Book Review: “Shatter Me: A Phoenix Anthology” by Various Authors

Posted on February 14, 2025 by SpookyMrsGreen

Warning! This book is seriously steamy—you might want to think twice before reading it in public, especially next to your mother-in-law (trust me, I learned the hard way!).

Got your attention?

Perfect! Today, I’m sharing my review of “Shatter Me,” a sizzling short story anthology featuring gay romance tales from a talented collaboration of authors, including Kelly Lord. I picked up my copy at a book signing event in Leeds, and now it’s time to spill the details. Read on to find out what I thought!

Book cover image for “Shatter Me: A Phoenix Anthology” by Various Authors gay romance short stories MM romance reviewed by paranormal author Catherine Green at SpookyMrsGreen spooky family lifestyle blog.
“Shatter Me: A Phoenix Anthology” by Various Authors reviewed at SpookyMrsGreen.com.

My Review of “Shatter Me: A Phoenix Anthology” by Various Authors

This is a hefty tome of short stories that really aren’t that short. Some of them are more like novellas I would say, so be prepared to get stuck in. I bought the paperback, and I love its substance in my hands. What can I say, I’m old-school! I really had no idea what to expect from these stories, but I can say that they are sexy, smutty and super-hot. A couple of them were not quite up to a standard I would have liked, but most of them were brilliant. I especially enjoyed “For I have Sinned” by Crea Reitan and “My Strength, My Weakness” by Kelly Lord.

This anthology was nice because it offered stories about realistic people living everyday lives and finding romance as they went along. There is workplace romance, small town romance, and student romance, all with natural progressions and featuring gay and queer characters. It is not designed to make a statement; it is merely a gay romance anthology, and I thoroughly enjoyed reading it. 5 stars!

About the Book

Loving a possessive alpha has never been so easy


In this MM romance, limited edition anthology, all the stories are written about a broody, possessive alpha. We all love a sexy alpha, right? A bad boy that will stop at nothing to make you theirs.

In this anthology, you can enjoy a variety of stories ranging from college frat parties, sports romance and even a naughty priest. These authors and a mixed variety of genres will have you caught in a trap of want and need with each page and may even introduce you to some new authors.

Buy the Book: The book is a special edition and only available directly from the authors that contributed. Find them on social media for details.

Text reads, "Free e-book download. LGBT werewolf fantasy story. Download Now." Image of a sexy man showing a tattoo on his chest staring at the viewer with a sultry gaze. Vampire and werewolf fantasy books for adults. 3D book cover image for "It's Complicated (The Redcliffe Novels)" from the vampire and werewolf fantasy book series by LGBT fantasy book writer Catherine Green.
LGBT werewolf fantasy story “It’s Complicated (The Redcliffe Novels)” by Catherine Green

Did you enjoy this article? Download your FREE copy of LGBT fantasy short story It’s Complicated (The Redcliffe Novels) and meet the werewolves of Cornwall, England.  Click here. 

Note: This article may contain affiliate links, meaning that if you shop using the links I share, I receive a small income at no extra cost to yourself. Thank you for supporting SpookyMrsGreen!

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Doll or Spirit Vessel? Communicating with the Haunted Dolls in Our Home

Posted on February 12, 2025 by SpookyMrsGreen

Welcome back to Witchy Wednesday, my spooky friends! This week, I have something truly fascinating to share—our latest adventures in haunted doll communication.

My daughters and I recently acquired three haunted dolls, and we have been working with them to see if they will communicate with us. So far, our results have been intriguing!

Eerie image of a collection of haunted dolls dressed in Victorian dresses and pink ballerina dress. There is a Rempod device, an EMF meter, and a glass jar containing a flashing cat ball and a pendulum for paranormal experiments. Text reads, “Doll or Spirit Vessel? Communicating with the Haunted Dolls in Our Home at SpookyMrsGreen.com.” Spooky family lifestyle blog.
Doll or Spirit Vessel? Communicating with the Haunted Dolls in Our Home

Communicating with the Haunted Dolls in Our Home

We began our investigations at home, using various spirit communication tools such as the Spirit Talker app, a spirit box, dowsing rods, flashing cat balls, and a Rempod device. We have observed some responses through these tools, including the dolls lighting up the cat balls and triggering the alarm on our Rempod. At our recent ghost hunting event at Hallam Mill in Stockport, we took the dolls with us to see if they would react differently in a venue with confirmed paranormal activity. To our delight, we received a name for one of the dolls via spirit box communication!

