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Tag Archives: Tarot

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.

Essence of Tarot, by Mary K. Greer

Essence of Tarot: Using Essential Oils, Magic & Rituals to Empower Your Readings, by Mary K. Greer
Weiser Books, 1578638526, 208 pages, January 2025

Mary K. Greer’s Essence of Tarot is a fascinating exploration into the intersection of tarot, aromatherapy, and ritual practices. With a deep understanding of both tarot and the art of scent, Greer artfully weaves these elements together to enhance the tarot experience for both beginners and long-time practitioners. As a long-time tarot enthusiast myself, I found it captivating how Greer bridges these two seemingly different worlds, revealing fresh and profound insights into the cards as well as the powerful influence of essential oils.

Greer, who is well-known and whose expertise in tarot is well-established, dives deep into the history and magic surrounding essential oils, illuminating aspects that many practitioners may overlook. This refreshing combination of knowledge makes the book not just an instructional guide but a compelling read that encourages introspection and growth. Through her words, readers are invited to delve into a practice that encompasses more than just card interpretation; it becomes a new level of experiencing tarot.

One of the most insightful aspects of this book is Greer’s thorough exploration of the “law of correspondence,” a foundational concept in both tarot and aromatherapy. Greer explains how each tarot card aligns with various elements, planets, and astrological signs, and how these correspondences connect to specific essential oils. This intricate framework deepens the reader’s understanding of the cards, allowing for a richer interpretation and connection to their meanings. For readers who are keen to expand their tarot practice, this analysis acts as a guiding light, connecting the dots between the spiritual and the sensory.

Greer’s writing style strikes a perfect balance between scholarly and accessibility. She is known for guiding readers through complex topics with ease, making even the more intricate aspects of tarot and aromatherapy understandable and engaging. Her ability to break down what is normally dense material and present it in a relatable manner is a testament to her expertise and passion. I found myself reflecting on how she balances objective information with her subjective experiences, sharing deeply personal insights while encouraging readers to forge their own connections to the cards and oils.

The practical elements of the book were highly engaging. Greer doesn’t just present theories; she provides clear, actionable instructions for creating tarot-themed oil blends, outlining specific oils that correspond to each Major Arcana card. This is where the transformative power of scent truly comes into play. Since reading this book I’ve begun experimenting with crafting my own blends based on Greer’s recommendations.

The specific scents I’ve chosen amplify the energetic vibrations of the cards, adding depth and another layer of meaning to my readings. I have found sitting with individual cards and a corresponding scent really enhances my connection to the symbolism of the card. I imagine that it creates new psychic pathways as well for connecting to etheric for tarot lives.

For instance, I recently blended ylang-ylang and rose, oils associated with the Empress card, which represents fertility and abundance. The rich, sweet scent transformed my reading session into a multi-sensory experience, allowing me to connect with the nurturing energy of the Empress in a new way. Each blend I have created not only enhances my practice but has created a deeper emotional connection to the archetypes represented in the tarot.

Greer’s emphasis on ritual within the practice of tarot particularly resonated with me. She provides a wealth of suggestions for incorporating essential oils into rituals, ranging from simple anointing practices to more intricate ceremonies aimed at deepening one’s connection with the cards. These rituals serve as a reminder of the sacredness of the tarot experience—transforming what might otherwise be a simple card reading into a meaningful spiritual practice.

One of the passages that struck me most profoundly was Greer’s discussion on the concept of “aroma imaging.” This technique, which involves using scent to consciously pattern aromatic responses and create new associations, ignited my curiosity. The idea that fragrance can be utilized not just for mood enhancement but as an integral part of spiritual practice is fascinating. I am eager to delve deeper into this technique and see how it can enhance my interactions with tarot. Imagining scent as a conduit for energy and intention opens up a world of possibilities in my readings.

The format of “Essence of Tarot” is also noteworthy. Greer intersperses her scholarly discussions with personal anecdotes and practical exercises, allowing readers to engage with the material on multiple levels. This structure fosters a learning environment that feels personal and interactive rather than just didactic. I found myself participating in the exercises, blending oils during readings, and thinking critically about how these practices enhance my intuitive insights.

