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Chestnut Creek #2
Home at Chestnut Creek / Bonus book by Carolyn Brown
Don't miss the next book in Laura Drake's Chestnut Creek series!
625 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 2, 2019
28 people are currently reading
203 people want to read
About the author
Laura Drake
40 books275 followersLaura Drake is a city girl who never grew out of her tomboy ways or a serious cowboy crush. She writes Women’s Fiction, Romance and Thrillers.
Her pro bull riding series, Sweet on a Cowboy is published by Grand Central. The Sweet Spot, Nothing Sweeter, and Sweet on You. The Sweet Spot won the 2014 RITA award for Best First Book.
Her Widow's Grove small town series is published by Harlequin's Superromance line. Her Road Home, Reasons to Stay, Twice in a Blue Moon, and Against the Odds.
The Chestnut Creek Series was published with Grand Central - The Last True Cowboy, December 2018. Home at Chestnut Creek, July 2019, and Cowboy for Keeps, December 2019.
Laura has since branched out into Women's Fiction with Days Made of Glass, The Road to Me, Amazing Gracie and For Roger.
In 2025, Laura released her first domestic suspense/thriller, The Devil She Didn't Know.
Laura finally realized a long time dream of moving to Texas, and is currently working on her accent. She gave up a Corporate CFO gig to write full time. She's wife, grandmother and motorcycle chick in the remaining waking hours.
Her pro bull riding series, Sweet on a Cowboy is published by Grand Central. The Sweet Spot, Nothing Sweeter, and Sweet on You. The Sweet Spot won the 2014 RITA award for Best First Book.
Her Widow's Grove small town series is published by Harlequin's Superromance line. Her Road Home, Reasons to Stay, Twice in a Blue Moon, and Against the Odds.
The Chestnut Creek Series was published with Grand Central - The Last True Cowboy, December 2018. Home at Chestnut Creek, July 2019, and Cowboy for Keeps, December 2019.
Laura has since branched out into Women's Fiction with Days Made of Glass, The Road to Me, Amazing Gracie and For Roger.
In 2025, Laura released her first domestic suspense/thriller, The Devil She Didn't Know.
Laura finally realized a long time dream of moving to Texas, and is currently working on her accent. She gave up a Corporate CFO gig to write full time. She's wife, grandmother and motorcycle chick in the remaining waking hours.
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July 17, 2019
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.
Nevada Sweet is on the run and with a lack of funds, she decides to hit up an old work colleague to see if she has a job for her. Unforgiven is a small town but the restaurant where Nevada buses tables has a cook that makes it hard for her to want to move on.
Joseph “Fishing Eagle” King is Dine through and through and would do anything for his Navajo community. He offers the diner's new employee a place to stay but never sees himself getting involved with a white woman.
Nevada is busy trying to hide from her present and Joseph refuses to let the past go, these two can try and hide from themselves but they can't hide from each other.
She is an odd combination; equal parts swagger and fear. Once you realize the swagger is a mask, it's easy to see the fear beneath.
Home at Chestnut Creek is book two in the Chestnut Creek series and while it is possible to read this as a standalone like I did, you miss some of the background relationships in the first that end up playing a part here. I was lost as to why Nevada would go to her old work colleague, who I guess is more of a friend that Nevada wants to let on. If you're on the run and don't want someone to find you, I'm not sure you'd go to someone you had a previous connection with, but again, not having read the first, I'm not sure how close these two characters actually were.
This story was written in first person point of view and present tense, this is a very hard combination for me to personally read, if you're not bothered by that structure, then your mileage would vary greatly. I also had a very hard time warming up to Nevada. She came across extremely immature and trying a bit too hard to be a rebel, she was more bratty teenager than closed, hardened heart woman to me (her age is early twenties). She mellows some in the second half and opens up a bit to Joseph but her being rude, snarky only came off as thus, and didn't translate to scared, vulnerable, just lashing out in fear of not wanting to get close to people.
“Forgiving others is much easier than forgiving yourself.”
Joseph was the more interesting character to me but it takes a while to get why he feels he shouldn't get involved with a white woman and must devote his life to his Navajo community. There was so much just tell and talk about him being dedicated to his community, but besides running with a group of Navajo girls, we never get any showing. Which was one of the biggest problems I had with this book, a lot of surface telling and no substance showing what the author was trying to relay about the characters.
The suspense story line of why Nevada was running, made sense when we finally are let in as to why but the villain she is running from gets only a handful of povs, does basically nothing but get lucky to find Nevada and then is dealt with very quickly. The ending was a rushed, forced happy everyone gets along now.
This might have benefited from a larger page count to allow the author to expand on the plots and emotions. Joseph's pain from thinking he betrayed his family, the running group that doesn't like Nevada but has a sudden moment of sharing their deepest darkest secrets with her to never really become a part of the story again, Nevada finally saying she is going to “stop running” and opens up to Joseph telling him the truth, only to on the same night, after they are inmate, run away for “his safety”.
The writing structure, lack of depth to characters' emotions and actions, and motivations not always making sense, had this a tough read for me. I would only recommend this to previous Drake readers who enjoyed her style or people who have read the first in the series and enjoyed.
Nevada Sweet is on the run and with a lack of funds, she decides to hit up an old work colleague to see if she has a job for her. Unforgiven is a small town but the restaurant where Nevada buses tables has a cook that makes it hard for her to want to move on.
Joseph “Fishing Eagle” King is Dine through and through and would do anything for his Navajo community. He offers the diner's new employee a place to stay but never sees himself getting involved with a white woman.
Nevada is busy trying to hide from her present and Joseph refuses to let the past go, these two can try and hide from themselves but they can't hide from each other.
She is an odd combination; equal parts swagger and fear. Once you realize the swagger is a mask, it's easy to see the fear beneath.
Home at Chestnut Creek is book two in the Chestnut Creek series and while it is possible to read this as a standalone like I did, you miss some of the background relationships in the first that end up playing a part here. I was lost as to why Nevada would go to her old work colleague, who I guess is more of a friend that Nevada wants to let on. If you're on the run and don't want someone to find you, I'm not sure you'd go to someone you had a previous connection with, but again, not having read the first, I'm not sure how close these two characters actually were.
This story was written in first person point of view and present tense, this is a very hard combination for me to personally read, if you're not bothered by that structure, then your mileage would vary greatly. I also had a very hard time warming up to Nevada. She came across extremely immature and trying a bit too hard to be a rebel, she was more bratty teenager than closed, hardened heart woman to me (her age is early twenties). She mellows some in the second half and opens up a bit to Joseph but her being rude, snarky only came off as thus, and didn't translate to scared, vulnerable, just lashing out in fear of not wanting to get close to people.
“Forgiving others is much easier than forgiving yourself.”
Joseph was the more interesting character to me but it takes a while to get why he feels he shouldn't get involved with a white woman and must devote his life to his Navajo community. There was so much just tell and talk about him being dedicated to his community, but besides running with a group of Navajo girls, we never get any showing. Which was one of the biggest problems I had with this book, a lot of surface telling and no substance showing what the author was trying to relay about the characters.
The suspense story line of why Nevada was running, made sense when we finally are let in as to why but the villain she is running from gets only a handful of povs, does basically nothing but get lucky to find Nevada and then is dealt with very quickly. The ending was a rushed, forced happy everyone gets along now.
This might have benefited from a larger page count to allow the author to expand on the plots and emotions. Joseph's pain from thinking he betrayed his family, the running group that doesn't like Nevada but has a sudden moment of sharing their deepest darkest secrets with her to never really become a part of the story again, Nevada finally saying she is going to “stop running” and opens up to Joseph telling him the truth, only to on the same night, after they are inmate, run away for “his safety”.
The writing structure, lack of depth to characters' emotions and actions, and motivations not always making sense, had this a tough read for me. I would only recommend this to previous Drake readers who enjoyed her style or people who have read the first in the series and enjoyed.
July 2, 2019
Thank you to Forever and NetGalley for an advanced copy. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Unforgivin, New Mexico. Sounds inviting doesn't it? It's the setting for Home at Chestnut Creek. I think it's a lonely sounding place, aptly named to coincide with the characters. Nevada is a woman on the run who ends up here. She meets resident Joseph. Obviously, something is going to happen between these two eventually. Maybe. Nevada is brash, gruff and closed off to possibilities. Or, is she? Joseph has made some mistakes, but he's living better now. He wants to get in touch more with his Navajo roots. The cultural aspects of this add a richness to the story and are perfectly placed. Both of these characters have personal struggles and are wary of love. As they get to know one another, a bond grows. Will they be courageous enough to imagine they could be more than friends? I enjoyed reading this story. It's lovely, funny, warm hearted and well written. Nevada and Joseph are flawed in realistic ways, and I found myself wanting the best for both of them. The atmosphere and sense of place is spot on. I was sad to read the last page, so I couldn't have asked for more!
