Magdalene's Lost Legacy

Mind Body & Soul Ezine Book Review: Magdalene's Lost Legacy - Symbolic Numbers and the Sacred Union in Christianity by Margaret Starbird, Published by Bear & Co, paperback and kindle. 

Patriarchy has failed us for millennia! The author, Margaret Starbird has written 7 books on the topic of Mary Magdalene’s role in the life of Jesus and has studied original Greek manuscripts to decode embedded gematria (numbers) within the New Testament texts. She has uncovered hidden aspects of the divine feminine, and the sacred partnership between Jesus and his bride, that was the earliest of Christian spiritual relationships. This secret wisdom was corrupted by St Paul and other misogynistic Church fathers. This sacred marriage of the Lamb and the Bride unites the divine aspects of the male and female, known as the 'heiros gamos'.  Margaret Starbird challenges the celibacy of Jesus replacing it with a union with Mary Magdalene that restores the female to its rightful place as bride, beloved and sacred partner, and provides a true understanding of love and commitment. 

Secrets of Mary Magdalene

Mind Body & Soul Ezine Book Review: Secrets of Mary Magdalene -A Guide to Her Story, History and Heresy by Dan Burstein and Arne de Keijzer. 

The life of Mary Magdalene is examined by the experts, with contributions from Elaine Pagels, Margaret Starbird, Merlin Stone and a host of other writers and researchers throughout all time. Each provides from their perspective who this enigmatic woman was, what do we know about her from the canonical gospels and the many other traditions that describe her as a provider, lover, outcast, harlot, wife, teacher, priestess, healer, apostle to the apostles, and in poetry, painting, fact and fiction. This book has it all! 

It is my favourite book about the Magdalene. It''s brilliant! Easy to read, with broad, fascinating, often new and exciting content. Recommended. 

The Chalice of the Magdalene

Mind Body Soul Ezine Book Reviews: The Chalice of the Magdalene - The Search for the Cup that Held the Blood of Christ by Graham Phillips, Paperback and Kindle formats, Published by Bear and Co.

Was the Holy Grail a cup used at the Last Supper by Jesus and his disciples? Was it able to perform miracles? Did Mary Magdalene collect the blood of Jesus in this cup when he appeared to her following his death on the cross? Was there a relic known as the Marian Chalice taken to Rome by Constantine's mother, Helen? Was a cup smuggled from Rome in 410 AD according to Olympiodorus? Was it brought to Britain for safe keeping? This book focuses on the journey of this grail. It identifies Arthur and the place where the Holy Grail is now. 

The Quest for Mary Magdalene

Mind Body & Soul Ezine Book Review: The Quest for Mary Magdalene - History & Legend by Michael Haag

Extract:  “A woman who needed to earn an income could extend her domestic activities into the marketplace where she could sell clothing, farm produce and bread (the bakers were men)or she could be an innkeeper, letting out rooms in her house. Hairdressers, midwives, and professional mourners were traditional occupations for women. But a woman’s earnings were for the benefit of her family. She was not free to dispose of her money herself.

The Sacred Feminine Anthology

Mind Body & Soul Ezine Book Review: Voices of the Sacred Feminine – Conversations to Re-Shape Our World, Edited by Rev Dr Karen Tate, Published by Changemakers Books. paperback £10.38 400 pages 

This is an anthology of specially chosen articles from keynote speakers, authors and activists who are supportive of the Divine Feminine, each article is between 400 – 1,000 words in length and a short autobiography of the contributor follows each article. All articles cover some aspect of the goddess and are derived from many cultures, for instance, sacred activism, social change, planetary welfare, healing, empowerment and mutual support, in addition to challenges to major patriarchal religions. Worship of the Divine Feminine fills many a gap in general religious thoughts and fails to promote women to positions of power and influence or to recognise the importance of the many benefits that are offered from honouring matriarchal spirituality. Amongst the articles are several interviews which have been aired on the radio broadcast by the presenter Karen Tate. Several of the articles are written from a US perspective but where-ever one is in the world, one can gain something from each and every contribution provided. I have not provided each of the article titles but just idea/s that caught my eye which I thought worthy to mention.  

The Bloodline of the Holy Grail

Mind Body & Soul Ezine Book Review: The Bloodline of the Holy Grail - The Hidden Lineage of Jesus Revealed by Laurence Gardner. 

Kicking off, by page 4, the author is drawing attention to how far our society has degraded from the Grail ideology. The author promises to set out the Grail Code - which is one of service - of conscience, and therefore the grail transmits a true religious message across the world and across the generations. All credit to the late Laurence Gardner for recognising and teaching this ancient and vital knowledge. 

The late Laurence Gardner (died 2010) was a controversial character, a writer, researcher and one time stockbroker. He believed that the Ark of the Covenant produced monoatomic gold, a white powder that has superhuman healing properties; that aliens from other planets brought us religion; that the origins of Judaism lie in Egyptology; and that Jesus married Mary Magdalene, had children and their offspring are in the House of Stewart. He worked closely with HRH Prince Michael of Albany, Head of the Royal House of Stewart, aka Michael Roger Lafosse who has been entirely discredited. 