Greer emphasizes the importance of connecting with your own intuitive abilities. She encourages readers to use the recipes and rituals as a guide while allowing for personal modifications and approaches that resonate with their unique spiritual journeys. This invitation to personalize the experience is essential; it nurtures creativity and authenticity, empowering readers to discover what works best for them.

By the time I reached the book’s conclusion, I felt not only more knowledgeable about tarot but inspired to continue exploring the intricate relationship between tarot and aromatherapy. Greer’s work has effectively expanded my understanding of both tarot and essential oils, this is going to open new avenues for exploration within my spiritual practice.

This book transcends being a mere guide on using essential oils with tarot; it is a call to dive into a rich tapestry of connections among scent, symbol, and spirit. It is a reminder that tarot is not just a visual tool but can be a multi-sensory experience that can be deeply enriched through the power of fragrance.

Ultimately, Essence of Tarot has reaffirmed for me the transformative power of tarot and the magic that lies within the cards, patiently waiting to be awakened through our senses. I wholeheartedly recommend this book to individuals who harbor a passion for tarot, whether they are seasoned readers or novices just embarking on their journey. 

This book is not simply a read but an experience—one that will resonate long after the last page is turned. I know I will return to it repeatedly as I continue my exploration of the fascinating realms of tarot and aromatherapy. As a last aside, if you haven’t read any of her other books, I highly recommend them, especially Tarot for Yourself.

The Awakening Tarot, by Monica Boridsky

The Awakening Tarot: An Elemental Approach, by Monica Boridsky
REDFeather, 0764367668, 288 pages, 78 pages, March 2024

The Awakening Tarot: An Elemental Approach by Monica Bodirsky is truly a deck that you will learn so much from. I was very drawn to this deck, and I can see very much why this was: Boridsky uses her brilliantly unusual and stunning watercolor artwork that is reminiscent of the 70’s. With her knowledgeable guidance through Earth-based spirituality, she creates this powerful deck that will be your framework to build you up and help guide you on your spiritual awakening.

Boridsky created this deck out of love for her divination and witchy practices, as well as her own experiences with awakening as well as being inspired by C.J Jung’s idea of external dreaming and the internal process of awakening. She is also moved to share her experiences with awakening to help others expand and grow creatively as well as spiritually. This deck will teach you how to become awakened and empowered spiritually, and you will learn to expand your consciousness with groundbreaking lessons from each of the elemental guides: water, fire, air, earth, and spirit.

The deck is very nicely packaged. There is a larger box with artwork of the Balance card. You open the box to reveal your deck in its own little box with artwork of the Nine of Air card on it. 

The deck is truly perfect to help hone and understand the powers that you were given; through each card there is a lesson to be learned. The deck’s accompanying book will also guide you into “shadow work”, which is key to any spiritual awakening journey. Along with the shadow work, each card is shown on the page with both upright and reversed meanings as well as a mantra and a short message.

The guidebook is decently thick and has a lot of great information and insight. It is very easy to understand and it gives clarity and extraordinary insight. Like any normal Rider-Waite-Smith (RWS) tarot deck, the major and minor arcana are included. They have similar aspects to the RWS cards, but instead of the normal suits we’re familiar with, these are replaced with each suit’s respective elemental correspondence. For example, fire is wands, water is cups, earth is pentacles, and air is swords.

I do have to say for a fact this information tracks with what I know of the traditional card meanings. Plus, there is also a helpful guide at the beginning that tells you each correlating card, along with pictures for each card with a description accompanying the image.

Each element has its own section and it gives a lot of helpful information. It includes helpful keywords, manifestations, exercises, and healing rituals, reflection questions. Also, each section is color-coded, you can see it on the side of the book, this makes it super simple to find the card you’re looking for! 

The guidebook is also very beautifully written. It blew me away with how much information it provides. Compared to some of my other decks, this is the first deck I have come across with such a well-written guidebook.

The deck shuffles with great ease and the cards fit perfectly in your hands. The cards are nice and sturdy. To say the least, these cards have been crafted perfectly. Each card uniquely showcases each element in a humanoid manner combined with that element.