Unforgivin, New Mexico. Sounds inviting doesn't it? It's the setting for Home at Chestnut Creek. I think it's a lonely sounding place, aptly named to coincide with the characters. Nevada is a woman on the run who ends up here. She meets resident Joseph. Obviously, something is going to happen between these two eventually. Maybe. Nevada is brash, gruff and closed off to possibilities. Or, is she? Joseph has made some mistakes, but he's living better now. He wants to get in touch more with his Navajo roots. The cultural aspects of this add a richness to the story and are perfectly placed. Both of these characters have personal struggles and are wary of love. As they get to know one another, a bond grows. Will they be courageous enough to imagine they could be more than friends? I enjoyed reading this story. It's lovely, funny, warm hearted and well written. Nevada and Joseph are flawed in realistic ways, and I found myself wanting the best for both of them. The atmosphere and sense of place is spot on. I was sad to read the last page, so I couldn't have asked for more!
June 25, 2019
When I want a good ole cowboy read I look no further than Laura Drake. Her guys are as dynamic as they are complex. Always rugged and ready to ride. ((wink))
Nevada Sweet is a rolling stone. Never staying put and constantly on the move. That's until she walks into the Chestnut Creek Cafe and meets the quiet storm that is Joseph "Fishing Eagle" King.
It's a beautifully compelling read with real heart
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Nevada Sweet is a rolling stone. Never staying put and constantly on the move. That's until she walks into the Chestnut Creek Cafe and meets the quiet storm that is Joseph "Fishing Eagle" King.
It's a beautifully compelling read with real heart
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Twitter✿Facebook✿Pinterest✿BookBabblers✿Instagram
June 16, 2019
I had my eye on this series when the first book, The Last True Cowboy, released, but didn't have time to fit it in. I wanted to try a new to me author and her cowboy romance series, but ended up going with this one.
Home at Chestnut Creek picks up the story of prickly, secondary character, Nevada Sweet, from the first book as the heroine and a hero, Joseph Fishing Eagle King, who had his own struggles, but is capable of handling all the defensive, scared, socially awkward mouthy stubbornness that Nevada dishes up in large quantities. Their romance is not easy and it was a good slow burn friends to lovers, but so worth it seeing them grow as individuals and then together as they heal.
As I mentioned, I started with book two. I managed to get up to speed and could read it as a standalone, but at the same time, I recognized that there was some water under the bridge for Carly and Nevada's friendship from the first book and of course, Carly and Austin were the couple from book one.
Nevada is running and hiding for her life after messing with some bad people that are part of her complicated, troubled past. She doesn't want to bring trouble to Carly's doorstep and she very much would rather depend on nothing from nobody, but her temporary stopover in Unforgiven, New Mexico and working in Carly's diner becomes much more than a temporary haven not the least of which is because of Joseph Fishing Eagle King, the diner cook and a Navajo with his own past demons to exorcise.
Fish is cooking at the diner, teaching the Dine children to appreciate their heritage by making sure they learn the language and the ways of their people even while he also has had a long path of learning, knowing he dishonored his heritage for a time. But, he made his grandmother a promise and he will keep it even as the stranger wheedles her way into his life. He saw right through her crusty armor from day one and gets it. A friendship forms and then more which means that he must make a choice as does Nevada since both were determined on other paths.
Home at Chestnut Creek introduces a heroine that is one of those tough nuts to crack and stays that way for a while. She's gotten herself into a bad tangle and comes to a place for help, but she'd rather do anything than act like she needs help or other people. She's like an abused dog who snaps and snarls and looks with suspicion on any attempt at help or kindness. Some folks get really bad breaks in life and have seen and experienced more than their fair share so they develop defense and coping mechanisms. Nevada took some time to unfurl the true person she could be when not backed to a wall and surviving rather than living. It took a while, but her true nature had me smiling and excited for her. There were hints along the way which made me able to keep reading and cheering for her when at first I was struck often by the urge to shake her. It was good to get an alternating point of view between her and Joseph.
Joseph wasn't obviously prickly and snarly like Nevada and he's ahead of her in finding his way so he could both recognize her issues and why she was acting the way she was, patiently handle her carefully, and make a connection with her. He left the reservation and family and heritage for a time and now he is trying to get all that back with better appreciation though it takes a bit for him to understand that he's doing it for the wrong reasons- guilt and self-punishment- at first.
I enjoyed the careful description of the Navajo culture and seeing what they struggle with in modern times. The author took the time to write some good scenes with Joseph and the tribe, his family, and the setting descriptions rang true since I had been through that area a while back and could easily see what the author was describing from the small town to his hogan house and to the reservation in my mind's eye.
The careful friends to lovers romance was there running through the whole story, but naturally their wounded lives made it a slow go, but then there was the trouble coming after Nevada, too. That added a good suspense element because the drug cartel played for keeps and she'd stolen their money and stirred up trouble. Nevada and Joseph are so great together. Sometimes the chemistry is there, but now and then I get a story, like this one, where the author fills it all in and shows the rest of the romance from friendship, to understanding, to working on life's struggles together is all there as well. Joseph wore down her stubbornness because he knew she was worth it and she was game to take on a man from a different way of life and his dreams.
So, all in all, this was a fab hard-fought contemporary western romance that I can definitely recommend even while I can guarantee that I'll be back for more Chestnut Creek series.
My thanks to Forever for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
COYER Summer Scavenger Hunt Clue POC character 1 pt.
Home at Chestnut Creek picks up the story of prickly, secondary character, Nevada Sweet, from the first book as the heroine and a hero, Joseph Fishing Eagle King, who had his own struggles, but is capable of handling all the defensive, scared, socially awkward mouthy stubbornness that Nevada dishes up in large quantities. Their romance is not easy and it was a good slow burn friends to lovers, but so worth it seeing them grow as individuals and then together as they heal.
As I mentioned, I started with book two. I managed to get up to speed and could read it as a standalone, but at the same time, I recognized that there was some water under the bridge for Carly and Nevada's friendship from the first book and of course, Carly and Austin were the couple from book one.
Nevada is running and hiding for her life after messing with some bad people that are part of her complicated, troubled past. She doesn't want to bring trouble to Carly's doorstep and she very much would rather depend on nothing from nobody, but her temporary stopover in Unforgiven, New Mexico and working in Carly's diner becomes much more than a temporary haven not the least of which is because of Joseph Fishing Eagle King, the diner cook and a Navajo with his own past demons to exorcise.
Fish is cooking at the diner, teaching the Dine children to appreciate their heritage by making sure they learn the language and the ways of their people even while he also has had a long path of learning, knowing he dishonored his heritage for a time. But, he made his grandmother a promise and he will keep it even as the stranger wheedles her way into his life. He saw right through her crusty armor from day one and gets it. A friendship forms and then more which means that he must make a choice as does Nevada since both were determined on other paths.
Home at Chestnut Creek introduces a heroine that is one of those tough nuts to crack and stays that way for a while. She's gotten herself into a bad tangle and comes to a place for help, but she'd rather do anything than act like she needs help or other people. She's like an abused dog who snaps and snarls and looks with suspicion on any attempt at help or kindness. Some folks get really bad breaks in life and have seen and experienced more than their fair share so they develop defense and coping mechanisms. Nevada took some time to unfurl the true person she could be when not backed to a wall and surviving rather than living. It took a while, but her true nature had me smiling and excited for her. There were hints along the way which made me able to keep reading and cheering for her when at first I was struck often by the urge to shake her. It was good to get an alternating point of view between her and Joseph.
Joseph wasn't obviously prickly and snarly like Nevada and he's ahead of her in finding his way so he could both recognize her issues and why she was acting the way she was, patiently handle her carefully, and make a connection with her. He left the reservation and family and heritage for a time and now he is trying to get all that back with better appreciation though it takes a bit for him to understand that he's doing it for the wrong reasons- guilt and self-punishment- at first.
I enjoyed the careful description of the Navajo culture and seeing what they struggle with in modern times. The author took the time to write some good scenes with Joseph and the tribe, his family, and the setting descriptions rang true since I had been through that area a while back and could easily see what the author was describing from the small town to his hogan house and to the reservation in my mind's eye.
The careful friends to lovers romance was there running through the whole story, but naturally their wounded lives made it a slow go, but then there was the trouble coming after Nevada, too. That added a good suspense element because the drug cartel played for keeps and she'd stolen their money and stirred up trouble. Nevada and Joseph are so great together. Sometimes the chemistry is there, but now and then I get a story, like this one, where the author fills it all in and shows the rest of the romance from friendship, to understanding, to working on life's struggles together is all there as well. Joseph wore down her stubbornness because he knew she was worth it and she was game to take on a man from a different way of life and his dreams.
So, all in all, this was a fab hard-fought contemporary western romance that I can definitely recommend even while I can guarantee that I'll be back for more Chestnut Creek series.
My thanks to Forever for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
COYER Summer Scavenger Hunt Clue POC character 1 pt.
