Musing Mystical

✨ A Gathering Place for Magical Readers and Writers ✨

Author Archives: Alanna Kali

About Alanna Kali

Alanna Kali is an astrologer, numerologist, and pioneer spirit that loves to explore life through the lens of depth psychology. She has a passion for studying the humanities and social trends. Her academic work is centered upon reuniting body, mind, and spirit through eco-psychology. She loves reading, spending time in nature, and travel.

The Beauty Apothecary, by Lorraine Anderson

The Beauty Apothecary: Soulful Remedities to Foster Beauty Inside and Out, by Lorraine Anderson
Rockpool Publishing, 1923208012, 224 pages, March 2026

Beauty brings a quiet but powerful richness to life, shaping how we experience the world and ourselves within it by fostering presence and inviting us to slow down, notice, and connect more deeply. The Beauty Apothecary: Soulful Remedies to Foster Beauty Inside and Out by Lorraine Anderson highlights the value of fostering beauty in one’s life and presents a multitude of ways to enhance it day to day. Anderson shows that beauty is not a luxury, but a form of nourishment that restores, inspires, and reminds us that there is something worth savoring.

This sacred beauty bible invites readers to embrace beauty inside and out, blending self-care, spirituality, and ritual into a holistic approach to beauty. Rather than focusing on external aesthetics alone, the book emphasizes inner nourishment—mind, heart, and soul—as the true foundation of radiance. Anderson explores themes like self-love, self-awareness, and self-soverignty, while also offering recipes for more tangible beauty products for everyday use.

“It’s a metaphorical apothecary if you will, meant to address both a tangible sense of beauty through your physical body and environment, as well as an intangible sense of beauty through your emotions and spiritual connection.”1

Divided into three parts, the book begins with an exploration of beauty archetypes. Anderson has designed a quiz for readers to discover which of ten beauty archetypes they embody. The multiple choice questions get you reflecting upon things like what self-care means to you and when you feel most beautiful. I was quite surprised to realize how  much I enjoyed sharing beauty with others by my answer choices, revealing the Lover archetype as my most dominant!

For each of the archetypes, Anderson provides a whole profile. She details how each archetype fosters beauty as well as what drains their beauty. She provides insight into their approach to both inner and outer beauty, offering the best beauty strategies, restoration methods, and remedies for them. I gained a lot from my Lover profile, and I also really enjoyed reading through the different archetype profiles to learn about their essence and explore the many ways beauty shines in others. I’m sure my archetype might change, so I appreciate having this quiz and profiles handy to check in from time to time.

The other chapter in “Part I: The foundation of beauty” is an introduction to the items used for natural beauty products: plants and herbs, fragrance oils, essential oils, carrier oils, extracts, creams and lotions, salts and sugars, waters, and alcohols and witch hazel. While there are whole books written on these topics, Anderson gives enough information to make readers feel knowledgeable enough about these products to feel comfortable trying out the recipes later in the book.

“Part II: Nurturing Inner Beauty” has three chapters focusing on mind, heart, and soul. For each aspect of inner beauty, Anderson provides an overview, three aspects of “self” related to the principle (ex. Self-compassion for heart, self-awareness for mind), a chart of natural allies (essential oils, plants, and carrier oils), and rituals and recipes. From special Venusian candles to bath scrubs, yummy moon milk to grounding bed sheet powder, there’s so many neat DIY possibilities offered for fostering inner beauty.

In the last section, “Part III: Nurturing Outer Beauty”, Anderson offers a balanced approach to beauty, sharing her best beauty tips while also cultivating a grounded spiritual aspect to her approach too. Suggestions like building a beauty altar and performing a sacred adornment ritual set the stage for the wide variety of recipes to follow.

The chapters focus on everyday beauty and then beauty for hair, body, and fragrances. In this part, the recipes are a bit more elaborate, guiding readers to work with base products (carrier oils, lotions), specific ingredients (herbs, essential oils), and tools (double broiler or crock pot, the right containers for the items). These acts of cultivating beauty often require time and intention, asking us to pause in a world that rewards speed, but the investment is a worthwhile one.

All throughout, Anderson’s writing tone is gentle, affirming, and spiritually infused. Her style imparts wisdom while also engaging the intuitive, emotional side of readers too. While informative, Anderson presents content that is calming and reflective, reading less like a manual and more like a guided self-devotional text. Her holistic approach to beauty is refreshing, opening up readers to the energetic state of beauty in addition to the physical appreciation of it.

And given the topics covered, it only makes sense the book itself is balanced, beautiful, and visually alluring. Different texts and fonts, bullet points, and soft color tones make the content easy to absorb. The illustrations infuse the text with the beauty of the natural world and provide a place for your eyes to rest while your mind wanders.

So far, I’ve mostly focused on bath salts and sugars–my favorite type of beauty care. But I am looking forward to branching out to try more of the recipes this summer when I have a bit more time on my hands. For now, the reflective questions in the inner beauty sections are serving as guides for my spirit, inviting me to explore more deeply what beauty means to me and how I can cultivate it in my life.

Overall, I highly recommend The Beauty Apothecary for those seeking a bridge between beauty rituals and spiritual practice. Anderson’s approach honors and highlights beauty in ways that feel interactive rather than just conceptual. Readers who view self-care as sacred or who want to deepen that perspective are sure to appreciate the blend of embodied practices, recipes, and inner exploration, making for a variety of ways to connect with the material. The integration of emotional well-being, spiritual alignment, and self-perception into the concept of beauty is a welcomed approach to wellness.

About the Author

Lorriane Anderson is a tarot reader, astrologer, spiritual teacher, and entrepreneur whose work centers on intentional living and spiritual transformation. She is best known for her Seasons of the Witch oracle series, though her other titles are amazing too, such as Moon Apothecary and Witching Hour Oracle. Anderson also operates spiritual education and product-based businesses, including Spirit Element and Made with Stardust. Her writing is deeply informed by ancestral practices and modern spiritual frameworks, aiming to make ritual and energetic work accessible in everyday life.

Tarot and the Psychology of the Soul, by Mariana Louis

Tarot and the Psychology of the Soul: Exploring the Archetypal Mirrors of the Psyche, by Mariana Louis
Weiser Books, 1578638984, 320 pages, March 2026

People are drawn to tarot cards for all kinds of reasons. Some come to tarot out of curiosity or a desire for guidance during uncertain moments, while others are pulled in by the imagery, symbolism, or a deeper spiritual calling. That range of motivations is exactly what makes tarot such a versatile tool, and Tarot and the Psychology of the Soul by Mariana Louis takes this a step further by redefining what the cards can offer.

In Tarot and the Psychology of the Soul, Louis  does not position tarot as an oracular tool, but rather as a mirror of the inner world. Coming from the lens of depth psychology, she frames the cards as archetypal symbols that reflect both conscious patterns and unconscious material, inviting readers into ongoing inner work rather than one-off readings.

