Musing Mystical

✨ A Gathering Place for Magical Readers and Writers ✨

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.”1

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.”2 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.”3

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.”4

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.”5

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.”6

I have repeated the Jellyfish affirmation, “I release my fears and worries, knowing that I am support dand guided at all time”7, 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.

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.”7

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,”8 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.”9 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.

Naturally Modern Magick, by Lacey Burbage

Naturally Modern Magick: The Essential Compendium of Spells and Rituals for Health, Happiness, and Prosperity, by Lacey Burbage
Red Wheel Weiser, 9781590035849, 224 pages, March 2025

Naturally Modern Magick: The Essential Compendium of Spells and Rituals for Health, Happiness, and Prosperity by Lacey Burbage presents the meeting place between ancient magical practices and modern life. As an experienced practitioner and modern witch, Burbage provides readers with a comprehensive guide to incorporating magic into their daily lives.

Burbage is a fourth-generation folk healer and witch who follows animism, paganism and modern wicca. She found a deck of tarot cards in her mother’s bureau at the age of five and her adventure with the occult began. Her specialty is domestic magic, and she loves to practice and share the traditions of her family. In 1999, she decided to pursue a study of Wicca and has been a member of two covens and since created her own mentorship program.  In 2017, she found the Sophia Center for Goddess Study and was later ordained as a Priestess of The Goddess. Burbage lives in Las Vegas with her husband and children, where she also enjoys working in her garden. Learn more about Burbage on her website.

Burbage dedicates the book “To the little witch in all of us: may you always feel safe and free to live your life openly.”8

Comprised of an “Introduction”, “Basics”, and thirteen chapters, this book is one of the most comprehensive books on spells and witchy life that I have read. I really enjoy how Burbage writes for the “modern” witch.  This is so refreshing, as many of the books I’ve encountered write in the language and style of the early twentieth century. In her own words:

“Let’s face it, we’re modern witches with modern lives. We don’t always have the time to sit in meditation for hours. Create a solid energy base with this quick grounding meditation, which is great to use for magical work or any time you need to stabilize your spirit.”9

I love the “Energy-Balancing Elemental Grounding Meditation” that she shares on pages 22-23. This is for those times when you need a “little more help harmonizing your energy.”10 I also appreciate how she recommends that you record the meditations to enjoy later.  With phones and other small recording devices, this is so easy to do. 

As I shared earlier, Burbage divides the book into thirteen chapters and includes all areas of life. She goes from grounding and centering to cleansing and protection, before launching into happiness and harmony, health and healing, and career and productivity. Next, we encounter several chapters on abundance and manifestation before her tips on love and relationships.  Finally, Burbage covers intuition, divination, and spirituality. 

She includes complete instructions for all spells. I really enjoyed the “Spell to Dispel Self-Doubt,”11 and will be performing that one later today! I also liked this one: “A Charm to Stop Replaying Situations in Your Mind”12 and will use that one tomorrow. Each spell or charm is carefully written in easy-to-follow instructions.  Her tone is light and cheerful, and she is never judgmental or preachy. It’s almost as if the reader is sitting across the table from Burbage, enjoying a cup of tea as a trusted mentor shares her words of wisdom.

Burbage dedicates fifteen pages to “Love and Passion” and includes all kinds of spells and charms. My favorite was the “Blooming Heart Beads to Draw Love” on page 153-154.  Using rose petals, spices, and your blender, you make a paste that you turn into beads! By adding your favorite essential oils, you make the beads truly your own.

More helpful tips in this chapter include “sleeping with mugwort and lavender under your pillow””13 and “enjoying a cup of tea made with rose and marshmallow.”14

Burbage has created the book in a handy, travel size, which is only 6 x 9. It is a hardbound book, which will stand up to repeated use. The pages are a heavy paper stock, as well.  She uses color coded markings on the chapters, to make it easy to navigate. The pages are printed in beautiful designs, with soothing pastel hues and lots of accent colors, as well.

There are lots of green sections too, which offer tips, special notes, or quotes.  All the materials you will need for spells or charms are carefully marked inside a circular, green leaf design. There is a nice ribbon to use as a bookmark, which is something I always enjoy, and few publishers now include.

Near the end of the book, Burbage includes what she calls “Correspondences and Substitutions,” which includes information on plants, minerals, colors, and tarot cards. Lastly, Burbage includes a seven-page index, as if her Table of Contents isn’t enough to light the way!

