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The Book of Forgotten Witches: Dark & Twisted Folklore Stories from Around the World
A beautifully presented hardcover collection of folklore and stories of legendary and historical witches from all over the world, with over 80 stunning, spooky illustrations. The perfect gift for the witchy people in your life.
For many centuries the figure of the witch has haunted our imagination and our nightmares. There have been many attempts to quash our fascination with these wielders of forbidden powers, but all have failed.
We invite you now on a journey through a moonlit world, where every shadow tells a tale of magic, persecution and persistence. In this beautifully illustrated volume, discover witches real and legendary, who once terrorized, devoured, helped or empowered their communities, but who are now largely forgotten.
Ten chapters introduce ten different categories of witches, from curse-bringers, shape-shifters and survivors to revenants, nature witches and fate-turners. Most, but far from all, are women, and their stories come from across the world.
Each chapter is linked to a different card of the Major Arcana and to a stage in the alchemical process of turning base metal to gold. In this way, as you learn about the witches, you will complete a journey of self-discovery and transformation, gleaning wisdom and empowerment from the awe-inspiring magical practitioners of folk tradition and history.
For many centuries the figure of the witch has haunted our imagination and our nightmares. There have been many attempts to quash our fascination with these wielders of forbidden powers, but all have failed.
We invite you now on a journey through a moonlit world, where every shadow tells a tale of magic, persecution and persistence. In this beautifully illustrated volume, discover witches real and legendary, who once terrorized, devoured, helped or empowered their communities, but who are now largely forgotten.
Ten chapters introduce ten different categories of witches, from curse-bringers, shape-shifters and survivors to revenants, nature witches and fate-turners. Most, but far from all, are women, and their stories come from across the world.
Each chapter is linked to a different card of the Major Arcana and to a stage in the alchemical process of turning base metal to gold. In this way, as you learn about the witches, you will complete a journey of self-discovery and transformation, gleaning wisdom and empowerment from the awe-inspiring magical practitioners of folk tradition and history.
358 pages, Hardcover
Expected publication September 10, 2024
About the author
Balázs Tátrai
2 books8 followersBalázs Tátrai is a writer of unusual stories, rooted in folklore and branching out into the unexpected. His passion is the study of alchemy and 17th century iconography. Find out more at: balazstatrai.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
September 1, 2024
ARC received by the Publisher Watkins Media via Netgalley.
I was very excited to read this especially as this is by a Hungarian author & a Hungarian illustrator and it is a rare and welcome experience.
"Ten chapters introduce ten different categories of witches, from curse-bringers, shape-shifters and survivors to revenants, nature witches and fate-turners. Most, but far from all, are women, and their stories come from across the world.
Each chapter is linked to a different card of the Major Arcana and to a stage in the alchemical process of turning base metal to gold. In this way, as you learn about the witches, you will complete a journey of self-discovery and transformation, gleaning wisdom and empowerment from the awe-inspiring magical practitioners of folk tradition and history."
This was an intriguing and fascinating read about a wide range of magical, mythical and real persons from the widely known to the obscure from all over the world and I thoroughly enjoyed the experience especially with fantastic and fantastical illustrations.
Recommended to readers interested in folklore, history, alchemy and mythology.
I was very excited to read this especially as this is by a Hungarian author & a Hungarian illustrator and it is a rare and welcome experience.
"Ten chapters introduce ten different categories of witches, from curse-bringers, shape-shifters and survivors to revenants, nature witches and fate-turners. Most, but far from all, are women, and their stories come from across the world.
Each chapter is linked to a different card of the Major Arcana and to a stage in the alchemical process of turning base metal to gold. In this way, as you learn about the witches, you will complete a journey of self-discovery and transformation, gleaning wisdom and empowerment from the awe-inspiring magical practitioners of folk tradition and history."
This was an intriguing and fascinating read about a wide range of magical, mythical and real persons from the widely known to the obscure from all over the world and I thoroughly enjoyed the experience especially with fantastic and fantastical illustrations.
Recommended to readers interested in folklore, history, alchemy and mythology.
May 8, 2024
The Book of Forgotten Witches is a journey through folklore and history. Divided into ten chapters, each representing a different archetype of witch, this illustrated book delves into the stories of these mysterious figures who once both terrified and empowered their communities, from curse-bringers to shape-shifters, survivors to fate-turners.
