An initiate of both Traditional and Modern Witchcraft, the author gives here the actual rites and rituals of a working Coven, from an insider’s point of view. These rites were developed by the Coven themselves over a period of nearly a quarter of a century and give a fascinating insight into the actual workings of an initiate-only Coven. As the Coven itself has ceased practice and is no longer in existence, and a significant period of time has elapsed, the secrecy surrounding these rites may now be lifted and they are here offered as working examples, which other Covens may benefit from.

As well as giving a brief, historical overview of the origins of the Coven and the parent group it derived from – which in itself is fascinating reading –  the rites detailed cover devotional, magical and festive rituals, rites for the Greater and Lesser Sabbats, rites for the God and Goddess, rites of passage and workings for solitary practice. Wherever possible, background information is given, explaining the origins and inspirations for these rites and how and why they came to be written.

In addition, there are two appendices, detailing more unusual rites practised by the Coven. In Appendix I, the author gives a unique ritual – developed from information received via trance and dream work – that takes the practitioners on a mystical journey to the mythical island of Avalon, seeking knowledge of the return of the Old Ways and what they may do to aid this return. Appendix II gives details of magical rites practised by an inner group of the Coven, working with ceremonial magic techniques and the Egyptian deities Isis and Ra………

This charming exploration of traditional magical lore takes, as its starting point, the magical uses and traditions of the horseshoe, tracing its significance through ancient cultures, and its association with magical traditions of horns, the moon, and the serpent – all with a central focus upon the magical work of protection.

Explored also are the magical virtues of fire, iron and salt, and a wealth of charms, amulets, spirit lore, animal lore, superstitions and numerological folklore.

The Magic of the Horseshoe will be a classic and valuable resource for the practitioner of traditional and folkloric operative magic.