The key to the heart of witchery lies in authentic connection. But many witches feel disconnected with the traditional Wheel of the Year due to either its religious tones or because the seasonal celebration of the Sabbats based upon the European climates of their origins. Temperance Alden remedies this in her much-needed and brilliant Year of the Witch, where she guides the readers to observe their own land, celestial cycles, seasonal cycles, and even one’s own biological cycles to inform their magickal year. Drawing on folklore, mythology, and religious customs surrounding the Wheel of the Year, Alden provides a well-researched overview of the themes of the Sabbats, while urging the reader to intuitively tap into themselves to learn how to authentically connect with the high holy holidays of the witch to extract power and wisdom from them, regardless of their path or religious leanings.
Year of the Witch: Connecting with Nature’s Seasons through Intuitive Magick is written in an extremely accessible and engaging manner that will be welcoming to beginner witches or those who just don’t resonate with or understand the importance of incorporating the Wheel of the Year into their lives. There’s an emphasis on working with the spirit of land, which is something I always love to see in witchcraft books and the exercises, techniques, and tips are all extremely accessible and practical. This book is sure to be a hit and for good reason. I’m looking forward to more books by Alden, who is a rising voice in our younger generation of the Craft to keep our eyes on.