My Favorite Reads: Cozy Mystery Edition

I'm excited to talk about some of my favorite book series today, and they all fall into a category called "Cozy Mysteries." If you're not familiar with that term, don't worry, I'll explain. Basically, cozy mysteries are a type of crime story that's meant to be relaxing and enjoyable, not scary or disturbing.

Think of it like this: instead of a hard-boiled detective chasing down dangerous criminals, you have an ordinary person, like a baker or a librarian, who gets involved in solving a mystery. There's usually no graphic violence or explicit scenes, and the focus is more on figuring out "who did it" than on the gruesome details of the crime. These stories often take place in small towns or close-knit communities, which adds to the cozy atmosphere.

The emphasis in these books is on the puzzle itself and getting to know the characters. You'll spend time with the amateur detective as they gather clues and interview suspects, and you'll often feel like you're part of the community yourself. It's a lighthearted and comforting way to enjoy a mystery, perfect for when you want to escape and relax.

The Books

Agatha Raisin, M.C. Beaton 

In 2020, I discovered the Agatha Raisin books. It happened during the really strict Covid-19 lockdowns when my office closed, and I had to work from home for three months. At first, I loved having all that free time. I finally had the chance to work on all my hobbies and finish my art projects.

But after a month, I ran out of things to do. I had way more free time than projects to fill it. One evening, feeling really bored, I was looking for something to watch on TV while I ate dinner. I found that Acorn TV was offering a free trial week, and I saw a show starting called "Agatha Raisin and the Quiche of Death." I really enjoyed that first episode and noticed in the credits that it was based on a book series by M.C. Beaton. That made me curious, so I ordered the first book from Amazon, and I was completely hooked.

I ended up buying and reading all the Agatha Raisin books that were available at the time. I finished them all in about four months. Sadly, M.C. Beaton passed away in December 2019. However, the series didn't end there. The publisher found another writer to continue the stories, and they're releasing a new book about once a year.

The Premise

Imagine a woman named Agatha Raisin, she used to be a big shot in public relations, very good at her job and not afraid to speak her mind. She decides to retire to a quiet, pretty village in the English countryside called Carsley, thinking she'll finally have a peaceful life. But things don't go as planned. Instead of relaxing, Agatha finds herself constantly dealing with murders happening around her. She's not a police officer, but she can't help but get involved. With her strong personality and a real need to know what's going on, she starts investigating the crimes herself. Agatha digs into the lives of the people in the village, uncovering all sorts of secrets. Her investigations are often messy and funny, as her forceful style clashes with the quiet village life. So, instead of a peaceful retirement, Agatha becomes an amateur detective, solving murders and stirring up trouble in her new home.

1. The Quiche of Death (1992)
2. The Vicious Vet (1993)
3. The Potted Gardener (1994)
4. The Walkers of Dembley (1995)
5. The Murderous Marriage (1996)
6. The Terrible Tourist (1997)
7. The Wellspring of Death (1998)
8. The Wizard of Evesham (1999)
9. The Witch of Wyckhadden (1999)
10. The Fairies of Fryfam (2000)
11. The Love from Hell (2001)
12. The Day the Floods Came (2002)
13. The Case of the Curious Curate (2003)
14. The Haunted House (2003)
15. The Deadly Dance (2004)
16. The Perfect Paragon (2005)
17. Love, Lies and Liquor (2006)
18. Kissing Christmas Goodbye (2007)
19. A Spoonful of Poison (2008)
20. There Goes the Bride (2009)
21. Busy Body (2010)
22. As the Pig Turns (2011)
23. Hiss and Hers (2012)
24. Christmas Crumble (2012)
25. Something Borrowed, Someone Dead (2013)
26. Hell's Bells (2013)
27. The Blood of an Englishman (2014)
28. Agatha's First Case (2015)
29. Dishing the Dirt (2015)
30. Pushing up Daisies (2016)
31. The Witches' Tree (2017)
32. The Dead Ringer (2018)
33. Beating about the Bush (2019)
34. Hot to Trot (2020)
35. Down the Hatch (2021)
36. Devil’s Delight (2022)
37. Dead on Target (2023)
38. Killing Time (2024)

Hamish Macbeth, M.C. Beaton 

I was really bummed out when I finished reading all the Agatha Raisin books. It felt like a whole world I loved had just vanished, especially since M.C. Beaton, the author, had passed away. I was genuinely sad thinking that was the end of the series. Then, I was pleasantly surprised to find out that she had written other books too! I learned that there was another series called the Hamish Macbeth Mysteries, which gave me something new to explore. It was a relief to discover that I could still enjoy more of her work, even after finishing the Agatha Raisin series. Before creating Agatha Raisin, M.C. Beaton wrote the Hamish Macbeth books, which became a TV series in the UK between 1995 and 1997

The Premise 

The books are about a police officer named Hamish Macbeth. He lives in a tiny, beautiful village called Lochdubh, tucked away in the Scottish Highlands. Hamish isn't really driven to climb the career ladder. He'd much rather have a peaceful, easy life. But, he's surprisingly clever. Even though he wants things to be calm, he always ends up investigating murders and other strange mysteries that happen in his village. He has to solve these crimes to keep his community safe. On top of that, he's dealing with complicated friendships and romantic relationships, and all the odd and funny things that happen in a small town.