The ten chapters on different types of witches introduce key figures from myth and folklore. The witches featured in this book are from all around the world, so the vast majority of these tales were completely new to me.
The particular category of witch is then linked to one of the first ten cards of tarot's Major Arcana, as well as to a stage in the alchemical process called the Great Work, which results in the Philosophers' Stone and the transformation of base metals to gold. It does sound like there are a lot of separate elements to this book, but actually it's really subtle and they come together really well - the link to an alchemical step and a tarot card only feature in one page in each chapter, and they are woven into a narrative that connects all the chapters in the book, and leads directly into a short story.
Each chapter finishes with a short story and illustrations that brings all the elements together. The short stories at the end of each chapter are the highlight for me. They're all so different, and I found that some worked better than others and were easier to follow.
Disclaimer: I received an ARC from NetGalley but this is my voluntary and honest review.
The ten chapters on different types of witches introduce key figures from myth and folklore. The witches featured in this book are from all around the world, so the vast majority of these tales were completely new to me.
The particular category of witch is then linked to one of the first ten cards of tarot's Major Arcana, as well as to a stage in the alchemical process called the Great Work, which results in the Philosophers' Stone and the transformation of base metals to gold. It does sound like there are a lot of separate elements to this book, but actually it's really subtle and they come together really well - the link to an alchemical step and a tarot card only feature in one page in each chapter, and they are woven into a narrative that connects all the chapters in the book, and leads directly into a short story.
Each chapter finishes with a short story and illustrations that brings all the elements together. The short stories at the end of each chapter are the highlight for me. They're all so different, and I found that some worked better than others and were easier to follow.
Disclaimer: I received an ARC from NetGalley but this is my voluntary and honest review.
May 7, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley, the author, the illustrator, and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for my honest opinions and review.
I've taken dozens of classes on the subjects of historical witchcraft, alchemy, mythology, and pagan religions. I have a lot of informed opinions on the matter; accurate, well researched representation of these subjects is a true passion of mine. I'm incredibly picky about books and papers on these subjects, and misinformation is rampant in the genre. I'm VERY delighted to say that The Book of Forgotten Witches meets all my criteria for a good book on these subjects!! It's filled to the brim with gorgeous illustrations on nearly every page, the entries for each figure are historically correct to the best of my knowledge, and it represents a globally diverse list of figures, NOT just ones from Europe. The figures included range from gods, semi-historical and historical figures, folklore characters, and local legends.
This is a treat for the eyes and the mind of anyone curious about the mystical across the world. I HIGHLY recommend buying a physical copy, or if you must buy an e-book copy, get it for a device that can show color. The illustrations are fantastical and vibrantly colored. The Book of Forgotten Witches is a good gift for a teenager or an adult who's passionate about folklore, witchcraft, or mythology.
My personal favorite entries:
* Hecate!!! Finally good information about Hecate!!!!
* Bakeneko
* Mary Laveau
* Merlin
Thank you again for an early copy I cannot WAIT til September 3rd when this releases officially to get a physical copy of my own (which by the way that's the New Moon)
I've taken dozens of classes on the subjects of historical witchcraft, alchemy, mythology, and pagan religions. I have a lot of informed opinions on the matter; accurate, well researched representation of these subjects is a true passion of mine. I'm incredibly picky about books and papers on these subjects, and misinformation is rampant in the genre. I'm VERY delighted to say that The Book of Forgotten Witches meets all my criteria for a good book on these subjects!! It's filled to the brim with gorgeous illustrations on nearly every page, the entries for each figure are historically correct to the best of my knowledge, and it represents a globally diverse list of figures, NOT just ones from Europe. The figures included range from gods, semi-historical and historical figures, folklore characters, and local legends.
This is a treat for the eyes and the mind of anyone curious about the mystical across the world. I HIGHLY recommend buying a physical copy, or if you must buy an e-book copy, get it for a device that can show color. The illustrations are fantastical and vibrantly colored. The Book of Forgotten Witches is a good gift for a teenager or an adult who's passionate about folklore, witchcraft, or mythology.
My personal favorite entries:
* Hecate!!! Finally good information about Hecate!!!!
* Bakeneko
* Mary Laveau
* Merlin
Thank you again for an early copy I cannot WAIT til September 3rd when this releases officially to get a physical copy of my own (which by the way that's the New Moon)
May 23, 2024
This book was absolutely beautiful and spooky. Sent to me as a PDF I can imagine as a hardcover it would be even more special.
