Synopsis
For the first time in her life, Clementine “Emmy” Ryder has no idea what she’s doing. She’s accomplished everything on her to-do list. She left her small hometown of Meadowlark, Wyoming. She went to college, and made a career for herself by doing her favorite thing: riding horses. But after an accident makes it impossible for her to get back into the saddle, she has no choice but to return to the hometown she always wanted to escape.
Luke Brooks is Meadowlark’s most notorious bad boy, bar owner, and bachelor. He’s also the unofficial fifth member of the Ryder family. As Emmy’s older brother’s best friend, Luke spent most of his childhood antagonizing her. It’s been years since he’s seen her, but when she walks into his bar and back into his life, he can’t take his eyes off her. Despite his better judgment, he wants to do a whole lot more than just look at her.
Emmy’s got too much on her mind to think about romance. And Luke knows he should stay away from his best friend’s younger sister. But what if Luke is just what Emmy needs to get her spark back? Or will they both go up in flames?
Rating
★★★★★
Thoughts
I’m a little late to the jamboree, but I’m so glad to be here! This is such a fun and steamy romance story, with just enough substance to keep it from floating away.
Luke and Emmy’s chemistry is off the charts! Their banter is great, and their spice level is enough to make even the raunchiest cowgirl blush. Among many other hot book boyfriend qualities, I especially love the way Luke calls Emmy “sugar.” Luke helps Emmy through a challenging point in her life, which is admirable.
With her girl next door personality, Emmy is an enjoyable female main character. It’s just as entertaining to witness her fall for her brother’s friend as it is satisfying to see her overcome a hurdle.
Done and Dusted is a light, feel-good story that convinced me to pre-order book two in the Rebel Blue Ranch Series, Swift and Saddled, which is due out in early March, 2024. These sassy titles… Well done, Ms. Sage!
Question
What is the last book you bought due to online influence?