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Heart & Home Duet #1
A Home in You
I love you. You're my home. Forever.
Dillon
At first, when Cade and his dad came to the farm to live, I didn’t want a brother or a new father. Mom and I were doing just fine on our own, but when Cade walked into my house for the first time, I was instantly drawn to him. How was that possible? I never had a crush on anyone before, let alone a boy.
Cade
I have a secret. Two really. I’m gay and I have a huge crush on Dillon. It’s all wrong but I want him more than breathing. Dillon is quiet and stoic, but sweet and caring. We do everything together and are as close as two brothers could be. How long can I fight my need for him?
How did we feel so right, yet also so wrong? We kept our love a secret for three years until we were finally discovered and torn apart. It took over a year to find each other again in college. But reuniting wasn’t so simple.
This book should be read first, then Finding Home
NOTE: This is now part of a Duet with 'Finding Home.' While the second book is about the secondary characters, this book should be read first to get a better feel of the characters, especially, the secondary ones.
CW: Teen sex, underage drinking, homophobia, bullying, explicit language, and sexual content. While this story goes from ages 14-18, this story is NOT for readers under 18. I have been gentle in writing this during their early years. If any of these things makes you uncomfortable, please don't read it.
This is a stepbrother, MM, SLOW burn, taboo, small-town, coming-of-age, demisexual, and gay romance of two TEEN boys in a consenting and loving relationship. I did not write this to be YA.
Dillon
At first, when Cade and his dad came to the farm to live, I didn’t want a brother or a new father. Mom and I were doing just fine on our own, but when Cade walked into my house for the first time, I was instantly drawn to him. How was that possible? I never had a crush on anyone before, let alone a boy.
Cade
I have a secret. Two really. I’m gay and I have a huge crush on Dillon. It’s all wrong but I want him more than breathing. Dillon is quiet and stoic, but sweet and caring. We do everything together and are as close as two brothers could be. How long can I fight my need for him?
How did we feel so right, yet also so wrong? We kept our love a secret for three years until we were finally discovered and torn apart. It took over a year to find each other again in college. But reuniting wasn’t so simple.
This book should be read first, then Finding Home
NOTE: This is now part of a Duet with 'Finding Home.' While the second book is about the secondary characters, this book should be read first to get a better feel of the characters, especially, the secondary ones.
CW: Teen sex, underage drinking, homophobia, bullying, explicit language, and sexual content. While this story goes from ages 14-18, this story is NOT for readers under 18. I have been gentle in writing this during their early years. If any of these things makes you uncomfortable, please don't read it.
This is a stepbrother, MM, SLOW burn, taboo, small-town, coming-of-age, demisexual, and gay romance of two TEEN boys in a consenting and loving relationship. I did not write this to be YA.
375 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 24, 2023
231 people are currently reading
1105 people want to read
About the author
Courtney W. Dixon
39 books1,065 followersCourtney W. Dixon loves to write steamy hurt/comfort romance, giving her characters challenges, struggles, and sometimes trauma... Fine, a LOT of trauma. Her team teases her about charging her for their therapy bills after reading one of her books.
She loves to add variety and multiple tropes in her stories along with different types of dynamics/relationships. And she writes her characters as having flaws, imperfections, and who don't always do the right thing. Humans are sometimes frustrating, never perfect, and make a lot of mistakes in their lives. Courtney enjoys pushing her characters, making their HEAs so much more worth it when they get there. Mental health is a big feature in her books.
She loves her coffee ice cream and popcorn a little too much. And her cat, Olly, is her co-writer, where he sleeps on an ottoman under her desk as her muse. Actually, he's rather useless, but he's adorable.
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She loves to add variety and multiple tropes in her stories along with different types of dynamics/relationships. And she writes her characters as having flaws, imperfections, and who don't always do the right thing. Humans are sometimes frustrating, never perfect, and make a lot of mistakes in their lives. Courtney enjoys pushing her characters, making their HEAs so much more worth it when they get there. Mental health is a big feature in her books.
She loves her coffee ice cream and popcorn a little too much. And her cat, Olly, is her co-writer, where he sleeps on an ottoman under her desk as her muse. Actually, he's rather useless, but he's adorable.
Follow Me
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February 27, 2023
“No matter where life takes us, or where we move to, we will always be our homes. Nothing will matter as long as we’re together.”
A Home in You was a sweet and emotional ride. We have Cade and Dillon, two boys who become brothers when their families blend. Cade grew up with a single father who was on the road a lot and a grandmother who would neglect him. He has attachment issues and insecurities. Dillion is introverted and quiet. He's not shy but enjoys his time alone, helping his mother on their farm while working on his art.
These two boys meet as young teens, and seeing their relationship evolve from brothers to best friends to soulmates was amazing! This is a story of young love, but it is not all happiness, as they have to deal with not only homophobia but the stigma of being stepbrothers. Their love is taboo, and they know if they are caught, others won't accept it, and they'll be separated.
I loved how Dillon was so caring and understanding of Cade's insecurities, always ready to reassure him and slowly build his confidence. Cade also pulled Dillon from his head, allowing him to open up more. These two boys were honestly made for one another. I enjoyed how they wanted to be with one another, their closeness, and the constant need to be in one another's orbit.
"Dillon saved me from loneliness and fears of abandonment. He never wavered in his feelings for me and always kept his promises. For once in my life, I felt confident in myself because I trusted him more than I’d trusted anyone else."
"He leaned in and pressed his lips to mine, and all my anxiety spilled out of me. I sighed into his mouth, feeling like myself again. This kiss proved that Cade was my home. I’d always be broken, lost, and empty without him."
There was lots of angst and moments when my heart broke for these sweet boys. They had a rough path to their happy ever after. The way I wanted to smack Cade's father. He was just a horrid man. However, I adored Dillon's mother! She was always there for her son and Cade. She never judged, just accepted and loved them for they were. The other side characters were also wonderful! Adored Darran, Christian, and Raven! I would especially love to see Darran and Christian's story!
This story has consensual teen sex. Teenagers have sex; that is a reality. Courtney W. Dixon did an amazing job writing those scenes. We see how much these two boys care for and love one another as they explore their sexuality. I also liked seeing demisexuality represented in the story! I think the author did a great job at handling that topic.
Overall this was a wonderful and sweet read. If you enjoy stories about coming of age, young love, small town romance, mutual pining, demisexuality, hurt/comfort, codependency, step brothers, and angst, I recommend this book!
A Home in You was a sweet and emotional ride. We have Cade and Dillon, two boys who become brothers when their families blend. Cade grew up with a single father who was on the road a lot and a grandmother who would neglect him. He has attachment issues and insecurities. Dillion is introverted and quiet. He's not shy but enjoys his time alone, helping his mother on their farm while working on his art.
These two boys meet as young teens, and seeing their relationship evolve from brothers to best friends to soulmates was amazing! This is a story of young love, but it is not all happiness, as they have to deal with not only homophobia but the stigma of being stepbrothers. Their love is taboo, and they know if they are caught, others won't accept it, and they'll be separated.
I loved how Dillon was so caring and understanding of Cade's insecurities, always ready to reassure him and slowly build his confidence. Cade also pulled Dillon from his head, allowing him to open up more. These two boys were honestly made for one another. I enjoyed how they wanted to be with one another, their closeness, and the constant need to be in one another's orbit.
"Dillon saved me from loneliness and fears of abandonment. He never wavered in his feelings for me and always kept his promises. For once in my life, I felt confident in myself because I trusted him more than I’d trusted anyone else."