This isn't your typical 'Witch' book. It's insightful and extremely detailed about past folklore, cursegivers etc. I've never read anything like it!
The illustrations were fabulous.
This book will appeal to anyone who likes witches, gothic history, the supernatural or something a 'bit different'.
Thank you to Netgalley and Watkins Publishing for accepting me to read an early copy to enjoy.
This isn't your typical 'Witch' book. It's insightful and extremely detailed about past folklore, cursegivers etc. I've never read anything like it!
The illustrations were fabulous.
This book will appeal to anyone who likes witches, gothic history, the supernatural or something a 'bit different'.
Thank you to Netgalley and Watkins Publishing for accepting me to read an early copy to enjoy.
May 27, 2024
This book is an absolute gem!! Bringing together facts and folklore with stunning illustrations, this book takes us on a journey through the history of witchcraft.
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC
May 25, 2024
Balazs Tatrai’s The Book of Forgotten Witches Dark and Twisted Folklore from Around the World
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I especially liked the voice of the narrator in this book, the Keeper, who we find in the ruins of a hidden witches’ library—the Corpus Corvorum.
The volume features creepy and fantastic illustrations by Lilla Bolecz and describes a journey taken through the mysteries of the tarot and the knowledge of the alchemist in addition to stories and folklore about witches, demons and other creatures collected from all over the world.
#Witches #tarot #folklore #alchemy #fiction #Fantasy
#Brightbookreviews
Published by Watkins,
an imprint of Watkins Media Limited
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I especially liked the voice of the narrator in this book, the Keeper, who we find in the ruins of a hidden witches’ library—the Corpus Corvorum.
The volume features creepy and fantastic illustrations by Lilla Bolecz and describes a journey taken through the mysteries of the tarot and the knowledge of the alchemist in addition to stories and folklore about witches, demons and other creatures collected from all over the world.
#Witches #tarot #folklore #alchemy #fiction #Fantasy
#Brightbookreviews
Published by Watkins,
an imprint of Watkins Media Limited
May 20, 2024
The Book of Forgotten Witches was a delightful collection of witchy folklore from all around the world! I absolutely loved learning about different stories and beliefs from other countries. I also thought the way each section was set up was so unique - a different archetype of witch that directly correlated to one of the Major Arcana tarot cards (i.e. - The Lovers, The Hermit, etc). Super easy and fun read! Additionally, the illustrations were so lovely, I wish there were more!
Thank you NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for a review!
Thank you NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for a review!
May 14, 2024
Really liked this! So many good entries and illustrations. I especially loved reading about Hecate. If you’re even the slightest bit interested in witches, I recommend giving this a go. (Hell, read it even if you’re not interested!)
August 4, 2024
If you're a fan of folklore and supernatural mysteries this book is for you.
The content is divided into ten chapters, each is linked to the first ten cards of tarot's Major Arcana. My favorite chapters were about course-bringers, alchemists, and nature witches. Then we have short introductions to some archetypes from all over the world. I found these too short, and too vague, some feel like ultra-concentrated fabric softener. I'd love to see more details and some insight into the background of these stories.
The illustrations deserve acknowledgment and praise. Creepy, dark, somehow scary, and yet nobody can't say they aren't beautiful. Each is eye-catching, thought-provoking and stunning. Absolutely fantastic.
Three stars for the content and ten stars for the illustrations :)
The content is divided into ten chapters, each is linked to the first ten cards of tarot's Major Arcana. My favorite chapters were about course-bringers, alchemists, and nature witches. Then we have short introductions to some archetypes from all over the world. I found these too short, and too vague, some feel like ultra-concentrated fabric softener. I'd love to see more details and some insight into the background of these stories.
The illustrations deserve acknowledgment and praise. Creepy, dark, somehow scary, and yet nobody can't say they aren't beautiful. Each is eye-catching, thought-provoking and stunning. Absolutely fantastic.
Three stars for the content and ten stars for the illustrations :)
September 2, 2024
Always love the witchy side of life. There was so much fitted into this book and it really is a full guide spanning different mythology and cultures. The illustrations really bring the book together too - a great addition. I’m just really experimenting with tarot so I enjoyed how this was brought in through the book.
