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Memento Mori, by Red Wheel/Weiser

Memento Mori: 36 Cards to Embrace Life, by Red Wheel/Weiser
Red Wheel, 1590035860, 36 cards, October 2025 

Memento Mori: 36 Cards to Embrace Life is far more than a simple oracle deck; it is a  contemplative, visually arresting meditation on the universal human experience. Rooted in  the ancient maxim Memento Mori, Memento Vivare— “remember that you will die, do not  forget to live”—this deck offers a uniquely balanced fusion of mortality and vitality.  This 36-cards set invites readers to reflect on the  fragility, beauty, and sacred ordinariness of life through art that is both haunting and deeply life-affirming. 

The first thing that struck me about this deck was its powerful intentionality. Each card  depicts a skeleton—no identities, no hierarchies, no distinctions. Whether a gardener, a  healer, a wanderer, or a childlike rabbit figure, every being is rendered with the same bones beneath the surface. This symbolic leveling highlights the truth at the heart of memento mori: regardless of where we come from or where we believe we are going, we walk the  same path from dust to dust, from life to death. Rather than approaching this with heaviness, the deck uses that equality as a basis for solidarity, compassion, and the celebration of the present moment. 

The artwork is one of the deck’s greatest strengths. Against a cool, subdued gray  background, evocative of ash, stone, and impermanence, vibrant  florals, botanical elements, and richly hued natural motifs are used to create striking visual contrast. The result is a language of opposites brought into harmony: the starkness of bone beside the lushness of life, the quiet of the grave beside the riotous bloom of flowers. Each  card feels like a small fine-point sketch brought to life, full of delicate linework and a painterly use of color that softens the subject matter while also imbuing it with unexpected  warmth. 

The simplicity of the messages is another defining feature. Phrases such as “Hold Space”, “Be the Light”, and “Your Path Is Open” guide the reader toward grounded, practical wisdom.  More than offering predictive statements or metaphysical abstractions, the deck focuses on actionable invitations to presence, kindness, connection, and courage. In a world oversaturated with noise, these short declarations feel like distilled clarity, acting as gentle reminders to inhabit the only time we truly have in the present moment.

The companion text on the introductory card expands on this philosophy beautifully. It  acknowledges death not as something to fear but as something to understand, presenting death as a teacher that encourages us to savor our days more deeply, to notice our habits and attachments,  and to remember that each moment holds the potential to shape the legacy we leave  behind. By embracing the transient nature of our existence, we are invited to live with  greater intention, to love more freely, and to let go of what is unnecessary.

Structurally, the deck is remarkably user-friendly. Its 36-card format feels intentional and  uncluttered, giving each image the space to speak for itself. The cardstock and printing quality, demonstrated in the richly detailed fronts and the elegant skull motif on the card backs, reflect a high level of craftsmanship. The minimalism of the guide materials also supports the deck’s overall theme of nothing extraneous, only what is essential. 

One of the most compelling aspects of Memento Mori is how it frames mortality not as an  imposed limitation but as an invitation. The presence of skeletal figures reminds us that beneath our stories and differences, we are united in our origin and our eventual return to  the earth. Yet the abundance of flowers, animal life, and symbolic objects illustrates that  within that shared trajectory, there is infinite complexity, possibility, and meaning. This interplay makes the deck both meditative and inspiring—a rare duality in oracle systems.

From a practical standpoint, the deck is wonderfully versatile. It works beautifully as a  daily draw, offering a reflective touchstone for mornings or evenings. It can also support  journaling practices, shadow work, grief processing, meditation prompts, or simply  moments of grounding during stressful days. Because the messages are concise, the  cards can be integrated easily into readings with Tarot or Lenormand, adding emotional or  philosophical depth without overwhelming the spread.

Ultimately, Memento Mori: 36 Cards to Embrace Life is a deck that succeeds in delivering  exactly what it promises. It reminds us of our mortality without morbidity, guides us toward  joy without triviality. It reveals the inherent beauty of being human, not in spite of our impermanence, but because of it. For anyone seeking a tool that blends introspection, artistry, and soulful presence, this deck is a powerful companion. 

