For the first time, a genuine manual of the dreaded "left-hand path." Braving the new Witchcraft Panic that has swept the world, S. Jason Black and Christopher S. Hyatt have written a book that places the Western magical tradition --- and the Western psyche --- in perspective.
Sweeping aside both the historical fabrications of "neo-paganism" and the rampant mental illness of the religious right, Black and Hyatt explore history, psychology and anthropology to reveal the true "secret doctrine" of Western culture. This work confronts the reader with his own fears and inhibitions --- and carries him beyond.
Comprehensively illustrated,this volume contains a detailed history of European "Black Magic" and includes new editions of 17th and 18th century Grimoires with detailed instructions for their use. Extensively illustrated.
REVIEW
Very enjoyable indeed So you're a fan of controversial literature?
Good. Then I'm sure you've heard of New Falcon Publications, S. Jason Black, and Christopher Hyatt before. The latter has, among other things, published several books about Aleister Crowley and written the book The Psychopath's Bible, and New Falcon has a reputation of releasing works that are, to say the least, unusual.
But beware. Just because something happens to be unusual and controversial doesn't automatically result in it being something good. But in this particular case, it really is. Black, a practicing magician, and Hyatt, a super-smart intellectual, have written a book that is one half a history lesson in "black" magic, and one half a grimoire containing old notorious spells any serious student of the occult must have heard of at least once.
As with most other non-academic books (that is, books thatare not published by a university publisher or written by "acclaimed" researchers) that claim to be historically correct, the bibliography is not as good as it could have been, and furthermore, the reasoning sometimes doesn't make very much sense. But despite these faults, the book is still very much worth the effort, in particular the first, historical section. The second part, containing magical instructions, is more difficult to read, and the rituals are not the easiest to perform. This is ok though, since the first part is such a great read. Or in other words, you can buy the book, more or less ignore the second part, and still not feel like you've been fooled in any way.
Christian Broadcasting Network said the book was "extremely disturbing", and The Black Flame thought that "This book is dangerous!". Better arguments than these are indeed hard to find, and alongside with the fact that it's not an expensive book I have only this to say:
