Sandy M’s review of Home Sweet Home (Sweet, Texas, Book 4.5)  by Candis Terry
Contemporary Romance novella published by Avon Impulse 19 May 15

I have thoroughly enjoyed every one of Candis Terry’s books since I discovered her debut, Second Chance at the Sugar Shack, back in 2011. Her characters are down to earth, fun, loyal, and you wish you were friends with each of them. Her little town of Sweet, Texas is the perfect small-town America place for love and romance. If you’ve not read any of her books, you’re missing out, believe me.

Aiden is back in Sweet after a difficult and tragic tour in Afghanistan. He’s lost two friends to the war and had to leave behind a third, Renegade, the dog that saved his and his buddies’ butts more than once. That and more has brought Aiden to a place where he feels he can’t continue his relationship with Paige – she deserves better and more.

But Paige isn’t a woman to let go of the man she’s waited for all this time. She understands what he’s going through, and she feels for him, but she’s not about to let him throw their love out the window. They need each other – she’s not without her own personal issues – so it’s time to make sure Aiden comes to the same realization.

Paige is wonderful. She’s strong and independent, but that soft side of her is just what Aiden needs right now. That and showing him how much he means to her, even when he’s ready to walk away – which he does a few times. The man is in love with her and he can’t keep his hands to himself, despite his good intentions. Paige knows this and works with it, drawing him in little by little. In the background she’s also working to bring Renegade stateside, hoping that will accelerate at least a part of Aiden’s healing.

It’s great to catch up with past characters, especially when they come together to tell Aiden how they feel about his sacrifice. Wonderfully emotional scene. This entire series is lighthearted with underlying issues that can touch any of us at any give time, with characters who give and love unconditionally. What can be sweeter than that?

Grade: A

Summary:

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.

Read an excerpt.

Other books in this series: