The Elements of Spellcrafting: 21 Keys to Successful Sorcery

by Jason Miller

"In The Elements of Spellcrafting , Jason Miller shares his knowledge, experience, and insights with us and he does it with grace, good humour, and practical common sense. This book will be of interest to anyone interested in the magical arts or wishing to become a better spellcaster."—Judika Illes, author of The Element Encyclopedia of 5000 Spells

There is no shortage of spells out there. Some books highlight thousands of spells, but do any of them actually work? And how well do they work? I don't mean just getting a result--I mean getting a result that matters, a result that will impact your life or the lives of those you work for. The Elements of Spellcrafting provides the most effective and efficient ways to get things done with magic.

The Elements of Spellcrafting identifies and explains 21 keys to successful sorcery--a best practices of sorcery--in three
If you have ever cast a spell that didn't work, The Elements of Spellcrafting will help you figure out why.

If you regularly cast spells that seem to work but you still wind up in the same circumstances, this book will definitely help you chart a new course for victorious spellcrafting.

Genres: Witchcraft, Occult, Magic, Magick, Spirituality, Nonfiction, Audiobook

224 pages, Paperback

Published February 19, 2018

About the author

Jason G. Miller, who also works as Inominandum, has devoted over 20 years to the study of witchcraft and magick in its many forms. He is a Sovereign of the Chthonic Ouranian Temple, and initiate of Ordo Templi Orientis, and a member of the Terra Sancta Sangreal Sodality, as well as an initiated Tantrika of the Nyingma and Bön lineages of Tibet. He writes regularly for the journal Behutet , and a frequent contributor to Witchvox, and Voice of the Old Ways.

Reviews

[Verónica Fleitas Solich · Rating 4 out of 5]

Definitely this second book that I read by the author seemed to me much more interesting and without a doubt, with more applicable and concise data.
It goes straight to the point and I think it provides a much more solid foundation for me to continue learning about it.

[BJ · Rating 5 out of 5]

There are a lot of great insights in this book from somebody with a great deal of experience and knowledge. I've read most of his books, and taken a class (with intentions to enroll in a couple of other classes). My only criticism is that in his effort to herd people towards a practical middle ground, Miller's teachings can often foster indecision in where the balance lies. It sometimes has me second-guessing my decisions and workings. Also, some of his anecdotes get reused across his works, which leaves you with that "oh, this story again..." feeling, however relevant it is to the point.

In the end, however, I keep going back to Miller because there just doesn't seem to be anyone else as knowledgeable and accessible as he is.

[Misty · Rating 5 out of 5]

So many good points and good perspectives. It's just a short, simple, to the point book and I'm very happy it's on my shelf. Miller hit in a lot of things I wish more people were talking about.

[Taylor Ellwood · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a common sense manual for magic that does an excellent job of helping you troubleshoot what isn’t working in your magical practice. The author shares some useful examples and you’ll come away with a better grasp of what is or isn’t working with your magical work. The keys he provides are useful elements for helping you understand the mechanics of magic.

[Heather · Rating 3 out of 5]

I got through this book real quick! I agreed with mostly what he was saying here. There was even a couple of things I thought "ooohhh, I should write that down!" For example, I loved that his definition of "magick" is an influence upon change, working WITH the natural world. It really does work like that.
Yet, like the other book of his I have read, the way he approaches closed cultures concerns me. He says things like, "yes, culture appropriation is not good buuuuuuut..." and I'm thinking, "oh boy, here we go again with the white man ignorance." (says the white enby-girl) He followed it up with "sometimes people are overly concerned with culture appropriation."(not a direct quote) I do not agree. I think some people are still doing it wrong. In this regard, Miller has no right to say whether or not something is closed or open anymore so than I do. Respect for these cultures comes when you shut-up and listen to what is said from those of that lifestyle. If you believe some random person on the internet who says something like "you should stop burning incense because it's culture appropriation of Asian religions" and you think that it's legit enough that the majority of people will believe it, then that's on you and your failure to think critically. It is not the fault of the real people trying to respect closed communities. Teach people to think critically and ask questions, not turn a blind eye to a real problem going on in magickal spaces.

[Alyssa McNiel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Although some concepts mentioned were a bit more advanced than I am
particularly used to, I feel I gathered more than enough information to
assist in my future magic-making. Miller did an excellent job breaking down
spellcraft into 21 Key ideas. These ideas inspire and ignite the magic
inside me and I truly believe I will have more effective spells and
enchantment the more I practice his advice. If anyone is unsure how to go
about creating a spell for themselves or others, I would highly recommend
this book. I look forward to reading his other works and continue my
education. Go ahead, check this book out! You won't regret it!

[Jennifer · Rating 2 out of 5]

I read this for a book club and found the authors tone very condescending. He did have some good tips but his way of explaining things as if any other approach was a mistake made me not want to follow any of his advice.

[Edric Unsane · Rating 4 out of 5]

Read this for a second time, and it's still a great book for fine-tuning your magic.