"He leaned in and pressed his lips to mine, and all my anxiety spilled out of me. I sighed into his mouth, feeling like myself again. This kiss proved that Cade was my home. I’d always be broken, lost, and empty without him."
There was lots of angst and moments when my heart broke for these sweet boys. They had a rough path to their happy ever after. The way I wanted to smack Cade's father. He was just a horrid man. However, I adored Dillon's mother! She was always there for her son and Cade. She never judged, just accepted and loved them for they were. The other side characters were also wonderful! Adored Darran, Christian, and Raven! I would especially love to see Darran and Christian's story!
This story has consensual teen sex. Teenagers have sex; that is a reality. Courtney W. Dixon did an amazing job writing those scenes. We see how much these two boys care for and love one another as they explore their sexuality. I also liked seeing demisexuality represented in the story! I think the author did a great job at handling that topic.
Overall this was a wonderful and sweet read. If you enjoy stories about coming of age, young love, small town romance, mutual pining, demisexuality, hurt/comfort, codependency, step brothers, and angst, I recommend this book!
May 2, 2023
I'm out at 64% ... absolutely cannot read another word of this gawdawful mess! 😖 The good news is I now know another author to avoid at all costs ... so there's that!
February 25, 2023
Tropes:
- small town romance
- stepbrothers
- mutual pining
- hurt x comfort
- coming of age
- virgins
For the longest it’s always just been Dillon and his mom, but the minute Cade and his dad come into their lives, Dillon realizes it might not be so bad that things are changing.
Cade is funny and loud and never stops talking. He’s Dillon’s opposite in so many ways, but something about him draws Dillon to him, making him feel things he’s never felt for anyone. The pair grow closer, but their feelings for each other are more than brotherly, but despite who they feel about each other, they’re forced to keep their relationship secret.
For the next three years Cade and Dillon love each other secretly, until one night their love bubble is popped, and they’re torn away from each other. Is their love strong enough?
Oh my gosh! This book took me on a roller coaster of emotions. Cade and Dillon’s story starts out so sweet, just two young teens falling in love, but once they were taken away from each other my heart broke. Everything they felt while apart, everything that happened to them too… I sobbed.
I loved that they finally got the happy ending they deserved, and that even though they went through so much pain and heartache while apart, that it also made their relationship so much stronger in the end.
- small town romance
- stepbrothers
- mutual pining
- hurt x comfort
- coming of age
- virgins
For the longest it’s always just been Dillon and his mom, but the minute Cade and his dad come into their lives, Dillon realizes it might not be so bad that things are changing.
Cade is funny and loud and never stops talking. He’s Dillon’s opposite in so many ways, but something about him draws Dillon to him, making him feel things he’s never felt for anyone. The pair grow closer, but their feelings for each other are more than brotherly, but despite who they feel about each other, they’re forced to keep their relationship secret.
For the next three years Cade and Dillon love each other secretly, until one night their love bubble is popped, and they’re torn away from each other. Is their love strong enough?
Oh my gosh! This book took me on a roller coaster of emotions. Cade and Dillon’s story starts out so sweet, just two young teens falling in love, but once they were taken away from each other my heart broke. Everything they felt while apart, everything that happened to them too… I sobbed.
I loved that they finally got the happy ending they deserved, and that even though they went through so much pain and heartache while apart, that it also made their relationship so much stronger in the end.
February 27, 2023
this starts like super fast, not in a good way, in a it’s giving me a headache kind of way.
but let’s move on.
all the characters were completely insane and they had one brain cell collectively.
at 40% the MCs are still 15 and let’s just say that i didn’t expect to read so many pages about kids. why did the author thought it would be a good idea? it’s just not interesting (and i’m not touching the weird aspect of it).
if you’re here for the brothers aspect, you can go look somewhere else. this is not that kind of book. they don’t consider themselves brothers. and i mean, as they should, but i still feel robbed, you know?
i could talk about the tragic take in the second half, but i feel like that would take too much of my time. let’s just say that all that hate was unnecessary and let’s leave it at that.
my breaking point was dillon jacking off to the sounds of his dorm roommate having sex with a girl in the bed right next to his. i was literally staring at the ceiling thinking that i needed therapy after that, but it reminded me that i actually had to call my therapist, so i guess i’m thankful?
i kept reading after that and i made it to the end but it was definitely a bad experience overall.
but let’s move on.
all the characters were completely insane and they had one brain cell collectively.
at 40% the MCs are still 15 and let’s just say that i didn’t expect to read so many pages about kids. why did the author thought it would be a good idea? it’s just not interesting (and i’m not touching the weird aspect of it).
if you’re here for the brothers aspect, you can go look somewhere else. this is not that kind of book. they don’t consider themselves brothers. and i mean, as they should, but i still feel robbed, you know?
i could talk about the tragic take in the second half, but i feel like that would take too much of my time. let’s just say that all that hate was unnecessary and let’s leave it at that.
my breaking point was dillon jacking off to the sounds of his dorm roommate having sex with a girl in the bed right next to his. i was literally staring at the ceiling thinking that i needed therapy after that, but it reminded me that i actually had to call my therapist, so i guess i’m thankful?
i kept reading after that and i made it to the end but it was definitely a bad experience overall.
May 2, 2023
Not good.
I totally skimmed the last 150 pages just to see what happened, but I was even disappointed with that. I usually reserve 1 star for DNF’s but this one should have been a DNF so I’m giving it 1star. Bad writing, unrealistic characters. Not recommended.
I totally skimmed the last 150 pages just to see what happened, but I was even disappointed with that. I usually reserve 1 star for DNF’s but this one should have been a DNF so I’m giving it 1star. Bad writing, unrealistic characters. Not recommended.
September 25, 2024
I loved this sweet coming-of-age romance between two stepbrothers, Cade and Dillon. I enjoyed getting both perspectives as they were navigating their feelings for one another and were afraid of the other's rejection. Their relationship is so precious and heartwarming to see their bond grow and develop, while both were harboring such intense feelings.
I love how this story took its time and created many magical little moments between Cade and Dillon. They are two characters who are instant soul mates, but that intense bond does have its consequences due to the forbidden nature of their relationship.
Overall Cade and Dillon care, protect, and defend one another intensely. Their relationship is strong to its core and knowing they are each other's home was so beautiful to see. This emotional story is filled with so many incredible moments, that made me very sad to see it end.
I love how this story took its time and created many magical little moments between Cade and Dillon. They are two characters who are instant soul mates, but that intense bond does have its consequences due to the forbidden nature of their relationship.
Overall Cade and Dillon care, protect, and defend one another intensely. Their relationship is strong to its core and knowing they are each other's home was so beautiful to see. This emotional story is filled with so many incredible moments, that made me very sad to see it end.
May 5, 2023
I’m not a huge fan of teenage mcs and too much sweetness but this did have some lovely moments. The story was very wholesome and I was cheering for these guys getting together, although in real life I’d probably feel differently. The author did a lovely job of making the reader feel the heartache they went through. I appreciate how the author handled the sex scenes and made it age appropriate and sensitive. I never once felt like a dirty old creep reading teenage smut. It was sensitive, gentle and worked beautifully into the story. I didn’t mind the slow start (which may not be popular with some readers) but found the past tense of the writing at times to feel a little odd. It took me a long time to get through this one as it dragged in places but overall it left me with good vibes.
February 27, 2023
"I love you. You're my home. Forever."
Star Rating: 5/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
POV: Dual, First Person
HEA: Yes
Spice Rating: 3/5 🔥🔥🔥
ARC provided in exchange for an honest review
Overall Opinion
This was by far my favourite book to date by Courtney, and I simply could not put it down. It is a standalone slowburn that takes place over several years, starting when the MCs are almost 14.