May 17, 2024
We have heard a plethora of versions around the types of witches and their powers. This book is an amalgamation of all that information but, in a sorted way. Divided into 10 chapters, the book takes you through the different classifications of witches, discussing their origins, habitat, power and the folklore surrounding them.
The structure of the book was particularly interesting as the author went beyond just info dumping and also gave us longer stories in each of them. Along with that, you could see that the whole book was held together with an underlying theme of the Major Arcana cards from the deck like a Daedalian series of mysteries unfolding into an unknown path of alchemical transformation.
And oh my God the illustrations in here were so gorgeous, I can go surfing through those pages in an infinite loop. Now I am not really an expert on the subject, but the contents of the book almost felt nonfiction to me 😅. Lastly, here are my favourites from what I read:
• Alison Gross - felt so humane
• Ana, Queen of Keshali - always a fan of these forest nymphs
• Mélusine - destined to repeat the fate of ancestors
• The story of Welmor
• Dragon Sister
Thanks, @watkinswisdom & @balazs_tatrai for the digital ARC
Illustrator: @lillaboleczillustration
P.S: Once the book is out I would love to own the actual hardcover version of it too 😍
The structure of the book was particularly interesting as the author went beyond just info dumping and also gave us longer stories in each of them. Along with that, you could see that the whole book was held together with an underlying theme of the Major Arcana cards from the deck like a Daedalian series of mysteries unfolding into an unknown path of alchemical transformation.
And oh my God the illustrations in here were so gorgeous, I can go surfing through those pages in an infinite loop. Now I am not really an expert on the subject, but the contents of the book almost felt nonfiction to me 😅. Lastly, here are my favourites from what I read:
• Alison Gross - felt so humane
• Ana, Queen of Keshali - always a fan of these forest nymphs
• Mélusine - destined to repeat the fate of ancestors
• The story of Welmor
• Dragon Sister
Thanks, @watkinswisdom & @balazs_tatrai for the digital ARC
Illustrator: @lillaboleczillustration
P.S: Once the book is out I would love to own the actual hardcover version of it too 😍
June 11, 2024
It was not what I expected, but damn if i didn't love it. It was very well written and composed. Each chapter was a specific category of witches/creatures, and for each category we get a short story. The illustrations were simply amazing, perfectly fitting into the mood of the book.
June 14, 2024
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC! This book is amazing! It’s beautiful, with full page illustrations on nearly every other page, done by an extremely talented artist. I would recommend this book to anyone with an interest in witches, alchemy, other cultures, and folktales.
September 2, 2024
Thanks to NetGalley and Dreamscape media for this ALC.
I went into this book expecting a dry retelling of different witches and demonic creatures throughout history. Oh, boy, was I wrong.
This book is amazing, it weaves the myths and legends with historical and ethnographical facts seamlessly making this a fascinating read. I loved how the book is structured, the information is well researched and well presented. The entities described are from all over the world and quite diverse.
This will be a great read for anyone interested in witches, myths and legends.
I went into this book expecting a dry retelling of different witches and demonic creatures throughout history. Oh, boy, was I wrong.
This book is amazing, it weaves the myths and legends with historical and ethnographical facts seamlessly making this a fascinating read. I loved how the book is structured, the information is well researched and well presented. The entities described are from all over the world and quite diverse.
This will be a great read for anyone interested in witches, myths and legends.
August 29, 2024
✨Audiobook Review✨
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 💫 (4.5)
Speed: 1.75x
The novel is composed of multiple chapters, each corresponding to a tarot card and connecting to a stage in the alchemical process of forming gold while telling the historical background, time period, location, & type of witch. Each chapter ends with a short story relating to that type of witch. Whether you love fantasy or not, readers will be engaged with these modern retellings of stories that have been passed down for centuries.
Highlights:
⭐️Unexpectedly, this book reads like a story. The audiobook begins with a narrator who introduces the experience as if we've stumbled into a lost library, where she tells us about different types of witches. I was pleasantly surprised and enjoyed this, as I originally worried that this book might drag.
⭐️Engaging writing flow & layout. Each chapter begins with a description of a tarot card, the process of alchemy, the type of witch readers will hear about, and a short story. Spanning various time periods & locations across the world, the book describes multiple witches and provides a brief explanation of how these legends were passed down to people or children.
⭐️Modern retellings. I especially enjoyed the modern twists on some of the stories.
