Musing Mystical

✨ A Gathering Place for Magical Readers and Writers ✨

Wild Earth Tarot, by Coni Curi

Wild Earth Tarot, by Coni Curi
Rockpool Publishing, 1922468185, 144 pages, 78 cards, September 2026

Wild Earth Tarot by Coni Curi is a refreshing reminder that nature doesn’t simply surround us but also speaks to us in its own language. In this deck, flowers, vines, insects, birds, and organic forms become the archetypes themselves. Nature becomes not just something to observe, but a living source of wisdom, reflection, and connection.

At first, I wasn’t quite sure how to interpret the energy of this deck. The Major Arcana immediately felt wild, earthy, and deeply feminine, almost as though the cards were speaking through an untamed, instinctual energy that I wasn’t yet accustomed to. But as I spent more time with the deck, I began to notice that there was a very specific methodology woven into the Minor Arcana. Beneath their blossoming imagery, the cards follow a thoughtful structure that gives the deck a sense of grounding and coherence.

It was this balance between the untamed quality of the Major Arcana and the intentional framework of the Minor Arcana that gradually helped me understand how the deck wanted to be read. In the guidebook, Curi writes:

“Unlike other tarot cards, here the minor arcana have their own voice. Its structure is based on the Marseille deck but the content is replete with cycles, elements, and narratives that speak to each other.”1

As for the aesthetics, Curi embraces a minimalist aesthetic that encourages contemplation and intuitive discovery. Her signature vintage-inspired style is soft, earthy, and deeply inviting. The muted color palette gives the deck an heirloom quality, as though it could have been discovered tucked away in an old botanical journal. Fruits, flowers, insects, birds, and other elements of the natural world weave seamlessly into the archetypes, creating cards that feel elegant in their simplicity.

However, there’s actually plenty of symbolism throughout the deck that adds layers of meaning to the readings. For instance, the elemental suits are color-coded, making it visually intuitive to read the cards. Then each suit also has a corresponding symbol: Bees for Swords, flowers for Wands, fruit for Coins, and swans for Cups. The meaning of these symbols is explained in the guidebook. Additionally, Curi has also drawn in hidden symbols, which are repeated or transformed throughout the deck, leaving it up to the readers to spot these.

At the beginning of the guidebook, Curi provides an introduction to the cards along with some spreads that can be used for the deck. Then for every card there’s three keywords at the top followed by a one sentence overall meaning and an image of the card. Curi’s message for each card draws upon the symbolism of the card but is also direct and meaningful. She highlights the significance of the imagery on the card, providing insight that is grounded and tangible.

I appreciate how Curi makes connections between cards too in the guidebook entries. She describes the imagery for the Nine of Wands, writing “a yellow flower opens up facing forwards, similar to that of the Three of Wands but more mature and mindful and bearing the stars of The Hermit (card IX).”2 This allows readers to see the interdependence of the cards, a true nod to the beauty of nature and its infinite connectivity.

And this aspect is something I really like about the Wild Earth Tarot. There’s an invitation to slow down and attune ourselves to a different rhythm, see new patterns, and uncover a perspective that is built on mutuality. Tarot has been interpreted through so many lenses, so this one being so fluid and organic makes for a certain type of reading. I’ve found this deck is best for working with when I want to cultivate long-term visions or goals, rather than rapid fire readings where I’m quickly trying to figure out an answer and move on. This deck likes to be pampered a bit, sat and chatted with, and even offered a snack. Lol! It sounds silly but it’s true from my experience so far.

As a result, I’ve been more indulgent in my time when doing readings with it. And taking the time to carefully observe the relationships between the cards has enhanced how my readings turn out as a result: a gentle knowingness providing undoubted clarity I’ve particularly liked using a method that Curi suggests in the beginning for discerning more information, which is adding the numbers of the cards together until they are below 21 and referencing the Major Arcana card associated with it. This further helps to illuminate the message coming through.

One of my favorite cards in the deck is The Fool. I absolutely love the message Curi shares:

“The traveller is formed in tandem with the path.”3

This quote is so inspiring, and something that gave me the courage to move in a new direction with my business.

Ultimately, Wild Earth Tarot feels like an invitation to see the tarot through the lens of the natural world. The traditional tarot transforms into a living, breathing body of knowledge where voices of the natural world get an opportunity to share their wisdom. Curi’s cyclic approach syncs the tarot with the on-going processes of growth and renewal, from the ripening of fruit to the roots of resilience, allowing readers to ascertain when it’s time to grow, remain steady, or release. Plus, there’s so much beauty in the botanical symbolism.

I highly recommend this deck for those who are seeking a deck that has fresh and lively energy. The focus on the Marseille deck is a unique feature, which those familiar with the traditional Rider-Waite-Smith deck might find novelly refreshing, offering new insights.

