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The First Loves #1
Just One Kiss
Who knew one kiss could cause so much trouble? Now these lifelong enemies will have to work together to set the story straight—and try not to kill each other while they’re at it.
Just one Kiss. That's all it's supposed to be. A dare is issued, a challenge accepted, and now these rivals have to kiss. No biggie, right? Except it becomes a big deal when Mara's crush finds out and now she needs Ryan's help to make things right.
But Ryan has issues of his own. And those issues? They require the help of a girl. Preferably Mara. After all, everyone already believes they've kissed. Why not let them think she's his girlfriend too?
Just one Kiss. That's all it's supposed to be. A dare is issued, a challenge accepted, and now these rivals have to kiss. No biggie, right? Except it becomes a big deal when Mara's crush finds out and now she needs Ryan's help to make things right.
But Ryan has issues of his own. And those issues? They require the help of a girl. Preferably Mara. After all, everyone already believes they've kissed. Why not let them think she's his girlfriend too?
212 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 9, 2021
405 people are currently reading
1494 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 112 reviews
February 15, 2025
Reread 2/14/25:
I experienced this YA romcom for the second time as an audiobook. It is available through Hoopla. It is narrated by a female actor and, wonder of wonders, she does a good job performing male characters.
This time around, this story was not a 5-star read for me, but it was still at least a 4-star experience.
This book is definitely G-rated and suitable for all audiences. The MMC, when kissing the FMC, amazingly never has a single bodily sensation below mid-chest level--only lots of literal heart-burning. Hah. He also never touches any part of the FMC below her shoulders other than her hands and arms. But in spite of the purposefully unrealistic presentation of teen passion, I would not characterize this as an outright asexual romance, which is a rare accomplishment among G-rated romance authors.
I especially appreciated the fact that there is a lovely epilogue in this novel, set one year in the future, showing the two romantic protagonists living out their HEA.
Review from 6/15/21:
Cute, “enemies to romance,” dual-POV, G-rated, YA romcom
It is the summer before senior year, and Mara Loman has despised her classmate, Ryan Hunter, for ten years for a reason it would be a spoiler to reveal. Ryan comes from a privileged background, but Mara is a working-class kid with a partial scholarship at the expensive, private, K-12, Lakeview School. Mara has attended Lakeview since kindergarten, but ever since her father divorced her mother and abandoned Mara when she was quite young, Mara has constantly studied extremely hard to maintain her scholarship, and her mother has worked herself into the ground to pay for the remaining portion of Mara’s Lakeview tuition.
Mara’s goal in life is to earn a full scholarship to a good college, the only way she could afford to go. She takes AP classes, holds office in student government, and in general makes sure her college applications will be top notch. Her summer job for the past few years has been as a lifeguard at a ritzy local country club, where the parents of many of her fellow Lakeview students are members. None of these rich kids need to work the way Mara does, but for some unfathomable reason, Ryan is a fellow lifeguard. Due to hard work and dedication, Mara has earned the position of assistant manager at the pool, putting her in the aggravating position of being Ryan’s supervisor. Not only do she and Ryan have all the same classes during the school year, but she has been forced to be around him all summer as well. It irritates Mara no end that all other people seem to see when they look at Ryan is the charming grin on his handsome face, above his broad shoulders and an amazing six-pack, all of which is on full display in his lifeguard swimsuit. But then again, he seems to save up his exasperating smirks and constant mocking quips for her alone.
Mara has another big goal right now, which is much more immediate than her college dreams. She has had a crush for a long time on another fellow, rising senior, Ben Harrow, and wishes very much to date him. Like Mara, Ben is a working-class kid on scholarship to Lakeview. The two of them serve on the student council together and also share a lot of the same classes. The problem is, Mara has never yet summoned enough courage to ask Ben out, and so far, he has never asked her out either. In fact, Mara has never dated anyone, and therefore, unsurprisingly, she has never been kissed. Until the day of the drunken, end-of-summer, pool-staff party.
Ryan goads Mara into a ping-pong tournament the same way he has, far too often, sucked her into regrettable adventures in the past--by exploiting the dangerous combination within her personality of pride and a highly competitive streak. But when Mara emerges victorious and claims her prize, she is shocked to discover that the prize is a kiss from Ryan! Before she can adamantly refuse to kiss her enemy, Ryan once more cheekily tweaks her pride to get her to accept, because it is “just one kiss” and, therefore, supposedly, no big deal.
This delightful, YA novel is a quick, sprightly read, with a cute, “battle of the sexes” type romcom plot. There are two fan-favorite romance-genre tropes in this story, “enemies to romance” and “fake dating.” Both of these tropes are particular favorites of mine, and they are both done quite well. There is an excellent, personal growth arc on the part of both Mara and Ryan, as they make a fun journey to their HEA.
