What do you think?
Rate this book
Geeks Gone Wild #1
Love at First Fight
Band Geek vs Quarterback...
One humiliating photo, a stupid prank, and a hashtag that goes viral. That's how my senior year goes from predictable to absurd in a heartbeat. This year is supposed to be easy. I've finally scored first chair in band, my college applications are done, and all my friends and I have to do is survive one more year of high school before our real lives can begin. Instead, I find myself in trouble with the principal, humiliated in front of the entire school, and fighting with my neighbor—AKA star quarterback, Prince Charming, and nicest guy on the planet.
And that's just on the first day back at school. Trust me, it only gets worse from there. As #GeeksGoneWild trends on social media, my friends and I are the targets of an online witch hunt. But they've picked on the wrong people and retaliation is severe. As the tension escalates, it soon becomes clear that someone needs to step up and put an end to this nonsense. If that means playing nice with the quarterback, I guess that's what I have to do. Now if someone could please tell my heart that this new friendship is just for show. And the kisses...oh, the kisses. Someone please remind me that they don't mean a thing.
One humiliating photo, a stupid prank, and a hashtag that goes viral. That's how my senior year goes from predictable to absurd in a heartbeat. This year is supposed to be easy. I've finally scored first chair in band, my college applications are done, and all my friends and I have to do is survive one more year of high school before our real lives can begin. Instead, I find myself in trouble with the principal, humiliated in front of the entire school, and fighting with my neighbor—AKA star quarterback, Prince Charming, and nicest guy on the planet.
And that's just on the first day back at school. Trust me, it only gets worse from there. As #GeeksGoneWild trends on social media, my friends and I are the targets of an online witch hunt. But they've picked on the wrong people and retaliation is severe. As the tension escalates, it soon becomes clear that someone needs to step up and put an end to this nonsense. If that means playing nice with the quarterback, I guess that's what I have to do. Now if someone could please tell my heart that this new friendship is just for show. And the kisses...oh, the kisses. Someone please remind me that they don't mean a thing.
211 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 13, 2019
924 people are currently reading
884 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 125 reviews
February 23, 2019
I like reading fluffy contemporary books from time to time. This one was okay but not Maggie Dallen´s best.
February 13, 2019
This is one of those books that could have been a five star if it had more conversation between the characters. Dual POV but MOST of the book was told with the hero or heroine telling the story vs them interacting with each other. BAD. just BAD. Why do authors do that? Us readers like the story to be told while the characters interact with each other... Don't just tell us.
I would read, skim, read, skim. The story is pretty good. The characters are well developed. Just didn't like how it was written.
I would read, skim, read, skim. The story is pretty good. The characters are well developed. Just didn't like how it was written.
March 30, 2019
My first book by this author but not my last. I will be hunting up her other books now because I really liked this light, fluffy YA read. It's a story that I would definitely be a-okay recommending to my young nieces. Safe and clean, but still with all the gushy feels.
April 5, 2019
Disclaimer: This review MAY contain spoilers.
This book was such a little delight! The nerd inside me could not resist a contemporary story from a series titled "Geeks Gone Wild". I wasn't disappointed. This is the first book that I have read by this author, but it won't be the last.
I really enjoyed this book and I read it in a single sitting. As far as fluffy young adult contemporary romance goes, this book falls right in line. It had all the fluffy feels but was still a light read. Perhaps too light for my tastes, but I still enjoyed the story. I would have liked a little more drama or interaction between the characters. The story was enjoyable, but it felt too short.
I loved the dual POV. I liked seeing things from both Margo and Jason's viewpoint as the story progressed. The characters were wonderful, though I wish we could have gotten to know them on a deeper level. Especially the side characters. I wanted more of Luke, Matt, Suzie, Julia, and even Dale. It felt like we only got a glimpse of them in the book. If they had been incorporated into the story more I think that it would have filled the gap that left the story feeling too short. Apart from that, I truly enjoyed Margo and Jason's characters. I just wish that the characters had been more memorable.
I loved the plot of the story. It was pretty irresistible. I love childhood friends/neighbors to lovers stories. I love all the history and connection that the characters share in these kinds of stories. And the fact that Margo and Jason grew apart and into opposite sides of the social hierarchy spectrum made it all the more entertaining. I also liked the inclusion of the epilogue.
Overall, this was an adorable book with likable characters. The book is a bit fluffy and a little on the short side but still enjoyable. This is a perfect light YA contemporary read. I have already started the next book in this series!
More reviews on my blog: Novel Nerd Faction
This book was such a little delight! The nerd inside me could not resist a contemporary story from a series titled "Geeks Gone Wild". I wasn't disappointed. This is the first book that I have read by this author, but it won't be the last.
I really enjoyed this book and I read it in a single sitting. As far as fluffy young adult contemporary romance goes, this book falls right in line. It had all the fluffy feels but was still a light read. Perhaps too light for my tastes, but I still enjoyed the story. I would have liked a little more drama or interaction between the characters. The story was enjoyable, but it felt too short.
I loved the dual POV. I liked seeing things from both Margo and Jason's viewpoint as the story progressed. The characters were wonderful, though I wish we could have gotten to know them on a deeper level. Especially the side characters. I wanted more of Luke, Matt, Suzie, Julia, and even Dale. It felt like we only got a glimpse of them in the book. If they had been incorporated into the story more I think that it would have filled the gap that left the story feeling too short. Apart from that, I truly enjoyed Margo and Jason's characters. I just wish that the characters had been more memorable.
I loved the plot of the story. It was pretty irresistible. I love childhood friends/neighbors to lovers stories. I love all the history and connection that the characters share in these kinds of stories. And the fact that Margo and Jason grew apart and into opposite sides of the social hierarchy spectrum made it all the more entertaining. I also liked the inclusion of the epilogue.
Overall, this was an adorable book with likable characters. The book is a bit fluffy and a little on the short side but still enjoyable. This is a perfect light YA contemporary read. I have already started the next book in this series!
More reviews on my blog: Novel Nerd Faction
November 12, 2019
Sex: kisses
Language: 0 F words, 22 Lord's name in vain, 0 S words
Violence: bullying
Cliffhanger: no
Do I need to read books before this one: no
Would I read more of the series: yes
What a delightful YA book! It captures high school drama, teen angst, and new love wonderfully. It's obvious the author has no experience with marching band or music classes; she must've been in the AV club. I'm recommending this to my 14yo daughter. It's not the intensity of The Naturals or the epic of Lunar Chronicles; it has its place, though.
----SPOILERS----
Margo, Suzie, and Matt are geeks. Margo lives next door to Jason, most popular kid in school, QB; they used to play together all the time, walkie talkie from their bedrooms. He's still nice to her. "What I hated was the way he seemed so incredibly ignorant to the fact that his friends were a bunch of grade-A meatheads and the girls who fawned all over him looked at me like I was an insect beneath their feet." Suzie's brother comes to pool with friends. And a keg. Joel, Suzie's neighbor, is a mocking bully. He's starting YouTube channel Geeks Gone Wild, wants Margo in her bikini to star. Margo helps Suzie vomit after kegstand.
Jason is reading, focusing on scholarship. Looks for Margo, saw her once in bikini. Wonders what his frustratingly hot former friend does for fun. Joel calls: get over here, Margo's hot. No, practice in morning. Can't sleep because teammates ogling Margo.
They bump into each other at football and band practice the next day. He chats. "Once upon a time we were friends. And then we weren’t. He’d never been mean, or shunned me in public or anything dramatic like that. His betrayal had been far more subtle, and far less exciting. He’d just…chosen them. His new friends. The change was gradual but clear. He no longer had time for a girl who didn’t fit into his world. By the time junior high rolled around, it was final. The separation complete." He heard they'd had a party, she's embarrassed about Joel's leering and probable comments. Luke joins, Jason's best friend. Julia joins, too, and that completes the homecoming court. She gives Margo genuine smile because she's nice.