Seasons of the Witch Autumn Tarot, by Lorraine Anderson and Tijana Lukovic

Seasons of the Witch Autumn Tarot: A journey through Mabon and Samhain, by Lorraine Anderson with illustrations by Tijana Lukovic
Rockpool Publishing, 1923208748, 128 pages, 78 cards, August 2026

There is something inherently magical about the transition into autumn: the world seems to slow down, the days grow shorter, and nature begins its beautiful process of letting go. It’s my favorite time of the year! Seasons of the Witch Autumn Tarot: A Journey Through Mabon and Sanhaim by Lorriane Anderson with illustrations by Tijana Lukovic captures the season’s liminal quality beautifully, inviting readers to experience the traditional tarot through the shifting energies of autumn.

This 78-card tarot deck is a continuation of the beloved Seasons of the Witch collection. Anderson reimagines the Rider-Waite-Smith (RWS) system through the themes of Mabon and Samhain when the Wheel of the Year turns to the darker times. Harvest, gratitude, balance, transition, release, shadow work, death, rebirth, and the wisdom that comes from turning inward all become part of the reading experience, fostering new insights within the structure of traditional tarot meanings.

From the second I held this deck, I felt a magnetic pull towards it. The energy was just radiating the essence of fall. And while I am enjoying the end of summer, this deck has gotten me so excited for the shift of summer into autumn. For me, this is the magic of the Seasons of the Witch collection; the decks really foster an alignment with the season.

As soon as I opened the box, I was absolutely taken with the gilded orange edges filled with captivating images that are much more relatable for me than the traditional RWS imagery. The artwork by Tijana Lukovic highlights the warmth and coziness of Mabon with the mysterious, rustling atmosphere associated with Samhain. The palette of warm oranges, reds, browns, and autumnal golds makes the deck feel like stepping into a crisp October evening.

Shuffling through the deck, there are golden leaves, pumpkins, candles, woodland settings, witches, spirits, ghosts, and shadowy figures, which transport readers into the liminal space of autumn. There’s spookiness, enchantment, solace, and magic all within the artwork.

I see cards with a woman grieving, women together doing a spell, a woman gazing out the window reading a book, and one simply enjoying a steaming cup of something delicious I’m sure. Essentially, I see many versions of myself in the deck, which is why I feel like I resonate with it so readily.

Yet at the same time, there’s an otherworldly, fairy-tale-like quality to the deck that invites a feeling of whimsy too. This dance between the mundane and the mystical, where daily ritual becomes a portal for wider connection is so apparent in this deck. Lukovic just has a truly remarkable ability to capture the soulfulness of each season. I can’t get enough of all her expressive images!

Further reflecting the autumn energy is the revisioning of the suits, which puts the tarot cards into a different archetypal perspective. Cups become jack-o’-lanterns, representing emotional warmth and light in the darkness; Wands become broomsticks, emphasizing cleansing and sweeping away what is no longer needed; Swords take the form of branches, connecting the suit with resilience and nature’s wisdom; and Pentacles become mirrors, turning attention toward self-worth, material relationships, and the reflection between our inner and outer worlds.

Anderson also makes some changes to the traditional tarot terminology to further immerse the reader in the seasonal world of autumn. For instance, the Sun becomes Sunset, the Moon becomes The Waning Moon, the World becomes Descending Into Winter.  The last change to the traditional RWS design is reimaging the Court Cards. Anderson calls Initiates (Pages), Seekers (Knights), Shepherds (Queens), and Keepers (Kings). According to the guidebook, this terminology will continue for all of the Seasons of the Witch tarot decks. These changes give the familiar tarot symbolism an entirely new atmosphere while maintaining recognizable connections to the familiar system.

All of the deck descriptions I’ve mentioned can be found in the guidebook, which is quite informative. Following an introduction by Anderson, there’s a page with themes for autumn, along with a passage about the seasons as archetypes. Anderson offers guidance for working with the deck, including how to do cleansing and dedication, situations to use the deck beyond the time of Autumn, and combining tarot with oracle cards. I especially appreciated her method for reading reversals with the deck, which was an emphasis on the card rather than an inverted meaning. From here, Anderson shares spreads for readers. They range from one-card pulls to a full 10-card spread to get to know the deck.

As for the cards’ guidebook entries, all of them follow the same format. First, there’s an image of the card followed by a description of the artwork. This is very valuable because it highlights the imagery, giving readers’ perspective they might have otherwise not noticed. This is followed by a divinatory message, which I noticed aligns with the message from the traditional tarot card represented. The final section of the entry is a list of additional meanings for the cards; this is very helpful for expanding the message for readers to consider alternative possibilities.

As an example, I was doing a one-card pull and drew The Autumn High Priest. This is one of the cards that differs a bit from traditional tarot, making it much more resonant and approachable for me. The imagery shows women whispering counsel into the ear of a woman veiled in a white gown. The description reads, “The presence of each of these women emphasizes community, tradition, and the transfer of knowledge from teacher to student.”4 What a wonderful framing of the energy!