There are a few instances of PG language in this story and, as mentioned, there is a drunken teen party. However, neither Mara nor Ryan drinks. In addition, in terms of sex, the story is G-rated, with only a few kisses.
I rate this novel as follows:
Heroine: 4 stars
Hero: 5 stars
Romance Plot: 5 stars
Subcharacters: 4 stars
Writing: 5 stars
Overall: 5 stars
I experienced this YA romcom for the second time as an audiobook. It is available through Hoopla. It is narrated by a female actor and, wonder of wonders, she does a good job performing male characters.
This time around, this story was not a 5-star read for me, but it was still at least a 4-star experience.
This book is definitely G-rated and suitable for all audiences. The MMC, when kissing the FMC, amazingly never has a single bodily sensation below mid-chest level--only lots of literal heart-burning. Hah. He also never touches any part of the FMC below her shoulders other than her hands and arms. But in spite of the purposefully unrealistic presentation of teen passion, I would not characterize this as an outright asexual romance, which is a rare accomplishment among G-rated romance authors.
I especially appreciated the fact that there is a lovely epilogue in this novel, set one year in the future, showing the two romantic protagonists living out their HEA.
Review from 6/15/21:
Cute, “enemies to romance,” dual-POV, G-rated, YA romcom
It is the summer before senior year, and Mara Loman has despised her classmate, Ryan Hunter, for ten years for a reason it would be a spoiler to reveal. Ryan comes from a privileged background, but Mara is a working-class kid with a partial scholarship at the expensive, private, K-12, Lakeview School. Mara has attended Lakeview since kindergarten, but ever since her father divorced her mother and abandoned Mara when she was quite young, Mara has constantly studied extremely hard to maintain her scholarship, and her mother has worked herself into the ground to pay for the remaining portion of Mara’s Lakeview tuition.
Mara’s goal in life is to earn a full scholarship to a good college, the only way she could afford to go. She takes AP classes, holds office in student government, and in general makes sure her college applications will be top notch. Her summer job for the past few years has been as a lifeguard at a ritzy local country club, where the parents of many of her fellow Lakeview students are members. None of these rich kids need to work the way Mara does, but for some unfathomable reason, Ryan is a fellow lifeguard. Due to hard work and dedication, Mara has earned the position of assistant manager at the pool, putting her in the aggravating position of being Ryan’s supervisor. Not only do she and Ryan have all the same classes during the school year, but she has been forced to be around him all summer as well. It irritates Mara no end that all other people seem to see when they look at Ryan is the charming grin on his handsome face, above his broad shoulders and an amazing six-pack, all of which is on full display in his lifeguard swimsuit. But then again, he seems to save up his exasperating smirks and constant mocking quips for her alone.
Mara has another big goal right now, which is much more immediate than her college dreams. She has had a crush for a long time on another fellow, rising senior, Ben Harrow, and wishes very much to date him. Like Mara, Ben is a working-class kid on scholarship to Lakeview. The two of them serve on the student council together and also share a lot of the same classes. The problem is, Mara has never yet summoned enough courage to ask Ben out, and so far, he has never asked her out either. In fact, Mara has never dated anyone, and therefore, unsurprisingly, she has never been kissed. Until the day of the drunken, end-of-summer, pool-staff party.
Ryan goads Mara into a ping-pong tournament the same way he has, far too often, sucked her into regrettable adventures in the past--by exploiting the dangerous combination within her personality of pride and a highly competitive streak. But when Mara emerges victorious and claims her prize, she is shocked to discover that the prize is a kiss from Ryan! Before she can adamantly refuse to kiss her enemy, Ryan once more cheekily tweaks her pride to get her to accept, because it is “just one kiss” and, therefore, supposedly, no big deal.
This delightful, YA novel is a quick, sprightly read, with a cute, “battle of the sexes” type romcom plot. There are two fan-favorite romance-genre tropes in this story, “enemies to romance” and “fake dating.” Both of these tropes are particular favorites of mine, and they are both done quite well. There is an excellent, personal growth arc on the part of both Mara and Ryan, as they make a fun journey to their HEA.
There are a few instances of PG language in this story and, as mentioned, there is a drunken teen party. However, neither Mara nor Ryan drinks. In addition, in terms of sex, the story is G-rated, with only a few kisses.
I rate this novel as follows:
Heroine: 4 stars
Hero: 5 stars
Romance Plot: 5 stars
Subcharacters: 4 stars
Writing: 5 stars
Overall: 5 stars
February 12, 2023
BROOO THIS IS SO CUTE
July 17, 2025
I love this book
April 8, 2023
'Siempre ha sido un choque con nosotros. Siempre lo ha sido, y probablemente siempre lo será.'
