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Numerology Oracle, by Rosemaree Templeton

Numerology Oracle, by Rosemaree Templeton
Rockpool Publishing, 192257953X, 96 pages, 36 cards, October 2024

Numerology Oracle by Rosemaree Templeton is an intriguing exploration into the mystical world of numerology, offering readers oracle guidance to understanding and utilizing the power of numbers in their daily lives. Templeton, an experienced numerologist, shares insight that is both accessible and engaging, appealing to both newcomers and seasoned enthusiasts of numerology.

“Just as our earth is a living, vibrating being, everything on it or in it is also living and vibrating at its own individual frequency. This includes our spirit friends — seen and unseen. Aso9i with all things in this universe, each of these spirit beings can be aligned with a number.”1

This deck really pops with its bright colors and intricate patterns. The card’s images feature intricate patterns of animals, ranging from monkeys to whales, unicorns to ladybugs. The color and animal have significances that blend together to lend another layer of meaning to each card that the reader is intended to intuitive. The number of the card stands in contrast to the pattern in big, bold, black text. The number is also written on the top and bottom of the card along with a one or two word card title. The cards are stimulating, so this something to keep in mind when working with the deck.

The guidebook is structured in a way that gradually introduces the reader to the fundamental concepts of numerology. Templeton shares how the deck came to be, a background on numerology, how to use the cards, and spreads that work well for the deck. There’s also a quick meditation offer for readers to get in a good frame of mind for reading the cards.

One thing that’s really interesting about this deck is that the numbers are not in chronological order. There are five card types: numerology, karmic, abundance, archangel, and ascended master cards. Templeton has chosen to separate numbers into these different categories based on her knowledge of the each number’s energetic frequency. This was a novel approach to numerology, and I think it makes for a real interesting oracle read.

Since the numbers do not go in order, readers need to rely on the table of contents in the guidebook to find their entry, or otherwise they can simply flip through until they find it. Every entry in the guidebook has a two-page of guidance bout the card’s message, but the focus of the messages change based on the category of the card.

The numerology card descriptions focus on why the reader may have pulled the card and actions it would be good, often involving working with or wearing a certain color. The archangel and ascended master card entries share about the energy of these divine beings, how they are showing up to support the reader, and insight on how to  work with them. The karmic cards entries focus on areas of personal development on a soul-level, while the abundance cards share the wisdom gained from the symbols of wealth depicted on the card.

Templeton doesn’t really delve into why the number is representative of each energy, rather she focuses on communicating the energy in the form of an oracle guidance. Her style writing is clear and concise, making the message of each card very easy to understand and integrate into one’s life. She often offers a practical application for the card, opening readers to applying numerological concepts to real-life situations. This hands-on approach helps to reinforce learning and encourages readers to trust their intuition as they delve deeper into the world of numerology.

Overall, Numerology Oracle is a valuable resource for anyone interested in exploring the mystical and empowering world of numerology. Templeton successfully conveys the transformative potential of numerology as a tool for personal growth and self-discovery. With its blend of insightful theory and practical application, the book is sure to inspire readers to look beyond the ordinary and embrace the magic of numbers in their lives.

Season of the Witch: Mabon Oracle, by Lorraine Anderson and Juliet Diaz

Season of the Witch: Mabon Oracle, by Lorraine Anderson and Juliet Diaz with illustrations by Tijana Lukovic
Rockpool Publishing, 1922579750, 160 pages, 44 cards, July 2023

Seasons of the Witch: Mabon Oracle by Lorraine Anderson and Juliet Diaz is a captivating addition to the Season of the Witch series, particularly for those who are drawn to the spiritual and mystical aspects of autumn. Filled with fall foliage and scenes of the harvest season, the card in this deck encapsulates the bountiful feelings of this season

The authors describe in their introduction how the cards in this deck “prioritize spiritual self-care, specifically care around establishing boundaries, surrendering to changes and letting go of what no longer serves.”1 This focus of shedding the old and nurturing oneself reminds me of the trees during the autumn season, dropping their leaves and going inward to make it through the dark winter season. There’s even “Falling leaves spread” the authors share too, along with other ones such as “Molasses spread” and “Maple tree spread”.

The guidebook that accompanies the deck is comprehensive and thoughtfully written. Anderson and Diaz have done an excellent job of providing clear interpretations and practical guidance for each card. For every entry, they share keywords, a one-sentence message, and then a two-page explanation of the card’s meaning.

The explanations all begin with “Your higher self chose this card because…”. I really liked this style! First, it made me feel connected to my spiritual self while reading. And second, it really delves into the “why” this card came through when it did and what it’s meant to be pointing out in that moment.

In the week leading up to Mabon, I pulled a card from this deck every day. Four times, including on actual Mabon, I got the card Reaper. It was one of those instances when it was loud and clear a message was coming through. The one-sentence message for this card reads:

“For the birth of something new to manifest the death of something holding you back is inevitable.”2

The keywords associated with the cards are “endings, sudden change, unhealthy attachments”3. It felt like I was really being asked to take stock of patterns in my life and make adjustments, even if it felt hard or like I wasn’t ready to do things a different (and more likely healthier) way. I appreciated how this deck doesn’t sugar coat things and focuses on both the dark and light aspects of the messages we need to hear for our own spiritual growth.

