Musing Mystical

✨ A Gathering Place for Magical Readers and Writers ✨

Author Archives: Alanna Kali

About Alanna Kali

Alanna Kali is an astrologer, numerologist, and pioneer spirit that loves to explore life through the lens of depth psychology. She has a passion for studying the humanities and social trends. Her academic work is centered upon reuniting body, mind, and spirit through eco-psychology. She loves reading, spending time in nature, and travel.

Celtic Hedge Witchery, by Joey Morris

Celtic Hedge Witchery―A Modern Approach, by Joey Morris
Weiser Books, 1578638674, 224 pages, March 2025

Celtic Hedge Witchery by Joey Morris is a compelling exploration of hedge witchcraft through the lens of Celtic tradition. Whether or not readers have a European background, Morris invites all to explore this type of witchcraft, noting “The path of the modern witch is personal and diverse, for there are many ways to walk the crooked path…”1 Her inclusive introduction made me excited to dive in even though I had limited prior knowledge and no ancestral connection; the reassurance that the pull to learn more was all that’s needed gave me the encourage to explore this pathway.

Within this book, Morris, who is known for her deep connection to nature and the spiritual realm, offers readers an insightful guide into a practice that is both enchantingly modern and rooted in historical tradition. She begins the book with a comprehensive explanation of her perspective of Celtic hedge witchery, taking the time to define Celtic, liminal space, sacred, intuition, and the soul within the context of the book and the wisdom she’s imparting. She also covers the Hermetic Principles that inform Celtic traditions, which I previously did not know were incorporated into this path.

Another aspect of Celtic hedge witchcraft that Morris takes the time to explain for readers is the spiritual ecosystem. She personally defines this as “energetic roots or threads that glow with a kind of spirit version of bioluminescence, viewable only with our “other eyes” (or our psychic senses) in the meditative process of journey work.”2 I just love this vivid imagery that Morris paints with her words!

In discussion of this spiritual ecosystem, Morris discusses the symbolism of hedgerows in both a physical and spiritual dimension. This was the first time I ever really understood the origins of the “hedge witch”, a term that is often used while lacking a broader context of meaning. Not familiar with hedgerows, I started Googling them and reflecting on Morris’s description, which turned out to be quite meditative. Morris really explains for readers what it means to be a hedge witch and practice Celtic witchcraft, honing in on the deep connection to spirit, specifically the Celtic Otherworld.

This is where the book really begins to delve into Celtic mythology. Drawing on the stories and symbols that have been passed down through the centuries, Morris provides a rich tapestry of concepts that are integral to the Celtic hedge witchcraft tradition. Topics covered are the cosmology of the three Celtic realms, three cauldrons (energy points), sacred groves, relationship of hedge witches to the Morrigan, and the myriad of spirits hedge witches work with with a focus on tree, plant and animal spirits.

A real treat in this book is the time Morris devotes to Ogham, the Druid tree alphabet. She writes:

“Each Ogham creates a magical and spiritual nexus with the tree to which it belongs; the inscribing and meditative exploration of its runic form is akin to activating an ethereal relationship with the essence of the All tree. The constant association of the energy of each tree with the Ogham symbol that belongs to it over centuries of magical practice creates a bond between them. They create energetic links to our subconscious, much akin to the brain firing neurons and creating new pathways, so that we instinctively tap into an energy source that is both independent of human creation and formulated by it at the same time.”3

Morris shares the meaning of each Ogham for hedge witches, as well as giving an overview of the trees represented in the Ogham. For each tree, she gives insight into their spiritual attributes and significance and shares a rite appropriate for each one. In true inclusivity, Morris also dedicates time to teaching readers about non-Ogham trees and plants too that are significant in Celtic hedge witchcraft, offering a wide range of spirit connections to explore. There’s also a wonderful pathworking included for connecting to the All tree to attune oneself before delving into the specific trees or plants.

I discovered a real focus on connection in Celtic hedge witchery, as Morris encourages readers to build their own networks and to engage with the spiritual energies around them. For those who feel ready and or called, she shares how to work with human spirits, specifically ancestors for shadow healing. There’s also sections on working with animal spirits and guidance on shapeshifting for travel between realms. I appreciated the level of detail Morris provides to ensure readers feel prepared and are protected when doing this type of journey work.

As someone who considers themselves an eclectic witch, I gained so much magical insight from Morris.  The thing I loved most about this book was how it inspired a deep reverence and reconnection to nature for me. I’ve been really focused on honing my magic through technology, as I am building a business website and expanding my marketing. However, this book absolutely recentered me back into the core of my beliefs centered on connection to the spiritual world and nature. In many ways, it restored my spiritual alignment, prompting me to spend more time outside and re-engage with my senses, attuning to the wide web of energy surrounding me. This is one quote that really stood out for me:

“As witches, we have to do away with separating the world of magic into black and white, which only reinforces the shadow within humanity that seeks to be dominant over others. If we are here to do the work that our soul calls us to do, we cannot hope to practice magic that gives breath to that work without the balance of all things, considering the heart and mind of both ourselves and all spirits that exist outside of the self.”4

One of the most thrilling parts of this book for me personally was recurring insight Morris provides into the concept of Awen, which is akin to creative and divine power. In 2024, a seer told me that I needed to study the concept of Awen as part of my spiritual journey, but up until reading this book, I had struggled to truly find material that fully explained the concept. The way Morris brings to life Celtic concepts through storytelling and insight into the Celtic worldview overall, such as Awen, provides so much wisdom–it’s astounding what I’ve integrated from her writing! This book is extremely holistic, mirroring the interconnected central Celtic hedge witchery itself!

Overall, Celtic Hedge Witchery is a beautiful and insightful guide that successfully bridges the gap between historical tradition and modern practice of Celtic witchcraft. I highly recommend this book for those seeking integration with the natural world around them, both physically and spiritually. Likewise, readers with an interest in Celtic mythology, folklore, and magic will also enjoy the topics covered. Morris’s emphasis on balance is a wonderful reminder for all readers to find a path that is sustainable and incorporates the counsel of spirits and nonhuman allies, such as deities, plants, and animals. This is truly a beautiful, soulful read.

