Done and Dusted: A Rebel Blue Ranch Novel Paperback – October 24, 2023

This book was SO well written! For someone who struggles to read fast, I flew through this book. The love story, humor, story of overcoming fear and the amazing personalities of the characters are so well written, keeping my interest and attention entirely. Definitely 🌶🌶🌶 KUDOS TO LYLA SAGE!!

Rebel Blue Ranch series follows the Ryder family who own the ranch in a beautiful Wyoming. Book one is all about Clementine "Emmy" and Luke. The two knew (and agonized) each other since childhood. But now that Emmy is back in town, and probably to stay, Luke with his bad boy's reputation only has eyes for Emmy.It's been so long since I read a Western romance, and I am so glad I picked up this series. Book one transported me right into the vast fields of gorgeous Wyoming surrounded by picturesque mountains - my favorite scenery. The author did a fabulous job setting the scene for the series and introducing the readers to the youngest Ryder.In book one, the sparks may not be flying right off the bat, but there is definitely undeniable attraction between Emmy and Luke who always had that love/hate dynamics. There is also some forbidden romance going on since Luke's best friend is Emmy's older brother.Going into this book blind, I was a little surprised this read was quite 🌶️ 😂, but I enjoyed it nevertheless! The book had ADHD representation and I thought it was addressed really well. I also enjoyed the theme of getting over your fears and anxiety, starting over and adopted family theme.While still immersed in book one, I purchased the next two books. I was invested!! I just loved the cozy feeling this romance read gave me.

Nothing too crazy! Just a typical feel-good romance with good and kind characters that feel like real world people :)

Lyla Sage has made herself an auto-buy author with this debut novel. Emmy and Luke’s story was so fun and light-hearted, and the writing was beautifully written. I was immediately immersed into the Meadowlark and Rebel Blue Ranch universe. If I could give this more stars, I would!Clementine “Emmy” Ryder is a professional barrel rider and the youngest Ryder sibling. She returns to her hometown after suffering a riding accident that hinders her confidence and belief in herself. Luke Brooks is a broody bad boy, bar owner, and Emmy’s oldest brother’s best friend. Emmy was a constant presence in his childhood until years later, he saw her in a different light. Determined to get answers on why Emmy is back in town, he forms a friendship with the Meadowlark sweetheart… and some feelings along the way.Emmy is a fiercely brave and independent badass that we can’t help, but want to protect and cheer on. I loved her feisty comebacks to Luke, but also seeing her vulnerable side when she decided to finally open up. I admired her determination in the face of overwhelming obstacles. I’m a huge fan of books that include neurodivergence rep in some shape or form, and the way it was portrayed was extremely well done.Luke is a soft boy at heart. He cares so deeply for the people he loves, and he is willing to do whatever it takes to take care of them. I loved how sweet and understanding he is with Emmy when she needs him to be. It was so easy to see the ways that he cared for her, made sure that she was safe, and how his feelings quickly turned into him falling for her. Every time he called her “sugar,” I was screaming, kicking my feet in the air, and grinning so hard to the point that my cheeks were hurting!The sass and banter between them had me laughing, while their tension had me swooning. Sure, they didn’t really like each other growing up, but they really connected and became fiercely protective of each other. I enjoyed the Emmy’s family and the cast of side characters; I look forward to seeing them in future books! Gus and Teddy, I’m looking at you!If you want a yee-haw, small town romance to make you swoon from one moment to fanning yourself during a certain whiskey scene, I highly recommend this book. Lyla, I can’t wait for your second book!