This balancing of light and dark, reflective of the autumn equinox is one of the best parts of this deck. This time of year is traditionally associated with gratitude, balance, and reflection, and the cards in this deck beautifully encapsulate these themes. The richer tones of this deck highlight the darkness that is beginning to descend while also honoring the joys that the light has brought, such as healthy crops to make stews, brews, and all the other autumn delights.

Some of the cards in this deck include Campfire, Corn maze, Cranberries, Foraging, Mead and wine, Pomegranate, Queen of the Dead, Scarecrow, Tea magick, Whiskey, and Wool. Just skimming through the cards and looking at the images on them gives me the fall feels–cozy moments, crispy air, and lots of community gatherings.

The artwork on the cards, created by Tijana Lukovic, is rich, evocative, and deeply resonant with the energy of the season. Each card is a work of art that invites the reader to delve into the symbolism and meaning of the card’s title. The dark hues balanced by the light perfectly capture the equilibrium of night and day that the autumn equinox marks.

One of the strengths of Seasons of the Witch: Mabon Oracle is its ability to inspire introspection and personal growth. The cards encourage users to explore their inner worlds, reflect on their lives, and embrace the cycles of change and renewal. This makes the deck not only a tool for divination but also a valuable resource for personal development and spiritual practice. Whether a reader dose a one-card pull daily or decorates an altar with the cards, there’s a lot of potency imbued in the deck.

In terms of usability, the cards are of high quality, with a sturdy cardstock that shuffles easily and feels good in the hands. The size of the cards is also practical, striking a balance between being large enough to appreciate the detailed artwork and small enough to handle comfortably.

Overall, Seasons of the Witch: Mabon Oracle is a beautifully crafted and thoughtfully designed deck that offers both aesthetic pleasure and profound insights of autumn. It is a wonderful addition to any oracle card collection, especially for those who resonate with the energies and the themes of Mabon. Whether you are new to oracle cards or a seasoned practitioner, this deck is sure to provide inspiration, guidance, and a deeper connection to the rhythms of nature.

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.”4

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.”5

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.”6

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.

Seasons of the Witch – Lammas Oracle, by Lorraine Anderson and Juliet Diaz

Seasons of the Witch – Lammas Oracle, by Lorriane Anderson and Juliet Diaz with illustrations by Tijana Lukovic
Rockpool Publishing, 1922579777, 160 pages, 44 cards, July 2024

Season of the Witch – Lammas Oracle by Lorraine Anderson and Juliet Diaz, with illustrations by Tijana Lukovic, is a captivating addition to Seasons of Witch oracle deck sires, particularly for those who resonate with the themes of the Wheel of the Year. As the seventh one released in the collection, this oracle deck is centered around Lammas, a festival celebrating the first harvest, and it weaves together the wisdom and spirit of this sacred time.

I always look forward to a new Seasons of the Witch deck because I love how perfectly Anderson, Diaz, and Lukovic capture the energy of the sabbats. There’s repeating patterns I’ve noticed in the decks–the foiled edges, the artistic style, and the uplifting messages focused on self-reflection and personal growth. Yet for each deck, the creators have drawn upon energies related to the time of the year and centered the guidebook messages and artwork around that theme. In the introduction, they write:

“We have decided to reclaim this sabbat as the energy of the boss witch and created this deck to support you in becoming the CEO of your life. It doesn’t matter whether you start a business or not, because it isn’t about the hustle but about taking control of your life and being brave enough to chase after your desires.”7

I feel like this energy matches Lammas since it’s always a season when I start feeling called to get things organized and prepared for the coming winter. I start noticing what’s been working this year through spring and summer, harvesting what’s cropped up with intentions of planting again next year, as well as what needs to be weeded to create more room for growth. And clearly the creators were also thinking in terms of vegetation as there’s a strong farm theme within the imagery of the deck.

The deck is comprised of 44 exquisitely illustrated cards, each adorned with Lukovic’s thoughtful artwork. The illustrations are rich with symbolism and gentle colors that evoke the essence of the end of summer and the bountiful harvest it provides. Images of fruit trees, sunflowers, bushels of apples, and corn connect readers to the abundance of the natural world during this time.

Lukovic’s art does more than merely decorate; it captures the Lammas theme of community, gathering the crops, and enjoying the final golden days of summers swimming and going to the county fair. Looking through the deck, one feels the mixture of work it has taken to get this far alongside the release that comes from finally being able to reap the benefits of what’s been toiled for. While the deck draws upon an idealization of a simple life (the images looks very relaxing and old-timey), I love how the cards bring forth the gratitude and appreciation for what has come to friction during Lammas, reminding the reader of pleasures of enjoying the bounty that’s been cultivated with care, intention, and love.

The guidebook that accompanies the deck is equally impressive, offering clear and insightful interpretations for each card, along with practical advice on how to incorporate the messages into one’s daily life through oracle spreads such as Sunflower Cross Spread, Prayers to the Earth Spread, and Vegetable Garden spread. The authors also suggest pulling a daily card, picking a guiding light card for the month, and creating a Lammas altar. There’s even a QR code for readers to scan to learn more about Lammas correspondences for their altar creation.

