Musing Mystical

✨ A Gathering Place for Magical Readers and Writers ✨

Wise Earth Medicine Tarot, by Lalania Simone

Wise Earth Medicine Tarot, by Lalania Simone
Weiser Books,1578638631, 96 pages, 78 cards, May 2025

Wise Earth Medicine Tarot by Lalania Simone is a beautifully crafted deck that seamlessly blends the traditional elements of tarot with the healing energies of the Earth. Drawing upon the vibrancy and sacred wisdom of 78 animals and plants, this deck shares the perspective of each traditional tarot card through the wisdom of the natural world.This deck offers a unique medicine for the soul, and readers will certainly enjoy the grounding energies that come through in the readings.

“The earth is a generous being and an incredible well of infinite wisdom. This powerful spirit provides for us every day, in every day, delivering the sustenance we need to survive and thrive in our lives.”1

As soon as I opened this deck, I felt the radiance of its primal wisdom coursing through me. The gilded green edges of the card contained an intelligence that goes beyond human intellect: the sage wisdom of the animal and plant kingdoms. Looking through the colorful cards, I saw a crow, bear, bunny, moose, dragonfly, and so many other creatures whose insights I was eager to hear, especially in regard to the wisdom of the tarot which I was already very familiar with.

In the guidebook introduction, Simone provides an overview of the tarot structure, discussing the significance of the major and minor arcana, along with an explanation of court cards. She notes how this deck has corresponding natural elements for each of the traditional tarot suites: Water for Cups, Wind for Swords, Fire for Wands, and Earth for Pentacles. She also offers one suggested spread for readers to use.

For each card, the guidebook lists the corresponding traditional tarot card, key words, a card overview (the content ranges from a description of the card’s symbolism/meaning to a question to reflect on to an important message coming through), and finally a section on the medicine the animal or plant featured on the card offers to the reader. The passages are short, but there’s enough guidance packed in to gain meaningful insight. My favorite section is “The Medicine”, as this is where the deck really stands out for its unique perspective on the tarot and integrates nature’s wisdom.

All the cards are filled with flowers, plants, and the moon, in addition to the main animal or plant representing the card’s energy. Plus, three keywords are shared at the bottom of the card to give it meaning. The textured background gives the cards visual dimension, making the images appear lively and in motion. There’s lots of little details that capture the essence of nature’s beauty, from the texture of the wolf’s fur to the delicate features of the hummingbird’s wing. The cards are active and alive, inviting readers to be in direct communion with the life force within the deck.

There is shamanic wisdom held within in this deck. While one can definitely use it for divination, I am mostly enjoying it for self-discovery and personal growth. I love tapping into the energy of nature and discovering the wisdom of Earth’s marvelous creations when working with the deck. Each card is a pathway to a greater understanding of nature, serving as a tool to strengthen the reader’s bond to the strength and beauty of the Earth.

One thing I will note is that I’ve noticed my mind doesn’t automatically translate these cards to the traditional Rider-Waite-Smith corresponding tarot because of the animal or plant presence. Since most tarot decks still use human depictions, especially for the court cards and major arcana, it’s easy to make the connection to the card’s meaning. But the presence of animals and plants in this deck gets my mind wandering some place else entirely, and I end up finding new intuitive messages coming  through beyond the traditional tarot meanings. I really enjoy the non-anthropomorphic focus of this deck!

I’ve been working with this deck daily and have gotten very resonant messages. One of my favorite pulls so far was when I asked if I should continue to push through and finish an astrological certification program that I’ve been working towards completing over the past year. I’m at the point where I’m just about finished but starting to wonder if I will ever really be done and ready to submit my final project. The card I pulled was Wise Earth, which corresponds to The World card in traditional tarot.

The keywords on the card are “completion•integration•wholeness”2. I instantly felt relieved that the card indicated I would get this project finished and bring it to completion! My happiness only grew once I read the guidebook message:

“Something in your life has reached a meaningful completion, or soon will. It is time to harvest the fruits of your labor. Celebrate this moment in your journey, for as one cycle ends, another begins.”3

Ahhh, just what I needed to hear to give me the motivation to make the final push to submit my work!

Another card I pulled earlier in the week was 2 of Fire, featuring a camel on the card. I had asked what to focus on that day, and this was the camel’s message for me in The Medicine section of the guidebook:

“It is time to take stock of your present circumstances and plan for the next phase of your life. The camel looks ahead and is prepared for the long journey. Its message is to set yourself up for success in any way you can.”4

I loved this message! And throughout the rest of the day, whenever I found myself procrastinating, I thought of the camel’s energy, encouraging me to do what needs to get done today for a better tomorrow.

Overall, Wise Earth Medicine Tarot is the perfect deck for those who seek the wisdom of the natural world, in particular the guidance of animal and plant spirits. Simone has truly integrated the tarot with messages from nature’s allies, providing a new perspective on traditional tarot messages. The beautiful artwork, featuring an animal or plant on every card, makes for some unique spreads. Tarot enthusiasts and nature lovers alike will enjoy working with this deck for personal reflection, meditation, or divination, as it provides an enriching experience that is both grounding and enlightening.

Manifestation Tarot, by Jayne Wallace

Manifestation Tarot, by Jayne Wallace and illustrated by Julia Cellini
CICO Books, 9781800653733, 78 cards, 64 pages, October 2024

Manifestation Tarot by Jayne Wallace with illustrations by Julia Cellini is a beautiful deck that promises to guide users on a transformative journey of self-discovery and manifestation. I was drawn to this deck by the artwork and idea of adding manifestation to my tarot journey.

As a well-known clairvoyant medium, Wallace brings her wealth of experience and deep understanding of the esoteric arts to create a deck that is both visually stunning and spiritually enriching. Wallace has written for many publications and authored four books, along with appearing on television in both the UK and America. She lives in Essex, UK.

