Musing Mystical

✨ A Gathering Place for Magical Readers and Writers ✨

The Four Selves Oracle, by Toni Savory and Carrie Paris

The Four Selves Oracle: Pathways to Integrating Shadow and Light, by Toni Savory with illustrations by Carrie Paris
Weiser Books, 1578638933, 160 pages, 36 cards, June 2026

The Four Selves Oracle: Pathways to Integrating Shadow and Light is one of the more psychologically nuanced oracle decks to recently be published. Created by Toni Savory and illustrated by Carrie Paris, the deck is built around the idea that each person contains four interconnected aspects: the Physical Self, Conscious Self, Subconscious Self, and Superconscious Self. Rather than focusing solely on affirmation or spiritual uplift, the deck explores the dynamic relationship between shadow and light, helping readers identify emotional triggers, unconscious patterns, and pathways toward integration and wholeness.

“Quite simply The Four Selves Oracle is a gateway for you to understand yourself in ways that allow you to take action and do the work to become and embrace the true divine source within you and around you.”1

The structure of this deck is unique; it definitely took me a little time to get used to working with it. First, there’s two significator cards: Self (13) and Shadow Self (15). Of the 36 cards in this deck, 16 of them are light cards (belonging with the Self significator), 16 are shadow cards (belonging with the Shadow Self significator). The light and shadow cards are all paired, so each light one will have a corresponding shadow card and vice versa. Then the other four cards are neutral ones, intended to balance the reading.

Now, before the Savory even gets into the layouts, readers learn the poisonings in the deck. Depending on the layout, the card could be in a light or shadow column and conscious, physical, and subconscious position layer. There’s a nice big color-coded visual of this in the guidebook, which helps with understanding the placements.

It seems like there’s a lot of moving parts, but once you begin working with the deck regularly, things become more intuitive. The intention behind it all is for the cards to support one another, bringing a holistic approach to the deck, as each card is reflected within ourselves. I find this approach so novel since even if there’s a common theme to the deck, most oracle readings focus on the individuality of each card. The layer in this deck makes for a much richer reading than any deck I’ve worked with before.

The guidebook description of each card provides the card type, keywords, mantra, core meaning, imagery, and guidance for it in the position of conscious, subconscious, and physical. Also listed is the card’s counterpart and insight on how the cards reflect each other. To become more familiar with the deck, I found it very helpful to go through the guidebook and read the corresponding pairs, reflecting on the wisdom and letting the information coalesce a bit prior to even doing readings. This approach made me feel more comfortable with the cards once I did start doing spreads.

Interestingly enough, the layouts are not even presented in the guidebook until the second part, following all the oracle meanings. The first suggestion in this section is to do a pull of either one, two, or three cards and simply work with the mantras. I found this VERY useful for familiarizing myself with the deck and every time got uncanny guidance that was reflective of what was going on for me internally at the time.

The other spreads continue to build on the different facets of personal exploration the deck can be used for, from releasing triggers to checking in with the four selves, and culminates with a 36-card grand tableau. I have yet to do this full deck spread because I am saving it for when I really want some big guidance, but I love having it available to me with this deck.

Visually, the deck is colorful with plenty of symbolic richness.. The imagery is dreamlike, archetypal, and slightly surreal, featuring portals, mirrors, moons, gardens, vortexes, and liminal landscapes. Rather than depicting literal scenes, the artwork functions as a symbolic language that invites contemplation and intuitive interpretation. The aesthetic feels mystical without becoming overly ornate, giving the reader plenty of imagery to gaze at while not getting too overwhelmed with small details. The imagery does a good job of providing visual structure for the complexity of the deck rather than be a source for predictive insights.

And this brings me to my final thoughts on the deck. Many of us go to oracle decks for predictive guidance or affirmation-focused messages, so this focus on introspective reflection and shadow work might not initially be a comfortable realm for our readings. The deck certainly requires more time learning than the majority of oracle decks.

But this is what makes The Four Selves Oracle so exceptional. Instead of asking for universal guidance from the oracle deck, this card brings to light the parts of ourselves that hold wisdom. Bridging both spirituality and psychology, the guidance is both meaningful and practical. It’s a comprehensive tool for those looking to better understand the multi-faceted self and delve into the patterns, triggers, and deeper emotions that are best explored through tools such as this deck. Savory acknowledges that growth requires confronting difficult emotions and unconscious habits and the structure she’s created with this deck is excellent.

I highly recommend this deck to those who enjoy shadow work, depth psychology, journaling, or therapeutic spiritual practices. While the deck does take some time to get used to working with, which makes me want to recommend it more towards advanced readers, I do think there’s more than enough information to begin working with it at any level. Allow time for your connection with the deck to grow is my advice. I was a bit overwhelmed at first, but slowly, as I took the time to learn the structure of the deck, the readings became more clear and potent. This has now become one of my favorite decks to turn to for when I’m doing inner work.

The John Dee Oracle, by John Matthews and Will Kinghan

The John Dee Oracle: Wisdom from Queen Elizabeth’s Magician, by John Matthews with illustrations by Will Kinghan
REDFeather, 0764369768, 112 pages, 29 cards, September 2025

John Matthews’ The John Dee Oracle: Wisdom from Queen Elizabeth’s Magician, illustrated by Will Kinghan, is a fascinating and highly specialized divinatory work that draws readers into the intellectual, magical, and symbolic  universe of one of the Renaissance’s most enigmatic figures. John Dee—astrologer,  mathematician, alchemist, historian, advisor to Queen Elizabeth I, and architect of a vast  esoteric system—has long occupied a singular place in Western occult history. This oracle seeks to translate that world into a modern tool for contemplation and guidance, and in many respects, it succeeds admirably. 

From the outset, this set distinguishes itself through atmosphere and scholarship. The  presentation is elegant and historically evocative with a handsome box design that reflects the Renaissance palette of parchment, crimson, and gold. Included with the deck is a folded reading diagram based on the four watchtowers, a visual element that immediately signals that this is not a casual or generic oracle, but one grounded in a very specific magical worldview. The accompanying guidebook further reinforces this impression, offering not only card meanings but substantial historical and symbolic context. 

