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The Romantics #3
500 First Editions
Romance author Willow Winslet believes the best in everyone, unless that one is Ryan Ford.
What’s worse than being the only single person in your friend group? A hot guy in the checkout line mocking your boring Friday night.
But Ryan Ford isn’t just anyone. To Willow, he’s an intolerable dating coach, an obnoxious podcaster, and a life-coaching con artist.
Seriously, who would buy a course that claims to make people fall in love?
Ryan Ford doesn’t believe in love at first sight, until he sets his sights on Willow Winslet.
Now, he’s ready to do whatever it takes to win Willow’s heart. There’s just one problem: she hates everything about him. But what’s a little obstacle like that in the grand scheme of things?
Will she accept his public dare to give his dating program a shot? Or will she end their little game before it begins? He has three months to make her fall in love, and they’re playing for keeps.
Let the games begin.
—---
500 First Editions is a scorching hot rivals-to-lovers slow burn romance packed with witty banter, friendly kidnappings, and the best girl gang you’ll ever meet. Get ready for a swoon-worthy happily-ever-after! This is the final book in the Romantics series, but you can enjoy it as a standalone.
What’s worse than being the only single person in your friend group? A hot guy in the checkout line mocking your boring Friday night.
But Ryan Ford isn’t just anyone. To Willow, he’s an intolerable dating coach, an obnoxious podcaster, and a life-coaching con artist.
Seriously, who would buy a course that claims to make people fall in love?
Ryan Ford doesn’t believe in love at first sight, until he sets his sights on Willow Winslet.
Now, he’s ready to do whatever it takes to win Willow’s heart. There’s just one problem: she hates everything about him. But what’s a little obstacle like that in the grand scheme of things?
Will she accept his public dare to give his dating program a shot? Or will she end their little game before it begins? He has three months to make her fall in love, and they’re playing for keeps.
Let the games begin.
—---
500 First Editions is a scorching hot rivals-to-lovers slow burn romance packed with witty banter, friendly kidnappings, and the best girl gang you’ll ever meet. Get ready for a swoon-worthy happily-ever-after! This is the final book in the Romantics series, but you can enjoy it as a standalone.
474 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 23, 2025
316 people are currently reading
1648 people want to read
About the author
Maggie C. Gates
24 books2,262 followersMaggie Gates writes raw, relatable, romance novels packed full of heat and humor. Maggie calls North Carolina home. In her spare time she enjoys daydreaming about her characters, jamming to country music, and eating all the barbecue and tacos she can find! Her Kindle is always within reach due to a love of small town romances that borders on obsession.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 367 reviews
June 17, 2025
Thank you to Valentine PR and author Maggie Gates for the opportunity to read this ARC 💕
FMC - Willow: 5 🌟
MMC - Ryan: ♾️ 🌟
SPICE: 🌶 🌶 🌶
Nothing makes me happier than to pick up a book, especially an ARC, and be hooked by the first chapter! I couldn't put it down! The chemistry between Willow and Ryan was so perfect, and I was rooting for them from the very beginning. They're both amazing characters on their own, but tell such a beautiful story together. And if you like the "he fell first" trope, then look no further. Willow's best friends are also the absolute best, the kinds of friends everyone should have!
I swooned, I giggled, I got all in my feels! I have no criticism for this book. 5 🌟 all the way!
FMC - Willow: 5 🌟
MMC - Ryan: ♾️ 🌟
SPICE: 🌶 🌶 🌶
Nothing makes me happier than to pick up a book, especially an ARC, and be hooked by the first chapter! I couldn't put it down! The chemistry between Willow and Ryan was so perfect, and I was rooting for them from the very beginning. They're both amazing characters on their own, but tell such a beautiful story together. And if you like the "he fell first" trope, then look no further. Willow's best friends are also the absolute best, the kinds of friends everyone should have!
I swooned, I giggled, I got all in my feels! I have no criticism for this book. 5 🌟 all the way!
October 28, 2025
10/24 🎧 audio re-reading!
Haven’t heard Laura Horowitz before but love her social media content 🥰
Absolutely love JF Harding, excited to listen to him voice Ryan!
And the parts done by Jason Clarke.. I know they’re going to destroy me 😭
_____
500 First Editions had me smiling from the start 🥰
while there are some heavier topics too, that giddy feeling stayed throughout the book, especially every time Ryan Ford opened his mouth 🤭
Thank you Valentine PR & Maggie Gates for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
✦ tropes & stuff:
✨ a dare/bet to fall in love
👩💻 romance author fmc
👓 golden retriever, glasses-wearing dating guru mmc
🚘 road trip/temporary roommate
❤️🩹 grief rep
🛏 only one bed
💙 he falls first & FAST
🫶🏼 strong female friendships (and their protective partners)
🔗 forced proximity
💞 dual 1st person pov
📝 mini blurb:
After a public bet to fall in love, romance author Willow Winslet agrees to spend 3 months with Ryan Ford, following his “Ford Method” for dating.
•┈••✦ review ✦••┈•
| ebook | ⭐️: 5 | 🌶️: 3 |
💭 what I loved about this one:
- how Ryan calls Willow his “future wife” after their first meeting 🥹
- all the temple kisses 💋
- love the way they get to know each other, in their proximity & vulnerability
- how Willow turns things around when she realizes Ryan’s been putting in all the work 🥰
- celebrating the little things 🍪
- there are honestly so many great tips for relationships in this, I may need to have my husband read it!
📖 500 First Editions by Maggie Gates
📚 book 3 • the Romantics series
💜: contemporary romance
*Connect with Me*
🤍 Instagram 🤍 Blog 🤍
⋆*･ﾟ:⋆*･ﾟ➳❥ pre-read
Love a Maggie book! Excited to read Willow’s story, loved her energy in the first two books 🥰
This sounds like a fun one too!
Thank you to Valentine PR for the eARC!
Haven’t heard Laura Horowitz before but love her social media content 🥰
Absolutely love JF Harding, excited to listen to him voice Ryan!
And the parts done by Jason Clarke.. I know they’re going to destroy me 😭
_____
500 First Editions had me smiling from the start 🥰
while there are some heavier topics too, that giddy feeling stayed throughout the book, especially every time Ryan Ford opened his mouth 🤭
Thank you Valentine PR & Maggie Gates for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
✦ tropes & stuff:
✨ a dare/bet to fall in love
👩💻 romance author fmc
👓 golden retriever, glasses-wearing dating guru mmc
🚘 road trip/temporary roommate
❤️🩹 grief rep
🛏 only one bed
💙 he falls first & FAST
🫶🏼 strong female friendships (and their protective partners)
🔗 forced proximity
💞 dual 1st person pov
📝 mini blurb:
After a public bet to fall in love, romance author Willow Winslet agrees to spend 3 months with Ryan Ford, following his “Ford Method” for dating.
•┈••✦ review ✦••┈•
| ebook | ⭐️: 5 | 🌶️: 3 |
💭 what I loved about this one:
- how Ryan calls Willow his “future wife” after their first meeting 🥹
- all the temple kisses 💋
- love the way they get to know each other, in their proximity & vulnerability
- how Willow turns things around when she realizes Ryan’s been putting in all the work 🥰
- celebrating the little things 🍪
- there are honestly so many great tips for relationships in this, I may need to have my husband read it!
📖 500 First Editions by Maggie Gates
📚 book 3 • the Romantics series
💜: contemporary romance
*Connect with Me*
🤍 Instagram 🤍 Blog 🤍
⋆*･ﾟ:⋆*･ﾟ➳❥ pre-read
Love a Maggie book! Excited to read Willow’s story, loved her energy in the first two books 🥰
This sounds like a fun one too!
Thank you to Valentine PR for the eARC!
June 11, 2025
The swoon of Ryan Ford 😘
The words that came out of his mouth: book boyfriend.
Oh and the glasses & tattoos. Jesus
The last WW, Willow.
