Musing Mystical

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Author Archives: Brett d’Arras

About Brett d’Arras

Brett d’Arras is an astrologer, tarot reader, and educator with over 30 years of experience in metaphysical sciences. Specializing in astrology and astro-herbalism, he blends planetary wisdom with holistic practices to guide clients and students. A dedicated writer and content creator, he has spent over 15 years crafting educational materials on astrology, tarot, and spiritual development. He also hosts Beyond the Zodiac, a podcast and YouTube channel exploring astrology, herbalism, and cosmic insights for personal and professional growth.

The Dragon Rune Oracle, by Kieron Morgan and Isedon Goldwing

The Dragon Rune Oracle, by Kieron Morgan and Isedon Goldwing
Crossed Crow Books, 1964537290, 108 pages, 28 cards, August 2025

The Dragon Rune Oracle is a rich and imaginative system that blends Welsh and Celtic myth, dragon lore, and runic symbolism into a divination tool designed to deepen one’s  connection with primordial dragon energies. Created by Kieron Morgan with rune design by Isedon Goldwing, this oracle aims to help practitioners communicate with dragon guides, receive counsel from ancient dragon clans, and even tap into the voice of Tiamat, the  Queen of Dragons.

One of the best aspects of this deck is the guidebook itself. The deck includes a 107-page guidebook that lays a strong foundation for working with dragon magic in a grounded and structured way.

Morgan provides an impressively comprehensive framework for dragon-based spiritual practice, beginning with preparations for entering ritual space and moving into methods of calling, communicating  with, and releasing dragon energies. He outlines what to do before, during, and after a  reading, and offers contextual lore on the Celtic veneration of land, sea, and sky—an  animistic worldview that situates dragons not as fantastical creatures but as ancient  intelligent forces woven into the fabric of creation. The writing is both accessible and reverent, making the system feel alive and usable for practitioners at any level. 

The organization of the deck is also noteworthy. The runes, each created by Goldwing, are elegant, angular symbols that feel simultaneously modern and archaic. They are  presented through the lens of several dragon clans, each representing a unique energetic signature and philosophical lesson. Cards like Sha’oren (discernment, Akashic memory),  Ratanen (chaos and infinite possibility), and Kaegos (balance through transformation)  illustrate the breadth of perspective offered by these primordial beings.

The spreads included in the guidebook are thoughtful and surprisingly profound in practice, and in my own readings the messages that surfaced, particularly those attributed to Tiamat and to  personal Dragon Guardians, carried a clarity and emotional resonance that felt deeply  authentic.

Where this deck also truly excels is in its metaphysical architecture. Morgan draws heavily from  Welsh and Celtic lore, weaving subtle threads of bardic tradition, ancestral magic, and  poetic inspiration into his descriptions. The runes feel connected to a lineage that values wisdom, transformation, and communion with the unseen realms. The book’s section on  glimpsing the dragon’s realm—a mist-filled, luminous space between worlds—was  especially evocative, providing a mythic backdrop that enhances the reader’s intuitive  engagement with the cards.

However, the artistic choices for the deck itself present a mixed experience. The cardstock is excellent: smooth, sturdy, and comfortable in the hand. The rune symbols are clear and beautifully rendered. Yet every card features the same cloudy gray background with identical lighting, coloration, and dragon-silhouette overlay. While aesthetically pleasing in isolation, the repetition across the entire deck can make the cards feel visually flattened during readings.

The richness of the lore, full of sea-dragons, sky-dragons, deep-ocean  clans, fiery transformative forces, and the ancient cosmic presence of Tiamat, cries out  for more variation in imagery, palette, or environmental cues. Even subtle changes in color tone, texture, or clan-specific motifs could have helped reinforce the distinctions so  thoroughly articulated in the guidebook. 

There are also symbolic omissions that feel like missed opportunities. The guidebook  references the Dragon’s Eye rune, yet this powerful symbol does not appear as its own  card. Likewise, the Welsh druidic symbol Awen, representing the triple rays of divine  inspiration and a central motif in Celtic bardic tradition, seems perfectly aligned with the deck’s thematic focus but is absent from the card set.

Including Awen, or even additional  cards honoring key Welsh mythic figures such as Cerridwen, Gwion, or archetypes of the  Maiden-Mother-Crone, could have further anchored the system in the cultural and  mythopoetic soil from which it draws inspiration. More references to the Celtic triad of  Earth, Sea, and Sky, which are so foundational to indigenous Celtic cosmology, would also have  added coherence and depth. 

