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Elements of Witchcraft #3
Fire Magic
Help Your Magic Burn Brighter with the History, Lore, and Uses of Fire Bring the passionate element of fire into your practice with this captivating entry in Llewellyn's Elements of Witchcraft series. Featuring spells, rituals, recipes, and folklore, Fire Magic shows you how to fully harness the flame and add new meaning and energy to your life. Join author Josephine Winter on an illuminating exploration of fire and its many uses in witchcraft. Discover candle and bonfire magic throughout history, how fire is depicted in mythology, and fire-related celebrations for the sabbats. Learn about correspondences, sacred herbs and woods, and how to stay safe while honoring this element. Featuring guest contributors, fire deities, mythical beasts, crystals, and more, Fire Magic inspires you to reignite your passion for magic.
303 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 8, 2021
35 people are currently reading
503 people want to read
About the author
Josephine Winter
10 books8 followersJosephine Winter has been a Pagan and witch for over two decades, beginning in Norse-inspired Heathenry and later the Alexandrian tradition of Wicca. She holds degrees in education, literature, and the arts. For the last decade, she has been a regular volunteer and organizer at various Pagan events around Australia. Josephine is the founder of Lepus Lumen, a teaching collective of covens, outer courts, and solo practitioners. She lives in country Victoria, in Australia's leafy south-east.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
August 12, 2021
I received an advance reader copy of this book to read in exchange for an honest review via netgalley and the publishers.
Fire Magic is another installment into the Elements of Witchcraft series by Josephine Winter and did not disappoint.
This is a really thorough book which goes through every aspect of fire magic from the history of using fire in witchcraft, herbs, types of fire magic, recipes and of course fire safety.
This book was interesting with the fact it comes from Australian perspective on this craft which was refreshing and different to UK and US views.
If you want to read and research more on fire magic and its history and give some recipes a try, this is definitely the book for you.
The only thing missing for me was pictures/photographs which would have been a great bonus.
Fire Magic is another installment into the Elements of Witchcraft series by Josephine Winter and did not disappoint.
This is a really thorough book which goes through every aspect of fire magic from the history of using fire in witchcraft, herbs, types of fire magic, recipes and of course fire safety.
This book was interesting with the fact it comes from Australian perspective on this craft which was refreshing and different to UK and US views.
If you want to read and research more on fire magic and its history and give some recipes a try, this is definitely the book for you.
The only thing missing for me was pictures/photographs which would have been a great bonus.
May 2, 2021
This started out with some history about use of fire in ritual and the elements in general and I was glad to see Professor Ron Hutton referenced, but surprised there was no mention of Alchemy where our Western idea of the four elements (five if you include spirit) originates.
This is followed by some information about 'burn marks' around the world and examples of how fire has been used in rituals of the world's major religions over time, even giving a source for the tradition of birthday candles on cake. Then we have a smattering of mythology that includes a few creatures associated with fire, the djinn, places and some information about Australian places and how the local Pagans deal with fire rituals in a country given to horrendous wild fires.
The author writes from an Australian point of view all through which gives an interesting perspective in contrast to US and UK Paganism. Some of the information about common uses for fire are new and interesting, but quite honestly some of it feels like filler. There's a lot of general information that anyone reading this would already know.
Alchemy does eventually get a brief mention, then the symbol for fire is described and all sorts of sources for it cited except Alchemy, where it originates. There's a lot of good in this book, but I feel there are some gaps that anyone writing a book of this nature should have known.
To my joy when she got to tools representing fire she got it right, the sword. Then she spoiled it by allowing for the wand for those who don't know that it was changed deliberately. She credits this to the Golden Dawn, but not specifically to Arthur Edward Waite who deliberately transposed the working tools in his writings and on his Tarot deck in a misguided attempt at secrecy.
The safety information is another plus, especially where herbs and burning them around pets are concerned. Glad to see someone point out that smudging is only relevant with the appropriate rituals. Salt and water works fine without appropriating. We get some fire associations with herbs and essential oils, then crystals and metals. I can't say I agreed with all of them, but correspondences can be at least partly arbitrary anyway and often based just on colour.
