What if the tarot you hold in your hands was also a pathway to discovering Renaissance wisdom?Tarot Emblemata: Decoding Magical Symbolism beautifully bridges the culture of the Renaissance and modern tarot reading. Inspired by Claude Paradin’s emblem book, Devises Heroïques (originally published in 1551), Nitasia Roland revives the intricate art of symbolic storytelling that once conveyed moral, philosophical, and mystical truths through image and maxim.
Unfamiliar with emblems, I immediately went to Roland’s introduction in the guidebook to better understand the deck’s concept. I learned how during Renaissance emblems were visual metaphors designed to convey moral lessons, awaken contemplation and insight, and share didactic information. Roland explains how Renaissance emblems were illustrations “accompanied by mottos of text and verse that allegorically and symbolically express sentiments, concepts, societal concerns, and parables that were current in the social and cultural life of 16th- and 17th century continental and Baroque Europe.”1
In Tarot Emblemata, Roland repurposes Paradin’s emblems, which can be viewed here, to provide a fresh twist on the traditional tarot cards. This unique deck is comprised of 83 full-color cards: the traditional 78 cards of the Major and Minor Arcana along with five additional oracle cards. Weaving the emblems of Paradin (as well as a few by Bernard Salomon from an updated 1557 edition) and Latin mottos into the tarot’s archetypal structure, Roland has created a deck that illuminates the timeless insights of the Renaissance. This truly unique approach makes for some interesting reads!
The deck comes in a sturdy, hardcover box, giving it gravitas and weight. The tactile linen finish on the cards makes them very easy to handle (I much prefer this finish to a smooth varnish or glossy laminate!). And the gilded silver edges add a little burst of elegance.
As for the design, Roland kept Paradin’s symbolic imagery and moral mottos, written in both Latin inscription and English, but brought them to life with color. At the bottom of each card is the name of the tarot card. The aesthetic is minimal yet steeped in mystique, the clean parchment background reminds me of illuminated manuscripts or alchemical engravings.
For those who are used to ornate or narrative tarot cards, this deck feels more refined, even cerebral. What’s interesting about the emblems is how the symbolic language they convey is universal enough to be widely accepted and spread yet personal enough to instill the meaningful message. The emblems give a new perspective on traditional tarot, compelling the reader to sit with the imagery and to ponder its message, despite the directness of the associated motto. In this way, readers can both get a straight-forward message that appeases the part of oneself that is searching for guidance as well as an esoteric illustration that ignites the subconscious.
Granted, those who heavily rely on context clues from more elaborately designed tarot decks might find the deck a bit harder to connect with, but for those already familiar with the general tarot card meanings, it’s fairly easy to see how the symbol aligns with the card. For me it is honestly refreshing to not be bogged down with elaborate illustration, allowing the interesting symbols to activate my psyche, prompting revelation. Roland writes:
“Drawing a card or interpreting a spread encourages personal transformation, allowing the reader to tap into the magical archetypes and the universal mysteries that Renaissance iconography and symbolism inspire, connecting you to the guidance of spirit via the wisdom of the seen and unseen worlds.”2
Accompanying the deck is the 192-page, full-color guidebook. It is about 5.5 by 7.5 inches big, about the size of a small book, and very easy to hold and read. There’s a foreword, introduction, messages for each card (including the five additional oracle cards) and spread suggestions.
What I absolutely love about the guidebook is how much detail Roland provides for each card. Written in 2nd person (you), Roland addresses the readers directly. While the cards themselves are very symbolic, the messages from Roland are filled with clarity and purpose, providing meaningful direction. Roland artfully translates the essence of the tarot card through the perspective of the Renaissance emblem and motto. She doesn’t skirt around the message, rather she hones in with skill and precision, delving right into the heart and soul of the card’s energy.
It’s quite evident the time and thought Roland put into matching each emblem with the corresponding tarot card archetype and then contemplating how to translate the card for readers in the guidebook. She hits the mark, having the traditional tarot meaning still present in each interpretation yet illuminating a novel perspective for readers to understand the tarot by filtering it through Paradin’s emblems and mottos.
For instance, The Hanged Man in this deck has the illustration of a rope hanging down from a cloud, piling on the ground, while another cloud has a hand holding a sword emerging from it about to slice the rope. The motto at the top reads, “I resolve all doubts by self-refelction”3. And the guidebook entry opens with this line:
“A severing blade and sword of divine wisdom and truth bring clarity after a time of being held up, where the clock seems to stop, and where inner reflection is the only choice to get you out of the snag you are in.”4
Ah, I just love how Roland conveys The Hanged Man without resorting to any of the trite and overused interpretations that can just make some guidebooks so boring. Dedicating two pages to each card, she provides a fantastic entryway into each card for readers, leaving them with plenty of information to further contemplate. Truly, I am deeply impressed by this guidebook and have really enjoyed reading Roland’s guidance for each card.
Plus, the additional five oracle cards are a real bonus. These cards – Ancestors, Libations, Sovereignty, Regeneration and Caduceus – give readings a real extra boost. The entry for these cards in the guidebook is a bit shorter, but it’s more than enough for readers to learn their meanings and skillfully weave these cards into their spreads. I get extra excited when I see one emerge in a reading!
Overall, Tarot Emblemata is a very interesting deck to work with. Roland offers a one of a kind approach to tarot that transports readers to the flourishing Renaissance. Somehow the deck is artfully able to be both universally enlightening and individually transformationing. For those looking for a creative re-envisioning of the tarot, especially if you enjoy ancient history, this deck is perfect for adding to your collection.
I’d recommend this deck to those who enjoy a dose of practical advice coupled with deeper spiritual insights. This is not simply a “deck for readings” but a tool for exploration, reflection, and developing one’s intuitive and symbolic literacy, priming the psyche with meaningful imagery to activate archetypes that continue to be relevant to spiritual growth and human development.
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.
Crystals and chakras share a natural harmony, both working through the subtle language of energy. The many crystals and chakras each vibrate at their own frequencies aligned with certain energetic states, which when attuned to can shift one’s state of being, such as deepen spiritual awareness, enhance emotional healing, or promote mental clarity. When used together, crystals can act as tuning tools for chakras, helping to clear blockages, amplify the flow of life force energy throughout the body, and activate the energy of each chakra.
In Crystal Alchemy Oracle, creator Kate Mantello, renown for her work in crystal therapy, brings the vibrational medicine of crystals into a beautifully-structured deck that guides readers in working with crystal energies for personal growth and transformation. Filled with a luminous fusion of crystal wisdom, energy healing, and spiritual insight, each card captures the essence of a specific crystal and chakra while also inviting readers into a meditative dialogue with their own intuition. And thus, the alchemical process begins!
