I'm so happy I had the chance to read this little gem early. I had been waiting for months for the release of the second volume of Rebel Blue Ranch. The protagonists this time are Wes, Emmy's older brother, and Ada, an interior designer hired by Wes. The story starts with a bang, obviously the meeting and starting point of the story is the Devil's boot. The attraction between Wes and Ada is immediate, but once she understands that Wes is her boss, Ada abruptly slows things down and wants to keep distance. But let's be serious, who could possibly stay away from Wes? The calf rescuer? The kindest, kindest cowboy in all of Wyoming? Throughout the book we get to see how Ada, a little broken after a toxic marriage, manages to heal and let some love into her life (I don't know if I'm happier for her and Wes or for the fact that she manages to open up to new friendships). The story is told with two POVs (fortunately!), we also manage to look at future stories, I foresee something between Cam and Dusty, but above all, the story we are all waiting for: Gus and Teddy!!! Those two! Thanks to Netgalley and QuercusBooks for this fantastic opportunity.

Wes and Ada. I want one of both.

This book literally made me feel all warm and cozy inside; and literally made me feel like I lived on a ranch (which I now want to do!)

Ada is a girl who I think many relate to. She is constantly undermining herself, believes she is not worthy of love and is quite lonely. She dreams of a life that most of us book girlies read about. So introducing Wes…

Wes is like the golden retriever of all retriever’s. He is the most selfless and kind-hearted book boyfriend ever and I think I am in love with him as much as Ada.

So now I need to go read book one, because I am obsessed with the Ryder family … and cowboys.

I am officially in my cowboy romance era after this book!
I loved the storyline, seeing Layla Sage’s post about how she wrote Ada for who she was and Wes as who she’s grown into really reflected on me when I was reading this! The romance was *chefs kiss*, a great example of the slowest burn after a steamy start!! Would 100% recommend!

Love love loved this. Such a sweet book. Wes was the star of the show for me and his rep of depression, vulnerability and support for Ada’s dreams! Maaaaybe w expos have learnt a little more about Ada’s past as sometimes I didn’t quite understand the reason she was pulling back / trying to run so hard! But I still loved it and cant wait for the next one.

✨swift and saddled by Lyla Sage✨
“But i don’t want to kill you. I want to take you out like on a date”

Okay first of all i want to thank Lyla sage, NetGalley, Quercus Books for providing an advanced readers copy of this highly anticipated sequel.

I devoured this book so much it was worth the wait I’m so grateful I got the arc for this book it was my 2024 most anticipated read and I was lucky enough to read it early I loved reading about Wes and ada and seeing their love story blossom right in front of me it felt so good to be back home in rebel blue ranch I love love love Lyla’s writing so dang much
If you love

💜Cowboys
💜small town
💜reverse grumpy x sunshine
💜forced proximity
💜love at first sight
💜workplace romance

Genre/Type: romance
APK: kindle
Pages: 320
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️♾️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Series or stand alone: Book 2 of Rebel Blue ranch
Tropes or Themes small town cowboy romance
Check Triggers ⚠️ ✨

Miss Lyla Sage does it once again!! Wes & Ada might just be my new favourite couple in a small town romance EVER!
The way I felt immediately at home delving back into the beautiful place of the Rebel Blue Ranch was just beautiful. The absolute peace and serenity this place gives through the pages of a book is truly unmatched.
We meet our main character Ada, a budding Interior Designer who has been assigned to the Rebel Blue Ranch’s newest renovations by Wes’ father. Off to a fierce start in the little town, Ada bumps into Wes and has a fiery little scene in the local pub, and everything sparks from there.
As she turns up to her first day on the job, there is Wes in all his glory, and the story takes on from there. Two complete strangers who had their moment of lust to then continue working together to renovate the newest addition to Rebel Blue Ranch.

The mental health representation within this book was wonderful. Both Ada and Wes having their own individual diagnosis to deal with, but the way Lyla writes about them is so real and so raw that the reader can relate to them both in one way or another.

Swift and Saddled isn’t just your typical small town cowboy romance. It’s a story about love, friendship, and finding home and family in the best and unexpected places.