For me, working with this deck was a quiet yet profound experience. Its imagery  encouraged a sense of reverence for the everyday—an awareness that even the smallest  details of life, from a wilted flower to a fleeting moment of gratitude, carry meaning. It deepened my appreciation for the present and reinforced the truth that to remember we will die is, paradoxically, to remember to live fully. 

I highly recommend this deck to spiritual practitioners, introspective readers, artists, grief  workers, and anyone who is navigating the delicate balance between honoring the past and embracing the future. It is a beautiful tool for grounding, reflection, and reconnecting with  the essence of what it means to be alive.

LightWeb Oracle Deck, by Joanna Hunter, Anna Babich, and Stephanie Wicker-Campbell

LightWeb® Oracle Deck: Soul Technology, by Joanna Hunter with illustrations by Anna Babich and Stephanie Wicker-Campbell
Muse Oracle Press, 1763586928, 140 pages, 44 cards, October 2025 

The world of oracle cards is brimming with decks that promise to guide, inspire, and deepen our understanding of ourselves and the universe. LightWeb® Oracle Deck: Soul Technology by Joanna Hunter with illustrations by Anna Babich and Stephanie Wicker-Campbell is a standout set, one that takes you on a journey and invites you into the realm of the LightWeb.

“Glimmering in the astral plane is the LightWeb, a glittering web of infinite possibilities and consciousness, where all is connected and everything is possible. A place where we remember our galactic origins and connect with our shared cosmic soul.”1

LightWeb Oracle Deck is designed to help users tap into a type of interconnected web, an energetic framework that connects all beings and possibilities. Hunter calls this structure a LightWeb. Here, the reader may access higher wisdom and foster a deeper relationship with their own intuition. Hunter’s background in energy work and spiritual mentorship is evident in the design of each card and its meaning.

The cards, illustrated by Babich and Wicker-Campbell, are adorned with luminous, ethereal designs that evoke a sense of tranquility. Soft gradients of light blues, violets, and pinks create a radiant effect, inviting the user into a space of reflection. The imagery, a blend of feminine forms, geometric patterns, and cosmic symbols, is both modern and mystical.

The deck is well-crafted, with a sturdy yet flexible card stock that will stand up to repeated shuffling. The glossy finish enhances the colors, making each draw a delight for the senses. The deck is a comfortable size for shuffling and reading, suitable for hands of all sizes. A sturdy box houses the cards and guidebook, echoing the aesthetic of the glimmering artwork

Hunter begins with a card that features a beautiful request for Divine support as the reader works with the cards. This prayer is short, but powerful and will make a nice way to open readings each time. 

After a brief introduction, Hunter shares the four LightWeb Principles: Self-love, Self-mastery, Self-leadership, and Self-empowerment. Next, she provides several good ways to activate your deck. My favorite of her tips is one I have used myself: sleep with the deck next to your bed. You can also add a quartz crystal on top.

After including a brief “How to Use this Deck,” Hunter reveals several spreads and then goes into the card guidance.  At the end of the guidebook, she includes a glossary of terms, as well as information on her “LightWeb Soul Technology and Course.”2

The deck consists of 44 cards, each designed to represent a specific aspect of the LightWeb philosophy. The cards are numbered, to make finding the complementary guidance easy. Themes range from self-empowerment and spiritual awakening to grounding and manifesting. Each card bears one word or phrase, such as “Akashic Records”, “Spirit Guide”, “Light Language”, or “Priestess”, accompanied by a few key words.

For each card in the deck, Hunter uses a very structured approach to the guidance. Each card has a title, key words and information from the LightWeb, as well as clues from the ShadowWeb. She also shares a Transmission of Light, which explains some of the card’s symbology.

Next, she includes a section on Going Deeper, which is the heart of the guidance.  Hunter ends with the LightTool of the Card. This device can be a simple statement, an energy healing tool, or a suggestion for better living. Each one is unique.

The deck’s structure makes it versatile, able to be used for daily single-card draws, more elaborate spreads, or even as a supplement to meditation and journaling practices. The cards offer guidance that feels both specific and open-ended, and I saw this over the seven days I worked with the cards. The themes are universal enough to resonate with a wide audience, but not so broad as to lose their impact. Each card feels like a gentle nudge toward introspection and connection to Divine Source. As I worked my way through the cards, I felt a deepening into myself and a newer form of connection to Divine Source.

