Burn a Black Candle

I really enjoyed reading this book. Its contents is clear, to the point and well explained. Dee also shares a lot of stories throughout which helps to add great context to the magic that she presents (which is refered to in the book as magia practica/practical magic and lavoro spirituale/spirital work throughout).

Those already familiar with Italian magic and customs will find information that they are familiar with, but there are also plenty to variations to enjoy and new ideas for working. Those who are already familiar with magic in general can probably skip the basics at the front of the book, however it was great to see that it was included for those less familiar. The book really works for all experience levels.

If I did have a con for this book I would probably say, as did another reviewer, that the use of the word Grimoire in the title may be a little misleading as to how the book is presented.

Overall I think the book offers great value to a wide range of readers and it is very enjoyable and informative.

Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

This title is a very good intro to Italian folk religion . I am more than a little familiar with the practices mentioned in this excellently written book as I too grew up in its world.My grandmother did much the same as Dee's as far as helping with headaches and sickness, This bok is truly remarkable for bringing back to the many second and third generation Italians who no longer have Nonna or Grandpa to give advice. I will pass this on to my children the book is that good. I only wish I could learn how Grandma took off headaches with a handkerchief and prayers that she learned from her mother. If you come from a magical family write down for your own sake and for others so that this does not go extinct . This book is a treasure and one like I havent seen before.

This book shares some great content about the practice of Italian magicking. It provides an introduction to magic, which you can gloss over if you’re an experienced practitioner, and go straight to the content you’re looking for. So whether you’re new to magick or an experienced, this book has something for everyone. The thing I love the most is how the author brings together her Italian Heritage with her Catholic beliefs. So many people believe you can’t do both, but many do. With the author’s tone, you’re not just reading about magick, you’re reading the notes of a friend who is sharing her life and memories with you, making this even more meaningful.

I love learning about how others practice and whenever I see a new book about magickal practices in another culture, I HAVE to read it. Often I find much more than just a few tidbits of interest, because these authors often share their heritage, their ancestresses and more. This book hit all the right spots and shared so much that I want this to become a series of with the author, of Magick around the World. You need a copy for your bookshelf!

This is an Italian American grimoire. A grimoire is a book of practical magic (in Italian, magica practica) and is a collection of magical practices, including spells and rituals for protection, divination, constructing an altar, recipes for magical potion and descriptions of the various magical tools, including oils, candles, powders and salts. Includes specifically Italian American magic topics, such as working with the Catholic saints and Virgin Mary,avoiding the evil eye, holidays, funerals and weddings. Appendices. Glossary. References