Rituals & Rivalry

by Elle Lavendelle

396 pages, Kindle Edition

Expected publication October 1, 2026

About the author

i write romance books. :)

Reviews

[Genevieve Hickey · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was given the honor of ARC reading Rituals and Rivalry and I couldn’t be more thankful.

Aurora and Sterlings story pulled me in from page one.
When a one night stand turns into reconnecting 3 years later, you know it will be interesting.
Aurora was lost and the last person she thought she’d see in a tiny town is her one night stand Sterling. She was a star witch who thought she lost her magic when her father passed away. She later finds out that she didn’t lose it, it changed.
When Aurora and her family moved to a new town and she ran into her one night stand, let’s just say she was all of us and very awkward. But throughout the story, she learns, grows, and becomes a stronger version of herself. Her magic changed and maybe it changed for the better.
Sterling is that awkward guy most of us know. He has seen so much in his life that he doesn’t want anything to do with Aurora at first. But as he also grows and learns, he learns he doesn’t want to be without her. His secret, being a death witch, almost tore Aurora from him. But after opening up, he learned not everyone will run away.

If I could give this book more than 5 stars, I absolutely would! It had the perfect balance of love, drama, spice, and making me cry at 3am.

[Lisa Ann D. · Rating 5 out of 5]

🍁✨“What am I supposed to ask? Surely you don’t want me to propose in this dirty bathroom. I don’t even have a ring.” I narrow my eyes. “Don’t make me change my mind⁠—”✨🍁

Rituals & Rivalry by Elle Lavendelle
@lavendellebooks
𝚎𝙰𝚁𝙲 𝚁𝙴𝚅𝙸𝙴𝚆
396 pages
𝚁𝚎𝚕𝚎𝚊𝚜𝚎 𝚍𝚊𝚝𝚎: October 1, 2026
✨🍁✨

🧡This dedication:
This one goes out to slutty glasses and fat asses🧡


𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐢𝐬 𝗼𝐧𝐞 𝗼𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝗼𝐬𝐞 𝐛𝗼𝗼𝐤𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐈'𝐝 𝐠𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐟𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐬 𝐭𝗼- 𝐬𝐢𝗺𝐩𝐥𝐲 𝐟𝗼𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐯𝐢𝐛𝐞𝐬...𝙱𝚄𝚃 𝙸 𝙳𝙾𝙽'𝚃 𝙷𝙰𝚅𝙴 𝚃𝙾 𝙸𝙽 𝚃𝙷𝙸𝚂 𝙲𝙰𝚂𝙴- 𝗕𝗘𝗖𝗔𝗨𝗦𝗘 𝗜𝗧 𝗘𝗔𝗥𝗡𝗦 𝗔𝗟𝗟 𝗙𝗜𝗩𝗘!

As always spoilers free—- but damn I wish I could go into detail. This is such a great read. Both of our main characters are so guarded and battling their own demons and yet they allow themselves to open at certain points and times. This is certainly all kinds of cozy vibes- but, it’s also an incredibly human story. There’s grief and challenges. There’s fantastic kink spice that’s done so effin well here. Highly recommend this one!
✨🍁✨

• Cozy Witch Vibes
•Paranormal RomCom
• Coven Rivals
•Forced to work Together
• Former One-Night Stand
•C𝟶ck warMing
•Bratty sub & just the one to dom
•Grief & Regret
• Cozy & Kinky
• Magical Secrets
• Sentient Cottage
• Slutty Glasses—- leave them on
• Plus-Size FMC
✨🍁✨

BREAKDOWN:
PLOT 5
MAIN CHARACTERS 4
WRITING STYLE 5
ENJOYMENT4
SETTING 5
MISCELLANEOUS 4
SECONDARY CHARACTERS 5
OTHER 4
ENGAGEMENT 4
EASE OF READING 5
BONUS FOR REP 4
• OVERALL TOTAL:
★★★★★ 𝗙𝗜𝗩𝗘 𝗦𝗧𝗔𝗥𝗦
✨🧡✨


(I also really enjoyed seeing characters from the other books- even the smaller glimpses felt like visiting old friends.)