•Mi opinión puede contener Spoilers.
•Esta destinada a ser un descargo personal no para que alguien más lea pero si lo haces y te ofende, me disculpo porque sé lo que es que te guste un libro y otros lo critiquen.
Just One Kiss de Serie The First Love libro 1
Argumento:
¿Quién sabía que un beso podría causar tantos problemas? Ahora, estos enemigos de toda la vida tendrán que trabajar juntos para aclarar la historia y tratar de no matarse entre sí mientras lo hacen.
Solo un beso. Eso es todo lo que se supone que debe ser. Se lanza un desafío, se acepta un desafío, y ahora estos rivales tienen que besarse. No hay problema, ¿verdad? Excepto que se convierte en un gran problema cuando el enamorado de Mara se entera y ahora necesita la ayuda de Ryan para hacer las cosas bien.
Pero Ryan tiene sus propios problemas. ¿Y esos temas? Requieren la ayuda de una chica. Preferiblemente Mara. Después de todo, todos ya creen que se han besado. ¿Por qué no dejar que piensen que ella también es su novia?
Mi humilde opinión:
Disfruté leer la historia de amor de Mara y Ryan. Ambos personajes agradables con sus miedos e inseguridades, los dos siempre chocando porque quieren vencer al otro. En verdad me creí su rivalidad y todo el cambio que se va dando del odio al amor me convenció, concordaba con chicos de secundaria. Había un malentendido entre ellos que se arrastró durante años y se arregló con una charla honesta, después estaba una pequeña angustia pero esto no me molestó porque no duró mucho, los dos reconocieron sus errores y arreglaron maduramente. Me gustó el epilogo, los dos súper enamorados aún compitiendo entre ellos pero disfrutándolo juntos el lugar de pelear.
Agradezco a la autora que me dio la explicación de cómo Leah y Ben llegaron a estar juntos porque me quedé sorprendida de verlos muy en sesión de besos en la fogata y me preguntaba cómo pasó eso! Estos dos también me parecieron tan lindos juntos!
Just One Kiss es un romance juvenil de enemigos a amantes, dulce, ligero y divertido.
August 24, 2023
This was truly a cute book. I enjoyed the cloak and Dagger, a fun and feisty love story. I love the fact that the kind of nerdy girl is pursued by the popular jock. It's just my favorite kind of story. This one did not disappoint. On to the next.
April 21, 2024
3.75 Stars.
This was very cute! Pretty insta-like but since Maggie didn't try to sell it as love right off the bat it worked okay for me. It was quick and sweet, not really flushing out the characters or their background but enough information to know why they had some of their quirks.
This was very cute! Pretty insta-like but since Maggie didn't try to sell it as love right off the bat it worked okay for me. It was quick and sweet, not really flushing out the characters or their background but enough information to know why they had some of their quirks.
June 15, 2021
Great start to the series and a perfect YA read! Ryan and Mara are childhood enemies and opposites. He’s a football jock and she’s dedicated to student council and getting as many scholarships as possible.
Such great chemistry and sweet moments when these two finally speak to each other instead of goading each other.
I absolutely loved this one and can’t wait for the next book in the series.
Such great chemistry and sweet moments when these two finally speak to each other instead of goading each other.
I absolutely loved this one and can’t wait for the next book in the series.
August 3, 2025
4.5 stars.
Plot- This was really cute! Enemies to lovers, with an organic fake dating situation, and a bit of a slow burn. I appreciated how quickly the 3rd act miscommunication was resolved.
I tried reading this book 3 yrs ago and bounced after the first chapter but this time around the FMC didn’t seem as unreasonably rude anymore. Must be a mood thing. Or I’m just an impatient reader sometimes. Gotta stick around for the story to develop.😜
Characters- I really liked the 2 MCs! They were deep and sympathetic characters. I loved that they were both cool, confident, good looking, nice, and well liked. (Painfully awkward characters are my least favorite.) But even with their natural confidence, they were still vulnerable and unsure with each other as their relationship changed. That’s endearing.
I loved how the MMC acted a little cocky but was a total sweetheart and actually felt insecure sometimes, which made him human. He was playful and teasing and that’s my favorite!
Romance- Super cute. Good chemistry. I completely understand why he was attracted to her and vice versa. I’m sold!
Writing - Well written! It never felt juvenile to me. If there had been a little more angst and/or chemistry, I would have given it 5 stars.
Content-
Language- no swearing
Spice- clean. Just kissing.
