Witchcraft Unchained

Proclaimed as a fearless approached the nuts and bolts of modern witchcraft — it starts with the history of the Craft and the occult in Britain. Lots of early books are referenced in this section, which sparked my interest in seeking those out. But the terminology section really grabbed me — by far my favorite section of the book. Dispelling some urban myths and current day misgivings. All aspects of the Wheel of the Year have always held my heart, but talk of Samhain has me already looking forward to Fall. 🍂🔮✨

Books on British Traditional Craft are not common here in the U. S. When I initiated into Wicca in 1991, I found myself at odds with many of the rituals and teachings. Someone recommended British Traditional Witchcraft, but there no known covens in the U.S. at that time and I could not afford to move to the UK. So I left it at that and walked away (or was pushed away) from Wicca. I wanted to practice magic based on my “witch power.” As Gypsy Ravish later told me, I wanted to practice witchcraft without the religion.

Still, this BTW book is an interesting contrast to Melusine Draco’s work. Her work is also full of good information, but it is oriented from the Coven of the Scales. That was another group I was not allowed to join die to my appearance of complete self-interest. However that may be, I still enjoy her perspective.

This book is very well laid-out and I really enjoyed it. I do wish the section on the rod and stang had been a bit longer. The use of the stang is found most often in BTW but very few can trace the true origins. A foray into uses and differences would have been greatly appreciated and good knowledge. Also, drawings of tools such as the besom, boline, etc. would have helped.

Overall, a great read.

I really got into this book. I don't personally follow this path. However, the author broke down the history, the language, and the terminology and made it so easy to understand. I like to read varying works regarding magick. And I can truly say I have learned something new by reading this book. I highly recommend it! I voluntarily read this book via NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion.

i’m a history lover and this book really delivered for me. There are many different stories on the history and foundations of the old craft, but they don’t always get into explaining things as well as Craig Spencer does. The best part of all is being able to have myths cleared up from fact and a list of terms that may not be familiar to you clarified.

Coming from British roots, this book is near and dear to my heart and has given me some clarity on my ancestors who came before me. It soothed my should and allows me to bring some of the older craft into my own modern day practices.

I like that this included a lot of history as well as information. I enjoyed this and would probably return to this book often as I love learning about the history behind witchcraft as well.

I am grateful that I was able to get to read this as it has alot of useful and interesting information in it.