Even if Celtic witchcraft is not your main path, there’s so much to integrate from exploring it, as the information gathered provides a more well-rounded perspective of your own craft. Morris’s ability to weave together practical advice with rich storytelling opens readers to this path in a way that is genuine, informative, and welcoming.

Kitchen Witch Oracle, by Jena Dellagrottaglia

Kitchen Witch Oracle: Spells, Incantations, and Natural Remedies, by Jena Dellagrottaglia
Rockpool Publishing, 1922786233, 112 pages, April 2025

Feeling like you need a shift energy, but can’t put your finger on what to do about it? Kitchen Witch Oracle by Jena Dellagrottaglia is an engaging oracle deck that merges the mystical energy work with the practical world of kitchen alchemy. Each card offers a variety of readers spells, incantations, and natural remedies readers can easily perform using everyday ingredients to shift their energy and call in their intentions, like a true sorceress in the kitchen.

In the introduction to this deck, Dellagrottaglia offers a heartfelt tribute to her late grandmother, or Nona as she says in Italian, who taught her the ways of being a cucina strega (kitchen witch). I found it quite touching that she created this deck with such love, choosing to share her family’s special wisdom with readers. Her thoughtful intention for this deck shines throughout each card, creating an ancestral connection when working with it.

The cards in the deck are divided into four categories of intention: focus, balance, manifestation, and protection. This makes it so readers can use the deck in a variety of ways. If one knows the type of intention they are seeking, they can pull from the specific category. Or, as always, one can pull a card randomly from the entire deck to see what they get to either perform the working on the card or let the card’s intention guide their day. Dellagrottaglia has also indicated specific seasons that are the best time for the working on many of the cards, so readers can look through and find a working that aligns with the current seasonal energy.

As for the cards, Dellagrottaglia describes them as pulsing “with the energies of herbs, spices, and oil, which serve as keys to unlock the secrets of natural magic.”1 There’s all types of scenery depicted on them, most portraying witchy women, but some feature still-life scenes or animals. There’s lots of visual clues to stimulate one’s intuition that speaks through the imagery. Mixtures of kitchen items, cauldrons, magical symbols, and elemental settings invoke powerful feelings when gazing at the cards. Past and present merge, blending the infinite timeline of women practicing kitchen witchcraft, giving readers a connection to a long-standing lineage of wise witches.

One each card there is an incantation at the bottom, and one can go to the guidebook for more insight in the cards’ meanings. In the guidebook, Dellagrottaglia shares a bit of background about the card, providing context about the potion or spell, shares a list of ingredients needed, and then gives detailed instructions. Unlike other oracle decks, there is no specific message of guidance. Surely, one can make use of the incantation for the card for divination purposes, but the deck is definitely more geared towards action. I mean, isn’t that the whole way of the kitchen witch? Crafting and blending her will to put out into the world…

And if kitchen witchcraft is something new for you, then this deck is perfect because throughout the deck, Dellagrottaglia shares plenty of practical tips and insights so one feels at ease doing this type of magic. There’s short sections in the guidebook on preparing one’s kitchen, the importance of intent, stocking ingredients (which also include a long list of ingredients and the intent they enhance), and magical tools. This information not only enriches the reader’s understanding of how to incorporate witchcraft into daily life, but also provides a wonderful overview to make them feel confident in their practice.

Granted, as well prepared as you might think you are with ingredients, you might find yourself in the same situation as me, frantically dialing my partner to make sure I reached him while he was still at the grocery store so I could tell him to pick up a few lemons and some rosemary. After a day of feeling very out of sorts, I pulled the card Citrus Rosemary Cleanse, which Dellagrottaglia is “a simple old midwives’ practice to cleanse your aura, boost your positivity, and help you get out of a rut.”5

The instructions explained to cut the lemon in half, add the rosemary sprig to the center of the lemon, and then sprinkle the lemon with sea salt. Then I took the lemon and moved it around my body as I imagined “the negativity drawing out into the center of the lemon like smoke furling away from you,”6 just like Dellagrottaglia describes.

Believe it or not, I’ve now drawn this card twice, so I’m glad I stocked up on the lemons!

Another card I enjoyed was Focus and Alert Simmer Pot. Once again, this spell called for a lemon, along with an orange, sage, eucalyptus oil (optional), and water. Dellagrottaglia explains how to stir the ingredients together in a simmer pot, infusing the intention as you do so, and then once cooled, transferring the brew into a glass jar or spray bottle. Then you can spray or drizzle the brew outside your windows to welcome in focused energy.

And there’s so many other cards I am excited to work with in this deck! Dellagrottaglia shares kitchen witch recipes for such a wonderful variety of things: reclaiming your power, removing back luck, money manifestation, attracting love, finding a new job or getting a raise, peaceful and soulful alignment, relieving stress, lucid dreaming, and more.

The card I am looking forward to working with soon is Limoncello Blessings, which Dellagrottaglia describes as “a lovely concoction for creating close family and community ties.”7 I think it would be fun to make and share with my community during the Summer Solstice.

Overall, Kitchen Witch Oracle is a delightful and inspiring oracle for anyone interested in the alchemy that can be done with common kitchen ingredients. Its practical approach and beautiful presentation make it a valuable addition to the library of both aspiring and seasoned kitchen witches. Whether you’re looking to enhance your culinary creations with a touch of magic or seeking natural ways to bring your intention outward, this book offers a treasure trove of wisdom and inspiration from Dellagrottaglia’s personal family recipes and her own experience as a magical kitchen witch.

Micro Meditation, by Nicci Roscoe

Micro Meditation: Moments of Calm for a Happier, Healthier Life, by Nicci Roscoe
CICO Books, 180065409X, 144 pages, March 2025

Sometimes all it takes is just a few minutes to shift our energy and attention. However, when we get caught up in the busyness of our daily schedule, we often forget to cultivate these moments of calming mindfulness. Cue Micro Meditation: Moments of Calm for a Happier, Healthier Life by Nicci Roscoe, a grounding book that offers easy to do mini-meditations for all types of situations we might find ourselves in throughout the day.