My favorite card in the deck is Freedom. The artwork features a carefree woman smiling and enjoying life. The guidance speaks of “Choices. Being free. Self-acceptance. Having fun. Lightest of energies. Joy. Being in the moment.”3

The guidance asks me to journal about freedom and what it means to me. Finally, Hunter suggests that I play some music, move my body, and enjoy freedom. This message was just what I needed for the day after my husband had an accident that landed us in the ER. I was reminded that I WAS free and now both of us were safe and surrounded by the love of our angels and guides.

I plan to add this deck to the stack I have on hand for client readings. The guidance Hunter shares will be a perfect way to end intuitive readings. I will also enjoy using this deck for my daily card readings over the next few months. 

LightWeb Oracle Deck stands out as a luminous guide for those seeking clarity, empowerment, and connection. Its harmonious blend of art, wisdom, and practical tools makes it a joy to use, whether for quick insights or a deeper dive. The deck invites users to step into their own light, trust their intuition, and explore the interconnected web of possibility that surrounds them.  The guidebook’s practical suggestions and gentle tone make it accessible to beginners and advanced practitioners alike.

For anyone drawn to the world of oracle cards, the LightWeb Oracle Deck is a beautiful addition to any collection. It promises not only guidance, but a gentle reminder that we are all connected through the LightWeb, and that our journey is illuminated from within.

 About the Creators

Joanna Hunter is a teacher, author, speaker, podcast host and intuitive life and business coach. She is also High Priestess of the transformative group she calls LightWeb®. Hunter transitioned from marketing executive to spiritual coach after a major health scare several years ago. She channels a group of beings she calls Skyler and carries the sacred Codex of Light™ teachings. She serves as a spiritual guide for transformation and ascension. Hunter has written four other books and published two other oracle decks. Learn more about her at www.JoannaHunter.com.

Anna Babich is an illustrator and designer, who loves to create magical and celestial artwork.  Over her career, she has illustrated everything from clip art to oracle decks. Her style is very intuitive and ethereal, and she feels that she infuses a type of healing magic into each piece of art. See more of her work on her website.

Stephanie Wicker-Campbell is a gifted illustrator and designer, who has illustrated oracle decks, journals, and book covers. She is also a keynote speaker and author in her own right. In a recent post, she expresses that she is stepping back from design work and focusing more on her publishing house, Muse Oracle Press. Learn more at https://museoraclepress.com.

Akasha Oracle, by Emily Nicolle and Carla Cartagena

Akasha Oracle: Unlock wisdom from previous lives, by Emily Nicolle with illustrations by Carla Cartagena
Rockpool Publishing,1923208195, 128 pages, 48 cards, September 2025

The Akasha Oracle: Unlock Wisdom from Previous Lives by Emily Nicolle with illustrations by Carla Cartagena is a one-of-a-kind deck that invites readers to explore the limitless depths of the Akashic Records. Through its richly symbolic imagery and intuitive divining boards, this deck opens a channel to the soul’s timeless journey, offering glimpses into past lives, karmic patterns, and spiritual lessons that continue to shape the present and future.

The imagery in this 48-card deck has a striking aesthetic: detailed black-and-white illustrations accented with selective bursts of color. When looking through the cards, I see how the images reflect the deck’s core intention of guiding readers into the shadowy archives of the soul while illuminating hidden truths with the light of wisdom.

There’s something timeless about the monochrome tones of grayscale images, almost as if mirroring memories or echoes of the past, perhaps even the liminal space between lifetimes. Yet the vibrant color accents shine through, reminding me of the flashes of insights that emerge from accessing the Akashic Records: the lessons, gifts, and revelations waiting to be unlocked.

Plant life, specifically flowers, herbs, and trees, also play an important role throughout the deck. Each card pairs its theme  with a specific plant ally—camellia, sunflower, and many others. This connection grounds the cards in Earth-based symbolism, reminding us that even while exploring the soul’s eternal journey, we are still rooted in nature’s cycles and healing energies. The flowers act as guides, softening the heavier themes that come from exploring the Akashic Records. Each card has the plant ally’s name written on it, and there’s also more information about the plant’s symbolism in the guidebook.

