Wicked Spirits

Crescent Moon Phayed #2

by Autumn M. Key

PARKER

I don’t believe in true love.
I don’t want forever.
I want right now.
But right now, isn’t cutting it anymore.

I didn’t expect to find the remedy in her.
I didn’t expect to want more.
I didn’t expect to find her at her fiancé’s funeral

She needs me.
No one has ever needed me.
It makes me want her in ways I’ve never wanted anyone.


PORTIA

True love is always just out of reach.
I’ve accepted that love is not meant for me.
It has always been a lie.

I didn’t expect him to find me.
He has me confessing my secrets and desires.
But can he accept the truth about what I am?

The timing is wrong.
This is wrong.
No matter how he makes me feel, this is only for right now.

496 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 21, 2021

About the author

I grew up in the deep south where we don't talk about any of the things I write about, which is what makes it so much fun! Since I was a kid I have been writing something - books, poems, journals - always something. It wasn't until a few years ago that I embraced the story that was burning in my heart and invading my dreams. It turned into my debut novel, Apothecary Tea.

I am living my own happily ever after which is why I love to write about love and romance. I'm married and madly in love with my soul mate. We have one beautiful daughter who is the light of my life. We also have four pet rabbits. I've realized my dream of living by the sea, and when I'm not writing, I'm usually drawing, painting, reading, sea shell hunting or cross-stitching. Honestly though, if I'm not working I'm writing!

Reviews

[Suzen McCord · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the most amazing books I've ever read. I fell in love with this authors words with her first book and then second is even better. It is full of danger and intrigue and a passionate love story full of all the yummy's.

[LaWanda Watkins · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book that I've read from this author. I have to say it's better than the first book. It has a mix of intrigue and passion. If you love second chances and unrequited love. This is the book for you.

[We Like them Dark Book Blog · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow wow wow what a beautiful beautiful book!!!
Definitely in my rereads😜
This is a genre I usually avoid, it’s not my cup of tea. But I’m soo happy that I got to read this book!
I couldn’t put it down!! I was so intrigued, I wanted to keep turning pages to know what happens next!!
This book is about Parker and Portia who meet in Portia’s fiancé’s funeral! The connection between the two right from the beginning was just electric! Loved how he comforted her even when she was a stranger!! He’s always there for her when she needs him! He’s also sooo protective of her and they  always always put each other first!! I fell in love with Parker, Portia, Drake and Ember❤️
Loved all the side characters except for Ze of course!! I wanted to kill him myself!!
The scenes between H-h was intense to say the least! There was sex, sex , sex and just when I thought it was a tad bit too much there was even more sex!!
It would have been even better if the author had reduced the number of sex scenes and had more dialogue between H-h also what happened to the twins and Rachel ? I also didn’t like the fact that h cried pretty much everytime they had sex! I know she gets all vulnerable and stuff but still!!
The best part of the book( atleast for a person like me who hates this genre) is how all the supernatural things happen only after about 50-60% of the book!!
Now I’m gonna go back and read the Apothecary tea😍

[Lorraine Holzmuller · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book in this series that I have read from this author. The first book, Apothecary Tea, doesn’t have to be read in order to understand this book but believe me you don’t want to miss Drake and Ember’s story. I loved Parker when I met him in the first book and now after reading his story I love him even more. This book has everything in it that keeps you turning the pages as fast as you can possibly read because you can’t wait to find out what’s happening next. It had the perfect balance of angst, sorrow, suspense, mystery, love (and not just between Parker and Portia), romance and very steamy sex scenes that were very tastefully written. It has all the feels. I won’t give away any spoilers but near the end of the book I was sitting on the very edge of my seat I felt like I was right there in the story experiencing it with the characters. This story is one of those stories that will stay with you long after the book is read. That’s how talented this author is you just don’t read her story you are consumed by it and it becomes part of you. I can’t wait to see what she writes next.

[J.L. Lennon · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been waiting for this one! I was gifted with an ARC and let me tell you, I couldn't put it down! Autumn's first book in this series, Apothecary Tea, had me hooked from the beginning! Drake and Ember's love story was so passionate it gave me goosebumps! But there was another guy, kind of the side-kick, who I really, really wanted to know more about! I got my wish! Wicked Spirits is Parker's book! Well Parker and Portia, who we also met in AT. I did fall in love with Portia too... I love a strong woman who can also let a man take care of her when she needs it!

This book is a rollercoaster! And I am not even going to go into all the spoilery things here because I don't want to ruin some of the best parts of the book! It's so worth the read and going in blind is your best bet!! Something happened that I absolutely never anticipated and it was the coolest fucking thing ever... there was drama, suspense, extremely hot sex, and of course love.... The paranormal aspect of this story is, in my opinion, what makes it such a fabulous read. It takes the story to another level.

The locations in the book are so real! The resort in Wyoming, the VIP lounge in the bar Wicked Spirits, the sex club! I loved Portia's apartment and I wanted to stay there forever, wrapped up in a warm blanket. Autumn's writing made it feel as if I was right there in a snowy Chicago! And going back to the picturesque town of Essex was like visiting a familiar place.