While our EVP and automatic writing attempts have not yielded results yet, we remain patient and open-minded. We plan to record our investigations going forward, tracking any patterns in their responses, environmental changes, and perhaps even their activity in relation to moon phases or seasonal shifts. Spirit work is often a waiting game, and we are excited to continue learning and experimenting.

Tips for Working with Haunted Dolls

If you suspect a doll in your possession may be haunted, start by observing its behaviour. Have you noticed unusual activity around it, such as unexplained noises, movements, or an eerie atmosphere? Try placing the doll in different areas of your home and note any changes in energy or interactions. Keeping a journal of your experiences can help you track patterns over time.

When attempting spirit communication, begin with gentle approaches like dowsing rods or cat balls before progressing to more advanced tools such as a spirit box or EVP recordings. Always set clear intentions before each session, asking only for positive energies to come forward. If you ever feel uneasy, take a break and cleanse the space with incense, salt, or protective crystals.

Stay Tuned for our Haunted Doll Experiments

Stay tuned for more updates on our haunted doll experiments—we are just getting started! And, if you have a haunted object or a spirit-attached item looking for a new home, we are actively seeking more items to work with. Let us know in the comments if you’ve ever experienced anything eerie with a doll or other object.

Until next time, stay spooky!

Did you enjoy this article? Download your FREE copy of LGBT fantasy short story It’s Complicated (The Redcliffe Novels) and meet the werewolves of Cornwall, England.  Click here. 

Note: This article may contain affiliate links, meaning that if you shop using the links I share, I receive a small income at no extra cost to yourself. Thank you for supporting SpookyMrsGreen!

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Love Beyond Limits: Celebrating Non-Monogamous Relationships This Valentine’s Day

Posted on February 11, 2025 by SpookyMrsGreen

Table for three? One in six Gen Z Brits will be celebrating Valentine’s Day this year as a throuple.

Valentine’s Day may be less about couples, and more about throuples, monogamish, or consensual non-monogamists, as new research suggests the notion of love is changing forever.

DALL·E 2025-02-11 08.44.17 - A modern and inclusive Valentine's Day celebration featuring a diverse group of people enjoying a romantic dinner together. Love Beyond Limits: Celebrating Non-Monogamous Relationships This Valentine’s Day at SpookyMrsGreen spooky family lifestyle blog.
Love Beyond Limits: Celebrating Non-Monogamous Relationships This Valentine’s Day at SpookyMrsGreen.com.

Celebrating Non-Monogamous Relationships This Valentine’s Day

According to the survey of 2,000 Brits aged under 40, over half (51 percent) have been in an unconventional relationship, resulting in two thirds (66 percent) believing that Valentine’s Day is too geared towards an old fashioned ‘ideal’ of  love.

In fact, more than a third (36 percent) of Gen Z and Millennials will be celebrating Valentine’s this Friday in an open relationship, where they have agreed to have a sexual or emotional connection with other people, outside of the primary relationship.

While 28 percent are in a “monogamish” partnership – where occasional outside relationships are allowed with mutual consent, and 19 percent are in a long-distance union where partners live far apart and rely mainly on technology to stay connected.

One in six (15 percent) could be booking a table for three on Friday, as they’re in a throuple, while nine percent are in an “empty love” partnership, where commitment remains, but the shared enthusiasm has faded away.

Redefining what a Modern Relationship Looks Like

It’s no surprise that 84 percent believe that young Brits are redefining what a modern relationship looks like, with 82 percent agreeing that love is love no matter what and 88 percent acknowledging that it doesn’t matter what type of relationship you are in as long as you are happy.

Two thirds (60 percent) admit that the lack of representation of unconventional relationships in literature frustrates them, so much so that one in six (16 percent) think the romantic works of yesteryear are sexist and should contain neutral pronouns (11 percent).

