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The Darling Brothers #3
Saddle to Sunup
He gave me my first kiss. I never expected he might be my last.
Lawson
Ever since Oakley Beaumont skipped town, it feels as if my life has gone off the rails. Even worse than my divorce and moving back into my childhood bedroom at the Darling Ranch is the fact that I’m learning there’s a whole lot about myself I simply don’t know.
Like whether or not I’m straight.
And why the sudden absence of my best friend left a hole in my chest I haven’t been able to fill in the three years he’s been gone.
First things first: I need to bring Oakley home.
Then maybe I can tackle the matter of my love life. After all, I’m ready to get back in the saddle.
And who better to help me than the cowboy who once promised me forever?
Saddle to Sunup is a friends-to-lovers romance set in small town Montana, with a queer awakening for a single dad in his forties, a reunion that feels a lot like a second chance, playful banter, a bit of rope, and one very HEA. It’s book 3 in The Darling Brothers series but can be read as a standalone.
Lawson
Ever since Oakley Beaumont skipped town, it feels as if my life has gone off the rails. Even worse than my divorce and moving back into my childhood bedroom at the Darling Ranch is the fact that I’m learning there’s a whole lot about myself I simply don’t know.
Like whether or not I’m straight.
And why the sudden absence of my best friend left a hole in my chest I haven’t been able to fill in the three years he’s been gone.
First things first: I need to bring Oakley home.
Then maybe I can tackle the matter of my love life. After all, I’m ready to get back in the saddle.
And who better to help me than the cowboy who once promised me forever?
Saddle to Sunup is a friends-to-lovers romance set in small town Montana, with a queer awakening for a single dad in his forties, a reunion that feels a lot like a second chance, playful banter, a bit of rope, and one very HEA. It’s book 3 in The Darling Brothers series but can be read as a standalone.
310 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 17, 2025
213 people are currently reading
1208 people want to read
About the author
Emmy Sanders
22 books1,728 followersEmmy Sanders, author of sweet, steamy, swoony MM romance, would describe herself as a lover of love. She's obsessed with both reading and writing romance and believes everyone deserves their happy ending. Queer herself, Emmy has a soft spot for LGBTQ+ fiction, but MM is where her heart lies. Her debut novel, Fool Hearts, released in 2022.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 325 reviews
December 21, 2025
No more Darling brothers for me. This book was an exercise in frustration.
Lawson went from grey-ace to wanting to be fucked at every opportunity in a matter of days.
The conversations between Lawson and his brothers felt scripted. When Remi explained asexuality to Lawson, I was expecting an in-text citation. Good grief, that was preachy.
The final few chapters could have been deleted. There was no real plot anyway, so why drag it out?
Many of the scenes were pure filler:
- the entire weekend spent supervising Wendy, Lawson's daughter, at camp, including Oakley's bizarre tampon lecture (talk about mansplaining - the fuck does Oakley know about inserting a tampon??);
- the car crash (which seemed staged to create drama between Oakley and Laura, Lawson's ex-wife);
- Bell the cow's constant shenanigans - Bell was adorbs, but the disconnect between having a pet cow while sending thousands 0f other cows to slaughter was disturbing;
- the pointless epilogue (so Wendy has a serious girlfriend - okay, and this matters because?).
Speaking of Laura, Oakley's anger at her was misplaced and unfair. It wasn't Laura's job to manage Lawson's sexuality. You can't go around telling people that they're gay or straight or whatever. It's up to each of us to figure that out; sometimes it's as easy as breathing, and sometimes it takes years of introspection.
I'm glad Lawson found his truth, but why shit all over Laura in the process? She wasted two decades of her life on a man who didn't love her. Can we give her some grace, please?
Anyway, that's my two cents. I won't be reading book 4.
Lawson went from grey-ace to wanting to be fucked at every opportunity in a matter of days.
The conversations between Lawson and his brothers felt scripted. When Remi explained asexuality to Lawson, I was expecting an in-text citation. Good grief, that was preachy.
The final few chapters could have been deleted. There was no real plot anyway, so why drag it out?
Many of the scenes were pure filler:
- the entire weekend spent supervising Wendy, Lawson's daughter, at camp, including Oakley's bizarre tampon lecture (talk about mansplaining - the fuck does Oakley know about inserting a tampon??);
- the car crash (which seemed staged to create drama between Oakley and Laura, Lawson's ex-wife);
- Bell the cow's constant shenanigans - Bell was adorbs, but the disconnect between having a pet cow while sending thousands 0f other cows to slaughter was disturbing;
- the pointless epilogue (so Wendy has a serious girlfriend - okay, and this matters because?).
Speaking of Laura, Oakley's anger at her was misplaced and unfair. It wasn't Laura's job to manage Lawson's sexuality. You can't go around telling people that they're gay or straight or whatever. It's up to each of us to figure that out; sometimes it's as easy as breathing, and sometimes it takes years of introspection.
I'm glad Lawson found his truth, but why shit all over Laura in the process? She wasted two decades of her life on a man who didn't love her. Can we give her some grace, please?
Anyway, that's my two cents. I won't be reading book 4.
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December 19, 2025
"He's the reason I see pixie dust," I tell my mom.
She cocks her head gently. "Lawson, dear... Is that some euphemism I'm unfamiliar with?"
"What? No. Ah, God."
My mom laughs as I groan.
"No," I say again, more firmly. "I just mean... If there's magic to be found in this life, he's it for me."
i loved them!! the codependency and protectiveness in best friends to lovers hits in a different way and i ate it up here. the way this had me crying from the first few chapters and throughout the book. 😭 i think book two is still my personal favorite, but i loved Oakley and Lawson so much and seeing their relationship shift while them also coming to a realization of how natural it was bc of their friendship was just- 🥹 i also loved both their families and the moments between all of them.
She cocks her head gently. "Lawson, dear... Is that some euphemism I'm unfamiliar with?"
"What? No. Ah, God."
My mom laughs as I groan.
"No," I say again, more firmly. "I just mean... If there's magic to be found in this life, he's it for me."
i loved them!! the codependency and protectiveness in best friends to lovers hits in a different way and i ate it up here. the way this had me crying from the first few chapters and throughout the book. 😭 i think book two is still my personal favorite, but i loved Oakley and Lawson so much and seeing their relationship shift while them also coming to a realization of how natural it was bc of their friendship was just- 🥹 i also loved both their families and the moments between all of them.
December 8, 2025
I think the best way to sum up this book is happy/sad.
Lawson coming to the realisation that he's gay and on the Ace spec at the age of forty three after a twenty plus year relationship with a woman where things never felt quite right had me crying. It was extremely sad, but I could empathise so hard with that world altering moment where you realise you didn't know yourself as well as you thought. I didn't know being Ace was a thing until I was thirty, and I spent the whole of my twenties thinking there was something wrong with me because every relationship always ended with the same reason. Having Lawson think he was broken made me want to hug him so hard because I've been there too.
The romance and love between Oakley and Lawson was just next level. This book has the most romantic proposal that I've ever read, I even cried and I usually hate proposals because they make me cringe so hard!
I really enjoyed getting to go on this journey where Lawson is finally taking the time to find out what he wants for himself. He definitely makes some mistakes and inadvertently causes Oakley some emotional pain but this felt like a genuine experience of questioning who you are, what you want, and what makes you happy.
I also love how Lawson and Oakley have Peter Pan as this tying thread between them. The thimble and acorn first kiss replication scene was adorable! I never realised how heartbreaking Peter Pan actually is until I had to study it at Uni and I completely agreed with Lawson's interpretation of Peter and his situation.
Another great book from Emmy, and I can't wait for the final Darling brother, Remi, to have his no doubt emotional love story told.
*****
I received an ARC of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review
Lawson coming to the realisation that he's gay and on the Ace spec at the age of forty three after a twenty plus year relationship with a woman where things never felt quite right had me crying. It was extremely sad, but I could empathise so hard with that world altering moment where you realise you didn't know yourself as well as you thought. I didn't know being Ace was a thing until I was thirty, and I spent the whole of my twenties thinking there was something wrong with me because every relationship always ended with the same reason. Having Lawson think he was broken made me want to hug him so hard because I've been there too.
The romance and love between Oakley and Lawson was just next level. This book has the most romantic proposal that I've ever read, I even cried and I usually hate proposals because they make me cringe so hard!
