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Welsh Witchcraft: A Guide to the Spirits, Lore, and Magic of Wales
A New Approach to Witchcraft Based on Welsh Traditions
Enter a world of sacred lakes, healing herbs, spectral hounds, and the mighty red dragon. Written by a Welsh practitioner, this inspiring book shares the magical traditions of Wales--including fairies, folklore, and charms--with dozens of hands-on activities. Mhara Starling shows you how you can incorporate Welsh and Celtic folk magic into your modern witchcraft practice with exercises for celebrating those who came before, protecting against adversity, changing the weather, and more. You'll also discover methods for honoring the land and ways to connect with Cerridwen, Rhiannon, and other deities. Welsh Witchcraft invites you to explore this country's rich heritage and use it to empower your spirituality.
Enter a world of sacred lakes, healing herbs, spectral hounds, and the mighty red dragon. Written by a Welsh practitioner, this inspiring book shares the magical traditions of Wales--including fairies, folklore, and charms--with dozens of hands-on activities. Mhara Starling shows you how you can incorporate Welsh and Celtic folk magic into your modern witchcraft practice with exercises for celebrating those who came before, protecting against adversity, changing the weather, and more. You'll also discover methods for honoring the land and ways to connect with Cerridwen, Rhiannon, and other deities. Welsh Witchcraft invites you to explore this country's rich heritage and use it to empower your spirituality.
275 pages, Paperback
Published February 8, 2022
236 people are currently reading
1346 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews
June 7, 2022
In reviewing this book, it’s important to be clear about what it is and isn’t. Rather than a comprehensive survey of witchcraft practices or history in Wales, this is more of a devotional written by a Welsh witch, Mhara Starling, who aims to share her deep passion and reverence for her native land and some of its traditions from a personal perspective. She is unapologetic about her point of view as someone who weaves Welsh mythology, folklore, and the abundance of the land itself into a personal practice that is traditional in the sense of its source material but not specifically ancestral. Starling has been creating her own practices since she was a teenager and shares some of them here along with cultural context and advice for other modern practitioners—whether Welsh, living in Wales, or simply interested in incorporating some of Welsh tradition into an eclectic practice.
Starling defines her practice very clearly both in terms of what it includes and what it does not. Part of her aim is to differentiate her own practice from other practices more commonly associated with Wales and the British Isles more generally. I appreciated the clear distinction between witchcraft and religion, which are often confused! Starling is not a religious practitioner and thus not affiliated with Wicca or with Druidry. She is also clear that from her point of view these are open practices, though practitioners who are able to use the Welsh language and/or practice on Welsh land are likely to find the most congruence.
One of Starling’s key arguments is that authenticity does not mean a practice has to be particularly old or handed down ancestrally. The exercises in the book include very accessible rituals aimed at beginners that can form the base of your practice, such as setting up an altar, finding a wand, starting to work with a cauldron, and exploring your own identity as a witch. Readers who have experienced oppression and othering may feel especially embraced by this book, as Starling talks about her experience as a trans woman and also about the broader importance of witchcraft and folk magic for those who are oppressed and marginalized.
One of Starling’s aims is to distinguish Welsh history and culture from other Celtic cultures, as well as from the more commonly known history of English witch hunts. Even as someone who has Welsh and Breton ancestry, I actually didn’t realize that these two cultures are more related than the Gaelic (Scottish and Irish) ones, though they all fall under the Celtic umbrella. It was also illuminating to learn both that some of the most magical features of the Welsh landscape (standing stones, for example) are actually pre-Celtic.
Given the way Starling’s practices are personally derived from the Welsh context, one of the strengths of this book is how she talks about witchcraft practices as an entry point to understanding the Welsh worldview and vice versa. Even simply considering the words “witch” and “witchcraft” and their lack of an exact Welsh equivalent shows how magic is threaded through Welsh society rather than treated as something distinct and encompassing of all magical elements. Rather than a single word like the English “witch,” different Welsh terms describe diviners, conjurers, those who create charms, keepers of wisdom, prophets, and even the fairytale image of the old hag.
Another example of Welsh specificity comes up around the question of morality. Looking at the historical treatment of practitioners alongside the mythology and folklore of Wales, Starling shows how a Welsh worldview has a very different moral take on witchcraft from an English one. Whereas the English persecuted witches as universally evil and threatening to Christianity, this stance didn’t make much sense in a country where magical practitioners provided vital services and were not only important members of the community but usually Christian themselves. Starling links the acceptance of hexing and cursing for righteous reasons with the Welsh cultural identity—it’s unsurprising that a people who see themselves as the oppressed underdog with limited tools for resistance would be unlikely to give up one of those tools! While unjustified use of such magic might be restricted or punished, simply being a witch was not a logical crime in this context.
In reading this book you’ll also learn about the local landscape and how the magic of Welsh stories weaves with the physical world. Starling makes a point that Welsh magic is strongly rooted in nature, not “supernatural.” Even the Welsh version of an “underworld” is more of an otherworld that is tightly linked to our own and accessible to humans according to the Welsh mythos. Starling explores the mythology of the Mabinogi (the stories that include familiar figures like Cerridwen, Rhiannon, and even King Arthur) but also regional folklore, stories that may be seen as “less important” but carry a real sense of place and culture, the “heart of the people.” This isn’t a comprehensive take, as Starling chooses the figures and stories that are most personally meaningful to her and recommends the reader consult another source to learn more, but it’s a nice taste in context.
Working from these sources, Starling explains the morality of fairies and why one might be both cautious of and endeared to them in the context of place, alongside stories of sacred Welsh places including lakes, wells, mountains. You’ll also learn about other sorts of magical creatures, magical uses of native plants, local seasons, the significance of various local celebrations, and even the story behind the dragon on the Welsh flag. Rituals, specific language you can use in charms, and other practical bits are sprinkled throughout.
Beyond these specifics I especially love the way Starling associates Welsh craft with wonder, joy, liminality, a thirst for knowledge, and personal empowerment. These are the elements that drew me to witchcraft, even though I don’t personally identify as a witch. I’d imagine most folks interested in magic and witchcraft could benefit from a read simply to expand their horizons a little to a culture that may be unfamiliar. The way this book is structured, while there are certainly elements specific to the land it’s also easy to incorporate some of what you learn into a local, grounded practice in your own time and place.
(ARC provided through NetGalley.)
Starling defines her practice very clearly both in terms of what it includes and what it does not. Part of her aim is to differentiate her own practice from other practices more commonly associated with Wales and the British Isles more generally. I appreciated the clear distinction between witchcraft and religion, which are often confused! Starling is not a religious practitioner and thus not affiliated with Wicca or with Druidry. She is also clear that from her point of view these are open practices, though practitioners who are able to use the Welsh language and/or practice on Welsh land are likely to find the most congruence.