Dillon and Cade are stepbrothers and best friends, but also so much more. Cade is a sweet loveable chatterbox whose father sees him as weak and a disappointment, and Dillon is the absolute opposite, introverted and quiet whose mother absolutely adores him unconditionally. The connection these two have is instantaneous, becoming close very fast, but are forced into keeping their feelings behind close doors from everyone. But not everything is sunshine and rainbows as they are eventually torn from one another and forced apart, leaving them heartbroken and feeling betrayed.
The feelings, gah, they invocated so many emotions and broke my heart time and time again; while everything was falling apart I sat bawling my eyes out because Courtney really knew how to take my heart and shred it into a billion pieces. The writing style was impeccable, with characters being deeply developed and the plot flowing perfectly, leaving nothing out but not dragging either. Overall this was a simply wonderful book that I loved wholeheartedly and I cannot wait to give it a reread!
Read if you like:
❣️ MM Romance
❣️ Stepbrothers
❣️ Small Town
❣️ Demi Rep
❣️ Co-Dependency
❣️ Mutual Pining
Trigger and Content Warnings: Teen sex, underage drinking, homophobia, bullying, explicit language, and sexual content.
Star Rating: 5/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
POV: Dual, First Person
HEA: Yes
Spice Rating: 3/5 🔥🔥🔥
ARC provided in exchange for an honest review
Overall Opinion
This was by far my favourite book to date by Courtney, and I simply could not put it down. It is a standalone slowburn that takes place over several years, starting when the MCs are almost 14.
Dillon and Cade are stepbrothers and best friends, but also so much more. Cade is a sweet loveable chatterbox whose father sees him as weak and a disappointment, and Dillon is the absolute opposite, introverted and quiet whose mother absolutely adores him unconditionally. The connection these two have is instantaneous, becoming close very fast, but are forced into keeping their feelings behind close doors from everyone. But not everything is sunshine and rainbows as they are eventually torn from one another and forced apart, leaving them heartbroken and feeling betrayed.
The feelings, gah, they invocated so many emotions and broke my heart time and time again; while everything was falling apart I sat bawling my eyes out because Courtney really knew how to take my heart and shred it into a billion pieces. The writing style was impeccable, with characters being deeply developed and the plot flowing perfectly, leaving nothing out but not dragging either. Overall this was a simply wonderful book that I loved wholeheartedly and I cannot wait to give it a reread!
Read if you like:
❣️ MM Romance
❣️ Stepbrothers
❣️ Small Town
❣️ Demi Rep
❣️ Co-Dependency
❣️ Mutual Pining
Trigger and Content Warnings: Teen sex, underage drinking, homophobia, bullying, explicit language, and sexual content.
July 13, 2024
♾️/⭐️
Dillon and Cade have just climbed the list of people I would willingly go to war for . LITERALLY.
Dillon and Cade have just climbed the list of people I would willingly go to war for . LITERALLY.
April 14, 2023
Alright, fine, I guess I like small town romance. You got me.
This was sooo sweet! Just two sweet boys saying sweet things and making my heart all warm. I love that we get to watch Dillon & Cade's relationship develop as they grow from boys into men. The way they communicate with each other and how they introduce more physical aspects to their relationship is so wholesome.
Because of their age, I'm glad that the physical stuff was a super slow burn. And yes, they are teenagers for basically the entire book, but this is still 18+ content.
The story itself was really great, but as far as the writing goes, I feel like there was definitely something a smidge off for me. It wasn't throughout the entire book, but there were moments of dialogue where there was this strange formality or awkwardness? Especially because these are teenage boys talking so it threw me off quite a bit. It also got fairly repetitive and I don't want to say totally cringey, but it was definitely within that realm. But like, in the way that a sappy romance movie is cheesy af but you still love it.
There is miscommunication in the story (which I usually try to avoid like the plague) but thankfully, it doesn't last long (at least not for the reader).
Overall, wonderful story but the writing could have been rounded off a little better!
Rating: 3.5 rounded up to 4 stars!
This was sooo sweet! Just two sweet boys saying sweet things and making my heart all warm. I love that we get to watch Dillon & Cade's relationship develop as they grow from boys into men. The way they communicate with each other and how they introduce more physical aspects to their relationship is so wholesome.
Because of their age, I'm glad that the physical stuff was a super slow burn. And yes, they are teenagers for basically the entire book, but this is still 18+ content.
The story itself was really great, but as far as the writing goes, I feel like there was definitely something a smidge off for me. It wasn't throughout the entire book, but there were moments of dialogue where there was this strange formality or awkwardness? Especially because these are teenage boys talking so it threw me off quite a bit. It also got fairly repetitive and I don't want to say totally cringey, but it was definitely within that realm. But like, in the way that a sappy romance movie is cheesy af but you still love it.
There is miscommunication in the story (which I usually try to avoid like the plague) but thankfully, it doesn't last long (at least not for the reader).
Overall, wonderful story but the writing could have been rounded off a little better!
Rating: 3.5 rounded up to 4 stars!
November 11, 2024
These two making love declarations at 14 because they'd been together 'a while now and it was time' 💀btw 'a while now' was a few months. Oh, to be 14 and in love with everything seeming so urgent.
They watched a video on how to kiss to ensure they were doing it right 😩😩😩
'He was my Cade, and I was about to bring him home.' Heh. What a quaint way to say orgasm.
“Oh. My. God. Wow. Okay, we’re so doing this all the time. Like every day."
😂😂😂😂Well. An endorsement if there ever was one.
I LOVED this. These two were so FREAKING adorable. They fell in love so young, and all the inevitable things I worried about happening did. 💀
But damnnnnn it hurt me in the BEST way.
I was SOOOO mad at one of the MCs. He had ONE job. ONE. JOB. And he failed to do the one thing the other asked of him. I really tried to understand his reasoning given the circumstances but I won't lie, I was incredibly disappointed in him.
I would have understood if he had genuine reason to think what he did. But he had years of reassurance to back him up, and he still ran to the worst possible conclusion.
It's such a testament to how patient and understanding the other was that this relationship managed to be saved.
So, yes. I definitely had a favorite MC. I didn't hate the other, but I was a bit disappointed in him, and his ongoing behavior didn't help that much. He came up with a (mostly) baseless theory and ran with it. And the other did a lot of heavy lifting to fix things between them.
But it was a really sweet and engaging story, and I found their love story a delight. Literal definition of enduring. And definitely a soulmates situation.
I received an ARC for this book from the author via Bookfunnel.
They watched a video on how to kiss to ensure they were doing it right 😩😩😩
'He was my Cade, and I was about to bring him home.' Heh. What a quaint way to say orgasm.
“Oh. My. God. Wow. Okay, we’re so doing this all the time. Like every day."
😂😂😂😂Well. An endorsement if there ever was one.
I LOVED this. These two were so FREAKING adorable. They fell in love so young, and all the inevitable things I worried about happening did. 💀
But damnnnnn it hurt me in the BEST way.
I was SOOOO mad at one of the MCs. He had ONE job. ONE. JOB. And he failed to do the one thing the other asked of him. I really tried to understand his reasoning given the circumstances but I won't lie, I was incredibly disappointed in him.
I would have understood if he had genuine reason to think what he did. But he had years of reassurance to back him up, and he still ran to the worst possible conclusion.
It's such a testament to how patient and understanding the other was that this relationship managed to be saved.
So, yes. I definitely had a favorite MC. I didn't hate the other, but I was a bit disappointed in him, and his ongoing behavior didn't help that much. He came up with a (mostly) baseless theory and ran with it. And the other did a lot of heavy lifting to fix things between them.