𝗧𝗛𝗔𝗡𝗞 𝗬𝗢𝗨 𝗦𝗢 𝗠𝗨𝗖𝗛 𝗙𝗢𝗥 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗖𝗛𝗔𝗡𝗖𝗘 𝗧𝗢 𝗥𝗘𝗔𝗗 𝗔𝗡𝗗 𝗥𝗘𝗩𝗜𝗘𝗪! 𝗜 𝗖𝗔𝗡𝗡𝗢𝗧 𝗪𝗔𝗜𝗧 𝗧𝗢 𝗥𝗘𝗔𝗗 𝗧𝗛𝗜𝗦 𝗢𝗡𝗘 𝗔𝗚𝗔𝗜𝗡!!!!
✨🍁🧡✨



I like her because of her fat body, not despite it—
🧡


𝗛𝗮𝗽𝗽𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴. 𝗕𝗲 𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗱 𝘁𝗼 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿𝘀𝗲𝗹𝗳. 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗴𝗿𝗮𝗰𝗲 𝘄𝗲 𝗲𝘅𝘁𝗲𝗻𝗱 𝘁𝗼 𝗼𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿𝘀, 𝘄𝗲 𝘀𝗵𝗼𝘂𝗹𝗱 𝗮𝗹𝘀𝗼 𝗴𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗼𝘂𝗿𝘀𝗲𝗹𝘃𝗲𝘀.
❤︎ ❤︎ ❤︎
𝗥𝗘𝗔𝗗 𝗤𝗨𝗘𝗘𝗥 𝗔𝗟𝗟 𝗬𝗘𝗔𝗥
𝗥𝗘𝗔𝗗 𝗙𝗔𝗧 𝗔𝗟𝗟 𝗬𝗘𝗔𝗥
𝗥𝗘𝗔𝗗 𝗗𝗜𝗩𝗘𝗥𝗦𝗘 𝗔𝗟𝗟 𝗬𝗘𝗔𝗥
✨🌈✨

[Madison · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 ⭐️

Sometimes all you need is a cute paranormal romance, and this was exactly that. Aurora and Sterling’s story was such a cosy, enjoyable read that had me hooked from the start.

The chemistry between them was fantastic, with plenty of spicy, tension-filled moments that kept me turning the pages. Sterling being a soft Dom was definitely one of my favourite aspects of the book, and I loved the dynamic between them.

That said, I do wish we’d been given more time with Aurora and Sterling as an established couple. After everything they went through, I would have loved to see more of their relationship once they finally got together. The epilogues felt a little too short for me, and I was left wanting just a bit more.

There were also a few moments where the pacing felt rushed, with certain plot points resolving more quickly than I expected. Even so, it didn’t take away from how much I enjoyed the story overall.

If you’re looking for a cosy paranormal romance with great chemistry, plenty of tension, and a lovable couple, this is definitely worth picking up.

Thank you to Elle for the ARC.

[Czarina Diaz · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you to Elle Lavendelle for providing me with an Advance Reader Copy in exchange for an honest review.

Title: Rituals & Rivalry (Part of the Witches of Starbrook series)
Author: Elle Lavendelle
Genre: cozy paranormal romance (romantic comedy)
Publication Date: October 1, 2026
Format Read: eARC (Kindle)

What if I told you there was a book that blended the cozy charm of Gilmore Girls with the spice of Fifty Shades of Grey, complete with witches, magical rivalries, and a laugh-out-loud sassy haunted house pining for the male main character?

Rituals and Rivalry is a cozy fantasy romance told through dual POVs, following rivals-turned-lovers Aurora and Sterling as they navigate grief, self-discovery, and their evolving magical identities.

This was an easy, lighthearted read that delivered exactly the cozy atmosphere it promised. I found myself settling comfortably into the story, enjoying the warmth of its magical small-town setting and the interactions between the characters.

One of my favorite aspects was the premise itself. A close-knit community of magical beings living together is such a fun concept, and I especially loved the idea that each witch possessed a unique magical specialty. Aurora's connection to the cosmos was particularly fascinating and left me wanting to learn even more about the world's magic system.

While I enjoyed the premise, I found myself wishing for more time with the characters beyond the central romance. I never quite formed a strong emotional connection with Aurora or Sterling because I felt I didn't get to know them deeply enough outside of their relationship.

I would have loved to see more scenes of them interacting with the coven and the wider Starbrook community. Since they're both preparing to become future coven leaders, seeing how they cared for, supported, and earned the respect of their community would have added another layer to their characters and made that journey feel even more meaningful.

Similarly, the witches' specialized magic was such an intriguing idea that I found myself wanting to see it play a larger role in the story. Their unique abilities felt like a wonderful opportunity to reveal personality, relationships, and character growth rather than simply existing as interesting background details.

I also wanted to spend more time exploring Starbrook itself. While reading, I imagined it as something like Stars Hollow except magical. I pictured enchanted bakeries selling spell-infused pastries, cafés magically preparing customers' favorite drinks before they even ordered, and little everyday moments that would bring the town to life. The setting already had so much charm that I simply wanted more of it.