Violence- no
Cover- good
POV- dual pov
Cliffhanger- no
Format- audio via Hoopla
Narration- fantastic performance - same voice for both perspectives.
Original notes from 3/30/22:
I read a couple chapters and couldn’t get into it. She legit hates him and is openly rude to him. They’ve known each other (same classes, same job) for their entire lives and she’s still holding on to a 10-year grudge from, like, preschool. Yeah, she’s super uptight- even prides herself on it- and I’m bowing out. I guess the enemies to lovers trope doesn’t always work for me.
Maybe a teenager would love it. 🤷♀️
No rating since I didn’t read enough to be a good judge.
Plot- This was really cute! Enemies to lovers, with an organic fake dating situation, and a bit of a slow burn. I appreciated how quickly the 3rd act miscommunication was resolved.
I tried reading this book 3 yrs ago and bounced after the first chapter but this time around the FMC didn’t seem as unreasonably rude anymore. Must be a mood thing. Or I’m just an impatient reader sometimes. Gotta stick around for the story to develop.😜
Characters- I really liked the 2 MCs! They were deep and sympathetic characters. I loved that they were both cool, confident, good looking, nice, and well liked. (Painfully awkward characters are my least favorite.) But even with their natural confidence, they were still vulnerable and unsure with each other as their relationship changed. That’s endearing.
I loved how the MMC acted a little cocky but was a total sweetheart and actually felt insecure sometimes, which made him human. He was playful and teasing and that’s my favorite!
Romance- Super cute. Good chemistry. I completely understand why he was attracted to her and vice versa. I’m sold!
Writing - Well written! It never felt juvenile to me. If there had been a little more angst and/or chemistry, I would have given it 5 stars.
Content-
Language- no swearing
Spice- clean. Just kissing.
Violence- no
Cover- good
POV- dual pov
Cliffhanger- no
Format- audio via Hoopla
Narration- fantastic performance - same voice for both perspectives.
Original notes from 3/30/22:
I read a couple chapters and couldn’t get into it. She legit hates him and is openly rude to him. They’ve known each other (same classes, same job) for their entire lives and she’s still holding on to a 10-year grudge from, like, preschool. Yeah, she’s super uptight- even prides herself on it- and I’m bowing out. I guess the enemies to lovers trope doesn’t always work for me.
Maybe a teenager would love it. 🤷♀️
No rating since I didn’t read enough to be a good judge.
May 4, 2025
SO SO.SO CUTE!!
okay can I have a school enemy and then fake date then and fall in love? Is that really so much to ask 😭 But back to the book they r so perfect for each other! This was way better than I initially expected and I love Mara and Ryan so much! I need more of them just them omg!! Smiling rn thinking of them ♥️ This is a cute palette cleanser and just fluffy feel good book. If u r reading this review then you SHOULD read this book!!!
5⭐️ (reread)
Bumped this up to a 5star cause it genuinely deserves it. Mara and Ryan I LOVE U!! This book is in my top 3 ya romances, like my blueprint!! Chemistry, tension, banter, pining, and romance was immaculate. I liked how the enemies to lovers made sense in their context and felt realistic and natural. I wish I could read more of them, they were the star of this series for me.
okay can I have a school enemy and then fake date then and fall in love? Is that really so much to ask 😭 But back to the book they r so perfect for each other! This was way better than I initially expected and I love Mara and Ryan so much! I need more of them just them omg!! Smiling rn thinking of them ♥️ This is a cute palette cleanser and just fluffy feel good book. If u r reading this review then you SHOULD read this book!!!
5⭐️ (reread)
Bumped this up to a 5star cause it genuinely deserves it. Mara and Ryan I LOVE U!! This book is in my top 3 ya romances, like my blueprint!! Chemistry, tension, banter, pining, and romance was immaculate. I liked how the enemies to lovers made sense in their context and felt realistic and natural. I wish I could read more of them, they were the star of this series for me.
November 18, 2021
Short and sweet.
I think I've gotten too old and dependent on smut that I wasn't entirely satisfied, but a sweet story non-the-less with loveable characters.
I think I've gotten too old and dependent on smut that I wasn't entirely satisfied, but a sweet story non-the-less with loveable characters.
April 23, 2025
Super cute and sweet light read. Would actually bother to reread this one
June 30, 2021
5🍭🍭🍭🍭🍭
Spanish & English Opinion
ESP ::
Amo a Maggie “The Queen” Dallen. Su estilo de sweet romance es divertido, único y encantador.
Ahora, agreguemos los géneros de “fake romance” y “enemies-to-lovers” y PUM… ¡De mis libros favoritos!