One of Starling’s key arguments is that authenticity does not mean a practice has to be particularly old or handed down ancestrally. The exercises in the book include very accessible rituals aimed at beginners that can form the base of your practice, such as setting up an altar, finding a wand, starting to work with a cauldron, and exploring your own identity as a witch. Readers who have experienced oppression and othering may feel especially embraced by this book, as Starling talks about her experience as a trans woman and also about the broader importance of witchcraft and folk magic for those who are oppressed and marginalized.
One of Starling’s aims is to distinguish Welsh history and culture from other Celtic cultures, as well as from the more commonly known history of English witch hunts. Even as someone who has Welsh and Breton ancestry, I actually didn’t realize that these two cultures are more related than the Gaelic (Scottish and Irish) ones, though they all fall under the Celtic umbrella. It was also illuminating to learn both that some of the most magical features of the Welsh landscape (standing stones, for example) are actually pre-Celtic.
Given the way Starling’s practices are personally derived from the Welsh context, one of the strengths of this book is how she talks about witchcraft practices as an entry point to understanding the Welsh worldview and vice versa. Even simply considering the words “witch” and “witchcraft” and their lack of an exact Welsh equivalent shows how magic is threaded through Welsh society rather than treated as something distinct and encompassing of all magical elements. Rather than a single word like the English “witch,” different Welsh terms describe diviners, conjurers, those who create charms, keepers of wisdom, prophets, and even the fairytale image of the old hag.
Another example of Welsh specificity comes up around the question of morality. Looking at the historical treatment of practitioners alongside the mythology and folklore of Wales, Starling shows how a Welsh worldview has a very different moral take on witchcraft from an English one. Whereas the English persecuted witches as universally evil and threatening to Christianity, this stance didn’t make much sense in a country where magical practitioners provided vital services and were not only important members of the community but usually Christian themselves. Starling links the acceptance of hexing and cursing for righteous reasons with the Welsh cultural identity—it’s unsurprising that a people who see themselves as the oppressed underdog with limited tools for resistance would be unlikely to give up one of those tools! While unjustified use of such magic might be restricted or punished, simply being a witch was not a logical crime in this context.
In reading this book you’ll also learn about the local landscape and how the magic of Welsh stories weaves with the physical world. Starling makes a point that Welsh magic is strongly rooted in nature, not “supernatural.” Even the Welsh version of an “underworld” is more of an otherworld that is tightly linked to our own and accessible to humans according to the Welsh mythos. Starling explores the mythology of the Mabinogi (the stories that include familiar figures like Cerridwen, Rhiannon, and even King Arthur) but also regional folklore, stories that may be seen as “less important” but carry a real sense of place and culture, the “heart of the people.” This isn’t a comprehensive take, as Starling chooses the figures and stories that are most personally meaningful to her and recommends the reader consult another source to learn more, but it’s a nice taste in context.
Working from these sources, Starling explains the morality of fairies and why one might be both cautious of and endeared to them in the context of place, alongside stories of sacred Welsh places including lakes, wells, mountains. You’ll also learn about other sorts of magical creatures, magical uses of native plants, local seasons, the significance of various local celebrations, and even the story behind the dragon on the Welsh flag. Rituals, specific language you can use in charms, and other practical bits are sprinkled throughout.
Beyond these specifics I especially love the way Starling associates Welsh craft with wonder, joy, liminality, a thirst for knowledge, and personal empowerment. These are the elements that drew me to witchcraft, even though I don’t personally identify as a witch. I’d imagine most folks interested in magic and witchcraft could benefit from a read simply to expand their horizons a little to a culture that may be unfamiliar. The way this book is structured, while there are certainly elements specific to the land it’s also easy to incorporate some of what you learn into a local, grounded practice in your own time and place.
(ARC provided through NetGalley.)
January 21, 2023
Welsh Witchcraft by Mhara Starling is the best resource for Welsh witchcraft out there. The author has an amazing ability to convey information in ways that are accessible and fun and offers a window into folk belief and magical practice in Wales, as someone who grew up there. I'd definitely recommend this to anyone who is interested in witchcraft from a Welsh perspective.
January 30, 2022
Mhara Starling breathes life into the long, magical history of Wales so many of us think we already know. Her writing is tender, clearly cherishing each tale, spell, and exercise. Welsh Witchcraft is utterly overflowing with Starling’s passion and personal connection to the material. The reader is treated to familiar stories and more, which are used as a springboard to far more they’ve likely never heard, which makes the book all the more special. The exercises bridge the gap between knowledge and experience beautifully, allowing anyone to truly come away with everything they need to begin a relationship with the culture and magic of the land of the red dragon. Mhara Starling is an absolute gift to the community and I’m thrilled future generations will have her as a guide in this subject and beyond.
June 4, 2023
A little more of a personal bio than I was looking for. Quite often the author inserts themself and their experience into the book. I was hoping for more straight-forward info on Welsh witches, witchcraft, history, lore, etc. Not a bad book by any means though.
April 12, 2022
1.5 to 2 stars. Originally it was 3, but certain new information made me change my mind. As I originally said, the book isn't good or bad, on the whole, just okay. I pre-ordered the book and was excited to read it, but found myself disappointed pretty shortly after getting started.
The book really needed some better editing, for one thing. There was a lot of redundancy and one particular spelling error that popped up again and again (writing "practice" as "practise" which even my cell phone spell check tried to change, so how the author's computer spell check didn't alert them to the error is a mystery). I'm confused why the publisher didn't do a better job on editing. That's really their area, not so much the author.
I got a bit irritated with the constant "I'm Welsh, I'm Welsh!" thrown around all the time. Yes, I think the title and introduction of the book let us in on that. No need to keep repeating it.
The sections on folklore and old Welsh customs was nice. I enjoyed those parts. The bits about herbs and trees were okay. Not necessity useful to the bulk of the audience, however, since I'm gonna take a chance and say I'm pretty sure most people reading this book aren't living in Wales. I live in Minnesota, for example, and while some of the plants mentioned do grow here, most don't or aren't safe to harvest for various reasons, so unless I were to purchase those from a shop, that information isn't useful.
I am pleased this wasn't just another Wiccan book masked as something else. It really is refreshing to see witches and pagans that aren't Wiccan getting some attention.
I will admit, the Christian elements in some of the spells and holiday mentions rubbed me very much the wrong way. I also admit that if I had been able to look at this book in person and had the chance to thumb through it, I would've seen the mentions of that as early as the intro (I think it was there) and I would've put the book back on the shelf. I personally have NO tolerance for that stuff, therefore any area in which it's used or mentioned was skipped entirely. I'm saying something about that here because I feel it's something many pagans don't have any use for, like myself, and if you're buying the book online, it isn't mentioned in any of the information the listings provide, so I'm saying something myself.
Like the beginning of my review says this book isn't really good or bad. It's just okay. I can't honestly say I recommend it because it doesn't provide information you can't find in other books or online sources, but if you enjoy collecting books of this nature, then I guess it's fine for that.
