About the author
Leah Middleton, known online as the Redheaded Witch, writes on folk witchcraft and Appalachian tradition. Magic from the Hilltops and Hollers: Folk Witchery, Superstitions, and Healing Practices from Appalachia (Weiser Books, 2025) documents folk magic and healing customs specific to the Appalachian region, situating them within the broader literature on Appalachian cultural identity; the book received a Silver award in the Body, Mind, and Spirit category of the 2026 IBPA Book Awards. The Beginner Witch's Handbook: Essential Spells, Folk Traditions, and Lore for Crafting Your Magickal Practice (Page Street Publishing, 2023) is an introductory guide walking new practitioners through basic spellwork and folk tradition. Middleton's books combine regional folklore documentation with beginner-level instruction, aimed at readers starting a witchcraft practice as well as those interested in Appalachian folk custom specifically. No further biographical detail beyond her online persona and these two titles is available.
📖 Where to start with Leah Middleton
💬 What our editors say about Leah Middleton's books
“Leah Middleton delivers a heartfelt homage to Appalachian heritage, blending personal narrative with practical folk witchery insights. The book succeeds in making ancestral veneration and regional superstitions feel immediate and…”
Esoterica Books editorial team, Occult literature desk · on Magic from the Hilltops and Hollers: Folk Witchery, Superstitions, and Healing Practices from Appalachia
“Middleton delivers a soothing, well-structured primer that excels in accessibility and warmth. It successfully guides new practitioners through fundamentals like tool assembly and ritual timing with clarity. However, seasoned…”
Esoterica Books editorial team, Occult literature desk · on The Beginner Witch's Handbook: Essential Spells, Folk Traditions, and Lore for Crafting Your Magickal Practice