Chantal McDowell, Senior Brand Manager from 19 Crimes, added: “19 Crimes feel that Valentine’s Day is an outdated celebration of love. So, we wanted to create a limited-edition Valentine’s label that celebrates and reflects all of the different types of modern relationships and encourage consumers to gift a bottle to someone.”

Excerpt from Love Kills (A Redcliffe Novel) by Catherine Green with SpookyMrsGreen.com pagan lifestyle blog.
Excerpt from Love Kills (A Redcliffe Novel) by Catherine Green

Did you enjoy this article? Download your FREE copy of LGBT fantasy short story It’s Complicated (The Redcliffe Novels) and meet the werewolves of Cornwall, England.  Click here. 

Note: This is a collaborative article and may contain affiliate links, meaning that if you shop using the links I share, I receive a small income at no extra cost to yourself. Thank you for supporting SpookyMrsGreen!

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Our First Family Ghost Hunt – A Spooky Adventure!

Posted on February 10, 2025 by SpookyMrsGreen

Hello folks, and happy #MummyMonday! How was your weekend? Mine was absolutely fantastic! I finally got to take my daughters on their first proper ghost hunt, and let me tell you, they were thrilled!

It was wonderful to watch their excitement as they met other children at the event, sharing their curiosity for the paranormal. It felt like we were witnessing the next generation of ghost hunters in action as they experimented with ghost hunting equipment and engaged in Spirit communication sessions.

DALL·E 2025-02-05 09.29.08 - A spooky family lifestyle scene featuring a mother with auburn hair in a classic bob, wearing glasses, jeans, and a hoodie, exploring a haunted location. SpookyMrsGreen.com spooky family lifestyle blog.
Explore the Spooky Family Lifestyle with Catherine Green and her daughters!

Our First Family Ghost Hunt

While the kids were busy on their investigations, I had a great time chatting with other parents about our own spooky experiences and past ghost hunts. There’s nothing quite like swapping ghost stories in the dim glow of an old mill on a Saturday night. And of course, we adults weren’t about to miss out on the fun—we conducted our own little paranormal investigation, adding to the evening’s thrills!

The event took place at Hallam Mill in Stockport, organised by the fabulous team at Paranormal Penny Pinchers. We first met them at Paracon last September, and I was so impressed with their approach that I knew this would be the perfect opportunity for my girls to finally experience a real ghost hunt. Up until now, every event I’ve attended has been strictly 18+, but this was designed specifically for families.

Parents and Paranormal Investigators

One of the things that put me at ease right away was the fact that the Paranormal Penny Pinchers team are not only seasoned investigators but also parents and childcare professionals. They really understood how to create a safe, engaging, and age-appropriate experience. Their own son was there to help out, and he quickly bonded with my daughters, chatting about school and joining in the fun. It felt like a real family-friendly atmosphere, which is exactly what we were hoping for.

The history of Hallam Mill was fascinating, and I loved listening to Dave share stories about its origins and the spirits said to linger there. My daughters, already familiar with some ghost hunting equipment from our experiments at home, were eager to dive in. They were particularly excited by the toy robots in the pirate room and had a great time learning how to use cat balls and white noise devices to communicate with Spirit. What surprised me most was how independent they were—they didn’t want me hovering around, which is unusual! They confidently explored different rooms with their new friends, totally immersed in the experience. The fact that Hallam Mill also operates as an escape room facility by day added a fun and immersive touch to the atmosphere.

Confident Young Investigators

While my daughters had used some of this equipment before, they hadn’t had much practice in a real investigation setting, so they weren’t quite sure how to interpret the results. But by the end of the night, they had gained so much confidence! They learned how to safely interact with Spirit energies, and they were buzzing with excitement about putting their new knowledge to use at home. The absolute highlight for them? Receiving their very own official Paranormal Investigator certificates from Paranormal Penny Pinchers! And the goodie bags were a delightful surprise—they each got an EMF meter, a torch, a cat ball, and, of course, a bag of sweets to keep their energy levels up. Such a thoughtful touch!

I can’t recommend these family-friendly ghost hunts enough. They’re fantastic value for money, and the Paranormal Penny Pinchers team put on an event that is entertaining, educational, and genuinely fun. If you’re a paranormal-loving parent looking for an unforgettable experience with your little ghost hunters, this is definitely the way to go!

