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Alchemical Lightwork, by Arthur Versluis, Ph.D.

Alchemical Lightwork: A Guide to Creating Cultures of Light and Spiritual Awakening, by Arthur Versluis, Ph.D.
Destiny Books,  979-8888500187, 168 pages, September 2025

“Even if we already have learned about or have experience in working with light, alchemy provides us with invaluable images, symbols, parables, texts and guidance for spiritual practice in relation to nature, other people and ultimately a transmuted individual community, and  world.  Alchemy provides us with a larger map and a sense of direction. Drawing on the ancient alchemical tradition, we begin to see how we can move towards illumination and develop a vibrant spiritual community in a flourishing natural world.”1.

Alchemical Lightwork: A Guide to Creating Cultures of Light and Spiritual Awakening by Arthur Versluis, Ph.D. is organized into twelve chapters contained within four parts.  Additionally, more information is contained with three appendices, rounding out with further reading selections and an index for easy searches.  The introduction provides the “why” of the title and the author’s re-stranding of alchemy as taught through the ancient Hermetic text of The Emerald Tablet by Hermes Trismegistus and modern concepts of “light working”. And overall, the organization of content is structured to parallel the stages of the alchemical process:

“Alchemy is understood to unfold in colored stages, from the black, to the white, to the yellow, to the red. It is the unveiling of the light. But the process is not linear, going like a train from  here to there. Rather, it unfolds in a spiral, where we return to the same place but in a new way, as the spiral unfolds. Alchemy ultimately is the unveiling of what was always there, and it is conveyed in enigmatic, pure images of primordial nature and human beings.”2

“Part 1: The Black” reminds the reader of the power held in the cyclical nature of all things and, most importantly, the ebb and flow necessary to alchemize (transmute and transform) our more reactive nature. The four chapters lay the suitable groundwork for the Individual seeking to co-create a better future that is inherently and necessarily born from the darkness. This premise aligns with the protocol and steps of the alchemical process and the historical processes used more widely in the ancient times. Tomes such as the Corpus Hermeticum,  Poimandres (The Divine Pymander) of Hermes Trismegistus, and The Emerald Tablet of Hermes Trismegistus lend insight to the nature of alchemy and the evolutionary seeking of the Light, and in so doing attaining enlightenment.

“Part 2: The White” calls the reader into the next alchemical process – a state of purification by way of the ”light breaking out in and over our darkness”3. These chapters speak to the Light that is held within Nature and that we inherently have access to as both recipients and distributors. 

”When we go into the wilderness, away from the human-centric urban sprawl of pavement and concrete and noise, we surround ourselves with and are imbued with life from the light of nature.”4

“Chapter 7: The Transmutative Process” provides the reader with a blueprint, if you will, of the action of light upon and within all that exists. This reaches into the cosmic realms, the qualities of light that are imbued by the planets, as well as the luminaries of Sun and Moon. There is an interesting perspective presented by the author about the dynamics between Mercury, Saturn and Mars and the Sun, Venus and Jupiter as counterpoints of light to the former as holding a state of darkness.  This concept also spills into the author’s use of the female-male polarities and its use in alchemical states as the Divine Marriage, relating back to the author’s knowledge of Rosicrucian philosophies:

“In the Rosicrucian images, you see the alchemical process expressed in the progressive union of a male and a female figure that transform through a sequence of images into a divine couple that becomes an androgyne, or youth-maiden.”5

(Note: these images are shown in color plates in the center of the title.)

This idea of the divine couple and the product of their union of polarities to create a singular source of light and illumination is presented as a means of enlivening a “community”. The community supports not only the individual but the union of those individuals and the product of those unions too. The ultimate gift of an intentional sharing and expanding of the “natural light” held within this way is of benefit to all. This is the creation of an alchemical culture.

“The alchemy of culture, or the alchemical culture, is an overarching theme of this book.  The alchemical culture is transmutation of ourselves, others, and nature through illumination.”6

To this end the goal is one of awakening and cultivating a natural state of being that is not affected by a culture steeped in the material gains and returns to one informed by the alchemical light of ancient wisdom that is needed now, more than ever.

“Part 3: The Yellow” focuses on the alchemical stage that is characterized as the golden/solar light. 

“White is the stage of purification, and with the yellow, we fully enter the phase of solar tincturing that goes beyond us as individuals… The ancient Mysteries , the collective experience of illumination in which the sun was said to shine at midnight, meaning that the golden light illuminated all and penetrated through the darkness, transfiguring us and all that surrounds us.”7

“Part 4: The Red” contains the final chapters of alchemical synthesis. “Chapter 10: Seeding New Cultures” paints a picture of a society that has fallen to the illusions of darkness, decay, materialism and nihilism. The next step is a post-apocalyptic world with meager technology and vast states of emptiness. And, according to the author, we are forced into reliance on local community, interconnectedness and the rebuilding through “archaic” means a new culture– a primordial culture based in alchemical light and aligned with a more natural order of spiritual and mundane evolution. 

“Primordial culture is revealed; it is illuminated from beyond a solely human-centered materialistic perspective.  In a primordial understanding, human beings, human families, and tribal groups are linked as clans with specific zoomorphic totems. The animals are those of the particular landscape and they are of course not only animals, but also spiritual archetypes, understood as guides, helpers and protectors… Primordial culture is a fusion of the natural, human and spiritual realms.”8

Would I Recommend?