 I do find these cards work best with a mutli-card spread, where the cards give insight into each other. Working with this level of guidance requires creating the space to really delve in, draw a full spread, and take the time to sit with the messages that come through. As someone who prefers to pull one card for a quick answer, this deck was an invitation to settle into a more thorough reading, slowing down to really integrate the potent information coming through. Nicolle provides quite a few spreads to choose from in the guidebook, offering a range to fulfill reader’s intentions.

As for the guidebook description of each card, the entries are fairly short. For each entry, Nicolle states directly what the card is showing you, but only in a few sentences. She leaves quite a lot of room for readers to tap into their own intuition and decipher how the message is relevant to their personal circumstance. There’s also a sentence about the symbolism of the plant ally featured on the card for further insight.

This deck is especially powerful in that it bridges the gap between divination and deep spiritual memory work. The spreads aren’t just revealing insights about what is to come. Rather, the cards act as keys, unlocking hidden wisdom and forgotten experiences that can shed light on past blockages or reveal opportunities for future growth; seekers can uncover patterns from past lives, gain clarity about present challenges, and receive guidance on how to align more fully with their soul’s purpose. Yes, this does add the layer of needing to then intentionally work with the information that’s come to light, which isn’t always easy but holds the potential for true spiritual integration and transformation.

Additionally, the inclusion of the divining boards, which Nicolle teaches how to use with a pendulum, offers even more pathways for deck readers to receive information. This enhancing inclusion makes the Akasha Oracle not just a tool for reflection, but a living channel for higher knowledge. The deck becomes more than just another oracle, serving as a portal to higher channeled wisdom.

These first divining board, Place and Era, allows readers to uncover the time period (prehistory, antiquity, middle ages, modern era, and contemporary times), location (Asia, Africa, Europe, Oceania, and America), and if the lifetime was as a man or a woman. The second divining board, Date, goes even further into specific times, offering the chance to figure out the exact day, month, century, decade, unit, and whether it was BCE or CE. These boards can be used to find out more about a past life or to divine the timing of future events.

I definitely recommend journaling the readings done with this deck, as it can be a lot of guidance to take in all at once, and readers may need time to integrate what comes through. I’ve often found that when working with Akashic Records that pieces of a certain lifetime or specific wounds that span lifetimes are revealed in bits and pieces, so as to not overwhelm. Having a detailed record of previous readings will help to keep track of the information that’s coming through, better allowing readers to put together the whole story in a holistic way. Similarly, it’s always great to write down divinations about the future to see how they ultimately manifest.

Overall, Akasha Oracle is perfect for anyone drawn to soul evolution and karmic healing. This deck offers a rare and transformative way to access wisdom that transcends time. The Akasha Oracle serves as both a guide and a key, helping readers access forgotten knowledge, heal wounds from past lives, and realign with their soul’s purpose. Whether looking to understand recurring challenges, discover hidden gifts, or simply connect more deeply with your higher self, this deck provides a sacred space for reflection and revelation.

Sun-Steeped, by Shannon Christine

Sun-Steeped: A Golden Hour–Infused Affirmation Deck, by Shannon Christine
Red Wheel, 1590035801, 64 pages, 54 cards, June 2025

Sun-Steeped: A Golden Hour-Infused Affirmation Deck by Shannon Christine is a deck that is truly inspired by the Sun. Each and every message is bursting with positivity and very wonderful and helpful advice. This oracle deck is absolutely amazing in so many ways, but what stands out most to me is its simplistic artwork and powerful messages.

The guidebook that the deck comes with is short and sweet, but each message fills you with warmth and positivity and you gain knowledge that will help you grow and expand. Every message is meaningful and easy to understand just by looking at the card itself.

The artwork is simple but there is a warmth that surrounds each card. There is a teacup on the back of each card which adds more of the pleasant warm vibe, I also enjoyed the light and colorful color scheme. The imagery fits the messages of the cards very well. For example the card “I light the light in everywhere I can” shows a heart with a sun inside of it and the background has sun rays behind it. The card’s message matches the artwork gloriously.

