The Witch's Rite: A Cozy Witch Romance

by Emberly Wyndham

He’s her knight, and she’s his queen.

Aurora Silvermoon is head-over-heels for Alden Stonewood, the village carpenter, but she can’t stop herself from getting flushed when she bumps into Rowan Highcliff, Faunwood’s new knight. With hair of red and eyes of green, he’d stop any woman in her tracks. And lucky for Aurora, when she gets selected as the May Queen of the Beltane festival, a certain red-haired knight gets picked as her Horned God.

All it took was one chance meeting with a witch in a mercantile, and Rowan is already falling hard. While chasing her around the Beltane bonfire in a ritualistic celebration of summer, something ignites inside him, and he knows he wants her for his own. Until she reveals that she’s already got a lover.

But she claims she wants them both, if only he’s willing. Rowan isn’t sure about it at first—he’s never been with a woman who already has a man—but if that’s what it takes to hold on to his witch, then so be it.

What neither of them knows is that the fertility goddess has a few tricks up her sleeve, and she’s about to make this topsy-turvy dynamic a lot more complicated.

MFMSurprise PregnancyCozy Romance w/ SpiceCottagecore SettingSummertime VibesBeltane CelebrationThe Great RiteGardening and Baking
Add Studio Ghibli, Stardew Valley, and a delicious dash of spice into a cauldron, and you’ve got Season of the Witch, a cozy witch romance series for readers who want all the cottagecore witchy vibes with low stakes and low stress. Each book guarantees a short, spicy romance with an HEA and a new love interest added with every novella (why choose?). Content suitable for readers 18+.

Genres: Witches, Cozy Fantasy, Romance

198 pages, Paperback

Published December 20, 2024

About the author

Hi, I’m Emberly! I write spicy romance and love getting lost in my own fictional worlds.

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Reviews

[AnaConda · Rating 3 out of 5]

dnf at 60%

But I can’t help myself; it’s impossible not to love her.

💕 Reverse Harem (MFM) (new member added with every book)
💕 Witch x Carpenter x Knight
✨ Insta Love
✨ Love Triangle to Why Choose
✨ Cozy, Witchy, Cottagecore vibes
✨ Good Worldbuilding
❗️FMC cheats on MMC and becomes pregnant with the other man‘s child

Rowan and Aurora were very insta love compared to her with Alden in the previous book, which almost makes it feel like they were destined to be together and Alden is there too.

To continue with that train of thought, Aurora cheats on Alden in this… With the entire town watching she runs off into the forest and fucks Rowan. It really threw me off.
The entire point of Why Choose is being with multiple partners consensually, or otherwise its just cheating. Alden is kinda fine with it afterwards... So I suppose this is the first time I am experiencing a doormat MMC.

Anyway, it doesn’t feel like either Alden nor Rowan actually want this and just agree because they feel like they have no choice, which I don’t really like in RH books. Feels almost like blackmail.

“At first, I didn’t like the idea one bit.” He drags his hands down his face, then leans forward to prop his arms on the table again. “But I like the idea of losing Aurora even less.”

Then, Alden‘s love is then undermined again when Aurora realises she is pregnant with Rowan‘s child. Sorry, but I would crash out and leave SO fast. Alden can‘t catch a damn break man.

I‘m almost intruiged enough about how much Alden is gonna suffer in this series to keep reading, but it‘s a bit too slow for that for my taste, I admit.

And after that there frankly wasn‘t enough to keep me interested. Not a bad book, the writing is good and the world feels very lived in and realistic. Just not a fan of some choices made, and I need some angst or external plot.

[reyyreads]

After reading the first one I was so thankful to receive this copy from BookSirens…

However the insta-love of Aurora and Rowan seemed to take away from the romance in the first book.

When I read the first I didn’t know it’d be why choose (and although this isn’t my first series of that trope) I felt this story would’ve been better without it.

Don’t get me wrong I LOVED the cozy vibes. The author does a great job at describing the FMC and the setting. I’m not a visual person but I can imagine it so well.

