Showing posts with label giveaway. Show all posts

25,000 Followers Celebration

We did it!!  25,000 are part of the Confessions of a Modern Witch family. To celebrate I'm going to kick off a giveaway.  I have two books by Skye Alexander that I'm going to give away to two lucky members.  I'll choose one at random from the top fans list and one at random using Rafflecopter.



For the Top fan, I'll be giving away a copy of 10-Minute Magic Spells, Simple Spells and Self-Care Practices to Harness Your Inner Power.  You can find my review of that book here.


Photo Credit - Renee Sosanna Olson
Photo Source - Cover



And for the Rafflecopter give away, you'll enter to win a copy of 10 Minute Crystal Ball, Easy Tips for Developing Your Inner Wisdom and Psychic Powers.  You can find my review of that book here.


Photo Credit - Renee Sosanna Olson
Photo Credit - Cover


I'll open the rafflecopter giveaway for the next five days!  You can enter by checking out some of the pages that I manage and by tweeting about the giveaway on Twitter.  On the day of the drawing I'll pick at random a winner from rafflecopter and choose one of the Top Fans on the Confessions of a Modern Witch page to send a copy of the book.

A few rules, first Facebook, Blogger, Twitter and Rafflecopter are in no way associated with my giveaway. I will need you to send a shipping address within 24 hours of being notified of winning AND you must live in the United States.  Unfortunately shipping costs are so high I can only afford to send to US addresses.

You have from July 8, 2019 at 12:00 AM - July 13, 2019 at 12:00 AM to enter.


a Rafflecopter giveaway

Spring Giveaway!!

Good Morning my witchy family.  I'm extending an offer for you all to enter to win this amazing Tarot deck gift back from Hardie Grant Books.  The giveaway will start tonight at midnight and you can enter everyday through May 1st! 


If you're interesting in buying the deck, here's a link to it on Amazon.
Learn about the creator here.





Neo Tarot: A Fresh Approach to Self-Care, Healing & Empowerment: Jerico Mandybur, Daiana Ruiz: 9781784882372: Amazon.com: Books

Photo Credit - Amazon




Photo Credit - Amazon

Photo Credit - Amazon





a Rafflecopter giveaway

Sosanna's Birthday Giveaway 3

This month I'm celebrating my birthday with three big giveaways. One lucky winner (in each) will receive four of the books that I have reviewed over the last year along with a small token of my appreciation for being loyal fans over the years.



You can see the books in today's giveaway listed below.  Please remember that these are books that have been sent to me by the publishing companies and in some cases they have stickers or lack dust jackets and so on.  I hope that the winners are able to enjoy these books and actively go and post reviews on Amazon and Good Reads as these authors rarely get feedback.

The books will be shipped USPS and of course due to the cost of shipping I cannot make this available outside of the United States.

So enough of this - what are we giving away?

Set 3 Includes:
Star Power - My Review
The Chakra Handbook - My Review
The House Witch  - My Review
Key to Your Dreams - My Review


a Rafflecopter giveaway

Sosanna's Birthday Giveaway 2

This month I'm celebrating my birthday with three big giveaways. One lucky winner (in each) will receive four of the books that I have reviewed over the last year along with a small token of my appreciation for being loyal fans over the years.



You can see the books in today's giveaway listed below.  Please remember that these are books that have been sent to me by the publishing companies and in some cases they have stickers or lack dust jackets and so on.  I hope that the winners are able to enjoy these books and actively go and post reviews on Amazon and Good Reads as these authors rarely get feedback.

The books will be shipped USPS and of course due to the cost of shipping I cannot make this available outside of the United States.

So enough of this - what are we giving away?

Set 2 Includes:

Everyday Magic - My Review
Sex Signs - My Review
Herbal Remedies Made Simple - My Review
The Witch's Book of Self Care - My Review

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Sosanna's Birthday Giveaway 1

This month I'm celebrating my birthday with three big giveaways. One lucky winner (in each) will receive four of the books that I have reviewed over the last year along with a small token of my appreciation for being loyal fans over the years.



You can see the books in today's giveaway listed below.  Please remember that these are books that have been sent to me by the publishing companies and in some cases they have stickers or lack dust jackets and so on.  I hope that the winners are able to enjoy these books and actively go and post reviews on Amazon and Good Reads as these authors rarely get feedback.

The books will be shipped USPS and of course due to the cost of shipping I cannot make this available outside of the United States.

So enough of this - what are we giving away?

Set 1 Includes:

The Divination Handbook - My Review
Astrology for Happiness and Success - My Review
Tarot Made Simple - My Review
Celtic Myth and Magic



a Rafflecopter giveaway

Celebrating Samhain - A Giveaway

One of the most exciting times of the year for me is Samhain. I love the crisp air and the falling leaves. I love finding time to connect with the Ancestors.  Over the years I have compiled quite a list of Samhain posts.  Here's a link to all of my blog posts related to Samhain.

This year I decided to cut back and bit and take a moment to invite one of my readers to benefit from my bookshelf. Over the next week, I'll be accepting entries to win the books listed below.  These books are ones that I have reviewed and will ship to the winner at no charge.

Entries begin at blog publication, which is 10/26/18 at 12:00 AM
Entries close on 10/31/18 at 12:00 AM

There are several opportunities to qualify for extra entries, including sharing, commenting on the blog and a bonus entry to get more points by tweeting about the giveaway each day.

I will draw a name on 11/01/18 and contact the winner via the email they provided at registration. They will have 24 hours to contact me.  If they do not contact me, I will redraw a new winner and notify them.


This giveaway includes the following books.


Light Magic for Dark Times
The Holy Wild
Find Your Goddess
Protection Spells
Modern Witchcraft Guide to Natural Magic
Egyptian Numerology
Develop Your ESP - I didn't review this book, but thought it made a great addition to this giveaway so I'm including it in this box








a Rafflecopter giveaway

Free shipping to lower 48 only, US Only, Void where prohibited. Facebook, Rafflecopter, Twitter and Blogger are in no way affiliated with this offer.

Please note this are advanced copies of these books in some cases provided by the media publishing company for reviews.

Celebrating Samhain - A Giveaway

One of the most exciting times of the year for me is Samhain. I love the crisp air and the falling leaves. I love finding time to connect with the Ancestors.  Over the years I have compiled quite a list of Samhain posts.  Here's a link to all of my blog posts related to Samhain.

This year I decided to cut back and bit and take a moment to invite one of my readers to benefit from my bookshelf. Over the next week, I'll be accepting entries to win the books listed below.  These books are ones that I have reviewed and will ship to the winner at no charge.

Entries begin at blog publication, which is 10/19/18 at 12:00 AM
Entries close on 10/25/18 at 12:00 AM

There are several opportunities to qualify for extra entries, including sharing, commenting on the blog and a bonus entry to get more points by tweeting about the giveaway each day.

I will draw a name on 10/26/18 and contact the winner via the email they provided at registration. They will have 24 hours to contact me.  If they do not contact me, I will redraw a new winner and notify them.


This giveaway includes the following books.

In Focus Crystals
In Focus Astrology
In Focus Palmistry
In Focus Meditation
The Ultimate Guide to Chakras
Moon Magic
The Ultimate Guide to Divination

Photo Credit - Renee Sosanna Olson



a Rafflecopter giveaway



Free shipping to lower 48 only, US Only, Void where prohibited. Facebook, Rafflecopter, Twitter and Blogger are in no way affiliated with this offer.

Please note this are advanced copies of these books in some cases provided by the media publishing company for reviews.

The Practical Witch's Spell book for Love, Happiness and Success

Today I'm reviewing The Practical Witch's Spell book for Love, Happiness and Success by Cerridwen Greenleaf.

Cover

Author Links - Middle Earth Magic
Author Links - Your Magical Home
Amazon Book Link
Amazon Author Link
Good Reads Book Link
Good Reads Author Link
My Good Reads Profile
My Facebook Page


Generally I like to start out with a disclaimer. I am an atheist witch.  I look for the connection between magic and science without the need for a deity. I receive no compensation for these reviews and all my links are standard Amazon links and not affiliate links. I am a practicing photo reader and have spent the last 13 years honing my craft.  I offer personal readings by request and have a strong online history that boasts nearly 400,000 views.


As normal I'm going to start out with a review of the physical book.  I'm one of those people who enjoy picking up a book and flipping through the pages. E-books such as books in PDF or Kindle books just don't give me the same enjoyment as I get from holding a printed/bound book in my hands.  This book is solid. It is a hard cover with vibrant printing on the outside that entices the reader to open the cover.  The interior features a lot of illustrative art and is whimsical in nature. It also boasts of two full index pages, front and back allowing the reader to keep this book in hand for reference.

The author also added an appendix in this book which is critical for reference, in my opinion. This includes several tables on correspondences, full moon names and even a section on the Pythangorean system of numbering.

Photo Credit - Renee Sosanna Olson
Photo Source - The Practical Witch's Spell Book
Photo Credit - Renee Sosanna Olson
Photo Source - The Practical Witch's Spell Book


Photo Credit - Renee Sosanna Olson
Photo Source - The Practical Witch's Spell Book


This book is chock full of information that I believe every witch will benefit from. If you are an experienced witch and would like a fresh look at some of our old favorites or if you're a new comer to the craft, this book is for you.  It is written very simply in plain English for the novice to understand.

