Musing Mystical

✨ A Gathering Place for Magical Readers and Writers ✨

Spirit in Flowers Oracle Deck, by Gillian Kemp and Carolina Zambrano

Spirits in Flowers Oracle Deck, by Gillian Kemp and illustrated by Carolina Zambrano
CICO Books, 9781800653788, 128 pages, 52 cards, February 2025

In Spirits in Flowers Oracle Deck, Gillian Kemp has assembled ancient wisdom and myth surrounding 52 flowers from Mother Nature. From the beautiful floral illustrations to the information on color meanings, Kemp creates a deck of guidance and hope.

Gillian Kemp is an author of more than ten books, six other oracle decks, and a Love Spell Box for enhancing your love life.  She is a clairvoyant who utilizes astrology, tarot, and playing cards, as well as palmistry and tea leaves to predict the future for her clients. She is also a medium, who receives messages from those on the other side. You can learn more about Kemp on her website.

Carolina Zambrano is a graphic designer and artist. She also works as a Jungian art therapist. She loves to create art that is part of a symbolic, magical, and alchemical world. She has won awards in many Latin American countries, as well as Europe. She is originally from Colombia and now lives in Argentina. For more information about Zambrano, you can view her website.

Once again, Kemp has created a magical set of cards, complete within the two-part box set that protects the cards and showcases the beautiful artwork. Kemp dedicates the first twenty-three pages of the guidebook to her introduction, a note about flowers and time, and how to use flowers for divination. She also discusses various spreads and a way to use the cards for “Yes” or “No” questions. Sprinkled throughout the book are photos of the cards in brilliant four-color.

There’s also a list of scented and unscented flowers, as well as a spread for learning more about what the year following your birthday holds in store. Additionally, there is a future spread that makes use of seven cards.

Kemp dedicates two pages to each flower and shares additional information on the meaning of the various colors one might find for each flower. If a specific flower is recognized for an anniversary or other celebration, Kemp mentions this. Flowers for each month are also noted, as well as any superstition or custom. For example, growing Lily-of-the-valley can be used “to ward off evil from the home.”1

In addition to the numbered list of flowers in the opening pages, Kemp has provided an index. This alphabetical listing of each flower not only includes the two pages for each bloom, but also any mentions on other pages that might be relevant for the reader.

To test drive the deck, I took it to my Friday Coffee & Cards group. One friend drew the Amaryllis card. She shared the following:

“The deck is so sweet, and I particularly like the way she accents the flowers with insects. This adds another layer to the guidance.”

Another friend drew the Hyacinth card, which spoke of “fresh starts and positive changes.”2 My friend related that she was ready for a new beginning after recently retiring from her corporate position.

Next, I posted an invitation on Facebook for my friends to select one of three cards. Later that day, I shared the flower that had been drawn and a brief message from the guidebook.

One card was Rose, which speaks of romance and secrets, as well as the idea that someone from your past might reenter your life. A friend sent me this message regarding the guidance:

“Wow! Someone I’ve known since childhood resurfaced. Let’s just say it’s complicated. I’ve asked myself, ‘What did I intend this for?’. And the answer is being tender, understanding, compassionate and present with myself regardless, so that I am able to be that in the world.”

The second card I drew for this reading was Peony and one friend wrote to me to say that her Spirit Guide is named Peony. She took this message to confirm something for which she asked for support earlier that day.

Another friend also selected Peony, and she shared that the message rang true for her. “I love and care with every fiber of my body.  I also feel that this is my year of great change,” she said.

The last card I shared was Forget-Me-Not and another friend sent me a message that this card and its uplifting message confirmed a trip to the beach that she was about to plan. She hadn’t told a soul and felt that this message was her confirmation to go for it!

Overall, Kemp and Zambrano have created a set of gorgeous cards, complete with a treasure trove of the history, myth, and language of flowers. Spirit in Flowers Oracle Deck would be great for anyone looking for a beautiful, easy to use divination tool. The guidebook is written in a conversational style that is easy to read and understand. I plan to add this one to the decks that I use at the end of client readings; I feel that the wisdom in this deck is the perfect way to close a reading.

Archetypal Astrology Oracle, by Jonathan Waller

Archetypal Astrology Oracle, by Jonathan Waller
Findhorn Press, 9798888500927, 336 pages, 55 cards, February 2025

Archetypal Astrology Oracle by Jonathan Waller is an exciting mix of divination and insightful astrological analysis. The potent symbolism of the oracle’s images offer meaningful visual contemplation, while Waller’s thoughtful astrological explanations promote revelation and self-growth. Astrologers and card readers alike will enjoy the soulful messages that come through working with this deck.

This deck focuses on archetypes, which Waller describes as “universal prototypes or blueprints that inform all particular manifestations in the world.”3 He further explains in the introduction how all these planetary archetypes have their own rhythm, “moving in and out of experiential prominence to the beat of their own drum.”4 This approach helps in connecting the cosmic influences with personal experiences, opening readers to the incredible relationship that exists between themselves and these potent archetypal energies.

“What an archetypal perspective can bring, though, is a way to come into awareness of (and relationship to a fuller spectrum of psychological, spiritual, emotional, imaginal, and creative potentials that are yours to engage with and integrate. These are yours to discover.”5

I’ve personally always been drawn to archetypal astrology because of the level of depth that comes from relating to the planets in this way. Traditional astrological meanings have always felt rather prescriptive, but opening the doorway to the archetypal realm ushers in new layers of significance for reflection, inspiration, and call to action. Drawing on the work of archetypal forerunners, such as Carl Jung, Richard Tarnas, and Stanislav Grof, Waller offers his own interpretations of the planetary archetypes in the guidebook that really stood out to me in regards to the level of detail and thorough consideration put into each entry.

There are 55 cards in this deck which cover all 10 individual planets (well, technically planets plus Sun and Moon luminaries, and yes, Pluto is included!) as well as planetary pairs. For each entry in the guidebook, Waller has included a meaningful quote, poem, description of the planet or pairing archetype, insight into the gifts and challenges of the archetype, and finally the invitation the archetype offers.

