Musing Mystical

✨ A Gathering Place for Magical Readers and Writers ✨

Tag Archives: magic

Wicca for Everyday Life, by Silja

Wicca for Everyday Life: Celtic Spells, Chants, and Rituals for Busy Witches, by Silja
CICO Books, 1800654316, 144 pages, August 2025

Life moves quickly. Between work, home, family, and the constant hum of modern demands, finding time for deep, elaborate rituals can feel challenging even for the most dedicated witch. Yet magic is not something that exists only in moonlit circles or hours-long ceremonies; it is a living, breathing part of the everyday world. It can be stirred into your morning tea, whispered as you lock the door, or woven into the moments between meetings.

In Wicca for Everyday Life: Celtic Spells, Chants, and Rituals for Busy Witches, Celtic Wiccan High Priestess Silja opens the door to a practice that fits into even the most hectic of schedules. Through simple spells, chants, and rituals, she shows that witchcraft is not about having the perfect altar or rare ingredients—it’s about intention, connection, and the quiet power of aligning with the natural cycles that flow all around us. Packed to the brim with ideas of how to infuse your day with magic, this book has plenty of spells for enhancing the mundane aspects of one’s daily routine.

This book is divided into six chapters, each focusing on an area of life where the reader can apply their magic: tending to the home and garden, working, commuting/traveling, nurturing their well-being, creating a schedule, and seasonally living. This well-rounded approach to different types of spellwork allows readers to tap into magic at any point in their day, either for a specific intention related to one of these domains or just for overall alignment with the energies of the moment. The variety of spells shared by Silja give plenty of creative inspiration for how readers can craft their intentions and hone their focus for meaningful, magical transformations.

One of the best parts of this book is the colorful illustrations throughout. They offer a gentle visual ease to the book, giving the eyes plenty of space to wander and take in the tranquility they provide. The colorful layout of the book also makes it easy to find what you’re looking for and follow along with the spells, as there are different color blocks, text sizes, bullet points, and other features that make for a pleasurable read. This isn’t a bland textbook of spells; this book is a creative fusion of pastel color, text, and illustration that draws readers into the magical energy.

Here are some of Silja’s wisdom from this book I’ve tried out so far:

• Working with a potato to achieve my goals by cutting it in half, carving a symbol of what I wish to achieve, putting it back together and microwaving, and  then eating the baked potato with sour cream. Yum! A delicious and quick spell.

• Taking a purification soak where I put dried chamomile in a muslin bag and took a special bath to release unsettling feelings.

• Setting up my  work space with tips from Silja about decorations and crystals to infuse the energy. I also followed her suggestion to write a sigil on a sticky note (you can choose the corresponding color that matches your intention!) and putting it behind my computer.

• Taking more time to connect with nature as I’m walking outside, noticing the clouds, plants, and animals around. Silja gives insights into the messages we get from different types of plants and animals, assisting readers with deciphering nature’s communication with us.

And these few things I’ve done so far are only a tiny fraction of all the ideas Silja shares that I look forward to doing in time! From easing sibling tension to purposely picking out the scents of body care items, there’s a lot of directions this book takes the readers. The whole last section on seasonal magic is a great chapter to refer back to throughout the year as the wheel turns and we enter a new phase. Additionally, the section on how to best use days of the week for their magical potency is a great way to map your days and plan accordingly.

One thing worth noting is that I am personally not Wiccan, yet all of the magic in this book is still relevant to me. Aside from an introduction to Wiccan magic in the beginning, Silja doesn’t overly focus on the Wiccan aspects of the content. The material is super adaptable to fit your own magical lens. I wouldn’t let the title deter you from exploring all the wonderful guidance in this book if your craft path is not traditionally Wiccan or Celtic in nature.

As for the level of magical experience best suited for the reader of this book, I feel it’s welcoming to everyone. It’s been well over a decade that I’ve been honing my craft, but when I’m busy and my mind is scattered and I’m short on time, it’s nice to have a quick reference guide. I absolutely love having this book on hand to find an appropriate magical working in a pinch, which the index makes very easy to do. It’s a book that I have been keeping around to ease my day and provide inspiration when I don’t have the energy to come up with my own workings.`

Similarly, those new to magical workings will appreciate the simplicity of the many spells, divinations, and tips for infusing magic into one’s life. Most can be done within a few minutes, teaching readers to feel empowered in their ability to shift energy and call in their intentions with just a few moments of dedication and focus. Silja even suggests working with this book before seeking out a Wiccan coven, for those interested in that path, to familiar oneself with the concept of magic and ritual workings.

Overall, the pages of Wicca for Everyday Life are filled with magic you can work in a few minutes, using what you already have on hand. Whether it’s summoning calm before a stressful day, choosing ingredients for a magical meal, or honoring the changing seasons in subtle ways, Silja invites you to discover that every moment holds the potential for enchantment. This is witchcraft for the real world—practical, joyful, and deeply rooted in the wisdom that reminds us that nature, spirit, and daily life are never truly separate.

The Tarot Architect, by Lon Milo Duquette

The Tarot Architect: How to Become the Master Builder of Your Spiritual Temple,  by Lon Milo DuQuette
Weiser Books,  978-1578638543, 368 pages, May 2025

“Who is this book for? It is for those who desire a set of seventy-eight cards that serve, not just as pieces of cardboard, but as vital forces embodying the mystery and magic of the universe within and without. Such a set can be used to both mirror and manipulate one’s own experience and even the world around you. It serves as the key that unlocks the ability to create change in accord with will.”1

The quote above by renowned Tarot master and author, Mary Greer, summarizes the intention of The Tarot Architect: How to Become the Master Builder of Your Spiritual Temple by Lon Milo DuQuette. This is not a book an easy pass for a quick study of Tarot, and does not reduce Tarot to its use as only a tool for divination and oracular arts. Rather, it takes the foundational basics of Tarot and expands its reach to be inclusive of the magic of creation, leaning into the Qabalistic, Ceremonial Magick, Enochian systems and more.

