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Orpheus by Phedon Bilek


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"In Phedon's usual style, every single detail is meticulously explained so that the reader gains a full understanding of all of the underlying principles at play. No stone is left unturned, and there are nuggets of gold in virtually every single paragraph Phedon writes. Admittedly, this makes the writing dense, but if you take your time and fully digest each bit of information before moving to the next, you'll walk away dumbfounded by the thinking that goes into each moment of Phedon's routines and tools. It is a huge reason why his work is, in my opinion, the best work for mentalists being released today. His material is clearly worked and transformed into masterpieces with detailed paint strokes that make the material leap from the page and resonate directly with the spectator's emotional feelings which causes the work to surpass logic and feel real."
- An extract from Madison Haglers Review of Orpheus

The Cartesian Q&A...

"Phedon is the Master, and we are but students."
- Millard Longman

When Phedon set his mind on creating the ultimate Q&A routine the results were amazing, even one of Phedon's closest friends (Romanos) regards this as the strongest routine that Phedon has released to date. Requiring no props, billets or expensive electronics this devastating Q&A can be performed any time, place and anywhere.

The Most Powerful Material Imaginable...

"People could start a cult with this!"
- Madison Hagler

There is no question that the' Q&A' represents one of the strongest routines within mentalism. Yet, most performers shy away from it owing to the various technical and mechanical demands that are required to pull it off convincingly.

Never before has there been a more direct route for any performer to add this routine into their repertoire. Requiring no switches, no steals, no one ahead, this entirely prop-less approach alleviates all of the hard work leaving the performer free to concentrate their efforts almost entirely upon the presentation.

Please consider the following points:

  • This is a reputation-making effect.
  • It can be performed one-on-one in a close-up setting, or for a larger audience on stage.
  • It is very simple to do.
  • It appears real.
  • It is both fun and interesting for everyone watching.
  • It is entirely prop-less.
  • It is impossible to backtrack.
  • Every action is fully motivated.
Best of all, you will learn the subtle psychological methods that Phedon uses to get his participants to instigate each performance. This, coupled with the ability to give highly detailed, accurate readings (using the methods taught in this book) will set any performer head and shoulders above their peers.

Additional Routines...

"Phedon isn't just a trailblazer. He's also incredibly generous in his publications, and Orpheus is no exception. Pure gold!"
- Francis Girola

Besides 'The Cartesian Q&A', readers of this book will also get to learn several of Phedon's most preciously guarded secrets, each being unveiled for the very first time. Phedon also takes care to include a full breakdown of what he considers to be the most powerful billet routine he performs. Best of all, owing to Phedons minimalist approach, each of these mind-blowing routines requires little more than a small selection of borrowed business cards and a writing implement.

These routines include
  • Three Questionable Answers.
  • Hecate.
  • Zodiac & Name.
  • The Timorous Drawing.
  • Murmur.
  • & A Work in Progress.
The highly versatile nature of this material affords the performer the ability to perform these routines in both close-up and stage settings. No matter if you are a casual performer or a paid professional, this material is guaranteed to elevate your performances to a whole new level.

A Toolbox of Techniques...

"Another work of absolute genius!"
- Jamie Badman

Coupled with each of the routines in this book, you will also discover detailed explanations for a variety of different tools. Each of these tools has been taken directly from Phedon's own personal repertoire and has been honed to perfection, via countless real-world performances. Readers of this book will also appreciate the far-reaching applications that these tools offer within the routines that they currently perform.

This incredible selection of bonus tools includes:
  • The universal vision.
  • Objective redefinition.
  • The Prism.
  • Numbers and their meanings.
  • The Master Dream reveal.
  • Nico Heinrich's paddle peek.
  • The Escalation ruse.
  • A Llttle phasmatic touch.
  • The 'Dot' subtlety.
  • The Shift.
  • The Alpha and The Omega.
Opening Your Mind...

"If you are interested in mentalism then Phedon's work is remarkable, what I have managed to read of Orpheus so far is genuinely next level!" - Phill Smith In a very fitting tribute to the origins of this book, Phedon also covers a wide variety of thought-provoking subjects. Many of these are designed to inspire, whilst others are designed to challenge the reader's perspective on various elements pertaining to mentalism performance. The revolutionary thinking within these chapters is both refreshing and highly motivating and will no doubt deeply affect the way that the reader thinks about this art form.

These inspiring chapters include:
  • Addressing 'THESCAM'
  • Plato goes to Hollywood
  • Sacred chants
  • Plato goes to the movies
  • The timorous drawing
  • The technology of failing
  • & more
As Real as It Gets...