Julia Cellini is an illustrator who works in a variety of mediums, specializing in watercolor and digital art. She finds inspiration in nature and has recently completed a series of works based on deities. She lives in Hawaii and loves exploring the flora and fauna in her tropical home. 

The first thing that strikes me about Manifestation Tarot is its breathtaking artwork. Each card is a masterpiece, adorned with vibrant colors and intricate designs that capture the essence of the tarot archetypes. The imagery is a blend of traditional Rider-Waite-Smith symbolism and modern themes. For example, the Magician is pictured as female, the Hanged Man is shown in more modern dress, and the Moon features a domesticated dog and cat. 

Wallace has infused each major arcana card with rich symbolism that resonates with the themes of personal empowerment and manifestation. The major arcana “embodies a powerful archetype or lesson that can help clarify your intentions, make informed decisions, and foster a deeper understanding of yourself and the world around you.”5

The minor arcana delves into the “different facets of human experience, influencing our intentions, energy, and the universe’s response to our desires. Together these elements offer an approach to manifesting and the law of attraction.”6 The minor arcana features beautiful, symbolic artwork on the court cards and simple drawings of the suit symbol for all the other cards, much like the Tarot de Marseille. 

All the cards in this deck also feature the name of the card and an affirmation that recaps the main theme of the card. For example, the Seven of Pentacles shares this affirmation: “Persistence in my efforts will yield security.” The back of the cards features what Wallace calls “The Flower of Manifestation,” a rainbow-colored lotus flower which “represents faith in ourselves.”7

A four-color guidebook provides detailed explanations of each card, along with practical tips on how to use the deck for manifestation and spiritual growth. Wallace begins with a brief introduction, including how to prepare your cards for reading. She also shares tips for reading the cards, including numerous spreads for both basic readings and manifestation. She features keywords, the mantra, and relevant meanings for each card in the deck.

To test drive the cards I chose to do the manifestation Seven Day Challenge. Wallace explains this is a “great way to kick start your connection to the rule of attraction.”8 For this challenge, I separated the major arcana cards from the rest of the deck and chose one card each day for seven days. I made a note of the affirmation on the card and any key information from the guidebook.  

Each day I shuffled the major arcana cards and drew one card to be my guiding light for the day.  Wallace recommends that you say the mantra or affirmation out loud seven times that day. She explains: “At the end of the week look at the story your cards have told you. The universe has given you a blueprint of where you should be heading in life at the moment.”9

I took an index card and recorded the card and the mantra for each day.  It was interesting to see the variety and the compatibility of the messages I received. I am looking forward to trying some of the other spreads, including one she calls “The Staircase of Success,” which asks you to shuffle the cards and then lay down the cards in a stair step fashion  as “a way of seeing how your future is going to unfold in a time frame, usually a year, but it can be a shorter or longer.”10

The cards are a standard size, yet the cardstock seems a little light for durability and ease of handling during shuffling and readings. I’m guessing the cards may bend quite easily over time. The deck comes in a beautifully designed, two-part box that protects the cards and the guidebook.

I loved the beauty of the cards and the rich language of the guidebook. Wallace and Cellini have put a new spin on the tarot with this deck. This deck would be great for both seasoned tarot readers and beginners. I’ll use this deck for the next few weeks for my daily one card draw, to benefit from the rich guidance and manifestation tips. I also plan to take it to my next Friday Coffee & Cards group meeting to share with my friends.

From the Fool, symbolizing new beginnings and infinite potential, to the World, denoting the fulfillment of goals and the completion of cycles, Manifestation Tarot serve as powerful reminders of the innate power within everyone. The interpretations provided in the guidebook are insightful and encourage deep reflection, helping users connect with the core messages of each card.

“The brilliant thing about manifesting is, even if you’re a warrior or a negative Nelly, using this deck you can switch your mindset from scarcity to abundance and supercharge your manifestation potential.”11

Tarot Training Sleeves, by James Jacob Pierri and Dan Williams

Tarot Training Sleeves, by James Jacob Pierri and Dan Williams
REDFeather, 9780764368196, 80 sleeves, 83 cards, December 2024

With the Tarot Training Sleeves system, James Jacob Pierri and Dan Williams have created a handy training tool that gives a new reader “Cliff Notes” for learning tarot. 

James Jacob Pierri also created The Auset Gypsy Tarot and is a professional tarot reader and teacher with more than 30 years of experience. As an astrologer who has published articles worldwide, Pierri is also a musician, artist, performer, and host for various media. Learn more about him at AusetGypsy.com.

After working in higher education for more than 20 years, Dan Williams now specializes in computer programming and bringing new technologies to education. He was also a featured character in Who Wants to be a Superhero on the SyFy channel. Williams loves everything from comic books to photography and fashion design.

Together, Pierri and Williams have created a novel way to learn the meanings behind tarot cards by creating a system of clear plastic sleeves, small stickers for keywords, and tarot-sized cards with meanings for both upright and reversed cards. The symbolism is based on traditional Rider-Waite-Smith deck; six cards from a Rider-Waite-Smith deck are shown on the cover of the training set.

From the moment you open this kit, Pierri and Williams take you by the hand and literally tell you what to do in three easy steps. I started with the major arcana cards, as the creators suggested. It took me 10 minutes to place my major arcana cards in the sleeves, add the keyword stickers and then slip in the definition cards. So, when you prepare all 78 cards, it will probably take you about 35 minutes total.

Note: There are also 2 blank definition cards you can use, in case you have a deck with extra cards, such as Rachel Pollack did in The Shining Tribe Tarot. You can add your own information to the set of training tools.

Once you have assembled the cards, I suggest you sit and review them, starting with the major arcana and going through the cards in order. Next, go through the minor arcana, one suit at a time. Look at your card, note the keyword sticker, and then read through the definition cards. This allows you to have the material in the back of your mind and prepares you to work with the cards.

