Welsh Fairies: A Guide to the Lore, Legends, Denizens & Deities of the Otherworld

by Mhara Starling

Explore the enchanting world of Welsh fairy tradition as this illustrated guide unveils the enduring presence of these magical beings in Celtic myth and folklore. Join Welsh native Mhara Starling as she shares authentic Welsh beliefs, delves into the connection between magical practitioners and the fair family (Tylwyth Teg), and helps you incorporate these mystical entities into your own spiritual practice if you so choose.

Trace the threads of fairy lore from ancient Welsh literature, such as the Mabinogion, to Mhara’s contemporary experiences. Uncover the mysteries of the Otherworld (Annwfn), the ethereal realm from which the fae emerge, and meet Gwyn ap Nudd, the Welsh king of fairies. Discover various fairy types and adjacent creatures like goblins and mermaids. More than a collection of stories, this book offers practical guidance and engaging exercises for understanding and interacting with the fair folk.

Genres: Witchcraft, Spirituality, Mythology, Audiobook, Nonfiction

236 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 8, 2024

Reviews

[Jessica Patzer · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed learning more about Welsh fairies and their stories. I read this basically on the heels of finishing Kelley Armstrong's Cainsville series, which meant that Gwyn ap Nudd and Arawn were rather fresh in my mind. Reading bits of their actual mythology was honestly really satisfying... as was actually learning how to say their names correctly. I think I referred to the Glossary more than I ever have before, just to solidify the Welsh pronunciations in my head.

Welsh Fairies is definitely a jumping-off-point book. There are some stories included in the text, but this is mostly a discussion of those stories rather than a compendium of them. It's really well written and engaging all the way through.

[Dewi Hughes · Rating 5 out of 5]

A gorgeous follow-up to Starling's first book, Welsh Witchraft, Welsh Fairies is part bestiary, part spellbook, and part tourist guide to the myths and denizens of Annwfn (The Cymric Otherworld). Starling writes with her trademark sauciness, and love for the strange, magical world that folklore and legend have delivered to us in the twenty-first century.

As one might expect, medieval literature (especially The Mabinogion) is referenced heavily. However, the particular appeal of this book lies in Starling's wider cultural experience, drawing on books of folklore (some only available in the Welsh language) as well as her own experience of growing up within the culture that birthed these tales. For example, those who may already be familiar with the phrase Y Tylwyth Teg may find the exploration of beings such as the Bendith Y Mamau, ellyllon, and coblynau to be particularly enlightening.

In addition to this, Starling includes examples of rituals and other magical activities for those who wish to incorporate fairy lore into their personal practice. This includes appeals to - and relationship building with - deities and fairies, as well as spellcasting that is rooted in folkloric practice.

For those interested in witchcraft, particularly that rooted in a Welsh cultural context, this is a very valuable book. It will, I'm sure, inspire many others to open up this world further. Starling is a writer who is part of the present movement to connect modern pagan practice in the genuine cultural heritage of Wales, and I, for one, am hungry for more.

[Sylvia Moore · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mhara Starling’s Welsh Fairies is an immersive, respectful look into the rich tradition of Welsh fairy lore. Starling, a native of Wales, brings a genuine connection to the subject that comes through on every page. This book isn’t just a collection of fairy tales; it’s a blend of history, mythology, and practical insights into the mysterious world of the Tylwyth Teg—the “fair family” of Welsh folklore.

What sets this book apart is the balance of authentic folklore and practical advice. Starling digs deep into sources like the Mabinogion while also sharing her personal experiences and modern interpretations. This combination offers readers a way to engage with Welsh fairy lore that feels accessible and meaningful, whether you’re drawn to the stories or curious about incorporating elements into your own practice.

Starling’s descriptions of different fairy types, such as Gwyn ap Nudd, goblins, and mermaids, are fascinating and well-researched. She also provides exercises that help bridge the gap between folklore and hands-on spiritual work, making it a great resource for practitioners interested in the fae. Her writing has a warmth and reverence that brings the lore to life without feeling overly academic.

If you’re interested in the Celtic otherworld or want a guide that’s rooted in authentic Welsh tradition, Welsh Fairies is well worth exploring. It’s thorough, respectful, and offers a heartfelt invitation into a world that feels both ancient and alive.

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mhara Starling is a beautiful weaver of story and exercises, exploring, as her title suggests, Welsh fairies. This book left me wishing I was Welsh, or had even been to Wales, which is now on my must visit places list. Mhara, breaks the myth of Tinkabell as the typical fairy, and introduces us through personal experience's, literature, history and Welsh mythology and folklore to the varied types of fairy (and connections to other cultures). She teaches us how to work with fairies within our own traditions, and to not take for granted their intentions as either wholly good nor bad, rather, their multifaceted nature, and to work with understanding, knowledge and maybe a little caution. Thank you Mhara, simply beautiful.

[Andie Edwards · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Welsh Fairies” by Mhara Starling is about Welsh Fairies, but it is also about Welsh mythology and folklore, and also explores and explains Welsh Paganism, Witchcraft, and Spirituality and how it can also be implemented into a person’s life, but it also explores Welsh culture, historical traditions, and language. Starling also references historical Welsh texts and literature. She also acknowledges that there are various names and forms of fairies or “fair folk”.

[Natasha 4E · Rating 5 out of 5]

An enchanting and inspiring book that has a lot of lore and fairy stories. I love Mhara Starlings writing style; it is easy to get through, personal enough to make me feel she's telling me all of this herself (which I love in books on folktales) and it gave me a good sense of what the fairy world is like for a welsh person.

[Collin Stacey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good book, a little dry at times. I'm not a believer myself, but was doing research into magical things for my own stories. I enjoyed Mhara's views and appreciated her writing. My family was from Wales so it was nice to connect with some of my own history as well as I didn't get a chance from my grand parents to hear about these.

[Becky Skivington · Rating 5 out of 5]

Truly wonderful!

[Sally Austin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book and learned a lot. Very greatful for the pronunciation guide in the back.

[Phil Lewis · Rating 4 out of 5]

An interesting insight into the "otherworld". Many years ago now I bought a copy of the Mabinogion, but never really got into it. Reading this has inspired me to take another look.

[Benjamin Barnes · Rating 5 out of 5]

One the best books Written about the Fae . The Only Good one on Welsh Faeries .

[Maranda · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have a full review posted on my blog! https://whiteroseofavalon.life/2025/1...