Thank you BookSirens and Emberly for the ARC!

[ems_booknook · Rating 4 out of 5]

So I’ll be the first to admit how insane I’m going to sound because after reading the first book, I felt the spice wasn’t needed.

Fast forwarding to book 2, and somehow adding an extra person made it even better 🤣 maybe it was because I was expecting it? Who knows.

Regardless I absolutely DEVOURED this one! I read this one in a single sitting and I absolutely cannot wait to dive into the next book!! It’s going to be amazing and I can’t wait to meet the next MMC and see how their new changed dynamic will work.

This series just itches that spot on my brain that needs everything Witchy and cozy and cottagecore, and I need more.

Thanks to booksirens and the author for the opportunity to read this book!! Will definitely be continuing this series until the end.

[MaryGrace · Rating 4 out of 5]

PROS:

- Cozy witch romance

- Sweet and heartfelt but with sprinkles of spice

- Good internal conflict about relationship dynamics

- Pacing

CONS:

- Too short! Ha, but seriously, I needed a little longer.

RATING:

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4 stars - I really liked it! I'll probably remember stuff from it in the near future.

SPICE:

🌶🌶🌶: Romance with explicit sex scenes, but generally milder language: Romance with explicit sex scenes, but generally milder language

Did you think about the book when not reading it?

Yes

How severe was the angst?

When it happened, I was mildly uncomfortable but able to stomach it.

Would read again?

Yes

If a series, would you continue?

Yes

Basic Takeaway:

This is the second book in the series following Aurora as she settles into her new life in Faunwood. It expands more into the workings of her earth witch tendencies and being comfortable with herself. We continue with her progress with Alden and how she has domesticated him (haha) but it is all still very organic and cozy.

*SPOILERS*

I enjoyed reading about the polyamory dynamics and entering into a relationship like that, and all the things one has to consider at the beginning. It is not all just fun and games. The foreshadowing done at the Beltane festival is not too heavy handed but enough for you to be on the lookout for a surprise later in the story. I noted in multiple sections about the impending knowledge of a pregnancy but was sad for the party that was not the father. However, that issue was also addressed well and made me feel better.

All in all, a great addition to this series and I will definitely be following to see what happens to our little group next.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Livia Bartels · Rating 1 out of 5]

Overall: Green-haired witch who is dating a carpenter now also wants to date the local town knight…

Pros: the carpenter character is solid.

Cons: it’s never good to start a relationship with cheating. Wow. These people. Makes me really dislike the main girl character Aurora.

[Yugie Caroline · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had read and enjoyed the first book prior to this one, and I was eagerly awaiting this next installment in the series. Especially after the interesting end to the first book, I was beyond curious as to how the plot would play out this time. And my, was I so thoroughly enraptured by the events that took place in this second book!

In here we see the love story continue between our MCs, Aurora and Alden. They are now so madly taken with one another, each finding their home, solace, and happiness in each other. But then comes along a third party, Rowan, whom Aurora is inexplicably drawn to despite already having Alden in her life. Instead of being offended by the notion of a throuple - which is what Aurora, Alden, and Rowan are rapidly becoming - I actually became quite accepting of the idea that when we love, it really shouldn't have to be confined to just one person. Yes, we can choose to remain loyal to one person if that is what we prefer, but if there are those who feel that loving still another person does not diminish their devotion to their first partner, then why should we keep that person from enjoying a three-way relationship?

That is precisely the focus of the author in this story: how one woman discovers that she can love two men in equal measure, because love is not a finite feeling such that giving it to one person means there is less of it that she can give to another. It is likewise the story of how two men realize that a woman is not someone they can claim to possess and therefore deny to another, but instead she is someone who can fill the missing piece in both their souls at the same time.

Finally, what I love about this story is how the intimate physical scenes truly were depicted in a way that was beautiful and meaningful. The physical union was described in such a way that it was also a complete giving of oneself to another, of truly allowing them into your heart and soul. So by the end of the book, you could not help but understand why Aurora felt a sense of rightness and fulfillment in her relationship with Alden and Rowan.