Alchemical Lightwork is an interesting read that covers a lot of ground in the definition of “light”, “community” and “culture”. It is well written in the flow of connection towards the ultimate vision of an alchemically lit world that is the fusion of many different sources, the most important being that of the individual and the specific way in which that individual perceives and inhabits the world.

The foundational material of The Emerald Tablet by Hermes Trismegistus stands at the forefront of the alchemical processes being used, giving the reader a different way of approaching alchemy than through the lens of the traditional medieval alchemists. Additionally, the work of Thomas Vaughn, a notable Welsh alchemist, mystic, poet, and philosopher, serves as the underpinnings of the material presented in this title. 

Although it appears to be a quick read, this book is far from that. It serves the novice only in presenting varied sources for further exploration, but it is primarily written for those who have a baseline of knowledge in Hermetic teachings and Western alchemy. Having background knowledge would be helpful in distinguishing the subtleties between the author’s syncretic perspective and more traditional approaches.

About the Author: Dr. Arthur Versluis, Ph.D.

Dr. Arthur Versluis, Ph.D., is president of the Hieros Institute, a nonprofit devoted to realizing the sacred in contemporary life. The former chair of the Department of Religious Studies at Michigan State University, he has written numerous books, including Sacred Earth and The Secret History of Western Sexual Mysticism.

The Alchemy of Chores, by Nick Wroblewski

The Alchemy of Chores: Is Housework the Key to Happiness? By Nick Wroblewski
Nick Wroblewski, 978-8397545861,145 pages, May 2025

If you’re anything like me, it takes a dose of the mystical to get me inspired in the mundane activities. And what is more mundane than doing the same chores over and over again? Cue The Alchemy of Chores: Is Housework the Key to Happiness? by Nick Wroblewski–my recent dose of motivation, reframing chores in a new light that actually makes me excited about housekeeping.

“Alchemy, in its ancient form, was the art of transforming base metals into gold. But the real alchemists, the wise ones, knew that the deeper secret was about something else entirely: transformation of the self. And that’s what this book is about. We’re going to take the most mundane, overlooked aspects of life – washing dishes, folding clothes, making the bed – and use them as vehicles for awareness, clarity, and even joy.”1

From the get-go, Wroblewski lets readers know this book isn’t the kind to read in one sitting. Rather, it serves a guidebook, assisting readers through a transformative process intended to last 30 days. Throughout this time, readers do have to put in the work to see the results, but Wrolblewski makes it quite easy to do by providing daily check-ins. Suddenly, by tackling a little bit each day, the chores aren’t piling up. Plus, readers are gaining some mystical mojo by taking action!

For those really seeking to create new habits or routines, Wroblewski even includes a Printable Checklist for Mindful Chores, a list of spiritual rituals one can create with their housework, a handy reference sheet about ways to transform housework into a sacred practice, reflection questions to ask oneself, and more! He even offers additional downloadable resources on his website.

One of the best aspects of this book is Wroblewski, who talks directly to the reader with humor and encouragement the whole time. He is not writing from the perspective of someone who has always loved chores and wants to share his passion, noting “If there were a competition for “Most Creative Excuses to Avoid Chores”, I would have taken home the gold medal.”9 He too has struggled himself with overcoming the resistance to these tasks yet has learned to find meaning and purpose coupled with a dose of cheerful optimism for good measure within these tasks.

Wroblewski’s approach is a mixture of zen mindfulness, offering insight into how these daily, repetitive tasks are perfect for becoming more present and training the mind, mixed with a bit of psychology (habit stacking, reframing, overcoming mental resistance, emotional benefits of cleaning) and spiritual anchoring (exploration of the energetic impact of doing–or not doing–these tasks). For those who struggle with physical and, as a result, energetic cleansing, this book is especially helpful!

A highlight of the book for me was the section on cooking and eating. As someone who only prepares their own meals about once or twice a month, this book pointed out the disconnect I was experiencing with this task. Wroblewski’s advice to infuse my cooking with reverence, create a meal time ritual, and eat with more awareness. I also loved how he links ironing with patience and the act of smoothing things out. Wrolblewski writes:

”We all have wrinkles in our lives – unfinished conversations, lingering regrets, tangled emotions that refuse to settle. And much like ironing, these things don’t fix themselves with avoidance or brute force. They require gentle attention, heat, and patience.”10

What a great way to think about the task of ironing! And this is just one example of the many metaphors Wroblewski shares–there’s plenty more insight within these pages.

Another aspect of the book I thoroughly enjoyed was Wroblewski’s focus on seasonal living, making small adjustments for realignment, and a focus on natural cycles (growth, transition, slowing down). One quote that really resonated for me was this one:

“We are cyclical beings living in a cyclical world. When we embrace the natural rhythm of homekeeping, we stop fighting the seasons and start flowing with them. Our tasks become more than duties – they become reflections of the ever-changing dance of life.”11

How incredibly poetic!

Overall, The Alchemy of Chores has really shifted my mindset in regard to my daily tasks. While I will never be a domestic goddess, Wroblewski’s writing has improved my mindset when it comes to taking care of things around the house. I’ve noticed a palatable shift in energy in my home and in myself when I perform these tasks with devotion, an open mindset, and spiritual intention.The best part is how Wroblewski breaks down this change into small, manageable steps, allowing for it to flow naturally rather than feel forced. The mindset shift from chores being obligations to a gateway for inner transformation is potent!

While there’s plenty of books about decluttering, spiritual cleansing, domestic magic, and the like, this book truly stands out as one that I’ll be returning to again and again. Wrolblewski has done a fantastic job in creating a practical, informative, and honestly, mystical pathway for readers to undertake personal transformation while also reaping the benefits of getting things done around the house. This book goes to show that alchemy is accessible for all, especially when you have the mental framework to embrace the magic of mundane moments.