Next, you can shuffle the cards by placing them on a table and moving them around.  Be careful not to be too rough, or the cards will come out of the sleeves. You can then use the cards for a reading.

Pierri and Williams have provided a QR code that gives you even more information about the cards and utilizing the cards for training. They share spreads and tarot tutorials, including videos for each card in the Tarot deck. The very first video shows you how to set up the sleeves for your personal training use.

In the video, they share that the cards that work best with this system should be no larger than 3” X 5”.  This information would have been great to add to the box or inside information about the system. Luckily, I noticed that they referred to the Rider-Waite-Smith deck on the box cover, so I reached for a standard-sized deck that I knew would work with this set. 

On each of the definition cards, there is also a QR code in the top right hand corner.  This takes you to an online portal where you can learn even more about that card.  Here, the creators show pictures of a card from two different decks and provide expanded information about the upright and reversed meanings. Pierri and Williams also share how this card might be read in Past, Present, or Future placements in a spread, as well as the astrological significance. There is a wealth of information in this online resource. Their online portal provides even more information and they welcome questions, as well.

I have a friend who is just learning about tarot, and I plan to share this system with her.  The nice thing about the design is that it can be used by one person and then passed on to another person. The tarot cards can be removed easily and new cards inserted into the plastic sleeves.

The creators have really created an incredible resource for new tarot students with Tarot Training Sleeves. This system will be best for a new or novice tarot student. When my husband and I were learning tarot almost 20 years ago, this would have been a great way to learn basic meanings!  This would make a great gift for anyone you know who is starting their own tarot journey.

The Legend of Sleepy Hollow Tarot, by Nick Lawyer

The Legend of Sleepy Hollow Tarot, by Nick Lawyer
REDFeather, 076436863X, 112 pages, 78 cards, August 2024

Sleepy Hollow, New York is one of the most magical places I’ve ever visited (WAY better than Salem, Massachusetts for a visit during Halloween season in my opinion!). The rich cultural history of railroad tycoons vacationing there within the gorgeous landscape, amplified by the American folklore forged by Washington Irvington, give Sleepy Hollow a liminal feeling where one can step out of time to merge with echoes from the past.

I was totally thrilled to discover The Legend of Sleepy Hollow Tarot by Nick Lawyer, which blends the classic tale of Ichabod Crane and the Headless Horseman with the mystical art of tarot reading to provide readers with the same timeless experience that comes through in divination.

The cards in this deck are absolutely stunning. The navy blue back of the card has an intricate gilded design that features a sun, moon, pumpkins, skulls, bats, eyes, and vines. Shuffling the deck feels luminous, like you’re about to step through a portal into the 18th century, where gothic mystery awaits. This tarot deck follows the traditional structure, with 78 cards divided into the major and minor arcana. However, what makes it unique is the thematic twist each card takes from Sleepy Hollow’s folklore. 

The images on the deck are all related to Irvington’s writing, with most of the cards depicting characters from The Legend of Sleepy Hollow. Those who are familiar with the tale will absolutely love seeing the scenes of it depicted on the cards; IIchabod Crane, Katrina Van Tassel, and, of course, the Headless Horseman, are cleverly integrated into the cards, providing a fresh interpretation of familiar tarot archetypes. Lawyer also draws inspiration from other folklore in the Sleepy Hollow area, such as The Woman in White, who haunts Raven Rock in Rockefeller State Park Preserve, along with figures like werewolves, witches, enchantresses, and more.

As a whole, the illustrations within this deck are intricately designed, perfectly capturing the eerie and enchanting essence of the tale. Lawyer has done a remarkable job of blending traditional tarot symbolism with the gothic undertones of the story. The use of color and shadow creates an atmospheric experience that draws the reader into the realm of Sleepy Hollow.

The cards are sturdy, easy to shuffle, and come with a guidebook that offers detailed explanations of each card’s meaning, both upright and reversed. Those who are already familiar with the traditional tarot interpretations will easily be able to apply the meanings of cards into their readings. The descriptions for each card are not too long, so those who are unfamiliar with tarot might need to supplement Lawyer’s description of the card for more insight. The real charm of this deck is how Lawyer weaves in Irvington’s writing, The Legend of Sleepy Hollow, and other local folklore to the guidebook, adding an interesting layer to the readings.

For the major arcana cards, there’s either a quote from Irvington’s writing or Lawyer’s description of what’s being depicted in the scene on the card. For instance, the guidebook entry for the Strength reads:

“Abraham “Brom” Van Brunt, with his Herculean frame, earned the nickname “Brom Bones” for his feats of strength and hardiness. Always ready for a fight or frolic, his character was quickened more by a spirit of mischief than ill will.”8

The image on the card shows Brunt wrestling with a wolf, much like the traditional Strength card showing a woman bending towards a lion. This example goes to show how the deck is a great balance of literary creativity and traditional tarot.

The most recent card I pulled from this deck was the Ten of Pentacles, which features a table set for a delicious dinner of turkey, ham, pie, and more. Each plate is the pentacle symbol, all nicely set around the table. The guidebook describes this card as “The great harvest fest of Van Tassel manor”9. Since it’s a minor arcana card, Lawyer simply shares a few keywords for both the upright and reverse position. Given that I just listed a car for sale online, I was quite please to read the keywords “wealth, financial security”10 as insight for my pull!

Overall, The Legend of Sleepy Hollow Tarot by Nick Lawyer is a beautifully crafted deck that will appeal to both tarot readers and literary enthusiasts alike. Lawyer brings a fresh perspective to Washington Irving’s timeless story in this unique deck. Its captivating artwork and thematic richness make it a worthy addition to any collection, especially for those who enjoy one of a kind decks. The fusion of an American classic tale with tarot makes for a very engaging deck that invites literary mysticism into readers’ lives.

