Meet the author is a series of articles intended to introduce you to our wonderful authors. Learn about the books they’ve written, the spiritual pathways they’ve traversed and some fun little tidbits… introducing Taren S!

Tell us a bit about yourself…

I’m a Southern folk Witch, writer, and storyteller with one foot in history and the other planted firmly in magick. I’ve been walking this crooked path for over forty years, blending conjure, Psalms, and old Lowcountry traditions into my practice. These days I split my time between writing, teaching, and keeping the spirits (and the chickens) happy at our little Storybook Barn just outside Charleston, South Carolina.

What books have you written?

I’ve written a few over the years. “Hoodoo in the Psalms” and “Conjuring Dirt” were both published with Collective Ink Publishing, and those really pulled together a lot of my work with conjure and folk magick. Alongside those, I’ve also put out several smaller books on my own, “Bag Yo Mojo”, “The Crossroad Witch’s Codex”, and “Magickal Teas and Incense Recipes”. I enjoy writing both the bigger works and the little booklets, because sometimes a small book packed with recipes or spells can carry just as much power as the larger ones.

How would you describe your spiritual pathway?

It’s a tangle of Southern conjure, folk magick, and ancestral wisdom, seasoned with Psalms and a whole lot of personal gnosis. I don’t walk in a straight line; my path curves like a dirt road under oak trees, with spirits, ancestors, and deities guiding me along the way.

What is something fun and quirky about yourself?

I have a painting of Baron Samedi that I bought in New Orleans from a local artist. It hangs in my house, and let me tell you, he gets dressed for the holidays. Sometimes it’s a Santa hat, sometimes Mardi Gras beads. I swear he enjoys the attention.

Where can people find you?

You can find me on YouTube under House of Witchcraft, where I ramble about magick, folklore, and Witchy living. I also gather folks through the House of Witchcraft community, with virtual coven meetings and the occasional in-person gathering in Charleston. And of course, I’m always tinkering away at Storybook Barn, which is slowly growing into a space for retreats, micro-weddings, and gatherings.

What tips do you have for folk beginning their spiritual journey?

Keep it real. Don’t get lost in glitter and hashtags. Start small, light a candle and whisper your intent. Don’t be afraid of mistakes; magick is learned by doing, not just by reading. And most of all, keep your practice yours. What works for someone online might not work for you, and that’s perfectly fine.

Which deity or deities would you love to have dinner with?

Hecate would be at the head of the table, keys jangling and dogs underfoot. I’d invite Inanna too, just to see what kind of conversation sparks between them. I figure we’d need strong wine and plenty of bread to keep up with their stories.

What magical items would you take with you if you had to live on an island for a year?

The Book of Psalms, a good sharp knife, a jar of salt, and a little iron nail. With those four things I can bless, protect, conjure, and feed spirit. The rest, I’d make do with what the island provides.

Taren S. is a proud Southern Conjuring Witch with over 40 years of experience in the magickal community. Throughout her lifelong commitment, she has dedicated herself to exploring and teaching the nuances of Southern Conjuring Witchcraft, a practice deeply rooted in the traditions and folklore of the American South.

As the founder of the House of Witchcraft, Taren established a tradition that honors, respects, and celebrates all paths of magick and expressions of Divinity. The House of Witchcraft is more than just a magickal tradition; it is a community that embraces diversity in spiritual practices and encourages individuals to find their unique connection to the Divine. The House fosters an inclusive environment where practitioners from various backgrounds can share their knowledge and experiences.

After spending the past seven years in California, which she humorously refers to as a foreign country, Taren has returned to her roots in the South. She now resides on a small farm near John’s Island, just outside Charleston, South Carolina. Her time in California allowed her to explore different spiritual landscapes and broaden her understanding of diverse magickal traditions. This experience has enriched her practice and teaching, bringing new perspectives to her Southern Conjuring Witchcraft.

Living on her farm near John’s Island, Taren continues to practice and teach her unique blend of magick. The serene and mystical environment of the South Carolina Lowcountry provides the perfect backdrop for her work. Taren’s farm is not just a place of residence; it is a living embodiment of her magickal philosophy, where nature and spirituality intertwine.

For more details: https://www.collectiveinkbooks.com/moon-books/authors/taren-s