Wild Whispers Oracle, by Nat Girsberger

Wild Whispers Oracle: Messages from the Desert, by Nat Girsberger
Rockpool Publishing, 9781922786258, 44 cards, 156 pages, March 2025

The Wild Whispers Oracle: Messages from the Desert by Nat Girsberger is a captivating deck that seamlessly blends art and intuition, inviting users to embark on a journey of self-discovery and introspection. With its vivid desert imagery and insightful messages, this oracle deck utilizes a mixed media technique that is striking and bold. 

Born in Switzerland, Nat Girsberger is an accomplished artist with a background in both visual arts and yoga. She “creates art that interprets the unseen and translates the omens of the earth.”12 This is Girsberger’s second card deck. Her love of the southwestern desert led her back to Joshua Tree in California and an adventure that yielded downloads of wisdom and imagery. To learn more about Girsberger, visit her website.

How Girsberger explains her creative process for this deck:

“I heard poems in the wind, and images emerged like the moonrise. They were more archetypal – minimal – than my previous work, which I attributed to the complex simplicity and directness of the natural world.”13

The first thing that strikes you about the Wild Whispers Oracle is its stunning visual appeal. Each card is a masterpiece, featuring bold colors, fluid lines, and evocative symbols. Girsberger uses both collage and digital art to create a dynamic and layered card that draws the viewer in. Her artistry is both modern and timeless, making the deck a visual delight.

The symbolism within the cards is rich and multifaceted. Girsberger has carefully chosen each element to convey specific meanings and to resonate with the reader’s subconscious. The imagery ranges from abstract shapes to recognizable motifs, such as animals, celestial bodies, and natural landscapes. This diversity of symbols ensures that each reading is unique and open to personal interpretation.

The deck consists of 44 cards that all have a distinct message and artwork. The deck is then divided into four sections representing one of the different cycles of the Sun: Sunset, Sun Nadir, Sunrise, and Sun Zenith. This structure provides a framework for users to explore various themes and to gain even more insights. The cards are named with a key word and also numbered, which makes it easy to find the card’s message in the guidebook.

Accompanying the deck is a comprehensive guidebook written by Girsberger herself. The guidebook offers detailed interpretations for each card, based on the seven steps of spiritual alchemy. At first, I found this a little too esoteric for my taste, but as I began to work with the cards, the meanings behind each of the steps became clearer and I began to resonate with the guidance even more. As the author states:

“Centered around a core theme, individual cards are broken down into seven steps that follow a path to transformation loosely based on spiritual alchemy. That is, the process of manifesting change on a soul level. … In this context, it simply denotes a transcendence of the material dimension to permeate much deeper layers.”14

The seven steps provide varying degrees of wisdom.  After using the deck for a single card draw for five days, I found that on some days, the information in the Introspection section really spoke to me. On other days, the Practice section spoke loudly. I always enjoyed the Integration/Coagulation part of the message, which was a short,  freeform poem that ended the guidance for each card.

I decided to further test drive the deck by taking it to my Friday Coffee & Cards group and shared it with my friends. Each woman drew one of the desert-inspired cards and shared feedback as follows:

Friend K: I drew the Forgiveness card. Wow  It punched me in the gut! Truly. I didn’t realize how much I was holding on to resentment toward my sister. I’ll do some journaling around this. Thanks!

Friend T: I drew number 22 Renewal. I notice that it is in the Sun phase of Sun Nadir. It says it is really dark and to rely on my intuition. I like that. Also, the spiral on the card speaks to me. Life is really a spiral, isn’t it? I also like the Practice section. She asks me to go through my clothes and other stuff and declutter. I’ve been needing to do this!

Friend S: I drew Wholeness, which is number 44 and the last one in the section and the last one in the deck.  (I seem to do this a lot!) I feel it has extra meaning for me, being the last one. It’s in the Sun Zenith section, which is the highest point of the sun. I love the Sun! I love the energy it brings to my garden and my life. Anyway, this is what spoke to me most:

“It is your nature to strive beyond your current circumstances, to keep learning and changing like the time of day. The drive is not a problem, unless you forget that you are always moving into a new expression of being whole. Right here and right now, wherever you stand, you are already complete.”15

(She had tears in her eyes as she read that last part.)

The cards are printed on high-quality cardstock with a matte finish, giving them a luxurious feel and ensuring durability. The size of the cards is a standard oracle deck size, perfect for shuffling and handling, making the deck easy to use. The deck and guidebook are housed in a sturdy two-part box that is also bathed in the desert hues of gold, orange, red, and brown. A single crow graces the sunscape design on both the box and the guidebook. 

As you can see from the examples of my friends, users of the Wild Whispers Oracle report a strong intuitive connection with the deck. The artwork and messages resonate on a deep level, facilitating meaningful insights and “aha” moments. Girsberger encourages users to trust their intuition and to allow the cards to speak to them on a personal level. This approach fosters a sense of empowerment and encourages users to develop their own interpretive skills.

Wild Whispers Oracle stands out as a divination tool that offers both novices and seasoned practitioners an enriching experience. This would be a great deck for anyone who wants a deeper connection to their own intuition. I’ll be using it with my clients who come to me for mentoring and grief work.

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.”13

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.”16 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.

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.”17

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.”18 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”19. 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”20. 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.