First day of school, Jason is going through the motions: "Same people, same team, same teachers, same responsibilities. Same pressure to win, parties to attend, dances to dread, classes to pass, practices to lead, college applications to ace. I was just bored." No spark with Julia for him. In auditorium, sitting alphabetically, means Jason sits by Margo. Last picture in slide show is Margo in bikini by upside down Suzie drinking out of keg with handwritten #GeeksGoneWild.
Margo's mortified, everybody's laughing except Jason, then has to go to principal's office with Suzie. He's calling their parents. Jason doesn't stop his table from laughing at lunch, still buddy buddy with Joel on way to practice. Margo and Suzie have to do volunteer hours at the tutoring center or it goes on transcript. Both in trouble with parents. Margo didn't drink and Mom bought the bikini; they still confiscate her phone. Margo chats on her laptop with Matt; hashtag has gone viral. Jason pings her.
He can see her slumping, defeated. He still wants to beat up Joel. But Coach implied: Whether or not Joel etc were involved, it's up to Jason to make sure they stay out of trouble or at least don't get in trouble for what they do. Margo didn't want to listen to him make excuses for his friends. You're my friend, too. Be a friend, kick Joel's butt. But he needs his team to go to college. That's what I thought, pal.
Band teacher takes away 1st chair for 3 weeks probation. At lunch, the geeks plan revenge, then decide they don't want more trouble. 2wl, it hasn't wound down. Cyber bullying continues, some fun, mostly bad, causing tension in whole school. Jason talks to team, Don't want suspensions. Margo's blocked him, ignored him. Julia won't leave him alone. He and Joel are at odds. School's suffering. He's gotta fix it with Margo. He decides he needs a tutor.
He goes, watches her before she looks up. He thinks she's beautiful when she smiles; he's worked to get smiles out of her since 9th grade, when he realized she wasn't in his life anymore. She's mad he's her student, that he requested her; he thinks she's adorable. After the session, he asks if she'll get 1st chair back. Yes, as long as I don't get into more trouble. Julia shows up, invites him to party, he looks at Margo, Not sure, Julia invites Margo, I don't do parties anymore. At her car with Suzie, Matt shows them his new website Geekbook. It's for outsiders to make fun of popular people. She's nervous it'll go wrong.
He's been going to tutoring, today he couldn't because of the game, but he snuck out of class to buy her a cupcake. He's addicted to seeing her every day. She's genuine, a breath of fresh air, and he loves making her smile. Their remembering her unicorn bday makes her laugh, he wants to pump his fist. You're not going to eat your cupcake? The whole school knows I shouldn't because of pooch (belly). How do you say You look hot in a bikini without sounding like a perv? So he says No. He wants to erase everyone's brains of the image they're not allowed to have, and to protect her and kiss her senseless. Why did you bring me a cupcake? To say thanks, a little guilt, mostly to see you smile. Still can't eat it. You looked cute. Chubby. Touchable. Touchable? Yes, human. As opposed to a troll? No, a goddess. Great, now nicest guy is making fun of me. You have air of untouchability. Mumbles Because I'm untouched. Like you're too good for the rest of us, maybe you are. Still not going to eat it; no food in the library. I'm not better, just don't fit in.
After the game, he knows team needs bonding so goes to party. Everyone's pissed about Geekbook. Joel: I'll find who did this. Jason: And then what? Joel blames Margo, then Matt. Jason says he'll take care of it, then Luke jokes that he blames Suzie. Joel grabs that idea.
At tutoring, Jason asks Margo for help. Where were you when tables were turned? You're right. She sees people have added hateful comments to the pictures, years of hurt coming out. Tell Joel to apologize. Joel thinks Suzie made site. Margo knows Joel won't hit a girl, but the same isn't true for Matt. Jason proposes they be friends again and maybe it'll ripple across everyone. She says yes, he hugs her a long time really close. Both were tempted to kiss.
Joel asks what he's doing, hugging the enemy. “One threat toward Margo or her friends and I’ll tell the coach to cut you before you can get the whole team benched.” Cara warns him to not be nice to losers. She sees he does like her, says he should take her to Homecoming, maybe she'll be queen.
After practice, Margo's family goes to Jason's for dinner with his family. Margo's worried about spontaneous combustion: If I saw one stinkin’ dimple I’d be done. Doing dishes, she looks at the million notifications on her phone. Jason says he's sorry. She's been nominated for Homecoming Queen. Partner, let's get you the crown. Suzie texts: Take their crown, take their glory, win the war.
At the first meeting, Luke welcomes the lamb to the slaughterhouse, then stands by her, as does Jason. Jason congratulates her for getting 1st chair back. Luke's coming to the first away game to cheer her debut. They make her comfortable.
Thursday, they're studying in his bedroom, and he's fallen hard. He's being extra friendly at school to help her get the crown, and because he wants to. He's going to up their relationship, under the guise of getting her the crown.
After Friday's game, Jason runs to the group of cheerleaders; she's done with all the crap. Then he runs into the stands and kisses her. Her first kiss. And second. Then she realizes it's all for show, and she almost fell for it. She gets on the bus, sits by equipment. "I didn’t fit into his world and I didn’t belong at his side. We lived in different worlds and we had different priorities and…and none of my self-talk was making the ache go away."
He shows up the next morning, she's just out of bed, tossed and turned all night. J: You look adorable. Want to ride together to make Homecoming floats? At the gym, Luke's assigned to Margo's float (he seems interested in Suzie) and Jason's with Julia. Joel picks fight with Suzie, cheerleaders say Margo's nomination was a joke and laugh at her. That's it. Geeks all leave. Jason runs after, she tells him she's done with fake whatever they have. “You’re trying to help me, to help…everyone. But here’s the thing, Jason. I can’t fake this with you. Not anymore. Because this—all this faking it—that’s not me. That’s not my friends.” I gestured inside toward his crowd of followers. “That’s your game. The reason we never fit in was because we never tried. We didn’t need to because we had each other. I’m not going to start trying now. With my real friends, I don’t need to fake anything.” She jumps in Matt's car so he doesn't see her crying.
"Margo was genuine. There was nothing fake about her. If there was one thing she’d hate, it was dishonesty. I’d been a coward and I’d taken the easy way out rather than face her like a man and tell her how I felt." Julia confronts him: Of course she likes you; I've seen how she looks at you, and how she looks at me. He's hurt, angry, fears rejection. "She seemed to be harboring a world of resentment against me and I’d never even been given a chance to defend myself. Then again, maybe she had her reasons for doubting me. I certainly hadn’t given her any reason to believe that I truly cared." Julia tells him Margo's scared. Her cold shoulder isn't apathy, it's pain. What do I do? Something big. Something romantic.
On the float, Luke points out she may be most popular of all. Luke thinks Suzie should be seen. She doesn't like it. That's half the fun. Luke jumps off, Jason gets on. You're beautiful. Luke's going with Julia, as friends, so it makes sense for them to be on the same float. Plus, he wants to talk to her alone where she can't run away. He can't run away. He's been a coward. “I wanted to kiss you. For real. Because I care about you…as more than a friend.” She's glad the saxophonist plays bad notes so she knows this is real. “I don’t know what I would do differently if I could go back in time because I was stuck between a friend I cared for and my teammates, who deserve my loyalty as well.” “Your friends suck.” “Not all of them, and the ones who’ve been mean to you, they’re not my friends." Geekbook. “I didn’t exactly see you rushing forward to get one of your friends in trouble or coming to my defense or any of my friends.” “At some point along the way, I chose my friends—” “Just like I chose mine.” “Exactly. I’m just sorry we didn’t choose each other.” The principal asks if he's interrupting (the king and queen announcement ceremony is going on). “Actually…” I said slowly. Jason gestured between us. “We’re kind of having a moment here.” “We’ll be quick.” “What I was going to say was, maybe it was for the best that we each went our own way because I like the person you’ve become, Jason. I like him a lot. He’s the kindest guy I know, and the most thoughtful. He makes me laugh, and he makes me think, and he…He makes me want to kiss him.” And she does.