The Tarot Architect is organized into eleven chapters contained within two sections: “Book 1: Laying the Foundations” and “Book II: Creating Your Own Deck”. In the style that is uniquely that of Lon Milo DuQuette, there is also “Prologue – A Job Offer” and “Epilogue-The Job is Yours” as the start and finish to the  depth of information in-between. The Appendices 1, 2, and 3 provide the reader with quick look interpretations of the cards, correspondence tables for the Trump (Major Arcana ) cards, and an extra offering for those familiar with Enochian magic: an Enochian Tablet of Union.

Throughout the book, there is a plethora of graphics adding to the visual approach of absorbing the information contained. As a nice addition, large black and white images of the tarot cards discussed can be colored as part of the suggested modality of study and engaging the visual kinesthetic approach. Of note, the cards are not the traditional Rider-Waite, which allows for suspension of pre-ordained interpretation based on imagery and prescriptive colors.

As the title alludes, each section of the book uses as analogy the process much like an architect or builder would go through in steps towards the masterful creation of a building of great value. “Book I: Laying the Foundations” does exactly that, preparing the reader for crafting their own scaffolding using Qabalistic principles overlayed and underpinning the Tarot keys themselves. Use of the Tetragrammaton and the Cube of Space round out the concept of having Working Tools of the finest quality as any skilled builder would. This section is replete with meditations and ritual to begin the process of crafting a skillset and the necessary knowledge to inform your crafting of a spiritual Temple.

“Book II: Creating Your Own Deck” comprises more than half of the title and is the deep dive into Tarot from a lens most will not even consider in application. This section begins with “ A Little Background Information” that provides the reader with just enough of the relevant history of Tarot and the overarching revelation of the inherent link of creative reciprocity between the seventy-eight cards of the tarot as alternate expressions of the Hermetic Sephira and paths of the Tree. Discussion  of the impact of human consciousness in directing the formation of the cards aligned with  specific patterns offers a thoughtful approach to the journey you are embarking on.

This section is a quintessential text book of instruction, theory, practicum, ritual, meditation, and more. Black and white large images of specific cards are displayed, ready to be colored as reinforcement of what you are internally building as a solid foundation for all of your magical endeavors. Each chapter holds a deeper mystery of synthesis contained within the cards of focus and their use in creating a sustainable and evolving magical practice inclusive of more than just Tarot. 

Would I Recommend?

The Tarot Architect is a difficult book to review because it’s hard to provide a full impression of the magnitude of the material contained within its pages. And, let me qualify that statement by saying that it is not because of any lack within this title. Actually, quite the opposite, in that this title is exactly what would be expected of a Lon Milo DuQuette book.

The text is steeped in a knowledge base that is expansive in its approach and thoroughly grounded in sound technique honed from years of dedication and study of the hermetic arts, Tarot, Qabalah, and Enochian Magic, to name a few. I would not entirely agree that this is a book that is reader-ready for the complete novice, but that being said, it is valuable at every turn in allowing for exposure to more complex ways of thinking around Tarot and its related hermetic companions.

It is structured in a way that it would be difficult to “avoid” the exercises, meditations, and homework to simply skip around. As is true of any magical discipline of worth–“discipline” being the key word here–you will dramatically short change yourself by not putting in the work, of which there is a substantial amount.

The greater lessons of take away are not only the overt lessons and information, but more importantly, the author’s subtle lessons of guiding the reader towards questioning, exploring, and finding the suitable roads that will be of their own creation, regardless of magical focus. For those reasons, this is a title that should be in every magician’s library and work to aspire towards.

About the Author: Lon Milo DuQuette

Lon Milo DuQuette is a bestselling author who lectures worldwide on such topics as magic, tarot, and the Western mystery traditions. He is currently the US Deputy Grand Master of Ordo Templi Orientis and is on the faculty of the Omega Institute and the Maybe Logic Academy. His books include The Magick of Aleister Crowley, Understanding Aleister Crowley’s Thoth Tarot, and The Chicken Qabalah. Visit him at londuquette.com.

This is Chaos, edited by Peter J. Carroll

This Is Chaos: Embracing the Future of Magic, edited by Peter J. Carroll
Weiser Books, 1578638739, 288 pages, June 2025

This is Chaos: Embracing the Future of Magic is a captivating anthology that delves into the enigmatic world of Chaos Magic. It is edited by Peter J. Carroll, whose influence has been foundational in Chaos magic through both shaping its core principles but in popularizing and legitimizing it as a serious magical paradigm, yet it brings forth the voices of a diverse array of practitioners. This collection of essays, theories, and practical applications from various contributors offers readers a comprehensive overview of Chaos Magic’s philosophy, practical application, and future potential. As Carroll notes in the introduction:

“The essays in this anthology come from a variety of orthodox Chaoists, heterodox Chaotist, and Chaos heretics. Energy and information, and hence creation and destruction, suffuse their inspirations. Taste the Chaos!”2

This is Chaos: Embracing the Future of Magic is a captivating anthology that delves into the enigmatic world of Chaos Magic. It is edited by Peter J. Carroll, whose influence has been foundational in Chaos magic through both shaping its core principles but in popularizing and legitimizing it as a serious magical paradigm, yet it brings forth the voices of a diverse array of practitioners. This collection of essays, theories, and practical applications from various contributors offers readers a comprehensive overview of Chaos Magic’s philosophy, practical application, and future potential.