The guidebook is written so that one can easily draw meaning from the pull within the context of an oracle, but there’s also layers of knowledge being imparted that make it useful for further astrological study.  Waller’s interpretations are rich, providing a mixture of classical astrological definitions with their application based on contemporary psychology.

What I really love about Archetypal Astrology Oracle is how there’s so many ways one can work it. Yes, it’s great for an oracle reading; every single pull I’ve done with it so far has been spot-on and immensely valuable for guidance. But I’ve also been working with both the cards and guidebook for further reflection about my own astrology chart and current transits. This is where planetary pairs really come in handy, going beyond more astrology decks and even books.

For instance, in my natal astrology chart, Saturn is conjunct Venus. This has always been a rather tricky aspect for me to work with, despite being an aspect that I’ve dedicated quite a bit of inner work towards understanding. Meditating with the Venus-Saturn card has been a wonderful experience. Likewise, reading more about Waller’s archetypal description of this pairing has given me a lot of food for thought.

The design and artwork of the oracle cards are visually stunning, adding an aesthetic dimension to the reading experience. The symbolism of each image really showcases the archetypal energy. Those who are more aesthetic than wordy will delight in the meaning that can be drawn from the cards’ images.

One thing to note about this deck though is that Waller’s guidebook is focused more on sharing astrological information than guidance on how to read the deck from an oracle perspective. There’s no spreads offered, so readers should be prepared to find their own method of working with the cards. However, Waller does teach how to read a natal chart, including natal aspects and transits, along with how to use the deck to further one’s personal growth through astrology.

“By engaging with this book and these cards, you will begin to grasp the profoundly open-ended nature of the archetypes, noticing the way that they actually open up a space for your own creative spirit to flourish and contribute. The universe has no interest in sealing your date, it is too excitedly preoccupied waiting to see what you are about to do next.”6

Overall, Waller’s transformation of archetypal wisdom into a potent deck makes Archetypal Astrology Oracle a valuable resource for anyone interested in exploring astrology’s potential for personal transformation. Whether you’re a seasoned astrologer or a curious newcomer, this deck is sure to offer inspiration and insight on your astrological journey. It’s become my go-to deck for reading recently because of the accuracy of the oracle pulls I’ve done. Waller’s thoughtful analysis is sure to give readers a fresh perspective, opening up new pathways of perception.

Crystal Clear Oracle, by Nadine Gordon-Taylor

Crystal Clear Oracle: Loving Guidance from the Mineral Kingdom, by Nadine Gordon-Taylor
Bear & Company, 9781591434849, 40 cards, 166 pages, December 2023

With the Crystal Clear Oracle: Loving Guidance from the Mineral Kingdom, intuitive artist Nadine Gordon-Taylor has combined 44 well known crystals and minerals with beautiful symbols from plants, animals, elementals, and ancient symbols to provide unique guidance for our lives.

This deck is the third deck created by Gordon-Taylor, who holds both MFA and doctorate degrees in art.  She has taught for more than 30 years through lectures and workshops.  Her artwork has been shown in galleries and collections around the world. She owns a gallery called Third Eye Arts in Peekskill, NY.  Learn more about her through her website https://www.thethirdeyestudio.com/meet-the-artist.

As someone who has been studying crystals for over 20 years, I was immediately drawn to this deck. Unlike most crystal oracle decks, this deck also features many different symbols on each card. You can choose to focus only on the crystal or mineral for a quick message or add layers to the guidance by reading about each symbol featured. Here is just one example of the symbols on these cards. (I’ve added brief information from the guidebook, as well.)   

“CRYSTAL:  Hanksite
Moniker:  The Earthy Supporter
Key words: Cleansing, grounding, and heightened sense of reality
Mineral content: Rare potassium sulfate
Healing properties: Realignment of your etheric chakra system. Hold me over any area of your body that feels unbalanced and needs healing.

SYMBOLS:
Capybara: You function best with others.
Beaver:  Follow your intuition on new projects.
Tulips: Rebirth, and two tulips mean you might want to look for balance and partnership.
Honeybees:  Examine your productivity with dedication, hard work, and collaboration.
Full Moon:  There is new information and brilliant epiphanies for you.
Viaduct:  Watch for opportunities for transition and change.
Earth: Look to your home planet for support.
Shooting Star: Your wishes will inevitably come true!
Affirmation: I am on the right track to my spiritual destination”7

As you can see, Gordon-Taylor weaves lots of guidance and encouraging information about each crystal or mineral, as well as the symbols she has chosen for each card.

Each card is brilliantly painted in a very realistic style.  I’ve seen artists attempt to draw or paint crystals and miss the mark. This is not the case with Gordon-Taylor. Each one of her renderings of the crystals and minerals is as realistic as any photo. She is very talented when it comes to painting the crystals and minerals as they appear in nature. She uses fine detail, shading, and an authentic depiction of the crystal in a traditional shape to present each crystal or mineral. Two of my favorite depictions in these cards are fluorite and aquamarine. 

The back of the card box declares that the cards are “intricately illustrated,”8 and this is true! She also uses different border colors to accent the pictorial layouts. The cards are a large format, measuring 4” inches by almost 6” inches. The back of the cards features a magnified view of an iolite crystal. 

As I’ve mentioned with the example for Hanksite above, the guidebook contains a wealth of information, with two to three pages per mineral. The messages are written in first person, from the point of view of each crystal. For example for Hanksite she relates:

“I am Hanksite, a rare potassium sulfate mineral, and I connect you with the Earth.  I am commonly found beneath the surface, embedded in mud or drill cores.”9

Gordon-Taylor utilizes different colors for the type in the Table of Contents, as well as the passages for each crystal. This makes the various headings really pop! Each card is also shown in the guidebook with a small four-color photo. She ends the guidance with three affirmations for each crystal.

