Rivals to Lovers

By: Elise Wayland

Narrated by: Patti Murin, Grayson Owens

Perfect for fans of Emily Henry and Ali Hazelwood, this steamy rivals-to-lovers romance set in Manhattan features two writers fighting to write the adaptation of their favorite classic novel.

Mo Denton has been obsessed with the classic feminist novel "The Proud and the Lost" for as long as she can remember. Mo put everything she had into writing a new adaptation of her all-time favorite book. Her agent Yuri loves it, but there's a catch. The author's estate has to approve any adaptation.

The agent who represents the estate, Wes Spencer, also wrote an adaptation and has been sitting on it. Promoting Mo's project would go against Wes's own interests, and he's reluctant to bring it to Estelle Morgan, the estate owner and elderly daughter of the original novelist. But when Yuri contacts Estelle herself, Wes has to get serious about ensuring that Mo's book doesn't get a chance to see the market.

Estelle invites Mo and Wes to her home for a weekend where they will pitch each book to her to let her decide. Estelle's children, Talia and Flor, are also part of the judging process, and it's clear who they favor: Wes, whose famous mother and relatable (to them) lifestyle makes him an easy choice.

Mo and Wes realize that they have more in common than just their love of the original book. As they grow closer back in New York City, and wait for the estate's decision, will the secrets Wes is keeping ruin the bond between them, or can they find their way to a happy ending?

©2025 Elise Wayland (P)2025 Spotify Audiobooks

A couple to root for

I absolutely love any book set in the literary world, and Moe and Wes were both charming, smart, and funny. I found myself wanting the best outcome for both of them. I wanted to find out whose book was chosen just as much as I wanted to see their relationship unfold. So well written and would definitely read more from this author!

Loved the banter and the tension.

I loved this book! I know these characters. I loved being in their heads as the story unfolded. Their playful banter that ignited the sparks was so much fun. I can’t wait for more from this author!