Compiled from primary data, both published and unpublished, this volume captures the story of those who were instrumental in the movements development and spread.

Kelly provides an overview of the book, what is covered and not covered along with an acknowledgement of its incompleteness and incosistences. Having published the sequel to the first volume A Tapestry of Witches at the age of 81, he's still open to revisions for a revised edition.

Kelly describes the evolution of religion

In the opening of the first chapter, Kelly argues researching Wicca is different than researching other religions