Bubblegum baddie author.
The dating dare cliche trope.
Like a fun twist on How to Lose a Guy in Ten Days.
But make it The Ford Method.
And in all honestly I loved it and am seriously debating implementing it with my husband 🤣
It was such a fun concept.
Let’s see what other fun tropes were there: road-tripping, oh and of course there’s only one bed. But the man’s a pure golden retriever and makes it the best time.
There’s a funny meet cute, all the banter, ALL the flirting.
Little rivals to lovers.
And it wouldn’t be added as one of my favorite Maggie Gates books if she didn’t attempt to rip my heart out at one point.
Arc review ✨
The words that came out of his mouth: book boyfriend.
Oh and the glasses & tattoos. Jesus
The last WW, Willow.
Bubblegum baddie author.
The dating dare cliche trope.
Like a fun twist on How to Lose a Guy in Ten Days.
But make it The Ford Method.
And in all honestly I loved it and am seriously debating implementing it with my husband 🤣
It was such a fun concept.
Let’s see what other fun tropes were there: road-tripping, oh and of course there’s only one bed. But the man’s a pure golden retriever and makes it the best time.
There’s a funny meet cute, all the banter, ALL the flirting.
Little rivals to lovers.
And it wouldn’t be added as one of my favorite Maggie Gates books if she didn’t attempt to rip my heart out at one point.
Arc review ✨
June 23, 2025
500 First Editions was a fun, emotional read.
It is the third and last book in The Romantics series, that tells the stories of three authors who discover love when they least expect it. This could be read as a standalone, but I assure you that you want to know the other characters too.
Willow Winslet, romance author, isn't happy to know that Ryan Ford, dating coach, was invited at a Rom - Con. Showing her displeasure on stage wasn't her best moment though, and now she's caught up in a bet with none other than that man. Will she endure three months of Ryan courting without falling for him?
I loved these characters. They build up their relationship from bitterness to love.
Ryan is so sure of his feelings since the start, as opposed Willow takes a while to accept the change of her feelings for him.
They suit each other perfectly, their chemistry is fire, and their companionship feels easy, effortless and natural.
Maggie Gates took me on a wonderful journey, her writing is refreshing, and her storyline is surprising.
Recommended.
Copy kindly provided by the Publisher/Author.
June 23, 2025
Sometimes you run across something that really is just a good book. A solid book, with damn good writing and a plot that makes you gitty. And this was it.
📕 𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸 𝗜𝗻𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: 500 First Editions by Maggie Gates
📙 𝗦𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘀: The Romantics character series. Book 3.
📗 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗗𝗲𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗹𝘀: E-book ARC on Kindle. 🆓️ on KU.
📘 𝗚𝗲𝗻𝗿𝗲: Contemporary romance
📔 𝗧𝗿𝗼𝗽𝗲𝘀: Dare gone wrong, enemies-to-lovers, banter for days, she's a runner, golden retriever MMC, dating lessons, he falls first.
📖 𝗦𝘆𝗻𝗼𝗽𝘀𝗶𝘀: Whitney is a romance novelist, on a panel with relationship guru Ryan Ford. When she calls his bluff, he dares her to date him - and if she doesn't fall in love, he will call it quits.
🌟 𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄: If I feel the whole spectrum of emotions when I am reading a book, it's getting a good rating and a recommendation from me. And that's what 500 First Editions was. I cackled. I quite literally swooned as Ryan tried to woo Whitney. I cried a few times at plot points I can't spoil for you. And at the end, the one gripe I had with the plot was solved so gorgeously, I threw a literal chef's kiss into the air.
One thing I was extremely impressed by was the Ford Method. Interspersed into the book is Ryan's 12-week method for falling in love. And honestly, it was SOLID reading... just that alone. I was floored at the wisdom in those excerpts. I highlighted half of them. It was so much about being intentional with your partner and putting effort in... I honestly wanted to copy the pages out and send it around. Married, single, whatever... I bet you'd find Maggie Gates' writing in those areas so enlightening. I usually speed read or skip that sort of stuff, but this begged to be read.
In all honesty, this is my first of the series that I have read. And the characters were SO good I am definitely going back to the beginning and reading the rest through.
𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 4.5/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
𝗦𝗽𝗶𝗰𝗲 𝗟𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹: 3.5/5 🌶🌶🌶
𝑰 𝒓𝒆𝒄𝒆𝒊𝒗𝒆𝒅 𝒂𝒏 𝑨𝑹𝑪 𝒐𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒃𝒐𝒐𝒌 𝒊𝒏 𝒆𝒙𝒄𝒉𝒂𝒏𝒈𝒆 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒂𝒏 𝒉𝒐𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒕 𝒓𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘.
📕 𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸 𝗜𝗻𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: 500 First Editions by Maggie Gates
📙 𝗦𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘀: The Romantics character series. Book 3.
📗 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗗𝗲𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗹𝘀: E-book ARC on Kindle. 🆓️ on KU.
📘 𝗚𝗲𝗻𝗿𝗲: Contemporary romance
📔 𝗧𝗿𝗼𝗽𝗲𝘀: Dare gone wrong, enemies-to-lovers, banter for days, she's a runner, golden retriever MMC, dating lessons, he falls first.
📖 𝗦𝘆𝗻𝗼𝗽𝘀𝗶𝘀: Whitney is a romance novelist, on a panel with relationship guru Ryan Ford. When she calls his bluff, he dares her to date him - and if she doesn't fall in love, he will call it quits.
🌟 𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄: If I feel the whole spectrum of emotions when I am reading a book, it's getting a good rating and a recommendation from me. And that's what 500 First Editions was. I cackled. I quite literally swooned as Ryan tried to woo Whitney. I cried a few times at plot points I can't spoil for you. And at the end, the one gripe I had with the plot was solved so gorgeously, I threw a literal chef's kiss into the air.
One thing I was extremely impressed by was the Ford Method. Interspersed into the book is Ryan's 12-week method for falling in love. And honestly, it was SOLID reading... just that alone. I was floored at the wisdom in those excerpts. I highlighted half of them. It was so much about being intentional with your partner and putting effort in... I honestly wanted to copy the pages out and send it around. Married, single, whatever... I bet you'd find Maggie Gates' writing in those areas so enlightening. I usually speed read or skip that sort of stuff, but this begged to be read.
In all honesty, this is my first of the series that I have read. And the characters were SO good I am definitely going back to the beginning and reading the rest through.
𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 4.5/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
𝗦𝗽𝗶𝗰𝗲 𝗟𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹: 3.5/5 🌶🌶🌶
𝑰 𝒓𝒆𝒄𝒆𝒊𝒗𝒆𝒅 𝒂𝒏 𝑨𝑹𝑪 𝒐𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒃𝒐𝒐𝒌 𝒊𝒏 𝒆𝒙𝒄𝒉𝒂𝒏𝒈𝒆 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒂𝒏 𝒉𝒐𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒕 𝒓𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘.
December 18, 2025
3,5/5 ~ 7/10 ⭐️
весь спектр емоцій гарантований. заключна книжка із серії «Романтиків» про трьох подруг-письменниць. і перше, що я хочу відмітити серед того, що сподобалося, – це ця трійка. а потім трійка їхніх чоловіків. бо сцени, де вони фігурували всі разом, – мої улюблені: смішно було завжди. не буду приховувати, що Енні та Майлз – мої любімки тут, тому я тішилася їхнім появам :)
щодо головної пари. дуже лайк відношення Раяна до Віллоу. здається, його «12 тижнів» діють. тому можна цю книжку використовувати як посібник «як закохатися за 3 місяці». ну тут же все перевірено?) на реальних подіях, тож можна користуватися. подекуди є моменти, від яких я не в захваті, але загалом я прочитала книжку за пару днів, бо це було цікаво.
ну і не буду приховувати, що трошки ця історія розбила мені серце, бо серед милого і романтичного знайшлося місце і для «ауч».
