Kitchen Table Magic: Pull Up a Chair, Light a Candle & Let's Talk Magic

by Melissa Cynova

Discover Your Inner Magic with a No-Nonsense Teacher at Your Side

This beginner's guide to magic is like sitting down at the kitchen table with Melissa Cynova as she shows how to use simple prayers, spells, and rituals to make positive improvements in your life. Melissa's straightforward and witty style makes it easy to start working magic for love, luck, prosperity, protection, blessings, and more. With tips for setting intentions effectively and connecting with spiritual energies in a safe way, Kitchen Table Magic is a perfect first step on a magical journey. You will also learn how to use gemstones, crystals, pendulums, tarot cards, and other tools that will enhance your spell work. Magic has been used by people around the world for thousands of years. This book is a down-to-earth guide to powerful and effective magical techniques for connecting with spirit and creating the life that you truly desire.

Genres: Witchcraft, Nonfiction, Spirituality, Magic, Magick, Reference, Crafts

214 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 8, 2020

About the author

Tarot cards are pieces of paper with a series of symbolic art on them. That's it.

Tarot READERS, though, now there's some magic.

I've been reading tarot cards for 30 years and I can tell you that they're not magical, mystical or otherwise. The cards are cards, and you're the one who makes them amazing.

I live in St. Louis with my husband, Joe (who is my favorite), my kiddos, five black cats, two dogs, and our tortoise, Phil. I really, really like superhero movies and when I'm not reading or writing, I'm hanging out with my friends. I'm a lucky girl.

Reviews

[Michelle Gardner · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don't typically read a lot of non-fiction, but Melissa Cynova totally reeled me in with Kitchen Table Tarot, which was highly recommended to me by a close friend with great taste in books. It was the perfect tool for a beginner like me to learn the basics of Tarot card reading, & it even made becoming more knowledgeable about this subject a whole lot of fun.

As soon as I finished it, I immediately purchased Kitchen Table Magic. I flew through it & learned so much in such a short amount of time. Now I'm reading Tarot Elements & hoping this author writes many, many more page-turners in the future!

Her books read like a conversation with a good friend...one who is very down-to-earth, intelligent, & funny as hell.

Kitchen Table Magic is definitely at the top of my list of favorite non-fiction books!

[Anna (Bananas) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love Cynova’s books. It’s official now that I’ve read two and I look forward to the others. She starts with the premise that everyone can do magic, that it’s innate to us. Then she gives you the tools to move forward. I love this approach because I believe we are magical (as cheesy as it sounds) and also I hate gatekeepers of any kind. You don’t need special access when it starts with you.

Everything is grounded in reality in this book, from her advice to the ingredients to the spells. It all feels achievable and comfortable. I should say that I kind of hate spell books. I figure if I’m going to do a spell I want to make my own. However, these spells give you a solid framework or at least a jumping off point to create your own. Many of them I would do as is honestly.

Each chapter was helpful. I especially like the summary of crystal uses and her brief synopsis of the entire tarot that still managed to be spot on and helpful. I underlined something or multiple things on almost every page. I’ll be going back to this over and over again like a magical template and teacher.

[Daylina Miller · Rating 5 out of 5]

While a little basic for myself (I’ve been practicing for about 14 years), this is the book beginner me wishes they had. It’s a perfect introduction to magic and witchcraft, and is mostly secular for those of us who who don’t work with deities.

[Angelien · Rating 5 out of 5]

The thing I appreciate most about this book is that it provides an approach to magic that does not associate it with religion. As an agnostic atheist who still finds the idea of magic very appealing, I struggle with finding resources that are not focused on Wicca or other pagan religious traditions. I’ve read in a few other sources that you don’t need to believe in a god and/or goddess to do magic, but it’s rare to find actual examples of what that looks like, the way this book does.

I love that this book gives you permission to “do what you can with what you’ve got.” Practice solo if you want to. Use a kitchen knife to carve candles. Basic kitchen herbs are fine. You can find a rock at the park that can mean as much to you as any expensive crystal. Intention is everything, and the rest is just there to give it a boost. It’s also not heavy on the “you must meditate for an hour every day and perform this spell only at midnight on the third full moon after the vernal equinox” stuff. It’s not so much that it makes magic easy, but it makes magic approachable and personal to you.

I don’t know how much this book has to offer people who are looking for some esoteric guide to the great mysteries of the universe. But as a basic guide to how to get started exploring magic, it’s pretty great.

[Ashley (Red-Haired Ash Reads) · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a good beginners guide on magic. Cynova provides many easy, and inexpensive, ways to craft your magic to improve your life. Cynova does a very good job at showing that magic is inside you and you don’t need all the fancy equipment to do magic. This would be a great guide for those who are relatively new to magic or are looking for new and cheaper ways to utilize various types of magic.

[Alexander Ninnim · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really interesting, would recommend.

You are what you do, not what you’ll say you’ll do
I’m rubber your glue whatever you say, bounces off me and sticks to you

[Samantha Williams · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars!

