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?
PJ's Thoughts:
Dade tackles some tough topics in this book, including grief (death of a child/off page and before the story begins) and clinical depression (different character - unrelated to above). Both have profound impact on the lives of the characters dealing with them. The depression in particular is presented in a raw, realistic way that figuratively lays open the character then slowly, carefully, realistically, stitches them back together with love, medical care, kindness, and a gentle hand. If I hadn't already bonded with the characters, these scenes would have clinched the deal. It brought me to tears for those who deal with depression daily and had me giving thanks for the Matthews out there who lead with love, care, and zero judgment. It also gave this book the heft that not only made it a Top Dish but put it on my Best of 2024 watch list. In my opinion, the manner in which Dade presents this life-altering condition, organically weaving it into the story and taking no shortcuts, is exceptional, lifting At First Spite, already a stellar novel, to another level.
Unique and special story. I haven't read Olivia Dade's books. This one is a winner. An intriguing name for a town. I enjoy books that are roller coaster rides.
ReplyDeleteLove Olivia Dade’s books and hope to read this one asap!
ReplyDeleteI love Olivia Dade's books! I discovered her with her Spoiler Alert series! I'm very much looking forward to reading everything she writes for Harlot's Bay!
ReplyDeleteOlivia's books have been on my TBR for a while now. I really want to read one of her books. I'm definitely intrigued about her books and a town called Harlot 's Bay. And if it's done right, I really can enjoy an emotional rollercoaster at the book. I do have to say, that with your review and approval I really do want to read this one.
ReplyDeleteOlivia Dade is a new to me author. Harlot's Bay for a town name does raise questions. Sounds like it might have been a stopover point for pirates or other seamen.
ReplyDeleteIn most cases, I like to have the emotions involved when I read a story. That can make for a difficult read, but makes for a book you will remember. Thank you for the review and the recommendation.
Thank you for introducing me to a new author. I have been dealing with depression recently. i can testify that it is a really terrible situation. I am working on overcoming and reading is one of the ways that helps me work my way through. Harlot's Bay is an unusual name, that is for sure. Thanks for the review.
ReplyDeleteI’ve loved all of Olivia Dade’s books, including her self published books! Harlot’s Bay sounds amazing and I’m really looking forward to reading this one
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