EDIT (8 April, 2022) - It has come to my attention that this author had a meltdown over some of the less positive things I said, as well as what I'm to assume were other people's dissatisfaction with this book (given that I didn't say anything about wanting to be "spoon fed" information in my review or even anything about rituals). Boohoo! Any author, regardless of genre, needs to put on their big kid bloomers and deal with negative feedback. Take it and learn from it or don't attempt to publish books. Having a wee meltdown on Twitter does not make anything we said less valid.
Aye, I said the list of herbs aren't useful to me. Know what? I've read books by authors in Scotland, Ireland, England and other such places that list herbs native to their regions. Not only did they list those, they offered an alternative that is easily available to most everybody as well. I don't NEED anybody to tell me what herbs to use in ritual as I've been at this a while, but a true beginner, which this book seems to be aimed at, won't necessarily know where to look for such information.
This behavior made me take off a star and I won't be purchasing any books this author may manage to get published in the future. This sort of thing tells me that they aren't actually interested in helping anybody, new to the Craft or not, and this whole thing was just a way to get attention.
The book really needed some better editing, for one thing. There was a lot of redundancy and one particular spelling error that popped up again and again (writing "practice" as "practise" which even my cell phone spell check tried to change, so how the author's computer spell check didn't alert them to the error is a mystery). I'm confused why the publisher didn't do a better job on editing. That's really their area, not so much the author.
I got a bit irritated with the constant "I'm Welsh, I'm Welsh!" thrown around all the time. Yes, I think the title and introduction of the book let us in on that. No need to keep repeating it.
The sections on folklore and old Welsh customs was nice. I enjoyed those parts. The bits about herbs and trees were okay. Not necessity useful to the bulk of the audience, however, since I'm gonna take a chance and say I'm pretty sure most people reading this book aren't living in Wales. I live in Minnesota, for example, and while some of the plants mentioned do grow here, most don't or aren't safe to harvest for various reasons, so unless I were to purchase those from a shop, that information isn't useful.
I am pleased this wasn't just another Wiccan book masked as something else. It really is refreshing to see witches and pagans that aren't Wiccan getting some attention.
I will admit, the Christian elements in some of the spells and holiday mentions rubbed me very much the wrong way. I also admit that if I had been able to look at this book in person and had the chance to thumb through it, I would've seen the mentions of that as early as the intro (I think it was there) and I would've put the book back on the shelf. I personally have NO tolerance for that stuff, therefore any area in which it's used or mentioned was skipped entirely. I'm saying something about that here because I feel it's something many pagans don't have any use for, like myself, and if you're buying the book online, it isn't mentioned in any of the information the listings provide, so I'm saying something myself.
Like the beginning of my review says this book isn't really good or bad. It's just okay. I can't honestly say I recommend it because it doesn't provide information you can't find in other books or online sources, but if you enjoy collecting books of this nature, then I guess it's fine for that.
EDIT (8 April, 2022) - It has come to my attention that this author had a meltdown over some of the less positive things I said, as well as what I'm to assume were other people's dissatisfaction with this book (given that I didn't say anything about wanting to be "spoon fed" information in my review or even anything about rituals). Boohoo! Any author, regardless of genre, needs to put on their big kid bloomers and deal with negative feedback. Take it and learn from it or don't attempt to publish books. Having a wee meltdown on Twitter does not make anything we said less valid.
Aye, I said the list of herbs aren't useful to me. Know what? I've read books by authors in Scotland, Ireland, England and other such places that list herbs native to their regions. Not only did they list those, they offered an alternative that is easily available to most everybody as well. I don't NEED anybody to tell me what herbs to use in ritual as I've been at this a while, but a true beginner, which this book seems to be aimed at, won't necessarily know where to look for such information.
This behavior made me take off a star and I won't be purchasing any books this author may manage to get published in the future. This sort of thing tells me that they aren't actually interested in helping anybody, new to the Craft or not, and this whole thing was just a way to get attention.
July 2, 2022
I found that I could not really get into this book, I'm not sure if it was the style of writing or that I was hoping the book would be more encompasing of Welsh Witchcraft rather than from one individual. I just felt something was missing.
February 9, 2022
Thank you to Netgallery and Llewellyn publications for sending me an electronic ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This book is a comprehensive introduction to Welsh witchcraft.
The beautiful cover immediately stood out to me, and although I don't practice Celtic paganism I enjoy learning how all different kinds of pagans/witches conduct their workings. I also loved that it is from a pagan perspective, not Wiccan.
Mhara Starling has a great, authentic voice that comes through beautifully in this book.
It's refreshing to see books in this genre written by a LGBTQ+ author. I love that the author shared her experience as a trans women and her journey with spirituality and identity.
This book reads like a novel, but the information and perspective that it contains are well worth the read.
I would highly recommend for anyone interested in learning more about Welsh and Celtic paganism.
This book is a comprehensive introduction to Welsh witchcraft.
The beautiful cover immediately stood out to me, and although I don't practice Celtic paganism I enjoy learning how all different kinds of pagans/witches conduct their workings. I also loved that it is from a pagan perspective, not Wiccan.
Mhara Starling has a great, authentic voice that comes through beautifully in this book.
It's refreshing to see books in this genre written by a LGBTQ+ author. I love that the author shared her experience as a trans women and her journey with spirituality and identity.
This book reads like a novel, but the information and perspective that it contains are well worth the read.
I would highly recommend for anyone interested in learning more about Welsh and Celtic paganism.
January 8, 2022
This book had everything you could ever want from a guide to Welsh magickal tradition. Starling beautifully weaves together her personal narrative, Welsh history, myths, traditions and practices in a way that allows the reader to deeply explore this part of Celtic practice. While the book is highly informative, it reads like a novel. As a reader you are moved seamlessly from history and background, to practice including guided exercises. This makes the book very beginner friendly, but really moves the reader past the (often overwhelming) “getting started” phase of practice that dominates many other resources. This one will be a hit for all levels of practice, especially for those of us with familial roots in Wales.
April 7, 2022
Starling identifies witchcraft as “simply finding a means to an end; bringing about the change that you wish to see in the world.” She identifies as a Welsh witch practicing her own version of witchcraft based on the mythology and folktales of Wales. The book is part memoir and part grimoire. It includes Starling’s personal history and gives exercises, rites, charms, spells and visualizations. While Starling’s view of Welsh mythology is less than academic, she provides an overview of a wide range of Celtic pagan practices including the seasons of the year, herbs, and the magic of trees. This book may be of interest to Druid, pagan, and Wiccan practitioners. Those interested in Celtic Studies should look to a less personal discourse.
July 30, 2025
There's several things about this one that make me extremely skeptical about taking it as a good source.
1. Apparently this author is Tiktok famous. I don't use Tiktok and avoid Witchtok and Pagantok and whatever like the plague because of misformation. My practice is historical information first when possible. This is relevant for point 2.
2. The author comes right out and says, "I'm not a historian but--" and then proceeds to give us a bunch of unsourced historical claims. Her only real credentials are that she's Tiktok popular and that she's Welsh. That's...that's it.
