I was excited to read about a magical couple, but what even was that? I cannot root for them. For one, their lack of communication was beyond irritating. Not to mention how both of their personalities just suck?? I was hoping for some actual paranormal activity here, but (SPOILER ALERT) it's just their martial problems manifesting as such. And the solution is them opening up to each other and reaffirming their love... I'm glad this was so short because no way would I want to read any more about them. Thank you Netgalley for the ARC.

I really enjoyed this novella! It was so nice to learn more about Moira and Rhys and I’m now so excited for their instalments in the Summoner’s Circle series. This is the perfect spooky season read and I’ll definitely be recommending it to everyone!

As always with ST Gibson, the interpersonal relationships are written to perfection. I loved that Moira and Rhys’s relationship felt real and flawed, as it made everything so much more emotional. I of course loved David’s appearances too (he was my favourite in Evocation).

For such a short novella I was really impressed with the depth of character and the over-arching plot. Having already read Evocation, Odd Spirits gave me more context and enabled me to connect with the characters more, especially Moira.

The prose was beautiful and really made this an atmospheric read. The witchy vibes were impeccably done! I can’t wait to continue this series. Thankyou so much to Netgalley and Angry Robot for the advance reader’s copy.

🥀 Odd Spirits 🥀 Before all the tangled “situationships” in Evocation, there was the blooming love between my favourite tarot witch and ceremonial magician. Throw in a seemingly haunted house and a psychic ex and we’ve got ourselves an origin story folks! If you didn’t get enough of Rhys, Moira and David in Evocation (or if you want to get into this story in more of a chronological order) you MUST pick up Odd Spirits. In my opinion it’s the perfectly sized prequel to our favourite witchy poly magical romance book. Similarly to Evocation the focus is on the relationship, so align your expectationsand you will enjoy getting to know the lore of this awesome couple.

Thanks to the author, Netgalley and Angry Robot Books for the eARC in exchange for an honest review!

*spoilers*spoilers*spoilers*spoilers*


I read and enjoyed Evocation (and just about everything else S.T. Gibson has written), so I was excited to read this! I liked getting a glimpse into Moira and Rhys's marriage early on, and how they even found their way to each other in the first place. Their lack of communication was maddening but real and maybe hurt my own feelings a bit. Finding out what was happening to them was ultimately caused by them as well, and that they were the only ones who could fix it was great. I really loved the overall witchy, spooky, cozy vibes. Perfect read for the fall season. If you liked Evocation, read this.

I've read Evocation 2 months ago and was absolutely thrilled to read the prequel Odd Spirits.
It's short, the writing still lovely and gothy. I really love the witchy vibes with spirits, rituals, tarot cards, etc. S.T. Gibson knows her stuff ! When you work in the energetic and spiritual and read a story that feels realistic and cohesive, it's so satisfying!

We learn why Rhys and David stop talking to one another and how it affects Rhys and Moira marriage. We aso have a glimpse of the meet cute Rhys and Moira a few years back.
It makes me want to re-read Evocation, I absolutely adore the 3 main characters they will stay forever in my heart.

Thank you to Angry Robot Books and NetGalley for providing an ARC for review.

This was a very good novella, and a perfect entry into the Evocation characters and mythology. I felt like the different schools of magic were more concise and easier to understand in this iteration. From a character perspective, this was a great exploration of Moira and Rhys’ history together, as well as an explanation on the disagreement with David. Ultimately, this felt like a stronger narrative than Evocation, and makes me more hopeful for the rest of the series.

An intimate prequel novella to Evocation by ST Gibson.
When weird things start happening in newly wed Moira and Rhys's house, their patience, anxiety, and relationship is tested.
This happens one year after they are married - presenting an honest picture of the domestic. Moira and Rhys are still getting used to each other. Ironing out routines, building communication strategies, and bumping into each other's emotional furniture.
Gibson cleverly shows how the honeymoon period, society's gushing, personal expectations, aren't indicative of married life, demonstrating a certain naivety.
"In my experience, places are never the way you remember them," Rhys said quietly, his expression darkening. "Even if you find it the way you left it. You're the thing that changes."
This was short and poignant. The plot is loose - more of a vehicle for exploring Moria and Rhys's dynamics and issues.
Sadly, the prose was not as beautiful as Dowry of Blood (which has set the benchmark of WOW, drooling), but it does show how vulnerability can be the best and worst of a relationship.
This also had gorgeous coloured illustrations that really brought the characters to life!
Thank you to Angry Robot Books for sending me an arc in exchange for a review!

Thank you, NetGalley and Angry Robot, for allowing me an early read and providing an honest review.

While Odd Spirits offers some valuable background on Moira and Rhys before Evocation, it didn't quite deliver the chemistry I had hoped for between the two characters. The story itself isn't bad—it just felt a little underwhelming. Still, for fans of the series, it's worth reading to gain insight into the characters' pasts, even if it lacks the spark I expected. I was glad to see David's sass on full display...something about his arrogance adds an extra layer of fun. It's also worth mentioning that the new cover is gorgeous and will look beautiful on my shelf.