I loved the way the author presented the magical tips in Chapter 6 - House Magic for a Happy Home. There are several spells here for house cleansing as well as house warming. Often I sent rosemary and lavender as house warming gifts to friends and family. I am happy to see these simple spells and chants used in this book. There's even a spell to remove a haunting!  By far my favorite is the Bucks of Joy Floor Wash which includes the following spell:

Only joy is welcome here, no fear and doubt.
Spirits ill and energy dark, I cast you out!
sadness, anger, illness and doubt, I cast you out!
Welcome contentment and glee; this home is now happy and free.
Blessing to all who enter here.
Photo Credit - Renee Sosanna Olson
Photo Source - The Practical Witch's Spell Book

Another sections I enjoyed was Chapter 9 - Pagan Parties and Sacred Sabbats. Those of you who follow me regularly will not be surprised by that choice.

Autumn is my favorite time of year and by far one of my favorite chapters in this book is called Lammas Day Feast, Harvesting Your Happiness. The author gives us a look at what Lammas is from a symbolic point of view and then adds some practical witchy tips including this wonderful chant.

O, ancient Lugh of the fields and farms,
We invite you here with open arms.
In this place between worlds, in flowering fields of hay,
You have brought the blessings we receive this Lammas Day.

Photo Credit - Renee Sosanna Olson
Photo Source - The Practical Witch's Spell Book




The author takes us on a journey from a five minute blade blessing to celebrating pagan sabbats. There are rituals and spells as well as a great index with correspondences and tables to make your magical life easier.  I think over all this is a great book for your magical library.


So now for the giveaway!   This giveaway will run for a week.  You are welcome to tweet each day to get extra points for the giveaway.  I'll make the drawing at the end of the week and contact the winner via email.  The winner will have 24 hours to reply to my email. If they do not reply with in the specified time, I will chose another winner.

If you cannot enter in the Rafflecopter link below you can also enter on my Facebook Page.

1 copy of The Practical Witch's Spell Book
1 Practical Magic Mini Book with Crystals
1 Set of blank note cards
1 Set of blank note books

Here are some pics of the items you could win!

Photo Credit - Renee Sosanna Olson
Photo Source - The Practical Witch's Spell Book
Photo Credit - Renee Sosanna Olson
Photo Source - The Practical Witch's Spell Book


Photo Credit - Renee Sosanna Olson
Photo Source - The Practical Witch's Spell Book
Photo Credit - Renee Sosanna Olson
Photo Source - The Practical Witch's Spell Book

Photo Credit - Renee Sosanna Olson
Photo Source - The Practical Witch's Spell Book
Photo Credit - Renee Sosanna Olson
Photo Source - The Practical Witch's Spell Book

Please note, due to rising postal fees, I cannot ship internationally. This is open to continental USA only.


a Rafflecopter giveaway

Free shipping to lower 48 only, US Only, Void where prohibited. Facebook, Rafflecopter, Twitter and Blogger are in no way affiliated with this offer.

Please note this are advanced copies of these books in some cases provided by the media publishing company for reviews.

Fire in the Soul - A Review & Giveaway


This is a review of Fire in the Soul by Helena Judith Sturnic, PhD.  The publisher has offered to provide a copy of this book directly to one of my lucky fans.  To participate in the giveaway please enter using the Rafflecopter giveaway widget at the end of the review.

Publisher
Amazon Link
Good Reads Link
Good Reads Author Page
My Good Reads Page



Cover Art



This book presents the personal experiences of the author with the Sekhmet. She takes us on a journey though the comments and anecdotes of those who have taken this journey with her. The book consists of sixteen chapters with additional resources as well as an annotated bibliography by chapter are startlingly unlike the chapters they reference.  Even the name of the chapter in the index doesn't match with the book.

I did a each reach out to the publishing coming as I checked on the author to see what her life was like.  The links to her page were dead.  The search only showed a small blur on the publisher page.  At this point I'm feeling a bit let down by the whole thing.  The book is printed well, the cover is nice and there are some great illustrations, but the meat of the book seems to be missing.  For me, it was at best two stars.  Instead of going on with the review here, I'd like to offer you, my readers the opportunity to have a look at this book and tell me what you think.  I'll move forward with the giveaway and I would like to ask that my winner come back and give me their views of this book.  I'm very interested to see what you may think of it.