Thank you to NetGalley, Lyla Sage, and Quercus books for allowing me to read an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

"i followed my dreams and they led me back to you"
"i think i was homesick for Rebel Blue before i knew it existed.”

Reading this book felt like early spring. It felt like five in the morning in a remote cabin in the woods, like watching the sun rise while the fog slowly starts to dissipate and the wind dances through the trees around you. It felt like wrapping yourself in a soft sweater while the Sun starts to chase away the chill. It was soft, while being bold at the same time.

I was sucked in from the start, from the very first moment these two characters laid eyes on each other. I loved both of their personalities and I loved watching them open up about their insecurities. Ada is reserved and doesn't let those around her see beneath her mask easily. Wes is a ball of sunshine, a golden retriever through and through. Despite their differences, they clicked together perfectly. The instant spark between them immediately made me desperate to read more.

All of the important topics were handled respectfully — depression, being a divorcée, trauma from a previous relationship, not feeling good enough, and more.
I loved all of the side characters, but I already loved them from back when I read Done and Dusted. Their relationships, the setting, the writing style, the spice — I loved it all. The ending was perfect and I already can't wait to read the next book.

I’m in absolute awe of Lyla Sage’s ability to construct my ideal characters and plots. Her writing kept me hooked and left me craving the feeling of returning to the world of Rebel Blue Ranch every moment I was away from it. She’s very quickly and easily joined the top of my list of favourite romance writers (which I’m usually extremely picky about). I’m desperate to read absolutely anything she plans on writing and am currently unsure how I will wait for her next release.

𝘛𝘳𝘰𝘱𝘦𝘴:
✰ 𝘴𝘮𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘵𝘰𝘸𝘯 𝘳𝘰𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦
✰ 𝘤𝘪𝘵𝘺 𝘨𝘪𝘳𝘭 𝘹 𝘤𝘰𝘸𝘣𝘰𝘺
✰ 𝘨𝘳𝘶𝘮𝘱𝘺 𝘹 𝘴𝘶𝘯𝘴𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘦
✰ 𝘩𝘦 𝘧𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘴 𝘧𝘪𝘳𝘴𝘵

This book was so adorable. I guess I will always have a soft spot for city black cat type of girls falling for ray of sunshine and simp boys. Ada and Wes's story is sweet and romantic and I highly recommend it once it releases.
You won't regret reading it ✨️🤠

*arc kindly provided in exchange of an honest review

Wes and Ada’s story: A cozy cowboy romance

First of all, I’d like to express my sincere gratitude to Netgalley, the publisher Quercus books and the author Lyla Sage, for generously providing me with a free advanced reader copy. This review is entirely voluntarily, and I want to emphasize that it truly reflects my genuine emotions and thoughts about the story.

Star rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️ Spice rating 🌶️🌶️🌶️1/2

I thoroughly enjoyed "Swift and Saddled," finding Wes and Ada's story relatable. Lyla Sage's writing has a captivating quality that envelops you in a warm and cozy embrace, making her books the perfect palate cleanser after indulging in heavier fantasy or dark romance.

However, my disappointment stemmed from a few elements I’m about to address. The lack of closure for the project of the Baby Blue House, its resolution was told rather than shown in the epilogue. The conclusion felt rushed, and I questioned the significance of a particular phone call that seemed unnecessary. The story left me with a sense of something missing, though pinpointing what that might be proved difficult to catch.

While I appreciated the inclusion of depression representation in the narrative, I felt it could have been explored more deeply. A more thorough examination of its impact on individuals and relationships would have added nuance to the story, as it was only briefly touched upon here and there, leaving me wanting more depth.

I adored Wes's gentle and patient character. Ada, too, became a character I could connect with on a personal level, especially her portrayal of loneliness and the struggle to find genuine friendship. Witnessing her discovery of a forever home and the warmth of a newfound family and friends brought so much joy. The incorporation of the found family trope was a delightful surprise.