The Table of Contents is laid out in alphabetical order and includes the name of the crystal, the moniker, key words and page number. This layout is brilliant because you can open the guidebook and run your finger down the page and select a crystal randomly for yourself or others, without taking the cards with you. In the Introduction, Gordon-Taylor shares her long history with minerals and her goal for this deck: 

“The constructive and positive messages found in this book allow you to access new and loving energies that inspire, empower, and heal. These messages come directly from the crystals that appear in each image.”10

Gordon-Taylor also shares how to use the cards, including different ways to clear the cards, spreads for use with the cards and the use of a sketchbook as a journal. At the back of the guidebook, she includes a 30-page glossary with words and phrases about crystals and minerals, as well as spiritual terms. The cards are stored in a beautiful box with an indentation for the cards, ample room for the guidebook and a magnetic clasp. 

These cards arrived in the mail and I didn’t have the chance to glance through them before my husband and I left to attend a gem and mineral show. I came home with three crystals (mangano, calcite, septarian) and an ammonite tray. When I pulled out these cards the next morning for my daily draw, I drew the card Ammonite!

For my friend Ann, I drew the card: Chrysanthemum Stone. This stone is known as The Karmic Liberator and references intuition, optimism and akashic records.

Ammonite helps you release the past and welcome change, evolution, and personal growth. According to Gordon-Taylor, ammonite is “The Ancient Emancipator,” and aids in “adapting to a new, exciting timeline and a new version of yourself.”11

“You have chosen this card because you are a beautiful soul experiencing challenging situations. You also want to feel joy again. I can help you reset your energy grid. Hold me in your hands when meditating and burrow deep into your intuition . . . You are here at this time to work out issues balancing the mind and heart.”12

My friend has had some challenges lately, and just accepted a new temporary position with a hospital in another state.  She loved the encouragement that she received from this stone, as well as from the symbology of the eagles, groundhogs, cherry tree, infinity symbol and the ankh.  I sent her a photo of the card and the verbiage for even more support. 

Crystal Clear Oracle is great for any level of oracle reader or crystal student. With the depth of the information about each crystal or mineral, as well as the reference materials on the various symbols, anyone can benefit from the knowledge shared by Gordon-Taylor. You can focus only on the crystal or read further and integrate all the information for a complete guidance session. I can see myself using these cards to add a footnote to a client reading or pull a card for myself when I’m troubled by a situation.

The Ofrenda Oracle, by Nancy Hendrickson and Carrie Paris

The Ofrenda Oracle: Celebrating the Day of the Dead, by Nancy Hendrickson and Carrie Paris
Weiser Books, 1578638496, 136 pages, 60 cards, September 2024

The Ofrenda Oracle: Celebrating the Day of the Dead by Nancy Hendrickson and Carrie Paris is a beautiful deep dive into the world of divination, spirituality, and ancestor reverence. In this oracle deck, the creators draw upon the rich traditions of Día de los Muertos, inviting readers to connect with their heritage and the wisdom of those who came before them.

“This oracle was created to honor those who have passed beyond the Great Veil, to facilitate messages from the Otherworld, or to divine your own future.”13

The format of this deck is very interesting. Creators Hendrickson and Paris designed it as two systems in one deck. Readers can either use Cards 1 through 36 as a standard Lenormand deck, or they can use all 60 cards together in the form of a regular oracle deck. The first 36 cards have the Lenormand symbolism on them, while Cards 37 through 56 feature symbolic images that represent aspects of Día de los Muertos.

There’s also a special card, “The Ofrenda”, that “represents the offerings left on the Altar de los Muertos”14, which the creators recommend placing face up when working with the cards to the remind the reader of their ancestors while doing their reading.

Each card is beautifully illustrated, featuring vibrant colors and symbolic imagery that pay homage to  Día de los Muertos, offering multiple layers of interpretation for users. The dark blue cards are filled with vibrant colors (red, yellow, white, purple, light blue) that pop in the style of traditional Mexican art. When looking at the artistry of this deck, one feels an instant connection to the modern cultures that celebrate Día de los Muertos along with Aztex and Toltec cultures in which the tradition originated.

The cards are smaller than standard oracle deck size, fitting in the palm of the hand like playing cards instead. At first I was surprised by their smaller size, but when shuffling and working with the deck, I’ve come to enjoy the way they feel and look when laid out in a spread. For once, I can easily fit them all on my table! The spreads the creators share in the guidebook focus on communion with the beloved dead; they are truly beautiful to work with, facilitating a tangible connection with loved ones who have passed on.

The guidebook is written in English on the right and Spanish on the left. For each card, the creators provide keywords, meaning, Storyteller message, and when applicable, Lenormand meaning too. The Storyteller message is unique in that it represents the message from “those beyond the Veil.”15 This blend of different interpretations provides illuminating insight into the card’s meaning while leaving plenty of room for reflection on the significance of the card’s message. Themes of remembrance, gratitude, and spiritual connection permeate throughout the card’s meaning, creating a sense of continuity between the past and present.

One of favorite cards in the deck is The Stork. This card features a burnt orange skeleton stork standing on one leg. The overall message of the card indicates a time of change, relocation, journey/movement, and pregnancy and birth. This joy-filled card made me feel inspired when I pulled it, and I really liked the Storyteller’s message in the guidebook:

“German folklore tells us that storks were given the task of flying babies home to their new parents. Even today we reference the Stork when talking about a newborn. We hope the glide path is free of obstruction.”16

This message makes me feel optimistic about my upcoming ventures!

Overall, The Ofrenda Oracle is a gorgeous work of art that honors tradition of Día de los Muertos and offers a path for spiritual exploration and ancestral connection. Hendrickson and Paris have succeeded in creating a deck that is not only a tool for divination but also a celebration of life, memory, and cultural heritage. Whether you are seeking to deepen your spiritual practice to connect with your ancestors or simply looking appreciate the beautiful symbolism of  Día de los Muertos, this oracle is a delightful addition to any collection.

