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Sweet, Texas #0.5
Home Sweet Home
A shorter version of this story previously appeared in the For Love and Honor anthology
Before Candis Terry's wild Wilder brothers met their matches, a soldier gets a homecoming in Sweet, Texas
He's given up …
Army Ranger Lieutenant Aiden Marshall fought in some of the most hellish corners on earth and survived. Those closest to him, did not. When he returns home to Sweet, Texas, he believes he's broken and has lost everything—including his soul. The only fair thing he can do to the woman who's patiently waited for him to come home is tell her to move on with her life—without him.
… but she never will
Sassy waitress Paige Walker has no intention of walking away from the man of her dreams. He gave his all for his country and served with honor. Now it's time to pull him from the darkness and give him hope. With a heap of love, the help of the entire town, and a tail-wagging companion, Paige makes sure her hero knows there's no place like home sweet home.
Before Candis Terry's wild Wilder brothers met their matches, a soldier gets a homecoming in Sweet, Texas
He's given up …
Army Ranger Lieutenant Aiden Marshall fought in some of the most hellish corners on earth and survived. Those closest to him, did not. When he returns home to Sweet, Texas, he believes he's broken and has lost everything—including his soul. The only fair thing he can do to the woman who's patiently waited for him to come home is tell her to move on with her life—without him.
… but she never will
Sassy waitress Paige Walker has no intention of walking away from the man of her dreams. He gave his all for his country and served with honor. Now it's time to pull him from the darkness and give him hope. With a heap of love, the help of the entire town, and a tail-wagging companion, Paige makes sure her hero knows there's no place like home sweet home.
149 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 19, 2015
11 people are currently reading
339 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
March 4, 2016
If I could, I would give this novella 10 stars!
Home Sweet Home simply surpassed my expectations, and made a great impression on me. Although it was a very, very short story, it was full of love, hope, passion, and inspiration. The story was so beautiful and it truly touched my heart that Paige never gave up on Aiden. It didn't matter how the war had changed him, she loved him just as he was, flaws and all.
And what Paige and the people of Sweet did for him in the end of the book totally broke me into tears!
I loved it!
Home Sweet Home simply surpassed my expectations, and made a great impression on me. Although it was a very, very short story, it was full of love, hope, passion, and inspiration. The story was so beautiful and it truly touched my heart that Paige never gave up on Aiden. It didn't matter how the war had changed him, she loved him just as he was, flaws and all.
"I love you, Aiden."
She slowly shook her head and held back the wash of tears that burned in her eyes. "You may have given up on you. But I never will."
And what Paige and the people of Sweet did for him in the end of the book totally broke me into tears!
I loved it!
November 24, 2018
3.5 stars
This was a nice sweet novella about a hero who has returned from war with heavy losses. The h/H have been it for each other but when he signed up, he tried to do the right thing and told her to move on but both of them didn't. Now he is back for good and wants to put an end to them for good because he is so damaged inside. Of course the heroine who has loved him forever isn't having it.
This was a nice sweet novella about a hero who has returned from war with heavy losses. The h/H have been it for each other but when he signed up, he tried to do the right thing and told her to move on but both of them didn't. Now he is back for good and wants to put an end to them for good because he is so damaged inside. Of course the heroine who has loved him forever isn't having it.
May 24, 2015
3.5 stars
It's a novella so it doesn't have the same depth as the novels. Plus Aidan frustrated the hell out of me me -- and his reasons were so very cliche when it came to romance with themes like this one (war veteran with PTSD/emotional baggage).
BUT, Paige was a trooper of her own, I loved her determination. Added with two lovely dogs (even if they didn't get enough screen time), I found this prequel of Sweet, Texas series to be quite satisfactory. And I like that their story is now available as stand-alone format rather than part of an anthology.
PS: Per Candis Terry's website, all proceeds of this novella (it costs $1.99) will be donated to Animal Rescue. Always a good cause to buy a story, right?
It's a novella so it doesn't have the same depth as the novels. Plus Aidan frustrated the hell out of me me -- and his reasons were so very cliche when it came to romance with themes like this one (war veteran with PTSD/emotional baggage).
BUT, Paige was a trooper of her own, I loved her determination. Added with two lovely dogs (even if they didn't get enough screen time), I found this prequel of Sweet, Texas series to be quite satisfactory. And I like that their story is now available as stand-alone format rather than part of an anthology.
PS: Per Candis Terry's website, all proceeds of this novella (it costs $1.99) will be donated to Animal Rescue. Always a good cause to buy a story, right?
May 18, 2015
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kimberlyfaye reads
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Home Sweet Home was a short, but sweet addition to Candis Terry's Sweet, Texas series. A novella about one of Sweet's favorite couples – Paige and Aiden – it sucked me in from the start and made me wish it was even just a little longer.
This novella takes place immediately after Aiden returns from the Middle East. He's not in a great place, after losing his two best friends and having to leave his other comrade, one of the four-legged variety, behind. He's suffering PTSD and survivor's guilt. He loves Paige, but is now convinced he's not good enough for her and fears he and his problems will drag her down. Paige, on the other hand, is thrilled to have Aiden back and sure isn't going to let him go without a fight. It was a short story, but it felt complete. (Even if I greedily want more.) It was full of feels – and rather sexy.
I loved Paige and Aiden both. My heart broke for him and the things he had to go through. (Of course, I still kinda wanted to smack him for trying to push Paige away. I got it, but it was frustrating.) Paige was a strong, determined and thoughtful woman. It's not often the woman has a "grand gesture" in a book, but OMG, did she ever. It totally brought tears to my eyes.
Not only was Home Sweet Home a great romance, it was a good illustration of what makes small towns so special. I loved how the town rallied behind Paige to help thank Aiden for his sacrifice. It was really moving. A fantastic addition to the Sweet, Texas series, it could easily be read as a standalone as well. But, really, if you're not reading this series, you're missing out on some of my favorite contemporary romances.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher, via Edelweiss, in exchange for an honest review.
