In Arianrhod Celtic Goddess of Fate, Fortune and Destiny, Kristoffer Hughes explores the mysteries of Arianrhod. She is certainly an enigma: is she just a bardic tale or embedded within the stories do we find the distant echo of a powerful Welsh goddess? By going back to primary sources and a critical examination of later commentary, Kristoffer attempts to penetrate the layers of her myth. Modern Paganism certainly claims her as a goddess - the goddess of fate, the lady of the silver wheel, who dwells in her spiral castle, the corona borealis, all attributes derived from her name. Her appeal to a modern polytheist is easy to see – when the life-force of the land is violated, Arianrhod appears and acts with Otherworldly agency to set a whole chain of events in motion. The myth is not just a story, nor is it a literal truth: it is metaphorical, guiding us to deeper truths that cannot be put into words. Kristoffer reminds us that myths did not happen ‘Once upon a time’, but the time of their telling is the time that they exist. By exploring our connection with Arianrhod in the present (and the last chapter of the books suggests ways of doing this), we may initiate ourselves into her mysteries. She is the still point about which all revolves, who weaves the sacred fabric that is the eternal now. ~ Anna Franklin, High Priestess of the Hearth of Arianrhod, author of The Sacred Circle Tarot, Pagans Ways Tarot, The Hearth Witch’s Compendium, and many other books on Paganism

For all those a little mystified by this enigmatic Goddess, who on the surface might appear mythically puzzling and obscure, this book is a forensic exploration of Arianrhod's central myth and character, challenging some long-held assumptions and giving back a spiritual and psychological fullness to her story. Kristoffer Hughes' insight, clarity and knowledge of primary sources - and the nuanced beauty of the Welsh language - reveals to us a deity of breadth and depth, affording us a more rounded and resonant understanding of this often misunderstood Goddess. ~ Philip Carr-Gomm, author of Druid Mysteries

Kristoffer is a natural, soothing yet formidable teacher. As a person seeped in Welsh language heritage, education, history and mysteries, I believe that nobody has dived as deeply into the very depths of the mythic, linguistic and spiritual Welsh landscape like Hughes. This little book holds so much treasure and knowledge and is just bursting with Awen. An exquisite portrait of Arianrhod awaits you, one which you will be guided to find and paint within yourself through Kristoffer's exquisite writing. ~ Carys Eleri, award-winning Welsh actress, comedian, singer, composer, TV presenter and author of 'Dod nôl at fy nghoed'

Arianrhod has long been a shadowy and elusive figure, despite also being incredibly popular among Witches and Pagans. It always seemed the modern NeoPagan version of Arianrhod and the native Arianrhod were two distinct entities, with an entirely different personality and body of lore. Finally, we have a book that delves into this Goddess in depth. Kristoffer Hughes peels back the mystery behind Her, allowing us to see Arianrhod as the complex and nuanced entity She is. Via language, lore, myth, and magic this book offers the reader a chance to get to know Arianrhod viscerally, fully, and discover how her transgressive, complex nature can play a role in our lives today. A must read for any lover of Welsh mythology, Celtic polytheist, or magical practitioner. ~ Mhara Starling, author of Welsh Witchcraft: A Guide to the Spirits, Lore, and Magic of Wales

Although small in stature, this book is an immense treasure trove of information about Aranrhod. Combining historical connection, folklore, myth, and a deep personal understanding, Kristoffer, in his uniquely readable style, presents this wealth of knowledge in an easy to understand and highly accessible manner. Whether you’re new to this Celtic deity or have been working with her folklore and myth for a long time, the wisdom contained within will deepen your personal relationship with Aranrhod. Moreover, Kristoffer includes some excellent practical exercises which you can incorporate into your personal practice to help connect to the nature of this Goddess. The old gods are definitely stirring in prompting Kristoffer to write this book, proving 'What is remembered lives'. ~ Lisa and Anton Stewart, authors of Simply Wicca, a beginners guide to the Craft of the Wise

Arianrhod: Celtic Goddess of Fate, Fortune and Destiny is a significant analysis of the figure, deity, and archetype which are Arianrhod/Aranrhod. By means of skilful eloquence and enchanting narrative, Kristoffer Hughes succeeds in presenting the mythological figure to a wider audience through an appropriate contextualisation which is woven into a tapestry of modern pagan interpretation. Time and again, the volume provides key insights and raises several fruitful questions regarding the multifaceted Arianrhod/Aranrhod. Indeed, Hughes' discussion can be engaged with and appreciated by the academic, the layperson, and the believer alike, which is quite the accomplishment. Cyfrol arbennig yn wir. ~ Dr Gareth Evans-Jones, Lecturer of Philosophy and Religion, Bangor University, North Wales, UK, author of 'Y Cylch'

Kristoffer Hughes takes a deep dive into the lore and language which surrounds Arianhrod in this outstanding addition to the Pagan Portals series. Rather than simply recount the tales from Welsh literature, Hughes guides us through the nuance of Welsh language, introducing us to a complex deity with much relevance to the twenty-first century. The chapter on gender and ecology is particularly revelatory. By unpicking one of the thorniest issues in Yr Mabinogi, Hughes reveals the Tynged and guides readers through ways these figures can be transformation of our lives and our practise. Whether you are a newcomer to Celtic deities or are a long-time practitioner, there is plenty here to enrich your relationship with the spinner of the silver wheel. ~ Andrew Anderson, author of The Ritual of Writing, Artio and Artaois and The Magic of Cats

Hughes dives deep, covering a lot of ground and a lot of complexity in such a short tome. Whether you are new to working with Arianrhod or a lifelong devotee, this compact yet thoroughly-researched and thoughtful work will bring your relationship with the goddess to new depths. ~ Enfys J Book, author of Queer Qabala and Queer Rites