But it was a really sweet and engaging story, and I found their love story a delight. Literal definition of enduring. And definitely a soulmates situation.
I received an ARC for this book from the author via Bookfunnel.
November 10, 2024
4.5 ⭐ This story was beautiful! We follow Dillon and Cade as they meet when their mother and father gets invloved. The boys meet in their earliy teen years, and become the best of friends, but soon realise that what they feel for on another is stronger than just friendship. This book is written so gracefully, and it really shows that the author had so much love for these characters. There was moments that was the sweetes, happy and just fun, but there was also alot of heartbreaking moments that made you fall even more in love with Dill and Cade. Dills best friend, Darren, is also an amzing side character, and I'm so happy Courtney W. Dixon desided to give us his story as well in the second book of the Heart & Home-series. For anyone who loves a small town romance, with friends to lovers, and beautiful romances, this is the book for you!
Thank you so much to the author for giving me and ARC for this book, I had an amazing time! <3
Thank you so much to the author for giving me and ARC for this book, I had an amazing time! <3
March 23, 2023
4 stars story. I really really felt the chemistry and deep love between the MCs.
February 28, 2023
This was a beautiful coming of age, demisexual, stepbrothers romance. This book was an incredibly emotional journey from beginning to end. The story starts off when Cade and Dillon are almost fourteen and become stepbrothers. Like the author discloses at the beginning of the book a lot of this book takes place when they are underage, well over half. I wasn’t quite expecting that but I absolutely loved the journey of self-discovery these two had.
I’m not usually a fan of super slow-burn romances but this one was a huge exception. There was enough other things going on between the two and with them being underage it just felt right for it to be a slower story. I loved seeing Dillan work out his feelings and the relationship blossoming between them!
There was angst in this book, mainly with outside factors with bullies and a homophobic parent. There was a good 20% of the book that was incredibly sad while these boys had to figure out life on their own. But it was amazing once they got back together again! And I loved the unexpected turn of events with the bullying!
This is the first book I’ve read by this author but it absolutely won’t be my last. I loved everything about Cade and Dillon’s story. Make sure to download the bonus chapters by joining the authors newsletter. It’s set 8 years in the future and we got a wonderful glimpse into more of their HEA!
I’m not usually a fan of super slow-burn romances but this one was a huge exception. There was enough other things going on between the two and with them being underage it just felt right for it to be a slower story. I loved seeing Dillan work out his feelings and the relationship blossoming between them!
There was angst in this book, mainly with outside factors with bullies and a homophobic parent. There was a good 20% of the book that was incredibly sad while these boys had to figure out life on their own. But it was amazing once they got back together again! And I loved the unexpected turn of events with the bullying!
This is the first book I’ve read by this author but it absolutely won’t be my last. I loved everything about Cade and Dillon’s story. Make sure to download the bonus chapters by joining the authors newsletter. It’s set 8 years in the future and we got a wonderful glimpse into more of their HEA!
November 5, 2024
"To a lifetime of firsts and a home in you."
A beautiful love story of two boys, Dillon and Cade, who found their soulmate at just 14 years old. ❤️
The book spans about a decade and follows them from age 14 through their college years.
....
"Dil?" "Yeah?" "Thanks for... not making me feel so alone. Thanks for being my friend."
"He was my Dillon. My best friend. My brother. Now, my boyfriend."
"I love you. You're my home. Forever. Now say it back to me." "I love you Dillon. You're my home. Forever." "Good. I will tell you this every fucking day."
"He was fucking beautiful. How had I gotten so lucky?"
"He was mine, and I was his. Always only half of each other when not together. Incomplete unless we were close or touching."
"Whoever discovered rimming, needed some sort of medal."
"This is what happens when you've reunited with the other half of your soul."
....
⚠️ possible spoilers in tropes and triggers below
Tropes:
Stepbrothers to friends to lovers
Teen love
Pining
Coming of age
Soulmates
Double virgins
First kiss
Touch starved MC
Lonely MC
Forbidden
Demi awakening
TWs:
Cades dad and grandma are abusive and neglectful pieces of shit
Homophobia
Violence
Bullying towards MCs
Heartbreaking forced breakup
A beautiful love story of two boys, Dillon and Cade, who found their soulmate at just 14 years old. ❤️
The book spans about a decade and follows them from age 14 through their college years.
....
"Dil?" "Yeah?" "Thanks for... not making me feel so alone. Thanks for being my friend."
"He was my Dillon. My best friend. My brother. Now, my boyfriend."
"I love you. You're my home. Forever. Now say it back to me." "I love you Dillon. You're my home. Forever." "Good. I will tell you this every fucking day."
"He was fucking beautiful. How had I gotten so lucky?"
"He was mine, and I was his. Always only half of each other when not together. Incomplete unless we were close or touching."
"Whoever discovered rimming, needed some sort of medal."
"This is what happens when you've reunited with the other half of your soul."
....
⚠️ possible spoilers in tropes and triggers below
Tropes:
Stepbrothers to friends to lovers
Teen love
Pining
Coming of age
Soulmates
Double virgins
First kiss
Touch starved MC
Lonely MC
Forbidden
Demi awakening
TWs:
Cades dad and grandma are abusive and neglectful pieces of shit
Homophobia
Violence
Bullying towards MCs
Heartbreaking forced breakup
March 4, 2023
This had a lot of potential but the writing just put me off a lot..it felt very much like a story told in hindsight (picture Ted Moseby but like, about a taboo topic) which constantly took me out of the narrative not to mention the dialogue felt...really awkward at times 🤷♀️ eh I'll still read anything the author writes, you can't win them all I guess
October 19, 2024
4.5⭐️
3🌶️
OMG Y’ALL, This Book Literally Feel Like A Warm Hug While Reading It. Dillion And Cade Were Just SO Perfect Together And I Absolutely Loved Them Separately And Also Together Because Their Love Is So Tru and I Just Adored Every Second Reading. There Was Some Really Sad Moments, But It All Makes Sense For This Amazing HEA We Got In This Book And The Bonus Epilogue. Also Darren And Christen, I NEED THERE BOOK NOW! Because I Absolutely Adore Them SM! Anyway Please Go Read This Book If You Want An Amazing Heartfelt MM Romance That Has Deep Topics But Also Feels Like A Warm Hug. Courtney, I Don’t Know How You Do Your Story’s Or How You Write Your Books, But Keep Doing It Because You Are A Phenomenal MM Romance Writer.🫶💕
3🌶️
OMG Y’ALL, This Book Literally Feel Like A Warm Hug While Reading It. Dillion And Cade Were Just SO Perfect Together And I Absolutely Loved Them Separately And Also Together Because Their Love Is So Tru and I Just Adored Every Second Reading. There Was Some Really Sad Moments, But It All Makes Sense For This Amazing HEA We Got In This Book And The Bonus Epilogue. Also Darren And Christen, I NEED THERE BOOK NOW! Because I Absolutely Adore Them SM! Anyway Please Go Read This Book If You Want An Amazing Heartfelt MM Romance That Has Deep Topics But Also Feels Like A Warm Hug. Courtney, I Don’t Know How You Do Your Story’s Or How You Write Your Books, But Keep Doing It Because You Are A Phenomenal MM Romance Writer.🫶💕
April 5, 2023
Looks like this is one of those books everybody loves except me. The pace managed to be both glacially slow (I love a good slowburn, but there was a lot of slow and very little burn here) and too rushed - a third of the way in I was bored out of my skull, and despite the ensuing angstfest and drama, that feeling largely remained. None of the characters felt quite rounded, and Cade behaving like a sulky brat throwing the mother of all tantrums when he and Dillon finally met again had me rolling my eyes so hard I might've strained something. And then there was the dialogue, which was at times painfully awkward and stilted. So to sum up: This just... didn't really work for me, in a variety of ways.