The Riddle of Alchemy, by Paul Kiritsis

The Riddle of Alchemy, by Paul Kiritsis, PsyD, MScMed
Mantra Books, 1803416378, 288 pages, January 2025

Alchemy has long fascinated seekers of both spiritual and scientific wisdom, straddling the boundaries between mysticism and material transformation. In The Riddle of Alchemy, Paul Kiritsis, PsyD, MScMed, embarks on an ambitious exploration of this ancient tradition, weaving together history, philosophy, psychology, and science to reveal its enduring relevance.

The book is structured into three parts, each offering a different lens through which to view the alchemical tradition.

The Origins and Evolution of Alchemy

“Part I: Histories” delves into alchemy’s historical roots, tracing its evolution from antiquity through the Renaissance, and into the 20th century. Kiritsis explores how the metaphysics of Pythagoras and the Platonists blended with Aristotelian theories of the four basic elements, merging with Alexandrian metallurgy, astrology, and the mythic narratives of Gnosticism. His ability to weave these disparate influences together into a cohesive intellectual tapestry is one of the book’s greatest strengths, illuminating connections that might otherwise be overlooked.

As the narrative progresses, Kiritsis examines alchemy’s Renaissance resurgence, focusing on the prominence of the Emerald Tablet and the mythic figure of Hermes Trismegistus. He then follows its transformation after the Reformation and Enlightenment, showing how figures like Jacob Boehme helped shift alchemy toward a discipline incorporating psychic effort and intention. Finally, the book examines Carl Jung’s psychological approach to alchemy, analyzing the creative role the imagination plays in the alchemical process. One of the most compelling aspects of this discussion is how Kiritsis situates Jung within a broader lineage of alchemical thinkers, allowing readers to see both the insights Jung distilled – perhaps without due credit to earlier thinkers, such as Herbert Silberer – and where his ideas diverged from prior traditions.

Alchemy of the Psyche: Analyzing the Splendor Solis

Rather than offering a broad theoretical discourse on psychology and spiritual development, “Part II: Processes of the Mind” takes a unique approach by focusing on four plates from the Splendor Solis, a richly illustrated 16th-century alchemical manuscript. Kiritsis meticulously analyzes these striking images—including the Black Sun and Women’s Work—unpacking their symbolism from alchemical, psychological, and spiritual perspectives. His examination of Women’s Work is particularly fascinating, weaving together insights that demonstrate alchemy’s deeply introspective nature and the dynamics of collective action toward a common purpose.

The book provides quality black-and-white reproductions of these plates, which are helpful for following along with the analysis. However, I would recommend readers look up a full-color version of the Splendor Solis to fully appreciate the vibrancy and detail of these images while reading these chapters.

Highlighted here is Kiritsis’ application of Ken Wilber’s Integral Theory of psycho-spiritual development as another framework to integrate the varied elements of the alchemical tradition. This adds another layer of depth to the text, especially in discussing the processes of the mind in Part II. I appreciated the insight he draws out of the Child’s Play plate, arguing that the depictions of the children’s relationships and activities demonstrate Wilber’s ideas of body ego, membership-self, and mental ego, “states [which] are a fundamental key to the transformation of human consciousness, and the modus operandi… is inquisitive play and make-believe” (p.101).

Alchemy in the Modern World

“Part III: The Noetic Science” transitions into a discussion of alchemy’s plausibility and its potential intersections with modern science. Kiritsis critically assesses whether alchemical transmutation of metals is possible, while also exploring how alchemical principles might relate to quantum physics and psychological transformation. The author presents compelling examples of how the dominant reductionist-materialist paradigm in modern science is now showing its limitations, such as the unresolved paradoxes of mind-body dualism and the neglect of the observer’s influence and intention in scientific endeavors. Yet, the pervasive influence of these paradigms sometimes seems to shape Kiritsis’ own analyses as well.

I also appreciated that Kiritsis includes three Appendices in the book to help set up the reader with some theoretical background. I recommend reviewing these particularly before engaging in the metallurgical transformation sections in Parts I – III of the text. Appendix topics include: the adopted Aristotelian theory of the Four Elements; the correspondences between the Seven Planets and Metals; and the Three Alchemical Principles: alchemical sulphur, mercury, and salt. Even as someone already familiar with much of this background knowledge, I found these sections to be a great refresher, and helps the reader get a better feel for the author’s perspective. 

Final Thoughts

The Riddle of Alchemy is a compelling and scholarly examination of alchemy’s evolution, symbolism, and psychological significance. Kiritsis’ interdisciplinary approach makes this a thought-provoking read for those interested in the deeper mysteries of transformation. However, the book leans toward the academic side, with an esoteric-poetic flare that occasionally borders on wordiness, requiring careful reading in certain sections.

One notable aspect is the strong feminist narrative running through the text. Kiritsis highlights the central role of Pistis-Sophia (“Faith-Wisdom”), the goddess of Gnostic mythology, asserting that alchemy is fundamentally a feminine discipline. This perspective challenges the dominance of the masculine principle in Western science and culture.

“We, the mortal children of Pistis-Sophia… have been tasked with this sacred duty… [F]or a modern myth to nurture and actualize human potential it must retain an unconditional positive regard for the aesthetically feminine… and remain diametrically opposed to judgement, separation, and hierarchy.”21

However, one must be careful to note the potential for performative contradiction in remaining “diametrically opposed,” which itself makes use of judgement for conceptual separation and the creation of a value hierarchy.