“Unlike longer, traditional meditations, micro meditations break your cycle of stress in a moment, without having to spend up to an hour every time you meditate. They give you an immediate focus, taking your attention away from what is frustrating or upsetting you, and helping you feel so much better in less than two minutes—some only take a few magical seconds.”6

Nicci Roscoe, a wellness expert and life coach, introduces the concept of “micro meditation” — brief, focused moments of mindfulness that can be seamlessly incorporated into daily routines. Her approach is both refreshing and accessible, especially for those who don’t have much time to spare during the day. She offers numerous practical exercises that can be done almost anywhere, such as during a commute or while doing laundry, making meditation less daunting and teaching readers that meditation can take many forms.

The book is structured into four chapters, each focusing on different types of micro meditations: overcoming stress and challenging emotions, changing your mindset, finding your calm, and working with crystals and chakras. And while there’s ton of exercises for readers to try within each chapter, Roscoe also includes lovely introductions to the topics, real life stories of those who have benefited from micro meditations, lists that help you identify when you are in need of a micro meditation, and plenty of tips for cultivating a healthier lifestyle.

Just flipping through the book is a calming experience, especially since it’s so vividly designed with popping colors and pictures that keep your eyes glued to the page in full absorption. Illustrator Camila Gray has done a truly marvelous job framing Roscoe’s insights in pictorial form and making the reader feel extra connected to the words on the page. From demonstrating facial massages to creating colorful charts, the content is structured to be easily absorbed. The illustrations are so uplifting and absolutely magnificent at transmitting the empowering, positive tone of this book.

What I really love about Roscoe’s approach is how she incorporates the senses. As someone who could never just sit on a cushion and clear my mind to meditate, her approach is much more accessible and pleasant to engage in. Splashing cold water on one’s face, mindfully eating a few spoonfuls of ice cream, being outside in nature, smelling a flower, playing either soothing or pump up music (depending on our mood), and doing a little hand massage are all methods Roscoe recommends for bringing our attention to the present moment and reframing our mindset.

Crystal lovers will definitely enjoy chapter four, “Crystal Magic and Chakras for Mini Meditation”. Roscoe teaches how a variety of crystals can be used for different purposes, boosting one’s meditative practice with their energy. From the revitalizing energy of garnet to the nurturing energy of rose quartz, Roscoe teaches that spending a few moments connecting with crystals is a meditative practice within itself. After reading this section, I decided to put some rainbow fluorite on my desk for focus along with carnelian for creativity. Whether I’m gazing at the crystals or holding them in my hand, I notice the boost of energy they bring to my work space.

There’s also plenty of micro meditations that can be done on the spot without any additional props. I’ve really benefited from the micro meditation Boxing Your Thoughts, where Roscoe instructs you to put your worries in separate boxes and close the lid until you’re in a better space to think about them. This has helped me to focus on one issue at a time rather than feeling overwhelmed by racing thoughts and anxiety.

Another exercise from the book I’ve enjoyed is Anchor Away Your Frustrations, where Roscoe guides readers to think of a time they felt happy, calm, and peaceful. With this memory in mind, you then take calming breaths and squeeze together your thumb and forefinger and imagine the picture in your mind growing bigger, along with the positive emotions amplifying. This process anchors the feeling in the bodily sensation of pushing your thumb and forefinger together, which you can then do whenever you start to feel overwhelmed, stressed, or upset. This one has been useful for when I’m dealing with my two-year-old son, who is doing a lot of learning by pushing boundaries these days!

Overall, Micro Meditation is a fun, engaging read for anyone looking to incorporate mindfulness into their life without extensive time commitment. Roscoe’s compassionate and knowledgeable approach makes meditation accessible to all. She teaches so many small ways we can take control of our moods by turning inward, if only for a few moments, leading to a happier and healthier way of life. I absolutely love all the suggestions Roscoe has provided, and I know that I’ll often be flipping through this book to remind myself of simple ways I can bring more mindfulness into my daily life.

A Tea Witch’s Crystal Brews, by S.M. Harlow

A Tea Witch’s Crystal Brews: Empowering the Magick of Tea with Crystal Grids, by S.M. Harlow
Weiser Books, 1578638712, 280 pages, April 2025

A Tea Witch’s Crystal Brews: Empowering the Magick of Tea with Crystal Grids by S.M. Harlow invites readers to explore a unique fusion of herbal magic and crystal energy. Harlow, who is also the author of A Tea Witch’s Grimoire, brings a new twist to tea witchcraft, offering an intriguing guide that blends these two traditions into a unique way. This book explores how the ancient practices of tea brewing and crystal grid creation can be combined to enhance spiritual and magical practices for a wide variety of purposes.

“The transformative power of combining tea magick and crystal grids is a revelation that transcends the boundaries of conventional spiritual practices. Individually, both tea magick and crystal grids still hold profound potential for transformation, yet when united, their synergy becomes an extraordinary force for change and manifestation.”8

Harlow begins by explaining the fundamentals of tea craft, which involves the intentional and mindful brewing of tea to harness its natural energies. She notes, “The world of tea holds many diverse varieties, each with its own unique flavors, aromas, and most especially energetic magickal properties.”9 Covering the most popular teas (white, green, oolong, black, and pur-eh), she provides an overview of the energy of each along with suggestions for brewing temperature and portion size.

She then discusses the variety of herbal infusions that can add energetic properties to the tea. A full list of correspondences is provided in the appendices, guiding readers in selecting the appropriate herbs for the work they intend to do. Harlow additional provides input on how to select one’s tea and techniques for ritual preparation and meditation. Her introduction to tea witchcraft is the perfect amount of information for all levels to feel grounded and comfortable performing this work.

Next, Harlow turns her focus to crystal magic. Noting the metaphysical abilities of crystals—amplifying energy, healing, channeling intention, and more—she shares the color correspondences for readers to consider when selecting the crystals to include in their work. Just like the tea, there’s a list of specific crystal properties in the appendices for further guidance. Additionally, the basics of working with crystals is covered, including how to cleanse, charge, and program them.

