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Witches of Starbrook #3
Tarot, Tea & Trickery
The youngest Hawthorne just met the woman of her dreams—too bad she’s a demon sent to steal her magic.
Six months after the latest attack on the Moonlit Tavern, Laurel Hawthorne is left in charge. With the weight of the family business on her shoulders and the looming threat of another attack, she's never been more alone. That ends when a dangerous stranger steps in to break up a bar fight, and Laurel has found her hero.
Or so she thinks.
But Nerissa is no hero. She's bound by a soul contract, and her only hope for freedom is to steal the Hawthorne witches’ most powerful weapon: their magic.
What starts as a deception ignites into irresistible forbidden desire. But if Laurel chooses love, she risks her family’s safety. And if Nerissa chooses her heart, she’ll lose her freedom forever.
A cozy sapphic paranormal romance full of magic, tea, forbidden love, and deadly bargains—perfect for fans of Charmed, Practical Magic, and Gilmore Girls.
Six months after the latest attack on the Moonlit Tavern, Laurel Hawthorne is left in charge. With the weight of the family business on her shoulders and the looming threat of another attack, she's never been more alone. That ends when a dangerous stranger steps in to break up a bar fight, and Laurel has found her hero.
Or so she thinks.
But Nerissa is no hero. She's bound by a soul contract, and her only hope for freedom is to steal the Hawthorne witches’ most powerful weapon: their magic.
What starts as a deception ignites into irresistible forbidden desire. But if Laurel chooses love, she risks her family’s safety. And if Nerissa chooses her heart, she’ll lose her freedom forever.
A cozy sapphic paranormal romance full of magic, tea, forbidden love, and deadly bargains—perfect for fans of Charmed, Practical Magic, and Gilmore Girls.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
March 27, 2026
So far this is the best book in the series.
To be honest I expected as much; Laurel stole the show even as a secondary character every time she appeared in the first two books. She showed hints of an avoidant personality that here we get to see in full: she’s the type to run away from problems and deal with them by trying to forget them. She’s used to hooking up with people, never getting too close to avoid getting hurt. The fact that Nerissa is lying to Laurel from the start makes the relationship a strange one: Laurel is the type to burn through a relationship quickly, but Nerissa proves to be a worthy adversary. She knows that what she’s doing is wrong, but she’s actually starting to care for Laurel, so that they establish a push-and-pull relationship that neither of them can or want to quit. This makes for great angst and, combined with a butch/femme sapphic relationship, the perfect recipe for a somewhat cosy low stakes fantasy. This third instalment is a little plot heavier since we get a conclusion to the mystery behind the death of the Hawthorn sisters’ mother, but it’s still focused on the romance between Nerissa and Laurel, which is, as I said, full of angst, it’s steamy, it’s sweet, and we get to see Laurel grow both as a person, learning to fight for the people she cares about despite the hurt, and as a witch, although the final scene () was a little underwhelming.
As for the writing, I noticed in the first two books in the series that there’s a bit of clumsiness probably due to the genre, which calls for simplicity and succinctness while giving enough information to settle the readers into the fantasy world and make them care about the characters. In that department Tarot, Tea & Trickery manages to stand out compared to the previous books, thanks to a character that was a favourite from the very start of the series, a familiar supporting cast and world and an evident improvement in shaping characters, like Nerissa’s: one cannot help but love her from the start because she’s immediately shown to be a complex character with opposing driving forces to guide her: she wants to be free of the contract that binds her to Thirnoth, but to achieve that she will surely hurt the one person that no one wants to see getting hurt, Laurel. And I find it extremely clever how the author made it so that the miscommunication trope was avoided by a hair’s breadth: Nerissa is phisically unable to communicate, Laurel’s entire personality makes it difficult for her to be communicative, and yet, there’s no miscommunication. There’s simply a lack of trust, Laurel and Nerissa don’t actually know each other that well, but they learn to be open throughout the story.
As much as I loved their relationship, I have a few issues with the pacing of the last 20% of the book: I wish a little more time was spent clearing things out between Laurel and Nerissa that didn’t involve sex, considering we got plenty of that during the book and they really needed a more mature closure.
Overall I devoured this book in a day and thoroughly enjoyed it, and I can’t wait to read Maple’s POV (and Rowan’s, eventually, pretty please?).
I received an eARC of the book from the author and this represents my honest opinion
To be honest I expected as much; Laurel stole the show even as a secondary character every time she appeared in the first two books. She showed hints of an avoidant personality that here we get to see in full: she’s the type to run away from problems and deal with them by trying to forget them. She’s used to hooking up with people, never getting too close to avoid getting hurt. The fact that Nerissa is lying to Laurel from the start makes the relationship a strange one: Laurel is the type to burn through a relationship quickly, but Nerissa proves to be a worthy adversary. She knows that what she’s doing is wrong, but she’s actually starting to care for Laurel, so that they establish a push-and-pull relationship that neither of them can or want to quit. This makes for great angst and, combined with a butch/femme sapphic relationship, the perfect recipe for a somewhat cosy low stakes fantasy. This third instalment is a little plot heavier since we get a conclusion to the mystery behind the death of the Hawthorn sisters’ mother, but it’s still focused on the romance between Nerissa and Laurel, which is, as I said, full of angst, it’s steamy, it’s sweet, and we get to see Laurel grow both as a person, learning to fight for the people she cares about despite the hurt, and as a witch, although the final scene () was a little underwhelming.