“In this approach, which you will be guided through in this book, we do not read the cards for predictive divination or even encouraging self-care, but as a tool to support our individuation, the psych-spiritual process of self-becoming.”2

Following an engaging introduction that establishes the foundation of the book, the content is divided into four parts. “Part 1: Depth Psychology and the Analytical Approach” covers the basics of depth psychology: individuation, the strata of psyche, and archetypes, synchronicity. Louis also presents the framework for working with the cards archetypally, teaching readers how to build a relationship with the cards, strengthen their intuition, and form questions that draw the best response. Techniques shared, such as active imagination and shadow work, are portals for deeper self-excavation. Louis has a knack for making these complex topics approachable, ensuring concepts are well defined and clear to readers before building on the information she’s presenting.

“Part 2: The Minor Arcana” begins to get deeper into the cards themselves. Louis explains, “the Minor Arcana show us the dynamics of our psyches, revealing its inner conflicts, strengths, processes, and neuroses.”3 She draws a parallel between the four suits and Carl Jung’s theory of personality which focuses on the four functions we all possess (thinking, feeling, sensation, and intuition). She then proceeds to delve into archetypal numerology and applies Joseph Campbell’s hero’s journey to the Pips, which was totally fascinating in my opinion and one of my favorite sections!

From here, Louis moves through both the Minor Arcana and Court Cards, providing insights of the traditional meanings from the perspective of depth psychology. She moves suit by suit, she covers both the upright and reversed guidance the cards have to offer. As mentioned prior, Louis’ insights are not predictive, so the focus is on the inner workings of the reader. For instance, part of the Five of Wands entry reads:

“We often find ourselves involved in a battle between our contrary drives, perspectives, and complexes. One part of us fights to focus on career, while another demands we face our self-doubt, while yet another begs for relaxation. Rather than be riled to the point of explosive frustration, we must make room for each of the voices within us to speak and release its energy.”4

Before covering the Court Cards, the chapter “The Many Faces of the Tarot Court” covers additional depth psychological concepts, such as projection, persona, typological maturity, and complexes. Whereas the interpretations for the Minor Arcana cards are written in the first-person “we” form, the Court Card descriptions are in third person, presenting each one as an individual to be identified as a part of our whole self. Louis uses mythology and fairy tales to highlight the nature of the Court Cards, further providing a way for readers to connect with each card’s archetypal energy.

In “Part 3: The Major Arcana”, Louis shows readers how the Major Arcana reflects the entire journey of individuation. Beginning with the Magician and ending with the Fool (such an illuminating layout), she guides readers through the archetypal tarot framework. For each card, she gives an overview of the symbolism, often relating it to alchemy, mythology, and even pop culture (Yoda and Gandalf energy comes through!) as well as including insights from well known depth psychologists (James Hillman, Marion Woodman).

The whole archetypal journey moves from the primordial powers to the birth of the Self through the emergence of the shadow to finally arrive at wholeness. Simply reading this section is very inspiring, introducing a deeply meaningful philosophy of life as mirrored in the Major Arcana. The interpretations Louis provides for the card appearing in a reading–both upright and reverse–shed light on the parts of yourself and life journey that are calling for acknowledgement, pointing the way towards integration of the energy.

Louis’ presentation of each card from a psychological lens really hits home. She perfectly captures the balance between esoteric and mundane, honoring the liminal spaces where the psyche speaks. I could feel the messages in the heart as I read them, and some even brought me to tears. Here’s a few lines from one of my favorite cards, the Star, when it appears in a reading:

“The Star comes to remind us of our potential and higher purpose. Now is the moment to claim–without a word of rebuttal–I am special and I have meaning in this world. With the Star risen before us, we are invited to develop the security that only comes when we are at peace with ourselves.”5

The final part, “Reading with a Psycho-Spiritual Lens”, guides readers through the ritual of reading tarot and offers archetypal spreads. Louis lists steps for preparing for a reading and then interpreting the cards. The spreads offered focus on synthesizing this content in the book thus far, offering card placements that reflect depth psychology themes: tension of opposites, inner work, and unconscious/conscious/higher calling. While there’s many directions one could build from with this book, this section is a great starting point for the journey.

Overall, Tarot and the Psychology of the Soul is just a true gem for cultivating a relationship with the psyche. Rather than teaching how to memorize rigid meanings or predict the future, Louis teaches readers how to use tarot as an access point into the on-going, life-long work of becoming whole. She gives structure to inner work practices that can often be abstract, helping readers engage with their psyche in a tangible way.

As someone who spent many years studying both depth psychology and tarot, I was genuinely impressed by the scope and content of this book. Louis’ insightful intelligence shines through every page. The time she’s dedicated to cultivating this approach, bridging these two potent systems for self-reflection, is evident.

Those with an interest in psychology, particularly archetypal studies, will find a wonderful introduction to the tarot cards, while people with a tarot background are in for a real treat with the comprehensive approach Louis offers, sure to enhance anyone’s reading style. By grounding tarot in archetypal and depth psychology concepts, Louis offers a language that will resonate with modern spiritual seekers who want to explore their inner workings more fully. This style of working with the tarot is perfect for self-guided healing and introspection.

About the Author

Mariana Louis is a contemporary tarot teacher and scholar known for her psychologically oriented approach to the cards. She transitioned from a background in musical theater into the world of tarot, eventually becoming a recognized voice in the space, with a strong online following and teaching presence. Her work is deeply influenced by depth psychology and archetypal studies. Beyond this book, Louis shares offerings through her platform Persephone’s Sister and spreads her wisdom on her podcast Soror Mystica, co-hosted with Cristina Farella. I definitely recommend checking it out if you’re interested in this topic. I did a deep dive into the podcast and loved it!

Crystal Keys Tarot, by Dina Rosenberg and Amalia Drewes

Crystal Keys Tarot, by Dina Rosenberg with artwork by Amalia Drewes
Weiser Books, 1578639050, 176 pages, 78 cards, April 2026

If you’ve spent any time working with both tarot and crystals, you already know how naturally those two energy systems speak to each other. Crystal Keys Tarot by Dina Rosenberg with artwork by Amalia Drewes leans fully into that intersection, offering a tarot deck that doesn’t just reference crystal energy, but builds its entire interpretive structure around it. The result is an oracle system that feels familiar on the surface, yet slightly refracted, like looking at classic tarot through a mineral lens. I love it!!

Creator Dina Rosenberg brings decades of tarot experience to this deck, along with a strong grounding in metaphysical practices as the co-owner of Amityville Apothecary and The Anenaeum of Amityville Apothecary in Long Island, New York. Amalia Drewes, an illustrator inspired by nature, spirituality, and myth, contributes artwork that aligns closely with themes of energetic resonance and transformation . Her artistic voice plays a major role in shaping the deck’s identity, especially in how the cards visually embody crystal forms and textures.