The cards themselves are beautifully produced. Each image is framed by the Enochian alphabet, instantly establishing the deck’s connection to Dee’s angelic and ceremonial  system. At the center of each card is a richly detailed illustration rendered in a woodcut inspired style that feels entirely appropriate to the period being invoked. The artwork by  Will Kinghan captures the texture of Renaissance engraving and manuscript illustration while remaining clear and readable for modern users. There is a gravity to these images— an atmosphere of libraries, observatories, hidden chambers, royal courts, and sacred  diagrams.

One of the deck’s greatest strengths is the density of symbolism embedded in its design. Planetary magic, alchemical process, sacred hierarchy, and esoteric correspondences are  woven throughout the imagery and structure of the cards. Readers with a background in  ceremonial magic, astrology, Renaissance occult philosophy, or Western esotericism will  find layer upon layer to appreciate. This is not symbolism added for decoration; it is integral to the architecture of the oracle itself.

Matthews also deserves praise for the scholarly dimension of the guidebook. His historical  treatment of John Dee and the figures surrounding him adds depth and humanity to what  could otherwise remain abstract. The presence of Queen Elizabeth I—Gloriana within the  deck’s symbolic language—along with other notable historical personalities, gives the  oracle a lived historical texture. Rather than presenting Dee as a mythic stereotype, the  book situates him within the political, intellectual, and spiritual currents of his time. 

Especially noteworthy is the inclusion of Dee’s original Enochian Calls in a new translation  by Matthews. This alone gives the set value beyond divination. Readers interested in  primary-source inspired esotericism, textual history, or ceremonial tradition will find this material deeply engaging. Matthews has long been respected for his work with mythic and magical source texts, and that experience is evident here. 

Where this oracle may divide readers is in its practical accessibility. Unlike many modern oracle decks that encourage broad intuitive use through multiple layouts and flexible daily draws, The John Dee Oracle is more precise and structured in its application. Its method of consultation is rooted in the logic of Dee’s own system, where order, placement, hierarchy, and timing matter. Contextually, this makes complete sense. Dee’s world was  not one of casual inspiration cards, but of disciplined inquiry into cosmic law and divine intelligence. 

However, for the average everyday user seeking a quick, fluid, or emotionally oriented oracle experience, the deck may feel more formal and less immediately adaptable. Its use is better compared to consulting a specialized instrument than pulling a daily affirmation card. This is a deck one reaches for with intention during significant questions, crossroads, periods of study, or moments requiring careful reflection. In that sense, it  mirrors how Queen Elizabeth herself might have sought Dee’s counsel: not constantly, but  strategically. 

That limitation, however, is also part of the deck’s integrity. It does not dilute its source  material in order to become universally marketable. Instead, it remains true to the spirit of Renaissance magic: exacting, symbolic, hierarchical, and profound. Readers willing to  meet it on those terms will be richly rewarded. 

Overall, The John Dee Oracle is an impressive achievement. It is beautiful, intellectually  serious, historically rich, and spiritually distinctive. While it may not become an everyday  deck for all readers, it stands as an exceptional collector’s piece and a deeply rewarding oracle for those drawn to alchemy, astrology, ceremonial magic, and the hidden traditions  of the Renaissance. For students of John Dee and lovers of Western esotericism, it is not merely recommended, it is indispensable.

Celtic Elemental Tarot, by Ayn Cates Sullivan and Belle Crow duCray

Celtic Elemental Tarot, by Ayn Cates Sullivan and illustrated by Belle Crow duCray
Findhorn Press, 979-8888502808, 320 pages, December 2025

Ayn Cates Sullivan’s Celtic Elemental Tarot, beautifully illustrated by Belle Crow duCray, is a richly layered and thoughtfully crafted deck that offers far more than a standard tarot experience. Rooted in Celtic mythology, Arthurian legend, elemental wisdom, and spiritual  symbolism, this deck invites readers into a living world of mystery, landscape, and sacred  imagination. It is both a divinatory tool and an immersive journey into one of the most  enduring spiritual and mythic traditions of the Western world.

From the moment the box is opened, the care and craftsmanship behind this set are evident. The presentation is elegant and substantial, with a sturdy lift-top box that feels  designed for long-term use rather than disposable novelty. Inside, the deck is housed with  intention and visual beauty, creating the sense that one is opening a treasured keepsake rather than simply another card set. The cards themselves are printed on quality cardstock  with a satisfying weight and finish, durable enough for regular readings while still easy to  handle and shuffle. 

One of the most striking aesthetic choices is the use of bold white borders around the  artwork. In many decks, borders can feel distracting or unnecessary, but here they serve an important visual purpose. They frame each image like a sacred icon or illuminated  manuscript panel, allowing the artwork to stand out with clarity and reverence. The contrast between the vivid illustrations and the clean white space gives each card a  timeless, gallery-like quality. Rather than limiting the images, the borders elevate them. 

Belle Crow duCray’s artwork is one of the great strengths of this deck. Rendered with  grace, symbolism, and meticulous attention to detail, the cards are filled with natural  beauty, mythic presence, and spiritual atmosphere. Animals, plants, landscapes,  seasonal cues, and sacred objects all contribute to a visual language that feels deeply  connected to the land and to the unseen worlds of Celtic lore. The illustrations are not merely decorative—they are initiatory. Each card contains layers that reveal themselves  over time, rewarding repeated use and contemplative study.

Especially impressive is the subtle integration of astrological symbolism throughout the  deck. Rather than mechanically repeating familiar esoteric correspondences, the creators  have reimagined these associations in ways that better reflect the card meanings and the  Celtic worldview. This gives the deck an originality that feels intelligent rather than arbitrary. It demonstrates a willingness to honor tradition while allowing it to evolve through another cultural lens. Readers interested in astrology, symbolism, or comparative  esotericism will find much to appreciate here. 