Spooky image of Hallam Mill in Stockport, a traditional séance with candle and potion bottles, Halloween Samhain theme. Ghost stories paranormal investigation. Witchy Wednesday pagan family pagan mom at SpookyMrsGreen.com spooky family lifestyle blog.
Witchy Wednesday: The Ancestors Whisper at Hallam Mill 🌙✹

Did you enjoy this article? Download your FREE copy of LGBT fantasy short story It’s Complicated (The Redcliffe Novels) and meet the werewolves of Cornwall, England.  Click here. 

Note: This article may contain affiliate links, meaning that if you shop using the links I share, I receive a small income at no extra cost to yourself. Thank you for supporting SpookyMrsGreen!

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Book Review: “Phantom Wedding” by A.N. Porter

Posted on February 7, 2025 by SpookyMrsGreen

Happy Free-for-All Friday, my spooky friends! This week, I’m diving into another ghostly tale with my latest book review. I picked up “Phantom Wedding” by A.N. Porter, hoping for a chilling British ghost story that would send shivers down my spine. The premise sounded promising, and as someone who loves a good haunting—both in fiction and real life—I was eager to see where the story would take me.

Unfortunately, this one didn’t quite hit the mark for me. While the book had its eerie moments and an interesting take on ghostly energy, I found myself struggling to connect with the characters or feel any real suspense. Maybe it’s written for a younger, faster-paced audience, or maybe it’s just a matter of personal taste. Either way, I’ll share my honest thoughts in today’s review.

Book cover image for “Phantom Wedding” by A.N. Porter spooky ghost story, spooky romance, poltergeist story, London poltergeist reviewed by paranormal author Catherine Green at SpookyMrsGreen spooky family lifestyle blog.
“Phantom Wedding” by A.N. Porter reviewed at SpookyMrsGreen.com.

My Review of “Phantom Wedding” by A.N. Porter

I struggled to read this book. It sounded like a good British ghost story, and I was excited to read it, but honestly, it lacked the suspense that I had expected. The story moves very fast, and maybe it reflects the Gen Z audience for whom it is written, I don’t know. I’m an older Millennial and I like to take my time getting to know the characters in my books and enjoying the build-up. This book offers some gruesome scenes and reminds me of the movie “The Exorcist” in places, although it is not religious.

What I did like was the descriptions of ghostly activity being connected to energy and energetic memories. As a ghost hunter this resonated with me, and it is nice to see it described in a book with a mix of spiritual and scientific evidence. It will make you think about your home and the history of where you live, that’s for sure! I was a little more sceptical about the poltergeist activity described in the story, mainly because I have never directly experienced it myself and find it hard to believe.

Ultimately, I wanted to enjoy this book, but I just couldn’t. I didn’t connect with any of the characters, I felt no emotion for any of the events that unfolded, and I found it a bit ridiculous in places. Still, it is always worth giving an indie author a chance, because you never know who you will connect with in a story.  

About the Book

Patsy, a twenty-nine-year-old graduate working in music PR, was elated to receive the keys to her new North London flat. After all, acquiring a flat in the capital these days was like gold dust – so she couldn’t have been more pleased. But she soon realises that this is no ordinary flat. She gets an eerie feeling, accompanied by strange sightings and unsettling noises. It quickly becomes apparent that there is something or someone else occupying the same space. She is not alone… Her world is soon turned upside down when strange unexplainable events unfold. What or who is determined to make their presence known? Patsy has hopes and dreams of getting married and starting a family with her fiancĂ© Ben, but she quickly realises, that she may just get more than she’d bargained for…

Get the Book

If you fancy giving Phantom Wedding a go, you can grab a copy from Amazon or Waterstones using my affiliate links. Have you read it? Let’s chat about it in the comments!

Text reads, "Free e-book download. LGBT werewolf fantasy story. Download Now." Image of a sexy man showing a tattoo on his chest staring at the viewer with a sultry gaze. Vampire and werewolf fantasy books for adults. 3D book cover image for "It's Complicated (The Redcliffe Novels)" from the vampire and werewolf fantasy book series by LGBT fantasy book writer Catherine Green.
LGBT werewolf fantasy story “It’s Complicated (The Redcliffe Novels)” by Catherine Green

Did you enjoy this article? Download your FREE copy of LGBT fantasy short story It’s Complicated (The Redcliffe Novels) and meet the werewolves of Cornwall, England.  Click here. 