весь спектр емоцій гарантований. заключна книжка із серії «Романтиків» про трьох подруг-письменниць. і перше, що я хочу відмітити серед того, що сподобалося, – це ця трійка. а потім трійка їхніх чоловіків. бо сцени, де вони фігурували всі разом, – мої улюблені: смішно було завжди. не буду приховувати, що Енні та Майлз – мої любімки тут, тому я тішилася їхнім появам :)
щодо головної пари. дуже лайк відношення Раяна до Віллоу. здається, його «12 тижнів» діють. тому можна цю книжку використовувати як посібник «як закохатися за 3 місяці». ну тут же все перевірено?) на реальних подіях, тож можна користуватися. подекуди є моменти, від яких я не в захваті, але загалом я прочитала книжку за пару днів, бо це було цікаво.
ну і не буду приховувати, що трошки ця історія розбила мені серце, бо серед милого і романтичного знайшлося місце і для «ауч».
June 23, 2025
My first read from this author—and definitely not the last.
📚 A Public Dare:
He has three months to make her fall in love with him.
She’s determined to prove he’s a con artist.
In the end, only one can win… or maybe both?
What I loved:
✨ Ryan! He’s sweet, caring, protective, funny—and so patient with Willow as he gently tries to break through her walls. I fell for him from the start (yes, at the "future wife" moment 😍).
✨ Willow’s character growth! Her journey through her relationships—with her family, her friends, and Ryan—felt authentic and heartfelt. Her need for connection, love, and trust really came through.
✨ The scenes with the whole gang were delightful and hilarious! (I can’t wait to get to Miles’ book 🤭)
Would I recommend it?
Absolutely yes—if you’re into rom-coms that feel like early 2000s movies, with fast pacing, witty banter, and all the feels, this one’s for you!
---------
Thanks to Valentine PR for the ARC!
📚 A Public Dare:
He has three months to make her fall in love with him.
She’s determined to prove he’s a con artist.
In the end, only one can win… or maybe both?
What I loved:
✨ Ryan! He’s sweet, caring, protective, funny—and so patient with Willow as he gently tries to break through her walls. I fell for him from the start (yes, at the "future wife" moment 😍).
✨ Willow’s character growth! Her journey through her relationships—with her family, her friends, and Ryan—felt authentic and heartfelt. Her need for connection, love, and trust really came through.
✨ The scenes with the whole gang were delightful and hilarious! (I can’t wait to get to Miles’ book 🤭)
Would I recommend it?
Absolutely yes—if you’re into rom-coms that feel like early 2000s movies, with fast pacing, witty banter, and all the feels, this one’s for you!
---------
Thanks to Valentine PR for the ARC!
July 8, 2025
A satisfying conclusion to the series with this fun enemies to lovers romance between Ryan and Willow. The witty chapter titles and sharp banter had me laughing out loud. I also loved the nods to various romance tropes woven throughout the series…they were hilarious. The addition of “The Ford Method” brought a unique twist to this story, offering an interesting parallel between the plot and the fictional advice program. Overall, a good series read!
June 27, 2025
500 First Editions by Maggie Gates
5/5⭐
2,5/5🌶️
I've read several books by this author, and they’ve all been fantastic, including this one! The story effortlessly blends lighthearted, funny moments with spicy scenes, heartwarming friendships, and heart-wrenching parts. This book made me laugh, swoon, melt, blush, and cry. It was a rollercoaster of emotions, and I thoroughly enjoyed every single moment.
Willow Winslet is a romance author who doesn’t believe that book boyfriend exists in real life. After her past relationship didn’t work out, she decided to focus on herself and hit the road in her car. Ryan Ford, a podcaster who’s developed the Ford Method—which is dating lessons that promise a happily-ever-after. Willow is skeptical and calls him a fraud at a conference, sparking Ryan to challenge her to date him for three months!
I don’t want to reveal too much, but the story had more depth than I expected. My heart truly ached for Willow, especially when her family kept an important secret from her. I had an inkling of what that secret was while reading, and I dreaded the moment it would come to light. My heart shattered for Willow, and I wanted to wrap her up in a big hug to take away her pain. Thankfully, she’s such a strong and resilient woman. I genuinely admired her positivity and how she tried to bring her family together, despite them repeatedly letting her down.
Ryan is an incredible character. From the moment he meets Willow, he recognizes that she is special. The way he supports her during her toughest times is truly commendable. He’s always showing her that she can trust and rely on him, which is so swoon-worthy! I adored how attentive he was—he knew what she needed and made her feel comfortable and safe without any pressure. He’s just there for her, and that’s beautiful and touching.
This book is just as amazing as other Maggie's books I’ve read before. It’s not just a love story; it beautifully weaves themes of friendship and family throughout. There were so many moments that felt extra special to me. The characters are incredibly lovable, and while there are plenty of sweet, cute, and funny times, there are also some gut-wrenching moments. I love how Maggie balances the lighthearted with the emotional. If you haven't read her books yet, this is your sign to dive in.
5/5⭐
2,5/5🌶️
I've read several books by this author, and they’ve all been fantastic, including this one! The story effortlessly blends lighthearted, funny moments with spicy scenes, heartwarming friendships, and heart-wrenching parts. This book made me laugh, swoon, melt, blush, and cry. It was a rollercoaster of emotions, and I thoroughly enjoyed every single moment.
Willow Winslet is a romance author who doesn’t believe that book boyfriend exists in real life. After her past relationship didn’t work out, she decided to focus on herself and hit the road in her car. Ryan Ford, a podcaster who’s developed the Ford Method—which is dating lessons that promise a happily-ever-after. Willow is skeptical and calls him a fraud at a conference, sparking Ryan to challenge her to date him for three months!
I don’t want to reveal too much, but the story had more depth than I expected. My heart truly ached for Willow, especially when her family kept an important secret from her. I had an inkling of what that secret was while reading, and I dreaded the moment it would come to light. My heart shattered for Willow, and I wanted to wrap her up in a big hug to take away her pain. Thankfully, she’s such a strong and resilient woman. I genuinely admired her positivity and how she tried to bring her family together, despite them repeatedly letting her down.
Ryan is an incredible character. From the moment he meets Willow, he recognizes that she is special. The way he supports her during her toughest times is truly commendable. He’s always showing her that she can trust and rely on him, which is so swoon-worthy! I adored how attentive he was—he knew what she needed and made her feel comfortable and safe without any pressure. He’s just there for her, and that’s beautiful and touching.
This book is just as amazing as other Maggie's books I’ve read before. It’s not just a love story; it beautifully weaves themes of friendship and family throughout. There were so many moments that felt extra special to me. The characters are incredibly lovable, and while there are plenty of sweet, cute, and funny times, there are also some gut-wrenching moments. I love how Maggie balances the lighthearted with the emotional. If you haven't read her books yet, this is your sign to dive in.
June 26, 2025
This was just the charming, humorous, romantic, and warmhearted palette cleanser of a read that I needed!
I love a good "rom-com" and this book hits all the marks when it comes to having what I love in one. It had a fun storyline, amazing characters, enthralling writing, and a parallel storyline that hits you right in the feels.
I have not read the other two books in the series but now I really want to! I ATE this story up and loved all of the characters!
I surprisingly raced through this novel. Even though I was able to predict some of the plot points, I couldn't stop reading and loved the momentum this story had which made it even more of an addicting read.
***Thank you to Valentine PR for sending me an e-ARC to read and review***
I love a good "rom-com" and this book hits all the marks when it comes to having what I love in one. It had a fun storyline, amazing characters, enthralling writing, and a parallel storyline that hits you right in the feels.
I have not read the other two books in the series but now I really want to! I ATE this story up and loved all of the characters!
I surprisingly raced through this novel. Even though I was able to predict some of the plot points, I couldn't stop reading and loved the momentum this story had which made it even more of an addicting read.