⭐️I actually learned quite a lot. I had no idea that witches were considered not only the typical figures we think of with magical powers but also vampires & werewolves/shape-shifters are considered witches as well according to some folk lore.
Pitfalls:
❌None!
Thank you to NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for the ARC copy of this audiobook for my honest review!
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 💫 (4.5)
Speed: 1.75x
The novel is composed of multiple chapters, each corresponding to a tarot card and connecting to a stage in the alchemical process of forming gold while telling the historical background, time period, location, & type of witch. Each chapter ends with a short story relating to that type of witch. Whether you love fantasy or not, readers will be engaged with these modern retellings of stories that have been passed down for centuries.
Highlights:
⭐️Unexpectedly, this book reads like a story. The audiobook begins with a narrator who introduces the experience as if we've stumbled into a lost library, where she tells us about different types of witches. I was pleasantly surprised and enjoyed this, as I originally worried that this book might drag.
⭐️Engaging writing flow & layout. Each chapter begins with a description of a tarot card, the process of alchemy, the type of witch readers will hear about, and a short story. Spanning various time periods & locations across the world, the book describes multiple witches and provides a brief explanation of how these legends were passed down to people or children.
⭐️Modern retellings. I especially enjoyed the modern twists on some of the stories.
⭐️I actually learned quite a lot. I had no idea that witches were considered not only the typical figures we think of with magical powers but also vampires & werewolves/shape-shifters are considered witches as well according to some folk lore.
Pitfalls:
❌None!
Thank you to NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for the ARC copy of this audiobook for my honest review!
July 5, 2024
I received a copy of this book in exchange for a review
Gives an introduction to many figures in folklore and myths and also some historical with many examples and ones you not have heard before and some fresh perspective on ones that you nay have heard of the book encompasses a wide range of different stories
i liked the chatty style of the narration that makes it seem interactive with the readers encouraging their thoughts on the stories and decisions on how they are presented has a feel like sharing tales round a camp fire
it is also very stunningly illustrated it would be nice to see as a physical copy also a good read if you interested in dark folklore
Gives an introduction to many figures in folklore and myths and also some historical with many examples and ones you not have heard before and some fresh perspective on ones that you nay have heard of the book encompasses a wide range of different stories
i liked the chatty style of the narration that makes it seem interactive with the readers encouraging their thoughts on the stories and decisions on how they are presented has a feel like sharing tales round a camp fire
it is also very stunningly illustrated it would be nice to see as a physical copy also a good read if you interested in dark folklore
May 13, 2024
The Book of Forgotten Witches: Dark & Twisted Folklore Stories from Around the World. It is almost like an encyclopaedia of characters from folklore and mythology. The book is beautifully designed with illustrations on most pages and is full stories or short biographies of each character. The book is introduced in the form of a narrator, who calls themselves the Keeper, in the ruins of a hidden witches’ library, also know as the Corpus Corvorum.
Some of the people listed here are well know and significant people from history and studiers of alchemy like Isaac Newton, John Dee, Marie Laveau the Voodoo Queen of New Orleans.. Other are characters of legend like Merlin and Morgan Le Fay. As they are collected from all over the world it was lovely to see some local characters included like Mother Shipton from Knaresbough in Yorkshire.
This is an extensive collection and would be of interest to anyone who enjoys history, alchemy, folklore to mythology. And a reminder how sometimes normal folk were served injustice by the monarch at the time and their fear of witchcraft. It is broken down into chapters by the various gifts or powers these people are send to process. Ie curse bringers, nature withes, alchemists.
Thank you to NetGalley and Watkins Publishing for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Some of the people listed here are well know and significant people from history and studiers of alchemy like Isaac Newton, John Dee, Marie Laveau the Voodoo Queen of New Orleans.. Other are characters of legend like Merlin and Morgan Le Fay. As they are collected from all over the world it was lovely to see some local characters included like Mother Shipton from Knaresbough in Yorkshire.
This is an extensive collection and would be of interest to anyone who enjoys history, alchemy, folklore to mythology. And a reminder how sometimes normal folk were served injustice by the monarch at the time and their fear of witchcraft. It is broken down into chapters by the various gifts or powers these people are send to process. Ie curse bringers, nature withes, alchemists.