The structure of the deck also offers fresh insight. While remaining recognizable to tarot  readers, the system expands the Major Arcana into categories such as allies, challenges,  virtues, and cosmic forces, while the Minor Arcana follows the elemental suits of Earth, Air,  Water, and Fire. This elemental framework feels especially natural within a Celtic context,  where land, weather, seasonal cycles, and the powers of nature are central to spiritual  understanding. The result is a deck that feels coherent, purposeful, and alive. 

Sullivan’s guidebook deserves special praise. At 318 pages, it is substantial enough to function as a standalone spiritual text in its own right. Far more than a booklet of keywords,  it provides mythological background, symbolic interpretation, practical guidance, and  multiple card spreads that encourage ongoing exploration. The inclusion of varied reading  methods makes the deck highly usable for both beginners and advanced practitioners.  Whether one seeks a daily draw, deeper pathworking, or a more ceremonial spread, the  book offers meaningful ways to engage. 

What makes Celtic Elemental Tarot particularly compelling is the depth of its atmosphere.This is not a superficial “theme deck” that borrows Celtic imagery for decoration. It feels  informed by genuine reverence for the mythology, history, and spiritual imagination behind  its source material. There is a palpable sense of place throughout the deck—the hills,  forests, waters, and ancient stories of the Celtic lands seem to breathe through the cards.  For those with ancestral ties to these traditions, the experience may feel especially  resonant. For others, it offers an inviting gateway into a wisdom path centered on nature,  courage, sovereignty, and sacred relationship with the world. 

This deck will appeal to tarot readers, pagans, myth enthusiasts, spiritual seekers, and  anyone drawn to earth-based traditions. It is equally suited for divination, meditation,  seasonal ritual, and devotional practice. It adds depth to readings not by complication, but  by richness—bringing history, symbol, and spirit into meaningful conversation. 

Overall, Celtic Elemental Tarot is a stunning achievement. It is beautiful in construction,  profound in symbolism, generous in teaching, and deeply evocative in spirit. Few decks  manage to feel this expansive while remaining practical and accessible. For anyone  seeking a tarot deck infused with mythic intelligence, natural spirituality, and artistic  excellence, this is a remarkable and welcome addition to the tarot world.

Kate Forsyth’s Hedgewitch Oracle, by Kate Forsyth

Kate Forsyth’s Hedgewitch Oracle, by Kate Forsyth
Rockpool Publishing, 1923208136, 144 pages, 44 cards, May 2026

Hedgewitchery is a nature-based magical practice centered on cultivating a deep relationship with the land, the seasons, and the liminal spaces between the ordinary and the mystical. Rooted in folk traditions, it encourages practitioners to develop intuition, mindfulness, and a strong connection to the natural world through observation, herbal wisdom, divination, and everyday acts of magic. Kath Forsyth’s Hedgewitch Oracle celebrates this craft, sharing wisdom and beauty in the cards.

Kath Forsyth’s Hedgewitch Oracle is a 44-card oracle deck centered on magical herbs, folklore, and the hedgewitch tradition. Raised close to the Earth, Forsyth shares her knowledge about herbal magic, plant spirits, and folk witchcraft. Her skills as a storyteller ground the herbs in a wider context, inviting readers to truly develop an allyship with them.

The deck itself is absolutely gorgeous. The cards have a feeling of naturalist botanical art, where the plants are depicted with the accuracy and detail of a vintage field guide or herbal compendium. Every leaf, flower, and stem appears carefully observed rather than stylized, showcasing its natural vitality and essence.

There’s a beautiful simplicity to the cards, as they’re all natural with no ornate symbols or extravagant patterns. The magic in the cards comes from the wildlife featured, giving the deck an animistic feeling. Meanwhile, the gentle energy of the cards still lends a bit of whimsy while remaining educational, contemplative, and rooted in traditional plant lore. The vivid colors and engaging detail make for an attractive addition to an altar space.

The depiction of animals or insects in nearly all the cards evoke the old belief that plants, animals, and spirits exist in relationship with one another. Plus, the animals are symbolic, adding to the layers of meaning for each card, such as an owl on the card Apple representing wisdom and the lady bug in the card Verbena for blessings. This is definitely a great deck for bird lovers, as there’s many cards with them!

As for the guidebook, Forsyth shares guidance on how to use the cards and provides a few spread options. The cards are grouped into four categories, which is indicated by the background color of the card’s image. They are as follows:

❁ Pink – Herbs for love, tenderness, strength and tranquility

❁ Yellow – Herbs for friendship, happiness, optimism and vitality

❁ Green – Herbs for fresh beginnings, healing, intuition and transformation

❁ Black – Herbs for banishing, guarding boundaries, mystery and shadow

This mixture of categories makes for a varied deck, offering meaningful insight into different facets of life. Each entry has the name of the herb, its scientific name, and the key word at top. Forsyth provides a one sentence meaning for the card and then a section about the wisdom of the card, which tells the historical use and folklore. The final section is “Spell of the Day” where Forsyth shares a magical way to use the plant, often including an incantation.

Most of the spells are easy to do with things on hand, though some might require a bit of material gathering. For instance, the spell for the card Comfrey suggests taking a bath with comfrey-infused oil and mineral salts, while the dandelion card calls for a yellow candle. What’s nice about the spells though is how Forsyth encourages collecting herbs from the wild. This isn’t something I usually do, but it has spurred me on to take more interest in where these herbs might be found locally, which will obviously differ by region.

And while Forsyth does offer a message for each card, in the style of a traditional oracle deck, I’ve found this deck to be more useful for the spellwork aspect than divination. I also think readers could definitely use the guidebook to enhance their herbalism knowledge without even needing to work directly with the cards. Though, it is so fun to do spreads and see if any themes emerge in regard to the different card categories. Sometimes, I even divide the cards into categories and specifically draw a card from one based on the type of magical support I am seeking.

So far all my readings have felt very aligned. A few days ago, I felt a bit of negative energy in my energy field, so I decided to pull a card. I got Sage, which Forsyth has given the keyword “Purification”2 The meaning for the card reads:

“Every now and again you need to stop and take a moment to reflect on your life and yourself, take stock of what is beneficial to you and let go of anything that may be doing you harm.”3

I resonated with this, and it encouraged me to be proactive in assessing where the negativity was coming from and creating a boundary. The spell Forsyth shares is creating a smudge stick and using it while repeating an incantation. I plan on doing this soon!