From simple morning blessings to elaborate full-moon ceremonies, Naturally Modern Magick covers a wide range of practices designed to support personal well-being, foster connections with nature, and manifest desires. I recommend the wealth of information in these beautiful pages for anyone who is interested in Paganism or Wicca or who might want to deepen their spiritual practices. Burbage welcomes individuals from diverse backgrounds and encourages everyone to adapt the practices to suit their own unique paths. She also emphasizes that magic is not confined to special occasions but can be woven into our everyday lives.

I truly enjoyed this book and can see myself going back to it again and again to enhance my life and the lives of the women I support in my mentoring practice.  As Burbage says:

“If you’re ready to get back on your spiritual path, protect your vital essence, and enhance your relationship with your spirit allies, keep reading.”15

Pagan Portals – Maman Brigitte, by Pauline Green

Pagan Portals – Maman Brigitte: Dark Goddess of Africa and Ireland, by Pauline Breen
Moon Books, 1803417366, 112 pages, December 2024

I was unexpectedly and pleasantly surprised while reading Pagan Portals – Maman Brigitte: Dark Goddess of Africa and Ireland by Pauline Breen. While I’ve always been drawn to learning more about Saint Brigid from Ireland, I was previously unaware of Maman Brigitte and Brigid’s possible connection to the Lwa of Vodou.

Breen masterfully traces Brigid’s influence from Ireland to Haiti and, astoundingly, even to New Orleans in Louisiana, where I currently reside. Her research is conducted with evident respect for each culture she explores. It is profoundly interesting to observe how a goddess from Celtic culture has traversed such vast distances and touched the lives of people from completely different backgrounds, especially women who clearly needed her presence in their darkest times.

This book proved to be a truly fascinating read, resonating with me on a deeply personal level. As a woman of Irish descent, born and raised in Louisiana, and a mother currently navigating the recent loss of an infant, I felt a strong connection to Maman Brigitte. The book reveals that Maman Brigitte can be called upon for numerous purposes, but I was particularly drawn to her role as a protector of mothers, especially pregnant mothers, and children, as well as her assistance to souls transitioning from life to death.

I firmly believe that all things happen for a reason and that experiences come to us when we need them most, which is precisely how I feel about encountering this book. Unlocking knowledge of a goddess who aligns so closely with my current path has been an incredibly enlightening and humbling experience. I found myself deeply moved by the sample invocation and prayer included within the pages, which inspired me to write my own. Connecting to her energy was surprisingly effortless; I simply asked for her assistance, and I felt her presence with me. She provided me with strength and enveloped me in love, reassuring me that I would, and could, get through this challenging time.

Breen’s writing style is both engaging and accessible, making the book’s topics easy to understand. Her obvious passion for her subject matter shines through, and her dedication to her studies is evident on every page. Breen’s explanations of the historical and cultural contexts surrounding both Brigid and Maman Brigitte were clear and informative. The book is well-organized, with each chapter building upon the previous one, creating a cohesive and compelling narrative.

While I thoroughly enjoyed this book, I did find myself yearning for more in-depth exploration. Each chapter left me with a desire to delve further into the histories and struggles of women in each of the regions discussed. I would have loved for the author to have traveled to Haiti to gain more firsthand experience and speak with more practitioners and women who have a direct relationship with Maman Brigitte. While Breen does include references and quotes from other books that can guide further exploration, which I will be seeking those out to add to my library, her writing is so engaging that I found myself preferring to continue learning from her experiences and perspective.

Pagan Portals – Mama Brigitte serves as an excellent introduction to both Maman Brigitte and Saint Brigid. It is a highly informative work, and Pauline Breen demonstrates an impressive level of knowledge and devotion to her subject. I am very interested in learning and reading more from her in the future and even beginning my own research into the duality of gods and goddesses across various cultures.

This book offers a truly unique perspective that many might not connect on their own. It is a valuable read for all women, offering historical insights and a source of personal empowerment. The exploration of the connection between these two powerful figures is both fascinating and thought-provoking, and the book’s exploration of their shared aspects and their individual qualities is well-balanced.

In conclusion, Pagan Portals – Maman Brigitte is a compelling and enlightening book that offers a fresh perspective on the interconnectedness of cultures and the enduring power of feminine spirituality. It is a must-read for anyone interested in goddesses, Celtic traditions, Vodou, or the history of women’s spirituality. I highly recommend this book to anyone seeking a deeper understanding of these subjects or looking for inspiration and empowerment in their own lives. I eagerly await Breen’s future works and will continue to explore the themes and ideas presented in this captivating book.