Each card is numbered, but it’s really small and can be found on the bottom right corner of each card. I didn’t notice this until pulling my fourth card. This is the only complaint I have about this deck; it would be helpful if the numbers were just a little bigger. But otherwise, the art for each card was crafted with care, to make each and every message stand out and make sense.

The deck shows a lot of imagery of figures and hands, but some of the cards like “I take action from a place of love” and “Unapologetically is the way to be” depict a heart and sun respectively. At one point I came across a card with artwork of the Earth as well.

This deck has many teachings that need to be seen and heard, such as “When my cup runneth over, I pour into others”. In this day in age where selfishness rules the world, it’s a great reminder that if you have extra, give to others that may need it.

Every card I’ve pulled has been what I needed to hear in that exact moment as well. For example, “My energy is a currency, I choose to spend it wisely” is a card I pulled as I was struggling to find the motivation to get better at time management. This card truly called me out when I needed it most. At the time, I was struggling to find time to work on the twelve other projects. The message was a helpful realization for me to pull through and manage my time better. In the guidebook, Christine writes:

“Time to audit your energetic finances and see what needs to be prioritized, and what needs to be given the chop.” (Page 30)

Each card has the most helpful advice along with a strong message, a prime example was when I pulled a collective message and the card that I pulled read, “I have the grace to know when it’s time to let go”. This is a powerful message to send out to the collective I felt. We all carry something that burdens us. But it’s important for us to let go of what has been burdening us for so long and relieve ourselves of the weight that it carries for the greater good. We must do this for ourselves at some point.

It didn’t take me long to connect with this deck, I’ve worked with it for about three or four days now, and the energy that radiates from this deck is very caring and empathic. With each and every card I had pulled there was an instant connection of understanding, even when I got called out, it was still from a place of caring. A truly beautiful thing indeed.

The cards felt like they belonged in my hands and they shuffled with ease. The cards are thin but very strong. The box is very simple but nice, there’s artwork underneath the cards and when you flip the lid over the box, you reveal a message saying “Peace can be found in the present moment.”

Sun-Steeped has been very helpful in aiding me with some well-needed daily positivity as well. I would have to say if you are looking for a deck that provides you with positivity, encouragement, kindness, and understanding, well then look no further! This deck will provide you with this type of support. This deck has been very lovely and has been presented beautifully; the art is very eye-catching and stunning. I have found the messages to be helpful and gentle reminders of things I must do in order to take care of myself and grow.

Enchanted Earth Oracle, by Jessica Lahoud and Amanda Clark

Enchanted Earth Oracle, by Jessica Lahoud and illustrated by Amanda Clark
Rockpool Publishing, 1922786454, 96 pages, 36 cards, June 2025

Enchanted Earth Oracle, created by the imaginative Jessica Lahoud with illustrations by Amanda Clark, is a beautiful deck that asks us to delve into the mysteries of nature. Each card serves as a portal to the wisdom of the natural world, offering guidance, inspiration, and a touch of magic.

Jessica Lahoud is an Australian author, crystal healer and entrepreneur, best known for her co-ownership of a popular crystal store called Mineralism.  She has also written a book on gemstones and created a deck of crystal flashcards. As a third-generation crystal and gemstone merchant, she travels the world to find crystals.  Her deep love for nature and the bond between humans and the natural world led her to create this deck.  Learn more about Lahoud on her website.

Amanda Clark lives and works in England, where she creates enchanting and whimsical artwork that captures the imagination. Her creations often depict mystical landscapes and ethereal beings, drawing inspiration from folklore, nature, and the spiritual realm. Clark’s artistic journey began at a young age, fueled by her fascination with the natural beauty of the English countryside. Over the years, she has honed her skills in various forms, including painting, illustration, and mixed media. Her illustrations are featured in books, oracle decks and coloring books, as well as larger pieces shown in galleries and private collections. Enjoy more of Clark’s artwork and learn more about her here.