Disclaimer: As with all of my reviews, I do not receive any payment.  The links you click are not affiliate links and I will not get any payback, rewards or any other type of benefit from your purchase of the book(s) related to links shared on my blog.


Blogger, Facebook, Twitter and Amazon are in no way affiliated or endorsing with this giveaway.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

....and the winner is.

Here's our winner!  You have 24 hours to respond to the email notification before another winner is selected!

Congratulations!


a Rafflecopter giveaway

Thanks to everyone who entered and a special thanks to Smith Publicity and Lucinda Bakken White for providing us with this amazing book to to giveaway.





Confessions of a Bone Woman:
 Realizing Authentic Wildness in a Civilized World
By Lucinda Bakken White
GORGEOUS NEW MEMOIR ENCOURAGES WOMEN TO RE-CONNECT WITH THEIR WILD, TRUE SELF         
Lucinda Bakken White had just dropped her youngest child off at college, and she sat slumped on the couch. She was sad, sure, that her kids were now gone. But more so, she was sad that she was gone. Where was the wild woman she once was, before the marriage, the demanding job, the mothering and homemaking had completely consumed her life?
White was experiencing something all too common among women who “have it all” - only to feel like they lost themselves in the process. But she wasn’t going to give up. This was the dawn of a new chapter for her, one she embraced with fervor. This journey is what she chronicles in her new, gorgeous memoir, Confessions of a Bone Woman: Realizing Authentic Wildness in a Civilized World (Wild Woman Books, Feb. 20, 2018).
The book follows White as a happy-go-lucky nature child being raised by a young single mother in the 1960s. In a dramatic turn of events, her wild nature is broken. She is shaped into a yuppie and becomes the wife of a prominent Silicon Valley CEO and a glamorous socialite. Successful by all accounts of external measure, she feels trapped by the shallow values of a dominant culture and ever more alienated from her true nature.
Something primal awakens in White when she unearths and touches an ancient buffalo bone and the experience impels her to secretly collect dead animal parts and learn the art of curing their decomposing flesh. As Lucinda challenges convention, her curiosity about the animal kingdom leads to wild and unlikely adventures rescuing road kill, tracking wolves, and encountering lions face to face.
Confessions of a Bone Woman is one woman’s story of how she recognizes and learns to express her authentically wild nature to heal, bone by bone, and become her full self, redefining what it means to be a modern woman.
“By re-connecting with passion through my love of animals, bones and art, I was lifted out of my depression and experienced a profound journey of transformation,” says White, who now works as an Inner Wildness Guide for other women navigating their own journey. “I shed the external personas I had created and no longer served me, and developed a deep rapport with my inner self.”
Lucinda Bakken White began her professional career with an MBA and a coveted position at IBM. Now, as an Inner Wildness Guide, she is an expert in the process of self-discovery and personal transformation. Through personal guidance, teaching and ceremony she inspires and guides her clients through large and small journeys of change that are triggered by depression, anxiety, exhaustion, heartbreak, identity crisis, life stage transitions, unintended curve balls or the desire to live a more meaningful life.
For more information visit http://lucindabakkenwhite.com/ and connect with her on FacebookTwitterPinterest and Goodreads.
Confessions of a Bone Woman will be available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble, as well as select bookstores.

Giveaway! Confessions of a Bone Woman: Realizing Authentic Wildness in a Civilized World

Greetings Readers! I have been invited to participate in a giveaway.  There is a new book out on the 20th of Feb and Wild Woman Books has offered to give a copy to one of my followers!   The official release and book cover are below. 

The raffle will be hosted by my blog and I will pick a winner using Rafflecopter!  After the drawing has ended and the winner has sent me their shipping address, the publisher will send a copy of this book to the winner!

GOOD LUCK!!!


Cover

a Rafflecopter giveaway









Confessions of a Bone Woman:
 Realizing Authentic Wildness in a Civilized World
By Lucinda Bakken White
GORGEOUS NEW MEMOIR ENCOURAGES WOMEN TO RE-CONNECT WITH THEIR WILD, TRUE SELF         
Lucinda Bakken White had just dropped her youngest child off at college, and she sat slumped on the couch. She was sad, sure, that her kids were now gone. But more so, she was sad that she was gone. Where was the wild woman she once was, before the marriage, the demanding job, the mothering and homemaking had completely consumed her life?
White was experiencing something all too common among women who “have it all” - only to feel like they lost themselves in the process. But she wasn’t going to give up. This was the dawn of a new chapter for her, one she embraced with fervor. This journey is what she chronicles in her new, gorgeous memoir, Confessions of a Bone Woman: Realizing Authentic Wildness in a Civilized World (Wild Woman Books, Feb. 20, 2018).

