| This book is all about spell working - from how to do it, why to do it - to the spells themselves. After reading Ms. Murphy-Hiscock first book on Solitary Wicca and enjoying that one, I decided to read this one. It is a basic "cook book" of spells. All the usual material is here, from tables of correspondences to actual spells. The material presented here can be worked by the solitary and it is very Wiccan in nature. Discussions on ethics include the Wiccan Rede, and there is a nice healthy discussion on ethics included. I found it refreshing that Ms. Murphy-Hiscock did not preach but rather discussed common sense and included some practical advice (via Sybil Leek) for making sure your spells come out right. This is what Ms. Murphy-Hiscock continues from her first book. Not just spells and ingredients, but also the "how" and the "why" for spell casting and why I found myself enjoying this book as well. The book itself is attention-grabbing. This is the first time I've seen a "trade paper" book with a "deckled" edge. It makes an interesting visual when you open the book. Not every page has a deckled edge, which when you go to leaf through the book will skip the shorter straight edged pages. Good for visual, bad for leafing through the book. Visually interesting none the less. But the content is what makes this book. Ms. Murphy-Hiscock covers much material here. From the history, to the timing, to the substitution for missing ingredients we have a very well thought out and put together book with a very simple yet elegant approach. Spell workings also includes amulets and talisman. Small rituals are included to present your spells, as well as additions to assure you "Harm None" and even a little "call back a spell" working. There are the usual spells for wealth, health, guidance and more. And the group working section also includes group dynamics and strategy. There is a section on analysis of your methods and troubleshooting why it went astray or didn't work at all. Nicely added, and nicely discussed in plain, down to earth language. Ms. Murphy-Hiscock brings some interesting topics to the table for you to contemplate as well as discuss in groups. I like her overall approach to the art of spell casting, and she covers a lot of material the beginner may have questions about, or the advanced spell worker may find intriguing. You not only have her spells, you learn to "craft" your own. If you are looking for a really good first spell crafting book, this is it. If you are looking to augment your current trusty cookbook, this book will add to your knowledge base and cover some material you will not find in "old faithful". This is a nice addition to any library. boudica | 