The ending was bittersweet, only because I wasn't ready to leave but the story itself wrapped up perfectly! There were some unanswered questions which only means I have another book to look forward too from this author!

All I can say is READ THIS BOOK! But read AT first. It will make this journey so much better!

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! This was wicked good!!

This was the first book I'd read from this author and even though it's the second book in the series, I don't feel as though I missed anything. I will say that the story is super intriguing. This Phayed sounds like a cross between an incubus/succubus and something else, but i was like wow!!!

So the story is about Portia and Parker and they meet at Evans funeral (fate or coincidence that Evan was not only Portia's fiance but also Parkers boss' girlfriends brother). She uses Parker initially for six, but they can't deny the pull between them. When she invites Parker to return to Chicago with her, the story starts taking the supernatural spin, which I loved.

This story is sooooo amazing, and I think I'm going to read the 1st book to see how it all started!!!

I recieved an ARC for my honest review.

[Brenda Bastien]

Wow! This author is SOOO GOOD
This book has it all! A hero you root for, a heroine you fall in love with, an antagonist extraordinaire, a lot of luscious, steamy sex, AND a surprising conclusion!
I fell in love with tis author, her beautiful writing style and wonderful characters in her first book, APOTHECARY TEA, and could hardly wait to read WICKED SPIRITS. I was not disappointed. Look forward to more romantic, steamy books by her in the future!

5 plus shiny stars

[Anita Edwards · Rating 5 out of 5]

Much better - still the same gorgeous writing style as Apothecary Tea, but with much more likeable characters.
Parker is an amazing book-boyfriend.

I need the 3rd instalment like, NOW!

[Katie Rae · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just like the last book, this was was a WOW. I mean, what else can I say? This one is different because the characters don't start out phayed. They are just two normal humans trying to keep their heads above water during a trying time. But the phayed element is all around, and this time, it feels sinister. I don't want to give away too much, but Autumn has managed to keep the same PNR appeal in a very contemporary story and I think its a unique and WONDERFUL escape into a book that will leave you wanting MORE!

[Janice M · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am completely entranced every time I read another book by Autumn. I started this journey by reading Apothecary Tea and fell in love with the passionate relationship between Drake and Emery. I was downright thrilled when I realized Parker had his own story because he needed a happily ever after, but boy did it take a lot of wrongs to make it right.

I loved that Portia was strong yet melted for him. I loved that Parker was so devoted. Overall the paranormal portion of this story really makes it what it is. It isn’t a typical love story and I love the world Autumn created. I love the characters in her stories. I love the settings and how I can picture everything in my head. Autumn is a complete goddess of wordsmithing!

Honestly, I was devastated when Wicked Spirits ended because I loved it so much. It definitely gives book hangover vibes. I promise this series is unlike anything else you’ll find out there right now and that’s something so very special. So I hope you take the chance and jump in with both feet because you won’t be sorry.

I must admit I’m a little afraid to start Crimson Crown because I know I’ll be lost in her words again and I’ll need a whole day or two without interruptions! This series, you guys…. You don’t even know ♥️ MUST READS!

[Donna · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story was so exciting to read. I was already interested in Parkers story from reading Apothecary Tea. Ms. Key delivered an exceptional story that kept me interested to find out what happens next. I'm looking forward to reading more of the series and keeping up with these characters.

[Lizzie Stanley · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent follow-up to Apothecary Tea, managing to offer us something a little different from book one while still remaining true to the first installment. I was so glad that Parker got his own book!

[Dena Akbar · Rating 5 out of 5]

It is a really good book and It is really interesting.

[Shayay · Rating 3 out of 5]

This one just wasn't for me. In this story, Portia's fiancé, Evan, has just died. She's very distraught and not handling things well. She immediately meets Parker; they both feel instantly drawn to each other, and they begin a very passionate romance. Unfortunately, there is something sinister going on, and lots of secrets. Insecurities and plenty else tries to get between Portia and Parker.

Parker is friends with the leads from the first book, Ember and Drake. Parker is a manho, who is getting really tired of the sleazy life. The whole first chapter in his POV, I could've done without; eww. Parker is wonderful though; such a sweetheart and so supportive of Portia. He's probably the best thing that's happened to her. Unfortunately, I wouldn't say Portia is the best thing to happen to him. It also turns out that Portia's fiancé that died is Ember's brother. I was liking Portia in the beginning, and I wasn't having an issue with how quickly she moved on. Unfortunately, the more we find out about Portia, the more I started to dislike her. She is the worst judge of character; how she could continue to be friends with Ze is mind boggling. She's exasperating and so needy too; she really needed therapy and to improve her self-esteem. She's just made horrible choices for most of her life.

