If you’re a mood reader like me, you know the struggle of being in a book slump. Sometimes, all it takes is the right story to pull you out and give you that heartwarming joy again. Enter At First Spite by Olivia Dade, a rom-com that wraps you up in the literary equivalent of a cozy blanket fort — warm, inviting, and filled with giggles that could wake the neighbours!
Plot & Characters:
I went in blind, and I couldn’t have been more pleasantly surprised. Athena’s character development? So good, I half-expected her to leap off the page and thank me for believing in her! And then there’s Matthew… sweet, infuriating Matthew. He’s like a cupcake with a hidden vegetable — you think he’s predictable, but BAM! There’s unexpected depth that leaves you both swooning and rolling your eyes.
Humour & Dialogue:
The dialogue is witty, hilarious, and had me laughing out loud so much that it could count as an ab workout. Athena and Matthew’s banter? Gold medal-worthy! Olivia Dade navigates the line between humour and heart effortlessly, making At First Spite an absolute gem in the rom-com genre.
Relatable Adult Characters:
The best part? This novel features relatable adult characters dealing with real-life problems. No high school drama, no billionaire escapades — just people in their 30s with bills to pay, responsibilities to manage, and real-world struggles. It’s refreshing to read a romance where the characters feel real, grounded, and still manage to charm the socks off you.
Final Thoughts:
In summary, At First Spite by Olivia Dade is a delightful slice of cake that reminds us life can be sweet — especially when served with a side of laughter. If you’re in a slump or just need a joyful pick-me-up, this is the book for you. Grab your copy, snuggle into your favourite reading spot, and prepare for a charming, hilarious read that will leave you grinning like a fool.