As for the writing, I noticed in the first two books in the series that there’s a bit of clumsiness probably due to the genre, which calls for simplicity and succinctness while giving enough information to settle the readers into the fantasy world and make them care about the characters. In that department Tarot, Tea & Trickery manages to stand out compared to the previous books, thanks to a character that was a favourite from the very start of the series, a familiar supporting cast and world and an evident improvement in shaping characters, like Nerissa’s: one cannot help but love her from the start because she’s immediately shown to be a complex character with opposing driving forces to guide her: she wants to be free of the contract that binds her to Thirnoth, but to achieve that she will surely hurt the one person that no one wants to see getting hurt, Laurel. And I find it extremely clever how the author made it so that the miscommunication trope was avoided by a hair’s breadth: Nerissa is phisically unable to communicate, Laurel’s entire personality makes it difficult for her to be communicative, and yet, there’s no miscommunication. There’s simply a lack of trust, Laurel and Nerissa don’t actually know each other that well, but they learn to be open throughout the story.
As much as I loved their relationship, I have a few issues with the pacing of the last 20% of the book: I wish a little more time was spent clearing things out between Laurel and Nerissa that didn’t involve sex, considering we got plenty of that during the book and they really needed a more mature closure.
Overall I devoured this book in a day and thoroughly enjoyed it, and I can’t wait to read Maple’s POV (and Rowan’s, eventually, pretty please?).
I received an eARC of the book from the author and this represents my honest opinion
May 12, 2026
LESBIAN DEMON X BISEXUAL WITCH???? TAKE MY MONEY. TAKE MY CHILDREN. TAKE MY 401(k) PLAN.
March 8, 2026
“𝔰𝔥𝔢’𝔰 𝔞 𝔪𝔦𝔯𝔯𝔬𝔯, 𝔯𝔢𝔣𝔩𝔢𝔠𝔱𝔦𝔫𝔤 𝔪𝔢 𝔦𝔫 𝔥𝔢𝔯 𝔡𝔞𝔯𝔨 𝔦𝔯𝔦𝔰𝔢𝔰, 𝔲𝔫𝔱𝔦𝔩 𝔞𝔩𝔩 ℑ 𝔠𝔞𝔫 𝔡𝔬 𝔦𝔰 𝔟𝔲𝔯𝔫 𝔴𝔦𝔱𝔥 𝔥𝔢𝔯.”
laurel’s book was the one i was most excited for after reading book one and it did not disappoint!
i absolutely adore her and nerissa and the unconventional love they found within each other. as a demon, nerissa is so accustomed to doing things a certain way, it was beautiful to see her learning new things while she was in the mortal realm. from book one we see laurel and how light her soul is, always willing to go after what she wants.
the family dynamic in this series will always feel like home to me, something i will come back to whenever i need the comfort and that is something that always makes me love a world more.
thank you so much to the author for the arc. i can’t wait for more from this world, that sneak peek at the end has me so excited for the next book!🤭
laurel’s book was the one i was most excited for after reading book one and it did not disappoint!
i absolutely adore her and nerissa and the unconventional love they found within each other. as a demon, nerissa is so accustomed to doing things a certain way, it was beautiful to see her learning new things while she was in the mortal realm. from book one we see laurel and how light her soul is, always willing to go after what she wants.
the family dynamic in this series will always feel like home to me, something i will come back to whenever i need the comfort and that is something that always makes me love a world more.
thank you so much to the author for the arc. i can’t wait for more from this world, that sneak peek at the end has me so excited for the next book!🤭
May 18, 2026
Nerissa will probably tear me into pieces, and I'll let her. Anything to feel my heart hammering in my chest.
And, honestly, mood. Who isn't left lusting after her?
I read this as a standalone sapphic read, which worked, but I feel like I lost a lot of context, especially at the start. It felt like these characters were supposed to be already familiar to me and it made it a little slow to warm up.
This is a book I can see people enjoying - there's a solid plot - but it's a little outside of my comfort zone.
👍
* Secrets. Lies. Intriguing plot.
* Demons ✨ *nods*.
* Nerissa is a somewhat flawed character that's really going through it. This is compelling.
* Warm cosy atmosphere.
* Variety in spicy scenes. And the spicy scenes are good.
* Err... Demon tongues. 👀
👎
* I tend to skew more towards reads where falling in love is more of a... process... filled with yearning and tension, so the quick romance didn't suit my personal preferences, although I'm sure it would work for someone with a bit more of a romantic spirit.