Home Sweet Home was a short, but sweet addition to Candis Terry's Sweet, Texas series. A novella about one of Sweet's favorite couples – Paige and Aiden – it sucked me in from the start and made me wish it was even just a little longer.
This novella takes place immediately after Aiden returns from the Middle East. He's not in a great place, after losing his two best friends and having to leave his other comrade, one of the four-legged variety, behind. He's suffering PTSD and survivor's guilt. He loves Paige, but is now convinced he's not good enough for her and fears he and his problems will drag her down. Paige, on the other hand, is thrilled to have Aiden back and sure isn't going to let him go without a fight. It was a short story, but it felt complete. (Even if I greedily want more.) It was full of feels – and rather sexy.
I loved Paige and Aiden both. My heart broke for him and the things he had to go through. (Of course, I still kinda wanted to smack him for trying to push Paige away. I got it, but it was frustrating.) Paige was a strong, determined and thoughtful woman. It's not often the woman has a "grand gesture" in a book, but OMG, did she ever. It totally brought tears to my eyes.
Not only was Home Sweet Home a great romance, it was a good illustration of what makes small towns so special. I loved how the town rallied behind Paige to help thank Aiden for his sacrifice. It was really moving. A fantastic addition to the Sweet, Texas series, it could easily be read as a standalone as well. But, really, if you're not reading this series, you're missing out on some of my favorite contemporary romances.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher, via Edelweiss, in exchange for an honest review.
September 18, 2015
So... *sigh* Yeah...
I love this story. It's short, it's sweet, it's spicy. It's emotional.
Aiden's got so much going on in his head that's warring with his heart it's no wonder he's confused about what to do with his relationship with Paige. His love for her is undeniable; his guilt over losing his brothers at arms is unbearable. He's caught between living life to the fullest and simply existing. He's also missing his beloved Renegade, a dog he adopted while overseas that couldn't come home with him. It's easy to see why he was choosing to walk away from Paige instead of embracing her completely.
Paige wasn't a quitter. She'd waited for her Aiden to come home. He did but he wasn't the man who'd left her years before. No smiles, no laughter. He was a shell of a man who deserved so much more than what he'd resigned himself to. Her determination to show Aiden life was worth living for himself and to honor the memory of his fallen brothers made me smile, and I wanted her to succeed despite the odds.
It didn't take a village to bring Aiden and Paige together, attraction and love did that, but it took the entire town of Sweet to show Aiden how loved he was, that he was where he should be with the only woman he'd ever need. The townsfolk of Sweet didn't even hesitate to bring happiness back into Aiden's life when they agreed to help bring Renegade stateside. Can we all saw, "Aw!"?
Very few things in life are as healing as the love of a good man or woman. It reaches beneath the strong facade to the hurt below and slowly, methodically soothes it. That ache doesn't go away completely but it doesn't stifle the will to live either. Instead it gives the person a reason to continue on. Aiden did his late brothers in arms a huge honor by living a full life instead of half of one.
A beautiful short story about coming home and discovering that love, with the help of caring townsfolk, conquers all.
4.5*
(Received from Edelweiss via Tasty Book Tours for an honest review)
I love this story. It's short, it's sweet, it's spicy. It's emotional.
Aiden's got so much going on in his head that's warring with his heart it's no wonder he's confused about what to do with his relationship with Paige. His love for her is undeniable; his guilt over losing his brothers at arms is unbearable. He's caught between living life to the fullest and simply existing. He's also missing his beloved Renegade, a dog he adopted while overseas that couldn't come home with him. It's easy to see why he was choosing to walk away from Paige instead of embracing her completely.
Paige wasn't a quitter. She'd waited for her Aiden to come home. He did but he wasn't the man who'd left her years before. No smiles, no laughter. He was a shell of a man who deserved so much more than what he'd resigned himself to. Her determination to show Aiden life was worth living for himself and to honor the memory of his fallen brothers made me smile, and I wanted her to succeed despite the odds.
It didn't take a village to bring Aiden and Paige together, attraction and love did that, but it took the entire town of Sweet to show Aiden how loved he was, that he was where he should be with the only woman he'd ever need. The townsfolk of Sweet didn't even hesitate to bring happiness back into Aiden's life when they agreed to help bring Renegade stateside. Can we all saw, "Aw!"?
Very few things in life are as healing as the love of a good man or woman. It reaches beneath the strong facade to the hurt below and slowly, methodically soothes it. That ache doesn't go away completely but it doesn't stifle the will to live either. Instead it gives the person a reason to continue on. Aiden did his late brothers in arms a huge honor by living a full life instead of half of one.
A beautiful short story about coming home and discovering that love, with the help of caring townsfolk, conquers all.
4.5*
(Received from Edelweiss via Tasty Book Tours for an honest review)
November 20, 2015
I have a soft spot for military romances. I tend to enjoy them more than other romance sub-genres so I was really looking forward to reading this novella. This is not the first time I've come across Candis Terry's work. A few years back I read Anything but Sweet, a full length novel by the author which I adored.
I liked Anything but Sweet because of it's strong characters and Terry's sound writing and I ended up liking Home Sweet Home for exactly the same reasons.
I really like Candis Terry's style of writing. Home Sweet Home was easy to read but was not lacking in description or world building. It never felt rushed which is a rarity for a novella. Candis Terry structured the story perfectly giving the reader a full story without cramming to much into the short 144 pages.
In terms of story Home Sweet Home is nothing new. It is about a Army Ranger struggling to come to terms with all he has seen and dealt with at war, and the woman he left behind. Candis Terry manages to keep this from being repetitive with her writing and characters.
Aiden and Paige are enjoyable to read. Aiden is damaged, hurt and very unsure of what he wants. He is a realy sweet guy with a heart of gold. Frankly he never stood a chance going up against Paige. Out of the two she has the most personality. This is a woman who knows what she wants and sets about getting it. She is fiery, open and patient with Aiden who is very much the softer of the two.