There were quite a few passages that seemed completely irrelevant to the concept of the book itself: she spends a good bit of time navel gazing about her gender/sexuality journey, which yea. That's cool good for you, but I picked this up for information about Welsh witchcraft, not to read your personal diary. I understand that for many people, myself included, their relationship to their body is integral to their spiritual practice. BUT, that's not why I picked this book up, it's an unrelated side tangent that would fit better in a different book perhaps an autobiography about her development in witchcraft and as a person.
Coupled with some really ahistorical claims and what the cool kids call UPG (Unverified Personal Gnosis), I wouldn't really recommend this one to anybody as a source, but it's fine? I guess? Just to read it?
I might give it a second shot down the road now that I know what I'm actually getting, but like many books I've read lately, I would have wanted a refund if I didn't get this through my Kindle Unlimited subscription.
1. Apparently this author is Tiktok famous. I don't use Tiktok and avoid Witchtok and Pagantok and whatever like the plague because of misformation. My practice is historical information first when possible. This is relevant for point 2.
2. The author comes right out and says, "I'm not a historian but--" and then proceeds to give us a bunch of unsourced historical claims. Her only real credentials are that she's Tiktok popular and that she's Welsh. That's...that's it.
There were quite a few passages that seemed completely irrelevant to the concept of the book itself: she spends a good bit of time navel gazing about her gender/sexuality journey, which yea. That's cool good for you, but I picked this up for information about Welsh witchcraft, not to read your personal diary. I understand that for many people, myself included, their relationship to their body is integral to their spiritual practice. BUT, that's not why I picked this book up, it's an unrelated side tangent that would fit better in a different book perhaps an autobiography about her development in witchcraft and as a person.
Coupled with some really ahistorical claims and what the cool kids call UPG (Unverified Personal Gnosis), I wouldn't really recommend this one to anybody as a source, but it's fine? I guess? Just to read it?
I might give it a second shot down the road now that I know what I'm actually getting, but like many books I've read lately, I would have wanted a refund if I didn't get this through my Kindle Unlimited subscription.
January 23, 2022
Diving into this book, I want to say I love the definition of Welsh Traditional Witchcraft Mhara gives:
“Witchcraft that is drawing on the folk magic practices and magical traditions of Wales’ past.”
She goes on to add:
“to follow in the footsteps of the Swynwyr, the Cunning Folk, the Druids of old and the charmers, utilizing the resources we have possible to revive a Witchcraft that is wholly Welsh in nature.”
I think this is a great way to express a regional witchcraft and practice and something that revivalists and regional witches, pagans, and polytheists can all appreciate. The part about utilizing the resources we have possible – that is huge. Its not entirely about reconstruction because that’s not exactly possible what with the lore handed down third hand by Christians and living in an entirely different culture than ancient practitioners. But we can practice something that keeps the nature of that region.
So many good quotes in this book from the beginning!
“A core principle I have found that the majority of Witches hold is the ability to question everything.”
“throughout history, those who wield privilege have feared the magical practices and beliefs of the very same folk they looked down their nose at…Perhaps the ruling classes were always aware of the power and potency of magic.”
Ooof such good stuff right there in the beginning.
That said, I would have omitted the Introduction as it is repeated a lot in Chapter 1. You could skip that part all together, but that’s just my opinion and I think its more the fault of editing rather than writing.
Mhara has a few warnings in this book that I appreciate and think are important to all the readers wanting to practice this or any path. Firstly, she warns against comparing Welsh lore and myth to others – that said I admit I still did this when it came to the Cwn Annwfn (hounds of Annwfn) and couldn’t help but see comparisons between these white, red eared spectral houns and the Appalachian black dog or the Norse Garm that guards Helheim – AND the warning to not work with the fairies until you have learned not only the lore but also reverence and respect. (I would add not to approach any entity including Deities until you have learned these things.)
My favorite parts are the sections on folklore, herbalism, and the section about the Bwbachod (house spirit). Those of you who know me, try not to roll your eyes in my stating something obvious, ok. I had a lot of fun learning about Welsh fairy tales and lore – some of which I had heard but now in a new light and others that were completely new to me (Mhara’s retelling of The Tale of the Taleisin is fantastic btw). The herbal section was unexpected and I loved comparing notes to my herbal with this Welsh focused take (also noting all the Welsh terms for each herb).
When it comes to witchcraft and magical practice I did come to a new appreciation of the Cauldron thanks to Mhara’s work. I don’t have a designated cauldron but plan to soon. I have a couple of cauldron shaped items that I use to burn loose incense and a bowl for offerings. It wasn’t until I read the section on Cauldrons that I fully came to appreciate them as much as say my wand or my drum. I very much appreciate this book for this guidance here.
***UPDATE: Mhara reached out to me and let me know that the section about deities has been updated since this ARC pre-pub. Her relationship with the Gods has evolved quite a bit from seeing Them as archetypes to now honoring them as individual entities. Her views are now reflected in the book that is being published. I for one REALLY look forward on getting my hands on a copy and diving in deeper with this wonderful book***
That all aside, the one thing that I hesitate on here is more of just a heads up to my fellow devout polytheists. Mhara does list deities in here but she admits that she leans towards seeing them more as archetypes and this shows in some of the visualizations and workings with said deities. This, I know from conversations in polytheist circles and in my own practice and reading can be off putting. Its good to remember, as Mhara puts it early in the book, that witchcraft is not part of any particular religion and can be practiced by any. With that in mind, feel free to tweak these workings to fit your faith and practice much as Mhara does later in the book with a charm of protection originally given with reference to God, Christ, and Holy spirit that Mhara rewrites to fit their faith and beliefs. Like I said, this was just something that gave me pause but certainly not a reason to write off the book for those who are devoted especially to the deities listed.
There’s so much more I could say from appreciating the bibliography and recommended reading (my poor TBR) and the pronunciation guide (much needed). This book, more than anything however is this:
It is very obviously Mhara Starling’s love letter to her home and their practice. I felt touched at getting to read such a book that is very obviously a work of love and joy for the author. Its a blessing.
I highly recommend Welsh Witchcraft to new witches especially – if you are interested in witchcraft and have at least an inkling of interest in Welsh or Celtic magic, culture, folklore, and mythology then this is the book you NEED to pick up. I also recommend it for anyone interesting in Welsh magic and lore whether a practicing witch, pagan, polytheist, or just someone interested in the romance of this culture.
“Witchcraft that is drawing on the folk magic practices and magical traditions of Wales’ past.”
She goes on to add:
“to follow in the footsteps of the Swynwyr, the Cunning Folk, the Druids of old and the charmers, utilizing the resources we have possible to revive a Witchcraft that is wholly Welsh in nature.”
I think this is a great way to express a regional witchcraft and practice and something that revivalists and regional witches, pagans, and polytheists can all appreciate. The part about utilizing the resources we have possible – that is huge. Its not entirely about reconstruction because that’s not exactly possible what with the lore handed down third hand by Christians and living in an entirely different culture than ancient practitioners. But we can practice something that keeps the nature of that region.
So many good quotes in this book from the beginning!