***Thank you to Valentine PR for sending me an e-ARC to read and review***
December 15, 2025
Всією душею полюбила цю історію
Це так було мило і місцями зворушливо 🥹
Книжки Меггі як завжди на висоті
Було трохи драми, що було очікувано 🌚 але я не скаржусь всьо ж потім налогодилось
І кінцівка моя улюблена 🥹🤌🏻
Хе і жили вони довго і щасливо
З мінусів дратувала сімейка Віллоу
Оцінка: 9/10 або 5/5 ⭐
Це так було мило і місцями зворушливо 🥹
Книжки Меггі як завжди на висоті
Було трохи драми, що було очікувано 🌚 але я не скаржусь всьо ж потім налогодилось
І кінцівка моя улюблена 🥹🤌🏻
Хе і жили вони довго і щасливо
З мінусів дратувала сімейка Віллоу
Оцінка: 9/10 або 5/5 ⭐
June 25, 2025
3.5.
Honestly for Maggie this was pretty weak. It might've been the insta-love that turned me off. The moment someone mentions love at first sight I want to scream.
The beginning was good but by the end I just wasn't as invested.
Miles was incredible comedic relief. thank you king
ALSO I need my favorite authors to stop giving mmcs "goes to the gym" attributes then never have him go to the gym. This man, sponsored by fitness companies, supposedly with big muscles: the only exercise he did for 3 months was run. Sooooooo sorry but his big muscles would not be so big if he didn't do anything but run for 3 months
Honestly for Maggie this was pretty weak. It might've been the insta-love that turned me off. The moment someone mentions love at first sight I want to scream.
The beginning was good but by the end I just wasn't as invested.
Miles was incredible comedic relief. thank you king
ALSO I need my favorite authors to stop giving mmcs "goes to the gym" attributes then never have him go to the gym. This man, sponsored by fitness companies, supposedly with big muscles: the only exercise he did for 3 months was run. Sooooooo sorry but his big muscles would not be so big if he didn't do anything but run for 3 months
June 23, 2025
ugh, Maggie Gates knows how to hurt us real good. and it does hurt so good.
5 stars. easy. Thank you to Maggie Gates and The Author Agency for the eARC! These are my honest thoughts!
I was immediately in love with Ryan. From THE MINUTE Willow/Autumn called him an "egotistical ass potato," I was in!!! Ryan and Autumn meet at a romance convention for romance authors, where Ryan's The Ford Method was featured as the keynote speaker. But Ryan and Autumn actually meet the night before, in a convenience store, and their chemistry is instant. Autumn runs from any sort of connection, and the bad taste in her mouth leads her to saying some pretty awful things about Ryan (whom she didn't recognize the night before and whom she also believes to be a fraud lol). LITTLE DOES AUTUMN KNOW... she's already caught Ryan's attention.
Fast forward to the panel at Rom-Con, and Autumn and Ryan end up in a stand-off that leads to a bet..... Ryan can use The Ford Method to make Autumn fall in love with him in 3 months. They're only in the same city for a handful of days, and Ryan uses every opportunity to get to know Autumn/Willow. Which is fine with her, because she's going to How-to-Lose-a-Guy-in-10-Days him. Only, he's too smart for that.
And also, he legitimately likes her. And when someone special to Willow passes away tragically (thanks a lot for that one, Maggie), Ryan doesn't hesitate to road trip from NYC to the Little Apple, Manhattan, Kansas, to be with Willow as she grieves.
And from there, they end up spending nearly 3 months together, which is Willow's M.O. when she's writing a book. Three months in one place, and then she moves on. They work together. Ryan The Ford Method's her, but like, genuinely. And then, when their relationship is put through trials... well, you'll have to read to find out. But this IS a Maggie Gates book. So expect some trauma lol
Truly, this book is a beautiful story about loving other people. I absolutely LOVED how Maggie teaches us to love ourselves and others through The Ford Method. Her craftmanship in the creation of Ryan elevates him to a Book Boyfriend status that I haven't seen in a long time. Ryan is the man of my dreams. He cares about PEOPLE. He wants them to be authentic and connect with people in a way that's intentional. He has his mom help him, for goodness sakes. And he so intentionally shows up for Willow in all of her messy real life moments. This is a book every person in a relationship should read.
And then, there's Willow. She loves so big and hard and wide-open, despite all these circumstances that get in her way. And honestly, it was such a beautiful reminder to keep showing up and loving people. Willow's this smart, brave, colorful person, who makes herself smaller in scenarios because her authentic self might rub people the wrong way. And in the end, all it took was this one person to show up FOR HER the way that SHE SHOWS UP FOR OTHERS for magic to happen.
Favorite quote:
"Do you want me to call you a good boy or are you going to take what's yours?
"Call me whatever the hell you want as long as I get to call you mine."
Read if you love:
- Romance Author FMC (with a pen name! secret identity!)
- Tattooed golden retriever who wears glasses MMC
- He falls first
- Rivals to lovers
- Found family (BFFs + their spouses)
- Only one bed
- Road trip romance
- Forced proximity
- A lil begging
- Family drama
- Mixed media (The Ford Method, letters, podcast episodes, etc.)
- Good girl x Good boy
- Finding love after grief
- A 3rd act break-up + some seriously good groveling/apologizing
Check trigger warnings for this one and take care of yourself! Out now!
5 stars. easy. Thank you to Maggie Gates and The Author Agency for the eARC! These are my honest thoughts!
I was immediately in love with Ryan. From THE MINUTE Willow/Autumn called him an "egotistical ass potato," I was in!!! Ryan and Autumn meet at a romance convention for romance authors, where Ryan's The Ford Method was featured as the keynote speaker. But Ryan and Autumn actually meet the night before, in a convenience store, and their chemistry is instant. Autumn runs from any sort of connection, and the bad taste in her mouth leads her to saying some pretty awful things about Ryan (whom she didn't recognize the night before and whom she also believes to be a fraud lol). LITTLE DOES AUTUMN KNOW... she's already caught Ryan's attention.
Fast forward to the panel at Rom-Con, and Autumn and Ryan end up in a stand-off that leads to a bet..... Ryan can use The Ford Method to make Autumn fall in love with him in 3 months. They're only in the same city for a handful of days, and Ryan uses every opportunity to get to know Autumn/Willow. Which is fine with her, because she's going to How-to-Lose-a-Guy-in-10-Days him. Only, he's too smart for that.
And also, he legitimately likes her. And when someone special to Willow passes away tragically (thanks a lot for that one, Maggie), Ryan doesn't hesitate to road trip from NYC to the Little Apple, Manhattan, Kansas, to be with Willow as she grieves.
And from there, they end up spending nearly 3 months together, which is Willow's M.O. when she's writing a book. Three months in one place, and then she moves on. They work together. Ryan The Ford Method's her, but like, genuinely. And then, when their relationship is put through trials... well, you'll have to read to find out. But this IS a Maggie Gates book. So expect some trauma lol
Truly, this book is a beautiful story about loving other people. I absolutely LOVED how Maggie teaches us to love ourselves and others through The Ford Method. Her craftmanship in the creation of Ryan elevates him to a Book Boyfriend status that I haven't seen in a long time. Ryan is the man of my dreams. He cares about PEOPLE. He wants them to be authentic and connect with people in a way that's intentional. He has his mom help him, for goodness sakes. And he so intentionally shows up for Willow in all of her messy real life moments. This is a book every person in a relationship should read.
And then, there's Willow. She loves so big and hard and wide-open, despite all these circumstances that get in her way. And honestly, it was such a beautiful reminder to keep showing up and loving people. Willow's this smart, brave, colorful person, who makes herself smaller in scenarios because her authentic self might rub people the wrong way. And in the end, all it took was this one person to show up FOR HER the way that SHE SHOWS UP FOR OTHERS for magic to happen.
Favorite quote:
"Do you want me to call you a good boy or are you going to take what's yours?