February 13, 2020
This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance
July 2, 2019
Nevada Sweet isn’t sweet. She’s mouthy, wears a chip on her shoulder, and is guaranteed to land herself in hot water when she loses her temper. She’s got a background ripe for trouble so she soldiers on alone, afraid to let anyone close. Darned if I didn’t love her, because I just knew there had to be more to her then meets the eye! Joseph ‘Fishing Eagle’ King is a quiet guy, fights for the underdog, is protective, matter of fact, and has the patience of Job. And I promise you, Nevada couldn’t be luckier, because the person to break through her hard shell needed all the patience they can find!
There’s so much I enjoyed about this book! The Navajo language and stories topped my list, striking a cord with coming to terms culturally about personal identity as well as how others perceive oneself. And seeing Nevada blossom under Joseph’s patient care and subtle nudging was a thing of beauty. Nevada was locked up so tightly, I spent a while wondering if she’d ever open up and come to the point where she could stretch her wings and fly in freedom. Happily, my patience paid off in more ways then one!
Home at Chestnut Creek was one of those reads that strikes a cord and resonates long after finishing. I found myself relating to Joseph’s cultural struggles and empathized with his dilemma. I cheered for every tiny milestone Nevada accomplished and kept my fingers crossed she’d have something good happen to her. The side characters were a riot, exuding small town charm, gossiping bodies, and full support for one of their own, and I couldn’t help but fall under Unforgiven’s spell. I can’t wait to see what’s in store next!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book from Forever Publishing. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
There’s so much I enjoyed about this book! The Navajo language and stories topped my list, striking a cord with coming to terms culturally about personal identity as well as how others perceive oneself. And seeing Nevada blossom under Joseph’s patient care and subtle nudging was a thing of beauty. Nevada was locked up so tightly, I spent a while wondering if she’d ever open up and come to the point where she could stretch her wings and fly in freedom. Happily, my patience paid off in more ways then one!
Home at Chestnut Creek was one of those reads that strikes a cord and resonates long after finishing. I found myself relating to Joseph’s cultural struggles and empathized with his dilemma. I cheered for every tiny milestone Nevada accomplished and kept my fingers crossed she’d have something good happen to her. The side characters were a riot, exuding small town charm, gossiping bodies, and full support for one of their own, and I couldn’t help but fall under Unforgiven’s spell. I can’t wait to see what’s in store next!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book from Forever Publishing. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 6, 2019
Laura Drake has an uncanny ability to combine complicated characters, a compelling story, a hot romance, and a western setting, into wonderful novels! Nevada Street is on the run and winds up in the dusty down of Unforgiven, New Mexico. Joseph “Fishing Eagle” King is her coworker, who is wrestling with his own past. Sparks fly between these two, but the walls they’ve erected around their hearts seem insurmountable. This book has love, humor, and a bit of danger, but it’s the vulnerability of Nevada and Joseph that set my heart to soaring! Along with this book, there’s a bonus: the novel Wild Cowboy Ways by Carolyn Brown!
August 2, 2019
Home at Chestnut Creek
Chestnut Creek series
Laura Drake
Forever, Jul 2019
Approx 300 pages
Cowboy romance
Purchased for Kindle
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The cover is well done with the deep blue sky of the southwestern desert spread out over scrubby range and mountains. Then on the left, leaning against the split rail fence is a cowboy. But not just any cowboy. If you look closely, you will notice that this one has darker skin and long, straight black hair. Indications of his being a Native American? Yes, none other than our hero of the story Joseph ‘Fishing Eagle’ King.
The story is about two young people who find “home”. One is running from a past of drugs, loss, and dealers and is looking for a safe place, trust, and love. The other one is looking for a way to honor his ancestors, be himself, and find love. They find each other, but can’t quite believe that it’s that easy and that the world would let them get that lucky, so they fight what they feel and each other until they have to give in or give up.
They have their joint struggle of getting to know each other and fighting their growing feelings as well as their individual struggles. Joseph struggles to be true to his heritage and to live up to the promise he made to his grandmother about remaining true to the Navajo culture. All the young women on the rez have their eyes on him as a prize. All the older generation look to him to carry on the traditions. He carries a great weight on his shoulders with the expectations of his people. Nevada, our heroine, has run from the nightmare of her mother’s addiction and drug dealers with the money. They want it back. They can’t admit that a young woman got the better of them. So far she’s managed to stay one step ahead of them. She’s hoping that hiding here in the back of beyond they won’t find her and she can stop running.
The author does a wonderful job of bringing all the emotions together into one final roiling decision, now or never type thing. Drug dealers, love, trust, Navajo, each other. And Nevada, who’s been writing letters to her mother through this whole thing, writes one final letter, bittersweet.
I highly recommend this book to romance lovers, and especially to cowboy romance lovers. It’s part of a series but could be read as a standalone.
Chestnut Creek series
Laura Drake
Forever, Jul 2019
Approx 300 pages
Cowboy romance
Purchased for Kindle
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The cover is well done with the deep blue sky of the southwestern desert spread out over scrubby range and mountains. Then on the left, leaning against the split rail fence is a cowboy. But not just any cowboy. If you look closely, you will notice that this one has darker skin and long, straight black hair. Indications of his being a Native American? Yes, none other than our hero of the story Joseph ‘Fishing Eagle’ King.
The story is about two young people who find “home”. One is running from a past of drugs, loss, and dealers and is looking for a safe place, trust, and love. The other one is looking for a way to honor his ancestors, be himself, and find love. They find each other, but can’t quite believe that it’s that easy and that the world would let them get that lucky, so they fight what they feel and each other until they have to give in or give up.
They have their joint struggle of getting to know each other and fighting their growing feelings as well as their individual struggles. Joseph struggles to be true to his heritage and to live up to the promise he made to his grandmother about remaining true to the Navajo culture. All the young women on the rez have their eyes on him as a prize. All the older generation look to him to carry on the traditions. He carries a great weight on his shoulders with the expectations of his people. Nevada, our heroine, has run from the nightmare of her mother’s addiction and drug dealers with the money. They want it back. They can’t admit that a young woman got the better of them. So far she’s managed to stay one step ahead of them. She’s hoping that hiding here in the back of beyond they won’t find her and she can stop running.
The author does a wonderful job of bringing all the emotions together into one final roiling decision, now or never type thing. Drug dealers, love, trust, Navajo, each other. And Nevada, who’s been writing letters to her mother through this whole thing, writes one final letter, bittersweet.
I highly recommend this book to romance lovers, and especially to cowboy romance lovers. It’s part of a series but could be read as a standalone.
June 29, 2019
[I received a digital arc from netgalley for an honest review]
Home at Chestnut Creek is the second stand alone in Laura Drake's Chestnut Creek series. I read the first book and it was good, I enjoyed this one much more. We met Nevada Sweet in the first book and I couldn't wait to learn more about who she was behind all her attitude.
"Most of the time, Nevada is like a prickly pear, but this afternoon, it was like the cactus's flower opened, rare, vibrant ... beautiful. I felt pulled like a bee to the sweetness."
Nevada Sweet is on the run from some very bad people. She decides to lie low for a while in Chestnut Creek before she heads back into the wind. However, she didn't plan on a making friends and finding safety and peace in a good-looking Navajo cook. Joseph King is running from his own bad choices from his past and the last thing he wants to do is fall for someone to separate him from his Navajo community even more than he already is. As time passes and their feelings can't be ignored any longer, he has to convince her that he's in this for the long haul even when her past catches up to her.
"I want you, Nevada Sweet. Not just your body. I want your mind. Your spirit. You heal parts of me that I'd hidden away."
Joseph and Nevada are both great, strong complex characters. She tries to be so strong and brave all the time but Joseph allows her to breathe and finally relax for once. He brings out her sensitive side and when they come together their passion is as loving and sensual as I anticipated it to be. I also really enjoyed all the Navajo history and culture we learn right alone with Nevada. It made this western romance stand out from the typical cowboy romance.
I have hope the Chestnut Creek series will continue to get better and better with each book in the series. I'm really looking forward to seeing who will find their happy next.
Home at Chestnut Creek is the second stand alone in Laura Drake's Chestnut Creek series. I read the first book and it was good, I enjoyed this one much more. We met Nevada Sweet in the first book and I couldn't wait to learn more about who she was behind all her attitude.
"Most of the time, Nevada is like a prickly pear, but this afternoon, it was like the cactus's flower opened, rare, vibrant ... beautiful. I felt pulled like a bee to the sweetness."
Nevada Sweet is on the run from some very bad people. She decides to lie low for a while in Chestnut Creek before she heads back into the wind. However, she didn't plan on a making friends and finding safety and peace in a good-looking Navajo cook. Joseph King is running from his own bad choices from his past and the last thing he wants to do is fall for someone to separate him from his Navajo community even more than he already is. As time passes and their feelings can't be ignored any longer, he has to convince her that he's in this for the long haul even when her past catches up to her.
"I want you, Nevada Sweet. Not just your body. I want your mind. Your spirit. You heal parts of me that I'd hidden away."