“A core principle I have found that the majority of Witches hold is the ability to question everything.”
“throughout history, those who wield privilege have feared the magical practices and beliefs of the very same folk they looked down their nose at…Perhaps the ruling classes were always aware of the power and potency of magic.”
Ooof such good stuff right there in the beginning.
That said, I would have omitted the Introduction as it is repeated a lot in Chapter 1. You could skip that part all together, but that’s just my opinion and I think its more the fault of editing rather than writing.
Mhara has a few warnings in this book that I appreciate and think are important to all the readers wanting to practice this or any path. Firstly, she warns against comparing Welsh lore and myth to others – that said I admit I still did this when it came to the Cwn Annwfn (hounds of Annwfn) and couldn’t help but see comparisons between these white, red eared spectral houns and the Appalachian black dog or the Norse Garm that guards Helheim – AND the warning to not work with the fairies until you have learned not only the lore but also reverence and respect. (I would add not to approach any entity including Deities until you have learned these things.)
My favorite parts are the sections on folklore, herbalism, and the section about the Bwbachod (house spirit). Those of you who know me, try not to roll your eyes in my stating something obvious, ok. I had a lot of fun learning about Welsh fairy tales and lore – some of which I had heard but now in a new light and others that were completely new to me (Mhara’s retelling of The Tale of the Taleisin is fantastic btw). The herbal section was unexpected and I loved comparing notes to my herbal with this Welsh focused take (also noting all the Welsh terms for each herb).
When it comes to witchcraft and magical practice I did come to a new appreciation of the Cauldron thanks to Mhara’s work. I don’t have a designated cauldron but plan to soon. I have a couple of cauldron shaped items that I use to burn loose incense and a bowl for offerings. It wasn’t until I read the section on Cauldrons that I fully came to appreciate them as much as say my wand or my drum. I very much appreciate this book for this guidance here.
***UPDATE: Mhara reached out to me and let me know that the section about deities has been updated since this ARC pre-pub. Her relationship with the Gods has evolved quite a bit from seeing Them as archetypes to now honoring them as individual entities. Her views are now reflected in the book that is being published. I for one REALLY look forward on getting my hands on a copy and diving in deeper with this wonderful book***
That all aside, the one thing that I hesitate on here is more of just a heads up to my fellow devout polytheists. Mhara does list deities in here but she admits that she leans towards seeing them more as archetypes and this shows in some of the visualizations and workings with said deities. This, I know from conversations in polytheist circles and in my own practice and reading can be off putting. Its good to remember, as Mhara puts it early in the book, that witchcraft is not part of any particular religion and can be practiced by any. With that in mind, feel free to tweak these workings to fit your faith and practice much as Mhara does later in the book with a charm of protection originally given with reference to God, Christ, and Holy spirit that Mhara rewrites to fit their faith and beliefs. Like I said, this was just something that gave me pause but certainly not a reason to write off the book for those who are devoted especially to the deities listed.
There’s so much more I could say from appreciating the bibliography and recommended reading (my poor TBR) and the pronunciation guide (much needed). This book, more than anything however is this:
It is very obviously Mhara Starling’s love letter to her home and their practice. I felt touched at getting to read such a book that is very obviously a work of love and joy for the author. Its a blessing.
I highly recommend Welsh Witchcraft to new witches especially – if you are interested in witchcraft and have at least an inkling of interest in Welsh or Celtic magic, culture, folklore, and mythology then this is the book you NEED to pick up. I also recommend it for anyone interesting in Welsh magic and lore whether a practicing witch, pagan, polytheist, or just someone interested in the romance of this culture.
February 21, 2022
"Wales is a land of high mountains and deep valleys, a place of secret hideaways and cozy little villages. While being attached to England, the land of Cymru is set apart in both culture and language. It sings it's history, experiences hiraeth of it's past, and looks to it's role in the 21st century. It is a land of ancient Christianity (indeed the Church in Wales has roots in Roman times) and even more ancient paganism. But, Wales is also a land populated by over five million people and its mythic landscape is also a very modern landscape. This book is not about Welsh witchcraft of old, but Welsh witchcraft as it can be practiced now in the 2000s, which is a refreshing and important aspect of this soon to be classic.
Mhara Starling is born and bred cymry, originating from a cymraeg speaking family on Ynys Mon (Anglesey). Growing up in that environment, Mhara brings to her work a lived experience of an aspect of the living culture of Wales, one that is so often spoken about by outsiders who lack that personal lived experience. In 'Welsh Witchcraft', Mhara brings her decades of exploration into a form of Welsh witchcraft that is distinct from the commonly English derived perception of what witchcraft is and offers to her readers the plethora of gathered wisdom and practical applications.
Mhara is careful not to present her book as THE orthodox form of Welsh witchcraft, but instead offers an introduction to various aspects of a living traditional part of the Welsh culture heavily impacted by individual relationships to ones physical location, family traditions, and the spirits that surround both. Mhara offers folkloric, historical, anthropological, and at times even psychological context in her explorations. Readers can expect an intuitively written breakdown of some of the major elements of the Welsh witchcraft Mhara practices, a run down of the distinctions between English and Welsh witchcraft, and most importantly exercises for those interested in developing a witchcraft practice based on Welsh traditions with a Welsh practitioner as your guide. Authentic context is important with a work such as this, and Mhara more than delivers. Whether you are Welsh, of Welsh ancestry, or feel a deep hiraeth for the Land of Our Fathers this book promises to have something in it for everyone."
Mhara Starling is born and bred cymry, originating from a cymraeg speaking family on Ynys Mon (Anglesey). Growing up in that environment, Mhara brings to her work a lived experience of an aspect of the living culture of Wales, one that is so often spoken about by outsiders who lack that personal lived experience. In 'Welsh Witchcraft', Mhara brings her decades of exploration into a form of Welsh witchcraft that is distinct from the commonly English derived perception of what witchcraft is and offers to her readers the plethora of gathered wisdom and practical applications.
Mhara is careful not to present her book as THE orthodox form of Welsh witchcraft, but instead offers an introduction to various aspects of a living traditional part of the Welsh culture heavily impacted by individual relationships to ones physical location, family traditions, and the spirits that surround both. Mhara offers folkloric, historical, anthropological, and at times even psychological context in her explorations. Readers can expect an intuitively written breakdown of some of the major elements of the Welsh witchcraft Mhara practices, a run down of the distinctions between English and Welsh witchcraft, and most importantly exercises for those interested in developing a witchcraft practice based on Welsh traditions with a Welsh practitioner as your guide. Authentic context is important with a work such as this, and Mhara more than delivers. Whether you are Welsh, of Welsh ancestry, or feel a deep hiraeth for the Land of Our Fathers this book promises to have something in it for everyone."
September 22, 2022
havent actually read this book yet, but i bought it and i am giving it 5 stars based on the following:
1. my teenaged son wanted it to explore a bit more of Welsh traditions as our family line hales from there and to see how he could incorporate things into his weekly DND night.