“Life itself is built on the backbone of alchemy, the underlying principle that teaches us that the highest and purest expression of ourselves comes when our energetic offerings are of higher value than the energy we consume to create them. It is the process of turning our fears into strengths, knowledge into wisdom and shadows into light.”5
Within the guidebook Mantello offers plenty of insight about how to best work with this deck. She teaches readers how to understand and use the cards, provides insight on finding one’s own meaning for the cards, shares how to cleanse and protect them, guides how to use the cards intuitively, and offers spreads to use for this deck.
The deck is structured by chakra, which all have their own color. Going beyond the traditional seven chakras (Root, Sacral, Solar Plexus, Heart, Throat, Third Eye, Crown), Mantello also includes the Soul Star Chakra and Earth Star Chakra. For each chakra, there’s four different cards, each represented by a crystal, bringing the deck to a total of 36 cards. The gilded red edges of the card make for a fun shuffle and visually appealing aesthetic.
My initial impression of the deck was that it is whimsical, light, and ethereal. When I first opened the deck and saw the rainbow of colors, I felt a tingle go up my spine, as though just holding the deck made my chakras come alive. The illustrations by Amy Salomone seem to shimmer with the living energy of the crystals themselves. Yet when I dove deeper into the deck, I saw that amid the beauty there was also plenty of deeper spiritual knowledge; it’s not all light and love – the shadow too has a place in this deck as a base to start our transformation with.
Salomone’s artwork, which is delicately layered in a collage-like format, evokes the natural attraction of each crystal while also capturing the chakra energy that the crystal represents. Filled with symbolism, each card has its own special energy that covers the full range of human emotion within the deck. It’s gorgeous how Salomone bridges anatomy, crystals, spheres of light, celestial objects, plants, animals, and sacred geometry to show the progression from the cards representing deep Earth through the human body up to the stars.
The soft yet radiant images create a surreal quality that evokes both the geological beauty of crystals and their metaphysical resonance. These are cards that I absolutely want to keep on an altar where I can see them over and over again to meditate on them daily. Each card feels like a sacred portal, providing the visual stimulus to activate the chakra energy.
One thing I love about Crystal Alchemy Oracle is how you can access the frequency and move through the alchemical process without needing to purchase or work with the actual crystal. This saves a lot of time, money, and energy that would otherwise be spent hunting for the right crystal; the deck is more than enough to activate the energy on its own, making it a potent yet practical tool to have on hand! This also provides new ways to learn about the crystal through Salomone’s symbolic depictions and Mantello’s oracle insights.
For each guidebook entry, Mantello has provided a spirit and shadow keyword, key energies, affirmation, healing opportunity, and crystal alchemy. The crystal alchemy section “includes practical suggestions and prompts” for working the crystal that highlight its properties based on “colour, mineral composition, energy and shape.”6
Together, Mantello’s insights provide plenty for readers to reflect on to assess the current energy in play. Being able to acknowledge the healing opportunity presenting itself and then also read the crystal alchemy section for guidance on what practical things can be done to realign this energy is very useful. I appreciate when a deck is direct yet leaves plenty of room for the reader’s intuition to be heard too, which is just what Mantello has made happen in Crystal Alchemy Oracle.
So far, I keep pulling Star Soul Chakra cards. Mantello explains how this chakra is a very high vibration, connecting acting as a “doorway through which you can connect with your higher self and the spiritual realm.”7 Crystals in this suit, such as Clear Quartz and Apophyllite, have shifted my attention to my greater life purpose and how reaching this potential requires releasing old trauma to allow for deep healing to occur. As I realign my direction right now, it actually feels good to rip the band aid off some wounds I’d been neglecting to truly look at and tend to with care. Based on this guidance, I am spending more time outside having quiet moments to listen for higher wisdom, opening up to the advice of my spirit guides and divine protectors.
Overall, Crystal Alchemy Oracle is a beautifully crafted deck that merges crystal guidance with energy work through the chakras. There’s so many ways one can work with this deck, including for divination purposes, deepening one’s spiritual connection, facilitating personal growth through inner wisdom, or to do energy work. It can serve as a daily source of affirmation, a companion in meditation, or a way to align one’s energy with specific intentions. The versatility of this deck makes it a wonderful, multi-purpose tool.
This oracle deck is ideal for readers who want to deepen their relationship with crystals, energetic anatomy, or intuitive healing. The combination of Mantello’s crystal therapy expertise and Salomone’s ethereal artistry creates a sublime experience that feels nurturing, radiant, and deeply empowering when reading with this deck. It’s perfect for healers, intuitives, and anyone drawn to the subtle conversation between crystals, body, and soul.
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.
Throughout history, mythical creatures have served as reflections of humanity’s hidden emotions, instincts, and mysteries. From dragons breathing the fires of transformation to mermaids singing of love’s depths, these beings live in the realm between imagination and truth animated by the unseen forces that shape our lives. In tarot, they become messengers from the mythic realms, guiding readers toward greater self-awareness and spiritual insight.
The Mythical Creatures Tarot by Jayne Wallace invites readers to step into this enchanted landscape, where every card holds the spirit of a legendary mythic being, pairing their ancient wisdom with the guidance of tarot. This approach adds a deeper layer of meaning to the tarot cards, reminding readers that myth and magic are always alive in our everyday experiences and that these sacred guardians are here for counsel. Serving as a bridge between reader and these magical creatures, this deck is a reminder that myth and intuition often go hand in hand.
There’s a special feeling when opening a new tarot deck and the packaging and presentation of The Mythical Creatures Tarot add to the tactile and collectible appeal. This deck is housed in a sturdy keepsake box illustrated with a luminous full moon circled by two air dragons hovering above a serene body of water. Opening this box reveals a large, full-color, hardback illustrated guidebook. And underneath this is the deck itself in yet another hardbound case, safely housing the mystery and magic of this deck, with a beautiful blue ribbon to assist with pulling it out. There’s also a blue ribbon within this case holding the deck to once again aid in collecting the cards easily into one’s hands.
The matte cards are nice and large. They’re bigger than your average card deck, yet still a good size to hold in one’s hands. My first impression was how smooth the cards were; there was no friction when shuffling and none of the cards stuck together. The cards have nice weight to them too, adding a palpable pleasure to the physicality of working with this deck.
