The early medieval manuscripts of Ireland and Britain contain tantalizing clues about the cosmology, religion and mythology of native Celtic cultures, despite censorship and revision by Christian redactors. Focusing on the latest research and translations, the author provides fresh insight into the beliefs and practices of the Iron Age inhabitants of Ireland, Britain and Gaul. Chapters cover creation and cosmogony, the deities of the Gaels, feminine power in narrative sources, druidic belief, priestesses and magical rites. “Engaging.... From the first page of the Introduction, we feel as though she is telling us a beautiful story, going back-and-forth in time with ease and an effortless rhythm. The use of vital sources provides valuable background to the author’s line of thoughts, and allow readers to push their inquiries further. This process, as well as the general time of the book, creates a bond of trust between the reader and the author which winds up incredibly refreshing. To be able to research, gather, translate, analyze, understand and then render in a seemingly effortless way such knowledge is a true gift...a must read...a valuable asset”― Reading Religion “Macleod possesses masterly knowledge of the literary sources, familiarity with secondary literature in religious studies and anthropology and impressive linguistic skills.”― Studies in Medieval and Renaissance Teaching . “Useful…There is fresh, useful thinking to be found here.”― Journal of the Traditional Cosmology Society “impressively original and meticulous scholarship...a welcome and invaluable contribution to the study of the Celtic religion and culture ...invaluable and strongly commended”― Midwest Book Review Sharon Paice MacLeod is a Harvard-trained Celticist, grant-funded researcher, historical consultant and professional musician. She has taught Celtic literature, mythology and folklore at the university level and lives in New England. Celtic Cosmology and the Otherworld: Mythic Origins, Sovereignty and Liminality McFarland ABIS BOOK