The deck follows the traditional Rider–Waite-Smith (RWS) tarot framework, making it immediately readable for most tarot users. Each of the 78 cards is paired with a specific crystal energy that aligns with the card’s energy, adding an extra symbolic layer to interpretations. However, the crystal for each card isn’t reflective of traditional correspondences for the cards; rather, Rosenberg spent an entire year feeling into the energy and channeling each card’s crystal. The deck integrates the crystal into the identity of each card, making for an intuitive symbiosis that brings new facets of the tarot archetypes to light. Rosenberg explains:

“You will see that our focus is about the energy and feeling of the cards, infusing the tarot archetype with the crystal, and vice versa, more so than fitting all the traditional symbols, colors, and images into each card. The goal is to distill each of the seventy-eight cards into a feeling that is truly relatable and pair that feeling with a crystal that supports the specific energy.”6

The cards are standard playing card size, allowing them to fit nicely in your hands while shuffling, with gilded purple edges. Each card leans heavily into a single dominant color family, mirroring the crystal it represents: cool aqua blues (Amazonite), golden yellows (Golden Labradorite), warm orange ambers (Tangerine Quartz). The tone variation within each color gives a dynamic feel to the imagery, making the imagery look slightly hypnotic.

While some cards have a non-descript figure, most feature animals, crystals, or simply the card symbol (Swords, Pentacles, Wands, and Cups). There’s a dreamlike, slightly surreal quality, but it’s not chaotic or symbolic-heavy like some decks. Rather, edges are softened, forms blend into each other, and perspective feels fluid rather than fixed. It gives me the fantastic feeling of entering the crystal realm, as the imagery seems like it has emerged from the crystal itself, emphasizing texture, aura, and energetic presence rather than narrative scenes.

Figures, symbols, and landscapes are etched in crystal, shifting the reading style from story-based interpretation to something more vibrational and intuitive. I would liken the cards more to  energetic imprints than “scenes” being depicted in more traditional tarot such as RWS deck. I personally love how it de-centers human representation and taps into the energy of the natural world instead. I can see how Drewes is portraying the essence of each crystal in the card while also capturing the card’s meaning as well; it’s truly spectacular artwork.

As for the guidebook, it’s nice and big (about 4 x 5 inches), easy to keep open to read, and has full-color illustrations. For each card, Rosenberg provides an overall description of the card, covering both the tarot meaning and the energy of the crystal plus how they come together, an affirmation, and a few-word summary of what pulling the card meanings in a reading.

I really like her voice in the guidebook, as she sometimes shares her own experiences in life, ranging from the heartbreak of divorce to opening and running her shop, while also explaining what the card is asking of the reader and how the crystal energy can be used for support. I appreciate the infusion of her energy into the wisdom in the guidebook. While Drewes’ imagery is quite dreamy, Rosenberg’s perspective is much more “tell it like it is”, which I always appreciate when it comes to spiritual matters and divination (it’s the East Coaster in me – made sense when I saw that Rosenberg lives in New York!). I’m not left with more questions and an invitation for more reflection when I come seeking guidance; I get a clear answer, practical advice, and affirmation, and a crystal energy to work with further.

Here’s an example of how Rosenberg blends both tarot wisdom and crystal energy in the guidebook:


“The Eight of Cups is confirmation that you’re right–the vibes are off. Maybe on the outside everything looks fine. And sure, you could ignore that whisper inside, push it down, keep going. But you know. Deep down, you know. This phase of your life has run its course. . . .

Pink Opal assists in following the whispers of the heart towards your true, authentic path. As a crystal of renewal, it reconnects you with yourself and what you truly want on a soul level. While it reminds you of who you are, it brings peace, soothing calm, and relaxation so as to not overwhelm the nervous system when difficult choices must be made.”7

I just love how Rosenberg speaks to the reader in the guidebook, dialoguing directly with their spirit instead of just reciting a generic message for the tarot. This guidebook is truly one of a kind in how she blends different energies into something meaningful, potent, and insightful for the reader. More than a route interpretation, a living exchange unfolds on the page—one that invites reflection and personal resonance rather than passive consumption. It feels less like being told what a card means and more like being guided toward discovering how that meaning already exists within you.

Overall, Crystal Keys Tarot is less about reinventing tarot and more about reframing it. This deck takes a familiar system and filters it through the language of crystals, creating a deck that feels grounded, intentional, and energetically focused. Drewes’ artwork brings the crystal world to life, perfect for readers who are seeking an intuitive deck that taps into an energy that goes beyond the personification of court cards and the major aracana cards with people on them. There’s plenty of room for intuition to piece together the story with these cards.

Similarly, those drawn to working with crystals will also really appreciate the aesthetic and guidance from this deck too. Rosenberg has done such a wonderful job weaving together the energies of tarot and crystals in this deck, aptly capturing the unique wisdom this combination brings for the message of each card. So far, this has been my favorite deck of 2026 and I look forward to continuing to work with it!

A Grimoire of Italian Witchcraft, by Raven Grimassi

A Grimoire of Italian Witchcraft: Practical Spells & Rituals of the Old Religion, by Raven Grimassi
Crossed Crow Books, 1964537584, 276 pages, February 2026

My ancestors were from Italy. And while it appears I belong to a longtime staunchly Catholic family–while reading this book, my 89-year old Italian-American Grandmother picked it up and said, “What the hell is this?”–I can’t help but (wishfully) believe there is some lingering Italian folk magic within my veins. This has led me on a quest to learn more about neo-Pagan Italian witchcraft, or Stregheria. Having read other books by author Raven Grimassi, I was drawn to A Grimoire of Italian Witchcraft because it offers lore, spells, rituals, and teachings intended to bring this tradition into everyday magical practice.

As someone looking to build a foundation from the ground up, this book was a great starting point. Grimassi covers a variety of topics in this book, providing a structural overview of Italian spirituality, folklore, and ritual practices for those interested in the Old Religion. The book begins with a synopsis of Italian witchcraft and offers a ritual of dedication to begin one’s journey on this path. Grimassi also discusses Lasa and Lare, spirits who protect the Old Ways, encouraging readers to build a shrine as part of this work.

Chapters four through seven–”Making Contact”, “Sign and Symbol”, “Raising and Drawing Power”, and “The Art of Magick”–focus on core magical concepts but from the perspective of Italian witchcraft. For instance, there’s illustrations of physical poses to connect with the Grigori, “the entities that guard the ritual circle’s portals”8, as well as tables for symbols important in this tradition (Eight-Fold Path, Tanus (light), The Spirit of Aradia, and many more). Grimassi covers God and Goddess currents, explaining how energy flows through the body and teaching how to raise this power and move it accordingly. He also covers different types of magic and mechanisms of magic, noting the overlap between witchcraft and magical energy and components of ritual magic.

Chapter eight “Aradia, Woman of Power” and chapter nine “Moon Tree” delve more into the folklore of this path. The story of Aradia, popularized by Charles Leland, and her relevance to Italian witchcraft are explained. The symbol of the Moon tree and its ancient and esoteric meaning are also discussed, providing fascinating coverage of this lore.

