Mind Body & Soul Ezine Reviews

Manga Tarot

2026-10-16T14:29:00.000+01:00

Mind Body & Soul Ezine Card Deck Review: Manga Tarot by illustrator Anna Lazzarine and author, Riccardo Minetti. Published by Lo Scarabeo. 2006

Stylish and glamorous graphic artwork accompanies this deck. Manga is a popular Japanese art form that is featured in magazines and novels and this has inspired this astonishing deck. You are instructed to find a quiet time to choose a card that reflects you. Then shuffle and randomly choose a second card that will hold the answer to your situation. It worked for me!

Each card has 2 novel characteristics. The cards have a dominant colour that pertains to the seasons which are shown by a glyph. The colours are yellow (for chalices, water, emotions), blue (for swords, air, intellect), green (for pentacles, earth, nature) and pink (for wands, fire, personality). We have some instances where males can represent females and vice-versa. The Court cards are Prince, Princess, King and Queen in that order. The deck has a powerful female energy with some Majors retitled and moved to new places to reflect the greater power of the female.

Riccardo Minetti also created the Etruscan Tarot, Fey Tarot, Gothic Tarot of the Vampires. He is on the creative team of Lo Scarabeo, the Tarot specialist publishers.

This deck is provided in the Total Tarot Step-by-Step Course, parts 46 & 47.

Extraordinary. For unusual readings with Eastern magical influence. Review by Wendy Stokes https://wendystokes.co.uk

African Goddess Rising Pocket Oracle

2026-10-14T10:01:00.000+01:00

Mind Body & Soul Card Deck Review: African Goddess Rising Pocket Oracle by Abiola Abrams. Boxed set of 44 Cards and Guidebook. Published by Hay House UK £8.99 : US $14.99 : Can $19.99 Dated Oct 2021.

“Sawubona” - a Zulu greeting which means welcome, “we see you”.

This is a neat pocket cards that invites us into the sacred goddess temple circle of this oracle. Each card represents a revered deity, matriarch, regal ancestor, or supernatural creature, all wise and loving divine feminine energy. Each bestows a gift of knowledge. The 44 goddesses are divided into 9 temples: threshold guardians, ancestors, conjurers, warriors, shadows, lovers, griots, queens and high priestesses taken from the 54 countries of Africa and the African diaspora, such as Haiti, Cuba, Barbados, Brazil and Guyana. You must face and integrate these 9 inner temples to awaken the goddess within.

The backs of the cards are a gold Adinkra symbol, a sacred geometric hieroglyphic of the Akan people of Ghana. The symbol means “that which does not burn”. Nothing within this deck is intended to cause harm.

The cards provide an image, a number, a title and a subtitle. The book explains which element and temple the energy falls into, guidance from the archetype, her embodiment in your life, and a declaration. The book provides information on a blessing on the cards, a dedication, cleansing and invocation. Spreads are: The Goddess Temple 3 cards, The Talking Drum Ancestral 6 cards, and The Council of Elders 5 cards.

“Rise up beautiful one! this is your time.”

Wow! I loved this oracle deck. I sensed the power of these female energies from these little cards. They are worthy of a magnifying glass. The divine feminine at her most impressive.

Review by Wendy Stokes https://wendystokes.co.uk

Crusader - By Horse to Jerusalem

2026-10-13T10:33:00.000+01:00

Mind Body & Soul Ezine Book Review: Crusader - By Horse to Jerusalem by Tim Severin.

This is the story of the author’s journey that follows that of Duke Godfrey in the eleventh century from his castle at Chateau Bouillon, home of the heavy Ardennes horse that was so conveniently available to the crusaders. The road travelled was the old Roman road, but over some extremely difficult terrains, 2,500 miles in all to Jerusalem.

The author describes his experiences with Sarah his companion, with the horses that took them on that long journey, the people they met, and the many difficulties they faced. At each place, we are given the story of Duke Godfrey and his entourage and what they described happened in that place.

Only one liners, and often banal, took place between the author and his assistant. No great and wonderful insights about the original knights and their foot soldiers, the pilgrims of all ages and needs. Of course, the original travellers were on a pilgrimage, and the modern book writers were not religious, at least nothing was written about any religious thought or realisation. How did the crusaders find enough food, what of those along route who were too ill to continue, did they learn anything about the healing power of herbs, about philosophy or architecture, and about people and what Thry have to teach us when we spend long periods of time with them.

This travel book could have been achieved by vehicle, and it angered me to hear of the hardships placed upon the poor horses. The author’s uncompromising decisions about the horses and their welfare on such a trip made difficult reading. Why he chose to use horses when vehicles are so readily available was not explained. His wish not to replace them when they were stressed, uncomfortable and unwell, shocked me.

There was no reason to travel by horse, except for the attention seeking to sell the book that he managed to drum up along the way but it was at huge cost to the horses. Times have changed and though they used horses during the crusades, fortunately now we have ways of transport that do not cause pain to animals. I questioned a journey by horse, and I also questioned a journey following the crusaders’ path through Muslim countries, as surely, they would experience hostility, in the light of the huge entourage that needed feeding as it passed through poor neighbourhoods, and of course, the terrible slaughter during war and the taking of land along route. I was wondering if resentful people, as they were if they knew about the Crusades, were even poisoning the horses. The Muslims hate the expression of the Crusades to this day at all places in the world!

Review by Wendy Stokes.

Mayan Oracle Review

2026-10-12T15:44:00.000+01:00

Mind Body & Soul Ezine Card Review: The Mayan Oracle - A Galactic Language of Light – A Hands-on Tool to Harness the Potential for Spiritual Growth By Ariel Spilsbury and Michael Bryner Illustrated by Oceanna Published by Bear & Co Boxed set of 294 page book and 44 cards £27.99

This oracle was inspired by a dream by two Californians, Spilsbury and Bryner. Ariel Spilsbury is a spiritual counsellor and planetary midwife who is building the Sanctuary of the Open Heart which honours the divine feminine. She is the author of The Alchemy of Ecstasy and the 13 Moon Oracle. The father seed of the project is the late Michael Bryner (1950-1998), a holistic therapist and spiritual counsellor and teacher with an interest in Mayan Esotericism and shamanism.

Their inspiration has manifested into 44 cards which depict 20 words of understanding (known as Star-Glyphs), 13 numbers and 11 lenses of the mysteries which are designed to stimulate intuition and elevate consciousness. These together form the Sacred Mound of the Mayan calendar. We are entering a time of transformation and higher planetary awareness. The ancient Maya left a legacy for our time. As 26,000 year cycle is ending on 21 Dec 2012, the cards are designed to provide a bridge that will prepare us for this time shift and beyond.

