3.5/5
A new twist on the spellbook.
This was interesting. This is basically your typical occult book but with reference to science to prove the importance of ritual, although there's no bibliography so you're left looking up "2020 National Library of Medicine study" and other vague terms. There's not a lot of studies referenced other than in passing, so I guess there's no need for a bibliography but it would be nice.
Dyan's voice is casual and simple, this isn't going to sound like a scholarly article or be stuffed full of jargon. It did take me a bit to be comfortable with it, I'm not sure why the tone bothered me so much in the beginning.
She mentions other cultures and rituals around the world. It includes most things you'll find in any New Age or Witchcraft book: crystals, incense, moon phases, seasons, intention, rituals/spells. Dyan is just packaging is differently for it to be more easily consumed by the general public who shy away from the occult. I appreciate the twist, it's a true breath of fresh air into this genre.
It's best for people who are interested in rituals and ways you can incorporate them into daily life. You can benefit from simple or complex rituals without feeling uncomfortable or ashamed or whatever negative connotations you associate typical witchy books with. Try it out. Read some of the studies she mentions. I hope it brings you validation, confidence, and happiness.