Alchemical Hermeticism, by David Pantano

Alchemical Hermeticism: The Secret Teachings of Marco Daffi on Initiation, by David Pantano
Inner Traditions, 1644119978, 352 pages, January 2025

Alchemical Hermeticism: The Secret Teachings of Marco Daffi on Initiation by David Pantano focuses on the unique perspective of Marco Daffi’s teachings. Daffi, the pseudonym for Baron Ricciardo Ricciardelli, was an Italian Hermeticist and alchemist in the early 20th century. This was a man who took beliefs and thoughts on Hermeticism into his own hands, building his own perspective that focuses on one’s inner-self and a person’s intentions, exploring the more obscure realms of esotericism.

Daffi holds “a distinguished position within the pantheon of magical heroes, having carved out a niche of his own, within the vast universe of Hermeticism for explorations of the inner planes through the agency of Hermetic initiation.”1

As stated in the forward written by Valerio Tomassini, the true intent of the book is not to repeat Daffi’s teachings but to “point out his approach to the ‘Dry’ path and the strictly technical aspects of his writings.”14 Pantano puts in the work to outline the unique experiences that Daffi had while expanding on his knowledge and teachings of Hermeticism, making the content a bit more approachable with his examples and explanations on Daffi’s “Inner Laboratory.” As someone new to the topic of Hermeticism, the idea of learning about the technical side of the topic seemed absolutely fascinating to me.

This book is divided into four parts. Part one focuses on the themes of Marco Daffi’s Hermetic worldview, exploring original topics translated into his personal insights. Part two focuses on the correspondence with Daffi, specifically discussing the two volumes edited by Giammaria that documented their “epistolary ruminations on the Hermetic arts”16. Part three focuses on the human aspects of Ricciardo Ricciardelli, giving a gateway into understanding Daffi more thoroughly. Then part four is entirely focused on the magical legacy that Daffi left behind, bringing in voices from a wider audience, taking the path of Daffi’s ideas and what they have explored themselves.

Pantano does an incredible job of taking some of the unapproachable subject matter for new readers into a more modern context. Not only that, but he elaborates on the topics extensively. Every single term that I found myself a bit confused with, Pantano followed with a breakdown of what that term meant to the context as a whole.

A prime example of this is at the end of the introduction, Pantano provides an explanation to each section going forward; you’re told what to expect from each part, which can help immensely in preparing for each section. As someone brand new to the topics in Alchemic Hermeticism, the introduction was extremely beneficial to me so that I could better focus each section’s content and absorb the material. Not only that, but this introduction helped me feel less overwhelmed with the subject matter overall.

Additionally, it really helped having the explanations for each unknown term or thought process, and the book showcases multiple interpretations or origins of these concepts. For example, on pages 32-33, Pantano gives definition to the alchemical terms Saturnian, Lunar, Mercurial, and Solar bodies.These definitions really helped me understand more of Daffi’s teachings and what these bodies actually meant in the contexts that are provided throughout the book.

One of my favorite things while reading was learning how different parts of the world, even different religions, view magic and Hermeticism as a whole. It was fascinating to learn about metapsychism and how they’re “judged from the magical point of view as being an error”17. This, among many other topics I was not familiar with, was an absolute delight to learn about and has opened my eyes to so many subjects I wish to study further. Now, I’m even more interested to learn about Daffi’s teachings from a beginner’s standpoint.

Overall, I recommend Alchemical Hermeticism for those who are familiar with Daffi’s teachings first and foremost, or at the very least, those who have a basic understanding of alchemy. Having prior background knowledge would be a big help in fully grasping the hidden teachings from Daffi’s “Inner Laboratory”. However, those new to the topic will also benefit from Pantano’s detailed explanations of the material. This book is well worth reading if you’re willing to take the time and give the attention needed to follow along with the material in order to explore Daffi’s interesting work and the impact he had on modern esoteric history. Pantano has done a wonderful job of bringing forth Daffy’s work for others to enjoy and appreciate.