I now yet again look forward to the third book that is still to come, because I know Aurora's love story doesn't stop here. Even now, I know I will keep rooting for her and the men that are meant to fill her with overflowing love and happiness!

I received an ARC of this book from the author through BookSirens, and I am leaving this honest review voluntarily.

[Jozie | Cozy Romantasy Reader · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Witch's Rite is book two in Emberly Wyndham's Season of the Witch series. If you haven't read book one, The Witch's Cottage, here is your sign to do so.

Aurora is the cute green haired earth witch who fixed up her Auntie's old cottage and broke through the grumpy town carpenter's walls. She cares deeply for Alden, so why is she getting these confusing feelings towards the new knight, Rowan? During the beltane festival, the tension between her and Rowan is unbearable, and it gets spicy!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

This was such a refreshing read with the beltane, summertime vibes, and themes of fertility, love, and growth in both the characters and nature.

During the summer, Aurora, being an earth witch, truly shines. She spends a lot of her time in her garden with her bare feet in the earth. She uses her knowledge to help out a fellow villager in his pumpkin patch. She was the perfect decision for the May Queen. I easily visualized her running through the forest in her bare feet with her green hair flowing. She has such a playful and caring energy, I absolutely adore her.

Alden's growth is very noticeable in this novella. I felt terrible for him when Aurora began feeling more for Rowan, especially knowing what he had been through. His reaction to the situation was unexpected, even for him.

Rowan is a great piece of their puzzle. I thought it was funny how he knew he looked ridiculous in a full set of knight armor backing away from the hen trying to peck at him. Aurora being gifted the hen from Rowan gave me major Stardew Valley vibes. It was adorable how he bonded with the hen, Lucy, and she began sleeping on him in the middle of the night.

The only thing I was missing was more Harrison!

I highly recommend this novella if you enjoy a spicy, why choose romance with cottage core and green witch vibes.

accidental pregnancy • cottage core • cozy fantasy • cozy romance • multiple pov • novella • paranormal romance • reverse harem • romantasy • small town • spicy • why choose • witches

[Adrienne · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Sometimes unexpected gifts are the most precious.”

I loved this as much as the first book in this series (The Witch’s Cottage). The Witch’s Rite has all of the cozy feels even though most of it is set during the summertime, it still manages to be cozy. If I made a playlist for this book it would definitely contain a couple of Hozier songs. Every sentence and paragraph is magical and puts me there at the cottage of Brookside or in the middle of the country village of Faunwood.

From celebrating witchy holidays to adventures in a pumpkin patch or strolls through the forest, this is beautifully written and contains interesting, lovable characters from the FMC and both MMCs to the side characters of villagers and family members that we meet.

The storyline progresses nicely from where the first book left off and we get some good character development as well as new information and world building to this magical setting. A lovely green haired witch, gruff but considerate carpenter, and sweet king’s knight, aloof but loyal white cat familiar, and rescued hen Lucy, all make this a sweet and relaxing read. I’m so excited about the unexpected but anticipated surprise in this book as well as meeting a new character in the next book, looking forward to more cozy goodness. So many cups of tea and slices of sourdough, and loving every moment of it.

[Samantha · Rating 5 out of 5]

Much like the first book, I adored "The Witch's Rite." I already loved Aurora and Alden as characters and loved the addition of Rowan. This book builds will on the first and is a little thicker due to the addition of a third POV. Still, I had it read in a matter of hours.

Spoilers:

Typically, I do not like any cheating in any form in my romance. So, Rowan and Aurora's time in the woods on Beltane did bother me slightly. However, as it is a Why Choose novel, I did expect some hiccups along the way. The author did also give us the mitigating factors of the Rite and that the ceremony took hold of their passions. Mostly, I appreciated that Aurora did acknowledge what she did and admitted it to Alden. Alden is just so sweet, loving and accepting.

I have seen other reviews complain about the insta-love between Aurora and Rowan, but I disagree. The author did set up Rowan slightly in the first book, as well as the pull Aurora felt for him.