1. Death of a Gossip (1985)
2. Death of a Cad (1987)
3. Death of an Outsider (1988)
4. Death of a Perfect Wife (1989)
5. Death of a Hussy (1990)
6. Death of a Snob (1991)
7. Death of a Prankster (1992)
8. Death of a Glutton (1993)
9. Death of a Travelling Man (1993)
10. Death of a Charming Man (1994)
11. Death of a Nag (1995)
12. Death of a Macho Man (1996)
13. Death of a Dentist (1997)
14. Death of a Scriptwriter (1998)
15. Death of an Addict (1999)
16. A Highland Christmas (1999)
17. Death of a Dustman (2001)
18. Death of a Celebrity (2002)
19. Death of a Village (2003)
20. Death of a Poison Pen (2004)
21. Death of a Bore (2005)
22. Death of a Dreamer (2006)
23. Death of a Maid (2007)
24. Death of a Gentle Lady (2008)
25. Death of a Witch (2009)
26. Death of a Valentine (2010)
27. Death of a Chimney Sweep (2011)
28. Death of a Kingfisher (2012)
29. Death of Yesterday (2013)
30. Death of a Policeman (2014)
31. Death of a Liar (2015)
32. Knock, Knock, You're Dead! (2016)
33. Death of a Nurse (2016)
34. Death of a Ghost (2017)
35. Death of an Honest Man (2018)
36. Death of a Green-Eyed Monster (2022)
37. Death of a Laird (2022)
38. Death of a Traitor (2023)
39. Death of a Spy (2024)
40. Death of a Smuggler (2025)

The Booktown Mysteries, Lorna Barrett

I sell books, and I'm a big reader myself, especially books about books! When I go to thrift stores to find old or unusual books for my online shop, I also look for interesting things to read for fun. I found a book called 'Murder is Binding' at a thrift store, and it turned out to be the first in a series I'd never heard of. I enjoyed it a lot! Since then, I've read about twelve books in the series, but I've been reading them in whatever order I find them at thrift stores.

The Premise 

The Booktown Mystery Series by Lorna Barrett centers around Tricia Miles, a savvy businesswoman who owns "Haven't Got a Clue," a mystery bookstore in the quaint New Hampshire town of Stoneham. This town has rebranded itself as a "Booktown," attracting bibliophiles and tourists. However, amidst the charming bookstores and literary events, Tricia frequently finds herself entangled in real-life mysteries, often involving murder. As an amateur sleuth, she must navigate the close-knit community, uncover hidden secrets, and clear her name or those of her friends, all while running her bookstore. Essentially, it's a cozy mystery series set in a book-lover's paradise, where fictional mysteries become all too real.

1. Murder is Binding (2008)
2. Bookmarked for Death (2009)
3. Bookplate Special (2009)
4. Chapter and Hearse (2010)
5. Sentenced to Death (2011)
6. Murder on the Half Shelf (2012)
7. Not the Killing Type (2013)
8. Book Clubbed (2014)
9. A Fatal Chapter (2015)
10. Title Wave (2016)
11. A Just Clause (2017)
12. Poisoned Pages (2018)
13. A Killer Edition (2019)
14. Handbook for Homicide (2020)
15. A Deadly Deletion (2021)
16. Clause of Death (2022)
17. A Questionable Character (2023)
18. A Controversial Cover (2024)
19. A Perilous Plot (2025)

Witch Way Librarian Mysteries, Angela M. Sanders 

This is a mystery series with a touch of magic, and it feels like a cozy read to me. The main character is a witch who solves mysteries, and what's cool is that her magical abilities get stronger as the story goes on, which helps her figure out each case. I really enjoy the world the author created and how the witch uses her growing powers to solve the puzzles.

The Premise 

The Witch Way Librarian Mystery series centers around Josie Way, a librarian who discovers she's also a witch, in the small, quirky town of Wilfred, Oregon. She uses her newfound magical abilities, along with her librarian skills, to solve murders and other mysteries that pop up in her town. Essentially, it's a cozy mystery series with a fun, magical twist, combining elements of small-town life, witchcraft, and detective work.

1. Bait and Witch (2021)
2. Seven-Year Witch (2021)
3. Witch and Famous (2022)
4. Witch Upon a Star (2023)
5. Gone with the Witch (2024)
6. The Witch Is Back (2024)
7. Witch and Tell (2025) 

Do you have a favorite cozy mystery series? If so, what is it?

Carolina Dean 

Book Lover

12th House Books 

Insane in the Otane!

The Otane comes to us from the practice of Santeria, which means "Way of the Saints".  Other names for this religion include Lucumi, and Regla de Ocha. Santeria originally developed in 19th century Cuba and became a blend of the Yoruba Religion, Roman Catholicism, and Spiritualism. Although Santeria is an initiatory tradition, it has no central authority but rather is comprised of autonomous groups of people and families. Santeria is a complex religion and there is a great deal of information not available to non-initiates so the focus of this article will be on the Otane. 

Practitioners worship the Orishas, or Gods. There are several Orishas who have their own colors, foods, rituals, sacrifices, areas of life, rules and traditions associated with them. According to Migene Golzalez Whippler in her book Rituals and Spells of Santeria:

Olodumare- God among the Yoruba - is also known as Olofi ini Santeria. According to one of the legends - patakis - or Santeria. Olofi created the orishas by gathering together a number of flat smooth stones - otanes - and projecting some of his ache into them. From these otanes, filled with Olofi's divine energy, the orishas were born. Olofi then divided all the various forces of nature among the orishas and gave them dominion over emotions and other transcendental powers. This is why santeros believe that the ache of the orishas is concentrated in the stones that represent them. During the initiation or the asiento, when a person "makes the saint" the powers of the orishas are brought down into their respective otanes by means of a special ceremony. Each orisha has a specific number of stones ascribed to him or her. Their stones are kept inside colorful tureens - soperas- in colors of the orisha. These stones are fed periodically with the blood of the sacrificial animals which are sacred to each orishas. The meat of the animals, which is believed to have the blessings and the ache of the orisha, is then cooked and eaten by the santeros. 