We are instructed to establish a resonance between ourselves and the cards through meditation and prayer. A calm, receptive space and an open heart are required to begin and a shuffle and draw of the card for the day, asking the question, “which archetype best represents me today?” or “where am I on my journey?” is suggested. There are a number of spreads for varying purposes and the cards can be used by a solitary practitioner, by two or by more people.

I chose one of the twenty Star-Glyph cards titled ‘Ahau’ pronounced ‘a how’. The translation of this card are ‘lord, ruler or flower’ and its qualities are ‘union, wholeness, unconditional love, solar mastery, Cosmic Consciousness, language of light, ecstasy, limitless bliss, crown, Solar Logos’. Its symbols are the sun, dove and crown chakra. Listed are other attributes of this energy, its colour, herb, flower, scent, element, direction, the shadow wisdom and shadow transformation, harmonic wisdom, mudra, meditation and affirmation. Very full information about this card is provided, that it calls on the healing power of unconditional love and advice to ‘be at peace’, to forgive, release and love all creation. There follows a poem entitled ‘The Magical Child’. A deeper look at the these energies is given in ‘The Journeyer’ with more Shadow and Harmonic Wisdom, all providing a light body which is part of the mythic quest to live by and a galactic code to the working of the Universe.

Twelve cards are titled The Numbers, each with its particular quality and instructions. Amongst the eleven cards titled ‘The Lenses’ we have qualities and affirmations and further instructions in named cards, such as ‘Language of Light’, ‘Shadow’, ‘Resolution of Duality’, ‘Adventurer’s Quest’, ‘Realm Shift’ ‘Hologram’, ‘Transformer’, ‘New Myth’ ‘Dreamer and Dreamed’, ‘Transparency’ and ‘Portal of Transcendence’.

I can see this deck being used to toast the New Year early, with a glass of bubbly, overlooking the Pacific Ocean from Hollywood Hills, under the night sky, admiring a waxing moon, transcendental pan pipe music playing softly in the background.

The abstract illustrations are by the UCLA trained and Santa Barbara based artist, Oceanna (Donna Kiddie) whose work on large building murals and mythic interiors are very popular. Reviewer: Wendy Stokes https://wendystokes.co.uk

The Fourfold Path to Healing

2026-10-11T17:45:14.801+01:00

Mind Body & Soul Ezine Book Review: The Fourfold Path to Healing - Working with the Laws of Nutrition, Therapeutics, Movement and Meditation in the Art of Medicine - A Unique Approach to Medicine that Addresses the Fourfold Nature of Man by Thomas S Cowan MD, Sally Fallon and Jaime McMillan. Published by New Trends Publishing.

The Fourfold approach covers nutrition (healing the physical body), meditation (described as healing the mental body, though in most instances this is background information and advice), therapeutics (what is described as healing the lifeforce body), and movement (described as healing the emotional body). With non traditional allopathic material that has influences from Rudolph Steiner, and a non industrial approach to health, the book covers with each of the Fourfold topics: infectious disease, cancer, heart disease, hypertension, diseases of the adrenal cortex, digestive disorders, chronic fatigue, women's and men's diseases, weight loss, depression, back pain, arthritis, neurological diseases, and provides advice on how to be a patient, cooking, exercise, and other useful tips on how to live a health based life.

Several sketches of physical activity demonstrate actions required with explanatory text. For those who like an entirely pharma free approach to health, these methods are worth a try!
Review: Wendy Stokes https://wendystokes.co.uk

Mystic Psyche Tarot

2026-10-04T09:49:00.000+01:00

Mind Body & Soul Ezine Card Deck Review: Mystic Psyche Tarot By Emily Balivet. Quality Boxed set of 78 Cards and full colour Guidebook. Published by Rockpool Publishing. RRP US $29.95 : UK £23.99 September 2025 Visit: https://www.rockpoolpublishing.com/mystic-psyche-tarot

To illuminate the path of self discovery! Showing us the depths of human experience through traditional Tarot symbolism, mythic archetypes, personal alchemy, and modern paganism, this deck highlights illusions, negativity and weaknesses and aids in the discovery of truth, power and discernment. It is ideal for beginners and experienced readers.

The guidebook explains how to use the cards, how to prepare them, hoe to set an intention, how to choose the cards for a reading and how to interpret them. A One-Card quick draw, a Past, Present, Future Spread of 3 cards, and a Celtic Cross Spread of 10 cards, are suggested. Each card has a descriptive artwork image, a number, a title and two keywords for upright and reversals. The symbolism is explained, and the meaning is given. Reversals are also explained.

The author is based in US, and is a self taught artist and this deck was two decades in the making. Her interests include the goddess, esoteric wisdom, ancient pagan practices, and mythology. Her impressive artwork is usually acrylic and oil on canvas.

Gold leaf edged cards are easily recognised Rider-Waite-Smith but with added glamour. The Majors provide elegant artwork, as do he Court Cards of Pagr, Knight, Queen and King. Many of the pup cards are beautifully portrayed artistically. You will not be disappointed!

I loved this deck! One of my all time favourites! Reviewer Wendy Stokes https://wendystokes.co.uk

The Bohemian Animal Tarot

2026-10-03T12:44:00.000+01:00

Mind Body & Soul Ezine Card Deck Review: The Bohemian Animal Tarot, written by Scott Alexander King and illustrated by Sharon McLeod. A boxed set of 80 cards and guidebook. Published by Rockpool Publishing.

This is a truly beautiful Tarot deck. It is enriching, nourishing, and powerfully connects to many rare and iconic species that will facilitate great enjoyment for the reader and their clients. I like the deck and I like the work of Scott Alexander King. In addition to the suggested spreads, the deck can be worked through by choosing one card for each day. The species that are depicted are illustrated realistically and in great strength and skilfulness and admirability.

The Human personality is presented here as related to differing animals. Some cards have Elizabethan, Baroque, Victorian and Romany gypsy themes. The Bohemian styling was chosen due to its unconventional and unorthodox lifestyle and its Gypsy/Romany and creative ways. Some Majors are retitled (the traditional and new titles are both provided). The Minors are divided into 4 directions with elements. Because the deck was created and produced in the Southern Hemisphere, the Wheel is reversed with Air in East, Fire in North, Water in West, Earth in South. Paige, Knight, Queen and King denotes a masculine aspect for the Court Cards but the deck is not male dominant. Spreads offered for 3 card Past, Present & Future with sample reading, and Celtic Cross. The animal archetypes have 80 words plus the card description of 200 words. The Quest for each card is an additional 100 words plus keywords and Divinatory meanings, all add to a deep understanding of each card.
Recommended. Delightful and wise!