Anderson does go on to explain the energy, mentioning how it relates to the traditional Hierophant card, while also keeping a nature-based, spiritual connection present in the message. The additional meanings include things such as honoring seasonal practices that keep us rooted, working within a hierarchy, formal study or initiation into a new discipline, and family influence on one’s love life. The different ways this card can be read allow for plenty of flexibility, allowing for readers to apply the essence of the card to find meaningful insight into their personal situation.

All in all, for readers who already love the Seasons of the Witch oracle decks, Autumn Tarot feels like a natural expansion of the collection. Though, it also works beautifully as a standalone deck for anyone who loves seasonal spirituality, witchcraft, nature-based practices, or tarot with a strong archetypal atmosphere. For those who find spiritual meaning in the turning of the Wheel of the Year or simply love the introspective magic of autumn, this is a beautiful invitation to slow down, look inward, and listen to what the season has to teach us. I love it so much!!

Tarot Divinatorium, by André Sanchez

Tarot Divinatorium, by André Sanchez
Rockpool Publishing, 1923208470, 176 pages, 76 cards, April 2026

Art lovers rejoice in the stunning Tarot Divinatorium by André Sanchez! This elegant deck, designed to honor the history of tarot, transforms the traditional Rider-Waite-Smith (RWS) structure into a lavish visual language of art, symbolism, and beauty. Through intricate digital collage and classical art aesthetics, Sanchez invites readers into a time “where gentle noblemen and women await your queries with open hearts and reassuring insights.”5

At first glance, the deck is breathtaking. Rich gilded borders frame each card like museum masterpieces, while layers of Renaissance and Baroque imagery create an atmosphere that feels both timeless and surreal. Rather than simply reproducing Pamela Colman Smith’s iconic scenes, Sanchez reconstructs them using fragments of historical paintings, religious iconography, botanical motifs, and celestial symbolism. The result is a deck that feels luxurious and elegant.

What’s even cooler is that Sanchez had depicted classical paintings into every card. On the border, there are two paintings, representing the positive aspects (left side) and negative aspects (right side). These painting vignettes give readers a whole other layer of symbolism to work with, as you can go learn about the painting/artist, research it, and look at that too for further intuitive insights. For those who love art or art history, this is an amazing element of this deck; it’s something I’ve never seen done before.

I find it very fascinating to think about the time and dedication Sanchez put into creating this deck, meditating on the different meanings of the tarot cards and finding not just one but two paintings to represent the polarities of the cards’ meanings. It’s so neat to see these little paintings within Sanchez’s own original artwork, bringing such fascinating layers of meaning to the deck. This is definitely one of the most creative interpretations of tarot that I’ve seen.

Looking at this deck gives me the same feelings I felt walking around Philadelphia Museum of Art just the other day: awe and inspiration. The energy of this deck is regal, majestic, romantic, opulent, contemplative, and sacred all at once. There’s a luminous, timeless feeling that comes from gazing at the tarot archetypes depicted with Sanchez’s artistry, with each card hinting at hidden wisdom and every frame inviting closer inspection. I like how Sanchez didn’t do all borders the same way, so placement of the painting vignettes varies, giving the eyes an adventure of finding the little details. I could gaze at these cards all day long!

As for the guidebook, it’s well illustrated, colored, and easy to hold in one’s hand. For each entry, Sanchez provides insight into the meaning while also explaining the card’s imagery for further clarity. He also shares information about the left and right vignette, so readers know the paintings depicted and gain knowledge about how it represents the message of the card.

There’s a headlined subtext for each card too, which is useful for those who want quick guidance. For example, it reads “New Spiritual Power”6 under the Magician, and “Exciting Invitations”7 under the Knight of Cups. I appreciate these quick descriptions because they make it easy to piece messages from spreads that have multiple cards.

This goes to show that while there’s a lot of artistic complexity and symbolism within the deck,  the guidebook distills it quite nicely, making it accessible for all readers to find meaning. The familiar RWS framework ensures that experienced tarot readers will immediately recognize the narrative and symbolism of each card, while newcomers could still comfortably learn the traditional system without feeling overwhelmed. The imagery expands upon the original card meanings rather than obscuring them, making the deck equally suitable for intuitive readings and deeper symbolic exploration.

One of my favorite cards in the deck is The Devil. In the card, a semi-transparent veiled naked woman looms standing on a crescent moon with a black goat at her heels and snake wrapping around her leg. She has black wings and a crown of black and red flowers. Looking at it carefully, one notices black candles burning on each side too. Sanchez highlights all these symbolic elements in the guidebook entry, writing:

“There is an energy of obsession and jealousy surrounding this situation: the need for others to be obedient and bow to your will and the need to control. An element of weakness when faced with temptation is indicated.”8

Very potent! And the paintings associated with it are Portrait de Bacchus by Peter Paul Rubens (positive aspect) and Temptation of Saint Anthony by Joos van Craesbeeck (negative aspect). I really enjoyed going and spending time looking at these images as well.