Overall, Kate Forsyth’s Hedgewitch Oracle is great for readers who enjoy herbal magic, nature-based witchcraft, and working with plant allies. Forsyth’s approach to plants as both a folklorist and hedgewitch brings a unique combination: readers get the practical knowledge along with magical lore. By weaving spiritual practice into daily life, this deck fosters a sense of grounding and belonging, reminding us that magic is not separate from the world around us but woven into the rhythms of the living earth. I love the reverence she holds for the natural world as well as the enchanted well she invites readers to perceive these herbs.

Yoga Mudra Oracle, by Emma Wertheim and Stephen Denham

Yoga Mudra Oracle, by Emma Wertheim with illustrations by Stephen Denham
Sirius, 1398849863, 128 pages, 44 cards, March 2026

I am a huge proponent of connecting to the body’s wisdom, specifically through touch and movement. This concept is even what I wrote my master’s degree thesis on: the importance of including a kinesthetic approach to education. Yoga has been a steady practice for me to connect with my inner wisdom, but I don’t always have time to do a full series of poses. As soon as I saw the brightly colored Yoga Mudra Oracle by Emma Werthheim with illustrations by Stephen Denham, I was instantly intrigued! What insights might this deck reveal and could I embody it through my body?

The answer is yes, and it has beautiful messages too! This is a hands-on deck, quite literally offering mudra poses as well as meaningful guidance. This deck contains 44 mudra cards and a 128-page guidebook designed to bring ancient yogic hand gestures into contemporary spiritual practice.

While most oracle decks work through symbolism, intuition, and reflection, Yoga Mudra Oracle adds a physical component too with each card and invites readers to form a specific mudra with your hands while contemplating its message. Instead of simply receiving guidance, you’re asked to participate in it through gesture, breath, and awareness, deepening divination through embodiment. Needless to say, I’m obsessed!

For those new to mudras, Wertheim describes them as this:

“Yoga mudras are simple, sacred postures from an ancient yogic tradition. They permit you to redirect, shape and “seal” the flow of pranic energy within the body, which can unite us with cosmic intelligence and help manifest change on a physical and soul level.”3

An example of working with a mudra is at end of a yoga session when you put your hands together to “seal” the practice. I love the idea of intentionally encapsulating the energy within ourselves, creating a connection between mind, body, and spirit.

The artwork in this deck blends hand imagery, bright color fields, spiritual symbolism, and luminous energy depictions. The pair of hands on the cards are outlined in white, making it easy for the reader to copy the same pose. The aesthetic has a feeling of serenity, spaciousness, and energetic alignment. There’s a feeling of “containment” in each mudra, perfectly holding the energy of each gesture in a balanced way that brings the sensation inward for the reader to experience.

In addition to the mudras, there’s often a symbol that adds further intuitive resonance for the reader to gaze at while working with the card. I feel like this deck is perfect for both meditation as well as creating an altar space. It’s as though the dynamic energy of the mudra on each card gently radiates outward, infusing the reader with its energy through visual contemplation. The deck is also easy to hold in one’s palm and shuffles quite easily. I very much enjoy simply holding the deck and feeling its spiritual energy.

Rather than be numbered, at the bottom there is the name of the mudra. It’s up to the reader to find the entry in the guidebook for further oracle insight, but the entries are listed alphabetically, so it’s pretty easy to navigate. There’s also an index at the back if you don’t want to flip through and prefer finding an exact page number. While most of the mudras in the deck are traditional yoga ones, there are a few non-traditional ones that Wertheim intuited; she notes which ones these are so readers are aware when working with the deck.

The guidebook begins with an introduction by Wertheim, where she talks about her interest in mudras and the study she’s put into working with them. She then provides a very interesting introduction to mudras, explaining the vitality of the hands and ancients of this practice. I was fascinated to realize how “Similar to foot reflexology, all areas of the hands are thought to connect to corresponding organs, glands, nerves, and meridians throughout the body.”4. She presents mudras as an accessible way to work with energy, which is perfect for those of us who don’t always have the time for a longer practice.

Wertheim lays a great foundation for beginners in the guidebook too. She explains how to prepare your hands for mudra, how long to hold them, and what to do if one doesn’t resonate or your hand can’t hold the shape. She covers chakras. And there’s even guidance on preparing to work with the deck (cleansing, how to consult the deck, and layout options). All throughout, Wertheim’s tone is gentle and encouraging. While she’s clearly sharing her passion with readers, she also encourages everyone to do what works best for them, pausing to stop and enjoy the experience. I appreciate her dedication to making this deck useable for all, as well as her heartfelt consideration for readers’ experience.

As for the entries in the guidebook, they’re beautifully crafted. The title is in big letters and there’s an image of the card. Beneath is a subtitle, further explaining the card and keywords or symbolisms. It is here that Wetheim notes if the mudra has been intuited too. The opposite page explains the mudra—what it calls you to do or invites into your energy field. There’s also directions for how to do the mudra, which is helpful for people like me who like specific instructions. Finally, Werthiem includes an affirmation. Occasionally, there’s also a quote that reflects the energy of the mudra.

The first card I pulled when working with this deck was Naga Mudra, subtitled Goddess Rising. Instantly, I felt the activation just looking at the card. I had just come from meeting with a long-time spiritual mentor for the first time in person. I had connected with a great group of people and was really feeling my divine feminine leadership; I was still tingling from the experience. Aptly, this card immediately brought awareness to this fire burning within, noting “The energy is rising through your chakras now”.5 Wertheim further writes:

“The symbols used in this card—such as Naga (the snake goddess—represent wisdom, fertility, and creative force. The ancient Egyptians ankh symbol is known as “the key of life”. Fire represnts the pure fire of insight and the awakening of potent energy within you.”6

Not only did it feel aligned to draw this card, but it was so amazing to have the mudra to ground the energy. Holding the mudra channeled this energy throughout my body, infusing my spirit with it and embedding it in my physical form. Instantly, I was hooked on the power of mudras!

