Carl McColman is the author of several books on Christian mysticism, paganism, and goddess spirituality. Carl's work is characterized by an optimistic, expansive understanding of spirituality, rooted in Christianity while embracing the wisdom of the world's contemplative traditions. He is a professed Lay Cistercian-a layperson under the guidance of Trappist monks. He regularly speaks, teaches, and conducts retreats on contemplative Christian practice and blogs at www.carlmccolman.com. Kathryn Hinds (d. 2018) was a teacher, novelist, poet, and writer of more than 50 nonfiction books on world history and mythology, including The Celts of Northern Europe. Kathryn was a student of Norse, Irish, and Welsh literature and a priestess in the Welsh bardic tradition.