The book follows White as a happy-go-lucky nature child being raised by a young single mother in the 1960s. In a dramatic turn of events, her wild nature is broken. She is shaped into a yuppie and becomes the wife of a prominent Silicon Valley CEO and a glamorous socialite. Successful by all accounts of external measure, she feels trapped by the shallow values of a dominant culture and ever more alienated from her true nature.
Something primal awakens in White when she unearths and touches an ancient buffalo bone and the experience impels her to secretly collect dead animal parts and learn the art of curing their decomposing flesh. As Lucinda challenges convention, her curiosity about the animal kingdom leads to wild and unlikely adventures rescuing road kill, tracking wolves, and encountering lions face to face.

Confessions of a Bone Woman is one woman’s story of how she recognizes and learns to express her authentically wild nature to heal, bone by bone, and become her full self, redefining what it means to be a modern woman.
“By re-connecting with passion through my love of animals, bones and art, I was lifted out of my depression and experienced a profound journey of transformation,” says White, who now works as an Inner Wildness Guide for other women navigating their own journey. “I shed the external personas I had created and no longer served me, and developed a deep rapport with my inner self.”


Lucinda Bakken White began her professional career with an MBA and a coveted position at IBM. Now, as an Inner Wildness Guide, she is an expert in the process of self-discovery and personal transformation. Through personal guidance, teaching and ceremony she inspires and guides her clients through large and small journeys of change that are triggered by depression, anxiety, exhaustion, heartbreak, identity crisis, life stage transitions, unintended curve balls or the desire to live a more meaningful life.
For more information visit http://lucindabakkenwhite.com/ and connect with her on FacebookTwitterPinterest and Goodreads.
Confessions of a Bone Woman will be available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble, as well as select bookstores.





Witchy Wednesday - Practical Magic Part 3

This week we're looking at part three of Practical Magic (Kindle) by Nikki Van De Car. Instead of a traditional review I thought I would take the next few weeks to go into each of the chapters with you at my first read as opposed to reading the entire book and then giving a review.  You can find several of her publications at Running Press.


Photo Credit - Book Cover



Part Three of this book is titled Casual Clairvoyance.  This section gives a high level overview of a few methods of divination. It reviews the Tarot, Palmistry, Astrology and Dream Interpretation.  Keep in mind this is a beginner's book so the sections on each are short and provide a basic understanding of the art.

The Tarot section for example provides and overview of the suites, the major arcana and then two spreads.  A basic three card (past, present and future) and what the author calls a Guidance Spread. I did a quick search on the net and couldn't find a reference to the Guidance Spread.  Basically it is a nine card spread that is outlined in the book. While not the most in-depth reading spread I have seen, I think it is a great start for a beginner.  If you're interested in this spread, you'll need to buy her book.

This is a brief video of a three card spread.




I am by no means an expert on the Tarot and I recommend that you reach out to a Tarot professional in your area or check out my sister Kallan's page for more information on Tarot and Totem readings.

Here are a couple videos on some of the other divination methods she discusses.


Dream Inpterpretation



Palmstry



Astrology



As I mention in previous posts, now is your chance to enter to win the Practical Magic Prize pack, which includes the book I reviewed for this series, along with the matching mini spell kit and a copy of Feng Crochet.

Be sure to come back and Tweet the giveaway each day for more entries into the hat.
Facebook, Blogger and Rafflecopter are in no way associated with this contest.  Please click the link to login or enter with your email address below.  I will announce the winner after they have been notified!

Photo Credit - Renee Sosanna Olson
Cover Art credited to the author






Disclaimer:  I do not practice Wicca.  I am not an expert on any of the traditions of Wicca. I am giving this information as a review of a book written by Nikki Van De Car. Feel free to message the page with questions, however do remember that I am a witch. Without a deity and without an specific tradition.


Witchy Wednesday - Practical Magic - Chapter 1 - Part 2

This week we're looking at the second part of part one of Practical Magic (Kindle) by Nikki Van De Car. Instead of a traditional review I thought I would take the next few weeks to go into each of the chapters with you at my first read as opposed to reading the entire book and then giving a review.  You can find several of her publications at Running Press.

Photo Credit - Book Cover



The author continues part one by talking to us about Crystals and Auras. Being a wire weaver I spend a great deal of time working with different types of crystals. This book offers a list of some of the more common crystals, their chakra association as well as their most common uses. An example would be Amethyst for calm and Citrine for success and money.  Though not mentioned in this book, one of my favorite stones is a Labradorite.  Labs are considered to be a stone of transformation and magic. (source) It helps in reducing stress and anxiety as well as intuition and psychic development. 