Thank you to NetGalley and Watkins Publishing for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 18, 2024
Ⓑⓞⓞⓚ Ⓡⓔⓥⓘⓔⓦ
"𝑺𝒉𝒆 𝒄𝒉𝒂𝒊𝒏𝒔 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒘𝒚𝒓𝒎-𝒎𝒂𝒏 𝒕𝒐 𝒂 𝒕𝒓𝒆𝒆. 𝑻𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒊𝒔 𝒏𝒐𝒕 𝒉𝒐𝒘 𝒔𝒉𝒆 𝒊𝒎𝒂𝒈𝒊𝒏𝒆𝒅 𝒍𝒐𝒗𝒆 𝒘𝒐𝒖𝒍𝒅 𝒃𝒆 𝒃𝒖𝒕 𝒏𝒐𝒘 𝒔𝒉𝒆'𝒔 𝒔𝒆𝒕𝒕𝒍𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒔𝒊𝒎𝒑𝒍𝒚 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒓𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒏𝒈𝒆."
𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘉𝘰𝘰𝘬 𝘰𝘧 𝘍𝘰𝘳𝘨𝘰𝘵𝘵𝘦𝘯 𝘞𝘪𝘵𝘤𝘩𝘦𝘴 is a collection of stories and folklore surrounding witches throughout history.
Split into ten chapters, each of which is linked to a different card of the major arcana, readers are presented with legends of the supernatural from all over the world, beginning with curse bringers and ending with fate turners.
The abundance of illustrations featured alongside these stories are stunning and there's the added touch of a short story being told at the end of each chapter, reflecting the themes explored and bringing a fairy tale quality into the collection.
One of my favourite aspects of this book is the mysterious narrator that accompanies the reader throughout. They welcome you to the invisible hall of Corpus Corvorum, an old witches library atop Raven Hill, perceived as ruins by most wanderers.
This setting adds to the historical aspect of the book and the merging of worlds when a character from one of the short stories is supposedly in the library with you feels oddly comforting and really brings these tales to life.
The lore in this collection is interesting, spooky and a little whimsical, but it can also be inspiring, endearing and heart-breaking at times. Some of my favourites were the stories of Sun Bu’er, the Bagolyasszonka, Mother Shipton and the three Moirai.
You may already know a lot of the legends this collection presents to you (there's even a surprise visit from Issac Newton) but it's possible that any reader can learn something new due to the depth and varieties in which these fables are explored.
Highly recommend this read for anyone who likes witchcraft, the supernatural and historical mysteries.
“Let the ever-changing candle flames guide you”.
Release date: 3rd Sept 24
"𝑺𝒉𝒆 𝒄𝒉𝒂𝒊𝒏𝒔 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒘𝒚𝒓𝒎-𝒎𝒂𝒏 𝒕𝒐 𝒂 𝒕𝒓𝒆𝒆. 𝑻𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒊𝒔 𝒏𝒐𝒕 𝒉𝒐𝒘 𝒔𝒉𝒆 𝒊𝒎𝒂𝒈𝒊𝒏𝒆𝒅 𝒍𝒐𝒗𝒆 𝒘𝒐𝒖𝒍𝒅 𝒃𝒆 𝒃𝒖𝒕 𝒏𝒐𝒘 𝒔𝒉𝒆'𝒔 𝒔𝒆𝒕𝒕𝒍𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒔𝒊𝒎𝒑𝒍𝒚 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒓𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒏𝒈𝒆."
𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘉𝘰𝘰𝘬 𝘰𝘧 𝘍𝘰𝘳𝘨𝘰𝘵𝘵𝘦𝘯 𝘞𝘪𝘵𝘤𝘩𝘦𝘴 is a collection of stories and folklore surrounding witches throughout history.
Split into ten chapters, each of which is linked to a different card of the major arcana, readers are presented with legends of the supernatural from all over the world, beginning with curse bringers and ending with fate turners.
The abundance of illustrations featured alongside these stories are stunning and there's the added touch of a short story being told at the end of each chapter, reflecting the themes explored and bringing a fairy tale quality into the collection.
One of my favourite aspects of this book is the mysterious narrator that accompanies the reader throughout. They welcome you to the invisible hall of Corpus Corvorum, an old witches library atop Raven Hill, perceived as ruins by most wanderers.
This setting adds to the historical aspect of the book and the merging of worlds when a character from one of the short stories is supposedly in the library with you feels oddly comforting and really brings these tales to life.
The lore in this collection is interesting, spooky and a little whimsical, but it can also be inspiring, endearing and heart-breaking at times. Some of my favourites were the stories of Sun Bu’er, the Bagolyasszonka, Mother Shipton and the three Moirai.