I really enjoyed getting to go on this journey where Lawson is finally taking the time to find out what he wants for himself. He definitely makes some mistakes and inadvertently causes Oakley some emotional pain but this felt like a genuine experience of questioning who you are, what you want, and what makes you happy.
I also love how Lawson and Oakley have Peter Pan as this tying thread between them. The thimble and acorn first kiss replication scene was adorable! I never realised how heartbreaking Peter Pan actually is until I had to study it at Uni and I completely agreed with Lawson's interpretation of Peter and his situation.
Another great book from Emmy, and I can't wait for the final Darling brother, Remi, to have his no doubt emotional love story told.
*****
I received an ARC of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review
December 4, 2025
I really enjoyed this romance between childhood best friends Oakley and Lawson, who quickly realize their platonic feelings were never truly as platonic as they thought. Both Lawson and Oakley come to this realization at different moments. Oakley is much more open and verbal about his understanding, whereas Lawson expresses his feelings through his actions.
My favorite part is Lawson traveling thousands of miles to bring his best friend home after 3 years simply because he missed him. That’s a powerful declaration, and Lawson's cluelessness about his own feelings adds a great arc for his character throughout the story.
Overall, Oakley and Lawson take their time understanding their new dynamic, what it means, and why it’s happening now. As these questions are answered, I found myself falling for these two to finally have the much-awaited HEA. They share a heartfelt and loving bond that never really fades. Watching their love grow and deepen throughout the story was beautifully captured.
*** I reviewed a complimentary copy of this story.***
My favorite part is Lawson traveling thousands of miles to bring his best friend home after 3 years simply because he missed him. That’s a powerful declaration, and Lawson's cluelessness about his own feelings adds a great arc for his character throughout the story.
Overall, Oakley and Lawson take their time understanding their new dynamic, what it means, and why it’s happening now. As these questions are answered, I found myself falling for these two to finally have the much-awaited HEA. They share a heartfelt and loving bond that never really fades. Watching their love grow and deepen throughout the story was beautifully captured.
*** I reviewed a complimentary copy of this story.***
December 21, 2025
2.5
i mean this is definitely the best one in the series but it’s…. kinda bland?
it’s like you have perfectly good ingredients but you don’t season them. and i’m not even talking about advanced seasoning. here we forgot salt and pepper.
so your perfectly good ingredients make a bland tasting meal. which is not bad, you will eat it, but damn you’ll wish for a cheeseburger.
in other words: the cannibal cow will give me nightmares for years to come, i genuinely don’t understand why the character on the asexual spectrum constantly wants to get fucked, the poor ex wife was treated like shit for no reason and it was damn boring.
(also, one day i will stop comparing books to food but today is clearly not that day)
i mean this is definitely the best one in the series but it’s…. kinda bland?
it’s like you have perfectly good ingredients but you don’t season them. and i’m not even talking about advanced seasoning. here we forgot salt and pepper.
so your perfectly good ingredients make a bland tasting meal. which is not bad, you will eat it, but damn you’ll wish for a cheeseburger.
in other words: the cannibal cow will give me nightmares for years to come, i genuinely don’t understand why the character on the asexual spectrum constantly wants to get fucked, the poor ex wife was treated like shit for no reason and it was damn boring.
(also, one day i will stop comparing books to food but today is clearly not that day)
December 5, 2025
Emmy’s writing is always so beautiful, and I love when she writes diverse and inclusive characters. Her representation is always so thoughtfully and lovingly done.
THE PREMISE: two best friends are finally reunited, and slowly realise they’ve been in love their entire lives. Ft. An extended Peter Pan metaphor, and rope.
TROPES & VIBES:
- When you’re trying to work out your sexuality, so you ask your best friend to f- you.
- Ace (and neurodiverse?) rep
- Feels like a warm blanket on a cold night
- Wholesome small town MM romance with cowboys
4⭐️ 2.5🌶️
Thank you Emmy for the arc (in exchange for an honest review). You’re a treasure of a human x
THE PREMISE: two best friends are finally reunited, and slowly realise they’ve been in love their entire lives. Ft. An extended Peter Pan metaphor, and rope.
TROPES & VIBES:
- When you’re trying to work out your sexuality, so you ask your best friend to f- you.
- Ace (and neurodiverse?) rep
- Feels like a warm blanket on a cold night
- Wholesome small town MM romance with cowboys
4⭐️ 2.5🌶️
Thank you Emmy for the arc (in exchange for an honest review). You’re a treasure of a human x
December 26, 2025
Many things didn’t work for me in this installment, but what I did like was Lawson and Oakley’s chemistry. They were mature men and had the strongest, closest friendship with great potential to grow into a fantastic love story.
Unfortunately, the author added too many other elements and in the end, the only thing I really enjoyed was their sex life.
I’m pretty disappointed overall and hope Remi’s book will be better.
🔵 Best friends to lovers
🟢 A cowboy / a teacher
🟣 Pan / gay-awakening, ACE
🟡 Both 43 years old
🔵 A pet cow (good addition)
🌶️ Great sex, loved it; penetrative scenes mostly, some oral, some frotting; kissing; excl t/b
I liked both Oakley and Lawson, and the book starts out quite promising with Lawson fetching Oakley and bringing him back to Darling after Oakley’s failed relationship and his move away about three years earlier.
There’s clearly a lot of shared history between them, but much of it isn’t well explained, a lot not even written down. It's murky and I didn't feel like I had enough information. The author introduces a Neverland theme that ends up being more confusing than meaningful, when it should have stayed purely symbolic. I really wanted more insight into their lives together before Oakley eventually left Darling, because that missing context mattered, not the rest so much, at least for me.
Lawson is divorced after 20 years of being married and is now questioning his sexuality. He realizes that what he had with his wife, Laura, lacked the romance and passion he was searching for or at least dreamed of experiencing.
His journey toward understanding that he may be asexual is actually handled quite well. His decision to sleep with Oakley, to figure out whether his disinterest in sex was about gender or sex itself, made sense emotionally, especially because he trusts Oakley unconditionally. Their first time having sex was fantastic, and I loved that part of the book, all the parts where they had sex, actually.
"Naked, I kneel in front of Oakley’s bed, spread my knees wide, and lean my chest against his mattress. Footsteps approach from behind me before Oakley inhales a sharp breath, a thump following like maybe his hand catching the wooden doorframe. A series of quiet curses leaves his lips, and I can’t help but wonder what he’s seeing. A naked man waiting at the side of his bed? Someone to enjoy a brief moment of pleasure with? His friend?"
Unfortunately, everything else didn't quite work. The story becomes confusing, with quite a few inconsistencies. Lawson and Oakley repeatedly say they never had feelings for each other, but it’s clear that feelings were very much there. Lawson’s daughter even states that Oakley has been in love with Lawson all along. By the end, it’s implied there was something significant between them all this time, they even shared a first kiss as kids (??), but the story just skips over two decades of emotional development and that was a lot more important than clinical explanations of sexualities, for example.
Not only that, when they're getting closer and they're more and more intimate and feelings evolve, the author just skips the next crucial moments, cuts out and we're headed to the next chapter, even days are skipped and you don't get a conclusion, like what they talked about after, when they woke up what happened, how did they part? All very important things when the two very best friends are having sex and falling in love.
Another major issue for me was how Laura, Lawson’s ex-wife, was presented. At first I thought there was a misunderstanding, but it becomes pretty damn clear the author decided to make her out as the villain for Lawson coming to terms with his sexuality later in life. This was unfair and uncomfortable, especially when she loved him, gave him a child and in the end damn pegged him all the time during their somewhat satisfying sex life. Meanwhile, Stevie, who is Oakley’s ex and I think trans, who actually caused Oakley real damage, is barely discussed or held accountable or presented in a bad way.
Oakley and Lawson’s past is clearly complex and complicated, but the storytelling doesn’t do it justice. I can’t say I’m a fan of how their story was handled. Their sex life was great, but that’s honestly the only part that's clear and believable and, well, good. Their past needed a lot more attention and if there was pining on Oakley’s side, it should have been told, but when reading the book, you just don't know, because he's saying there wasn't, the rest are saying there was, then sometimes you're led to believe there were strong suppressed feelings there all the time, I mean, which one is it?? Then he's telling Laura how he'll never forgive her because she suspected Lawson was gay and she didn't dump him??