Note: I received a copy of this book in return for an honest review. This article may contain affiliate links, meaning that if you shop using the links I share, I receive a small income at no extra cost to yourself. Thank you for supporting SpookyMrsGreen!

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Witchy Wednesday: The Gothic Side of Romance

Posted on February 5, 2025 by SpookyMrsGreen

Valentine’s Day is often associated with bright red roses, fluffy teddy bears, and heart-shaped chocolates. But for those of us who walk the witchy, gothic path, romance has a darker, more mysterious allure.

Step into my sanctuary as we explore the darker side of romance in today’s blog post. Love isn’t always about sunshine and roses—sometimes, it’s whispered in the shadows, wrapped in mystery, and touched by the supernatural. Let’s embrace the gothic allure of passion, where love stories are hauntingly beautiful and enchantingly dark
 đŸ–€âœš

DALL·E 2025-02-04 11.46.55 - A gothic woman with flowing auburn hair in a dark, lacy dress holding a blood-red rose. Her expression is mysterious and enchanting, with deep, shadow. Witchy Wednesday: The Gothic Side of Romance at SpookyMrsGreen spooky family lifestyle blog.
Witchy Wednesday: The Gothic Side of Romance at SpookyMrsGreen.com đŸ–€âœš

Embracing the Dark and Mysterious

There’s something undeniably seductive about gothic romance. Whether it’s the brooding vampire lover, the passionate yet tormented werewolf, or the spellbinding connection between witches and mortals, gothic love stories tap into something primal and otherworldly. These are the tales of love that defy time, challenge the ordinary, and embrace the shadows.

As a paranormal author, I’ve always been drawn to this darker side of love. The thrill of danger, the deep emotional intensity, and the supernatural elements make gothic romance an irresistible escape. If you’re like me, you might prefer a candlelit evening with a haunted love story over a traditional rom-com.

Spooky Souls Deserve Romantic Gifts Too!

If you’re searching for the perfect Valentine’s Day gift for your gothic soulmate, I’ve put together a Valentine’s Day Gifts for Spooky Souls list on Amazon. It’s filled with eerie, enchanting, and alternative gifts to celebrate love with a hint of darkness. From gothic jewellery to witchy home dĂ©cor, there’s something for every spooky heart.

đŸ–€ Browse my handpicked gift ideas here: Valentine’s Day Gifts for the Spooky Soul đŸ’€â€ïž

How Do You Celebrate Dark Romance?

Do you embrace the gothic side of love? Whether it’s curling up with a hauntingly beautiful book, casting a love spell under the full moon, or sharing ghost stories with your valentine, I’d love to hear how you celebrate romance with a spooky twist!

Drop a comment below and let’s revel in the magic of gothic love. đŸ–€âœš

Image of a sexy dark-haired man wearing a black leather jacket, staring at the viewer, and looking mysterious. 3D book cover image for "Heart of the Vampire (A Redcliffe Novel)" from the vampire and werewolf fantasy book series by LGBT fantasy book writer Catherine Green including phone and iPad download images for tablet, iPhone, and android book readers.
LGBT fantasy book series set in Cornwall. “Heart of the Vampire (The Redcliffe Novels)” #5 by Catherine Green.

Did you enjoy this article? Download your FREE copy of LGBT fantasy short story It’s Complicated (The Redcliffe Novels) and meet the werewolves of Cornwall, England.  Click here. 

Note: This article may contain affiliate links, meaning that if you shop using the links I share, I receive a small income at no extra cost to yourself. Thank you for supporting SpookyMrsGreen!

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đŸ‘»âœš Crystals, Coven, and Care: Embracing Love the Witchy Way âœšđŸŠ‡

Posted on February 3, 2025 by SpookyMrsGreen

We’ve survived the dark, cold clutches of January, and now we step into February—the month of love. But hold onto your broomsticks, my dears, because this year, I’m embracing a different kind of romance. No candlelit dinners, no mushy cards—just pure, enchanted self-love. 💜

You see, on this eerie journey of parenting and marriage, I’ve uncovered a little secret: no one knows what I need better than me. And right now, I need some magic, some care, and maybe a little mystery. Thankfully, my little ghouls—err, I mean daughters—are at the perfect age to join me in this bewitching adventure.