"This work is simply incredible, never have I ever felt more inspired!"
- Michael Murray

There is simply no denying the power of this material, with one early reader suggesting "You could start a religion with this!" and another suggesting that the typical response to 'The Cartesian Q&A' would be something akin to - "This guy started walking through the audience, and was able to describe their thoughts, feelings, and fears just by touching their hand...".

Happily, the presentational options whilst performing this material are so diverse that each of these routines is guaranteed to appeal to each performer in a different way. Even fans of a more traditional 'Sherlock Holmes' style approach will find favor with chapters such as 'The Alpha and Omega'. In short, no matter who you are, or what presentational style you favor, you are guaranteed to find inspiration in this book!

Regarding Reading Systems...

"This is the real deal, pure genius, honestly, there is nothing out there that comes close!"
- Colin Miller

Owing to the global success of his DVD release 'Sibyl', Phedon is widely recognized as one of the leading authorities when it comes to delivering readings. Within 'Orpheus', Phedon details the blueprints to several new, fast-track systems, each providing owners of this book with the ability to deliver confident, accurate readings with very little memory work required.

To accompany the simple yet diverse range of reading systems taught, Phedon also provides a definitive set of psychological safety nets, thus providing a huge sense of reassurance to those who may not have ever given a reading before, whilst simultaneously offering the absolute freedom to jazz for those that have.

No Stone Left Unturned...

"If you thought Orion was great, wait until you read Orpheus! In my honest opinion, I think Orpheus tops Orion."
- Alex Alejandro

Phedon ensures that an unparalleled level of instruction has been provided for every routine within this book. Each explanation is backed up by a written, illustrative account, taken directly from one of Phedon's own personal performances. As the old adage suggests, the devil truly does lie within the details!

Not only does Phedon share the complete methods behind some of his most powerful material to date, but he also shares everything that sparked their genesis too. By the time you have reached the end of this book, you will have learned everything there is to know about these routines and will have a firm understanding of the depth and meaning that they carry.

A 'Masterclass' in Revealing Information...

Phedon recognizes that the manner in which we choose to reveal information is one of the true keys to a powerful performance. Having also observed a distinct lack of literature in this regard, Phedon sought to address this balance with the release of 'Orpheus'. As such, this book boasts the most comprehensive level of instruction given to the subject of reveals, that has been released to date.

This list of revelation options includes (but is not limited to):
  • Names
  • Objects
  • Destinations
  • Exact dates of birth
  • Questions & concerns
  • Plus so much more besides
What is especially interesting is that not one single piece of this information has to be written down or otherwise directly communicated by your participant.

Truly Inspirational...

Upon completion of 'Orpheus', Phedon sent a draft copy of this book to a select number of his closest friends in return for their thoughts. The reaction to this material was incredible, with every one of them feeling inspired enough to share their own personal perspectives, alternative handlings and additional tools with Phedon in return.

With very kind permission from such names as Dr Bill Cushman, Francis Girola, Madison Hagler, Matthew Sims & Warren Thackeray this treasure trove of bonus thoughts have all been collated together and are included within each relevant chapter of Orpheus for the reader to enjoy.

Note: Phedon assumes no prior knowledge in relation to any of this material, and therefore no ownership of his earlier works is required.

Format: Hardbacked - Page Count: 328 Pages

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The Cartesian Q & A Report this review
Verified buyer Pro Privacy ON (login to see reviewer names) on March 30th, 2025
The Cartesian Q & A One-On-One. The premise, effect and scripting of the The Cartesian Q & A One-On-One version is very nice. The way the effect is framed is unlike anything I have read before on the Q & A. It makes sense, is theatrical and dramatic, and when presented by a skilled performer, will almost certainly create a memorable experience for the participant. The thinking here is great, and all aspects of the effect are explained thoroughly and in detail. This is something I look forward to using. It won't replace my approach to doing readings, but it is an
effect I can see myself using in informal environments, that may lead to a reading being booked.

Three items not mentioned in the description for The Cartesian Q & A are it involves math, requires the participant to use their phone, and requires the participant to perform a calculation on their phone. I think these are important details, and I wish they were included in
the description. That said, the use of math and the participant performing a calculation on their
phone are well justified with the premise of and scripting for this effect.