Overall, this riveting deck is filled with avenues to explore. Sanchez preserves the symbolic integrity of the RWS system while presenting it through a contemporary artistic lens rooted in classical mastery and beauty. The result is a tarot deck that feels both familiar and refreshingly original. This is a collector’s deck that is equally capable of serving as a practical reading tool.

Whether displayed as an art piece or used for daily divination, Tarot Divinatorium offers an immersive experience that reminds us tarot is not only a system of symbols but also a visual language capable of transcending time through artistic legacy. Readers who appreciate fine art, layered symbolism, and intricate design will enjoy this deck. There’s so much to explore, and it’s a very compelling deck to work with time and time again for inspiration, creative appreciation, and discerning wisdom.

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.

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.”9

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.

Crystal Keys Tarot, by Dina Rosenberg and Amalia Drewes

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

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

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

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

“You will see that our focus is about the energy and feeling of the cards, infusing the tarot archetype with the crystal, and vice versa, more so than fitting all the traditional symbols, colors, and images into each card. The goal is to distill each of the seventy-eight cards into a feeling that is truly relatable and pair that feeling with a crystal that supports the specific energy.”10

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

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

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

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

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

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


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

Pink Opal assists in following the whispers of the heart towards your true, authentic path. As a crystal of renewal, it reconnects you with yourself and what you truly want on a soul level. While it reminds you of who you are, it brings peace, soothing calm, and relaxation so as to not overwhelm the nervous system when difficult choices must be made.”11

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

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

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

Couture Tarot, by Megan Skinner

Couture Tarot, by Megan Skinner
REDFeather, 0764369857, 192 pages, 78 cards, October 2025

In Couture Tarot by Megan Skinner, high-fashion collage art stands in for the traditional deck imagery, bringing a fresh, stylish vibe to the timeless wisdom of tarot. Fashion and tarot are both mirrors in many ways. Tarot reflects the psyche; fashion reflects identity, desire, rebellion, belonging. Neither tells you who you are, rather they show you possibilities. They invite projection, interpretation, and play with visual symbolism that cues our unconscious in certain ways, making them a potent tool for revelation.

Within this deck, Skinner has reimagined the classic 78-card tarot through the lens of couture fashion and collage art. Each card draws from meticulously cut and arranged images sourced from iconic fashion magazines like Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, and Elle, giving the deck a look that’s at once glamorous, contemporary, and delightfully eclectic. The visual experience feels like stepping into a runway show that is unique, lush, and deeply expressive of archetypal themes in a modern visual language.

The first thing I appreciated about this deck was the very sturdy box it comes in. The box lid opens from the front, held closed by a magnet, making for easy access. The cards and guidebook are neatly secured and there’s a brown ribbon to diligently pull the cards out. The interior of the box’s lid has a quote from Yves Saint Laurent that perfectly captures the energy of the deck.

As for the cards themselves, they’re quite eclectic. I definitely think readers who are used to the traditional Rider-Waite-Smith (RWS) imagery will be in for a shock because there’s little resemblance whatsoever. There’s not even an image for the different suits depicted in the cards. Rather, for each one, there’s a brilliant collage bursting with energy and the name at the bottom. Skinner explains this in the guidebook, writing, “Yet, each image carries the essence of the suit and card through color and a visual story.”11

The collage art turns a tarot deck into a living conversation between symbols. By layering images, it breaks the expectation that meaning should be neat or singular. Instead, insight arrives the way intuition does: sideways, through association, memory, and mood. Additionally, the collage element holds tension. These juxtapositions mirror the way tarot itself works, holding contradiction and multiplicity. The cards feel less like illustrations of fixed meanings and more like portals, asking the reader to participate in interpretation rather than consume it.

There’s A LOT of room for subjective interpretation. For those familiar with the traditional tarot meanings, this deck becomes a fun way to engage with the archetypal energies in a new way, letting your eyes roam over the busy card imagery to see what your intuition picks out and relates to your understanding of the card.

However, for those new to tarot or not entirely familiar with each card’s essence, you might struggle a bit if you are someone who likes to use the card’s imagery as a visual prompt to cue the oracle’s message. Though, if you’re willing to go off script and let the cards lead, not worrying about “getting it right” in the by-the-book sense, there’s lots of exploration that can be done with this deck.

I think working with this deck is an exercise in intuition over instruction. You can teach someone how to piece together an outfit, but it takes a certain something to make it fashionable. This deck calls forth that certain something within that makes for an insightful tarot reading too that goes beyond just relying on the rote meanings.