Joseph and Nevada are both great, strong complex characters. She tries to be so strong and brave all the time but Joseph allows her to breathe and finally relax for once. He brings out her sensitive side and when they come together their passion is as loving and sensual as I anticipated it to be. I also really enjoyed all the Navajo history and culture we learn right alone with Nevada. It made this western romance stand out from the typical cowboy romance.
I have hope the Chestnut Creek series will continue to get better and better with each book in the series. I'm really looking forward to seeing who will find their happy next.
July 10, 2019
Home At Chestnut Creek is the second book in the Chestnut Creek series by Laura Drake. Since I am not reviewing for Amazon I am going to say it I LOVED, LOVED, LOVED it! I got it last Tiesday on release day and I made it last as long as I could. Lol! This is Nevada Sweet and Joseph "Fishing Eagle" King story. Nevada is definitely not sweet! She has had a extremely hard life and her heart is buried under layer after layer of hard, protective layer. Her motto is don't let anyone in, don't let them get close so you don't get hurt. She never had anyone to depend on except herself. She running from some very dangerous people and all she wants to do is stay alive. Joseph is just as complexed as Nevanda. He has said he will never marry a white woman. It was interesting learning about the Navajo culture. The research Ms. Drake did for this book really shone through. When Joseph offer to rent Nevada his Grandmother trailer, the two start to get to know each other and see past the shields they both have put up. As Joseph chips away at Nevada hard shell, he starts to have very real feeling for her and it going to take him confronting his past and his Grandmother past for him to move on. But, when the danger that Nevada been running from shows up in Unforgiven it going to take both of them to end it so they can have the happy ever after they so richly deserve. I so enjoyed getting to revisit Carly, Austin, baby Faith and Lorelie again. My favorite book of Ms. Drake has always been Days Made Of Glass. Her Woman Fiction book. If you haven't read it you MUST! Home at Chestnut Creek is neck and neck with it. It is that good. So do yourself a favor and pick up both books in this series you will be so glad you did.
August 20, 2019
Nevada Sweet was a character in the first book of this series. Tough and on the run. She shows up at Carly's diner looking for a job. she wants to be a cook but Fish has that job. We know why Nevada is on the run and we root for her. she came from a rough life and needs to make a new life and let go of some of her anger and resentment. She starts showing a softer side of herself.
Fish is struggling with his heritage. He wants to meet a woman from the same heritage and settle down but something from his past keeps him at arms length with his people. But when he meets Nevada he gets close to her and fights his feelings for her because she is not from his heritage. But he starts teaching her.
I loved these 2 together and learning things from their past and Nevada finding herself in this town.
I received this from Forever for a review.
Fish is struggling with his heritage. He wants to meet a woman from the same heritage and settle down but something from his past keeps him at arms length with his people. But when he meets Nevada he gets close to her and fights his feelings for her because she is not from his heritage. But he starts teaching her.
I loved these 2 together and learning things from their past and Nevada finding herself in this town.
I received this from Forever for a review.
September 17, 2019
Another stunning page-turner from Laura Drake, one of my favorite authors. I 'read' the second book in the Chestnut Creek series as an audiobook, and the narrators were wonderful. I got sucked into the developing romance between Nevada and Joseph 'Fishing Eagle' from the beginning, and couldn't stop listening. There are many emotional layers packed into both their stories, and they are memorable characters. Learning about the Navajo community in New Mexico was a bonus and one of the reasons I love Laura Drake's novels: she always pulls me effortlessly into an unfamiliar world I then want to explore and understand. The element of suspense--that rammed up my pulse a few times--was another bonus. Laura does a great bad guy! I can't wait for the next book in the series.
July 2, 2019
If you love cowboy romances as much as I do this is a series and book you don't want to miss. This author crafts the most amazing characters and stories that keep you glued to the pages. In this one we meet Nevada Sweet, a rolling stone and new to Unforgiven and Chestnut Creek Cafe as well as Joseph "fishing eagle" King, a long time resident and head cook at the cafe. There is an immediate attraction between these two but Joseph's Navajo heritage is deeply ingrained in him and he's always planned on settling down with a Navajo woman. We he fight the attraction or will he end up giving in to his desires?
Highly recommended read.
Highly recommended read.
July 19, 2019
This book was thoroughly enjoyable.
This is book 2 in a series, and I didn't enjoy the plot of book 1. Did enjoy the writing, so decided to go ahead with book 2. I am sure glad that I did!
Fish and Nevada are some really amazing characters. They had the perfect dynamic. They slowly warmed up to each other, and got to know one another before things were shared. The smexy times were really enjoyable to read as well. Fish is my kind of guy, that's all I will say.
I will be continuing on in this series, because Laura Drake has a way with romance novels.
This is book 2 in a series, and I didn't enjoy the plot of book 1. Did enjoy the writing, so decided to go ahead with book 2. I am sure glad that I did!
Fish and Nevada are some really amazing characters. They had the perfect dynamic. They slowly warmed up to each other, and got to know one another before things were shared. The smexy times were really enjoyable to read as well. Fish is my kind of guy, that's all I will say.
I will be continuing on in this series, because Laura Drake has a way with romance novels.
July 7, 2019
This was a lovely surprise. I have never read anything by Laura Drake but I certainly will now. The book had an amazing romance, the main characters had great personality and fantastic chemistry, the side characters were superb. It was a short little book that packed a punch.
Nevada is very closed off, a little rude, and prefers to be alone. Or at least that is what she wants everyone to thinks. After a while in Unforgiven she knows she has to leave but without wanting she has come to care for its people, one in particular.
Joseph has made mistakes in his past and is trying to atone for his sins. His feelings for Nevada make things complicated.
I loved how their flaws were not diminished or overly explained, that is just who they were. She liked him for who he was and the same the other way around.
The descriptions of the Navajo culture made for an interesting read. If they are accurate or not, I wouldn't be able to tell. What I can say is that it added a nice touch to the story.
Nevada is very closed off, a little rude, and prefers to be alone. Or at least that is what she wants everyone to thinks. After a while in Unforgiven she knows she has to leave but without wanting she has come to care for its people, one in particular.
Joseph has made mistakes in his past and is trying to atone for his sins. His feelings for Nevada make things complicated.
I loved how their flaws were not diminished or overly explained, that is just who they were. She liked him for who he was and the same the other way around.
The descriptions of the Navajo culture made for an interesting read. If they are accurate or not, I wouldn't be able to tell. What I can say is that it added a nice touch to the story.
May 5, 2020
Home at Chestnut Creek is a book I won in a Facebook giveaway, and I am under no obligation to give a review. I haven't read any books by this author before, and I found it to be very well written. Nevada doesnt trust anyone and she is in big trouble, what follows is a action filled storyline. I really enjoyed the book, and would recommend it to others.
February 13, 2020
I received a free copy of Home at Chestnut Creek in exchange for an honest review.
I found this book to be a great read with lots of character and a few good laughs while tackling some tough issues I especially fell in love with Grandma.
I would recommend this book if you are looking for something light and entertaining.
I found this book to be a great read with lots of character and a few good laughs while tackling some tough issues I especially fell in love with Grandma.
I would recommend this book if you are looking for something light and entertaining.
June 8, 2020
This is the first book I've read by this author and I loved it. Going to have to see if there is another book in the series.
July 8, 2019
Thanks to a rep from Forever Romance for sending me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I think I liked this one slightly better than the first installment. I usually love when one half of the couple is prickly and the other half is determined to swoon them. I do think this book could have been a little longer and both the climax and resolution of the narrative were rushed and sort of dulled the plot. It’s great that the author incorporated some Native American culture into her story.
I think I liked this one slightly better than the first installment. I usually love when one half of the couple is prickly and the other half is determined to swoon them. I do think this book could have been a little longer and both the climax and resolution of the narrative were rushed and sort of dulled the plot. It’s great that the author incorporated some Native American culture into her story.
June 4, 2019
Per usual, I’m speechless after reading a Laura Drake novel. Nevada Sweet and Joseph “Fishing Eagle” King will forever have a place in my heart! The ever so snarky, Nevada Sweet was first introduced in ‘The Last True Cowboy’, the first novel in the Chestnut Creek series. I loved her from the moment she was brought to life and couldn’t wait to read her story in ‘Home at Chestnut Creek’!
Nevada’s snarky banter and hilariously offensive t-shirts do exactly what she intends for them to do – make people keep their distance. She never gets close to anyone and bristles when they try. Running from her past, which is hot on her heels and coming after her with a vengeance, she needs a job and a place to lay low for a bit. Nevada seeks out Carly Davis, the closest thing she’s ever had as a “friend”, in the God-awful middle of nowhere town of Unforgiven, New Mexico. Holy crap, is this place for real??? Carly owns the Chestnut Creek Café and with Nevada being a kick as...er, butt, chef, she's hoping Carly will give her a job cooking at the Café. Once she makes just a little bit of cash she’ll be on her way again - she can’t fathom bringing trouble to her friend and her young family. This is her battle to fight, and hers alone.