The deck’s messages are uplifting and empowering, emphasizing themes of gratitude, abundance, and the cyclical nature of life. For every entry in the guidebook, the authors offer key words, a summary sentence (the same message on the card itself), and insight into the card’s meaning. For some entries there are also additional rituals, meditations, recipes, or spells too.

My favorite card in the deck that I’ve pulled so far is Welcoming the Harvest. The image on the card is of a woman sitting on the back of a truck whose bed is filled to the brim with flowers, vegetables, and fruits. The amber waves of grain sway around her as black birds circle above in the blue sky. She sits and enjoys a bite of an apple, eyes closed as she savors the moment. The card reads:

“Expect growth and expansion, as your hard work has paid off. It’s time to celebrate!”8

The keywords for this card in the guidebook are “results, return on investments”9. And for the interpretation, the authors describe how this card symbolizes being on the right path and heading towards success in both short-term gains and long-term investments. It felt like such a great affirmation for the work I’ve been doing recently, and I was thrilled to read the line, “Your determination, focus and drive are fueling excellent results.”10 I’ve been giving it my all and this was confirmation that what I’m doing is all worthwhile.

One thing I really also like about this deck is that while the deck holds the seasonal energy of Lammas, the authors encourage readers to work with this deck throughout the year too for certain endeavors. They suggest working with this deck when coming into a leadership position, if one is a business owner or team leader, to raise one’s standards or bring in a higher level of self-worth, when coinciding long-term investments, and to make “boss or high-level moves.”11 So if any of these themes feel relevant to you, this would be a great deck to work with year-round to tap into your inner wisdom and gain guidance.

For anyone seeking to attune their oracle readings to the rhythms of the natural world and wheel of the year, Season of the Witch – Lammas Oracle is a beautifully crafted tool that offers both inspiration and guidance. Anderson and Diaz have once again done an amazing job bringing forth the energy of a sabbat into meaningful and thoughtful oracle cards, while Lukovic’s artistic interpretation of the messages makes this deck a pleasure to work with. Readers of all levels will enjoy the feelings of plenty and abundance infused in this deck, especially those who enjoy the grounded, down to earth feeling of being connected to nature.

Seasons of the Witch: Imbolc Oracle, by Lorraine Anderson and Juliet Diaz

Seasons of the Witch: Imbolc Oracle, by Lorraine Anderson and Juliet Diaz
Rockpool Publishing, 1922579785, 112 pages, 44 cards, November 2023

In the darkness of winter, Imbolc is a time of fresh starts, hope, and renewal, as we begin to see signs of the spring returning. While others rush to make their new year’s resolution in January, I’ve always known the potent magic in waiting until Imbolc to start crafting my intentions. And this year I’m really excited to have Seasons of the Witch: Imbolc Oracle by Lorraine Anderson and Juliet Diaz  to turn to for guidance as I map out my intentions for the upcoming months.

The Seasons of the Witch oracle series has already moved through Yule, Samhain, and Mabon, and with this deck Anderson and Diaz turn their focus to encapsulating the energy of Imbolc into the next deck in the series. Anderson and Diaz describe how they find Imbolc “to be the most suited for solitary work, a time when you turn inward and focus on your hopes and dreams.”1

“Each card was brought to light with the hope that it would stimulate self-awareness rather than focusing on other people.”12

To better acquaint myself with the deck, I decided to flip through the guidebook before delving into a reading. Following the author’s introductions, there is a list of themes and areas of focus for Imbolc, an overview of how to use the cards, and card spreads. I really liked the authors’ idea of pulling a monthly guiding-light card, photocopying it, and placing it in areas you’ll see throughout the day to remind you of the energy. Anderson and Diaz also describe how after reader feedback from other decks, they decided to shift from invocations to mini messages that give a glimpse of the card’s meaning.

The cards themselves have a calm, tranquil energy. I instantly feel at ease when I’m holding the deck. They shimmer with their navy-blue gilded edges, and the image on the back of the moon with candles surrounding it brings a soft, gentle illumination. The cards’ imagery remind me of the concept of hygge, bringing warming feelings of contentment or well-being. Some card names are Cinnamon Rolls, Casserole, Greenhouse, Amethyst, Snowflakes, Groundhog, Dawn, and Aquarius.

The coloring is a perfect mixture of healing darkness with soft light, reminding readers of the bliss that comes in the quiet stillness of the deep winter, but also honoring the winter blues. In the mix there are plenty of cards that invite the reader to delve into their grief and longing and create a sacred space for healing and transformation to occur. It is only through having the courage to face the dark that we can find the light within again; with this deck, we are safely held to explore our inner realms and wash away the old to pave way for the new.

My first time using this deck I did a one-card pull and got Arts and Crafts. It instantly felt very aligned, as I have been longing to create space in my schedule to do some crafting projects. Recently, I’ve been longing to create a winter vision board, bake and build a gingerbread house, and make my own witch’s ball and/or spell jar. The card felt like an intuitive nudge to follow this whim.