March 6, 2023
***ARC Review*** A Home in You
This is my honest review for the ARC I received.
Dillion and Cade come together at 14 years old when their parents date, then marry. Dillion is introverted and Cade is lonely. Cade’s dad doesn’t pay that much attention to him, even seeming to prefer Dillion to his own son after him and Dillion’s mom marry. Cade’s dad is a d*$% for most of the novel. He makes more of an effort near the novel’s conclusion, but his scenes are still anger inducing. Evelyn, Dillion’s mom, is naturally caring. She cares about both boys like they are her own. She’s a bedrock of loyalty and support.
This book was so interesting to me! I was a late bloomer in life, so it was intriguing reading depictions of freshman in high school having crushes and developing and/or growing in attraction to one another. Things gradually accelerate. Kisses at 14. A bit more at 15 1/2. Another step at 17. Dixon handles all of those moments with grace and dignity. A lot of their interactions were sweet and innocent. Dixon’s Author’s Note explains the intent behind being gentle while they were underage, which I greatly appreciated. That said, all the stuff that happens when they are 18 and in college takes a noticeable shift. If the first half of this book is love in its purest form, the second half is love at an almost visceral level.
There’s definitely emotional and mental anguish in the second half of the novel. Dixon does a fantastic job of letting the reader feel just how much Dillion and Cade still crave one another. They are one half of the same soul. Their love for one another withstands all of the obstacles thrown their way. Their reunion is intense. A lot needs to be cleared up. These MCs really work towards their hard won HEA.
Darren, Raven, Christian, Darius, and Aaron lend their support to Dillion and Cade when they need it most. I was impressed how Darren went from a bully to a best ally almost overnight.
This book is a great nod to first love…and first every things. It’s really special. It may make you cry, but it will also make you smile.
This is my honest review for the ARC I received.
Dillion and Cade come together at 14 years old when their parents date, then marry. Dillion is introverted and Cade is lonely. Cade’s dad doesn’t pay that much attention to him, even seeming to prefer Dillion to his own son after him and Dillion’s mom marry. Cade’s dad is a d*$% for most of the novel. He makes more of an effort near the novel’s conclusion, but his scenes are still anger inducing. Evelyn, Dillion’s mom, is naturally caring. She cares about both boys like they are her own. She’s a bedrock of loyalty and support.
This book was so interesting to me! I was a late bloomer in life, so it was intriguing reading depictions of freshman in high school having crushes and developing and/or growing in attraction to one another. Things gradually accelerate. Kisses at 14. A bit more at 15 1/2. Another step at 17. Dixon handles all of those moments with grace and dignity. A lot of their interactions were sweet and innocent. Dixon’s Author’s Note explains the intent behind being gentle while they were underage, which I greatly appreciated. That said, all the stuff that happens when they are 18 and in college takes a noticeable shift. If the first half of this book is love in its purest form, the second half is love at an almost visceral level.
There’s definitely emotional and mental anguish in the second half of the novel. Dixon does a fantastic job of letting the reader feel just how much Dillion and Cade still crave one another. They are one half of the same soul. Their love for one another withstands all of the obstacles thrown their way. Their reunion is intense. A lot needs to be cleared up. These MCs really work towards their hard won HEA.
Darren, Raven, Christian, Darius, and Aaron lend their support to Dillion and Cade when they need it most. I was impressed how Darren went from a bully to a best ally almost overnight.
This book is a great nod to first love…and first every things. It’s really special. It may make you cry, but it will also make you smile.
May 3, 2023
I really wanted to like this one, and I did in the beginning. The theme is something I enjoy, but there were several elements that I found frustrating and disappointing. Parts of the story were unrealistic when it came to dialogue between the MCs, their physical relationship early on, and the drama caused by being forcefully separated from each other. At least they got their HEA ending.
April 7, 2023
everyone in this book is stupid and makes stupid decisions and thinks stupid thoughts. It was unrealistic, cliché-heavy, and boring.
April 24, 2023
When Dillon's mom brings home her new boyfriend and his son for the first time, Dillon is annoyed. He doesn't understand why his mom started dating again, everything had been great in the eight years since his dad passed away with just the two of them. But meeting Cade for the first time, Dillon instantly felt a connection with the slightly older boy.
After their parents got married, Dillon and Cade grow impossibly closer. What started as an unexpected friendship turned into a blossoming romance between the two. As they grew older, their romance grew as well, and after three years, they were as close as could be for partners masquerading as stepbrothers around nearly every person in their life.
But when their romance was discovered, Dillon and Cade were ripped apart. They always had plans to attend the same university where they could openly be together and no one would know them. After a year apart, insecurities and doubts have wreaked havoc on the two and they are no longer who they were when they were boys and in love. Now adults and in college, are Dillon and Cade able to overcome their new outlooks on life to be together again, or are the two done for good?
***************
Written in alternating first-person POV, "A Home in You" follows Cade and Dillon as they grow up and fall in love while dealing with homophobia, stigma, and objections from their family.
This was such a cute read. The romance between Dillon and Cade was so sweet, and reading their story made me so emotional. You could feel how sad and broken the two were when they were ripped away from each other for over a year, but also how happy they were as they fell in love and were eventually reunited. It was just so well-written and the author knew when to pour in the details and angst and when to avoid it. And considering how taboo the subject of stepbrothers falling in love can be, I think the approach the author took to telling this story was great. The complications from this forbidden romance were always considered in the narrative and how all the characters interacted, so it was never something just added to the book for the shock value but rather an interesting and beautiful story to be told.
Both Dillon and Cade were great characters. They had similarities between them that really paired them together but they had different quirks and insecurities that played roles in how they interact with each other and the people around them. Cade grew up with, basically, an absentee dad and an abusive grandma, neither of whom wanted to be around him much. He always knew he liked boys, but hid it from his family because he knew they wouldn't accept him. Nothing he did was ever good enough, despite trying so hard to be a good and dutiful son and grandson. Dillon, on the other hand, had a loving and close relationship with his mother, and it was just the two of them until Cade and his dad came into their lives. He was content with just sticking to himself and the animals on the farm. Of course, they grow and change once their parents get married and they grow up. Dillon wants to show his mom that he is trying with his new stepdad so he agrees to try out for football, and he tries to help Cade grow his relationship with his dad. The boys bond over their new hobbies of football and cross country, and it gives them one more outlet where they can spend lots of time together and even be alone without suspicion. But once they are separated, both boys suffer drastic mental health struggles and issues with their identities. Dillon keeps up with football because he's pretty good at it and he knows it'll help him get into their planned college, and Cade keeps up with running and a facade of liking girls to please his father. As they reach adulthood, they are no longer the soft and kind boys they once were, and at times, they seemed unrecognizable from who they used to be.
The secondary characters in this book were great as well. Darren, Christian, Raven, Dillon's mom, and even the boys' roommates in college were so good to read. While Darren started as an antagonist for the boys in the beginning, he grows to be their closest ally, and the others fall in line throughout the book. Dillon's mom is so supportive of the romance and just accepted it for what it was, she never judged either of the boys for it or hurt them because they loved each other. She wanted Cade to know he was loved since she knew his father never showed it, and she was one of the best parental figures I've read in a book ever. I hated Cade's father and grandmother, which shows me that they were great antagonists. You can sometimes understand why Cade's dad reacts the way he does when you learn his reasonings later in the book, but you still can't forgive him because of the pain he caused the boys. But you can understand him. The grandmother, not so much, but she's hardly consequential to the story.