A tarot card doesn’t mean the same thing in every reading, just as a garment doesn’t mean the same thing on every body or in every context. Meaning emerges through feeling, timing, and relationship. You sense when a look is right, the same way you sense when a card is speaking clearly. This is the ever-changing beauty of Couture Tarot.

This said, Skinner provides illuminating guidance in the accompanying book, which is nearly 200 pages long, so fear not if you are someone who enjoys looking up the meanings. This deck is still very approachable and engaging in this sense too. For each card, Skinner shares keywords, the planetary rule, and an explanation of her artistic choice. For instance, she writes of the Ten of Wands:

“Yet, the Ten of Wands indicates that you are carrying the past forward, feeling like you need to keep working toward some outlived goal. In a word: Baggage! Hence the designer suitcase stacked upon each other.”12

Skinner’s insights into her interpretation of each card goes a long way in anchoring the traditional meanings of the tarot. She visually describes the intention of many of the symbols, taking some of the guesswork out for those who, like me, enjoy knowing what I’m looking at. In this way, the deck skillfully balances symbolism with artistic innovation. Readers have the ability to intuitively engage with the imagery that resonates with their own psyche–the heart and soul of good artwork–while also having a solid foundation of general understanding of the artist’s intention.

Personally, I would use this deck when I want some creative energy in my life. Beyond doing oracle readings, I think this deck has a certain zest for awakening the inner genius. Working with it gets me out of my head and submerged in the feelings that arrive when I’m fully present, open, and gently alive. It’s the same transformative experience I have walking through an art museum, allowing the beautiful imagery to overwhelm my senses.

The collage art restores mystery to the tarot. As someone who gets quite bored seeing the same archetypal images repeated, this deck is a breath of fresh air. I love how little pieces of various fashion publications come together to create something entirely new. The format of discerningly collecting these little bits of visual imagery and then piercing them together reminds me that there’s always the ability to see things from a different perspective, shifting around the arrangement until the alignment feels right, which is the essence of getting a meaningful tarot reading.

Overall, Couture Tarot is a stylish, thoughtful tarot deck that is perfect for those who enjoy bold, lively imagery in their readings, especially if you appreciate fashion and aesthetic symbolism as tools for inner exploration. It’s a tool for reconnecting with creativity too. Whether used for daily draws, deep spreads, or contemplative journaling, it offers a rich, modern bridge between tarot tradition and creative expression.

Lieselle’s Eternal Tarot, by Lieselle Elliot and Sean Frosali

Lieselle’s’ Eternal Tarot: Trust Your Voice and Then Learn to Trust the Journey, by Lieselle Elliot and Sean Frosali
REDFeather, 076436975X, 224 pages, 78 cards, September 2025

With countless tarot decks now in circulation, each offering new themes, artwork, and layers of symbolism, it can be easy to forget the quiet power of returning to the basics. There is something enduring about a deck that honors tarot’s foundational structure, where meanings are clear, imagery is intentional, and the essence of each card is distilled rather than overcomplicated. In this simplicity, readings often become sharper and more resonant, allowing intuition to speak without distraction. Lieselle’s Eternal Tarot: Trust Your Voice and Then Learn to Trust the Journey is just this type of deck, reminding readers that when the core of tarot is respected, its wisdom remains timeless and deeply effective.

Created by Lieselle Elliot, a tarot reader with over 20 years of experience reading for clients, this deck taps into the heart of tarot’s eternal nature. Likewise, Sean Frosali’s illustrations capture the essence of each card’s rich symbolism and history. Together, their intention for this classic deck is “empowering you and nurturing your intuitive abilities.”12

The first thing I enjoyed about this deck is the hardy box with a lid that gently folds back to reveal the cards inside. This is one of the best exterior deck designs I’ve ever seen. The cards are slim but sturdy, making it easy to shuffle. And the gilded edges certainly add a nice touch to the overall aesthetic.

The inspiration from the traditional Rider-Waite-Smith (RWS) deck in the Major Arcana is present, but each card is definitely imbued with the creators’ unique perspective on the cards. For instance, The Fool features a faceless jack-in-the-box floating in water, featuring a leashed dog and flowers as the design of the box. Above the sun illuminates the scene. Meanwhile, The Star shows a woman looking down into her cupped hands, which are submerged in water and holding a star. Above her seven other stars shine and there’s a vessel on each side at the top. With the imagery alone, readers familiar with the RWS would definitely be able to figure out the card. Though, each card is also labeled at the bottom and numbered at the time.

The Minor Arcana is designed in Pips style, only showing the suit symbols and no scenic artwork, with the name of the card at the bottom. To some degree, this design means the reader must know the interpretations of each card when doing a reading or be prepared to look it up in the guidebook, as there are no visual clues. However, there is a mantra at the top of each Minor Arcana card that does give some insight into the overall meaning of the card.