Together they are great, the chemistry between the two sizzles away. Sometimes books where the two main characters are already in a relationship with each other or have a history fall a little flat for me but Terry handles the romance well. This is a story about two people who are very much in love finding their way back to one another after war pulled them apart.
Home Sweet Home is a short, touching and sweet novella. I really enjoyed it and will definitely be reading more from Candis Terry in the future.
May 16, 2015
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
Paige and Aiden's romance is a sweet and fun story even though it has heavy subject matter at times. The couple have been love since they were young and while Aiden has been off serving his country, Paige has waited. When Aiden returns from war he wants to break things off, thinking Paige deserves more than he has to give.
Paige is a strong woman who doesn't take any of Aiden's crap and she doesn't give up. She knows she wants him and she goes after what she wants.
I really enjoyed spending time not only with Paige and Aiden, but with the whole town. The two little old ladies, Glady and Arelene were a hoot.
This is a lovely story. It is part of Candis Terry's Sweet series but can be read as a standlone. I have read several of the stories in this series and they all great small town romance reads.
Paige and Aiden's romance is a sweet and fun story even though it has heavy subject matter at times. The couple have been love since they were young and while Aiden has been off serving his country, Paige has waited. When Aiden returns from war he wants to break things off, thinking Paige deserves more than he has to give.
Paige is a strong woman who doesn't take any of Aiden's crap and she doesn't give up. She knows she wants him and she goes after what she wants.
I really enjoyed spending time not only with Paige and Aiden, but with the whole town. The two little old ladies, Glady and Arelene were a hoot.
This is a lovely story. It is part of Candis Terry's Sweet series but can be read as a standlone. I have read several of the stories in this series and they all great small town romance reads.
April 15, 2015
3.5 stars
I've only read a couple of books in this series, but I'm a sucker for stories with southern boys and snarky girls. This one had both.
Love love loved Paige. She's strong and knows exactly what she wants and how she's going to get it. Aiden is struggling, but you can definitely see that he's a great man. Their story has a lot of history and we get a compacted version; however, it works. It's just enough.
Overall, it was a quick read and a super cute story.
**Huge thanks to Avon Books and Edelweiss for providing the arcs in exchange for an honest review**
I've only read a couple of books in this series, but I'm a sucker for stories with southern boys and snarky girls. This one had both.
Love love loved Paige. She's strong and knows exactly what she wants and how she's going to get it. Aiden is struggling, but you can definitely see that he's a great man. Their story has a lot of history and we get a compacted version; however, it works. It's just enough.
Overall, it was a quick read and a super cute story.
**Huge thanks to Avon Books and Edelweiss for providing the arcs in exchange for an honest review**
July 12, 2015
~~ Intense and Heartwarming ~~
This novella packed quite a punch. The hero Aidan has PTSD from war and comes back to Paige in their hometown of Sweet, Idaho. It took no time at all to feel compassion and respect for Aidan when he came back to his hometown. Paige handled his fears and insecurities with kind and loving flare. I love the town of Sweet, too. They band together for the good. Home Sweet Home is a passionate and sweet story that will warm your heart.
~Laurie Kozlowski
This novella packed quite a punch. The hero Aidan has PTSD from war and comes back to Paige in their hometown of Sweet, Idaho. It took no time at all to feel compassion and respect for Aidan when he came back to his hometown. Paige handled his fears and insecurities with kind and loving flare. I love the town of Sweet, too. They band together for the good. Home Sweet Home is a passionate and sweet story that will warm your heart.
~Laurie Kozlowski
June 12, 2015
4.5 Stars
Read
May 19, 2020I'm going to be unhauling this one. I wasn't overly engaged by the characters or the relationship development; it's far too shot to really get me invested in what's happening. DNF.
May 18, 2015
4.5 / 5 stars
Received review copy in exchange for an honest review; original tour post can be found at:
http://mnonmklreviews.blogspot.com/20...
I once to detested novellas. When I thought of them, I thought of Christmas time and that was the only time of the year they could and should be released. The problem, I learned over the past year, was simply the way the novellas were written. I great novella will still hit all my drivers when it comes to a well written book -- characterization, emotion, depth of plot... Most novellas, too, only take place over the span of a day. Forgive me for not believing that two people can fall in love that quickly.
Four days, 96 hours straight, while trapped in a car with bad guys chasing you? Sure. I can believe that. But it certainly needs to be more than 24 hours.
In the last year, though, I've managed to come across so many well written novellas that my problem with them just doesn't exist any more. Instead, I get excited when I open up the file and see it's a short book. Oooh, a ninety minute read! That's what goes through my head these days.
HOME SWEET HOME is a good novella. Not only do we get characterization, our characters have a past, were already in love to a degree... and Candis put in timeframe jumps that worked/didn't take away from the storyline.
This story is the beginning to Candis Terry's Sweet, Texas series; it is indeed a reissue, but word on the street says that the story has been filled out some. I never read the first publishing, so I couldn't tell you for sure or if the changes were necessary or not but I can tell you that it's cute, it's sweet, and you may just need to have your tissue handy.
When Aiden left for the military, he was leaving behind his best friend and love, Paige. He never imagined she would wait for him. When he returns, he's battling an immense amount of survivors guilt, among other things, and doesn't feel right about keeping Paige away from a lifetime of happiness -- so he finds her to officially break up with her.
The thing is, these two are drawn to one another like moths to a flame. While reading their story, you see and feel the familiarity; you see and feel the love; you see and feel the understanding. You sense Aiden's apprehension to saying goodbye -- because he honestly loves her but feels that this is the best act he can do for her, so he's going to let her go. Likewise, Paige's love for him is just as strong. Not only did she wait for him -- without him asking -- she puts forth an effort to help make him whole again, regardless of the situation that life puts them in.
