Spirits, Seers & Séances

Book Review: Spirits, Seers & Séances: Victorian Spiritualism, Magic & the Supernatural by Steele Alexandra Douris

Spirits, Seers & Séances: Victorian Spiritualism, Magic & the Supernatural by Steele Alexandra Douris delves into the fascinating world of Victorian mysticism and its profound impact on both the past and present. Through a captivating exploration of spiritualism, the book sheds light on the historical foundations, cultural influences, and fears that drove the Victorians to turn to practices such as mediumship, hypnotism, and fortune-telling.

The author begins by immersing readers in the imagery and practices of Victorian mysticism. From a woman wearing a black veil convening a séance to a magician inducing a trance in a volunteer, the book vividly portrays the enchanting nature of these occult rituals. However, Douris goes beyond the surface to uncover the deeper motivations and desires that led the Victorians to seek solace, answers, and connections through these practices.

One of the strengths of this book lies in its exploration of various forms of Victorian mysticism. Douris meticulously covers topics such as automatic writing, cartomancy, clairvoyance, and more. By providing historic examples and engaging hands-on exercises, the author invites readers to immerse themselves in these practices and gain a deeper understanding of their significance in Victorian society.

Additionally, Spirits, Seers & Séances uncovers how Victorian belief in ghosts, fairies, and nature spirits shaped popular celebrations such as Halloween and Christmas. Douris skillfully traces the origins of these festivities back to their spiritual roots, revealing how they were deeply intertwined with the era's fascination with the supernatural. This exploration adds another layer of richness to the book, connecting Victorian mysticism to our modern-day celebrations.

The inclusion of literary figures such as Sherlock Holmes and Edgar Allan Poe further adds to the allure of this book. By examining how these iconic characters were influenced by Victorian spiritualism, Douris provides a unique perspective that will captivate both fans of occult literature and history enthusiasts alike.

While the book excels in its content and exploration of Victorian spiritualism, it does have a minor flaw. The black and white illustrations present in the copy reviewed (an ARC) might have been more impactful if they were rendered in color. However, this does not detract from the overall quality of the book.

In conclusion, Spirits, Seers & Séances: Victorian Spiritualism, Magic & the Supernatural is an enthralling read for anyone interested in history and spiritualism. With its excellent cover design and intriguing subject matter, this book will undoubtedly appeal to those intrigued by all things occult. Douris expertly weaves together historical facts, cultural influences, and literary references to create an informative and engaging narrative. I highly recommend this book and rate it 4 out of 5 stars.

ARC Via NetGalley