Once readers have the basics of crystal magic under their belt, Harlow introduces the many grids that can be used. She discusses how sacred geometry “unveils a profound and harmonious interplay between the natural patterns of the universe and the energetic properties of the crystals.”10 Some of the grid shapes covered are a circle, lemniscate, merkaba, pentagram, sun burst, and triquetra, to name a few. In total, there’s seven grid shapes described, along with a sketch of the shape for visualization.

And now the magic of the book really begins: readers learn how to combine crystal grids and tea magic. Harlow teaches how to match tea with the aligned crystals for one’s intention, encouraging readers to explore different pairings and trust their intuition in the process. While she offers tons of guidance, there’s also plenty of room for readers to explore their creativity and trust their instincts within the craft. You could really spend months, if not years, studying and exploring this unique blend of magic, trying out various combinations!

One thing worth noting is how integrating two types of magic workings does include a bit more preparation. Luckily, Harlow offers clear, easy-to-follow instructions for creating intentional tea blends, preparing for the crystal tea ritual, designing and activating the grid, and performing the ritual. While it might seem like a lot of steps at first, Harlow describes how crystal tea magic can become easily incorporated into one’s daily practice.

For those who prefer to work from a prescribed recipe (me!), Harlow has two chapters with recipes she’s created for a multitude of intentions. The chapter “A Crystal Tea Witch’s Magickal Remedies” lists the grid type, ingredients and tools, and how-to prepare for a variety of purposes: divination, aura repair, happiness, binding, mental clarity, prosperity, and many more! She describes how to activate the grid, what to concentrate on when sipping your tea, and even the best time to create the grid (i.e. moon phase, day of the week, season).

“Advanced Grids: Lunar, Estate, and Elemental Ceremonies” which has a bit more complex grids and layers more crystals and herbs, while also including oils and candles in the ritual ceremony. The ritual draw down more energy, which is anchored by salt in the rituals, and thus require a bit more preparation. These are bigger workings that would be done at transformative times rather than a daily practice. In addition to the guidance Harlow provided for the magical remedies, for these rituals, she also includes how to set the space. 

As much as I love learning the foundation of how to do this work on my own, I’ll admit I absolutely love Harlow’s recipes, and for the time being, I will be following them to get a hang of this work! Today is actually Ostara, so I am tempted to do a crystal tea ceremony for it, but since I am just getting started, I am leaning towards gathering the supplies for one of the more simple rituals.

I have noticed that this work involves purchasing a few more supplies than I had on hand. While I have one or two pieces of a certain crystal, for most of the grids, I haven’t had enough crystals to fully make them yet. Many readers might also need to purchase specific herbs or types of tea to get started. This work is an investment, but I can tell there’d be a lot of rewards to reap. There’s something so alchemical about brewing the tea and preparing the grid, I’m looking forward to seeing my results!

And there’s even more you can do with the supplies, such as creating crystal elixirs and tea blends for health, each of which Harlow dedicates a chapter to towards the end of the book. I really like all the recipes for the crystal elixirs which are made by combining crystals and herbs in a jar and charging before you drink them. Meanwhile, the section on herbal health remedies is a wonderful natural way to nurture oneself.

It’s also worth noting this book is a nice size (about 5 x 7 inches) with plenty of colorful images and diagrams throughout. Readers will appreciate the organization of the text, as it’s very easy to read and keep track of information as you move along. The spine is study, but flexible, letting readers really open the book to full width and see both pages at one. There’s even a vivid blue fabric bookmark to keep track of your place!

Overall, Harlow has done a wonderful job presenting the innovative approach to combining tea and crystal magic in A Tea Witch’s Crystal Brews. Her detailed guidance on how to align the properties of teas with specific crystals to create synergistic effects opens so many possibilities for workings that can be done. There’s just something about the synergy that makes this work extra potent!

I love how this craft brings in all the elements: the earth of the crystals, fire of the brewing, water of the tea, and air of the steam. And I highly recommend this book for those looking for creative ways to work with tea, crystals, or simply embrace a new system of magic. Whether you want to learn the art of crafting your own brews or want to work from Harlow’s recipes, there’s many ways to bring your manifestations to reality with this combination of tea and crystal magic.

Pagan Portals: Hestia, by Irisanya Moon

Pagan Portals: Hestia: Goddess of Hearth, Home & Community, by Irisanya Moon
Moon Books, 1803415894, 120 pages, April 2025

Pagan Portals: Hestia: Goddess of Hearth, Home & Community by Irisanya Moon is an exploration of the often overlooked Greek goddess, Hestia. Known as the deity of the hearth, home, and communal harmony, Hestia’s influence is both subtle and profound. Moon’s book seeks to illuminate Hestia’s role in Ancient Greece and integrate Her into modern pagan spirituality for those seeking to connect with her. The book is part of the Pagan Portals series, which aims to provide accessible introductions to various pagan deities and practices.

Moon begins this book by delving into Hestia’s mythology, exploring her characteristics and the role she played in Greek culture. Unlike other deities, Hestia is not often depicted in grandiose myths but is revered for her quiet strength and the stability she brings to both domestic and communal spheres; she has no temples dedicated to her and it’s believed she didn’t taken human form the way the other gods and goddesses did. In the little bits of recorded history about Hestia, it appears she avoided the drama and power-grabs of her Olympian brothers and sisters, preferring to stay out of the squabbles. In return, Zeus granted her wish to remain an eternal virgin. 

Despite her lack of public worship spots, Hestia remains present in the most important part of the household: the hearth. Moon writes:

“The heart was designated as a palace for practical and spiritual connection. This was a place where people would gather to celebrate, but also to tend to the complexities of community. A hearth was the heart, and a place where things could be broken and fixed. Again and again. To me, this is the holiness of Hestia, the magick and the mystery of fire.”9

While modern homes are no longer usually centered around the hearth, this doesn’t mean we can’t still invite Hestia into our home and lives. Moon shares plenty of ways to connect with Hestia from embracing her spirit of community to creating one’s own hearth, whether on an altar space or within their heart. There’s a whole chapter dedicated to ways one can worship her, as well as one on her symbols and ideas for offerings.