Joseph or “Fish” to his friends, is everything a traditional Navajo Indian should be - at least he is now. Through past circumstances he learned to embrace his heritage, his People, and vows to teach the young Dine’ how to carry on the traditions of their culture. He no longer lives on the reservation and is the only cook at the local diner, the Chestnut Creek Café. He is sharp, intuitive, patient, and most importantly, he can see right through the ornery new girl’s motives. She’s a hard worker - bussing tables, cleaning dishes, and stepping in to serve tables when needed, but he sees the shine in her eyes when she’s in his kitchen. There’s more to this wild bird than meets the eye and his curiosity is peeked, but damn, those prickly walls of hers are a beast to penetrate through.
After meeting Joseph, she simply won’t call him “Fish” because that sounds ridiculous, Nevada can’t help but be taken by the strong, striking, and hot Navajo. Man, oh, man is he a HOT one! But there is so much more to this man - he’s compassionate towards everyone, thoughtful, and someone she can dreamily imagine a future with. Too bad that’s all it is – a dream.
Laura Drake seamlessly tells this story of a young broken woman seeking safety and shelter in the one place she never thought possible – the arms and heart of a man and in a town she grew to love. Joseph is the perfect balance for our wild Nevada and the journey they take to get there is a ride you simply cannot miss! ENJOY!
Nevada’s snarky banter and hilariously offensive t-shirts do exactly what she intends for them to do – make people keep their distance. She never gets close to anyone and bristles when they try. Running from her past, which is hot on her heels and coming after her with a vengeance, she needs a job and a place to lay low for a bit. Nevada seeks out Carly Davis, the closest thing she’s ever had as a “friend”, in the God-awful middle of nowhere town of Unforgiven, New Mexico. Holy crap, is this place for real??? Carly owns the Chestnut Creek Café and with Nevada being a kick as...er, butt, chef, she's hoping Carly will give her a job cooking at the Café. Once she makes just a little bit of cash she’ll be on her way again - she can’t fathom bringing trouble to her friend and her young family. This is her battle to fight, and hers alone.
Joseph or “Fish” to his friends, is everything a traditional Navajo Indian should be - at least he is now. Through past circumstances he learned to embrace his heritage, his People, and vows to teach the young Dine’ how to carry on the traditions of their culture. He no longer lives on the reservation and is the only cook at the local diner, the Chestnut Creek Café. He is sharp, intuitive, patient, and most importantly, he can see right through the ornery new girl’s motives. She’s a hard worker - bussing tables, cleaning dishes, and stepping in to serve tables when needed, but he sees the shine in her eyes when she’s in his kitchen. There’s more to this wild bird than meets the eye and his curiosity is peeked, but damn, those prickly walls of hers are a beast to penetrate through.
After meeting Joseph, she simply won’t call him “Fish” because that sounds ridiculous, Nevada can’t help but be taken by the strong, striking, and hot Navajo. Man, oh, man is he a HOT one! But there is so much more to this man - he’s compassionate towards everyone, thoughtful, and someone she can dreamily imagine a future with. Too bad that’s all it is – a dream.
Laura Drake seamlessly tells this story of a young broken woman seeking safety and shelter in the one place she never thought possible – the arms and heart of a man and in a town she grew to love. Joseph is the perfect balance for our wild Nevada and the journey they take to get there is a ride you simply cannot miss! ENJOY!
November 4, 2019
Nevada Sweet is on the run. She temporarily takes a job at the Chestnut Creek Café and hopes to put a bit of money aside. She will stay in the warm, friendly town only as long as she feels safe. However, she didn't plan on meeting and falling for Joseph "Fishing Eagle" King. There is no way she can afford to be distracted.
Joseph has his own battles. He cannot be attracted to a non-Native American. His family would never accept that, so he tries as hard as he can to avoid his growing feelings for Nevada. They work together, and she lives on his property, but he hopes to keep things business first. There is a bit of mystery along with the conflict in this romance. Nevada has good reasons for running, and when the danger gets close, she feels she has no choice but to run yet again.
This was a very enjoyable story. I loved each of their struggles. Joseph really touched me because his heritage and the respect of his family was paramount. He was also pivotal to Nevada finding home, which is why I personally think the title, Home at Chestnut Creek, is so fitting.
I am not sure if there are more books in this series, but if there are, I certainly look forward to reading more.
Many thanks to Forever for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
Joseph has his own battles. He cannot be attracted to a non-Native American. His family would never accept that, so he tries as hard as he can to avoid his growing feelings for Nevada. They work together, and she lives on his property, but he hopes to keep things business first. There is a bit of mystery along with the conflict in this romance. Nevada has good reasons for running, and when the danger gets close, she feels she has no choice but to run yet again.
This was a very enjoyable story. I loved each of their struggles. Joseph really touched me because his heritage and the respect of his family was paramount. He was also pivotal to Nevada finding home, which is why I personally think the title, Home at Chestnut Creek, is so fitting.
I am not sure if there are more books in this series, but if there are, I certainly look forward to reading more.
Many thanks to Forever for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
July 7, 2019
ARC for honest review with no compensation received from NetGalley 4.5 stars
Home at Chestnut Creek is book 2 of the Chestnut Creek series by Laura Drake while this is a standalone we meet up with friends from the first book.
Nevada Sweets on the run and comes to Unforgiven, New Mexico to look up her friend Carly, looking for a cook’s job in one of the towns restaurants for a bit before moving on to stay ahead of the drug cartel that is after her...
Joseph “Fishing Eagle” King, a resident of Unforgiven, cook at the restaurant where Nevada gets a job as a dishwasher/bus person offers Nevada his grandmother’s trailer to hang her hat till she moves on as she has no place to live...
Both have past struggles, sparks fly, tensions abound but when trouble comes calling...Fish will do whatever it takes to convince Nevada it’s time to put down roots in Unforgiven, face her past and find a HEA with him...
This book also had a a bonus book by Carolyn Brown...great read!!
Home at Chestnut Creek is book 2 of the Chestnut Creek series by Laura Drake while this is a standalone we meet up with friends from the first book.
Nevada Sweets on the run and comes to Unforgiven, New Mexico to look up her friend Carly, looking for a cook’s job in one of the towns restaurants for a bit before moving on to stay ahead of the drug cartel that is after her...
Joseph “Fishing Eagle” King, a resident of Unforgiven, cook at the restaurant where Nevada gets a job as a dishwasher/bus person offers Nevada his grandmother’s trailer to hang her hat till she moves on as she has no place to live...
Both have past struggles, sparks fly, tensions abound but when trouble comes calling...Fish will do whatever it takes to convince Nevada it’s time to put down roots in Unforgiven, face her past and find a HEA with him...
This book also had a a bonus book by Carolyn Brown...great read!!
July 6, 2019
Laura Drake became a must-read author for me with her very first book. Ms. Drake has such a talent with completely breaking my heart and then putting it back together by the end of the book. This lady has a supreme talent with stories that have me laughing, crying and feeling all the emotions right along with the characters. Home at Chestnut Creek is a fabulous example of Laura Drake's incredible talent.
Nevada Sweet is a rough and tough lady that is used to taking care of herself and not looking for help from anyone. She just doesn't know how exactly to allow friends to get close and she is always ready to run. Of course, there is a big reason and a lot going on in her life that has made her this way. Nevada could easily rub anyone the wrong way but she has a heart under that rough exterior that a few people have had a chance to see. I don't want to tell you too much about Nevada's past. Let's just say it wasn't a good life and she has a good reason to be a tad bit jumpy.
Joseph "Fishing Eagle" King is one of those good guys that is just too great to be true but is. He's a true friend, a great employee, and has been through a lot in his life. He is dealing with issues in his past that he is not proud of. He is determined to marry someone from his Navajo community to full fill a promise to his grandmother.
Nevada and Fish don't start off on exactly the best of terms. Fish learns quickly that Nevada wants to stand on her own two feet and doesn't want to accept help from anyone and she sure doesn't want any charity or lasting friendships. However the more time they spend together the more they start to grow close. Neither of them is looking for a relationship and they both try to fight their attraction. I truly enjoyed watching these two get to know each other and form a deeper connection then either planned on. They might have a happily ever after if they can work through some issues together and get past the danger in Nevada's past.
This is the second book in the Chestnut Creek Series. Home at Chestnut Creek stands on its own just fine so no worries if you have not had a chance to read The Last True Cowboy. I have had the pleasure of reading The Last True Cowboy and I was so excited to see how things were going for Carly and Austin. It was nice to catch up and to see these two and the baby.
Carly really is a true friend to Nevada and Nevada finds herself valuing the friendships she is making in Unforgiven. That makes her fear the danger from her past even more. If her past catches up with her she fears it will hurt her friends. I won't tell you any more on that but I will tell you that there is a lot of suspense in this book and drama. You are going to want to read this fabulous story for yourself. So hurry go grab your copy now and devour it like I did.
I can't wait to see what Ms. Drake might have in store for us next. Whatever it is I know I will be anxiously awaiting her next story.
I was given the opportunity to read this incredible book and it has been my great pleasure to share my thoughts with you.
