Recipes for Deception by Joseph B

Effect

Recipes for Deception presents magic routines in the style of a high-end cookbook. Each trick is framed as a "recipe," complete with ingredients (props), preparation (setup), and cooking process (method). The book includes full-color photography, stylized layouts, and QR codes linking to video demonstrations. The effects range from card tricks to mentalism, with playful food-themed terminology enhancing the presentation.

Full Details

Recipes for Deception by Joseph B contains 26 routines and 10 techniques. The book covers impromptu card magic, key card tricks, prepared deck effects, mentalism, gambling demonstrations, and psychological deceptions. Each routine is structured like a recipe, with sections for ingredients, preparation, cooking process (method), alternative variations, and reset tips.

The book features 65 high-resolution photographs and QR codes for video references. The design mimics a modern cookbook, with vibrant graphics and thematic fonts. The difficulty of the routines varies from very easy to advanced, making it accessible to different skill levels. Some tricks require minimal preparation, while others involve more setup.

Who Should Consider the Trick

Recipes for Deception is ideal for magicians who enjoy thematic presentations and creative framing. It suits performers who want a visually engaging book with a mix of self-working and advanced card magic. The playful food theme makes it appealing for those who like storytelling in their routines.

Intermediate magicians will benefit most, as some techniques require familiarity with card handling. However, beginners can also find accessible routines. Collectors who appreciate beautifully designed magic books may also consider it for its coffee-table-worthy aesthetics.

Information on How Difficult It Is to Perform

The difficulty varies across the book:

• Very easy: Some tricks require minimal sleight of hand.
• Intermediate: Many routines involve standard card techniques but with unique presentations.
• Advanced: A few effects demand more skill in card control and misdirection.

Setup ranges from impromptu (using a borrowed deck) to prepared gimmicks. Resets are designed for real-world conditions, with some being instant and others requiring brief preparation between performances.

What Magicians Say

David from Magic Orthodoxy praised the book’s design, calling it "coffee-table-worthy" and "playful." He noted that several routines could fool both lay audiences and magicians. He highlighted the QR codes for video demonstrations as a useful learning aid.

Murphy’s Magic described it as a "unique philosophy of magic" with deceptive effects that challenge professional magicians. They emphasized its cookbook structure as a fresh approach to learning magic.

The book’s price ($70-$80) has been justified by reviewers for its originality, high-quality design, and fooling material. However, they recommend checking multiple reviews to ensure it fits individual preferences.