A fascinating historical insight into the role of the archetypal blacksmith since ancient times; which in turn has become an integral part of traditional witchcraft and, within certain branches of Old Craft the equine aspects also play a significant part. As the author points out, blacksmithing is woven into the fabric of the English language and even at the basest level of the smith’s craft, there is a sense of awe, magic and mystery. “Yet within it there are many questions to be asked: is he purely a worker in black metals, making him a blacksmith, or is he a redsmith working in the softer copper or bronze? There are even white smiths, those mainly itinerant tinkers using pewter or tin. Does he wear the split apron of the farrier, a specialist in shoeing horses? Does he work with more precious metals such as gold and silver, intricately setting precious jewels into them, or applying an enamel – a goldsmith or silversmith perhaps?” Since ancient times these ‘workers in metal’ have been accorded magical status and Pete Jennings offers a subtle glimpse of the analogies, sigils and symbols behind a thin veil of mythology and legend. It is an interesting book for lovers of folklore but for those who look deeper into the text there are many skeins to follow that may lead to mysterious pathways. Pete Jennings is a popular and accomplished author whom I’ve known since the good old Pagan Federation days and found the approach to his subject fascinating, illuminating and essential reading for anyone who follows the inner pagan paths. Highly recommended. Melusine Draco The same review will be added to Goodreads and amazon as soon as it shows up. ~ Melusine Draco, Waterstones

Of all the trades and crafts, none have the mystique, history and folklore of blacksmithing. The almost magical process of turning pieces of cold unforgiving metal into objects of function and beauty has astounded those not privy to 'ways of the smith' throughout the ages. Endowed with such magic, smiths have served their communities by working with hammer and hand and often extending their repertoire to that of doctors and shaman. With such furtive knowledge, coupled with an often charismatic presence, it is no wonder that there is a wealth of folklore and mythology associated with the profession both in Britain and abroad. Pete Jennings is a respected writer and re-enactor on Anglo Saxon and Viking topics and his latest work provides the reader with an overview of the legendary and esoteric world of blacksmithing ranging from Classical Greece and Rome to Africa, Asia, Scandinavia and Europe. The text not only provides summaries of many ancient beliefs but also includes archaeological and historical information together with the re-telling of tales of legendary blacksmiths. A chapter is devoted to British Folk Songs and Traditions which is a subject that in itself would demand a a huge volume. The chapter does however, provide a an excellent 'taster' of the many songs and stories associated with the blacksmith. Pete's skilfully writes with an enthusiasm which should entice those new to the subject to more but those with some knowledge will also find much of interest. He draws on a wealth of literary sources including the Christian Bible and the Persian Book of Kings (Sah Nemeh) and the book is interspersed with fascinating anecdotes many of which have been neglected or forgotten through the years. For example, in the North East of Scotland the custom exists of bathing a child in the water trough of the smithy as a cure for rickets. After bathing the child is laid on an anvil and tools passed over their body whilst suitable words are spoken. The iron rich water and ritual somehow endow the child with strength to fight the disease. The cover of the book depicts a horseshoe being heated in the flames of a forge which some in the trade may find misleading. Early in the book however, Pete clearly points out the present day differences between farriers and blacksmiths and of course it is not too many decades ago that there was no clearly defined separation of the two professions. In conclusion, this is a good value read and a valuable research resource that I would recommend be placed on any smiths bookshelf. ~ Liveryman Merv Allen FWCB