Colourful image of fluorite green, purple crystal thumb stone worry stone, red jasper tumble stone, amblygonite yellow tumble stones, yellow jasper tumble stone, Tiger’s eye tumble stone, Leopard skin orbicular jasper. Blog post Crystals, Coven, and Care: Embracing Love the Witchy Way at SpookyMrsGreen spooky family lifestyle blog.
Crystals, Coven, and Care: Embracing Love the Witchy Way at SpookyMrsGreen.com.

The Mystical World of Crystals

Lately, my eldest daughter and I have been diving into the mystical world of crystals. It all began after a birthday visit to a crystal shop, where we left with new treasures shimmering with energy. That visit rekindled something long hidden—my own collection of enchanted stones, buried in the depths of a forgotten drawer like ancient relics waiting to be unearthed. My daughter insisted we retrieve them from their dusty slumber, and so, our magical quest began!

Armed with storage boxes from Amazon (because every witch needs a well-organized spell kit), we sorted, categorized, and rediscovered long-lost gems. We consulted our crystal bibles like ancient tomes of wisdom, piecing together the forgotten stories of tumblestones I found in a charity shop over a decade ago. Each crystal held its own power, its own whispers of the past—and together, we breathed new life into them.

The Joy of Spending Time Together

But the true magic of this journey? The bond between us. My daughters, now 11 and 14, are not just my little monsters; they’re my best friends, my confidantes, my fellow adventurers in this haunted house we call home. We discuss everything, from ghostly career paths (my youngest fancies becoming a detective, so she’s already scouting criminology programs!) to decoding the unique quirks of their dad—his autistic habits, his lovable oddities, and how we, as a team, navigate the mysteries of family life.

We laugh, we learn, we love. And that, my friends, is what this season is truly about.

How are You Feeling?

So, tell me, dear souls—how are you feeling? Do you need to sprinkle a little self-love into your life? Remember, we don’t need a romantic partner to fulfill us. We can craft our own coven, surround ourselves with friends who share our magic, and embrace love in all its supernatural forms. 💀💜

Stay spooky, stay enchanted, and above all—love yourself first. đŸ•Żïžâœš

Did you enjoy this article? Download your FREE copy of LGBT fantasy short story It’s Complicated (The Redcliffe Novels) and meet the werewolves of Cornwall, England.  Click here. 

Note: This article may contain affiliate links, meaning that if you shop using the links I share, I receive a small income at no extra cost to yourself. Thank you for supporting SpookyMrsGreen!

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Book Review: “A Critical Introduction to Tarot” by Simon Kenny

Posted on January 31, 2025 by SpookyMrsGreen

Happy #FreeforallFriday, friends! 🎉 Today, I’m diving into the mystical and thought-provoking world of Tarot with “A Critical Introduction to Tarot” by Simon Kenny.

I was thrilled to receive a paperback copy from the publisher in exchange for my honest review and let me tell you—it’s as deep and fascinating as a perfect Tarot reading. Let’s explore this blend of philosophy and mysticism together!

Book cover image for “A Critical Introduction to Tarot” by Simon Kenny book about Tarot reading truth about Tarot insight about Tarot cards reviewed by paranormal author Catherine Green at SpookyMrsGreen spooky family lifestyle blog.
Book Review: “A Critical Introduction to Tarot” by Simon Kenny 📖✹

My Review of “A Critical Introduction to Tarot” by Simon Kenny

I was excited to read this book but truthfully, I found it a bit too heavy! There is a lot of information within these pages, including brief history of Tarot cards, references to popular psychologists, descriptions connecting Tarot to mystic practices including numerology, Kabbalah, metaphysics, witchcraft and more. It is all interesting and relevant, but you have to really concentrate on some of these chapters. This is a book for the academics and not the casual Tarot reader.

About the Book

How does Tarot work? Why is it so popular today? Is it just for fortune tellers?