One thing Moon emphasizes in this book that I found really interesting is how creating sacred space and fostering community is part of the worship of Hestia, or at least something she can assist you with once you form a relationship. Most books I’ve read on deities focus on establishing an individual relationship with them. Yet in this book, Moon offers suggestions for nurturing community such as agreeing on community values, group practices and rituals that can be done together, and navigating conflict and transitions

I really feel like Moon’s background in the Reclaiming tradition shines through when she discusses these things! In all my personal exploration, Reclaiming seems to give the most attention to tending community and fostering sustainable group relations. It’s evident from the way Moon writes that plenty of thought and reflection have been put into the concept of group worship, which I found so unique and necessary in the modern times where individualism is eroding the sacred bonds of community.

Moon also integrates her Reclaiming background into the practices she offers for readers to try. For instance, to create an initiation connection with Hestia, Moon invites readers to do a trance meditation journey to meet her. Later in the book, Moon shares a group trance to travel to the hearth of community. Other practices to connect with Hestia include cleaning, cooking, acts of service, and volunteering, all of which Moon offers specific suggestions for doing. Unlike more demanding deities, it seems simpler to incorporate Hestia’s essence into daily life.

The final chapter before the conclusion titled “Cultivating a Modern Relationship with Hestia” is where Moon really ties everything together, offering readers details about how to create their own relationship with Hestia. From initially making contact with her to building a relationship where expectations are clear, Moon teaches how to include Hestia in one’s day to day life with worship practices, hearth rituals, and gratitude workings. She even covers what to do if you are currently working with other deities. There’s a dedication ritual included too for those ready to take that next step.

Throughout the book, Moon balances academic sources with personal insights, making the content both informative and relatable. The beginning of the book really focuses on defining Hestia through historical sources, while the latter part of the book is more of Moon’s guidance on working with Hestia. Both are interesting, but I personally love Moon’s insights the most!

Overall, Pagan Portals: Hestia Is a thoughtful and enlightening exploration of a goddess who embodies stability and domestic peace. This book is ideal for those new to Hestia or seeking to deepen their understanding of Her influence. By highlighting Hestia’s role in fostering community, Moon underscores a timeless and universal need for connection and unity. This is a great read for anyone interested in connecting with Hestia as part of their spiritual practice to invite her dedicated values of home and community into their lives.

Healing Plants of Renaissance Florence, by Angela Paine

Healing Plants of Renaissance Florence: The Development of Herbal Medicine in Florence, by Angela Paine
Moon Books, 1803413115, 296 pages, January 2025

Healing Plants of Renaissance Florence: The Development of Herbal Medicine in Florence by Angela Paine offers a fascinating exploration into the world of botany during the Renaissance period in Florence. Paine’s work is an intricate blend of history, science, and herbalism, which provides readers with both an educational and captivating journey into the past. Whether you’re a lover of ancient history or herbalism, this book is packed with fascinating details about plant medicine during one of Italy’s most interesting times.

In “Part 1: Introduction”, Paine introduces readers to this topic by events that spurred her own interest in healing plants of Renaissance Florence: her time working at the National Library restoring ancient books, the exhibit The Botany of Leonardo da Vinci, and discovering the Medici family grew medicinal plants in gardens to make their own medicine.

From here, Paine sets the scene for readers with a vivid depiction of Florence during the Renaissance. She shares overviews of the members of the Medici family lineage that promoted medicinal herbs: Giovanni di Bucci, Cosimo the Elder, Lorenzo the Magnificent, Cosimo I de’ Medici, Francesco de’ Medici, and Ferdinando de’ Medici. It was absolutely fascinating to learn about Cosimo I de’ Medici’s interest in alchemy, which consumed his son Francesco de’ Medici much to the city’s dismay. I also loved how Paine shares the socio-cultural events during the lives of these Medici family members, including the plague beginning in 1478 and banking developments like the double entry system.

“This was a time when the whole world was changing, due to numerous voyages of exploration. Medicinal, food and decorative plants were being transported across the world and transplanted into countries where they had never grown before. The Medici were as excited as everyone else by the new plants, and they had the means to acquire them and grow them in their botanic gardens.”11

In “Part 2: Healing Plants of the Renaissance” Paine details the plants most used during this time based on the research of Cristina Bellorini. Bellorini authored Speziale al Giglio, which is “a detailed study of the account books of the apothecary shops.”12 Drawing from Bellorini’s writing, Paine covers the twenty-two most commonly used healing plants during this time, which include Aloe, Dill, Ivy, Lemon, Mustard, Rose, Sage, and more.

For each plant, Paine provides an introduction and sketch, botanical description, list of healing properties, chemistry of the plant, modern research about the plant’s use, how to use the plant, and contraindications (when not to use the plant). Some plant entries also include guidance on dosage. Herbalists will absolutely love this section, likewise those interested in learning more about how to incorporate plants into their healing work will benefit from the information on the medicinal properties. I found it very cool to think about the connection between myself and those in Renaissance Florence using these plants for the same purposes!

“Part 3: Exotic Healing Plants Used in Renaissance Florence” covers the imported plants Cosimo I was able to cultivate in his garden and use for healing purposes. Paine gives these plants the same thorough description as the common plants. Some of the plants covered in this section are Cinnamon, Dragon’s Blood Tree, Liquorice, and Nutmeg.

Finally, Paine concludes with “Part 4: Poisonous Plants in Renaissance Florence”. While she doesn’t provide full-detailed descriptions of the plants, she shares about the widespread use of poison during this time, detailing how the Medici were especially aware of dangers and took  measures to protect themselves. From soldiers coating their knives with poison to a few drops being put in a wine glass, the uses of poisons were extensive and Paine gives a great overview of the common poisons present at this time. Nevertheless, these plants were also used for medical purposes, albeit not without their risks.

Overall, Healing Plants of Renaissance Florence is a well-researched book that will appeal to history enthusiasts, herbalists, and anyone interested in the intersection of medicine, alchemy, and botany. Paine successfully brings to life the rich tapestry of Renaissance botanical practices, offering readers a unique glimpse into a world where the properties of plants were just being discovered for use in rapidly changing times. Her coverage of the influence of the Medici family in cultivating plant medicine and recording the process through their writings is a captivating piece of history, one I had never before known about. For those interested in further research, Paine has included a thorough reference list that is sure to lead readers to other insightful discoveries of Renaissance plants.