"Call me whatever the hell you want as long as I get to call you mine."
Read if you love:
- Romance Author FMC (with a pen name! secret identity!)
- Tattooed golden retriever who wears glasses MMC
- He falls first
- Rivals to lovers
- Found family (BFFs + their spouses)
- Only one bed
- Road trip romance
- Forced proximity
- A lil begging
- Family drama
- Mixed media (The Ford Method, letters, podcast episodes, etc.)
- Good girl x Good boy
- Finding love after grief
- A 3rd act break-up + some seriously good groveling/apologizing
Check trigger warnings for this one and take care of yourself! Out now!
June 23, 2025
I absolutely LOVED this book. How could I not with a hero like Ryan Ford?!
💛Rivals to lovers
💛He falls first
💛Roadtrip
💛Golden retriever MMC
💛Romance author FMC
💛One bed
When Ryan dares Willow to date him using his dating method, Willow knows that she has this one in the bag. She would never fall in love using his method, let alone fall in love with him.
But Ryan is unstoppable in his quest to make his future wife fall in love with him.
I loved their road trip antics - they were hilarious and made me fall in love with these two.
This book was also super emotional. I found myself crying various times throughout this book!
The banter, the emotions, the overall story just dragged me in and wouldn’t let go! I couldn’t put this book down and I was so sad when it ended.
We saw a lot of the previous couples from this series and I lived for those moments; especially anything Miles related. I am going to miss all of these characters!
💛Rivals to lovers
💛He falls first
💛Roadtrip
💛Golden retriever MMC
💛Romance author FMC
💛One bed
When Ryan dares Willow to date him using his dating method, Willow knows that she has this one in the bag. She would never fall in love using his method, let alone fall in love with him.
But Ryan is unstoppable in his quest to make his future wife fall in love with him.
I loved their road trip antics - they were hilarious and made me fall in love with these two.
This book was also super emotional. I found myself crying various times throughout this book!
The banter, the emotions, the overall story just dragged me in and wouldn’t let go! I couldn’t put this book down and I was so sad when it ended.
We saw a lot of the previous couples from this series and I lived for those moments; especially anything Miles related. I am going to miss all of these characters!
July 28, 2025
4.5 🌟
jo, chicas, ha sido tan tierno y un romance tan bonito, que guay
Ryan Ford is the standard, semejante hombre
Willow mi niña.
en el primer libro me sentí identificada con Whitney por la ansiedad, en el segundo con Wander por el bloqueo escritor y en este con Willow por sentir que está estancada respecto a sus amigas. Una trilogía increible 🩵
Y MENCION ESPECIAL A MILES QUE ES EL MEJOR
jo, chicas, ha sido tan tierno y un romance tan bonito, que guay
Ryan Ford is the standard, semejante hombre
Willow mi niña.
en el primer libro me sentí identificada con Whitney por la ansiedad, en el segundo con Wander por el bloqueo escritor y en este con Willow por sentir que está estancada respecto a sus amigas. Una trilogía increible 🩵
Y MENCION ESPECIAL A MILES QUE ES EL MEJOR
June 30, 2025
i love everything maggie gates writes ❤️
June 23, 2025
This was my first Maggie Gates book, and I’ll admit it took me a while to get into 🙈
It was a fun take on How To Lose A Guy In 10 Days (which I’m obsessed with) and Ryan’s character was an absolute Golden Retriever and he was pretty swoony, but it also just felt like a bit much..? And I just could not connect with Willow 🙈
Was it fun to read? Yes
Is it a new favourite? Nope.
Thank you Valentine PR for the ARC.
Tropes:
- Found Family
- He Falls First
- It All Starts With A Dare
- Forced Proximity
- Romance Author FMC x Love Guru MMC
- Only One Bed
- Golden Retriever MMC
- Road trip
It was a fun take on How To Lose A Guy In 10 Days (which I’m obsessed with) and Ryan’s character was an absolute Golden Retriever and he was pretty swoony, but it also just felt like a bit much..? And I just could not connect with Willow 🙈
Was it fun to read? Yes
Is it a new favourite? Nope.
Thank you Valentine PR for the ARC.
Tropes:
- Found Family
- He Falls First
- It All Starts With A Dare
- Forced Proximity
- Romance Author FMC x Love Guru MMC
- Only One Bed
- Golden Retriever MMC
- Road trip
June 15, 2025
I’ve been done with this for a minute now and I’m still swooning over Ryan Ford. “500 First Editions” is an emotional, swoony and oh sweet rivals to lovers romance that has easily moved to one of my favorite books by Maggie Gates.
Willow Winslet is a romance author and always thinks the best of everyone. Except after her first meeting with Ryan Ford, she can’t stand him. But when they meet again at a conference and he dares her to spend three months with him because of his Ford Method which will guarantee a happy ever after in the dating world, Willow says yes to his dare. But what Willow doesn’t know, Ryan knew she was the one from their first meeting at the drugstore. Life changing things happen in the beginning of their three months so they find themselves back in Willow’s hometown in Kansas. And as they spend time together, the dare Willow took from Ryan starts to turn real.
I loved how these two met and it had me cracking up from the beginning. And then seeing each other again at the conference was kismet and a perfect start to their story. Willow has a great friendship with Wander and Whitney and that shines throughout this story. Willow is kind, genuine and I related to her so much. She is passionate about her career and I loved how she went toe to toe with Ryan from the beginning and kept him on his toes. Ryan Ford is swoony from the beginning and I was enraptured with him from the beginning. His confidence shines throughout the book and it’s one of the best things about him. He knows Willow is the one from the beginning and shows her with acts of service and being there for her during one of the toughest things in her life. Willow and Ryan had fantastic banter that had me smiling throughout the whole story. But they also had a connection that was undeniable and I loved how it simmered underneath. Ryan is delightfully dirty and I was all about that with him. Willow’s emotional growth was amazing and I was cheering for at the end as she navigated the relationship with her mom and sister. This book grabbed me from the start and didn’t let go even after I finished. The ending was perfect and I loved Willow and Ryan so much.
Willow Winslet is a romance author and always thinks the best of everyone. Except after her first meeting with Ryan Ford, she can’t stand him. But when they meet again at a conference and he dares her to spend three months with him because of his Ford Method which will guarantee a happy ever after in the dating world, Willow says yes to his dare. But what Willow doesn’t know, Ryan knew she was the one from their first meeting at the drugstore. Life changing things happen in the beginning of their three months so they find themselves back in Willow’s hometown in Kansas. And as they spend time together, the dare Willow took from Ryan starts to turn real.
I loved how these two met and it had me cracking up from the beginning. And then seeing each other again at the conference was kismet and a perfect start to their story. Willow has a great friendship with Wander and Whitney and that shines throughout this story. Willow is kind, genuine and I related to her so much. She is passionate about her career and I loved how she went toe to toe with Ryan from the beginning and kept him on his toes. Ryan Ford is swoony from the beginning and I was enraptured with him from the beginning. His confidence shines throughout the book and it’s one of the best things about him. He knows Willow is the one from the beginning and shows her with acts of service and being there for her during one of the toughest things in her life. Willow and Ryan had fantastic banter that had me smiling throughout the whole story. But they also had a connection that was undeniable and I loved how it simmered underneath. Ryan is delightfully dirty and I was all about that with him. Willow’s emotional growth was amazing and I was cheering for at the end as she navigated the relationship with her mom and sister. This book grabbed me from the start and didn’t let go even after I finished. The ending was perfect and I loved Willow and Ryan so much.
June 26, 2025
4.5 🌟
Willow Winslet (Autumn) is the last single friend in the WW friendship. She publicly spars with relationship coach Ryan Ford at a romance authors panel. Ryan challenges Willow to try his dating method, The Ford Method, for 12 weeks to see if he can get her to fall in love with him. She begrudgingly accepts.