According to another source, practitioners of Santeria (santeros) believe that the Orishas put an otane on the earth for every person. As a consequence, each individual santeros have their own otane.  There are no requirements for what makes an otane an otane. They can be large or small, round or flat, smooth or rough. It is only necessary that the individual finds it and recognizes its special attraction. The stone then becomes a powerful talisman to assist the practitioner with his or her spells. 

As stated above, when not in use the otane is kept in a special soup tureen or other ceramic container along with specific herbs associated with the particular Orisha that the individual serves. Through ritual ceremonies, the otane is occasionally fed the blood of sacrificed animals and then becomes infused with the ache (power) of the Orisha. 

The otane features prominently in the 1982 novel The Religion by Nicholas Conde which was later adapted into a movie called The Believers starring Martin Sheen. 

- Carolina Dean 

Further Reading:

• Santeria: From Slavery to Slavery, Ken Philpott
• Cuban Santerian Practices  
• Know the Importance of Stones in the Sacred Rule of Santeria

The Pendulum Lady

 The Pendulum Lady

by Carolina Dean 

The afternoon sun, filtered through the lace curtains of Susan’s parlor, cast long, distorted shadows across the cluttered room. Dust motes danced in the golden light, illuminating the countless trinkets and talismans that adorned every surface – dried herbs strung from the ceiling, tarot cards scattered across a velvet-draped table, and a collection of oddly shaped stones nestled in velvet pouches. Susan, her face a topographical map of wrinkles etched by decades of worry and whispered secrets, watched Cathy fidget. The girl, barely out of her teens, her youthful features usually bright and hopeful, now wore a mask of terror. Her eyes, wide and dark, seemed to hold the weight of a world too heavy for her slender frame.

“It’s…it’s about my boyfriend, Mark,” Cathy stammered, her voice barely a breath. “I think…I think he’s not…normal.” Her fingers twisted a silver locket around her neck, a nervous habit that did little to quell the rising panic.

Susan nodded, her own hand, gnarled and spotted, reaching for the heavy amethyst pendulum hanging from a thick, silver chain. The amethyst, a deep, violet hue, pulsed with a faint, inner light. “Ask your question, child. Let the stone speak. It has seen more than you can imagine.”

Cathy’s voice trembled, a fragile thread in the still air. “Is Mark…is he a demon?”

Susan held the pendulum steady, her eyes fixed on the crystal. The pendulum swung, a slow, deliberate circle, then stopped, quivering as if sensing an unseen presence. It began to rotate in a wide, frantic arc, picking up speed, a silent scream in motion. A sudden, bone-deep chill filled the small, cluttered room. The air crackled with an unseen energy, raising the hairs on Cathy's arms. A voice, a low, guttural growl that resonated with a primal dread, echoed from the shadows, “Cathy, my sweet. Come back to me.”

Mark stood in the doorway, the afternoon sunlight catching his normally handsome features, twisting them into a grotesque parody of a smile. His eyes, usually warm and inviting, burned with an unholy light, a cold, predatory gleam that made Cathy’s blood run cold. The air around him shimmered, distorting the very fabric of reality.

“He’s here!” Cathy screamed, scrambling back, her eyes wide with terror. Susan, surprisingly quick for her age, grabbed Cathy’s arm, her grip surprisingly strong, and pulled her towards the tiny closet tucked under the stairs. The air thrummed with a malevolent energy, a tangible presence that pressed against them. “Quickly, child!”

They slammed the door, the flimsy wood offering little comfort against the unseen horror. Outside, Mark’s voice boomed, amplified by an unnatural power, “You cannot hide from me, Cathy. I will find you.” The floorboards vibrated beneath his heavy, deliberate steps.

Susan wrapped the amethyst pendulum around the doorknob, the crystal humming with a faint, protective energy, a barrier against the encroaching darkness. It pulsed, casting a faint, violet glow, a fragile shield against the demonic power.

However, a moment later, a dark, swirling cloud of smoke seeped under the closet door, tendrils of darkness reaching for them like grasping claws. The air thickened, heavy with the stench of sulfur and decay. Cathy gasped, her breath catching in her throat, "It's him, he's going to get in!" She clutched Susan’s arm, her nails digging into the old woman’s skin. Susan, her eyes narrowed, her face set with grim determination, removed a second, smaller pendulum made of quartz from her apron pocket. The quartz, clear and pure, held a faint, inner luminescence. She held it aloft, her hand steady, and began to swing it in slow, counterclockwise circles, her lips moving in a silent incantation, ancient words of banishment and binding.

The smoke writhed, reacting to the crystal’s power, recoiling from its pure energy. It was pulled, twisted, and sucked upward, into the heart of the quartz, a dark vortex consumed by light. The crystal pulsed, glowing faintly, and the smoke vanished, leaving behind only the lingering stench of sulfur. Mark, or what was left of him, was trapped, his essence contained within the crystalline prison.