Review by Wendy Stokes https://WendyStokes.co.uk

True Love Oracle

2026-10-02T11:36:00.000+01:00

Mind Body & Soul Card Deck Review: True Love Oracle - Attract & Create the Love You Desire by Belinda Grace, Boxed set of 36 Cards and Guidebook, published by Rockpool Publishing US $24.95: UK £18.99.on 8/12/2022

New levels of understanding, confidence and trust are promised! With beautiful high colour artwork by Lori Banks, these cards are enjoyable. We all want to be loved and to love others in order to be emotionally fulfilled. It is difficult to feel satisfied with your life without affection and respect. The cards carry an image, number and title. In the guidebook, you have twenty words of advice for each card and 1,000 words of extra meaning. Also included, are instructions on how to use the cards, guidance on specific issues, questions, information for a 3 card reading for singles and for partnerships. There are meditations, mantras, a reparenting method, and a reintegration of your divine feminine.

I think every young modern woman will be blessed with something very loving from these cards, and gain life wisdom to share with their friends.

Review by Wendy Stokes https://wendystokes.co.uk

Mystical Healing Reading Cards

2026-10-01T14:31:00.000+01:00

Mind Body & Soul Ezine Card Deck Review: Mystical Healing Reading Cards by Anna Segal, illustrated by Jake Baddeley. By Rockpool Publishing. Boxed set of 36 cards and instruction book. Card size 5 inches x 3.75 inches.

"To the awakening of our spirit self"

It is suggested you meditate on the card images and read the message in the book. Questions to ask: What feelings and emotions are felt, what connections do you think of, do the symbols mean something personal, what does the card say about your past, your present life, and your possible future???

If you are tired of skimming surfaces, and are looking for something more meaty, this deck is a good start.

Information is provided on how to read the cards with the following One Card Reading, Three or Four Card Reading, the Pendulum Reading, the Jumping Card Reaading, a Repeated Message Reading, a Future Reading, the Choice of 6 Card Reading and Taking the Next Step Reading.

I like the information provided in the book and I also like the card images. Recommended - and excellent value.

Also by Anna Segal:

Secret Language of Your Body and Secret of Life Wellness.

Reviewer Wendy Stokes https:wendystokes.co.uk

Celtic Spirit Oracle

2026-09-27T13:57:00.000+01:00

Mind Body & Soul Card Deck Review: Celtic Spirit Oracle - Ancient Wisdom from the Elementals by Nicola McIntosh. Boxed set of 36 Cards and full colour Guidebook. Published by Rockpool Publishing.

I enjoyed these cards, their gentle coloured drawings, beauty, concepts and write-ups on each card. The cards display an image, a number, a title and three keywords on their face. In the guidebook, we have more information in up to 1,000 words of meaning for each card. Information on how to use the cards is detailed. Focus on the outcome you desire. Ask an open question, such as “What am I Missing?” Several other suitable questions are suggested. Spreads include The Triquetra or 3 Card, Past, Present, Future, the 5 card Pentagram, and the 10 card Celtic Cross.

Nicola practices Celtic Shamanism and her card titles bring elemental messages of the land, and the myths and traditions of the Celts. Information is provided about ancient and advanced beings called Elementals. She describes how each card relates to her.

We are detached from Otherworld spirits in our modern, highly stressed lives and are brought back in contact with them through these cards in a very gentle way. We are also told about the Celtic people with their distinguished knot work, artisan styles, their love of nature, and their strength and courage.

Twee! Review by Wendy Stokes https://wendystokes.co.uk

Healing Through Indigenous Wisdom

2026-09-26T15:23:00.000+01:00

Mind Body & Soul Ezine Book Review: Healing Through Indigenous Wisdom by Valerie Ringland PhD. Published by Rockpool Publishing. RRP US $18.95 : UK £16.99

This work book helps you to deepen your understanding of yourself and others. By learning about indigenous cultures, we learn about our own. It is designed to be used each week over the course of a year and it provides exercises and space to record your perceptions. In addition to altars, animals, ceremonies, stories and other shamanic topics, it covers personal trauma, addictions, emotional problems that beset all people wherever they are in the world. It is an exceptional book and one that brings about change through guidance and life wisdom gained from older tribal cultures.

The author, Valerie Cloud Clearer Schwan Ringland holds a doctorate in Social Work and has additional qualifications that aid her ability to write simply, yet effectively, about the healing methods of the many indigenous cultures she had studied. A fascinating book that will aid self understanding and will bring beneficial change.

Insightful. Recommended. Review by Wendy Stokes https://wendystokes.co.uk

Sacred Spirit Reading Cards

2026-09-25T10:42:00.000+01:00

Mind Body Soul Card Deck Reviews: Sacred Spirit Reading Cards - Spiritual Guidance for your Life Journey by Anna Stark, illustrated by Louis Dyer (a mixture of digital paintings/mixed media artworks). Published by Rockpool Publishing. Card size: 19cm x 8.5cm

Quality magnetic flip boxed set containing 36 cards and a full colour instruction book. Cards have an image, number, title and subtitle. The book text provides information on how to prepare for a reading, how to use the cards, and to set an intention. It asks "what are you seeking?" There is an affirmation, a crystal suggestion, and there is Angelic Assistance provided for each card, and you can call on Chohans for assistance with specific problems. The cards can also be used for meditation. They are a larger size than usual. You will find much to read and enjoy in these cards!

Sample: Spirit Messages- Observe Limitations. A hummingbird floats between the realms and demonstrates a positive approach to simplicity. It effortlessly glides across gardens and reminds us to take life slowly and enjoy! Their hum is healing and sends out love and beauty. Despite being so tiny, it can travel considerable distances. It can fly backwards showing us the importance of what lies behind us. Its wings move in a figure of 8 pattern, the symbol of eternity and the life of the spirit. This is your current guiding spirit. If it is seen in flocks, it represents a group of wise guides from the Otherworld. Be observant of the natural world, care for it, and protect it. It warns: Do not create complications in your life.
Use this affirmation: I am ready to receive confirmation from my 'spiritual team' now!

Fab artwork, and good sensible card meanings that are very popular and relevant in today's ecological world.
Review and reading by Wendy Stokes https://wendystokes.co.uk

Feminine Wisdom Oracle

2026-09-23T15:19:00.000+01:00

Mind Body & Soul Card Deck Review: Feminine Wisdom Oracle - Awaken Your Intuitive Energy by Lea Androic. Boxed set of 36 Cards and full colour Guidebook. Published by Rockpool Publishing. RRP £19.99 (1st August 2024)

Yellow gold highlights glint from the sturdy box which contains the cards and instruction book. The card edges are also yellow gold leafed and tied with a pink satin ribbon. This Oracle is designed to awaken femininity, provide good life advice and strengthen intuition and wellbeing.