Willow hates everything about Ryan Ford and is adamant that she will not fall for him. But Ryan is tatted, swooney, and a man of actions, not just words. He fell for her at the checkout line without even knowing her name.
Willow is headstrong, with a travel bug, who is trying to love herself. She has trust issues and is kinda cynical.
Willow gets tragic news and must go back home to Manhattan Kansas. Ryan joins her on the roadtrip home. He is a constant support for her. He understands her and shows his intent with actions.
They fake date, navigate through tough relationships, and explore their chemistry. The entire time Ryan has her back. And Willow fights her feelings for him.
There was a great twist at the end of the book! There is a 3rd act breakup. The site characters are amazing. Miles and the rubber chicken is hilarious. Whitney and Wander show us what true friendship is like. And Step Shep breaks my heart and puts it back together again.
This book had great banter and tension. Plus an awesome storyline. Ryan was the ultimate book boyfriend. Willow had to truly navigate her feelings, put up boundaries and finally let her heart make the decisions.
Thank you to Maggie Gates and the Author Agency for the ARC.
This is my honest opinion.
Willow Winslet (Autumn) is the last single friend in the WW friendship. She publicly spars with relationship coach Ryan Ford at a romance authors panel. Ryan challenges Willow to try his dating method, The Ford Method, for 12 weeks to see if he can get her to fall in love with him. She begrudgingly accepts.
Willow hates everything about Ryan Ford and is adamant that she will not fall for him. But Ryan is tatted, swooney, and a man of actions, not just words. He fell for her at the checkout line without even knowing her name.
Willow is headstrong, with a travel bug, who is trying to love herself. She has trust issues and is kinda cynical.
Willow gets tragic news and must go back home to Manhattan Kansas. Ryan joins her on the roadtrip home. He is a constant support for her. He understands her and shows his intent with actions.
They fake date, navigate through tough relationships, and explore their chemistry. The entire time Ryan has her back. And Willow fights her feelings for him.
There was a great twist at the end of the book! There is a 3rd act breakup. The site characters are amazing. Miles and the rubber chicken is hilarious. Whitney and Wander show us what true friendship is like. And Step Shep breaks my heart and puts it back together again.
This book had great banter and tension. Plus an awesome storyline. Ryan was the ultimate book boyfriend. Willow had to truly navigate her feelings, put up boundaries and finally let her heart make the decisions.
Thank you to Maggie Gates and the Author Agency for the ARC.
This is my honest opinion.
November 8, 2025
This was such a rollercoaster of emotions to read. It made me laugh, made me angry, and then completely tugged at my heartstrings. I really enjoyed the storyline and loved the dynamic between the MMC, Ryan, who owns a podcast promoting The Ford Method. A twelve-step guide to falling in love and the FMC, Willow, who’s skeptical and thinks his method is bogus.
As tensions rise, a bet comes into play. I loved Willow’s fiery side, while Ryan’s playful banter and charm balanced her perfectly. He’s a fantastic listener, someone who shows affection through physical touch and genuinely goes above and beyond. I felt so bad for Willow. Her sister and mother were absolutely horrid, and the way they treated her was heartbreaking. It’s a character-driven story with great depth, emotional moments, and unraveling secrets.
I also loved the audiobook it was such a great listen, and I highly recommend picking it up in that format.
Lastly, I have to mention I saw the twist coming from a mile away (pretty much from the moment she received the box), but even then, I still felt awful for Willow and everything she went through with her family.
Overall I love Maggie’s work and looking forward to reading more of her in the future.
Genre/Type: Adult Romance 18+
APK: Audiobook ALC
Audiobook Length: 11hrs 3mins
Narrators: Laura Horowitz, JF Harding and Jason Clarke - Dual
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Spice: 🌶️🌶️.5
Series or Standalone: Book Three In The Romantics Series
Tropes or Themes: Rivals To Lovers, Fake Dating, He Falls First, Found Family, Slow Burn, Tension, Flirty Banter, Made Me Laugh, Jealousy, Family Drama, Letters, Grief, Mine, Grand Gesture, Sexual Content, Dirty Talk, Eyes On Me, Praise, Toys, Impact Play, Kitchen Scene, and Outside Scene
Check Triggers ⚠️ 💫
All Round Romance Reader
Sienasummerrreads 💕📚
TikTok | Instagram | Goodreads | StoryGraph | Fable | Everand | Amazon | Audible Reviews 💫
As tensions rise, a bet comes into play. I loved Willow’s fiery side, while Ryan’s playful banter and charm balanced her perfectly. He’s a fantastic listener, someone who shows affection through physical touch and genuinely goes above and beyond. I felt so bad for Willow. Her sister and mother were absolutely horrid, and the way they treated her was heartbreaking. It’s a character-driven story with great depth, emotional moments, and unraveling secrets.
I also loved the audiobook it was such a great listen, and I highly recommend picking it up in that format.
Lastly, I have to mention I saw the twist coming from a mile away (pretty much from the moment she received the box), but even then, I still felt awful for Willow and everything she went through with her family.
Overall I love Maggie’s work and looking forward to reading more of her in the future.
Genre/Type: Adult Romance 18+
APK: Audiobook ALC
Audiobook Length: 11hrs 3mins
Narrators: Laura Horowitz, JF Harding and Jason Clarke - Dual
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Spice: 🌶️🌶️.5
Series or Standalone: Book Three In The Romantics Series
Tropes or Themes: Rivals To Lovers, Fake Dating, He Falls First, Found Family, Slow Burn, Tension, Flirty Banter, Made Me Laugh, Jealousy, Family Drama, Letters, Grief, Mine, Grand Gesture, Sexual Content, Dirty Talk, Eyes On Me, Praise, Toys, Impact Play, Kitchen Scene, and Outside Scene
Check Triggers ⚠️ 💫
All Round Romance Reader
Sienasummerrreads 💕📚
TikTok | Instagram | Goodreads | StoryGraph | Fable | Everand | Amazon | Audible Reviews 💫
June 16, 2025
Tropes:
-rivals on a road trip
-I dare you to date me
-he falls first
-just one bed
-golden retriever hero
-3rd act breakup
500 First Editions is book three in The Romantics series and is Willow and Ryan's story. I did read this as a standalone, but I will go back to read the others.
Willow is a romance author who the night before the romance book convention she is attending, she runs into a convenient store for some adult beverages and a toy. She runs into Ryan Ford but has no clue who he really is. The next day, when they are sharing the stage, she finds out he's a podcaster that she cannot stand. He created The Ford Method, a 12-step program to build long term relationships. In spite, she dares him to see if it works and date her. It's the last thing she wants to do and then something happens and these two go on a 1500-mile road trip. She thinks it's all a game, but what if it's more?
Ryan Ford is the ultimate book boyfriend! He's sweet and funny and she's sassy and a bit judgmental. Willow and Ryan are opposites but complement each other well. Willow is on a journey, unexpected, filled with emotions, and funny. Their story has so many layers which is written so well!
I enjoyed this story and loved the development of Willow and Ryan. It ties in emotion and hilarious banter and will keep you engaged from beginning to end. Ryan is everything you could want in a book boyfriend and will have you rooting for him.
Releasing June 23, 2025. I received an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review.
-rivals on a road trip
-I dare you to date me
-he falls first
-just one bed
-golden retriever hero
-3rd act breakup
500 First Editions is book three in The Romantics series and is Willow and Ryan's story. I did read this as a standalone, but I will go back to read the others.
Willow is a romance author who the night before the romance book convention she is attending, she runs into a convenient store for some adult beverages and a toy. She runs into Ryan Ford but has no clue who he really is. The next day, when they are sharing the stage, she finds out he's a podcaster that she cannot stand. He created The Ford Method, a 12-step program to build long term relationships. In spite, she dares him to see if it works and date her. It's the last thing she wants to do and then something happens and these two go on a 1500-mile road trip. She thinks it's all a game, but what if it's more?