Bog Witch, by Mab Jones

Bog Witch, by Mab Jones
Moon Books, 1803411872, 96 pages, June 2024

Bog Witch by Mab Jones is a poetic and beautifully weaved piece of work that blends memoir, environmental awareness, and folklore. Jones’ story begins in a deeply personal setting exploring her working-class upbringing in Europe, which touches on a larger discussion of nature, feminism and capitalism’s harmful hold on both the environment and people.

Initially Bog Witch drew me in because of the interesting cover—a woman with a face mostly hidden with long hair which gave me the impression that this was going to be a scary book filled with mystical stories of myths of a witch that lives in the bog with creatures. However, this book is far from my guess, and despite that fact, I still enjoyed this piece. Diving into this book I have found that it is geared more towards weaving the author’s personal life, folklore, and deep analogies of the environment to raise awareness before it is too late to care for and save the earth. This focus in itself made a lasting impression and left me with deep thoughts inspiring more love for the nature that surrounds us.

When I started reading this book my very first thoughts were, “Gosh this author sure knows how to write visually and relate to her audience.” Even though my experiences were not exactly the same, I had similar experiences throughout my life and relating to the author made me feel relieved because there were not that many authors I could relate to. In a way this book touched my heart and I felt inspired realizing this could be me writing my heartfelt experiences on paper and sharing it with my audience as well. All of my passions, life experiences, and desires to get through to humanity is a task I have been uncomfortable to take on until now. Books like Bog Witch inspire not just a call to action but creativity as well because the words woven on paper have been well put together.

I enjoyed the foretelling of Jones’ childhood and experiences in nature:

“My interactions with nature were few and far between, and restricted to things found in or on hedges as we walked the short route to school. This included ladybirds, caterpillars, and, once, a hedgehog.”1

Experiences like this took me back to my memories of childhood and all the times I was outside in nature and unaware of all its beautiful mysteries. When I was young just like the author I too was “Blind to the beauties of nature.”2

The style of Jones’ writing at first was a bit difficult for me to understand, as she uses a lot of analogies and descriptive storytelling throughout the entire book. However, when I started getting further into my reading journey, it was as if I slowly started to ease into Jones’ world and relax. Bog Witch is a book that will catch you off guard and disarm your overly critical thinking mind (as it has done to me). Understanding the point and mission of the book became apparent to me when I started relaxing into the author’s words: Change yourself first, notice the beauty of nature, and protect nature. 

Each chapter like “Fenny,” “Tongue of dog”, “In the cauldron”, and so on talk about a different type of particular bog. Bogs are described as mucky, icky, and gross but Jones showed a different perspective and way of thinking which I enjoyed reading. In chapter two,  the title named “Fenny” came from a story of three witches and their incantation using the word “fenny” to describe an ingredient. The way the author connected the name of her chapters to storytelling is creative. And the use of folklore from Welsh, English, Hindu, and other cultures creates a unique and diverse atmosphere for readers.

Other than the folklore there is also a bit of education on water spirits which I did not have much knowledge of prior. Water spirits are not talked about that much in the witchy community, and I was hoping that the author would touch more on the subject but a little bit of information was definitely better than nothing.

Further in the book on page 29, I learn that dragonflies have other folk names such as the flying dragon which made me curious and want to research the subject further. Commonly dragonflies are known as Devil’s Darning Needle or Snake Doctor which seems to barely scratch the surface and requires more research on my end.

From beginners to advanced in knowledge, this book has a little something for everybody to take a piece of and walk away with. Even if you don’t learn something new, it is still a great book to sit down with a cup of tea and read to raise awareness of our environment and make you think about how you might be treating nature. What people fail to realize is that not only do we have one planet but change starts with us because too many people are not wanting to take accountability and just leave future problems to future generations. The author sees this happening and does a great job translating her words on paper to sway audiences and beg for change.

Overall even with the shaky start of starting Bog Witch, I finished strong with confidence and longing for another volume. Raising awareness of nature with a mix of storytelling, folklore, and knowledge is the perfect blend to a piece of writing that isn’t boring and preachy. Jones knows how to relate to her audience, entice, and educate. I can definitely see myself influenced by her words even though I have started my journey of caring for the earth a while back.

Her knowledge on bogs has taught me to appreciate and respect their space. Bogs are sacred, beautiful, and have environmental purposes. My other witchy friends that love nature or want to learn more about nature are the ones I would definitely recommend this book to. People that are not witches would still enjoy this book because it doesn’t particularly get into witchcraft and therefore they would not feel a conflict in their beliefs.

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.”18 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.”19 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.”20

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.”21 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.