Despite these artistic and symbolic limitations, The Dragon Rune Oracle remains a  meaningful and insightful tool. The clarity of Morgan’s writing, the strength of the rune  system, and the structure of the guidebook itself create a pathway into dragon wisdom that  feels both reverent and grounded. The spreads are thoughtfully constructed, the energy work instructions are practical, and the tone of the entire system encourages a sense of  respect and reciprocity between practitioner and dragon guide. For those seeking to  deepen their connection to Welsh and Celtic metaphysics, or to explore dragon magic in a structured and spiritually authentic way, this deck offers a valuable entry point. 

For me, working with the deck produced moments of genuine resonance. The messages  that emerged in readings were potent, often arriving with a sense of mythic clarity— reminders of sovereignty, creativity, personal transformation, and the untamed forces within. While I wished for more visual variety and a fuller embrace of Celtic symbolic traditions, the underlying system is strong enough that the deck still functions beautifully  for meditation, divination, and spiritual communion. 

I recommend The Dragon Rune Oracle to readers who feel called to dragon magic, to  practitioners of Celtic spirituality, and to those seeking a structured yet intuitive approach to working with primordial beings. Its guidebook alone is worth the investment, and with mindful practice, the deck can become a powerful companion on the path of mythic exploration and personal empowerment.

Entering Hekate’s Cauldron, by Cyndi Brannen

Entering Hekate’s Cauldron: Spells, Spirits, Rites & Rituals, by Cyndi Brannen, PhD
Weiser Books, 157863881X, 256 pages, July 2025 

Entering Hekate’s Cauldron by Cyndi Brannen, PhD, is a thorough, evocative exploration of Hekatean witchcraft that stands apart from most contemporary works on the goddess. Brannen, already well known for her contributions to modern Hekatean practice, brings an  academic precision and a deep personal devotion that gives this book both authority and soul. This beautifully structured volume blends scholarship, spirituality, and ritual praxis into a guide that is both accessible to newcomers and profoundly enriching for seasoned practitioners. 

What immediately drew me into this book was its depth. Brannen approaches Hekate not  simply as an archetype or historical figure but as a living, multidimensional goddess whose presence is felt in the liminal spaces of nature, psyche, and spirit. Her writing is grounded  in research—mythological, historical, and ritual—but also shaped by decades of personal devotional practice. This combination gives the book a tone that is both reverent and confident, offering readers a clear and coherent path into relationship with Hekate without sensationalism or oversimplification. 

One of the best aspects of Entering Hekate’s Cauldron is its organization. Brannen builds the reader’s understanding gradually, beginning with foundational mythos and historical context before moving into ritual structure, devotional work, and spellcraft. The sections exploring Hekate’s epithets are especially compelling. Brannen treats these titles not merely as poetic descriptors but as gateways into the goddess’s distinct powers and personalities. Her method of using the epithets for divination and for discerning which  aspect of Hekate is present is refreshing, innovative, and deeply rooted in traditional magical sensibilities. For practitioners seeking a nuanced relationship with the goddess, this section alone is invaluable. 

The practical material is another highlight. Brannen includes recipes, ritual components, correspondences, and offerings, each framed within a culturally respectful and historically informed understanding of Hekate’s cult. Her instructions for crafting sacred  items, preparing devotional foods, and working within the cauldron as a metaphysical space are presented with clarity and care. These recipes and rites feel both approachable and potent, offering readers tangible ways to bring Hekate into their daily or monthly spiritual rhythms.

Perhaps what resonated with me most was the way the book illuminated Hekate’s  presence not only in ancient myth and ritual but also in modern life. Brannen’s discussions  of symbolism (the crossroads, torches, keys, dogs, serpents, herbs, and moon) encouraged me to reflect on how these signs have appeared throughout my own  experiences. The book sparked a sense of synchronicity, revealing connections I had not  previously recognized. In many ways, reading this book felt like being led step by step  toward an encounter I had long sensed but never fully understood. 

Brannen writes with the voice of someone who has walked this path sincerely and  extensively. Her explanations of liminality, shadow work, and spiritual sovereignty are  clear, articulate, and grounded in both academia and lived devotion. The tone is warm yet authoritative, offering guidance without prescriptive rigidity. She emphasizes personal discernment and encourages practitioners to build a relationship with Hekate that is ethical, reciprocal, and authentic. 

The book is also visually and structurally well-designed, with thoughtful interior formatting  and an intuitive chapter progression. It is evident that great care went into arranging the  material so that readers can deepen their understanding progressively as they work  through the text. Whether used as a study manual, a ritual guide, or a devotional  companion, it adapts beautifully to the practitioner’s needs. 