Ryan Ford is the ultimate book boyfriend! He's sweet and funny and she's sassy and a bit judgmental. Willow and Ryan are opposites but complement each other well. Willow is on a journey, unexpected, filled with emotions, and funny. Their story has so many layers which is written so well!
I enjoyed this story and loved the development of Willow and Ryan. It ties in emotion and hilarious banter and will keep you engaged from beginning to end. Ryan is everything you could want in a book boyfriend and will have you rooting for him.
Releasing June 23, 2025. I received an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review.
June 30, 2025
I didn’t like so many things about this book but I’m mature enough to admit it just wasn’t for me, not that it’s universally bad, hence I AM giving it 4⭐️.
ARC read
Longer review:
Reading this book was a weird experience. I was triggered my MC’s actions, I didn’t feel the connection between MC and FMC at all, the FMC was also getting on my nerves a bit, it was hardly rivals to lovers trope (they were rivals for like 5 seconds), YET I kept reading and I was entertained!
It was equal part romance and family drama book. I didn’t feel the romance part very much, but I guess it’s more of a me issue. I didn’t like how the MC acted for half (or even more) of the story. The FMC was also acting a bit weird, like she let him off the hook too easily. She should have been way too more angry with him. Where was the enemies part or the rivalry? With how he acted, she should make him grovel way more.
It felt to me like it was just a game, a dare to him, I didn’t feel the love or ANY connection between them.
The FMC’s family members were ridiculous. Granted, it was backed up later in the plot, but still, how they acted for a big part of the book was making me so frustrated, and not only in a way of “they are such assholes” but because it was not making any sense WHY they act like it (it made some sense after I’ve finished reading, but still I think it could have been executed better prior to big family drama discovery)
Overall, it’s not a bad book, mostly it wasn’t for me. It was ok, the writing was good enough that I kept reading without the experience turning into hate read and it’s the main cause of why I’m giving it 4 stars instead of 3.
I’m not sure if I will be catching up with the previous books, tho.
I made some reading updates so check out my reading activity comments ;)
ARC read
Longer review:
Reading this book was a weird experience. I was triggered my MC’s actions, I didn’t feel the connection between MC and FMC at all, the FMC was also getting on my nerves a bit, it was hardly rivals to lovers trope (they were rivals for like 5 seconds), YET I kept reading and I was entertained!
It was equal part romance and family drama book. I didn’t feel the romance part very much, but I guess it’s more of a me issue. I didn’t like how the MC acted for half (or even more) of the story. The FMC was also acting a bit weird, like she let him off the hook too easily. She should have been way too more angry with him. Where was the enemies part or the rivalry? With how he acted, she should make him grovel way more.
It felt to me like it was just a game, a dare to him, I didn’t feel the love or ANY connection between them.
The FMC’s family members were ridiculous. Granted, it was backed up later in the plot, but still, how they acted for a big part of the book was making me so frustrated, and not only in a way of “they are such assholes” but because it was not making any sense WHY they act like it (it made some sense after I’ve finished reading, but still I think it could have been executed better prior to big family drama discovery)
Overall, it’s not a bad book, mostly it wasn’t for me. It was ok, the writing was good enough that I kept reading without the experience turning into hate read and it’s the main cause of why I’m giving it 4 stars instead of 3.
I’m not sure if I will be catching up with the previous books, tho.
I made some reading updates so check out my reading activity comments ;)
October 18, 2025
** Audio Review **
Make me melt! 500 First Editions by Maggie Gates was a swoony, heartfelt enemies to lovers romance that did amazing things to my soul. I couldn’t get enough of Willow and Ford’s tension-filled, emotional chemistry that had me longing for these two to finally let their true feelings show and find true happiness together. This is a new favorite couple from the series!
Laura Horowitz and JF Harding perform this audiobook in dual narration, and these two delivered all the snarky banter, and steamy chemistry this couple had to give. Laura’s warm, inviting tone conveyed Willow’s cynical exterior, and sentimental interior as she learned to let love in while discovering secrets from her past. JF’s warm, soothing tone personified all of Ryan’s allure and charm, that made this man so damn irresistible. Jason Clarke performs Shep’s fervent letters that will squeeze your heart.
Overall, I LOVED this book. If you are a fan of a road trip romance with a dedicated romance author, a confident dating coach, convenience store meet cute, romcon panelist dare, dating methods, pierogies and hot chocolate, close proximity, dealing with grief, he supports her, weird family dynamic, supportive besties, rubber chicken interrogations, cookie dates, little library outings, truths about the past, love declarations, and a HEA that traverses deep into your heart, then you will love Willow and Ryan’s story. I always look forward to more from Maggie Gates.
Make me melt! 500 First Editions by Maggie Gates was a swoony, heartfelt enemies to lovers romance that did amazing things to my soul. I couldn’t get enough of Willow and Ford’s tension-filled, emotional chemistry that had me longing for these two to finally let their true feelings show and find true happiness together. This is a new favorite couple from the series!
Laura Horowitz and JF Harding perform this audiobook in dual narration, and these two delivered all the snarky banter, and steamy chemistry this couple had to give. Laura’s warm, inviting tone conveyed Willow’s cynical exterior, and sentimental interior as she learned to let love in while discovering secrets from her past. JF’s warm, soothing tone personified all of Ryan’s allure and charm, that made this man so damn irresistible. Jason Clarke performs Shep’s fervent letters that will squeeze your heart.
Overall, I LOVED this book. If you are a fan of a road trip romance with a dedicated romance author, a confident dating coach, convenience store meet cute, romcon panelist dare, dating methods, pierogies and hot chocolate, close proximity, dealing with grief, he supports her, weird family dynamic, supportive besties, rubber chicken interrogations, cookie dates, little library outings, truths about the past, love declarations, and a HEA that traverses deep into your heart, then you will love Willow and Ryan’s story. I always look forward to more from Maggie Gates.
November 9, 2025
4.5 stars
I’m not an audiobook girly however this book demands to be heard on audio!!!! I was blown away by how good it was.
Ryan Ford is the swooniest of the swoon. He is emotionally mature (we love to see it!!) and he was all in on Willow from first sighting. I mean the man called her his future wife straight away. He continued to be all in on her for every single day from that moment. He stood by her side during her grief and fought for her to be fully seen by the people who called themselves her family. It really doesn’t get better than Ryan Ford, he is meant to be a leading man.
Willow was sarcastic, fun and gave Ryan such a run for his money. She was so guarded but Ryan patiently chipped away until she admitted to herself that this was it. My heart broke for her when it came to her family situation, she spends a lot of time screaming out to be loved that she almost misses out of Ryan loving her full force.
The narrator’s were so amazing in these roles. JF Harding was the perfect Ryan, I couldn’t imagine him being voiced by anyone else. Laura Horowitz was an angel as Willow (the third act break up took my tiny heart out because of Laura) and Jason Clarke and those letters. I was in tears.
Perfect way to experience this book was audio. I don’t say that lightly because I’m very picky when it comes to audio books but I can’t fault it!
I’m not an audiobook girly however this book demands to be heard on audio!!!! I was blown away by how good it was.
Ryan Ford is the swooniest of the swoon. He is emotionally mature (we love to see it!!) and he was all in on Willow from first sighting. I mean the man called her his future wife straight away. He continued to be all in on her for every single day from that moment. He stood by her side during her grief and fought for her to be fully seen by the people who called themselves her family. It really doesn’t get better than Ryan Ford, he is meant to be a leading man.
Willow was sarcastic, fun and gave Ryan such a run for his money. She was so guarded but Ryan patiently chipped away until she admitted to herself that this was it. My heart broke for her when it came to her family situation, she spends a lot of time screaming out to be loved that she almost misses out of Ryan loving her full force.
The narrator’s were so amazing in these roles. JF Harding was the perfect Ryan, I couldn’t imagine him being voiced by anyone else. Laura Horowitz was an angel as Willow (the third act break up took my tiny heart out because of Laura) and Jason Clarke and those letters. I was in tears.