Tarot has seen a recent uptick in interest that warrants explanation. This book, however, is not another take on the cards’ meanings and how to read them. Instead, independent researcher Simon Kenny presents Tarot to the incredulous and curious and those who wish to know the basis for its continued cultural relevance.

A Critical Introduction to Tarot explains the practice in its historical and metaphysical contexts, and investigates its supporting belief structures, from witchcraft and magical practices to popular psychology. Throughout these pages, connections to politics, philosophy, psychology, numerology, astrology, Freemasonry, statistics, interpretative symbolism, self-help, social media — even the nature of truth itself — are explored.

An accessible read aimed at demystifying Tarot for those unfamiliar with its magical, occult roots and growing use as a personal development tool.

Buy the Book: Amazon; WHSmith; Waterstones; Bookshop.org.

Excerpt from LGBT fantasy book "Vampire of Blackpool" by vampire writer Catherine Green.
Excerpt from LGBT fantasy book “Vampire of Blackpool” by vampire writer Catherine Green.

Did you enjoy this article? Download your FREE copy of LGBT fantasy short story It’s Complicated (The Redcliffe Novels) and meet the werewolves of Cornwall, England.  Click here. 

Note: This article may contain affiliate links, meaning that if you shop using the links I share, I receive a small income at no extra cost to yourself. Thank you for supporting SpookyMrsGreen!

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#WitchyWednesday: Reflecting on January and Welcoming Imbolc

Posted on January 29, 2025 by SpookyMrsGreen

As January draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the month that has passed. It’s felt like a long one, full of highs and lows, but mostly happy as we’ve celebrated my birthday and my teenage daughter’s birthday. These milestones have been moments of joy amidst the chaos of our everyday lives.

This time of year always seems to bring a mix of energy. It’s a quiet month of reflection, but also one that stirs hope for what’s to come. It’s the time when the wheel of the year turns towards Imbolc, a festival that marks the halfway point between the Winter Solstice and the Spring Equinox. It’s a time of awakening, of new beginnings, and of planting seeds for the months ahead. This Imbolc, I am focused on embracing the light as it begins to return, and on finding the strength to persevere through the darker moments.

Black and white image of snow on a straight road with snow covered trees and forest surrounding it. Winter turning to Spring. #WitchyWednesday: Reflecting on January and Welcoming Imbolc at SpookyMrsGreen spooky family lifestyle blog.
#WitchyWednesday: Reflecting on January and Welcoming Imbolc đŸ–€âœš

Reflecting on January and Welcoming Imbolc

Our family has faced its challenges, especially as we navigate the complexities of life with my husband’s autism. It’s not always easy, and some days feel harder than others. But one thing I’ve learned is the importance of communication, of speaking openly about our feelings, and of including our daughters in these conversations. Together, we face the ups and downs, and we support each other as best we can. It’s not always perfect, but we make it through.

As Imbolc approaches, I am reminded that it’s a time for cleansing and renewal. I’ve been thinking about how I can honour this season of hope, not only for myself but for my family. Imbolc is traditionally a time to celebrate the goddess Brigid, who embodies healing, creativity, and the spark of new life. It’s the perfect energy for us as we look ahead, recharging our spirits, and looking forward to brighter days.

Time to Nurture Creativity

This year, I am embracing Imbolc as a time to nurture creativity. For me, that often means writing, creating new stories, and connecting with the magic that flows through life. It’s a reminder that even in the darkest months, there is light to be found if we know where to look.

I also encourage you to take this time to honour the season. Cleanse your space, light a candle to represent the return of the light, and take a moment to reflect on what you want to bring into your life. Whether it’s new opportunities, creativity, or just the courage to face the challenges ahead, Imbolc is the perfect time to plant the seeds for your own personal growth.

May this Imbolc bring you renewed energy and inspiration. Let’s welcome the return of the light with open hearts, ready for whatever the next season may bring.

Blessed Imbolc to you all! 🌿✹

Text reads, "The Wolf and the Fairy - download now! A magical tale of love and betrayal." Image of a man and woman about to kiss. She has claw marks on her face and is brightly coloured. He appears in greyscale colour and his shirt is ripped. Fairytale werewolf fiction. 3D book cover image for The Wolf and the Fairy by LGBT fantasy book writer Catherine Green.
Contemporary adult Gothic fairytale “The Wolf and the Fairy” by Catherine Green.

