I absolutely adored this book.

I had only just finished reading the first in the series, Done and Dusted, when I simply had to read this practically straight after. This was a beautiful small town, cowboy romance that brought us back to spend time with all the characters we know and love. It felt wonderful to be reunited with all the characters we've grown to know, especially Luke and Emmy, and to see how their relationship has blossomed.

The narrative follows the female main character, Ada, who has just been hired by Wes to sort out the Big House. Little do they know, they have already met in the bar only a day before. I really enjoyed learning more about Wes and what he is like. I felt like Lyla Sage always does a fantastic job at making these characters seem real with their 'flaws' and I genuinely believed that Wes was a real cowboy. The particular mention of antidepressants made this feel raw and it was fantastic to see some representation of male mental health.

Generally the character development was beautiful. Sage always keeps us on our toes for the development and I found myself really rooting for Ada and Wes as a couple. They had a lot of love and kindness in their hearts. My favourite part had to be when Wes taught Ada how to drive manual. I could not cope.

Overall, another delightful read from Lyla Sage and I already cannot wait to read the next one.

This ARC was kindly provided to me in return for an honest review.
This was a gorgeous, cozy romance with little drama - just realistic conflict, lovely interactions and some tip top romance, especially from our MMC! I really enjoyed the first in this series, and the sequel definitely does not disappoint! Wes and Ada are such a gorgeous couple, with a real and down to earth romance! This was just two people meeting and falling in love, and trying to figure out the logistics of their lives together! There’s no massive misunderstandings or betrayals, and returning to Rebel Blue Ranch and watching their relationship unfold was like a cosy blanket! I really enjoyed that they were both adults, with their own lives, their own goals and their own baggage and the major conflict was how to integrate together and create a relationship that works and is healthy. Both characters are well fleshed out, and it was refreshing to see Wes’ mental health difficulties just be present and a part of his character, something he is aware of and manages but it is not all consuming and used as a plot device. It’s thoughtfully included and done really well, imo. Same with Ada, she has a cynical bent and some baggage she’s dragging along but it is not all magically fixed by a relationship. She’s slow to open up to people and an introvert, and that’s not something that needs to change in order for her and Wes to be together. She has low self esteem and genuine worries about them being together (such as her work and her divorce), but both characters make an effort to communicate and tackle these problems head on, and it gives us a mature relationship that I can genuinely get behind! The spicy scenes are well done, and gives us insight into them as a couple as well as their individual personalities and wants - and I liked that it was magically easy and that they had fumbles to work through. We get some excellent scenes of the two together, and some are surprisingly wholesome!
We also get just enough of the secondary characters - we get some nice updates on Brooks/Emmy as well as some hints for our next couple and enough backstory on the family as a whole without them taking over the story. Overall, this was a well-worth-it sequel, Ada and Wes were such a sweet couple and I really enjoyed their romance! I can’t wait to return for the rest of the series.

3.5 stars
Ada comes to the ranch to help renovate the old Big House and discovers the rancher she has been talking too for months is not an old timer like she expected, but an incredibly handsome man she had an unexpectedly passionate kiss with the night before. Wes hopes that their instant attraction will grow while they are working together but Ada has always been a little withdrawn and her interaction with him previously was very out of character for her. They both have their own issues to deal with and I thought Wes’s was dealt with quite systematically and Ada definitely seemed to need more understanding to deal with hers. I liked the family/friends interaction and how Ada and Wes were with each other. I would say this I was grumpy/sunshine but in reverse and I do prefer the more traditional way. Wes was lovely, but a little too nice for my taste. I did warm to Ada but it did take a while.

Loved coming back to Rebel Blue and meeting another gorgeous cowboy. Ada and Wes were easy to like and I enjoyed reading a romance where he gives her space to find her emotions. This was spicy, light and fun - finished it in a day. Excited that in the bonus chapter we see the next book is about Teddy.

This was so much fun! A gorgeous romance between a cynical city-slicker and a sunshine-in-human-form, delightfully charming cowboy.

Lyla Sage is one to watch in romance fiction. Her books are effortless - very easy to read, but with plenty going on below the surface. I devoured this in a day, racing through it, even as I didn't want it to ever end! There's lots to enjoy here, but I have to give her her kudos for how she handled the set-up of the series. There were nice call backs to Done & Dusted, but it didn't feel like we were just getting Emmy & Luke part two - the focus was firmly on Wes and Ada. This is something so many series authors don't do well - but Lyla has the perfect balance! And nicely hinted at what I'm hoping will be follow ups about Cam and Dusty, and (the book I'm already thinking will change my life!) Teddy and Gus.

Loved it. Excellent cover, excellent book!

I think it's time I finally admit that I really enjoy cowboy romance books. That was definitely not on my life bingo card, but here we are!

I loved so many things about this book. Wes was the absolute sweetest and Ada was super relatable. Learning more about all the characters from book 1 has me excited to see where this series goes next. The Ryder family makes me wish I had that in real life!

When is book 3 out??