Perfect way to experience this book was audio. I don’t say that lightly because I’m very picky when it comes to audio books but I can’t fault it!
June 23, 2025
This is the third book in this impressive series, and this is Willow and Ryan’s story.
Ryan is a dating coach, while Willow is a romance author. Ryan knows as soon as he sees Willow that she is the one for him, but unfortunately for him she thinks he is intolerable, obnoxious, and a con artist, but when they have a public splat, he dares her to date him for three months. Ryan is determined to convince Willow to take a chance of them being together, but he has his work cut out for him.
This is a well written easy to read, slow burn, with family, friendships, emotions, drama, humor, witty banter, determination, undeniable chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining, and heartfelt, small-town romance.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
Ryan is a dating coach, while Willow is a romance author. Ryan knows as soon as he sees Willow that she is the one for him, but unfortunately for him she thinks he is intolerable, obnoxious, and a con artist, but when they have a public splat, he dares her to date him for three months. Ryan is determined to convince Willow to take a chance of them being together, but he has his work cut out for him.
This is a well written easy to read, slow burn, with family, friendships, emotions, drama, humor, witty banter, determination, undeniable chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining, and heartfelt, small-town romance.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
November 3, 2025
500 first editions by @authormaggiegates 🚙🎙️🧡
what a gem of a book this was!! from the moment we meet willow and ryan, i knew i was gonna love the banter between them and it was everything!! through a road-trip we see them go from enemies to lovers with the best slow-burn chemistry and deeply emotional vulnerable moments. ryan is pure golden retriever energy (he refers to her as “his future wife” from the moment they meet) and willow is one of the strongest fmcs i’ve read this year. I loved the connection that they formed throughout this book. laura horowitz and j.f. harding narrate this dual audiobook and absolutely kill it. jasan clarke has a special appearance in this audio that truly had me bawling while listening to this audio. this book is hot, emotional, and filled with the most incredible love story!!
read if you like:
🧡 enemies to lovers
🚙 romance author x podcast dating coach
🧡 road trip
🚙 the best female friendship
🧡 small town dynamics
🚙 endless banter!!
🧡 emotional moments that will make you bawl
thank you to maggie gates, lyric audiobooks, and must love audio for the ALC!! 🧡
what a gem of a book this was!! from the moment we meet willow and ryan, i knew i was gonna love the banter between them and it was everything!! through a road-trip we see them go from enemies to lovers with the best slow-burn chemistry and deeply emotional vulnerable moments. ryan is pure golden retriever energy (he refers to her as “his future wife” from the moment they meet) and willow is one of the strongest fmcs i’ve read this year. I loved the connection that they formed throughout this book. laura horowitz and j.f. harding narrate this dual audiobook and absolutely kill it. jasan clarke has a special appearance in this audio that truly had me bawling while listening to this audio. this book is hot, emotional, and filled with the most incredible love story!!
read if you like:
🧡 enemies to lovers
🚙 romance author x podcast dating coach
🧡 road trip
🚙 the best female friendship
🧡 small town dynamics
🚙 endless banter!!
🧡 emotional moments that will make you bawl
thank you to maggie gates, lyric audiobooks, and must love audio for the ALC!! 🧡
June 23, 2025
What possibly could go wrong when a romance author agrees to enter into a fake relationship with a dating coach to prove him and his methods are a fraud? Funny, witty banter, some shenanigans, and a third-act breakup mixed with intimate emotional and physical moments and intense chemistry create a compelling rivals-to-lovers romance between Willow and Ryan. I couldn’t put their story down, wanting to know how and when Ryan wins over Willow, because he had it bad and it was just too cute and sweet. I enjoyed the addition of the epistolary elements, the cameos and updates from the other two Romantics, and all the goodness in this contemporary romance. 4.25 stars
Thanks to the author and The Author Agency for the eARC.
Thanks to the author and The Author Agency for the eARC.
June 15, 2025
The Romantics series has to be one of my favourite romance series’ of all time. I promise you that I do not say that lightly, but these books are infinite stars for me. Maggie Gates’ says they are a love letter to the romance book community and you can see that on literally every page. The friendships are so wholesome and uplifting- watching the WW’s drop everything for each other time and time again literally makes me cry. 500 First Editions made me ugly cry, multiple times, because damn. How Maggie manages to make a book both absolutely hilarious but also so emotional and raw is beyond me. Ryan and Willow’s story was so sweet. If you are looking for a book boyfriend who is all in from the get go- Ryan is your man. He clocks Willow as his future wife immediately and sticks with it. I can’t say this enough ways, read the whole series, you won’t regret it.
June 28, 2025
I absolutely love this book. Ryan Ford is book boyfriend perfection. I will be thinking about him for a looong time.
Nomadic author Willow Winslet is in NYC for a romance convention. She briefly meets a handsome man in line while she’s buying a vibrator. Typical meet-cute. 😉
Little does she know that the handsome man is Ryan Ford, developer of the Ford Method for relationships, bro podcaster, and fellow panelist at RomCon. When she disparages the Ford Method in front of their audience, Ryan challenges her to prove the method doesn’t work. She has to give him three months and he can make her fall in love with him. And boy oh boy, his method is thoughtful and careful- just like its creator.
When Willow goes home to Kansas, Ryan goes with her. They spend so much intentional time together. She comes to know Ryan as the soft-hearted marshmallow he is and he figures out how to break down her walls brick by brick. This middle is the best part. 🫠🫠🫠
There’s only one thing that kept it from a five star vibe book for me and the longer I think about it, the more I question if it was even that worrisome.
Highly recommended for lovers of he falls first (and harder!), road trips, and sentimental grand gestures. Oh, and a delicious slow burn.
This received this book via @theauthor.agency. All thoughts are mine alone.
#romance #romancebooks #contemporaryromance #500firsteditions #maggiegates #bookrecs #bookreview #bookstagram
Nomadic author Willow Winslet is in NYC for a romance convention. She briefly meets a handsome man in line while she’s buying a vibrator. Typical meet-cute. 😉
Little does she know that the handsome man is Ryan Ford, developer of the Ford Method for relationships, bro podcaster, and fellow panelist at RomCon. When she disparages the Ford Method in front of their audience, Ryan challenges her to prove the method doesn’t work. She has to give him three months and he can make her fall in love with him. And boy oh boy, his method is thoughtful and careful- just like its creator.
When Willow goes home to Kansas, Ryan goes with her. They spend so much intentional time together. She comes to know Ryan as the soft-hearted marshmallow he is and he figures out how to break down her walls brick by brick. This middle is the best part. 🫠🫠🫠
There’s only one thing that kept it from a five star vibe book for me and the longer I think about it, the more I question if it was even that worrisome.
Highly recommended for lovers of he falls first (and harder!), road trips, and sentimental grand gestures. Oh, and a delicious slow burn.
This received this book via @theauthor.agency. All thoughts are mine alone.
#romance #romancebooks #contemporaryromance #500firsteditions #maggiegates #bookrecs #bookreview #bookstagram
June 27, 2025
4.25 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
applause. this was really good. i had a fun time reading this. i love love loved ryan. perfect man. applause. willow was sweet too and i loved their relationship and how it developed. the ending didn’t feel too rushed either which was great. overall good book. nothing special though and i’m starting to get bored of simple romance books even though this was slightly different from some other books i’ve read, i just need more. i need the feeling of boys of tommen and magnolia parks. help
applause. this was really good. i had a fun time reading this. i love love loved ryan. perfect man. applause. willow was sweet too and i loved their relationship and how it developed. the ending didn’t feel too rushed either which was great. overall good book. nothing special though and i’m starting to get bored of simple romance books even though this was slightly different from some other books i’ve read, i just need more. i need the feeling of boys of tommen and magnolia parks. help
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