Nevada Sweet is a rough and tough lady that is used to taking care of herself and not looking for help from anyone. She just doesn't know how exactly to allow friends to get close and she is always ready to run. Of course, there is a big reason and a lot going on in her life that has made her this way. Nevada could easily rub anyone the wrong way but she has a heart under that rough exterior that a few people have had a chance to see. I don't want to tell you too much about Nevada's past. Let's just say it wasn't a good life and she has a good reason to be a tad bit jumpy.
Joseph "Fishing Eagle" King is one of those good guys that is just too great to be true but is. He's a true friend, a great employee, and has been through a lot in his life. He is dealing with issues in his past that he is not proud of. He is determined to marry someone from his Navajo community to full fill a promise to his grandmother.
Nevada and Fish don't start off on exactly the best of terms. Fish learns quickly that Nevada wants to stand on her own two feet and doesn't want to accept help from anyone and she sure doesn't want any charity or lasting friendships. However the more time they spend together the more they start to grow close. Neither of them is looking for a relationship and they both try to fight their attraction. I truly enjoyed watching these two get to know each other and form a deeper connection then either planned on. They might have a happily ever after if they can work through some issues together and get past the danger in Nevada's past.
This is the second book in the Chestnut Creek Series. Home at Chestnut Creek stands on its own just fine so no worries if you have not had a chance to read The Last True Cowboy. I have had the pleasure of reading The Last True Cowboy and I was so excited to see how things were going for Carly and Austin. It was nice to catch up and to see these two and the baby.
Carly really is a true friend to Nevada and Nevada finds herself valuing the friendships she is making in Unforgiven. That makes her fear the danger from her past even more. If her past catches up with her she fears it will hurt her friends. I won't tell you any more on that but I will tell you that there is a lot of suspense in this book and drama. You are going to want to read this fabulous story for yourself. So hurry go grab your copy now and devour it like I did.
I can't wait to see what Ms. Drake might have in store for us next. Whatever it is I know I will be anxiously awaiting her next story.
I was given the opportunity to read this incredible book and it has been my great pleasure to share my thoughts with you.
July 22, 2019
This is gradually becoming my favorite author. This book was such a new take on romance and it was exhilarating and refreshing. This is book two of the Chestnut Creek Series and just like the first one, I loved it. There is something great to be said for an author who takes a risk of writing a romance with the hero being a Native American and do it very tastefully.
This story is about Nevada Sweet, who from book one, is a raunchy, tough woman with a heart of gold. If you read book 1 then you know that Nevada was the cook from the food truck that Carly worked at temporarily. Nevada Sweet is on the run from the drug cartel and she arrives in the small town of Unforgiven to hide out for a while. But she wasn't counting on meeting Fish, the Navajo cook with a huge heart and even bigger muscles. Fiercely independent, Nevada does not stand for charity or free rent, so Fish offers her his grandmother's former RV and the relationship starts from there. With Nevada on the run, will she stay in the small, sweet town of Unforgiven with Fish or will she forever live her life looking over her shoulder?
I wanted to start this review with a hand clap. I absolutely enjoyed myself while reading this story. I loved seeing Nevada and Fish's relationship blossom to such a beautiful love story. Nevada is like a caged wild animal and she has that natural instinct of survival. I mean who could blame her after the constant punches that life have thrown at her? Her character develop was done so while and I could tell that the author took such great care with this character. Joseph or Fish, is a of the Navajo tribe and his back story and character development was great as well. The author really did her research with this character and both of their past intertwined and contributed to the story arc as a whole. Most importantly, the story had that small town feel that I love so much and she included characters from the first book, but they did not distract me from the main characters from this story. The slow and progressiveness of their relationship is what caught me. They were polar opposites, but love happened and it was so exciting to see come together.
The only one thing that rubbed the wrong way was the use of the "Indian" word to describe the Navajo tribe. The word was used from the character's point of view, but I just did not like it. Luckily, the word is not mentioned a lot throughout the story. Other than that small thing, this book was almost perfect.
This book packed so much heart in such a small package and I was so grateful that I got the chance to read a romance with a different type of hero who was hot in all the right places. This is a Five Star read for me and I had have my tea and blanket while reading this book because it was that good. Go pick this up ASAP. !!!
This story is about Nevada Sweet, who from book one, is a raunchy, tough woman with a heart of gold. If you read book 1 then you know that Nevada was the cook from the food truck that Carly worked at temporarily. Nevada Sweet is on the run from the drug cartel and she arrives in the small town of Unforgiven to hide out for a while. But she wasn't counting on meeting Fish, the Navajo cook with a huge heart and even bigger muscles. Fiercely independent, Nevada does not stand for charity or free rent, so Fish offers her his grandmother's former RV and the relationship starts from there. With Nevada on the run, will she stay in the small, sweet town of Unforgiven with Fish or will she forever live her life looking over her shoulder?
I wanted to start this review with a hand clap. I absolutely enjoyed myself while reading this story. I loved seeing Nevada and Fish's relationship blossom to such a beautiful love story. Nevada is like a caged wild animal and she has that natural instinct of survival. I mean who could blame her after the constant punches that life have thrown at her? Her character develop was done so while and I could tell that the author took such great care with this character. Joseph or Fish, is a of the Navajo tribe and his back story and character development was great as well. The author really did her research with this character and both of their past intertwined and contributed to the story arc as a whole. Most importantly, the story had that small town feel that I love so much and she included characters from the first book, but they did not distract me from the main characters from this story. The slow and progressiveness of their relationship is what caught me. They were polar opposites, but love happened and it was so exciting to see come together.
The only one thing that rubbed the wrong way was the use of the "Indian" word to describe the Navajo tribe. The word was used from the character's point of view, but I just did not like it. Luckily, the word is not mentioned a lot throughout the story. Other than that small thing, this book was almost perfect.
This book packed so much heart in such a small package and I was so grateful that I got the chance to read a romance with a different type of hero who was hot in all the right places. This is a Five Star read for me and I had have my tea and blanket while reading this book because it was that good. Go pick this up ASAP. !!!
August 30, 2019
Reviewed by JoAnne
Book provided by NetGalley
When Nevada blows into town she shows up at her friend Carly's cafe very unexpectedly. She needs to hide out but doesn't want anyone to know why she's running. She also doesn't want anyone who helps her to get hurt but she doesn't expect to feel welcome or make friends or put down roots. Is she getting too complacent? Will those looking for her find her and if so, who will be harmed? There are a lot of twists and turns in the telling of Home at Chestnut Creek which takes place in the very small town of Unforgiven, New Mexico.
I loved the characters who have a depth to them and their own stories to tell. Carly and her husband have a baby that everyone loves. The cook in the cafe, Joe 'Fishing Eagle' King or Joseph as Nevada calls him is Navajo. There are Navajo words sprinkled throughout the story and I liked the way the meanings were explained. We learn of his traditions as well as his dreams. The manager, Lorelei, has her own problems, and we are introduced to her aging mom.
The story flowed nicely with Nevada being befriended by those she works with but also trying to keep to herself and stay under the radar. She and Joseph do a lot of talking and she tells him some of her story, sometimes without realizing it. She doesn't want him or anyone else in Unforgiven getting hurt because of her but every time she thinks of leaving something holds her back until it's almost too late! Joseph gives her the time and attention she needs by giving her a place to live, letting her help with chores and giving her a ride back and forth to work. They are just friends even though they both feel an attraction which he fights since she's a white girl. He wants to keep his Navajo traditions alive and she can't get too close since he would try to protect her and only get hurt. Nevada gets through his defenses as well as helps him see things from his past differently. I liked his connection and love he shows for his grandmother who he lived with but has since died.
Nevada opens her heart through letter writing to her mom who was a druggie and more and died when she was young. It helped her heal but also showed us another side of Nevada and not the tough girl persona she portrays. There were wonderful descriptions of the setting that made me feel like I was there. There is danger afoot but I like the way it was resolved. There is nice closure with a better happily ever after than I anticipated thanks to the epilogue.
The bonus novel, Wild Cowboy Ways by Carolyn Brown, was included in the book and I will review it in a separate post but it was another 5 star read!
Ms. Drake is an author whose books I've read before and enjoyed. I missed the first book in this series, The Last True Cowboy, that I have added to my always growing TBR pile. I look forward to reading more of her books.
Book provided by NetGalley
When Nevada blows into town she shows up at her friend Carly's cafe very unexpectedly. She needs to hide out but doesn't want anyone to know why she's running. She also doesn't want anyone who helps her to get hurt but she doesn't expect to feel welcome or make friends or put down roots. Is she getting too complacent? Will those looking for her find her and if so, who will be harmed? There are a lot of twists and turns in the telling of Home at Chestnut Creek which takes place in the very small town of Unforgiven, New Mexico.
I loved the characters who have a depth to them and their own stories to tell. Carly and her husband have a baby that everyone loves. The cook in the cafe, Joe 'Fishing Eagle' King or Joseph as Nevada calls him is Navajo. There are Navajo words sprinkled throughout the story and I liked the way the meanings were explained. We learn of his traditions as well as his dreams. The manager, Lorelei, has her own problems, and we are introduced to her aging mom.