While I genuinely adored each character individually, the area where the narrative fell short for me was the initial absence of chemistry between Wes and Ada. Despite their immediate attraction, I couldn't quite feel it in the early stages, although it did eventually spark to life and become more tangible. Unfortunately, this element alone wasn't sufficient for me to wholeheartedly love the story. Nevertheless, I did find overall enjoyment in the romantic aspects.

I'm eager for a book centered around Cam and Dusty, and I'm still anticipating Teddy's and Guss's story. While Ada's and Wes's tale had potential, I found it somewhat lacking overall, despite a few positive elements. Perhaps my expectations were a bit too high. Nevertheless, it proved to be an easy and charming read. I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to read the book early on.

What a fantastic trip back in to Rebel Blue ranch! Walking back in to this world felt like a warm hug from an old friend. Lyla Sage has crafted a place that feels like home.

Every single one of the characters felt so real. I loved how raw the relationship was, it felt like a real couple.

Swift and Saddled by Lyla Sage offers a heartwarming continuation of the family charm found in "Done and Dusted." The Rebel Blue Ranch provides a comforting backdrop for Ada's unexpected romance, intertwined with the delightful Baby Blue guest house renovation. Sage's portrayal of romance is both wild and perfect, complemented by strong mental health representation. The anticipation of future developments at Rebel Blue Ranch adds an exciting element. Lyla Sage's writing continues to shine, leaving readers eager for the next installment in this captivating book series.

4 stars for Swift and Saddled! This was such a good small town cowboy romance!! Focusing on Ada and Wes, this book gave us characters that were attracted to each other from page one (but didn’t make it feel like insta-love!), that had such great communication and chemistry.

Ada as a character felt like she had a lot of depth, as she talks about her past and her goals for her new start, while she feels it is hard to be liked and make lasting friendships. Wes is such a sweetheart!! Literally, that man is too good to be true, and I especially liked the fact that he spoke openly about his depression.
Rebel Blue Ranch has such a cozy and beautiful atmosphere, and the female and male friendships and family bonds helped to make this book feel like a warm hug and made me laugh out loud several times. If you want to enjoy a sweet and honest romance with adorable animals surrounding the characters (a baby calf and a dog especially!!) this might be your perfect next read.

Also, I will always be a sucker for sun and moon comparisons and metaphors!!

‘Swift and Saddled’ by Lyla Sage is a wonderful chance to visit the Blue Rebel Ranch again. While Emmy and Luke from ‘Done and Dusted’ are very present (and SO cute) in this instalment, the story focuses this time on another Ryder sibling… Wes is excited to prove himself by developing the Guest Ranch house (sweetly known as ‘Baby Blue’) and he has hired interior designer Ada to design the place and manage the renovations.

Within the first few chapters, our two leads have met in steamy circumstances, getting to know each other’s bodies after their eyes meet across the Devil’s Boot bar without knowing each other’s names. However, once Ada realises her mystery Meadowlark sexy cowboy is her new boss, she resolves to keep her distance and maintain professionalism. Ada is determined not to get tied down again, after her confidence was destroyed by her controlling and careless ex-husband, even though Wes ignites a fire within her. Wes, on the other hand, is a patient man who has his heart set on Ada. The meddling Rebel Blue Ranch extended family, a cute dog and a helpless calf, Ada and Wes’s shared passion for their project and undeniable feelings draw the two of them closer together, but will Ada’s urge to run away be insurmountable?

My favourite things:
- Ada’s self-doubt was realistic and made her so relatable and loveable
- I adored Wes’s openness about his depression, which was sensitively portrayed
- They had a frank and mature conversation about intimacy, including potential impacts of antidepressants which felt like such beautiful representation
- Emmy, Teddy and Camille welcoming Ada to a girls’ night and proving to her that she is worthy of friendship made my heart flutter just as much as any of the spicy scenes
- Amos (the Ryder patriarch) is just a sweetheart
- Loretta the calf and the dramatic storm scene made me fall in love with Wes even more

I received a free copy of this ebook from the publisher Quercus via NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are my own. I will be publishing this review on Socials later (within three weeks of release date) as requested by the publisher.

This book, this book this book!!!