Thank you Netgalley for an advanced copy.

**Book Review: "Swift and Saddled" by Lyla Sage**

Rating: ★★★★★ (5 Stars)

"**Swift and Saddled**" by Lyla Sage, the second installment in the Rebel Blue Ranch series, is a captivating small-town romance that delivers on every level. With engaging characters, heartfelt emotions, and an authentic portrayal of real-life struggles, this novel is a delightful and compelling read that will leave readers yearning for more.

**My Thoughts:**
"Swift and Saddled" is a beautifully written romance that resonates with depth and authenticity. Lyla Sage skillfully explores sensitive topics such as depression and self-esteem with grace and sensitivity, offering a portrayal that feels genuine and relatable. As someone who struggles with mental health, I appreciated the nuanced representation of these issues within the context of a romance novel.

The communication between Ada and Wes is refreshingly honest and nuanced, allowing for more difficult conversations to be addressed with empathy and understanding. Their relationship feels raw and real, with both characters navigating their own flaws and insecurities while learning and growing together.

What sets this romance apart is its ability to portray real-world stakes and hurdles that affect relationships. Rather than glossing over the challenges, the author confronts them head-on, creating a narrative that feels both authentic and emotionally resonant.

Ada and Wes are captivating protagonists who not only share undeniable chemistry but also possess a deep understanding of each other's struggles. Their journey towards love is both heartwarming and transformative, leaving readers rooting for their happily ever after.

In conclusion, "Swift and Saddled" is a standout romance novel that excels in its portrayal of authentic emotions, genuine relationships, and real-life challenges. Lyla Sage has crafted a captivating story that will leave readers eagerly anticipating the next installment in the Rebel Blue Ranch series.

This book was sooo fucking beautiful!!!!

"I see you, Ada. I always see you, even when you won't look at me."

Things to expect:
• Cowboy Romance
• Small town
• Forced proximity
• Found family
• City girl × country boy
• Black cat × Golden Retriever
• Tattooed FMC
• Insta- lust
• 2/5 🌶
• Slow burn
• Dual POV
• HEA

TW: divorce (in the past), depression

I wasn't ready for how good this book is!!!

Ada and Wes are everything. I loved their relationship, how Wes treated Ava and comforted her all the time, how he made her feel secure amd loved!!!! Have to say, I wanted more of those driving lessons because they were soooo hot!!!!🔥

There were a couple of things that I wanted more from this book and that's why this isn't a 5 star read.
• It would have been awesome to learn more about Ada and her ex. What went wrong, how he acted with her and everything. It felt like we only got some crumbs of their relationship
• I wanted to learn more and Wes and his trouble with depression. It was mentioned a few times, but it would have made this seem sooo much more real if it would have been mentioned and explained a bit more
• What was that phone call from her ex at the end of the book?

This was such an amazing read and I can't wait to be back at Rebel Blue Ranch in the next book!!!!


Thank you so much to NetGalley and the author, Lyla Sage for an ARC in exchange of an honest review.

Thank you to NetGalley, Quercus and Lyla for the early review copy.

Ada’s first night in Meadowlark sees her kissing a stranger and leaving behind her bag which contains everything she needs to start the most important project of her career tomorrow. What she doesn’t expect is to find her mysterious and handsome stranger on Rebel Blue as her new boss. Can they finish this project without giving in to the temptation?

After loving Done & Dusted so much, I knew this was going to be awesome. Lyla writes the most fantastic romances, it’s sweet, it’s swoony, and it’s low stress. Wes and Ada definitely give black cat x golden retriever vibes in the very best way and I adore them both. Lyla continues to include mental health rep in her books which I loved. Returning to Rebel Blue felt like a warm hug, I already can’t wait for Gus and Teddy’s book next, Lost and Lasooed.

small town romance
workplace romance
Insta love
Forced proximity
cowboy x introvert
dual POV

Spicy Rating: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Rating 4.5 stars

I felt that the relationship between the MMC and FMC in this book was a much more in depth than in the first Rebel Blue Ranch book. I always have loved seeing the characters from the previous books make an appearance throughout the books especially when they are directly from the same place. The family dynamic at Rebel Blue Ranch so beautiful, making me want to read about all of their stories and wishing i had this within my own life.

Overall, a grappling read from beginning to end.

Thank you NetGalley, the publisher and Lyla Sage for the Arc in exchange for an honest review.

Yeeee haaaww 🤠
I really loved returning to Meadowlark and spending more time with the Ryder boys! The spice was good, the family dynamic was amazing and I love a female mc with tattoos!!

If you haven’t gotten into cowboy romance yet, this series is one you need to read asap!

I read this in one sitting, it was so freaking good. This is how you write a romance book!! Literally fell head over heels in love with Ada and Wes. The plot was amazing and the pace of both that and the romance was perfect. Nothing felt rushed, it all felt so natural and mature. Chapters were short which I always love, and thank you for the openness about depression and taking antidepressants.

Also the teaser for the next book which is an enemies to lovers, absolutely yes please, I want it now!!!