"Margo kissed me like she did everything in her life—with passion and enthusiasm, and she gave it everything she had. She wrapped her arms around my neck and I deepened the kiss, loving the way she melted into my arms, a physical sign of trust that meant so much more than any words she could say." We might be causing a scene. "The crowd was going wild. The sound of their cheers and shouts was louder than any football crowd I’d played in front of." He didn't care. He got the girl, and his girl got the crown. Luke's king. “This is the best day of my life and it has nothing to do with homecoming or crowns or football or any of that. I get to be with the one I love.” I love you, too. Will you be my date to the dance? I thought you'd never ask.
2yl, Luke and Suzie are together, as are Matt and Julia. Jason and Margo go to different colleges, an hour apart, so they spend every weekend together. This weekend, meeting friends at Homecoming. M: "Let’s skip the parade and just hang out with our friends instead. We won’t have a lot of time and I want to hear what’s going on in their lives.” J: “And when we do get a chance to have some alone time, maybe you and I should talk about the future. Our future. I have lots of ideas for the future, Margo. And they all involve you.”
Language: 0 F words, 22 Lord's name in vain, 0 S words
Violence: bullying
Cliffhanger: no
Do I need to read books before this one: no
Would I read more of the series: yes
What a delightful YA book! It captures high school drama, teen angst, and new love wonderfully. It's obvious the author has no experience with marching band or music classes; she must've been in the AV club. I'm recommending this to my 14yo daughter. It's not the intensity of The Naturals or the epic of Lunar Chronicles; it has its place, though.
----SPOILERS----
Margo, Suzie, and Matt are geeks. Margo lives next door to Jason, most popular kid in school, QB; they used to play together all the time, walkie talkie from their bedrooms. He's still nice to her. "What I hated was the way he seemed so incredibly ignorant to the fact that his friends were a bunch of grade-A meatheads and the girls who fawned all over him looked at me like I was an insect beneath their feet." Suzie's brother comes to pool with friends. And a keg. Joel, Suzie's neighbor, is a mocking bully. He's starting YouTube channel Geeks Gone Wild, wants Margo in her bikini to star. Margo helps Suzie vomit after kegstand.
Jason is reading, focusing on scholarship. Looks for Margo, saw her once in bikini. Wonders what his frustratingly hot former friend does for fun. Joel calls: get over here, Margo's hot. No, practice in morning. Can't sleep because teammates ogling Margo.
They bump into each other at football and band practice the next day. He chats. "Once upon a time we were friends. And then we weren’t. He’d never been mean, or shunned me in public or anything dramatic like that. His betrayal had been far more subtle, and far less exciting. He’d just…chosen them. His new friends. The change was gradual but clear. He no longer had time for a girl who didn’t fit into his world. By the time junior high rolled around, it was final. The separation complete." He heard they'd had a party, she's embarrassed about Joel's leering and probable comments. Luke joins, Jason's best friend. Julia joins, too, and that completes the homecoming court. She gives Margo genuine smile because she's nice.
First day of school, Jason is going through the motions: "Same people, same team, same teachers, same responsibilities. Same pressure to win, parties to attend, dances to dread, classes to pass, practices to lead, college applications to ace. I was just bored." No spark with Julia for him. In auditorium, sitting alphabetically, means Jason sits by Margo. Last picture in slide show is Margo in bikini by upside down Suzie drinking out of keg with handwritten #GeeksGoneWild.
Margo's mortified, everybody's laughing except Jason, then has to go to principal's office with Suzie. He's calling their parents. Jason doesn't stop his table from laughing at lunch, still buddy buddy with Joel on way to practice. Margo and Suzie have to do volunteer hours at the tutoring center or it goes on transcript. Both in trouble with parents. Margo didn't drink and Mom bought the bikini; they still confiscate her phone. Margo chats on her laptop with Matt; hashtag has gone viral. Jason pings her.
He can see her slumping, defeated. He still wants to beat up Joel. But Coach implied: Whether or not Joel etc were involved, it's up to Jason to make sure they stay out of trouble or at least don't get in trouble for what they do. Margo didn't want to listen to him make excuses for his friends. You're my friend, too. Be a friend, kick Joel's butt. But he needs his team to go to college. That's what I thought, pal.
Band teacher takes away 1st chair for 3 weeks probation. At lunch, the geeks plan revenge, then decide they don't want more trouble. 2wl, it hasn't wound down. Cyber bullying continues, some fun, mostly bad, causing tension in whole school. Jason talks to team, Don't want suspensions. Margo's blocked him, ignored him. Julia won't leave him alone. He and Joel are at odds. School's suffering. He's gotta fix it with Margo. He decides he needs a tutor.
He goes, watches her before she looks up. He thinks she's beautiful when she smiles; he's worked to get smiles out of her since 9th grade, when he realized she wasn't in his life anymore. She's mad he's her student, that he requested her; he thinks she's adorable. After the session, he asks if she'll get 1st chair back. Yes, as long as I don't get into more trouble. Julia shows up, invites him to party, he looks at Margo, Not sure, Julia invites Margo, I don't do parties anymore. At her car with Suzie, Matt shows them his new website Geekbook. It's for outsiders to make fun of popular people. She's nervous it'll go wrong.
He's been going to tutoring, today he couldn't because of the game, but he snuck out of class to buy her a cupcake. He's addicted to seeing her every day. She's genuine, a breath of fresh air, and he loves making her smile. Their remembering her unicorn bday makes her laugh, he wants to pump his fist. You're not going to eat your cupcake? The whole school knows I shouldn't because of pooch (belly). How do you say You look hot in a bikini without sounding like a perv? So he says No. He wants to erase everyone's brains of the image they're not allowed to have, and to protect her and kiss her senseless. Why did you bring me a cupcake? To say thanks, a little guilt, mostly to see you smile. Still can't eat it. You looked cute. Chubby. Touchable. Touchable? Yes, human. As opposed to a troll? No, a goddess. Great, now nicest guy is making fun of me. You have air of untouchability. Mumbles Because I'm untouched. Like you're too good for the rest of us, maybe you are. Still not going to eat it; no food in the library. I'm not better, just don't fit in.
After the game, he knows team needs bonding so goes to party. Everyone's pissed about Geekbook. Joel: I'll find who did this. Jason: And then what? Joel blames Margo, then Matt. Jason says he'll take care of it, then Luke jokes that he blames Suzie. Joel grabs that idea.
At tutoring, Jason asks Margo for help. Where were you when tables were turned? You're right. She sees people have added hateful comments to the pictures, years of hurt coming out. Tell Joel to apologize. Joel thinks Suzie made site. Margo knows Joel won't hit a girl, but the same isn't true for Matt. Jason proposes they be friends again and maybe it'll ripple across everyone. She says yes, he hugs her a long time really close. Both were tempted to kiss.
Joel asks what he's doing, hugging the enemy. “One threat toward Margo or her friends and I’ll tell the coach to cut you before you can get the whole team benched.” Cara warns him to not be nice to losers. She sees he does like her, says he should take her to Homecoming, maybe she'll be queen.
After practice, Margo's family goes to Jason's for dinner with his family. Margo's worried about spontaneous combustion: If I saw one stinkin’ dimple I’d be done. Doing dishes, she looks at the million notifications on her phone. Jason says he's sorry. She's been nominated for Homecoming Queen. Partner, let's get you the crown. Suzie texts: Take their crown, take their glory, win the war.
At the first meeting, Luke welcomes the lamb to the slaughterhouse, then stands by her, as does Jason. Jason congratulates her for getting 1st chair back. Luke's coming to the first away game to cheer her debut. They make her comfortable.
Thursday, they're studying in his bedroom, and he's fallen hard. He's being extra friendly at school to help her get the crown, and because he wants to. He's going to up their relationship, under the guise of getting her the crown.
After Friday's game, Jason runs to the group of cheerleaders; she's done with all the crap. Then he runs into the stands and kisses her. Her first kiss. And second. Then she realizes it's all for show, and she almost fell for it. She gets on the bus, sits by equipment. "I didn’t fit into his world and I didn’t belong at his side. We lived in different worlds and we had different priorities and…and none of my self-talk was making the ache go away."
