Book Review – The Red Mother: Cunning Words Collection Volume II by Marshall WSL
I recently read “The Red Mother: Cunning Words Collection Volume II” by Marshall W.S.L and I am so very glad that I did. I have read Cunning Words which is the first book in this collection, so I knew what I was getting into and to be honest, I had pretty high expectations about it too. I didn't want a direct copy of the first book, I wanted new stuff in the same style and Marshall freaking delivered!
I stand by my claim that Marshall is a master wordsmith. The stories he spins within this Grimoire will leave you wanting more (always a good sign in a book) and I'm not kidding when I say that I could FEEL the magick coming through the words.
Listen to Marshalls episode on the Witch Talks Podcast where we chatted deeply about The Red Mother.
What I liked
I loved the interwoven-ness of the stories between both books, and also very much enjoyed getting to know our Red Mother on a deeper level.
I adore having short folk stories that have inspired the spells found at the back of the book as it gives them power. It gives them spirit.
Marshall has managed to capture the magic that sits between saying too much, and not saying enough. Personally I believe that stories are the best way to teach, and that's exactly what Marshall has done. The wisdom within each story and the purpose behind each detail was phenomenally executed.
Marshall has also chosen to include authors notes throughout, which are helpful and appreciated as they ground the reader in Marshalls intent for each story, and reiterated safety and consent concerns where necessary.
I also appreciated the double spacing between paragraphs. It made it very easy to read and far less overwhelming in comparison to most other books on the market. As a neurodivergent person, this was very helpful and meant I flew through the pages easily.
Another thing I loved was the deliberate, but not forced, inclusion of gender diversity and LGBTQIA+ representation which is still SO needed in this space.
What I disliked
The only criticism is that I would also like to have an index to easily find what I want but I can also simply colour code and tab the stories that correlate with certain spells for ease of use.
Do I recommend it?
Yes absolutely. I give it 5 witches hats.
If you’ve read my other reviews, I rarely give a 5 witches hat rating because not all books are for all people, but this is one that I truly think it is a joy to read, and agreed with everything within its pages, which is a big statement!
My witches’ hats rating system:
0 - Problematic, this book should be burned.
1 - Did not like this book, do not read
2 - It was ok, wouldn’t recommend it though.
3 - I liked it but it might not be for everyone
4 - I really liked it and think most people will like it
5 - AMAZING, I loved it and everyone should read it
Meet Hana
Hana O’Neill, the Suburban Witch is a professional Tarot & Astrology reader, Intuitive Coach and the host of the Witch Talks podcast.