While all can enjoy the experience of connecting with their embodied wisdom through mudras, I highly recommend this deck to those who enjoy meditation, yoga, energy practices, or are seeking a unique oracle deck. This deck is a great one for attuning to the energy of the present moment, and I’ve enjoyed pulling a card before creating a ritual space to set the tone and find center. Pulling a card, holding the corresponding mudra, and sitting with the guidance for several minutes turns a reading into a contemplative practice.

Overall, Yoga Mudra Oracle does a wonderful job combining sacred mudra practice, oracle wisdom, and uplifting artwork to create a thoughtful spiritual tool that feels both modern and rooted in ancient traditions at the same time.  The alignment that comes from working with the mudras is sensational. And Werthheim’s inspired wisdom is perfect for a gentle reading, one that encourages you to slow down and enter a contemplative state. This deck isn’t so much for knowing what’s to come but rather honoring what is appearing in the moment. The physical component with the energetic resonance makes for an impactful reading!

The Egyptian Alchemy Oracle, by Steve Denham

The Egyptian Alchemy Oracle: Timeless Guidance from the Ancient World, by Steve Denham
Sirius, 1398858072, 128 pages, 49 cards, January 2026

My favorite books and decks are ones where you can tell the author had a spiritual calling to put forth that work. From the moment I opened The Egyptian Alchemy Oracle, I knew this was going to be one of those special decks.​ This 49-card oracle deck by Steve Denham opens a pathway of wisdom or inner awakening and spiritual refinement based on the 7 Hermetic principles detailed in The Kybalion, a text written by the “Three Initiates” in 1908. Denham writes:

“Sifting through this manifesto, which harks back to the esoteric knowledge of ancient Egypt and purports to articulate the energetic laws that govern the universe, nature and human existence, I realized I had become privy to something quite extraordinary.”6

While The Kybalion was written in the 20th century, in the introduction, Denham explains how this Hermetic alchemy was popular during the Hellenistic era (323-331 BCE) during which Hermes Trismegistus contributed much to occult wisdom. Inspired by this Hermetic philosophy, Denham added his own creative touch, developing 7 intuitive messages for each of the 7 principles as well as meaningful artwork, to create this deck.

Visually, each card is laced with meaning. The artwork blends mystical compositions–images of the earth and space that highlight the limitlessness and expansiveness of universal mystery–with digitally layered sacred imagery. There is a symbolic arched gateway featured on every card, serving as a portal to the realms beyond. Denham explains, “the archways are like ‘keyholes’ or ‘doorways’ through which hidden worlds and dimensions become accessible.”7

The name and number of the card is detailed at the bottom. Each principle has its own symbol and color too, allowing readers to distinguish the card type quite easily when working with the deck. Even the back of the card has significance, which Denham describes as a “Master Key”8 symbolized by the crossed keys of Hermetic alchemy.

While the cards themselves are tantalizing and engaging, it was really the guidebook that illuminated the full spectrum of use for this deck. In addition to the details already shared, Denham also teaches readers how to use the deck, likening it to a magic carpet ride through dimensions. He shares spreads and guidance for interpretation as well. My favorite part of Denham’s reading approach is inviting the reader to bring in love to engage with the principles, infusing the deck with this potent energy to be the “eighth” key.

The rest of the guidebook is sorted by principle. At the start of each one, Denham shares an overview of it and how it comes through in The Egyptian Alchemy Oracle. Just like the deck itself, all the pages of each principle are color-coded, making it easy to flip through and find the card message you’re seeking. The entries all feature an image of the card, a description of the card, a one-sentence directive, and questions to reflect upon.

The messages are definitely metaphysical. This is a deck to contemplate a meaningful philosophy and see how the principles can inform your current situation. Compared to other oracle decks, this one invites more cerebral engagement, though gazing at the cards can also lead to a symbolic awakening too.

I think readers who are dedicated to working with this system long-term would reap the most benefit, as it feels like an initiatory deck to me. Yes, there’s an intuitive aspect to working with the cards where you can do a daily draw, but the deck also operates as a unified symbolic worldview to explore over a period of time. There’s many facets and dimensions to it that could honestly take years to explore, particularly if you want to go deep into the alchemical symbolism.

As for me, I apparently am doing some intense energy work relating to the fifth principle: Rhythm. Every single card I have pulled (and I’ve done at least 6 one-card draws) have been Rhythm ones! Specifically, I’ve pulled the card “Change Your Rhythm” multiple times.

This card relates specifically to the “connection between being and breathing”9. I find this really interesting as, embarrassed as I am to admit, I’ve developed a bit of a nervous tick recently from being so stressed. The only way I’ve found to be more conscious of it and ease it away is through pausing to breathe, which I never would have thought to do if I wasn’t pulling this card over and over. For this card, Denham writes:

“To expand what you are seeing and feeling – stop, come to stillness, change your rhythm.”10

The question posed for this card relates to habitual behavior and negative thinking too, further revealing that I need to focus on my breathing to overcome the perpetual loop in my mind, causing me enough distress to have an unconscious tick now, which is popping my jaw by the way! Attuning to the principle Rhythm is a great reminder to let things flow. I can release control, be present, and shift the way I move through my life.

I am looking forward to eventually exploring the other principles more deeply, but for now, I am trusting that working with this one specifically and intentionally will have the most meaningful impact.

Overall, The Egyptian Alchemy Oracle opens new doorways for readers to explore metaphysical realms and discover a map for transformation rooted in a seasoned spiritual framework. Those who are interested in Hermetic philosophy, particularly The Kybalion, benefit from the integrative ways Denham has provided fine-tuned interpretations of the principles to carry messages through this deck that can be practically applied to one’s life. Working with this deck has grounded the symbolism and esoteric wisdom in a new way for me, making it much more engaging and able to be contemplated and connected with.

While the traditional oracle reader can certainly glean meaningful insight from this deck, I recommend it more for those seeking a more structured system to immerse themselves in. The combination of alchemy, symbolic initiation, and contemplative depth overlaps naturally with the kind of integrative spiritual work those who are interested in metaphysical discourse and soulful transformation will gravitate towards. Those who are philosophers at heart will enjoy Denham’s insightful presentation of the 7 Hermetic principles and appreciate the initiatory nature of this deck.