He shows up the next morning, she's just out of bed, tossed and turned all night. J: You look adorable. Want to ride together to make Homecoming floats? At the gym, Luke's assigned to Margo's float (he seems interested in Suzie) and Jason's with Julia. Joel picks fight with Suzie, cheerleaders say Margo's nomination was a joke and laugh at her. That's it. Geeks all leave. Jason runs after, she tells him she's done with fake whatever they have. “You’re trying to help me, to help…everyone. But here’s the thing, Jason. I can’t fake this with you. Not anymore. Because this—all this faking it—that’s not me. That’s not my friends.” I gestured inside toward his crowd of followers. “That’s your game. The reason we never fit in was because we never tried. We didn’t need to because we had each other. I’m not going to start trying now. With my real friends, I don’t need to fake anything.” She jumps in Matt's car so he doesn't see her crying.
"Margo was genuine. There was nothing fake about her. If there was one thing she’d hate, it was dishonesty. I’d been a coward and I’d taken the easy way out rather than face her like a man and tell her how I felt." Julia confronts him: Of course she likes you; I've seen how she looks at you, and how she looks at me. He's hurt, angry, fears rejection. "She seemed to be harboring a world of resentment against me and I’d never even been given a chance to defend myself. Then again, maybe she had her reasons for doubting me. I certainly hadn’t given her any reason to believe that I truly cared." Julia tells him Margo's scared. Her cold shoulder isn't apathy, it's pain. What do I do? Something big. Something romantic.
On the float, Luke points out she may be most popular of all. Luke thinks Suzie should be seen. She doesn't like it. That's half the fun. Luke jumps off, Jason gets on. You're beautiful. Luke's going with Julia, as friends, so it makes sense for them to be on the same float. Plus, he wants to talk to her alone where she can't run away. He can't run away. He's been a coward. “I wanted to kiss you. For real. Because I care about you…as more than a friend.” She's glad the saxophonist plays bad notes so she knows this is real. “I don’t know what I would do differently if I could go back in time because I was stuck between a friend I cared for and my teammates, who deserve my loyalty as well.” “Your friends suck.” “Not all of them, and the ones who’ve been mean to you, they’re not my friends." Geekbook. “I didn’t exactly see you rushing forward to get one of your friends in trouble or coming to my defense or any of my friends.” “At some point along the way, I chose my friends—” “Just like I chose mine.” “Exactly. I’m just sorry we didn’t choose each other.” The principal asks if he's interrupting (the king and queen announcement ceremony is going on). “Actually…” I said slowly. Jason gestured between us. “We’re kind of having a moment here.” “We’ll be quick.” “What I was going to say was, maybe it was for the best that we each went our own way because I like the person you’ve become, Jason. I like him a lot. He’s the kindest guy I know, and the most thoughtful. He makes me laugh, and he makes me think, and he…He makes me want to kiss him.” And she does.
"Margo kissed me like she did everything in her life—with passion and enthusiasm, and she gave it everything she had. She wrapped her arms around my neck and I deepened the kiss, loving the way she melted into my arms, a physical sign of trust that meant so much more than any words she could say." We might be causing a scene. "The crowd was going wild. The sound of their cheers and shouts was louder than any football crowd I’d played in front of." He didn't care. He got the girl, and his girl got the crown. Luke's king. “This is the best day of my life and it has nothing to do with homecoming or crowns or football or any of that. I get to be with the one I love.” I love you, too. Will you be my date to the dance? I thought you'd never ask.
2yl, Luke and Suzie are together, as are Matt and Julia. Jason and Margo go to different colleges, an hour apart, so they spend every weekend together. This weekend, meeting friends at Homecoming. M: "Let’s skip the parade and just hang out with our friends instead. We won’t have a lot of time and I want to hear what’s going on in their lives.” J: “And when we do get a chance to have some alone time, maybe you and I should talk about the future. Our future. I have lots of ideas for the future, Margo. And they all involve you.”
May 27, 2019
Rating: 4.5 stars
This review might not be the most detailed because I'm writing it after having read the entire three book Geeks Gone Wild series in less than 24 hours, haha. I finished Love at First Fight and IMMEDIATELY went and sought out the next book in the series, My Virtual Prince Charming. This whole series is so great!
This is such a great neighbors to lovers, fake relationship, opposites attract romance. It's told in the first person past tense and alternates between Margo and Jason's POVs. This is a great fluffy YA romance, and is closed door and more sweet than hot.
I love the relationship between Margo and her friends, Suzie and Matt. They're all different types of geeks/nerds, and I like that they're a super close-knit group of a band geek, video game nerd, and journalism dork. Then I really appreciate the dual POV because we get to see Jason through Margo's eyes - he's her jock neighbor whom she used to be friends with until they grew apart in middle school, and she wants to hate him but he's so dang nice. And then we get Jason's POV and he genuinely is a really nice guy, but he's not just nice to Margo out of politeness, he genuinely likes her and wants to be her friend, but can't understand why or how they've grown so far apart. I am kind of a sucker for a romance where the guy realizes he likes the girl waaaaay before she realizes she likes him and then has to work to win her over. Which speaking of, the next book in the series... ;)
Love at First First is the first book in the Geeks Gone Wild series, and you're going to want to read this series in order as each book sort of builds on the previous ones (although they could each technically be read as stand alones).
This review might not be the most detailed because I'm writing it after having read the entire three book Geeks Gone Wild series in less than 24 hours, haha. I finished Love at First Fight and IMMEDIATELY went and sought out the next book in the series, My Virtual Prince Charming. This whole series is so great!
This is such a great neighbors to lovers, fake relationship, opposites attract romance. It's told in the first person past tense and alternates between Margo and Jason's POVs. This is a great fluffy YA romance, and is closed door and more sweet than hot.
I love the relationship between Margo and her friends, Suzie and Matt. They're all different types of geeks/nerds, and I like that they're a super close-knit group of a band geek, video game nerd, and journalism dork. Then I really appreciate the dual POV because we get to see Jason through Margo's eyes - he's her jock neighbor whom she used to be friends with until they grew apart in middle school, and she wants to hate him but he's so dang nice. And then we get Jason's POV and he genuinely is a really nice guy, but he's not just nice to Margo out of politeness, he genuinely likes her and wants to be her friend, but can't understand why or how they've grown so far apart. I am kind of a sucker for a romance where the guy realizes he likes the girl waaaaay before she realizes she likes him and then has to work to win her over. Which speaking of, the next book in the series... ;)
Love at First First is the first book in the Geeks Gone Wild series, and you're going to want to read this series in order as each book sort of builds on the previous ones (although they could each technically be read as stand alones).
Want to read
November 5, 2019🎁 FREE on Amazon today (11/4/2019)! 🎁
July 24, 2020
This wasn't a terrible book, but it is one of those YA books that is specifically meant for the YA crowd. It's not hard hitting, there isn't any personal growth or realizations that can come from it, and honestly no one really 'learns' anything. It's just a light fluffy romance where the geeky girl gets the jock guy.
One thing that was really tedious is that it read like a 1980's or 1990's teenage movie set in times. So a lot of the plot devices and developments that would work in those movies and those times didn't work here. The whole mentality of the 'popular' kids having to get back when they finally got dished what they had been serving, the animosity between them and the 'geeks', etc; it seemed to unbelievable for the modern world. Even factoring in the small town setting in places it read hokey. Maybe I'm too far removed from high school but I really don't think kids care that much especially seniors.
And then there's the mystery of who put the infamous picture in the slide show which was completely unbelievable. I refuse to believe that a teacher didn't give those submissions one final viewing. Maybe it comes up later who did it, and I have my suspicions. but that alone kind of set this story up with "Okay I'm going to have to take more than the proverbial grain of salt with this story." Also I feel these parents went way overboard with how 'shocked' they were it's like come on. It's a small town where football reigns. Do you really your kids aren't drinking? *rolls eyes* Even if it was the fact that it was the 'good' girls it seemed overblown.