Then reading the message for Arts and Crafts hit home even more. It reads:

“The Arts and Crafts card comes to you when you are trying to manifest your vision using other people’s means and methods instead of creating something for yourself. . . Don’t cut yourself short thinking you don’t have the skill to bring your ideas and visions to life, because skills can be learned and mastered.”13

Recently, I have been relying on other people, hoping their dreams pan out and I fit in somewhere, rather than pursuing my own visions. This card was a gentle reminder of my creativity, from the daily crafts I will start to build to the greater vision of my life that I am now feeling ready to begin tending again.

My next time using this deck was to gain insight into how I could heal an important relationship in my life. I chose the Rosemary bread spread (yum, right?) that the authors warn “is not for the faint of heart”14 as it will reveal honestly if the relationship is better mended or if it has reached its natural conclusion and it’s time to part ways. The positioning of four main cards gives insight into whether or not the relationship should continue, and the cards five-a and five-b are to be read depending on if the answer is “yes” to mend the relationship or “no” to heal and move on.

When I read the first four cards in the spread, I was honestly shocked by the accuracy. It was as though the deck tapped into the situation perfectly and laid before me the truth that I had been unintentionally shielding myself from. The essence of the message was that my partner and I were not in alignment with our higher purpose; I am being non-committal, while he is lacking focus. The fourth card, Peppermint, revealed it was time for a clearing of toxic patterns. (Sidenote: It was interesting that Peppermint came up for me too because it’s an herb I’ve been feeling really called to work with recently!)

From the spread, I determined the message was to mend, and so I read the follow-up card that pretty much pointed to us needing to do some shadow work to overcome these recurring issues. Sharing this information with my partner led to a much-needed discussion about our future, and afterwards we felt more connected than we had in a while. I definitely felt the author’s intention for this deck to help readers focusing on their own inner work rather than other people’s expectations of you helped to restore balance in my relationship.

So far, I think this is my favorite Season of the Witch deck yet. Just like the others, it perfectly captures the essence of the sabbat. But I think Imbolc is often overlooked, as it has a quiet energy compared to some of the other more bold sabbats, such as Samhain and Yule. These cards are a perfect way to attune yourself to the gentle unfolding of Imbolc during the winter. Though, I feel there’s plenty of insight to gain from using them as one feels called throughout the year as well.

Overall, I highly recommend Seasons of the Witch: Imbolc Oracle. Anderson and Diaz are doing a wonderful job of distilling the essence of the sabbats into these decks. The cards for Imbolc perfectly capture the energy of this season; they are warm and cozy with unexpected depth. This deck will help you to delve into the hidden emotions to reconnect with yourself and determine what’s of true value in your life and worth pursuing as a new beginning.

Celtic Cauldron, by Nicola McIntosh

Celtic Cauldron: Rituals for Self-Care and Manifestation, by Nicola McIntosh
Rockpool Publishing, 1922785709, 288 pages, May 2024

The images of conjuring done with a cauldron is a well-known magical image. This is most likely because the cauldron is one of the most versatile magic tools, taking all sorts of shapes and sizes throughout history. From teas to stews, anointing oils to potions, there’s all sorts of creations that a cauldron can bring to life. Celtic Cauldron: Rituals for Self-Care and Manifestation by Nicola McIntosh is a beautiful guide to the many possibilities the cauldron holds, teaching readers how to use their cauldron for spells, healing, divination, and more.

McIntosh blends her wisdom as a Western and Chinese herbalist and Celtic shaman together in this book, providing plenty of nature-based methods for manifestation using the cauldron. Her previous publications include Plant Spirit Medicine, Celtic Spirit Oracle, Mushroom Spirit Oracle, Apothecary Flashcards, and Crystal Grids. She dedicates her time to sharing her knowledge to help others look within, raise consciousness, and tend to themselves and the environment with care. Much of her work is centered on connecting to nature, and this book is a lovely example of how the natural and magical world can support you.

The book itself is absolutely collection-worthy. The cover is a soft fabric, and the sturdy binding makes it easy to flip through the pages and open them fully without harming the spine. All throughout the inside,  McIntosh infuses the pages with her artwork and photographs, which is a real bonus as a visual aid to the recipes and directions provided. There’s a real earthy feel to the book, and as soon as it is opened, the natural magic begins to whirl around energetically.

“The cauldron is said to contain the Awen or be the cup of Awen, or the Cauldron of Inspiration. The Welsh word ‘Owen’ means ‘inspiration’ or ‘essence’ and is the inspiration of poets and creative artists.”15

McIntosh begins with a history of cauldrons, sharing famous cauldrons both real and mythological. For instance, there’s the Gundestrup Cauldron “that dates back to approximately the 2nd or 1st century BCE.”16. Then there’s also the mythological cauldrons of Cerridwen and Magda.

Once the history is explored, McIntosh moves into the modern applications of cauldrons, specifically from the Celtic and Druid traditions. She covers how to select and care for your cauldron, with plenty of pictures for inspiration, suggesting one spiritually prepare for their new cauldron by creating space for it on your altar and perhaps even a ritual. I was pleasantly surprised by McIntosh’s practicality, as she notes that a simple tempered-glass product, like a Pyrex measuring cup can work as a cauldron.