There is a lot of beginner information including sacred trees and animals, but as one would hope, a long section on candle magic covering many aspects, even making oils to dress the candles. More specifically fire information follows including the diference between a ritual fire and a bonfire, hearthfires, attributes of different kinds of fire wood, solar lights, safety and laws regarding public fires (prtty strict in Australia where bush fires are a serious hazard) and how to make torches safely for a torch procession.
We get a few spells and recipes, including incense blends and information on superstitions regarding fires. Reference are given for all these lists and the celebrations are attributed to the Farrars. There isn't a lot here that's new or original and a lot is very basic, but it was interesting seeing the perspective of an Australian Pagan.
This is followed by some information about 'burn marks' around the world and examples of how fire has been used in rituals of the world's major religions over time, even giving a source for the tradition of birthday candles on cake. Then we have a smattering of mythology that includes a few creatures associated with fire, the djinn, places and some information about Australian places and how the local Pagans deal with fire rituals in a country given to horrendous wild fires.
The author writes from an Australian point of view all through which gives an interesting perspective in contrast to US and UK Paganism. Some of the information about common uses for fire are new and interesting, but quite honestly some of it feels like filler. There's a lot of general information that anyone reading this would already know.
Alchemy does eventually get a brief mention, then the symbol for fire is described and all sorts of sources for it cited except Alchemy, where it originates. There's a lot of good in this book, but I feel there are some gaps that anyone writing a book of this nature should have known.
To my joy when she got to tools representing fire she got it right, the sword. Then she spoiled it by allowing for the wand for those who don't know that it was changed deliberately. She credits this to the Golden Dawn, but not specifically to Arthur Edward Waite who deliberately transposed the working tools in his writings and on his Tarot deck in a misguided attempt at secrecy.
The safety information is another plus, especially where herbs and burning them around pets are concerned. Glad to see someone point out that smudging is only relevant with the appropriate rituals. Salt and water works fine without appropriating. We get some fire associations with herbs and essential oils, then crystals and metals. I can't say I agreed with all of them, but correspondences can be at least partly arbitrary anyway and often based just on colour.
There is a lot of beginner information including sacred trees and animals, but as one would hope, a long section on candle magic covering many aspects, even making oils to dress the candles. More specifically fire information follows including the diference between a ritual fire and a bonfire, hearthfires, attributes of different kinds of fire wood, solar lights, safety and laws regarding public fires (prtty strict in Australia where bush fires are a serious hazard) and how to make torches safely for a torch procession.
We get a few spells and recipes, including incense blends and information on superstitions regarding fires. Reference are given for all these lists and the celebrations are attributed to the Farrars. There isn't a lot here that's new or original and a lot is very basic, but it was interesting seeing the perspective of an Australian Pagan.
May 30, 2021
Wow Wow Wow. When Llewellyn announced this series I knew it was going to be great but the third instalment is definitely the best yet. In this new book author Josephine Winter explores the element of fire in magick. This is a pretty thorough expose and includes some serious discussion about cultural appropriation such as “smudging”. Winters also does not hold back from discussing the idiotic Instagram bubble bath phenomenon and the fraudulent use of crystals as “witchcraft” as well. The ethics surrounding how metals from the Earth are sourced is laid bare for readers to have a good think about what they are actually contributing to. All correspondences are provided along with some solid fire awareness advice - so don’t be a dickhead and read this book before you light one. The Southern Hemisphere equivalent of the Neo Pagan wheel of the year is included and Winters also writes about interesting historical Australian folklore surrounding fire such as burning marks.
There is much to be gained from this book for the beginner and intermediate practitioners. It’s the type of book that will have you crushing on the author.
*Recipes include animal products
*eArc provided by the publisher and NetGalley
There is much to be gained from this book for the beginner and intermediate practitioners. It’s the type of book that will have you crushing on the author.
