I recently re-read The Crooked Path by Kelden and was inspired to finally write a review.
The Crooked Path is a highly informative introduction to Traditional Witchcraft written in an inviting and sincere way. From the first page it feels as though the author is taking you gently by the hand and leading you to explore the mysteries of the craft. You are left in no doubt that he is a practitioner of witchcraft first and foremost and is sharing his passion so that others may delight in it too.
I genuinely believe there is enough information in this book for someone with no knowledge of witchcraft to pick it up and come away with a working practice. The major tools and rituals of Traditional Witchcraft are all presented in a succinct and engaging way. In fact, when I first joined my Coven ‘The Crooked Path’ was on the essential reading list. Its worth emphasizing that this book is an introduction and is presented as such. For a depth of practice further reading would be required. But to take your first steps on the path, or expand the knowledge you have, I cannot recommend ‘The Crooked Path’ enough.
An Engaging Style
There are some aspects I don’t agree with or incorporate into my practice fully. For example, I am more of a hard polytheist and believe in the Gods as distinct entities, while ‘The Crooked Path’ makes the case that they fall under the umbrella of Witch Father and Witch Mother. However, even when I disagree the argument is beautifully written, and I often found myself nodding along as I read. And honestly, is that not the joy of a book like this? You get to choose what resonated with you, and even if something doesn’t it allows you to question and reinforce your own beliefs.
The accuracy of the content is something that also stood out to me. A specific example would be the section on fairies. While many modern authors present fairies as small, dainty winged creatures, that is far from accurate to their historic portrayal. This is a fact Kelden emphasizes, and his commitment to accuracy really shines through, making this section a delight to read.
Recommending ‘The Crooked Path’
Overall, I highly recommend ‘The Crooked Path’. Perhaps it would be more useful to the initiate, or someone new to the practice of Witchcraft. However, I believe there is something for everyone within these pages, and most anyone would find their practice enhanced by taking the time to read this book. This is clearly a work of passion for Kelden, and that fact alone makes it worth a deeper look. We can all become a little jaded with witchcraft from time to time, so to feel his enthusiasm bleed through the pages can really help revitalise you.
Do yourself a favour and buy a copy. You won’t regret it.
Moss Matthey is a German witch, author, and cult survivor, born and raised in the Harz Mountains. He has experienced firsthand the liberating power of witchcraft, and has been set firmly on a path of self-discovery and enlightenment. He was mentored by Mhara Starling, author of Welsh Witchcraft and expert in Celtic Paganism. He now sits on the Council of the Sarffes Goch tradition of witchcraft which sees Mhara as its High Priestess. If you enjoy his work or have any questions feel free to get in touch!