There was a moment where I thought there was going to a whole 'Carrie' spin to it which I am glad didn't pan out. Because that combined with all the other stuff may have made it completely unbearable. Oh and again I'm fairly confident you can decline a Homecoming Nomination. It's high school not a real royal situation.
I clearly cared enough to finish but there were pockets of time it was grudge reading. And I don't care enough to finish the series unless I can borrow it or get it for free like I did this one. I wanted something light since I'm reading and have read heavier stuff and I got it. It was just a little to light and fluffy for my cynical behind which is fair because I'm not the intended audience. Teenage me would have eaten this up with a spoon and asked for more. Middle age me is less impressed.
One thing that was really tedious is that it read like a 1980's or 1990's teenage movie set in times. So a lot of the plot devices and developments that would work in those movies and those times didn't work here. The whole mentality of the 'popular' kids having to get back when they finally got dished what they had been serving, the animosity between them and the 'geeks', etc; it seemed to unbelievable for the modern world. Even factoring in the small town setting in places it read hokey. Maybe I'm too far removed from high school but I really don't think kids care that much especially seniors.
And then there's the mystery of who put the infamous picture in the slide show which was completely unbelievable. I refuse to believe that a teacher didn't give those submissions one final viewing. Maybe it comes up later who did it, and I have my suspicions. but that alone kind of set this story up with "Okay I'm going to have to take more than the proverbial grain of salt with this story." Also I feel these parents went way overboard with how 'shocked' they were it's like come on. It's a small town where football reigns. Do you really your kids aren't drinking? *rolls eyes* Even if it was the fact that it was the 'good' girls it seemed overblown.
There was a moment where I thought there was going to a whole 'Carrie' spin to it which I am glad didn't pan out. Because that combined with all the other stuff may have made it completely unbearable. Oh and again I'm fairly confident you can decline a Homecoming Nomination. It's high school not a real royal situation.
I clearly cared enough to finish but there were pockets of time it was grudge reading. And I don't care enough to finish the series unless I can borrow it or get it for free like I did this one. I wanted something light since I'm reading and have read heavier stuff and I got it. It was just a little to light and fluffy for my cynical behind which is fair because I'm not the intended audience. Teenage me would have eaten this up with a spoon and asked for more. Middle age me is less impressed.
January 19, 2019
-‘I nodded. Right. Of course. After the performance he’d put on in front of everyone last night, we really ought to see it through. It’d be a shame if he’d suffered the indignity of kissing me for nothing, right? I know, I know. Bitter much? But I couldn’t help it. He’d kissed me. For show. And now he was acting like it hadn’t affected him. Like it didn’t mean anything.
I took a deep calming breath. Right. It didn’t mean anything. Not to him, and certainly not to me. I was smarter than this. I was in control of my emotions. So maybe I’d had a crush on him once upon a time. So maybe that had been my first kiss. No big deal. I was a big girl. I could handle this. My friends were looking to me to make a statement. My friends in the band, the fellow nerds who’d been bullied with that stupid hashtag. It was up to me to steal that crown. If that meant playing along? I could do that. Of course I could do that.’-
Great story! Similar in style to Kasie West or Emily Evans, this is a YA/teen romance with no sex (there is some swearing) and a happy ending. I really liked the concept that it was the popular, gorgeous athlete who was in love with the geek band girl who wore weird clothes -a nice change! This is a fun, loght read. Looking forward to more in the series. Definitely recommend this one.
I took a deep calming breath. Right. It didn’t mean anything. Not to him, and certainly not to me. I was smarter than this. I was in control of my emotions. So maybe I’d had a crush on him once upon a time. So maybe that had been my first kiss. No big deal. I was a big girl. I could handle this. My friends were looking to me to make a statement. My friends in the band, the fellow nerds who’d been bullied with that stupid hashtag. It was up to me to steal that crown. If that meant playing along? I could do that. Of course I could do that.’-
Great story! Similar in style to Kasie West or Emily Evans, this is a YA/teen romance with no sex (there is some swearing) and a happy ending. I really liked the concept that it was the popular, gorgeous athlete who was in love with the geek band girl who wore weird clothes -a nice change! This is a fun, loght read. Looking forward to more in the series. Definitely recommend this one.
January 16, 2019
Loving Maggie Dallens latest! Margo doesn’t care about being popular preferring to flying under the radar but one picture as a cruel joke puts her front and center. Jason is Margo’s ex friend, neighbor, quarterback and all around nice guys or the schools Prince Charming sees the prank has taken on a life of its own pitting different social groups against eachother and comes up with a plan to bring there drama to an end together with Margo’s help but it’s all well meaning until feelings become more. Full of miscommunication, teenage angst and insecurities that keeps you reading till the last page with a sweet epilogue! Can’t wait for Suzie’s book!
February 7, 2019
This is what I call YA perfection! From the angst of unrequited love to the high school drama and bullying, the cool kids versus the geeks ... I loved every second of it. Bring me more of this series already!
September 27, 2020
That was soo cute, I really needed that 😍
So the story is about Margo and Jason, once upon a time they were friends but now wuth senior year they are not, but a scandal involving an embarassing picture of Margo going around the school will rekindle their relationship what will happen?
its a really light book and really cute and the epilogue was so sweet
So the story is about Margo and Jason, once upon a time they were friends but now wuth senior year they are not, but a scandal involving an embarassing picture of Margo going around the school will rekindle their relationship what will happen?
its a really light book and really cute and the epilogue was so sweet
February 3, 2019
Cute but disappointingly short and lacking in the meaty enemies to lovers that I was hoping for.
March 3, 2021
Another very easy and fun YA Romance. Could have done with a few more interactions between the pair as it was a lot of them talking about each other rather than too each other. Overall a good read.
September 30, 2022
Typical high school plot. But it was cute ☺️
January 19, 2019
Even though it's been a while *cough* since I've seen my teen years, I always enjoy reading Maggie Dallen's YA stories. Love at First Fight is no exception, and it's a little special to me, because... geeks. :)
This time, we're following band geek Margo and star quarterback Jason in a former-friends-now-sort-of-frenemies to lovers story on their way to their Happy End. As always, I can relate to the characters Maggie has created - though, TBH, I'm rooting a little more for the geeks than for the popular crowd (although I absolutely get Jason's eagerness to play nice with everybody).
What feels a bit different compared to the other YA books by Maggie Dallen I've read so far, is that it's not quite so focused on the main characters, but also on the whole group dynamic at school. (Cyber-)bullying plays a prominent part in the story, and the "us vs. them" adds another, external, conflict on top of the usual teenage angst and overcoming of internal stumbling blocks and misconceptions.
Despite the serious topic, it's still a fun read.
And I'm honestly looking forward to reading Suzie and Luke's story!
This time, we're following band geek Margo and star quarterback Jason in a former-friends-now-sort-of-frenemies to lovers story on their way to their Happy End. As always, I can relate to the characters Maggie has created - though, TBH, I'm rooting a little more for the geeks than for the popular crowd (although I absolutely get Jason's eagerness to play nice with everybody).
What feels a bit different compared to the other YA books by Maggie Dallen I've read so far, is that it's not quite so focused on the main characters, but also on the whole group dynamic at school. (Cyber-)bullying plays a prominent part in the story, and the "us vs. them" adds another, external, conflict on top of the usual teenage angst and overcoming of internal stumbling blocks and misconceptions.
Despite the serious topic, it's still a fun read.
And I'm honestly looking forward to reading Suzie and Luke's story!
March 14, 2023
This book was essentially the definition of the popular YA school trope of geeky girl gets with the hottest dude in school except with the addition of the childhood friends into lovers trope. Well, I guess it was more of a childhood friends to sort of enemies to lovers.
One little difference between this cliche and others is the niceness of the most popular people. Our male protagonist, Jason, is a pretty nice guy as are two of his friends. Huh, I just realized it's sort of the reverse not like other girls thing except it's the not like other popular kids.
I didn't really like the end of the book either. It was quite enjoyable up until that point. I would have rather the book just transition into the next one. Instead, it goes forward into the future for the epilogue and sort of spoils the second book, and judging by the description of the said book I'm guessing it takes place back in high school. It's just a bit of a weird timeline.