I don't think these people were very honest with each other, neither of them, so Lawson and Oakley's story just feels half-developed in the end and that’s how this book ultimately left me feeling, it's not a good, rounded love story, I don't feel great about it, even though I really like mature main characters in my books and I did like Lawson and Oakley.
I have high hopes for Remi and the lumberjack.
Unfortunately, the author added too many other elements and in the end, the only thing I really enjoyed was their sex life.
I’m pretty disappointed overall and hope Remi’s book will be better.
🔵 Best friends to lovers
🟢 A cowboy / a teacher
🟣 Pan / gay-awakening, ACE
🟡 Both 43 years old
🔵 A pet cow (good addition)
🌶️ Great sex, loved it; penetrative scenes mostly, some oral, some frotting; kissing; excl t/b
I liked both Oakley and Lawson, and the book starts out quite promising with Lawson fetching Oakley and bringing him back to Darling after Oakley’s failed relationship and his move away about three years earlier.
There’s clearly a lot of shared history between them, but much of it isn’t well explained, a lot not even written down. It's murky and I didn't feel like I had enough information. The author introduces a Neverland theme that ends up being more confusing than meaningful, when it should have stayed purely symbolic. I really wanted more insight into their lives together before Oakley eventually left Darling, because that missing context mattered, not the rest so much, at least for me.
Lawson is divorced after 20 years of being married and is now questioning his sexuality. He realizes that what he had with his wife, Laura, lacked the romance and passion he was searching for or at least dreamed of experiencing.
His journey toward understanding that he may be asexual is actually handled quite well. His decision to sleep with Oakley, to figure out whether his disinterest in sex was about gender or sex itself, made sense emotionally, especially because he trusts Oakley unconditionally. Their first time having sex was fantastic, and I loved that part of the book, all the parts where they had sex, actually.
"Naked, I kneel in front of Oakley’s bed, spread my knees wide, and lean my chest against his mattress. Footsteps approach from behind me before Oakley inhales a sharp breath, a thump following like maybe his hand catching the wooden doorframe. A series of quiet curses leaves his lips, and I can’t help but wonder what he’s seeing. A naked man waiting at the side of his bed? Someone to enjoy a brief moment of pleasure with? His friend?"
Unfortunately, everything else didn't quite work. The story becomes confusing, with quite a few inconsistencies. Lawson and Oakley repeatedly say they never had feelings for each other, but it’s clear that feelings were very much there. Lawson’s daughter even states that Oakley has been in love with Lawson all along. By the end, it’s implied there was something significant between them all this time, they even shared a first kiss as kids (??), but the story just skips over two decades of emotional development and that was a lot more important than clinical explanations of sexualities, for example.
Not only that, when they're getting closer and they're more and more intimate and feelings evolve, the author just skips the next crucial moments, cuts out and we're headed to the next chapter, even days are skipped and you don't get a conclusion, like what they talked about after, when they woke up what happened, how did they part? All very important things when the two very best friends are having sex and falling in love.
Another major issue for me was how Laura, Lawson’s ex-wife, was presented. At first I thought there was a misunderstanding, but it becomes pretty damn clear the author decided to make her out as the villain for Lawson coming to terms with his sexuality later in life. This was unfair and uncomfortable, especially when she loved him, gave him a child and in the end damn pegged him all the time during their somewhat satisfying sex life. Meanwhile, Stevie, who is Oakley’s ex and I think trans, who actually caused Oakley real damage, is barely discussed or held accountable or presented in a bad way.
Oakley and Lawson’s past is clearly complex and complicated, but the storytelling doesn’t do it justice. I can’t say I’m a fan of how their story was handled. Their sex life was great, but that’s honestly the only part that's clear and believable and, well, good. Their past needed a lot more attention and if there was pining on Oakley’s side, it should have been told, but when reading the book, you just don't know, because he's saying there wasn't, the rest are saying there was, then sometimes you're led to believe there were strong suppressed feelings there all the time, I mean, which one is it?? Then he's telling Laura how he'll never forgive her because she suspected Lawson was gay and she didn't dump him??
I don't think these people were very honest with each other, neither of them, so Lawson and Oakley's story just feels half-developed in the end and that’s how this book ultimately left me feeling, it's not a good, rounded love story, I don't feel great about it, even though I really like mature main characters in my books and I did like Lawson and Oakley.
I have high hopes for Remi and the lumberjack.
December 7, 2025
4.25⭐️
This book was ROMANTIC!!
Oakley and Lawson are best friends, but have lost touch somewhat after Oakley moved away. As children, they promised they’d always be together. However, They now both live miles away, and are both freshly single. Lawson needs his best friend, and isn’t afraid to ask for what he wants, and ask Oak to come home.
Once Lawson’s got Oakley back where he belongs, he takes it a step further, and asks for what he wants once again.
This book has:
-childhood friends to lovers
-cowboy / country themes
-older MCs (in their 40s)
-queer awakening / self-discovery
-unrequited feelings
-“princess”
-recently divorced dad
-teacher x ranch hand
-a sassy house cow
I absolutely adore Emmy Sanders and this series. This book is totally sweet and romantic, just as I expected. At first I was expecting this book to be more tame (not sure why I had that impression?) but Lawson had my jaw dropping with his boldness! This book has a great balance of emotion and personal growth, and just pure, needy sm*t 👍👍
These two think and say the most romantic things to each other (before they’re really even together) 🫣❤️
Here’s a quote that got me:
‘Part of me aches to bridge the distance between us. To rest within the curve of Oakley’s arms, where everything is familiar and quiet. I don’t ask it of him, knowing I’ve asked far too much lately. But boy do I ache.’
So romantic!!!😭❤️❤️❤️
I also loved that we got so many appearances from the Darling family, which were very fun. I had a laugh out loud moment with them while reading, too! Each of the books in this series are so good in their own way, yet they fit the small-town vibe perfectly.
If you want to swoon, then pick this one up when you can 🌳
This book was ROMANTIC!!
Oakley and Lawson are best friends, but have lost touch somewhat after Oakley moved away. As children, they promised they’d always be together. However, They now both live miles away, and are both freshly single. Lawson needs his best friend, and isn’t afraid to ask for what he wants, and ask Oak to come home.
Once Lawson’s got Oakley back where he belongs, he takes it a step further, and asks for what he wants once again.
This book has:
-childhood friends to lovers
-cowboy / country themes
-older MCs (in their 40s)
-queer awakening / self-discovery
-unrequited feelings
-“princess”
-recently divorced dad
-teacher x ranch hand
-a sassy house cow
I absolutely adore Emmy Sanders and this series. This book is totally sweet and romantic, just as I expected. At first I was expecting this book to be more tame (not sure why I had that impression?) but Lawson had my jaw dropping with his boldness! This book has a great balance of emotion and personal growth, and just pure, needy sm*t 👍👍
These two think and say the most romantic things to each other (before they’re really even together) 🫣❤️
Here’s a quote that got me:
‘Part of me aches to bridge the distance between us. To rest within the curve of Oakley’s arms, where everything is familiar and quiet. I don’t ask it of him, knowing I’ve asked far too much lately. But boy do I ache.’
So romantic!!!😭❤️❤️❤️
I also loved that we got so many appearances from the Darling family, which were very fun. I had a laugh out loud moment with them while reading, too! Each of the books in this series are so good in their own way, yet they fit the small-town vibe perfectly.
If you want to swoon, then pick this one up when you can 🌳
January 7, 2026
This book was not good. It started out ok but rapidly went down hill. Oakley and Lawson have been friends since childhood. You will hear pixie dust used a million times that it loses its meaning. Side note: Peter Pan is more mature than Lawson.
Lawson uses emotional manipulation to get Oakley to basically become his human dildo. It was vile. He kept doing it too and he’s ace but obsessed with sex with his best friend. He’s one of those hyper sexual ace variety. Per Google, they do exist but it makes for a shitty romantic story where Law is always dropping his pants making his “friend” service him. Can you tell yet that I did not like this book?? 😬😬😬🤣🤣 Oakley was already in love at that point and Lawson was focused on getting off.
Lawson is completely clueless when it comes to Oakley’s emotional state. Ugh. I told Oakley to run many times.
Another side note: having a pet cow is beyond stupid and feeding it beef stew is cruel and disgusting 🤮 ugh ugh ugh.