*Recipes include animal products
*eArc provided by the publisher and NetGalley
June 4, 2021
It’s been a wee bit since I’ve done a witchy book review and what better way to change that than with an elemental review!
I love the elements and work with them in my practice daily. My favorite is earth and water but fire is not any less important. Fire is the only element that can be created.
I loved the history part of this book more than anything. Learning about the different traditions and how they used fire or even the animals tied to this element was very cool. I even learned a few new ones I didn’t know.
There’s also spells you can try with this element. Some are very simple and easy to do, perfect for beginners!
I own the first two in this series and can’t wait to buy this one and place it on my shelf with the rest. This is such a magnificent series that I fully recommend to anyone who is curious about the elements in witchcraft.
*Thanks to NetGalley for this title in exchange for an honest review*
I love the elements and work with them in my practice daily. My favorite is earth and water but fire is not any less important. Fire is the only element that can be created.
I loved the history part of this book more than anything. Learning about the different traditions and how they used fire or even the animals tied to this element was very cool. I even learned a few new ones I didn’t know.
There’s also spells you can try with this element. Some are very simple and easy to do, perfect for beginners!
I own the first two in this series and can’t wait to buy this one and place it on my shelf with the rest. This is such a magnificent series that I fully recommend to anyone who is curious about the elements in witchcraft.
*Thanks to NetGalley for this title in exchange for an honest review*
January 27, 2024
Loved reading a witchy book from a fellow Aussie with the shift of southern hemisphere Witchcraft at the forefront! So many times our voice in the pagan community gets forgotten and I feel Josephine did a great job here!
May 20, 2021
This is a really in-depth look at the element of fire and its history and uses in magic. I enjoyed the history and a look a different ways fire has been used. I had never considered the reason behind candles on birthday cakes.
There was also fascinating information on creatures and deities related to fire and fire magic. There were even a few I had never heard of.
I loved the section on candle magic, which was very thorough. There are some spells and guidance for safety as well.
The information ranges from beginner to ore well versed making this is a wonderful and versatile reference resource.
There was also fascinating information on creatures and deities related to fire and fire magic. There were even a few I had never heard of.
I loved the section on candle magic, which was very thorough. There are some spells and guidance for safety as well.
The information ranges from beginner to ore well versed making this is a wonderful and versatile reference resource.
March 5, 2022
This was a great book, really knowledgeable about the craft. I'm learning and would recommend this book to anyone searching for more knowledge about this elemental energy. I have looked into reading more of the series and then bringing it all together. I will be purchasing the rest of the series soon, I believe Josephine Winter has a real talent for conveying the knowledge and power of the craft.
November 10, 2021
A beautifully crafted guide to all aspects of fire as it is used in magic, ritual, and the home. A must-
read for beginners and experienced Pagans alike, exploring the history, mythology, and symbolism of fire as a key ingredient of magical, religious, and spiritual practices. There are essays from other
practitioners and experts on fire in history and ritual, giving different perspectives, and suggested
rituals and activities for working with fire. There is a chapter on mythical fire beasts and places, and the association of fire with the Divine, as a sustainer of life, and a source of transformation, creation, destruction, and inspiration. Very importantly, it includes safety considerations around indoor and outdoor fires, as it was written during the huge forest fires in Australia. It explores the stories of deities associated with fire, different types of sacred fire, spells, recipes for food and incense, making wreaths with candles, divination with fire, and how to use fire in magic and ritual, including seasonal rituals, high days and holidays. This will be a valuable addition to your magical library, and is a very comprehensive and inspiring guide to all aspects of fire.
read for beginners and experienced Pagans alike, exploring the history, mythology, and symbolism of fire as a key ingredient of magical, religious, and spiritual practices. There are essays from other
practitioners and experts on fire in history and ritual, giving different perspectives, and suggested
rituals and activities for working with fire. There is a chapter on mythical fire beasts and places, and the association of fire with the Divine, as a sustainer of life, and a source of transformation, creation, destruction, and inspiration. Very importantly, it includes safety considerations around indoor and outdoor fires, as it was written during the huge forest fires in Australia. It explores the stories of deities associated with fire, different types of sacred fire, spells, recipes for food and incense, making wreaths with candles, divination with fire, and how to use fire in magic and ritual, including seasonal rituals, high days and holidays. This will be a valuable addition to your magical library, and is a very comprehensive and inspiring guide to all aspects of fire.