I very much enjoyed this early look in to Sweet, Texas. I've read book four and am 'touring' with five in a few weeks and I have to say, this is certainly a cute contemporary series that makes you wish that maybe, just maybe, this little piece of Texas could be visited.
Received review copy in exchange for an honest review; original tour post can be found at:
http://mnonmklreviews.blogspot.com/20...
I once to detested novellas. When I thought of them, I thought of Christmas time and that was the only time of the year they could and should be released. The problem, I learned over the past year, was simply the way the novellas were written. I great novella will still hit all my drivers when it comes to a well written book -- characterization, emotion, depth of plot... Most novellas, too, only take place over the span of a day. Forgive me for not believing that two people can fall in love that quickly.
Four days, 96 hours straight, while trapped in a car with bad guys chasing you? Sure. I can believe that. But it certainly needs to be more than 24 hours.
In the last year, though, I've managed to come across so many well written novellas that my problem with them just doesn't exist any more. Instead, I get excited when I open up the file and see it's a short book. Oooh, a ninety minute read! That's what goes through my head these days.
HOME SWEET HOME is a good novella. Not only do we get characterization, our characters have a past, were already in love to a degree... and Candis put in timeframe jumps that worked/didn't take away from the storyline.
This story is the beginning to Candis Terry's Sweet, Texas series; it is indeed a reissue, but word on the street says that the story has been filled out some. I never read the first publishing, so I couldn't tell you for sure or if the changes were necessary or not but I can tell you that it's cute, it's sweet, and you may just need to have your tissue handy.
When Aiden left for the military, he was leaving behind his best friend and love, Paige. He never imagined she would wait for him. When he returns, he's battling an immense amount of survivors guilt, among other things, and doesn't feel right about keeping Paige away from a lifetime of happiness -- so he finds her to officially break up with her.
The thing is, these two are drawn to one another like moths to a flame. While reading their story, you see and feel the familiarity; you see and feel the love; you see and feel the understanding. You sense Aiden's apprehension to saying goodbye -- because he honestly loves her but feels that this is the best act he can do for her, so he's going to let her go. Likewise, Paige's love for him is just as strong. Not only did she wait for him -- without him asking -- she puts forth an effort to help make him whole again, regardless of the situation that life puts them in.
I very much enjoyed this early look in to Sweet, Texas. I've read book four and am 'touring' with five in a few weeks and I have to say, this is certainly a cute contemporary series that makes you wish that maybe, just maybe, this little piece of Texas could be visited.
May 24, 2015
Another beautiful novella in the Sweet, Texas series by Candis Terry, for lovers of small town romance and military heroes.
I have only read one other book in this series, and I definitely need to find a little time to read all the other books, because I really love this little town called Sweet. Even though this book has been published later, it is actually set way before all the other books so I didn’t have trouble following the story or getting hooked.
It is a beautiful romance between two childhood sweethearts who’ve been separated in the last few years because of the hero joining the army after 9/11. The story starts with the hero coming home, and I immediately loved Aiden. He’s a broken man, just like every soldier coming home after having seen his best friends die, and he’s on a mission of saying goodbye to the love of his life because he thinks she deserves more than the shell of the man who’s come home from the Middle East.
The heroine, Paige, is fantastic. She’s not exactly your typical damsel in distress; from the very first minute she sees Aiden, she makes it her mission to win him back, now that he’s home for good. She’s been waiting for him for a long time, and she’s determined to not let his insecurities (and stubbornness) get in the way. She wants her man, and she’s gonna get him: easy peasy! :)
I really liked the connection between them, the way they both have been faithful to each other even when he was thousands of miles away. All through the book, you feel the love burning between them even when Aiden tries to push Paige away, to let her get on with her life. I loved that she didn’t get discouraged and fought for him, and I especially loved what she did (helped by the whole town) – I can’t say what this is, as it would give away the ending and spoil it all, but I can say it was very sweet and extremely touching.
Despite the name of the town, expect some steam, ‘cause when the two get together sparks fly!
If you’re looking for a quick read filled with love, you should pick up this book.
***I received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review***
I have only read one other book in this series, and I definitely need to find a little time to read all the other books, because I really love this little town called Sweet. Even though this book has been published later, it is actually set way before all the other books so I didn’t have trouble following the story or getting hooked.
It is a beautiful romance between two childhood sweethearts who’ve been separated in the last few years because of the hero joining the army after 9/11. The story starts with the hero coming home, and I immediately loved Aiden. He’s a broken man, just like every soldier coming home after having seen his best friends die, and he’s on a mission of saying goodbye to the love of his life because he thinks she deserves more than the shell of the man who’s come home from the Middle East.
The heroine, Paige, is fantastic. She’s not exactly your typical damsel in distress; from the very first minute she sees Aiden, she makes it her mission to win him back, now that he’s home for good. She’s been waiting for him for a long time, and she’s determined to not let his insecurities (and stubbornness) get in the way. She wants her man, and she’s gonna get him: easy peasy! :)
I really liked the connection between them, the way they both have been faithful to each other even when he was thousands of miles away. All through the book, you feel the love burning between them even when Aiden tries to push Paige away, to let her get on with her life. I loved that she didn’t get discouraged and fought for him, and I especially loved what she did (helped by the whole town) – I can’t say what this is, as it would give away the ending and spoil it all, but I can say it was very sweet and extremely touching.
Despite the name of the town, expect some steam, ‘cause when the two get together sparks fly!
If you’re looking for a quick read filled with love, you should pick up this book.
***I received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review***
May 19, 2015
I don't read many novellas because I end up feeling bereft when they're finished. I am always wanting more and don't feel I get enough time with the characters. However, I love Candis Terry's Sweet, Texas series and her novellas actually work really well for me. I have always wondered about Paige and Aiden, so it was nice to see these two getting together.