Friendship Oracle, by Helena Elias

Friendship Oracle: Celebrating Connections, by Helena Elias
Rockpool Publishing, 1922468061, 36 cards, 128 pages, May 2026

Friendship Oracle by Helena Elias is a beautifully tender oracle deck that centers something often overlooked in spiritual tools: friendship as a sacred force. This deck brings connection, mutual care, emotional reciprocity, and the quiet magic of growing alongside others to the realm of divination–something new for me even with over ten years of reading experience!

I was immediately drawn into this deck because of the artwork. Elias hand drew each one on digital canvas, and the level of detail is truly impressive. The deck is a nice blend of enchanted femininity, cottagecore mysticism, and emotionally rich whimsical illustration. Flower crowns, natural textures, fairy wings, flowing dresses, and woodland imagery evoke a whimsical energy, honoring the beauty of the natural world.

All the imagery feels soft, nurturing, and deeply heartfelt. I love the warm, glowing color palettes, which lean into luminous golds, rose pinks, forest greens, deep burgundies, and moonlit ambers. Women and nature are one in this deck where flowers, forests, animals, and celestial imagery aren’t just decoration; they mirror the emotional tone of each card.

Many of the people are depicted in a semi-realistic fantasy style, featuring delicate detailing, glowing skin, flowing hair, and expressive faces that capture the emotional expansiveness this deck offers. Many of the cards emphasize a sacred sisterhood relationship filled with emotional intimacy, care, and connection between women across ages and identities, which is just beautiful to see come to life during a reading.

As for the guidebook, Elias provides a great perspective on friendship. For each card, there’s a meaning shared and a sowing intention ritual that offers a nature-inspired way to integrate the energy of the card. For instance, the sowing intention for the card Reach Out reads:

“Seek out flowers, paying attention to any buzzing bees nearby. Take time to exist in the present, and see if watching the bees and their path brings anyone to mind.”10

I thought that was such a great idea for tuning into who might need you to reach out! Similar to this buzzing advice, the whole guidebook feels thoughtful and intentional. There’s a good mixture of self-care mixed into the relationship-tending oracle advice too. As most know, it can be hard to figure out what to do when a friendship hits a bump in the road; sometimes the balm is more time alone, while other times it requires extra attention to heal. This advice in the guidebook covers the range of phases friendships move through, offering meaningful guidance for reflection.

At first, I wasn’t sure what kinds of questions to ask, as I don’t usually do readings about my friendships. Romantic life? Definitely. Career and money? Quite often. Family life? For sure. But my friendships?! Rarely! But then I started to think about my different friendships and get curious about what insight the deck has to share. Each reading so far has been very energetically spot on and informative for me. Here’s some examples:

I recently got back in touch with a woman who was my best friend from the age of 10 through 25–one of closest friendships I’ve ever had in my life. During our mid-twenties, life pulled us apart, placing us on different paths. There was never a fight, just relocations that reoriented our lifestyles: new friendships, new jobs, new relationships. Despite thinking about her regularly, nearly ten years had passed since we talked; with each passing year it seemed harder to bridge the gap. But then when I found out her mom passed away last month, I reached out. We ended up having a great conversation about where we are in life now, opening a doorway to a renewed friendship.

I decided to pull a card about this situation with her, and I got Soulmate! Here’s part of what Elias has written for this card:

“This is a reminder to honour those friendships that make your soul feel at home. You may be entering a time where you need each others’ strength and unconditional support. If your guiding star has been distant, perhaps this is the moment to reach out, to remind them that their light still shines in your sky.”11

This message was so validating that I did the right thing in rekindling our friendship. It highlighted for me just how valuable this rare such a soulful bond with another person is, and that I should embrace it once again.

Another reading I did was about a friend that I have known for decades but I don’t feel a deep connection to recently; our friendship seems based more on convenience than shared passions or interest. The card I got was Seeker. The first sentences of the guidebook entry made my jaw drop:

“There are times in life when our connections do not bear the fruit we anticipated. You may be at a point where you need to look outside your current garden of friends – not seeking to replace but instead to connect with those who match your current life path.”12

This message really resonated with me. I still value, love, and and appreciate this friendship, but it’s also okay for me to expand my circle to find those who feel more aligned.

Overall, Friendship Oracle feels like a refreshing addition to the oracle space. Its heartfelt messages, visually enchanting cards, and spiritual focus on the healing power of human connection make it a one-of-a-kind deck. Elias reminds us that friendship is not something casual, but rather the roots of some of our most sacred bonds that require reflection, honesty, communication, and renewal.

This deck is perfect for journaling with, doing relationship check-ins, or even working with in a community-centered spiritual practice such as a women’s circle. The emotionally nourishing and mystical nature of the deck revives the spirit and brings a clarity to our defining relationships. I really would love to see more decks from Elias!!

The Green Witchery Tarot, by Cerridwen Greenleaf

The Green Witchery Tarot, by Cerridwen Greenleaf
CICO Books, 1800655916, 78 cards, 64 pages, March 2026

Where tarot offers a mirror for the soul, green witchcraft grounds this insight into the living world through flowers blooming in their season, herbs gathered with intention, moonlit rituals, and the steady guidance of the Earth itself. Together, they create a practice that is both mystical and deeply embodied: one that invites us not only to seek answers, but to reconnect with the rhythms of our intuition, our environment, and our own inner magic. The Green Witchery Tarot by Cerridwen Greenleaf weaves these paths together, creating a deck where the whispers of the natural world nurture the wisdom already growing within you.

Perfect for Pagan readers, The Green Witchery Tarot carries the energy of nature reverence, offering gentle guidance and botanical ritual inspiration. The design of the deck and format of the guidebook make it quite accessible for readers of all levels. There’s a simplicity to the deck, as only the Major Arcana and Court Cards have illustrations of people or animals on them. The Minor Arcana cards have a different color and plant background for each suit and feature just the number of the suit symbol (crystal (pentacles), athamae (swords), goblet (cups), and wands). I appreciated this design choice because it decenters humans and invites the energies of nature to come front and center.