We get to the HEA and more pixie dust. Meh and Ugh.
I am done with this author. Book 2 was good but book 1 boring, book 3 is this trash. No thanks. 😵💫😵💫
Lawson uses emotional manipulation to get Oakley to basically become his human dildo. It was vile. He kept doing it too and he’s ace but obsessed with sex with his best friend. He’s one of those hyper sexual ace variety. Per Google, they do exist but it makes for a shitty romantic story where Law is always dropping his pants making his “friend” service him. Can you tell yet that I did not like this book?? 😬😬😬🤣🤣 Oakley was already in love at that point and Lawson was focused on getting off.
Lawson is completely clueless when it comes to Oakley’s emotional state. Ugh. I told Oakley to run many times.
Another side note: having a pet cow is beyond stupid and feeding it beef stew is cruel and disgusting 🤮 ugh ugh ugh.
We get to the HEA and more pixie dust. Meh and Ugh.
I am done with this author. Book 2 was good but book 1 boring, book 3 is this trash. No thanks. 😵💫😵💫
January 8, 2026
I am liking this series more and more with each volume ( incidentally the hook for the next book is here, age gap-ey, crush, but I thought it was done with class, a bit to hint, but not forced. Well played).
This time childhood friends to lovers, a strong Peter Pan theme played well throughout the book, the gay sex lessons request with a gay awakening, a ton of cozy small town and family vibes (it is still found family if you would pick your own family again?). Little drama, but flowing really nice.
A really strong 4 stars for me, I might up to 5, but I am feeling a bit picky because I am not sure if I would ever reread this again and I was kind of missing an extra oomph to the characters.
Incidentally and maybe this is just me, and I am not holding this against the book at all but I need to get it off my chest, the carnivore cattle ranchers with a pet miniature cow is a bit creepy!
This time childhood friends to lovers, a strong Peter Pan theme played well throughout the book, the gay sex lessons request with a gay awakening, a ton of cozy small town and family vibes (it is still found family if you would pick your own family again?). Little drama, but flowing really nice.
A really strong 4 stars for me, I might up to 5, but I am feeling a bit picky because I am not sure if I would ever reread this again and I was kind of missing an extra oomph to the characters.
Incidentally and maybe this is just me, and I am not holding this against the book at all but I need to get it off my chest, the carnivore cattle ranchers with a pet miniature cow is a bit creepy!
December 9, 2025
2.5 stars rounded up.
ARC provided by Gay Romance Reviews.
This book, and I suspect the whole series, works best if you approach it like a fantasy novel. And I’m not talking dragons; I’m talking a parallel universe where a ranch in Montana (a state Trump won by 20 points in 2024) is home to four sons who all turn out to be gay, everyone is deeply emotionally literate, the parents are supportive, communication is flawless, and homophobia simply doesn’t exist. You would be hard-pressed to find that level of acceptance in San Francisco, let alone on a ranch in Montana.
And Remi… sweet Remi. Having not read the first two books in the series, I found myself wondering if besides his petting zoo duties he is also secretly a sex therapist. Because my guy knew too much about the sexual spectrum and delivered it with an academic precision that did not match “average ranch son who just happens to have some experience.”
Everyone in this world is also startlingly self-actualized—including the 17-year-old daughter who also ends up with a woman because apparently everyone in this universe is queer. Honestly, I would’ve appreciated a disclaimer like the one Penny Moss included in Rainsquall: essentially, “for the sake of the story, pretend homophobia isn’t an issue.” It would have made the world-building easier to swallow (pun intended).
Then there’s the Stevie situation. Everyone uses they/them pronouns with absolute ease, zero learning curve, zero confusion. I’m not saying people can’t do that, it’s just rare in older characters, and the book treats it like the most effortless transition on earth. That aside, Stevie is talked about constantly, as if readers already knew them. I even checked previous books and searched their name because I was convinced I had missed something. Nope. Nothing. And in a book that is explicitly about sexuality, I wanted to understand more about Oakley’s pansexual identity and how Stevie fit into that picture.
Now let’s talk about the cow.
Why is there a cow in the house?
Can cows be house-trained?
And more importantly… the cow ate beef. Are we not calling that cannibalism?
The steam was interesting. I’ll give Sanders credit: I’ve read a lot of smut and this was different. The emphasis on the mechanics of needing penetration rather than lust or intimacy was unique, if a bit odd. Lawson is the truest pillow princess I’ve ever read, so at least the endearment fits (and was kind of hot.) If you like the pillow princess kink, this book probably fits the bill more than any I have read.
I found the tampon scene painfully cringe. No teenage girl would want that kind of spotlight on an already mortifying moment.
And for someone portrayed as sensitive and wounded, Lawson is pretty damn selfish. But what really tanked my rating was the misogyny baked into the plot twist that somehow blames the ex-wife—who wasted twenty years of her life—for not leaving her husband sooner because she suspected he might be bi/gay. How do you make her the villain in that scenario? That alone dragged my 3-star “eh, okay” down to 2.5.
I realize I’m going full Goldilocks with my next complaint:
Sometimes romance conflicts resolve too late.
Sometimes they resolve too early.
This one resolves too early and then gets overly schmoopy in a way that made me check how many pages I had left. Several times.
Now, the positives: I loved the Peter Pan theme. As someone who is painfully aware of the passage of time (hi, fellow nostalgics), I thought it was a lovely, poignant thread. And as a Taurus, I deeply understood Lawson’s heartbreak over losing that acorn. That was the most emotionally realistic moment in the book.
Will I read Remi’s book? Maybe. Sanders built enough world charm that I’m mildly curious, as long as isn’t secretly another “The More You Know” series about the spectrum of sexuality. If every book turns into a PSA with a side of romance, I’m out. I come to romance for feelings and steam, not a televised health class.
ARC provided by Gay Romance Reviews.
This book, and I suspect the whole series, works best if you approach it like a fantasy novel. And I’m not talking dragons; I’m talking a parallel universe where a ranch in Montana (a state Trump won by 20 points in 2024) is home to four sons who all turn out to be gay, everyone is deeply emotionally literate, the parents are supportive, communication is flawless, and homophobia simply doesn’t exist. You would be hard-pressed to find that level of acceptance in San Francisco, let alone on a ranch in Montana.
And Remi… sweet Remi. Having not read the first two books in the series, I found myself wondering if besides his petting zoo duties he is also secretly a sex therapist. Because my guy knew too much about the sexual spectrum and delivered it with an academic precision that did not match “average ranch son who just happens to have some experience.”
Everyone in this world is also startlingly self-actualized—including the 17-year-old daughter who also ends up with a woman because apparently everyone in this universe is queer. Honestly, I would’ve appreciated a disclaimer like the one Penny Moss included in Rainsquall: essentially, “for the sake of the story, pretend homophobia isn’t an issue.” It would have made the world-building easier to swallow (pun intended).
Then there’s the Stevie situation. Everyone uses they/them pronouns with absolute ease, zero learning curve, zero confusion. I’m not saying people can’t do that, it’s just rare in older characters, and the book treats it like the most effortless transition on earth. That aside, Stevie is talked about constantly, as if readers already knew them. I even checked previous books and searched their name because I was convinced I had missed something. Nope. Nothing. And in a book that is explicitly about sexuality, I wanted to understand more about Oakley’s pansexual identity and how Stevie fit into that picture.
Now let’s talk about the cow.
Why is there a cow in the house?
Can cows be house-trained?
And more importantly… the cow ate beef. Are we not calling that cannibalism?
The steam was interesting. I’ll give Sanders credit: I’ve read a lot of smut and this was different. The emphasis on the mechanics of needing penetration rather than lust or intimacy was unique, if a bit odd. Lawson is the truest pillow princess I’ve ever read, so at least the endearment fits (and was kind of hot.) If you like the pillow princess kink, this book probably fits the bill more than any I have read.
I found the tampon scene painfully cringe. No teenage girl would want that kind of spotlight on an already mortifying moment.
And for someone portrayed as sensitive and wounded, Lawson is pretty damn selfish. But what really tanked my rating was the misogyny baked into the plot twist that somehow blames the ex-wife—who wasted twenty years of her life—for not leaving her husband sooner because she suspected he might be bi/gay. How do you make her the villain in that scenario? That alone dragged my 3-star “eh, okay” down to 2.5.
I realize I’m going full Goldilocks with my next complaint:
Sometimes romance conflicts resolve too late.