Obviously, there is a little bit of spice to this book. But just like the taboo subject of the book was well-done, so was this aspect. The boys start experimenting at a young age and the author handled those scenes exceptionally well, and as they grow older, the scenes grow bolder. The author explains her reasonings and thought processes behind everything in a note at the beginning of the book and I just think she put a lot of care into this book. This book was obviously well-planned from the start and she wanted to make sure it was done correctly. I have crazy respect for the author.
I will have no problem recommending this book to literally anyone I can. This was honestly one of my best reads for 2023 and I doubt much can change my mind.
I received a free copy of this book via BookSirens and am voluntarily leaving a review.
After their parents got married, Dillon and Cade grow impossibly closer. What started as an unexpected friendship turned into a blossoming romance between the two. As they grew older, their romance grew as well, and after three years, they were as close as could be for partners masquerading as stepbrothers around nearly every person in their life.
But when their romance was discovered, Dillon and Cade were ripped apart. They always had plans to attend the same university where they could openly be together and no one would know them. After a year apart, insecurities and doubts have wreaked havoc on the two and they are no longer who they were when they were boys and in love. Now adults and in college, are Dillon and Cade able to overcome their new outlooks on life to be together again, or are the two done for good?
***************
Written in alternating first-person POV, "A Home in You" follows Cade and Dillon as they grow up and fall in love while dealing with homophobia, stigma, and objections from their family.
This was such a cute read. The romance between Dillon and Cade was so sweet, and reading their story made me so emotional. You could feel how sad and broken the two were when they were ripped away from each other for over a year, but also how happy they were as they fell in love and were eventually reunited. It was just so well-written and the author knew when to pour in the details and angst and when to avoid it. And considering how taboo the subject of stepbrothers falling in love can be, I think the approach the author took to telling this story was great. The complications from this forbidden romance were always considered in the narrative and how all the characters interacted, so it was never something just added to the book for the shock value but rather an interesting and beautiful story to be told.
Both Dillon and Cade were great characters. They had similarities between them that really paired them together but they had different quirks and insecurities that played roles in how they interact with each other and the people around them. Cade grew up with, basically, an absentee dad and an abusive grandma, neither of whom wanted to be around him much. He always knew he liked boys, but hid it from his family because he knew they wouldn't accept him. Nothing he did was ever good enough, despite trying so hard to be a good and dutiful son and grandson. Dillon, on the other hand, had a loving and close relationship with his mother, and it was just the two of them until Cade and his dad came into their lives. He was content with just sticking to himself and the animals on the farm. Of course, they grow and change once their parents get married and they grow up. Dillon wants to show his mom that he is trying with his new stepdad so he agrees to try out for football, and he tries to help Cade grow his relationship with his dad. The boys bond over their new hobbies of football and cross country, and it gives them one more outlet where they can spend lots of time together and even be alone without suspicion. But once they are separated, both boys suffer drastic mental health struggles and issues with their identities. Dillon keeps up with football because he's pretty good at it and he knows it'll help him get into their planned college, and Cade keeps up with running and a facade of liking girls to please his father. As they reach adulthood, they are no longer the soft and kind boys they once were, and at times, they seemed unrecognizable from who they used to be.
The secondary characters in this book were great as well. Darren, Christian, Raven, Dillon's mom, and even the boys' roommates in college were so good to read. While Darren started as an antagonist for the boys in the beginning, he grows to be their closest ally, and the others fall in line throughout the book. Dillon's mom is so supportive of the romance and just accepted it for what it was, she never judged either of the boys for it or hurt them because they loved each other. She wanted Cade to know he was loved since she knew his father never showed it, and she was one of the best parental figures I've read in a book ever. I hated Cade's father and grandmother, which shows me that they were great antagonists. You can sometimes understand why Cade's dad reacts the way he does when you learn his reasonings later in the book, but you still can't forgive him because of the pain he caused the boys. But you can understand him. The grandmother, not so much, but she's hardly consequential to the story.
Obviously, there is a little bit of spice to this book. But just like the taboo subject of the book was well-done, so was this aspect. The boys start experimenting at a young age and the author handled those scenes exceptionally well, and as they grow older, the scenes grow bolder. The author explains her reasonings and thought processes behind everything in a note at the beginning of the book and I just think she put a lot of care into this book. This book was obviously well-planned from the start and she wanted to make sure it was done correctly. I have crazy respect for the author.
I will have no problem recommending this book to literally anyone I can. This was honestly one of my best reads for 2023 and I doubt much can change my mind.
I received a free copy of this book via BookSirens and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 4, 2023
Tropes: secret dating, stepbrothers, first love, second chances
Feels: 4.5/5
Steam*: 3/5
Kinks: none
Angst: medium
Triggers/potential icks: homophobia, forced separation
Spoilery plot summary to start. Cade and Dillon meet because their parents start dating and get married. Cade knows from the start that he's gay. Dillon comes to the realization over time that he is demisexual and Cade is the only one he experiences attraction for. They have a slow burn relationship, being together in secret because a gay relationship with your step brother is pretty taboo. They've been together for 3 years when they are caught. Cade's dad is homophobic and freaks. He leaves Dillon's mom ending the marriage and taking Cade away, trying to make sure the boys never see each other again. He puts Cade in a new school and tells them Dillon is stalking Cade and must be kept away from him.
There is a misunderstanding. Cade thinks Dillon gave up on him. Cade is bitter and very angry. Dillon is confused about why Cade hasn't reached out to him. He's depressed and his mom makes him see a therapist and get on antidepressants. But he's determined to find Cade again. Dillon finds him again at the college they intended to go to together. They were separated for a year and a half. Neither moved on to anyone else. They don't just instantly reunite. There is some watching of each other that happens, angry confrontations and misunderstandings. But Dillon makes him listen and they get back together.
What did I think of this book? Well, to start with I was a little surprised with the book. For some reason I thought that their shared childhood would be very briefly summarized on the pages and then there would be a time jump forward to the present. Instead, the greater part of the book was before they turned 17 and a half years old. That's not a bad thing just wasn't what I was expecting, so that's just about my expectations. Because it was largely focusing on their childhood years, it did read as a YA book. If it wasn't for the references to video games and cell phones, the book reads as if it was written decades ago. Probably because they basically lived on a farm in a rural area and had very sheltered upbringing. Their excursions were all outdoors or biking to a local shop to get a candy and a soda. LOL, so much more innocent than everything else I've read recently! But there's nothing really bad with that, I'm just setting expectations for the read. And saying that my taste is further away from YA.
I really loved the you're it for me type of love that these two guys had. They imprinted on each other. They loved each other so hard. They cared so much about the other person's well-being and they showed such tenderness to each other in their thoughts and in their touches. It was a well written story. I wasn't a huge fan of Cade jumping to assume that Dillon had given up on him but he's an angsty teen who is hurting so I understand.
Some notable moments:
"“Are you going to tell me why you’re here?” “Fine. Dad found out I was gay. He blamed my boyfriend for it and took me out of my old school. He refuses to believe it.” “Oh, lovely. You have a homophobic father.”"
"That I lost every bit of anger, resentment, and depression said a lot about my connection to Dillon. I didn’t know how bad it was and how much pain I’d been in until we finally reunited."