Then, before delving into all the magical possibilities for one’s cauldron, McIntosh spends an entire chapter on the importance of ritual. She suggests making self-care a ritual, and offers ways to ritualize your intention, including creating an altar, journaling, and working with plants and crystals. She writes:

“Rituals can literally change anything within your life. When we turn our attention inwards, we make big changes in our external environment because we attract what we are. This is the key to manifestation: We must be in alignment with what we wish to draw into our life.”17

The rest of the book is just tons and tons of amazing recipes for all types of cauldron creations. “Plant Magick” is a chapter covering brews, simmers, essence, lotions, and potions.  There’s recipes for fortune telling, inspiration, love, cleansing, and more. My favorite are Dandelion Joy Lattes (dandelion root coffee with milk and honey/maple syrup) and strength potion, which is “excellent for times when you feel vulnerable or run down or need inner strength to face something.’18

The next chapter, “Anointing Oils, Salves, and Melts” covers infused oils and homemade salves for all types of intentions (meditation and calmness, visionary and divination, protection, cleansing and clarity). The melts are lovely too because you can burn them in your cauldron after you make them in your cauldron—things coming full circle! Many of these involve certain spices, herbs, and essential oils, all of which McIntosh covers in detail. Once again, her understanding that not all readers will have access to all ingredients comes through, showcasing her desire to be inclusive in sharing her knowledge with all.

“Fire Magick” focuses on candles and incense. As mentioned before, there’s ton of pictures, which I found especially helpful for this section. I loved the idea of making a small cauldron into a candle that can be infused with herbs and crystals to add to one’s spellwork. I also loved McIntosh’s directions for making a mullein, or hag torch. For those interested in making their own incense blends, McIntosh provides wonderful step-by-step instructions with plenty of visual aids, along with ways you substitute ingredients if needed.

As a kitchen witch, my absolute favorite chapter was “Magical Meals”. For my birthday recently, my husband and I went to the Melting Pot where we did a bit of three-course cauldron magic. This experience was what inspired me to learn more about using the cauldron in my own craft. And in perfect alignment, McIntosh dedicates a whole section to chocolate cauldrons! Absolutely delicious. The recipes include Chocolate Love Bombs, Chocolate Knowledge Bites, and Chocolate Fondue that can be used as a base for one’s own chocolate crafts. In this chapter, McIntosh also teaches how to use the cauldron to make damper scones, rosemary and salt bread, cinnamon and sultana bread, stew, and mulled wine.

The final chapter “Miscellaneous Magick” covers spell bottles, spirit bottles, medicinal pouches, salts (ritual salts, bathing salts, etc.), and scrying. I definitely plan to make the Refresh Bath Salts, which combines basil, eucalyptus, peppermint, and tea tree.

One of the best parts of this book is the immensely helpful appendices at the end. There’s an herbal reference table that spans nearly 35 pages that covers the associate element, planet, polarity, edibility, spiritual use, medicinal use, cauldron use, and caution for hundreds of plants and herbs. It’s astounding how much information is shared in these pages, and it’s a true marvelous resource. There’s also an appendix on crystals, offering insight into the chakra, color, and element of the crystals. The final appendix is the Ogham tree alphabet.

All in all, Celtic Cauldron is perfect for those looking to incorporate a cauldron into their magical practice. McIntosh provides so many ways one can utilize their cauldron magically, from candles to culinary treats. The quality of this book makes it worth the investment, and readers are sure to turn to it again and again when crafting their next ritual. Those new to working with a cauldron will appreciate all of McIntosh’s advice for getting started, while seasoned practitioners will love the informative tables and recipes that make it quick to decide on ingredients for manifesting their intentions.

Galactic Guides Oracle, by Victoria Maxwell

Galactic Guides Oracle: Be Guided by the Love, Light, and Magic of the Galaxy!, by Victoria Maxwell and illustrated by Ellie Grant
Rockpool Publishing, 1922785415, 144 pages, 36 cards, March 2024

Calling all my cosmos lovers, it’s time to tune into celestial frequencies with Galactic Guides Oracle: Be Guided by the Love, Light, and Magic of the Galaxy! by Victoria Maxwell. This deck is out of this world – literally!

“We often look to the stars, thinking they are so far away and wondering what they have to do with us. They have everything to do with us; we are made of stardust.”1

Maxwell has a talent for attuning oracle card readers to new dimensions. Her previously published decks, Angels Among Us and Goddesses Among Us, are my go-tos when I am in need of some insight. Now with this deck, Maxwell transports readers into the galaxy to connect with the energies of planets, zodiac signs, and star systems for interstellar guidance.

I love what Maxwell shares in her introduction. She describes: “When I stopped focusing on what the planets, constellations and star systems meant according to traditional definitions and simply tuned into their energy, I found I could connect with them on a deeply personal level and invite them to guide me through astrological seasons and moon cycles and help me with what’s happening here on the ground.”2 This appeals to me because as an astrologer I’m always in relationship with the cosmos, yearning to go beyond what I know about each planet from books to create my own energetic connection. This deck is perfect for this purpose.