The Westwood Tarot, by Yasmeen Westwood and Kalliope

The Westwood Tarot, by Yasmeen Westwood and Kalliope
RedFeather, 9780764368127, 256 pages, 78 cards, September 2024

In the rich set of 78 cards of The Westwood Tarot, Yasmeen Westwood has created a zoological treasure map for the Soul. She and the writer of the guidebook, Kalliope, have presented guidance and wisdom for the soul traveler.

Yasmeen Westwood is an artist who was born in Scotland and holds both a degree in biochemistry and a graduate degree in immunopharmacology. After working in the oil and gas field, she decided to study NLP, hypnotherapy, Reiki, and life coaching. She considers herself a “self-taught photomanipulation artist.”  After the birth of her child, she suffered from postnatal depression and began to teach herself Photoshop and other graphic techniques. She leaned into art to express herself and heal from PND. Soon, she had created her first tarot deck and went on to create four more decks, including The Westwood Tarot. You can learn more about her journey here.

Kalliope began working with the secrets of tarot in 1986 and also works with Lenormand cards. She has also written a guidebook for The Lenormand of Enchantment. She is a well-known speaker and teacher, who lives in Ontario with her husband and two sons. Learn more about Kalliope on her website.

The cards and guidebook are housed inside a box that looks like a book. The left side of the box is curved, like the spine of a book. Then the top and bottom edges of the box are painted to look like book pages and are adorned with dragonflies. It is so whimsical and fun!

My first observations of this deck were that it is larger than a usual tarot deck, more like the standard oracle deck size. The deck is printed on nice card stock and is a good weight for shuffling. The back of the cards features a lush green leaf and floral design, and each card is edged in gold. The fanciful beings on the cards offer a new dimension to tarot symbolism, which follows the Rider-Waite-Smith line up of major and minor cards.

Westwood’s inspiration for this deck comes from her childhood memories of Enid’s Blyton’s book series The Magic Faraway Tree. Each tarot card is paired with a beautiful creature that takes center stage on the card. The whimsical animals, birds, insects, flowers, and marine life are brought to life with rich and vibrant colors, symbolism, and magical touches. The guidebook offers a Spirit message from the respective characters.

Here are just a few examples:

Fool – Grasshopper
Hanged Man – Orangutan
Ace of Wands – Sunflower
6 of Cups – Dolphin

As the creator Westwood and Kalliope say in their “Welcome”:

“The Westwood Tarot beckons you to delve into the depths of your subconscious, where profound insights and revelation await. Inspired by pure intuition and decades of experience, this deck is a testament to the innate connections among artistry, intuition, and profound human experiences.”1

Next, the creators share five steps to beginning a reading: center, clear, connect, call, and close. They also give the reader a quick look at the categories that the guidebook includes for each card. A quick review of each of the four suits of the minor arcana follows, as well as an explanation of the court characters for each suit. At the end of the guidebook, Kalliope includes ideas for three different spreads.

Unlike a lot of tarot decks which have a small guidebook, the information for The Wildwood Tarot is quite extensive. The guidance spans about three pages for each card. 

To get acquainted with this deck, I drew one card daily for about a week. The first day I drew the 8 of Swords, which Westwood has creatively paired with a Canary! In its gilded cage, the canary hangs upside down, feeling trapped, although he can see a method of escape. Kalliope shares a four-line poem, provides key words for both light and shadow applications, and then paints a beautiful scene for the card. This “Scene” verbiage is more of a short narrative, explaining the background, setting, and a fable that brings to life the story of the chosen character.

After reading all the background material for the 8 of Swords, I chose to also read the passage on Career, which advised me to “Welcome workplace challenges as stepping stones to growth.”10 This was particularly resonant to me, as I have recently been feeling stuck with several challenges around growing my practice. However, when I am honest, I see that I am making steady progress. I took the rest of the guidance to heart and created this question to ponder: How am I torn between the safety of the cage and fear of freedom and success?

Later in the week, I drew the King of Cups, which shows a frog sitting against the night sky. The deck’s guidance shared that the frog “hops into your journey to facilitate a deeper connection with your emotions.”12 Kalliope says that because a frog can’t handle “toxic environments,” it just hops away.  This told me that it might be best to get out of toxic situations! I knew exactly what was being referenced in that advice! For this card, I chose to read the additional information about Wellness, where I found a suggestion to release negative emotions.

The way that the creators offer extra guidance for Love, Career, Wellness, and Finances is so helpful. And for me, the addition of the Spirit or Spirit Guide message from one of the creatures on the card is the icing on the cake. Kalliope also adds a quote from a famous person to the end of the guidance for every card.  My favorite quote was the one that accompanied the 8 of Swords and the Canary:

“I started to build a home with all the walls I was putting up for myself, but when I was finished, I realized I had built a cage and didn’t make a key. Lydia Longoria.”13 

My favorite card in the deck is the Empress. This card features a whimsical Highland Cow, which is currently my favorite creature! (Who doesn’t love those cuddly beings?) Here’s just a part of what Kalliope shares in the Spirit Guide message from the Highland Cow:

“Embrace their presence, dance in the sun, and let daisies be strewn under your feet, for you, too, deserve the beauty of nature’s embrace.”14

The Westwood Tarot would be good for any level of reader, from a novice to a more experienced reader. The cards and the guidance shared will form a good foundation for the beginner and add new insights for the more skilled diviner. I plan to keep the deck on hand for a few more weeks to see both major and minor arcana from a new perspective. I can see myself referring to the guidebook often in the future to add another layer of guidance for client readings.

Tarot of the Cosmic Seed, by Lalania Simone

Tarot of the Cosmic Seed, by Lalania Simone
Weiser Books, 9781578638611, 80 pages, 79 cards, November 2024

Drawing from a rich palette of jewel tones and a diverse collection of symbology, Lalania Simone has transformed the Rider-Waite Smith tradition into her own language in Tarot of the Cosmic Seed.