The artwork on the cards is soft, dreamlike, and filled with gentle movement, creating a sense of stepping into a living scene. Each card is rendered in delicate watercolor tones that blend earthiness with ethereal light, giving the deck a serene yet mystical tone. The imagery feels both ancient and timeless with the mythical beings depicted with grace and reverence, harmonizing with natural landscapes of misty woods, glowing skies, and flowing waters. There’s a gentle blur to the artwork too that allows for the mind to release its grip, opening up to the blending of the fantastic and familiar for new insights when gazing at the cards.
Most imagery on the cards align with the traditional Rider-Waite-Smith (RWS) illustrations, giving experienced readers a familiar foundation for their readings. Yet it is not to the point where it is a mirror of the RWS deck; there’s plenty of creative interpretation in the depiction of the legendary beings and nature-filled landscapes. Wallace includes the card name and one keyword on the card for readers to be able to quickly discern the card, yet there’s still plenty of visual space for the eyes to wander and contemplate the messages coming through visually. The symbolism of the chimeric creatures opens up a whole new array of interpretations in a reading, providing a fresh perspective on the traditional card meanings by infusing them with mythic insights.
As for reading the cards, the Major Arcana is a mix of different mythological beings, including Griffin, Kraken, Pegasus, Centaur, and more. The Minor Arcana suits follow elemental creature associations:
For those who are new to mythological beings, Wallace has included a list in the guidebook providing a short description of each one. She also includes guidance on reading the cards in this deck and ideas for spreads to use.
For each card entry in the guidebook, Wallace has shared the name and main keyword at the top, followed by a few more key words, description of the scene the card depicts, card meaning, mythical message, and an affirmation. She writes with a tender tone, offering heartfelt wisdom. The card meanings are distilled from her tarot expertise spanning decades, while the mythical messages perfectly translate the traditional tarot meaning into a greater archetypal message that resonates on a soul level.
I particularly love how the guidebook is a well-bound hardback that’s extremely easy to hold in one’s hands with a ribbon to mark the current page. As someone who enjoys journaling, this makes it very easy to refer to the guidebook while I’m recording my thoughts because it’s easy to flip from one page to the next. Plus, the full-scale, colored image right next to the card’s message is perfect for contemplation.
So far, I have really enjoyed this deck because the elemental symbolism of the Minor Arcana makes me feel intuitively connected to the natural rhythms of the world around me. I love working with elemental beings (especially merfolk!), and I feel this deck really serves as a bridge, connecting readers to this realm. While there’s decks devoted solely to many of these creatures, such as dragons and phoenixes, it’s nice to have them all come together in unity within this deck.
There’s something about stepping away from the humanness within the RWS deck or other traditional tarot cards that prompts revelation. The archetypal energies of the tarot are given a new avenue of expression, and Wallace has done a magnificent job translating the grandiose essence of these mythical creatures into applicable and meaningful guidance. It’s easy and very human to get caught up in the fear of the unknown, turning to the tarot for answers about what lies ahead or the best course of action. But the mythical creatures of this deck remind us of our inner strength, imaginative freedom, and flowing connection to the special energies these legendary beings share with us.
Overall, The Mythical Creatures Tarot is a beautiful and powerful addition to the tarot world. It’s ideal for readers who are drawn to mythology, folklore, and imaginative reimaginings of the cards that stretch beyond traditional interpretations. Those who appreciate a touch of fantasy in their readings will find the vibrant depictions of legendary beings both enchanting and immersive, especially if they enjoy working with elemental forces or mythic symbolism. Readers of all levels will find Wallace’s interpretations accessible, inspiring, and heartfelt, guiding them toward deeper understanding and self-discovery through the wisdom of these extraordinary creatures. It’s definitely a deck that I will be turning to again and again!
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.
Shadows of Tarot by Emma Howard is a beautifully presented tarot spread journal. I loved the aesthetic the moment I laid eyes on it. The red and black hardcover journal with all the moths on the cover– three of my favorite things wrapped in one journal. Plus, the ribbon bookmark is nice to have so I don’t lose my place!
If you love tarot spreads like I do and you’re currently working on the shadow aspects of yourself, this journal will help give you better insight. At the start we are greeted by a guide on how to use this journal. There’s a side with the tarot spread and a side with questions and prompts, laying the blueprint for all the future queries.
Then journal gets right into the spreads. There’s a lot of good spreads in this book– 66 in total! Each spread has a different amount of cards, most of which are around 5-7 cards. The longest one in the journal is at the beginning and is called the “Long Bag”. I decided to pick out the spread that called to me most and tried it out. The spread I tried out was “Hidden Depths”.
“Hidden Depths” helps you to understand both conscious and hidden traits. It’s all about self-discovery and understanding. For this spread I used my deck Magic of Tarot by Liz Dean. Each respective question for the pull was as follows:
“What unknown trait lies within my shadow self?” “How does this hidden trait manifest in my daily life?” “What messages does my shadow self have for me?” “How can I bring this shadow aspect to consciousness?” “What gift does this shadow aspect hold for me?”
The cards I pulled respectfully one through five were Page of Cups, Five of Cups, Nine of Wands, Two of Cups, Knight of Swords.
This reading made a lot of sense to me. Since the Page of Swords was upright, my mind instantly went to imagination. Lately, every now and then, my mind has been flickering to self doubt in the path I’m forging as an artist and writer; I’ve been down on myself for lacking in imagination. Five of Cups was reversed and that told me my worry and doubt blocks my manifesting of my imagination. I’ve been working hard on overcoming these traits. This reading has been an eye opener for me to understand that all I need is already what I have within me. I don’t need to doubt myself.
Nine of Wands reversed told me to stop letting my stress and pressure consume me, which with what I just explained, yes, yes I do. Two of Cups being upright on the other hand reminded me that meeting other creatives is the boost I need. I just have to overcome my social anxiety (huge shadow right there). So far I’m slowly coming out of my shell; I just think patience is needed on my end. Lastly Knight of Swords reversed, the gift of unavoidable challenges, made a lot of sense. This one reading alone was enough to impress me.
The top of the question/prompt side has a line to rewrite an affirmation and a line to record the deck used that day. There’s plenty of space for you to write your interpretation. There’s also lines for reflecting on what the higher self feelings the reading is about and the actions the reading inspires. For instance, for the question the journal asks, “How does this reading inspire me to take action?”, I wrote: “It inspires me to combat all of the challenges in my way.” This reading gave me a lot of realization that I needed.
There’s also lines to fill out the most prominent shadow in this reading, reflective thoughts and feelings, and the elemental influence. Water was my biggest elemental influence for this reading. I took that as a sign that I’m more in-tune with my emotions than I realize or give myself credit for.