Sometimes they resolve too early.
This one resolves too early and then gets overly schmoopy in a way that made me check how many pages I had left. Several times.
Now, the positives: I loved the Peter Pan theme. As someone who is painfully aware of the passage of time (hi, fellow nostalgics), I thought it was a lovely, poignant thread. And as a Taurus, I deeply understood Lawson’s heartbreak over losing that acorn. That was the most emotionally realistic moment in the book.
Will I read Remi’s book? Maybe. Sanders built enough world charm that I’m mildly curious, as long as isn’t secretly another “The More You Know” series about the spectrum of sexuality. If every book turns into a PSA with a side of romance, I’m out. I come to romance for feelings and steam, not a televised health class.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 8, 2025
Well, Oakley and Lawson just became my new favorite couple from Emmy Sanders. I think friends to lovers is one of the best tropes and this one just hit perfectly. Once I started it I couldn’t put it down. I’m absolutely loving this whole Darling family and I can’t wait for Remi’s book!!
December 20, 2025
4.5
If Emmy Sanders writes a childhood friends-to-lovers book, I'm going to read it. She has a way of building such emotional depth within her stories with characters that you can't help but adore.
This book was so romantic and I loved Lawson & Oakley. I adore this whole damn series to be honest! I love a queer awakening/self discovery journey and Emmy delivers every. damn. time.
If you need a small-town MM romance with cowboys, I could not recommend this series enough!
I received an advanced copy for free through the author, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
If Emmy Sanders writes a childhood friends-to-lovers book, I'm going to read it. She has a way of building such emotional depth within her stories with characters that you can't help but adore.
This book was so romantic and I loved Lawson & Oakley. I adore this whole damn series to be honest! I love a queer awakening/self discovery journey and Emmy delivers every. damn. time.
If you need a small-town MM romance with cowboys, I could not recommend this series enough!
I received an advanced copy for free through the author, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 23, 2025
friends to lovers will always do it for me 🙂↕️
December 5, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Feel good, sweeter than an apple pie, Darling good times being back with these boys !
__________________
Well, I had one distinct thought while reading this one.. the Darling brothers books are truly ones that every reader can enjoy. Honestly? What’s not to love? You get a little bit of everything with this series. They’re all hilarious, fun, they have great small town vibes and people you’ll love to love, the spice is always off the charts, and bonfire rituals that will have you howling. No matter what you like to read, I know for sure you’ll enjoy this group!
Lawson is struggling with his divorce, he’s lonely, and he’s about to drag his best friend back to town.. he’s been gone too long. It’s time to come home.
Oakley and Law have been best friends since they were young. Oakley made a promise to never leave Lawson behind, and Lawson is about to cash in on that promise.
One thing I loved most about both of these characters was how honest they were with one another. Lawson doesn’t shy away from saying exactly what he means, and has absolutely no filter. And Oakley? Well he can appreciate it. Especially when Lawson asks him for a big favour. One that could change the entire course of their friendship. Although hesitant, Oakley was never very good at denying Lawson anything. He’s not about to start now.
Sit down, and enjoy one of the most beautiful childhood best friends to lovers books you’ll ever read. These two had me laughing, crying, and every emotion in between. There’s fun with rope, acorns that feel like a kiss, a hilarious miniature cow named Bell, a sweet informational demonstration about a woman’s period, and the Darling brothers and their partners that we all know and love.
Probably one of my favourite Emmy books to date, right up there with the best of them. 🩷
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Feel good, sweeter than an apple pie, Darling good times being back with these boys !
__________________
Well, I had one distinct thought while reading this one.. the Darling brothers books are truly ones that every reader can enjoy. Honestly? What’s not to love? You get a little bit of everything with this series. They’re all hilarious, fun, they have great small town vibes and people you’ll love to love, the spice is always off the charts, and bonfire rituals that will have you howling. No matter what you like to read, I know for sure you’ll enjoy this group!
Lawson is struggling with his divorce, he’s lonely, and he’s about to drag his best friend back to town.. he’s been gone too long. It’s time to come home.
Oakley and Law have been best friends since they were young. Oakley made a promise to never leave Lawson behind, and Lawson is about to cash in on that promise.
One thing I loved most about both of these characters was how honest they were with one another. Lawson doesn’t shy away from saying exactly what he means, and has absolutely no filter. And Oakley? Well he can appreciate it. Especially when Lawson asks him for a big favour. One that could change the entire course of their friendship. Although hesitant, Oakley was never very good at denying Lawson anything. He’s not about to start now.
Sit down, and enjoy one of the most beautiful childhood best friends to lovers books you’ll ever read. These two had me laughing, crying, and every emotion in between. There’s fun with rope, acorns that feel like a kiss, a hilarious miniature cow named Bell, a sweet informational demonstration about a woman’s period, and the Darling brothers and their partners that we all know and love.
Probably one of my favourite Emmy books to date, right up there with the best of them. 🩷
December 20, 2025
This book was my least favorite in the series so far. I thought there was just way too much unnecessary dialogue. There was also way too many times where I thought “people don’t talk that way.” When they were discussing the different sexualities, it almost seemed like copy/paste definitions. I expected to see a source link at the end of the sentence.
I didn’t appreciate how Laura, the ex-wife was treated. Lawson didn’t even know what his sexuality was so to say she should have known and left him earlier is disappointing. She was trying to love her husband. It’s not her fault she didn’t know he was gay especially when HE DIDN’T KNOW!!!
I felt after about the 75% point that I started to check to see if the book was over yet. Just a lot of unnecessary story. Too many times did I think the book was done only to find it still going.
The two previous books in the series were way better.
I didn’t appreciate how Laura, the ex-wife was treated. Lawson didn’t even know what his sexuality was so to say she should have known and left him earlier is disappointing. She was trying to love her husband. It’s not her fault she didn’t know he was gay especially when HE DIDN’T KNOW!!!
I felt after about the 75% point that I started to check to see if the book was over yet. Just a lot of unnecessary story. Too many times did I think the book was done only to find it still going.
The two previous books in the series were way better.
December 28, 2025
ARC Review – Saddle to Sunup by Emmy Sanders
⭐️⭐️⭐️ (3/5 stars)
I picked up Saddle to Sunup with high expectations. I’ve always loved Emmy Sanders and am a sucker for a childhood friends-to-lovers story. Unfortunately, this one didn���t work for me in the way I’d hoped despite some truly beautiful moments.
The writing itself is strong, polished, and emotionally expressive. The intimate scenes between Lawson and Oakley are tender, vulnerable, and incredibly well written. Their physical chemistry is undeniable, and the author excels at capturing longing, familiarity, and the weight of shared history. The sex scenes, in particular, are some of the most emotionally charged in the series, and they alone carry this book to a solid three stars for me.
The biggest problem for me was the absence of meaningful conflict. From very early on, Lawson and Oakley feel emotionally aligned and essentially “together.” There is no real resistance, uncertainty, or obstacle (internal or external) that challenges their relationship. They want each other, they choose each other, and everyone around them supports it almost immediately. There was very little angst, push-and-pull, or emotional risk.
While all three books share the same setting, Saddle to Sunup asks for a very different level of believability. In book one, Jackson is already out, and Ash arrives as an outsider. Their relationship largely unfolds within the safety of the Darling Ranch, away from public scrutiny. The town’s reaction is minimal, which works because it doesn’t need to carry narrative weight.
Lawson’s story is totally different. He’s a divorced man in his forties, with a teenage daughter, who ends a long marriage and then drives all the way to Kansas to bring his childhood friend back to his town. The people of the town/his family say nothing. There is no adjustment period, no awkwardness, no gossip, no quiet resistance, no generational tension. Everyone is immediately affirming and supportive. While this may be comforting for some readers, it felt deeply unrealistic to me. Acceptance doesn’t have to come with cruelty—but it usually comes with complexity. There was none of that!
My biggest emotional struggle with this book was the handling of Lawson’s ex-wife, Laura. Laura is frequently framed as an obstacle, a source of misunderstanding, or someone who “didn’t get it.” The narrative mostly tried to imply that Laura failed to understand and comfort Lawson. I mean, how do you do that when Law himself is still figuring things out (for decades, actually)
There are moments where the framing is especially troubling, such as:
Oh good God. I’ve never been a violent person, but I have the sudden and desperate urge to find Laura and shake the woman. Compatible sexually or not, she couldn’t see to her husband’s own comfort?