Aiden has just returned from being deployed in Afghanistan and he comes home bearing a pretty heavy dose of survivors' guilt. Having lost his best friends, he doesn't feel like he deserves happiness when they cannot experience any emotion ever again. He is a changed man and for that reason alone, he cannot be the man for Paige. Paige and Aiden have a history though, and she isn't going to let him go without a fight. I admire her for standing strong and knowing that Aiden just needs some convincing that his friends would want him to go on with his life and be happy. I'm glad for Paige's strength. She knows Aiden loves her, but is holding himself back, which is what makes his letting her go a bit easier to swallow. Still, I wanted to shake the man for being so silly!
This is a super quick read, so we only get to see a few of Sweet's famous townsfolk. However, the town steps up in a really big way for Aiden and even though I knew it was coming, the end completely melted my heart into a puddle of goo.
I loved Paige and Aiden's chemistry too. For such a short novella, there were some very sexy times between them and I totally loved those. I like that they already had a shared history of love together. It made the book that much sweeter for me.
*Received a copy of this book via Edelweiss in exchange for a fair and honest review.*
Aiden has just returned from being deployed in Afghanistan and he comes home bearing a pretty heavy dose of survivors' guilt. Having lost his best friends, he doesn't feel like he deserves happiness when they cannot experience any emotion ever again. He is a changed man and for that reason alone, he cannot be the man for Paige. Paige and Aiden have a history though, and she isn't going to let him go without a fight. I admire her for standing strong and knowing that Aiden just needs some convincing that his friends would want him to go on with his life and be happy. I'm glad for Paige's strength. She knows Aiden loves her, but is holding himself back, which is what makes his letting her go a bit easier to swallow. Still, I wanted to shake the man for being so silly!
This is a super quick read, so we only get to see a few of Sweet's famous townsfolk. However, the town steps up in a really big way for Aiden and even though I knew it was coming, the end completely melted my heart into a puddle of goo.
I loved Paige and Aiden's chemistry too. For such a short novella, there were some very sexy times between them and I totally loved those. I like that they already had a shared history of love together. It made the book that much sweeter for me.
*Received a copy of this book via Edelweiss in exchange for a fair and honest review.*
May 22, 2015
Posted on What I'm Reading
Home Sweet Home is a sweet story about a soldier coming home and deciding to break-off with the girl who has waited patiently for his return. I know that sounds so horrible when put in that context. However, Aiden came back from the war a changed man, and believe wasn't good enough for Paige. Now Paige is so happy to have him back and will do anything to prove that she will take him just the way he is.
I enjoyed this story, because you have Aiden who is dead set on letting Paige go even though he doesn't want to. Then you have page who wants to be with him and is willing to help him no matter what. I like this story, because you do have couples that are like this. One is left behind anxiously waiting for the others return to find another person in there stead, and they are trying to move forward from where they left off. However, you have one that has no desire to move together and believes they should part ways. Not an easy task when one feels like the other is making a mistake. So, I like Paige's persistence to show Aiden that she can help him. Sometimes that one person needs time and help to realize what they need is right in front of them.
Man I gave a wordy review saying I liked the story. It's a quick read about returning home change and making adjustment to civilian life. Any military personnel will come back from war a change person, but what matters is what the love one is willing to do. It's not easy for either party, but if they are willing to work towards the same goal. Fortunately, for Aiden he has a stubborn gal in Paige.
Copy provided by Avon via Edelweiss.
Home Sweet Home is a sweet story about a soldier coming home and deciding to break-off with the girl who has waited patiently for his return. I know that sounds so horrible when put in that context. However, Aiden came back from the war a changed man, and believe wasn't good enough for Paige. Now Paige is so happy to have him back and will do anything to prove that she will take him just the way he is.
I enjoyed this story, because you have Aiden who is dead set on letting Paige go even though he doesn't want to. Then you have page who wants to be with him and is willing to help him no matter what. I like this story, because you do have couples that are like this. One is left behind anxiously waiting for the others return to find another person in there stead, and they are trying to move forward from where they left off. However, you have one that has no desire to move together and believes they should part ways. Not an easy task when one feels like the other is making a mistake. So, I like Paige's persistence to show Aiden that she can help him. Sometimes that one person needs time and help to realize what they need is right in front of them.
Man I gave a wordy review saying I liked the story. It's a quick read about returning home change and making adjustment to civilian life. Any military personnel will come back from war a change person, but what matters is what the love one is willing to do. It's not easy for either party, but if they are willing to work towards the same goal. Fortunately, for Aiden he has a stubborn gal in Paige.
Copy provided by Avon via Edelweiss.
May 29, 2015
Author Candis Terry has created a fabulous community in her Sweet Texas novels. Sweet is a small town filled with lots of real life drama, quirky and loveable characters, and sexy heroes and their heroines. The hero of Home Sweet Home is Army Ranger Lieutenant Aiden Marshall who has returned home to Texas a changed man. He has experienced first hand the nightmare of war, watched his two childhood friends die in an explosion and left his beloved dog in Afghanistan. Suffering from survivor's guilt, he is a man without hope.
Paige Walker has waited patiently for Aiden, her high school sweetheart, to return home. Ms Terry has created a strong, endearing heroine in this story. Paige knows what she wants. And that's Aiden. While Aiden has been serving in Afghanistan, Paige has started her own accounting business, bought a home and started an apple orchard. Paige steadfastly believes that she and Aiden can overcome anything. She believes in them. Paige understand that Aiden needs to come to terms with his many losses before he can move
I loved the chemistry between our hero and heroine and that they had been faithful to each other while Aiden served in the military. What they shared was special to both of them. Home Sweet Home is a compassionate powerful story of a couple finding their way home. I loved that the towns people of Sweet were able to show their hometown hero ;how much his service in the Army meant to them. It was very heartwarming. The resolution was beautifully written-- just perfect for this couple and quite emotional.