SPOILER
I have a little bone to pick with the description of the book though, this piece "And the kisses...oh, the kisses. Someone please remind me that they don't mean a thing." That wasn't very accurate and just kind of seemed like it was a ploy to get more people to think it was a bit more a steamier book that it is. Their first kiss is near the end of the book.
SPOILER DONE
Overall, it's cute, fluffy, but not at all extraordinary. The writing is subpar and I've read better. Do I recommend it? Eh if all you've been reading is super serious heavy books and want to read something in between to get rid of all that tension I guess you could read it but like I said it's not anything life-changing.
One little difference between this cliche and others is the niceness of the most popular people. Our male protagonist, Jason, is a pretty nice guy as are two of his friends. Huh, I just realized it's sort of the reverse not like other girls thing except it's the not like other popular kids.
I didn't really like the end of the book either. It was quite enjoyable up until that point. I would have rather the book just transition into the next one. Instead, it goes forward into the future for the epilogue and sort of spoils the second book, and judging by the description of the said book I'm guessing it takes place back in high school. It's just a bit of a weird timeline.
SPOILER
I have a little bone to pick with the description of the book though, this piece "And the kisses...oh, the kisses. Someone please remind me that they don't mean a thing." That wasn't very accurate and just kind of seemed like it was a ploy to get more people to think it was a bit more a steamier book that it is. Their first kiss is near the end of the book.
SPOILER DONE
Overall, it's cute, fluffy, but not at all extraordinary. The writing is subpar and I've read better. Do I recommend it? Eh if all you've been reading is super serious heavy books and want to read something in between to get rid of all that tension I guess you could read it but like I said it's not anything life-changing.
December 28, 2019
I usually like the enemy turned lovers and childhood/neighbours trope but this was such a miss to me. I struggled connecting to the characters and all their scenes and dialogue seem forced. I have lost count how many times I have rolled my eyes reading this and I’m disappointed because this was the first book I read from the author.
Can I also mention how long it took us to the climax of the story? It focused more on useless things and didn’t even resolve most of the conflicts (although I’m sure [redacted] did it*). I didn’t want to shelf it as DNF because maybe the story arc would improve so I pushed through it but nope.. still flat.
* Turns out I was right when I scrolled through the blurb of the other books in this series.
Can I also mention how long it took us to the climax of the story? It focused more on useless things and didn’t even resolve most of the conflicts (although I’m sure [redacted] did it*). I didn’t want to shelf it as DNF because maybe the story arc would improve so I pushed through it but nope.. still flat.
* Turns out I was right when I scrolled through the blurb of the other books in this series.
April 4, 2021
It was just okay. It wasn't captivating enough, I didn't finish this novel in one go even though it was a short book. There were some problems introduced into the plot that weren't resolved by the end. If you're just here for the romance then you might not even notice.
May 19, 2021
2.5 stars.
Nerds vs. jocks. The fight between those who are popular and those who are not. That's what this book is about. Or, at least, I suppose that's what it's about, though told from people who are supposedly involved but stand more on the sidelines than anything else. Honestly, I expected this to be a battle like I described it just now. I hoped there might be pranks and epic clashes as the two worlds collide. Well, there wasn't any of that.
The book starts with Margo and her friends hanging out peacefully until a younger (more popular) sibling decides to crash their evening and throw a party. A party at which, a damning picture is taking, which later shows up in the back-to-school slideshow, getting Margo and Suzie into trouble.
The girls want revenge (yes! we want that too!). They are convinced one of the football jocks is responsible for the photo and want to teach him popularity doesn't mean he can get away with it. But the voice of reason talks them out of it (boo! Matt sucks for talking them out of it!) However, the hashtag used with the picture, #GeeksGoneWild, has gone viral and now geeks, nerds, jocks, and cheerleaders alike are tagging everyone, causing even more tension between the two "worlds".
To sum up the ending of the book, Margo (the geek) and Jason (her jock neighbor who is also crushing on her), try to solve the tension and bring everyone together like some Utopian fairy tale ending. Needless to say, they fail in everything but getting together.
I thought the book was average across the board. The characters were so jaded with their lives and everything that I'm surprised there haven't been any runaways or more drastic attempts to escape it all. Everything is so beyond stereotypical, and the characters are all aware of it, but the main characters are also trying to break the mold and failing miserably. In a lot of books, the stereotypes are present and they work (even when trying to break free from them and bringing both worlds together, like in To All the Boys I've Loved Before) but it just didn't here.
The whole book is about the battle between the popular crowd and the "unpopular" crowd, yet we don't get to see any of that. There are a few comments here and there that mention the #GeeksGoneWild on social media, and Geekbook is briefly created, but it's like they aren't important elements to the story. THEY SHOULD HAVE BEEN THE HEROES! Instead, the book focuses on Margo and how she hates how nice Jason is while also really liking him but not being able to trust him because he's popular, and it focuses on Jason wanting to be friends with Margo while crushing on her but pretending he's only into her to help her win Homecoming Queen.
So, yeah, the title doesn't really apply to the book. There is no love at first sight. There is no fight. There are a bunch of teenagers trying to change the school but really making sure it doesn't change at all. And honestly, even the romance wasn't as cute as it could have been (giving the setting and all that, I can't help but think about To All The Boys I Loved before, and it just does not compare). It was a bit of a letdown.
I've picked up the second book, hoping it'll be better than this one, but from the first three chapters I've read already, I'm not sure.
Nerds vs. jocks. The fight between those who are popular and those who are not. That's what this book is about. Or, at least, I suppose that's what it's about, though told from people who are supposedly involved but stand more on the sidelines than anything else. Honestly, I expected this to be a battle like I described it just now. I hoped there might be pranks and epic clashes as the two worlds collide. Well, there wasn't any of that.
The book starts with Margo and her friends hanging out peacefully until a younger (more popular) sibling decides to crash their evening and throw a party. A party at which, a damning picture is taking, which later shows up in the back-to-school slideshow, getting Margo and Suzie into trouble.
The girls want revenge (yes! we want that too!). They are convinced one of the football jocks is responsible for the photo and want to teach him popularity doesn't mean he can get away with it. But the voice of reason talks them out of it (boo! Matt sucks for talking them out of it!) However, the hashtag used with the picture, #GeeksGoneWild, has gone viral and now geeks, nerds, jocks, and cheerleaders alike are tagging everyone, causing even more tension between the two "worlds".
To sum up the ending of the book, Margo (the geek) and Jason (her jock neighbor who is also crushing on her), try to solve the tension and bring everyone together like some Utopian fairy tale ending. Needless to say, they fail in everything but getting together.
I thought the book was average across the board. The characters were so jaded with their lives and everything that I'm surprised there haven't been any runaways or more drastic attempts to escape it all. Everything is so beyond stereotypical, and the characters are all aware of it, but the main characters are also trying to break the mold and failing miserably. In a lot of books, the stereotypes are present and they work (even when trying to break free from them and bringing both worlds together, like in To All the Boys I've Loved Before) but it just didn't here.
The whole book is about the battle between the popular crowd and the "unpopular" crowd, yet we don't get to see any of that. There are a few comments here and there that mention the #GeeksGoneWild on social media, and Geekbook is briefly created, but it's like they aren't important elements to the story. THEY SHOULD HAVE BEEN THE HEROES! Instead, the book focuses on Margo and how she hates how nice Jason is while also really liking him but not being able to trust him because he's popular, and it focuses on Jason wanting to be friends with Margo while crushing on her but pretending he's only into her to help her win Homecoming Queen.
So, yeah, the title doesn't really apply to the book. There is no love at first sight. There is no fight. There are a bunch of teenagers trying to change the school but really making sure it doesn't change at all. And honestly, even the romance wasn't as cute as it could have been (giving the setting and all that, I can't help but think about To All The Boys I Loved before, and it just does not compare). It was a bit of a letdown.
I've picked up the second book, hoping it'll be better than this one, but from the first three chapters I've read already, I'm not sure.