The final four chapters– “Magickal and Ritual Gestures”, “Italian Folk Magic”, “The Ritual Tools”, and The Rituals”–are the practical “how-to” of the book. Readers learn the gestures and poses associated with Italian witchcraft, including “Calling Down the Goddess”9. Then there’s guidance about the saints and archangels to work with along with traditional spells and enchantments (silencing gossip, gambling, blessings). Additionally, all the tools needed are covered, including how to prepare them for use.

As for the rituals, they are varied but written out in full, so the reader can easily follow the script. Grimassi includes a ritual for a full moon and then all eight of the tregenda, or sabbats (Shadowfest, Winter Solstice, Lupercus, Spring Equinox, Diana’s Day, Summer Solstice, Cornucopia, and Autumn Equinox). To me, they were very traditional rituals, reminding me a lot of traditional Wicca, so I would probably adapt them, but they still serve as a good starting point.

The Appendices are also filled with a ton of additional information about Strega. Grimassi provides a history of the Old Religion, overview of the main deities, lists important plants and their uses, shares some Italian lore, an overview of palmistry, and more! It’s almost like all the neat other stuff that didn’t fit neatly into the structure of the book got put in the appendices, and I enjoyed it very much!

Compared to other books on this subject by Grimassi, A Grimoire of Italian Witchcraft functions much like a structured magical handbook (hence it’s name!). More than focusing solely on theory, the book is organized around practical application, presenting spells, rituals, and devotional practices that draw from the imagery and mythology associated with Italian witchcraft to make for a year-round meaningful practice. From workings related to seasonal observances to the ritual tools used, this book lays out an entire Stregheria practice that is accessible to modern practitioners.

What’s nice about the book as a whole though is that it also includes history that bridges past and present. Grimassi explains how this magic has evolved through time, dating back to the cult of Diana referenced as early as 30 BC, situating readers in the lineage and offering a connection to the origins of this magic. I really enjoyed the table of Old Gods of Tuscany and their Roman correspondences in “Chapter 3: Between Worlds”, as I previously hadn’t heard of any of these deities before.  Tapping into the historical roots of Italian spirituality made me feel like a portal was opening to all those who walked this path before me, even if it wasn’t technically Strega. There’s still this deep connection I felt towards those who honored nature and the old gods and goddesses in this way.

Overall, A Grimoire of Italian Witchcraft continues the legacy of Raven Grimassi’s work by presenting Italian-inspired witchcraft as a living and accessible tradition. The book emphasizes practice over theory, offering readers a collection of rituals and magical exercises rooted in Italian history and Pagan spirituality. In this way, the grimoire attempts to serve both as a reference text and as a working manual for those interested in exploring the path of the Strega. I definitely plan to continue to refer to it as a I connect with my Italian ancestors.

About the Author

Raven Grimassi (1951–2019) was a prolific American writer on witchcraft, Wicca, and Neopagan spirituality, publishing more than twenty books throughout his career. He is particularly known for popularizing Stregheria, a form of Italian-inspired witchcraft that blends folklore, historical research, and modern Pagan ritual practice. Grimassi was also a practicing Wiccan priest and a teacher within Pagan communities for decades, shaping the way many modern practitioners encountered Italian magical traditions.

Ogham, by Jane Matthews

Ogham: Divining in the Celtic Way, by Jane Matthews
Weiser Books, 1578638909, 192 pages, 25 cards, March 2026

Ogham: Divining in the Celtic Way by Jane Matthews is a beautiful way to connect with powerful Celtic knowledge. Based on the earliest Irish written script, Ogham is rooted in the Celtic belief system. While most associate Ogham with corresponding trees–Matthews notes these correspondences were added later for Druids and Bards to remember the meanings of each letter–there’s plenty of wisdom within the letters themselves. She writes of the Ogham:

“The meanings all bring a duality with them. There is light and dark in each, and this makes them truly unique in how they present themselves.”10

This 25-card oracle deck is divided into four “families” called aicme, which are similar to the Futharks in the runes system for reference. Within each aicme is five fedha, or characters of the Ogham alphabet. At the start of each section, Matthews describes what each aicme deals with, illuminating the overall theme of the fedha in that section. The other five cards in the deck are the forfeda, which are the “additional letters”11.

Each one is color-coded, so once a reader is familiar with the deck, they will be quickly able to discern which aicme the card is from. The fedha cards are dark blue, violet, indigo, and dark, while the forfeda cards are a contrasting bright white. All the cards have the same layered botanical pattern in the background, making the focus the golden Ogham glyph in the center and name at the bottom of the card.

Aside from the shift in color and Ogham glyph, there’s not much variation in the visuals of the cards, giving a clean and simple aesthetic. It’s a restrained design overall, but it works well for a system like Ogham where the power of the symbol is meant to stand on its own. It makes me imagine how these symbols would have appeared carved into wood or stone.

There are no corresponding numbers, so when first working with the deck, readers will most likely have to reference the table of contents in the guidebook to find the page of entry.

As for the guidebook entries, for each fedha card listed is the associated tree, keyword, letter, stroke bearing, and pronunciation. Matthews then gives insight about the Ogham’s particular message, providing further specific information within the context of a relationship, work, and health. I really enjoy all of Matthew’s insights, particularly into health, an area of life that I had never considered to engage with the Ogham’s energy. All of the advice she provides is very grounded, acknowledging the energies in play with clarity and directness.

What surprised me the most was how the messages did not at all focus on the aspects of the trees associated with each Ogham. I actually really enjoyed this because all I’ve read about Ogham previously is specifically focused on the spiritual properties of the corresponding tree, rather than the symbols themselves. Getting to know the symbols on their own has been quite illuminating, particularly Matthew’s insight into the brush strokes that highlight the pathways to the Underworld, World, and Otherworld.

“When you’re looking at the fews in this way, it is easy to see how all paths come through our world, and that means that we have the answers to all that has been and all that will be–it is all at our fingertips, in this world for us to seek and understand. This world is a portal to all worlds and all the information that all worlds possess.”12

I also really enjoyed learning about the forfedha, which Matthews describes as “important on an esoteric point as they provide cosmological and directional signs.”13 They provide a map of the cosmos that can be then arranged as a casting mat or placement holder for reading with the deck. Matthews shares quite a bit about working with the forfedha, including using them in spreads (What Am I Spread, Spiral Spread, The Four Directions, and Celtic Cross) and in casting one’s own Ogham set.

Additional sections in the guidebook focus on using Ogham for magical purposes and a meditative framework for understanding Ogham, which provides a journey through The Underworld, This World, and The Otherworld. I definitely would recommend doing these meditations before working with the deck, as it really helps to center oneself within the belief system from which the Ogham emerged.

My only gripe with this deck is the guidebook is very tiny and hard to hold open and read. I kept trying to reference the spreads, but the book would close and then I’d have to flip it open again and try to keep the pages open. And whenever I use some force to do this, the binding then gets a bit messed up, creating a gap in those pages.