Sample: 17. Kindness. A beautiful quality that is love in action; being considerate and generous. When, in doubt, choose kindness, for your kindness, heels, hearts and nurtures peoples souls. It’s important to be kind to yourself, and to heal your inner child. You must show yourself compassion and empathy. Choose to realise that we are all flawed and that it is absolutely okay to make mistakes. Offer yourself the gentle hand that you so often and selfishly give to others. Affirmation, I am worthy of my own kindness.

When you doubt yourself, pull a card. Ask a question, and pull a card. There are a few spreads suggested, Three-Card Pull, 3 card Self-Love Reading, 3 card Big Decision Making. You can also combine these oracle cards with Tarot, shuffling both card decks separately, then choose 3 Tarot cards, the first to represent your current situation, the second, the challenges you might face, and the third card is the outcome. Then choose 3 cards from this Oracle deck, the first the tools that will help you to ease your current difficulties, the second to achieve your desired outcome and lastly to provide support when facing obstacles.

Each card carries an image, a number, a title, and subtitle. In the guidebook, we are given 100 words of guidance and an affirmation. Images are all slimline, trendy, nimble and young females, maybe 15 years old. An ideal gift as a first Oracle deck for a mid teens girly girl. Feminine wisdom is deep and extensive and this doesn’t provide it.

Review by Wendy Stokes https://Wendystokes.co.uk

Mythos Tarot Review

2026-09-20T13:53:23.777+01:00

Mind Body & Soul Ezine Card Deck Review: Mythos Tarot - Guidance from the Greek Gods by Helena Elias. Published by Rockpool Publishing. Boxed set of 78 cards and guidebook.

These Tarot cards feature both Gods and Goddesses in the Greek pantheon. It is a very modern deck. The images are glamorous photographic models, very fashionable and very Hollywood! The cards are edged with gold leaf and are glossy card stock. The images are young trendy types, with facial make up, and wearing crowns, with rays emerging from their head. The author was a senior fashion designer and her commercial work has been featured on billboards in Times Square.

Each card has an image, number, traditional RWS title and a deity subtitle. The book provides more comprehensive information about upright (Risen) and reversed (Fallen) meanings and background on god/goddess energies and card meanings. Keywords are supplied for both.

I really like the text! The deck’s creator, Helena Elias, has brought us all our favourite Greek deities and many more besides.

Great artwork! Review by Wendy Stokes https://wendystokes.co.uk

The Mythic Oracle

2026-09-16T22:23:00.000+01:00

PROFILING: Tarot oracle with images from Mythic Oracle - Wisdom of the Ancient Greek Pantheon by Carisa Mellado with artwork by Michelle-Lee Phelan

Zeus is the King of the Gods and Lord of Humankind. He rules the skies and is father of the planet. He holds the lightning bolt. The eagle, bull and oak are his symbols. Zeus revealed himself to Semele as a pure, intense, blinding flash of lightning so powerful, she was consumed. He is the Divine Spark of Life. A new divinity has been given to you. Your consciousness will undergo deep transformation as the lightning bolt awakens you with personal realisations and epiphanies. You will release old patterns and embrace new ways of being. Anything is possible! Be prepared!

What do I need to accomplish?
Persephone tells us we achieve awakening through a mystery. She was kidnapped by Hades, her uncle who took her to his home to be his queen in the underworld. In grief, Demeter searches for her daughter, and all vegetation dies. Hades is commanded by Zeus to return Persephone, but he tempts her with pomegranate, and for each seed she tastes, she spends a month with him in his lair. She has lost her innocence and becomes caretaker of the dead whilst in the underworld, but her mother rejoices when she is released and the earth blooms and bears fruit and beauty is restored. She holds wisdom of both worlds, like a child who becomes an adult with the dawning of reality and truth - she has the wisdom of life and death. We cannot escape these realisations. The inner journey confronts fears, discovers our true nature and creates a new cycle. Everything becomes clearer and more empowering with the knowledge we have gained as we move through the dark space of the underworld and to light and life.

Who can I turn to? Athena, Goddess of Wisdom was born with a helmet, sword and shield and assists us in our outer and inner journeys. She chooses the best course of action. Her symbols are the olive tree which has so many uses and the owl which has a silent flight and can see behind. She represents clarity and balance of the heart and mind and she prepares a time to take stock by way of meditation or a daily journal. She helps heros win battles through intelligence and foresight. She instructs us to avoid dramas and deal with our inner life. Face yourself calmly and honestly and work out how best to begin the next phase of your life with Athena's kind assistance. Seek someone who channels Athena's wisdom.

Where can I go wrong? Pan is a nature deity of the forest, incorporating both the animal and human form. He is half goat and represents humankind's wild, free and basest disposition. He is playful but can also entice us to dangers. His panpipes are beguiling. We can use his energy, with boundaries, as he helps us connect to our passions and to the animal world which is without self-consciousness. He allows us to dance with abandon of what others might think. We spend too much time worrying about what we look like! Pan calls us to be natural, to be ourselves with passion and without artifice. What does this warning mean? That we are complacent, that we are too restricted or that we have been too unruly and self-centred?

What will benefit? This card indicates a connection to something far greater than yourseld. Gaia represents our mother and is embodied in the planet and its resources which provide our food, water, shelter, warmth, coolness, enjoyments and necessities beyond imagination. Everything we have is provided from the Earth. Without caring for her health, everything dies. We need to weed our life of non-necessities and give her priority. We need to cut out that which is unhealthy or dead. This is a time to nurture the ground of the future times, to think ahead with care and love for all that nature provides, without which we have no future. Teach children to care for the planet's resouces, to reuse, recycle and renovate.

Reading by Wendy Stokes www.wendystokes.co.uk

Holistic Tarot

2026-09-16T16:05:00.000+01:00

Mind Body & Soul Ezine Book Review: Holistic Tarot – An Integrative Approach to Using Tarot for Personal Growth by Benebell Wen published by North Atlantic Books

Licensed Attorney specialising in venture capital and global investments, qualified Tarot Master, Benebell Wen is a member of the American Tarot Association and the Tarot Association of the British Isles. She is a Feng Shui consultant, I Ching practitioner, numerologist and an astrology enthusiast.

With these impressive credentials, Holistic Tarot is highly academic but also very practical. It is a comprehensive textbook for those who wish to use tarot for professional purposes. The recommendations for this book come from the echelons of our greatest tarot experts, such as Kat Black Liz Dean, Barbara Moore, Bonnie Cehovet and many more who have written extensively on tarot, some even creating their own decks.