Four of Fire had to be my favorite card that I had pulled, it depicts a humanoid figure with a fiery-colored fox head with a human body holding a sparkler with fireworks in the background. This shows the connection between us and the elements in a completely different way. Every card has art that is as eye-catching as the next, you could just gaze upon it and get lost in its beauty and detail for a good while.

If you’re a novice to tarot and working with the RWS deck, this deck is perfect to work with. You will find the messages to be clear and easy to understand, I was able to tell instantly which card corresponds to the RWS deck without using the guide at the beginning of the book!

I’ve been using this deck for about two weeks now and I really felt an instant connection to it. I just went to pull a card for myself and this is what I got for the Visionary of Water upright, which is a court card that corresponds to the Knight of Cups in the RWS deck.

The advice given said that I have reached the highest peak of emotional growth despite feeling alone. I’m a part of a good community, my visions are appreciated, and right now is my moment to move above and beyond and share my visions with a larger audience. What stuck out the most was this part, explaining how I need to move on in my career to a more creatively challenging job. Boridsky writes: 

“To assist with the complexity of integrating self-development and divination, I have created this deck and guide as a method for us to transition from potentially feeling like passive observers in our lives to becoming active, awake, and empowered participants.“5

This card was insanely on par with what I’m doing currently as I write this review.

Overall, The Awakening Tarot is for those who seek a genuine connection with the elements and themselves. If you’re interested in working with a one-of-a-kind deck with an innovative take on the normal RWS deck then this deck will most definitely suit your fancy, as the artwork is so unique. This deck is a good elemental approach to a traditional tarot deck. It is easy to understand, and it’s a deck that you’ll appreciate with all of its creativity.

Decode Tarot, by Debra Zachau

Decode Tarot: Master Meanings, Reversals, and Combinations, by Debra Zachau
REDFeather, 0764368060, 176 pages, September 2024

Mastering the art of reading tarot cards is not an easy task. While there are tons of books published on the subject, many present contrasting definitions with respect to the symbolism behind each card as well as differing methods of learning the meaning of each individual card. With so much out there, it can be very difficult to navigate the process of learning.

A spiritual teacher, author, and speaker who has read cards for over 10,000 people, Debra Zachau is well positioned to impart her knowledge on how to master the cards and their meanings including reversals. Her book Decode Tarot: Master Meanings, Reversals, and Combinations is incredibly insightful and takes the reader on a journey of self-discovery using tarot.

As a tarot reader, I am constantly reading books about the topic to gain more insight into the cards and their meanings. It’s fascinating to see how many different interpretations and re-imaginings of the cards there are. And while most of the information pertaining to this divination system is similar, none of it is boring! With separate chapters for each individual card, Zachau has imparted a deep understanding of the cards and how they interact with one another.

The table of contents is robust, with chapters on suits and their personalities, the minor arcana, and separate sections for the court cards and the major arcana. The sectioning in this fashion makes sense to me, as most people when starting out get caught up in the sheer number of cards they think they need to memorize. Using basic language, Zachau imparts her knowledge in a friendly, easy-to-read way that makes the reader feel as though they are sitting at a table chatting, mug of tea in hand. Very comforting when you think about how many cards there are in a tarot deck!

For each card, Zachau presents a basic description of the card as well as possible meanings when paired with other cards. She uses a variety of suits and cards to illustrate the snippets of stories that the cards tell when doing a reading for yourself or another person. For example, Zachau pairs the 9 of Wands with the 10 of Wands to show that, “…it looks like you are fighting to keep doing more for others. This is a very unbalanced situation…the responsibilities to keep the family going fall to their partner.”6

I am really impressed with the way Zachau handled the court cards in “Part Two: Master the Courts” section of the book. Normally the bane of tarot readers, Zachau has managed to sidestep the traditional definition of these cards and instead insert her own, resulting in a much clearer idea of the energies these cards are meant to represent. The traditional method shows Kings and Queens as men and women over the age of 40, respectively. Knights are usually men or women between 18-39, and Pages are dependent children under the age of 18. Also, don’t come after me for these descriptions as they are older than me and I didn’t make them up.