There is also a version of The Cartesian Q & A explained for use with an audience. The same core method is used, but for for 4 or 5 people in front of an audience. Once again, the thinking here is great, however, I am less enthusiastic about this version as I do not see it being
something I will use. Why? Well, in addition to the use of math, each participant's phone and a calculation they need to perform, the audience version also requires the performer to use two different mnemonic systems. If you have a great short term memory and enjoy using mnemonic
systems, this might be right up your alley, but I don't see this as workable at all for me. There is
just too much going on, too many pieces of information to keep in my short term memory that I would almost certainly get mixed up in the heat of performance. When I do Q & A, I like to be looking right at the information when I need it, not trying to remember it. Your mileage may
vary.

Am I glad I bought it? I have mixed feelings. I love to learn, am a life-long student of the Q & A,
and once something is on my potential buy list, I usually end up getting it. For me, I don't
consider this book a must have.

Is this something I will use? The One-On-One version, yes I will most likely use it, but it won't
replace my go to methods and effects. The audience version, no.

Keep in mind I'm only reviewing The Cartesian Q & A portion of the book, which is why I bought
it. The book includes a lot more content.
6 of 7 magicians found this helpful.
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Orpheus isn’t a toolbox. It’s a cathedral for mentalists who still believe in art. Report this review
Pro Privacy ON (login to see reviewer names) on April 4th, 2025
A Mentalism Book That Actually Feels Like an Experience
Orpheus by Phedon Bilek isn’t just a collection of clever routines. It’s a layered, emotional, philosophical exploration of what mind reading could be when you care more about connection than cleverness.

Right from page one, this isn’t about fooling someone. It’s about moving them.

One second, a disclaimer should be put here...

Disclaimer: I should not forget that I have gotten to know Phedon about ten years ago in Newcastle (UK) at a Minds convention...we talked since about Motorbikes, life and lots of other stuff. He is a role model in life to me, especially as a business owner and a dad. So yeah, I am biased

...now that that is said...

Back to my review:

If you’ve ever wanted to make your mentalism feel like something pulled from a dream or memory—this is your book.

The Cartesian Q&A—Yes, It Uses a Calculator. (As some have mentioned, and also whined about in their comments.)

- No, That’s Not a Problem.

Let’s talk about the Cartesian Q&A.

Yes, there’s a calculator involved. And no, that doesn’t make it “less propless.” It makes it more human.

Let me tell you why:

Phedon uses this tiny interruption—this deliberate break in the flow—to create a deeper hypnotic moment. It’s the same idea hypnotists use all the time: reinduction. Pull someone out for a second, then drop them back in deeper. The number feels personal. The moment feels charged.

Some routines get remembered. This one gets felt.

***

Let me get to another part of the book...numerology and numbers... and since I am not the biggest fan of numerology, let me call this part of my review:

"Cognitive Dissonance, Number Mysticism & the Ghost of Robert Anton Wilson"

Let’s face it: People love numbers. Not just for math — but for meaning.

Give someone a number and tell them it’s theirs, and their brain will start doing the work for you. Suddenly, they’re seeing patterns, attaching memories, creating significance.

Robert Anton Wilson played with this beautifully in The Illuminatus! Trilogy—constantly referencing 23, 5, and the patterns in between.

It’s not about numerology.

It’s about psychology.

It’s about showing people a mirror and letting them see something in it.

Phedon knows how to do this. Subtly. Powerfully. Repeatedly. And he shows you how, in Orpheus.

Let me come to another part I really like, something Phedon calls:

"The Master Dream Reveal"

On page 131, there’s a moment in a chapter called The Master Dream Reveal that honestly just blew me away.

It features a contribution by Dr. Bill Cushman and brings in ideas from Gestalt psychology, performance, and dream logic. The kind of thing that turns a routine into something soft, surreal, and deeply moving.

You don’t “do a reading” in this routine. You walk them through a dream. And when done well, it feels as real to them as it does to you.

Wanna know what secret and subtle idea Dr Cushman contributed? Then get the book.

***

And now let us talk about one of my favorite things about magic books...essays. Essays are always a great way into a magicians brain, and unfortunately, not too many people have em. Phedon does, so here a few words on my favorite essays:

Plato Goes to Hollywood — A Bonus Essay Worth the Price Alone

Orpheus doesn’t just give you routines—it gives you ideas. One of the most fascinating parts of the book is a paired set of essays titled Plato Goes to Hollywood.

The first essay is by Phedon Bilek. The second is a “counter” (or rather, companion) piece by Dr. Bill Cushman. Together, they dive into the emotional experience of story, cinema, and music—and how those same emotional levers can be pulled during performance.

If you’re a hypnotist or storyteller—or you want to be—this is worth re-reading. This is the kind of material that opens doors in your head you didn’t even know were locked.

And to end this review, let me state some facts:

Who This Book Is Not For

If you want quick tricks and cookie-cutter methods—don’t buy this book.