Susan, her breath ragged, her face pale, dropped the pendulum into her apron pocket. “He’s contained for now,” she said, her voice hoarse, a low rasp that spoke of ancient battles. “But not for long. These things…they are persistent.”

They emerged from the closet, the air still thick with the residue of dark magic. Susan grabbed a small, ornate glass bowl from a shelf in the kitchen, its delicate carvings depicting scenes of celestial battles. She filled it with holy water from a chipped ceramic pitcher, the water shimmering with a faint, ethereal glow. Then, with a steady hand, she dropped the quartz pendulum into the bowl.

The water hissed, bubbling violently, as if a live coal had been plunged into its depths. A blinding flash of light erupted, momentarily blinding them, followed by a sharp, deafening crack that shattered the silence. The glass bowl shattered, scattering fragments of crystal and damp shards of glass across the floor. The air smelled of sulfur and ozone, a lingering testament to the battle that had just been fought.

Cathy stared, her eyes wide with a mixture of terror and relief, her body trembling. "He's gone?"

Susan nodded, her gaze fixed on the shattered remnants of the bowl, her eyes filled with a weariness that spanned centuries. "Gone. Destroyed. Some things, child, are best left undisturbed. They are ancient, powerful, and hungry. And some things, are best dealt with using a little bit of magic, and a whole lot of faith." She picked up the shattered amethyst pendulum, the silver chain now slightly bent, a physical manifestation of the struggle. "And sometimes, even faith is tested, and the tools we use must be reforged."

The Commonplace Book: The Scrapbook of My Mind

Commonplace Book (n): a personal collection of knowledge, ideas, quotations, and observations usually written in a notebook or journal. It is a place to record anything that you find interesting or inspiriting. 

I love books and journals. I collect and sell them. I think of journals as books waiting to be written. When I'm looking for old books, I also look for blank journals, which spark my imagination. Over the years, I've kept many kinds of journals, including diaries, dream journals, and even books of spells (grimoires and Books of Shadows). I also used the bullet journal system for organizing to-do lists and tracking magical activities.

Recently, I learned about "commonplace books" on TikTok. This is an old practice used by famous people like Leonardo DaVinci and Thomas Jefferson. A commonplace book is a way to record interesting information.

I realized I actually kept a kind of commonplace book as a teenager. Interested in the occult, I wrote down interesting bits of information, like local folk remedies or things I heard on talk shows about psychics and witches. I kept this notebook secret!

It took some research to understand how to keep a commonplace book since there are so many examples online. In my research, I found two common methods:

1. Dividing the book into sections for different topics (like quotes, recipes, etc.).
2. Writing information as I find it, without separate sections.

Both methods work. The first method can be tricky if you run out of space in one section. The second method can make it hard to find information later, so people often use a table of contents and an index.

I decided to create my own commonplace book focused on the occult, using eight categories as my index: Animals, Books, Crystals, Divination, Folklore, Herbs, The Supernatural, and Witchcraft. These categories also represent my index. 

I numbered each page and created a table of contents at the front. When I add an entry, I update both the table of contents and the index. For example, an entry about Chan Chu (a mythical creature) would be categorized under "Animals." The table of contents would list "Chan Chu" and the page number. The index would list "Animals" and the page number.

Each page is formatted with the category centered at the top, the specific topic of the entry below aligned to the left, the information itself, and finally, the source of the information. I think of my commonplace book as a blog, and the index as hashtags.

Example Page

THE SUPERNATURAL

The Lurker

A ghost reported to haunt the Navy Exchange Building on the Whidbey Naval Air Station Exchange Building. Two origin stories for this ghost have circulated around the island. One claims that he is the spirit of an aircrew member killed by a propeller around 1948, while others suggest he is a construction worker who died building the facility.  

Witnesses report various eerie occurrences. A janitor saw a man in coveralls disappear into shadows, clothes hanging on a rack ruffle as if someone walked by them, a strong popcorn smell appears with no apparent source, and a padlock opens mysteriously. 

Eileen Brown, a former employee, described the building as eerie. She recounts stories from a coworker (now deceased) who found baby clothes neatly arranged on the floor. The co-worker was described as a very sensible woman who would not make things up. 

Source:

Whidbey News Times 

10/30/2004

I usually like to give my journals and notebooks a name. I feel that giving your book a name, gives it an identity. However, as of this writing I have yet to come up with a name for my Commonplace Book which I feel really suits this journal. 

Carolina Dean 

Head Journalist 

12th House Books 

Chan Chu: A "Croak" of Good Fortune

I'm a vintage book seller on a unique island. Because we have a Naval Base, our thrift stores are treasure troves of items from all over the world, reflecting the diverse cultures of the people stationed here. While my main focus is rare and vintage books, I'm always on the lookout for other interesting finds for my shop, 12th House Books. I'm a regular at the local thrifts, but I also rely on my gut feeling. When I get that "must go shopping" urge, I listen, and it usually pays off.

Earlier this week, I'd vowed to relax on my day off after a seven-day work week. But then, an Etsy order came through, prompting me to head out to ship it. Conveniently, one of my favorite thrift stores is near the post office. That familiar urge struck again, so I popped in. I felt an almost magnetic pull towards a specific spot, and there it was: a quirky little frog. I instantly recognized it as a Chinese Money Frog.