Overall though, Matthews has provided a wonderful resource for those who are seeking to connect with the Ogham, especially in a way that goes beyond the nature-based perspective that all too often focuses exclusively on the tree associations. The content in the guidebook offers both spiritual reflection and practical direction, providing a great balance for wisdom seekers. And, quite notably, the additional information about the forfedha is a real bonus for deepening one’s work with the Ogham.

Coven Oracle, by Fiona Horne and Miriam Ocaña Pérez-Cerdá

Coven Oracle, by Fiona Horne with illustrations by Miriam Ocaña Pérez-Cerdá
Rockpool Publishing, 1922468010, 160 pages, 36 cards, March 2026

Group dynamics are tricky–both finding your own place within one and the overall holistic functioning of the group as a whole. It gets even more energetically complex when you add a magical dimension in too, such as the case with a coven. Coven Oracle by Fiona Horne with illustrations by Miriam Ocaña Pérez-Cerdá is the first group-centered oracle deck that I’ve ever seen. Emphasizing collective magic and relational spirituality, this deck reveals valuable insights for group dynamics and the individual practitioner.

Horne’s 36-card deck aims to support harmony, respect, and shared power, reflecting “what it takes to truly create and tend a coven – not as a rigid hierarchy, but as a living, evolving magickal ecosystem.”12 However, the deck doesn’t lose sight of the individual reader too, also providing guidance for the group dynamics showing up for them and serving as an energetic bridge to connect with others in the astral or spiritual realm.

Ocaña Pérez-Cerdá’s card design brings a mystical energy to this deck, making it feel less like a casual divination and more like stepping into a sacred current. While gilded with green edges, the black and white illustrations give the deck a timeless occult quality. The contrast of light and dark adds an intensity, reminding readers that we contain all parts of the spectrum within ourselves.

The card images often feature plants, animals, and women in their full spiritual glory. The cosmic symbolism, elemental forces, and archetypal feminine power activates magical consciousness. There’s a feeling of movement and fluidity in the images, a twisting eternal connection that binds us all together. And this strong thread of interconnectedness running through the imagery (celestial constellations, roots, flames, bodies merging with the landscape) reinforces themes of relationship, cohesion, and energetic exchange. The theme of nature as a weaver and foundation for connection comes through in all the illustrations.

As for the guide book, Horne shares how to use the cards, information for consecrating and cleansing the deck (including blessings that can be said), and spread suggestions. For each card entry, there’s the image and name of the card along with key words, an oracle message for the coven, and an oracle message for the individual reader. This style gives the deck a lot of versatility, allowing for the messages to be received on both a personal and collective level.

For this reason, I feel like it’s an incredible tool for working in a group. While a coven could use any deck to attune to the energies, Coven Oracle is so specific and relevant, speaking directly to those in the circle, that it unifies the intent and energy to deliver a clear message. Oftentimes, Horne infuses the divinationtory message with questions too, offering a place for meaningful conversation to emerge within the group. Here’s an example from the card Art of Balance:

“This card invites your coven to check in and take a closer look at the unspoken energy dynamics in your group. Is someone always leading while others fall back? Is everyone being heard? Had someone gone quiet while others take up space? Has someone been quietly picking up the slack while others drift? Sometimes imbalance isn’t obvious – it builds over time in small silences, quiet assumptions, and unequal giving.”13

Horne demonstrates a clear understanding of the different dynamics that arise in group situations, and the different cards offer acknowledgment of the energies, giving them space to be acknowledged and handled in order to keep the magical essence of the group thriving. In the course of my practice, I cannot tell you how many covens I’ve seen split up or become infused with resentment, disagreement, and jealousies. Using this deck regularly in a circle has enormous potential to open up necessary dialogue, find inspiration about what’s best for the collective, and unify intentions to keep the group in a good space.

Similarly, the deck offers a wonderful way for individuals to see their own role or place within a group, which is also challenging to do on one’s own sometimes. While I am not currently in a coven, I have been using this deck to discern more information about my energy in relation to my family–a coven of sorts that you’re born into for better or worse!

After a period of feeling a bit disconnected from my family where I was feeling outcasted, I decided to pull a card to inquire about the situation. The card I received was Return to the Coven. I was extremely moved to read Horne’s wisdom in the guidebook:

“Whether you’re in a formal coven or simply rejoining a group, community, or circle you once stepped away from (or were cast out of), this card reminds you that returning is not weakness – it is strength. To walk back in with an open heart, or to hold the door open for another, is an act of power, humility, humanity, and powerful love.”14

This card gave me the courage to mend the relationships and be more participatory in a family event that I was originally thinking of bailing on. I ended up having a great time, feeling seen and appreciated by the group now that I had opened myself up to being included once again.

Overall, Coven Oracle is a tool not only for individual readings but also for group dynamics and spiritual communities, making it somewhat unusual among oracle decks. The deck’s core framework centers on working magic together, offering the oracle guidance to strengthening relationships, building aligned spiritual groups, maintaining energetic containers, and revealing where shifts might need to take place. By encouraging reflection not just on the self but on the collective, Coven Oracle supports the kind of intentional, reciprocal relationships where deeper and more resilient magic can take root.

This deck is ideal for covens or magical study groups, magical practitioners seeking spiritual communities or wondering if certain groups are a good fit for them, and witches interested in collaborative rituals that might not be a full-time coven situation but still require group effort. As mentioned, readers might also enjoy it for furthering understanding dynamics in their family too.

I’ve really been enjoying working with this deck and very much appreciate how it can be used for both group and individual readings. Horne has done a wonderful job capturing the multi-faceted energies of coven dynamics and created a deck that reflects these energies for reflection, growth, discernment, and harmony. Meanwhile, Ocaña Pérez-Cerdá’s illustrations deeply honor the wild feminine divine, visually reconnecting readers to the natural world and the many sacred relationships that make all ecosystems thrive.

A real bonus is an optional companion book, Coven: Where Witches Gather, by Horne is also available as a grimoire for covens. If you are interested in creating a coven or already leading one, interested in witchcraft, and hoping to deepen your practice, this book is the perfect companion to Coven Oracle.

The Sacred Biodiversity Oracle, by Angela Manno

The Sacred Biodiversity Oracle: A 36-Card Deck and Guidebook, by Angela Manno
Bear & Company, 159143503X, 160 pages, 36 cards, January 2026

Our planet is experiencing an unprecedented loss of biodiversity, with countless species disappearing at a rate that threatens the delicate balance of ecosystems worldwide. In The Sacred Biodiversity Oracle by Angela Manno, sacred art and contemplative practice converge to draw attention to the animals and habitats most at risk. Through reflection, education, and direct links to conservation efforts, this deck gently transforms awareness into meaningful action.