August 14, 2020
This has to be my favorite trope of all romances! I love the whole “enemies to friends”, “nerds and jocks romances”. This story grabs you and just pulls you in! Can’t wait to pick up the next book in the series.
Margo is the band nerd. She is just waiting for senior year to start so it can be over, and she can be off at college. The only good thing about senior year is that she finally gets to sit the first seat in the band. As summer comes to an end, she and her two other “nerd” friends Matt and Suzie. decide to throw a little party with just the three of them. But of course, Suzie’s younger brother shows up and ruins it by bringing a keg and his obnoxious friends. Her next-door neighbor, jock, and grade-A a**hole shows up just as Suzie is dared to do a keg stand, not to mention Margo is in a bikini she would never wear around anyone but her 2 best friends. Talk about embarrassment!
While at the assembly for the first day of senior year, all the seniors had to submit a photo of them from the summer. What picture was put up, no other than Margo in a skimpy bikini while Suzie is doing a keg stand; Could senior year get any worse? Not only has the whole school just witnessed the photo, but Margo’s childhood crush and next-door neighbor Jason is sitting next to her to witness the whole thing!
Jason is an all-American jock. He is the opposite of everything you think jocks are. He is the sweetest and kindest person in the school. When he sees the picture of Margo during the assembly, he doesn’t think anything besides the whole school is seeing the girl he’s admired for years. Jealously tears through him. Knowing that one of his teammates are probably responsible for the photo, Jason wants to make it up to Margo in the only way he knows how. Without revealing how he really feels.
With Margo nominated as part of the homecoming court as a joke, is the chance Jason has to finally tell Margo how he feels? Or will his chances go up in smoke?
Margo is the band nerd. She is just waiting for senior year to start so it can be over, and she can be off at college. The only good thing about senior year is that she finally gets to sit the first seat in the band. As summer comes to an end, she and her two other “nerd” friends Matt and Suzie. decide to throw a little party with just the three of them. But of course, Suzie’s younger brother shows up and ruins it by bringing a keg and his obnoxious friends. Her next-door neighbor, jock, and grade-A a**hole shows up just as Suzie is dared to do a keg stand, not to mention Margo is in a bikini she would never wear around anyone but her 2 best friends. Talk about embarrassment!
While at the assembly for the first day of senior year, all the seniors had to submit a photo of them from the summer. What picture was put up, no other than Margo in a skimpy bikini while Suzie is doing a keg stand; Could senior year get any worse? Not only has the whole school just witnessed the photo, but Margo’s childhood crush and next-door neighbor Jason is sitting next to her to witness the whole thing!
Jason is an all-American jock. He is the opposite of everything you think jocks are. He is the sweetest and kindest person in the school. When he sees the picture of Margo during the assembly, he doesn’t think anything besides the whole school is seeing the girl he’s admired for years. Jealously tears through him. Knowing that one of his teammates are probably responsible for the photo, Jason wants to make it up to Margo in the only way he knows how. Without revealing how he really feels.
With Margo nominated as part of the homecoming court as a joke, is the chance Jason has to finally tell Margo how he feels? Or will his chances go up in smoke?
February 18, 2025
Mixed feelings about this one. I enjoyed it for the most part, it had its cute moments, but it took a while to get to it's point and then never really resolved much, skirting past stuff very quickly.
The title is very misleading, in the sense that the two main characters don't necessarily hate each other and never had a fight. They used to be friends before high school the drifted, and Jason is just too nice to be hated by Margo, reluctant to admit that her childhood crush is still lingering. Both of them were in deep denial for waaay too long before anything even approached trying to be friendly, let alone more than that.
Margo pretty much hated most of the popular kids, and I didn't blame her, but the beef between the geeks and the popular crowd was thin and didn't really do much for the story as it was immediately dropped. There was brief mentions of either side being upset about the 'bullying', and then it quickly turns into talk about homecoming, which the drama in that also peaked quickly and faded into the two MCs finally realising some meaningful lessons in a very rushed way, and then fade to black, then a quick cheesy epilogue.
I wanted a little more depth to Margo and Jason's time spent together studying, I wanted more interactions, I wanted them to actually talk. 48% of the book was just going around and around each other them internally rehashing how they used to be friends then high school cliques divided them, and most him realising his feelings early on and not doing anything with them, and she was just oblivious even to herself, and she mostly was complaining about the popular crowd being mean, and nothing much happened. Then the rest of it was a rush through drama without much resolutions, at least not satisfying. The only kind of clear conversation was between Jason and Julia, and that was only a couple paragraphs, then back to drawn out beating around the bush, and then bam, HEA.
Cute but also frustratingly slow and lacking any punch.
The title is very misleading, in the sense that the two main characters don't necessarily hate each other and never had a fight. They used to be friends before high school the drifted, and Jason is just too nice to be hated by Margo, reluctant to admit that her childhood crush is still lingering. Both of them were in deep denial for waaay too long before anything even approached trying to be friendly, let alone more than that.
Margo pretty much hated most of the popular kids, and I didn't blame her, but the beef between the geeks and the popular crowd was thin and didn't really do much for the story as it was immediately dropped. There was brief mentions of either side being upset about the 'bullying', and then it quickly turns into talk about homecoming, which the drama in that also peaked quickly and faded into the two MCs finally realising some meaningful lessons in a very rushed way, and then fade to black, then a quick cheesy epilogue.
I wanted a little more depth to Margo and Jason's time spent together studying, I wanted more interactions, I wanted them to actually talk. 48% of the book was just going around and around each other them internally rehashing how they used to be friends then high school cliques divided them, and most him realising his feelings early on and not doing anything with them, and she was just oblivious even to herself, and she mostly was complaining about the popular crowd being mean, and nothing much happened. Then the rest of it was a rush through drama without much resolutions, at least not satisfying. The only kind of clear conversation was between Jason and Julia, and that was only a couple paragraphs, then back to drawn out beating around the bush, and then bam, HEA.
Cute but also frustratingly slow and lacking any punch.
December 15, 2019
Maggie Dallen always comes through for me when I need something fun, flirty and just enjoyable. This high school based story features Jason and Margo. Neighbors forever, and friends when children, these two drift apart as they go their separate paths into high school. Margo the band geek and Jason the football player just do not run in the same circles. But when Margo's integrity is thrown into the ring, things begin to change. Will Jason stand up for her and let her know his attraction? Will Margo give in to her childhood crush? Can their worlds live together? Oh how this hits home. Me being the band geek always had my eyes on those in uniform while playing in marching band. The untouchables. This captured that time, of not fitting in their world, loving from afar but this has an update using social media. I love Dallen's twists and turns in Margo and Jason's relationship, and the entire way life is handled. It's true to life and a great listen.
Lauren Fortgang and Michael David Axtell find that sound that fits these high school characters. There are quite a few with friends and players, and each one was created perfectly, just as I would imagine friends and enemies speaking. Fortgang has a great voice for this age, her young sound captures the innocence of the teens and Axtell has that cocky, yet vulnerable edge for Jason. I enjoyed their dual narration.
Lauren Fortgang and Michael David Axtell find that sound that fits these high school characters. There are quite a few with friends and players, and each one was created perfectly, just as I would imagine friends and enemies speaking. Fortgang has a great voice for this age, her young sound captures the innocence of the teens and Axtell has that cocky, yet vulnerable edge for Jason. I enjoyed their dual narration.
May 12, 2019
Take their crown. Take their glory. Win the war.
Ugh this was absolutely adorable!
I must admit I’m not that much into high school stories recently. Being what is now considered a grown up, I often catch myself finding these types of stories too childish and lacking of depth.
But man, I absolutely adored the first installment in GeeksGoneWild. I’ve always considered myself a closeted nerd so I absolutely enjoy stories featuring geeks and all of sort of geeky things. It has been a while since I last read one and i couldn’t have chosen a better one.
It’s the first work of this author I read and I already love her. The pace in the novel is very quick but not once the writing gets shallow, the novel it’s quite short and I really liked that because I feel like there were a million ways of ruining this story with unnecessary drama but the author didn’t take that route and instead delivered is a very satisfying story with amazing and very relatable characters.
