Magic Tricks

Orion is an absolute tour-de-force. I haven't read any mentalism quite as stimulating in a long time. Phedon has obviously spent countless hours in deep contemplation to arrive at clear, concise, well-explained, mentalism that delivers!

I went into these two books a bit apprehensive. While I had really enjoyed previous Phedon products, this book series is a sea-change. So much bigger and therefore more expensive.

That being said, I think these books are worth every single penny. These will (and may already have) go down as essential in every serious mentalist's library; like Psychological Subtleties or Corinda, ur-texts you just have to own if you want to make a serious go of mentalism.

I say that not because of the calibre of the tricks, which are great mind you, but because of the calibre of the thinking & methods. Concepts like Phasmatic Names, Restricted Imagery, Lettercount Forces, Orpheus, Prism, and more will become part & parcel for mentalism conversations from now on. Some of these aren't wholecloth new inventions (although many are!), but every single one of these will be talked about in reference to Phedon's work on the subject.

I mean this book is just absolutely jam packed with concepts, theory, and practical instruction that each alone could sell a 30 dollar download or limited run book!

Which does bring me to one caveat with this product. If you don't already own Sibyl & Phasma, earlier individual products from Phedon, you will feel a bit left out & confused earlier on. He makes many references to those products throughout the work, and while some concepts are re-explained here, even still you'll be left thinking "Boy I hope I'm not missing out by not having those!" That being said, I do highly recommend both products; it's just something you should be aware of - if you don't own them you will feel like you should (and you probably should).

Additionally, unless you have another preferred method, you'll also want to know the Acideus Novus Billet Peek already. It's seemingly Phedon's preferred method, referenced throughout, and is also a fantastic worthwhile purchase but, to be clear, isn't taught in this work.

It is very hard not to talk about Orion or Phedon's work without multiple paragraphs. And I could go on & on about the individual ideas in this book. There are multiple multiple times I guarantee you will reach a chapter & then immediately put the book down in shock. Flabbergasted at the potential & power of what you just read! It's really that freakin' good.

These books are for serious mentalists, who are bold & confident. The material is not overly challenging & is taught very well; but it isn't self-working & you will need a strong confident character/persona - who can act - to work it. You don't need to be Marlon Brando but at the same time if taking risks or commanding an audience exclusively through words isn't in your wheelhouse be aware this might not be for you.

If jaw-dropping people's mentalism is your cup of tea, then look no further! This is it. A treasure trove of material people will be talking about for decades to come.

I hope this review is helpful & I give this book my highest highest praise! Even though I am still digesting such a big work a year+ after purchase, I eagerly await more from Phedon!