Did you enjoy this article? Download your FREE copy of LGBT fantasy short story It’s Complicated (The Redcliffe Novels) and meet the werewolves of Cornwall, England.  Click here. 

Note: This article may contain affiliate links, meaning that if you shop using the links I share, I receive a small income at no extra cost to yourself. Thank you for supporting SpookyMrsGreen!

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Book Review: “Ghosted” by Mo Fanning

Posted on January 27, 2025 by SpookyMrsGreen

Happy #MummyMonday, friends! 🎉 Today, I’m diving into a heart-warming romance that proves it’s never too late for love—even when retirement is just around the corner. 💕

I was lucky enough to receive a paperback copy of “Ghosted” by Mo Fanning from the author in exchange for my honest thoughts, and I can’t wait to share my review with you. Ready to discover a story about second chances, laughter, and love? Let’s jump in! 📖✹

Book cover image for “Ghosted” by Mo Fanning second chance romance older romance retirement age romance reviewed by paranormal author Catherine Green at SpookyMrsGreen spooky family lifestyle blog.
“Ghosted” by Mo Fanning

My Review of “Ghosted” by Mo Fanning

It took a little effort for me to get involved with this book. Silas is not really likeable at first, and Ellen is a bit distant when we first meet her. She comes across as a grumpy old woman to be honest! But I stuck with the book and I’m glad that I did. While the subplot that Silas unwittingly gets involved with is a little ridiculous it is totally believable and probably does happen.

I enjoyed the slow romance between two older characters who were just average people with no specific professional achievements to brag about. They worked minimum wage jobs all their adult lives, they raised children, they lost their spouses in tragic circumstances. And then they found each other.

The book is about how we can still learn a lot of lessons as we grow older. We can learn that our own children are not perfect and that we are not necessarily to blame for that fact. We can learn about the wider world and lifestyles that are different to those we have lived with. We can learn to love again when we have lost a beloved family member. And we can overcome illness and the natural deterioration of our bodies as we grow older. It is a good book!

About the Book

Professional Santa Silas French fills out the same application as always for his regular stint at a New York department store.

Ellen Gitelman hangs her jacket behind the counter at the East Side Diner and smoothes out her waitress uniform, as she waits for the coffee pot to stop percolating.

A double whammy of bad news leaves Silas jobless, with no money to pay for a planned trip to reconcile with his estranged gay son Joey in Florida. Cutbacks at the diner cost Ellen her job.

A chance tip from his local bar gets Silas a job as Santa on a cruise ship that happens to be docking in Florida, where Joey lives with his husband and kids. Ellen heads to a cafe across the street and spots a bulletin board ad selling tickets for a cruise. Her riotous friend Julia volunteers as travel companion.

The MS Viking just happens to be carrying 3000 gay men in the mood to party. What could go wrong?

Silas soon finds himself involved with some unsavoury business and meets a potential new love in the form of Ellen.

Over the course of the Christmas Holiday cruise, the three slowly learn that what they thought they were seeking isn’t really what would make them truly happy, and that they are in control of their own choices.

GHOSTED is a dark romantic comedy about the continuing bonds we have with our loved ones after they are gone.

Buy the Book: Amazon; Waterstones.

Text reads, "Free e-book download. LGBT werewolf fantasy story. Download Now." Image of a sexy man showing a tattoo on his chest staring at the viewer with a sultry gaze. Vampire and werewolf fantasy books for adults. 3D book cover image for "It's Complicated (The Redcliffe Novels)" from the vampire and werewolf fantasy book series by LGBT fantasy book writer Catherine Green.
LGBT werewolf fantasy story “It’s Complicated (The Redcliffe Novels)” by Catherine Green

Did you enjoy this article? Download your FREE copy of LGBT fantasy short story It’s Complicated (The Redcliffe Novels) and meet the werewolves of Cornwall, England.  Click here. 

Note: This article may contain affiliate links, meaning that if you shop using the links I share, I receive a small income at no extra cost to yourself. Thank you for supporting SpookyMrsGreen!

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