Lalania Simone is an indigenous artist, metalsmith, author and creator of tarot and oracle decks.  She has written a book called Urban Soul Warrior: Self-mastery in the Midst of the Metropolis and created two other tarot decks, including The Oracle of Awakening. She currently runs a spiritual boutique called Alchemy Ritual Goods, where services such as acupuncture/herbs, traditional spiritual healing practices, Usui Reiki, and several types of divination are offered.

In the guidebook, we learn that Simone has added a 23rd major arcana card to the deck.  This addition, The Cosmic Seed, is a brilliant card which speaks to “the seed of infinite potential. It exists in the quantum realm and can move between dimensions/realities in all directions, and through matter.”15.

Another change Simone made is renaming some of the major arcana cards, such as changing The Hierophant to The Teacher and The Fool to The Wanderer. Furthermore, she also renamed the court cards. Simone explains that she made this change “in an effort to decolonize the tarot and challenge outdated gender norms.”16

In her new royal court, the Kings are named “Mastery”; Queens are “Nurturer”; Knights are “Action”; and Pages are “Messenger.”  Simone kindly puts the traditional court name in parentheses next to the new name she has created and lists these for each of the four minor arcana suits in the guidebook.

Simone includes one spread in the guidebook, which she calls the Spiritual Growth Spread. With this layout, the querent can get an idea of “what is blooming”, any “support and/or challenges” and “outcome or further progression”.17 She also includes notes on how to use the deck and how to work with reversals. In her own words, Simone shares:

“Tarot of the Cosmic Seed is a journey into the experience of life. A vibrant and diverse spiritual tool, a bridge to the mysterious and the esoteric, as well as a guide to the everyday.”18 

Within the deck, Simone features a very diverse group of characters. For example, you will see the Hindu goddess Lakshmi on the 6 of Coins, Native American arrows on 8 of Wands, maidens in Asian dress on the 3 of Coins, a Mexican family with sombreros on the 10 of Cups, and an African princess on The Star card. For Mastery of Wands, Simone captures a gentleman in a pinstriped aqua suit that reminds me of Gregory Hines in The Cotton Club.

However, not all cards feature people. The 4 of Swords captures a beautiful velvet loveseat in rich turquoise hues with giant flowers that act as pillows. The 8 of Coins card showcases buttons, instead of coins, as well as a needle, thread and scissors.  

My favorite cards are The Wanderer, with a ballerina balancing on one foot atop a giant garnet gemstone; The Devil, which features a woman in a locked birdcage with a stag skull above her; and The Hermit, which is perhaps the most intriguing card in the deck.  The imagery on The Hermit combines a full moon, which is visible from a cave near an ocean or large sea, with a woman dressed in purple formalwear. Although she faces the sea, her head turns to look toward a lantern shining inside the cave. The visual is multi-layered with a sacred geometric pattern in the sky and crystals in each corner.  I could gaze at it for days!

To test drive the deck, I posted the backs of three cards on Facebook and asked friends to select a card and come back later for the reveal. Several women posted positive comments regarding the cards, such as one friend who selected the card 6 of Cups and shared that the message of enjoying memories and reconnecting with someone from the past really resonated with her. She had recently heard from a friend she had worked with 30 years ago. Another friend had this to say:

“This fell right in line with my own Tarot for today, 3 of Cups and 10 of Cups. I love it when the Tarot voice isn’t ambiguous but sings with clarity.”

Another friend selected the Justice card, which features a scale of gemstones with a human heart on one side and a feather on the other. I shared Simone’s guidance that states that the Egyptians believed in weighing the heart with a feather to reveal the true character of the person. My friend shared that she has “always been drawn to Egypt and actually lived there for several months years ago.” She went on to share about some physical challenges she and her daughter are navigating and how “it’s requiring me to practice balance in both thoughts and actions.”

My own journey with the deck provided me with thought-provoking words of wisdom and some incredible journal prompts. The rich colors and interesting characters will keep me coming back for more adventures with The Tarot of the Cosmic Seed.

These cards are standard size for a tarot deck, coming in at a little over 5” X 3”.  The cards are printed in a matte finish and on good quality card stock.  The back of the cards features a watercolor design of cobalt blue, turquoise, and midnight blue. Simone designed a beautiful symbol with an eye in the center and swirls and palm fronds flanking the eye. This esoteric symbol is printed in a turquoise foil imprint in the center of each card, and the cards are edged in turquoise foil, as well.  It is truly a stunning deck.

Tarot of the Cosmic Seed would be great for anyone who wants to expand their knowledge of tarot and enjoys working with a diverse set of characters from around the world. It would probably be best for someone with a basic knowledge of tarot or with a foundation in Rider-Waite Smith symbols. I really enjoyed working with this deck and plan to add it to my collection of decks for client readings. My adventures with this deck are encouraged by Simone, as she offers this prayer on the first page of the guidebook:

“May this deck help you tap into your inner knowing. May it be a conduit for the wisdom of the divine within. May it serve as a mirror for healing and growth. May it ever align to the highest good of all.”19

The Stained Glass Tarot, by James Edward

The Stained Glass Tarot: An Illuminated Journey through the Cards, by James Edward
Destiny Books, 9798888500828, 336 pages, 78 cards, 2024

In this beautiful deck, The Stained Glass Tarot: An Illuminated Journey through the Cards, creator James Edward presents 78 stunning cards filled with rich imagery and breathtaking stained glass images. Calling on the artwork from stained glass found around the world in churches, cathedrals, and other places dedicated to the sacred, Edward accents the cards in black and gold.

Each card features at least one stained glass window, which is usually the backdrop. The 9 of Cups has 13 stained glass windows! It is truly amazing how he creates each card as a masterpiece, with rich jewel tones and rays of light that shine through his creations. 