I Am Queen Oracle, by Outi Harma

I Am Queen Oracle, by Outi Harma
Rockpool Publishing, 1922786756, 128 pages, April 2025

I Am Queen Oracle by Outi Harma is a deck for the exploration of self and personal empowerment. As a creator known for her vibrant and symbolic artwork, Harma combines her visual art with meaningful guidance to help readers see it’s for the best to love and appreciate all parts of who they are, even when they seem undesirable or messy. Her artistic vision reminds readers that they have many sides to themselves, all of which are queens in their own right, worthy of honor and respect.

“We queens are like a deliciously layered cake with various characters, flavors, and textures. Whether it’s the queen of alchemy, love, or creativity, every archetype holds wisdom and power. This deck acts as a mirror, reflecting the queens already present within you.”1

Each oracle card depicts a different queen, all of which are unique and admirable in their own right. There’s Queen of trying to Keep it Together and Queen of Pure Essence, Queen of Sensuality and Queen of Masked Emotions. What I love about these creative queens is that they’re a realistic reflection of the many ways people often feel during both high and low moments. While not specifically focused on shadow, Harma definitely has designed her queens to acknowledge a full spectrum of womanhood.

Harma’s vivid illustrations really pop in this deck, each one rich with color and symbolism. There’s an abstract, surreal feeling to the cards, which I feel intuitively taps readers into their creative, transcendent self. Some queens wear jewelry or masks, while others are bare in their bright tapestry of color. The intricate details and symbols, particularly in the hair, face, and shoulders of her figures, add layers of meaning to each card.

The artwork in this deck absolutely has a feeling of movement, bringing a sense of fluidity and emotional expression to each queen. Working with the imagery in this deck reminds me that life is always moving; we too can improvise, shift, and be spontaneous. Simply gazing at each powerful queen is a moving experience, inviting readers to ponder their own inner qualities and how they can better connect with them.

The guidebook is also very insightful, promoting both self-reflection and personal empowerment. The messages lead readers to recognize the queen within themselves and discover her message. For each card, Harma provides an overview of the queen, guidance on how to find her within oneself, and the gift the queen has to offer. Each entry is a good length (around 3 pages), providing plenty of inspiration through the integration of Harma’s uplifting guidance.

One thing I really like about the deck is how Harma encourages readers to make a ritual of their reading by doing something that denotes the sacredness of it, such as lighting a candle, holding a personal item, or spending time in front of an altar. As someone who tends to pull out their deck for a quick answer, I loved her suggestion because it reminds me it’s best to slow down and truly sink into a reading.

I’ve used this deck for over a week now, trying out the different spreads Harma offers and connecting with the queens that come through each day. And while I’ve really enjoyed discovering each queen within myself, the ones that have stuck out the most for me were the queens that called out pieces of myself that I wasn’t recognizing: Queen of Insecurity and Queen of Feeling Off.

There’s something about being seen when you’re not “on”, even if it was by the cards in my reading, that made me feel a huge sense of relief. I didn’t need to hide anymore; the cards laid me bare and offered meaningful insight into how these “undesirable” feelings actually hold gifts for me. Harma says of the Queen of Insecurity:

“The queen of insecurity embodies the essence of vulnerability and self-doubt. She is the part of you that feels fragile and uncertain, often questioning your worth and abilities. Despite her perceived weaknesses she processes a unique charm and depth, and feels deeply and profoundly.”2

I loved this, as I often forget that feeling deeply is something that I don’t need to be ashamed of and being able to appreciate the range of feelings that come from this quality is something I can honor rather than reject. Similarly, the Queen of Feeling Off card made me reflect on how these states of being are not permanent; I can temporarily feel out of alignment and take note when it happens because it points me to a deeper truth.

Overall, I Am Queen Oracle is a beautiful fusion of art and introspection. This deck speaks to all pieces of one’s soul while also engaging the senses and emotions through powerful artwork. This deck is for those looking to discover the many queens within themselves, allowing themselves the space to open up to gifts and messages each one has to offer.

I highly recommend this deck for those looking for daily inspiration or connection to their inner self. Harma does a wonderful job of revealing the layers of ourselves that have the potential to lead us deeper into self-care, self-love, and self-empowerment. It has a real “girl power” feeling that I just love!

Animal Spirit Oracle, by Lea Androic

Animal Spirit Oracle, by Lea Androic
Rockpool Publishing, 1922786500, 96 pages, 36 cards, April 2025

Lea Androic’s Animal Spirit Oracle is an absolutely gorgeous deck that delves into the mystical world of animal spirits. Serving as a bridge between the human and animal realms, Androic offers guidance and wisdom through the lens of nature’s beloved creatures. Readers will discover their personal animal allies and discover qualities they can draw on to overcome obstacles, find inner peace, and discover new aspects of themselves.

This deck consists of beautifully illustrated cards, which were all originally hand-painted by Androic. Her artwork is absolutely stunning, filled with soothing elements that bring the spirit of the animal right into the room with the reader. The spiritual qualities of the animals in this deck shine through Androic’s enchanting artistry, capturing the essence of each animal in a way that resonates on a deep level. There is a supremely peaceful quality to the cards, and I often find my soul quieted by simply gazing at the images.

The cards in this deck emphasize the interconnectedness of all life forms and encourage users to tap into the ancient wisdom of the animal kingdom. Some cards feature just the animal, while other cards showcase a strong, loving bond between a woman and the animal. I enjoy both depictions, as the animals alone highlight how much I cherish and respect the animal kingdom, while the images with women in them remind me I have the ability to create my own bond with animal spirits too. Androic writes in her introduction:

“This deck is not merely a collection of cards; it is a celebration of the beautiful relationship between human and animal. Through this oracle, I invite you to embark on a soulful journey, where the wisdom of animals offers profound insight into self-discovery, healing, and absolutely rebirth.”13

Animal Spirit Oracle is designed to be reader-friendly, allowing individuals to engage with the cards in a way that feels intuitive and personal. The guidebook offers clear instructions on how to conduct readings, from simple one-card pulls to more complex spreads, as well as guidance on how to recognize one’s spirit animal. Androic’s writing is heartfelt and insightful, making the spiritual messages easy to reflect on and integrate.