I'm not sure whether this sense of wanting more stems from the book's shorter length or from the expectation that readers will continue with the other stand-alone books in the series. Either way, I finished the story feeling that both the world and its characters still had so much left to tell.

Without question, my favorite character was the haunted house.

I found myself looking forward to every scene involving the cottage and Leo. The house's dramatic personality and unapologetic sass stole every scene it appeared in, and I found it ridiculously funny how everyone simply accepted that the best way to deal was to wait patiently until its latest tantrum passed. It was delightfully absurd and genuinely made me laugh out loud.

Another standout moment was Sterling and Ryan rescuing the injured bird. It was such a quiet, tender scene that revealed Sterling's kindness without needing grand declarations. I would have loved more moments like this, where the characters' personalities shine through their magical abilities and everyday actions.

I'd recommend this to readers who enjoy:
Cozy fantasy romance
Rivals-to-lovers
Small magical communities
Witty banter
Plenty of spice
Stories that balance cozy charm with darker themes (be sure to check the content warnings)

If the idea of Gilmore Girls (too much reference to this but this will forever be the epitome of cozy for me 🙂) with witches, magical rivalries, and an unapologetically spicy romance sounds appealing, this will likely be a book you would want to pick up.

★★★☆☆ (3/5)
I genuinely enjoyed reading Rituals and Rivalry. While I found myself wanting deeper character development and a richer exploration of Starbrook and its magical community, the cozy atmosphere, imaginative premise, and unforgettable haunted house made for a fun and enjoyable reading experience.

[Shell · Rating 4 out of 5]

🌻ARC READ📚🌻


I will be honest and say that I had to read this twice before writing a review. I'm not sure if the first time I was just in a book slump or what, but it did not click for me. The second time around was much, much better. This was my first book by Elle and I think I'll be reading the rest of the series at some point.

This was a cute little cozy, witchy read with a touch of the paranormal. I felt it was a little bit of a slow burn, which normally isn't my favorite, but the banter between the two made it enjoyable. I also am a sucker for a soft dom. The chemistry these two had is what made this story fun. I liked how Aurora was a little bit awkward at times. And poor Sterling was just trying his best after everything 🤣

We don't get a whole lot, but the BDSM in this book was spot on. THIS is how it is done. And Sterling is yummy while he does it. 🤭
My only complaint is that we don't get much of their actual relationship. I wish we could have seen more of after they are actually together.

I had one ick throughout the whole book and that was him calling her fat. Now, let me be clear. He DOES NOT say it to her face nor does he mean it in a mean way. It was just wording. And I'm not quite sure why it irked me the way it did. But it did. I'll let you read for yourself and decide.

Honestly though this is the ✨️ perfect ✨️ book for autumn 🍂  and I hope if you do pick it up, you enjoy it as much as I did.

Thank you to Elle Lavendelle for the chance to read this ARC. ❤️

Happy reading 🌻

[Caitlin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely devoured this book and this series.

I wasn’t sure if I’d love this one as much as the rest of the series because it didn’t focus on the Hawthorne sisters, but it ended up being one of my favorites.

It has heavy themes, specifically death. Both Aurora and Sterling are dealing with death (or avoiding dealing with it), which weaves a really beautiful story in the end. I honestly could read another whole book on their powers because they’re fascinating, and takes some things that some people might originally see as negative but shows how good can come from them.

The additional themes of family (biological and found), finding your place, and, of course, love are just as strong in this book as in the previous books, but it doesn’t feel like you’re just reading the same book over and over. Each couple differs in how they complement each other and bring out the best in each other.

A few other things I loved about this book and this series:
- Strong female characters. They’re magic and they’re awesome.
- Mental health rep. A lot of the characters in the series struggle with different aspects of mental health, but Sterling and Aurora really face it head on.
- Plus-sized characters
- Queer rep all over the series
- No real 3rd act break ups (they *gasp* communicate)
- The spice, obviously.

Thank you to the author for the ARC!

[Sophia Martini · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rituals & Rivalry By Elle Lavendelle
⭐️ 4.5/5
🌶3/5

Arc read. I was in a bit of a slump with romance books and I was lucky enough to have received an arc of this. This was what I needed so much. I hadn't read anything by Elle Lavendelle before reading Rituals & Rivalry but I will reading more by her. Elle Lavendelle didn't shy away from such a heavy topic in this book which is grief, she handle it with such care.
Aurora and Sterling chemistry was amazing, there was plenty of spicy scenes and tension filled scenes. Sterling being a soft dom was one of my favourite parts of this book and Aurora being a brat to him.
I loved Sterling family his dad's were so funny.