I’ve been happily making my way through this book for well over a month now, taking the time to reflect on and digest each chapter; it’s that thought-provoking! From the exploration of the nature of Chaos itself to belief as a tool for personal transformation and spiritual growth, there’s plenty of Chaos concepts to play around and experiment with while reading. Some essays focus on practical application, while others are more theoretical. Plus, certain essays’ segways into the scientific and postmodern influences of quantum physics, chaos math, and psychology/cognitive science open up even more doorways for readers to explore.

It’d be hard for me to pick a favorite essay, but I can share some of the revelations I had while reading:

  • • “On Naive Interventionism in Magic, How Not to Do Magic, and How to Do it Well” by Jozef Karika was great overall magic insight for practitioners. It makes you remember that magic doesn’t need to be your first intervention for every life problem while also highlighting how naive other magical systems can be. I loved the advice to change up my magical practice frequently: do it often then intermittently, shift the times of days and types of magic, and once comfortable, change the sequence of the work.
  • • “On the Casual Relationships Between Spirits and Archetypes” by Jacob Sipes led to crazy synchronistic discussions between my husband and I when he asked me if I felt archetypes had a spiritual essence that collectively we could shape and evolve. I had just read this chapter, which focuses on the existence of spirits and archetype and how these two models differ yet also have room to coexist with Sipes offering “a model that proposes a causal interaction”3 between them. This was an extremely interesting topic overall.
  • • “A Path into Animist Sorcery” by Aidan Wachter super opened my awareness to all spirits around me, from the intelligence of nature to the guidance of ancestors. The writing was very meditative, reminding readers we are part of a larger web of energy we can intentionally interact with, whether we consciously acknowledge this or not. I really resonated with Wachter’s observation that “Magical practice builds stronger connections, allowing greater and clearer passage of information. This information has a guiding effect on both the system and your experience within it.”4
  • • “Octomantic Neuro-Hacking: A Map and a Compass for ChaoSurfing” by Mariana Pinzón provides a Chaos Magic perspective on Dr. Timothy Leary’s Eight-Circuit Brain model presented in his books Neurologic and Exo-Psychology. In this essay, she combines the model with Carroll’s eight magicks in Liber Kaos, “to describe the different-colored flavors of “gnosis” a Chaos Magician might work with.”5 I highly enjoyed this mapping model overall and found it extremely useful for becoming more aware of certain thought patterns holding me back. It is definitely something I am going to continue to utilize in my magical practice.

What stood out most for me clearly gives some insight into my personal practice, and that’s the beauty of how all these essays offer personalized experiences for the reader. This book is appealing to an eclectic audience, doing a little dive into a wide-range of subjects that can be followed up on for further exploration. Other essay topics include Chaos Magic and tarot, chemogenesis, egregore entities, cybermagick, correspondences between Chaos Magic and Japanese Gods, Chaos witchcraft, and more!

“Thus, in Chaos Magic we observe an attempt to liberate magical practice from a single setting and set, defined by the truth claims of competing metaphysical viewpoints, and open up a multiplicity of possibilities.”6

Overall, This is Chaos is an enlightening anthology that successfully captures the versatility of Chaos Magic. Carroll’s skillful editing brings coherence to the diverse contributions, creating a well-rounded reading experience (although, you definitely don’t have to go in order!). Plus, the illustrations by Hagen von Tulien throughout the text are fun to look at, even perhaps meditate with, as you readers move through the book.

The book’s approach to Chaos Magic is suitable for practitioners of all levels. Instead of offering a single definition of Chaos Magic, it opens a multi-faceted prism that reflects the full spectrum of the paradigm.The result is a well-rounded, richly textured map of where the magical current has been, where it is now, and where it’s going. It doesn’t just teach—it invites readers to connect with the living, evolving practice of Chaos Magic. This is certainly a read I’ll be coming back to for inspiration again and again!

The Way of the Eight Winds, by Nigel Pennick

The Way of the Eight Winds: Elemental Magic and Geomancy in the Pagan Tradition, by Nigel Pennick
Destiny Books, 978-1644119864, 403 pages, January 2025

Let me tell you, as someone who has been deeply immersed in the world of astrology and spirituality since the 1970s, Nigel Pennick’s The Way of the Eight Winds: Elemental Magic and Geomancy in the Pagan Tradition immediately caught my eye. Right from the start, the idea of a spiritual path that celebrates the sheer diversity of the Cosmos and Nature’s endless creativity resonated with me. His deep dives into geomancy and elemental magic felt like a natural extension of my life journey, exploring how subtle energies shape our reality. My first thought? This book felt like a rare gem, blending serious scholarship with a truly hands-on approach. 

Pennick has a way of writing that pulls you in. He makes these really complex historical and philosophical ideas feel approachable, without ever dumbing them down. You can tell he’s not just writing about theory; he’s lived and breathed this stuff, a true scholar and practitioner all rolled into one. The book flows beautifully, starting with the big-picture philosophical ideas, then moving into cosmic principles, and finally getting down to the nitty-gritty of practical geomancy and creating sacred objects. It’s all laid out so logically, building one idea on top of another, making it easy to follow the thread of The Way of the Eight Winds.

One of the most captivating things for me was his focus on the “eldritch world” and Anima Loci, which he describes as the very spirit of a place. Pennick gets into how “The sacred nature of a place emanates directly from the Anima Loci and that any other usage of the place is an overlay derived externally, imposed by deliberate or accidental means over the original Anima Loci.”7 This idea, that places have their own intrinsic spiritual essence and that our actions can either nurture or harm it, resonated deeply with my astrological understanding of how planetary influences manifest in specific locations. For an astrologer like me, the thought that places themselves can be “ensouled,” and that we can actually interact with these energies, opens up a whole new dimension – it’s like extending a natal chart reading to include the very ground beneath our feet.