“The current biodiversity crisis is nothing less than a holocaust of Nature. According to the Center for Biological Diversity, more than 8,000 species are going extinct every year–that’s twenty-two species per day, about one species every hour–one thousand times the natural rate.”1

Manno’s artistic rendering of 36 full-color cards serve to honor threatened and endangered species with the aim of using her artwork to produce an emotional response that inspires readers to evaluate and hopefully transform their relationship to “the planet and all its life forms from one of exploitation to one of mutual enhancement and respectful coexistence.”15 The cards are huge ( 5.25 inches by 7.5 inches),  which allows for them to be prominently displayed.

Within the guidebook, Manno details how she came to create this deck after studying the traditional Byzantine iconography style, in which divinity comes through contemplation of the image. She chose to use this style to frame each species in this deck as a sacred being worthy of reverence, not merely statistical information, in order to illuminate their value and special spirit. A key practice in this guidebook is visio divina (sacred seeing), which allows for the spiritual nature of reality to emerge from contemplation of the image. Manno writes:

“Anyone who fervently opens themselves up to the power of these images–both in Nature and in art–can rest in and be nourished by their wisdom and beauty.”16

The artwork is gorgeous. Manno has painted each threatened or endangered species in a style inspired by sacred iconography, evoking reverence and stillness through tones are relatively simple yet illuminating. The clean backgrounds showcase the brilliant detailing of each species, clearly rendering and centering each one in a way that invites focus. Manno has given each species a quiet presence on the card that transforms them from overlooked or imperiled beings into holy ones worthy of contemplation, protection, and awe.

The exercises in the guidebook further assist readers with this process. For each card, Manno shares information about the species depicted (traits, habitat, role in the larger ecosystem, current plight), offers the opportunity to connect with the animal through visio divina, encourages stream of consciousness writing, and then shares a way for readers to take action on behalf of the species. There’s even a QR code in each entry, as well as on the card itself, in order to be immediately linked to a website of an organization working on conservation for the species.

The species are divided into six types: mammals, birds, fish, reptiles and amphibians, invertebrates, and plants. I appreciated how Manno spans the natural world when it comes to representing the threatened or endangered species. This highlights how each species, big and small, from the Gray Wolf to the Firefly, has a vital and important role to play within both the local and larger ecosystem.

As previously mentioned, there is no applicable spiritual guidance shared in the guidebook, which I think is important to note given the word “oracle” in the title. The Sacred Biodiversity Oracle is designed not for divination, but for contemplation, connection, and ecological awareness. The cards intend to foster insight, empathy, and ecological responsibility within the readers and are best used as a more educational and spiritual tool than predictive oracle. This made me reflect on how often we turn to other beings as spiritual allies, hoping their wisdom comes through to answer our questions in oracle decks, but it’s rare we are given the chance to assist them. This deck is unique in that regard, as the card pulls are not to provide insights related to your own personal journey, but rather an opportunity to use your agency to assist these species in need.

Almost all entries are exactly the same, with the main focus being performing the visio divina with the card and journaling to the question “Allow yourself to be enveloped by empathy for this living being. How does its plight impact your life?”17 Therefore, I think it’s important to brace yourself when working with this deck. It’s a delicate balance choosing to open to the animal’s sacred energy only to then be presented with wisdom that makes you feel a bit helpless. While the immediate vetted nonprofit groups accessible through the QR codes is very useful, it’s important to also take time to engage in self-care when doing this meaningful environmental work.

While many of us wish we could give limitlessly to help these species, there’s only so much time, energy, and financial resources we have available, making it a bit sad to think of all the animals that need assistance. This blue feeling for me only was amplified by the description of just how terribly the species are doing in the natural world. It was hard to cherish the beauty of the cards only to be hit with the stark reality of the situation, as described in the guidebook. Nevertheless, honoring these species and doing our part is the only way forward, even when the process brings up eco-grief.

I would most recommend this deck to those interested in a meditative or devotional practice, especially one focused on planetary healing and connection with nature. Individually, the cards are great for focusing on a species in need of care and attention, which one can then direct their healing and loving energies towards. Within a group, the cards are a wonderful focus for shared contemplation and discussion about threatened or endangered species and the key roles they play in ecology. There’s plenty of creative ways to work with the deck that certainly can inspire, raise awareness, and make a meaningful change on behalf of these species’ well-being.

All in all, The Sacred Biodiversity Oracle is a thoughtful and contemplative deck that stands out for its ecological purpose and artistic depth. Manno’s background in icon painting infused with ecological philosophy gives the deck a ritualistic and reverent quality, making it more like a devotional tool than a standard oracle deck.

For those called to foster empathy for the natural world, this deck invites sacred contemplation and serves as a bridge between spiritual practice and environmental awareness. The deck beautifully emphasizes the interconnectedness between species and ecosystems, reminding us that no life exists in isolation. Through action-oriented reflection, including QR codes that connect directly to real-world conservation efforts, it transforms insight into tangible support for the planet.

BonaDea’s Book of Everyday Enchantments, by Patricia deSandro

BonaDea’s Book of Everyday Enchantments, by Patricia deSandro
Crossed Crow Books, 1964537487, 100 pages, November 2025

It’s easy to forget that magic is not confined to ritual circles or rare celestial alignments. Rather, it lives in the very fabric of our ordinary moments. Each breath, each exchange, each shift of energy carries an invitation to participate more consciously in the world around us. When we slow down enough to acknowledge the life humming in plants, in objects, and in the unseen currents of spirit, we begin to remember that enchantment is not something we wait for – it is something we co-create.

BonaDea’s Book of Everyday Enchantments by Patricia deSandro offers readers a gentle yet potent framework for weaving practical magic into the rhythm of daily life. Instead of focusing on elaborate spellwork or arcane magic, deSandro emphasizes accessible techniques such as using made up chants, gestures, familiar objects, and meaningful alliances, to intentionally shift energy, manifest opportunities, and protect what matters most. Her approach makes the art of enchantment into a living, relational practice that can grow organically from everyday moments.

The book is divided into four parts. “Part I: Will You Be My Friend?” focuses on enchanting everyday objects and creating relationships with “non-human living beings”18 (animals, plants, Elemental spirits).From establishing plant allies to getting to know your local woods, deSandro shares plenty of advice and personal stories about the value these relationships bring to one’s life. Her anecdotes make this section more than an animist approach, allowing readers to really see how these relationships should be conducted. She writes:

“We introduce ourselves to each other. We each decide if we want to be allies. We each come to the table with an offer of friendship based on how we define it. Sometimes, negotiations are required. Promises are made and trust is established. It becomes a contract we wouldn’t want to break.”19

“Part II: Making Magic” is the longest section, and it’s where deSandro shares different techniques for creating your own enchantments. She teaches how to use one’s words wisely, see patterns, connect the dots for manifestation, maintain protection, and do healing energy work, among other things. All the spells are ones she’s developed over the years, and many times she has a story to illuminate how the spell has worked for her.