Overall, Entering Hekate’s Cauldron is one of the most comprehensive and meaningful  works on Hekate currently available. It bridges scholarship and witchcraft seamlessly,  honoring both the historical tradition and the living, evolving nature of modern Hekatean  practice. Brannen’s approach is mature, thoughtful, and rooted in genuine reverence,  making it an invaluable resource for anyone wishing to cultivate a deeper relationship with  the goddess. 

For me personally, this book opened the door to a new level of connection with Hekate. It clarified aspects of her mythology that I had only glimpsed, illuminated her symbolism in  ways that felt personally relevant, and provided a framework for approaching her with  respect and understanding. By the time I finished the last page, I knew that Hekate would  become part of my own spiritual practice moving forward. 

I highly recommend Entering Hekate’s Cauldron to witches, spirit workers, scholars of  ancient religion, and anyone seeking to explore the mysteries of a complex and powerful  goddess. Brannen offers a guide that is both academically rigorous and spiritually  transformative—a rare combination, and one that makes this book truly exceptional.

Memento Mori, by Red Wheel/Weiser

Memento Mori: 36 Cards to Embrace Life, by Red Wheel/Weiser
Red Wheel, 1590035860, 36 cards, October 2025 

Memento Mori: 36 Cards to Embrace Life is far more than a simple oracle deck; it is a  contemplative, visually arresting meditation on the universal human experience. Rooted in  the ancient maxim Memento Mori, Memento Vivare— “remember that you will die, do not  forget to live”—this deck offers a uniquely balanced fusion of mortality and vitality.  This 36-cards set invites readers to reflect on the  fragility, beauty, and sacred ordinariness of life through art that is both haunting and deeply life-affirming. 

The first thing that struck me about this deck was its powerful intentionality. Each card  depicts a skeleton—no identities, no hierarchies, no distinctions. Whether a gardener, a  healer, a wanderer, or a childlike rabbit figure, every being is rendered with the same bones beneath the surface. This symbolic leveling highlights the truth at the heart of memento mori: regardless of where we come from or where we believe we are going, we walk the  same path from dust to dust, from life to death. Rather than approaching this with heaviness, the deck uses that equality as a basis for solidarity, compassion, and the celebration of the present moment. 

The artwork is one of the deck’s greatest strengths. Against a cool, subdued gray  background, evocative of ash, stone, and impermanence, vibrant  florals, botanical elements, and richly hued natural motifs are used to create striking visual contrast. The result is a language of opposites brought into harmony: the starkness of bone beside the lushness of life, the quiet of the grave beside the riotous bloom of flowers. Each  card feels like a small fine-point sketch brought to life, full of delicate linework and a painterly use of color that softens the subject matter while also imbuing it with unexpected  warmth. 

The simplicity of the messages is another defining feature. Phrases such as “Hold Space”, “Be the Light”, and “Your Path Is Open” guide the reader toward grounded, practical wisdom.  More than offering predictive statements or metaphysical abstractions, the deck focuses on actionable invitations to presence, kindness, connection, and courage. In a world oversaturated with noise, these short declarations feel like distilled clarity, acting as gentle reminders to inhabit the only time we truly have in the present moment.

The companion text on the introductory card expands on this philosophy beautifully. It  acknowledges death not as something to fear but as something to understand, presenting death as a teacher that encourages us to savor our days more deeply, to notice our habits and attachments,  and to remember that each moment holds the potential to shape the legacy we leave  behind. By embracing the transient nature of our existence, we are invited to live with  greater intention, to love more freely, and to let go of what is unnecessary.

Structurally, the deck is remarkably user-friendly. Its 36-card format feels intentional and  uncluttered, giving each image the space to speak for itself. The cardstock and printing quality, demonstrated in the richly detailed fronts and the elegant skull motif on the card backs, reflect a high level of craftsmanship. The minimalism of the guide materials also supports the deck’s overall theme of nothing extraneous, only what is essential. 

One of the most compelling aspects of Memento Mori is how it frames mortality not as an  imposed limitation but as an invitation. The presence of skeletal figures reminds us that beneath our stories and differences, we are united in our origin and our eventual return to  the earth. Yet the abundance of flowers, animal life, and symbolic objects illustrates that  within that shared trajectory, there is infinite complexity, possibility, and meaning. This interplay makes the deck both meditative and inspiring—a rare duality in oracle systems.

From a practical standpoint, the deck is wonderfully versatile. It works beautifully as a  daily draw, offering a reflective touchstone for mornings or evenings. It can also support  journaling practices, shadow work, grief processing, meditation prompts, or simply  moments of grounding during stressful days. Because the messages are concise, the  cards can be integrated easily into readings with Tarot or Lenormand, adding emotional or  philosophical depth without overwhelming the spread.