[Bethany]

Nothing ground breaking was presented in this book and I didn't really come away with anything, but it is a friendly and approachable 101 witchcraft book that isn't a bad choice though there are a few better fundamental options.

[Teo · Rating 3 out of 5]

Okay, this is a really tough review to write. I love Cynova. Her writing style speaks to me and my godchildren. This book is not exactly what I was expecting, which is okay with me. Having read her first two books I was really looking forward to some insight into her spiritual practice. However, it is not for someone like myself. I was born into a tradition that is highly ceremonial and has aspects of what would be considered low magic. It is complex yet incorporated the latest scientific developments. This book is a more new age/wiccan approach. More specifically, it pulls from many traditions and while that may work for some, it has left much to be desired. If a person has just started entering the realm of energy, spirit, the universe or whatever name you wish to assign it, this may be an excellent primer. I would not recommend it to anyone who is seeking direction or is upon their path. I am happy to have read it and will hopefully revise my review with a thing or two I enjoyed about it aside from her writing style once I get a moment to look back through it.

[Megan Munsell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Where can I start? This was the book that started it all. They say you shouldn't judge a book by its cover, but after being called to my first Tarot deck - I went to the local metaphysical store to pick up a book on Tarot, and found this gem. (Note: This isn't a tarot book per se, but there is a tarot section in it).

Written in a style that made me feel like I really was sitting at a kitchen table talking to a friend, Melissa opened the doors to the world of magick and witchcraft. There are a lot of simple, accessible spells and a lot of personal anecdotes that put everything into perspective.

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

As an open-minded person who likes to take in from every culture and loves to know more about...well everything, I found this book extremely interesting. Who knew doing magic could be so easy to start? I loved the author's writing as well, she has that knack of making you want more knowledge. I enjoyed Kitchen Table Magic and I will certainly read Melissa Cynova's other books.

[Jessica Nightshade · Rating 3 out of 5]

Reading Kitchen Table Magic feels like chatting with a friend who knows her stuff and wants you to know it too. Melissa Cynova’s style is approachable and warm, blending humor with solid advice on how to start incorporating magic into everyday life. The focus here is on practical, no-frills spellcraft—simple rituals, setting clear intentions, and using common magical tools like tarot, crystals, and pendulums. The tone is refreshingly down-to-earth, making it a perfect starting point for those who want to ease into magical practice without feeling intimidated.

What stood out is Cynova’s talent for breaking down concepts in a way that feels accessible, even if you’ve never cast a single spell before. You can tell she’s been doing this for a long time, and there’s an authenticity to her voice that’s hard to fake. But while the content is solid, I found myself wanting more. There are glimpses of Cynova’s deeper knowledge that I wish she had leaned into more often, rather than sticking to the basics. For those already familiar with foundational magic, some sections might feel a bit too surface-level.

That said, Cynova has a knack for making magic feel like something anyone can do, whether it’s cooking with intention or using a candle spell for protection. She brings a sense of ease and familiarity to the craft, which makes it clear why her work resonates with so many. The exercises are straightforward and easy to follow, but I hoped for a little more nuance—something to dig into for readers looking to move beyond the introductory stage.

As a guide for beginners, though, Kitchen Table Magic shines. It’s a light, engaging read that captures the heart of everyday magic without bogging you down with unnecessary jargon or complexity. Cynova’s encouragement to trust your own instincts and keep things simple is a welcome reminder that magic doesn’t have to be complicated to be powerful. The result is a book that’s perfect for dipping your toes into the world of spellcraft and finding a rhythm that works for you.

[Hannah · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was so excited for this book! I loved the author's previous two tarot books and I was so happy when I finally got a copy of this one. Honestly, I didn't enjoy it nearly as much as Kitch Table Tarot. It felt a little preachy, and a little Christian/Wiccan centric to me. The author mentioned cultural appropriation briefly, but didn't touch on closed cultures. I also felt like there was a little hex/curse shaming happening. As a 101 book I guess it was okay, I mean it seemed to be an overview really because I've definitely read more in depth 101 books. There are a few interesting spells in the second half of the book though.

Overall I don't think I'd recommend this book unless I knew someone interested in Wicca. I am glad I bought it to complete my collection of this author's books though 🤷🏼‍♀️

[Amanda Aldrich · Rating 3 out of 5]

I understand that this was written with beginners in mind. With that being said, this is a boring regurgitation of socal media witchcraft. Nothing new. No new perspective. None of her anecdotes are cute, funny, or offer new insight into the subject. She offers detailed instructions on basic spells but breezes over lesser known spells (for a book for beginners this seemed odd). The judgments about other authors were annoying. Telling your readers not to read other authors (because they were a product of their time) or to buy second hand so they don’t get money from your purchase but then using info from their writings seems a bit hinky. She does redeem herself in the last few chapters with the spells she shares. Some are tried and true. Some are new takes on the classics. And some I had not come across before and plan to try out.

[aizjanika · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am a very skeptical non-religious person, but I loved Melissa Cynova’s book about tarot, so I gave this book a try. While it hasn’t turned me into a believer, some of the rituals and ideas and life advice in this book is still invaluable and fun. My mom used to write letters about things that had upset her and then burn the letter without sending it—a way of releasing the pain or the hurt and moving on. That’s kind of how I see some of the rituals in this book. There is also a visualization that is similar to something I’ve done from the Headspace app.