The story flowed nicely with Nevada being befriended by those she works with but also trying to keep to herself and stay under the radar. She and Joseph do a lot of talking and she tells him some of her story, sometimes without realizing it. She doesn't want him or anyone else in Unforgiven getting hurt because of her but every time she thinks of leaving something holds her back until it's almost too late! Joseph gives her the time and attention she needs by giving her a place to live, letting her help with chores and giving her a ride back and forth to work. They are just friends even though they both feel an attraction which he fights since she's a white girl. He wants to keep his Navajo traditions alive and she can't get too close since he would try to protect her and only get hurt. Nevada gets through his defenses as well as helps him see things from his past differently. I liked his connection and love he shows for his grandmother who he lived with but has since died.
Nevada opens her heart through letter writing to her mom who was a druggie and more and died when she was young. It helped her heal but also showed us another side of Nevada and not the tough girl persona she portrays. There were wonderful descriptions of the setting that made me feel like I was there. There is danger afoot but I like the way it was resolved. There is nice closure with a better happily ever after than I anticipated thanks to the epilogue.
The bonus novel, Wild Cowboy Ways by Carolyn Brown, was included in the book and I will review it in a separate post but it was another 5 star read!
Ms. Drake is an author whose books I've read before and enjoyed. I missed the first book in this series, The Last True Cowboy, that I have added to my always growing TBR pile. I look forward to reading more of her books.
July 13, 2019
I am always thrilled when Native American culture is a major part of any story, and Laura Drake did a fantastic job educating her readers on the Navajo people and traditions. Having recently been in Navajo territory and meeting the people there, it gave me a fresh new perspective on their way of life. It was clear from the start that this was going to be a unique romance I would not soon forget - it teaches the reader so much about love, patience, and looking beyond the color of a person's skin to their soul beneath.
Nevada Sweet is on the run, and Unforgiven, New Mexico is her latest hideaway as she tries to escape a troubled past. Gruff with zero filter, Nevada often rubs people the wrong way, but even she is having trouble irritating the friendly cook at the Chestnut Creek Cafe. Joseph "Fishing Eagle" King doesn't know what to make of this strange newcomer, but he is certain she is lashing out at everyone from fear. Offering her a place to stay seems right, but as they grow closer, he has more than just his desires to consider. He once made a promise to uphold the Navajo way, and falling in love with a white woman was not in his plans. Fate has a funny way of bringing people together, and as tension ignites between the two, they must both consider whether they want a future apart...or together.
Nevada was one of those characters you have a love/hate relationship with, because she was so complex and difficult to read. On the one hand, I understood she had a hard life and something has definitely happened to make her hide behind her sharp tongue. I have known a lot of people like that, and I felt an affinity towards Nevada's friend, Carly. It can be hard to help someone who doesn't want your help but still needs it. Nevada had been on her own for so long that she trusted no one but herself, and she didn't want to form any attachments. But she couldn't help it with a man like Joseph King. He was probably the most patient man I have seen on paper, putting up with her snide remarks and insults so that he could slowly sneak around her defenses. Once he did, it was lovely to see the Nevada she kept hidden away. The Navajo culture played a huge role in this book, and I liked seeing the interactions between Nevada and Joseph's people. While it's frustrating to see the automatic animosity based on her being white, it also brought attention to the continuing struggles of bridging that gap that our ancestors created. I loved how she handled herself and Joseph was fully supportive, making their relationship strong and admirable.
I look forward to reading more about the women of Unforgiven - I believe Lorelei is up next, and I can't wait!
**I received a free copy from the publisher and this is my honest review.**
Nevada Sweet is on the run, and Unforgiven, New Mexico is her latest hideaway as she tries to escape a troubled past. Gruff with zero filter, Nevada often rubs people the wrong way, but even she is having trouble irritating the friendly cook at the Chestnut Creek Cafe. Joseph "Fishing Eagle" King doesn't know what to make of this strange newcomer, but he is certain she is lashing out at everyone from fear. Offering her a place to stay seems right, but as they grow closer, he has more than just his desires to consider. He once made a promise to uphold the Navajo way, and falling in love with a white woman was not in his plans. Fate has a funny way of bringing people together, and as tension ignites between the two, they must both consider whether they want a future apart...or together.
Nevada was one of those characters you have a love/hate relationship with, because she was so complex and difficult to read. On the one hand, I understood she had a hard life and something has definitely happened to make her hide behind her sharp tongue. I have known a lot of people like that, and I felt an affinity towards Nevada's friend, Carly. It can be hard to help someone who doesn't want your help but still needs it. Nevada had been on her own for so long that she trusted no one but herself, and she didn't want to form any attachments. But she couldn't help it with a man like Joseph King. He was probably the most patient man I have seen on paper, putting up with her snide remarks and insults so that he could slowly sneak around her defenses. Once he did, it was lovely to see the Nevada she kept hidden away. The Navajo culture played a huge role in this book, and I liked seeing the interactions between Nevada and Joseph's people. While it's frustrating to see the automatic animosity based on her being white, it also brought attention to the continuing struggles of bridging that gap that our ancestors created. I loved how she handled herself and Joseph was fully supportive, making their relationship strong and admirable.
I look forward to reading more about the women of Unforgiven - I believe Lorelei is up next, and I can't wait!
**I received a free copy from the publisher and this is my honest review.**
August 25, 2019
Received in exchange for a honest review.
Upon first starting the book I was wary of Nevada. She had that past and you weren’t quite sure how to feel. She was a little squirrelly and she didn’t trust easily. Gooing to chestnut Creek happened because she wanted to hide. She didn’t really think about those around her only herself. That kind of put me off on her. I know she had been through alot as we find out but still it seemed a wee bit selfish. Don’t get me wrong Nevada grew on me. She was resilient, smart, determined, stubborn and hard headed. She was also kind and fun. She was smart and sarcastic as well. She beat to her own drummer. She was also a good cook and Joseph saw more in her than others did.
Joseph was on the res but not on the res. He held some guilt and was trying to prove himself. TO who I am not really sure. To me it was more for himself than others. He was determined to do as her grandmother wished of him only his heart had other ideas. We see him be quiet and honest. Kind and generous and extremely into his heritage. He showed us though that you can have your heritage and still be yourself. He had to forgive himself first though and Nevada helped him do this. I loved him from the beginning for there was more to him than meets the eye to me.
Joseph knew something was up with Nevada and was intrigued by her as well. He helped her out and started to get to know her. The atraction between them flew off the page. You could tell that they were meant to be. ONe was hiding and trying to find their way into trusting and letting go of the past and the other was trying to forgive themselves. They both needed to trust one another and learn that things weren’t their fault and to let go. I loved how they started as strangers and slowly learned about one another and became friends. Jospeh opened Nevada’s eyes and she helped him heal. they were great together.
The plot was interesting. We had the past catch up to both of them but in different ways. Nevada’s had danger and intrigue where we see Joseph help her and his was about forgiveness and facing your demons. About finding your place and seeing where you belond and always belonged They both learned about family in different ways. Nevada found one and Joseph to me reacquanted himself with his. They both found their way to each other and to protecting each other. The story felw by and the romance was sexy with snarky sarcastic fun banter as well as serious moments and entertaining times. A great tale all around on love, forgiveness, friendship, famliy and trust.
Upon first starting the book I was wary of Nevada. She had that past and you weren’t quite sure how to feel. She was a little squirrelly and she didn’t trust easily. Gooing to chestnut Creek happened because she wanted to hide. She didn’t really think about those around her only herself. That kind of put me off on her. I know she had been through alot as we find out but still it seemed a wee bit selfish. Don’t get me wrong Nevada grew on me. She was resilient, smart, determined, stubborn and hard headed. She was also kind and fun. She was smart and sarcastic as well. She beat to her own drummer. She was also a good cook and Joseph saw more in her than others did.
Joseph was on the res but not on the res. He held some guilt and was trying to prove himself. TO who I am not really sure. To me it was more for himself than others. He was determined to do as her grandmother wished of him only his heart had other ideas. We see him be quiet and honest. Kind and generous and extremely into his heritage. He showed us though that you can have your heritage and still be yourself. He had to forgive himself first though and Nevada helped him do this. I loved him from the beginning for there was more to him than meets the eye to me.
Joseph knew something was up with Nevada and was intrigued by her as well. He helped her out and started to get to know her. The atraction between them flew off the page. You could tell that they were meant to be. ONe was hiding and trying to find their way into trusting and letting go of the past and the other was trying to forgive themselves. They both needed to trust one another and learn that things weren’t their fault and to let go. I loved how they started as strangers and slowly learned about one another and became friends. Jospeh opened Nevada’s eyes and she helped him heal. they were great together.