If you’re looking for “pick a card”-style material that you can throw into your set with zero effort—this isn’t it.

If you’re not willing to think, feel, or put in the work to get good—walk away. Seriously.

Orpheus is simple, but not easy. It requires emotional intelligence, a love for human interaction, and a desire to actually give your participants something meaningful. If you’re ready for that… you’ve just found gold. If you want another card trick, head to a different section.
4 of 5 magicians found this helpful.
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The Cartesian Q & A Report this review
Verified buyer Pro Privacy ON (login to see reviewer names) on April 1st, 2025
The Cartesian Q & A One-On-One. The premise, effect and scripting of the The Cartesian Q & A One-On-One version is very nice. The way the effect is framed is unlike anything I have read before on the Q & A. It makes sense, is theatrical and dramatic, and when presented by a skilled performer, will almost certainly create a memorable experience for the participant. The thinking here is great, and all aspects of the effect are explained thoroughly and in detail. This is something I look forward to using. It won't replace my approach to doing readings, but it is an
effect I can see myself using in informal environments, that may lead to a reading being booked.

Three items not mentioned in the description for The Cartesian Q & A are it involves math, requires the participant to use their phone, and requires the participant to perform a calculation on their phone. I think these are important details, and I wish they were included in
the description. That said, the use of math and the participant performing a calculation on their phone are well justified with the premise of and scripting for this effect.

There is also a version of The Cartesian Q & A explained for use with an audience. The same core method is used, but for for 4 or 5 people in front of an audience. Once again, the thinking here is great, however, I am less enthusiastic about this version as I do not see it being something I will use. Why? Well, in addition to the use of math, each participant's phone and a calculation they need to perform, the audience version also requires the performer to use two different mnemonic systems. If you have a great short term memory and enjoy using mnemonic systems, this might be right up your alley, but I don't see this as workable at all for me. There is just too much going on, too many pieces of information to keep in my short term memory that I would almost certainly get mixed up in the heat of performance. When I do Q & A, I like to be looking right at the information when I need it, not trying to remember it. Your mileage may vary.

Am I glad I bought it? I have mixed feelings. I love to learn, am a life-long student of the Q & A, and once something is on my potential buy list, I usually end up getting it. For me, I don't consider this book a must have.

Is this something I will use? The One-On-One version, yes I will most likely use it, but it won't replace my go to methods and effects. The audience version, no I will not use it.
3 of 3 magicians found this helpful.
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An instant mentalism classic! Report this review
Pro Privacy ON (login to see reviewer names) on April 5th, 2025
I recently finished Orpheus by Phedon Bilek, and it’s nothing short of a masterpiece. Having already read Orion and Proteus and watched Sybil, I can confidently say that Bilek’s teachings have been invaluable to my practice. I especially love the way they build on each other. One standout feature of Orpheus is the inclusion of embedded video QR codes and diagrams, which significantly helped in visualizing the moves. The zodiac and name routine has already been field-tested and produced some truly incredible reactions. Additionally, his take on the three billet trick is far more engaging for the entire audience, creating a viscerally memorable moment. There’s one particular reveal that steadily builds that I have adapted for an unrelated mentalism routine, and let me tell you…it has elevated the reactions! While the Q&A section has been thoroughly covered by other reviewers, I’ll simply say that it’s incredibly comprehensive. Orpheus has undoubtedly earned its place alongside Orion as one of my most treasured volumes of mentalism. Do yourself and your audience a huge favor and follow
The teachings in his book. They are highly recommended!
1 of 1 magicians found this helpful.
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The ultimate book on mentalism. Report this review
Pro Privacy ON (login to see reviewer names) on April 2nd, 2025
I read through the other reviews before writing mine, and I was surprised by one or two comments from people complaining that Cartesian requires the participant to use their mobile phone. First of all, that’s not necessary—it’s just that Phedon wants to ensure that no miscalculation ruins the experience. It’s no secret: mental math has become a challenge these days. Moreover, its use is perfectly justified. And if someone says the method isn’t good, or that a fortune teller wouldn’t do that, then they’ve completely missed the point. The method works, it’s brilliant, and my participants are blown away.

And Cartesian is only the beginning. The other routines don’t disappoint. Zodiac & Name, for example, is a marvel of subtlety that I actually prefer to Bob Cassidy’s original Name & Place. So many hits with so little—it’s almost unfair.

I don’t know if it’s because the book is dedicated to Orpheus, but Phedon’s prose is stunningly beautiful, especially for someone whose native language isn’t English! Some passages are breathtaking, and even Eric Samuels, in a glowing review posted elsewhere, praised this “mentalism Marvel”. His words.

