There’s something magical about the way horse hooves kick up dirt against a painted Wyoming sky, especially when that dust settles around a love story. Lyla Sage’s debut novel, Done and Dusted, captures this essence perfectly, delivering a heartfelt romance that proves sometimes you have to leave home to find your way back to it—and to yourself.
The Heart of the Story
In this first installment of the Rebel Blue Ranch series, we meet Clementine “Emmy” Ryder, a professional barrel racer whose carefully planned life derails after a devastating accident. When she returns to her hometown of Meadowlark, Wyoming, she finds herself face-to-face with Luke Brooks—her brother’s best friend, the town’s reformed bad boy—and suddenly, the man who makes her heart race faster than any quarter horse could.
Character Depth and Development
Emmy Ryder
Sage crafts Emmy with remarkable authenticity, particularly in her portrayal of a character living with ADHD. The internal struggles Emmy faces – from her sensory issues to her impulse control challenges – are woven naturally into the narrative without becoming defining characteristics. Her journey from accomplished athlete to someone rebuilding herself is both poignant and inspiring.
Luke Brooks
Luke’s character arc is equally compelling, though at times his transformation from town troublemaker to responsible business owner feels slightly rushed in the backstory. However, his present-day characterization as a man carrying childhood wounds while striving to be better is masterfully done. His devotion to Emmy and their slow-burn romance is both swoon-worthy and believable.
Strengths and Standout Elements
- Authentic Western Setting
- The author’s attention to ranch life detail creates an immersive experience
- Technical aspects of barrel racing and horse care feel genuine
- Small-town dynamics are well-portrayed without falling into clichés
- Mental Health Representation
- Thoughtful portrayal of ADHD and anxiety
- Realistic depiction of trauma recovery
- Strong emphasis on emotional support and communication
- Family Dynamics
- Complex sibling relationships
- Well-developed secondary characters
- Realistic family conflicts and resolutions
Areas for Improvement
While Done and Dusted is a strong debut, there are elements that could be enhanced:
- The pacing in the middle section occasionally drags
- Some secondary plot threads feel unresolved
- The conflict with Luke’s family could have been explored more deeply
- Earlier establishment of Emmy’s professional achievements would strengthen her character arc
Series Potential
Done and Dusted sets up an intriguing world for the Rebel Blue Ranch series. The upcoming books promise equally compelling stories:
- Swift and Saddled (Book 2)
- Lost and Lassoed (Book 3)
- Wild and Wrangled (Book 4)
The introduction of secondary characters and subplots suggests rich potential for future installments, particularly regarding the guest ranch development and various ranch operations.
Writing Style and Voice
Sage’s writing style is refreshingly direct while maintaining emotional depth. Her dialogue rings true to both the western setting and contemporary romance genre. The author particularly excels at:
- Natural, flowing dialogue
- Vivid sensory descriptions
- Balanced humor and emotional weight
- Strong sense of place
Romance Development
The chemistry between Emmy and Luke sizzles from their first interaction, but what makes their romance particularly satisfying is how it develops:
- Their shared history adds complexity
- Physical attraction builds naturally into deeper connection
- Emotional intimacy develops alongside physical relationship
- Conflicts feel organic rather than contrived
Themes and Deeper Messages
The novel explores several meaningful themes:
- Finding strength in vulnerability
- The true meaning of home
- Family loyalty versus personal happiness
- Recovery and resilience
- The importance of support systems
Final Verdict
Done and Dusted earns a solid 4 out of 5 stars. While there’s room for growth in future installments, Sage demonstrates remarkable promise as a debut author. The novel successfully blends contemporary romance with western elements, creating a story that will resonate with both romance readers and those who appreciate authentic ranch life representation.
Who Should Read This Book
This book is perfect for readers who enjoy:
- Small-town western romance
- Sports romance with strong female athletes
- Stories featuring mental health representation
- Family-centered narratives
- Slow-burn romance with steam
Similar Books and Authors
Fans of Maisey Yates’s Gold Valley series or Kennedy Fox’s Circle B Ranch series will find familiar comfort in Sage’s writing style and setting.
Looking Forward
With three more books planned in the Rebel Blue Ranch series, readers can anticipate more compelling stories set in this richly developed world. Sage has established herself as an author to watch in the western romance genre, and Done and Dusted serves as a promising foundation for what’s to come.
The blend of contemporary issues with traditional western elements, combined with strong character development and authentic representation, makes this debut novel a noteworthy addition to the genre. Despite its few shortcomings, Done and Dusted delivers a satisfying romance while leaving readers eager for more stories from Meadowlark, Wyoming.