— whether you’re gay or straight everyone deserves to set boundaries and do only things that they’re comfortable in an intimate situation.
Lawson’s late-in-life awakening is treated almost entirely as a personal journey, with very little reckoning for the emotional cost to the woman who spent nearly two decades of her life with him. While self-discovery at any age is valid, the lack of visible remorse or accountability made it difficult for me to fully empathize with him. Statements like:
“I don’t owe it to anyone. To explain myself.”
— Laura may not be owed every detail of Lawson’s inner life—but she was owed honesty, care, and compassion after building a life with him for so long.
Maybe I’m alone in this but Laura is also a victim here. She’s a normal person who likely experienced years of emotional and physical disconnect without understanding why. Expecting her to have solved or accommodated a truth Lawson himself hadn’t yet uncovered places an unfair burden on her.
There’s a scene where Lawson says why can’t he hug Oak while Laura hugs and talks with all her friends? Yes, men need to be more affectionate with each other but unfortunately it’s not a reality yet! Lawson wasn’t physically affectionate with many people (say his friends/brothers). He was deeply attached to Oak alone. That’s a very different dynamic than simply “having close friends.” Comparing Laura’s closeness with her own friends to Lawson’s exclusive bond with Oakley isn’t an equal comparison, especially given how men are socially conditioned around intimacy. Of course, Laura felt irked by Law and Oak’s friendship and it felt reasonable in my mind.
Another confusing element was Stevie. Despite being Oakley’s ex, Stevie remains a constant presence in the narrative, yet is never fully explored or contextualized. Their role feels oddly undefined—traveling alongside the story without much clarity about what actually happened between them or why that relationship ended. What stood out to me was the contrast in how gently Stevie is treated compared to Laura. Stevie is afforded patience, grace, and understanding, while Laura is repeatedly positioned as the person who “didn’t understand” or “not happy with anything.” The imbalance felt intentional but not well-justified.
I don’t regret reading this book, and I still appreciate Emmy Sanders as an author. Her writing remains beautiful, and the intimacy between Lawson and Oakley is undeniably compelling. But this installment didn’t resonate with me the way her earlier work has.
I’m glad if this book brought comfort to readers who want comforting, healing romance. I just wish it had offered more depth, balance, and realism along the way.
⭐️⭐️⭐️ (3/5 stars)
I picked up Saddle to Sunup with high expectations. I’ve always loved Emmy Sanders and am a sucker for a childhood friends-to-lovers story. Unfortunately, this one didn���t work for me in the way I’d hoped despite some truly beautiful moments.
The writing itself is strong, polished, and emotionally expressive. The intimate scenes between Lawson and Oakley are tender, vulnerable, and incredibly well written. Their physical chemistry is undeniable, and the author excels at capturing longing, familiarity, and the weight of shared history. The sex scenes, in particular, are some of the most emotionally charged in the series, and they alone carry this book to a solid three stars for me.
The biggest problem for me was the absence of meaningful conflict. From very early on, Lawson and Oakley feel emotionally aligned and essentially “together.” There is no real resistance, uncertainty, or obstacle (internal or external) that challenges their relationship. They want each other, they choose each other, and everyone around them supports it almost immediately. There was very little angst, push-and-pull, or emotional risk.
While all three books share the same setting, Saddle to Sunup asks for a very different level of believability. In book one, Jackson is already out, and Ash arrives as an outsider. Their relationship largely unfolds within the safety of the Darling Ranch, away from public scrutiny. The town’s reaction is minimal, which works because it doesn’t need to carry narrative weight.
Lawson’s story is totally different. He’s a divorced man in his forties, with a teenage daughter, who ends a long marriage and then drives all the way to Kansas to bring his childhood friend back to his town. The people of the town/his family say nothing. There is no adjustment period, no awkwardness, no gossip, no quiet resistance, no generational tension. Everyone is immediately affirming and supportive. While this may be comforting for some readers, it felt deeply unrealistic to me. Acceptance doesn’t have to come with cruelty—but it usually comes with complexity. There was none of that!
My biggest emotional struggle with this book was the handling of Lawson’s ex-wife, Laura. Laura is frequently framed as an obstacle, a source of misunderstanding, or someone who “didn’t get it.” The narrative mostly tried to imply that Laura failed to understand and comfort Lawson. I mean, how do you do that when Law himself is still figuring things out (for decades, actually)
There are moments where the framing is especially troubling, such as:
Oh good God. I’ve never been a violent person, but I have the sudden and desperate urge to find Laura and shake the woman. Compatible sexually or not, she couldn’t see to her husband’s own comfort?
— whether you’re gay or straight everyone deserves to set boundaries and do only things that they’re comfortable in an intimate situation.
Lawson’s late-in-life awakening is treated almost entirely as a personal journey, with very little reckoning for the emotional cost to the woman who spent nearly two decades of her life with him. While self-discovery at any age is valid, the lack of visible remorse or accountability made it difficult for me to fully empathize with him. Statements like:
“I don’t owe it to anyone. To explain myself.”
— Laura may not be owed every detail of Lawson’s inner life—but she was owed honesty, care, and compassion after building a life with him for so long.
Maybe I’m alone in this but Laura is also a victim here. She’s a normal person who likely experienced years of emotional and physical disconnect without understanding why. Expecting her to have solved or accommodated a truth Lawson himself hadn’t yet uncovered places an unfair burden on her.
There’s a scene where Lawson says why can’t he hug Oak while Laura hugs and talks with all her friends? Yes, men need to be more affectionate with each other but unfortunately it’s not a reality yet! Lawson wasn’t physically affectionate with many people (say his friends/brothers). He was deeply attached to Oak alone. That’s a very different dynamic than simply “having close friends.” Comparing Laura’s closeness with her own friends to Lawson’s exclusive bond with Oakley isn’t an equal comparison, especially given how men are socially conditioned around intimacy. Of course, Laura felt irked by Law and Oak’s friendship and it felt reasonable in my mind.
Another confusing element was Stevie. Despite being Oakley’s ex, Stevie remains a constant presence in the narrative, yet is never fully explored or contextualized. Their role feels oddly undefined—traveling alongside the story without much clarity about what actually happened between them or why that relationship ended. What stood out to me was the contrast in how gently Stevie is treated compared to Laura. Stevie is afforded patience, grace, and understanding, while Laura is repeatedly positioned as the person who “didn’t understand” or “not happy with anything.” The imbalance felt intentional but not well-justified.
I don’t regret reading this book, and I still appreciate Emmy Sanders as an author. Her writing remains beautiful, and the intimacy between Lawson and Oakley is undeniably compelling. But this installment didn’t resonate with me the way her earlier work has.
I’m glad if this book brought comfort to readers who want comforting, healing romance. I just wish it had offered more depth, balance, and realism along the way.
December 21, 2025
What in the ever loving hell did I just read?
PERFECTION is what!
I have been waiting for Lawsons book since the series started, what I didn’t expect was Oakley. He is a man among men.
Their story is beautiful. Lawson coming to terms with his sexuality and realizing he was broken and Oakley being patient and getting his HEA.
This book made me laugh, shake my head and broke my heart only to mend it again. I don’t want to give anything away but the love confession of Lawson and the proposal were some
Of the sweetest moments in a book I have read in a long time.
I am a huge Emmy Sanders fan, and this book is one of her best. The spicy was spicing but in the most beautiful and romantic way. The relationship progression for Law and Oak was so natural and obvious you couldn’t help but smile and wait for them to catch up to themselves.
I loved the Peter Pan references and how Law always goes
back to the book.
I could not put this book down.
Were there things that made me pause, yes but not in a way that took away from the fact that it is a 5 star read. For men in their 40s they felt young to me, especially Lawson, I understand that him being on the ace spectrum leaves him unsure about somethings but in some of his reactions he seems so naive and clueless at moments. However on the flip side I don’t know if the book would hit different if he was any other way.
Overall I stand by the fact I think this is a 5 star read and can’t wait for Remis book.
PERFECTION is what!
I have been waiting for Lawsons book since the series started, what I didn’t expect was Oakley. He is a man among men.
Their story is beautiful. Lawson coming to terms with his sexuality and realizing he was broken and Oakley being patient and getting his HEA.