You may already know a lot of the legends this collection presents to you (there's even a surprise visit from Issac Newton) but it's possible that any reader can learn something new due to the depth and varieties in which these fables are explored.
Highly recommend this read for anyone who likes witchcraft, the supernatural and historical mysteries.
“Let the ever-changing candle flames guide you”.
Release date: 3rd Sept 24
August 29, 2024
ARC REVIEW 📚🥰 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️Thank you to @netgalley and the publishers for this wonderful opportunity to read this book. It comes out September 3rd of this year. What a wonderful journey through folklore and history. if you enjoy witches through these first ten chapters discusses the different stories around the world about key figure in history that both terrorized and lift up those around them. I love it goes into detail about different types of witches curse bringers, shapeshifters, survivors, and fate turners. I did enjoy each figure being tied to one of the first ten tarot in major arcana. Each has a small highlight short story at the end of each chapter. Highly recommend for all my spooky readers and history lovers.
August 16, 2024
Thank you to Netgalley for providing me an e-arc in exchange for an honest review. I really enjoyed this book. I liked how the book was separated into different sections of witches. Some of the folklore and legends I did know about but some was new to me! I also really loved the illustrations in this book. This book speaks to you through the explanation of different tarot cards and how they are relevant to certain stories and I really appreciated that perspective as I have never read a book that speaks directly to the reader. I also loved the use of different genres in the short stories and made them super interesting. I would recommend this!
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August 26, 2024Give me a book about witches and I'm a happy girl. Add in some folklore and I'm absolutely giddy!
I loved this collection of folklore and the history of witches. I feel like I actually learned some things! I think readers that love all things magic and witchy will enjoy this. It would make a great gift and addition to a book collection.
The cover perfectly matches the book's vibes. The narrator does a great job of sounding serious but also mysterious at the same time.
I would read more from the authors! Thank you to NetGalley, Lilla Bolecz, Balazs Tatrai and Dreamscape Media for the opportunity to read The Book of Forgotten Witches. I have written this review voluntarily.
I loved this collection of folklore and the history of witches. I feel like I actually learned some things! I think readers that love all things magic and witchy will enjoy this. It would make a great gift and addition to a book collection.
The cover perfectly matches the book's vibes. The narrator does a great job of sounding serious but also mysterious at the same time.
I would read more from the authors! Thank you to NetGalley, Lilla Bolecz, Balazs Tatrai and Dreamscape Media for the opportunity to read The Book of Forgotten Witches. I have written this review voluntarily.
August 26, 2024
Reading these folklores was incredibly fun for me. It’s a book I will revisit and will own a physical copy of. The narrator was wonderful!
The author goes through all parts of the world, visiting old folklores about witches and monsters alike. I had not heard some of the stories from my own state and am excited to research it some more.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the early copy.
The author goes through all parts of the world, visiting old folklores about witches and monsters alike. I had not heard some of the stories from my own state and am excited to research it some more.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the early copy.
August 29, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley for providing an eARC of this book!
I've always been fascinated with the supernatural and how present it is in our day-to-day lives and in our traditions. This volume encapsulates that feeling very well. I especially appreciated how it wasn't your average non-fiction book, with an almost Wikipedia format, but the author actually found a way to tell these stories so that anyone could enjoy them. The connection to the Major Arcana was also a very nice touch!
I've always been fascinated with the supernatural and how present it is in our day-to-day lives and in our traditions. This volume encapsulates that feeling very well. I especially appreciated how it wasn't your average non-fiction book, with an almost Wikipedia format, but the author actually found a way to tell these stories so that anyone could enjoy them. The connection to the Major Arcana was also a very nice touch!
July 19, 2024
Thank you to Watkins Publishing, the authors, illustrator, and NetGalley for the advanced copy of The Book of Forgotten Witches by Lilla Bölecz and Balázs Tátrai in exchange for an honest review.
This was a really fun and unexpectedly extensive book with interesting witches and folklore. I was drawn in by the illustrations and stories told throughout. I probably would use it as a reference guide or coffee table book more than I would as a sit down and read all the way through novel, but it was fun and quick read to wind down with!
I thought the way tarot was intertwined throughout the book was also unique and enjoyable. I’ll definitely be getting this for a few of my witchy friends/family members!
