Member Reviews
This was sooo much better than the first!
I recently read Done and Dusted and whilst I enjoyed it and flew through it, it definitely read like a debut. I can really see an improvement in Sage's writing in this one.
This story follows Wes, our sad boy cowboy king, and Ada, a city girl fleeing from her past relationship to renovate the new guest house on Rebel Blue. They meet in a bar and are instantly attracted to each other and have a steamy make out session. The next day Ada turns up for her first day at Rebel Blue and who is her boss? Naturally, it's Wes. Wes is absolutely smitten, but Ada is guarding her heart after a messy relationship.
I really loved their relationship and it felt much more developed than the relationship in the first book. I've seen a lot of reviews complaining about Ada being indecisive, but I think her reasoning for her feelings makes complete sense, and the way people spoke about it made it seem like she changed her mind every other page, but I didn't really notice it.
I also preferred the smut in this book. I feel like all in all, the relationship was just sweeter, and maybe it was just that I preferred the characters in this too, I don't know. But I do love Wes. There were a few lines which raised a little bit of a red flag to do with jealousy, but he was self-aware about it, so I forgive him.
There is one thing which I think Sage is improving on, but still needs some work with, and that's the third act conflict. The one in Done and Dusted was ridiculous and I really didn't like it, but in this book it was definitely better. I still think It was a little bit rushed and a bit silly, but I never really like the third act conflict anyway, so yeah. I do think she's getting better though as she writes more books. I'm very excited for book three and would highly recommend this one!
This was incredibly sweet and wholesome, with a dash of vulnerability and mental health rep.
Wes and Ada had a truly amazing connection, and where I am usually not a fan of instant lust, it felt very genuine to me in this instance. Even better that it developed into love so beautifully and naturally.
I loved returning to Rebel Blue Ranch, the gorgeous setting and wonderful characters.
This was a cute read, very samey with other cowboy romances I’ve read… reminiscent of Elsie Silver’s novels (but I probably prefer hers).
I didn’t hate it, I didn’t love it.
The writing style was very casual, a bit too conversational for me.
Predictable but sweet.
📚 small town romance
📚 workplace romance
📚 Insta love
📚 forced proximity
📚 cowboy x introvert
📚 dual POV
🌶️🌶️🌶️
|Thoughts|
We’re back at the Devils Boot, where it appears all romance starts.
“Right. Coffee. That’s what I was doing. Not getting pressed up again the wall by a hot cowboy in a dusty dive bar”.
Although a fun story, this didn’t hook me as much as the first book in the series. It was still an enjoyable read with some heartwarming moments but not one that I’d pick up again.
This book really shines with the ensemble of characters and their interactions with each other. Between the siblings, their father and their close friends. Which made for some sweet moments throughout the story.
Bonus points because their is a cute matchmaking dog.
“Why did his dog have to be so cute?? He shouldn’t get to have a cute dog and dimples”
Was hoping we’d get to delve more into Ada’s past relationship and Wes’ mental struggles (although we still have more books ahead). And although we get our HEA, it did all end a bit abruptly.
“Some days I wasn’t very proud to be me, but I was always proud to be my dad’s son”.
I’m still very invested in the lives of those at Rebel Blue Ranch and look forward to Teddy & Augusts’ story!
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 (rounded up)
Thank you to Netgalley, the publisher & author for an eARC in exchange for this honest review.
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Thank you to Lyla Sage and Quercus Books for the arc of Swift and Saddled in exchange for an honest review. I absolutely adored this! I gave it 4.5 stars but have rounded up my rating on goodreads.
Wes and Ada are both characters who I relate to so much, in very different ways. Ada for her sensitivites and the way she views herself and Wes for his tendency to push aside his own needs and wants for the sake of others. I absolutely loved the exploration into both of these character traits.
The plot was really fun, I always appreciate a work place/forbidden/'shall we go there/shall we not' kind of situation and this one was no exception. If there's anything Lyla knows how to write, it is good tension.
I also thoroughly enjoyed the continuation of Emmy and Luke's story as a side plot. And the sneak peek and hints we got for the upcoming books and their couples *cough* Teddy and Gus *cough*!!!!
Overally, I really loved this one and can't wait for the next one to come out! Wes is a new book boyfriend for sure!!
Done and Dusted didn't work for me, but I'm glad Swift and Saddled did. It was so sweet, sexy and comforting.
The connection between Ada and Wes felt genuine and real to me, they're so lovely. I'm glad this book didn't have a crazy amount of spicy scenes because it allowed the characters to grow and they had a lot of depth.
I related a lot to Ada and her insecurities. She feels that she's not good enough and that she's unlikable because she doesn't have a bubbly personality and takes a while to feel comfortable around other people. I loved seeing her become more confident and realise that she's worthy of being loved and appreciated.