I was enjoying the romance between Portia and Parker in the beginning; some hot stuff going on and the connection between them was amazing. Unfortunately, this book is about 80 percent sex and the sex started going in ways that I just don't find enticing; wasn't into the sex club voyeurism scenario. There was also a scene with some participation from a third party; not fully involved, but way too much for what I want to read for a couple in a romance. The things in the past that Portia did was just too much; when sex is affecting your life so negatively, then there's something that needs to change. Portia just came across as a nympho to me; not someone with a healthy sex drive, but some one I just feel sad reading about. It was cry, sex, cry on repeat. There's something that happens in this story; a twist, and I'm just not seeing the maturity from either Parker or Portia to handle it; they both are a bit of a mess. I wanted a lot more growth from Portia.

The story is written well; the author really made quite a developed story with some interesting aspects. This story is similar to a contemporary romance, but has some paranormal elements. There's some beings called the Phayed; incubus/succubus types that feed off of emotions; mostly very disturbed individuals. Some cool ideas there. Lots of craziness going on; some very dark things, but interesting. The story does move a bit too slowly at time; too repetitive.

So, in the end, this story just wasn't something I enjoy reading. Needed more story and less sex for me. The story did keep me reading though, so if you don't mind tons of sex, whiny female lead, and some major kink, then you may enjoy this.

[Donna · Rating 3 out of 5]

Man oh man. I haven’t even started reading this and already have issues. First, and admittedly a pretty minor one, there is no way the guy on the cover is 31 years old. 19, maybe.

I saw that this book had a Phayed Glossary so thought it would be interesting to check it out. There appears to be contradictions to what was presented in the first book.

Example 1: Transitioning: Transitioning requires that the human mind is completely open to the Phayed sire so they can consume every thought and memory.

Conflict: Drake was obviously resistant to Gethanne since he woke up with his wrists and ankles tethered (or was it just kinky sex?) It doesn’t seem logical that his mind would be open to the process.

...Removing the contents of the mind causes the human to die. To complete the transition, the new Phayed will immediately need to feed from their sire.
...and will consume the entire contents of the Phayed’s mind, including their own memories.

Conflict: Drake should be dead since the contents of his mind were removed and he didn’t regain memories by feeding from Gethanne if his assertion of having no memory of his life before being turned is true.

Example 2: Feeding: They can feed on whatever the human is actively feeling or thinking, but they cannot select any memories from the human mind at their choosing.

Conflict: It seems that Drake manages to be selective in removing only Ember’s painful feelings/memories and leave others. It didn’t appear that the memories needed to be actively being felt, either.

Example 3 (maybe) - Emotional tethering: Phayed and Human - They are emotionally invested, and the human is marked. There is no mention of Ember being marked in the first book although it sounds like her relationship with Drake fits this description. I mean, if they aren’t emotionally invested I don’t know who is. (Later in the story it appears that Drake giving her his crescent moon necklace perhaps fulfilled this requirement)

Portia comes across as really wishy-washy to me. I know she’s been traumatized by Evan’s death but she seems hellbent on clinging to her doubts and not taking advantage of the good happening in her life (I’m looking at you, Parker)

About 60% done reading and I hate Zephyr so much. He’s featured in the next book in the series. I may not be able to get past my dislike to read it unless he somehow redeems himself before this book ends.

Finished - Zephyr is an even bigger shit. I’m going to read the next book but am already prejudiced against him. Evil, evil entity. Fortunately he doesn’t appear to be the sharpest tool in the shed.

[Lin Cunningham · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful Parker

This second book flows easily after the first & the characters run into both books with wonderful continuity. Parker really comes into his own & Portia is such a beautiful soul.
The Phayed world really begins to open & reveal itself showing more facets in the way they can interact with humans. I loved that we saw more of Drake & Ember but also the beauty of Parker & Portia’s growing relationship. Zephyr was a dark introduction into the other side & I can’t wait to read his book.
A really well written series & easy to read.

[Michele Del Rey · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was really good. Portia and Parker do not believe in love for others and one another. But, when they find one another all of that goes out the window. I recently found this author and I am hooked.

[Ireadromancetoescape · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am 100%hooked with Autumn writing her world building is phenomenal and the stories are engaging and described in detail that I can see it.in my mind playing like a movie. I can't wait to read more I can't enough.

[Colette De · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Lilacs and lust. That’s how she smells. Sex and sugar. That’s how she tastes. Warm and wet. That’s how she feels." My favourite quote.

This author's writing is so beautiful and textured but also full of twists, turns and angst.

We met Portia and Parker in Apothecary Tea and saw the start of their relationship from a different perspective.In this book we live it with them and understand a bit more about their feelings, desires and coping mechanisms which are pretty wild.

I loved Parker from the beginning but it took a long time until I liked (or tolerated) Portia.

Then the author introduced Zephyr and suddenly it became clear he was the reason why Portia acts as she does and suddenly I was Team Portia & Parker

We learn some more of the Phayed and their ways, and I look forward to the next book and to see if the author can actually write a redemption story for Zephyr who is detestable.

There are so many breadcrumbs in this book that when the final reveal is made, everything makes so much sense. I guessed a few.

The book is compelling, I laughed, I cried, I complained (a lot) but the ending was so beautiful and the journey culminated in an epic love story



There is a lot of sex, kinks and scenarios that require the Trigger Warning at the start of the book.