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At First #2

Confused AF

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After years of having his applications rejected, Otto Stillwater finally lands a premium booth at the biggest magical conference in the beauty world. Now, with enchanted palettes, custom glosses, and designer hairpins, he’s eager to leave his mark on the industry—both literally and figuratively.

He just needs someone to carry the heavy stuff and keep him caffeinated.

MNSTR promised an assistant. Instead, he got a demon in a tailored suit. Vaden Ashmore is dry, rude, and possibly allergic to fun—but also surprisingly efficient. And dangerously sexy.

What should have been easy becomes anything but when Otto’s reputation is put on the line. With scandal brewing, accusations swirling, and a demon who keeps getting way too close, things get real confusing, real fast.

Especially after that kiss…

126 pages, Paperback

First published July 10, 2025

51 people are currently reading
13 people want to read

About the author

Arden Steele

42 books88 followers

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5 stars
83 (43%)
4 stars
69 (36%)
3 stars
34 (17%)
2 stars
5 (2%)
1 star
0 (0%)
Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews
Profile Image for Sandali ♥️.
104 reviews5 followers
August 14, 2025
Rating - 3 stars
Overall it was just meh. The story had no substantial depth even for a novella. I didn't quite feel the chemistry between those two and there was nothing interesting. But hey at least I managed to finish it
1,138 reviews38 followers
July 11, 2025
This is a paranormal romance, featuring Otto and Vaden, and is book two in the At First series.

Otto finally gets a chance to show off his magical makeup at a big convention, but things get complicated fast. His new assistant, Vaden, is serious, charming, and way too tempting—especially when a scandal breaks out and a kiss changes everything.

I’ve really enjoyed this series so far, if you have never read paranormal, this series would be a great step into the genre, it’s very light on the paranormal.

Things to expect in this book are:
Book 2 in series
Paranormal Novella
MM romance
Low angst
Human x Demon
Makeup artist x Assistant
Size difference
Vegas expo
Little bit of drama
Caretaker MC
Fated mates
Bit of spice
Sweet HEA
Profile Image for Lee Hall.
1,202 reviews7 followers
July 30, 2025
Vaden and Otto

Otto has an invite to the premier makeup expo in Las Vegas and is freaking out! He needs help to get set up and for appointments. Vaden is contacted by a friend and takes the job. When a blast from the past shows up and taints his cosmetics, he has to prove his innocence.
A great story I highly recommend
Profile Image for llv.
2,303 reviews13 followers
July 20, 2025
Rating: 3 stars

I just couldn't get into the story. It all seemed a bit boring. Not sure why but overall the book was just okay.
Profile Image for Lois.
1,054 reviews3 followers
July 21, 2025
Short, sweet and very fluffy. I loved Otto and Vaden. They are complete opposites, but mesh together so well. A perfect palette cleanser after something heavy. This was 90 mins of pure sunshine.
Profile Image for Suzanne.
444 reviews
August 18, 2025
Otto and Vaden

Otto gets help from MNSTR for a magical makeup convention. things are great until a betrayer from the past tries to hurt him and his business - again.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews

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