What I also loved is Pennick’s clear stance on direct experience. He makes it clear that The Way of the Eight Winds recognizes the essentially false nature of all dogma and doctrine and the destructive results of literalism.”8 That’s a massive point for me. It truly echoes my belief that genuine spiritual insight arises from personal engagement and intuition, rather than blindly following rules or doctrines. He even includes spiritual exercises like meditation and runic practices, offering concrete ways to tap into that direct experience. I haven’t had a chance to try everything yet, but his “Geomantic Walking”9 idea – essentially a quest to sense unseen forces in the environment – immediately jumped out. I can see myself incorporating that into my daily strolls here in Santa Ana, paying closer attention to the subtle energies of Orange County. 

And let me tell you, the historical context he provides is just fantastic. Pennick traces geomantic practices back through European history, from the ancient Etruscan Discipline to medieval traditions, and how they gradually got pushed aside by modern, more mechanical ways of looking at the world. He contrasts our current, often literal, understanding with traditional systems like the eight tides of the day and the eight winds. He even humorously points out how William of Occam’s razor, “Entities are not to be multiplied,”10 seems to be entirely ignored by modern engineers who love to complicate things! This historical perspective helps you grasp why it’s so important to reconnect with these ancient principles now.

All in all, The Way of the Eight Winds is a truly rich and thought-provoking read. It’s a gentle nudge, a reminder even, to open ourselves up to the subtle energies of the world and engage with our surroundings in a more mindful and respectful way. I’d definitely recommend it to anyone already involved in magic, geomancy, or pagan traditions – it’s an intermediate to expert level book, for sure. But honestly, any astrologer or anyone curious about the spiritual side of nature and place would get so much out of it. This book is absolutely going to influence my future astrological readings, pushing me to consider not just the stars above, but the very earth below for my clients. It’s truly inspired me to deepen my own geomantic practices and keep exploring those hidden landscapes right here at home.

A Practical Guide to Magic in Nature, by Jessica Lahoud

A Practical Guide to Magic in Nature, by Jessica Lahoud
Rockpool Publishing, 1922786497, 256 pages, July 2025

A Practical Guide to Magic in Nature by Jessica Lahoud is an enchanting exploration of the natural world through the lens of magic and spirituality. Lahoud invites readers to discover the mystical aspects of nature and learn how to incorporate them into their daily lives, teaching readers correspondences and connections to enhance their understanding of energetic properties . Covering a variety of topics and beautifully animated with brilliant illustrations, this lovely reference guide is a grounding reminder of the magic that can be found all around for those who open their eyes to see it.

“My hope is that this is the book you reach for when you are formulating your spells, the book that you reference when making sense of a magical experience you’ve had in nature, and the book you turn to when an animal messengers spears in a dream.”11

Sectioned into six parts, this book explores the material magic of earth and potent celestial influence of planets and stars, ultimately integrating both to introduce readers to their own personal agency and energy centers. This holistic approach brings a resonance of harmony and balance, merging the magic of land and sky within oneself to enhance one’s understanding of their place within the marvelous universe.

“Part 1: Crystals” includes a lovely introduction to crystal healing, which teaches readers how to care for and use their crystals. There is a whole crystal profile guide, spanning over 40 pages, that shares the corresponding organ/meridian, chakra, element for hundreds of crystals. The list also includes the Moss hardness and properties associated with the crystal. For each one, Lahoud shares a few sentences about how the crystal is best used. She also shares crystal combinations for a variety of desired effects (health and healing, joy, luck, balance). This would be perfect for making a little crystal bag to carry with you!

Next, “Part 2: Plant Magic” familiarizes readers with plant magic, focusing on the myriad of ways one can connect with the essence of plants: tea, essential oil blends, aromatherapy, cooking, tending to house plants, and so on. Similar to the crystal section, this section has plant profiles for herbs and spices, flowers and shrubs, fruits and vegetables, and roots, resins and woods. Within each profile, Lahoud highlights the corresponding celestial body, day, element, and chakra. She also shares the botanical name, whether the energy of the plant is active or nurturing, and magical powers of the plants, along with a few sentence description of how it is often used.

There is so much packed into this section! I really enjoyed learning about the fruit and vegetable energy profiles, as these are foods I eat on a regular basis. Avocado toast has been my go-to for breakfast, and it was fascinating to learn avocado is associated with Venus and the heart chakra. This is how Lahoud describes the usefulness of avocado:

“Avocado is associated with love and beauty. This nourishing fruit promotes good health and a strong heart, useful for attracting love and romance. Its richness is symbolic of its bountiful energy, useful for promoting abundance and prosperity.”12

Following suit, “Part 3: Animals” also shares a lengthy list of animal symbolism. Lahoud writes, “Animals are magical creatures of nature, and therefore they also often bring their own messages to you, guided by their innate wisdom.”13 In her list of over 50 animals, she shares keywords associated with the animal along with a message from the animal. Whether the animal appears to you in a dream or you feel called to know more about a certain animal, this section is extremely helpful in interpreting the message the animal spirit has for you. Some animals even include a ritual (ex. Chicken Wishbone Ritual) or recipe (Beeswax Candle Making).

Now that Lahoud has provided in-depth profiles of Earth’s natural magic, she turns towards the celestial bodies that influence readers magically too. “Part 4: Celestial Bodies” provides profiles for the planets in our solar system as well as the Sun and Moon. Each profile provides the corresponding day, color, element, metal, zodiac sign, angels and gods, plants, crystals, organs, and chakra with the celestial body. There’s also a few descriptive sentences about the body’s essence. The profiles for Uranus, Neptune, and Pluto, however, only include some of the profile correspondences since they are newer discoveries. This section also delves into moon phases for further insights.