Zachau instead assesses Kings and Queens as older than whoever she is reading for. She explains, “I throw away the 40-year-old rules and read these patriarchs and matriarchs as men and women who have some sort of authority or title over my client”7. Hearing the cards explained in that way makes so much more sense than the traditional description which is often a barrier to working out the meaning in a reading. She continues:

“I read Knights in the spread as peers, coworkers, friends, and siblings, regardless of gender and age. The suit traits will identify their personality…will give an idea as to how they relate to your client’s life. Pages are dependent people, whether they are under 18 of age (sic) or an adult, with limited capacity to support themselves…I have discovered that often, overly insecure or immature partners will come through a reading as a Page as well.”8

Personally, this chapter was a lightning bolt for me. While not a novice reader, I have at times struggled with court cards in readings I have done, and this clear explanation resonates with me. I have done work around linking specific court cards to various energies they represent, and this was a good addition to what I have already puzzled out for myself. Zachau provides a list of people and characters she equates to the various suits, which is also very helpful, and goes deep into the suits in the context of the court cards and what they represent.

The section concerning the Major Arcana cards is robust and well laid out, with hefty descriptions and explanations of each card along with specific pairing with other cards in the deck. Not surprising, there is over a full page devoted entirely to the Tower card, one of the most unwelcome cards in any deck. I love Zachau description of this card:

“…I have discovered that most readings containing the Tower show that my client has an intense desire to control a situation that isn’t supposed to be manifested, and a change in perspective now, at the time of the reading, can offset harsher life lessons down the way.”9

A great way to express the energy of this card and one I will remember for my own readings.

If you read tarot or are interested in the subject or know someone who is, pick up Decode Tarot. It’s a great way to see how the cards speak to each other and gain a full understanding of why this modality is so popular and timeless.

Stars, Cards, and Stones, by Kooch N. Daniels

Stars, Cards, and Stones: Exploring Cosmic Connections between Astrology, Tarot and Runestones, by Kooch N. Daniels, MA
REDFeather, 9780764368400, 192 pages, December 2024

In Stars, Cards, and Stones, Kooch N. Daniels invites readers on an intricate voyage through the realms of astrology, tarot, and runes. This elaborate tapestry of mysticism is woven together with deep wisdom, making the book an indispensable guide for both novices and seasoned practitioners alike.

Daniels is a revered figure in the world of divination and metaphysical studies. With over five decades of experience, she brings a profound understanding of the esoteric arts. Her ability to distill complex concepts into accessible and engaging prose sets her apart as an educator and guide in workshops and divination events in the US and abroad. Daniels is also a frequent guest on radio shows and podcasts, after hosting her own radio show. She has written five books and co-authored three books with her husband Victor. The two of them have created one oracle deck. She lives with her husband in Sonoma County, California.  You can learn more about her at www.mysticsecrets.net.

Daniels’ book is divided into four sections. The first one focuses on astrology, and the second features tarot cards and runes. The third section goes into more detail on each subject, while the fourth section blends all the information for divination. Each section is meticulously crafted, providing readers with a comprehensive understanding of the subject material. The information on the major arcana is better than most tarot guidebooks!

The first section delves into astrology, offering an exploration of how celestial bodies influence our lives. Daniels provides a clear and concise introduction to the fundamental concepts of astrology, including the zodiac, planetary movements, and their impact on human behavior. She also introduces advanced techniques, making the section invaluable for both beginners and those seeking to deepen their astrological knowledge.

In the second section, Daniels turns her attention to the tarot and runes. Here, she demystifies the tarot deck, providing a list of each major arcana card and its symbolism. Her guidance on tarot spreads and reading techniques is both practical and enlightening. Then she discusses runes and their metaphysical properties.

Daniels’ expertise shines through as she details the unique energies of various types of runes and how they can be used for healing, protection, and spiritual growth. Her approach is grounded in both historical context and modern practice, offering readers a well-rounded understanding of rune magic.

She also provides an exercise where you pull a card and find its astrological correspondent.  Next, you find the rune that matches. She invites readers to draw a sketch of the three parts and keep them on their desk to view during the day.  Daniels writes:

“These oracles share a primary partnership through parallel correlations on the Zodiac wheel. Each rune has a counterpart with a major tarot card and a sun sign or planet. Once you become aware of their astrological correlations, you have specific information that points to the comparability of their interpretations.”8

In the third section, Daniels presents what she calls “The Mystical Library,” with a complete review of zodiac signs, planets, and luminaries. Next, she presents the twenty-two cards of the major arcana, including a sample card, multiple names for each card, keywords, and correspondences for the zodiac and runes. Finally, she presents runes, with keywords, a complete description of all twenty-four stones and correspondences.