Paige Walker has waited patiently for Aiden, her high school sweetheart, to return home. Ms Terry has created a strong, endearing heroine in this story. Paige knows what she wants. And that's Aiden. While Aiden has been serving in Afghanistan, Paige has started her own accounting business, bought a home and started an apple orchard. Paige steadfastly believes that she and Aiden can overcome anything. She believes in them. Paige understand that Aiden needs to come to terms with his many losses before he can move
I loved the chemistry between our hero and heroine and that they had been faithful to each other while Aiden served in the military. What they shared was special to both of them. Home Sweet Home is a compassionate powerful story of a couple finding their way home. I loved that the towns people of Sweet were able to show their hometown hero ;how much his service in the Army meant to them. It was very heartwarming. The resolution was beautifully written-- just perfect for this couple and quite emotional.
May 13, 2015
A novella to Ms. Terry's Sweet, Texas series, it lets us glimpse into the lives of two of Sweet, Texas' favorite citizens Lt. Aidan Marshall and Paige Walker. Aidan join the miltiary after high school and Paige waited for him when he left, sending him care packages even when she often did not hear from him. Aidan has been put through hell and does not feel worthy of Paige and tries to break things off, not wanting her to suffer through his PTSD with him. The town rallies behind him, refusing to give up on him going so far as bringing home something he leaves behind in Afghanistan.
Even though this is such a short, sweet novella it does feel like a complete story. Most find they either enjoy novellas or simply find them to short and need more to them. This one seemed to strike a great balance of being just enough--not leaving me wanting or unfulfilled. Of course I could always want more but I am just like that. :) Seriously though, I appreciate that Ms. Terry gave us a bit of a background on Paige and Aidan, so we as readers knew where they were coming from before present day, but did not get so bogged down into that it took away from the present day. Overall it was a lovely story.
**Please note, it was originally published in For Love and Honor anthology though this one has been expanded so even if you read it previously, you will find something new.
Even though this is such a short, sweet novella it does feel like a complete story. Most find they either enjoy novellas or simply find them to short and need more to them. This one seemed to strike a great balance of being just enough--not leaving me wanting or unfulfilled. Of course I could always want more but I am just like that. :) Seriously though, I appreciate that Ms. Terry gave us a bit of a background on Paige and Aidan, so we as readers knew where they were coming from before present day, but did not get so bogged down into that it took away from the present day. Overall it was a lovely story.
**Please note, it was originally published in For Love and Honor anthology though this one has been expanded so even if you read it previously, you will find something new.
April 3, 2016
I really enjoyed this visit to Sweet, Texas and the heartwarming romance between Aiden and Paige. Paige has her work cut out for her, convincing the newly returned war veteran that he has a future to look forward to with her. I admired her tenacity, her patience and her empathy in dealing with the man she wants to spend the rest of her life with, even if Aiden isn't so sure of the same. I imagine this is a scene that has realistically played out in plenty of small towns across America - a woman waiting patiently at home and a man suffering from the loss of his friends, and his confidence in a war torn country. I appreciated that Paige didn't put her whole life on hold for Aiden, taking job opportunities and working towards her future even as she kept her heart open to him. Aiden was an equally engaging character, a man trying to find a new focus, get through survivor guilt and feeling that Paige should move on without him - something his mind and his body shy away from when given the chance to be intimate with her again. The love scenes between them are sweet and sexy. It was a delightful read, and I look forward to another visit to this town. 4 stars.
Note: a copy of this story was provided by the publisher via Edelweiss for review.
Note: a copy of this story was provided by the publisher via Edelweiss for review.
June 30, 2015
4.5 stars!
I've been a fan of Candis Terry for a long time, but I think that HOME SWEET HOME is one of my favorites. Even though it is a novella, there are a lot of touching moments in a story that is very relevant today. Aiden is a hometown boy who has returned home from war, but he's not really there. He is totally numb inside and grieving the loss of the friends he has lost which includes an adopted dog that he wasn't allowed to bring back home. Even Paige, the girl he's known and loved since childhood, is having a hard time getting through to him.
Paige is my kind of heroine. She loves Aiden and while other women would have given up, she never does. Try, try, and try. And when it looks like she will never get through to Aiden, she enlists the town of Sweet to help her give her battle weary man...Hope. And his Home Sweet Home.
Whether you like romances about returning soldiers or stories about four-legged friends, do yourself a favor and read this wonderful addition to the Sweet, Texas series. Don't forget to read the * Author's Note below to find out about where Ms Terry found some inspiration for this story.
* I was given an ARC thru Edelweiss in exchange for an honest Review
I've been a fan of Candis Terry for a long time, but I think that HOME SWEET HOME is one of my favorites. Even though it is a novella, there are a lot of touching moments in a story that is very relevant today. Aiden is a hometown boy who has returned home from war, but he's not really there. He is totally numb inside and grieving the loss of the friends he has lost which includes an adopted dog that he wasn't allowed to bring back home. Even Paige, the girl he's known and loved since childhood, is having a hard time getting through to him.
Paige is my kind of heroine. She loves Aiden and while other women would have given up, she never does. Try, try, and try. And when it looks like she will never get through to Aiden, she enlists the town of Sweet to help her give her battle weary man...Hope. And his Home Sweet Home.
Whether you like romances about returning soldiers or stories about four-legged friends, do yourself a favor and read this wonderful addition to the Sweet, Texas series. Don't forget to read the * Author's Note below to find out about where Ms Terry found some inspiration for this story.
* I was given an ARC thru Edelweiss in exchange for an honest Review
May 12, 2015
This was such a great quick read by Candis Terry!! I really enjoyed it and it left you with that feel good all over feeling. Aiden is a LT with the Rangers and has seen his fair share of tragedies in his time. He fights with the guilt of being the lone survivor of he and his friends that all joined the military at the same time. The PTSD plays with Aiden's mind, but Paige never gives up on him. Paige had promised Aiden that she would wait on him no matter how long it took for him to come back home from the military and she kept true to her promise. It took Paige awhile to finally make Aiden see that she was going to be there for him no matter what and that she was not going anywhere anytime soon.