This deck comprises a diverse array of cards, each representing different aspects of the natural world. From lush forests and serene rivers to majestic mountains and the ethereal night sky, every card is a testament to the beauty of the earth and its creatures. Woodland animals such as foxes, bears, hares and owls are depicted. The cards are artfully designed to provide a balanced representation of nature’s multifaceted character. As Lahoud says in her introduction: 

“This deck is a love letter to the magic found all around us in nature and the many lessons offered to us through the divine expressions of Gaia, the universe and great spirit.”4

Each card features Clark’s amazing artwork, a number, a title and keywords.  If you were crunched for time or wanted to share the cards with others in a setting that didn’t allow for reading the guidebook, each card provides a quick message. The symbology in each card, including the woodland creature, flowers, trees and sky views also offer food for the intuition.

Accompanying the deck is a comprehensive guidebook that delves into the meanings and interpretations of each card. Lahoud’s writing is both poetic and insightful, offering readers a deeper understanding of the messages conveyed by the cards. The guidebook also includes practical advice on how to use the deck for readings, meditation, and personal reflections. She also shares some ideas for card spreads and notes on animal symbology. I love this idea Lahoud shares:

“Immerse yourself in a journey as you visualize yourself sitting on a forest floor, surrounded by moss and towering trees. . . . You invite the woodland creatures to gather around you, forming a council of magical messengers.”5

Lahoud and Clark share a full page, four-color graphic of the artwork for each card alongside the supportive guidance.  Each message also includes key words and an affirmation. The cards are numbered, which helps find the passage for each card and ties to the table of contents. 

I took the deck to my Friday Coffee & Cards group and a few friends shared their feedback on the guidance they received:

CH: #28 – Divine Timing

“Thanks for this. Why do we always want to impose our timetable on the Divine?  I really like this reminder: “There is a divine plan for you.’ And I love the little fox!”6”

BR: #12 Grateful – “I’ve been such a whiny person lately.  Such a great reminder to start each day with gratitude and remember that the deer doesn’t worry. Thanks!”

For myself, I drew #22 Quiet Achiever. It serves as a reminder that we don’t have to share everything we do with the world.  The owl in the artwork is solemn and regal.  I like that.  The affirmation also speaks to me:

“My accomplishments hold equal value, even when they happen in private.”7

The cards feature a nice, glossy finish and are standard size.  The card stock is good quality and will stand up well to repeated shuffling and use. The guidebook has a glossy cover and a matte finish on the interior pages.  It is slightly larger in size than the dimensions of the cards.  The box that houses the set is a one-piece box, with a fold-over top, an indention to hold the cards and a ribbon to easily remove them. The box is printed with a soft, matte finish and the artist adds metallic silver varnish to the title. This allows Enchanted Earth Oracle to really pop.

This deck would be good for both novice and practiced readers.  The guidance is easy to follow and yet each message is quite transformative when reviewed in concert with the rituals Lahoud recommends.

Overall, Enchanted Earth Oracle is a remarkable deck that seamlessly blends artistry, spirituality, and nature. Its captivating visuals, coupled with the profound insights in the guidebook, make it a must-have for anyone seeking to deepen their connection with the natural world.

This deck is not just a tool for divination, but a journey into the heart of nature’s magic. The cards have a unique ability to resonate with the user’s intuition, providing clarity and guidance in times of uncertainty. Whether used for daily affirmations, spiritual exploration, or decision-making, this oracle deck is a powerful tool for connecting with the wisdom of the earth.

Cries of the Souls Oracle, by Isabelle Nerf and Daphne Sebbane

Cries of the Souls Oracle, by Isabelle Nerf and illustrated by Daphne Sebbane
Rockpool Publishing, 192278673X, 144 pages, 42 cards, March 2025

Cries of the Souls Oracle, authored by Isabelle Nerf and illustrated by Daphne Sebbane, offers readings filled with meaningful insight and emotional depth. This is a deck to discover new facets of the soul, especially those pieces that have been hurt, hidden, and are crying out for attention. Specifically designed to be a tool for readers to discover their inner power, the thoughtful insights within this deck will guide you in discovering your wounds and blocks to gently release and transform them.