Magdalene Manifestation Cards, by Danielle Rama Hoffman

Magdalene Manifestation Cards: Create Abundance through Love, by Danielle Rama Hoffman and illustrated by Christine Lucas
Bear & Company, 9781591434801, 44 cards, 202 pages, May 2023

In creating the Magdalene Manifestation Cards: Create Abundance through Love deck, Danielle Rama Hoffman has brought keys and holograms for manifestation into the hands of everyone who chooses to work with these codes of light.

Hoffman is an author, channel, and coach, who has been on the leading edge of the evolution of consciousness for almost 30 years. Her clients are healers, coaches, and lightworkers. She has trained massage therapists, reiki masters, and Quantum Light practitioners, as well as led tours to Egypt and France.

Christine Lucas is the illustrator of the beautiful keys, holograms, and light codes. She assigns her lineage to the Ascended Masters Lineage of Thoth. Lucas worked closely with Thoth, the Magdalenes, the Codes of Love, and Danielle to bring these cards to life. Lucas is an intuitive artist, illustrator, and graphic designer, who also has a background in meditation. She loves nature, travel, photography, and music.

Initially attracted to these cards because of the Magdalenes. Then once I began to play with the energy of the cards, I really resonated with the light codes and glyphs that Lucas and Hoffman have created. The deck is divided into two sections: 1) Four Resource Codes and 2) Twenty Codes of Love. Within the Twenty Codes of Love, you’ll find a pair of cards for each concept. The total number of cards in the deck is 44.

Hoffman presents an extensive introduction to the cards, how they came to be created, and her almost 30-year journey with Thoth. She includes some of her journey entries from several different meetings with Thoth, both in France and Egypt. She also defines the Magdalenes:

“A group of love beings including Anna, Isis, Mary Magdalene, the black Madonna, and many galactic beings.”15

When she returned from Egypt in 2020 and the pandemic lockdown began, she started to transcribe more of the Magdalene Codes and work on creating this deck. In the introduction, she shares stories from clients and friends who worked with the codes to manifest incredible results in health, wealth, and business success.

Hoffman shares several ways to work with this deck, from simple one card readings to a tableau of 16 cards. I chose to work with a one-card reading for 3 days in a row. As Hoffman suggests, I pulled a card from the deck and then found its “pair” for a complete reading and activation of the love codes.

My first card was the key card: Ecstatic Bliss – Joyful Simplicity.

“It is a joy to be me. Bliss exists in every moment. Home in on what matters most to you. Simplify to amplify your results.”17

This card really hit home for me, in that we are in the midst of a Venus retrograde, which asks us to really look at what we value and what we really want, focusing on that and letting go of the rest.

Then, I looked through the deck for the second card, the pair to that key, and I found the hologram: Ecstatic Bliss – Signature Essence.

“The difference of you is what matters. Boldly shine your uniqueness for consistent, predictable manifestation.”18

This concept is also something I’ve really been focusing on over the past year as I’ve worked with a designer to revise my website and fine-tune my offerings to be more true to who I am. I am also learning to put myself out there more with my blog and other posts on social media.

The guidebook has even more guidance from the Magdalenes and Thoth for each card, such as this from the passage on Ecstatic Bliss – Signature Essence:

“Simple, elegant, streamlined. Steep in this hologram to reabsorb that which is no longer aligned with you so that it organically falls away, like leaves on a tree that know when it’s time to fall with grace, ease, and an exhale. What remains is Ecstatic Bliss.”19

Hoffman also includes what she calls an application for each of the hologram cards. This consists of some suggestions for integrating the message of the card. It may include a ritual, an exercise, or something to do in nature, among other things.

Next, I did readings for three friends with this deck. I pulled the cards and then sent them photos of the cards and brief messages from the guidebook. For one friend who was struggling with a recent move for her business, I drew Birthright of Love. The key card is Authentic Expression, and the hologram card is Openhearted Connection.

The guidance for the key card recommended that she bring in the energy of the four Resource Codes, so I sent her photos of those four cards, as well. The other guidance that she really took to heart:

“Take one loving action today, not because you have to, but because it is natural for Love to move through you.”20

From the hologram card, I read that it was time to call upon the Birthright of Love Code. This guidance was recommended for the start of a new project, which was relevant to my friend’s new location for her business. The guidance went on to suggest focusing on the following affirmation:

“I am loved. All my creations are loved. Love is a given in this situation.21

My friend loved the guidance from these cards and was planning to print out all six cards and use them in her workspace. She called me later to say she printed a second set of cards for her home!

The artwork on these cards and the colors selected are very beautiful. Jewel tones are used with bright colored accents, some of which are almost neon. Each of the pairs of cards share the same color scheme, which makes it easy to find the matching card within the deck.
For another friend, I drew two of the resource code cards: Yummy Money and Divine Relationships.

Her message was a combination of allowing money “do things for you and watch your mission thrive”22 and remembering that “you may require primary relationships with light beings, animals, nature and crystals.”23 The guidebook encouraged my friend to use the word “Yummy” or say “mmmmm” each time she said or thought about money. Doing so raises your vibration. My friend loved the guidance and loved the Yummy Money challenge!

In order to find the guidance, one must use the table of contents and search for the name of each of the Codes of Love. These are not listed in alphabetical order, which takes a little longer to find the correct code. Once you find the code, you’ll see that there is a number assigned to each pair. It would have been very helpful for the designer to incorporate this number on the cards.

Due to the complex nature of the cards, the guidance, and the system to use these cards, I feel that this deck is best suited to someone with several years’ experience working with either tarot or oracle cards. Or, someone who is learning light language or learning to work with Thoth or any ascended masters for manifestation or personal healing would also benefit from this deck.

Hoffman includes extensive information on how to best work with the cards, including the use of a 16-card tableau for what she calls “Multi-D Abundance.”24 She also includes directions for using the cards for both personal and professional relationships, changing your money story and enhancing your energy. I’ll look forward to utilizing Magdalene Manifestation Cards in some of my groups and with clients who want to change the energy around relationships, abundance or vitality.