Aiden was in between deciding what he wanted to do after he got out of the military and Paige offered him a business deal that was too good for him to pass up. This set the stage for this couple and Aiden realized that he better latch onto the woman that had been true to him even though she had no idea how long it would take for him to come back to her. This story had a HEAFN but I would love to know what happened afterwards with this couple. They fit together so perfectly well and this story makes you want more of them. Thanks Candis for a great quick read!!
Aiden was in between deciding what he wanted to do after he got out of the military and Paige offered him a business deal that was too good for him to pass up. This set the stage for this couple and Aiden realized that he better latch onto the woman that had been true to him even though she had no idea how long it would take for him to come back to her. This story had a HEAFN but I would love to know what happened afterwards with this couple. They fit together so perfectly well and this story makes you want more of them. Thanks Candis for a great quick read!!
May 22, 2015
4 star
I was pulled right into this story. The story has laughs, grief, pain, secrets, and heartbreak.
If you have not read the below I would recommend reading those books(s) first
Anything but Sweet (Sweet, Texas, #1)
Sweetest Mistake (Sweet, Texas, #2)
Something Sweeter (Sweet, Texas, #3)
Sweet Cowboy Christmas (Sweet, Texas, #3.5)
Sweet Surprise (Sweet, Texas, #4)
This is Paige and Aiden’s story. Aiden is back from the war but lost a few fellow army brothers before returning. He is determined to break off the relationship with Paige as he does not deserve her. Paige will do anything to keep Aiden. She has waited for him while he was overseas and she is not about to give him up. When he thinks they are going to break up she is going to prove to him he is worthy and also give him the one thing he thought he would never get back.
I felt I was able to connect with the characters and the story was a great read.
I highly recommend this book and can’t wait for the next story from this author.
I was pulled right into this story. The story has laughs, grief, pain, secrets, and heartbreak.
If you have not read the below I would recommend reading those books(s) first
Anything but Sweet (Sweet, Texas, #1)
Sweetest Mistake (Sweet, Texas, #2)
Something Sweeter (Sweet, Texas, #3)
Sweet Cowboy Christmas (Sweet, Texas, #3.5)
Sweet Surprise (Sweet, Texas, #4)
This is Paige and Aiden’s story. Aiden is back from the war but lost a few fellow army brothers before returning. He is determined to break off the relationship with Paige as he does not deserve her. Paige will do anything to keep Aiden. She has waited for him while he was overseas and she is not about to give him up. When he thinks they are going to break up she is going to prove to him he is worthy and also give him the one thing he thought he would never get back.
I felt I was able to connect with the characters and the story was a great read.
I highly recommend this book and can’t wait for the next story from this author.
May 28, 2015
Check out our Home Sweet Home by Candis Terry Blog Tour stop on Wicked Reads.
Reviews by the Wicked Reads Review Team
Veronica – ☆☆☆☆
Paige and Aiden's romance is a sweet and fun story even though it has heavy subject matter at times. The couple have been in love since they were young and while Aiden has been off serving his country, Paige has waited. When Aiden returns from war he wants to break things off, thinking Paige deserves more than he has to give.
Paige is a strong woman who doesn't take any of Aiden's crap and she doesn't give up. She knows she wants him and she goes after what she wants.
I really enjoyed spending time not only with Paige and Aiden, but with the whole town. The two little old ladies, Glady and Arelene were a hoot.
This is a lovely story. It is part of Candis Terry's Sweet, Texas series but can be read as a standalone. I have read several of the stories in this series and they are all great small town romance reads.
Reviews by the Wicked Reads Review Team
Veronica – ☆☆☆☆
Paige and Aiden's romance is a sweet and fun story even though it has heavy subject matter at times. The couple have been in love since they were young and while Aiden has been off serving his country, Paige has waited. When Aiden returns from war he wants to break things off, thinking Paige deserves more than he has to give.
Paige is a strong woman who doesn't take any of Aiden's crap and she doesn't give up. She knows she wants him and she goes after what she wants.
I really enjoyed spending time not only with Paige and Aiden, but with the whole town. The two little old ladies, Glady and Arelene were a hoot.
This is a lovely story. It is part of Candis Terry's Sweet, Texas series but can be read as a standalone. I have read several of the stories in this series and they are all great small town romance reads.
June 14, 2016
3-1/2 stars.
This review is also posted on Pretty Sassy Cool.
I love small town romances and this one came at the perfect time for me. After Aiden comes back from the war, he’s broken inside and decides his long-time love, Paige, would be better off without him. Paige isn’t having it and sets out to remind Aiden why there’s no one else for her.
I loved Paige and how determined she was to make Aiden see how much she (and their whole town) loved and supported him.
There were definite times that Aiden drove me crazy and I wanted him to wake up, but I feel like that was very realistic.
My issue with this story was that I needed more. I appreciate the quick novella that gives us insight into a character or couple, but Paige and Aiden deserved more! Home Sweet Home was a quick read with lovable characters and a town we should all want to live in.
This review is also posted on Pretty Sassy Cool.
I love small town romances and this one came at the perfect time for me. After Aiden comes back from the war, he’s broken inside and decides his long-time love, Paige, would be better off without him. Paige isn’t having it and sets out to remind Aiden why there’s no one else for her.
I loved Paige and how determined she was to make Aiden see how much she (and their whole town) loved and supported him.
“You may have given up on you. But I never will.”
There were definite times that Aiden drove me crazy and I wanted him to wake up, but I feel like that was very realistic.
My issue with this story was that I needed more. I appreciate the quick novella that gives us insight into a character or couple, but Paige and Aiden deserved more! Home Sweet Home was a quick read with lovable characters and a town we should all want to live in.
July 8, 2015
So the amazing Ms. Candis Terry has written another Sweet Texas story, but this one a novella.