There are a lot of ideas for self care in this book, as well as compassion for self and others and down-to-earth advice, as if a wise neighbor were sitting at your kitchen table. It’s a worthwhile read.

[Cassie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I think this is a great book for beginners, and I have several spells and tips marked for future use. While the author makes a point of making this a secular text, it still reads as heavily influenced by Wicca and Christianity. While those aren’t bad influences, more acknowledgement of that might be really helpful for readers who aren’t as familiar with those belief systems. The side-stepping around hexing also came off as (probably unintentionally) shaming the entire practice, when hexes are a completely valid form of magic. Also definitely loved the bibliography and suggestions for further reading parsed by topic - a lot of other “beginner” marketed books fail to include a list at all.

[Adele · Rating 3 out of 5]

An enjoyable read. Very much for beginners I think. I am a curious outsider and for me it got a little bit repetitive and/or dull in spots, but if you were actively participating rather than reading it through from start to finish I don't think that would have been an issue. I liked Cynova's approach and tone in Kitchen Table Tarot: Pull Up a Chair, Shuffle the Cards, and Let's Talk Tarot and this is very similar in those aspects.

[Helen Blake · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kitchen Table Magic is like having a cozy chat with a magical mentor right at your kitchen table. Melissa Cynova breaks down simple prayers, spells, and rituals into easy steps that fit perfectly into a busy mom’s life. Her witty and straightforward approach makes working magic for love, luck, and prosperity both fun and effective. I especially loved the tips on using crystals and tarot cards to enhance spell work. This book is a perfect first step for anyone looking to add a bit of enchantment to their daily routine without feeling overwhelmed.

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really love Melissa Cynova’s kitchen table books. She makes magic accessible, encouraging, and positive. Magic is inherent in each of us, we just have to learn how to tap into our personal magic. She discusses tools that can strengthen our magic and it’s very conversational. Truly, it’s like sitting around her kitchen table, chatting with friends. This will be a book I refer back to frequently.

[chrisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great book to add to my collection of witchcraft resources. Geared more towards beginner witches but with information that I found interesting and useful as a more experienced witch too. I especially enjoyed the spells found in the second half of the book, the emphasis on magic without dogma, and the de-emphasis on the need to buy shiny, expensive tools to do magic. I would recommend this book to anyone interested in practicing magic.

[Rhiannon Gupta · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a really lovely and open ended approach to participating in the magic community. I read this and felt as though I was talking to a friend, walking me through the basics and telling me not to worry if I screw something up, the intention is what matters.
Also as a fellow nerd, fully appreciated all the Easter eggs in here. 💙

[Gabrielle · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book has quickly become one of my favourite witchcraft books I think I've ever read?! Melissa is so easy to listen to and it genuinely DOES feel like two friends sitting at the kitchen table talking magic and it just felt so cozy! Especially the chapters on the home and hearth! I just loved it!

[Julissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

An amazing book with light-hearted and compassionate witchcraft information. I like the way the author approached various subjects to make them relatable and personal, but also informative. The spells in this book are simple and approachable, a great base to create your own spells. Overall, I think this is one of the best basic witchcraft books I have read!

[Sam · Rating 4 out of 5]

Witty and genuine Melissa wrote a light hearted book that beginners should have. One of the things I most loved was the folk magic and superstitions sections. Also her throwing the mentions of her Polish heritage was a twist I didn't see coming and I was thrilled as I've been wanting to learn more about Polish superstitionsand sayings. Well, I definitely want to pick up her other books now.

[Dodie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I did enjoy this book. The book was two parts to the book. The first part of the book was basic and general information about the magic. Part two has the spells in categories, luck, prosperity, home and hearth, finishing off with Divination. Now if you already have a lot of books about magic I would skim through this book but for myself it was perfect.

[Jeanna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic. This book is filled with practical and realistic information, ideas, and practices. It will be my new go-to for my own practice and also as a gift to others who are interested in learning more.

Melissa, thank you for putting everything in your brain on paper and making it accessible to the rest of us. I learned so much!

[Yulie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a very easy to understand book and there are definitely times I will want to come back and look it over again. There wasn’t much really I felt that I could put into practice myself but there is a lot of useful information

[Mirela · Rating 4 out of 5]

Entertaining, and if I got one lesson from this book( I actually got many) is to be kind to myself and to others, what I manifest to the universe will be given back to me. Plus… I am starting a minerals collection and I’m kinda proud of that

[Tchullullu · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really liked it. It shows witchcraft as something separate from religion - and I had to search a lot to find a book like this - in an easy and casual way. Even as someone who is a bit skeptical, I was able to read, understand and see it in a new light.

[Shelby · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book, one of the few I felt the need to mark all of the sentences that spoke to me. May not be for everyone, but it is definitely one that I have been recommending to those around me interested in magic as she has an amazing way of explaining things.