The Apocryphal Reach merges two innovative concepts crafted by me. While straightforward, this project is designed for those with a foundational understanding of mentalism, making it unsuitable for novices.

This work focuses on mentalism effects using playing cards, ideal for parlor or stage performances with audiences of 25 or more.

Each effect adheres to the following criteria:

• The audience shuffles the deck before the effect begins.
• No deck switches are involved.
• The deck remains completely normal and unaltered throughout (no markings, crimps, etc.).
• No memory work is required.
• No external assistance (no stooges or confederates).

THE EFFECTS

Subliminal Lottery – After shuffling the deck, participants generate random numbers that not only predict a sum but also reveal a hidden message.

Sneak Rogue – The audience shuffles the deck, and participants secretly select cards while the performer looks away. The performer accurately identifies which card belongs to each participant, culminating in a final card revelation.

Card Memory Test – The audience shuffles the deck, and participants take random selections. In mere seconds, the performer memorizes all chosen cards with remarkable accuracy (no memory work involved).

Invincible Princess – The audience shuffles the deck and distributes cards among themselves while the performer is turned away. The performer then divines who selected each card with complete accuracy, even if the cards are only thought of. Various adaptations are possible.

Readings – A segment of my personal reading system.

Essay: Cards in Mentalism

Testimonials:

“I truly enjoyed this read! Max has advanced some lesser-known principles significantly. Practical ideas and excellent mental stimulation.” – Jan Forster

“I’ve always appreciated ‘The Almost Real Prediction,’ and I love what Max has developed! These concepts are well thought out, creating a flexible system applicable in many practical and deceptive ways. You will definitely use these ideas.” – Marc Paul

“I was privileged to receive a copy of Max Hazy’s Volume One of his Arcane Grimoires, APOCRYPHAL REACH. Initially, I was skeptical due to the enticing title, but knowing Max’s innovative approach to mentalism, I was eager to explore it. I’m glad I did.

Although cards in mentalism are not my forte, I recognize their value when the effect aligns with mentalism principles. What do you gain from Max’s release?

Primarily, you receive the ARC, a versatile system that Max only begins to explore. It’s user-friendly, allowing for classic plots like Princess-style routines (without deck switches), Psychometry, Liar/Truthteller games, Memory tests, and READINGS (which I found extremely powerful as Max shares his reading system for both cards and Tarot).

Max opens with “Sneak Rogue,” a clever routine utilizing this system. It’s beautifully crafted, clean, and seemingly impossible. The system is intuitive, allowing you to instantly know card associations. It can be applied to Tarot cards or smaller packets as well.

The effects utilizing the ARC are the highlight of this Volume One. Additionally, “Subliminal Lottery” showcases Max’s interpretation of a mathematical principle popularized by Jack London, now with playing cards.

Despite English not being our first language, Max’s writing is clear and thorough.

In conclusion:

• If you incorporate cards into your performances, this is a must-see.
• If you don’t use cards… you should still consider checking this out. It may inspire you to explore their potential.” – Phedon Bilek