“Part 5: The Elements” introduces each element, and then Lahoud teaches how one can work with them by noting ways to connect with the element and associations (tarot symbol, zodiac sign, color, season, and chakra). This is the briefest section, but it still yields useful guidance.

Finally, “Part 6: The Magic in You” brings different energy tools together to teach readers how to be more attuned to their own magic within. I love how Lahoud frames this:

“Recognizing the magic in nature is a step towards understanding your own magic. Just as the universe is a vast cosmos of stardust, water, carbon and more, you too are composed of these same fundamental elements. This is a kind of cosmic kinship.”14

In this section, she teaches how to clear one’s energy and tools one can use (pendulum, candles, crystals) for this purpose. Lahoud then delves into the chakras, providing a profile that shares their corresponding organ, day, planet, color, and an affirmation, along with ways to balance one’s chakras. She also shares profiles for the medians, or “invisible pathways in your body that carry life-force energy,”15, nothing whether they are yin or yang and the corresponding emotions, elements, season, color, timing, and foods that support the meridian. Lastly, there’s a page dedicated to the meaning of different aura colors.

While this book is clearly filled with so much useful information, what really makes it stand out is the many illustrations throughout that make the text feel alive. The illustrations provide immensely pleasing visual stimulation and make it so the text never feels dense or overwhelming. It’s one thing to read the word, but it’s a whole other level to see it come to life on the page. This book is a true beauty, drawing the reader back to it again and again.

Overall, A Practical Guide to Magic in Nature is a delightful addition to the library of anyone interested in the intersection of nature and spirituality. Lahoud has made this book a one-stop reference guide that is so detailed and inclusive readers will have all they need within it. There’s so many ways one can use this book, whether they simply want to learn more about the natural world or are looking to deepen their magical practice by furthering their knowledge of correspondences. The balance between practicality and spirituality makes it a wonderful resource for nature lovers and nature-based magic practitioners alike. All who read this book will surely enjoy the vivid depictions of the natural world and the treasure trove of wisdom imparted throughout.

At the Borders of the Wondrous and Magical, by Claude Lecouteux

At the Borders of the Wondrous and Magical: Nature Spirits, Shapeshifters, and the Undead in the Never-Ending Middle Ages, by Claude Lecouteux
Inner Traditions, 1644119935, 288 pages, January 2025

If you enjoy epics like Beowulf or Gawain and the Green Knight, along with enjoying learning the implications of these stories, then At the Borders of the Wondrous and Magical: Nature Spirits, Shapeshifters, and the Undead in the Never-Ending Middle Ages is a magnificent read for you.

In the first chapter, I really enjoyed learning about the common threads found in literature that began in the 900’s, continuing through the fates of Shakespeare, and then carrying on into modern  classics like Hocus Pocus.

Lecouteux offers insight into many of the parallels of the great modern epics and the influence of medieval story-telling. The author draws examples from both well-known and well-loved literature and media, such as Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings, Shakespeare’s plays, George Lucas’ Star Wars, and also briefly steps into the world of role-playing games, such as World of Warcraft.

While reading, I enjoyed the incredible diversity  of magical entities that Lecouteux categorizes, including revenants, vampires, the living dead, magicians, spirits, faeries, pirates, monsters, and the list goes on. Under each category of beings, Lecouteux provides examples of numerous literary appearances. He discusses how some of these characters change and also how various versions highlight new or different viewpoints/aspects of the being. With each variation or interpretation comes slight change or modification to the existing lore of these characters. 

Moving beyond the characters of medieval lore, Lecouteux additionally explores the setting of these stories, including mountains, forests, marshes, seas, lakes, and rivers and even the elements of nature. The magic and mystery of the untamed spaces draws the imagination into stories of epic proportions.

Throughout, Lecouteux draws insight into the belief systems of the people of the medieval time period. For example, Lecouteux dives into the mythology of clouds and the belief that humans were created with the essence of clouds:

“God in his omnipotence, made many things. He created the only man from right parts: from earth he made his flesh; from the dew he made his sweat; from the stones, his bones; from plants, his veins; from the grass, his hair; from the sea, his blood; from the clouds, his mind: from the sun, his two eyes.”16

And what a beautiful parallel of human form to nature. 

As a reader of fantasy and sci-fi, I enjoyed identifying the archetypes and tropes in the stories that I have read both as a youth and throughout my adult life. 

One of the fascinating points the author makes is that we are not as far removed from medieval culture as we believed we were. The tropes, archetypes, and fantasy-world live on in our daily lives through the stories we read, watch, and retell. And THAT, dear friend, is an incredible concept. 

In medieval stories, one of the prominent themes that I gathered from Lecouteux’s work is the human response to unknown magic. In my understanding of human response mechanisms, fear of the unknown is a driving force in how humans respond to unknown stimuli. And in the case of medieval legends and lore, this is also the case.

Lecouteux references beheadings, deaths, murders, and violence as common reactions to fantastical situations and settings. And while these stories are nearing a thousand years in age, the same premises are prevalent in modern stories and epics. In Lord of the Rings, a gruesome war is waged. In Game of Thrones, violence and death are witnessed in seemingly every episode.