4.5/5

okay I LOVED THIS BOOK! Wes was everything and i just loved every interaction he and Ada have. I could not put this book down.

I loved the pie scene so much and gosh i don't think i'll ever stop thinking about these characters, i never want to leave rebel blue ranch.

before we get into this review, i’d like to say a huge thank you to netgalley & lyla sage for an arc of this incredible book!!🫶🏽

in this book, we follow.. ada & wes. ada is an interior designer from the city. she’s reserved, lonely, kinda complicated & not to mention.. beautiful. wes is an extremely understanding, caring, golden retriever kinda guy who is a (gorgeous) cowboy. together, they work to bring wes’s dream, a guest house on the family ranch, otherwise known as ‘Baby Blue’ to life🩵

when i was reading book 1 (done & dusted), i thought there is no way any of the other books in this series could even compete with it but here we are.. because swift & saddled swept me off my feet in every way possible🫶🏽

this book gave me everything i needed and more. this was an incredibly heartwarming story with very deep lessons. this was more than just a cowboy romance.. it’s about finding your home in person🫂

this book had the perfect combination of a heartwarmingly, steamy romance. there’s just something about lyla’s writing that speaks to me. something about it is just really comforting. whilst reading this book, i found myself connecting to both of the main characters SO much. i just love this entire world and the characters in it so incredibly much🥹

the tropes in this book were screaming my name. we had a cowboy romance, forced proximity, workplace romance, “employee/boss”, found family, small town romance, city girl x country boy & grumpy x sunshine🫶🏽

swift and saddled releases on amazon & KU on march 5th so all my cowboy romance lovers, make sure you preorder or mark your calendars🩵🥰

I absolutely adored this book from start to finish. I loved Done and Dusted (a 5 star) so I knew I was going to like Swift and Saddled, but for me, this one was even better! It was fun, comforting, exciting, and also very relatable, which really made it stand out for me.

Ada was such an incredible character and her journey in the book both with herself and with Wes was so enjoyable to read. This was one of those page turners, where I was just so hooked to find out what was going to happen next and I became so invested in the connection between Ada and the Ryder family right from the get-go.

I think what makes these books a 5 star for me is how atmospheric Rebel Blue Ranch is when you read about it. I always feel transported to the landscape and it seems to always fit within the tone of the scenes perfectly. I can't wait for more from Lyla Sage, and now I also want to book a trip to Wyoming...

Small town cowboy romance. Easy and enjoyable read. Will definitely continue series.

(There is a typo for Wes more than half way through and there is a lot of needless explaining throughout.)

It’s GREAT to be back at Rebel Bell Ranch - YEEHAAAA

City girl? With cute golden retriever boy… girl you had me. I was sold. Sign me up for this beautiful relationship.

And while the romance is 🥵 SIZZLING 🥵 the characters are so lovable. Ada is complicated with conflicting feelings and honestly, I enjoyed that slightly cautious approach to love.ENTER Weston the cutest boy with the biggest heart ready to love her with his whole heart!!!

The spice was 🥵🥵🥵


Shoutout to all the side characters because I’m so invested in each one!

⭐️⭐️⭐️.5

after loving Done & Dusted, I couldn't wait to read Swift & Saddled, however, I must admit that I preferred the first book. even though Ada and Wes' story was sweet, it felt too insta lust turned insta love for my taste.

I loved the the black cat x golden retriever dynamic, how Ada found strong female friendships with the other women and the mental health rep. I was also a sucker for any mention of Emmy x Luke.

apart from the insta love, there were a few other things that I didn't really like. for example, the end conflict felt quite rushed and unnecessary, and I was a bit annoyed at how selfishly she behaved when Wes was so considerate of her needs and feelings throughout. I also wanted to know more about her past with the ex-husband, that would've helped us understand more of her character.

thank you to Netgalley, Quercus and Lyla Sage for the e-arc in return for my honest review.

This was a sweet enjoyable book. Ada was a likeable leading lady, even when she was holding Weston and the rest of the Rebel Blue crew at a distance. It’s very relatable having that fear that once you let people in they won’t really like you and I thought LS handled Ada’s insecurities really well. Weston was just adorably wonderful and layered. Loved him and his unwavering loyalty and love not only to his family but to Ada. Great chemistry with our hero and heroine and a wonderfully colourful cast of supporting characters bringing this world to life. Can’t wait for Teddy and Gus’ story!! 4 🌟

I enjoyed this one a lot! The main guy Wes (golden retriever) was swoony and made me giggle and kick my feet! Ada (black cat) was a sweetheart and I did see parts of myself in her. The mental health representation was done really well I felt, and something I would like to see more of in other books!
Overall I love Rebel Blue Ranch and I want to live there okay. I love the whole family I think they're so wholesome and they all love each other and just want the best for each other which is lovely to read about.
Also I need book 3 now, due to all the crumbs Lyla gave us about Gus and Teddy !!!

"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."

Thank you to Net Galley and Lyla Sage for the arc! <3