Wyrd Sisters, by Casey Zabala

Wyrd Sisters: A Deck of Spells and Rituals, by Casey Zabala
Weiser Books, 1578638291, 60 cards, 80 pages, April 2024

Ah, destiny! For those who enjoy contemplating fate, or the inevitable outcome of events, perhaps even tempting it here and there, Wyrd Sisters: A Deck of Spells and Rituals by Casey Zabala is a true delight. The concept of “wyrd”, originating from Old English and Norse mythology related to the predetermined outcome of events, has been explored as a way to understand the interconnectedness of all things and the idea that individuals are part of a larger cosmic pattern. While wyrd implies a sense of inevitability, it also carries the idea that individuals have some agency in shaping their own destinies through their choices and actions. Calling upon the duality of fate and free will, this deck helps readers to explore the mysteries of existence and the human experience.

Zabala is a devotee of the Wyrd Sisters, describing how they “are the ancient Deities who dwelt at the roots of the world tree and set the order of the cosmos through their spinning, weaving, and cutting the cords of fate. Their threefold process affirms the cyclical nature of our being.”25 Just as they weave fate, we too are weaving our own lives:

“We weave specific patterns and shapes for protection and success, with the awareness that our spells and wishes are delivered through the web of wyrd.”26

Believing that spellwork is deeply personal, Zabala has created a very creative and open-ended deck for readers to ascribe their own meanings to the imagery and messages and then use their own magical repertoire to integrate the energy. While there is some guidance provided through the guidebook, this deck really shines as a work of art that assists readers with strengthening their own intuition, crafting their own rituals, and creating magic that feel uniquely meaningful and relevant to them.

“Magic is the fifth element–also known as spirit, ether, or quintessence. It is the ethereal nature that keeps all beings connected and psychically tethered to each other.”27

There are five types of cards in this deck: spell cards, candle magic cards, sigil cards, magical tool cards, and Wyrd Sister cards. The guidebook entry differs depending on the type of card, as the type of magic coming through is aligned to the energy of your draw.

For the spell cards, there is an intuitive message along with a list of spell ingredients that one can use for inspiration. There’s something about being given three to five things and then being told, “Now go figure out what you can do with this” that makes my creativity soar. For instance, the spell ingredients for the card Spell for Surrender are “physical inversions, amethyst, strong winds, sharing secrets with strangers, salt”30. You can absolutely use none, one, some, or all of the spell ingredients, and I feel like the process of coming up with one that feels do-able and relevant for you is magic in itself.

For the candle magic cards, Zabala offers suggestions for the color candle and what to do during your candle magic ceremony. The Candle for Vitality card reads “Call all of your energy back to yourself.. Light a yellow candle and imagine a sunlight shield protecting your auric field from outside disturbance.”31

The guidance for the sigil card includes what to use the sigil, where to place it, and the ruling planet. As an example, the Sigil for Unbinding can be used to “untangle webs of entrapment or psychic manipulation”[/efn_note]page 55[/efn_note]. Zabala notes it should be placed in a ring of salt and the ruling planet is Pluto.

With the magical tool cards, Zabala reminds us, “Each tool represents the essence of our intentions, our spiritual connections, and the art of our will.”32 The guidebook describes the tool and then offers a suggestion of how one can best use their magical energy at this time. There is suggested magic for each one, ranging from speaking one’s truth to establish a boundary (athame) to gathering with friends to celebrate transformation through “ritual, feasting, and revelry”33 (bonfire).

Last but most important are the Wyrd Sister cards. I have yet to pull one myself! I honestly didn’t even want to read the guidebook description because I feel like it’s an initiation to pull one. However, from a quick glance at Zabala’s introduction, I can see they’re related to past, present, and future.

While you can pull a card for quick insight from this deck, as you can tell from reading the various descriptions, some of the cards require some more magical effort. Whether it’s planning out your spellwork, gathering the right color candle, or making preparations to perform the suggested magic related to a tool, it can take days, perhaps even weeks, to put the energy out into the world. It seems as though only the sigil cards can be used for immediate action. But I personally enjoy how the deck calls for you to savor its message and take the time to align with one’s intention and then put forth their magical working. You can always simply see what card comes through and then reflect on it before making any energetic investments.

As for the artwork, this deck is bright, abstract, and filled with symbolism. It definitely speaks to the non-verbal part of the psyche, activating inner knowledge through images, colors, and dimension. One thing I have been doing with this deck is noticing where my eyes go first, as there’s often many places to look, for insight into what is most relevant for me. For those who enjoy divination through creative decks, you could absolutely toss the guidebook aside and find plenty of messages and meaning within the cards themselves.

My favorite card that I’ve pulled so far is Spell for Grounding. Suitably, I pulled this on a night when my lower back was completely out of whack, indicating to me that I was ungrounded and needed to focus on my root chakra, as I rested with a heating pad. The image on the card was so fascinating to look at, and I spent a good five minutes letting my eyes explore. It shows a person with their arms in the air and an infinity symbol witch hat on their head, but the torso of their body is a tree trunk. It is growing from a patch of grass, and one can see the roots below the ground, pushing downward into spirals of energy below.

The guidebook calls for connecting with the earth, listening to plants, being barefoot, and speaking the name of the native land I live on, giving thanks. All of which my body and soul gave a resounding “yes, yes, yes, yes” as I read the entry and continued to meditate on the card. In this case, I didn’t feel a whole spell was needed; simply going outside and laying on the ground seemed to be enough, which I guess could be considered a simple spell in itself, but as Zabala intended, to each their own with this deck!