La ejecución de la historia no se parece a ninguna otra. La química y conexión entre los personajes es hermosa y la forma en que los sentimientos crecen y ocurren es muy natural.
Mara me hace reír mucho y Ryan es divino. Me encantan juntos y este libro está para leerse muchas veces. Romántico, divertido y “swoony”. 💜
ENG ::
It’s no secret I’m a huge fan of Maggie “The Queen” Dallen. Her writing style is unique, funny, charming and original.
Now, we can add a story written by her with “fake relationship” and “enemies-to-lovers” tropes and POOM… One of my favorite books without a doubt.
The plot is perfectly executed, and the way the relationship happens, the back story and the emotions are all amazing and really believable. Everything happens in a very nice and organic way, without rush and that makes this book pretty special.
Mara is very funny and Ryan is the best! I love them together and the way they make each other better.
This swoony, funny and romantic book is meant to be read over and over!
Spanish & English Opinion
ESP ::
Amo a Maggie “The Queen” Dallen. Su estilo de sweet romance es divertido, único y encantador.
Ahora, agreguemos los géneros de “fake romance” y “enemies-to-lovers” y PUM… ¡De mis libros favoritos!
La ejecución de la historia no se parece a ninguna otra. La química y conexión entre los personajes es hermosa y la forma en que los sentimientos crecen y ocurren es muy natural.
Mara me hace reír mucho y Ryan es divino. Me encantan juntos y este libro está para leerse muchas veces. Romántico, divertido y “swoony”. 💜
ENG ::
It’s no secret I’m a huge fan of Maggie “The Queen” Dallen. Her writing style is unique, funny, charming and original.
Now, we can add a story written by her with “fake relationship” and “enemies-to-lovers” tropes and POOM… One of my favorite books without a doubt.
The plot is perfectly executed, and the way the relationship happens, the back story and the emotions are all amazing and really believable. Everything happens in a very nice and organic way, without rush and that makes this book pretty special.
Mara is very funny and Ryan is the best! I love them together and the way they make each other better.
This swoony, funny and romantic book is meant to be read over and over!
January 6, 2025
This is a super cute quick read! Ryan and Mara have great chemistry together that really makes the book come together!
Maggie Dallen keeps it light and entertaining while also briefly touching on some issues that the characters face in a way that makes it relatable for the reader without being too heavy.
The plot of the book takes place over the course of a few weeks, so while it's a quick read, it doesn't feel rushed to get through the plot
There was a bit more language than I expected, but it was pretty easy to look over because it wasn't frequent and wasn't major
For the romance side of things- this is definitely a clean/spice free book! There are a few passionate kisses that can be skimmed if it's a problem! There's also quite a few times where Ryan or another male character notice and make remarks (or thoughts) about Mara or one of the other girls, not in a necessarily sexual way but it's still there
Overall this was a super cute book and the enemies to lovers trope was done really well because it didn't feel as forced as some of the others I've read. I also really liked how well Mara and Ryan got to know each other and how they were able to be vulnerable with one another
Maggie Dallen keeps it light and entertaining while also briefly touching on some issues that the characters face in a way that makes it relatable for the reader without being too heavy.
The plot of the book takes place over the course of a few weeks, so while it's a quick read, it doesn't feel rushed to get through the plot
There was a bit more language than I expected, but it was pretty easy to look over because it wasn't frequent and wasn't major
For the romance side of things- this is definitely a clean/spice free book! There are a few passionate kisses that can be skimmed if it's a problem! There's also quite a few times where Ryan or another male character notice and make remarks (or thoughts) about Mara or one of the other girls, not in a necessarily sexual way but it's still there
Overall this was a super cute book and the enemies to lovers trope was done really well because it didn't feel as forced as some of the others I've read. I also really liked how well Mara and Ryan got to know each other and how they were able to be vulnerable with one another
October 3, 2022
Total fluff but something I needed after the more visceral non-fiction I just finished reading.
Anyone who has read teen romances can plot this one a mile ahead, it is clear Ryan is into Mara, it just takes her a bit to reciprocate. I think the author did a good job of dialogue and I liked the switch views (Ryan and Mara). On quibble, why make Mara a blonde? I just changed that in my mind to brunette. I like my heroines to be dark hair colored. Don't ask me why, it just is. My only other issue was the sort-of made up tension at the end, to get to the couple realizing they like each other. Kinda contrived, but I'm glad that the author didn't drag it out.
This is a book you can finish in 2 hours (which I did) good candy floss, nothing too serious. Great for any age who likes a nice little romance in the hate to love genre (my favorite!).