All the more that I can say is I’m really impressed with Shadows of Tarot and I enjoyed the tarot spread and filling out the questions. It’s great because for me this really gave me a mental check in. It made me realize I’m straying from what I’m trying to not be anymore. If you’re looking for more insight into yourself, want to check in where your shadow is at, or start your shadow journey with tarot, this is the journal for you. It is great for beginners and experienced readers!
Holly is a witch, photographer, tarot reader, artist, and freelance writer from Appalachia. She’s driven by her passion and stubbornness to follow her dreams of becoming a successful artist and writer. She can be found on Instagram under @hermitwitchholly.
The Egyptian Tarot by Oliver St. John is an excellent addition to any tarot collection. The cards feature a matte finish and traditional size which makes handling them easy. There’s a feeling of substantive tactile energy as you lay out the spread. Each card also holds the schematics of the Golden Dawn system of magick, inclusive of Qabalistic correspondences and elemental assignations, all the while processed through the imagery of Ancient Egypt and its Neteru (Gods/esses).
The back of each card is imprinted with a simplified image of the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn’s Rose Cross Lamen, a key symbol containing attributes for the classical elements, classical planets, zodiac, Hebrew alphabet, alchemical principles, the hexagram and pentagram, the sefirot of the Tree of Life, and the formula of INRI.
Unlike more traditional tarot decks, the imagery is embedded with multiple Hermetic disciplines and can be interpreted from a variety of esoteric and magickal perspectives. Each card has a planetary and astrological glyph and the addition of the associated Hebrew letter, alchemical sigil, and hieroglyph on specific cards. And, even the background color of the suits of the Minor Arcana and Major Arcana cards is subtle using similar tones and correspondences as those of the Qabalistic sephiroth and some overt and latent elemental energies.
The accompanying guidebook is a full-sized 154 page paperback that serves as an excellent resource for the user in attuning to the departures in the naming of the Major Arcana and Court and Ace cards to align with the focus of the Egyptian pantheon and energy. The interpretations provided in the guidebook align the cards of the Major Arcana with the associated paths on the Hermetic Qabalistic Tree. In this way the reader is offered a course in Qabalistic principles as well as the practice of translating these energies into applied and practical use as in the form of a tool of divination. The guidebook also provides those less familiar with the Egyptian deities enough information to make the information user friendly regardless of previous experience.
The guidebook is organized into five sections including a group of appendices that could easily stand alone as teachings of Hermetic Qabalah, astrology, and Egyptian magick. The preface lays the groundwork of expectation and the promise that this is not “just another Tarot deck”7, but something more deeply intrinsic to the complexities and nuances of ancient magickal systems:
“The purpose of our Egyptian Tarot designs is to preserve the traditional elementals so far as possible, while at the same time presenting a unique perspective through the careful and knowledgeable use of ancient Egyptian symbolism. It is not within the scope of this book to explain the science of magick, astrology or Qabalah, although the Tarot correspondences utilize all of this. The reader must be referred to our other works for such things and indeed is encouraged to do so in order to gain the fullest comprehension of the Egyptian Tarot.”8
“Chapter One: The Egyptian Tarot” takes the reader on a journey through the basics of the Hermetic Tree of Life, the import of its correspondences on the cards and the astrological associations overlaid on the cards of the Minor Arcana. Additionally, a breakdown of the Major Arcana is a nice touch in giving the reader the more traditional assignment of each of the Keys as a reference point for how that card has been renamed and the broader way in which these associations are used:
“The Hermit is renamed Isis IX. The esoteric title is Prophet of the Eternal: Magus of the Voice of Power. This card portrays two sisters, Isis and Nepthys, performing an act of resurrection on the soul.”9
Having laid thorough and in-depth foundations for a shift in perspective for the cards’ broader interpretations, each card of the Major Arcana is dutifully given several pages of fuller explanation of its workings through the lens of Egyptian magick and how these may be applied to the disciplines of divination.
The subsequent section of The Egyptian Tarot guidebook, entitled “Tarot Divination”, provides an overview of the mechanics of using tarot as a tool for obtaining information and samples of card layouts, their interactions and potential interpretations of their collective energies. A grid of divinatory meanings for the Major Arcana cards provides a great starting point for deeper understanding and interpretations.
The final section, “Methods of Divination”, offers a variety of spreads that hold the symbology of the Qabalistic Tree of Life as the dominant underpinnings both in the layout, number of cards as well as the imagery and meanings of the cards themselves. I was intrigued by the many layers of each card and did a simple three card draw that produced Key XIX RA, Key XVIII Khonsu and the Four of Wands (completion):
Card 1 – Key XIX RA – The Lord of the Fire of the World. He is the holder of Light and renewable growth and regeneration. Just as the Sun rises and sets each day to be reborn the next, this card is a reminder about the power and limitless source we have as bearers of our own cycles of the Sun .
Card 2 – Key XVIII Khnonsu – Ruler of Flux and Reflux. This card calls to the acknowledgement of our inner cycles, our deep connection to the Lunar tides – Khnonsu is the Deity of the Moon – and the ability to remain in the twilight and become the reflection of the Light.
Card 3 – Four of Wands – The Lord of Completion. The cards of the Minor Arcana are each assigned a Decan (degree of placement) within the Zodiac. These are directly connected to astrological energies and in this case planetary Venus in astrological Taurus. This indicates the ability to bring what is most desired and holds the potential for creation (Venus) into manifestation with stability and strength (Taurus).
The appendices are a training manual in and of themselves, and are ripe with information about each aspect of what is depicted on the cards, alternate correspondences and Qabalistic wisdom. “Appendix I: Sephorotic Tree” provides the visual of the tree with path, name, Hebrew letter, and Tarot correspondences in one quick look.
“Appendix II: Tarot Paeans”, is a list of invocations specific to each of the cards of the Major Arcana that may be used as contemplative tools in calling in the energies of their wisdom. And “Appendix III: Key – Scale Correspondences” is an 18-page compendium of all the ways you can make connections to the specifics of the cards. Deity, plants, animals, Hebrew Letter, Gematria, and more fill these pages-each, clearly outlined in table form and useful in so many applications beyond divination.
Would I Recommend?
At first glance The Egyptian Tarot is not something that will immediately draw me in with its imagery, colors, or dynamic appeal, but rather from the treasure chest of wisdom held within each card and its potential are priceless. St. John has managed to draw into synthesis aeons of magick and craft it into a tool for divination and much, much more.
It is not a beginner deck, nor is it for those who want a quick and easy route to becoming paid readers, but it will, for those willing to put in the effort and open themselves to the greater teachings become a tool of vision and manifestation of the latent potential for deeper magick we all contain.