On each card there are a few key words, but for those seeking more guidance, the guidebook is filled with insight into the card’s meaning. For the guidebook entries, Androic gives a one-sentence divination followed by a few paragraph explanation of the animal spirit. These descriptions often include the animal spirit’s strength, what they have to teach the reader, and the spiritual symbolism of the animal. There are also three affirmations provided that readers can use to further embody the divinatory message and connect with the energy of that animal spirit.

One thing I really enjoy about this deck is the range of animals Androic has depicted and channeled messages from. The animals come from all over the world, different climates, and even different time periods. I was thrilled to pull the card Dinosaur one day, as I thought it was a creative addition to the deck. There’s even mythological creatures such as Phoenix and Dragon. Other animals in the deck include Wolf, Jaguar, Polar Bear, Flamingo, Deer, Butterfly, Whale, Rhino, Dog, and more!

The card I pulled today was Jellyfish. I was very excited to get this card because just yesterday I visited the aquarium and really enjoyed my time watching the jellyfish float around in their tank. It felt resonant, as I have been feeling rather go-with-the-flow today, and the guidebook message reminded me of the need to continue to more deeply surrender to this state. Androic writes of jellyfish:

“They also symbolize the beauty of letting go of attachments and expectations. With their simple existence, they remind us that we don’t always need to strive for more. They teach us that true acceptance lies in embracing the present moment fully, without resistance or judgment.”14

I have repeated the Jellyfish affirmation, “I release my fears and worries, knowing that I am support dand guided at all time”15, a few times today, and it immediately drew my attention back into the present moment and helped me to relax.

Overall, Animal Spirit Oracle is an absolutely lovely deck that brings readers in touch with the wisdom of the animal realm. The combination of Androic’s spectacular artwork and meaningful messages makes it a powerful tool for anyone seeking guidance from the natural world. Whether you’re new to oracle cards or an experienced reader, this deck is a lovely addition to your collection for when you’re seeking gentle yet meaningful guidance.

Cries of the Souls Oracle, by Isabelle Nerf and Daphne Sebbane

Cries of the Souls Oracle, by Isabelle Nerf and illustrated by Daphne Sebbane
Rockpool Publishing, 192278673X, 144 pages, 42 cards, March 2025

Cries of the Souls Oracle, authored by Isabelle Nerf and illustrated by Daphne Sebbane, offers readings filled with meaningful insight and emotional depth. This is a deck to discover new facets of the soul, especially those pieces that have been hurt, hidden, and are crying out for attention. Specifically designed to be a tool for readers to discover their inner power, the thoughtful insights within this deck will guide you in discovering your wounds and blocks to gently release and transform them.

“The wounds you carry inside you can block you on your path. This is a part of life, but you don’t have to live with them as pain. Even if you can’t erase your wounds, you can accept them and create a new relationship with them that will accompany you on a path towards peace and well-being.”1

It’s not always easy to delve into shadow work. Many opt for decks that offer a positive affirmation to counter the pain, but in my experience, the only way to truly offer a soothing balm to what ails our soul is by taking the time to settle in and quietly listen to what this part of us needs to say. This deck is a perfect way to communicate with our inner needs, offering the messages that it might be too difficult or troublesome for us to discover on our own. In many ways, this deck feels like a trust companion or guide who is willing to hold your hands while you venture into emotional vulnerability.

There’s something so relieving about naming the block or pain that’s been holding us back. Each time I’ve used the deck, asking what obstacle is holding me back that day or seeking insight into a certain situation, the card I’ve pulled immediately made intuitive sense and I felt a weight being lifted off my shoulders. My burden was no longer mine to carry alone; Nerf’s meaningful messages offer a fresh perspective.

For each card, within the guidebook Nerf offers a mantra, a piece of wisdom to understand the reason for the block and the role it plays in your life, supplemental guidance about how the wound can bring positivity or protect you, a warning that helps you to define your relationship with the wound to promote self-acceptance, and insight on moving forward by creating a new relationship with your wound to reclaim your power. What I found interesting about the guidebook entries is how they’re written in first-person, as though the wound is speaking directly to you.

Here’s an example of a reading that was very significant for me: I was struggling in my relationship to my grandmother. She’s over fifty years my elder and our viewpoints on what is expected of me as a woman and mother differ vastly. I have been struggling with her critical remarks about my parenting and endless barragement of disapproval in regard to my life choices. I’ve felt torn between maintaining family harmony and being true to myself.

And would you believe the card I pulled? Family Loyalty. The mantra on this card reads “I am myself.”15 In the Wisdom section of the guidebook, the wound says “I may not consider your needs, dreams and passions as having any importance, especially if they diverge from family conventions.”16 This is exactly what my wound was telling me: I was a failure, I could never succeed at what I want in life even if I tried, and that my path was one of self-indulgence.

I deeply resonated with Nerf’s writing, which highlighted how this wound really shows up when we’re doubting our path, providing an excuse to not take a risk and follow a beaten path instead. I love the ideas for moving forward, which include listing what is great about myself and my dreams, even vision boarding them as a reminder, so that I can focus my energy on these projects and diminish the energy of the wound. The one line that really stood out for me was this one:



“Assert yourself and dare to show your identity and creativity to the world, because the more you do so the more you’ll diminish my power over you and future generations. Live your own life and set aside the codes that don’t work for you.”17

This “dialogue” with the wound really made me feel more confident again. Yes, I am always going to feel the pressure of my family, but by acknowledging this wounding I can learn to stand in my own power and create a new path that feels aligned with my soul.

The cards themselves are simply beautiful. The only colors used in the deck are black, tan, and coral. The back of the cards shows two hands holding roses with an eye on each palm; there’s sketches of teardrops and stars surrounding them. The whole deck is gilded with a black edging that makes for a smooth shuffle.