This book made me laugh, shake my head and broke my heart only to mend it again. I don’t want to give anything away but the love confession of Lawson and the proposal were some
Of the sweetest moments in a book I have read in a long time.
I am a huge Emmy Sanders fan, and this book is one of her best. The spicy was spicing but in the most beautiful and romantic way. The relationship progression for Law and Oak was so natural and obvious you couldn’t help but smile and wait for them to catch up to themselves.
I loved the Peter Pan references and how Law always goes
back to the book.
I could not put this book down.
Were there things that made me pause, yes but not in a way that took away from the fact that it is a 5 star read. For men in their 40s they felt young to me, especially Lawson, I understand that him being on the ace spectrum leaves him unsure about somethings but in some of his reactions he seems so naive and clueless at moments. However on the flip side I don’t know if the book would hit different if he was any other way.
Overall I stand by the fact I think this is a 5 star read and can’t wait for Remis book.
December 20, 2025
Gorgeous.
A bittersweet story about Lawson, who at 43 has begun to realise that love and sexual attraction don’t come to him the same way they do for most people. He spent 20 years in a marriage where he blamed himself for the way nothing worked out. When in reality, his wife knew and held on a little too tight, so there was fault on both sides.
Oakley is his lifelong best friend who has never allowed himself to love his friend the way that he wanted to, thinking that was never in the cards. But when the two get together and talk it through, they realise it’s not because Lawson doesn’t love him but just because he loves in a different way.
Their journey from friendship to husband is so lovely, and the Peter Pan theme, the proposal, and their happiness are just beautifully written.
I was so excited for Lawson’s story, and it delivered everything I hoped. He’s such a sweet character, and as Oakley points out, he deserves the world.
I’m excited for Remi and his story.
A bittersweet story about Lawson, who at 43 has begun to realise that love and sexual attraction don’t come to him the same way they do for most people. He spent 20 years in a marriage where he blamed himself for the way nothing worked out. When in reality, his wife knew and held on a little too tight, so there was fault on both sides.
Oakley is his lifelong best friend who has never allowed himself to love his friend the way that he wanted to, thinking that was never in the cards. But when the two get together and talk it through, they realise it’s not because Lawson doesn’t love him but just because he loves in a different way.
Their journey from friendship to husband is so lovely, and the Peter Pan theme, the proposal, and their happiness are just beautifully written.
I was so excited for Lawson’s story, and it delivered everything I hoped. He’s such a sweet character, and as Oakley points out, he deserves the world.
I’m excited for Remi and his story.
December 21, 2025
Ace rep AND older MC’s? Sign me up! Saddle to Sunup was just what I needed after finishing Brim Over Boot. Thankfully, the wasn’t wait too long; our favourite eldest Darling brother and his wayward bestie Oakley have finally been reunited!
I love ace representation in my books, and Emmy has done a wonderful job with her portrayal of Lawson’s sexuality. The ace spectrum is so diverse, it’s great to see its various presentations and how characters navigate it represented. Another win for me was the older MC representation. It love to read characters in their forties still learning about themselves and finding their HEA, because I feel your forties is when you really start to figure yourself—and life—out.
Emmy always handles her characters with such love and care and that really shines in Saddle to Sunup. Her books are always packed full of heart and feeling, and this one is no exception. I’m really looking forward to Remi’s story next.
I love ace representation in my books, and Emmy has done a wonderful job with her portrayal of Lawson’s sexuality. The ace spectrum is so diverse, it’s great to see its various presentations and how characters navigate it represented. Another win for me was the older MC representation. It love to read characters in their forties still learning about themselves and finding their HEA, because I feel your forties is when you really start to figure yourself—and life—out.
Emmy always handles her characters with such love and care and that really shines in Saddle to Sunup. Her books are always packed full of heart and feeling, and this one is no exception. I’m really looking forward to Remi’s story next.
December 23, 2025
Okay but this one had me soft and fully emotional. Childhood besties to so much more and Lawson & Oakley absolutely delivered. The bond between these two is already rock solid, and adding romantic love on top of it? I was DONE. Gushing. Kicking my feet. The codependency?? The devotion?? The way they talk about each other like “he’s the reason I see pixie dust” EXCUSE me??? Jail. Immediate jail. I loved it. I’m in love. Small town Montana vibes and that deep romance that feels earned because it’s rooted in years of history? And don’t even get me started on the Darling brothers, watching them all find their happily ever after has been giving me so much joy.
December 14, 2025
Rating 4 ⭐️
Emotion 1.5 🥹
Spice 2.5 🌶️
Saddle to Sunup is another outstanding novel by Emmy, and I have to say I am really loving The Darling Brothers series.
Going into Lawson’s story, I wasn’t sure what to expect. In the first two books, he was kind of a neutral character for me, and I didn’t feel particularly invested in him getting his own book (which probably has a lot to do with my very strong need for Remi’s story 😅).
That said, Lawson completely surprised me. Lawson’s journey felt natural, emotional, and so real, especially watching him unpack years of buried feelings around his sexuality and come to terms with who he is and what he wants.
The childhood-friends-to-lovers dynamic added so much depth, and seeing two older characters navigate love, fear, and vulnerability was truly beautiful.
Oakley calling Lawson princess was everything… I was absolutely swooning over that!
I loved seeing Jackson, Ash, Colton & Noah again.
The Peter Pan references woven throughout the story felt very poetic, and I wouldn’t expect anything less from Emmy.
Emmy continues to deliver heartfelt, character-driven romances. And if you love cowboys, queer awakenings, and childhood-friends-lovers stories, I highly recommend Saddle To Sunup
Emotion 1.5 🥹
Spice 2.5 🌶️
Saddle to Sunup is another outstanding novel by Emmy, and I have to say I am really loving The Darling Brothers series.
Going into Lawson’s story, I wasn’t sure what to expect. In the first two books, he was kind of a neutral character for me, and I didn’t feel particularly invested in him getting his own book (which probably has a lot to do with my very strong need for Remi’s story 😅).
That said, Lawson completely surprised me. Lawson’s journey felt natural, emotional, and so real, especially watching him unpack years of buried feelings around his sexuality and come to terms with who he is and what he wants.
The childhood-friends-to-lovers dynamic added so much depth, and seeing two older characters navigate love, fear, and vulnerability was truly beautiful.
Oakley calling Lawson princess was everything… I was absolutely swooning over that!
I loved seeing Jackson, Ash, Colton & Noah again.
The Peter Pan references woven throughout the story felt very poetic, and I wouldn’t expect anything less from Emmy.
Emmy continues to deliver heartfelt, character-driven romances. And if you love cowboys, queer awakenings, and childhood-friends-lovers stories, I highly recommend Saddle To Sunup
December 18, 2025
I don't know how to describe how good this book made me feel.
I have been reading MM for so long that it takes something really special for my heart to be satisfied.
I just want to say that this book felt what coming home feels like and I don't think there is a better feeling in the world.
I have been reading MM for so long that it takes something really special for my heart to be satisfied.
I just want to say that this book felt what coming home feels like and I don't think there is a better feeling in the world.
December 7, 2025
OAKLEY FRIGGEN BEAUMONT - SWOON! SWOON SO friggen hard 😍
Lawson was honestly my least favorite brother, he was so closed off and gruff and just hated life. I knew he had been going through a divorce but he was just stuck, he wasn't making any progress in healing. The light that comes on in him the moment he’s in Oak’s presence is brighter than the sun. And I 1000% under why. Oak is so inherently good right down to his bones. He could charm the pants off the most vile person and make them good. Not in a tool/ play boy way but in the way that he truly cares. The way he is with Law and Wendy ugh my heart 🫠. Lawson really comes into his own in this one, thanks to Oak. He brings this side of Law out that rarely anyone else see’s- the real him, not the dad, not the brother, teacher or son just him Lawson Darling. These two are two halves of a whole and their journey will just make your heart happy. You’ll get to me the cutest animal side character, you’ll fall in love with Wendy and of course you get the meddling Darling family and their antics. You also get to see a peak of what’s in store for Remi and - I CAN’T WAIT 😍I want to thank Emmy for the opportunity to read and review this book.