""Will you marry me, Cade? I realize we’re young, but I’m ready for this next chapter in our lives.” He looked at me with bugged eyes and a massive smile. “Are you sure?” “Definitely.” “I so want that too. Yes, let’s get married.” “Fuck, yeah!” I lifted him and spun him, then we kissed. “I love Dillon!” he yelled out, making me laugh. “I love Cade!” “We’re getting married!” “We don’t care!” someone yelled, making us laugh."
*FYI, I rate steam based on a combination of quality & quantity. I note kink separate from steam because I don't want to underrate steamy reads that don't have much kink."
Feels: 4.5/5
Steam*: 3/5
Kinks: none
Angst: medium
Triggers/potential icks: homophobia, forced separation
Spoilery plot summary to start. Cade and Dillon meet because their parents start dating and get married. Cade knows from the start that he's gay. Dillon comes to the realization over time that he is demisexual and Cade is the only one he experiences attraction for. They have a slow burn relationship, being together in secret because a gay relationship with your step brother is pretty taboo. They've been together for 3 years when they are caught. Cade's dad is homophobic and freaks. He leaves Dillon's mom ending the marriage and taking Cade away, trying to make sure the boys never see each other again. He puts Cade in a new school and tells them Dillon is stalking Cade and must be kept away from him.
There is a misunderstanding. Cade thinks Dillon gave up on him. Cade is bitter and very angry. Dillon is confused about why Cade hasn't reached out to him. He's depressed and his mom makes him see a therapist and get on antidepressants. But he's determined to find Cade again. Dillon finds him again at the college they intended to go to together. They were separated for a year and a half. Neither moved on to anyone else. They don't just instantly reunite. There is some watching of each other that happens, angry confrontations and misunderstandings. But Dillon makes him listen and they get back together.
What did I think of this book? Well, to start with I was a little surprised with the book. For some reason I thought that their shared childhood would be very briefly summarized on the pages and then there would be a time jump forward to the present. Instead, the greater part of the book was before they turned 17 and a half years old. That's not a bad thing just wasn't what I was expecting, so that's just about my expectations. Because it was largely focusing on their childhood years, it did read as a YA book. If it wasn't for the references to video games and cell phones, the book reads as if it was written decades ago. Probably because they basically lived on a farm in a rural area and had very sheltered upbringing. Their excursions were all outdoors or biking to a local shop to get a candy and a soda. LOL, so much more innocent than everything else I've read recently! But there's nothing really bad with that, I'm just setting expectations for the read. And saying that my taste is further away from YA.
I really loved the you're it for me type of love that these two guys had. They imprinted on each other. They loved each other so hard. They cared so much about the other person's well-being and they showed such tenderness to each other in their thoughts and in their touches. It was a well written story. I wasn't a huge fan of Cade jumping to assume that Dillon had given up on him but he's an angsty teen who is hurting so I understand.
Some notable moments:
"“Are you going to tell me why you’re here?” “Fine. Dad found out I was gay. He blamed my boyfriend for it and took me out of my old school. He refuses to believe it.” “Oh, lovely. You have a homophobic father.”"
"That I lost every bit of anger, resentment, and depression said a lot about my connection to Dillon. I didn’t know how bad it was and how much pain I’d been in until we finally reunited."
""Will you marry me, Cade? I realize we’re young, but I’m ready for this next chapter in our lives.” He looked at me with bugged eyes and a massive smile. “Are you sure?” “Definitely.” “I so want that too. Yes, let’s get married.” “Fuck, yeah!” I lifted him and spun him, then we kissed. “I love Dillon!” he yelled out, making me laugh. “I love Cade!” “We’re getting married!” “We don’t care!” someone yelled, making us laugh."
*FYI, I rate steam based on a combination of quality & quantity. I note kink separate from steam because I don't want to underrate steamy reads that don't have much kink."
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 9, 2023
What a sweet and yet angsty story!
LOVED the pacing - this way you can really feel their feelings growing, as well as Cade and Dillon growing up as individuals and becoming the men they are.
It's really suitable for slow burn lovers!
LOVED the pacing - this way you can really feel their feelings growing, as well as Cade and Dillon growing up as individuals and becoming the men they are.
It's really suitable for slow burn lovers!
March 23, 2023
Cute story.
March 1, 2023
Ahh this book! I loved it. It is a slow burn so, it’s a build up of all the heartache to come! Don’t let that put you off because the story is worth it!
This is about two young boys thrown together due to marriage and forming a bond that can’t be broken. They start out as stepbrothers, then best friends, feelings grow and teenage hormones kick in. These two boys are put through the wringer all because they love each other.
I hate that homophobia is a thing, why is it a thing???? It ruins so many people’s lives for absolutely no reason at all. Jared, we don’t like you, how anyone can treat a child so badly is beyond me.
I loved that these boys bond was so strong, they formed a great found family of friends and had to trust that the connection they made was strong enough to push through.
This is a story of young love, a taboo love, first love. These two boys were so different but complimented each other, and made each other stronger. They cared and felt very deep emotions and had a rough ride growing up into men who said fuck you to the world and proved that soulmates exist.
Courtney did a great job taking care to navigate these young boys into adult hood and also tackling being Demisexual. The angst was high in some places but evened out with true love.
Love wins!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Book content -
⚪️Taboo
⚪️Small town
⚪️Stepbrothers
⚪️Demisexual
⚪️Mutual pining
⚪️Hurt/Comfort
⚪️College
This is about two young boys thrown together due to marriage and forming a bond that can’t be broken. They start out as stepbrothers, then best friends, feelings grow and teenage hormones kick in. These two boys are put through the wringer all because they love each other.
I hate that homophobia is a thing, why is it a thing???? It ruins so many people’s lives for absolutely no reason at all. Jared, we don’t like you, how anyone can treat a child so badly is beyond me.
I loved that these boys bond was so strong, they formed a great found family of friends and had to trust that the connection they made was strong enough to push through.
This is a story of young love, a taboo love, first love. These two boys were so different but complimented each other, and made each other stronger. They cared and felt very deep emotions and had a rough ride growing up into men who said fuck you to the world and proved that soulmates exist.
Courtney did a great job taking care to navigate these young boys into adult hood and also tackling being Demisexual. The angst was high in some places but evened out with true love.
Love wins!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Book content -
⚪️Taboo
⚪️Small town
⚪️Stepbrothers
⚪️Demisexual
⚪️Mutual pining
⚪️Hurt/Comfort
⚪️College
April 12, 2023
A home in you is the story of Cade and Dillon. They became stepbrothers when they were around 14 years old. Dillon had a hard time accepting that a strange man and his son were moving into his home when he had been used to living with just him and his mom Evelyn. He quickly changed his mind when he grew fond of Cade and felt a need to care for/protect him.
Cade had a hard time with his insecurities and feelings of abandonment because his mother left him when he was young, and his father did not pay him nearly enough attention. Dillon never made him feel bad for being insecure and instead went out of his way to show Cade that he would be there for him always.
They went through many difficult times but were able to find their happily ever after. I loved the innocence of the characters in this book and the fact that the author took her time showing us the development of their relationship from their teenage years to young adulthood.
I recommend this book if you’re looking for a great young love story ♥️.
Cade had a hard time with his insecurities and feelings of abandonment because his mother left him when he was young, and his father did not pay him nearly enough attention. Dillon never made him feel bad for being insecure and instead went out of his way to show Cade that he would be there for him always.
They went through many difficult times but were able to find their happily ever after. I loved the innocence of the characters in this book and the fact that the author took her time showing us the development of their relationship from their teenage years to young adulthood.
I recommend this book if you’re looking for a great young love story ♥️.
March 9, 2023
STEPBROTHERS finding their soulmate in each other… could there be a more fantastic book that I would want to read?? I think not.