Ultimately, Memento Mori: 36 Cards to Embrace Life is a deck that succeeds in delivering  exactly what it promises. It reminds us of our mortality without morbidity, guides us toward  joy without triviality. It reveals the inherent beauty of being human, not in spite of our impermanence, but because of it. For anyone seeking a tool that blends introspection, artistry, and soulful presence, this deck is a powerful companion. 

For me, working with this deck was a quiet yet profound experience. Its imagery  encouraged a sense of reverence for the everyday—an awareness that even the smallest  details of life, from a wilted flower to a fleeting moment of gratitude, carry meaning. It deepened my appreciation for the present and reinforced the truth that to remember we will die is, paradoxically, to remember to live fully. 

I highly recommend this deck to spiritual practitioners, introspective readers, artists, grief  workers, and anyone who is navigating the delicate balance between honoring the past and embracing the future. It is a beautiful tool for grounding, reflection, and reconnecting with  the essence of what it means to be alive.

The Unifying Consciousness Tarot, by Lori Lytle and Leo Scopacasa

The Unifying Consciousness Tarot, by Lori Lytle and illustrated by Leo Scopacasa
REDFeather, 0764369121, 176 pages, 79 cards, June 2025

Lori Lytle’s The Unifying Consciousness Tarot, illustrated by Leo Scopacasa, provides a strikingly immersive journey into the liminal space between vision and form. More than just a tarot deck, it is an energetic portal into dreamlike inner landscapes, where archetypes shimmer with color and consciousness and symbolism becomes sensation. This 79-card deck reimagines the tarot as both a meditative tool and an artistic transmission—what the creators call “Activation Art.”

What immediately distinguishes this deck is its otherworldliness. There are no borders to contain the images; each card bleeds fully to the edge, immersing the reader in vibrant, expansive artwork that feels less like static illustration and more like a living vision.

The oversized cards themselves are another notable feature: larger than standard tarot dimensions, they serve as powerful statement pieces in a reading, especially in ceremonial or altar-based work. Printed on a heavier cardstock, the deck is built for durability and holds up well to regular use. The tactile quality adds to the sensory immersion—each card feels substantial in the hand, grounding the ethereal imagery in a practical, physical form.

The artwork by Scopacasa is lush, hypnotic, and saturated with radiant color. Filled with sacred geometry and high-frequency symbolism, the deck is a full sensory experience that evokes a state of heightened awareness or dreamlike reverie. It’s a deck that awakens intuition as much as interpretation, inviting the reader to feel their way through the story behind each image.

Grounded in the traditional Rider-Waite-Smith system, the deck maintains enough structure for experienced tarot readers to navigate intuitively, while offering new metaphysical architecture to explore. The four suits correspond to Mind, Heart, Soul, and Spirit—an elegant reframe that invites multidimensional readings.

Perhaps the most intriguing addition is the 23rd Major Arcana card: Activation. More than a bonus card, it acts as a metaphysical keystone, extending the Major Arcana journey into a full-circle moment of ascension. By positioning Activation as the final threshold, the creators suggest that the Fool’s journey doesn’t merely end with integration—but evolves into a full conscious embodiment from the subconscious.

The guidebook, written by Lytle, complements the visual language with clarity and insight. It offers both traditional and intuitive interpretations, while encouraging readers to trust their own experience with the deck. Lytle’s tone is grounded, inclusive, and resonant, rooted in spiritual practice without losing accessibility. Whether you are new to tarot or have been working with the archetypes for decades, there is something in this text that will meet you where you are.

What makes The Unifying Consciousness Tarot stand apart from other decks is its synthesis of beauty, depth, and function. It is both visionary and usable, aesthetically bold and structurally sound. The deck feels especially aligned for personal reflection, ritual work, and dream incubation—spaces where linear logic gives way to symbolic language and higher awareness. It does not seek to explain away mystery but to gently guide the reader toward their own inner knowing.

This deck will resonate with mystics, artists, and seekers who approach tarot as a living, breathing spiritual companion. It is also ideal for those drawn to the intersection of art and consciousness, or for readers who value bold visuals and metaphysical framing. The creators’ background in energy work and spiritual art is palpable throughout the deck. It feels less like a product and more like a transmission.

Overall, The Unifying Consciousness Tarot is a joy to explore. Each card a doorway, each image a frequency. It’s a rare and refreshing addition to the ever-expanding world of tarot, reminding us that divination is not just about answers, but also about resonance, remembrance, and return.