The picture on the front cover is taken from The Golden Tarot cards by Kat Black, a very evocative and exciting deck. If you are thinking that ‘Holistic Tarot’ is a literal tarot card deck, you will be disappointed! There is no Holistic Tarot deck. The book is titled ‘holistic’ because it encompasses so many aspects of tarot specialisation. The provided black and white scans of the cards are traditional Rider-Waite-Smith so be prepared. Differences between Tarot de Marseille, the Thoth Deck and Rider-Waite-Smith are shown and the author provides some autobiographical explanation of her tarot journey.

Upright and reversed meanings are provided for major, minor and court cards and the author sets out the approach of the book and the history of card decks. Methods of choosing a ‘significator’ card (one which represents the seeker) are supplied with information on how to read for others and yourself. Shuffling, cutting, drawing, cleansing information is included with ideas on suitable settings, invokations, philosophy, astrology, numerology, Kabbalah, elements and other correlations, exercises and meditations are provided, card counting and telling time, love and other major considerations are detailed, sample logs and templates supplied. Very useful sample readings are available to help the reader grasp the depth of a potential reading.

Information on everything you could possibly want to know about, such as, what to do if the reading is negative (no negative cards to be skipped and even positive cards, such as The Nine of Pentacles can have a negative side and visa versa) and useful and inappropriate questions (never talk of death and don’t predict tragedy, such as divorce) but phrase the reading in such a way as to give a warning instead. Sometimes, a seeker’s question might need to be rephrased and information is supplied about how to do this. Ethics are highlighted especially to do no harm, and ensure you, as the reader, are both competent and diligent and pursue your own professional development to the highest level and this includes never giving legal or medical advice.

A Golden Dawn Practice for Second Order Adepts called Opening of the Key is offered and there are many spreads suggested. 1, 2 and 3 card readings and combinations along with Essential Keys, Fixed Term Analysis, Dyadic Cross, the 6 Points, V Formation or Horseshoe, Seven Chakras, the Personality Tree, the Insight, the Celtic Cross, the Tree of Life, the Zodiac, 12 card Specific Question, the Lemniscate, the Six Faiths, Grand Profile Life Assessment, Chai 18-card , Grand Tableau, the Triquetra Outcome Management, Ba Gua, Eden Gray’s, 3 Aces Spread for Yes and No, Inquiries Two-Seeker Love and Relationship, the Rose, the Adjustment Card, the Shadow Card and the Essence Card – could you want more? Lo Shu Squares, a 7 step analytical process, 5 components of Circumstance (from Feng Shui) are given for consideration because any successful outcome depends upon them (force majeure, karma, disposition, education and action).

This is a full course on the tarot. A real tome! If you are keen to learn to read the tarot, Benebell Wen sets out a very thorough method to do this. It’s the Benebell Wen school of tarot reading with a small ‘s’, but her style is exceptional, and if you work through this book, learning all the way, it is likely you will become a brilliant tarot reader!

Take the four of cups for instancxe which shows a young man who has withdrawn into himself due to a lack of contentment. He has four cups offering him many blessings. However, he feels bored stale and empty. He is unable to entertain himself and craves drama and stimulation even at great cost to himself. Life is full of dissatisfaction and complaint. Everything is everyone else’s fault. He needs to reassess his interests, perspectives and ambitions for the future and be thankful for his circumstances. This can also apply to women too. If this is you or someone you know, write down where you would like to be in one year, five years and ten years time. Work towards these goals. If you need help, ask for it. The meaning of this card is to find new opportunities and revitalise your life.

There are free study guides on the website Visit: www.benebellwen.com

Grand Lenormand

2026-09-15T19:27:00.000+01:00

Mind Body & Soul Ezine Card Deck Review: Grand Jeu De Mlle Lenormand also known as the Astro Mythological by Mlle Lenormand) 54 cards with instruction booklet. Published by Grimaud. Card size: 127 x 90mm
Each of the traditional playing cards are represented as hearts, clubs, diamonds and spades which offer elements, numerology and other symbolism. Two extra cards are included as significator for a male or female querent. The 52 cards are 4 decks of diamonds, clubs, hearts and spades. The 52 cards are divided into 5 areas:
The Conquest of the Golden Fleece; The Trojan War; Hermetics/Alchemy; the Unexplained; and the Zodiac.
The cards are further divided:
The Top has 3 areas -
Left - a playing card image. Central - a constellation. Right - a letter and underneath some have Kabbalistic gematria.
Middle - a pen and ink image, renaissance and mediaeval in design.
Bottom - 3 areas of smaller images:
Left, Central - botanical images with sometimes several different flowers. Right - another image.

There is a traditional method to read the cards, to shuffle, cut and draw. Five cards are laid face down. Five main questions are business, oppression, marriage and relationships, the unexpected and the sequence of time. However, the cards lend themselves to intuitive readings which are deep, meaningful and aware.
Lenormand cards traditionally have 36 cards in the deck so this is a rare and very special deck. Lenormand usually suggests no reversals. The cards are read in relation to each other.

The deck was first published in Paris in 1845, two years after the death of Marie Anne Adelaide Lenormand, a famous French fortune teller of the Court of Napoleon. She stated that a gypsy gave her the knowledge of cartomancy. Most Grand Lenormand decks are from the 1890 design. Grimaud is a village in the Cote d'Azure region of France. The Gulf of St Tropez was once called the Gulf of Grimaud from the Grimaud family who have historical links to the area where there is an 11th century castle. Grimaud is one of the oldest card publishers. Their factory was founded in 1845 in Paris by Baptiste-Paul Grimaud, later bought up by Ducale.

An angel gifted me with this outstanding deck, which I am savouring until I have completed more research on the Greek myths and the constellations. It is the most valuable deck in my collection and one I am proud to own and will treasure.

Reviewer: Wendy Stokes www.wendystokes.co.uk

Sibyls Oraculum

2026-09-14T13:39:00.000+01:00

Mind, Body & Soul Ezine Card Deck Review: The Sibyls Oraculum - Oracle of the Black Doves of Africa by Tayannah Lee McQuillar, with artwork by Katelan V Foisy, Pack contains 44 cards and comprehensive information book. £16.99 published by Destiny Books

"There will be a coming of the day when that which is hidden shall be revealed"

The Libyan Sibyl

The author, Tayannah Lee McQuillar is a cultural anthropologist, scholar of religion, esoterica and mysticism. She hails from New York but conducted her research in Brazil and New Orleans and has shown great expertise in her knowledge of divination from earliest antiquity in this North African study and uniquely developed card system. She is the author of 'Rootwork'.

The cards’ artist, Katelan Foisy, works with multimedia and has produced cards which have an authentic look coupled with the beauty of ancient Mediterannean mosaics. Images of flowers, animals, fruit, gardens, objects, but no people! She is known as the female 'Jack Kerouac' and a modern day 'Francesca Woodman'. You are invited to experience the card images as closely as you can to form a close connection to them.