Reading in a Pip-style system definitely requires a different kind of engagement with the cards, and I appreciated the opportunity to try it out since it’s not my usual deck style. Without visual narratives to guide interpretation, I noticed I had to rely more on number, suit, elemental energy, and inner knowing to shape the message.

This absence of imagery strips the reading down to its basics, asking the reader to meet the cards halfway and participate actively in meaning-making rather than passively receiving it. While this approach can feel challenging at first, in the end, I felt it resulted in clearer, more precise readings, as the symbolism is distilled to its core and my own inner voice becomes an essential part of the divinatory process.

And this said, the guidebook is also a wonderful reference. It begins with a message from the creators, a brief history of tarot, and overview of numerology, sharing the numerology meaning and tarot application for numbers 1-14. There’s also a few pages on the elements of the four suits, covering the associated qualities and symbolism in tarot for each one. Initially, I was surprised there was no guidance about spreads, but later on I did find a few suggested ones at the very end of the guidebook. So take note, if you’re someone who likes to use the spread suggested by the author, that it’s in the back.

The guidebook information differs for the Major and Minor Arcana. For the Major Arcana, Elliot provides information on the card’s imagery, noting the key symbolism, and then shares the card’s meaning with a list of interpretations for its significance. There’s also an overview at the end as well as a reversed meaning provided. For the Minor Arcana, there’s the same style of providing the meaning with a list of interpretations, the numerological significance, and the overall meaning for both upright and reversed.

I really like how the guidebook is styled for the most part.  Elliot makes use of bold text to emphasize key interpretations and then further explains them. All of the explanations are pretty by-the-book common interpretations, but it’s formatted in a way that makes it easy to absorb the meaning of the card. It’s for this reason, I think the guidebook is PERFECT for tarot beginners. It lays out the message of each card with precision, making the esoteric very accessible.

The only downside of the guidebook’s format is each card entry begins on the page right where the other one left off. This makes it a bit tricky to look up the card as you kind of need to flip through to see where it’s at. I definitely prefer when an entry for a card begins on a new page, so this took some getting used to when reading.

Overall, Lieselle’s Eternal Tarot is a powerful tool for connecting with the foundations of tarot. The charcoal imagery lays the symbolism bare, allowing one’s attention to focus on the essentials. There’s no extra fluff in both the artistry and the guidebook definitions, making this a wonderful resource for those who are seeking sleek and refined readings.

I recommend working with this deck when seeking clarity. Just like the King of Swords, this deck “signifies authority, intellectual power, and the ability to lead with truth and integrity.”13 Those who enjoy the traditional RWS but are looking for a modern twist will most appreciate this deck.

Tarot Emblemata, by Nitasia Roland

Tarot Emblemata: Decoding Magical Symbolism, by Nitasia Roland
Weiser Books, 1578638968, 192 pages, 83 cards, August 2025

What if the tarot you hold in your hands was also a pathway to discovering Renaissance wisdom? Tarot Emblemata: Decoding Magical Symbolism beautifully bridges the culture of the Renaissance and modern tarot reading. Inspired by Claude Paradin’s emblem book, Devises Heroïques (originally published in 1551), Nitasia Roland revives the intricate art of symbolic storytelling that once conveyed moral, philosophical, and mystical truths through image and maxim.

Unfamiliar with emblems, I immediately went to Roland’s introduction in the guidebook to better understand the deck’s concept. I learned how during Renaissance emblems were visual metaphors designed to convey moral lessons, awaken contemplation and insight, and share didactic information. Roland explains how Renaissance emblems were illustrations “accompanied by mottos of text and verse that allegorically and symbolically express sentiments, concepts, societal concerns, and parables that were current in the social and cultural life of 16th- and 17th century continental and Baroque Europe.”1

In Tarot Emblemata, Roland repurposes Paradin’s emblems, which can be viewed here, to provide a fresh twist on the traditional tarot cards. This unique deck is comprised of 83 full-color cards: the traditional 78 cards of the Major and Minor Arcana along with five additional oracle cards. Weaving the emblems of Paradin (as well as a few by Bernard Salomon from an updated 1557 edition) and Latin mottos into the tarot’s archetypal structure, Roland has created a deck that illuminates the timeless insights of the Renaissance. This truly unique approach makes for some interesting reads!

The deck comes in a sturdy, hardcover box, giving it gravitas and weight. The tactile linen finish on the cards makes them very easy to handle (I much prefer this finish to a smooth varnish or glossy laminate!). And the gilded silver edges add a little burst of elegance.

As for the design, Roland kept Paradin’s symbolic imagery and moral mottos, written in both Latin inscription and English, but brought them to life with color. At the bottom of each card is the name of the tarot card. The aesthetic is minimal yet steeped in mystique, the clean parchment background reminds me of illuminated manuscripts or alchemical engravings.