Read
March 21, 2025Fire Magic
I choose this book because out of all of the other elements I think fire is my favorite and it’s the one that appeals to me the most because I’m cold natured. I’m not sure if it’s because of being a diabetic or the removal of my thyroid (which I had NO idea what I was doing when I agreed to that) but I am ALWAYS drawn to the sun and to my heater. I have a SEVERE cold intolerance. Normally, I try to go in order with series books, but I thought this would be a good one to start with. It was interesting that the author was Australian. I have a friend that’s Australian. When the author started to talk about crystals, I actually heard my friend in the way she talked about how certain crystals are produced. But this was all pretty basic stuff. I’m starting to realize that most Wiccan books I’ve read typically are the same information (which slight variations sometimes). The section I found the most interesting was about the different omens associated with fires. Other than that, this one didn’t really keep my attention.
Rating: 5
I choose this book because out of all of the other elements I think fire is my favorite and it’s the one that appeals to me the most because I’m cold natured. I’m not sure if it’s because of being a diabetic or the removal of my thyroid (which I had NO idea what I was doing when I agreed to that) but I am ALWAYS drawn to the sun and to my heater. I have a SEVERE cold intolerance. Normally, I try to go in order with series books, but I thought this would be a good one to start with. It was interesting that the author was Australian. I have a friend that’s Australian. When the author started to talk about crystals, I actually heard my friend in the way she talked about how certain crystals are produced. But this was all pretty basic stuff. I’m starting to realize that most Wiccan books I’ve read typically are the same information (which slight variations sometimes). The section I found the most interesting was about the different omens associated with fires. Other than that, this one didn’t really keep my attention.
Rating: 5
May 24, 2021
This is a fairly broad look at a how fire is used in people's practice. It touches on the history, herbs and botanicals, stones and crystals, animals, candles and candle magic, ritual fires, spells and recipes, and practices such as Tephramancy. Personally, my favorite section was the Fire and Divination section, which talks about the behavior and appearance of fire/flames and the omens or meanings behind them. It also has a variety of recipes for incense and censing bundles, which could either be used as inspiration or as is. I can see this appealing to beginners since it has a lot of good general information and I can see it giving some inspiration to more experienced practitioners with different ways to freshen up their craft.
Thank you to Netgalley and Llewellyn Publications for providing me with an eARC of this book, however, all thoughts and opinions in this review are my own.
Thank you to Netgalley and Llewellyn Publications for providing me with an eARC of this book, however, all thoughts and opinions in this review are my own.
April 1, 2021
From religious rites to mythical fire beasts, we see examples of fire magic in everyday life from the religious ceremonies we attend to the books we read. Three author gives a history of fire through the ages and how fire is used in magic. The herbs, plants and other things associated with fire will broaden your knowledge and work with this element.
My favorite of all is candle magic. This is what I really wanted to read more about as I have always been drawn to this area in my practice. It is one of my favorite ways to cast and I learn something new whenever I read about the topic.
Whatever your interest in fire magic, this book will have something of interest for you. Enjoy the journey and build your own rituals as well.
My favorite of all is candle magic. This is what I really wanted to read more about as I have always been drawn to this area in my practice. It is one of my favorite ways to cast and I learn something new whenever I read about the topic.
Whatever your interest in fire magic, this book will have something of interest for you. Enjoy the journey and build your own rituals as well.
April 15, 2021
This is an in depth study of fire as it relates to the practitioner. It also introduces you how to safely use fire in your spells and rituals. The use of candles is also addressed. I found the book to be very helpful and I added it to my personal library. I definitely recommend this book to anyone who wants to use fire in their spells and rituals.