As for the aesthetic, the Court Cards and Major Arcana look a bit like a storybook version of medieval tapestries. The illustrations are flat, stylized, and a little stiff in their posture, which remind me of iconography. There’s whimsy, but it’s structured. I was a little surprised by the images at first, as many nature-inspired decks tend to have softer illustrations, but there’s something about the images that works well for the energy of the deck. It gives the cards a timeless, old-world magical feeling, bringing forth unique symbols to draw from as you read the cards. 

The illustrations stick pretty close to the traditional Rider-Waite-Smith (RWS) deck though, so people already familiar with those images will easily be able to read with this deck. Similarly, this deck is a suitable one for beginners learning the traditional card imagery that isn’t the standard RWS deck, great for those who want to infuse their practice with some earth-based magic. It’s pretty neat how the Major Arcana cards are “accompanied by trees, herbs, and flowers, as well as tools of green witchery” to further bring dimensions to the meaning of each card.

Referencing the guidebook is a great way to get acquainted with the subtleties of this deck. The full-color book is nice and big, easy to hold in one’s hand and read. There’s a table of contents, so readers can quickly find the card they’re looking for. Greenleaf provides a bit of direction for working with the deck and offers spreads to get started with.

As for the card entries, for the Major Arcana cards entries Greenleaf offers insight into the symbolism, the meaning, one-sentence guidance, and a practice that can be done. This is a really nice combination because it offers practical advice, symbolism to contemplate, and an action that can be done to integrate the energy. The practices are varied too, ranging from gazing at a white flower and thinking about the good things ahead (The Fool) to creating a magical ink to boost your self-esteem (The Lovers) to removing negative energy by placing a bowl of salt and a bowl of water on your altar (The Tower).

The Minor Arcana card entries are a bit shorter, only sharing the card’s meaning and practice. However, this was more than enough to continue to work with the cards in a magical way. The Eight of Athames suggests lighting sandalwood incense, while the Ace of Goblets encourages carving a heart into a lavender-scented candle. For the magically-minded that like to do hands on crafting or spellwork, the guidebook has 78 ideas of how to incorporate the tarot into meaningful practices! This is definitely what makes the deck so valuable to me.

Here’s an example of how I utilized one of the practices recently: I had a blessing for my new daughter, which included a community maypole dance. My family and my husband’s family are both entirely Catholic, nevertheless we decided to have the ceremony in alignment with our own spirituality (opening a circle, blessing my daughter with all the elements, Pagan prayers, and of course, the maypole).

I was a bit nervous about how it would go, so I pulled a card for guidance. The card I got was Seven of Athames. Greenleaf’s guidebook entry reads:

“Customarily, this card warns of opposition and urges you to protect your beliefs with resilience. Find courage under pressure and swap doubt for determination.”13

While the message alone was enough to give me the encouragement I needed to be true to my own beliefs, it was the practice that really helped me get out of my head and back into my magical sense of trust. The practice Greenleaf suggests for this card is holding an obsidian stone and visualizing a shield around you to bolster your resolve and defend intellectual territory. Doing this practice before the blessing ritual definitely gave me the energy I needed to tune out the judgement of others (specifically my staunchly “religious” father-in-law) and be in my own high priestess energy.

Overall, The Green Witchery Tarot is a multifaceted tool that one can use for both divination and magical practices. This combination of oracle wisdom and Earth-based magic, which is reflective of the tarot energies, make for a very well-rounded deck. Readers gain insight into plant symbolism while also seeing the traditional tarot energies from a new perspective.

I would definitely recommend this deck for those interested in plant magic. It’s a deck that quickly becomes a ritual companion, as it’s easy to integrate into one’s daily life. Working with this deck attunes readers to the magic of the natural world and reminds us of the special energies we can tap into to ground our tarot readings.

No Bad Days, by Inès Duhard and Jolane Jly

No Bad Days: Daily Affirmations for a Joyful Life, by Inès Duhard with illustrations by Jolane Jly
Red Wheel, 1590035852, 96 pages, 39 cards, December 2025

Looking for a deck with some good vibes? Cue No Bad Days Oracle: Affirmations for a Joyful Life by Inès Duhard with illustrations by Jolane Jly. This fun deck brings to life the mantra “peace, love and happiness”, offering readers a chance to relax and connect with a positive message. The concept is simple, the artwork is beautiful, and I have greatly been enjoying my daily pull!

While the guidebook messages are overall short and sweet, each entry has an action-oriented exercise—something you can do to shift your energy and tap into the essence of the card. These small actions range from a breathing exercise to removing negativity from your vocab, these prompts encourage readers to enjoy their success, hype themselves up, and find empowerment in their daily life. Essentially, this deck is your ultimate wing-woman.

My favorite thing about the deck is the visually uplifting design of the cards. Illustrator Jly’s artwork is colorful, playful, and engaging, making it an inviting deck to work with. There’s no visual symbolism to decode, leaving readers to simply delight in the dynamic designs. This is so REFRESHING, especially for those of us who work with more system-heavy oracles, such as tarot. I appreciate the lack of tension, mystery, or shadow and how Jly presents positive states of mind you can immediately step into by looking at the visuals!

Many of the cards feature bold backgrounds (checkerboards, radiating strips, wavy patterns) that gives creative moment to the deck. The rounded edges in the imagery make for a gentle feeling, while the minimal shading makes for a clean, graphic look. All the figures are inclusive, expressive, and filled with vitality, embodying positivity in their postures. Plus, the color palette makes things pop: high-saturation pastels with warm brights (bubblegum pink, sky blue, sunshine yellow) give a deliriously joyful psychedelic feel. Jly really captures the emotionally-uplifting nature of the deck in her artwork!

As for reading the cards, the deck is divided into three themes: freedom (orange cards) representing the past/your roots and foundation; emergence (pink cards) representing the present and your current state of mind; and achievements (blue cards) representing the future and what you’re moving towards. Duhard offers a three-card spread based on the themes, as well as guidance on a one-card draw.