As for images on the cards themselves, Sebbane has done a wonderful job choosing potent symbols to represent the energy of each card. Looking at the images invokes feeling, even in their simplicity, and I feel like one could use the images as talisman for protection. At the bottom of the card is the title and mantra, encased in a box, once again giving definition and emotional clarity to each pull. The artwork is both ethereal and grounded, drawing the reader into a world where the spiritual realm comes to life. This makes the deck visually appealing and enhances the intuitive experience by providing visual cues that resonate with the reader’s subconscious.

Overall, working with Cries of the Souls Oracle has been a moving experience. The insightful interpretations provided by Nerf, combined with Daphne Sebbane’s symbolic illustrations, create a powerful tool for self-reflection and reclaiming one’s power. This deck offers more than just answers—it provides a pathway to understanding the needs of one’s soul and encourages readers to listen to their inner voice and connect with their emotions, fostering a deeper understanding of themselves and wounds that need tending. I highly recommend this deck to readers of all skill levels. The content is accessible thanks to Nerf’s creative approach in writing the guidebook, offering insight into the depths of one’s inner landscape.

The Astrology of Nations, by John Michael Greer

The Astrology of Nations: Casting and Interpreting Charts for Nations, Politics, and Economies, by John Michael Greer
REDFeather, 0764368745, 192 pages, January 2025

Who wants to talk about politics? Just mentioning the topic these days tends to ignite passionate responses. For those interested in the discussion of events from a celestial point of view,  John Michael Greer’s The Astrology of Nations: Casting and Interpreting Charts for Nations, Politics, and Economies presents an intriguing exploration of geopolitical landscapes through the lens of mundane astrology. Known for his expertise in both the esoteric and practical realms, Greer offers a unique perspective that bridges ancient traditions with contemporary global happenings, presenting readers with the foundation required to interpret mundane astrology charts.

Mundane astrology, often referred to as political astrology, is a branch of astrology that focuses on the prediction and analysis of world events, national affairs, and large-scale occurrences. Unlike natal astrology, which examines the influence of celestial bodies on an individual’s life, mundane astrology deals with the broader scope of societal and global happenings. Using mundane astrology, astrologers can create charts based on significant events such as the founding of a nation, inaugurations, the signing of treaties, or the commencement of wars. These charts are interpreted to understand the potential influences on a country’s future.

As someone coming from a background in natal chart reading, mundane astrology was all new to me. From the get-go, Greer’s insight into the difference between the two branches of astrology, along with the common mistakes those approaching mundane astrology for the first time make, really made grasping the complexities of this branch very accessible. He goes above and beyond explaining, defining, and clarifying concepts to ensure readers have the full picture. Plus, Greer’s personable writing style, often telling jokes along the way and making the reader feel like they’re in dialogue with him, is one of the things I enjoyed most about this book.

The Astrology of Nations is divided into three parts. “Part 1: The Art of Mundane Astrology” is where Greer really delves into the astrological science of this branch. He begins with definitions, astrological basics (signs, modalities, elements, houses, and planets), and more advanced astrological concepts (planetary rulership, dignities and debilitations, triplicities, and decans). For those new to the topic, it’s definitely well-written enough to understand, but it is a chapter you’ll most likely come back to a few times while reading, even if you’re a seasoned astrologer. Greer includes multiple tables to provide visual representation of all the information, which is immensely helpful for quick reference.

The next chapter “The Charts That Matter” is also jam-packed with introductory material, along with a discussion of the importance of discerning the difference between natal reading and mundane reading. Greer really emphasizes the importance of making accurate predictions, noting one of the significance factors that affects this is “choosing the right charts to cast.”18 Whereas natal astrology is simply one’s birth day, time, and location, there’s more nuance to deciding the right chart in mundane astrology. While inauguration and foundation charts are useful, Greer discusses the value of solar-ingress charts, lunation charts, eclipse charts, and charts for major conjunctions. This section felt filled with possibility, and while I certainly have a long way to go, I am looking forward to taking the time to analyze this variety of charts.

In the remaining chapters of this section, Greer goes in-depth for the Sun, Moon, planets, and dwarf planets. For each one, he discusses their significance overall in the chart, the meaning of the planet in each house in both a dignified and debilitated placement, and then gives an interpretation for the planet in a helpful and conjunction/hostile aspect with every other planet. These chapters REALLY are wonderful for learning the energy of the planets in a mundane chart. I decided to cast a chart for the Aries solar-ingress coming up in March, and I went back to these chapters to take notes on what I observed in the chart to then piece together to form my own understanding.

“Part 2: Case Studies” is where Greer showcases how he reads mundane astrology charts, writing case studies for pivotal political events, including the shooting of President William McKinley, the abdication of King Edward VIII, and the foundation of the United States. For each, a chart is obviously included, and Greer delves into discussing what stands out in the chart, such as the ruler of houses, the angular cusps, the planetary relationships, and all the other fascinating aspects of mundane astrology that synthesize at the particular moment in time. Reading the case studies gave insight into where to focus my own attention when doing a mundane reading; Greer does a fantastic job of laying it all out clearly to see the various components of the chart working together.

In the final section, “Part 3: Predictions”, Greer once again demonstrates the reading of mundane charts, but this time with an eye for the future rather than the past. He focuses on three events: the current experience resulting from the grand mutation of 2020, the future of Afghanistan, and the great conjunction of 2040. As with the case studies, Greer once again comprehensively states what he sees as the defining features of the chart and the conclusions they led him. This predictive approach is a great way to perceive the benefits of reading mundane charts (you especially might want to read Greer’s predictions if you’re an art collector!) and the value it can provide to people as they navigate life.

Overall, The Astrology of Nations is an ambitious and relevant work that seeks to apply astrological principles to the histories and future of our world. Readers will see how examining historical events alongside astrological data reflects these astrological patterns that emerge, which when studied offer predictions and insights into future geopolitical developments. Greer is a truly exemplary teacher when it comes to examining how planetary movements influence national trends, economies, and events. His foundation information and thorough analyses are accessible to both astrology enthusiasts and those interested in global affairs. The book offers a fresh perspective on geopolitics, challenging readers to consider alternative viewpoints.