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Devil Knows by Lewis Le Val

Created by: Lewis Le Val

Devil Knows is a versatile mentalism reading system by Lewis Le Val, designed for close-up or parlour performances. It allows performers to give tarot-esque readings using a plastic card with a unique poem, a black envelope, and optional playing cards or personal objects. The system blends intuition, numerology, and cartomancy, enabling readings based on cards, colors, or even psychometry (reading personal objects). The kit includes 13 video lessons (totaling 2 hours) teaching the method, storytelling techniques, and performance tips. Buyers should note that while the system is flexible and requires no gimmicks, it demands memorization and practice to master.

Key features

  • Works with or without the included plastic card (memorization optional)

  • Blends mentalism with mysticism for a unique performance style

  • Includes 2 hours of video lessons covering multiple reading methods

  • Versatile: usable with cards, objects, or pure intuition

  • Fairly priced at £30 for the depth of content

Pros

  • Highly adaptable to different performance styles

  • No gimmicks or sleight of hand required

  • Well-produced video lessons with engaging teaching

  • Encourages genuine intuition and audience interaction

  • Compact and portable (card fits in a wallet)

Cons

  • Requires significant memorization and practice

  • No PDF quick-reference guide included

  • May not suit performers uncomfortable with mystical themes

Effect

Devil Knows is a reading system created by Lewis Le Val that allows performers to give tarot-style readings using cards, numbers, or personal objects. The effect presents as an intuitive, mystical experience where the performer provides meaningful insights based on the chosen method—whether through a card draw, numerology, or psychometry (reading personal objects). The audience perceives it as a genuine divination or fortune-telling session, blending mentalism with mysticism.

Full Details

The system includes:

  • A plastic card with a printed poem, serving as a reference for readings.
  • A black envelope (optional but included).
  • 13 video lessons (totaling 2 hours) covering different reading methods, including cartomancy (card readings), numerology, psychometry, and aura-based interpretations.
  • A business card with access details.

The performer can use the system flexibly—with or without the physical card—making it adaptable for impromptu performances. The readings can be structured (e.g., past-present-future) or freeform, depending on the performer’s preference.

Who Should Consider the Trick

Devil Knows is ideal for:

  • Performers who enjoy storytelling and interactive mentalism.
  • Those interested in tarot, numerology, or psychometry but want a structured system.
  • Magicians looking to expand their repertoire beyond traditional mentalism effects.
  • Beginners and experienced performers alike, as the system is scalable in complexity.

Gareth Witty notes that it works well for those who "love the mystical, the occult, and open-minded performances."

Difficulty

The system requires:

  • Memorization of the poem and its interpretations.
  • Practice in delivering readings naturally (more about intuition than sleight of hand).
  • Comfort with audience interaction, as readings involve discussion rather than scripted routines.

Gareth mentions that while "there’s a bit of learning and memory work," the poem’s unique wording makes it easier to retain. Performers who enjoy improvisation will find it more accessible.

What Magicians Say

Gareth Witty highlights several key points:

  • Versatility: "You can do this anytime, any place, anywhere—even without the card."
  • Production Quality: "The videos are well-shot, with a unique 70s Grindhouse aesthetic."
  • Value: "For £30, it’s more than fair—Lewis could have charged more."
  • Flexibility: "You can adapt it to different styles—light and scientific or dark and mystical."

He also notes that while the system is beginner-friendly, it rewards practice: "If you're a natural storyteller, this will work brilliantly. If not, build it up slowly."

Devil Knows offers a unique blend of mentalism and mysticism, making it a compelling choice for performers looking to explore intuitive readings.

What people are saying about Devil Knows

Gareth Witty (Mentalist on a Shoestring) says...

Devil Knows is a system where you're kind of doing it for real—it’s a very interesting and valid point to play around with. [...] The card lives in my wallet, ready to go, and the flexibility of the system is fantastic.

Review videos