Truthfully, many times when I pull from this deck, I don’t focus on the theme, as I’m just trying to get a quick and easy message without over-thinking it. But when I have taken the time to divide the cards by theme and do the three-card draw, it’s been really insightful—the format gives more perspective to layer for those who enjoy more nuanced readings.

Each card entry includes a message, mantra, and exercise. The messages are always upbeat, focusing on the energy of the card and the value of cultivating it in your life. All the mantras are straight forward and easy to remember if you choose to use it throughout the course of the day or longer. And the exercises are quite a variety. For instance, the Travel card suggests a solo-trip somewhere, whereas Acceptance teaches readers to create an energetic bubble of protection around themselves. These different exercises keep things enliven, reminder readers of their agency and power to make a change.

This is the type of deck I’d definitely give to my girl friends as a present, especially if they were newer to reading oracle decks. As someone who loves all things esoteric and magical, there’s something so inspiring about this deck. It brings gratitude, goodness, and empowerment without coming off as too “high-vibe”. I find it very grounding, providing the little dose of emotional support that shifts the tone of the day into something positive.

Overall,  No Bad Days succeeds at what it sets out to do: create a gentle, visually appealing, action-based affirmation practice. The airy lightness of the support it offers is uplifting, leaving readers to take the dose of positivity and bring it further out into the world. It’s a gentle entry point to deeper exploration, especially for those who thrive in an optimistic mindset (hello me, Sagittarius Moon). This deck is the joy-core we need: bright, friendly, and emotionally safe. I absolutely love it!

The Wisdom of Birds, by Raxenne Maniquiz

The Wisdom of Birds, by Raxenne Maniquiz
Rizzoli Universe, 0789346311, 96 pages, 40 cards, March 2026

There’s no shortage of animal-based oracle decks, and birds are a popular choice. They carry centuries of symbolism — omens, messengers, watchers between worlds. Most modern decks lean hard into that without much restraint, layering atmosphere on top of atmosphere until the cards become more mood than tool.

The Wisdom of Birds, illustrated by Raxenne Maniquiz and published by Rizzoli Universe, takes a different approach. It keeps things simple, visual, and accessible.

About the Creator and Publisher

Raxenne Maniquiz is a Filipino illustrator with a background in editorial and book illustration, and that background is visible on every card. Rizzoli is not a small esoteric press; it’s a major art-book publisher, which shows in the production values. The result is a deck that feels like a designed object first and a divination tool second. That framing matters when you sit down to use it — the deck is asking to be looked at, not decoded.

First Impressions and Physical Feel

You get 40 cards and a guidebook in a sturdy lift-top box. Card stock is solid — heavier than the bendy mass-market tarot you sometimes encounter, lighter than premium indie stock. The matte finish handles regular shuffling without warping or curling. Card size sits comfortably in the hand for someone with average reach, which matters more than people admit when you’re using a deck daily.

The artwork is the strength here. Clean, stylized, and consistent. It avoids the usual fog of “mystical atmosphere” and instead lands closer to modern editorial illustration: flat color, deliberate composition, and birds rendered with enough botanical and ornithological accuracy to feel recognizable rather than generic.

It looks like something you’ll actually pick up, not something that sits on a shelf waiting for the right mood.

Structure and Use

40 cards is a manageable system. Each card carries a single, focused idea: awareness, adaptability, communication, patience. The guidebook supports that without over-explaining. No long-winded metaphysics. No forced depth.

This is not a system you study. It’s a tool you use. Pull a card, get the meaningful message, reflect on the answer, and move on.

For daily-draw practice, that focus is a feature, offering a message for both upright and reversed pulls. For someone wanting layered nuance — multiple symbolic axes per card, planetary or elemental correspondences, anything resembling a defined system — there’s not much to dig into.

Symbolism — Clean but Limited

The deck draws on familiar bird associations:

  • owl → perception
  • hawk → focus
  • crow → transformation

It keeps interpretations readable and direct, which is useful, but also means it stays on the surface. There’s no underlying scaffolding, and it does not draw from a defined classical tradition. It’s a curated set of associations rendered in beautiful art.

If you come from a traditional background — astrology, horary, classical omen literature — you’ll notice the ceiling pretty quickly. The bird-as-messenger lineage is ancient and layered; this deck doesn’t engage with most of it. The owl, for instance, is rendered straightforwardly as perception, with none of the funerary or threshold associations you’d find in the older sources.

That’s not a flaw. It’s a design choice. The deck is aimed at modern readers who want clarity, not initiates who want depth. Just know what you’re working with.

The Energy in Practice

The deck’s energy is steady and quiet. It doesn’t push or interrupt. It nudges. That tracks with the visual style — no aggressive colors, no jagged compositions, nothing designed to startle. It’s a deck that asks you to slow down rather than one that grabs the wheel.

The most interesting part of working with it didn’t happen in the cards. It happened outside.

After a few days of using it, I started noticing birds in my backyard I hadn’t been paying attention to before. Native species, nothing exotic, but their timing stood out. There were moments where I’d sit with a question, pull a card, and later that same day a particular bird would show up, often matching the tone of what I was dealing with. A quiet, solitary bird when the situation called for patience. More active, vocal ones when something needed to move or be said.

I’m not quick to label things as signs. But what the deck did was sharpen attention. It pulled the symbolism off the card and into the environment.

That’s where it becomes useful. Not as a system of answers, but as a way of noticing.

Who This Is For

This deck makes sense for:

  • beginners drawn to bird symbolism
  • daily pulls and morning practice
  • journaling and reflection
  • visual learners and people who respond to design-forward decks
  • anyone wanting a reset from heavy esoteric systems

Less useful for:

  • traditional practitioners
  • structured divination work
  • anyone needing precision, depth, or a defined symbolic framework

Final Take

The Wisdom of Birds is a well-made, visually strong oracle deck that does what it claims: provide oracle insight. It’s not a complex system. It won’t replace anything with structure behind it. But it will get you to pay attention. And in practice, that’s where its value shows up.

For its target audience, that’s plenty.