It’s a very fast-paced book and only short so I practically inhaled this. If you’ve read Evocation, this is essentially the prologue.

I’ve not long finished reading Evocation so this was a pretty agonising read. Don’t get me wrong, it lovely to get more time with the characters and to flesh out some back stories referenced later on, but there is so much character and relationship development across both books that I’d have loved to have read this first, rather than break my heart when the angst hits and it feels like everyone has suddenly regressed backwards. It does work either way around though, and you could definitely do this on it’s own as a complete standalone novella if you just want an easy pallet cleanser book.

Like Evocation, it perfectly blends spooky and heartfelt. Rhys and Moira are a dealing with some seriously weird stuff in their home, and their constant snipping and miscommunication feels so relatable, genuine and slightly devastating.

Gibson’s writing is always super immersive, and this one is no different; you really feel like you're in the thick of it with them. Plus, it’s another great reminder that love isn’t always easy, but is worth trucking through the hard bits. If you're into ghost stories with a bit more emotional depth, this one’s definitely a must-read, particularly if you loved Evocation or Gibson’s other work.

And if you haven’t read Evocation. Go do that.

A huge thank you to the author, @Netgalley and Angry Robot Books for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

📚 Odd Spirits 📚
🔮 Fantasy
📖 92 pages
📖 10 chapters
📖 Prequel
✅ Focuses on the relationship of Moria & Rhys
✖️ Left wanting more
✅ Recommended
✅ Would read again
⭐ Rating: 3.5

E-ARC provided by Angry Robot in exchange for an honest review.

Odd Spirits serves as a brief yet engaging prequel to the Summoner's Circle series, giving us another glimpse into the world of magic and the complex relationship between Moria and Rhys. As one of my favorite parts of Evocation, their dynamic takes center stage here, making this short, witchy read a real treat.

However, I found myself wishing the novella was a bit longer. While the length fits the novella format, it left little room to explore the characters’ lives beyond the main conflict. I would have loved to see more depth and time dedicated to their personal stories outside the central plot.

That said, I appreciated how the story starts with their relationship already established. It’s a refreshing change from the typical buildup in many romances, and it helped the story dive straight into their dynamic. Overall, this was a perfect quick read while waiting for the next book in the series, and I’m eager to return to this world soon!

I didn’t read the original Odd Spirits novella, but I’m very familiar with Gibson‘s work. And it pains me to see that this novella has recently been edited and still reads like a draft. I don’t know what’s going on here?

The dialogue in Odd Spirits reads very stilted. Moira and Rhys are married, but they seem to have only just met. They constantly tell each other things a married couple should know.

“Besides, you know I don’t even like working with spirits; that’s your thing.” (p. 11)

“Well first of all, in my tradition we call it a spell.” (p. 13)

I feel like a spouse would be the first to know that I’m creating a “spell”. Has Moira never crafted (is that the right verb?) a spell in their home at all? But why would she be stashing all her utensils here then? I’m confused.

The narrative also consists of too much telling and this is a repeat problem with Gibson’s novels. It’s such a turnoff and it ruins all the magic. Instead of telling me what the characters are doing, please show me their emotions.

“[Moira] and Rhys had gotten married in the throes of their honeymoon period, and as a result, they didn’t have a wealth of experience navigating conflict together.” (p. 17)

“Still, it was impossible not to notice that she and Rhys were slowly but surely drifting apart, as slowly and surely as her house was becoming utterly inhospitable.” (p. 26)

This paragraph would have made great dialogue. However, we get characters who act and talk like people on their first date.

On the plus side, I think the characters have real personalities, but they are being burdened by hasty writing. Gibson tries to cram too much into too little space. Am I going to try another one of her books? I really don’t know.

Rhys and Moira haven't been married long, but they are starting to worry maybe they rushed in and don't know each other as well as they think they do

However, when a malevolent spirit takes root in their home, can the blend themselves (and their different magical practices) together to get rid of what is causing them harm.....

I have already read Evocation and I understand that chronologically this Novella can be read first. But I am actually really glad I read it before as it got me to knowing Rhys, and especially Moira, more. I love them even more as a couple and actually want to reread Evocation again with this insight into their early years

Thanks to NetGalley and Angry Robot for the review copy, all opinions my own. Out 08 October

I really enjoyed this short story which serves as the perfect introduction to the The Summoner's Circle series by S.T. Gibson.
The first book in the series is Evocation and, in Odd Spirits, we meet Rhys and Moira many years before the setting of the events of Evocation. Odd Spirits also provides the reader with some background understanding of the relationship between the characters in the series.
On its own, Odd Spirits is an enjoyable short story, which entertains the reader as different styles of magic collide and a relationship is on the rocks.

Odd Spirits is the prequel novella to S.T. Gibson's book "Evocation". I really enjoyed this novella and getting to know more about Rhys, Moira, and David. It was so interesting to learn more about the magic practices of a sorcerer vs witch and how that played a role in Rhys and Moira's new marriage. I flew through this book and finished it in one sitting!