Here is one of my favorite Labradorite pieces. At the time of publication this piece as well as many others are available on my website.




She also talks about how to choose and activate a crystal.  For years owning my shop I have often been asked to "charge" a pendant or pendulum for clients. There are several methods for prepping crystals. Often you'll want to start with a good cleansing.  Several methods include leaving them on a window sill in the light of the full moon or burying them in the ground over night to soak up the earth's energy. Choose a method that works best for you and remember, if you don't have a yard improvise. Get a little pot and put some potting soil in it and set it in the a cleansed area of your space.  One popular method is to dip your crystals in a running stream or river.  While I'm lucky enough to live right next to a river not everyone has that luxury.  A few alternatives would be to request some river water from someone living near a river and then simply pour that water out over your crystals or use sage smoke to symbolically pour the smoke (water) over/around your crystals. We have to remember that witches worked with what they had on hand.  When all else fails, improvise.

The remainder of part one is dedicated to Auras. It reviews the basic layers and colors associated with aura reading. Auras are basically colored fields that begin around two inches from the skin and continue outward.  There are seven separate aura fields and according to this author the color ranges from red to white.  With three shades at each color level.  For example this author suggests that orange indicates a healthy, vibrant personality.  Red orange is confidence, yellow orange is creative, intelligent perfectionist and muddy orange is indicating this person is in a "clogged" stage and is unable to move forward.  To cleanse these auras she refers back to the chakra section and recommends alignment to ease/erase these blockages.  

I found this video related to auras and thought it might be useful in learning about this process.  This video is not related to the book.




I became really interested in learning about aura reading after I noticed that I could look at people and see things about them.  Things they were hiding inside themselves. Just after my 20th birthday I noticed that when I would walk into stores I could see people who were abusive. I could actually see them hitting someone or hurting others as they walked past me in the store. It became very frightening so I started "turning it off" as much as I could.  To this day when ever possible I wear sunglasses so no one can see my eyes when I look at them.  When I see their secrets and we make eye contact they know I see their secrets. I decided to just not look at people. Today, I offer reading services on photos instead of in person readings. Still being that close to someone and being able to see what lies below is a bit scary for me.  One person a few years ago, showed me a picture of her husband's mistress but didn't tell me who she was.  She asked for a reading on her.  When I told her that the girl was very much in love but was being lied to by the man she loved she person got very upset. Not too long afterwards she ended our friendship.  I can only assume it was because my words hit too close to home for her.  Around that same time, I referred to what I was doing as aura reading. However after speaking with a very gifted reader I know now that this gift is very different from aura reading.  I cannot quite figure it out yet and will continue to work to figure it out. (link)

Next week I'll be going into Part Two of Practical Magic.  Remember you can grab your copy by clicking the links above and I will be compiling a giveaway from all the comments on this blog series and  I'll do a giveaway with this book, the matching kit and another book called Feng Crochet all by the same author.  





Witchy Wednesday - Practical Magic - Chapter 1

I thought I would kick off this Witchy Wednesday with a look at Practical Magic (Kindle) by Nikki Van De Car. Instead of a traditional review I thought I would take the next few weeks to go into each of the chapters with you at my first read as opposed to reading the entire book and then giving a review.  This will give me the chance to take questions or even discuss the sections with you guys as I read them.  Since I'm doing it this way take a moment to post some comment or continue to use the "message me" form to add to the discussion.

Cover Art - Practical Magic (Running Press)



So the introduction to this book appears to be directed towards those who are not magical in nature. For example there is a sentence that actually says, "This book is directed to those who finds their daily horoscope weirdly accurate...." I think that appealing to that market is actually a great idea. More people need to get in touch with their spiritual level. I think that the less time I spend in front of a TV or computer the more connected I am with the natural world. Of course we all know that is where the magical world resides.


Image from Sage Goddess

Part one of the book is called Healing for Hedge Witches and begins with Chakras.  It goes into the history of chakras and then breaks down the seven main ones that we focus on giving the name, color, sounds and essential oils associated with each.  It suggests that meditation is the key to having harmonious balanced chakras. Personally I'm not a huge meditation person. I find that my mind rarely slows down enough to concentrate on any specific thing for a long period of time.  For example right now my desk has two computers, music this book, this blog and my tablet all open at the same time. I jump back and forth between them all. When I sit without anything stimulating my brain it jumps around so much that I cannot focus. Hubby says I've over stimulated my brain so now it cannot be at peace with itself. I don't disagree with that.  (Lol)

I like the section on balancing the individual chakras using the associate oils and crystals mentioned in the book.  For example the author recommends going barefoot to feel the earth or look for the color red specifically in food when balancing Muladhara, the root chakra.  A balanced root chakra can make you feel fearless and safe. Recommending cedar, clove and myrrh as oils to aid in balancing.