Overall, Lecouteux’s At the Borders of the Wondrous and Magical is a deep dive into the stories of the medieval mindset, as well as the exploration and fears of wondrous, magical, and fantastical entities and tropes. If you enjoy the history of literature, literature analysis, and learning about the tropes and archetypes of historical fiction, this book would be a solid addition to your library. Additionally, I was happy to learn that Lecouteux has many, many books for further reading: Tales of Witchcraft and Wonder, The Tradition of Household Spirits, Demons and Spirits of the Land, and Encyclopedia of Norse and Germanic Folklore, Mythology, and Magic.

Money Magic, by Patricia Telesco

Money Magic: A Handbook of Spells and Charms for Prosperity, by Patricia Telesco
Crossed Crow Books, 196453710X, 189 pages, April 2025

Money — one of the most sought out manifestations in spellwork! Who doesn’t want a bit of extra coin to take a vacation, buy a new car, or sign up for a course that’s been calling? Money Magic: A Handbook of Spells and Charms for Prosperity by Patricia Telesco teaches readers how to bring about financial enhancement through a variety of magical methods. Filled with time-honored practices and Telesco’s magical insights, this book offers  inspiration and novel methods to increase one’s prosperity and abundance.

“I think a lot of people today feel overwhelmed with financial burdens. Having walked a mile in those shoes, and knowing what a difficult road it can be, inspired the material you’ll discover here. My hope is to give everyone reading this a clever, insightful, and practical magical blueprint for changing meager patterns in your life to those that reflect plenty, no matter how you wish to apply that energy.”17

Telesco, a seasoned author in the field of magical and spiritual literature, offers readers a comprehensive guide to attracting wealth that is very grounded and doesn’t eschew the hard work required to build and maintain one’s resources. Often referring to idioms and maxims, she encourages readers to do what’s necessary on a practical level, boosting it with magical intentions, rather than solely rely on one’s magical workings alone. I loved how she weaves together humor with a realistic approach to money magic, getting the reader in the right frame of mind to preserve, tend to their financial matters with care, and take personal responsibility for their money situation.

While Telesco doesn’t offer a get-rich-quick solution, she does provide TONS of guidance on magical methods one can draw upon to boost their financial flow. The book is organized into several chapters, each focusing on different aspects of money magic. The book includes hundreds of spells, chants, rituals, and more aimed at enhancing prosperity. These range from simple charms to more elaborate rituals, suitable for practitioners of all levels. Even more, she also includes folklore, superstitions, and customs from cultures both ancient and modern to provide a wide range of ideas and different perspectives for readers.

Telesco begins the book with lists of folklore, superstitions, signs, and omens related to money from around the world. Presented in lists, this section is easy to read and quite engaging, as there’s a lot of little tidbits of useful information. Next, she moves onto creating beverages and food for abundance, presenting recipes like “Prosperity Punch” and “Quick Cash Cabbage”. She offers tips for enhancing the recipe and making modifications to fine-tune your results.

Chapter three turns to aromatics, as Telesco notes “the nose knows”18 More than simply good-smelling oils, Telesco presents a variety of ways one can use scent to boost their magic. She lists prosperity aromatics, along with offering recipes for air sprays, bath salts, candles, creams, incense, and more. My favorite was her suggestion to create finger bowls, or small bowls fill with herbal water for cleansing. I had never heard of these before! Furthermore, Telesco shares ideas for potpourri, powders, and culinary infused aromatics, such as herbal butter, seasoned salts, and infused sugars.

The following chapter is all focused on spellwork. Telesco provides her general “rules” for spellwork, encouraging readers to disregard what doesn’t feel right for them and do what does instead, though I found her insights very helpful. She discusses how she doesn’t do magic if she’s too personally invested and only uses magical energy if it’s something she truly can’t do on her own. Great tips! And within this chapter are so many spells, ranging from “Eggshell spell” to “Money in the Moon”. Most of these are all the quick spells one can do with just a few items and a chant.

The longer rituals are shared in “Chapter Six: Rich Ritual”. Telesco provides background context for performing rituals, such as the components of a ritual and process, including invoking the elements and calling to spirit. She then provides pre-written rituals that can easily be adapted for a new job/raise/promotion, financial dream prophecy, stretching one’s resources, getting cash quickly, and banishing poverty and bringing in luck.

There’s also a chapter on talismans, where Telesco covers “portable magic”19–charms, amulets, talismans, and fetishes–and teaches readers the basics of crafting their own. She offers symbols one can carve into or draw on, charms from different places (bee, pumpkin seeds, coral) one can carry with them, crystals to keep on one’s person, and other materially tangible ways to boost one’s luck in financial matters.

The final chapter delves into astrology and feng shui. Telesco offers general astrological insight for Western astrology sun and moon signs as well as the Chinese astrology animal zodiac. She also covers the basics of feng shui, teaching readers about the significant regions, colors, and elements involved. Astrology and feng shui are clearly very in-depth fields in their own right, so what Telesco shares is only a brief introduction, but it’s enough to get the reader curious about learning more!

Telesco includes two appendices at the end. The first is a list of “suitable offerings, libations, incense, and spell and ritual components for money magic”20 and the second is a list of prosperity gods and goddesses. Both are very interesting reads!

What’s really lovely about this book is how it engages so many magical methods. For those more inclined to working with herbs or hands-on crafts, there’s plenty of options. Likewise, the kitchen witch will have a ball reading through all the magically-infused food options. Those who enjoy spellwork or astrology also have their pick of magical methods to boost their finances. From crystals and gems to sigils and chants, all kinds of magical workings are contained within this book! There’s so much to explore!!

So far, I’ve had two major money successes using tips from this book. First, I negotiated a 33% higher rate for an independent contractor job I’m starting in July. Then the next dayI was selected to do a focus group I had applied for that pays $150 for just an hour and a half of my time! These little boosts of cash made me quite happy and made me feel confident my money magic is working!!