The final two parts, “Part III: Endings and Beginnings” and “Part IV: The Temple of the Sacred Flame” are much shorter. The former focuses on the coming and going of those we love (when people pass and when babies are born) as well as establishing connection with those on the other side. Meanwhile, in the final section, deSandro guides readers through creating their own “Inner Temple, a sacred place inside you for your soul.”20

With its short length (around 100 pages), small size, and conversational style, the book is well-suited for those who want inspiration without intimidation. Quickly glancing at it, one might perceive the enchantments shared by deSandro to be beginner level magic, yet that impression overlooks the depth contained within the simplicity. The concepts shared are at the core all magic, skillfully weaving together intention with belief in a way that feels relevant and personalized in order to effect meaningful change. Plus, the way deSandro has personal experience that highlights the magic she shares is a wonderful testimony to its potency.

Honestly, this is a book I will probably return to again and again when more formulaic magic leaves me feeling jaded or frustrated, as the content reminds me of the power of being in the present moment, attuned to energies around me and the needs within, and how to create this bridge to change the circumstance.

I plan on keeping my copy on my night table or desk for a refreshing approach to magic, as deSandro’s approach reminds me that we live in an ensouled world, and there’s plenty of relationships that can be forged with living entities. Too often, plants are reduced to a table of correspondences, and I forget these vital sprouts have a will and energy pattern of their own I can interact with. DeSandro awakens this deep magic that unifies the world by highlighting the livelihood of all beings.

Likewise, this approach is a great confidence booster for when you need to remember your own magical agency. DeSandro imparts to readers that you can trust your instincts, make up things as you go, and honor natural relationships without to trying control things. Rather, the key to this magic is acknowledgement and attunement. A feature of this book that makes it great for readers is the lined pages that deSandro includes throughout for readers to jot down their own reflections in regard to a question she proposes. This makes the book a fun tool for introspection, in addition to being a handy guidebook for everyday enchantment.

All in all, BonaDea’s Book of Everyday Enchantments is a friendly and grounded approach to tapping into magic that does not require elaborate tools or lengthy rituals. When approached with sincerity and awareness, even the simplest gestures become enchantments and the vibrancy of magic surrounding us begins to glimmer. DeSandro’s friendly approach is great for those who appreciate lived wisdom and are looking for a relationship with magic that feels personal, intuitive, and inviting. All of her tales were inspiring, guiding readers towards embracing the enchantment for themselves!

Coven, by Fiona Horne

Coven: Where Witches Gather, by Fiona Horne
Rockpool Publishing, 1923208462, 272 pages, March 2026

For many witches, the path begins in solitude – a quiet unfolding of intuition, ritual, and personal power. Yet there is a different kind of magic that awakens when practice becomes shared. Being part of a coven offers more than companionship; it creates a living current of collective energy where wisdom is exchanged, strengths are amplified, and individual blind spots are gently illuminated. Within a trusted circle, ritual deepens, accountability strengthens intention, and transformation becomes both witnessed and supported. Coven: Where Witches Gather by Fiona Horne explores how magic can be enhanced through group relationship, becoming shared sacred work, and offers guidance for creating or finding your own magical community.

Author Fiona Horne is an Australian witch, author, musician and teacher who emerged publicly in the 1990s as one of the first modern practitioners to openly identify as a witch in mainstream media. Raised with an early interest in mysticism and the occult, she later helped popularize contemporary witchcraft through bestselling books that reframed it as a nature-honoring, self-empowered spiritual path rather than something secretive or sensationalized. Over the decades, her work has focused on making witchcraft accessible, community-oriented, and aligned with modern life, encouraging practitioners to claim their identity openly and practice with confidence. This book is a revised and updated version of her previous publication The Coven: Making Magick Together (2003).

I was immediately impressed with the smooth texture of this book and gilded green edges. Though light in weight, there is a feeling of spiritual significance that comes through the book’s design. There’s a sensory elegance to it; the surface feels deliberately textured with care, as if it was made to be handled slowly. Instantly, I recognized this as a potent grimoire.

Peeking inside, I noticed the enchanting design continues within too. The interior pages all have an intricate border design, adding a feeling of elegance. The text is well structured and neatly organized with plenty of headings, bullet points, and different size and style of fonts. There’s also a nice ribbon for bookmarking your place. All throughout illuminating black and white images that contribute to the magical resonance, infusing the text with visual prompts too.

As for the content, Horne begins with a chapter introducing witchcraft, including what witches believe and laws of witchcraft (many from traditional Wicca), followed by a chapter on witchcraft in the past, present, and future. The information in these sections sufficiently grounds readers in the wider context of witchcraft, a base from which they can then go and explore covencraft.

“A coven is a sacred space – but it’s also a shared space, and that means it comes with all the beauty and complexity of human interaction.”19

There’s so many elements to a coven, and Horne covers the different aspects and layers of this joint interaction in the following chapters. From the get-go she distinguishes the type of coven this book is aimed for is different from traditional Gardnerian and Alexandrian witchcraft ones. Some of the differences in modern covens that Horne values are things such as shared leadership, inclusivity, environmental focuses, and rapid adaptation and flexibility. Meanwhile, she also shares different types of covens, ranging from eclectic ones with members who have a mixture of magical backgrounds to “working” covens that are more focused on learning and discussion, and noting how some covens meet in-person while others are virtual. The main emphasis is on the variety of ways a coven can exist, giving readers plenty of room to feel into what would be best suited for them.

As for actually forming or finding a coven, Horne provides plenty of advice for where one might connect with other like-minded souls, even providing an attraction spell. She also shares how to know if someone is a good fit for a coven. Once the group is established, Horne guides readers through the process of establishing responsibilities, picking deities, naming the coven and choosing a magical name for one’s self, and deciding where to gather. She also covers topics such as choosing which tools to use within the coven as well as wardrobe when gathering, noting the financial element of these decisions too. All of these small decisions laid out clearly provide a good roadmap for beginning a coven’s journey.

Horne has a whole chapter dedicated to how to run a coven meeting, including preparation, casting a circle, element invocation, inviting the deities,raising energy, and closing the circle. This chapter is a great resource for those familiarizing themselves with group magic. Subsequent chapters then cover topics such as sabbats, spellwork, group meditation, magickal gathering (open to those outside the coven too), sacred play, sex within the craft, and healthy living.

One chapter that I think is very valuable is “The Art of Coven Keeping” because I’ve seen SO many covens fall apart from disagreements, gossip, jealousies, misunderstandings, and simple lack of energy or interest in maintaining them. There’s usually a potent energy at the formation of a coven, but sustaining this energy takes work. In addition to this information in this chapter, Horne also has created an oracle deck, Coven Oracle, to provide insight into group dynamics that I think is a great tool for any group work.

I really resonated with her approach to covens, making it feel much more accessible than the traditional, “hidden” covens that require much more rigid adherence to a belief system and thorough initiation. In fact, Horne’s approach to the coven dispelled many long-standing beliefs I had about covens. For the first time, I believed it was possible I could create my own or find an aligned magical community. Not only does Horne provide an overview of how to do this, but she leaves so much room for personalization, especially considering every coven will have unique energies. I enjoy how she honors the art of covencrafting, rather than trying to make it fit in specific and outdated boxes.