About the Author: Oliver St. John
Oliver St. John has dedicated his whole life to the theory and practice of magick and the occult, including related sciences of tarot, Qabalah, ritual, astrology, and divination; he is an acknowledged expert in these fields. He has written more than twenty books on these subjects and is the director of studies of Ordo Astri, Hermetic Order of the Star and Snake. He is also a musician, creates his own podcasts, and writes and edits the monthly journal Metamorphosis.
His background includes training and working with Mary Long, author and student of Dion Fortune; the late Gareth Knight; and Dolores Ashcroft-Nowicki, cofounder of Servants of the Light. St. John was one of the very few people to complete a five-year course in Applied Qabalah then delivered by the latter group. He was also at one time active in the neo-Pagan Fellowship of Isis, enjoying a voluminous correspondence with Olivia Robertson, the cofounder. He has been a member of the Typhonian Order for over twenty years and has contributed articles, including a short story within the Lovecraft genre, to Starfire journal. He continues to teach students around the world and is working on several new book projects.
Robin Fennelly is an Elder within the Assembly of the Sacred Wheel Tradition [www.sacredwheel.org]. She is a dancer, teacher, astrologer, author, ritualist and seeker of all things of a spiritual nature. Her writings and classes incorporate a deep understanding of Eastern practice and Western Hermetics and bring a unique perspective towards integration and synthesis of the Divine and Mundane natures of our being. She is a mother of five and lives in Eastern PA with her husband of 45+ years.
Working with the elements in magic is one of the most timeless and powerful practices. Fire, Earth, Air, and Water are not only the building blocks of the natural world, but also energetic forces that live within us and shape our experiences. By aligning with elemental qualities, we tap into a balanced system of creation and transformation. Elemental Spells: Drawing on the Magical Energy of Fire, Earth, Air, and Water by Julieta Suárez Valente with illustrations by Miranda Guerrero reminds us that we are part of a greater whole, and through ritual and spellwork, we can harness these energies to bring our intentions to life.
This 44-card deck attunes readers to Fire’s passion and will, Earth’s grounding and stability, Air’s clarity and inspiration, and Water’s intuition and flow. Suárez Valente has designed the deck so that each card contains elemental symbolism that is meant to be activated and bolstered by ritual and spellwork. This deck is perfect for people who are seeking to actively engage in the magical process rather than passively absorb an oracle message, whether this be in selecting the card that feels most resonant for them at the time or being open to following their intuitive pull of the deck to point them in the right direction.
The cards have a soft, neutral tan background, which allows illustrator Miranda Guerrero’s colorful artwork to stand out. At the top of each card, there is the elemental glyph and the name of the card with a short subtitle for explanation. The banner color and image is the same for each card within the elemental suit.
Next on the card is a short description of the magical significance. Then there’s an image by Guerrero that captures the essence of the card’s focus. At the bottom there are practical instructions for spellwork, rituals, or magical applications, written in a clear, step-by-step format.
Suárez Valente’s suggestions of how to activate the energy of the card through magic are quite varied, as is the range of the cards within the deck. Some cards feature a deity or angels, others an herb or fruit. There’s cards representing crystals, tarot cards, animals and runes, as well as cards depicting specific astrological timing, such as New Moon in a Fire Sign. It’s definitely a mixed bag, blending different pantheons, cultures, and divination methods (astrology, tarot, runes, etc.).
The corresponding spellwork for each card is just as unique. For instance, the card Aeolus: Greek God of the Wind, invites the reader to go somewhere with a blowing breeze and say out loud an invocation to clear away stagnant debris and usher in renewed energy. For Saturn: A Planet Associated with Materialization, Suárez Valente provides a ritual to be done on Saturday using a brown candle and essential oils, specifically sandalwood or myrrh.
Sometimes the ritual or spell given requires multi-day effort, such as with Aphrodite: Greek Goddess of Love and Sensuality, while other times it can be done quickly, such as Whale: Symbol of Emotional Depth that encourages the reader to tap into the energy by look at pictures or listening to their sounds.
The variety of cards and spellwork make for a very fun and interesting card pull each time. I love how I’m consistently surprised. One of my favorite pulls so far has been Financial Healing: Recirculation of Matter. The card states “This exercise is ideal for healing your relationship with money.”8 The exercise was to make a monetary donation to show the universe that I have room in my life for more. Suárez Valente even shares what to say once the donation is made.
Well, right before pulling that card, I had noticed a little girl a few houses down selling bracelets and slime she made. For years, I ran a camp each summer focused on teaching little girls to be entrepreneurial where they spent a week making their craft projects. At the end of the week, we’d hold a sale for family and friends. Walking into my house, I was thinking how much I loved that she was outside doing this on a Saturday, so I went over to buy something, despite my husband’s protests that it wasn’t a necessary purchase. As soon as I got back, I went to work with the deck and pulled the Financial Healing card, confirming that I had made the right choice to spend my money supporting the little girl’s entrepreneurial spirit! I said the words at the bottom of the card out loud and felt the abundance flowing.
As for the guidebook, there’s no specific oracle message for the cards. Rather, Suárez Valente’s focus is on teaching more about each element. She provides a brief introduction about how the cards can be used (either intentionally picking out one that aligns with one’s goals or pulling randomly) and offers spread suggestions. She lists ingredients that might appear in the deck for readers that wish to be prepared. And then she delves into each of the four elements, beginning with fire.
Suárez Valente provides an overview of the element, including its significance in astrology and as a tarot suit. She then covers a few significant correspondence to give more insight into the nature of the element. Then there’s a page that lists all the cards in that element and a page that lists the spell for each of the element cards, which makes it easy to pick out the right card for your intention, if that’s how a reader is using the deck. While each entry in the guidebook is pretty brief, it is enough to foster further elemental exploration.
Overall, Elemental Spells is a very engaging deck that encourages readers to put into action their practical magic for the sake of self-growth, transformation, and manifestation. This deck is best for people who are open to cross-cultural magical inspiration and are willing to learn about and try new magical methods. The approachable spells make this deck suitable for readers of all levels. I really enjoy how the deck is more than just an oracle message; it’s a call to action that invites you to co-create with the elements. The power is within you yet as a reader you learn that by aligning yourself with the greater elemental forces, wonderful things come into being.
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.
Looking to infuse your oracle readings with a dash of magic? Magic Spells Oracle by Judika Illes blends practical spellcraft with intuitive guidance, perfect for readers looking to add a bit of ritual to their reading. Illes brings her decades of experience, combining expertise in spellcraft, aromatherapy, and folklore, to this deck, offering readers an opportunity to use their divinations to set their intentions into the world through manifestation.