2. im receiving shaming type messages from my family questioning as to how I can allow him to read this.
3. how come all the complaints about my son are directed to me but all the compliments are sent to my husband?
4. specfically because of one comment so mean-spirited that I won't even repeat
5. i was told not to get hot-headed.
1. my teenaged son wanted it to explore a bit more of Welsh traditions as our family line hales from there and to see how he could incorporate things into his weekly DND night.
2. im receiving shaming type messages from my family questioning as to how I can allow him to read this.
3. how come all the complaints about my son are directed to me but all the compliments are sent to my husband?
4. specfically because of one comment so mean-spirited that I won't even repeat
5. i was told not to get hot-headed.
August 7, 2023
Very surface level, a slog to get through. I had to force myself to finish it in the end with lots of skim reading. The exploration in mythology and folklore is quite shallow and lacking a lot of exciting story telling.
January 10, 2022
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I’m in love with this book. It’s an amazing beginner book because it shows (without telling) how research about witchcraft can be done. Even if you’re not studying Welsh/Celtic witchcraft, there’s a great discussion about antiquity and authenticity that is important if you’re going to pursue deity work. Instead of relying on doing the research yourself without any guideposts, the author gives recommendations and citations (be still my beating heart) for everything and I LOVE IT.
The author admits when something is not in her wheelhouse. Even more important, this book doesn’t have any Wiccan influences since the author isn’t Wiccan. (Side note: do you know how many witchcraft books there are without Wiccan influence? It’s difficult to find them.)
The exercises in each chapter are what you want to see if this is the first time you’ve picked up a witchcraft book. The author even provides a peek into her herb journal is amazing since it’s more than just correspondences, it’s very detailed. Also, there’s a Welsh glossary and pronunciations at the back of the book.
This book really shows how much of the Neo-Pagan stuff that uses Welsh witchcraft is heavily misinterpreted and honestly, I’d be pissed if I were a Welsh witch.
As I said, I ADORE this book. It’s well researched with being personal, with citations all over the place.
I’m in love with this book. It’s an amazing beginner book because it shows (without telling) how research about witchcraft can be done. Even if you’re not studying Welsh/Celtic witchcraft, there’s a great discussion about antiquity and authenticity that is important if you’re going to pursue deity work. Instead of relying on doing the research yourself without any guideposts, the author gives recommendations and citations (be still my beating heart) for everything and I LOVE IT.
The author admits when something is not in her wheelhouse. Even more important, this book doesn’t have any Wiccan influences since the author isn’t Wiccan. (Side note: do you know how many witchcraft books there are without Wiccan influence? It’s difficult to find them.)
The exercises in each chapter are what you want to see if this is the first time you’ve picked up a witchcraft book. The author even provides a peek into her herb journal is amazing since it’s more than just correspondences, it’s very detailed. Also, there’s a Welsh glossary and pronunciations at the back of the book.
This book really shows how much of the Neo-Pagan stuff that uses Welsh witchcraft is heavily misinterpreted and honestly, I’d be pissed if I were a Welsh witch.
As I said, I ADORE this book. It’s well researched with being personal, with citations all over the place.
July 9, 2025
I am not the intended audience, but wanted to appreciate the in-depth perspective of the author in the subjects of spirituality and folklore as a first introduction to Welsh lore. I love the descriptions of Wales and it's impact on the author's practice, but do wish the structure of the book being her personal experiences and feelings was part of the descriptions of the book. The personal details are beautiful and vivid but not what I was expecting based on the title and blurb.
In general the book is very interesting and enjoyable, but I keep being blind-sided by the lack of commentary on the women and often the form of womanhood presented in the lore. The author will mention something like a blow to the chest and walk right past without even mentioning it in her analysis.
Why was the wife left in the dark when her husband replaced himself. Why do these women keep flying into a rage at random victims after causing a problem for themselves. What type of otter other than a female one would she have turned into. Why are nearly all so tormented. No context, only questions. I also noticed many reflections of Greek myths, which I thought would be interesting to compare. Very inspiring.
In general the book is very interesting and enjoyable, but I keep being blind-sided by the lack of commentary on the women and often the form of womanhood presented in the lore. The author will mention something like a blow to the chest and walk right past without even mentioning it in her analysis.
Why was the wife left in the dark when her husband replaced himself. Why do these women keep flying into a rage at random victims after causing a problem for themselves. What type of otter other than a female one would she have turned into. Why are nearly all so tormented. No context, only questions. I also noticed many reflections of Greek myths, which I thought would be interesting to compare. Very inspiring.
December 22, 2022
This is a wonderful book about Welsh traditions and very needed, given that it doesn't seem do be well known that a lot of arthurian myths have been influenced by Welsh mythology. Mhara Starling introduces herself with a short autobiography and goes on telling us about Welsh rites around the year, rituals and uses of plants and trees native to her land. One can easily apply a lot of rites even outside Wales and if one lives somewhere were the vegetation is similar it can be used as a green-witchcraft guidebook. The spells and rituals are quite outdoorsy. I listened to this as an audiobook and I really loved how I was able to hear the Welsh words pronounced.
March 29, 2022
I learned so much. This is a really good read.
January 30, 2022
*Thank you to NetGalley and Llewellyn Publications for providing me with this Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) in exchange for an honest review!*
Sum it Up:
Welsh Witchcraft by Mhara Starling is a beautiful tribute to the width and depth of Welsh cultural traditions alongside a detailed exploration of magickal practices, Celtic folklore and spiritual ritual. I rated this read 5 stars for overall value, unique subject matter, and the author’s clear passion to communicate a subject matter that is so important to them. I cannot wait to purchase a physical copy of this beautiful book when it’s available on February 8th, 2022.
Why It Stands Out:
Welsh Witchcraft is not just a “typical” book about spiritual practice with only some reference to culture and tradition. This book is rooted in the folklore and rich history of Wales, providing a great balance of information, tradition, understanding, and ritual that’s observed and passed down through years of connections and relationships with people and land.
It’s clear that Starling is very experienced and passionate when it comes to both magick and Welsh witchcraft. Not only do they make the narrative exciting and diverse, but they also bring their personal love for learning and growth that jumps right off the page. She takes a lot of time to address the material from an inclusive and unbiased perspective while incorporating issues that have influenced record keeping and changes in practice or language throughout the years.
Starling places a heavy emphasis on intuitively choosing what is right for you and your spiritual work as you learn and grow in your connections to Welsh Witchcraft. This book works hard to make this process very accessible through detailed and descriptive information sharing, ritual instructions, and easy-to-follow information.
Things I Liked:
First of all, let’s start with the cover. This book is aesthetically BEAUTIFUL, and I loved the cover and artistic designs incorporated throughout the pages. I also really liked the chapter order and layout. The book followed a natural flow that was both engaging and enjoyable! (continued)
Read the full review here: https://www.firesignreads.com/blog/fi...
