The Secret Keys of Conjure: Unlocking the Mysteries of American Folk Magic

A preliminary flip through The Secret Keys of Conjure by Chas Bogan reveals that this book is full of information that I was eager to digest--- and I was not disappointed. At the outset, I felt that I resonated with the tone of Secret Keys in that the author maintained a respectful middle ground between pure "old time" conjure and modern conjure allowing the reader to make up his or her own mind in regards to its practice, especially those coming to conjure from outside the culture.I also like the author's "voice" for lack of a better word. I feel that the author has a lot to share but that it must be shared in a certain order. Information is given in a particular way that I would describe as logical and in an easily understandable manner. Certain phrases really jump out at me and vibrate with my own beliefs and practices.... i.e. "fate is foretold by the world we inhabit" "small events foreshadow larger ones", or "knowing the strength of your abilities is essential to exercising them."It should be noted that this is not a book strictly about hoodoo but rather American Folk Magic and for this reason the author has included some information from other folk magic systems such as American Wicca, Braucherei or Powwow and Appalachian folk magic including history, techniques, and formulas. Nonetheless there is a lot of wisdom conveyed eloquently and precisely. It leaves the reader with a great deal to think about and work with.

Secret Keys to Conjure has been a blessing to read. Chas Bogans flavorful and concise writing style evoked thoughts and feelings both pensive and mirthful. As I read each chapter, I remembered old treasures from my early craft and discovered entirely new treasures which I will carry for the rest of my years.This book has everything! This work covers all the basics ranging from roots, herbs, powders, washes,charms, glamoury, spirit work and so much more. Chas's ability to present and expound upon traditional conjure practices made this book revelatory and empowering. I enjoyed every second! This book is now a mainstay reference and source of inspiration that I will treasure for many years to come.Secret Keys to Conjure is now an invaluable addition to my magical library! Such a joy to read... It has definitely rekindled that ole magic within me.

I love this book. I was so impressed with the amount of information in just the first 19 pages that I began recommending it to friends. This book focuses on the practices and products of Conjure in its many variations. I don't mind saying that I was thrilled to see The Friend (Hohman's Long Lost Friend) referenced in this book, as The Friend has been a part of my personal practice for years. And while the author references many commercially available products, he gives so many recipes that you can get started with your own practice just on his recipes alone. This is an excellent book for your Conjure library.

Hmm, am in the middle of this work now. I have mixed feelings and would actually have given three and-a-half instead of 4 stars if allowed to.The books is well organized and well-written for what it is. However, it comes off (to me at least) as a much more modern, less "authentic" work than I had been led to believe. I have worked with many traditional and indigenous people, and I guess when I see 'traditional root doctor," I think of something closer to old ways and an older style of presentation. This work, while fine for what it is, seems to be more New Age than I was looking for. The methods themselves may work fine but frankly, there was little that I had not already seen elsewhere.Again, a well-written, modern rendition of this traditional material.

I originally had a library copy of this book in 1990 and the size of the book and the spells and contents were different. I appreciate this version but hopefully I can happen across the original book I use to have. The spells worked so great I threw the original book away... Either way Thank you. I would purchase from this seller again

I was amazed at this book. It was recommended by another author to read and he was right. I never would have purchased this book on my own, but it was a book I did need to read and enjoyed from cover to cover! Thank you Chas Bogan for an excellent book!

A useful book if you are interested in Conjure recipes, but not much more than that. The book felt a bit flat to me, and the author is very insistent about plugging their Modern Conjure brand, which detracted from the book considerably for me.

I'm glad I decided to read this. I'm of the opinion that all knowledge is good knowledge. The choice on whether or not to apply said knowledge is up to the learner.

Para quem se interessa por hoodoo o autor é imprescindível. Livro como poucos.

Informative, well written and easy to follow. Lots of good, solid rituals and the influences of herbs, tools and allies. Great book