This is Army Ranger Lieutenant Aiden Marshall's story. He has returned from the sands of Afghanistan to the pastures and longhorns steers of Sweet Texas. But he also was coming back after losing his friends to IED's and forced to abandon the dog that he has raised from a puppy. He has decided things must change, starting with the one women, he has to say goodbye to...Paige Walker
Paige has been in love with Aiden for years and has waited for him to come back to Sweet, for years. But now he is back, saying words that she doesn't want to hear or accept. So she start a campaign not only to keep him is her life, but also to bring his dog back to him. But will it work?
Such a sweet story that I loved from the beginning and so far this has become my most favorite Sweet Tx story. It was very well written and well researched.
I give Home Sweet Home 10 out of 10
This is Army Ranger Lieutenant Aiden Marshall's story. He has returned from the sands of Afghanistan to the pastures and longhorns steers of Sweet Texas. But he also was coming back after losing his friends to IED's and forced to abandon the dog that he has raised from a puppy. He has decided things must change, starting with the one women, he has to say goodbye to...Paige Walker
Paige has been in love with Aiden for years and has waited for him to come back to Sweet, for years. But now he is back, saying words that she doesn't want to hear or accept. So she start a campaign not only to keep him is her life, but also to bring his dog back to him. But will it work?
Such a sweet story that I loved from the beginning and so far this has become my most favorite Sweet Tx story. It was very well written and well researched.
I give Home Sweet Home 10 out of 10
May 19, 2015
"Home Sweet Home" is just that - sweet with the feeling of home. Paige and Aiden are amazing together. Aiden, a war veteran struggling with his return home tries to push Paige away but Paige has other plans. I really liked Paige, she was friendly and outgoing and knew what she wanted. Her love for Aiden is so real and evident. My heart was so sad for Aiden and his feelings of not being enough or good enough. Sweet, Texas is the ultimate in small towns - where everyone supports each other and makes everyone feel welcome and loved - an ideal place to live. Ms. Terry's secondary characters are fun and bring lots of smiles to the reader as well. This is a really quick read but a heartwarming one. With summer approaching, it's a great read for sitting at the beach or watching the sunset. I look forward to reading the remaining books of this series (this one can be a standalone) and smiling and crying and feeling good all over again! (received copy for honest review)
July 8, 2015
Thanks to Lisa & Tasty book Tours, Candis Terry and Edelweiss for providing the opportunity to read and review this great story. I have wondered about these two for the last couple books, so this was a great read and just what I needed. My deepest apologies for it being posted late. I was having some technical issues.
Personally, this story hit close to home because I am very good friends with an Army Combat Veteran so many things were familiar with what I see when I am with him. I feel much like Paige does about Aiden so it was a great story to read.
Paige and Aiden’s story is one that can be an example of what our service members go through when they come home and they don’t feel “normal” or that finding that joy in life again will happen. I loved Paige’s strength and encouragement for Aiden’s hardheadedness and stubbornness. It gives me hope that love can help combat the struggles that our Vets go through.
This is a short review, because I don’t want to spoil anything!
Personally, this story hit close to home because I am very good friends with an Army Combat Veteran so many things were familiar with what I see when I am with him. I feel much like Paige does about Aiden so it was a great story to read.
Paige and Aiden’s story is one that can be an example of what our service members go through when they come home and they don’t feel “normal” or that finding that joy in life again will happen. I loved Paige’s strength and encouragement for Aiden’s hardheadedness and stubbornness. It gives me hope that love can help combat the struggles that our Vets go through.
This is a short review, because I don’t want to spoil anything!
May 22, 2015
Terry’s writing is wonderfully smooth – it moves fast and keeps you turning pages. Since this is a novella it didn’t take long to get to the HEA, but the ride was definitely a good one. We get to be there as Aiden struggles and Paige’s wisdom has her supporting him every way she can. It’s a story as sweet as the town it is set in and I think that you’ll find yourself ready for return trips (and lucky for you there are about a ½ dozen books just waiting for you).
Full review available at https://romanticreadsandsuch.wordpres...
(Complimentary copy provided in exchange for an honest review)
Full review available at https://romanticreadsandsuch.wordpres...
(Complimentary copy provided in exchange for an honest review)
June 28, 2015
Loved Everything About This Book
I have loved every one of Candis Terry's books but I think this was my favorite. What a beautiful love Aiden and Paige have. Not many books anymore have the love of each other's lives be their first one and only one. I truly enjoyed that they had a simple love, that Aiden's problem was just that he felt inadequate and not worthy of a lifetime of happiness, because of his war experience. It was moving how Paige loved him enough to not want to give up on him and to be willing to keep trying or wait if need be.
I have loved every one of Candis Terry's books but I think this was my favorite. What a beautiful love Aiden and Paige have. Not many books anymore have the love of each other's lives be their first one and only one. I truly enjoyed that they had a simple love, that Aiden's problem was just that he felt inadequate and not worthy of a lifetime of happiness, because of his war experience. It was moving how Paige loved him enough to not want to give up on him and to be willing to keep trying or wait if need be.
May 22, 2015
Cute, emotional and sexy quick read! Paige is great the way she doesn't give up on Aiden. Her plan for helping him deal with some of the issues that make him think he is not the right man for her is so sweet. Aiden is dealing with PTSD issues, but luckily for him, Paige is just what he needs to start working through them. As always, Gladys and Arlene add some humor to the story. Can be read as a standalone.
ARC via Edelweiss
ARC via Edelweiss
May 28, 2015
I thought the treatment of PTSD was a bit weak in the story. You can't really just "love it away". It's a supremely complicated issue and I thought it was a bit too carelessly handled. I know that in novellas you have to infuse a lot of tension in a quick way and maybe this was a way to do it, but honestly, not for me.
Paige was a cool character which redeemed the story somewhat.
Paige was a cool character which redeemed the story somewhat.
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