While some sections can be dense and or repetitive at times, and the language occasionally complex (e.g. discussions of metallurgical transmutation) this book offers immense rewards for those willing to engage deeply with its content. For more advanced readers familiar with metaphysical and scientific concepts, The Riddle of Alchemy provides an integrated and illuminating perspective on a tradition often perceived as fragmented and enigmatic.

Ultimately, The Riddle of Alchemy gave me a much more integrated grasp of alchemy, uniting the metaphysical, psychological, and material aspects into a coherent narrative. Kiritsis’ exploration of alchemy as an evolved and/or concealed form of Gnostic thought was particularly enlightening, making this book a standout contribution to the field.

The First Alchemists, by Tobias Churton

The First Alchemists: The Spiritual and Practical Origins of the Noble and Holy Art, by Tobias Churton
Inner Traditions, 1644116839, 320 pages, November 2023

Alchemy can sometimes feel like a buzzword, especially in modern times where it has taken on a heavily psychological context due to Carl Jung’s work and been co-opted by every influencer promising instant change. For those who begin to research alchemy in a more historical context, it quickly becomes exceedingly clear that the path is long and jumbled. Weaving through the different strands throughout time and global cultures amid intentional secret-keeping become a quandary. In his introduction to The First Alchemists: The Spiritual and Practical Origins of the Noble and Holy Art, Tobias Churton writes:

“Well, it is hardly surprising that confusion has inhibited understanding of alchemy. The term has perhaps simply come to mean “too much.” When confronted with something akin to a Gordian knot, I feel an urge not to annihilate the puzzle by putting my sword through it as Alexander the Great did but rather to retire and try to figure out how the knotty phenomenon actually came about. And that is my explanation for undertaking this investigation into the first alchemists. The job needed doing.”22

I absolutely agree with Churton’s assertion that someone had to conduct more thorough research about the origins and alchemy and piece it together for others. So much of what I’ve read about alchemy’s history focuses on Hermeticism, particularly in the 1400s and beyond when ancient texts prompted a revival of the art, which is fascinating, but many books neglect the deeper history, the roots of alchemy.

In laying his foundation, Churton begins by teaching  readers about the oldest surviving texts on alchemy (Stockholm papyrus, Leiden papyrus). While these texts were mundane rather than mystical in nature, focusing on things such as dye recipes, making and whitening pearls, cleansing stones, and creating imitation gold and silver. He also covers Pseudo-Democritus’s Four Books, the oldest texts on alchemy that have been lost to history but were summarized in surviving treatises Physika kai Mystika (Natural and Secret Questions) and Peri asēmou poiēseōs (On the Making of Silver).

These texts situate early alchemy’s origins in Roman Egypt. Churton shares sources that claim Pseudo-Democritus was influenced by Ostanes, a great Egyptian priest. In addition to Ostanes, these early practitioners include Cleopatra, Mariam (a Jewish woman known in alchemical tradition as Mary the Prophetess), and artisan Theosebeia–notably all women. Churton spends time on each woman, detailing pretty much all that is known about them, particularly from the writing of Zosimos of Panopolis.

“Early alchemy has something of a cosmopolitan, if not multinational and above all practical, rather than ideological air about it.”23

Three whole chapters are dedicated to Zosimos, and he continues to be the prominent focus of the rest of the book, because there is more written testimony from him than any other early alchemist. Titled “father of religious alchemy”24, his contributions can hardly be understated. Churton describes how, “Zosimos’s alchemy is a natural divine path to God, in which pious practitioners are called to identity with all elements and transformations, so as to experience harmonious union, or “gold”…”25

Working off of Zosimos’s writing, Churton guides readers through chapters on what the first alchemist actually did, how they did it, and where they did it. And, since I’m sure this sparked your curiosity, it mostly focused on creating dyes and working with metals. There’s pictures of early apparatuses, as well as details of the chemical components of minerals and other substances used to achieve their aims.

Additional chapters include “The Myth of Transmutation”, “Forbidden Knowledge”, and “Legacy” which clarify more about the aims of the early alchemists. Churton shows that the “first alchemists did not operate with the end in mind of fabricating a philosophical stone or philosopher’s stone to transmute base metals into gold”26. This realization throws into question the traditional definition of alchemy, as this is what most assume alchemy is all about based on later alchemical history. Churton notes, “Modern writers then have often simply backdated what they learned about post-Zosimos alchemy and projected it onto Zosimos.”27

Churton often references the work of Shannon Grimes, professor and head of the Department of Religious and Ethical Studies at Meredith College. She has recently published the book Becoming Gold: Zosimos of Panopolis and the Alchemical Arts in Roman Egypt, which would be another great resource for those interested in this subject matter. In a similar vein, readers might also feel more comfortable with the topics covered in this book after delving into some of Churton’s other books, in particular The Lost Pillars of Enoch, The Golden Builders, and The Gnostics.

For those new to reading Churton’s work, you can expect a lot of detail! I find it helps to take notes to process and organize the new information I’m reading, as he is a very erudite writer, who draws upon multiple sources to weave together his assertions but sometimes assumes his readers know more than they actually do, especially if this is your first introduction to the topic. For these reasons, I always get so much out of Churton’s writing because I am left with many avenues of interest to explore, but this can delay me finishing the books due to being sidetracked or feeling like I need additional time to digest what I’ve read before proceeding. The note taking helps me to stay focused on the topic at hand and then go back to what sparked my interest afterwards!