In the “How to use the cards” section of the guidebook, Maxwell offers different card spreads and describes the difference between the planetary cards, zodiac sign cards, and star system cards. The planetary cards tend to draw attention to something happening here and now that needs your attention; the zodiac sign cards ask you to look at the bigger picture and take a broader perspective; the star system cards have to do with destiny and insight from high-level guides. Additionally, she explains how each card also has an associated element, chakra, crystal, flower, and planet ally that expands the meaning even further. This information adds another layer to readings, though one can certainly glean plenty of insight just from reading the description of each card in the guidebook.

There is just so much guidance for each card! In addition to the aforementioned correspondences, each guidebook entry has an overall message of guidance, questions to ask yourself, description of the card, insight for the five common realms people seek guidance about (love, money, purpose, service, and spirituality), and a message from a lightwork perspective and shadow work perspective. So much insight for each card!

I had an insanely cool synchronicity happen with this deck. I happened upon a list of 100 baby names related to space. My son had a “D” name, so I was looking at other “D” names on the list and came across Draco. I thought it sounded cool, and I was envisioning myself calling my child that, but then told myself to refocus back to working with my deck. I shuffled and then pulled out the card.. Draco! Can you believe it?! The guidebook describes, “Draco, which is Latin for ‘dragon’, is one of hte largest constellations in the sky.”16 To add to the timing, it was also on the Chinese New Year, ushering in the year of the dragon!

I was mostly interested in the the card related to my love life, so I focused on that message in the guidebook, which reads:

“Relationships are the ultimate opportunities for personal and spiritual growth. The people who challenge you may have the most to teach you.”17

This felt extremely resonant, as I was working through some “growing pains” in my current relationship. This card helped me to reframe my perspective and remember that challenges do not mean the relationship isn’t success, rather they present a chance to grow stronger by doing my own inner work and focusing on spiritual growth.

The imagery on the cards, illustrated by Ellie Grant, all feature a person embodying the energy of the planet, zodiac sign, or constellation. They are very accurate, and at times can seem embellished, but I enjoy this because I can study the imagery and see all the attributes and characteristics of each energy personified. The general color theme is what you’d envision for deep space–blues, blacks, purples, greens–along with bursts of colors to make the characters on the cards pop and stand out.

My favorite image in the deck is Saturn, which features a gorgeous elder with striking gray hair. I always get a crone feeling from Saturn, the wise grandmother figure, so I enjoyed seeing Grant portray the energy this way too. Other cards that I got a kick out of include Aquarius, featuring a man who looks like he’s at Burning Man, covered in tattoos, necklaces, a scarf, and reflective sunglasses that flip up to remind us of the third eye. I also love the image of a woman holding her big pregnant belly, wearing a beautiful flower crown, for the Full Moon card. It’s also worth noting this is a very inclusive deck that personifies the energies of a diverse range of people.

My final thoughts about this deck are that it can feel a little ungrounding to work with. For those looking to attune to higher frequencies, it’s perfect! But if you’re not used to working with these energies, you might want to ensure you take the time to ground back in nature after working with the deck. I personally love how the deck gives me an out of body feeling while working with it, but for some this might feel disconcerting. So make sure to take the time to create the right space for working with this deck and balancing yourself afterwards.

Overall, Galactic Guides Oracle is a really amazing way to connect with the celestial energies. Whether you’re looking for inspirational guidance, cool synchronicities, or a fun way to meditate with the energies, this deck has you covered. The imagery on the card does a wonderful job of bringing these energies into a form we can visually identify with, while the guidebook is filled with interesting facts about the stars as well as soulful messages that can help reorient you towards your higher calling. I highly recommend this deck for those who are interested in the myseries of space, the beauty of the stars, and interstellar travel consciousness.

Crystal Grids, by Nicola McIntosh

Crystal Grids: Master the Secrets of Manifestation, by Nicola McIntosh
Rockpool Publishing, 9781922785510, 185 Pages, March 2024

I was recently at a local health and wellness festival, and the most memorable display table there was a woman selling gorgeous crystal grid paintings. The energy of the crystal layouts was palpable; I could feel the different effects of the alignment radiating outward as I took my time gazing at each one. Immediately, I knew this was something I wanted to do for my own home and altar space. Crystal Grids: Master the Secrets of Manifestation by Nicola McIntosh synchronistically was sent to me right after; the Universe quite literally brought it to my doorstep!

“My intention with this book is to give you the necessary information to guide you in making your own grids, strengthening your communication abilities with your clair senses and helping you manifest what you wish to create in your life.”1

McIntosh is a magical writer and oracle deck creator, as well as a Chinese and Western herbalist and practitioner of Celtic shamanism. She has previously published Apothecary Flashcards, Celtic Spirit Oracle, and Mushroom Spirit Oracle. Even with her success, she is very attuned to the readers she serves, sharing her story of budding passion for crystals and the circumstances in which she began creating her own products. I enjoyed this introduction to the book because it made me feel connected to McIntosh, feeling inspired that I too could use the power of the crystals and other energy-changing tools to bring my own dreams to life.