* I didn't find my engagement consistent, there were places where I drifted. I was locked in for the magic and fantasy elements, and less locked in for the romance and slice of small town life elements (again, my comfort zone)
* Laurel felt frustratingly naive at times and I couldn't really connect with her. (However, readers that like a sunshine character who wears their heart on their sleeve will not be disappointed)
Definitely a book for readers that like their romance quite overt and sentimental, but also appreciate a more morally complex journey to it. An enjoyable read.
June 24, 2026
the romance was sweet and the plot was interesting and fun! my only complaints would be that sometimes the writing was a bit hard to follow and there were some grammatical mistakes that sometimes took me out of a scene once i'd already been sucked in, but besides those i did enjoy this book
April 3, 2026
Alright, ARC for book three! This is actually how I found the series. I heard a bit about this book and was sold, but found out it was better read as a set and read the first two first. And honestly? Glad I did. I love the world, the characters, the coziness. There’s danger but it feels manageable and secondary to the romance. Let’s see how this one goes…
Okay, so here’s the deal with this book and this whole series for me. I loved them! I mentioned in my review of the first one that I read ahead and had to come back to do my thoughts. That happened again, only this time I read 2 then 3. And frankly, if there had been more I would have kept reading. The writing is cozy, the spicy scenes are just spicy enough, the characters are interesting and fun and so many are queer, which I absolutely love. This book was probably my favorite of the three, partly due to the higher stakes, and partly due to the buildup of characters over time. Great job to Elle Lavendelle, I look forward to reading more of your work.
Okay, so here’s the deal with this book and this whole series for me. I loved them! I mentioned in my review of the first one that I read ahead and had to come back to do my thoughts. That happened again, only this time I read 2 then 3. And frankly, if there had been more I would have kept reading. The writing is cozy, the spicy scenes are just spicy enough, the characters are interesting and fun and so many are queer, which I absolutely love. This book was probably my favorite of the three, partly due to the higher stakes, and partly due to the buildup of characters over time. Great job to Elle Lavendelle, I look forward to reading more of your work.
May 5, 2026
Just to get this out of the way, I did receive an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. I realize this review is on the late side for having an advanced copy available. I did read it basically the instant it became available to me, but then my brother died. As much as I love the Hawthorne sisters, I just didn’t have it in me to think about strong sibling relationships when I had so freshly become an only child.
With Laurel being so young and the baby of the family, I had figured hers would be the last story we got. But I was pleasantly surprised to see someone so unmoored and young find themselves and really come into their own the way Laurel does in this book.
I have mixed feelings on the enemies-to-lovers trope because I feel like it is constantly laden with toxic masculinity and both the hatred and the love can feel forced at times. Here, Nerissa and Laurel find themselves on the opposite sides of things entirely by circumstance and the greed of one legitimately evil father. The Hawthorne sisters are unknowingly protecting something Nerissa’s absolute dickslap (even for a demon) of a father desperately wants. Nerissa is tasked with getting this thing, which means ingratiating herself with one of the Hawthornes and betraying her to get it. Which isn’t exactly ideal behavior. But if that’s the cost of being able to buy herself freedom from an abusive father and literal Hell, I don’t blame Nerissa for her willingness to take on this mission.
What Nerissa never counted on was falling for the young green-haired woman or how far her father will go to get what he wants. Maybe demons aren’t inherently immoral after all.
Also, on the spicy side of things, I’m not a fan of “daddy” stuff in general. Unless, apparently, the daddy in question is a tall, strong, soft-to-moderate butch, sexy she-demon with magic sex toys.
With Laurel being so young and the baby of the family, I had figured hers would be the last story we got. But I was pleasantly surprised to see someone so unmoored and young find themselves and really come into their own the way Laurel does in this book.
I have mixed feelings on the enemies-to-lovers trope because I feel like it is constantly laden with toxic masculinity and both the hatred and the love can feel forced at times. Here, Nerissa and Laurel find themselves on the opposite sides of things entirely by circumstance and the greed of one legitimately evil father. The Hawthorne sisters are unknowingly protecting something Nerissa’s absolute dickslap (even for a demon) of a father desperately wants. Nerissa is tasked with getting this thing, which means ingratiating herself with one of the Hawthornes and betraying her to get it. Which isn’t exactly ideal behavior. But if that’s the cost of being able to buy herself freedom from an abusive father and literal Hell, I don’t blame Nerissa for her willingness to take on this mission.
What Nerissa never counted on was falling for the young green-haired woman or how far her father will go to get what he wants. Maybe demons aren’t inherently immoral after all.
Also, on the spicy side of things, I’m not a fan of “daddy” stuff in general. Unless, apparently, the daddy in question is a tall, strong, soft-to-moderate butch, sexy she-demon with magic sex toys.
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
4.5 ⭐️
Tarot, Tea and Trickery follows the youngest Hawthorne sibling, Laurel Hawthorne, and Nerissa who is bounded by a soul contract. Their paths crossing is no accident but only Nerissa is aware of that. The task is easy, get close to Laurel and find the object she’s been ordered to find. It should be easy, right? Except it isn’t and when Laurel beings to fall for Nerissa, and trust her, the job Nerissa is tasked to do becomes a whole lot more complicated.
