A review by riverdogbookco
At First Spite by Olivia Dade

dark emotional hopeful inspiring medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

AT FIRST SPITE is an unflinching portrayal of someone who took on adult responsibilities way too young as a child getting together with someone who sinks into a dark depression, and yet that romance is a sweet slow-build that’s as satisfying as a mouthful of your favorite kind of potato. This is the perfect read for anyone who doesn’t understand what depression can feel like, and also the perfect read for anyone who battles with depression and needs an example, maybe even a roadmap, for finding ways to overcome it. It also provides a peek into the harsh realities of the struggle it can be to put yourself first when you’ve grown accustomed to a lifetime of being second or third behind everything else. The fact that it comes with a happily ever after ending where the curvaceous and insatiably curious heroine is loved and supported by her family, friends, and her community while introducing her lover to the joys of monster sex romance novels and prioritizing their needs provides the perfect amount of hope that the dark days won’t win for anyone suffering through them.