If you know me, you know I love a little bit of magic. This month I’m embracing my inner witch by getting close to nature and harnessing its power. I’ve been reading about strong and powerful women with a little bit of magical powers of their own and wanted to share them with you just in time for Halloween.

The Green Witch

by Arin Murphy-Hiscock

The green witch “is a naturalist, an herbalist, a wise woman, and a healer. She embraces the the power of nature; she draws energy from the earth and the universe; she relies on natural objects… she calls on nature for guidance; and she respects every living being, no matter how small.” YASSS! I literally gasped when I saw this book. It is basically a guide book to being an outdoor woman who wants to connect with nature on a deeper level. You’ll learn how to ground yourself, perform seasonal rituals, tap into the energy of flowers, use stone, start a witch garden, and craft, cook, and heal with your new witchy finds.

Non-Fiction // Published: 2017 // My Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

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Alchemy of Herbs

by Rosalee De La Foret

Get closer to nature by exploring the benefits of herbs. This cookbook puts a twist on the classics remedies like garlic for immune support and hot tea to sooth sore throats with recipes for Ginger Lemon Tea, Cayenne Salve for sore muscles, Cardamom Chocolate Mousse Cake for heart health (yes, please!), and Spiced Cold Brew Coffee for a kick of antioxidants. In addition to the recipes, there is in-depth history and research for each of the herbs to guide you on your way to natural health.

Non-Fiction // Published: 2017 // My Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

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Crystals for Healing

by Karen Frazier

One of my favorite children’s book is Everybody Needs a Rock which instructs a young reader on how to choose the perfect (and essential) rock companion. I totally agree that everyone should have their very own rock. There is something about holding it in your hand that is grounding, and many people believe, healing. This book is the comprehensive guide to crystals and their healing powers for whatever ails you. There are crystals for those dealing with grief, looking for love, or those who want to increase their gratitude. I have my own little pink crystal that I hold when I’m feeling stressed and there is a meditative quality to just tracing the edges with my fingers.

Non-Fiction // Published: 2015 // My Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

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What Should Be Wild

by Julia Fine

Maisie has been born with a curse. A simple touch renders any living thing dead or alive. Her father raised her in seclusion and taught her to mind her touches. She doesn’t feel different until she sees a group of school children walking and holding hands. And when her father mysteriously disappears in the nearby woods, she begins to realize that she is not the first of the women in her family to be cursed. In fact, legend has it that their ghosts haunt the forest. This coming-of-age story about a resilient, magical girl kept me turning the pages to the wee hours of the night.

Fiction // Published: 2018 // My Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

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Uprooted

by Naomi Novick

Agnieszka’s peaceful medieval village has a Dragon. Dragon is a wizard who takes a girl from the village every ten years to serve him. This deal between Dragon and the village keeps the dark and mystical terror of the nearby Wood at bay. Everyone in the village assumes that Agnieszka’s best friend, the young and beautiful Kasia, will be taken by Dragon, and there will be nothing that she can do to stop it. But when Kasia is not chosen, and instead Agnieszka herself is taken, her life takes a new path in discovering her inner strength and power and saving her friends, family, and beloved village.

Fiction // Published: 2015 // My Rating: 3 out of 5 stars

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Circe: A Novel

by Madeline Miller

In this modern retelling of the classic myth, Circe, daughter of the mighty sun god Helios, always knew there was something strange about her. In a moment of desperation, she determines that she can change people into gods and rivals into monsters. The witchcraft that she has harnessed terrifies the gods and she is banished to a deserted island. Here she relishes in nature and strengthens her powers as she encounters some classic characters from mythology. This approachable novel has a glossary of characters in the back that is essential for someone like me who hasn’t encountered the Titans and Olympians in a while. This is one of the best books I’ve read this year!

Fiction // Published: 2018 // My Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

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*This post contains affiliate links. However, I always encourage finding books at your local library or favorite indie book store.