Laurel is a party girl, someone who doesn’t have much responsibility in life (until her sister asks her to look after the family business for a week) and she’s seems to just take one day at a time without worrying about her future. She’s loyal to her best friend — Seth — who has her back just as much as she has his. She’s carefree, outgoing and fun. But she has her own problems, from missing her mum, to worrying about the attack that put all of the witches on edge. Meeting Nerissa seems to help her in ways she wasn’t prepared for.
Nerissa is a bold character, trying to get the job done to be able to achieve the one thing she’s always wanted — to be free of the underworld. She has the weight of the underworld on her shoulders and one wrong move could ruin it all for her. She’s tense but she truly does care for the people who matter to her. Betraying Laurel isn’t easy and when her feelings develop she wonders if never seeing her again is the best and right move for both of them.
This story was so fun! Between their growing and complicated relationship and the mystery of what Nerissa was searching for really was a page turner for me. I absolutely fell in love with Nerissa, and I, too, would be absolutely obsessed with her. The story has found family vibes; it’s also cosy and spicy. I particularly enjoyed how the story also shows the sibling dynamics and the dynamic between Seth and Laurel. There’s funny moments and tear jerker moments, and I honestly adored this story. I mean, I knew I would enjoy it, but I didn’t realise I’d enjoy it as much as I did.
It would be a perfect read around autumn but since it’s already out, you should read it now and reread it in autumn
Tarot, Tea and Trickery follows the youngest Hawthorne sibling, Laurel Hawthorne, and Nerissa who is bounded by a soul contract. Their paths crossing is no accident but only Nerissa is aware of that. The task is easy, get close to Laurel and find the object she’s been ordered to find. It should be easy, right? Except it isn’t and when Laurel beings to fall for Nerissa, and trust her, the job Nerissa is tasked to do becomes a whole lot more complicated.
Laurel is a party girl, someone who doesn’t have much responsibility in life (until her sister asks her to look after the family business for a week) and she’s seems to just take one day at a time without worrying about her future. She’s loyal to her best friend — Seth — who has her back just as much as she has his. She’s carefree, outgoing and fun. But she has her own problems, from missing her mum, to worrying about the attack that put all of the witches on edge. Meeting Nerissa seems to help her in ways she wasn’t prepared for.
Nerissa is a bold character, trying to get the job done to be able to achieve the one thing she’s always wanted — to be free of the underworld. She has the weight of the underworld on her shoulders and one wrong move could ruin it all for her. She’s tense but she truly does care for the people who matter to her. Betraying Laurel isn’t easy and when her feelings develop she wonders if never seeing her again is the best and right move for both of them.
This story was so fun! Between their growing and complicated relationship and the mystery of what Nerissa was searching for really was a page turner for me. I absolutely fell in love with Nerissa, and I, too, would be absolutely obsessed with her. The story has found family vibes; it’s also cosy and spicy. I particularly enjoyed how the story also shows the sibling dynamics and the dynamic between Seth and Laurel. There’s funny moments and tear jerker moments, and I honestly adored this story. I mean, I knew I would enjoy it, but I didn’t realise I’d enjoy it as much as I did.
It would be a perfect read around autumn but since it’s already out, you should read it now and reread it in autumn
March 29, 2026
3.5/4 stars ✨
Thank you so much to Elle Lavendelle for this ARC!!
Oh I love a sapphic demon!!! I had so much fun reading this story and really loved Laurel and Nerissa together. I really loved getting to see this side of Laurel as well, her journey of learning to be more confident in her abilities and in her self in general was really beautiful to read. Similarly, although we haven’t known Nerissa for as long, we also see her become more confident in standing up for herself, even when it is likely to have intensely negative consequences for her.
We also got so many moments of Rowan and Seth in this book that have me FOAMING at the mouth for their story. They are already so sweet together as friends so ai think they may kill me when they finally realize their feelings for one another! (and oh I can’t wait to see Laurel’s reaction to her best friend and sister getting together!)
I did feel that the ending of this book felt rushed with there seeming to be conversations needed to be had that just never happen. I still really enjoyed this book and am very excited to see what direction this series goes in next! (and I am so excited for Maple’s story)
Thank you so much to Elle Lavendelle for this ARC!!
Oh I love a sapphic demon!!! I had so much fun reading this story and really loved Laurel and Nerissa together. I really loved getting to see this side of Laurel as well, her journey of learning to be more confident in her abilities and in her self in general was really beautiful to read. Similarly, although we haven’t known Nerissa for as long, we also see her become more confident in standing up for herself, even when it is likely to have intensely negative consequences for her.
We also got so many moments of Rowan and Seth in this book that have me FOAMING at the mouth for their story. They are already so sweet together as friends so ai think they may kill me when they finally realize their feelings for one another! (and oh I can’t wait to see Laurel’s reaction to her best friend and sister getting together!)