Anyone who has read teen romances can plot this one a mile ahead, it is clear Ryan is into Mara, it just takes her a bit to reciprocate. I think the author did a good job of dialogue and I liked the switch views (Ryan and Mara). On quibble, why make Mara a blonde? I just changed that in my mind to brunette. I like my heroines to be dark hair colored. Don't ask me why, it just is. My only other issue was the sort-of made up tension at the end, to get to the couple realizing they like each other. Kinda contrived, but I'm glad that the author didn't drag it out.
This is a book you can finish in 2 hours (which I did) good candy floss, nothing too serious. Great for any age who likes a nice little romance in the hate to love genre (my favorite!).
October 8, 2023
Once i read the preview, i immediately loved the writing style and how quickly the story progressed. I had to buy the book immediately
Quick read with adorable plot points that reminded me of how Richie teases me. I like how the romance is healthy while still hitting the points that are desirable like man is possessive, protective, and jealous but doesn’t understand why he is acting that way and is respecting his girl. Guy shows he has a good heart by not wanting to hurt another girl’s feelings by leading her on and going on one date with her. Misunderstandings have good believable reasons and don’t last long. I always love it when couple help each other to grow and be their best self. I like the way everything goes down, a fun story with a reasonable flow.
Some minor swears (stronger words than heck, darn, butt)
Quick read with adorable plot points that reminded me of how Richie teases me. I like how the romance is healthy while still hitting the points that are desirable like man is possessive, protective, and jealous but doesn’t understand why he is acting that way and is respecting his girl. Guy shows he has a good heart by not wanting to hurt another girl’s feelings by leading her on and going on one date with her. Misunderstandings have good believable reasons and don’t last long. I always love it when couple help each other to grow and be their best self. I like the way everything goes down, a fun story with a reasonable flow.
Some minor swears (stronger words than heck, darn, butt)
September 6, 2024
Mara wants to have no regrets or miss out on the whole High School experience during her Senior Year before heading off to college. Mara can't stand Ryan who pushes her buttons, is always late, cheats every year during the country club employee race and she's held a decade long grudge against. Mara's mother, Monique, wants her daughter not take it too seriously, to enjoy life, and her school experience and comes across like a friend but with motherly concern and checks in with Mara's friend Celia to see what's happening while Mara tries to protect her mum from worrying about her. Whereas Ryan is in his three older brothers shadow with school and football and seems to hide his feelings about that with an easy going smile and teasing Mara. I enjoyed reading Mara and Ryan's story, seeing their history, working through their issues, meeting the other characters in upcoming books.
August 3, 2024
"Is it super petty to hold a grudge for a decade? Possibly. Okay, probably. But in my defense, I’m nothing if not constant. I can be depended on to hold a grudge—and to be on time for my shift."
This is a fun start to a new series by Maggie! Mara and Ryan are childhood enemies to lovers! I love that these are clean fun rom-coms! Sometimes I just want something light - an escape from reality for a little bit and this series delivers that! The banter is funny and I enjoyed the characters!
"But you only do high school once, right? And I want to do it all. I don’t want to miss anything. Not even the silly stuff like boys...and kisses."
I really enjoyed this nerd/jock high school romance! It was exactly what I wanted!!
This is a fun start to a new series by Maggie! Mara and Ryan are childhood enemies to lovers! I love that these are clean fun rom-coms! Sometimes I just want something light - an escape from reality for a little bit and this series delivers that! The banter is funny and I enjoyed the characters!
"But you only do high school once, right? And I want to do it all. I don’t want to miss anything. Not even the silly stuff like boys...and kisses."
I really enjoyed this nerd/jock high school romance! It was exactly what I wanted!!
June 10, 2025
I loved these characters! Ryan and Mara are SO FUN. It’s was a great YA romance. They are bold, but still cautious of being rejected. I loved the realistic emotions they experienced and loved the moments where they let their guards down. These two worked together so weak- Mara’s cautious confidence, and Ryan’s bold swagger- but both were so competitive and FUN.
One of my favorite convos:
I sit up a little straighter and take a deep breath. “It doesn’t matter if there was chemistry or not because it can never happen again.”
I’m met with two wide-eyed stares. Perhaps I’d said that a little too loudly and with way more intensity than necessary. I give a small conciliatory smile. “Too much?” “I think we get the gist,” Celia says.
Content: kisses only! But some language and drinking.
One of my favorite convos:
I sit up a little straighter and take a deep breath. “It doesn’t matter if there was chemistry or not because it can never happen again.”
I’m met with two wide-eyed stares. Perhaps I’d said that a little too loudly and with way more intensity than necessary. I give a small conciliatory smile. “Too much?” “I think we get the gist,” Celia says.
Content: kisses only! But some language and drinking.