I loved the moments of understanding/ early friendship between Alden and Rowan. I would have liked more of that. I hope that in future books we see more of them growing into good friends or even lovers. I can't wait to see how the story blooms in the next two books

[Sil G · Rating 1 out of 5]

This is not polyamory. I'm honestly incredibly frustrated and upset with the author. The "polyamorous" relationship starts off with Aurora cheating on Alden.

As a person who is actually polyamorous this is honestly insulting.

It's good that she fesses up immediately, but it's still gross and not the start of a healthy relationship. Both men are reluctant to do this, but willing to overlook it to keep her in their lives. It gets worse when Aurora gets pregnant from that time she cheated on her established partner. Looking at the blurbs from the next too books, it doesn't get better. This isn't polyamory, she's collecting a harem.

Aside from the non-ethical non-monogamy, there are other frustrating things about the book:

Aurora is a witch, but we rarely ever see her do anything with that. Two books into the series and I have no idea how the magic system works. I can't even recall seeing Aurora use magic.

The book moves at a very fast pace and we never get to relish in anything. There's no longing looks, or hesitancy. Aurora gets everything she wants almost immediately and seemingly with no effort on her part.

[Rach · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is book 2 in a series of 4 and I was really excited to continue following Auroras journey.

The books are a super cozy why choose and in book 2 we get to follow Auroras relationships with both Alden and Rowan. Honourable mention also to the ever present Harrison the cat!

I really loved how the story continues to follow the cozy and alluring cottage life and witchy vibes and the celebration of the Beltane festival was magical.

Whilst book 2 does include one of my not so favourite tropes ( I won’t mention for spoilers), the way it is introduced and handled in the relationship is gentle and lovely.

I love how the dynamic between Aurora, Alden and Rowan grows throughout the book and am still super excited to see what gets added to the mix in book 3.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

As described by the author, the story definitely had stardew valley/ howls moving castle vibes and I would recommend to anyone looking for some moderately spicy but super cozy romance.

[Marjury Alicia Polanco · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an amazing second part of "The Witch's Cottage". I like so much how everything is described in detailed so it is easy for me to imagine every single scene, even the explicit ones. The fact that every single character is more mature, makes this adventure more interesting because the reactions between Aurora and Alden have turned quite different from those I could expect, probably because I'm basing myself on previous life experiences, though this makes it way more interesting because it helps to develop deeper the story.

The same as it happened to me with the first book, I couldn't stop until I finished it. It keeps me way too involved with the story that I just want to finish it.

Nevertheless, I would like to point out that this book as well as the first one are definitely not for teenagers, even though this fantasy story may seem as one. Other than that, I'm okay with this saga and I am eager to keep on reading it, and I'm excited to take over part three🙃.✨

Please note: I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Angela · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book 2 picks up not too long after Book 1 - Aurora and Alden are settling into each other lives and things couldn't be better but Aurora still finds herself getting flushed whenever she runs into Rowan, the new Knight. When Aurora is chosen as the May Queen for the Beltane Festival and Rowan as her Horned God, things get a lot more interesting. Aurora knows she wants to be with Alden but she can't deny her feelings for Rowan either.

The Witch's Rite is cozy, slice of life, cottagecore, witchy story. This is the perfect book to read when you just want something low angst with a feel good kind of story. It concentrates on Aurora's relationship with Alden and her growing feelings for Rowan. Both men feel like they would do anything to keep Aurora in their lives and it was sweet to watch them work on making that happen.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Ashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thought the first book was amazing and couldn't get any better, but i was proven wrong when i read this one. The tropes, plus the spice and two men, what more could you want. I can't say i'm a fan of pregnancy in a book, but honestly i enjoyed it in this one because it didn't feel like it was too much. This time we got a new POV, instead of just Aurora and Alden's. We finally get to know more about Rowan the red haired knight. Not only do we get to know more about him, but Aurora and Alden get to know him a little more personally. I'm also happy that Aurora's familiar Harrison gets a new friend as well, he deserves a companion for being a good kitty. I seriously can't wait to see who else Aurora will charm in the next books, i also hope we will get to meet her sister because she seems like a great person

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Trisha Zandler · Rating 3 out of 5]

I loved the first book. Absolutely adored it.