“Anyway, how do you feel about friendly cuddling?”
“I’m quite partial to it, actually.”
I’ve never cuddled a friend in my life, but something tells me that’s about to change.


Tropes
- Paranormal Romance
- Coven Rivals
-Forced to work Together
- Former One-Night Stand
-C𝟶ck warMing
-Bratty sub & just the one to dom
-Grief & Regret
- Cozy & Kinky
-Sentient Cottage
-Slutty Glasses
- Plus-Size FMC

[Anacostia Miller · Rating 5 out of 5]

*I received this book as an ARC in exchange for a review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.*
This book is my favorite in the Witches of Starbrook series!! I fell in love with Aurora and Sterling immediately. The tension between them was so well done and I devoured this book in two days.
Not to mention, I love a soft dom/brat dynamic and this book absolutely delivers on that in a healthy way.
On a softer note, I really connected to the characters journey through grief and how it changed them. Not for the better or worse, just different. I enjoyed what happened between the words on the page and how both characters processed their experience differently. That made it even more satisfying when they connected with each other. It was sweet. And this is absolutely going to become a comfort read for me.

[Bri · Rating 5 out of 5]

5/5 🌟
3.5/5 🌶

ARC Read!!
Thank you so much for the opportunity to read this ARC.

Rituals & Rivalry is the very first Elle Lavendelle book I have read and when I say that I plan to devour the rest of the books in this series once I have the chance, trust that I mean it.

I am honestly so completely obsessed and in love with this book. It plucked me and dragged me out of my two month long reading slump. I could NOT put it down and finished it in four hours. (Sorry to my husband who had to deal with me being annoyed that he was getting up for work because I had to take a break from reading lol)

As someone who lost my father almost three years ago, this hit me pretty hard.

I love the relationship and chemistry between Aurora and Sterling and was rooting for them the entire time. The spicy scenes were amazing!

I highly, highly recommend this book!

[Leilani R · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely obsessed! Aurora is still dealing with her grief after the loss of her father, and she wants the connection with her family they used to have, so they move to the small town her dad used to live; moving right into a haunted house. Aurora is struggling with her grief, her magic, her relationship with her family and to top it all off, now she has the rivalry with Sterling.
Sterling has been working to become the leader of the coven, but Aurora puts a kink into that. Forced to work together, the tension rises, and feelings grow, but Aurora has a lot on her plate, and Sterling has a lot he wants to forget.

I genuinely didn't want to put this book down! Such a cute, slightly spicy paranormal romance!

[Samantha Brown · Rating 4 out of 5]

Aurora and Sterling’s paranormal romance is exactly the cosy, captivating read I needed! Their chemistry is absolutely electric—Sterling’s soft Dom persona makes their dynamic utterly compelling, and the spicy, tension-filled moments kept me turning pages late into the night.

I did find the pacing a little rushed in places, with some plot points wrapping up faster than I’d expected. I also would have loved more time seeing them thrive as an established couple; the epilogues felt sadly too short, leaving me wishing for just a little more of their happily-ever-after. Even so, this is a warm, enjoyable story that’s easy to fall in love with. A wonderful pick for paranormal romance fans!

[Aliyah K · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book
The plot? Fantastic
Grumpy mmc vs bratty FMC ? *chefs kiss*😘
All of the spicy scenes including the cockwarming scene (which honestly I’d love a few more pages there from both povs) — hot as fuck 🥵
The magic twists and turns so good
And such a great lead into the next in the series with Farrah and Axel
All in all 10/10 would read again 🥰

[Tahlia · Rating 1 out of 5]

DNFed 50 pages in.
Was really looking forward to this based on the blurb but unfortunately I was not a fan of the writing style at all. I also really disliked both main characters, they felt very childish, almost like teenagers instead of grown adults.

Thanks to the author for giving me an eArc to review.

[Morgan · Rating 5 out of 5]

A. M. A. Z. I. N. G.
I absolutely loved this book! Such a fun, spooky and cozy read. Watching Sterling and Aurora’s love grown and come into the light was beautiful!
-ARC read but would’ve definitely bought this book :)

[Alexis Yardley · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC Reader

This was a great addition to the Starbrook witch books! I loved the pining, the spice, the communication (or lack thereof). I loved how Aurora and Sterling interact, I loved how the house had a personality of its own. Very fun read, I would definitely recommend.

[Grymm Doll · Rating 5 out of 5]

Finally, bdsm done right. Sterling is a perfect book boyfriend and I loved this from start to finish!

[Han Bento · Rating 3 out of 5]

the perfect cozy fall reading! i wish we had gotten to see more if the fmc working to bring back her magic but over all this is an easy spiced read for autumn vibes!