At First Spite

A Harlot's Bay Novel

By: Olivia Dade

Narrated by: Joy Nash

A Library Journal Romance Pick of the Month

Bestselling author Olivia Dade welcomes you to Harlot’s Bay in this delightfully sexy rom-com about a woman who buys the town's famous Spite House, only to realize the infuriating man she can't stand lives right next door—and their unwilling proximity might spark something neither can ignore.

When Athena Greydon’s fiancé ends their engagement, she has no choice but to move into the Spite House she recklessly bought him as a wedding gift. Which is a problem, for several reasons: The house, originally built as a brick middle finger to the neighbors, is only ten feet wide. Her ex’s home is literally attached to hers. And Dr. Matthew Vine the Freaking Third—AKA the uptight, judgy jerk who convinced his younger brother to leave her—is living on her other side, only a four-foot alley away.

If she has to see Matthew every time she looks out her windows, she might as well have some fun with the situation. By, say, playing erotic audiobooks at top volume with those windows open. A woman living in a Spite House is basically obligated to get petty payback however she can, right?

Unfortunately, loathing Matthew proves more difficult than anticipated. He helps her move. He listens. And he’s kind of…hot? Dammit.

Matthew may not regret ending his brother's engagement, but he does regret what the breakup has done to Athena. He'll help her however he can. If that means finding her work, fine. If that means enduring nightly steamy story hours, so be it. And if that means watching Athena through their windows a bit too often and caring about her a bit too much…well, nothing can come of it. She’ll never forgive him. Even if she did, how could he ever tell his beloved younger brother the truth—that Matthew wants the very same woman he encouraged Johnny to leave?

Beautiful, funny, sweet, and a little spicy

My favorite of Dade’s work yet. And the narration was wonderful. 10/10 would recommend. Also has amazing mental health representation ❤️❤️❤️

Uff

What a book o don’t even know were to start. This was a book that I had to listen on pieces because at some times it was too intense and emotional for me. Loved the way the author touched the depression topic. It was just an emotional experience. 10 stars if I could. Great Narration.

Book Hangover

I loved everything about this book. I haven't fallen in love with a book boyfriend this hard since the first time I read Pride and Prejudice. it's perfect.

I felt so seen

I really enjoyed this book for the humor, romance, and humanity. The FMC's struggle with depression was so well described and I felt seen and represented by the heroine. I felt the relationship between the two brothers happens more often than people think, too. I really enjoyed the book and look forward to the next one in the series.

Relatable Relationship in a Funny, Cozy Town

The representation of anxiety and depression was very well done and the characters were well-rounded. The least believable part was a small town where the economy is thriving right now. I do want to move there so badly however.