Overall, Money Magic is a easy-to-read, well-structured, and insightful guide for anyone interested in utilizing magic to boost their financial well-being. Telesco’s practical advice coupled with decades of wisdom makes this book a valuable addition to the library of both novice and seasoned practitioners. Whether you are looking to enhance your financial situation or simply curious about money magic, you’re sure to find quite a few new tricks to add to your toolbelt.

As mentioned, I’ve already seen two major results from working with the book for just one week! I am excited to keep experimenting with the ideas shared in this book; it’s a relief to know I have a resource to go to for this specific type of magic. I love Telesco’s mix of correspondence lists, so one can craft their own magical recipes, spells, charms, etc., and step-by-step workings that provide full details about what to do, how to do it, and when the best time is for it. There’s so much room for creativity and personalization within Telesco’s guidance, which I think is the true key to successful magic!

The Languages of Magic, by Toby Chappell

The Languages of Magic: Transform Reality through Words, Magical Symbols, and Sigils, by Toby Chappell
Destiny Books, 979-8888500675, 352 pages, April 2025

Toby Chappell’s The Languages of Magic: Transform Reality through Words, Magical Symbols, & Sigils is a fascinating exploration of the mystical and transformative power that language holds in the practice of magic. Chappell, known for his expertise in esoteric traditions and occult practices, masterfully delves into the ways words and symbols can shape reality, offering both a theoretical framework of semiotics and its application in the study of magic.

“The connection between semiotics, language, and magic is the core principle of this book: the magic is in the communication.”21

Don’t worry, I didn’t know what the word semiotics meant before reading this book, just in case you’re already lost! One thing I advise is not letting the academic language, which you most likely don’t hear in your daily life unless you’re a linguist, make you feel this book is too dense to comprehend. From the get-go, Chappell does a wonderful job distilling complex information into a relatable and easy to comprehend context, often providing detailed definitions, examples, and explanations for all concepts presented.

Step-by-step Chappell draws connections between traditional linguistic theories and magical practices, suggesting that mastery of language can lead to mastery over one’s reality.  A key theme in the book is the idea that language is not merely a tool for communication but a powerful medium for transformation. All of the chapters work cohesively towards demonstrating how understanding the foundations of language can lead to a better grasp on “the essential communicative function of magic.”22

The book begins with Chappell detailing the premise of this book, specifically clarifying for readers the intersection between language and semantics  and magic. From the origins of language to the passing on of cultures through time, readers gain a sense of just how the inner workings of the transmission of information can be drawn upon and manipulated to shift one’s own inner and outer world. Chappell explains:

“Magic—as operative communication—is a tool for translating this initial inspiration into the changes that are first necessary within the perceptual world. This is followed by altering a particular semiotic web to contain the right symbols that suggest an interpretation that can accommodate your vision. The newly re-spun semiotic web then suggests the effective mode of address for communicating this mindfully evolved vision to those mechanisms and forces in the phenomenal world that can help you to realize your vision.”23

To further provide a foundation for this assertion, Chappell delves into various models of magic and a history of semiotics. Within these chapters jam-packed with information, readers will learn about tons of philosophers, anthropologists, linguists, magicians, psychologists, and other thought-leaders. Chappell draws from many disciplines to provide a comprehensive, extremely well-rounded approach to the impact of language and semiotics within magic.

This section concludes with a chapter titled “Language, Myth, and Magic” where Chappell highlights mythological figures who are associated with language and writing and draws both ancient and modern connections between magic and the art of storytelling.

This section concludes with a chapter titled “Language, Myth, and Magic” where Chappell highlights mythological figures who are associated with language and writing and draws both ancient and modern connections between magic and the art of storytelling.

A real bonus to the book is the afterwards, which includes three essays. Two of them, “The Words Aim the Arrow” and “Why Do Magicians Write Fiction”,  are by author and occultist Don Webb, while the third, “Magi Loci” is by Brenda Yagmin. There’s also a glossary, notes, bibliography, and index for further research or study into the material presented.

As someone with academic inclinations, I highly enjoyed this book. My husband holds two philosophy degrees, so topics such as this are a normal discussion in our household. Plus, I’ve taken courses on the philosophy of language before, so some concepts were familiar. However, I will note, for those who are less inclined for such a detailed approach to magic, this book could potentially feel overwhelming at times. It took me about five weeks to make my way through, reading carefully, taking notes along the way, and taking side quests to read other works mentioned by Chappell throughout the book.

This said, I really feel like what Chappell has to offer the magical community within the text makes this book well worth the time and energy needed to absorb the material. Chappell emphasizes how this knowledge can enhance one as a magician:

“By examining these tools not normally associated with magic in our modern world, the magician can become more effective and powerful. They might even learn a bit about more effective mundane communication too.”24

And for those who preserve, much of the technical aspects of linguists and language of philosophy ease up in the second half of the book, especially once readers get to the case study section of the book. This is definitely a read that will have you wanting to then research other topics further; I have a list of further works and trains of thought I want to continue to research. Chappell offers a coherent presentation of information that is both practically applicable and also metaphysically stimulating.

Overall, The Languages of Magic is a valuable addition to the library of anyone interested in the occult, linguistics, philosophy, anthropology, or simply the transformative power of language in general. Chappell provides readers with the tools and knowledge to explore their own magical potential, making this book both an educational resource and a catalyst for personal growth. If you’re looking for a magical topic with some heartiness material you can really sink into, Chappell’s insights will inspire you to explore the fascinating interplay between language and magic. For those willing to take the time to explore the material, this is a wonderful resource for magical enrichment.