I absolutely lived for Wes and Ada, once I started I simply couldn't put it down. Their love story was so soft and tender, it made my heart warm. I adored the black cat x golden retriever dynamic, but I think I loved it even more when they were both just so soft for each other, listening and being there for the other person.

I loved both of them as characters and what they represented, Wes being the typical middle child with trying to please everyone and Ada being hurt and lonely for so long that she was bound to run even with a good thing in front of her. Seeing them come together and build each other up was just so so beautiful. Wes making everything in his power to make Ada comfortable, ugh I love this man!!! He literally made her a pie just to show her he thinks of her AND fed a baby cow, I NEED HIM.

I am so so excited for the next book in the series! Lyla Sage give me everything you have!!!

thankyou to Netgalley for allowing me to read this arc early! I enjoyed Done and Dusted but I think I liked Swift and Saddled more! Ada and Wes are such a fun, cute couple and I liked the flow of their relationship. Lots of real life situations brought to life in this book too which I appreciated. A cast of fun side characters, a couple of typical romance tropes and a sprinkle of spice and it was a really fun book if you're in your cowboy reading era!!

4.5⭐️

**ARC provided by the publisher and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**

I think this is the first time I have said this, but I love the first sentence of this book. I don't think I've seen anything so amusing in a while.

Also, I was kinda scared because sometimes romance novels' female main characters are unlikable since they tend to catastrophy, but fortunately, I liked Ada. She's quite witty and fun.

Not only that, but I quickly realized it was the addictive kind of book. I really needed it after my last read (I'm talking about you; we were liars). You can see why on my profile! 👀
It's definitely a new addition to my favorites list. I would love to have a physical copy (it's a necessity) when it's out 👀 Just saying, Quercus Books.

It made me wonder why I hadn't read Done and Dusted, regret not doing it, and consequently buy it. Then I had an inner debate about whether I should keep reading it or wait until I finished because I didn't want to miss out the references. Did I do that? No, because I'm impatient and already attached to this book. I guess you could still read it and enjoy it, but I want the full experience, so I'll re-read it. I'm pretty sure it'll be even better, so I'm excited about that. I'm pretty sure it'll be a solid five-star read then.

Not only that, but I liked the mental health topic being present, especially when some people think that someone who's bubbly and nice can't be struggling with mental health. Also, a professional who's good with their work regardless of their educational background? Yes, thank you. I am sick of the degree and resume excellency obsession that's going on nowadays.

Overall, it was a really cute romance. It's not just spice, as the cover suggests. It was way more romantic than I expected it to be. Ngl, it had me smiling and feeling literal BUTTERFLIES in my stomach. If you have been following my reviews, you will know I love me a soft, emotionally available book boyfriend, so reading this made me extremely happy. It didn't have unnecessary drama, and they had one of the healthiest couple dynamics I've read.

Also, I loved the extra content! It was a pleasant surprise.

firstly thank you for this arc! it was an anticipated read, so i am glad i got to get my mitts on it before most! weston rhodes ryder, what a beautifully soft yet strong man. always there to help and with a dimpled smile to boot. ada hart is the black cat woman of my dreams - a tatted interior designer tasked with renovating the guesthouse on rebel blue ranch. this story was a pleasure to read. the only reason i marked down a little is because it felt a little to slow, and i dont think i will remember this book long after i read it, like i will with most of my 5 star (and sometimes 5 star plus) books.

A massive thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for my copy of this e-arc!

I really enjoyed this book and got through it in 1 sitting! Lyla Sage really knows how to write a good country boy, I think this book was phenomenally written and I love that there wasn’t really a 3rd act break-up, that’s something I really enjoy about her romance novels.

I cannot wait for the next book in the series!

4.5⭐️
This book was so good!!! I love it!!! Wes is so amazing, gentle and patient with Ada. I loved the intimacy between them and I liked the depression representation.

I love how he is like the sun for her (“He was like the sun. No matter what, he would keep coming up.”) and she is like the moon for him (“You are the moon. And I’m the tides. You pull me in without even trying, and I come to you willingly. I always will.”).

I can’t wait for the next book in this series!!! Laya writes beautifully, I love the vibe from her books.