The final section on Phedon’s “secrets” is worth its weight in gold. Simply incredible. Maybe, just maybe… my favorite!

10 stars out of five for me.
2 of 4 magicians found this helpful.
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Not Phedon's best... Report this review
Pro Privacy ON (login to see reviewer names) on April 2nd, 2025
As good as Orion was, the release of Orpheus excite me. But I held off buying for a while because some wrote that they did not like the method Cartisian uses. Other parts of the book they did like, but not the method for the main routine. Let's face it, Cartisian Q&A is why most of us buy the book, for me for sure. I went ahead and buy it, only to have to agree with those who say they don't like the method. Sorry to say I don't like it either. Using a phone calculator for the Q&A...it's just doesn't work for me. This is not Phedon's best work. Orion was much better. Some other parts of the book are okay but they are not why I buy it. For the price paid I expected a much better method.
1 of 2 magicians found this helpful.
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A lifetime of learning Report this review
Pro Privacy ON (login to see reviewer names) on April 1st, 2025
I discovered Phedon and immediately bought all his books including this.

My mind has been altered when it comes to performance and mentalism thanks to this book and others by Phedon.

Truthfully his material is very thick. From a performance perspective, it will take me an entire life to learn half the content (that’s how good it is and how much thinking he’s put into it)

Quite frankly I don’t think its possible for any human to put out any more content after this, but if it has Phedon’s name on it, it will be an automatic and immediate buy.
1 of 2 magicians found this helpful.
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Filled to the brim with genius Report this review
Pro Privacy ON (login to see reviewer names) on April 19th, 2025
This is a monumental piece of work, filled to the brim with bits of genius. I could go on about every single effect, but here’s what stood out to me the most:

First and foremost, Phedon's real-world experience performing these routines is abundantly clear. Every single detail has been thought out, worked on and refined, to our massive benefit. From the way to introduce the effect in a way that makes the participant believe THEY specifically asked for it, to every single beat of every single effect, perfectly mapped and nothing left to chance.

Then there's his ability to extract maximum impact from the smallest pieces of information. It's almost absurd how much he accomplishes with something as simple as a peek, squeezing every last drop of theatrics and astonishment from it.

If you're familiar with Phedon's performance style, you’ll know what to expect. If not, be prepared for a deep dive into readings, oracles, genuine connection, and playing it 100% real. Even if this isn’t your usual approach (it isn’t mine), learning from someone with his level of experience is undeniably inspiring. It certainly has been for me.
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Mentalism gold! Report this review
Pro Privacy ON (login to see reviewer names) on April 14th, 2025
Orpheus is an absolute gem. While the Q&A is impressive, what really stood out to me is how adaptable the techniques are for all kinds of mentalism—whether you’re working close-up or in parlour. It feels like a natural evolution from Orion, deeper and richer, but still completely accessible. Phedon has a gift for making complex ideas clear, and the book is full of his charm and wit. Honestly, he’s becoming the Harry Lorayne of mentalism—engaging, clever, and always one step ahead.
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A BOOK NOT TO BE READ, BUT EXPERIENCED Report this review
Pro Privacy ON (login to see reviewer names) on April 7th, 2025
I don’t know where to begin with this book. I feel it is the most inspiring one I’ve read in a very long time, if ever. Cartesian is a beast of an effect, it slays. Just like Phedon, I present it as a numerology reading. And then, the answer to their concern comes out of nowhere. I find it perfect, but that’s my opinion. It might not suit your style. But Phedon had issued several warnings when this was released, on why not to buy Orpheus. He had listed everything that could make you dislike this release, exactly like he did with Orion. Who does that? If you decided to ignore these recommendations, don’t complain.

The other effects are of high standard. The 3 billet routine is the one I will be performing from now on, and the effect the Timorous Drawing is the closest thing to mind reading that your audience will ever experience. I cannot express what experience I have had with it, and I messaged Phedon about it.

Ideas like the Shift or the Universal Vision are tools I have incorporated in my performances already. And Phedon leaves no stone unturned. He takes you by the hand and explains all.

I want to finish this saying that the way he writes is unique. He’s blending humour with poetry here, making certain paragraph deeply moving. I can see why he mentioned Gibran. I can feel the influence.

This book is to be read and read again numerous times. And every time you will read it, you will learn. It’s that good.

Don’t buy if you want tricks. Don’t buy if you want stuff to perform on stage. Buy this only to mystify. And to become a better performer.
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