For those who are used to ornate or narrative tarot cards, this deck feels more refined, even cerebral.  What’s interesting about the emblems is how the symbolic language they convey is universal enough to be widely accepted and spread yet personal enough to instill the meaningful message. The emblems give a new perspective on traditional tarot, compelling the reader to sit with the imagery and to ponder its message, despite the directness of the associated motto. In this way, readers can both get a straight-forward message that appeases the part of oneself that is searching for guidance as well as an esoteric illustration that ignites the subconscious.

Granted, those who heavily rely on context clues from more elaborately designed tarot decks might find the deck a bit harder to connect with, but for those already familiar with the general tarot card meanings, it’s fairly easy to see how the symbol aligns with the card. For me it is honestly refreshing to not be bogged down with elaborate illustration, allowing the interesting symbols to activate my psyche, prompting revelation. Roland writes:

“Drawing a card or interpreting a spread encourages personal transformation, allowing the reader to tap into the magical archetypes and the universal mysteries that Renaissance iconography and symbolism inspire, connecting you to the guidance of spirit via the wisdom of the seen and unseen worlds.”14

Accompanying the deck is the 192-page, full-color guidebook. It is about 5.5 by 7.5 inches big, about the size of a small book, and very easy to hold and read. There’s a foreword, introduction, messages for each card (including the five additional oracle cards) and spread suggestions.

What I absolutely love about the guidebook is how much detail Roland provides for each card. Written in 2nd person (you), Roland addresses the readers directly. While the cards themselves are very symbolic, the messages from Roland are filled with clarity and purpose, providing meaningful direction. Roland artfully translates the essence of the tarot card through the perspective of the Renaissance emblem and motto. She doesn’t skirt around the message, rather she hones in with skill and precision, delving right into the heart and soul of the card’s energy.

It’s quite evident the time and thought Roland put into matching each emblem with the corresponding tarot card archetype and then contemplating how to translate the card for readers in the guidebook. She hits the mark, having the traditional tarot meaning still present in each interpretation yet illuminating a novel perspective for readers to understand the tarot by filtering it through Paradin’s emblems and mottos.

For instance, The Hanged Man in this deck has the illustration of a rope hanging down from a cloud, piling on the ground, while another cloud has a hand holding a sword emerging from it about to slice the rope. The motto at the top reads, “I resolve all doubts by self-refelction”15. And the guidebook entry opens with this line:

“A severing blade and sword of divine wisdom and truth bring clarity after a time of being held up, where the clock seems to stop, and where inner reflection is the only choice to get you out of the snag you are in.”16

Ah, I just love how Roland conveys The Hanged Man without resorting to any of the trite and overused interpretations that can just make some guidebooks so boring. Dedicating two pages to each card, she provides a fantastic entryway into each card for readers, leaving them with plenty of information to further contemplate. Truly, I am deeply impressed by this guidebook and have really enjoyed reading Roland’s guidance for each card.

Plus, the additional five oracle cards are a real bonus. These cards – Ancestors, Libations, Sovereignty, Regeneration and Caduceus – give readings a real extra boost. The entry for these cards in the guidebook is a bit shorter, but it’s more than enough for readers to learn their meanings and skillfully weave these cards into their spreads. I get extra excited when I see one emerge in a reading!

Overall, Tarot Emblemata is a very interesting deck to work with. Roland offers a one of a kind approach to tarot that transports readers to the flourishing Renaissance. Somehow the deck is artfully able to be both universally enlightening and individually transformationing. For those looking for a creative re-envisioning of the tarot, especially if you enjoy ancient history, this deck is perfect for adding to your collection.

I’d recommend this deck to those who enjoy a dose of practical advice coupled with deeper spiritual insights. This is not simply a “deck for readings” but a tool for exploration, reflection, and developing one’s intuitive and symbolic literacy, priming the psyche with meaningful imagery to activate archetypes that continue to be relevant to spiritual growth and human development.

The Mythical Creatures Tarot, by Jayne Wallace

The Mythical Creatures Tarot, by Jayne Wallace
CICO Books, 176 pages, 78 cards, October 2025

Throughout history, mythical creatures have served as reflections of humanity’s hidden emotions, instincts, and mysteries. From dragons breathing the fires of transformation to mermaids singing of love’s depths, these beings live in the realm between imagination and truth animated by the unseen forces that shape our lives. In tarot, they become messengers from the mythic realms, guiding readers toward greater self-awareness and spiritual insight.

The Mythical Creatures Tarot by Jayne Wallace invites readers to step into this enchanted landscape, where every card holds the spirit of a legendary mythic being, pairing their ancient wisdom with the guidance of tarot. This approach adds a deeper layer of meaning to the tarot cards, reminding readers that myth and magic are always alive in our everyday experiences and that these sacred guardians are here for counsel. Serving as a bridge between reader and these magical creatures, this deck is a reminder that myth and intuition often go hand in hand.