Back home, I parked my new froggy friend on my desk, intending to research it later. First, though, I needed to write my blog post about the upcoming Full Moon in Leo. After finishing that, I checked how the Full Moon was affecting my own birth chart. It was hitting my 10th house – the realm of public image, career, and reputation. I remembered the last Leo Full Moon brought me a raise! I made a mental note to expect more recognition and responsibility, hopefully leading to even greater success.

The Frog of Fortune

Once the blog was done, I dove into researching the Three-Legged Frog. Turns out, it's called Chan Chu, a powerful Feng Shui symbol of prosperity and good fortune. But this isn't just a cute decoration; it's steeped in fascinating mythology.

The most common legend tells of a greedy immortal (sometimes the wife of one of the Eight Immortals) who stole a peach of immortality. This act granted her great power but also angered the gods. As punishment, she was transformed into a three-legged frog, doomed to spit out coins forever, a symbolic act of repaying her greed. Other stories paint the frog as a benevolent spirit who appears to those about to receive good fortune, especially around the time of the Full Moon.

Regardless of the specific tale, the core message is the same: Chan Chu represents the transformation of greed into generosity and the constant flow of wealth. Its three legs symbolize heaven, earth, and humankind, highlighting the interconnectedness of prosperity.

How to Harness the Frog's Power

Proper placement is key to maximizing Chan Chu's potential. Generally, it should be placed near the front door, facing inwards, as if hopping into your home or business, bringing wealth with it. Facing it outwards is believed to symbolize wealth leaving. Other good spots include near a cash register, on a desk, or in the southeast corner of a room, the traditional Feng Shui area for wealth and abundance.

To activate the frog, if it doesn't already have one, place a coin in its mouth (most people use a Feng Shui coin with a square hole). Thread a red ribbon through the hole and tie it off (red is a lucky color in Chinese culture). Finally, place a red envelope or cloth underneath the frog.

Treat Chan Chu with respect. Keep it clean and avoid placing it in cluttered or disrespectful areas. Some Feng Shui practitioners also recommend activating it by placing it on a bed of coins or tying a red ribbon around it.

My Lucky Frog

I felt an immediate connection to my Chan Chu, like it wanted to bring me blessings. I found the perfect spot for it, placed a silver mercury dime in its mouth, and put a lucky red envelope for the Year of the Snake underneath. The very next day, I got a $3.00 raise at work, and that week I sold over $250.00 worth of merchandise through my Etsy shop! It's clear to me that Chan Chu came into my life to bring prosperity and abundance.

Carolina Dean 
Future Millionaire
12th house Books 

The Astrology Of Love

With Valentine’s Day upon us, our thoughts turn to love and now is a time to examine our relationships -- our relationships to others and our relationship with ourselves. 

If you are single, you may wish to meditate upon how you feel about not having a partner. Are you happy? Unhappy? Do you want a lover, or is your life complete just as it is? If you are in a relationship, you may want to set aside some time to really think about how you feel about your partner. Does your partner bring you joy? Are you happy with the state of your relationship or could it be improved? If not, is this relationship worth saving or is it time to move on?

Love begins with the self. How can you expect to be loved by another, if you cannot love yourself? By examining our Natal Chart, with emphasis on Venus (the planet of Love) we can begin to understand how we love, how we are perceived and what we need to feel loved. 

Venus & Dignity

Essential Dignity is a term used in Astrology to describe a type of relationship each planet has to specific signs. The power of a planet can be enhanced, empowered, diminished, or blocked depending on the essential dignity of the sign it occupies in a chart. There are four types of dignities. They are:

• Exaltation- When a planet is in exaltation, it has the benefit of being enhanced by the sign it occupies and which fully supports its own. Keyword: Enhanced
• Rulership- When a planet is in the sign of it’s rulership, it feels at home and is free to act. Keyword: Empowered
• Detriment- When a planet is in the sign which is the opposite (six signs away) of its rulership, it is far from home and cut off from its resources. The planet needs to adapt in order to fulfill its potential. Keyword: Diminished
• Fall- When a planet is in the sign which is the opposite (six signs away) of its exaltation, it must find alternate resources to reach its potential. Keyword: Blocked

Essential Dignity of Venus

• Exaltation- Venus is enhanced in Pisces
• Rulership- Venus is empowered in Taurus / Libra
• Detriment- Venus is diminished in Virgo  
• Fall- Venus is blocked in Aries / Scorpio

So the first thing you want to do is determine what sign Venus occupies in your natal chart and determine if it is in Exaltation, Rulership, Detriment, or Fall (if any) and this will give you an idea of what you have to work with insofar as how you express and seek out love in your life.

Venus in the Signs (How We Love) 

• Aries- You are a fiery, assertive lover. 
• Taurus- You are a patient and determined lover
• Gemini- You are a curious and open-minded lover. 
• Cancer- You are a caring and emphatic lover. 
• Leo- You are a loyal and affectionate lover. 
• Virgo- You are an attentive and meticulous lover. 
• Libra- You are a flirty and considerate lover. 
• Scorpio- You are a passionate and intense lover. 
• Sagittarius- You are an impatient and outgoing lover. 
• Capricorn- You are a brooding and disciplined lover. 
• Aquarius- You are an spontaneous and imaginative lover. 
• Pisces- You are a shy and sensitive lover. 

