Reviewed by Thea Prothero

On the third anniversary of Imelda’s book, it’s about time we revisit this excellent and as far as I know, the only book about this subject.  

This is an incredible and unique resource dedicated to the pre-Christian spirituality of The Netherlands and other low lands of Europe. Through Imelda’s own native wisdom and understanding, we learn about the spirits and nature of The Netherlands, along with a detailed spiritual history from neolithic times, though Roman occupation, to the current folk practice. This book is filled with a comprehensive list of lesser-known deities, including Sinterklaus, Nehalennia and more widely acknowledged ones, such as Mother (or Frau) Holle and of course the Norse and Germanic pantheons. I was particularly impressed with the many comprehensive and meticulous folk traditions, earth customs, and even ghosts!

Imelda’s book is a treasury of invaluable material on an obscure subject, and one that everyone with an interest in indigenous spirituality should own.

North Sea Water in My Veins by Imelda Almqvist

North Sea Water in My Veins is a quest for the reconstruction of an indigenous or native spirituality of the Low Countries and covers pre-Christian material from the Netherlands, Belgium and the region just across the German border. Seeking out and documenting ancient gods and goddesses, practices and traditions, this book asks the question: is there enough material for such a reconstruction? The conclusion is a resounding yes!

Learn more or grab your copy here: https://www.collectiveinkbooks.com/moon-books/our-books/north-sea-water-in-my-veins

For more details: https://www.collectiveinkbooks.com/moon-books/authors/thea-prothero