Flower Magic, by Anastasia Mostacci

Flower Magic: The Secret Language of Flowers, by Anastasia Mostacci with illustrations by Giada Ungredda
Red Wheel, 1590035739, 160 pages, May 2025

Have you ever felt inspired by the beauty, scent, or spirit of a flower? Flower Magic: The Secret Language of Flowers by Anastasia Mostacci is an enchanting exploration into the world of floral symbolism and the special energies these delicate delights offer. As Mostacci teaches, connecting with flowers invites us to slow down, open our senses, and commune with the quiet wisdom of nature’s most graceful teachers.

“The flower moves through life lightly, fleeting yet total; it is never halfway in its being or in its giving. It is magical; it is nature in its highest expression, and for this reason it is often considered a ferryman toward invisible realms, ancient as myth, fairylike and dreamy, spontaneous as childhood, secret and sacred as the soul.”25

Covering a variety of 60 flowers, Mostacci delves into the rich history and cultural significance of flowers across various civilizations. She skillfully weaves together folklore, mythology, and contemporary interpretations, offering readers a comprehensive understanding of how flowers have communicated messages throughout history and the potent magic it holds.

The book is organized into several sections, which Mostacci has aptly titled gardens. This categorization is interesting and really helps readers to see how certain flowers contain similar energies, which is extremely useful for those looking to make a bouquet or designing their own garden for a specific purpose. For each garden, Mostacci covers ten flowers whose attributes highlight the essence of the garden followed by tips for arranging them together for certain purposes at the end of the section. All the gardens are color-coded, making it easy to distinguish one from the next.

For instance, “The Garden of the Psychic”, which are “flowers that influence the psyche and dreams, facilitating shamanic journeys and connections with the spirit worlds”26, contains poppy, wisteria, and honeysuckle. Meanwhile, “Garden of the Inner Child”, filled with “flowers for new beginnings, offering freshness, blessings, and a connection to the inner child”27 covers viola, lily of the valley, and calendula.

While each flower entry is only one page long, it is packed with interesting information and paired with a beautiful illustration of the flower created by illustrator Giada Ungredda. The vibrant images that bring the text to life, offering a depiction of the flower for those who might not be familiar with it. The visuals complement the writing makes this book an especially pleasurable book for those who enjoy an aesthetic reading experience; they create such a gentle, calming experience while pursuing this book.

As for the text about the flowers, Mostacci includes the scientific name of the flower, description of when the flower blooms or where it is mostly found, associations of the flower, historical or mythological tales, and magical uses. The entries are definitely not prescriptive though; all of them are customized and fascinating, conveying the uniqueness and beauty of each one.

The aspect I enjoy most is how Mostacci offers so much practical advice on using flowers in everyday life, from creating meaningful bouquets to incorporating floral symbolism into personal rituals. Some of the tidbits that have been useful in my life so far are azaleas bringing a sense of tender, maternal warmth that “beckons us inward, hiding us on a journey to learn how to know and love ourselves.”28 Angelica “defends and protects us just like an angel would, alleviating all evil, keeping it away from us.”29

After reading the section on Verbena, I felt a strong connection to work with it more in-depth. Mostacci describes how it has been used by the ancient Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans as offerings in ceremonies to “ask for grace and fortune.”30 She offers a divination method of “writing words on verbena leaves and then, having reached a windy place, letting some be carried away to derive a message from those that remain.”31 I definitely plan on trying this soon!

For those just learning about flower magic, the photographic summary at the end was immensely useful for identifying the flowers. I’ve been able to more quickly spot them when out in nature, especially at my local arboretum, or at the farmer’s market when I’m shopping for fresh flowers. I also love the bouquet summaries at the end that depict how to weave together certain flowers for desired results. Here’s an example of a bouquet suggestion from “The Garden of the Wind”:

“A bouquet of milk thistle, lavender, and verbena will bring great purification, the necessary precursors for allowing new inspirations to pass through us.”32

Overall, Flower Magic is a delightful read for anyone intrigued by symbolism and lore of these natural beauties. Mostacci’s writing and design of the book make it easy to absorb the information on these flowers, especially in the grouping of them by gardens for further illumination about the properties of each one. The hardcover along with gorgeous illustrations by Ungredda make this the perfect book for a nightstand or coffee table; this is one you’d definitely want on display!

Whether you’re interested in natural magic or simply looking to expand your knowledge of the natural world, this book promises to deepen your appreciation for the subtle yet powerful language of flowers. It’s been such a pleasure reading it during the peak blossoms of spring! I know this is a book I’ll refer back to again and again for insight, especially when deciding which flowers to add to my magical practice for offerings or manifestation.

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

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

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

“The transformative power of combining tea magick and crystal grids is a revelation that transcends the boundaries of conventional spiritual practices. Individually, both tea magick and crystal grids still hold profound potential for transformation, yet when united, their synergy becomes an extraordinary force for change and manifestation.”1

Harlow begins by explaining the fundamentals of tea craft, which involves the intentional and mindful brewing of tea to harness its natural energies. She notes, “The world of tea holds many diverse varieties, each with its own unique flavors, aromas, and most especially energetic magickal properties.”2 Covering the most popular teas (white, green, oolong, black, and pur-eh), she provides an overview of the energy of each along with suggestions for brewing temperature and portion size.

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

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

Once readers have the basics of crystal magic under their belt, Harlow introduces the many grids that can be used. She discusses how sacred geometry “unveils a profound and harmonious interplay between the natural patterns of the universe and the energetic properties of the crystals.”26 Some of the grid shapes covered are a circle, lemniscate, merkaba, pentagram, sun burst, and triquetra, to name a few. In total, there’s seven grid shapes described, along with a sketch of the shape for visualization.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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