A review by itsjustkatereading
Swift and Saddled by Lyla Sage

emotional funny hopeful lighthearted medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

5.0

There are some books in life that you come across as just the right time. Swift and Saddled is one of those books for me. This book is the warm hug I so very much needed and well worth my first five star rating of the year. 

This book has well and truly stolen my heart, as have its two main characters. I knew I adored Ada (as a dungarees girl, I appreciate the rep) but the moment she started discussing her experiences of loneliness and self doubt in socialising solidified her as a new favourite fmc. I can also very much relate to crying over cows, so that also helped. 

And then there’s Wes. When you look up ‘perfection ’ in the dictionary, I’m convinced you’ll find the words ‘Weston Ryder’. A man who’s open about his struggles with mental health, quotes How to Lose a Guy in Ten Days and rescues calfs in storms? It’s safe to say I have ever so slightly fallen in love. 

The discussions around depression made my heart so happy. I truly thought it was done beautifully. It’s subtle and not the main plot point but it’s received with gentleness and care. The same goes for Ada’s experiences with friendship struggles and self doubt. 

Swift and Saddled is a book of self worth and gentleness and letting your guard down. It’s possible I’m simply a little minimal right now but I truly loved this book with my whole being.

But most of all, this is the first cowboy romance I’ve read with actual cow content and that in itself is deserving of five stars. 

What to expect:

• black cat x golden retriever 
• country boy x city girl
• depression rep (mmc)
• opposites attract
• forced proximity 
• small town romance
• cows
• a very good dog
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