This was a really fun and unexpectedly extensive book with interesting witches and folklore. I was drawn in by the illustrations and stories told throughout. I probably would use it as a reference guide or coffee table book more than I would as a sit down and read all the way through novel, but it was fun and quick read to wind down with!
I thought the way tarot was intertwined throughout the book was also unique and enjoyable. I’ll definitely be getting this for a few of my witchy friends/family members!
August 31, 2024
I was first intrigued by this book due to its witchy folklore plot, and I wasn't disappointed. It contains short stories of different types of witches and magical creatures present in folklore, and it was nice to learn about new creatures that I've never read about and their folklore. I believe this will also make a really interesting table book thanks to its gorgeous illustrations.
June 6, 2024
This was a great spooky read. The illustrations matched with the story very well, I liked it, I would love to read a physical copy around halloween.
June 7, 2024
Absolutely loved everything about this book and its setup. So easy to follow and I love the knowledge of how the tales came about.
July 28, 2024
I really wanted to like this book - but I struggled to read this.
Not only was it difficult to physically read with the white text on the black background, making it fuzzy and blurred around the edges and therefore hard to see.
But also the language Tatrai uses is very dense and just wasn't as whimsical and interesting as I had hoped. You really have to concentrate, but I wanted something more of an easy read to dip into.
The illustrations were nice, but I wanted more!
Not only was it difficult to physically read with the white text on the black background, making it fuzzy and blurred around the edges and therefore hard to see.
But also the language Tatrai uses is very dense and just wasn't as whimsical and interesting as I had hoped. You really have to concentrate, but I wanted something more of an easy read to dip into.
The illustrations were nice, but I wanted more!
May 14, 2024
I imagine this book would be beautiful to own in it's physical form 🥰
I love the layout where we get details of different witches/demons/gods/mythical beings and everything folklore, then we get pulled into a short story each chapter. I enjoyed how the lore is pulled from around the world and not only Europe so there will no doubt be stuff in here you've not heard of.
I love how each tale was different, I enjoyed some more than others.
I really liked that the introduction to each chapter is narration directed at the reader which feels really immersive but also a little creepy (in a good way)
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys anything with, pagan or occult related.
*This advanced reader copy was provided by Netgalley and Watkins publishing, in exchange for an honest review*
I love the layout where we get details of different witches/demons/gods/mythical beings and everything folklore, then we get pulled into a short story each chapter. I enjoyed how the lore is pulled from around the world and not only Europe so there will no doubt be stuff in here you've not heard of.
I love how each tale was different, I enjoyed some more than others.
I really liked that the introduction to each chapter is narration directed at the reader which feels really immersive but also a little creepy (in a good way)
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys anything with, pagan or occult related.
*This advanced reader copy was provided by Netgalley and Watkins publishing, in exchange for an honest review*
May 30, 2024
₊˚.⋆☾ thank you NetGalley and Watkins Publishing for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Let me begin by saying the book is stunning; the illustrations are outstanding and give the reader depth as you dive into different stories. The physical copy of the book will be a lovely gift for anyone interested in mythology and folklore.
The book is divided into ten distinct chapters about various types of mysterious figures and witches that have been forgotten. The variation of characters from different continents and countries is intriguing and well-researched. Some of my favourites were Alison Gross, Bakeneko, and Merlin.
While it was entertaining, some of the stories could've used more description of why they are implemented and how the characters are important to the Major Arcana tarot cards. Additionally, the folklore and mythology were a bit vague in the descriptions at times and made me lose interest in some of the characters that I would otherwise love to read more about.
Overall, it was a good read with an interesting perspective of those who rarely get the spotlight.
Let me begin by saying the book is stunning; the illustrations are outstanding and give the reader depth as you dive into different stories. The physical copy of the book will be a lovely gift for anyone interested in mythology and folklore.
The book is divided into ten distinct chapters about various types of mysterious figures and witches that have been forgotten. The variation of characters from different continents and countries is intriguing and well-researched. Some of my favourites were Alison Gross, Bakeneko, and Merlin.
While it was entertaining, some of the stories could've used more description of why they are implemented and how the characters are important to the Major Arcana tarot cards. Additionally, the folklore and mythology were a bit vague in the descriptions at times and made me lose interest in some of the characters that I would otherwise love to read more about.
Overall, it was a good read with an interesting perspective of those who rarely get the spotlight.
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