There’s a special feeling when opening a new tarot deck and the packaging and presentation of The Mythical Creatures Tarot add to the tactile and collectible appeal. This deck is housed in a sturdy keepsake box illustrated with a luminous full moon circled by two air dragons hovering above a serene body of water. Opening this box reveals a large, full-color, hardback illustrated guidebook. And underneath this is the deck itself in yet another hardbound case, safely housing the mystery and magic of this deck, with a beautiful blue ribbon to assist with pulling it out. There’s also a blue ribbon within this case holding the deck to once again aid in collecting the cards easily into one’s hands.

The matte cards are nice and large. They’re bigger than your average card deck, yet still a good size to hold in one’s hands. My first impression was how smooth the cards were; there was no friction when shuffling and none of the cards stuck together. The cards have nice weight to them too, adding a palpable pleasure to the physicality of working with this deck.

The artwork on the cards is soft, dreamlike, and filled with gentle movement, creating a sense of stepping into a living scene. Each card is rendered in delicate watercolor tones that blend earthiness with ethereal light, giving the deck a serene yet mystical tone. The imagery feels both ancient and timeless with the mythical beings depicted with grace and reverence, harmonizing with natural landscapes of misty woods, glowing skies, and flowing waters. There’s a gentle blur to the artwork too that allows for the mind to release its grip, opening up to the blending of the fantastic and familiar for new insights when gazing at the cards.

Most imagery on the cards align with the traditional Rider-Waite-Smith (RWS) illustrations, giving experienced readers a familiar foundation for their readings. Yet it is not to the point where it is a mirror of the RWS deck; there’s plenty of creative interpretation in the depiction of the legendary beings and nature-filled landscapes. Wallace includes the card name and one keyword on the card for readers to be able to quickly discern the card, yet there’s still plenty of visual space for the eyes to wander and contemplate the messages coming through visually. The symbolism of the chimeric creatures opens up a whole new array of interpretations in a reading, providing a fresh perspective on the traditional card meanings by infusing them with mythic insights. 

As for reading the cards, the Major Arcana is a mix of different mythological beings, including Griffin, Kraken, Pegasus, Centaur, and more. The Minor Arcana suits follow elemental creature associations:

• Swords/Air → Dragons 
• Cups/Water → Merfolk 
• Wands/Fire → Phoenixes 
• Pentacles/Earth → Dryads

For those who are new to mythological beings, Wallace has included a list in the guidebook providing a short description of each one. She also includes guidance on reading the cards in this deck and ideas for spreads to use.

For each card entry in the guidebook, Wallace has shared the name and main keyword at the top, followed by a few more key words, description of the scene the card depicts, card meaning, mythical message, and an affirmation. She writes with a tender tone, offering heartfelt wisdom. The card meanings are distilled from her tarot expertise spanning decades, while the mythical messages perfectly translate the traditional tarot meaning into a greater archetypal message that resonates on a soul level.

I particularly love how the guidebook is a well-bound hardback that’s extremely easy to hold in one’s hands with a ribbon to mark the current page. As someone who enjoys journaling, this makes it very easy to refer to the guidebook while I’m recording my thoughts because it’s  easy to flip from one page to the next. Plus, the full-scale, colored image right next to the card’s message is perfect for contemplation.

So far, I have really enjoyed this deck because the elemental symbolism of the Minor Arcana makes me feel intuitively connected to the natural rhythms of the world around me. I love working with elemental beings (especially merfolk!), and I feel this deck really serves as a bridge, connecting readers to this realm. While there’s decks devoted solely to many of these creatures, such as dragons and phoenixes, it’s nice to have them all come together in unity within this deck.

There’s something about stepping away from the humanness within the RWS deck or other traditional tarot cards that prompts revelation. The archetypal energies of the tarot are given a new avenue of expression, and Wallace has done a magnificent job translating the grandiose essence of these mythical creatures into applicable and meaningful guidance. It’s easy and very human to get caught up in the fear of the unknown, turning to the tarot for answers about what lies ahead or the best course of action. But the mythical creatures of this deck remind us of our inner strength, imaginative freedom, and flowing connection to the special energies these legendary beings share with us.

Overall, The Mythical Creatures Tarot is a beautiful and powerful addition to the tarot world. It’s ideal for readers who are drawn to mythology, folklore, and imaginative reimaginings of the cards that stretch beyond traditional interpretations. Those who appreciate a touch of fantasy in their readings will find the vibrant depictions of legendary beings both enchanting and immersive, especially if they enjoy working with elemental forces or mythic symbolism. Readers of all levels will find Wallace’s interpretations accessible, inspiring, and heartfelt, guiding them toward deeper understanding and self-discovery through the wisdom of these extraordinary creatures. It’s definitely a deck that I will be turning to again and again!