Wes is an absolute sweetheart. I need someone to tell me where I can find one. Not only is he a very sexy cowboy (with dimples!!!), he's kind, selfless, generous and so caring. All in all, he's perfect.
I loved the way Wes and Ada communicated with each other (their first spicy scene was so hot because there was open communication 🥵) and Wes always reassured Ada that she could be as honest with him as she wanted.
Something I also really liked was how the author approached the topic of mental illness, especially depression. It's so important to talk about it without shame.
The ranch is amazing and I can totally see myself moving there, it's so peaceful. And the characters added to the sense of community that I love in a small town romance.
I didn't like the conflict towards the end, it didn't last long, it was very quick, but it was unnecessary for me. There's a bit of insta-lust in this book and I would have liked the romance to have taken a bit more time to develop, but overall I enjoyed reading this book. I'm looking forward to the next book as it's finally Teddy and Gus' time to shine 🤭
Thank you NetGalley and Quercus Books for the e-arc.
✮ ✮ ✮ ✮.5 / 5
This book was one of my highly anticipated 2024 releases and I just about squealed when I was approved for the ARC! 🤭
After reading Done and Dusted, I was so excited for Gus and Teddy’s book, that I almost forgot about Wes 🙈 But let me tell you, I have fallen head over cowboy boots for Weston Ryder 🫠 He was sweet, supportive, sexy and so flipping REAL! I loved his honesty about his struggles with his mental health. He loves his family and the Ryder legacy so much and gives his all to make them proud. And I loved when they showed him how proud they were of him 🥹
There’s something about Small Town Romance Family Dads, and Amos Ryder is one of the best! His love for all his children was so pure, and I loved his subtle meddling 😆
Ada’s character was so relatable. I loved her inner monologues and thoughts. Her self doubts and insecurities were so real, that I think every girl who reads this book will empathise with her. She was raw and real, and so refreshing to see come out of her shell and see her worth, and Wes was the perfect partner to help her along the way. He was so patient with her, let her set the pace and held back until she was ready to take the next step, in all aspects of their relationship. Their love was sweet and pure, and I didn’t know how much I needed their story!
And now I really can’t wait for Gus and Teddy!! 😍
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Tropes:
- Small Town Romance
- Cowboy Romance
- Black Cat x Golden Retriever
- Mental Health Rep
- He’s Her Boss
- Found Family
- He Falls First
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC.
I absolutely loved the first book in this series and was delighted to be approved for this ARC! I think I may have enjoyed this book more than the first - which is rare for a series!
Interior designer Ada travels to Rebel Blue ranch in Wyoming to work on a project, with hot cowboy Wes overseeing the project. They have a steamy make out before they both realise they’re working together.
Things I loved:
- The grump (Ada) / sunshine (Wes) energy - black cat and golden retriever!
- The reflections on mental health, which I think were treated with care
- Wes being a dreamboat, what a book boyfriend!
- The scene setting at the ranch. Makes me want to go there!
Things that didn’t quite work:
- Not much tbh! There were some scenes that went a little long - learning to drive, riding lesson
- A little Insta-lovey, but it did make sense with Wes being the ultimate golden
- There was a call from an ex that went nowhere?
In short: loved this. Loved Emmy and Luke in book 1. Would do questionable things to get ARCs of the next books.
It took me a while to sink into this book. It was cute and I love the writing style of this author, but the heavy dose of Instalove at the start was a bit much for me. Plus, the two teaching-her-how-to-drive-a-manual-car scenes were a bit too long. Same with the riding lessons. They felt a little bit unnecessary. So it's no surprise I didn't find it engaging in the beginning.
However, the second half was a game-changer. As Ada and Wes start knowing each other, their attraction gained depth and became more meaningful. Ada, in her introverted, prickly, and straightforward nature, oddly resonated with me. I saw myself a bit on her if I'm being honest.
Wes, a true golden retriever of a man, was lovely, and the ideal opposite to Ada. I'm a huge fan of consent in spicy scenes, it just does it for me, and Wes knew how to do it perfectly.
I loved how they communicated their thoughts and feelings with honesty. It was a breath of fresh air compared to all the miscommunication romances I’ve encountered lately. These characters felt like adults, discussing their fears and troubles. It's good to see a portrayal of a healthy relationship for a change.
The ending struck the perfect balance, sweet and not overly dramatic. Overall, once you push past the 50% mark, the book becomes a super fun read. Stay with it, and you'll be rewarded.
I can’t wait to read Teddy and Gus' story, as well as the potential couple Cam and Dusty. Exciting times ahead!
.Strangers to lovers
.Small town
.Forced proximity
.Working together
.Instalove
.Together during a storm
.No third act breakup
.Cute dog
Another super fun read from Lyla Sage — I'm a sucker for a black cat/golden retriever and this hit the mark! It was so great to be back at Rebel Blue Ranch and I cannot WAIT for the next instalment.