At the same time, Horne takes a very practical approach to covens. The chapter dedicated to legally incorporating a coven as a spiritual organization was all novel for me. I had never really thought about this approach, but it makes sense in that the organization becomes tax exempt and is eligible for grants. I appreciate how Horne offers this, in addition to all her magical advice, because it grounds the potential of each coven in our structured reality.

“Because beneath the hashtags and highlight reels there is still a living, breathing mystery – a sacred, subversive truth that belongs to witches; a truth about power, connection, and the unseen forces that shape our world. This book isn’t just a how-to. It’s a lived testament to community, courage, and the magick we create when we gather in trust and intention.”20

Overall, Coven stands out as a thoughtful and practical resource for witches drawn to group magical working. Horne offers meaningful insight into not only how to form a coven, but how to nurture, protect, and sustain its energetic integrity over time. By weaving foundational witchcraft principles with guidance on leadership, harmony, and shared intention, she creates a framework that feels both accessible and purposeful. For those seeking to move beyond solitary practice and into the alchemy of collective magic, this book serves as a steady and encouraging guide. There’s so much to explore within a group witchcraft practice, and Horne has truly provided the community with a valuable tool for navigating this special type of magic.

The Left-Hand Path of Tarot, by Cherry Parra

The Left-Hand Path of Tarot: Breaking Taboos, Confronting Shadows, and Achieving Self-Love, by Cherry Parra
Weiser Books, 157863878X, 248 pages, February 2025

The Left-Hand Path of Tarot: Breaking Taboos, Confronting Shadows, and Achieving Self-Love by Cherry Parra teaches that tarot is not meant to simply soothe the ego or wrap us in spiritual platitudes. She asserts that at its deepest level, tarot is a mirror that reflects what we might prefer not to see. When approached with honesty, the cards cut through wishful thinking and invite us into radical self-responsibility. They illuminate patterns we perpetuate, desires we hide, grief we avoid, and truths we sense but hesitate to claim.

This kind of practice asks for courage and the willingness to sit with discomfort rather than reaching for quick reassurance. Parra invites readers to work with the tarot in this way, demonstrating how tarot can be a tool for maturation, shadow integration, and self-catalyst. Having the agency to choose differently or act with clarity comes from the willingness to wade in the chaos, ask the tough questions, and pivot when necessary.

“First and foremost we deal in truth, and it is often uncomfortable and usually brutal. If we want the truth, we must ask true questions. Tarot is not a hiding place. There should be no room for shame, self-deception, or hide-and-seek dynamics.”1

Divided into three parts, Parra leads readers through viewing the tarot from the lens of the Left-Hand Path, interpreting the cards to offer a wider perspective (sometimes even challenging or subverting card meanings), and then how to put into practice the Left-Hand Path of tarot.

“Part 1: Welcome to the Left-Hand Path” provides an introduction to the overall topic of using tarot for confronting uncomfortable truths and reclaiming marginalized aspects of the self. Parra shows how tarot is a guide to outsiders, those who are outcast, marginalized, and nonconforming. When challenging social norms as a healer, visionary, artistic, or activist–all vital roles amid chaotic times–tarot can be used dually as a weapon and as a tool for self-alchemy. The chapters on shadow work and manifestation give insight into how readers can learn to embrace the “not positive” aspects of the cards for growth, revelation, and ultimately more personal agency.

“Part 2: Left-Hand Path Interpretations” is where Parra delves into the meaning of the cards. For each Major Arcana card, she shares about two pages of insight. While the general traditional meaning shines through, Parra definitely infuses the cards with meaning reflecting the philosophy of a Left-Hand Path journey. This is to say, she strips a lot of the BS away and gives a straight-forward message that acknowledges what’s really going on beneath the surface. What I appreciate about her approach is that there’s no doom and gloom, rather, it’s very grounded and “tell it like it is” for optimum clarity.

As for the Minor Arcana, Parra deconstructs the traditional idea of each suit corresponding to only one element. She writes, how “every Minor Arcana card, regardless of which suit it belongs to, carries wisdom from more than one element of nature.”21 This was the first time I’d ever come across this notion in my tarot studies, and the idea felt supremely liberating, a deviation with plenty of potential to explore on my own. In this chapter, Parra provides interpretations for each suit and then uses tables to provide short meanings (upright and reversed) for the Minor Arcana cards. 

In the final section, “Part 3: Walking the Left-Hand Path with Tarot”, Parra takes the information shared thus far and casts it out into the wider world. She likens the Left-Hand Path to the “Path of Doubt”22, which “deals with uncertainty, contradictions, mysteries, and even riddles.”23. Here, Parra reminds readers to embrace their own flavor of reading, embracing their “out-of-the-box”24 interpretations when they arise. Infusing anarchy, challenging the trickster, and lingering in the unknown are all aspects of the Left-Hand Path that tarot can help cultivate. She offers ideas for shuffling, dialoging with the cards, and personalizing your decks.

Plus, Parra includes so many spreads! Spreads for money and business, self love, body image, mommy/daddy issues, psychic battles, transmutation and more. It’s like Parra has attuned to the multi-faceted shadow aspects and taboo topics that could use a reading for more insight and crafted meaningful spreads to mine the information with ease. Furthermore, she covers tarot rituals, such as opening/closing the reading and protection, offering readers a well-rounded approach to doing these readings.

All throughout, I really enjoyed how Parra shares her tarot wisdom. It’s very evident she’s gained a ton of experience as a reader, both for herself and others, and does a great job synthesizing what she’s learned into practical advice. From offering tips to both beginners and pros to framing the mindset of querents to better understand their position to how to handle readings honestly when cards reveal things aren’t peachy keen, Parra provides a lot of value for those interested in reading for others. The epilogue, “The Ethics of Tarot”25, also is great food-for-thought.

I also just gained a lot of perspective from Parra’s Left-Hand Path interpretations of the cards. In addition to enjoying her liberation of the Minor Arcana from the elemental suits previously discussed, her depictions of the Major Arcana were a breath of fresh air. It was SO nice to read novel interpretations of the cards, especially from Parra’s first-hand perspective. From linking the Hierophant with personal discipline to saying sometimes the Hermit can point towards needing a good old bed-rot, her lens was modern, relatable, and still deeply meaningful.

“Very few people actually discuss and practice the art of leaning into catastrophe, of riding the lows with as much attention and enthusiasm as they surf the highs, and of finding the potential within imbalance.”26

Overall, The Left-Hand Path of Tarot offers an approach to tarot that emphasizes the nitty gritty truth. Emphasizing the shattering of social taboos and upholding personal empowerment, readers will appreciate the originality of Parra’s interpretation of the cards. Within this framework, tarot becomes a method for choice, conformation, and cultivating personal agency (and responsibility!). Accessible for tarot readers of all levels, this book is best for those ready to question their spiritual conditioning, subvert traditional tarot meanings, and discover methods to bring more active questioning into their practice.