All in all, The First Alchemists is an illuminating read that delves into the “who, what, where, why, when” of early alchemy. Drawn from the original sources and scholarly work about these texts, he brilliantly depicts the origins of the Royal Art, which vary greatly from our modern notion of what alchemy is, its purpose, and its practitioners. I highly recommend this book for those interested in the history of alchemy, especially if they feel called to traditions that utilize alchemical in modern times, such as Freemasons and Rosecrucians. While there’s no doubt secrets to uncover, it’s interesting to see the initial practical value of alchemy, in particular recipes and methods for making dyes, and the evolution through time.

The Hermetic Marriage of Art and Alchemy, by Marlene Seven Bremner

The Hermetic Marriage of Art and Alchemy: Imagination, Creativity, and the Great Work, by Marlene Seven Bremner
Inner Traditions, 1644112906, 376 pages, June 2023

Last summer, as I was browsing a used book store in Rhode Island, I came across the book Surrealism and the Occult by Nadia Choucha. Instantly, I knew this book was right up my alley, and I spent the  next month reading about the influence of magical ideas in the work of Salvador Dali, Pablo Picasso, Max Ernst, Lenora Carrington, Austin Osman Spare, and more. This was my introduction into how symbolism in western occultism, especially alchemy, became visual metaphors for surrealists to explore the unconscious realm.

I began to wonder how I might draw upon alchemy to further my own creative process, but life happened, and my desire to explore this was put on the back burner. Then with quite cyclic timing, The Hermetic Marriage of Art and Alchemy: Imagination, Creativity, and the Great Work by Marlene Seven Bremner was released a year later this June – once again my summer musings have been guided towards the alchemical process of creativity!

And let me tell you, this book is hefty. Not just in a physical sense with its hardcover, but also in details, imagery, and energetic presence. It is very clear that Bremner has a deep reverence for the alchemical process, as well as personal experience of using creative outlets alchemically. It’s worth reading her artist statement before diving into this book to better understand her influences and motivations for writing this book. You may also want to reference her previously published book Hermetic Philosophy and Creative Alchemy: The Emerald Tablet, the Corpus Hermeticum, and the Journey through the Seven Spheres too for more insight into the Hermetic tradition, though it’s definitely not needed to delve into this book.

Through paying homages to the imagination, Bremner inspires readers to undertake their own magnum opus. She teaches the readers how to bridge the conscious and unconscious in order to generate unity through the creative process and achieve greater self-knowledge.

“All things have their origins in the imagination, through which we commune with the greater story of the cosmos.”1

In “Part I: Alchemy and Imagination”, Bremner provides the rich art history of Romanticism, emergence of symbolism in art, Dada, and Surrealism. She paints a vivid picture for readers, filled with background information on artists and images of their work, to showcase the way “Surrealism and its aim of realizing the union of dream and reality has its roots in the Romantic movement.”28

For each movement, Bremner highlights the major themes (ie. Romanticism – exploration of nature, intensity of emotions; Symbolism – focus on dark dreams, interest in unseen realms, sense of transcendence; Dada – destruction as a form of creation, irrationality, upending convention, sense of nihilism; Surrealism – automatism, liberation of imagination, unity of inner/outer world), and provides a cohesive understanding of how each built upon the next, similar in many ways to the alchemical process an individual undergoes during the process of creation.

This section is pages and pages of art history that studies the magical imagination in play through time, as Bremner references a plethora of artists’ work, along with what was going on historically at each moment in time that inspired and shaped the movements. I found myself often pausing in my reading to look up a poem mentioned or Google the image of a painting, though there are quite a few images within the text too for reference.

From here, “Part II: The Magnum Opus” moves into Bremner teaching the method of creative alchemy, which she explains “goes beyond the creation of fantastic forms and expressions to an intimate relationship between consciousness and matter, presupposing inner transmutation through the creative process, and in turn, a spiritization of art that multiplies in the external world.”29 If you’re on board with breaking down the artistic ego, which Bremner likens to a death, to move through the creative process and achieve transcendent unity, this is where the fun begins! 

“As a result, the art that we create, in harmony with our subjective experience, is both surreal and ideal, depending on where we find ourselves in our personal creative evolution.”30

Bremner guides readers through the four stages of the magnum opus: nigredo, albedo, citrinitas, and rubedo. Along the way, she also goes into great depth about the zodiac sign correspondences to the alchemical process, for instance calcination is associated with Aries, to tease out the multiple layers of creativity in play at each stage. For reference, there are charts and tables that help the reader to visually see the associations. 

What stands out the most about Bremner’s writing, compared to other books on alchemy that I’ve read in the past, is the imagery and descriptiveness of her writing that brings each alchemical stage to life. Her reference to different works, both literary and artistic, and her interpretation of the work helps the reader to see the artist’s intentions, and as a result better understand their own inner imagery waiting to be crafted in the physical realm. 

As an example, in the chapter “Nigredo: Putrefaction and the Generation of Ideas, Bremner discusses works such as The Loss of Faith by Jan Toorop, Melencolia I by Albrecht Durer, Frankenstein by Mary Shelley, and Saturn Devouring His Son by Francisco Goya. All the while, she connects these paintings to astrological correspondences and conveys the Hermetic significance of this part of the journey.

There is so much riveting information woven together that I must say that I am hardly scratching the surface of the depths of Bremner’s writing in this description. In all honesty, this has been my favorite book on alchemy that I’ve read yet. Though I will admit it’s a hardy read; I’ve been making my way through it for a few weeks, savoring each section as I go.