Your Rising Sign (How we are perceived) 

• Aries- who comes across as headstrong 
• Taurus- who comes across as dependable 
• Gemini- who comes across as flighty 
• Cancer- who comes across as romantic 
• Leo- who comes across as confident 
• Virgo- who comes across as humble 
• Libra- who comes across as a people-pleaser 
• Scorpio- who comes across as magnetic 
• Sagittarius- who comes across as flippant 
• Capricorn- who comes across as respectful 
• Aquarius- who comes across as erratic 
• Pisces- who comes across as introverted 

Venus in the Houses (What We Need) 

1. And who needs a partner that motivates you. 
2. And who needs a partner that reassures you. 
3. And who needs a partner that listens to you. 
4. And who needs a partner that supports you. 
5. And who needs a partner that cherishes you. 
6. And who needs a partner that comforts you. 
7. And who needs a partner that balances you. 
8. And who needs a partner that understands you. 
9. And who needs a partner that inspires you. 
10. And who needs a partner that fortifies you. 
11. And who needs a partner that stimulates you. 
12. And who needs a partner that unburdens you. 

Example

Let us say that you have Scorpio Rising with Venus in Scorpio and the first house.  Venus is said to be in detriment in Scorpio which would mean that Venus is diminished in your chart. You are going to have to adapt in order to reach the full promise of Venus.

Venus rules love and relationships and Scorpio represents the archetype of the researcher or investigator. So with Venus in Scorpio, you want to dive in deep and get to know everything about your lover. Both intimacy and depth are of paramount important to you and love is taken very seriously. While Venus seeks out harmony, Scorpio is about bringing harsh truths to light and so power struggles can ensue.

With Venus in Scorpio, you are an intense and passionate lover. You come across as sexy and magnetic (Scorpio rising) and you need a lover who is fiery, passionate and aggressive that motivates you (1st house). As a Venus in Scorpio person, you want to fully possess and control your lover (mostly likely through sex) however, you tend to attract or be attracted to lovers who are stubborn and hardheaded who resist being controlled.

Conclusion 

While this is somewhat of an oversimplification this simple formula can act as a steppingstone for us to define ourselves as loving and sexual beings. A deeper examination of the natal chart with emphasis on the 5th (love) and 7th (relationships) houses as well as aspects to Venus can expand our awareness ourselves, how we express love, how we receive love, and when / how we can expect love to manifest in our lives. 

Carolina Dean

Owner-of-a-Lonely-Heart

12th House Books 

Links 

• The Astrology Bookshelf, 12th House Books
• Two Headed Astrology (Blog)

An Astrological Guide to Finding Love

Have you ever wondered if love is something special written in the stars long ago? People have long looked to the stars for the answers to life including how to find love and romance. Astrology can help us understand not only ourselves but also other people better as well. This guide won't tell you who your one true love is, but it can help you learn more about yourself and what kind of partner might be a good match for you. Whether you're looking for love or want to improve a relationship you already have, this guide can help you find the kind of love that feels like magic! Embark on a journey to find love that feels genuine and .... continue

The Spell That Changed My Life Forever

I've made no secret that I was shy and introverted growing up. I knew I was different and unfortunately, my classmates knew that I was different too. They used cruel names to describe how I was different, something that although I knew was true, something that I could admit to myself, but not something that I felt I could admit to the world. I was deemed different because I was gay. This made me the target of bullies. They were different too, but different in a different way and so bullying me took attention away from them and gave them a greater sense of power. 

Growing up, I was shy and introverted, acutely aware of my differences. Unfortunately, my classmates were just as aware, and their awareness manifested in cruel taunts. I was different because I was gay, a truth I could admit to myself, but not to the world. This difference made me a target for bullies. They, too, were different, but their bullying served to deflect attention from their own vulnerabilities and bolster their sense of power.

Faced with this relentless bullying, I felt powerless. It was this very feeling of helplessness that drove me to seek magic. I craved control over my own life. I yearned for acceptance, for boys to like me, and, yes, I admit it, I also wanted to inflict pain on those who had hurt me. Ultimately, I was searching for a safe space where I could simply be myself.

In 1989, as a high school freshman, I was in Ms. Boulware's study hall. Leafing through the copies of The Enquirer and Weekly World News she provided, I stumbled upon an article that would change my life:

Secret Chants for Love, Money, Health, & Happiness

Your dreams can come true simply by chanting a few magic words to bring you money, love, health, and happiness. These chants were found in the ruins of an ancient Tibetan monastery by an archeologist from Nang Chang, China in the late 1980's. The chants had been handed down for generations long before the monastery was abandoned in 1011. 

The chants are short and easy to learn. they must be spoken after a period of meditation for maximum effect. These chants were tested on 2300 students in Nang Chang of which 1867 people reported the chants to have changed their lives. 

The Chants 

• To Bring Happiness - Repeat the words "Lo An An Ta Fa Ri" once a day for seven days. 
• To Bring Love- Sit quietly, open your heart to love and chant "To Do Si Ro An Wat Mono Ran" four times. 
• For Lasting Good Health- Chant "Chung Do Ama Rung Ning" and think happy thoughts for three days afterward. 
• To Bring Money- Cast out all selfish thoughts and think about all the god you will accomplish with your wealth. Repeat "Kung No Ro Ama Ni Lo Ta Wong" then times. 

The Weekly World News
April 11th 1989 

I eagerly copied the chants into my notebook, convinced that magic held the key to my happiness. I began with the Chant to Bring Happiness, starting on a Monday. Each morning, I tried to cultivate a positive attitude and chanted the mantra before school. Ironically, that week was one of the worst of my life. I remember standing by my locker, minding my own business, when a group of boys began pelting me with candy. I simply stood there, letting it happen, neither fighting back nor saying a word. I was so defeated at that point that I was contemplating suicide.

