Review: Done and Dusted: A Rebel Blue Ranch Novel by Lyla Sage
A small-town romance had been calling my name, but I didn’t expect Done and Dusted by Lyla Sage to sweep me off my feet in such a delightful way. Maybe it was the vibrant cover or the enticing premise about a girl returning home after a life-altering event—either way, I was hooked before I even turned the first page. As someone who adores stories steeped in emotions and character growth, I felt an instant connection to Emmy Ryder and her journey.
The plot revolves around Emmy, a skilled barrel racer forced to retreat to her sleepy hometown of Meadowlark, Wyoming, after a devastating accident strips her of her passion. Upon returning, she faces not only the challenges of her mental health but also the intriguing presence of Luke Brooks, her brother’s best friend. Their history is packed with childhood antagonism, but as they reconnect, something much deeper brews beneath the surface. I found their dynamic engaging, laden with the familiar tension of the “brother’s best friend” trope, yet fresh with its emotional depth.
Sage’s writing style is warm and inviting, capturing the essence of Wyoming’s charm while weaving intricate character relationships. The pacing felt just right—a gentle unfolding of emotions that kept me invested without overwhelming me with drama. I loved how Sage tackled sensitive topics like mental health and fear, particularly through Emmy’s experiences. Her journey reflects a broader theme: the necessity of facing our pasts to forge a brighter future.
One of my favorite moments came early on when Emmy walks into Luke’s bar, setting off a chain of reactions that felt authentic and relatable. Luke’s character is a smoldering combination of bad boy and tender heart, making him a compelling love interest. I often found myself chuckling at their playful banter but was equally moved by their shared vulnerability as they navigate their fears together. Luke’s quote, "Just because you got dusted, doesn’t mean you’re done," resonated deeply with me—it encapsulates not only Emmy’s journey but also what we’re all trying to achieve: resilience in the face of adversity.
While some readers might find the narrative predictable—yes, there’s the classic slow burn and a hint of forbidden romance—the authenticity and warmth of the characters make it a captivating read. The blend of humor, heartfelt moments, and not-so-scandalous spice kept me engaged throughout.
In conclusion, Done and Dusted is a heartfelt homage to small-town dynamics and the complexity of human emotions. If you’re a fan of sweet, slow-building romance with real-life challenges, you’ll undoubtedly fall in love with Emmy and Luke. I recommend it to anyone who enjoys stories about healing, second chances, and the idea that sometimes what we seek has been waiting for us at home all along. For me, it wasn’t just a book; it was a comforting escape, leaving me eager for the next chapter in the Rebel Blue Ranch series.
You can find Done and Dusted: A Rebel Blue Ranch Novel here >>