The Stained Glass Tarot presents a guidebook that shares Edward’s inspiration for the deck, how to use the deck, and numerous ideas for spreads. Next, he includes a brief history of tarot and how tarot blends with astrology, numerology, and alchemy. He also touches on Carl Jung and how the Swiss psychologist used tarot for “self-discovery and personal growth.”17

In the back of the book, Edward provides a list of books on tarot for further information. My favorite on this list is The Devil’s Playbook: The Complete Guide to Tarot Cards by Paul Huson!

Edward explains that when he was taken to church as a child, he would sit and watch “the bright morning light that shone through the glass, dyeing my skin and endlessly enchanting my vision.”20 He further notes:

“I have tested my response to stained glass numerous times and have confirmed that anytime I am in the presence of stained glass, I experience the same feelings — wonder, awe and peace.”21

In addition to the daunting task of creating the stained glass inspired artwork for each card, Edward also gave himself the challenge to write a poem about the major arcana, the minor arcana, and every other card in the 78-card deck! He also includes key words for each card.  For the major arcana, Edward presents the following for each card within the guidebook:

• Poem to capture the elements of the card’s energy
• Card Upright meaning
• Card Reversed meaning
• Astrological meaning
• Obscure meaning
• Jungian interpretation
• Card meanings for each of these situations:

  • Love and relationships
  • Health and well-being
  • Money and careers
  • Spirituality and spiritual development
  • Seeking clarity
  • Answer to:  How is my past affecting my present?
  • Ancestral influence
  • Unknown or hidden influence

For the 56 cards of the minor arcana, Edward devotes eight pages to a study of the suits and extensive information about each one. Next, he shares two to three pages on each card, starting with a poem about the main themes. Then he presents basic meanings for both upright and reversed positions and key words.

To test drive the deck, I pulled a card for my daily card draw. I asked for guidance regarding some goals I recently set. I drew the Star card. What a magical card! In Edward’s deck, this card shows a woman holding a star and accented by stars. She appears to wear a halo and has on medieval dress, complete with what appears to be armor on her shoulders. She is pensive, but hopeful. In the guidebook, Edward shares:

“It indicates that, after a period of darkness or uncertainty, one can have faith in the future and look forward to brighter possibilities. . . In an upright position, the querent will see a clearer picture of the path they must take to resolve their situation or overcome their problem.  . .  moving forward with a renewed sense of hope and inspiration.22

I also did a reading for one of my friends and pulled the Knight of Pentacles card. I shared that this card revealed a message about stepping back and reviewing her progress. There might be a need to be more flexible, also. My friend almost started crying. She told me about a difficult situation at work and that this short message was the guidance she needed to keep going.

The cards are a nice size, at 3” X 5” and feature rounded corners and a white border. The cards are printed on a light card stock, so time will tell how it holds up with shuffling. The back of the cards highlights a beautiful stained glass window, with a round central design and an eight-pointed star. The front of the box honors the artwork from the Magician card. The box includes a magnetic flap, two indented areas for the cards and ample room for the guidebook. 

This deck would be great for any level of tarot reader, including a beginner.  Due to the tarot history and “how to” section, as well as the guidance for each card, a novice would really benefit from practicing with this deck. The poems are a very nice addition to the guidebook, as each poem gives hints to the energy of the card and the rhyming stanzas give the brain something interesting to read, enjoy and retain.

I plan to keep The Stained Glass Tarot on hand for client readings. The extensive guidance will make a nice addition to my readings and the beautiful cards are an extra bonus. I really love this deck!

About the Author

James Edward has more than 20 years of experience in witchcraft, animism and other areas of the occult. He follows the symbology of the Rider-Waite tradition in creating this deck. As a chemist by day who works with a chemical company, Edward also enjoys house remodeling, cooking, and adding to his Tamagotchi collection. He currently enjoys his many cats and his home in southeastern Texas.

Starlore Arcana, by Nitasia Roland

Starlore Arcana: Constellations for Tarot, Astrology, and Cartomancy, by Nitasia Roland
Weiser Books, 1578638488, 128 pages, 56 cards, September 2024

Starlore Arcana: Constellations for Tarot, Astrology, and Cartomancy by Nitasia Roland is an intriguing and imaginative fusion of ancient wisdom and modern mysticism. In this deck, Roland seamlessly weaves together the celestial themes of constellations with the practices of tarot, astrology, and cartomancy, creating a rich tapestry that invites readers to explore the cosmos both within and beyond.

“We see something of our souls in the heavens, and the use of images helps us connect with those beings that are the stars.”1

The design of this 56-card deck is based on Astronomical Playing Cards created by John Lenthall and published in 1717. Roland digitally optimized Lenthall’s deck and then added four Knight cards she created, as the original deck had the traditional structure for playing cards (Jack, Queen, and King). Playing card suits are used instead of the traditional tarot suits with Wands as Clubs, Cups as Hearts, Swords as Spades, and Pentacles as Diamonds.

The symbol for the suit and card number is at the top of each card, though the full name of the card is also written at the bottom. The image of the constellation is the focal point for each card. Then the French name is written in a beautiful font, while the English translation is written in cursive below. Some cards feature more hand-written insight such as “rises not” or “sets not” to give further information about the constellation.

The deck is beautifully illustrated, with enchanting images that bring the constellations to life. These visuals not only enhance the reader’s experience but also serve as a valuable tool for meditative and intuitive work.  I love the rich colors used for the cards, which are a perfect contrast to the bold black lines of the imagery. For someone who loves both astrology and tarot, seeing the constellations come to life in the depictions and then further be illuminated by the structure of the tarot is a real treat. There’s so many layers in each card, and this is also reflected in the detailed guidebook entries.

Roland’s translation of the vastness of the night sky into personal and relatable insights in the guidebook is impressive. In the introduction, Roland shares the numerology meanings for Ace-10, quick descriptions of the suits and court cards, and guidance on how to consecrate, charge, and store one’s deck. Then for each card, she has written about the location of the constellation in the sky/times of the year when it’s present, the mythology or history of the constellation (star lore), cartomancy meaning, tarot meaning, and divination. Some cards also have a zodiac section too, if they have astrological significance.