May 23, 2021
This was an excellent book. It is full of history, and lots of lists of things associated with Fire for magical, ritual, spiritual uses. This isn't the type of book you sit down and read cover to cover. Read the beginning to gain a historical perspective. Then take in the rest of the book as it pertains to what you need. I am inspired to look for the other 3 books in this series.
July 2, 2021
I am absolutely amazed by this book. I am a fire sign and l love working with this element. This book is comprehensive and full of spells to work with Fire. The author has done an amazing job with breaking it down and supplying the tools needed to work with Fire. I'm in love with this book as it is truly magical!
August 22, 2021
An interesting, informative and well researched book it made me learn a lot about the fire elements in all its aspects (historical, the gods, plants, etc).
I appreciated the rituals and the references to Australia.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine
I appreciated the rituals and the references to Australia.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine
July 7, 2022
A well-written but simple guide that focuses on fire magick, deities, folklore, etc. Josephine Winter has a refreshing writing style and this book is a nice guide to have, though I don't think it delves too much in depth, which can be both a good and bad thing. I look forward to finishing the rest of this series.
July 2, 2023
Essentially a book of correspondences, not what I was looking for but fine if that's what you want. Did not agree with observations on Australian bush fires. Some Indigenous Australian perspectives would have been invaluable there.
May 6, 2021
LOVE this book. Great information and connections to the fire element. It is third in a series, but can be a stand alone - which this and the water one will be for me.
July 1, 2021
Full review is up on my website KnockOut Essentials.
July 28, 2022
A good guide to working with the fire element.
August 3, 2022
This was a very informative book that really breaks down the element and gives great insight into how to use it in your craft.
January 18, 2023
Fire Magic as a book in a series of books exploring the elements. The book cover how fire as influenced us over time. The historical lore was explored along with practical applications.
January 25, 2025
Amazing read! More than I thought I would learn.
February 26, 2023
Fire Magic by Josephine Winter
336 Pages
Publisher: Llewellyn Worldwide, Llewellyn Publications
Release Date:
Nonfiction (Adult), Religion, Spirituality, Magic, Metaphysical
The book is divided into the following parts.
Part 1: History, Folklore & Myth
Chapter 1: Through History and Time
Chapter 2: Mythological Fire Beasts and Places
Chapter 3: Fire and the Divine
Chapter 4: Sacred Sites
Part 2: Working with the Element of Fire
Chapter 5: The Element of Fire in Magic
Chapter 6: Herbs and Botanical
Chapter 7: Stones and Crystals
Chapter 8: Animals
Part 3: Recipes, Rituals & Spellcraft
Chapter 9: Candles and Candle Magic
Chapter 10: Your Ritual Fire
Chapter 11: Fire Spells and Recipes
Chapter 12: Fire Holidays and Rituals
The author breaks down what fire is and how to interact with the element. Each chapter has an essay related to the topic. There are poems and little bits of folklore throughout. If you are a new practitioner or someone looking for new ways to connect with the element of Fire, you cannot go wrong with this book.
336 Pages
Publisher: Llewellyn Worldwide, Llewellyn Publications
Release Date:
Nonfiction (Adult), Religion, Spirituality, Magic, Metaphysical
The book is divided into the following parts.
Part 1: History, Folklore & Myth
Chapter 1: Through History and Time
Chapter 2: Mythological Fire Beasts and Places
Chapter 3: Fire and the Divine
Chapter 4: Sacred Sites
Part 2: Working with the Element of Fire
Chapter 5: The Element of Fire in Magic
Chapter 6: Herbs and Botanical
Chapter 7: Stones and Crystals
Chapter 8: Animals
Part 3: Recipes, Rituals & Spellcraft
Chapter 9: Candles and Candle Magic
Chapter 10: Your Ritual Fire
Chapter 11: Fire Spells and Recipes
Chapter 12: Fire Holidays and Rituals
The author breaks down what fire is and how to interact with the element. Each chapter has an essay related to the topic. There are poems and little bits of folklore throughout. If you are a new practitioner or someone looking for new ways to connect with the element of Fire, you cannot go wrong with this book.