Yet, I persisted. I faithfully chanted the mantra every day for seven days, completing the ritual. I wasn't sure what to expect. Would I simply wake up happy on the eighth day? Or would my circumstances shift, bringing happiness with them? Regardless, I was confident that something would happen.

And something did. Happiness didn't arrive in a single moment, but rather in small increments over time. My situation gradually improved. The bullying lessened. My confidence grew. I made friends. Before I knew it, I was happy.

While I now understand that these “chants” likely held no inherent magical power, I believe that my belief in their power facilitated a positive change in my life. I genuinely credit this ritual with altering the course of my life. Had my circumstances not improved, I’m certain I would have attempted suicide. In fact, I’m so superstitious about the “happiness” mantra that I refuse to repeat it aloud, fearing that doing so might somehow unravel the happiness it helped me find.

Carolina Dean
Happiness Consultant 
12th House Books

My Favorite Reads: Gay Detective Edition

In this edition of My Favorite Reads, I'm diving into a fascinating, and admittedly somewhat new-to-me, subgenre: Gay Detectives. I'm talking about murder mysteries where the sleuth, the one piecing together the clues and chasing down the killer, is gay.  While my exploration of this genre is still in its early stages, I'm eager to share some initial discoveries and hopefully inspire others to explore these intriguing stories. It's a field that's seen a surge in popularity in recent years, offering fresh perspectives and complex characters within the classic mystery framework.

The Scotty Bradley Mysteries, Greg Herren

The Scotty Bradley Mysteries, a series of gay mystery novels by Greg Herren, features Scotty Bradley, a former go-go dancer turned private investigator in New Orleans. These novels are celebrated for their sharp wit, vibrant characters, and evocative descriptions of the city. Adding a unique touch, Scotty occasionally consults Tarot cards to unravel complex mysteries and often offers prayers to the Goddess. 

As of this writing there are nine books in the series. They are:

1. Bourbon Street Blues (2003)
2. Jackson Square Jazz (2004)
3. Mardi Gras Mambo (2006)
4. Vieux Carre Voodoo (2010)
5. Who Dat Whodunnit (2011)
6. Baton Rouge Bingo (2013)
7. Garden District Gothic (2016)
8. Royal Street Réveillon (2019)

The Dave Brandstetter Books, Joseph Hansen

Joseph Hansen's twelve-book Dave Brandstetter mystery series features Dave Brandstetter, an insurance investigator and World War II veteran. A distinctive element of the series is Brandstetter's realistic aging throughout the novels, reflecting the passage of time and its impact on his physical and mental well-being

There are 12 books in this series. 

1. Fadeout (1970)
2. Death Claims (1973)
3. Troublemaker (1975)
4. The Man Everybody Was Afraid Of (1978)
5. Skinflick (1979)
6. Gravedigger (1982)
7. Nightwork (1984)
8. The Little Dog Laughed (1986)
9. Early Graves (1987)
10. Obedience (1988)
11. The Boy Who Was Buried This Morning (1990)
12. A Country of Old Men (1991) 

Mahu Investigations, Neil S. Plakcy

The Mahu Investigations book series by Neil S. Plakcy features Kimo Kanapa'aka, a gay homicide detective in Honolulu, Hawaii. The series follows Kimo as he navigates his personal life and career, investigating crimes ranging from murder to missing persons. The books are known for their fast-paced plots, complex characters, and realistic portrayal of gay life in Hawaii.

1. Mahu (2005)
2. Mahu Surfer (2007)
3. Mahu Fire (2008)
4. Mahu Vice (2009)
5. Mahu Men (2010)
6. Mahu Blood (2011)
7. Zero Break (2012)
8. Natural Predators (2013)
9. Accidental Contact (2014)
10. Children of Noah (2015)
11. Ghost Ship (2016)
12. Deadly Labors (2019)
13. Soldier Down (2020)
14. Unruly Son (2022)
15. The Virgin Homicides (2023)
16. Maui Strong (2023)

The Adrien English Mysteries,  Josh Lanyon

The Adrien English Mysteries by Josh Lanyon features Adrien English, a somewhat reclusive and often awkward bookstore owner in the small, quirky town of Serenity, California. Adrien finds himself repeatedly embroiled in mysteries, often involving murder, that disrupt his quiet life. Beyond the whodunnits, the series explores Adrien's personal growth, his struggles with social anxiety, and his developing romantic relationship with the local sheriff, Jake Riordan. The books are known for their witty dialogue, charming small-town atmosphere, and the slow-burn romance that unfolds throughout the series.

1. Fatal Shadows (2000)
2. A Dangerous Thing (2002)
3. The Hell You Say (2006)
4. Death of a Pirate King (2008)
5. The Dark Tide (2009)
6. So This is Christmas (2016) 

Carolina Dean 

Amateur-Gay-Sleuth

12th House Books 

Voodoo Lou: The Man Behind the Voodoo

Remember those novelty Voodoo Kits that were all the rage in the late 90s and early 2000s?  Complete with a green cloth doll, pins, and a tongue-in-cheek instruction manual promising to unleash the power of voodoo, these kits were a pop culture phenomenon.  They promised everything from landing a hot date to getting a raise, all with a few strategically placed pins. 

The Voodoo Kit was highly successful and later came other versions including 

• The Voodoo Love Kit (2001)
• The Mini Love Voodoo Kit (2002)
• Mini Voodoo Kit (2000)
• The Little Book of Voodoo (2003)
• Mini Office Voodoo Kit (2004)
• Portable Voodoo (2004)

And at the center of this playful, albeit stereotypical, take on voodoo was the enigmatic "Voodoo Lou." For years, the identity of Voodoo Lou remained a mystery. Before the internet became the ubiquitous research tool it is today, information about this figure was scarce. But with a few clicks, the truth behind the Voodoo Lou brand is finally revealed. The man behind the magic, or rather, the marketing, is Lou Harry. Far from a shadowy figure immersed in the occult, Harry is a multi-talented individual with a diverse background in journalism, comedy, and playwriting.

After graduating from Temple University, Harry spent nearly a decade working as a magazine journalist in Philadelphia. During this time, he also honed his comedic skills, performing stand-up and even appearing on "America's Funniest People." He also ran a children's theater. His writing career took off with the runaway success of books like "The Voodoo Kit" and his novelization of the cult classic film, "Santa Claus Conquers the Martians," which collectively sold over 1.5 million copies.

Relocating to Indianapolis, Harry co-founded and edited the award-winning Indy Men's Magazine and later served as the Arts & Entertainment Editor for the Indianapolis Business Journal. Currently, he edits Quill magazine for the Society of Professional Journalists, where he also oversees their awards programs. He continues to freelance for various publications and even hosts board game events.

A strong advocate for the arts, Harry serves on the board of the American Theatre Critics Association, where he previously led the committee responsible for the prestigious Steinberg and Osborn awards. His playwriting, supported by a grant from the Arts Council of Indianapolis, includes works like "Rita From Across the Street" and "Going…Going…Gone." He has also directed some of his own plays, as well as Warren Leight's "Side Man."

Lou Harry's career is a testament to his diverse creative talents and his dedication to the art of storytelling. While the Voodoo Kit may have been a lighthearted novelty, it's just one chapter in the fascinating story of the man behind the brand, a man whose career has spanned journalism, comedy, and the theater.

Carolina Dean 
Investigative Reporter
12th House Books 

Links

• Harry Lou
• Harry Lou (Wikipedia) 

Honoring the Succession of Teachers: Denise Alvarado

Honoring the Succession of Teachers 

I use social media to connect with friends and share my creative work, like many people do. I've had different projects over the years, like blogging and running an online store. I don't do these things to make money. I have a regular job that pays my bills. My true passion is teaching. I want to share what I know to help others. I charge for my products just enough to cover the costs of running the business. For example, the money I make from my Etsy shop goes right back into buying more supplies. I also give some of the money to local charities.

I often see influencers on social media who seem to care a lot about getting more followers. Some of them share useful things, but some don't. One thing I've noticed is that many of these influencers, don't seem to remember the importance of honoring their teachers. I'm not even sure if anyone teaches this anymore. It's about recognizing the people who came before you and taught you things.

In spiritual communities, we talk a lot about honoring our ancestors, but we don't always acknowledge our teachers. These are the people who taught us directly, shared information with us, or even showed us what not to do. They learned from their own teachers, and so on. If you're a spiritual person, it's your duty to honor this line of teachers.

Enter Denise Alvarado 

One of my teachers is Denise Alvarado. I met her online in 2010 when I was writing a blog about witchcraft and hoodoo. She was writing The Voodoo Hoodoo Spellbook and asked to use my entry "A Doll to Trip Up Thieves" in her book. I said yes, we became friends and started working together on several efforts. We've done many projects together, including my first book Secrets of a Sissy Boy. Other publications include:

• Hoodoo & Conjure Quarterly Magazine 
• The Hoodoo Almanac 2012
• The Hoodoo Almanac 2013
• The Hoodoo Almanac 2014 2015

Even though we've never met in person, Denise has taught me a lot about magic, hoodoo, and running a business. One of the most important things I learned from her is the idea of "lagniappe," which means giving something extra as a gift. What that means to me is to always give more than what people expect from you. There have been numerous times in which I have made a purchase from her and received a little something extra! In addition, I have also often received unexpected packages from her containing dried roots, stones, oils, dolls, etc... 

The Lesson in Action 

Like Denise, I always give more than people expect from me. When you make a purchase from my Etsy Store, you get more than just what you expect. Most of my protect are books, so when you purchase a book from 12th House Books, you'll likely also receive the following:

• A handwritten thank you note 
  
• Witchy Stickers 
• A random Affirmation card. 
• A random bookmark 

In fact, during the month of February I am also including a Valentine Card as well as a Lucky Red Envelope left over from Lunar New Year. These envelopes include a random tarot card, a random Chinese Fortune, and a random sticker.  Other items such as tarot decks, come with a reading cloth and a crystal. 

By always giving more than people expect, I am honoring the teacher who imparted the lesson. It's not just about the physical gifts themselves, but about the spirit behind them.  It's about recognizing the value of generosity and passing that value on.  Denise shared this concept with me, and by incorporating it into my own business practices, I'm acknowledging her influence and keeping that tradition alive.  It's a way of showing respect and gratitude for her teaching and ensuring that the lesson of generosity continues to be shared with others.  It's a small way of saying thank you and acknowledging the impact she's had on my approach to business and my interactions with customers.

Links

Denise Alvardo (Link Tree) 

Carolina Dean 

Janitor, School-of Life