For each entry, the longest section by far is the divination, providing a ton of insight about the card’s message for you. One of the standout features of this deck is Roland’s thorough research and deep understanding of the symbolic connections between the stars and divinatory messages. Each constellation is packed with details that offer historical context, mythological background, and practical guidance. Even as a seasoned tarot reader and astrologer, I find myself gaining plenty of new insights from how Roland ties all the aspects of each card together.

Plus, the guidebook is nice and big, making it easy to hold in one’s hand and read like a book. For someone studying the constellations, simply pursuing the guidebook will yield tons of insight, especially from the Star Lore section of each entry. And for those more drawn to divination, there’s something about the tandem reading of the cartomancy, tarot, and mythological significance of the constellation that illuminates so much within a reading. Truly, this deck is one of a kind in this regard.

One of my favorite cards in this deck is Ace of Spades (Swords), featuring the constellation Draco. The imagery looks like a mix of a dragon and snake, and on the card it reads “sets not” as this constellation never dips below the horizon. The lore describes how it is of Phonecian origins and also a Chaldaen figure. To the Babalonians, this constellation represented Tiamat, “the dragon goddess of chaos”.23 There’s also a Greek myth included too.

Cartomancy meanings include “Clarity”efn_note]page 65[/efn_note] and “Intellectual prowess.”24 While some tarot meanings read “Cutting toxicity”efn_note]page 65[/efn_note] and “Breakthroughs”efn_note]page 65[/efn_note]. Roland writes as part of the divination:

“Balance street-smart cunning with levelheadedness and decisive action, know thyself, and declare your battle cry. It is time to claim the prize that your holy Daimon guards for you in the gard of your personal Eden, which is none other than the wondrous ability to understand the part you have to play in the grand scheme of life–a many-branched tree laden with meaningful synchronicities and deep gnosis that help cut through darkness, chaos, and clouds of ambiguity and welcome cathartic experiences to guide your personal mission along avenues of joy and prosperity.”efn_note]page 65[/efn_note]

How potent and poetic is that divination? And that’s only a part of what Roland has to say about Draco! This deck definitely isn’t just a lot of fluff; it’s packed with meaningful substance that takes readers deeper on their spiritual journey.

Overall, Starlore Arcana is a captivating and enlightening deck that offers a fresh perspective by blending cartomancy, tarot, astronomy, and mythology. Roland has created a valuable resource for anyone looking for thorough readings that have a multi-faceted approach to the divination. Roland provides a unique and inspiring way to connect with the cosmos; I’ve definitely been more inclined to go star-gazing when reading with this deck. Whether you are a seasoned practitioner or a curious newcomer, this deck is sure to spark your imagination and give you new insight to the interconnection of our night’s sky and the divinatory arts.

Lumina Tarot, by Lauren Aletta

Lumina Tarot: Let your intuition guide you, by Lauren Aletta and illustrated by Tegan Swyny
Rockpool Publishing, 1922786284, 184 pages, 78 cards, September 2024

Lumina Tarot is a captivating and visually stunning deck that blends classical and modern stylistic elements. Created by psychic and spirit science teacher Lauren Aletta, this deck is infused with mystical wisdom brought to life by the illustrations of Tegan Swyny. Aletta’s approach to tarot is deeply personal and spiritual, encouraging users to explore within, overcome limiting beliefs, and allow the mystery to flow through them.

“This isn’t a tarot deck that tells you who you are; rather, it will inspire you to believe in yourself and be the hero of your own life.”24

Each card is thoughtfully illustrated with vibrant colors and intricate details, making it not only a tool for divination but also a piece of art that invites contemplation. Swyny has laced the imagery with spiritual symbolism, layering meaning within the cards. For instance, there’s a glyph of Mars on the Tower card, while the Knight of Cups features an ouroboros creating what appears to be a vivid full moon.

The deviation from the traditional tarot imagery allows the imagination to take flight. The blend of crystals, flowers, animals, and people on the cards make it feel vibrant and coursing with life. There’s a dynamism within the imagery; you can see the movement of energy taking place and it flows from the card into the readers.

And while there’s so much to intuit from the cards themselves, the guidebook further connects readers with their inner wisdom. I absolutely love the size of the guidebook (about 4.5 by 6.5 inches) because it’s easy to hold in one’s hand and read like a book. The text is nice and big, and the colorful imagery make it easy to find the card entry you’re looking for.

Aletta begins by providing general guidance for working with these cards and offering spreads that can be used. She then does a brief overview of the major and minor arcana and each element and suit with a quick note on reversals.

For each card, there’s a short summary of the meaning along with Aletta’s insightful interpretation for both the upright and reversed position. The descriptions are a blend of traditional tarot meanings with her unique spiritual perspective, written in a way that feels both accessible and profound.

The 2nd person writing style makes the reader the center of the guidebook description. I like how they read in this style because it’s similar to when one gets a reader from someone else; the reader can sit back and integrate the information without having to piece it all together using keywords or general descriptions other tarot guides often draw upon. Here’s a snippet from the Seven of Wands:

“You may be being called to back yourself and trust your own inner source of light. Your passion and resolve are being tested and, despite feeling uncertain, you welcome the occasion! You can feel the energy and vitality of what you stand for burning within you. You are being called to stand tall, to light the way for others.”25

One of my favorite cards in the deck is Wheel of Fortune. I am obsessed with how Swyny has illustrated it with a woman with eight arms standing on the sun and reaching up to touch the moon. In between her many arms is the moon in its different phases from waxing to waning. The grace and beauty of the card along with the sense of flow and movement instantly remind me of the ever-changing nature of life. There’s also the glyph of Jupiter etched into the moon, which reminds me of the expansiveness of life. Aletta’s guidebook entry for this card reads:

“Do not simply stand still and accept what life delivers. You are far more powerful than that. Be the course creator! Intentionally move the spinning wheel to the beat of your own heart’s guidance.”26

Overall, Lumina Tarot is a remarkable addition to the world of tarot cards. Its artistic beauty and depth of meaning make it a powerful tool for self-discovery and spiritual growth. Whether you’re new to tarot or a seasoned reader, this deck offers a rich and rewarding experience that can help you tap into your inner wisdom to live your life with greater clarity and insight. The vibrant energy of this deck coupled with a guidebook that speaks directly to me has quickly made this one of my favorite decks.