[Annemarie · Rating 2 out of 5]

Felt rather shallow and basic to me, combined with a lot of cultural appropriation. Not quite for me.

[Andy · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent look at key elements to consider when crafting and casting spells to make sure energy isn't wasted and results are mostly in line with desires.

[Erika · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book translates well to an audiobook, although I own the physical copy. It has good, generic tips that can apply to any practice - so it's versatile. It also reads like anything Jason writes in that it's to the point, without "fluff." It has examples to clarify his points and is well organized. It's also very grounded, and by that, I mean it reminds you that we're all always learning and will never know everything. I would recommend it to anyone of any level because it may have points you may not have thought of before - even though it could be considered a beginner-level book.

[Teresa Barrera · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. I found it very informative and it has opened my eyes to things.
I really enjoyed the comics at the beginning of each chapter, they gave me a laugh. I also enjoyed how the comics were summed up at the end of the chapters concluding meaning.
I'm definitely going to check our more books by this author.

[Mitchell Stern · Rating 5 out of 5]

A good and solid overview of how to approach spell crafting and magic.

[Kate · Rating 5 out of 5]

All of Jason Miller’s books are great

[Thomas Pinneck · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Elements of Spellcrafting by Jason Miller stands out as a pragmatic, insightful, and deeply useful manual for those serious about honing their magical craft. Rather than offering a collection of pre-written spells, Miller digs into the mechanics of how to craft spells that work—not just for fleeting results, but for life-altering outcomes. For seasoned practitioners and beginners alike, this book offers a treasure trove of practical wisdom for achieving successful sorcery.

What sets this book apart from others in the genre is Miller’s straightforward approach to breaking down the why behind spell failure and how to improve results. Spells are not simply about following recipes but require an understanding of the deeper principles that make them effective. Miller doesn’t just want you to cast a spell that works once; he wants you to learn how to consistently create sorcery that delivers real, impactful change.

The book is structured around 21 “keys” to spellcasting success, which are divided into three sections: the first dealing with the mindset and preparation needed for effective magic, the second focused on the actual crafting and casting of spells, and the third addressing ways to maximize and sustain the results. This logical, clear structure makes The Elements of Spellcrafting not just a how-to guide but a true course in magical mastery.

One of the most valuable lessons Miller emphasizes is the importance of goal clarity—understanding exactly what you want from a spell and ensuring that your focus is aligned with your true desires. He challenges practitioners to move beyond vague intentions and get specific about what they’re asking for, and he underscores the importance of ensuring that your actions in the mundane world are in harmony with your magical efforts. His advice on crafting a strong, singular focus for your work is a key takeaway that many books gloss over, but it’s essential to long-term success in the craft.

Miller’s perspective on failures in spellwork is equally important. Rather than treating failed spells as an anomaly or a reason to give up, he shows how analyzing what went wrong can be just as valuable as celebrating successes. He offers real strategies for troubleshooting spells that fall flat and advises practitioners on how to approach setbacks as learning opportunities rather than defeats. This practical mindset encourages resilience and persistence—qualities essential to any long-term magical practice.

Another standout element of the book is Miller’s focus on efficiency. He emphasizes the importance of crafting spells that not only work but do so with precision and economy. Why cast a spell that takes days of preparation when a simpler, more direct approach will yield better results? His principles of sorcery are aimed at helping practitioners streamline their craft, ensuring that each spell is maximized for impact without unnecessary complexity.

Miller’s no-nonsense tone is balanced with a good dose of humor and warmth, making the material feel approachable even when he’s delivering hard truths about where most spellcasters go wrong. His advice on blending magic with real-world action is another refreshing aspect of the book—he reminds readers that magic isn’t a replacement for taking concrete steps in the physical world, but a tool to enhance and accelerate those efforts.

For those who find themselves casting spells that seem to work temporarily but leave them in the same situations again and again, The Elements of Spellcrafting offers a course correction. Miller addresses the need for long-term strategies that ensure your magical efforts create lasting, meaningful change. His keys to successful sorcery aren’t just about one-off results—they’re about creating a sustainable practice that integrates magic into every aspect of life.

[Aaron Sipe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really great advice from Jason Miller!

This book is excellent for improving your own magickal practice, no matter what that practice is. It really helped me to think outside of the box, and helped me improve my own ability when it comes to devising my own spells and working with spirits. This is not a book of spells, or a "how to" manual that is going to hold your hand every step of the way. This is definitely a book I will read more than once!

[Erin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Straightforward, easy to read and follow

I started putting the information in this book to use as I was still reading it, and it immediately worked. This is a solid guide on better spellcraft, pin pointing magick and getting results. I recommend it.

[Sondos · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just wonderful. If you've never done a spell in your life, read it. If you've been doing magic for a lifetime, also read it. This is it. This is the book that will take you to the level you want to be at.