Love love love ! This was so utterly wholesome! I loved Done and Dusted when it first came out and I’ve gotta say I think I like this even more! I wasn’t too sure on Wes from the last book, but he’s such a lovely character and I loved the mental health rep which this portrayed. Can’t wait to find out between Dusty & Cam more so than Teddy & Gus I think! Lyla Sage gets better and better every time :)
I haven’t read the first book in this series, but now I want to go and read about Emmy and Luke! The MMC, Wes, is so sweet in this book. He is genuinely kind and considerate, can see implied boundaries and respect them without having to be told. There’s no smothering or possessiveness, just that kind of surety where you know he’s got your back and isn’t letting you push him away.
I love the way this family interacts and loves each other and I will definitely be seeking out the rest of the series to see what happens to all the little couples you can see forming.
There was a little bit of mental health/depression rep in here, though they don’t go too deep into it. I liked that they discussed the possible side effects of his medication on his sex drive and how it might take a bit to get her there too. Not everyone is gushing from the first look 😅
(What was the deal with the ex’s phone call? That went absolutely nowhere 🤷🏻♀️)
Thanks to #NetGallery and publisher for a copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Genre: Romance
Format: Digital
POV: Dual
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️ /5
Age suggestion: 18+
So, I had seen Done and Dusted earlier this year and I had decided to pick it up and immediately fell in love with Emmy and Luke and the entire world Lyla Sage had created so when I saw that this book would be Wes’ story I was already hyped. I love Wes and Ada together and their story was just adorable. I love how they both find each other attractive and that Wes is kinda in love with Ada the entire time and the way that everyone on the ranch knows it and supports them. Also I love Ada finally pointing out Teddy and Gus and their tension and the fact that we got to see Cam in this book and her ex Dusty (is that another potential book or is Cam going to marry her fiancé). All in all a very good time and I would very much recommend for fans of the first book as well as fans of Elsie Silver’s Chesnut Springs series.
*4.5 stars*
"You're the moon,' he said. 'And I'm the tides. You pull me in without even trying, and I come to you willingly. I always will."
I hadn't read the first book in this series when I requested this book from Netgalley, but I gathered that it was a companion novel so didn't feel the need to read the first one beforehand, and you definitely don't need to, but I loved the characters so much that I will be going back and reading Done and Dusted now because I want more of this adorable family unit in my life.
I have never read a book where the male love interest was as gentle, patient and understanding as Wes was in this book. He respected Ada's boundaries and always asked for consent in even day-to-day tasks that might have made her feel uncomfortable. It was beautiful to read, as a lot of the things he was doing are things that you would assume are bare-minimum respect, but are actually rarely how women are treated, and this is obvious from how shocked Ada is by his actions.
"At his core, Weston Ryder was gentle, and I thought that was the best thing that a man could be."
I really loved the family unit that was introduced in this novel, as Lyla was obviously setting up dynamics for future books, and I am so excited to see what happens. Teddy and Gus's hatred for each other is obviously going to be a great enemies-to-lovers plot, and I'm intrigued to know more about Cam and Dusty's past. Amos also was the cutest father ever. What is it with cowboy books having adorable dads, it's like the Chestnut Spring series all over again.
There wasn't a massive third-act conflict in this book, which I really appreciated. I hate when a book shoves one in when it doesn't feel believable for the characters. Wes isn't one to really fight with people, so I wouldn't have believed it if they had gotten into a massive row. All of the troubles in this book instead come from Ada's own insecurities, which I feel are so much more interesting and realistic, which made me more invested in their relationship, as Wes was able to reassure her about her concerns.
I can't wait to read all the other books in this series in the future, and I will be keeping an eye out for any other books Lyla Sage releases too, because her writing was absolutely beautiful and atmospheric. I really felt that during the hours I read this book I was able to escape to Baby Blue and Rebel Blue Ranch.
Infinite stars for this 🥹🥹🥹💫
What an evolution since the 1st book! I loved Done and Dusted so much that I didn’t think anything could surpass that but girl did it happen. This was the most incredible journey and love story 🥹🥹
Wes and Ada?????? PERFECT PERFECT PERFECT I don’t think I can stop thinking about them, Wes is the epitome of golden boy!! 🤭🤭🤭
I connected with this characters in such a special way. Lyla has the talent to create raw and real characters with real struggles and journeys to overcome them not just for the sake of plot.
Cannot wait for what’s to come and to be back to Rebel Blue Ranch 🥹🥹🩷
I was lucky to get the ARC and I’m felling so so happy 🩷🩷🩷🩷
I came into this book universe completely blind and was absolutely blown away! I hadn't read the first book of the Rebel Blue Ranch series, but I understood the book; it can be read as a standalone.