Daniels presents the keys to “Divination’s Doorway” in the fourth section:

“Once you become familiar with the stars, cards and stones and can recognize shared universal themes that weave unity among these three mystical arts, you can begin to develop your divination skills by using these three oracles.”10

I particularly enjoyed the sample sun sign readings Daniels provides in this section.  She also shares sample spreads for both tarot cards and rune stones. 

One of the main features of Stars, Cards, and Stones is its balance between esoteric knowledge and practical application. Daniels doesn’t just present history or information; she provides readers with exercises and rituals to integrate these mystical tools into their daily lives. This hands-on approach ensures that the book is both read AND experienced.

The visual presentation of Daniel’s book is another highlight. The book is beautifully designed, with illustrations and photographs that complement the text. For example, Daniels includes a four-color photo of a tarot card for each discussion of the major arcana cards. Different decks are featured, which gives the reader exposure to more decks. In the Acknowledgements, the author credits each deck creator and deck, making it easy to purchase the deck, if you choose. In discussing astrology and runes, the author presents numerous illustrations and charts. She presents several in the Appendix, as well. 

Stars, Cards, and Stones is a treasure trove of wisdom and practical guidance for anyone interested in astrology, tarot, and runes. Its comprehensive approach, combined with Daniels’ expertise and conversational writing style, makes it a must-have for those looking to deepen their understanding of these mystical arts. Daniel’s Endnotes and Bibliography give you reference material for the hungry student to learn even more.

This book would be great for anyone who would like to learn more about astrology, tarot, or runes. If someone were familiar with all three subjects, this book serves to pull it all together and provide new ways to combine divinatory techniques for a more comprehensive reading. I plan to keep it on hand and get out my set of runes!

Daniels’ husband Victor Daniels sums it up best:

“No one else I know has combined all three of these classical divinatory systems into one voice. Beyond knowing about each one of them, Kooch can draw on her knowledge of how to do a reading, combining all three of them that can blow your mind. In these pages she shows you how you can do that, too.”11

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.”12

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.”13 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.”14

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.”15 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.”16

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.”17

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.”18

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.”15

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”16. 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”17 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 Vedic Tarot, by Dwina Murphy-Gibb

The Vedic Tarot: East Meets West, by Dwina Murphy-Gibb
RedFeather, 978-0764368202, 288 pages, 81 cards, September 2024

Dwina Murphy-Gibb has created a masterful tarot deck with influences from the Vedic, Irish, Qabbalistic, and Rider-Waite-Smith traditions in The Vedic Tarot: East Meets West. From the brightly colored illustrations to the wealth of information presented in the guidebook, this deck is a feast for the eyes and wisdom for the soul.

Born and raised in Northern Ireland, Dwina Murphy-Gibb was educated at Hornsey Art College in England. Her published works include three books of poetry, three novels, and numerous short stories. In addition to two plays, she has also produced a few independent films. You can learn more about Murphy-Gibb on her website.

What interested me most about this deck was the reference to “East Meets West.”  Murphy-Gibb shares that her first deck of cards was a deck of playing cards. This was due to her grandmother’s disdain for tarot cards. Her first tarot deck was a Rider-Waite-Smith (RWS) deck, followed by the Etteilla and Aquarian decks, among others. The symbolism of the Rider-Waite-Smith deck shines through in this deck, although some of the names and symbols of the cards have been changed.

Murphy-Gibb changes The Fool to The First Traveler, and Death to Changes, among others. She also adds three cards to the major arcana: Oogenesis, Arbor Vitae, and Supreme Soul. So that she doesn’t interrupt the traditional numbers of the major arcana, Murphy-Gibb gives these three cards special numbers.

For the minor arcana, she utilizes the suits of Cups, Wands and Swords, but transforms Pentacles into Shields. In an example of how the RWS symbology is seen, the Five of Shields in this deck features a couple huddled outside of a building with stained-glass windows. The shields on most of the cards are round, much like pentacles in other suits.