This deck includes 36 full-color cards along with a 128-page guidebook. Illes has structured the deck based on the elements (earth, air, fire, and water) with two additional balancing cards. Within each elemental suit, individual cards then have a magical correspondence reflective of the elemental energy. As an example, there’s Broomstick in the Air suit, Candle Magic in the Fire suit, Crystal Ball in the Water suit, and Amulet in Earth suit.
In the introduction, Illes explains:
“Magical energy radiates through everything–colors, sounds, fragrances, botanicals, natural phenomena, creatures, and human beings–including you–although how it manifests differs.”10
As someone who enjoys working with elements, believing attuning to them is a powerful way to enhance one’s spell work by grounding the ritual in the rhyme of nature, I appreciate Illes’ sentiment that magic can be found within everything.
The way Illes has offered different facets of each element by having the different cards in the suits further amplifies her explanation that everything carries its own distinct energy. By understanding these magical correspondences, readers gain the opportunity to connect with an elemental is a special way through spellwork and ritual. The cards become a bridge between the physical and spiritual world, creating a clear pathway for one to work their magic.
The deck’s aesthetic feels both enchanting and modern, blending mystical symbolism with a clean design. Each card features a central magical image—daggers, crystal balls, animals, or symbols—encircled within a dark cosmic backdrop, accented by golden details that add a touch of sacred shimmer. To me, the inner black circular design reminds me of peering through a portal! The archetypal symbols on the cards definitely open deeper layers of meaning for those who look closer.
For those who are just discovering their magical power, Illes provides ample information in the guidebook, including guidance on how magic and spellcasting works, how to prepare and cleanse one’s deck, how to create an altar space, and how to use the cards (with layouts). At the start of each elemental section, she also gives an overview of associated deities, what the element does naturally in the world, its spiritual power, and magical uses.
For each card entry, there’s an image of the card, the name and element at the top, an overview of its magical significance, and then a spell or ritual one can do. Most of the spells and rituals can be done with things on hand, but a few might require a bit of planning, prepping, and ingredient gathering.
This is definitely a deck for those seeking to learn more about magic and how they can cast spells to make desired changes rather than a deck that provides specific insight about what energies a moment in time holds. While Illes’ guidance is fascinating and practical, it is not a concrete answer like other oracle decks offer. The focus is less on inner reflection and divine wisdom and more on magical information that one can then apply in their spellwork.
Magic Spells Oracle teaches readers how to shape their own future rather than passively giving them insight into energies of their present circumstances. I’d recommend it for those looking to enhance their foundational knowledge of magic and focus on grounded inspiration about how to bring their desire to fruition. People who like traditional, straightforward oracle advice might find it hard to discern clear messages from the guidebook.
This being said, I do still think the cards can provide super accurate insights. I asked the cards what I could do to prepare for my upcoming labor and delivery (baby #2 is due any day now!) and I pulled Crocodile. This card is part of the Water elemental suit. Part of Illes’ guidebook description reads:
“Crocodiles are simultaneously deadly, dangerous creatures and magical animal allies–in particular, for pregnant and laboring women. In many legends, crocodiles have taught the birthing process to humans. Images or toys of crocodiles in a birthing room are a protection against danger.”11
I was honestly flabbergasted with the accuracy of this card pull! Can you believe the exact situation I asked about is discussed in the guidebook? Prior to this reading, I had no idea crocodiles were a magical birth ally! Now I’m planning on taking the card with me when I head to the hospital.
So, as you can see, the card didn’t give me a specific answer, such as “release fear” or “focus on gratitude” like many oracle cards. Instead, it provided me with a magical way to prepare for what I asked about. This deck calls for readers to be proactive in creating their own outcomes by believing in their magical prowess and utilizing the wisdom that comes through in the reading.
Overall, Magic Spells Oracle by Judika Illes is a well-structured oracle that stands out for its elemental clarity and practical magical guidance. The organization into four elemental suits provides clear, intuitive themes that are easy to engage with. The guidance is ideal for beginners looking to learn more about magic, especially if they have an interest in spellwork. Illes bring decades of experience to life within these cards, offering a wealth of information for those seeking to expand their occult knowledge.
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.
Yule, which is celebrated during the winter solstice, marks the longest night of the year and the quiet beginning of winter’s embrace. As the world slows and darkness lingers, the season’s energy naturally calls us inward, inviting stillness, reflection, and renewal. This quiet time, when trees are bare and many animals are hibernating, is a moment to honor the cycles of rest and rebirth, tend the inner flame, and listen to the wisdom that emerges in silence.
It is in this silence where some of the most profound spiritual insights can finally be heard, especially with tools that attune people to their inner landscape. Journaling during the winter months becomes a powerful practice, offering space to reflect on the past year, release what no longer serves, and plant seeds of intention for the light’s gradual return. Similarly, the introspective energy makes this season a wonderful time for oracle readings, promoting deep spiritual work, reflection, and intention-setting for the year ahead.
Season of the Witch: Yule Journal crafted by Lorriane Anderson and illustrated by Giada Rose is a wonderful companion for the winter months, blending the art of journaling and oracle readings. This beautiful, full-color journal is designed to provide people with ample space for their solitary musings, seasonal observations, and oracle card readings during the Yuletide season.
Spanning 208 pages, this paperback journal includes 50 thoughtful journal prompts. 44 of the prompts come directly from Seasons of the Witch: Yule Oracle, making this journal a great resource for those who enjoy working with the deck (me!). The additional six new prompts offer further questions for reflection, creating space for even more insights to emerge. As an extension of the oracle deck, the journal deepens the experience of one’s reading by offering a place for personal reflection about the divinatory messages.
However, Seasons of the Witch: Yule Journal can absolutely be used independently from the deck as a space for reflective writing. The combination of the beautiful illustrations with meaningful writing prompts promises an inner sanctuary for thoughts, musings, and spiritual nourishment. The prompts skillfully weave themes of gratitude, restoration, and inner wisdom, offering insights about what the darkest time of year emotionally, spiritually, and intuitively awakens within. Here’s an example of the prompt for Perseverance:
“Yule is a celebration of the return of the light. When you are facing a difficult time, how can you bring light to your situation? What are some ways you can carry the light in your soul despite the darkness you’re feeling?”12
As reflected in this prompt, Anderson really gets to the heart of the season with her questions. She approaches the process of journaling with a gentleness that leaves room for the writer to find their own voice. The questions are specific enough to give focus to a topic but also leave room for open-ended exploration through the journalling process.