For some reason, I thought each book would be a different witch with a different boyfriend. Alas, that is not the case. I decided to finish to book, because I have never read a "Why Choose" book before. Unfortunately, it is not for me. I read the blurbs for the next 2 books, and I won't be continuing with this series.

I will say, the writing is good, it does feel cozy, and I can picture the setting so vividly. I did love many parts of this story. It's also spicy in a very good way.

I just couldn't get past the fact that she was in love with more than one person. It just felt weird. And the dudes didn't really seem to like each other, so that made it even weirder.

So, if you love:
-Why Choose
-Cozy Witchy Romance
-Unexpected Pregnancy
-Beltane
-Short & Low Stakes

Then this is for you!

Thank you to Book Sirens for letting me read an advanced copy for free. This review is my personal opinion and freely given.

[Annarella · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Witch's Rite is a well-written story with a great mix of romance and fantasy. It keeps the reader entertained and involved from start to finish.
The plot is strong and well-paced, making it easy to follow while still keeping the excitement alive. The romance feels natural and blends smoothly with the magical world. The characters are interesting and have depth, making their journeys feel real and engaging.
The world-building is one of the best parts. The author describes the setting in a way that makes it feel alive. The magic, traditions, and places all come together beautifully, making the reader feel like they are right there in the story. never drags and it's always enjoyable
The Witch’s Rite is fun to read, entertaining, and keeps you hooked until the very end.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine

[Katie · Rating 5 out of 5]

After reading the first book I suspected the series would go into a multiple lovers kind of direction and the author nailed it with the execution! An earth witch her small town carpenter and her handsome knight. It’s such a lovely romance with a low fantasy village setting. I enjoyed that there was some conflict between the characters as well as difficult situations for them to work around. The end kept me wanting more and more. I can’t wait to read the next part and see how these relationships grow and change!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Margery · Rating 5 out of 5]

Aurora is living happily with a carpenter named Alden. It is beltrain and this morning she offers the fairies a gift of food. They addend the fire at the may pole and she is chosen may queen. A knight that she and Alden met in town a few days ago is chosen as Horned God. She is warned that the spirit of Brigid is known to pull tricks. The fact that for some reason, Aurora is attracted to Rowan is tearing her heart, for she loves Alden. If she consummates the beltrain dance, she will be wed to Rowan. The home for her heart is with Alden. Does the power of Brigid make the magic stronger? Who will Aurora choose to be with, or does she choose?

[L KQ · Rating 4 out of 5]

New Addition

The Beltane celebration is upon Faunwood where the horned god and May Queen consummate their union. Aurora and the knight Rowan are drawn to each other during the bonfire and with her heart still set on Alden as well, things get a bit uncomfortable. This second part of the series focuses on making a three-person relationship work. I don't usually enjoy when a why choose situation happens after an established couple has been together for a while. While I am still unsure how I feel overall about the way it was added, I do look forward to the next installment which could change that.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Jessica Forbes · Rating 5 out of 5]

I admit, I was initially a little reluctant to continue the series when I found out it was a reverse harem, as I found Aurora and Alden to be such a sweet couple that I wasn't sure I would like another addition. However, as I read through, I ended up liking Rowan as a character right away, and I enjoyed that, while they did manage to work things out *very* well, there were some realistic bumps along the road. It felt both realistic and wonderful to see how the three of them worked out in the end, and now I'm quite curious to continue on in the series.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Jenn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed reading The Witch's Rite. As with the first book in the series, this one leaves you feeling good. The relationship dynamic is a bit different in this one since Rite moves us into reverse harem/ why choose territory, but it keeps all the best aspects of the first book. I look forward to reading more of Aurora, Alden, Rowan, and future additions in the series. If you enjoy cozy reverse harem witchy romances, definitely check this one out. For the best experience, be sure to start at the beginning of the series.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Ninia Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really like this cozy series, great for a sunny afternoon. I read the first one a little while ago and waited for a bit to read this one, because I wanted to savor the story.