Each card features the name of the card, a symbolic drawing, the Hebrew letter, the Sanskrit name, the Ogham tree/symbol, and the musical instrument applicable to the card. In the guidebook, Murphy-Gibb gives detailed information regarding each of these correspondences. There are also two charts in the guidebook that present tables of the information from all of the correspondences for the major arcana. Here are just a few of the correspondences that she assigns to The Lovers card in one of the charts:

Musical note:  D-natural
Hertz:  587.33
Chakra: Sacral17

Murphy-Gibb begins the guidebook with the story of how The Vedic Tarot was created:

“This Tarot is really an illustrative book that explores secrets of four ancient languages: Vedic Sanskrit, Irish Ogham Tree Alphabet, and Hebrew, as well as English and the influence of sound or music in the spheres and in the chakras of the body.”18

Next, she explains how each of these play a role in the story of man and tarot. She divides the major arcana into three sections of archetypes, powers, and the Eight-Fold Path.

After the extensive guidance and wisdom provided for both major and minor arcana cards, Murphy-Gibb presents Part 2. This section includes how to work with the cards, correspondence tables, and several spreads, including one she learned from a Gypsy Queen in her youth. This spread includes “the making of a mandala by interlocking the cards,”19 and makes use of only six cards.

Next, Murphy-Gibb presents glossaries for Sanskrit, Hebrew/Qabbalah, and Ogham terms.  She also includes resources for further reading, including online sources.   

I decided to test drive the deck by drawing three cards, keeping in mind Murphy-Gibb’s advice:

“The querent does not need to ask a question, because the answer will be apparent to them during the reading, or the subconscious question they have not dared to ask will be answered.”20

I drew these cards: Three of Swords, Knight of Swords and Knight of Cups. The information in the guidebook is so rich and multi-layered and it is easy to become overwhelmed. I decided to scan the pages for each card and came up with these three bits of guidance:

  1. “I am not lost, but rather replace it with the wonder of being somewhere else.”21
  2. “I may choose to challenge laws without breaking them.”22
  3. “There is joy in “the finding of a direction, not the seeking of it.””23 

This guidance helps me greatly with a situation in my life. I am also going to look up music with violins, C-sharp notes, and/or music that soothes the heart chakra, in keeping with Murphy-Gibb’s guidance. 

This deck is presented in a large, sturdy box, printed in rich colors of scarlet, gold, and black.  It features a magnetic flap that secures the box and opens to reveal space for the guidebook and two deep wells for the cards. These cards are printed on nice cardstock, which is so heavy that the box requires you to cut the deck in half to store it.  The cards have a black matte edging, and the back of the card is a unique design, which Murphy-Gibb describes as: “a combination of the Trishula, Shiva’s weapon, the Damru, his drum and the lyre.”24 She also accents the image with a sun, a snake and three worms across a moon, because she finished the artwork for the back of the cards on a Worm Moon. 

My favorite card in this deck is the Arbor Vitae.  This card is numbered 0-8 and comes before the Justice card in the major arcana for this deck. The visual is a tree with a feminine face, a small tree in her heart and curling roots. The musical instrument for this card is the bell. It is so calming and beautiful. I plan to keep it on my altar for a few days and drink in its powerful love vibes. The last line of the guidance says it all:

“Everyone wants to feel useful, and taking care of the little things is a service to the Great Mother and our own fulfillment. Undoing the wrongs by taking right action is the greatest medicine of all.”25

The Vedic Tarot would probably be best for a seasoned tarot reader or tarot scholar.  The rich layers of guidance, the multiple correspondences and the combination of Vedic, Sanskrit, Hebrew, and Irish myth and lore might be too difficult for a novice to take in. 

However, if beginners wanted to initially focus on the Divination section and then build up to adding the information in the other portions, this would be a great addition to their tarot collection. I plan to keep it on hand for personal readings and utilize the guidebook for additional information for client readings.

With this deck, we can continue our quest for knowledge and, as Murphy-Gibb says:

“We can begin remembrance of who we really are and start learning to fly.”26

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.”27 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.”28 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.”29 

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.”30

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.