Long and Short Reviews

Saddle Up, Sweetheart by Sydney Shay
The Wild Rose Press, Climbing Rose
Contemporary, Young Adult
Short Story, Sweet
Review by Snapdragon

What happened after their first kiss on New Years Eve?

The ‘L’s were restored, but romance keeps Lucky Lake from returning to normal. Natalie and Russ grow closer everyday, but while she looks out for their future, he only thinks of the ranch, which might close by the end of summer.

Russ's decision may be made for him. His father has given Natalie two weeks notice, placing her last day right after her birthday! Does Russ love her more than Lucky Lake? Will the loss of her job end their relationship forever?

♥ ♥ ♥

'Saddle Up Sweetheart,' introduces teenager Natalie Coombs, who's life revolves around Lucky Lake Ranch. She's a hardworker who's given her heart away to the very handsome son of the boss, Russ Kent. Their relationship is not without conflict, even though both of them seem like such nice people. Russ is a super boyfriend, at least at the start. However, when events conspire to remove Natalie from the place she loves... Russ is disappointing. Does he really love her, and if he does, why doesn't he make some effort to show it? Why does he completely fail to stand up for her? Finally, Natalie feels like she must take matters into her own hands.

Shaw's ranching romance really delivers; this is absolutely a page turner. Both Natalie and Russ are strong main characters, and the turmoil between them is engaging. Readers will want (so much!) for them to resolve their issues. The comments of the secondary characters - Tucker to some degree, but more so Melinda- offer insights into the main characters' beliefs and failings. The one tiny disappointment is that the ranch truly is just a distant backdrop - I'd have enjoyed a little more sense of scene. 4 books for this delightful page turner.