I did feel that the ending of this book felt rushed with there seeming to be conversations needed to be had that just never happen. I still really enjoyed this book and am very excited to see what direction this series goes in next! (and I am so excited for Maple’s story)
June 19, 2026
Exactly what the witch doctor ordered 🔮💚
I’ve been falling in love with the witches of Starbrook and their mates over the course of this series, and Nerissa and Laurel were no exception ❤️
Lavendelle has created EXACTLY the vibe I’ve been searching for for so long. This series has everything that makes me long for cozy autumn nights, wrapped up in a blanket while reading witchy smut. I don’t read a ton of sapphic romance so this was a new to me type of couple to read and honestly I adored both Nerissa and Laurel. The tension and yearning were top notch, the push and pull of can they/can’t they was so wonderfully depicted. I felt Laurel on a spiritual level especially as she processed the hot and cold behavior of Nerissa and then worked through the betrayal to get a well deserved HEA 💚
Not only was this cozy, comfy and sweet, it was also the perfect amount of spicy to keep things balanced. Again, this is my first sapphic novel so I wasn’t 100% sure what to expect but holy hotness 🫣 Nerissa as a Demon Daddy is everything 🫠
All in all I’m fully invested in this town and this family and I cannot wait to read more from this super talented author ❤️❤️❤️
I’ve been falling in love with the witches of Starbrook and their mates over the course of this series, and Nerissa and Laurel were no exception ❤️
Lavendelle has created EXACTLY the vibe I’ve been searching for for so long. This series has everything that makes me long for cozy autumn nights, wrapped up in a blanket while reading witchy smut. I don’t read a ton of sapphic romance so this was a new to me type of couple to read and honestly I adored both Nerissa and Laurel. The tension and yearning were top notch, the push and pull of can they/can’t they was so wonderfully depicted. I felt Laurel on a spiritual level especially as she processed the hot and cold behavior of Nerissa and then worked through the betrayal to get a well deserved HEA 💚
Not only was this cozy, comfy and sweet, it was also the perfect amount of spicy to keep things balanced. Again, this is my first sapphic novel so I wasn’t 100% sure what to expect but holy hotness 🫣 Nerissa as a Demon Daddy is everything 🫠
All in all I’m fully invested in this town and this family and I cannot wait to read more from this super talented author ❤️❤️❤️
May 26, 2026
Tarot, Tea, and Trickery - Elle Lavendelle
I’m so obsessed with this series. It has the best comfy cozy vibes to it. This author writes the best chemistry and characters. I fall in love with everyone I meet and Laurel and Nerissa are no exception. This was such a fun read and I couldn’t put it down once I started. I love this authors writing and I will be picking up every book they write.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / Out of 5 Stars ⭐️
🌶️ / Spice Rating ☀️
# of Pages 🌙 364 Pages
Release Date 🌟 5/4/26
Format 💫 Gifted Digital Copy
Series 🌙 Witches of Starbrook, #3
Genre/Tropes ✨ Enemies to lovers, reluctant enemies to lovers, sapphic, demon X witch, urban fantasy, cozy, cozy fantasy
Favorite Character ☀️ Nerissa
Favorite Line 🌟 ‘I’ve had enough love for a while. Or maybe I’ve had enough of being the one who doesn’t have it. My sisters are all finding their mates, fated and otherwise, and I’m still being left on read by losers I meet at parties and on dating apps. When did I become the loner in the family?’
I’m so obsessed with this series. It has the best comfy cozy vibes to it. This author writes the best chemistry and characters. I fall in love with everyone I meet and Laurel and Nerissa are no exception. This was such a fun read and I couldn’t put it down once I started. I love this authors writing and I will be picking up every book they write.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / Out of 5 Stars ⭐️
🌶️ / Spice Rating ☀️
# of Pages 🌙 364 Pages
Release Date 🌟 5/4/26
Format 💫 Gifted Digital Copy
Series 🌙 Witches of Starbrook, #3
Genre/Tropes ✨ Enemies to lovers, reluctant enemies to lovers, sapphic, demon X witch, urban fantasy, cozy, cozy fantasy
Favorite Character ☀️ Nerissa
Favorite Line 🌟 ‘I’ve had enough love for a while. Or maybe I’ve had enough of being the one who doesn’t have it. My sisters are all finding their mates, fated and otherwise, and I’m still being left on read by losers I meet at parties and on dating apps. When did I become the loner in the family?’
February 25, 2026
Thank you so much to the author for this ARC. 💖🌱
Where do I start? This was my first impression of this author’s work and I adored her storytelling; sometimes with fantasy the magic system and world setting up can be a bit overwhelming, but she did a wonderful job. I loved the characters in this story and was attached to Aspen and Rowan the most, even though they were kinda sideline characters. Laurel was a bit too naive for me in some parts where it literally made me roll my eyes but I understand that it was the point, especially when it came to love. I loved her growth and how more confident she became towards the end of the book, and how secure she became within herself and knowing who she is in terms of her own magic and emotions. I do love her and Neressa’s connection, and I loved their growth together in their own ways!