July 14, 2022
It has been a while since I read a witchy book, so I started on my very serious stockpile of books and my fav element, Fire! I was pleasantly surprised at the level of detail in Fire Magic.
The book starts with a fairly generalized history related to different ways fire has been used, information on mythical creatures, deities, and animals, as well as a brief summarization of world histories related to fires and burnings. The author is Australian and much of her outlook is based on the Southern hemisphere (but she also mentions things in the Northern hemisphere).
There is a lot of beginner information like with candle magic and small fire workings, which is what I expected to find in a general book on fire magic. As with all workings, mileage may vary depending on a multitude of factors. There are a few spells, working, incense blends, etc to start on your journey working with fire, if that is something that speaks to you.
All in all, I thought this was a good resource for those wanting to start refining their craft or learning more individualized aspects of workings with fire.
*ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.*
The book starts with a fairly generalized history related to different ways fire has been used, information on mythical creatures, deities, and animals, as well as a brief summarization of world histories related to fires and burnings. The author is Australian and much of her outlook is based on the Southern hemisphere (but she also mentions things in the Northern hemisphere).
There is a lot of beginner information like with candle magic and small fire workings, which is what I expected to find in a general book on fire magic. As with all workings, mileage may vary depending on a multitude of factors. There are a few spells, working, incense blends, etc to start on your journey working with fire, if that is something that speaks to you.
All in all, I thought this was a good resource for those wanting to start refining their craft or learning more individualized aspects of workings with fire.
*ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.*
May 27, 2022
Si vous deviez définir votre élément, lequel choisiriez-vous ?
J'étais très contente quand j'ai appris que les éditions danae allait sortir des livres sur les éléments ! J'en ai déjà lu plusieurs de chez eux, que vous avez probablement vu en story. Et je suis très contente de voir que l'organisation du livre est très similaire à celle de La Magie de la Lune (ou celle du Soleil, bref je vous les recommandes si ça vous intéresse).
C'est un livre qui est comme d'habitude très complet. Histoire, créatures mythologique, lieux, les divinités, l'élément dans la "magie", plantes et végétaux, pierres et cristaux, et j'en passe.
En bref, une bonne lecture, enrichissante sur plusieurs points et très fluide !
J'étais très contente quand j'ai appris que les éditions danae allait sortir des livres sur les éléments ! J'en ai déjà lu plusieurs de chez eux, que vous avez probablement vu en story. Et je suis très contente de voir que l'organisation du livre est très similaire à celle de La Magie de la Lune (ou celle du Soleil, bref je vous les recommandes si ça vous intéresse).
C'est un livre qui est comme d'habitude très complet. Histoire, créatures mythologique, lieux, les divinités, l'élément dans la "magie", plantes et végétaux, pierres et cristaux, et j'en passe.
En bref, une bonne lecture, enrichissante sur plusieurs points et très fluide !
April 27, 2023
Water magic is the first book of the elements of witchcraft by Llewelyn. The book is a mixture of resources and practical ritual. There was a section were the book goes in depth with all of the different water deities., history and myth. There is also a section that deals with water correspondents, timing, herbs, oils, crystals. The last section deal with practice applications. The book sharing simple rituals, bath salt, water meditation and water divination. I enjoyed this book and recommend it. I’m looking forward to the next book in the series.
February 28, 2022
Yeaaaah I finished this book series! And I liked it so much! I still think I would recommend this rather for fellow beginner witches like myself as an introduction into the elements but even so every part had one section that particularly stood out to me. In this one it was the well researched section about the Burning Times.
November 12, 2022
This was the best or most extensive book in the series. I haven't read Earth yet, but this is the thickest book for a reason. I liked that the author gave a perspective on natural materials and told the story of humanity's relationship with fire from a realist perspective.
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews