Rating: 5 out of 5 stars. If you have an interest in Hekate then this book is for you. I think there is a lot in here that will serve you well. Currently there is a flow toward Hekate and a lot of questions and interests in her. I think this does well to answer some of that. ~ Tabatha Cooper (Reviewer) , NetGalley

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars. The author recommends starting this book with the new moon. It is written to be completed in a year. She also includes a self-initiation at the end of the book. This book is a complete resource for anyone interested in Goddess studies and/or followers of Hekate/Hecate. ~ Dawn Thomas (Reviewer), NetGalley

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars. Lovely book on Hekate - a personal view but also a good point from which to start our own personal journey with her. Really enjoyed reading it. ~ Joy Saloschin (Reviewer), NetGalley

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars. This was interesting to read. Went into the book with a total lack of understanding or knowledge of witchcraft and Hekate other than in fictional reading, gaming, and movies/tv. This book allows you to get a practical understanding of the history and legacy of Hekate and how to apply it to your personal life. ~ Ken Ott (Reviewer), NetGalley

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars. It feels right to write this review in November (for December’s PaganPagesOrg), a month when Hekate is celebrated by many. Cyndi Brannen’s Keeping her Keys is an introduction to Modern Hekatean Witchcraft. It’s not just a book, but a workable course which leads to the possibility of self-initiation. One of my favourite things about this book is the “You do you” attitude. Although there are guides to how to do the work and how to connect with Hekate, there is no authoritarian overbearing message of exactly how to go about this. This book gives you the tools to make the connection; it’s up to you to do the rest. Commitment is required to follow this course, so this isn’t really a book for the casual “dip in and dip out” reader- although for those already dedicated to Hekate, it’s a fantastic reference and an intriguing look at the different ways to honour the Goddess of the Crossroads. This book is also a great Witchcraft primer and a reminder of the core tenets of the powers of intention and setting goals. Cyndi talks about the benefits of witchcraft including personal growth and self-discipline. She explains the pitfalls of imprecise spell work and offers step by step guides to creating effective intentions. Hekate has become more and more popular in recent years. There are many ways to honour Hekate, and this book emphasizes that point- one of my favourite things about it. With a clear timeline and lesson plans, this book gives an ideal framework for developing a relationship with the Goddess, from keeping a journal to ritual to the idea of living a magical life every day. Highly recommended, particularly for those who wish to forge or deepen their connection to Hekate, but also for anyone who wants an insight into the phenomenon of modern Hekate worship and witchcraft. ~ Jennifer Wright, PaganPages.Org

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars. I was actually surprised by this book. I mean this in a very good way. The book is more of a course and set up with exercises and inner journey work. It makes the material more personal and accessible. I would love more books set up in this fashion also devoted to a particular Goddess. I personally don’t exclusively work with one Deity, but I like to learn about them. This has really sparked my desire to spend more time with each Goddess and find what suits me or that I aspire to emulate. I highly recommend Keeping Her Keys if you have any interest of Hecate or want to learn and enrich your own practice. ~ Angelica Bill (Reviewer), NetGalley

This is a great little handbook for aspiring witches. ~ Sarah Stewart, NetGalley

Keeping Her Keys by Cyndi Brannen is the perfect book to help you hone your spiritual practice and connect more deeply with Hekate energy. Anyone who chooses a pagan. nature based or magic based spiritual path is choosing to follow an non-traditional religious practice, but you can still find yourself craving some form of structure and guidance. This book allows you to find that and use Hekate as the focus of you devotion. It's especially helpful if you are a solitary practitioner and do not have the support of others/ a coven. This is a female centered, inclusive approach that is easy to understand and incorporate. The book is set up as a course/initiation in working with Hekate formally, but even if you do not follow the course directly you will learn so much that will deepen your personal practice and you will learn everything you need to know about connecting with Hekate. If you are a beginner to the magical path there may be a slight learning curve, but Cyndi Brannen strikes a nice balance, as to appeal to the more experienced witch. Personally, I learned a lot and I found reading keeping her keys a pleasurable experience. ~ cindy galvao, NetGalley

Another great thing in this book is ephithets of Hekate. I had never even heard of half of the ephithets that were given to her until I read this book. And nearly everything is this book has a source. There is an entire bibliography in the back that gives you authors, books and websites of everything listed in her book. To me this is a valuable resource. All in all I give this book 5/5 stars. There will be a time when I sit down and go through the course myself, but as of right now I am currently engaged with the OBOD Bardic course and I don’t know if I want more than one course load at the moment. But this is a very good source on Hekate and I will probably buy a physical copy in the future when I decide to do this course." Links: https://herecomesthewitch.com/2019/04/27/book-review-keeping-her-keys/ ~ Lauren Graff, NetGalley

I really liked the way the book was organised as well, divided into several lessons which are to be performed and studied throughout the time of training, giving sources for the information, explaining how they're being adapted into modern practices and how they can be adapted. Giving also tons of space for the practitioners to do the path their own way but following the tradition nonetheless. And, finally, ending with a self-initiation ritual into the Modern Hekatean Witchcraft. It's interesting to see a new tradition, so to speak, come up and be open to anyone who feels connected to it. I find it really interesting. ~ Alexia Moon, NetGalley

KEEPING HER KEYS is a comprehensive and fascinating exploration and course in the practice of "Modern Hekatean Witchcraft," by its founder. This practice lends itself to both solitary practitioners and covens, and is framed to take a year and a day. Practitioners were learn of Hekate and her worship while simultaneously fomenting their own individual Spiritual Evolution. ~ Mallory Haws, NetGalley

Blending Hekate, witchcraft and personal development together to create a powerful new magickal perspective. As an eclecticly spiritual pagan, I loved reading about the different aspects of these perspectives. Showing you how to become your best self, the information throughout the book is invaluable, there are 13 lessons in the book and instructions on how to personalize them to your own experience and path. All-in-all a very engaging and informative read. ~ Melanie Laing, NetGalley

I read this book as a pre-release e-book obtained through NetGalley, provided by the publisher. As a further disclaimer, I am a former Wiccan, trained in conventional Wicca, and no longer practicing. I found this book because of my wrong impression of what this book was about because of its title, but found the matter intriguing. It is not the type of book I would normally read. Indeed, when I read the book, I was in somewhat of an emotional crisis, and I found some comfort in revisiting divinity as I had previously believed in. If I understand the book correctly, Hekate "put" this book in my path, with Her finding me at "just the right time". This book outlines and gives 13 “monthly” lessons in “modern Hekatean Witchcraft “ that eliminates much of the problems I found extant in the Wiccan community as well as members of other religions, being a “one right true and only way” to understand or practice the religion. In this new “modern Hekatean Witchcraft” the emphasis is on the individual, their own understanding of the world, how the world and relationships and associations work for that person. Keeping a journal of such things is of utmost importance. These may change throughout one’s life, and that’s okay! As a person who no longer believes in the objective existence anything supernatural, I was able to help myself emotionally through the crisis that I was in, and the suggestions in the book were extremely helpful. I still do not believe in Hekate any more than I believe in any deity, but the matter of Hekate "calling" me has its lure. ~ Elizabeth Kulacz, NetGalley

I have been fascinated with Hekate for years. Trying to find something that gives you simple, factual information has not been easy. This books leads you step by step in finding what you need to in findings Hekate. Some things that are discussed takes you through many subjects such as writing down spells, feelings and thoughts on what you learn. The ritual of initiation really spoke to me of taking the next step and beginning your new life. She includes thirteen lessons but makes sure to let you know that everyone is different and you don't have to follow everything down to the letter. These ate guidelines. I enjoyed this book very much. Thank you to Net Galley and John Hunt Publishing for allowing me to read this book. ~ Marie Angel, NetGalley

This is such a wonderful guide to the Goddess Hekate . This is the perfect book for all seeking further knowledge on spell casting, the Goddess and the meaning of the Goddess to the craft. I loved this book and will often refer to it in the future. The author has expertly included the history of the Goddess which is a fascinating addition to this book. . Included is the Hekate Wheel of the Year and symbols with a addition of correspondences. What I found fascinating is that the author teaches the reader how to create their own Hekate garden with a full list of plants and uses in spell crafting. This is a fun spring project I look forward to . Here is great guide to meditation , activities and prayers . This is perfect for the novice witch, any green witch and the more experienced . I high ly recommend this for any and all witches and anyone seeing information on the Goddess. ~ Cozy Cat Reviewa, NetGalley

I enjoyed the intellectual perspectives, and the grounding in modern life. For example, many of the meditation exercises seemed like the practice of mindfulness framed in a different way. Mindfulness and self-care is something the book market has been flooded recently, so it was interesting to look at this as a slightly more niche perspective on the idea of taking control of one’s own life. Full review at https://elexandraslibrary.wordpress.com ~ Esther Alexandra, E. Alexandra's Library

In our most recent episode, Fire Festivals - Beltane, Ode and I reviewed a book called Keeping Her Keys: An Introduction to Hekate's Modern Witchcraft by Cyndi Brannen. Here is the synopsis of the book from Amazon: Over the past few years Hekate has gained increasing popularity around the world. While there are books written about the historical Hekate, there is a lack of information applying this knowledge for personal development and practicing witchcraft. Keeping Her Keys blends the ‘keys' of personal development, magick and the ancient goddess, Hekate, together. Topics include the power of prayer, how to create sacred space, and guidance on spell crafting. In the final chapter readers can perform an optional self-initiation to become a Keeper of Her Keys. Ode and I have a bit of a disagreement about this book. Gwyn's opinion: I love this book. Designed as a home-study course, Keeping Her Keys gives the reader the opportunity to learn about the Modern Hekatean Witchcraft tradition and follow it's chapters as a year and a day learning experience to become a Modern Hekatean Witch. The book is filled with information about Hekate gleaned from both ancient sources and modern unverified personal gnosis, rituals, prayers, and practices to help one grow as a solitary Modern Hekatean witch. While the chapters can be repetitive, I appreciate this as a self-study course which builds upon concepts throughout the book. I would have liked more notations in regard to Hekate's mythology to indicate between ancient sources and the author's UPG. Final impression: Highly recommended. If you are interested in becoming a Modern Hekatean Witch or honoring and working with Hekate in your witchcraft practice then get this book. **Ode's opinion: **Not a fan. The author started with the assertion that Hekate is Queen of the Underworld (a title and job held by Persephone according to the majority of ancient writing), and this soured the reading of Keeping Her Keys. Additionally, the text is "muddy" and repetitive throughout with concepts being reiterated within most chapters. The author needed more notations as to what is historical/ancient text without blurring the details with her own UPG. More information on how to perform rituals for this ancient goddess would be helpful too. For instance, the author includes "wash up" as part of a ritual but does not indicate what that means or to what level one should "wash up". Such vague instructions are a bit confusing to the reader unfamiliar with Hekate or what she might expect in ritual. That said, there are a variety of rituals both long and short, easy to more complex, which provide an interesting option. Final impression: Not recommended, especially if you want to learn about Hekate from a classical perspective or have a clear, reading experience. Car didn't read the book and offers no opinon. **Keeping Her Keys is available to pre-order and will be in stores and online on APRIL 26. *If you pre-order the book and [email a copy of the receipt to the author]([email protected]) BEFORE APRIL 26, you will receive BONUS material. * ~ Three Pagans And A Cat , https://www.3pagansandacat.com/articles/reviews-keeping-her-keys-by-cyndi-brannen

I enjoyed reading about Hekate and how to use exercises and prayers to become the best me. I also discovered the author's YouTube channel and can highly recommend checking this one out simultaneously. ~ Anya Diepold , NetGalley

I’m so glad this book found me! I’ve been looking for a year and a day course that fits my path and this could not be more perfect. I’ve not completed the course (clearly) but have read through it and am waiting for the next new moon to start. The information provided is invaluable and I’m so excited to start the various practices and exercises. ~ Andrea Smith, NetGalley

Keeping Her Keys -- An Introduction to Hekate's Modern Witchcraft is a sincere, experienced and easy to understand introduction to Hekate. The author, Cyndi Brannen, acquaints the reader with the multitude of Hekate’s aspects. I picked up this book because I have enjoyed reading Brannen’s blog on Modern Hekatean Witchcraft and wanted to know more. Although I was not disappointed, my knowledge of Hekate has barely begun and my desire to know her more has been whetted. Brannen accomplished her task! She includes 13 lessons. Her instructions not only include how she would go about the exercises, but how they can be personalized to make them your own. The book culminates with a three-fold initiation rite to devote one’s self to the goddess. In other words, it’s just the beginning and, if I read it right, she has plans for two more books down the line. Her modern adaptation to becoming a follower of Hekate is reasonable and relevant. There are no ancient sacrifices of black dogs recommended, but rather sacrificing one’s time through actions like volunteering at the local animal shelter. She offers the down-to-earth advice of a teacher that has been down the road already and knows how to guide the reader through. I found Brannen’s daily hour of power recommendation invigorating to my own personal practice --renewing journaling, which I am notoriously bad at (the one action I probably need most as I have no earth signs in my astrological birth chart). I particularly enjoyed making the salt Strophalos, which was challenging and fun. While reading the book I found Cyndi Brannen’s YouTube videos, which I found to be quite helpful as well. I recommend reading this book to those interested in developing a practice of Modern Hekatean Witchcraft and I eagerly await Brannen’s next blog and book! ~ Kathy Buxton, NetGalley

More of a manual than a book. Hekate isn't for me unfortunately but I still appreciated how easy to read and understand these steps were, so that even a novice can practise and decide on her own terms. ~ CC, NetGalley

A very good book, engaging and informative. I'm not of follower of Hekate and knew very little about her cult but this book supplied tons of information in a clear and entertaining way. I liked the style of writing, the clear explanations and the examples. I look forward to reading other books by this writer. Highly recommended. ~ Anna Maria Giacomasso, NetGalley

It is a sincere pleasure to be able to wholeheartedly recommend this book for the newly aspirant, as well as the experienced practitioner. It is an inspired and inspiring work for the academic urbane as well as those whose learning has been inclusively directed more by the school of hard knocks. In fact, it is the experiential which is emphasised and valued in this course of comprehensive Hekatean Magic. Undoubtedly this could become a working manual for many to return to time and time again, like an inexhaustible cornucopia of idea and enterprise. Its thorough grounding in esoteric lore can serve to equip those who are brave enough to indulge their capacity for greater personal authenticity in their everyday lives, alongside the quickening of their fuller, spiritual realisation. The book is a tool of empowerment, offering the opportunity for the spirited, the curious, the desperate and even the casual dropper-by to expose themselves to a greater realisation of their own unique and perhaps unexpected psychic and inter-personal potency. It’s a body of work that crucially addresses a call within our contemporary world. In the magical hands of those who due to events and/or inclination are called to redress social, as well as personal issues of experienced injustice, it could be a formidable weapon of self-development and revelation. Hekate is drawing those who are brave enough to dare to risk the efficacy of their own, powerful agency in healing themselves and indeed our, so very precious world. ~ K Barr, NetGalley

Wonderful read! I did not know much about this Goddess. But this particular book fulfilled my quest and then some. A must read for those who follow this path. I voluntarily read this book in exchange for my honest opinion. ~ Christina Blake, NetGalley

Cyndi Brannen's "Keeping Her Keys" is more of a step by step guide to modern Hekatean Witchcraft than a book. There are 13 lessons to go along with the 13 lunar cycles of the calendar year. It is suggested that one take a full year to complete the lessons, however, there's no harm in reading through it at your own pace. There a many exercises and activities in each lesson to help you grow your understanding and connection with Hekate . I highly recommend this to anyone who has a curiosity about Hekate and by the end you may find yourself a keeper of Her keys. ~ Danielle Jones, NetGalley

This is a beautifully written, well researched and presented book perfect for those who want to learn more about Hekate or/and thinking about deepening their relationship with Her. The author writes is such a personal manner; easy to understand language and lessons as you progress through the book make this an invaluable resource. One to be referred to and enjoyed over and over again. ~ MARGARET LEONARD, NetGalley