If videos are your thing, here are a couple videos I found related to balancing the root chakra. (Note: these are not mentioned in the book)







I found it interesting that the Sahasrara (the crown) chakra being blocked can add to nightmares, insomnia and migraines. I have many friends who have migraines.  It would be interested to see if doing work around their crown chakra helped with that.  According to the author working with the color purple and frankincense essential oil can aid in balancing that chakra but the best way to work with this chakra is through meditation.

Here are a couple of videos on balancing the crown chakra.








So there you have it. Chapter one of this book Practical Magic by Nikki Van De Car.  I think at the end of this review I'll do a giveaway with this book, the matching kit and another book called Feng Crochet all by the same author.  


Book Cover - Feng Crochet



I will choose a winner at random from the comments on all the blog posts in this series.  Be sure to toss a comment to be included.  I look forward to seeing your comments and reading your messages on this post!




Modern Witchcraft Book Review & Giveaway - A Witch's View

Today I'm kicking off a book giveaway with a review of both books.  Thanks to the wonderful people at Simon & Schuster we have two wonderful books by Skye Alexander to review and giveaway.

Photo Credit Renee Sosanna Olson


About the Author

(from her Google Profile)

Skye is the author of more than two dozen fiction and nonfiction books, which have been translated into ten languages, and is best known for her work in the body-mind-spirit field. An artist, astrologer, feng shui practitioner, tarot reader, and drummer, she was featured in the Discovery Channel's TV special "Secret Stonehenge." A founding partner in the publishing cooperative Level Best Books, she also helps other authors get their work into print.



You can find books by Skye on her website and on her Amazon Author page.

The Reviews

The Modern Witchcraft Book of Tarot (available in Hardcover and Kindle)

I know you have all heard the old saying "Don't judge a book by its cover", however I can say that the aesthetics of a book are very important to me. When I first picked up this book I was happy that it was a hard cover book but that is where it ended. For some reason they decided to stagger the pages in the book in such a way as to created a layered page layout.  It really bugs me. I can't stand to try to work with the page, some bending down some standing up.  While most would probably not have an issue with this it is one of my biggest pet peeves. 

Photo Credit - Renee Sosanna Olson

Next they did another one of my no no's when they decided to switch up the font sizes and face for no apparent reason throughout the book.  One page is one size, and the page facing it another. It is distracting and annoying. I did managed to finish the book but still I really wish book printing would go back to creating works of art and not just toss together some pages haphazardly and then butcher the fonts.  To look at book making as an art I recommend checking out LaPulia Book of Shadows

Screenshot from LaPulia Book of Shadows Website



The author starts out with a solid history on the book, explaining the origins of the Tarot and how to understand the symbols and the language used within. The first chapters are short and very direct providing insight on different divination devices including i Ching, pendulums and crystals. I found it refreshing to see an entire chapter on Numerology related to the Tarot. Most know that their is a five of Cups for example, but the meaning behind the number is so often overlooked in some of these books.  I found myself making connections simply from reading this section and referring back to previous readings.

Part II of the book takes us into the cards themselves beginning with the suit cards.  It breaks down each one including their upright and reversed meanings.  Think of this section as that little handbook that comes with your deck. It gives examples about what the card means in relation to our modern daily activities. The Major Arcana follows with quotes from assorted magical and non-magical people, which I found delightful.
"Optimism is the faith that leads to achievement.  Nothing can be done without hope and confidence." ~Helen Keller

Chapter 12 jumps into Tarot Spreads.  This section is pretty straightforward and offers a series of card layouts that are easy for the layman reader to understand.  

The World Tree Spread has always been my favorite.  Below you can see the layout from Google Books. If you do not see the tree simply use the search box to type in World Tree and that image will be displayed.



Part IV of the book is called Using Tarot Cards in Magick Work.This section takes the cards and puts them in as ingredients of the spell work in question.  Love spells, Money spells and so on.  One stood out to me in particular. On page 247 the author pens a Goodbye Debt Spell using cedar, fire and the Five of Pentacles.

Rider-Waite - Five of Pentacles


In this spell we're asked to take this card and and visualize our debt "going up in smoke" if you will as we light fire to the card.  I have found that decks can be a bit pricey and I would recommend if you're going to do magic using the cards as ingredients that you think about other ways to incorporate them in order to save your deck. You could for example, make a photo copy of the card and use that copy or maybe pull in more of your own energy by drawing a likeness of the card and use that instead.