All in all, Zabala has created a really cool deck for those who love to explore their own magic and discover new possibilities. Wyrd Sisters is the perfect blend of intuitive guidance and freedom to roam with one’s own interpretation. Within the liminal magical space, we have the opportunity to discover our destiny, while also actively changing our fate. It all comes down to the willingness to ride the waves of mystery and magic, learning when to surrender and when to pursue. The Wyrd Sisters may be the universal weavers, but we are the active co-creators shaping the web too. As Zabala encourages:

“May your connection with the Wyrd ones inspire you to embrace the mystery and weave your own magical webs of belonging.”34

Spirit of the Drum Oracle, by Flavia Kate Peters and Barbara Meiklejohn-Free

Spirit of the Drum Oracle, by Flavia Kate Peters and Barbara Meiklejohn-Free
Rockpool Publishing, 1922786713, 136 pages, 36 cards, February 2025

Spirit of the Drum Oracle by Flavia Kate Peters and Barbara Meiklejohn-Free is an intriguing and spiritually enriching deck designed for those who are interested in exploring the mystical and shamanic world of drumming.

The creators, both well-respected in their fields of spirituality and divination, bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to this oracle set. For decades now, Peters and Meiklejohn-Free have travelled worldwide, sharing the power of the drum in their shamanic workshops and ceremonies. This deck is a compilation of their drum wisdom translated into oracle form, providing readers with the beat of spiritual illumination.

“In the beginning was the sound, and the sound spread through the entire universe, reaching out to everyone. A spark was created, the spark of life, which lives within the spirit of the drum awaiting its brith and connect with each individual soul.”26

The deck itself is beautifully illustrated with each card capturing the essence of drumming as a tool for spiritual awakening and personal transformation. The artwork is vibrant and evocative, featuring a blend of traditional and contemporary elements that appeal to a wide audience. There’s an impressive range of drums featured in the deck: frame drum, battle drum, temple drum, log drum, kettle drum, Siberian drum, whale drum, witch drum, and more. And the imagery of each reflects the culture where or time period when the drum has been most widely used.

Looking at each card is a like a catching a glimpse into the drum’s spirit in motion. The images are snapshot into the drum’s potency; the images come alive through the sense of beat and feeling of movement being portrayed. Meanwhile, the red frame on the border around image feels like a sacred container for the vibration. The gilded red edges also add a dimension of rooted yet active energy. Every card is numbered, and the name of the card along with one or two keywords is at the bottom.

The guidebook features an introduction to the deck, guidance on how to use the cards, and card spreads based on different drum beats. The entry for each card in guidebook showcases the card image, shares a quote, offers meaningful insight about the card’s message, shares a “high beat” and “low beat” idea of how to integrate the energy of the card, an incantation to connect with the drum’s vibration, and a tidbit about how and when the drum is used titled “Drummery”.

After becoming acquainted with the deck by shuffling them and saying aloud the incantation the authors provide to begin one’s journey with this deck, I pulled my first card: Drum Kit. The imagery was a little bit of a shock to my system, as I had been anticipating what I considered a more “spiritual” or “shamanic” drum. But this card’s keywords were “Rock n’ Roll” with an image of an enthusiastic drummer pounding on his drums while his hair flies wildly in the air behind him. And then I realized, the hypnotic rhythm provided by a band’s drummer is quite a potent spiritual force!

The message for this deck was about how I am a grounding force of stability for those around me, along with how my tenacity to see things through will yield successful results. This felt extremely resonant with me, as I have been unusually busy recently with quite a few projects requiring my attention. It often does feel like I’m the control center for the appointments, events, and daily “to-dos” for my family, and the card’s acknowledgement of how I keep the beat for everyone made me feel very seen. I especially liked the authors’ advice that read:

“This card also serves to remind you that it’s important to go wild once in a while and let your hair down. Get that natural rhythm going, feel that beat thumping in your chest and swing your hips.”27

Seems like it’s time for me to have a rock n’ roll dance party!

One thing I especially appreciate too about this deck is the authors’ reverence for the many things a drum can do, whether that is inspire one to dance or calling back one’s power to reclaim their wholeness. The many cards focus on the drum as a sacred instrument, not just for music, but as a conduit for meditation, healing, and connection with the spirit world.

This deck would be especially potent to use in conjunction with a drumming practice. Whether that practice is using your own drum or looking up different drum styles and beats on YouTube, there’s a wide range of potential for discovering a new drum meditation through the cards’ guidance.

Overall, Spirit of the Drum Oracle is a powerful tool for anyone seeking to enhance their spiritual practice with drums, connect with their inner wisdom, and explore the transformative power of rhythm. Its thoughtful design and comprehensive guidance make it a valuable addition to any oracle collection. Peters’ and Meiklejohn-Free’s decades of drumming wisdom shines through, encouraging users to embrace the power of the beat and explore their own spiritual paths.

Angelic Vibrations Oracle, by Josephine Wall

Angelic Vibrations Oracle, by Josephine Wall
Findhorn Press, 979-8888501399, 128 pages, 50 cards, December 2024

Josephine Wall’s Angelic Vibration Oracle is a captivating oracle deck that invites readers to connect with angles through its splendid artwork and insightful messages. This 50-card deck serves a form of communication between the reader and their angels, sharing wisdom that uplifts, renews hope, and encourages readers that they are divinely protected.

“The angels are wonderful helpers in your everyday life because they establish a direct connection between yourself and the INFINITE SOURCE OF LIFE. They know exactly, sometimes even better than you, what challenges you face and how best to tackle them.”1

The visual artistry of Josephine Wall is nothing short of breathtaking. Each card in the Angelic Vibrations Oracle is adorned with intricate, dreamlike illustrations that capture the essence of celestial beings and mystical landscapes. Wall’s use of vibrant colors and delicate details creates a feeling of otherworldly beauty, drawing the observer into a realm where the imagination can roam free. There’s a beautiful tenderness within the images, a sweetness that opens one’s heart and soul to divine love.

The imagery in this oracle deck also serves as a bridge between the earthly and the divine. Scenes on the cards features both heavenly and earthly surroundings, igniting feelings of unity between the reader and the angels present in our lives. I love how nature and the celestial realm are blended, showing angels riding through the sky as well as swimming in the sea. Wall really depicts the connection of angels with the natural realm, almost show them with a fairy-like essence.

