The Candle and the Crossroads: A Book of Appalachian Conjure and Southern Root-Work
"Orion Foxwood holds the beacon of light at the dark crossroads where magic and mystery meet. I've been a guest at many of his workshops on conjure, folk magic and Witchcraft, and I'm delighted to see this book in print, sharing his knowledge and experiences. I'm sure, like me, you will find him simultaneously colorfully charismatic and deeply soulful, and soon, without realizing it, you and your magic will be changed for the better. That is the inspirational alchemy that Orion works on his students, readers and friends if you are open enough to listen, see and feel." --Christopher Penczak, founder of the Temple of Witchcraft and author ofThe Plant Spirit Spirit Familiar"There are places in the world where magic abounds, where its ancient practices stem from the very soul of the people living there. The Appalachian area of America is such a place. Much has been written about it, little is really known and even less is understood. Here is the real thing, half autobiography and half training manual with fascinating snippets of information thrown in. It is the genuine Appalachian belief system written by one born and bred to it. I have had the joy of Orion's friendship for many years and have worked with him on many occasions. Here in his own words you will find the result of his early training. He says clearly that this is a 'Way of Life'--one that if care is not taken will disappear and leave the world darker for its going. It is hard to give you more than just the barest flavor of the book here. Ancient practices still known and used today, information on herbs and spirit roads all written down by the loving hand of family memory. A gem to be treasured. Read it and you will be amazed at the richness that still exists in the heart of the Appalachians." --Dolores Ashcroft-Nowicki, director of Studies Servants of the Light"The Candle and the Crossroadsis a fascinating adventure into the spiritual path and work of Conjure as seen through the eyes of one of its modern practitioners, a soulful teacher of great depth and wisdom. Drawing on many years of experience, Orion Foxwood offers the reader practical and powerful tools of blessing and transformation that have universal application while still being grounded in an original American path. This book is a crossroads itself, inviting you to connect with one of America's own root spiritual traditions." --David Spangler, author ofThe Laws of Manifestation, Apprenticed to Spirit, andSubtle Worlds: An Explorer's Field Notes"Richly garnished with the knowledge and wisdom of personal experience, and offered in the conversational tone of a chat with an old friend, Orion Foxwood'sThe Candle and the Crossroadsserves the meat and potatoes of Southern Root Magic so deliciously, you'll savor every morsel--and anxiously await a second helping!" --Dorothy Morrison, author ofUtterly Wicked"Like Witchcraft, conjure is the magic of the people, that wisdom and power hidden within us all that is accessible to everyone regardless of economic status, and, like Witches, conjurers and rootworkers embrace this power as a vocation to help those in need. It works within the context of all religions for it is the spirit that flows through them all. Orion Foxwood imparts centuries of folk wisdom from Appalachian, African, and other sources in this powerful compendium of knowledge that will help you to transform your life and the lives of others." --Christian Day, author ofThe Witches' Book of the Dead"The Candle and the Crossroadsis a unique book. It offers us an insight into the world of Appalachian Conjure that provides not only techniques and practices, but also a cultural context for those practices. Orion Foxwood's account of his life, and how he came by the knowledge and wisdom he shares, is every bit as important and informative as the techniques themselves. This book is one where the whole is much greater than the sum of its parts, laying bare as it does the heart and soul of Southern Conjure. There is no doubt in my mind that Orion is sharing with us a great treasure, and that he is part and parcel of that treasure. Practitioners of all traditions can learn much from this book, whether it be the nuts and bolts of technique, or through comparison with their own path. I will certainly be recommending this book to my own students of the Crooked Path." --Peter Paddon, author ofA Grimoire for Modern Cunningfolk, Visceral Magick and Enchantment: The Witch's Art of Manipulation through Gesture, Gaze and Glamour"Orion is the most eloquent magical teacher of our time and proves it with The Candle and the Crossroads. You are immersed in Orion's teachings and come away enlightened and ready to doctor the root of your own self." --Jacki Smith, authorCoventry Magicand founder of Coventry Creations"Orion writes from the heart.The Candle and the Crossroadsis a very soulful book. He gives you a clear vision of the oral tradition from the Appalachian Mountains. I found his book very refreshing and I enjoyed reading it." --Starr Casas, rootworker, founder of www.oldstyleconjure.com