Greek and Roman mythology imbibed a great deal from the North African Sibylline spiritual tradition which had a highly developed culture, especially amongst wise women who were knowledgeable about mathematics, astronomy, dreams and the art of divination. Herodotus describes how the black doves flew from Thebes to the Siwa Oasis in Libya and to Dodona in Greece where they inspired the divination of the prophetesses in the first century. Information is provided for each cards of the deck, how to read the cards, how the oracle works, the spiritual structure of the cards, the use of epigrams (inscriptions) in a reading, and information on what to avoid, and where and when to conduct the reading. There are 3 examples of readings provided, along with the questions asked. Advice is supplied about creating a Mission Statement, and creating a Personal Motto. It is suggested a journal be kept. I very much liked the ethical explanation that underpins the readings. There are 6 steps to a reading which are well explained, with 3 sets of cards: the Core Issue Cards, the Projection Cards, and the Action Cards.

If you really like to be able to provide a reading with a difference - one that marks you out from other oracle deck readers - this deck has definitely something special to offer. I found it powerful, deep, and offering a healthy direction, erring on what is best and for ‘the highest good’! Due to the card images having an antique finish, a magnifying glass is needed to fully enjoy the images. Review by Wendy Stokes https://wendystokes.co.uk

Anamchara Oracle

2026-09-13T17:21:00.000+01:00

Mind Body & Soul Ezine Card Deck Review: Anamchara Oracle - Be guided by your loving soul companion. By Saorsa Sionnach. Boxed set with 44 cards and full colour Guidebook. Published by Rockpool Publishing. RRP US $24.95 : UK £18.99 (published 11th April 2024)

The word, anamchara means soul friend, spirit advisor and invisible confident. Love is the universal language and the deck focuses on kindness, peace, and contentment, providing good advice with caring intention. The front of the box and sides are gold embossed and the cards have gold leafed edges. The Guidebook has an excellent introduction to the focus of the oracle, about the Celtic culture, and our connection to others. It is well written with information on how to use the cards and self development. Mana is the golden lion, and Gabriel is the lighthouse in all storms. Due to the child-like images, I am recommending this oracle as a gift of love, and close friendship for young people, though the text is not immature.

Spreads: one card Stardust and a one card, Anamchara. A 3 card Tryptych, 4 card Elements and 4 card Seasonal and a 7 card Angel Wings. The artist/author has Scottish descent. The Guidebook provides number, title, subtitle, affirmation, advice column and an action, such as meditation, ritual, review, exercise. The artist/author has a Scottish background.

Enjoyable and inspiring. Review by Wendy Stokes https;//wendystokes.co.uk

Daily Intentions Oracle

2026-09-12T12:39:00.000+01:00

Mind Body & Soul Ezine Card Deck Review: Daily Intentions Oracle - Wisdom From Your Higher Self by Jackie Morgan. Boxed set of 36 cards and Guidebook. Published by Rockpool Publishing. RRP US $24.95 : UK £18.99

Sample: Belonging. Affirmation - I call soulful relationships into my life. Are you longing to feel you have a soul family? Do the people around you not hold the same values you hold? Why not find new people who match your enthusiasm and lust for life? Are the people around you now the people you always hoped for? Thank those who are in your corner. Call more nourishing individuals to help you hit new heights. Ritual: If you’re feeling lost and lonely, this is a very common feeling. Be gentle with yourself and breathe in the knowledge that the relationships you’ve been waiting for are nearby. What can you do to call them in? Maybe you are feeling vulnerable. Put this aside and be more adventuorous. Begin attending events that are aligned with your interests and strike up conversations with new people. Join an art group or even connect with someone from your past, who is living a life that you find interesting or inspiring. Could you go online and find a group that loves the same things you have been passionate about? Sometimes it can feel uncomfortable to be vulnerable and strike up a friendship, but this is your time to find those who can add to your life!

Good quality yellow gold edged cards, with strong images of women in action, multi cultural, and well shaped women too! On the card faces, we have a title, a number, an image, and an affirmation. In the full colour guidebook, we are provided with information on how to use the cards and are given a write up of 300 words on each card describing its meaning. The deck is divided into Intention Cards and Wisdom Cards, and these can be kept separate or used together. The cards you choose will be your focus for the day. This is one of the easiest decks to work with. It is simplicity itself and will suit the simplest of seekers. This is not an oracle that tells you your future but it guides through focus, intention, and aspiration. Each Intention Card includes a visualisation or small ritual, though sometimes just the simplest advice. I think this is a useful card deck for young women who are seeking personal development and inspiration.

Review by Wendy Stokes https://wendystokes.co.uk

Auset Gypsy Tarot

2026-09-09T12:03:00.000+01:00

Mind Body & Soul Ezine Card Deck Review: Auset Gypsy Tarot by James Jacob Pierri, original illustrations by Rebecca Stotsenburgh and Heather Scott. Published by REDFeather. UK: £22.99 US: $24.99

Mind Body & Spirit Ezine Book and Card Set of 78 Cards and full colour guidebook is contained within a magnetic clip closure quality presentation box. Good sturdy card stock with gold leafed edges, size: 7 inches x 4 inches.

The concept of this deck is unconventional. It’s an ‘on the move’ dream-like adventure, with modern styling and a hint of antiquity. It was 20 years in the making! It dances, struggles, juggles, charms and heals. It’s quirky, joyful, Bohemian, and it is full of the wonder and magic of the goddess Isis and of the Gypsies. There is autobiographical information provided, as the deck is the very personal perspective of the Creator, Designer and Writer, James Jacob Pierri, an Astrologer and International Tarot Reader who was known under the name of the Auset Gypsy when reading cards at Islands of Adventure in Universal Studios Theme Park. From there, he built a clientelle of movie stars and other celebrities. The two female artists are graphic artists who add their quirkiness to the mix. Within the deck are astrology, myths and secrets, gods and goddesses, heroes and heroines, and it has a canny style of know how, and it introduces us to all the fun of the fairground! It unlocks spiritual insights but always suggests you use your own intuition. The cards can be used for meditation, inspiration, and personal development. “The bitter truth is better than the sweetest lie”.

The word 'Auset' is an ancient form of the Egyptian pronounciation of the godddess Isis - and a Gypsy is a nomadic and free spirited person. When James was growing up, he saw the old style cards but not the Rider/Waite/Smith deck. He produced his own Tarot designs that became the template for the artwork in this deck. They hark back to his Italian heritage. The cards carry his image in the Fool, Magician, Chariot, Hanged Man and World Cards and the pug in the Fool card is Mr BoJangles, a real dog who features also in the story!

The Death Card shows us a romantic, harmonious, enigmatic Grim Reaper, a Dance Macabre with a ballerina, so this is not a heavy deck but a light and humorous one! It shows us the carnival of life!

Card Sample: Temperance. Number 14. XIV Astrological Associations: Aquarius, Pisces. Traditional meaning: Moderation. Balance. Calm. Centring. Mind and soul. Body and spirit. Sun and moon. Day and night. Male and female. Receptive and assertive. Human and animal. Perfection. Maintaining polarity. Good and bad. Auset Gypsy Meaning: holding both heart and mind. Being on two planes at one time. Living a double existence. Bringing peace and calm to turbulent situations. Maintaining the spiritual life and mundane physical life. Applying moderation in all things. Mediation and bliss. Story Plot: The mermaid sits on the border of light and dark. She holds the cup to receive and return the flowing waters of life back into the cycles for eternity. Her place is of extreme importance, being part human and part of the natural world. She possesses the balanced keel that is needed to maintain the flooding waters of all existence in a continual flow. She keeps not a drop for herself, but channels the flow of spirit, matter, thought, emotion, and intuition perpetually.

From a personal communication with James Jacob Pierri:

“These cards speak! I’ve devoted my adult life to practicing and exploring the use of mysticism and the history of Tarot. As evident in this deck, The Auset Gypsy Tarot is a blend of autobiography, experience and attention to detail wrapped in the tapestry of the Tarot’s rich history. It’s a dream come true for me tto deliver this to the world and my hopes are that it inspires those new to the journey as well as seasoned professionals. It’s a combination of romantic, old world charm and contemporary art styles, it pays homage to my heritage and it nods to the old fashioned Italian playing cards that were used for fortune telling and that I saw growing up as a child.”

Advice when meeting an enquirer, when shuffling, how to meditate on the cards, how to read them - Majors for Fates and Destinies and Minors for People, Places and Things with Aces titled Love Thanks and Devotion, Fortune Favours the Bold, Know Thyself, and Bonus Fortuna!

The Major Arcana cards depict a wanderer who travels across a magical land and meets with deities, men and women, animals and all kinds of spirits, with trials and successes, and highlights the life that learns wisdom, has strength and achieves tranquility and experiences many great secrets of life. There is a carnival romance and a dreamlike revelry within this novelty deck. We are introduced to a Card Reader par excellence, who deals the cards and reads the fortunes, over many years. One day he disappears, and he leaving behind all his possessions: a spirit board, his crytal ball, his tarot cards, and a hand written message that says “who will come and take my place?” No one arrived to take the place of the Auset Gypsy - until now - You are that person!

Expect the usual Tarot titles for the Majors, with Roman Numerals, astrology associations, and traditional keyword meanings. You will get also the Auset Gypsy meaning with its story plot, all in 150 buzzy words. The Minors are Cups - Hearts & Water (A Egyptian situla similar to an amphora), Wands - Clubs and Fire (Staff of Mercury), Swords - Spades and Air (a Balkan cutlass) and Coins - Diamonds and Earth (white roses and fruit). The Courts are King, Queen, Cavalier, Prince/Princess. We have three spreads as suggestions: The Auset Gypsy Aradia Lunar of 5 Cards, Auset Gypsy Seven-Point-Star of 7 cards, Auset Gypsy 3 Fates of Past, Present & Future, Love, Career & Spiritual!

Will you be the next Auset Gypsy? I like it! I’m buying my tent now!

Review by Wendy Stokes. https://wendystokes.co,uk

Auset Egyptian Oracle Cards

2026-09-08T14:33:00.000+01:00

Mind Body & Soul Ezine Card Deck Review: Auset Egyptian Oracle Cards - Ancient Egyptian Divination and Alchemy Cards by Elizabeth Jensen, illustrated by Marie Klement (pastels on canson paper) . Published by Rockpool Press. Boxed set of 44 cards and instruction book. Card Size: 5.5" x 3.75"

The book gives information on how to prepare to give a reading, to shuffle, pray to an Egyptian deity, and lay out the cards in spreads, for a one, three or seven card reading.
Each card provides a hand painted image, a number, a title, and a subtitle that relates to the energy of the card. The book provides further information on the card energies and meanings and includes channelled messages. More information on abundance, love, work, travel, health, family and future are included.

Sample card: Maat - Cosmic Justice. She is the goddess of truth, justice, rightful action and spiritual accord. All Egyptian priests and priestesses sought to live in a state of Maat to ensure harmony in this life and in the next. When someone dies, their body is weighed against a feather, a symbol for the conscience. The feather must balance against the heart of the deceased. That is how union with Osiris in the stars is earned. A heavier heart than the feather means the deceased is given to Ammit, the great devouring monster. A channelled message from Maat, chastising us for not understanding the imperative nature of justice in our world. She asks to be invoked into our homes and work-places. Her law ensures that higher spirituality operates to create order and harmony, safety and wellbeing.

Review by Wendy Stokes https://wendystokes.co.uk

The Camelot Oracle

2026-09-07T13:14:37.382+01:00

Mind Body & Soul Ezine Card Deck Review: The Camelot Oracle - Search for Guidance from the World of King Arthur. By John Matthews, illustrated by Will Worthington. Quality boxed set of full colour guidebook, two inserts, and 50 Cards. Published by REDFeather Mind Body Spirit. RRP £34.99 Sept 2026 Revised and updated Edition.

This is a high quality product. It has a dark wood coloured box with gold embossed lettering. The magnetic flower of life seal is lifted to reveal the guidebook’s cover image of Arthur the Warrior. I got my eye glass on this and it is a stunning artwork by Will Worthington who has produced the majority of the Cards’ images. Wil Kingham has added his skilled artwork to several Card illustrations.

The concept of this Oracle is that of an inner journey, or spiritual quest, devised by the esoteric specialist John Matthews. Included in the guidebook is comprehensive information to gain learning from the archetypes/characters and how to deal with your question. There are suggested places to visit, suggested by a landscape map of the Lands Adventurous. This will assist your travel from the court of King Arthur in Camelot to various places listed below.

34 Cards represent characters, Champion and Challenger Cards that will assist with learning about yourself as do the readings and meditations provided. The instructions are to unfold the map, and choose your direction, with a choice of Place Cards, such as Avalon, Joyous Gard, Sarras, The Grail Castle, Castle Mortal, The Green Chapel, The Hermitage, and The Wells. Path Cards are available too, such as The Deepening, The Hero’s, The Honoured, The Resolute, The Determined, The Wandering, The Doubtful, and The Turning. 4 Cards are titled, The Four Hallows, which are the Cup, the Spear, the Sword and the Stone. How to perform a reading is explained, with sample readings provided. An insert of The Round Table Spread of 13 Cards is included. Cards are good leaved on the edges and the Card backs are dragons, for upright readings only.