Sum it Up:
Welsh Witchcraft by Mhara Starling is a beautiful tribute to the width and depth of Welsh cultural traditions alongside a detailed exploration of magickal practices, Celtic folklore and spiritual ritual. I rated this read 5 stars for overall value, unique subject matter, and the author’s clear passion to communicate a subject matter that is so important to them. I cannot wait to purchase a physical copy of this beautiful book when it’s available on February 8th, 2022.
Why It Stands Out:
Welsh Witchcraft is not just a “typical” book about spiritual practice with only some reference to culture and tradition. This book is rooted in the folklore and rich history of Wales, providing a great balance of information, tradition, understanding, and ritual that’s observed and passed down through years of connections and relationships with people and land.
It’s clear that Starling is very experienced and passionate when it comes to both magick and Welsh witchcraft. Not only do they make the narrative exciting and diverse, but they also bring their personal love for learning and growth that jumps right off the page. She takes a lot of time to address the material from an inclusive and unbiased perspective while incorporating issues that have influenced record keeping and changes in practice or language throughout the years.
Starling places a heavy emphasis on intuitively choosing what is right for you and your spiritual work as you learn and grow in your connections to Welsh Witchcraft. This book works hard to make this process very accessible through detailed and descriptive information sharing, ritual instructions, and easy-to-follow information.
Things I Liked:
First of all, let’s start with the cover. This book is aesthetically BEAUTIFUL, and I loved the cover and artistic designs incorporated throughout the pages. I also really liked the chapter order and layout. The book followed a natural flow that was both engaging and enjoyable! (continued)
Read the full review here: https://www.firesignreads.com/blog/fi...
February 1, 2022
This empowering guide delivers a thorough exploration of Welsh traditions, folklore, and Witchcraft in a conversational format that provides the first steps in a hands-on journey to find your path. This book primarily focuses on Welsh traditions from the perspective of a Practioner. Starling takes you into another world that introduces you to the beauty of Welsh folklore seen through her eyes. The tone Starling takes for this guide on Welsh Witchcraft creates a personal connection to her and through that connection allows you to explore ways to channel your own empowerment. This book comes to life through the passion and love that Starling has for Welsh folklore and Witchcraft which delivers a guide on everything from fairy tales to cursing wells to deities. This book also features various terms that introduce you to the Welsh language (if you don't already know it) with words such as Swynydd (someone that works with magic) and Awenydd (similar to Oracles in Ancient Greece).
The book offers background on some of the deities common in Welsh lore such as Cerridwen, Llyr, Gwydion, Braint, and Rhiannan. Starling includes what they represent and how to commune with each deity while offering personal insight that comes from a significant part of herself. The book contains a thorough wealth of information that features background on all things Welsh such as changelings, fairies, charms, the Abracadabra Triangle, the power of wells, curse pots, and so much more. Herbalists and plant lovers will particularly enjoy learning about important herbs and trees which include (but are not limited to) chickweed, sage, rosemary, alder, willow, and hazel. The book also features a list of recommended reading for those wishing to do further research into Welsh Witchcraft and traditions. By opening up a piece of her soul, Starling has created a guide that does more than teaching Welsh Witchcraft and folklore. But a guide that creates a stepping stone in finding yourself, empowerment, a path to a peaceful state of being, and the discovery of making the most of your own sacred places.
Whether you're seeking to find a new path in your life, looking to learn Witchcraft, fascinated by folklore, love Welsh traditions, or simply curious, Starling has something for everyone.
The book offers background on some of the deities common in Welsh lore such as Cerridwen, Llyr, Gwydion, Braint, and Rhiannan. Starling includes what they represent and how to commune with each deity while offering personal insight that comes from a significant part of herself. The book contains a thorough wealth of information that features background on all things Welsh such as changelings, fairies, charms, the Abracadabra Triangle, the power of wells, curse pots, and so much more. Herbalists and plant lovers will particularly enjoy learning about important herbs and trees which include (but are not limited to) chickweed, sage, rosemary, alder, willow, and hazel. The book also features a list of recommended reading for those wishing to do further research into Welsh Witchcraft and traditions. By opening up a piece of her soul, Starling has created a guide that does more than teaching Welsh Witchcraft and folklore. But a guide that creates a stepping stone in finding yourself, empowerment, a path to a peaceful state of being, and the discovery of making the most of your own sacred places.
Whether you're seeking to find a new path in your life, looking to learn Witchcraft, fascinated by folklore, love Welsh traditions, or simply curious, Starling has something for everyone.
March 5, 2022
3.5*
*Thanks to Netgalley for giving me the ARC*
Reading this book was interesting. I got to see the Welsh side of Wiccans and how they do certain things. I liked the exercises that the book had. I enjoyed the legends and stories that were told as well. The book was good overall and I liked the pace that it had although I didn't really liked when the author keeps saying "I'm a Welsh!" but regardless, this book was a fun read.
*Thanks to Netgalley for giving me the ARC*
Reading this book was interesting. I got to see the Welsh side of Wiccans and how they do certain things. I liked the exercises that the book had. I enjoyed the legends and stories that were told as well. The book was good overall and I liked the pace that it had although I didn't really liked when the author keeps saying "I'm a Welsh!" but regardless, this book was a fun read.
November 4, 2023
I was just thinking of how I would have liked to explore Welsh Witchcraft more when I came across this book: I though it was fate.
Sadly though, I did not connect with it. I found it a bit slow to get through and really focused on the author's experience, which it's something that gets pointed out and reiterated throughout the book so it's probably a bit unfair of me to highlight this and considering it a con; still, the book too often feels almost like a memoir and it's just wasn't what I expected.
At the same time, I did enjoy the part about Welsh fairy tales and fairies and it definitely inspired me to seek more of those and to explore more of Welsh folklore in the future.
Sadly though, I did not connect with it. I found it a bit slow to get through and really focused on the author's experience, which it's something that gets pointed out and reiterated throughout the book so it's probably a bit unfair of me to highlight this and considering it a con; still, the book too often feels almost like a memoir and it's just wasn't what I expected.
At the same time, I did enjoy the part about Welsh fairy tales and fairies and it definitely inspired me to seek more of those and to explore more of Welsh folklore in the future.
October 21, 2023
I didn’t learn anything new about witchcraft from reading this book. There were a few welsh stories that were mildly interesting, but it even fell short for me at delving into welsh folklore and magical customs. I wouldn’t recommend it as a must read in terms of welsh witchcraft, and I hope someone else comes out with a more comprehensive text on the subject.
October 2, 2023
Did not even need a bookmark; I couldn't stop reading it. What a wonderful book. I'd highly recommend this to any beginning (or advanced) witch, whether or not they're looking for a practice with a Welsh focus; this book has information vital to any crooked path you may wander upon.
March 20, 2023
Great book that anyone into Welsh magick could easily use for references.
February 28, 2023
Review is on my blog
https://whiteroseofavalon.life/2023/0...
https://whiteroseofavalon.life/2023/0...
February 14, 2023
The writing was stilted and repetitive. It’s not a bad book, just kind of a slog to get through. I didn’t feel excited to pick it back up between reads.