The best way I could describe this book is heartwarming and cozy. There's just something about the way Lyla Sage conveys the beauty of the world she writes. The couple felt realistic with great communication and chemistry, it felt so refreshing! They were so open with each other about their personal issues, and it felt like they were listening to each other properly. It was just the sweetest thing!
I may have not read cowboy small town romances much before, but I'm completely hooked now (and on her books)! I'm definitely reading the first book after this, and am looking forward to a potential third book.
Tropes:
Golden retriever X Black cat
City girl and cowboy
Dual POV
Mental health representation
Small town
Thanks you so much Quercus Books, Lyla Sage and Netgalley for this ARC, my thoughts are my own.
Firstly, thank you netgalley and Lyla for access to this Arc in exchange for a honest review 🤍
Lyla Sage crafts a touching narrative that evokes laughter and warmth. As I read this story my emotions ranged from the broadest smiles to a few heartfelt tears. Lyla skillfully navigates mental health representation, especially addressing depression through Wes's perspective. It felt like peering into a mirror of my own experiences. The refreshing dialogue around depression, mental health, therapy, and medication, particularly from the male main character's viewpoint, added depth to the narrative.
Wes's, WES WES (Swoon) he effortlessly won me over with his radiant golden retriever energy, paired with an irresistible blend of thoughtfulness and charm. Ada, on the other hand, exudes black cat vibes—complex, guarded, and slow to trust. Lyla's portrayal of Ada as a former “I'm not like other girls" character is both refreshing and respectful, and the way she handled the subject with respect.
The scene where Wes attempts, and comically fails, to make dinner for Ada is a delightful glimpse into his acts-of-service personality. I just love!! I loved being back at Rebel Blue! I missed it so much.
Other news Dusty's entrance and Camille's reaction have left me utterly captivated. Their dynamic begs for its own book, and I NEED their story.
And let me tell you again my excitement for Teddy and Gus's story. Their characters have already captured my heart, and I'm ready for the arguments, enemies to lovers - and the depth that Lyla will undoubtedly bring.
Gosh I loved this book. The quick flash of heat before it turned into a simmer and then came back to a boil was played so well.
I loved getting to understand Wes more as a character and how Ada brought out more in him, but also how he brought out anoter side of Ada. Ada's whole character arc really resonated with me and I loved the way that she came into her while also letting Wes support.
Rebel Blue Ranch as itself just feels like a whole character and I loved getting to go back there. I also enjoyed getting to know some of the other characters better, especially Cam and also learning more about Amos and Stella's relationship.
Overall, this was a really great, sweet read with just the right amount of spice and some really gorgeous passages of writing. I cannot wait to go back to Rebel Blue for the third one.
This book is everything. I’m an avid romance reader and tho I do especially love a cowboy romance this one just took it to the next level! The MMC, what can I say other than SWOON?! The banter, the consent, the mental health rep, the praise omg the PRAISE! I cannot get enough, I could have read 1,000 more pages of this love story. The story was so well paced and I just never wanted it to end!! LOVE LOVE LOVE!
Last year I read Done and Dusted on a holiday in Portugal. I picked it up because mainly because of the beautiful art on the cover. I read it sitting by the pool and finished it within my first day. I loved it. So of course I was excited when I received an early copy of book 2, Swift and Saddled.
Book two follows middle child in the Ryder clan, Weston. He is the sweet and kind second child. He is a hard worker and always there to help those in need, even if it’s a detriment on himself. Ada Hart is new in town. She was hired by Wes to help design the new project he is looking after on the Ryder family farm. She is a strong and independent woman. She is escaping a failed marriage and wants to prove to herself and others that she is good at what she does.
On her first night in town, Ada finds herself running into Wes. There is an attraction straight away. They share a hot and heavy kiss but before any names can be exchanged, Ada runs. It isn’t until the next day, her first day on the job, does she realise the guy she had the best kiss of her life with is now her new boss.
Both Wes and Ada are attracted to each other, but they can’t pursue anything. He is her boss, and she will refuse to let anything hinder her work. But, Ada can’t switch of the way her body reacts to the handsome and very sweet cowboy.
I adored this book. Done and Dusted was one of my favourite books of 2023. Swift & Saddled is even better. I loved Wes and Ada’s relationship. It was passionate and there was a lot of push and pull. Weston Ryder is the most sweet cinnamon roll hero with golden retriever energy. Ada is the opposite. She is cold and distant. She tries her best to deter Wes, but in the end she can’t help it.
This book is a must for readers who loved Done and Dusted. You get to see Luke & Emmy and all the Meadowlark family again. New characters are introduced and you get to see more from the ones you loved (Teddy and Gus, I’m looking at you)