I really liked that unlike other high stories the main characters weren’t childish and that in general the writing wasn’t sloppy and lacked depth like in some other stories. I know for a fact I will continue with the trilogy and will love every minute of it.
Ugh this was absolutely adorable!
I must admit I’m not that much into high school stories recently. Being what is now considered a grown up, I often catch myself finding these types of stories too childish and lacking of depth.
But man, I absolutely adored the first installment in GeeksGoneWild. I’ve always considered myself a closeted nerd so I absolutely enjoy stories featuring geeks and all of sort of geeky things. It has been a while since I last read one and i couldn’t have chosen a better one.
It’s the first work of this author I read and I already love her. The pace in the novel is very quick but not once the writing gets shallow, the novel it’s quite short and I really liked that because I feel like there were a million ways of ruining this story with unnecessary drama but the author didn’t take that route and instead delivered is a very satisfying story with amazing and very relatable characters.
I really liked that unlike other high stories the main characters weren’t childish and that in general the writing wasn’t sloppy and lacked depth like in some other stories. I know for a fact I will continue with the trilogy and will love every minute of it.
June 7, 2020
ONE DELIGHTFUL ADVENTURE!!!
Fantastic! Maggie rang my bell with this delightful hot little number, showcasing this pulse racing storyline and engaging plot, riding this artfully composed treat, wrapping this jewel up sleek, shiny and tight. Dynamics and countenance in layer upon layer that you peel back with each page your drawn into this web so deep until everything else ceases to exist. Quirky mishaps and surprising happenstance mix it up with the taxing trials and challenging tribulations, throwing in the startling twists and wicked turns, testing our characters in ways they could have never envisioned. Coiled, knotted and tightly woven, displaying the explosive ups and agonizing downs, grounding in it's simplicity and awe-inspiring in it's depth. The attraction and chemistry builds as each layer is peeled back exposing undeniable emotions, binding them to one another perfectly. The characters are complex and authentic with depth and traits that blend and flow, transforming into genuine charismatic personalities. The scenes are strikingly sharp with abundant details and descriptions creating a colorful backdrop that makes the storyline pop. Remarkable job Maggie, thanks for sharing this little treasure with us.
Fantastic! Maggie rang my bell with this delightful hot little number, showcasing this pulse racing storyline and engaging plot, riding this artfully composed treat, wrapping this jewel up sleek, shiny and tight. Dynamics and countenance in layer upon layer that you peel back with each page your drawn into this web so deep until everything else ceases to exist. Quirky mishaps and surprising happenstance mix it up with the taxing trials and challenging tribulations, throwing in the startling twists and wicked turns, testing our characters in ways they could have never envisioned. Coiled, knotted and tightly woven, displaying the explosive ups and agonizing downs, grounding in it's simplicity and awe-inspiring in it's depth. The attraction and chemistry builds as each layer is peeled back exposing undeniable emotions, binding them to one another perfectly. The characters are complex and authentic with depth and traits that blend and flow, transforming into genuine charismatic personalities. The scenes are strikingly sharp with abundant details and descriptions creating a colorful backdrop that makes the storyline pop. Remarkable job Maggie, thanks for sharing this little treasure with us.
February 15, 2019
This was such a good book! The chemistry between Margo and Jason was so sweet and you just so wanted them to end up together. Then there’s the DRAMA. While there’s a bit enemies to friends vibe, the story is a very fast paced, entertaining read with lots of back and forth revenge and trying to fix it all. After I cried lots of happy tears at the end all I can say is that I really loved this book. I liked the epilogue bit too. It’s always my favorite part to read.
Love at First Fight is the first book in the Geeks Gone Wild series.
I voluntarily received and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
Final Rating: 5 Stars
Love at First Fight is the first book in the Geeks Gone Wild series.
I voluntarily received and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
Final Rating: 5 Stars
January 18, 2020
Even though I am in my late 20's, I related so much to this story! Margo was me in high school, first chair clarinet, total band geek and proud, not interacting much with the popular kids. I felt to a large degree I was Margo while listening. I also enjoyed Jason the quarterback. We did not have a football team, so I could not relate fully, but I did enjoy these two characters and their interactions with each other! I cannot wait to listen to more in this series! I also think I have found a new favourite YA Contemporary authour!
I loved the male/female narration! I always find that it adds so much to sharing the story with listeners. Lauren Fortgang and Michael David Axtell both have very, very clear voices and both did a fabulous job with voices and emotion! I would easily listen to either of them again!
I loved this story so much and it will be enjoyed and listed several more times.
I received a copy of this audiobook at my request, and I have voluntarily left this review.
I loved the male/female narration! I always find that it adds so much to sharing the story with listeners. Lauren Fortgang and Michael David Axtell both have very, very clear voices and both did a fabulous job with voices and emotion! I would easily listen to either of them again!
I loved this story so much and it will be enjoyed and listed several more times.
I received a copy of this audiobook at my request, and I have voluntarily left this review.
November 2, 2021
This was a fun, fairly lighthearted story. It does deal with the issue of not fitting in and being part of that popular crowd but also of knowing who you are and being okay with that. Margo had a close set of friends so she didn’t have that problem but some of the other popular kids were jerks and started crap with the geeks. I loved the interplay between characters as they dealt with what was going on. Neither Margo nor Jason agreed with what was happening and didn’t want it to continue to escalate so they started working together to try and find peace for the school. The narrators were great! You could hear the emotion in their voice as they dealt with things and when talking to each other. It really brought the story to life and added that extra dynamic. This wasn’t the best read for me as some things just took longer than I thought they would for the length of the story. I wish that we had gotten more direct interaction between Margo and Jason but still a good and entertaining read. Will be continuing the series.
February 11, 2019
Nobody knows how to do YA high school romance as well as Maggie Dallen. It’s just that simple. She captures the feel of that window of life better than a one else. That’s certainly the case with Love at First Fight (Geeks Gone Wild Book 1). I love Margo in her pure band geekishness Margo and Jason the all around great guy and star quarterback. They are such amazingly strong characters and this, tale of former friends to frenemies to lovers is ideally suited for them. Pure unadulterated fun. While this is totally a standalone story I’m totally delighted that it’s also the start of a new series. But for the fact that I’m literally dictating this review to my husband from my hospital bed I could go on and on with praises. The book definitely deserves it. Since I can’t do that I will simply note that the book is most definitely one to read, and it is easy to highly recommend. I’m definitely looking forward to the next book in this series.
April 16, 2019
>Book Review – Love at First Fight
>I am an independent reviewer. This book is the 1st in the #GeeksGoneWild series and ends in an HEA. Suzie, Matt and Margo are friends and proud Geeks. Margo used to be friends with the high school golden boy, Jason. They grew apart as they grew up. Jason and Margo both have a crush on each other, but due to the different crowds they run in, they are both hiding their attraction.
>Jason and Margo pretend to date in order to help Margo become more popular and win Homecoming Queen. Jason realizes he isn’t pretending, but Margo is used to being hurt and is unsure of her true feelings. The book deals with mean girls, popular boys and true love.
> This book is appropriate for a young adult (16+) audience. I am giving this book 4 stars. There needs to be a little more conflict, but the story was very sweet. I loved the epilogue set in the future.
>I am an independent reviewer. This book is the 1st in the #GeeksGoneWild series and ends in an HEA. Suzie, Matt and Margo are friends and proud Geeks. Margo used to be friends with the high school golden boy, Jason. They grew apart as they grew up. Jason and Margo both have a crush on each other, but due to the different crowds they run in, they are both hiding their attraction.
>Jason and Margo pretend to date in order to help Margo become more popular and win Homecoming Queen. Jason realizes he isn’t pretending, but Margo is used to being hurt and is unsure of her true feelings. The book deals with mean girls, popular boys and true love.
> This book is appropriate for a young adult (16+) audience. I am giving this book 4 stars. There needs to be a little more conflict, but the story was very sweet. I loved the epilogue set in the future.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 125 reviews