There is a nice foundation laid in this book, with each chapter building upon the next to provide a holistic understanding of how crystal grids work and how to create your own. McIntosh begins by teaching readers about  what she calls Source, “the term I give to the energy that creates all life; that is all life, the all that is, or God if you like to name it thus.”19 She explains how vibration is what gives everything form.

“You can start to imagine that we are walking in a sea of energy. We are in a state of constant flow; nothing is solid, and we are all fluid. If you can push your thinking out further, you can begin to imagine how you would then be able to interact with other energies around you, for they are also the same.”20

McIntosh then moves onto the language of spirit and the ways in which readers can communicate with other realms, specifically focusing on the honing clair sense, listening to intuition, and connecting through meditation as methods that can be utilized. This section is helpful for those looking to enhance their ability to hear the messages of spirit.

Once this underlying belief system is explained, McIntosh moves into explaining what crystal grids are, including their historical significance, and how they work through geometric resonance. Above all McIntosh encourages readers to listen to their intuition when creating their grids, but she does share how she likes to keep it simple, use ritual, and intentionally select colors with energies and colors aligned with the intended outcome of the crystal grid. She describes how crystal grids can be used for healing, health, prosperity, divination, and more.

There’s even an entire chapter on chakras so that readers understand the energy of each chakra. McIntosh details the energy within the body and soul each chakra influences, providing readers with insight into which chakras might be the best for them to focus on for their manifestations. For example, if someone is seeking to feel more confident expressing themselves, creating a crystal grid enhancing the energy of the throat chakra would be beneficial for them. McIntosh includes crystals that correspond with each chakra too.

There’s a general overview of crystals, but the focus is more on connecting with the crystal spirit rather than going by traditional meanings. McIntosh does a quick overview of crystals, most notably describing the different crystal formations and their significance, but those interested in working with crystals will definitely want to seek out supplementary information about the healing properties of various crystals to fine-tune the energy of their crystal grids.

My favorite chapter in the book focuses on the geometric templates based on sacred geometry. McIntosh talks about the power of ley lines and the earth’s grid, as well as geometric patterns such as the flower of life, medicine wheel, fibonacci spiral, and infinity symbol. She also teaches how you can create a grid for your home or room by placing crystals in different corners, which I think is so neat! Another fun thing in this chapter is creating elixirs by infusing water with the crystal grid. McIntosh teaches how to place the crystals and includes plenty of pictures for inspiration!

The final chapters focus on the art of manifestation and setting intentions and how to actually create the grid (preparing the space, cleansing/charing/programming the crystals, activating the grid). This is the real how-to, hands-on section of the book, and McIntosh does a lovely job of providing the readers with all they need to know to begin their process of manifestation with crystal grids.

All in all, Crystal Grids is a wonderful resource for those feeling called to working with crystals in a meaningful way. McIntosh’s process of manifesting perfectly blends intuition, the power of crystals, and the sacred geometry, allowing readers to better communicate their desire with spirit and bring about the changes they wish to see in the physical world. The colorful photographs alongside McIntosh’s gentle and easy-to-understand writing make this book perfect for beginners. I especially recommend it for those who already have an interest in crystals but have yet to take the steps to learn how to commune with the crystal spirits and direct energy through divine alignment. For those who enjoy McIntosh’s crystal grids, consider also checking out her Crystal Grid Oracle!

Witching Hour Oracle, by Lorraine Anderson

Witching Hour Oracle: Awaken Your Inner Magic, by Lorraine Anderson and illustrated by Olivia Bürki
Rockpool Publishing, 1922785008, 112 pages, 44 cards, October 2023

Spiritual transformation, especially through witchcraft, involves the shedding of old patterns and beliefs that no longer serve the individual and the embracing of new perspectives and ways of being. Lorraine Anderson perfectly encapsulated the steps in the process of metamorphosis in the Witching Hour Oracle: Awaken Your Inner Magic. Channeling the highs and lows of her own spiritual journey, this deck guides readers in tapping into their innate power and shifting from the inside out.

“Each card in this deck represents a step on the journey back to your truest self (Deep Being).”20

Anderson explains in the guidebook how this deck came to her “in a time of extreme transformation.”21 In the midst of things falling apart, her priorities were skewed, valuing material gain over spiritual practice and neglecting self-care. Finding herself at a low point, Anderson decided to dismantle what was no longer working and face her shadow head-on. From her journey of being spiritual led through both  lows and highs, she gleaned insight to share with others on their own path, finding joy and magic along the way.

This deck consists of forty-four cards that are filled with glistening and luminous energy brought to life through the illustrations of Olivia Bürki. Nearly every card features the twinkling shine of magic, highlighting the invisible undercurrent constantly flowing around us. There’s a darker tone to the cards, yet there’s still plenty of vibrant colors that awaken the spirit within the imagery, prompting revelation for the readers as they gaze at the messages coming through. Bürki’s illustrations are truly magical, offering visual portals through the imagery of this deck.

While these cards can absolutely be intuitively read using the card’s name, imagery, and the word or sentence at the bottom, the guidebook adds interesting depth. Anderson provides guidance on how to read with companion cards. She describes how a card’s meaning changes depending on the other cards it’s pulled alongside. Using this concept, she has provided companion card descriptions for every card in the deck, which the reader can use to find further meaning in the cards they pulled.

