in my opinion. Yes there was miscommunication in this story but it was done well. It wasn’t this big moment when someone just wouldn’t listen though Rhys could have figured it out a bit quicker but small moments that seemed very human / realistic.
I really loved Rhys and Maddy’s story and can’t wait to dive deeper into Nugget.
The end seemed a tad bit disjointed with him being admitted he was leaving then the next day grand gesturing. But it was my first read and maybe I missed something and it explained the suddenness a bit more than I processed. Just means I have to give this one a second read ♥️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 27, 2022
Fun Romantic Read
I really enjoyed reading this story. Several things stood out to me. First, even though you know you’ll get a HEA in the end the story wasn’t quick to decipher how it would play out. There were several twists and turns. Second, the amount of steam in the book was very nice without being overly vulgar or gross. Next I liked the history being spoken about from the location of Nugget. Also I liked how the book was written, picking up others’ stories or feelings while not entirely navigating away from the main plot of the book.
I really enjoyed reading this story. Several things stood out to me. First, even though you know you’ll get a HEA in the end the story wasn’t quick to decipher how it would play out. There were several twists and turns. Second, the amount of steam in the book was very nice without being overly vulgar or gross. Next I liked the history being spoken about from the location of Nugget. Also I liked how the book was written, picking up others’ stories or feelings while not entirely navigating away from the main plot of the book.
November 12, 2018
I have read Stacy Finz's Garner Brothers series and was excited to read all about the town and citizens of Nugget.
Rhys and Maddy are both at difficult times in their lives, but they just might be perfect for each other. Things aren't always easy for them, and I especially felt for Maddy but was impressed with her spirit and heart.
Mixed in with their story are a few others that introduced a whole bunch of characters I am looking forward to reading more about.
Rhys and Maddy are both at difficult times in their lives, but they just might be perfect for each other. Things aren't always easy for them, and I especially felt for Maddy but was impressed with her spirit and heart.
Mixed in with their story are a few others that introduced a whole bunch of characters I am looking forward to reading more about.
October 25, 2022
Going Home is a small town contemporary romance and while at times it was obvious it was written quite a few years ago it was still enjoyable. I would have like it more if Rhys wasn't written as a cartoon version of someone from Texas (believe me not every man from Texas goes around calling women Sugar and very few especially from larger cities have a drawl) and if the romance aspect wasn't dragged out so long. However I liked it well enough to move on to the 2nd book so that's something.
November 17, 2023
This one started out strong but went downhill quickly. Maddy kept enabling her ex's manipulative behavior, which was just annoying. She could've pawned her wedding ring, the earrings he sent, etc. to give her a little more room to breathe financially. The whole situation with the hotel could've been an easy fix, too... Have a well drilled and a septic dug. Would it have cost about $20,000? Yes. Would it have still been cheaper than paying a lawyer for months? Also yes.
May 21, 2019
I read book 9 in this series and enjoyed the author's writing, so I am reading through the entire series from the start. This book was another high quality, small town romance. I enjoyed that the author seems to be doing a 2-for-1 approach of writing two POV couples at different points in their relationship.
January 10, 2021
Not a family man
This is a really, really good book! The opening scene got my curious mind running and then (who wouldn't?) I fell in love with Rhys. The many twists in the story kept my interest captured and the suspense and romance flowing. I think I'll fall in love with Clay, too, since his story is next.
This is a really, really good book! The opening scene got my curious mind running and then (who wouldn't?) I fell in love with Rhys. The many twists in the story kept my interest captured and the suspense and romance flowing. I think I'll fall in love with Clay, too, since his story is next.
January 30, 2021
This is the first time I read a book by Stacy Finz... and I really enjoyed this story about a small town in California. The characters were very likeable and the story lines interesting. HOWEVER, I don't appreciate novels that use the f-word... I did finish the book... it ended rather predictably. Not sure if I will read any more of this series.
October 12, 2025
So this is the fifth book by Stacy Finz that I have read and the first in this series (it is her debut novel). I am more than ready to jump into book two!
I love the way the author always paints a picture of the location and the characters, and provides the reader with a multi-layered novel. So easy to read and so darn enjoyable!
I love the way the author always paints a picture of the location and the characters, and provides the reader with a multi-layered novel. So easy to read and so darn enjoyable!
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