This book is amazingly handy - perfect for those who have already begun to practice with Hekate, and for those who are new to Her. The course, as the author refers to it, is well researched, laid out nicely and in a way that makes sense and gives a lot of background as well as hands-on work to do, which I think is the best way to start a new spiritual journey, to get right into it and make some mistakes, create lots of questions for yourself and also get some field work in. Messy hands-on experience is always best over reading a million books, and yet, this guide/course helps to do just that - create a relationship instead of having you just read about one. ~ Autumn Blackwood , NetGalley

Cyndi Brannen's years of experience and breadth of knowledge extend to each page of this amazing book! This book is essential in any collection seeking to understand the multi-faceted Goddess that is Hekate and her Modern witchcraft.The lessons in this book provide extensive opportunities for self-development and personal growth. Following the path - the framework - created by Cyndi Brannen can create radical change in your life. If you are ready to not only learn effective, meaningful witchcraft but also deepen your relationship with yourself and Hekate... this is absolutely the book for you! ~ Laura Ingersoll , NetGalley

Keeping Her Keys is an excellent introduction to modern Hekatean witchcraft. Informed by historical sources, Brannen has created a thoroughly practical and accessible course for today's reader. A skilled educator, Brannen uses clear, concise prose to convey ideas and vivid poetry to enhance emotional connection. As the reader progresses through the book, they are given exercises and techniques to incorporate the concepts into their daily lives. If you are curious about what relevance an ancient Grecian Goddess may have in the 21st century, I highly recommend this book. ~ Gwen Armshaw, NetGalley

I have come across very few individuals as devoted to the goddess Hekate as Cyndi Brannen. Her first book, Keeping Her Keys: An Introduction To Hekate’s Modern Witchcraft is aptly named and presents two of the book’s strengths. The first is that the book is a great introduction and starting point in learning who Hekate is and building a relationship with Her. The second strength of the book is that it is indeed modern. That isn’t to say that it throws out or ignores the past – not at all. The book is rooted in the rich and complex history of this goddess and guides the reader in understanding that legacy. However, the book is modernized in the sense that the relationship that you build with Hekate is through modern witchcraft practices as opposed to reconstructing or reviving ancient practices. Through keeping one foot firmly planted in historical pagan context and one foot in modern witchcraft, Brannen presents something very special with this work – a relationship to Hekate that is alive, evolving, and approachable. Whether you’re new to Hekate or to witchcraft, this book is a great starting point. Cyndi expands on many of ancient fragments of knowledge of Hekate that we have available, Her epithets and Her symbolism and provides her own interpretations of what those mean and how to work them into your craft, based on her own work with Hekate. Most books that deal with Hekate and witchcraft tend to dive into the deep ends of things, often incorporating other religions or practices into the mix with Hekatean names as substitutes, such as Hinduism or demonolatry in an attempt to bring something new to the table. Keeping Her Keys is neither, purely mixing a historically rooted understanding of Hekate with our modern innovations of witchcraft as a practice – which is very much in the spirit of Hekate Herself. The magickal theory and practices she provides in Keeping Her Keys is sound and reliable from a witchcraft point of view and as such this book is approachable whether you’re a non-magickal pagan devotee of the torch-bearing goddess looking to learn witchcraft, or whether you’re a witch looking to incorporate Hekate as a central point of focus. My only complaint is that I wish the book was much larger, but because of its size it allows the reader to get to the point and read the book in a day or two at most. The book is full of exercises, practices, spell-crafts, and prayers – concluding with a self-dedication / initiation ritual to Hekate to become one of her Keybearers. This is definitely a must have for any witch who works with Hekate. ~ Mat Auryn, https://www.patheos.com/blogs/matauryn/2019/02/12/keeping-her-keys/

Through keeping one foot firmly planted in historical pagan context and one foot in modern witchcraft, Brannen presents something very special with this work – a relationship to Hekate that is alive, evolving, and approachable. ~ Mat Auryn, https://www.patheos.com/blogs/matauryn/2019/02/12/keeping-her-keys/