Lawson was honestly my least favorite brother, he was so closed off and gruff and just hated life. I knew he had been going through a divorce but he was just stuck, he wasn't making any progress in healing. The light that comes on in him the moment he’s in Oak’s presence is brighter than the sun. And I 1000% under why. Oak is so inherently good right down to his bones. He could charm the pants off the most vile person and make them good. Not in a tool/ play boy way but in the way that he truly cares. The way he is with Law and Wendy ugh my heart 🫠. Lawson really comes into his own in this one, thanks to Oak. He brings this side of Law out that rarely anyone else see’s- the real him, not the dad, not the brother, teacher or son just him Lawson Darling. These two are two halves of a whole and their journey will just make your heart happy. You’ll get to me the cutest animal side character, you’ll fall in love with Wendy and of course you get the meddling Darling family and their antics. You also get to see a peak of what’s in store for Remi and - I CAN’T WAIT 😍I want to thank Emmy for the opportunity to read and review this book.
December 21, 2025
4.5☆
🅢🅟🅘🅒🅔:🌶🌶🌶
🅛🅐🅤🅖🅗🅢:🤣🤣🤣
🅣🅔🅐🅡🅢:🥲
🅜🅒🅢: Lawson, Oakley
🅟🅞🅥: Dual PoV, 1st Person
🅣🅡🅞🅟🅔🅢: Best Friends to Lovers, Ace Rep. 40s MCs
🅢🅟🅘🅒🅔:🌶🌶🌶
🅛🅐🅤🅖🅗🅢:🤣🤣🤣
🅣🅔🅐🅡🅢:🥲
🅜🅒🅢: Lawson, Oakley
🅟🅞🅥: Dual PoV, 1st Person
🅣🅡🅞🅟🅔🅢: Best Friends to Lovers, Ace Rep. 40s MCs
December 28, 2025
ermmmm not for me
This book was pretty frustrating from start to finish
The cow eating beef stew ? Lol wtf ?
Blaming Laura for prolonging their marriage ? WTF ?
Two men in their forties acting like children ?
When the love confession finally happens the most dramatic unnecessary car crash comes into the plot ? What was that for lol?
Honestly I skipped the last 8% it got too boring
This book was pretty frustrating from start to finish
The cow eating beef stew ? Lol wtf ?
Blaming Laura for prolonging their marriage ? WTF ?
Two men in their forties acting like children ?
When the love confession finally happens the most dramatic unnecessary car crash comes into the plot ? What was that for lol?
Honestly I skipped the last 8% it got too boring
December 27, 2025
This is a best friends to more romance, featuring Lawson Darling and Oakley Beaumont, and is book three in the Darling Brothers series.
Lawson’s life is a mess after his divorce and returning to the family ranch, and Oakley’s disappearance has left him questioning everything. Now he’s determined to bring his best friend home, hoping that finding Oakley will help him find himself too.
This story hits right in the chest, I absolutely loved it. Lawson’s journey is a perfect blend of vulnerability, humour, and quiet heartbreak as he figures out the feelings he never dared name. The slow-burn reunion and deep history between him and Oakley give every scene a soft spark. It’s a beautiful romance about coming home and discovering that forever might still be waiting.
Absolutely stellar narration by Kale Williams.
Things to expect in this book are:
Book 3 in series
MM romance
Small town
Best friends to more
Cowboy x Teacher
Single dad
MCs in their forties
Codependent
Cuddles
Only one tent
Cow pet dad
Lots of pining
Pan rep & Ace rep
Gay awakening
Spicy times
Exploring
Friends with benefits
Edging & Rope play
Admit feelings
Calls him Princess
Found family
HEA
Lawson’s life is a mess after his divorce and returning to the family ranch, and Oakley’s disappearance has left him questioning everything. Now he’s determined to bring his best friend home, hoping that finding Oakley will help him find himself too.
This story hits right in the chest, I absolutely loved it. Lawson’s journey is a perfect blend of vulnerability, humour, and quiet heartbreak as he figures out the feelings he never dared name. The slow-burn reunion and deep history between him and Oakley give every scene a soft spark. It’s a beautiful romance about coming home and discovering that forever might still be waiting.
Absolutely stellar narration by Kale Williams.
Things to expect in this book are:
Book 3 in series
MM romance
Small town
Best friends to more
Cowboy x Teacher
Single dad
MCs in their forties
Codependent
Cuddles
Only one tent
Cow pet dad
Lots of pining
Pan rep & Ace rep
Gay awakening
Spicy times
Exploring
Friends with benefits
Edging & Rope play
Admit feelings
Calls him Princess
Found family
HEA
Review of advance copy
So far, I’ve really loved the Darling Brothers series. Emmy knows exactly how to bring that small-town ranch setting to life, and going into this one as a childhood best friends story set the bar pretty high for me. Seeing my rating, you can probably guess that it didn’t fully deliver on that expectation.
Throughout the story there’s a strong Peter Pan theme, which actually works really well and gives the whole book a dreamy, almost nostalgic vibe. Where I struggled a bit was with how Lawson and Oakley spoke as children. The metaphors and almost poetic way of talking didn’t really match their age for me and pulled me out of the story at times.
The romance itself was nice, and I do appreciate how Emmy handled the ace representation. It felt realistic and offered good insight into how people can feel “not normal” in a society where sex is treated as essential to every relationship. That said, I’m not sure it was necessary to turn part of this into a full explanation of how the spectrum works by having Remy explain it all to Lawson. We don’t really know Remy yet, and the way he approaches it didn’t feel very brotherly to me.
There were also a couple of scenes that left me feeling uncomfortable. One that stood out in particular was Laura’s role in the story. The way she gets blamed for Lawson’s late self-discovery didn’t sit right with me at all.
To end on a positive note, I did enjoy being back on the ranch and seeing familiar characters reappear and be happy together. I will still be reading Remi’s story, because he’s intrigued me since book one.
tropes:
small town
childhood best friends to fwb to lovers
mature mmc's
Ace rep
queer awakening
spice:
🌶️🌶️.5
Throughout the story there’s a strong Peter Pan theme, which actually works really well and gives the whole book a dreamy, almost nostalgic vibe. Where I struggled a bit was with how Lawson and Oakley spoke as children. The metaphors and almost poetic way of talking didn’t really match their age for me and pulled me out of the story at times.
The romance itself was nice, and I do appreciate how Emmy handled the ace representation. It felt realistic and offered good insight into how people can feel “not normal” in a society where sex is treated as essential to every relationship. That said, I’m not sure it was necessary to turn part of this into a full explanation of how the spectrum works by having Remy explain it all to Lawson. We don’t really know Remy yet, and the way he approaches it didn’t feel very brotherly to me.
There were also a couple of scenes that left me feeling uncomfortable. One that stood out in particular was Laura’s role in the story. The way she gets blamed for Lawson’s late self-discovery didn’t sit right with me at all.
To end on a positive note, I did enjoy being back on the ranch and seeing familiar characters reappear and be happy together. I will still be reading Remi’s story, because he’s intrigued me since book one.
tropes:
small town
childhood best friends to fwb to lovers
mature mmc's
Ace rep
queer awakening
spice:
🌶️🌶️.5
December 26, 2025
After two great books, we were sure to find a dud eventually. As is often my problem with childhood best friends to lovers, there was just no THERE there, no oomph, no gravitas, they basically started the book in love and it could've easily ended shortly thereafter. Like it was cute, don't get me wrong, I still love the world that Sanders built and I have a lot of fun with the overall cast, but there was nothing to build or develop. If this had been a cute little novella about a demisexual/asexual bi-awakening (not sure if they ever nailed down that Layton was ace or demi, not that someone necessarily has to choose) then I would be singing a different tune, but it's never the best when the amount of story there is to tell is way out of balance with the number of pages used to tell it. Oakley was very much just there to me. Like again, Sanders writes great romances, I liked the Peter Pan tie-ins, she's a great writer, but this just lacked for me.
December 14, 2025
Another hit from Emmy Sanders. More of the Darling Brothers and their family. I really enjoyed this. Oakley and Lawson are the best kinds of friends. They support one another in a way that is so wholesome and endearing. I loved how Lawson explains how he knew he was in love with Oakley and has been since they were young but didn’t understand it until they were adults. I thought this was beautiful. Oakley telling Lawson he’ll love him from saddle to Sunil and all the hours in between was my favourite line and brought tears to my eyes. I look forward to the next in the series. I can’t wait to read Remi’s story.
I was give this arc for my honest and unbiased opinion.
I was give this arc for my honest and unbiased opinion.
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