In this day and age of celebrity chefs, cooking a meal is often a quick and pomp-free affair. However, the twenty first century now has an opportunity to cook according to the rituals of those who lived five hundred years ago. 'The Magic Book of Cookery' is the latest release from Danaan Elderhill, a noted Witchcraft and Shamanism expert. The book describes the secret gatherings and meetings of a coven from the 17th century, who had to hide and deny their beliefs in order to survive during witch-hunting times. The book shares the rituals, recipes and spells that made their culinary gatherings a spectacle of friendship, joy and camaraderie. With a ritual to accompany each recipe, readers are invited to combine the two to help them through a number of modern-day issues. "The book contains everything from dinner rituals to improve relationships and finances to rituals that call for a soul-mate, assist with finding a job and even provide solace from the death of a loved one," says Elderhill, who has written two other books also related to the coven secret practices. Continuing, "While it is primarily a Pagan book, anyone can use it.

Those not wanting the accompanying rituals have an opportunity to focus solely on the recipe and add some historical culture to their pallets." European at heart, the book reflects European values, wisdom and old Pagan practices. Instilling fun by combining magic with friendship and great company, hundreds are already realising the value of ritualistic dining. "It wants to help people go back to the old times where people met and had fun during their meals. By giving the meal ceremony and meaningful purpose, people are also able to improve their lives," Elderhill adds. With dozens of stunning hand-drawn images, the book is poised to become a popular alternative to the traditional cookbook.