Magic pervades every inch of Wales, from Anglesey in the north to the Vale of Glamorgan in the south, from the Marches in the east to the shores of the west. Every corner of this landscape has stories of local magicians and witches, yet so many of these figures are relatively unknown outside of Wales and are overshadowed by their English counterparts.
Set in encyclopedia format, Of Doves & Ravens invites readers on a tour through the rich folklore of this landscape. Discover the recollections of market fortune-tellers who historically plied their trade in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, and meet the gwrach who dwell in lonely places; the dynen hysbys who help find lost cattle and protect against the malevolence of witches; and the legendary magicians who summon demons and often are buried in the walls of church. This is magical Wales revealed.
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ISBN 978-1837050093 | 320 pages
September 4, 2025 | The History Press​
We officially launched the book on October 16th 2025 at Treadwells Books in London. Dr Christina Oakley Harrington hosted a soiree talk followed by a book signing. Please listen to a recording of the launch talk above.
Reviews of Of Doves & Ravens
‘Of Doves and Ravens is a treasure trove of legend and lore, preserving the tales of Welsh magic and those who wield it. Stimpson has woven together stories of all kinds of witches and wise folk, firmly anchoring them in their regional, historical, and cultural context. A stunningly curated work, this book is sure to enchant anyone with a love of folklore, magic, and the majesty of Wales.’
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- Nicholas Pearson, author of The Witching Stones