Tarot of the Unexplained, by Davezilla

Tarot of the Unexplained: A Deck of Cryptids, Ghosts, UFOs and Other Urban Oddities, by Davezilla
Red Wheel, 1578638348, 96 pages, 78 cards, August 2024

Tarot of the Unexplained: A Deck of Cryptids, Ghosts, UFOs and Other Urban Oddities by Davezilla is an intriguing blend of the high weird and the mysterious, merging the world of tarot with the enigmatic realm of urban legends and unexplained phenomena. This unique deck not only serves as a tool for divination but also as a fascinating exploration of some of the most captivating and eerie tales from around the world. And, if I’m honest, each time I pick it up cues the Twilight Zone theme song playing in my head.

In the guidebook’s introduction, Davezilla explains how he couldn’t find the tarot deck he was seeking–one that essentially combines aliens, ghosts, UFOS, cryptids, unexplained phenomena–so he decided to create his own. Creating an  other-dimensional, parallel system that mirrors the Rider-Waite system, he opens a door for readers into the bizarre world of folklore, legends, and the unknown. In this deck traditional cups, swords, wands, and pentacles respectively become portals, ghosts, knockers, and saucers, whereas the major arcana cards reflect well-known phenomena, folklore, monsters, and more.

The deck includes a comprehensive guidebook that provides detailed explanations of each card’s meaning, along with background information on the depicted legend. Every guidebook entry includes the card’s upright and reversed meaning, phenomena associated with it, an overview of the card’s meaning, and reflection for meditation. Davezilla’s writing is a direct, tell-it-straight style that tells you just what needs to be known at that moment.

So far, I’ve noticed his ascribed card meanings don’t line up exactly with the traditional Rider-Waite ones. So while I can use my own tarot knowledge to do readings, I’ve also been referencing the guidebook to tap into Davezilla’s perspective. I personally enjoy how Davezilla’s descriptions of the cards’ meanings unveil the unknown and ground the esoteric, whether through telling the story of the image featured, teaching the astrological symbolism of the card, or describing a type of person who might be represented in the reading, as with the court cards. 

Plus, the court cards themselves are very cool since Davezilla titles them fan (page), hunter (knight), advocate (queen), and skeptic (king). Yes, he even creates space for the skeptics in the deck too! Take for example the Skeptics of Ghosts, who Davezilla describes as “a grumpy old curmudgeon. He doesn’t believe in the afterlife. No time for such tomfoolery.”27

As for the look of the cards, Davezilla’s creativity shines through in awesome illustrations in this deck. He spent nine months creating the deck himself! Whether the cards feature cryptids, monsters, ghostly apparition, portal, or UFO encounter, the detail really attunes readers to the energy. Visually, this deck is haunting and captivating, drawing the reader into a world where the boundaries between reality and myth blur. And I love how there’s always a constellation depicted in the background, bringing in the celestial symbolism too.

The cards are strangely spooky and really get you thinking about what’s lingering in the hallway, happening in the middle of the night, or even in plain sight that you’re entirely missing out on noticing. How many portals do we overlook? And where exactly did my missing lipstick get to? Is the long-dead previous tenant still roaming around the hallway? Often we remain closed off to these lines of inquiry, but this deck pushes through our psyche’s barriers to open the “what if..” train of thought that gets our inquisitiveness stirring.

And it’s this opening to the peculiarity that makes Tarot of the Unexplained unique as a deck. Its ability to evoke a sense of wonder and curiosity, especially while doing divinations, makes readers even more receptive to the strangeness that wants to come through.

When I first started working with the deck, I got so into learning more about the different stories and happenings that I spent a good deal of time going through the guidebook and following up with Google searches of things that piqued my interest. I’ve also been doing more unusual readings with the deck, such as asking which phenomena I should study for insight. I also truly feel a tingling sensation whenever I work with the deck, as though I’m opening a doorway to the weirdness of the world we’ve yet to explain.

My favorite card in the deck is La Llorona, the Mexican Weeping Woman, who I first learned about when reading The Queen of the Cicadas by V. Castro. Seeing Davezilla pick her as the Empress utterly shocked and delighted me in the best way possible. For one, it showed me this guy really knew his stuff and wasn’t going with the basic, well-known mysterious entities in this deck. Second, relating her energy to the Empress was absolutely novel even though it appears to me as a more of a shadow side of the Empress.

Davezilla even writes this is a tough card, which most wouldn’t associate with the Empress. He writes:

“La Llorona is a “difficult” card. This is a card of chaotic magic, mental instability, infidelity, and deception. In extreme cases, this is a card where mommy can go a little crazy. In such cases, this is the official “Mommie Dearest” card.”28

I thought this was a very interesting take! And it speaks to how I have continually gone back to reference the guidebook to see Davezilla’s intention in creating the deck rather than relying on my own tarot knowledge to better understand the readings.

Overall, in Tarot of the Unexplained, Davezilla successfully captures the essence of these extraordinary oddities, encouraging users to delve deeper into the stories behind them. Whether used for divination, storytelling, research, or simply as a collector’s item, Tarot of the Unexplained is a must-have for anyone fascinated by the unknown and the supernatural. It’s a delightful journey into the obscure and the uncanny, offering the perfect combination of personal insight and out of the ordinary entertainment.