In addition to the elegant writing, I really enjoyed the colored illustrations throughout the ebook. I love seeing art of book characters as it helps me visualize them as I read the story. Overall, I highly recommend Odd Spirits and the following book, Evocation!

Odd Spirits comes out on October 8th, 2024.

Thank you Angry Robot Books and NetGalley for access to this ARC!

It’s official—I will read anything S.T. Gibson writes. The way the words flow and leap off the page is truly magical. The vivid detail and beautifully crafted descriptions make every sentence a delight. I find myself savoring each word and craving more of the story.

I love the length of these books; they are expertly crafted so that they feel just right, never too short, never too long. It’s impressive how S.T. Gibson captures an entire narrative in such a concise format while still forging deep connections between readers and characters. I felt an immediate connection with Moira and Rhys, as if I’ve known them forever, despite having just meeting them.

Truthfully, I didn’t realize this was a prequel novella (oops), but I’m so glad I picked it up because now I can dive into Evocation and enjoy it even more. The moment I saw it was by Gibson, I knew I had to read it. S.T. Gibson has definitely earned a spot on my auto-buy list!

Thanks to Netgalley for the arc!

This was great! I loved some of the backstory for Moira and Rhys. This was very enjoyable and a fun read! Definitely recommend if you read Evocation!

In Odd Spirits, we get to see Moira and Rhys in the early days of their marriage just after their honeymoon period has seemed to lapse and watch as they learn how to communicate with each other and grow together. Despite the brevity of the book, Moria and Rhys feel like complete characters and we see them develop in real time as they deal with their own insecurities and the isolation they feel when they stop talking to each other.

I truly enjoyed getting a more in depth look at these characters and revisiting the world S.T. Gibson expanded upon in Evocation. Rhys and Moria's relationship in that book is much more mature and seeing how their marriage began helped explain why they were so secure in Evocation.

I would absolutely recommend this book and think it would work equally well read either before or after Evocation, especially if you want some more time with Rhys and Moira. A wonderful bonus was the beautiful illustrations in this new version. Thank you very much to Angry Robot Books and NetGalley for the advanced copy.

Odd Spirits by S.T. Gibson is a prequel to Evocation. It was originally published independently several years ago and has now been revised and is being published by Angry Robot.

The story focuses on Rhys and Moira and is set a few years before the events of Evocation. Rhys and Moira are newlyweds when odd things start happening around their house. The paranormal events strain their new and untested relationship and the two must work to figure out what kind of spirit is haunting their home.

The story deals with their early relationship problems and how the two learned to work through their issues together. We have flashbacks to even earlier in their relationship and learn the best parts of their relationship but also the uncertainties. I really enjoyed this more in-depth view at their dynamic.

My favorite part of Odd Spirits was getting to know Rhys a little better. I loved Moira and David in Evocation but didn't feel like I got to know Rhys enough to care about him as much as the other two main characters. This novella really helped me understand and appreciate him more. It also focuses a little more on his work as a Sorcerer and I really enjoyed that.

Moira is delightful, as always. She was a highlight in Evocation and I found her to be just as enjoyable in this story. David, unfortunately, isn't a big part of this novella but he does make one very memorable appearance.

Odd Spirits is a quick read and should be really enjoyable for those of us who loved Evocation. It further fleshes out Rhys as a character which now has me even more excited for Ascension (which will be released next Summer)!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5

“Rhys’s eyes were bright as polished tourmaline. Black tourmaline kept evil away, Moira remembered absently, and she wondered if that had anything to do with how safe she felt around him.”

I am still buzzing about being accepted as an ARC reader for this novella! As always, S.T. Gibson’s prose feels effortlessly beautiful. Only knowing the blurb for Evocation, the full length novel which follows the events of this book, I feel like it’s set the stage perfectly for what is about to unfold for Moira and Rhys (and David 👀).

This book made me far more emotional than I’d expected (though I don’t know why I’d expect anything less) but in the best way. I’m a huge fan of how all of the different magical practices came together here, especially in how that plays out in the resolution. I can’t wait to move on to Evocation and see where the story takes me 🥰

“I worry that there’s this ache inside of me for sensation and for love and for adventure that’s too big for any one person to satisfy.”

Spice level🌶️/4
⭐⭐⭐⭐.5 rounded up
Odd Spirits is a novela prequel to Evocation (⭐⭐⭐⭐.5). This work introduces Rhys, Moira, and David. Set several months before the events of Evocation, Rhys and Moira are recently married and settling into their Jamaica Plain home. Both practice magic, though different types and in different circles (Rhys is part of a society of exclusively make practitioners and Moira takes a more modern approach with tarot, astrology, and natal charts). Throw in Rhys' psychic ex and something brewing in their home; things should be fine, right?

I know this was originally independently published first, but I was glad I read Evocation first and was invested in these characters. This novela gives Rhys and Moira's relationship a bit more context. It's a quick and enjoyable read, but it's also tackling topics like marital strain and communication. I'm happy for this edition and excited to read what comes next in this series.

Thank you to Angry Robot Books for an ARC on NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. This book is due to be published 10/8/24. I'll be posting to Instagram shortly before publication.