The plot was interesting. We had the past catch up to both of them but in different ways. Nevada’s had danger and intrigue where we see Joseph help her and his was about forgiveness and facing your demons. About finding your place and seeing where you belond and always belonged They both learned about family in different ways. Nevada found one and Joseph to me reacquanted himself with his. They both found their way to each other and to protecting each other. The story felw by and the romance was sexy with snarky sarcastic fun banter as well as serious moments and entertaining times. A great tale all around on love, forgiveness, friendship, famliy and trust.
June 24, 2019
Nevada Sweet is running from her old life, she runs toward her friend Carly and the comfort she provides. She doesn’t know if Carly will be able to give her a job or if she’ll have to continue on but it’s worth the time to stop. She heads to her diner and finds not only a new job but a new set of friends to look out for her. In particular “Fish” who doesn’t fit his nickname, which she thinks is stupid.
Joseph “Fishing Eagle” King is Navajo and trying to reclaim and preserve his native culture. When Nevada walks into the diner, she can see she has pain in her past. Slow and steady he works to pull her out of her thick shell and see people can be supportive. He doesn’t think she’ll believe him though but he has patience.
Nevada wants to cook and not bus tables but cooking is Joseph’s job. He offers to let her help him on occasion and she is more than happy to oblige. He offers her a place on his land, his grandmother’s old place, and though it’s no bigger than an apartment, she takes it to have somewhere to call her own. Now if she can only feel safe enough to enjoy it.
Joseph knows Nevada has a war raging inside herself between the caring compassionate Nevada, and the tough as nails Nevada who doesn’t want anything from anyone. He feels he has the patience to work through her doubts that people can be trusted and care for you without wanting anything.
Over time Nevada knows she can trust Joseph and fills him in on her past. Joseph also shares his past with Nevada. Together they realize they both have things from their past that has framed their futures. But they also come to know that together they can work through anything.
I read this, apparently the second book in the series, first without having read book one which featured Carly and Austin. That being said I definitely felt like I was missing a bigger story by not having read the other book first. There was a history with Carly and Austin that I fully couldn’t get in touch with because of that fact. It started off slow for me and took almost ½ way through the book for me to really feel connected to the words on the pages. This is the first book I’ve read by this author so I’m not sure if all books are written in the same style. The ending pages increased my rating for this read to 4 out of 5 stars. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance reader copy without expectation.
Joseph “Fishing Eagle” King is Navajo and trying to reclaim and preserve his native culture. When Nevada walks into the diner, she can see she has pain in her past. Slow and steady he works to pull her out of her thick shell and see people can be supportive. He doesn’t think she’ll believe him though but he has patience.
Nevada wants to cook and not bus tables but cooking is Joseph’s job. He offers to let her help him on occasion and she is more than happy to oblige. He offers her a place on his land, his grandmother’s old place, and though it’s no bigger than an apartment, she takes it to have somewhere to call her own. Now if she can only feel safe enough to enjoy it.
Joseph knows Nevada has a war raging inside herself between the caring compassionate Nevada, and the tough as nails Nevada who doesn’t want anything from anyone. He feels he has the patience to work through her doubts that people can be trusted and care for you without wanting anything.
Over time Nevada knows she can trust Joseph and fills him in on her past. Joseph also shares his past with Nevada. Together they realize they both have things from their past that has framed their futures. But they also come to know that together they can work through anything.
I read this, apparently the second book in the series, first without having read book one which featured Carly and Austin. That being said I definitely felt like I was missing a bigger story by not having read the other book first. There was a history with Carly and Austin that I fully couldn’t get in touch with because of that fact. It started off slow for me and took almost ½ way through the book for me to really feel connected to the words on the pages. This is the first book I’ve read by this author so I’m not sure if all books are written in the same style. The ending pages increased my rating for this read to 4 out of 5 stars. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance reader copy without expectation.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 2, 2019
Reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf
Sometimes I find a story that melts my heart while it offers me the chance to see another culture through the character’s eyes. I absolutely loved HOME AT CHESTNUT CREEK, the second story in Laura Drake’s Chestnut Creek series. This story begins as a reluctant friends-to-lovers romance but it is really so much more than that. There is nothing simple about Nevada and Joseph. They both have intriguing backstories. They both have demons and issues to deal with as they face their past decisions. Joseph is a bit further along on his journey to letting go of the past so he easily recognizes Nevada’s defense moves to keep people away, far, far away. But life is constantly moving and both Nevada and Joseph will have decisions to make – and danger from Nevada’s past to face.
I so badly want to fill up a page talking about HOME AT CHESTNUT CREEK – but if I do then I’ll reveal spoilers that you really should discover on your own as you devour this intriguing romance between Joseph and Nevada. So instead I’ll say that this is a story that grabbed my emotions, all of them, from the very beginning. Nevada isn’t always easy to like, but I was waiting for the person beneath the defensive wall to finally show up – and she was so worth waiting for. Learning of Joseph’s Navajo heritage was fascinating and was a vital part of his journey not only in life but with Nevada. It’s always a treat to run into characters from other books so I was very happy to see characters from THE LAST TRUE COWBOY once again. (if you haven’t read that one yet, you should because it’s a great story).
I was easily caught up in the Chestnut Creek world once again and would not hesitate to recommend this story to any Romance reader no matter their preferred genre.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
Sometimes I find a story that melts my heart while it offers me the chance to see another culture through the character’s eyes. I absolutely loved HOME AT CHESTNUT CREEK, the second story in Laura Drake’s Chestnut Creek series. This story begins as a reluctant friends-to-lovers romance but it is really so much more than that. There is nothing simple about Nevada and Joseph. They both have intriguing backstories. They both have demons and issues to deal with as they face their past decisions. Joseph is a bit further along on his journey to letting go of the past so he easily recognizes Nevada’s defense moves to keep people away, far, far away. But life is constantly moving and both Nevada and Joseph will have decisions to make – and danger from Nevada’s past to face.
I so badly want to fill up a page talking about HOME AT CHESTNUT CREEK – but if I do then I’ll reveal spoilers that you really should discover on your own as you devour this intriguing romance between Joseph and Nevada. So instead I’ll say that this is a story that grabbed my emotions, all of them, from the very beginning. Nevada isn’t always easy to like, but I was waiting for the person beneath the defensive wall to finally show up – and she was so worth waiting for. Learning of Joseph’s Navajo heritage was fascinating and was a vital part of his journey not only in life but with Nevada. It’s always a treat to run into characters from other books so I was very happy to see characters from THE LAST TRUE COWBOY once again. (if you haven’t read that one yet, you should because it’s a great story).
I was easily caught up in the Chestnut Creek world once again and would not hesitate to recommend this story to any Romance reader no matter their preferred genre.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
August 9, 2024
4.5 stars
Home at Chestnut Creek
This was a really interesting romance read. It was a very unique story and gave the reader a different look on how racism can be portrayed. Because that is what this story involves: racism.
It feels wrong for my next sentence to be that I enjoyed this story when mentioning that topic but I did enjoy this story, the characters, and their relationship. I loved how the relationship began as a friendship and how Nevada was hardened by her past.
As much as I wish Joseph's cultural expectations for himself were no longer a reality for people in real life, I know that it is still the case for some people. I like how this story addressed it and the accompanying family pressure.
This was very much NOT a cowboy romance but I have to admit, with its Western roots and atmosphere, it really felt that way while being a very different kind of story.
+
Wild Cowboy Ways
This additional novel was such a pleasant surprise. I loved it! It was the cowboy romance of my dreams (minus my least favourite trope and quite the problematic event).
This story had everything I could want in a country romance: family, charm, humour, and...food.
Even though Allie and Blake were hilarious on their own, I absolutely loved Irene. There were moments where her character had me actually laughing out loud. Her character was one heck of a firecracker and I loved it.
+
This book is the perfect country romance duo to pick up. Sometimes I find there can be an imbalance in the novels that are included in one edition where I much prefer one over the other but both of these stories are really enjoyable reads!
***I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review***
Home at Chestnut Creek
This was a really interesting romance read. It was a very unique story and gave the reader a different look on how racism can be portrayed. Because that is what this story involves: racism.
It feels wrong for my next sentence to be that I enjoyed this story when mentioning that topic but I did enjoy this story, the characters, and their relationship. I loved how the relationship began as a friendship and how Nevada was hardened by her past.
As much as I wish Joseph's cultural expectations for himself were no longer a reality for people in real life, I know that it is still the case for some people. I like how this story addressed it and the accompanying family pressure.
This was very much NOT a cowboy romance but I have to admit, with its Western roots and atmosphere, it really felt that way while being a very different kind of story.
+
Wild Cowboy Ways
This additional novel was such a pleasant surprise. I loved it! It was the cowboy romance of my dreams (minus my least favourite trope and quite the problematic event).
This story had everything I could want in a country romance: family, charm, humour, and...food.
Even though Allie and Blake were hilarious on their own, I absolutely loved Irene. There were moments where her character had me actually laughing out loud. Her character was one heck of a firecracker and I loved it.
+
This book is the perfect country romance duo to pick up. Sometimes I find there can be an imbalance in the novels that are included in one edition where I much prefer one over the other but both of these stories are really enjoyable reads!
***I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review***
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