September 28, 2024
Wow. So shitty. Woke Garbage. A history of Welsh folklore, this is not.
January 15, 2025
I really enjoyed this book!
First, as far as the occasional redundancies, I think it is maybe just the author erring on the side of really driving home that the observations inside were largely based on her own experience as a Welsh person, finding a personalized practice and that this was not a strict how-to guide. In some ways, this does read like the author is anxious to let the reader know that they are not the sole, or best, authority on this matter; which I think is partially due to this being her first book (if I'm not mistaken.) That said, I found this to be kind of a refreshing take, because too often do authors present elements of their own practice as a very black and white example of "authentic" or ancient witchcraft/paganism. I also found this to be full of well- supported information, and the personality of the writing added both charm and authenticity/honesty to the way it reads.
Anyways, let's get into it. There was a good deal of anecdotal material to support the information, and I think this added to some of the charm and helped me identify with the experiences the author had, which informed the evolution of her understanding of Welsh witchcraft. I think there was a lot of great information in here, and it was pretty methodically laid out.
I have a personal special interest in Celtic folk magic and folklore, as well as history, so the sections on Cerridwen, Rhiannon, and Welsh folklore were what I found most interesting and useful on a personal level. I've never worked with deities really, but I'm now more interested and more confident in exploring incorporating Rhiannon, Cerridwen, and potentially other figures into my personal spiritual practice. Some of the information I was familiar with, but I really appreciated getting to know some more about folklore as it related to specific areas or Welsh things, and I found it to be more contemplative than a lot of the other resources I've read online or in other books.
I've also been interested in Mhara Starling's work and have read other articles of hers in Llewellyn publications, so this was an anticipatory read for me. I'm sure I will revisit this book from time to time, especially to reference the use of herbs or wood from trees and their correspondences as well as the Welsh glossary and pronunciation guide, since I do read quite a bit of folklore on my own. (listed near the end.)
I appreciated the inclusion of the exercises in the book; I think it's a great way to get ideas for creating your own charms, rituals, and other elements of a personal practice. All in all, I think this was a very pleasant read, with a lot of great personal anecdotes and folklore/ folk magic information for anyone who is interested in Celtic folk magic, and specifically understanding Welsh folk magic.
First, as far as the occasional redundancies, I think it is maybe just the author erring on the side of really driving home that the observations inside were largely based on her own experience as a Welsh person, finding a personalized practice and that this was not a strict how-to guide. In some ways, this does read like the author is anxious to let the reader know that they are not the sole, or best, authority on this matter; which I think is partially due to this being her first book (if I'm not mistaken.) That said, I found this to be kind of a refreshing take, because too often do authors present elements of their own practice as a very black and white example of "authentic" or ancient witchcraft/paganism. I also found this to be full of well- supported information, and the personality of the writing added both charm and authenticity/honesty to the way it reads.
Anyways, let's get into it. There was a good deal of anecdotal material to support the information, and I think this added to some of the charm and helped me identify with the experiences the author had, which informed the evolution of her understanding of Welsh witchcraft. I think there was a lot of great information in here, and it was pretty methodically laid out.
I have a personal special interest in Celtic folk magic and folklore, as well as history, so the sections on Cerridwen, Rhiannon, and Welsh folklore were what I found most interesting and useful on a personal level. I've never worked with deities really, but I'm now more interested and more confident in exploring incorporating Rhiannon, Cerridwen, and potentially other figures into my personal spiritual practice. Some of the information I was familiar with, but I really appreciated getting to know some more about folklore as it related to specific areas or Welsh things, and I found it to be more contemplative than a lot of the other resources I've read online or in other books.
I've also been interested in Mhara Starling's work and have read other articles of hers in Llewellyn publications, so this was an anticipatory read for me. I'm sure I will revisit this book from time to time, especially to reference the use of herbs or wood from trees and their correspondences as well as the Welsh glossary and pronunciation guide, since I do read quite a bit of folklore on my own. (listed near the end.)
I appreciated the inclusion of the exercises in the book; I think it's a great way to get ideas for creating your own charms, rituals, and other elements of a personal practice. All in all, I think this was a very pleasant read, with a lot of great personal anecdotes and folklore/ folk magic information for anyone who is interested in Celtic folk magic, and specifically understanding Welsh folk magic.
June 15, 2025
I’m Welsh, I live in Wales so I was strangely reluctant to read this book. I can tell the author’s first language is Welsh and, for me, that made the book even more enjoyable. The content is excellent and I enjoyed reading some of the tales I had been told as a child, or even had danced to in school. There are some parts written in Welsh, always with a translation, also a pronunciation guide at the back, especially helpful for those of us whose lessons were many decades ago! I would have loved more Welsh plants and also understand that people across the world are reading so might not be able to find them. I loved the addition faries and found it funny that they are not so much of a part of other peoples experience. I know as a child faries were often spoken about, more than spirits or gods so it was interesting to learn that this is part of my Welsh heritage.
I think it is especially poignant for a Welsh person but also, as she points out, interesting to people across the world. It is funny how we look for spirituality across the world when there is actually our own stories still here. I’ve spent much of my life studying Chinese and Native American spirituality and totally forgot, until reading this book that I have my own past I can draw on.
I find some of the criticism of the book funny, I think the one complaint is of her mentioning Wales too much, I guess they won’t like my review much either. We are such a small country and we have been so oppressed for so long, my Mother would have the cane if she spoke Welsh in school and her mother tried to not speak Welsh in front of her children because of this. When most of the children in a village and some adults were killed in a coal tip avalanche in 1966, due to poor maintenance of the coal tip, the money given to the families, was docked to pay for the clean up. I mean Wales has not had an easy time of it and we are only just coming into our voice so a Welsh Witch writing this book, at this moment is very powerful. I am so grateful I found this book in my local shop. Just started the second book and looking forward to more from this author
This review was previously posted under another account that I am having to move and once I am posting the reviews on this account I am deleting the old review so there is no duplication.
I think it is especially poignant for a Welsh person but also, as she points out, interesting to people across the world. It is funny how we look for spirituality across the world when there is actually our own stories still here. I’ve spent much of my life studying Chinese and Native American spirituality and totally forgot, until reading this book that I have my own past I can draw on.
I find some of the criticism of the book funny, I think the one complaint is of her mentioning Wales too much, I guess they won’t like my review much either. We are such a small country and we have been so oppressed for so long, my Mother would have the cane if she spoke Welsh in school and her mother tried to not speak Welsh in front of her children because of this. When most of the children in a village and some adults were killed in a coal tip avalanche in 1966, due to poor maintenance of the coal tip, the money given to the families, was docked to pay for the clean up. I mean Wales has not had an easy time of it and we are only just coming into our voice so a Welsh Witch writing this book, at this moment is very powerful. I am so grateful I found this book in my local shop. Just started the second book and looking forward to more from this author
This review was previously posted under another account that I am having to move and once I am posting the reviews on this account I am deleting the old review so there is no duplication.
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