I highlighted so many parts in this book also lol.
Where do I start? This was my first impression of this author’s work and I adored her storytelling; sometimes with fantasy the magic system and world setting up can be a bit overwhelming, but she did a wonderful job. I loved the characters in this story and was attached to Aspen and Rowan the most, even though they were kinda sideline characters. Laurel was a bit too naive for me in some parts where it literally made me roll my eyes but I understand that it was the point, especially when it came to love. I loved her growth and how more confident she became towards the end of the book, and how secure she became within herself and knowing who she is in terms of her own magic and emotions. I do love her and Neressa’s connection, and I loved their growth together in their own ways!
I highlighted so many parts in this book also lol.
March 22, 2026
thank you so much for this arc 💫✨
Ive read a few of her other books and each time I'm. impressed on how amazing elle lavendelle writes
this was one was by far my favorite one
I saw some of laurel in the last book and while I was excited to see all the sisters stories I really ended up loving Laurel and and her fears and insecurities were so well written and the friendship she had with her best friend and the platonic love they had for each other and also see how other sisters see each other so differently each book you see a different side
and Nerissa I just love a good evil turning good for the girl trope she was my absolute favorite and she her development learning to love not just Laurel but also embracing herself the romance was very instant but I still ate it up ! I'm so excited to see whats in store for the other sisters!
Ive read a few of her other books and each time I'm. impressed on how amazing elle lavendelle writes
this was one was by far my favorite one
I saw some of laurel in the last book and while I was excited to see all the sisters stories I really ended up loving Laurel and and her fears and insecurities were so well written and the friendship she had with her best friend and the platonic love they had for each other and also see how other sisters see each other so differently each book you see a different side
and Nerissa I just love a good evil turning good for the girl trope she was my absolute favorite and she her development learning to love not just Laurel but also embracing herself the romance was very instant but I still ate it up ! I'm so excited to see whats in store for the other sisters!
May 19, 2026
This book had me completely hooked from the first few chapters and honestly ruined my sleep schedule in the best way possible 😮💨
The plot was SO much more engaging than I expected, it wasn’t just vibes and attraction carrying the story. The mystery, the tension, the magic… it all blended together so well and actually kept me invested the entire time. I genuinely wanted to know what was going to happen next.
The character development was also really well done. Watching the relationships evolve felt natural instead of rushed, and the emotional moments actually hit. I got attached way too quickly 😭
And yes… the spice was absolutely spicing 🤭🔥 but what I loved most was that it never overshadowed the story itself. It added to the chemistry and tension without becoming the entire plot, which honestly made it even better.
Lesbian demon daddy? Tarot magic? Tension? Chaos? I ate this UP.
The plot was SO much more engaging than I expected, it wasn’t just vibes and attraction carrying the story. The mystery, the tension, the magic… it all blended together so well and actually kept me invested the entire time. I genuinely wanted to know what was going to happen next.
The character development was also really well done. Watching the relationships evolve felt natural instead of rushed, and the emotional moments actually hit. I got attached way too quickly 😭
And yes… the spice was absolutely spicing 🤭🔥 but what I loved most was that it never overshadowed the story itself. It added to the chemistry and tension without becoming the entire plot, which honestly made it even better.
Lesbian demon daddy? Tarot magic? Tension? Chaos? I ate this UP.
February 26, 2026
Book 3 in the witches of Starbrook takes Laurel on a journey of the heart. She's flighty and unlucky in dating and love, but she has the spirit.
Elle's style is cozy, with both of the FMC's POV's having distinct voices which change and grow through the narrative. The sapphic yearning is exquisite, with relatable anxieties for people from such different worlds.
Getting into the heads of these characters is such a delight, that the fallout of the climactic moments is a welcome change of pace.
We get more information about the town of Starbrook and the inner lives of more characters bringing us even further into their world.
A must read for lovers of paranormal romance and sapphic yearning 💖💖
Elle's style is cozy, with both of the FMC's POV's having distinct voices which change and grow through the narrative. The sapphic yearning is exquisite, with relatable anxieties for people from such different worlds.
Getting into the heads of these characters is such a delight, that the fallout of the climactic moments is a welcome change of pace.
We get more information about the town of Starbrook and the inner lives of more characters bringing us even further into their world.
A must read for lovers of paranormal romance and sapphic yearning 💖💖
March 30, 2026
I absolutely devoured this book! I was rooting for them both beginning to end. The character growth was phenomenal and beautiful and gradual. The spicy scenes were amazing and accurate, which in some sapphic books fall short but not this one. It’s giving practical magic meets Boulders Gate 3 and I am here for it. I’m a Karlach girlie and that’s all I could see when envisioning Nerissa but with shorter hair and WHEW. This was actually my first delve into this series so I am going to back track to the other two and grab the next one when it comes out, I am hoping some of the side characters from this one will make a reappearance (*cough* Latra *cough*). Definitely quickly became one of my faves for this year!