“While we can look to the alchemical processes and ordering of the stages as guides, we must realize the individual, personal,and unique nature of our own artistic approach, allowing ourselves to be flexible, creative, innovative, and adaptable. Further, we must remember that at the core of the work and of utmost importance is the transmutation of the egoic self into the transpersonal Self.”31

For those looking to explore more layers of their creative processes, undertaking the arduous process of transforming lead into gold, The Hermetic Marriage of Art and Alchemy is a wonderful resource. This book is rich with insights about how consciousness and matter can merge to usher in new levels of self-awareness and personal insights, along with uniting readers with spiritual energies to reach their highest potential. By following the path that’s been carved by artists of centuries past, Bremner assists readers in undertaking their own creative alchemy.

Gaia Alchemy, by Stephan Harding

Gaia Alchemy: The Reuniting of Science, Psyche, and Soul, by Stephan Harding
Bear & Company, 1591434254, 320 pages, January 2022

The separation of mind and body that began during the scientific revolution has caused a rippling split between humanity and nature, which has been immensely detrimental to the natural interconnected systems on Earth. While the integration is slowly starting to happen in academic settings (I do hold a Master of Social Science in Environmental Humanities and Ecopsychology from Viridis Graduate Institute), it’s clear the current scientific paradigm needs greater supplementation to fully understand the interconnectedness of Earth. This arduous task of reconnection is what Stephan Harding sets out to in Gaia Alchemy: The Reuniting of Science, Psyche, and Soul.

Harding describes to readers how a dream in which he meets Old Woman, is the anima munda, or Gaia, who encouraged him to write this book. Meeting this archetypal imagery affirmed his path of writing a book on what he has termed “Gaia Alchemy”. Gaia Alchemy blends depth psychology, alchemy, and Gaia theory, creating a new paradigm aimed at bringing the soul back to science and culture.

“Gaia theory is a scientific understanding of the Earth as a great plantery organism, as a self-regulating complex system; alchemy is the ancient art of personal transformation and nature connection. My quest has been to discover whether we can experience a Gaia that is more vibrant, full of meaning, and alive by alchemizing science, thereby re-ensouling science and our culture and thus freeing both from their analytical dryness.”1

Harding sets off to take the readers through his own personal journey of developing this Gaia Alchemy worldview through psychological, historical, and scientific revelations, along with a good bit of creative imagination. And his method of engaging readers goes beyond just sharing interesting insight, there’s practices to do and exercises to try.

At the start of the book, Harding invites the reader to find their Gaia Place. He describes this as “a place where you can relax and connect deeply to nature, where your heart feels glad, where you’ll make important discoveries, both inner and outer.”2

I liked this concept because I’ve done something similar in the past, when I was training to be a nature-based coach, where I had my own “sit spot” to connect with nature everyday. I feel like developing this special place is key to facilitating one’s awareness of the natural world.

Harding provides plenty of ways to heighten one’s connection to their Gaia place throughout the book. For instance, there’s a really neat meditation to connect with ecological communities of the past, taking one through the evolution from small plants to mammals, through dinosaurs and meteorites, drawing on the alchemical power of calcification. From there, one is invited to experience the alchemical process of dissolution in their Gaia place. The mixture of ecology with alchemy in the meditations is very unique. There’s a special connection that develops between one and their Gaia Place as they move through these inner explorations.

Another really unique aspect of this book is that it’s filled with conversations with Jeffy Kiehl, a climate scientist and licensed Jungian analyst, which provides a multidimensional approach to the topic. Kiehl has written on related topics in his book Facing Climate Change: An Integrated Path to the Future. ​​Harding has done a wonderful job of including Kiehl’s perspective to give readers insight into the broad application of Gaia Alchemy through the thought-provoking dialogue. 

While his conversations with Kiehl did actually happen, Gaia Alchemy also features some imaginary conversations too written by Harding as he works to change the narrative of what happened in the split between science and alchemy, mind and body, to envision an alternative outcome. In the chapter “Descartes Meets Alchemy”, Descartes first has a conversation with an alchemist and then famed depth psychologist Marie-Louise von Franz. I feel like this creative revision of Descartes’ perspective really stuck with me as a reader, helping to shift my own view, similar to how a fictional story can ignite change.

I will note that Gaia Alchemy might be a lot for someone unfamiliar with alchemy or depth psychology to take on, but Harding fills the pages with charts, diagrams, and photographs to illuminate the content. As unfamiliar as these concepts may seem, especially to those steeped in a materialistic Western scientific culture, Harding’s work is rich with potential for re-visioning our future. Society needs to change in order to survive, and there’s no better place to start than within. The unification of rationality and intuition, science and soul, is the only way forward.

Alchemy is the perfect access point to the reunion of our material and spiritual world. Here’s an example of Harding’s perceptive writing on the alchemical process of conjunction:

“We experience conjunction in our psychological life when our solar sensing and rationality and our lunar feeling and intuition function well together, bringing a balanced outlook in which we see how causality and synchronicity are at work in the world at large, reinforcing our embeddedness within their immense yet deeply intimate networks of learning and meaning.

Alchemically, conjunction happens between Sol and Luna. It occurs when Sol – the divine transcendental source – fully conjoins with our existence as embodied beings here on Earth (Luna). We experience great clarity, purpose, and joy in those blessed moments when conjunction truly comes upon us, when its deepest meaning actualizes itself in us and we feel a blessed connection with Gaia.”32

This book was a real thrill to read as an ecopsychologist because it gives me hope there’s others out there working towards the integration of holistic sciences, deep ecology, and depth psychology. Harding himself lives in England, where he founded Schumacher College, which offers ecology-centered masters programs. At Schumacher College, Harding serves as Deep Ecology Research Fellow and senior lecturer on holistic science.