What’s really nice about the journal is the rounded spine and flat-lay binding, which makes it easy to write in. On the left side of the journal is an illustration by Rose that captures the many themes of the season from the starkness and chill of the snow to the merriment of coming together to feast with those you care about. Then on the right side, there’s the prompt at the top in a box followed by two additional empty pages for writing, making nearly three whole pages for reflections. For those of you who write big, the spacing of the lines is very easy to fit your script into! Though it’s worth noting, once in a while, some of the pages are left blank with no lines.
While I haven’t officially started writing yet (I’m waiting for December!), I can tell the amount of space for each prompt will make it easy to fit multiple entries in. Whether one is using it in tandem with the deck and a card comes up twice or you want to return to the journal year and year and keep adding to it, the size of the journal leaves plenty of space for multiple musings about each journal prompt.
Just flipping through this journal has given me so much excitement for Yuletide season! Seasons of the Witch: Yule Oracle is one of my favorite winter decks, and seeing the images on the cards amplified on the pages of the journal brings me pure delight. I also love the embellishments of holly, pine, pinecones, and little moons around the border. The whole journal really captures the essence of Yule.
And while I do enjoy working with my deck, and I’m sure I’ll use it in combination with this journal, I also like how the journal will be a safe space for me to explore without the external guidance of the deck always steering my reflections in a certain direction. I definitely see myself flipping through the journal and writing where I feel called to in that moment without any oracle prompting, which is why I know this is a great resource even if someone doesn’t have the deck.
Overall, Seasons of the Witch: Yule Journal shines as a seasonal, art-infused companion for anyone seeking introspection and exploration of their inner landscape during Yule. Its visual beauty, intuitive prompts, and thoughtful design invite a contemplative experience throughout the chilling winter season. If you already love the Seasons of the Witch: Yule Oracle, this journal adds a lovely layer of personal reflection. But it also makes for a wonderful stand-alone tool for navigating some of the darkest times of the year. I’m looking forward to seeing what comes through in my writing this Yuletide season, and I’d definitely recommend it as a gift for your witchy friends this winter!
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.
Ritual celebrations, no matter which culture they come from, remind us of our shared humanity. Whether it’s gathering around a bonfire, honoring ancestors, dancing in the streets, or sharing food in sacred company, these moments root us in community and tradition. Even when the customs are from cultures different than our own, they speak a universal language of joy, remembrance, and connection. Marking the turning of time, the cycles of nature, and the milestones of our lives, rituals remind us that across the world, people have always celebrated, mourned, and honored together.
Ritual Earth Oracle by Andres Engracia with illustrations by Selena Moon draws upon the spiritual energies, insights, and celebrations of 36 rituals and festivals worldwide to create a potent oracle deck. With great reverence, Engracia honors the specifics of each culture’s rituals to honor their “own indigenous spirits, folklore, and ceremonies.”13 In the introduction, he also offers guidance on how to use the deck, offering tips for cleansing the deck as well as spreads readers can use for structure.
For each card;s entry in the guidebook, he shares the location of the ceremony or festival, keywords, the card’s significance from an oracle perspective, and information about the ceremony or festival. There’s also a ritual included for readers to tap into the card’s essence, attuning themselves to the spiritual energies of the ceremony or festival described. Most of the rituals are accessible, easy to plan, and doable with supplies on hand.
While I haven’t pulled every card yet during a read, I did take some time to read through the guidebook and found it all absolutely fascinating. Engracia has done a wonderful job in both choosing a diverse array of ceremonies and festivals as well as capturing the heart of what their spiritual intentions are within the oracle advice. Many of the ceremonies and festivals I had never heard of and it was thrilling to learn more about each location’s regional celebrations.
Some of the ones that were new to me included Songkran in Thailand, Butter Lamp Festival in Tibet, Inti Raymi in Peru, Guelaguetza Festival in Mexico, and Matariki in New Zealand. I loved discovering more about the spirituality of these traditions and how they’re celebrated. Even the festivals I was more familiar with – Green Man Festival in Wales, Mardi Gras in New Orleans, Walpurgisnacht in Germany, and Bacchus’s Feast in Rome – were expanded upon by Engracia’s oracle interpretation and informative background context.
Meanwhile, Moon brings these ceremonies to life on each card with vibrant colors and exciting illustrations, inviting readers to physically connect with the energies. There’s distinctly sensual energy to the deck’s images, drawing readers into their bodies as much as their spirits. The lush, layered artwork pulses with rhythm and movement—pulsing fire, swirling cosmic backgrounds, evocative floating masks, and liminal places that seem to breathe on the page.
Moon’s artwork awakens the primal side of ritual that taps into the passion, ecstasy, and the raw joy of being alive. There’s something almost tactile about the imagery, as though you can feel the drumbeats, the heat of the sun, or the press of bare feet against the earth just by holding the cards. She does a wonderful job blurring the line between sacred and sensual, reminding readers of the humanity of these festivities and celebrations, often creating large gatherings of people in which bodies come together to make magic through performance, dance, feasting, and ritual.
The way Moon captures the desire, vitality, and pleasure as powerful forces that are undercurrents to the spiritual expressions of these different ceremonies through her illustrations provides a great balance to the more informative and insightful writing of Engracia in the guidebook. Readers have the opportunity to engage both mind and body, learning about the ceremonies and then also having an image portal to tap into the energy, for spiritual insight.
This balance comes through too in the way the cards are still named for the higher divine lesson they offer rather than the name of the festival or ceremony; the focus is on the spiritual transformation happening while the information about the ceremony provides more insight within the guidebook for spiritual seekers to learn.
Having the cards designed this way offers people the opportunity to do readings without necessarily referring to the ceremony since the name of the card and keywords can be enough for psychic guidance. Though, I still think becoming familiar with the ceremonies, festivals, and rituals associated with each card is the real source of power of this deck!
One of my favorite cards pulled so far is Marigold Dreams, depicting the celebration of Dia de los Muertos in Mexico. Engracia talks about how this two-day festival happens on the first two days in November, coinciding with All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day, describing how families create home altars of departed loved ones adorned with yellow marigolds and photographs. The sage oracle advice he offers is as follows:
“This card urges you to seek comfort in the loving embrace of friends, family or your partner. It is time to rest your body and settle for a while, so slow down, take a breath, and relax. You are not alone and you are not without support.”14
I loved this reminder to tap into the loving support systems I have in my life, including my ancestors who have passed on. I felt so calmed after pulling this card during an especially hectic time. While I didn’t fully perform the ritual Engracia suggests of creating an altar for my loved ones who have passed on, I did take the time to look at photographs I already had up and remember their loving presence.