May 8, 2026
Well written, full of drama, witches, secrets, mystery, intrigue, lies, demons, greed, steam, betrayal and suspense. Laurel is a young witch who likes life easy and fun. She is left in charge by her sisters yet has a friend that helps her- Seth. Together they balance each other and have the others backs. Along the way comes Nerissa, a demon from the underworld that also has a mission but hopes to be free of it. She wants to go from bad to good. Has lots of magical moments and a few that make you really wonder who will win. All the characters are witty yet each has their own journey to make. Good story telling that draws the reader in. Would recommend to others.
I received this story and leave this unbiased, honest review.
I received this story and leave this unbiased, honest review.
May 17, 2026
This was my first fully sapphic romance, and I have to say that it i really enjoyed it. I loved the masc and fem representation, and appreciated the fact that neither character leaned into a sterotype. I really liked that Laurel was described as tall and athletic, and Nerissa’s character complimented that by being taller, and muscular, but still having softness to her.
Nerissa being so against causing harm to the Hawthorne witches, and to people on the mortal plane in general while being forced to find some powerful artifact for the higher demon who holds her soul in a contract causes her so much stress, and she feels so much guilt for her actions and her lies. She may be born of the underworld, but she has so much compassion for others, and I found that to be a really wonderful quality about her throughout the whole story.
Laurel is so family and friends oriented, and hold the trauma of what happened to her mother very close to her heart. She’s afraid to lose the people she loves ands cares for most in the world; and while she might not make the best decisions, she is fiercely loyal and protective of the people she considers to be hers. She yearns to be loved as genuinely and tenderly as she loves others.
Nerissa being so against causing harm to the Hawthorne witches, and to people on the mortal plane in general while being forced to find some powerful artifact for the higher demon who holds her soul in a contract causes her so much stress, and she feels so much guilt for her actions and her lies. She may be born of the underworld, but she has so much compassion for others, and I found that to be a really wonderful quality about her throughout the whole story.
Laurel is so family and friends oriented, and hold the trauma of what happened to her mother very close to her heart. She’s afraid to lose the people she loves ands cares for most in the world; and while she might not make the best decisions, she is fiercely loyal and protective of the people she considers to be hers. She yearns to be loved as genuinely and tenderly as she loves others.
March 27, 2026
This is a cozy-ish FF low-stakes romantasy. FMC 1 is a witch with a lot of self-esteem and self-worth issues. FMC 2 is a demon in hiding sent to the mortal realm to steal a weapon from the witches. Their romance is slow to unfurl but is filled with lots of yearning. Both of their weaknesses play huge parts in the development of their relationship.
The side characters in this book play great support roles.
I do wish we had more character growth for Laurel. Overall I think the book is well done, just a bit longer than it needed to be.
I received an advance copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions in this review are my own.
The side characters in this book play great support roles.
I do wish we had more character growth for Laurel. Overall I think the book is well done, just a bit longer than it needed to be.
I received an advance copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions in this review are my own.
May 5, 2026
This is the sapphic fantasy/supernatural we've been looking for! Dual POV, hot butch lesbian demon x lesbian witch. The tension! It also almost gives like spy/thriller vibes on Nerissa's side, which I love and thinks adds to the vibe. Also Laurel is so funny and simultaneously predictable but not (which I also enjoy). Also, the world and history building is super cool to learn from both sides of the coin as you're understanding how it works.
Also thank god this book isn't a stereotypical supernatural book where it's like cut off from technology and humans and stuff, if you prefer a more modern supernatural book without one of the characters having to learn what any technology is.
Also thank god this book isn't a stereotypical supernatural book where it's like cut off from technology and humans and stuff, if you prefer a more modern supernatural book without one of the characters having to learn what any technology is.
May 13, 2026
This was such a good book! A cute story where one character is trapped in a life they are not happy with and another who is just sort of in their life.
Met Laurel, a late blooming/choosing witch, who is just living her life with this idea that she is the family f*ck up. The one who wasn't there when he things went wrong or was and feels like they were the reason.
Met Narissa, a demoness with one hell of a nepotism problem. Narissa made a deal when she was young, dumb, and trying to save someone she loves. She'll do anything to be free of it.
Loving for something FF with some great twists and turns? Ou should read this. I loved every second of it!
Met Laurel, a late blooming/choosing witch, who is just living her life with this idea that she is the family f*ck up. The one who wasn't there when he things went wrong or was and feels like they were the reason.
Met Narissa, a demoness with one hell of a nepotism problem. Narissa made a deal when she was young, dumb, and trying to save someone she loves. She'll do anything to be free of it.
Loving for something FF with some great twists and turns? Ou should read this. I loved every second of it!
May 6, 2026
Thank you Elle Lavendelle for the ARC!