The themes of the cards, reflected in the image and name of the card, are designed to provide guidance on various aspects of life, from personal growth and relationships to spiritual enlightenment. The energy of this inspires hope, love, and spiritual awakening. For readers who need a moment of grace in their day, pulling a card from this deck would be the perfect pause to reflect and connect with their angels.

The accompanying guidebook offers well-articulated explanations and suggestions on how to interpret the cards, making it accessible for both beginners and seasoned oracle readers. For each beautifully crafted card in the deck, Wall provides a short and sweet interpretation. The messages conveyed through the cards encourage self-reflection and a deeper connection with one’s inner self and the universe. The messages are non-denominational, making them inclusive and appealing to a wide audience, regardless of their spiritual or religious affiliations.

As an example, the card I pulled today is Healing in the Now (42). The guidebook entry for this card reads: 

“Illness often comes with much suffering. Know that the angels of healing surround you always!”29

And would you believe that after a week of tending to my son with RSV, I woke up today feeling pretty bad myself, assured that the virus had spread to me. I was absolutely astounded that this deck brought forth a card that  accurately reflected my troubles—feeling quite stuffy, foggy-headed, and unhappy about the developing symptoms—and instantly provided a soothing balm of relief in the message that the angels are with me through this.

The image for this card show an angel with brilliant, translucent wings looking down at a dove she’s holding. She is wearing a purple cloak, but her arms and chest look like a church’s stain-glassed window, featuring the image of another angel, and her lower body shows what looks like a portal down a path lined with trees. She hovers in the heavens, as shown by the starry night’s sky behind her, but at her feet is a cresting white mountain range.

Looking at the image reminds me to have faith that I’ll be able to move through this illness with ease. Meanwhile, I’m going take a higher spiritual perspective about feeling this way as a message to slow down and reconnect rather than feel victimized by the suffering.

As far as the logistics of the deck the cards are all arranged numerically. Readers either need to look to the table of contents to find the page number for the card’s entry or flip through the deck. However, flipping through takes a bit of time because the numbers do not correspond to the alphabetical order and the entry could be anywhere! Additionally, within the guidebook, Wall offers a variety of spreads that can be used for the cards in the beginning of the guidebook too for further insight.

So far, I’ve been using this deck for daily inspiration, meditation, and more in-depth readings, depending on what feels best each day. The deck is ideal for those looking for a small reminder of the angel’s presence in their daily life. Those exploring their spirituality through connection with the angels or seeking a tool for personal insight and reflection would benefit from their deck.

Overall, Angelic Vibrations Oracle is a stunningly gorgeous deck filled with a variety of angelic beings. It combines exquisite artwork with gentle messages, offering users a means to connect with higher realms and their own inner wisdom. Whether used for personal reflection or spiritual guidance, this oracle deck is sure to enchant and inspire readers, providing them with messages of love and divine support.

Sacred Spirit Oracle, by Anna Stark

Sacred Spirit Oracle: Spiritual Guidance for Your Life Journey, by Anna Stark and illustrated by Louis Dyer
Rockpool Publishing, 978-1922785961, 96 pages, 36 cards, November 2024

With a combination of otherworldly images and beautiful animal artwork, Anna Stark and Louis Dyer have created a portal to divine guidance in their 36-card deck Sacred Spirit Oracle: Spiritual Guidance for Your Life Journey.

My interest in this deck relates to my love for oracle decks that combine spiritual images and the natural world with real world guidance. And this deck did not disappoint! Stark weaves beautiful stories in the guidebook, adding shadow aspects, crystal recommendations, angel pairings, and an affirmation for each card in the deck. 

Stark begins the guidebook with a Table of Contents. She both numbers the cards in alphabetical order AND provides the Table of Contents, making it easy to find the appropriate guidance in her guidebook. Next, she features acknowledgements and thanks those who helped her create the deck, as well as those who will be using the deck. In her Introduction, Stark sets out the goal of these cards: “to support your intuitive growth and awareness of your deep connection within the universe…. to support you in shifting stagnant energy.”1

In the section entitled “How to Use the Cards,” Stark explains more about how the cards work for both divination and healing. She adds tips on how to connect with your cards and clear them between readings. She also introduces the reader to simple ways to prepare yourself and your space for readings. For the second time, she recommends keeping a journal to record your interactions with the deck. She shares three spreads for working with the deck and then discusses the Seven Rays, Seven Chohans, archangels and guardian angels, and crystals.

To evaluate the deck, I pulled a card a day for seven days. The first card I drew was 36. Third Eye Vision. This card talked extensively about the third eye, from both a historical and spiritual perspective. The main idea for me was: “If you wish to intensify or gain third eye visions more regularly, activate and decalcify your pineal gland through visualized meditation.”34 She also recommends iolite as a crystal to support this and adds Archangel Jeremiel for additional support. 

I also contacted two friends and asked if I could pull a card for them. For my friend D, I drew card 29. Open Intuition. The message includes a reminder that we are all intuitive and to trust those vibes. There was also this message, which D related to:

“You are receiving many messages but are misinterpreting the meaning. Focus on clearing your mind and resetting your psychic antenna.”35 

D explained that she had been recently asking for signs for a particular situation and was confused. This message was just what she needed to get back on track with her daily time in nature to clear her mind.

Another friend received card 6. Birth of Creation. This card featured an egg-shaped design and spoke to “A fresh start. Potential growth.”36 The guidance also mentioned the importance of trying a new routine, getting creative, and nurturing new ideas. My friend V said that this was confirming something she was already doing to prepare for 2025. She said the recommendation of the crystal kunzite was also resonating and she would pick up one on her next trip to the crystal shop.

These cards are standard oracle card dimensions, coming in around 3.5” X 5”. The 36 cards fit nicely in a sturdy box that features a howling wolf on the cover and three cards on the back. I found the cards easy to shuffle and really like the shiny varnish on both sides of the brightly colored deck. Dyer uses all the colors of the rainbow and the cosmos to create this deck.