Overall, Ritual Earth Oracle offers a fresh take on deck design by weaving global cultural celebrations into a spiritual tool. It’s ideal for readers who feel drawn to ritual, folklore, and creative community expression as paths to intuitive insight. This deck invites readers to dance in spiritual heritage, explore multi-culturalism, and discover new perceptions about how their spirit can learn and grow from joining in the celebration. Engracia is a wonderful storyteller who has a knack for distilling the spiritual wisdom within these festivals, while Moon does a wonderful job bringing the essence to life through the deck’s artwork.
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 world of oracle cards is brimming with decks that promise to guide, inspire, and deepen our understanding of ourselves and the universe. LightWeb® Oracle Deck: Soul Technology by Joanna Hunter with illustrations by Anna Babich and Stephanie Wicker-Campbell is a standout set, one that takes you on a journey and invites you into the realm of the LightWeb.
“Glimmering in the astral plane is the LightWeb, a glittering web of infinite possibilities and consciousness, where all is connected and everything is possible. A place where we remember our galactic origins and connect with our shared cosmic soul.”15
LightWeb Oracle Deck is designed to help users tap into a type of interconnected web, an energetic framework that connects all beings and possibilities. Hunter calls this structure a LightWeb. Here, the reader may access higher wisdom and foster a deeper relationship with their own intuition. Hunter’s background in energy work and spiritual mentorship is evident in the design of each card and its meaning.
The cards, illustrated by Babich and Wicker-Campbell, are adorned with luminous, ethereal designs that evoke a sense of tranquility. Soft gradients of light blues, violets, and pinks create a radiant effect, inviting the user into a space of reflection. The imagery, a blend of feminine forms, geometric patterns, and cosmic symbols, is both modern and mystical.
The deck is well-crafted, with a sturdy yet flexible card stock that will stand up to repeated shuffling. The glossy finish enhances the colors, making each draw a delight for the senses. The deck is a comfortable size for shuffling and reading, suitable for hands of all sizes. A sturdy box houses the cards and guidebook, echoing the aesthetic of the glimmering artwork
Hunter begins with a card that features a beautiful request for Divine support as the reader works with the cards. This prayer is short, but powerful and will make a nice way to open readings each time.
After a brief introduction, Hunter shares the four LightWeb Principles: Self-love, Self-mastery, Self-leadership, and Self-empowerment. Next, she provides several good ways to activate your deck. My favorite of her tips is one I have used myself: sleep with the deck next to your bed. You can also add a quartz crystal on top.
After including a brief “How to Use this Deck,” Hunter reveals several spreads and then goes into the card guidance. At the end of the guidebook, she includes a glossary of terms, as well as information on her “LightWeb Soul Technology and Course.”16
The deck consists of 44 cards, each designed to represent a specific aspect of the LightWeb philosophy. The cards are numbered, to make finding the complementary guidance easy. Themes range from self-empowerment and spiritual awakening to grounding and manifesting. Each card bears one word or phrase, such as “Akashic Records”, “Spirit Guide”, “Light Language”, or “Priestess”, accompanied by a few key words.
For each card in the deck, Hunter uses a very structured approach to the guidance. Each card has a title, key words and information from the LightWeb, as well as clues from the ShadowWeb. She also shares a Transmission of Light, which explains some of the card’s symbology.
Next, she includes a section on Going Deeper, which is the heart of the guidance. Hunter ends with the LightTool of the Card. This device can be a simple statement, an energy healing tool, or a suggestion for better living. Each one is unique.
The deck’s structure makes it versatile, able to be used for daily single-card draws, more elaborate spreads, or even as a supplement to meditation and journaling practices. The cards offer guidance that feels both specific and open-ended, and I saw this over the seven days I worked with the cards. The themes are universal enough to resonate with a wide audience, but not so broad as to lose their impact. Each card feels like a gentle nudge toward introspection and connection to Divine Source. As I worked my way through the cards, I felt a deepening into myself and a newer form of connection to Divine Source.
My favorite card in the deck is Freedom. The artwork features a carefree woman smiling and enjoying life. The guidance speaks of “Choices. Being free. Self-acceptance. Having fun. Lightest of energies. Joy. Being in the moment.”17
The guidance asks me to journal about freedom and what it means to me. Finally, Hunter suggests that I play some music, move my body, and enjoy freedom. This message was just what I needed for the day after my husband had an accident that landed us in the ER. I was reminded that I WAS free and now both of us were safe and surrounded by the love of our angels and guides.
I plan to add this deck to the stack I have on hand for client readings. The guidance Hunter shares will be a perfect way to end intuitive readings. I will also enjoy using this deck for my daily card readings over the next few months.
LightWeb Oracle Deck stands out as a luminous guide for those seeking clarity, empowerment, and connection. Its harmonious blend of art, wisdom, and practical tools makes it a joy to use, whether for quick insights or a deeper dive. The deck invites users to step into their own light, trust their intuition, and explore the interconnected web of possibility that surrounds them. The guidebook’s practical suggestions and gentle tone make it accessible to beginners and advanced practitioners alike.
For anyone drawn to the world of oracle cards, the LightWeb Oracle Deck is a beautiful addition to any collection. It promises not only guidance, but a gentle reminder that we are all connected through the LightWeb, and that our journey is illuminated from within.
About the Creators
Joanna Hunter is a teacher, author, speaker, podcast host and intuitive life and business coach. She is also High Priestess of the transformative group she calls LightWeb®. Hunter transitioned from marketing executive to spiritual coach after a major health scare several years ago. She channels a group of beings she calls Skyler and carries the sacred Codex of Light™ teachings. She serves as a spiritual guide for transformation and ascension. Hunter has written four other books and published two other oracle decks. Learn more about her at www.JoannaHunter.com.
Anna Babich is an illustrator and designer, who loves to create magical and celestial artwork. Over her career, she has illustrated everything from clip art to oracle decks. Her style is very intuitive and ethereal, and she feels that she infuses a type of healing magic into each piece of art. See more of her work on her website.
Stephanie Wicker-Campbell is a gifted illustrator and designer, who has illustrated oracle decks, journals, and book covers. She is also a keynote speaker and author in her own right. In a recent post, she expresses that she is stepping back from design work and focusing more on her publishing house, Muse Oracle Press. Learn more at https://museoraclepress.com.
PJ Spur is an author, intuitive, spiritual mentor, astrologer, and hypnotist. She does tarot & oracle card readings, natal chart readings, grief coaching, and relationship healing. She also has hosted a weekly “Coffee & Cards” event with her Soul Compass Community for the past four years. Her book Navigating Grief with Grace is available on Amazon. Learn more at www.dearpj.com