June 13, 2021
The beginning of a beautiful friendship... ;)
Disclaimer: I am usually not a big fan of the enemies-to-more trope, but this one hit the spot for me. I found it surprisingly easy to root for both Mara and Ryan, and boy, did those sparks fly between these two!
While the reason for the fake-dating part of the story felt a bit contrived, I loved seeing Mara and Ryan getting to know each other between those swoon-worthy kisses, calling each other out on their respective BS, and finally fall in like - and in love.
I'd love to read more books in this world and I hope this is just the first story in a new series!
4.5 / 5
Disclaimer: I am usually not a big fan of the enemies-to-more trope, but this one hit the spot for me. I found it surprisingly easy to root for both Mara and Ryan, and boy, did those sparks fly between these two!
While the reason for the fake-dating part of the story felt a bit contrived, I loved seeing Mara and Ryan getting to know each other between those swoon-worthy kisses, calling each other out on their respective BS, and finally fall in like - and in love.
I'd love to read more books in this world and I hope this is just the first story in a new series!
4.5 / 5
July 4, 2021
Enemies to Sweethearts
While this was a thoroughly enjoyable story, it didn't resonate that well with me. I just don't think I was in the correct frame of mind for a high school romance. (I have had 3 grandsons graduating from h.s. for the past 3 years! has added to that) It was an engaging storyline with very good characters, while this story was specifically about Mara and Ryan. It is also laid out for a new novella length story about Ben and Leah following this with the next story in the series, Heath, getting a reference in the epilogue. Incidentally, I have always enjoyed this author's work.
While this was a thoroughly enjoyable story, it didn't resonate that well with me. I just don't think I was in the correct frame of mind for a high school romance. (I have had 3 grandsons graduating from h.s. for the past 3 years! has added to that) It was an engaging storyline with very good characters, while this story was specifically about Mara and Ryan. It is also laid out for a new novella length story about Ben and Leah following this with the next story in the series, Heath, getting a reference in the epilogue. Incidentally, I have always enjoyed this author's work.
May 10, 2022
It was short. I liked it well enough, but it sped along pretty quickly. I think it's probably novella length? Anyway, the blurb isn't exactly what's happening. It's definitely a sweet enemies to lovers story, but the dare kiss startles both of them with their chemistry. They have to deal with the memories of their injustices to each other over the years. And yes, everyone finds out because the dare kiss was in public and someone took a picture and posted it. Anyway, they very quickly realize they're meant for each other--the flip is, again, speedy--and after an almost disastrous misunderstanding/not-telling-each-other-how-they-really-feel moment, they apologize and declare the HEA. Fun.
March 9, 2022
Contains: some mild language, kisses, and some underage drinking. This is a pretty predictable and quick read containing the common tropes of enemies to lovers as well as fake dating. I did like that they talked to each other and didn’t let miscommunications rule their life. My only issue was that with the dual POV I often couldn’t tell/remember who was speaking (I know it says at the begging of the chapter but guys and girls think differently enough that one should be able to tell without referring back to the start of a chapter.
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June 12, 2022Incoherent plot
I thought the premise is interesting but this story is terribly incoherent! I kept waiting for it to start making some sense but after 5 chapters I'm still trying to figure out what's so appealing about the characters... There was no chemistry! I just read 3 pages of Mara reaming Ryan on why he didn't tell Ben that it was all a joke and that they are not together. After he told her why, she kept yelling at him but not making her point at all. This is not a healthy relationship.... not worth investing time reading it.
I thought the premise is interesting but this story is terribly incoherent! I kept waiting for it to start making some sense but after 5 chapters I'm still trying to figure out what's so appealing about the characters... There was no chemistry! I just read 3 pages of Mara reaming Ryan on why he didn't tell Ben that it was all a joke and that they are not together. After he told her why, she kept yelling at him but not making her point at all. This is not a healthy relationship.... not worth investing time reading it.
July 12, 2022
for me
This book was better than I was expecting it was soooo good. This book put me in such a great mood. It was perfectly short and sweet. It was perfect of the fake dating but with a little bit of enemies added in. I would 100% recommend this book and would read it again. I am excited to see if the other books in the series are any good. I would recommend reading this book in the summer. It gives summer vibes. I truly loved this book though I wish I got to see them even more later in their relationship. So good 4/5
This book was better than I was expecting it was soooo good. This book put me in such a great mood. It was perfectly short and sweet. It was perfect of the fake dating but with a little bit of enemies added in. I would 100% recommend this book and would read it again. I am excited to see if the other books in the series are any good. I would recommend reading this book in the summer. It gives summer vibes. I truly loved this book though I wish I got to see them even more later in their relationship. So good 4/5
February 23, 2023
I really enjoyed this story! It was a sweet, adorable, lighthearted read that pulled me in from beginning to end. I loved the characters and while this one starts out with enemies to lovers trope the book just had a great lighthearted vibe throughout. I loved watching these two finally start seeing below the surface and the things they had missed that just change everything about what is between them. This story had me smiling most of the time. It was just cute and really easy to read. I will definitely be checking out the other books in the series.