My favorite card is 32. Shield Your Energy. It features the most amazing frog, with giant golden eyes and a quizzical look. I loved the frog’s message:

“Use the element of water to unblock your energy fields and create a smooth flow of kundalini for personal healing and growth. Find your own sacred song. Call to others who share your passions and interests where you can support and renew your inner fire.”37

Sacred Spirit Oracle would be great for any level of oracle card reader. Stark created the guidebook for easy navigation and the guidance is straightforward and easy to comprehend and use for everyday life. I plan to keep this deck on hand to use with clients as I close out a reading. I also plan to utilize the six-card spread that Stark called “Life Guidance Spread” to add another layer to my daily card pulls.

The affirmations that accompany each card really tie together the visual images and the messages in the guidebook. For example, here is the affirmation from the Frog: 

“I sing the beautiful sacred song of my heart, clear and loud for all to hear.”38

About the Authors

Anna Stark began working with tarot cards at 15 to “understand and embrace her intuition.”39 She now works as a psychic medium and energy specialist. She combines her ability to receive psychic messages with her love for history, society and the paranormal. Stark is also a kinesiologist and Reiki Master, who teaches energy healing. She came to learn about natural ways of healing to heal her own anxiety. Stark has created two other oracle decks and an affirmation deck of small cards for everyday encouragement. You can learn more about her on her website.

Louis Dyer is both a digital artist and a traditional artist, using watercolors, oils, and acrylics. At age 5, he saw a cousin drawing and became interested in creating his own art. He soon began drawing “cartoons, video game characters and nature.”40 Dyer has created the artwork for another oracle deck and has featured works in several magazines and online sites. He also teaches digital artwork techniques online. You can see Dyer’s art and learn more on his website.

The Bloodlands Oracle, by Amory Abbott

The Bloodlands Oracle, by Amory Abbott

RedFeather, 0764368346, 112 pages, 42 cards, October 2024

The Bloodlands Oracle by Amory Abbott beckons you to journey through uncharted natural landscapes, where dark outer terrains await, prepared to spark inner wisdom. Inspired by the geography and elements of the natural world, readers will immerse themselves in a transformative journey through rivers, cliffs, and footpaths of nature, discovering the rich symbolism of Earth’s many terrains.

This deck courageously acknowledges the full spectrum of life—highs and lows, challenges and blessings, ease and discomfort—which is reflected in the stark contrasts of the black and white aesthetic too. Delving into themes of shadow, fear, and vulnerability for readers to honestly acknowledge the energies in play, this deck provides rich wisdom that goes beyond mere niceties; Abbott takes readers beyond paved paths to explore the wild unknown. Mirroring the shifting natural conditions, The Bloodlands Oracle empowers readers to confront their wild inner nature and emerge stronger.

“For many people, darkness can be a mysterious and alluring force, a melancholy and protective space, or a place to confront fear. It takes courage to walk through the night, a bit of faith that the road will not end but arrive somewhere in the light.”35

In his author biography, Abbott describes how cartomancy helped him through a dark night of the soul. Drawing inspiration from Vancouver, British Columbia where he lives, the charcoal drawings became a focal point of his artist work. He then “began examining what the features of the land could mean to use and what they could tell us about our lives”38 and decided to mimic his charcoal drawings and create the imagery for this deck with digital tools.

The deck is a nice size to use in a reading, as it easily fits in the reader’s hand but it big enough to really see all the small details of the imagery. The box it comes in is sturdy with a magnetic flap that opens to reveal a quote on the lid while the cards are safely tucked in on the other side of the box. The deck has red edges, which is the only color in the otherwise monochromatic deck.

The deck’s imagery is both striking and evocative, drawing inspiration from the raw beauty of nature. Each card is a portal into a deeper understanding of oneself, inviting contemplation and introspection. The natural features Abbott has translated into imagery and guidance are listed in the card names: The Moonbow, The Lightning Strike, The Cavern, The Solitary Peak, The Falls, and The Stone Circle. Each card also features an element symbol (fire, air, earth, water, or spirit) that further gives insight and meaning for understanding the card’s energy.

The accompanying guidebook provides further interpretation for each card, offering support for readers on their personal journey. The entry for each card has a general meaning at the top in red text. Abbott then describes the natural feature and shares the message readers can abstract from it for reflection, contemplation, or divination. If the card takes on a certain significance when paired with another card, this is also noted. Abbott also provides the reversed meaning for the card as well.

For instance, the card I pulled inquiring about a work situation was The River. The element for this card is water, and the imagery shows a wide, winding river moving through a valley of rock. The guidebook reads:

“A river follows the path of least resistance, carving its way slowly over eons through rock and earth, carrying all that joins it to its end. . . Be reassured this card finds you in a state of consistent movement towards your goals, carrying you effortlessly where you desire.”39

I loved this reassuring message! To be honest, not all the cards I’ve pulled have been as “positive”. In the spirit of acknowledging both the dark and the light aspects of life, the card The Crown Fire has a message of “Devastation, total collapse, starting over”41 While this can sound scary, much like the Tower card in tarot, Abbott’s writing reminds of the necessity of the occasional difficulties to encourage migration, regeneration, and eradication.

Overall, The Bloodlands Oracle is a doorway to gaining a deeper understanding of the darker aspects of self through the transformative power of nature. The imagery of the natural world provides the groundedness and connection needed to see the full range of our inner nature. The many terrains of the earth are reflected aspects of our own psychic landscape, and Abbott has done a wonderful job translating the imagery into meaningful guidance for introspection and reflection. Within this deck, readers will discover the dually creative and destructive forces that are constantly shifting in both nature and themselves.

This deck is for those who feel called to explore the full-spectrum of nature. Abbott takes us to the highs and lows of our world, while also guiding readers to these peaks and pitfalls within themselves. The divinatory style of this deck encourages readers to delve into the depths of their own psyche. As a result, The Bloodlands Oracle is a valuable tool for self-discovery that reminds us of the benefits of exploring a variety of inner and outer landscapes.