A great sapphic cozy romance! Nerissa and Laural have such a magnetic attraction to each other and by the end of the book build a fairly healthy relationship. I love how Nerissa fights her demons (literally and mentally) for Laural because she just wants to keep her safe and be a better person for her. I also jumped into this series on this book and while I know there are definitely some important things I missed in the first two books, it was easy to catch up and understand the context! Looking forward to the rest of the series!
A great sapphic cozy romance! Nerissa and Laural have such a magnetic attraction to each other and by the end of the book build a fairly healthy relationship. I love how Nerissa fights her demons (literally and mentally) for Laural because she just wants to keep her safe and be a better person for her. I also jumped into this series on this book and while I know there are definitely some important things I missed in the first two books, it was easy to catch up and understand the context! Looking forward to the rest of the series!
May 4, 2026
In this book you see the family dynamics and feel the underlying love despite the bickering, jokes and misunderstandings that come with family.
There is a slow buildup with the main characters, one is lying from the start and the other is avoidant not wanting to get to attached to anyone. They both grew throughout the book with a side of yearning for each other.
The side characters were also enjoyable to read.
There is a slow buildup with the main characters, one is lying from the start and the other is avoidant not wanting to get to attached to anyone. They both grew throughout the book with a side of yearning for each other.
The side characters were also enjoyable to read.
May 8, 2026
I just wanted to say that im lucky i was able to an arc reader for this book. I do rate it a 4/5 but only because im just getting into FF romantic roles in books and im not quite sure how I feel just yet. I have read a few and this one is a good start to the adventure. Elle is an amazing author and I applaud her for her writing style. This book was a little slow throughout and I felt it could have been told in a more faster paced but I understand the build up and story that has to be told.
May 15, 2026
There’s witches, demons, and two FMC’s that can’t keep their hands off each other no matter how much they try 🔥 In the third book in her Witches of Starbrook series, Elle Lavendelle masterfully weaves a tale that kept me up far later than I should have been. The tension, the storytelling, and the spice made finishing Tarot, Tea, and Trickery a need rather than a want, and I will be devouring the other books in this series as soon as my ARC schedule clears up a bit!! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 🌶️🌶️🌶️
February 28, 2026
I’ve been enjoying the stories of the Hawthorne sisters since book one, and Laurel’s was no exception. Thanks to an advanced reader copy, I was able to dig into Laurel and Nerissa’s love story. Laurel’s character development is great in this book, and Nerissa learning about love was so heartwarming. I can’t wait to see what’s in store for Maple and Rowan!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Another great addition to this series! I really loved reading about Nerissa and Laurel, I also feel like Seth & Latra need their own respective stories told. They were some of my favorite parts of this book.
If you loved the show Charmed or the Stay a Spell series I think you'd really love this series!
If you loved the show Charmed or the Stay a Spell series I think you'd really love this series!
May 9, 2026
Tarot, Tea & Trickery is an excellent addition to the Witches of Starbrook series, and this time it’s sapphic which I am so happy for! The story picks up a few months after the last book, but gets right into the attraction and romance.
I really felt for Laurel. I am an eldest daughter so Juniper resonated with me maybe too much, but being an aimless millennial, Laurel’s struggle to grow up and find her magic’s purpose really got me.
Nerissa is truly a great counterpoint, as her fate and life’s path is already laid out ahead of her, being a demon and all. She is also super hot (literally but also figuratively)and the spicy scenes were sizzling.
Never stop writing Elle Lavendelle, you have a fan for life.
I really felt for Laurel. I am an eldest daughter so Juniper resonated with me maybe too much, but being an aimless millennial, Laurel’s struggle to grow up and find her magic’s purpose really got me.
Nerissa is truly a great counterpoint, as her fate and life’s path is already laid out ahead of her, being a demon and all. She is also super hot (literally but also figuratively)and the spicy scenes were sizzling.
Never stop writing Elle Lavendelle, you have a fan for life.
May 9, 2026
Thank you to the author for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
I really enjoyed reading Tarot, Tea, and Trickery. It was a great continuation to the series. Nerissa and Laurel’s relationship is very sweet and I am glad it was a happy ending. It was also nice to see Laurel’s sisters and learn more about them in this story. Super excited to read the next book.
I really enjoyed reading Tarot, Tea, and Trickery. It was a great continuation to the series. Nerissa and Laurel’s relationship is very sweet and I am glad it was a happy ending. It was also nice to see Laurel’s sisters and learn more about them in this story. Super excited to read the next book.
May 10, 2026
3.5⭐
I really liked Laurel and Nerissa and the development of their relationship.
I especially liked Nerissa and her yearning and protectiveness throughout the story. And she's a really kind demon!!🫶
Some of the drama (more towards the end of the book) felt a bit off but I was still able to enjoy the full book.
I really liked Laurel and Nerissa and the development of their relationship.
I especially liked Nerissa and her yearning and protectiveness throughout the story. And she's a really kind demon!!🫶
Some of the drama (more towards the end of the book) felt a bit off but I was still able to enjoy the full book.
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