The last chapter of the book gives us a bit of direction on what we should do moving forward as a reader. It recommend two very critical steps in my opinion.  First and foremost, practice practice practice. I cannot emphasize enough how often I have had readings from individuals who all but pulled the book out to give me a reading.  I could have done that myself. Knowing your tools is one of the most important parts of a reading. Being able to connect with your cards and speaking with confidence will make your client feel satisfied in your reading and help encourage them to follow your advice. She also recommends working with a professional reader.  Go out and find a great reader and buy readings from them. Watch how they work.  Learn from them. In some cases you may find a shop or even someone online who may be interested in mentoring you.  At the very least get a professional reading.  My experience in the Tarot is limited. I rely heavily on my sister Kallan for these types of needs. My divination skills lay in photo (aura type) readings.  She, on the other hand is quite gifted in reading the Tarot and Totems. You can find her on her Facebook Page and see all the reading packages she has to offer on her website.

Over all, I'll give this book a thumbs up.  I think it is clear and concise and a great start for the beginner and a good reference for the experienced Tarot reader.



The Modern Witchcraft Book of Love Spells (available in Hardcover and Kindle)

As many of my avid followers know, I don't do love spells. To me love spells are just not worth the trouble they create. That being said I went into this book with the idea that I was learning love magic for the first time. The author takes the time to explain what magic is and how important our intention is. She says that a spell is not a religious act, though some choose to work through a God or Goddess. They are a natural, intentional and time honored method for directing the course of your life. To me that explains magic completely.  I think this was a really great thing to put in the mind of young crafters. She also covers the basics of days of the week, elements, creating an altar, casting a circle and all the "Everything You Need to Know to be a Witch"  categories.  I found this to be an excellent addition.  Unlike the other books that I have read that simply toss out an ingredient list and don't address the actual ethical principles behind love magic.

Altar Photo - Renee Sosanna Olson

The next few chapters delve into working with candles, colors and crystals. There is a two page crystal and gemstone table on page 50 that aids in selecting the correct crystal for the right job. Pearl to strengthen self esteem, jade to enhance beauty and coral to attract love. Cleansing the stones and care is included as well. Which many books tend to leave out.

Crystal Magic - Renee Sosanna Olson

The section to follow includes a plant and talisman magic. Working with herbs and runes are the hallmarks of heathen witchcraft.  I have a friend who spends a great deal of time working in these elements.  I thought of her immediately when I stumbled across the "Attract Love with a Rule Talisman" spell on page 88.  This spell tells us to use the Old Norse rune Gebo (symbolized as an X) to make our talisman.

This is a Gebo Talisman created by Loren for her Primitive Witchery shop.  You can find this and many other Old Norse design items for sale in her shop on the web and on Facebook.


Art & Design by Loren Morris


The X we see used today when we sign letters "hugs and kisses" using the X to represent kisses "xoxo".


The author wraps up this book with a chapter called "What's the Next Step?".  This section summarizes what I believe is missing from magic today in three very clear steps.  One, Learn about different schools of thought.  No one is the be all end all on any particular subject.  We need to take the time to learn about other cultures so that we can grow.  Second, Work with other people.  To me this is hand in hand with number one.  We need to be able to meet and grow. We cannot grow alone.  Be it in an online community or in a coven reach out to those around you and see if there is something more you can add to your plate to enhance your life experiences. Finally, three - craft your own spells.  This is so very important. While anyone can recite a spell from memory it takes cunning and craft to create your spell using your words. Your emotions and your intentions. Take the time to become familiar enough with your magic that you are able to write your own spells.  This will be a skill that you will use for your entire magical career.

Over all, this was a very well written book. There are elements for the novice and the expert. There is indeed, something here for everyone. Even the avid "no love magic" caster can jump into Chapter 8 under the Editable Spells page and whip up something good for the cauldron. I recommend the smoothies. Just substitute that yogurt for coconut milk yogurt and you're good to go for a vegan surprise for your sweetheart!

The Giveaway

For the giveaway I will draw 4 names using RaffleCopter.  You can enter one time or daily by coming back and tweeting about the giveaway.  Each winner will be notified via email and will have 24 hours to respond with their shipping information.  If a winner does not respond within 24 hours a new winner will be chosen at random.  Each winner will receive one book (of my choice) either The Modern Witchcraft Book of Tarot or The Modern Witchcraft Book of Love Spells AND something special from my shop, Baublesmith.

You must be 18 to enter this drawing, materials are intended for adults, please use common sense when working with these tools. Not responsible for results of these spells. No purchase is necessary to enter. Void where prohibited.

Rafflecopter, Twitter, Facebook, the author or publisher are in no way associated with this giveaway.