This book is amazing, these characters are amazing, their connection is amazing, and their HEA is amazing! Pretty repetitive, but true! I feel like the cosmos has been guiding me towards several stepbrothers’ romance books lately. I must have done something good to deserve all these treasures coming my way! If you read my reviews, you might have picked up on the fact that stepbrother MM romance trope is my absolute fave! I cannot get enough of it!!
And before I gush too much about the trope in general, let me gush about this book specifically. Cade and Dillon are beautiful. I’d read 47 more books about them. Today.
Dillon and his mother live on a farm and have been alone since his father died years before. Dillon is perfectly happy with their arrangement. When he’s almost 14, his mother wants him to meet the man she’s been dating and his son, Jared and Cade, respectively. Cade has recently just turned 14. The relationship progresses between their parents, soon moving in to the farm house and then getting married.
Cade is a ray of sunshine to Dillon’s introspective personality, and while Cade loves his new home and family, Dillon isn’t so sure. He takes awhile to come around to it, and especially isn’t too sure about Cade’s father, Jared.
Quickly though, Dillon realizes that Cade adds great value to his life and he is drawn to being around him. He brings out the best in him and a protective streak a mile wide.
The best parts of this book are Cade and Dillon’s quiet moments together. They are young so their physical relationship progresses slowly, but their emotional connection is built solidly very quickly. They become best of friends, growing to more.
There are wonderful side characters along their journey - Evelyn (Dillon’s mother), Darren, Raven - that are so necessary to these MCs during their painful and torturous path to be together. There is quite a bit of angst and homophobia so be aware of what you are signing up for. It’s awful to witness and really makes you question alongside the characters, why does it have to be so much work to just love who you want?
The journey for Cade and Dillon spans from about 14-18/19, with an epilogue into adulthood. The ins and outs of their relationship is fleshed out in beautiful and sometimes heart wrenching detail. I never felt bored or anxious for the story to progress - every scene and moment added value to the story.
The steam between them was gorgeous and all the more deeply moving because of their incredible emotional connection. You will not be disappointed when they come together!
This book is amazing and I wholeheartedly recommend it. It is one that makes it in to my favorites list! 5/5 stars
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This book is amazing, these characters are amazing, their connection is amazing, and their HEA is amazing! Pretty repetitive, but true! I feel like the cosmos has been guiding me towards several stepbrothers’ romance books lately. I must have done something good to deserve all these treasures coming my way! If you read my reviews, you might have picked up on the fact that stepbrother MM romance trope is my absolute fave! I cannot get enough of it!!
And before I gush too much about the trope in general, let me gush about this book specifically. Cade and Dillon are beautiful. I’d read 47 more books about them. Today.
Dillon and his mother live on a farm and have been alone since his father died years before. Dillon is perfectly happy with their arrangement. When he’s almost 14, his mother wants him to meet the man she’s been dating and his son, Jared and Cade, respectively. Cade has recently just turned 14. The relationship progresses between their parents, soon moving in to the farm house and then getting married.
Cade is a ray of sunshine to Dillon’s introspective personality, and while Cade loves his new home and family, Dillon isn’t so sure. He takes awhile to come around to it, and especially isn’t too sure about Cade’s father, Jared.
Quickly though, Dillon realizes that Cade adds great value to his life and he is drawn to being around him. He brings out the best in him and a protective streak a mile wide.
The best parts of this book are Cade and Dillon’s quiet moments together. They are young so their physical relationship progresses slowly, but their emotional connection is built solidly very quickly. They become best of friends, growing to more.
There are wonderful side characters along their journey - Evelyn (Dillon’s mother), Darren, Raven - that are so necessary to these MCs during their painful and torturous path to be together. There is quite a bit of angst and homophobia so be aware of what you are signing up for. It’s awful to witness and really makes you question alongside the characters, why does it have to be so much work to just love who you want?
The journey for Cade and Dillon spans from about 14-18/19, with an epilogue into adulthood. The ins and outs of their relationship is fleshed out in beautiful and sometimes heart wrenching detail. I never felt bored or anxious for the story to progress - every scene and moment added value to the story.
The steam between them was gorgeous and all the more deeply moving because of their incredible emotional connection. You will not be disappointed when they come together!
This book is amazing and I wholeheartedly recommend it. It is one that makes it in to my favorites list! 5/5 stars
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 25, 2023
A Home In You
Courtney W Dixon
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶️
A Home In You is a MM young love romance between two stepbrothers. This is definitely an emotional read on all topics. Dixon dives into the world of emotions and makes her readers feel the pain and love that her characters endure.
It’s a bit of a different direction for Dixon as a writer if you have read her other books- but she delivers well on this small town taboo romance. You’re taken through the lives of Cade and Dillon as young boys who are newly discovering themselves as individuals and as brothers. Gone through emotional heartbreak and separted but years later reunited and it’s absolutely beautiful.
It’s a 4.5⭐️ for me personally, just because I am not a huge huge fan of young young love and half of the book is about their childhood. But no doubt it is a beautiful story when it all comes together in the end. But I am a fan of Dixon’s writing. Her writing goes beyond the story, it always provides knowledge about the happenings in the world today- especially within the the LBGTQIA community.
Courtney W Dixon
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶️
A Home In You is a MM young love romance between two stepbrothers. This is definitely an emotional read on all topics. Dixon dives into the world of emotions and makes her readers feel the pain and love that her characters endure.
It’s a bit of a different direction for Dixon as a writer if you have read her other books- but she delivers well on this small town taboo romance. You’re taken through the lives of Cade and Dillon as young boys who are newly discovering themselves as individuals and as brothers. Gone through emotional heartbreak and separted but years later reunited and it’s absolutely beautiful.
It’s a 4.5⭐️ for me personally, just because I am not a huge huge fan of young young love and half of the book is about their childhood. But no doubt it is a beautiful story when it all comes together in the end. But I am a fan of Dixon’s writing. Her writing goes beyond the story, it always provides knowledge about the happenings in the world today- especially within the the LBGTQIA community.
October 25, 2024
A Home in You is a taboo mm romance.
Dillon is shy and reserved when he meets Cade, his new step-brother. Cade is out going and talkative. They are opposites but so good for each other. They develop a strong bond and their connection is unbreakable. The love that builds between Cade and Dillon is beautiful and meaningful, making you root for their HEA.
This story is a loving journey of self exploration and a deep foundation of love and trust. It’s gut wrenching and heart breaking at times. It deals with homophobia and sexual identity, all while also dealing with the taboo nature of their relationship.
There are so many obstacles and they go through such hardship, with so many misunderstandings. Time away from each other makes their bumpy reunion more difficult. But as soulmates, their bond is too strong. They are each other’s home, forever.
I love these sweet boys and their relationship is so loving and built on trust and the strong connections that they have with each other. This is one of my fave mm romances!
Dillon is shy and reserved when he meets Cade, his new step-brother. Cade is out going and talkative. They are opposites but so good for each other. They develop a strong bond and their connection is unbreakable. The love that builds between Cade and Dillon is beautiful and meaningful, making you root for their HEA.
This story is a loving journey of self exploration and a deep foundation of love and trust. It’s gut wrenching and heart breaking at times. It deals with homophobia and sexual identity, all while also dealing with the taboo nature of their relationship.
There are so many obstacles and they go through such hardship, with so many misunderstandings. Time away from each other makes their bumpy reunion more difficult. But as soulmates, their bond is too strong. They are each other’s home, forever.
I love these sweet boys and their relationship is so loving and built on trust and the strong connections that they have with each other. This is one of my fave mm romances!
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