Quick Reviews

 Done and Dusted by Lyla Sage (2023)

After an accident leaves her scared to get back on her horse, barrel racer Emmy retreats to her hometown, where she keeps running into Luke, her brother's best friend.  Although they sort of grew up together, their age difference and her brother Gus kept them from really knowing each other.  But now that they're older, neither can deny that there's a spark between them - and maybe Luke can be the one to help Emmy get back in the saddle.  This book was such a treat.  I loved the family ranch setting and the way Emmy, her friends, and her family all relate to each other.  It's such a close-knit group, but that doesn't mean that dynamics can't change.  Emmy and Luke start seeing each other in a new way, and I was anxious to see how that would affect the rest of the characters.  Although I didn't care for the way Luke spoke to Emmy sometimes, I loved that he was there for her and gently pushed her to face her fears.  Overall, some spice and a lot of heart - and I'm excited to continue the series.  4 stars 

 

The Burnout by Sophie Kinsella (2023)

 

Sasha is burned out - she's overworked, constantly stressed, and doesn't have any motivation for things like cooking or relationships.  She needs a break, so she heads to the small seaside resort she spent her summers at as a child.  There, she meets Finn, who is also taking a break from his responsibilities.  Although prickly at first, the two realize they have a lot in common - could there be something more between them?  I've loved Sophie Kinsella's books for years - they always have a good mix of humor, quirk, and heart, and this was no exception.  Sasha is a relatable character - overworked and stressed to the point that she briefly considers joining a convent to escape.  She is able, however, to take a long break in a place that meant a lot to her as a child and start to heal.  Finn is going through a similar situation, and the two bond.  I loved seeing these two start to open up to each other and find themselves again.  There's a bit of a mystery when messages start showing up on the beach, and Kinsella brings it all back to a place that will probably bring tears to your eyes (it did for me, anyway!).  Funny moments, touching moments, relatable moments - another hit from Sophie Kinsella.  4.5 stars

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