Oracle decks are traditionally positive energies only, but this deck is far from sweetness and light. This is my personal opinion only, but very evil archetypes such as one finds in this deck, are not to be played with. By working with them on the inner levels, we can find them coming into our life on the outer levels, even finding we are governed by their energies as they develop power to control our life. Such people, should we meet them, are best avoided. In real life they may be in prison or a psychiatric hospital. You are guided to try to find the light within them, but often such evil characters have no light and will deceive or switch personalities against you. The red warnings are here. Each reading needs to be wholistic, safe and include integrity and ethics. Evil entities need to be banished, not asked to defend you or support you. The concept is primitive and pagan, and there is little Christian morality offered. So I would say, the development of peace, kindness, forgiveness, understanding, and service to those most in need, would be suitable starting point for any reading. You don’t need a hard journey, with armed guards or go to war with a murderous enemy; you are living and working with people to get the best for yourself and for others, a win-win situation, and an easy journey is best advised. Assume you are a healer who wants to make the world a better place. The story of the Grail is one of healing the land, and healing the king.

Review Wendy Stokes https://wendystokes.co.uk

Pistis Sophia - The Goddess Tarot

2026-09-06T13:20:00.000+01:00

Mind Body & Soul Ezine Card Deck Review: Pistis Sophia - The Goddess Tarot by Kim Huggens and Nic Phillips Published by Red Feather (Schiffer Publishing) Boxed set of 22 Majors-Only cards and guidebook £31.99

Kim Huggens and Nic Phillips have added to their very successful fully illustrated 78 card Sol Invictus - The God Tarot, published a decade ago. Sol Invictus is the Invincible Roman Sun God. This is an entirely masculine myths and historical tarot deck so it is no surprise that after more than ten years of development, an all female Majors-Only of 22 cards is available. Pistis Sophia takes its title from a Gnostic work from early Christian times with esoteric teachings from Jesus. Several Christian elements are included in what is largely international in scope.

Pistis Sophia is not for beginners. It is created to be an intermediate to advanced level deck as the content explores the divine feminine, from across the world, in ways that allow for greater knowledge and understanding of the archetypes detailed, how they developed and major points of discussion. The Major Cards of the Tarot are often traditionally presented a way throughout life's experiences, building on knowledge so we grow to greater maturity, understanding and wisdom, and the archetypes for this deck are carefully chosen also to present energies that we should develop for our spiritual progress.

The divine feminine are in the following progression from The Fool - Eve, The Magician - Isis, The High Priestess -Sophia, The Empress - Xochiquetzal, The Construct - Nuwa, The Hierophant - St Mary Magdalene, The Sisters - The Wawilak Sisters, The Chariot - Nike, Strength - St Perpetua, The Hermit - Kwan Yin, The Wheel of Fortune - The Moirae, Justice - Ma'at, The Mystic - St Teresa of Avila, Death - Izanami, Alchemy - Cerridwen, The Devil - Salome, The Tower - Oya, The Star - Ushas, The Moon - Morgan le Fay, The Sun - Amaterasu, Rebirth - Inanna and The Universe - Nut. Astrological and Kabbalistic associations are given, and the ‘above’ and ‘below’ sections provide for each card; individual artwork and explanation of the artwork, the title, subtitle and origin of the archetype, and this is followed by detailed information in history, myth and symbolism. Divinatory meanings are detailed and keywords are included.

The spreads offered are:

Brigid of Mantles (8 cards), Descent to the Heaven Below (7 cards), Flowers of Blodenwedd (12 cards), The Goddess Archetype (9 cards), Handmaidens of Sophia (7 cards) and Seven Stabs of the Knife (7 cards).

In the companion book, we read how this deck was decided upon with autobiographical information about Kim Huggens, with post graduate qualifications that focus on the magical history of the classical and late antique world, and Nic Phillips, with his speciality artwork of folklore, world mythology, pilgrimage and the Black Madonna. We learn how to use and work with this deck, how we can work with the symbols and build for ourselves knowledge about how these archetypes silently influence our life and fulfil and nurture us, and those who we read for.

My experience of working with this deck: I chose one card each week, starting with 0 to read and reflect on by placing the card on my mantle shelf. I learnt a great deal about how the cards brought the divine feminine into my life. I was very impressed. On some occasions, I spoke to a friend about the archetype and what I was learning from the write-up, which is extensive and a lot to ponder. I also gave one card readings to friends from the book and from my own memory after drawing a card at random for them. I liked the artwork and the symbolism. I can recommend the deck to serious students of the divine feminine, whether they be female, male or otherwise in their gender.

Additional work by the author:

Tarot 101 - Mastering the Art of Reading the Cards

Tarot Illuminati and it’s sister deck Tarot Apokalypsis (with Erik C Dunne)

From a Drop of Water, Vs, Memento Mori are Edited anthologies exploring myths.

Additional work by the Artist

Celtic Saints of Western Britain

Breaking Chains: The Evolution of the Black Madonna

Review by Wendy Stokes

Kabbalistic Visions

2026-09-05T18:46:00.000+01:00

Mind Body & Soul Ezine Card Deck Review: Kabbalistic Visions - The Marini Scapini Tarot by Marco Martini, illustrated by Luigi Scapini, Presentation box of 78 cards and instruction book Published by Schiffer Publishing. RRP £40.99

“To the great love of life.”

There are several pages of the origins of the Tarot and today’s use, followed by explanations of Kabbalah, a Tree of Life diagram, Hebrew letter correspondences, connections, codifications and a page of text for each Sephiroth, various ways to codify the Majors, Body, Soul and Spirit. The Way of the Soul (with 7 Palaces), the Way of the Body, the 3 Mother letters, the 7 Double letters, and the 12 Simple letters, all explained.

Each Major has 350 words of understanding, a short divinatory meaning, Past, Present & Future, the obstacle within the reading and the Final Result of the reading. Each Minor has 350 words of meaning. The Court Cards are King, Queen, Knight and Princess of Wands, Cups, Swords, and Coins, with Pip Cards having 50 words of esoteric plus divinatory meaning.

Card size: 5.5 inches x 3.5 inches. The cards are highly coloured and edged with silver. Spreads are The Kabbalistic Cross (66 Cards), The System (7 Cards), The Game of the Pyramid (10 Cards) and the System of 12 Cards. There is a large folded artwork poster for your wall.

If you like the esoteric, you will enjoy this specialised deck. There is much to learn for the ordinary reader, and you can continue adding to your knowledge base for a life time. This could be the deck that starts you on that life-long journey of esoteric learning.

Wendy Stokes Reviewer: https://wendystokes.co.uk