Where to Start Reading Candis Terry
Candis Terry is celebrated for her contemporary romance novels set in cozy, close-knit communities where love always finds a way. For readers new to her work, there are two primary entry points. The most popular starting point is the Sweet, Texas series, which offers a classic contemporary small-town romance experience complete with firefighters, military veterans, and strong family ties. Alternatively, you can start from the beginning of her career with the Sugar Shack series, which showcases her early style and signature blend of witty banter and emotional depth.
While every book in Terry's catalog features a self-contained romance with a happy ending, reading them in order is highly recommended. Crossover characters, family relationships, and evolving town dynamics build from one book to the next, making a chronological read much more rewarding.
Sweet, Texas Series Reading Order
The Sweet, Texas series is Terry’s crown jewel. Set in a fictional small town, the books follow the rugged Wilder brothers, their friends, and the women who capture their hearts. The series blends emotional healing, second chances, and steamy romance. The recommended reading order integrates the full-length novels with the companion novellas and anthologies to preserve character continuity:
- Home Sweet Home (Book 0.5) [2015]: A prequel novella focusing on Army Ranger Aiden Marshall and Paige Walker. Aiden returns to Sweet, Texas, struggling with survivor's guilt, and Paige is determined to help him heal. A shorter version originally appeared in the 2012 anthology For Love and Honor.
- Anything But Sweet (Book 1) [2013]: The official start of the main series, featuring ex-Marine Reno Wilder and headstrong TV host Charli McKinney.
- Sweetest Mistake (Book 2) [2013]: Follows firefighter and single father Jackson Wilder and his former best friend Abigail "Abby" Morgan, who returns to town to sell her parents' home.
- Sweet Fortune (Book 2.5) [2014]: A novella featured in the Confessions of a Secret Admirer anthology. It follows Sarah Randall as she moves to Sweet and falls for Deputy Brady Bennett.
- Something Sweeter (Book 3) [2014]: Centered on veterinarian Jesse Wilder and Allison Lane, a cynical wedding planner.
- Sweet Cowboy Christmas (Book 3.5) [2014]: A holiday novella featuring Abby's cousin Chase Morgan, a wealthy New York executive, and Faith Walker, the owner of the Magic Box Guest Ranch.
- Sweet Surprise (Book 4) [2015]: The romance between single mother Fiona Wilder (Jackson's ex-wife) and firefighter Mike Halsey.
- Truly Sweet (Book 5) [2015]: The emotional conclusion to the series, focusing on Jake Wilder, a former Marine dealing with the physical and mental scars of war, and his childhood crush Annabelle "Annie" Morgan.
Sugar Shack Series Reading Order
Before writing about Sweet, Texas, Terry debuted with the Sugar Shack series. Set in a charming, cozy locale, these books follow the lives and loves of the Hayes family and their neighbors. This series is best read in its publication order:
- Second Chance at the Sugar Shack (Book 1) [2011]: Candis Terry's debut novel introduces Kate McKnight and Brody Hayes as they navigate past hurts and new beginnings in a cozy bakery setting.
- Any Given Christmas (Book 2) [2011]: A heartwarming holiday-themed romance following Dean and Holly.
- Somebody Like You (Book 3) [2012]: The final book in the trilogy, featuring the romance between Kelly Hayes and Luke Bennett.
Sunshine Creek Vineyard Series Reading Order
Following the conclusion of her Texas series, Terry shifted focus to the scenic Pacific Northwest. The Sunshine Creek Vineyard series is set in Sunshine Valley and centers on the Kincade brothers as they try to preserve their family's winery legacy while falling in love. Read this series in order:
- A Better Man (Book 1) [2016]: Follows Jordan Kincade, a professional hockey player who returns home to Sunshine Valley to face the life and people he left behind.
- Perfect for You (Book 2) [2017]: Centers on Declan Kincade, a workaholic businessman who learns to slow down and find love.
- Tangled Up in Tinsel (Book 3) [2017]: A festive holiday romance featuring Parker Kincade, who is busy opening a restaurant while managing his family's chaotic wedding preparations.
What to Know Before You Start
Candis Terry's romances are characterized by their focus on healing, emotional growth, and community. Many of her male leads are firefighters, military veterans, or professional athletes dealing with transitions in their lives. The themes of mutual support and small-town solidarity are strong throughout. While you can read books like Sweet Cowboy Christmas or Tangled Up in Tinsel as standalone holiday reads, you will get the most out of the experience by reading each series from the beginning, allowing you to watch the recurring cast of characters grow, marry, and support one another.