I can’t recommend Gaia Alchemy highly enough. For those interested in both the spiritual and natural world, this is an insightful guide to wholeness. Harding is doing and teaching what I believe is the most important work of our time, healing our connection with nature, promoting holistic science, and re-establishing our psychological ties with Gaia. Gaia Alchemy is a roadmap for an uncertain future and is well worth the read.

Archangel Fire Oracle, by Alexandra Wenman

Archangel Fire Oracle, by Alexandra Wenman and illustrated by Aveliya Savina
Findhorn Press, 1644112787, 40 cards, 144 pages, April 2021

I love angels. Communicating with angels was one of my earliest spiritual experiences. As I continued to connect with angels through books and decks, I discovered sometimes angelic wisdom gets locked in New-Age conventionality and trappings. When I started to explore esotericism and discovered the work of John Dee, I realized there was a magical art to communicating with angels. Sigils became an important part of my work with angels. Since then I’ve been trying to rediscover the relationship between angels and alchemy.

Archangel Fire Oracle by Alexandra Wenman is a true delight to discover for this reason. It goes beyond the positive, affirming messages of other angel oracle decks, connecting the reader with the genuine essence of each angel. The deck is a blend of color healing, alchemy, and angelic knowledge intended to facilitate awakening in the readers. In addition to learning more about each archangel, Women guides readers to tap into the most divine aspects of themselves through the meditations and exercises that facilitate spiritual awareness, transformation, and a deeper connection to the angelic realm.

There are forty archangel cards in this deck. The archangels are grouped in seventeen suits, each based on a healing color ray or sacred flame. I really enjoy visually seeing the archangels through these different color prisms. It adds a visual connection to each angel, as well as helps to identify archangels that are similar in energy.

The cards themselves are beautiful and some of the best depictions of the archangels I’ve ever seen. It’s very clear the illustrator of this deck, Aveliya Savina, had a strong relationship with the angelic realm and a very intuitive understanding of these energies. There is tons of symbolism in the deck, from animals to flowers, that infuse the cards with meaning. All the elements are represented (fire, air, earth, and water), as well as connections to the solar system and earth. There’s also some mythical energy that opens the reader’s consciousness to different realms.

I have so many favorite images in the deck that it’s hard to choose one. For instance, Rikbeil (11) is shown almost wearing a space suit with sweeping pink wings engulfing his body. Then there’s UFO-like flying saucers in the corner of the cards. It’s neat because the cards aren’t pushing alien-angel connection or anything (I’m so leery of that!), but it is an innovative, modern display of the resonate energetic meaning of the card, which reads:

“Rikbiel is known as the “Chief of the Divine Chariot: – the Merkabah. This Cherubim is said to be the “Power of Love” and he helps us to recognize the incredible power of having loving thoughts. A harmonizing angel, who can influence centrifugal force and find the most loving point between two opposing forces, Rikbiel is especially helpful to call on when working in group situations. Rikbie maintains co-operation and promotes open communication. Like the cosmic diplomat in his oracle card, he shows us that when a group strives towards a common goal based in integrity, they can achieve great things.”1

But while Rikbiel has a cosmic unifier vibe, other cards, such as Asariel (22) have aqueous energy. In this card, Asariel is portrayed with a seashell crown, holding a trident. There’s a hermit crab and treasure chest at her feet, while dolphins and an orca whale leap in the background. I’ve loved gazing at it and inviting the marine energy into my aura. The guidebook explains how she calls us to move with flow, trusting our intuition and dreams.

This deck just really stands apart from others due to the masterful artistry, which is relatable and ignites the imagination, prompting readers to understand the archangel’s energy in a way that goes beyond traditional interpretations of them. Savina’s artwork is perfect for contemplation, meditation, and using the cards on an altar, which is what I’ve been doing most frequently.

The guidebook is phenomenal too! For each of the seventeen suits, Wenman provides the corresponding chakra, crystals, essential oils, magical sigils, and star system. This information alone was worth having the deck for because it opens up so many doors for connecting with each angel. I’ve always been very interested in the relationship between constellations and the angels, and this guidebook has been extremely useful for exploring this.

For every archangel, there is an overall description of their essence, a message from them (a quote of guidance, guidance on how to meet the archangel in the energetic realm through visualization, guidance for diamond fire alchemy with the archangel, and a section on becoming the angel (invoking their energy).

What I love about this wealth of wisdom is that it’s suitable for all levels. Beginners will be content to receive a message from the archangels and learn a bit about their energy. Those who are ready to experience the healing of the archangel might want to do the visualization to meet them or the diamond fire alchemy for spiritual healing or transformation. Then for those who feel experienced enough to invoke the archangel, the final section is very useful in how to embody the energy of the archangel.

While the techniques and exercise require a bit of a time or energetic investment on behalf of the reader, they are truly powerful. As I mentioned, I’ve been very interested in learning more about the archangels, their sigils, and their relationship to the constellations. But Wenman’s guide book helps to take my explorations to a new level through the visualizations and invocation exercises. It’s so useful to have guidance about how to connect with the angels in this way, rather than just having to trace sigils out of an old grimoire I found in PDF form.

Overall, Archangel Fire Oracle is the most authentic angel oracle deck that I’ve come across thus far. Wenman and Savina have successfully channeled the archangels into imagery and a guidebook that is relatable, easy to use, and most of all, soul-stirring. The archangels have been liberated from outdated forms and antiquated definitions of their energy. In this deck, the archangels’ essences shine through, opening readers into a current of love, peace, and spiritual transformation.