The Circle of Nine

As women seek to cultivate an understanding of their lives, a mythological model can provide a tool for self-discovery and realizing individual potential. The Circle of Nine presents nine archetypes that represent different, but equally important aspects of the feminine psyche. They portray both the life of the individual and the story of woman as a whole—a circle of ever-changing patterns that is a source of wisdom and inspiration.

Three mothers, three queens, and three ladies form the circle. The Great Mother nurtures her children with a love that embraces the cycle of life, the Queen of the Night transforms the raw energy of instinct into skill and vision, and the Lady of the Hearth brings warmth and creativity into the home. By recognizing these and the other six archetypes of the circle, women can hold up a mirror to their souls to gain new perspectives and unlock their potential.

Drawing from history, her work with women’s groups, and contemporary observations, Cherry Gilchrist presents a mythology that explores the psychology of the modern woman. Her analysis, interpretations, and practical advice help to unravel the mystery of the divine feminine and provide a useful guide for daily life.
“Gilchrist evokes the “magic power of three times three” in this women’s spirituality system . . . grounded in nine mystical female archetypes . . . each of [the] queens, ladies, and mothers is given symbolic imagery, common human experiences, and teaching anecdotes from Gilchrist’s own life. [W]ell-organized and relatable.” – Publishers Weekly
“Cherry Gilchrist skillfully opens the Circle of Nine so that all women may deepen their connection to the sacred feminine mysteries that the Nine Sisters weave for us.” —Caitlín Matthews, author of Sophia: Goddess of Wisdom

"Change happens when women gather together. The Circle of Nine is a beautiful book that assists women coming together to consider the feminine from a spiritual perspective. It provides poetic portraits of nine archetypes that can be used for both personal meditation as well as empowering connection. It’s a wonderful source for women’s interests and needs." –Carol S. Pearson, author of Persephone Rising: Awakening the Heroine Within

“Cherry Gilchrist’s book is an intelligent exploration of feminine archetypes, plumbing mythology, history, and personal experiences. The Circle of Nine is an insightful and judgment-free examination of these archetypes that offers an opportunity for self-exploration.” –Foreword Reviews, 2018

“Walt Whitman boasted that he contained multitudes. Cherry Gilchrist modestly confines herself to nine feminine archetypes, yet they embody every role a woman may play, the myriad relationships she may have, her essential emotions, and her deepest thoughts. Reading this book, I experienced profound recognition and revelation. Cherry offers insights on how we may use the divine forces within us to reveal our truest selves.” —Mary Cutler, BBC scriptwriter & Anglican Lay Preacher

Cherry Gilchrist has studied meditation, Tarot and Kabbalah since her early twenties. She has also been a lifelong member of the Nine Ladies association, concerned with renewing feminine spirituality. After gaining an MA from the University of Cambridge, Cherry has worked primarily as a writer, but also in a variety of roles, such as childbirth teacher, early music singer, lecturer, family historian, and owner of an arts and crafts gallery. As an author, and lifelong participant in the Western wisdom tradition, she has written definitive books on alchemy, Russian mythology, and divination. She lives in Devon, UK, with artist husband Robert Lee-Wade. Visit her at www.cherrygilchrist.co.uk.