I already "knew" what was coming from the little teaser in the last book. But it was a fun way to see how Rowan would be added to the relationship.

Alden, my sweet angel, if we all could be as tolerant as you, this world would be a lot kinder.

I really liked the insight in some of the more witchy parts of the story, the celebration of Beltane and the ritual. I love that we are following the characters through some of the wheel of the year.

I'm looking forward to what will come next.

[Amanda Galarowic · Rating 5 out of 5]

OMG! If you want a book to get you out of your reading slump this is it. When the first book ended I knew aurora would have a go at Rowen but I WAS NOT EXPECTING THIS!!!!!! There was a bit more witchy business in this book compared to the first one but spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️AMAZING! The plot twist was one I was kind of expecting but still a shock at how it has all turned out so far. I cannot wait to read the third book. This will be a book I am thinking about for weeks to come. I was fortunate enough to receive an advanced reader copy of this book and am happy to leave my honest review.

[SassypantsReading · Rating 3 out of 5]

I’m not quite sure how I feel about The Witch’s Rite. I love the coziness of the book. And I was surprisingly I treated in the dynamic of introducing another person into a relationship, but I didn’t feel like Rowan really fit with Aurora and Alden. I felt bad for Alden. I also thought Aurora seemed a bit manipulative, using her body to ease the way for the poly relationship to happen. I am interested in continuing this series to see how it plays out.

I received a copy of The Witch’s Rite from BookSirens. I am leaving my review voluntarily.

[Aimée Sirois · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC Review:

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶

I thought Aurora and Alden were adorable, but then we added Rowan. I enjoy how the MMCs are added into the book so far, slowly which lets them build their relationship. The plot twist was twisty but also funny. The first book as well as this one have a lot of humour as well as the romantic and cozy feelings, as usual Harrison was adorable! This is just such a cute read and I adore this series so far!

Thank you BookSiren & Emberly Wyndham for letting me read this book/series, I adore it!

[Kristen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Love book 2 of this cozy series! Loved how Emberly incorporated Rowan into this romance and even though RH isn't always my thing, this one is perfect so far! Can't wait to see how Aurora, Alden, and Rowan's story progresses given the twist and with her sister coming to town! This series is perfect for a cozy night in with some hot chocolate and a fuzzy blanket. Can't wait to read book 3!!

Thank you Emberly and Booksirens for the ARC!!

[Leanne Prangnell · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed reading this story. I read the first one a while ago but it all came back to me quite quickly.

The writing style is ‘light’ which means it’s an easy read and a warm, enjoyable story.

I also enjoyed the further development of the characters we’d met in the previous book. It provided a good insight into their individual stories as it is written in first person but from three characters perspectives.

I look forward to the next one.

[Karen Sorg · Rating 5 out of 5]

Aurora is such a happy Earth Witch and she has the love of Alden and then Rowan. She cannot choose so she has both. Alden is a carpenter by trade while Rowan is the King's guard. They could not be anymore different, but to Aurora they are perfect. Aurora also has Harrison her cat, who also talks to her. Rowan has brought Lucy, a chicken into the mix. This is what it is meant by family. Cute story.

[Berta Greenleaf Richardson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book in the series. It was awesome. Aurora already has a wonderful man, Alden, in her life but she finds another soul mate during Beltane. The men agree to share but don't count on an unexpected surprise coming their way. Aurora finds she can not give either up so they decide to become a family. I highly recommend this book to all paranormal romance readers.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Andi Downs · Rating 5 out of 5]

While I am not a fan of having to wait for books in a series, this was great in that it was available at the same time as I found book one. So, it is a continuation of the relationship with Aurora and Alden. In this book, a third is added into the mix. :D Rowan is a knight and he is interested in Aurora.
I look forward to adding the next two books to my collection. :D
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.