[Heidi’s Zee · Rating 3 out of 5]

Covers solely the do’s and don'ts of spellcraft; good for self-assessing the way you work - it cleared the micro macro enchantment superstition up for me!

The comic gives it Condensed Chaos 2000 magic vibes +

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book has easily become one of my go-to reference books for checking myself when it comes to crafting my spellwork.

[Tessa Barron · Rating 4 out of 5]

Doesn't dick around

Straight forward guide written by someone who speaks to your practical side. The pragmatism I have yearned for in my studies

[Megabit · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing book, kind of a beginner adjacent like all of his books

[minx · Rating 4 out of 5]

A must-read for anybody looking to advance their spellcrafting.

[Sas UrbaneHexe · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great book for trouble shooting in magick and spellwork.

[Barry Huddleston · Rating 4 out of 5]

All in all, I really enjoyed "The Elements of Spellcrafting". I like Miller's writing style, he seems to be a person that you could have a beer with and argue the evening away. My favorite line in the book: "There is no Magic Magic." Trust me, you'll have to read that section.
Of course, as I usually do, I jumped to the back of the book. I found a nice Appendix and Notes section. The Notes section makes for a nice starting point for your own research.
One the downside, I hated the interior art. The cartoons looked like jokes from an old 1970s era D&D magazine. They just didn't work for me.
That being said, I give the book 4 stars out of 5 and strongly encourage you to add this one to your esoteric home library.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from New Page Books. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

[Germán · Rating 3 out of 5]

Quién me manda a mí leer estas cosas. Libro relacionado con la magia que más que un manual vienen a ser 21 consejos que tener en cuenta a la hora de practicarla, aunque son un poco perogrulladas porque se basan en cosas realistas, tipo "no puedes hacer que te toque la lotería porque las probabilidades son ínfimas, pero si te lo curras puedes encontrar un trabajo en donde te paguen algo mejor". Vamos, que más de uno se preguntará si no habría funcionado sin magia también. Pues probablemente sí, la magia es sólo el último empujón, como si se utilizase para jugar mejor al tenis y lo único que cambiase es que, en el caso de que la pelota se quede en la cinta, caerá del lado adecuado. Pero si quieres mejorar de verdad, simplemente entrena más.

Lo bueno y curioso de este enfoque realista es que al final son consejos que de puro sentido común son útiles en ámbitos de la vida cotidiana o laboral que nada tienen que ver con lo mágico. Esto, junto con una escritura clara y muchos ejemplos (nada de teoría u oscurantismo), hace que no se haga pesado y deje un pequeño poso.

[Katerina Sarpione · Rating 5 out of 5]

While other books by Miller have gained greater popularity in recent years, I consider this book to be essential reading for anyone who identifies as a sorcerer, witch, or any type of magical practitioner. The author's distinctive style effortlessly combines solid advice with humor, taking you on a journey through your past and current mistakes in spellcasting, ultimately guiding you toward crafting a better future.

The playful tone of the book, accompanied by comic book-style images, may have led some to perceive it as a lesser work. I think it might be possible that the author intentionally crafted the book with a playful tone and comic book-style images to both engage readers and filter out those who may lack the patience to delve into its full content. But if more people were to read and heed the advice within this book, we might find ourselves in a society where magic workers make fewer mistakes in their craft. Whether you're a novice or consider yourself an advanced student of magic, this book is a valuable addition to your collection. I highly recommend it.

[Rogue Blackwood · Rating 5 out of 5]

I wonder what my current day practice of magick would be like if I had this book when I was just starting. But alas, here we are 18 years after I started practicing still finding absolute gold in this book.

Admittedly, I am a huge fan of Jason Miller from his book Protection and Reversal Magick and was expecting a solid book. But, this blew me away with its value! Still delivered in an approachable and conversational tone.

Whether you are brand new or an advanced practitioner I'm sure you'll find something helpful in this guide to Spellcrafting. I huge one for me is the Macro & Micro Enchantments.

[Nemo · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was one of the more formalized works on spell crafting i read to take my craft to the next level, and i still think it was one, if not the most important work i have read so far.

A lot of the mentioned categories were almost self-evident, yet while you're reading through it, come to realize that the Author reiterated these points with a higher grade of specificity, say for instance if, when, and why substituting is important, and how to approach these, based on his experience.

I still consider it a work to go through on the occasion, even if only to read the highlights, to remember how to ground my craft in reality and make spells that work.

[Maggie May · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the best books on spellcrafting that I have read. This will provide an answer, with the theory behind the answer, for those new to casting spells, as well as giving old-hands new things to consider. While the author practices high magic and I am firmly in the folk magic camp, I found the topics relatable and applicable to my practice. The most important thing about this book is that it addresses issues realistically and gives examples from experience, as well as discussing theory. It calls out both the ‘just wish it into existence’ nonsense, and the ‘make literally anything happen by following the right steps’ BS. Highly recommended for anyone who practices magic, or wants to.