Pagan Portals: Gwyn ap Nudd by Danu Forest takes an in-depth look at one of the more mysterious of the Welsh Celt deities. There are five chapters, focusing on different aspects to Gwyn, as a seasonal deity, a guardian of the land, and a psychopomp figure. Chapter One briefly introduces Gwyn ap Nudd and contains two guided meditation practises. Chapter Two discusses Annwfn, and elements of faery. There are three meditations in this section. Chapter Three connects legends of Gwyn with ancient star-lore and has a but a single meditation. Chapter Four looks at the stories of the Mabinogion, in regards to Gwyn, and has four meditations, including one to meet Gwyn’s seasonal counterpart of Gwythyr. The last chapter discusses Gwyn’s role as a Lord of the Underworld, and master of the Wild Hunt. There are five exercises in this chapter.

I quite enjoyed this excursion into Welsh lore. Before this, Gwyn was not well-known to me. Arawn, yes, and I had long come to regard Arawn and Gwyn to be different, in terms of working with deity. I worked with Arawn extensively for some time, doing daily meditation/ shamanic journeywork. I did several of the exercises in the book, modifying them to fit my existing style. I hope to revisit them all during a time when I can invest my full attention and devotion. There seemed to be a good balance between the spiritual and historical threads. I particularly enjoyed the discussion of the Mabinogion stories. This is perfect for any looking to increase their repertoire of Welsh lore, or those specifically interested in building a relationship with this most enigmatic deity.

***Many thanks to Netgalley, and John Hunt Publishing for providing an egalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.