Herbal Intelligence, by David Hoffmann

Herbal Intelligence: Plant Teachers and the Return of Viriditas, by David Hoffmann
Healing Arts Press, 1620556146, 256 pages, March 2024

David Hoffmann’s Herbal Intelligence: Plant Teachers and the Return of Viriditas is more than just a book on herbal medicine; it is a philosophical and practical exploration of the deep intelligence of plants, human relationships with nature, and the evolving role of herbalism in contemporary times. Hoffmann, a seasoned herbalist and a fellow of Britain’s National Institute of Medical Herbalists, brings decades of experience and scholarship to this work, integrating traditional wisdom with modern scientific insights.

The title immediately intrigued me, particularly the emphasis on “viriditas,” a concept popularized by Hildegard von Bingen, referring to the life-giving green force of nature. In a time when herbalism is increasingly commercialized and detached from its roots, Hoffmann’s book serves as both a wake-up call and a guide for reconnecting with the true essence of plant medicine.

One of the book’s strengths is its ability to weave together history, science, and spiritual philosophy. Hoffmann presents a compelling argument for the intelligence of nature, illustrating how plants have coevolved with humans and other species in ways that suggest a deep, symbiotic relationship. His discussion of biodiversity, chemodiversity, and ecological interactions is both enlightening and accessible, making complex topics digestible for a broad audience.

The book is structured in a way that allows readers to approach herbalism from multiple angles. Hoffmann begins by exploring the ancient roots of herbal medicine, examining how early humans observed and utilized plants for healing. He then moves into modern herbalism, discussing the exponential growth of peer-reviewed research on phytotherapy and the role of herbs in contemporary healthcare.

Perhaps most intriguing is his critique of the commodification of herbalism. He warns against the dangers of separating herbal medicine from its cultural and ecological roots, emphasizing that herbs should remain integrated with holistic health practices rather than becoming mere pharmaceutical substitutes. Hoffmann’s call for a return to traditional, community-based herbalism is particularly compelling in today’s wellness industry, where herbal supplements are often marketed with little regard for their origins or intended uses.

A highlight of Herbal Intelligence is Hoffmann’s practical approach to herbalism. While he provides a scholarly foundation, he also offers personal insights, case studies, and techniques for deepening one’s relationship with plants. He encourages readers to engage with herbal medicine not just intellectually but experientially—through direct interaction with plants, mindful harvesting, and preparation of remedies.

One of the most striking aspects of the book is Hoffmann’s ability to bring scientific evidence into alignment with intuitive plant wisdom. He presents studies on medicinal plant use in animals, which reinforce the idea that humans are not the only species that rely on herbal medicine for survival. This exploration of interspecies herbalism was something I hadn’t encountered in many other herbal texts, and it added a fresh perspective to the discussion.

I also appreciated his examination of the social and political dimensions of herbal medicine. Hoffmann does not shy away from discussing how herbalism intersects with issues of social justice, sustainability, and healthcare accessibility. His argument that herbal knowledge should remain freely available to communities rather than monopolized by corporations resonates deeply with the ethos of grassroots herbalism.

Hoffmann’s writing is engaging and well-researched, striking a balance between being academic and approachable. While some sections are dense with scientific terminology, he does an excellent job of breaking down complex ideas into digestible explanations. His passion for the subject is evident throughout the book, making it an inspiring read for both beginners and seasoned herbalists.

The book is well-organized, with clear chapter divisions that allow readers to navigate topics easily. Hoffmann’s use of historical anecdotes, personal reflections, and case studies makes the content relatable and engaging.

For those new to herbalism, some sections may feel a bit advanced, especially when he delves into biochemistry and the ecological roles of plant compounds. However, even readers without a background in science will find valuable insights, as Hoffmann consistently brings the discussion back to practical applications.

Overall, Herbal Intelligence is an essential read for anyone interested in herbal medicine, ecology, and holistic health. Hoffmann presents a compelling vision of herbalism as a living tradition that must be preserved and adapted responsibly for the modern world.

I highly recommend this book to herbalists, naturopaths, botanists, and anyone interested in deepening their connection with plants. It is especially relevant to those concerned with sustainability and the ethics of herbal medicine, as it thoughtfully critiques commercialization while offering solutions for maintaining herbalism’s integrity.

For me, this book was both an educational and spiritual journey, reinforcing my belief in the interconnectedness of all living beings. It has inspired me to approach herbalism with greater mindfulness and to advocate for the preservation of traditional plant knowledge. If you’re looking for a book that goes beyond the standard herbal guide and delves into the philosophy, science, and ethics of plant medicine, Herbal Intelligence is a must-read.