What I like most about the companion card system is how Anderson pairs a companion tarot card for each card in the deck. I normally wouldn’t think to pull both an oracle and tarot card together. Yet I enjoyed this method and felt that working with two decks in tandem added a new flavor to my readings. Also reading the tarot companion card for each card in the deck helped me understand its energy more too.

The entry for each card in the guidebook features keywords, the tarot companion, description of the card’s meaning, and further description of significant companion cards within the deck that may have appeared in the reader together.

As an example, the card I pulled today was Invocation. The keywords are “power of words; kindness matters; criticism”22 and the tarot companion is the Page of Swords. The card’s description talks about how our words have power and so critical thoughts can be harmful both to ourselves and others. This one hit home for me since my husband just pointed out how critical I had been recently, often aiming my sharp words at him to the detriment of the quality of our relationship. Ever since he mentioned this to me I’ve been trying to be more mindful of the way I share my thoughts, and Anderson’s words “with practice you’ll learn to choose love-filled communication and your entire vibration and and situation will shift”23 was quite reassuring.

While I read this card singularly, the companion cards are High Priestess and Salt. Looking for further guidance on how I might better communicate with my husband, I went on to read each one of these cards in the guidebook too. And for those like myself who need some ideas when it comes to doing spreads, Anderson provides a ton to choose from! She provides spreads for getting to know the deck, a weekly self-care check in, discovering resources available to you, seeing the bigger picture, and more! I appreciate how these spreads are ones I can do regularly to stay attuned to my inner knowing.

Overall, Witching Hour Oracle is a wonderful deck for the witch interested in spiritual transformation, self-care, and deepening their connection to their intuition. Anderson has done a wonderful job of illuminating aspects of the spiritual path of the witch, including initiation and all the change that usually accompanies major leaps in spiritual and personal growth. I recommend this deck for everyone who walks the path of the witch, as we all need a little guidance sometimes, and the wisdom of this deck is one that has the power to usher in lasting manifestations and potent change.

2024 Lunar and Seasonal Diary, by Stacey Demarco

2024 Lunar and Seasonal Diary – Northern Hemisphere, by Stacey Demarco
Rockpool Publishing, 978-1925946666, 216 pages, June 2023

I am really looking forward to using my 2024 Lunar and Seasonal Diary – Northern Hemisphere by Stacey Demarco. This diary is beautifully illustrated and the contents on lunar and seasonal energies make it much more than a simple day planner. Each page is an invitation to reflect, plan, and take away some new bit of wisdom that would have otherwise gone unfound. A diary is of no use if it is something more than just a place to count off the days; this diary is so much more than that and then some!

Due diligence has been given by Demarco in creating not only a functional planner but also a source of teachings about lunar workings, correspondences, spell craft, ritual, and introductory astrology. Her writing makes the 2024 Lunar and Seasonal Diary accessible to the aficionados of lunar-forward planning and the witches who wants to incorporate powerful magick in their daily life.

The first 20+ pages are dedicated to the lunar arts and topics include elements and directions, spell timings and moon cycles, lunar energies and crystals, and the wheel of the year. The wheel of the year section is a very robust overview of the sabbats that is packed with readily-applied information on how the month’s energy supported the myriad ways of celebration.

The 2024 Lunar and Seasonal Diary is organized into the standard twelve-month, weekly format common to most planners. Additionally, each month offers a double page section highlighting a specific deity aligned with that month’s energy and an accompanying spell or ritual guiding how to call that energy into the month’s work. Beautiful graphics herald each month and a quick goal starter introduces the weekly pages. For those who are visually stimulated with the tasks of thinking out your goals, what’s and when’s will be happily committed to paper. The paper itself is strong, heavy stock with no bleed through. 

Would I Recommend?

What I omitted in the beginning of this review is that I am highly selective when it comes to my yearly planner. In fact, so much so that it is not unusual for me to have 5-6 different types and formats of these and still not settle on any one just because it doesn’t hit all my checkboxes.

With that being said, 2024 Lunar and Seasonal Diary by Stacey Demarco checks all of the boxes for anyone wanting a beautiful, functional, educational and “just feels right” 2024 diary.  This is a keeper and I am confident that I will be using it for the entirety of the year. 

About the Author Stacey Demarco

Stacey Demarco is The Modern Witch. Passionate about bringing practical magic to everyone and inspiring people to have a deeper connection with nature, she has been teaching witchcraft and mythos for many decades. This diary is now in its 14th edition and is published in both the southern and northern hemispheres. She is the author of The Enchanted Moon and The Priestess Path, which have been translated into other languages. Her oracle card decks include the bestselling Queen of the Moon, Divine Animals, Moon Magick, Elemental Oracle, Oracle of the Universe, and Deep, Dark and Dangerous. An animal activist, ethical beekeeper and dedicated adventure traveler, she lives in Sydney, Australia on a cliff by the beach with her husband and furry companions. Stacey provides private consults as well as teaching workshops, and leads the popular Wild Souls Retreats nationally and internationally.