“The wounds you carry inside you can block you on your path. This is a part of life, but you don’t have to live with them as pain. Even if you can’t erase your wounds, you can accept them and create a new relationship with them that will accompany you on a path towards peace and well-being.”1

It’s not always easy to delve into shadow work. Many opt for decks that offer a positive affirmation to counter the pain, but in my experience, the only way to truly offer a soothing balm to what ails our soul is by taking the time to settle in and quietly listen to what this part of us needs to say. This deck is a perfect way to communicate with our inner needs, offering the messages that it might be too difficult or troublesome for us to discover on our own. In many ways, this deck feels like a trust companion or guide who is willing to hold your hands while you venture into emotional vulnerability.

There’s something so relieving about naming the block or pain that’s been holding us back. Each time I’ve used the deck, asking what obstacle is holding me back that day or seeking insight into a certain situation, the card I’ve pulled immediately made intuitive sense and I felt a weight being lifted off my shoulders. My burden was no longer mine to carry alone; Nerf’s meaningful messages offer a fresh perspective.

For each card, within the guidebook Nerf offers a mantra, a piece of wisdom to understand the reason for the block and the role it plays in your life, supplemental guidance about how the wound can bring positivity or protect you, a warning that helps you to define your relationship with the wound to promote self-acceptance, and insight on moving forward by creating a new relationship with your wound to reclaim your power. What I found interesting about the guidebook entries is how they’re written in first-person, as though the wound is speaking directly to you.

Here’s an example of a reading that was very significant for me: I was struggling in my relationship to my grandmother. She’s over fifty years my elder and our viewpoints on what is expected of me as a woman and mother differ vastly. I have been struggling with her critical remarks about my parenting and endless barragement of disapproval in regard to my life choices. I’ve felt torn between maintaining family harmony and being true to myself.

And would you believe the card I pulled? Family Loyalty. The mantra on this card reads “I am myself.”8 In the Wisdom section of the guidebook, the wound says “I may not consider your needs, dreams and passions as having any importance, especially if they diverge from family conventions.”9 This is exactly what my wound was telling me: I was a failure, I could never succeed at what I want in life even if I tried, and that my path was one of self-indulgence.

I deeply resonated with Nerf’s writing, which highlighted how this wound really shows up when we’re doubting our path, providing an excuse to not take a risk and follow a beaten path instead. I love the ideas for moving forward, which include listing what is great about myself and my dreams, even vision boarding them as a reminder, so that I can focus my energy on these projects and diminish the energy of the wound. The one line that really stood out for me was this one:



“Assert yourself and dare to show your identity and creativity to the world, because the more you do so the more you’ll diminish my power over you and future generations. Live your own life and set aside the codes that don’t work for you.”10

This “dialogue” with the wound really made me feel more confident again. Yes, I am always going to feel the pressure of my family, but by acknowledging this wounding I can learn to stand in my own power and create a new path that feels aligned with my soul.

The cards themselves are simply beautiful. The only colors used in the deck are black, tan, and coral. The back of the cards shows two hands holding roses with an eye on each palm; there’s sketches of teardrops and stars surrounding them. The whole deck is gilded with a black edging that makes for a smooth shuffle.

As for images on the cards themselves, Sebbane has done a wonderful job choosing potent symbols to represent the energy of each card. Looking at the images invokes feeling, even in their simplicity, and I feel like one could use the images as talisman for protection. At the bottom of the card is the title and mantra, encased in a box, once again giving definition and emotional clarity to each pull. The artwork is both ethereal and grounded, drawing the reader into a world where the spiritual realm comes to life. This makes the deck visually appealing and enhances the intuitive experience by providing visual cues that resonate with the reader’s subconscious.

Overall, working with Cries of the Souls Oracle has been a moving experience. The insightful interpretations provided by Nerf, combined with Daphne Sebbane’s symbolic illustrations, create a powerful tool for self-reflection and reclaiming one’s power. This deck offers more than just answers—it provides a pathway to understanding the needs of one’s soul and encourages readers to listen to their inner voice and connect with their emotions, fostering a deeper understanding of themselves and wounds that need tending. I highly recommend this deck to readers of all skill levels. The content is accessible thanks to Nerf’s creative approach in writing the guidebook, offering insight into the depths of one’s inner landscape.