August 13, 2023
Good For Teens
First, let me say this isn't really the kind of story I go for. Usually, if I read books meant for today's teens, I have to psych myself up. In this case, the plot was interesting, the story would appeal to most teens, and it was well-written technically. It's not something I'd encourage my own teens to read because despite the good things I mentioned, there are several things taken for granted which I found disappointing and heartbreaking.
However, if your teen is looking for a clean romantic drama they can relate to, this might be a good fit.
First, let me say this isn't really the kind of story I go for. Usually, if I read books meant for today's teens, I have to psych myself up. In this case, the plot was interesting, the story would appeal to most teens, and it was well-written technically. It's not something I'd encourage my own teens to read because despite the good things I mentioned, there are several things taken for granted which I found disappointing and heartbreaking.
However, if your teen is looking for a clean romantic drama they can relate to, this might be a good fit.
May 8, 2024
"Ryan Hunter, ladies and gentlemen. The guy who's been annoying the crap out of me since kindergarten."
This is a great enemies to lovers story. Mara and Ryan are dynamite together, and not in the good way, until it is. A dare of a kiss, and a couple of misunderstandings, and a fake relationship later, you have one swoony romance. Ryan doesn't start out as my favorite, I don't like mean guys, but he redeems himself over the course of the book. The chemistry is fire!
"It's just a kiss...with the one guy she can't stand."
This is a great enemies to lovers story. Mara and Ryan are dynamite together, and not in the good way, until it is. A dare of a kiss, and a couple of misunderstandings, and a fake relationship later, you have one swoony romance. Ryan doesn't start out as my favorite, I don't like mean guys, but he redeems himself over the course of the book. The chemistry is fire!
"It's just a kiss...with the one guy she can't stand."
July 15, 2024
Genre: YA romance
Clean Level: 🫧
Rating: 4.5 stars
Cute summer YA read!
This book is absolutely adorable with all the angst of enemies to lovers!
The MMC and FMC have the quick banter, and jokes to keep this reader entertained. From their first kiss you know they were made for each other.
Of course because this is YA leading into their senior year it’s all about the big decisions and big emotions. A little angsty but still fun all around.
Highly suggest for a quick summer YA read!
Content:
*Kiss only
* No foul language
*Underage drinking (main characters don’t)
Clean Level: 🫧
Rating: 4.5 stars
Cute summer YA read!
This book is absolutely adorable with all the angst of enemies to lovers!
The MMC and FMC have the quick banter, and jokes to keep this reader entertained. From their first kiss you know they were made for each other.
Of course because this is YA leading into their senior year it’s all about the big decisions and big emotions. A little angsty but still fun all around.
Highly suggest for a quick summer YA read!
Content:
*Kiss only
* No foul language
*Underage drinking (main characters don’t)
November 18, 2025
Another audiobook I listened to, and this was much more tolerable. Came into this with zero expectations (it just happened to be available!), and I wasn't too disappointed. It's very quick and light, it almost reminds me of one of those YA novellas (think Sweet Dreams and Love Stories). It's very wholesome too, and I think I would've appreciated it more if I was in my pre- to early teens 😅 Basically both MCs were childhood enemies, and drifted off to different social circles in high school. FMC develops a crush on MMC's friend, and somehow got into a fake-dating situation. It's silly, but to be honest, it's pretty refreshing to see teens just be teens and aren't hypersexualised like you see in a lot of YA/NA novels now.
January 19, 2023
I loved it!!!!
It reminds me so much of my Nelson High Raiders series by Jordan Ford. It's got a really similar vibe and I love that kind of world.
I love the characters - Mara and Ryan were so great. Their banter was hilarious.
I also LOVED the way Maggie wrote them. Her style made me laugh out loud a few times.
I was so thoroughly entertained and absorbed in this world, and I can't wait to read the rest of the books in the series :)
It reminds me so much of my Nelson High Raiders series by Jordan Ford. It's got a really similar vibe and I love that kind of world.
I love the characters - Mara and Ryan were so great. Their banter was hilarious.
I also LOVED the way Maggie wrote them. Her style made me laugh out loud a few times.
I was so thoroughly entertained and absorbed in this world, and I can't wait to read the rest of the books in the series :)
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