Secrets of Mary Magdalene

Mind Body Soul Ezine Book Review: Secrets of Mary Magdalene - A Guide to Her Story, History and Heresy anthology edited by Dan Bernstein & Arne de Keijzer, published by Orion Books, kindle and paperback, 480 pages £6.99 With colour plates.  www.secretsofmarymagdalene.com.

“The Untold Story of a History’s Most Misunderstood Woman!’ Well, certainly there is nothing in the New Testament to suggest that Mary Magdalene was a prostitute, so how did this malign story develop, and who was the real Mary Magdalene and what do we know about her?

The Magdalene Legacy

Mind Body & Soul Ezine Book Review: The Magdalene Legacy - The Jesus and Mary Bloodline Conspiracy by Laurence Gardner, with colour plates, published by Element Books, Hardback and paperback: 416 pages.

This is an exploration of Mary Magdalene by the late art historian and genealogist, Laurence Gardner. He tells us of the duff stuff in the book ‘The Da Vinci Code’ by Dan Brown, and he exposes the scam of The Priory of Sion. He provides information about the French Connection, the anointing, the Nazarenes, Templars, the House of Judah, Mary and Martha at Bethany, explains who the three Marys were, Joseph of Arimathea, the Fisher King, Qumran, Sarah-Salome, the Sangreal, the Jerusalem Temple, Chartres Cathedral, the Ark of the Covenant, the Atbash Code, the messianic lineage, Leonardo da Vinci, Sophia, the Gospels, Simon Zealotes, Sts. Peter and Paul, the Old Testament, including the revelations of the names of the persons who wrote St John’s Gospel and the Book of Revelations, and he explains his take that ‘bread’ mentioned in the Lord’s Prayer was a ‘powder of projection’ that was manufactured by Karnak priests, and was the foundation of the Davidic dynasty (not what you might think but something rather incredible). And you will never believe what Joseph and Joseph of Arimathea did for a living! There are short chapters on Arthur, the Grail Castle, and the Last Supper! Revelations and more revelations, including many pages of genealogy. From Martin Malachi: “Only those of the bloodline of Jesus through his mother qualify for the designation of ‘desposyni’.” 

There is an in depth study of the days of the trial and crucifixion, grail tables and the Merovingians.

The Healing Wisdom of Mary Magdalene

Mind Body & Soul Ezine Book Review: The Healing Wisdom of Mary Magdalene - Esoteric Secrets of the Fourth Gospel by Jack Angelo. Published by Bear & Co. RRP US $16.00 : Can 19.50

Taking as its sources, the Gospel of John, the Gnostic Gospels the fragments of text that comprise the Gospel of Mary Magdalene, we read that she was a gifted visionary and spiritual teacher and was intended to lead the Jerusalem group following the death of Jeshua, a Jewish shaman prophet, but was prevented by the male authority figures who were also the Disciples of Jesus. Jack Angelo, a Welsh writer and now healer, had personal contact with Mary Magdalene, who he refers to as Maryam, hearing her voice and being able to speak with her. The book is his memoir of the insights which endorse the importance of this obscure teaching, and brings about healing and transformation. 

A glossary and suggestions for further reading are included. 

The Church of Mary Magdalene

Mind Body Soul Ezine Book Review: The Church of Mary Magdalene - The Sacred Feminine and the Treasures of Rennes-le-Chateau by Jean Markale

This book examines the connection between the Templars, the Cathars, and the enigmas of the Rennes-le-Chateau area of France, and its connection to the legends of Mary Magdalene. Does the church hold the answers to the questions that seekers ask about who Mary Magdalene was? Was she ever there? Was she married to Jesus? Did she have children? Was she a High Priestess who anointed the Priest King into his spiritual destiny? Etc. These questions are answered in the text along with the mystery of a newly appointed priest in 1885 and the unusual behaviour and strange building work that occurred during his tenure. Did he discover something valuable while renovating the church, from Roman, Templar, Cathar, or other group?  

Mary Magdalene, Beloved Disciple

Mind Body & Soul Ezine Book Review: Mary Magdalene, Beloved Disciple by Clysta Kinstler, published by Cygnus Books, paperback 320 pages £9.95

The late Clysta Kinstler taught Women's Studies, Humanities and the Philosophy of Religion at American River College, Sacramento, California and is also the author of "Moon Under Her Feet', a biblical account of the myth of Isis and Osiris, and Inanna and Dumuzi and a connection of Mary and Jesus to the ancient stories. 

In this novel, 'Mary Magdalene, Beloved Disciple', the perspective is again in this Middle Eastern 'goddess' culture genre that is woven into the Jewish biblical narrative. Written from the perspective of Mary, as though it is her 'gospel' as the divine feminine spouse of Jesus, her story is one of love struggling against the forces of evil that beset their lives. As the goddess representative on Earth, Mary, a tower to her people, she is strong, capable, caring and sincere. With quotes from Dante's Inferno, the Old and New Testament, Bhaghavad Gita, and other sources, the topic is fleshed out into a highly readable, enjoyable and moving storyline. 

Magdalene Mysteries

Mind Body & Soul Ezine Book Review: Magdalene Mysteries - The Left Hand Path of the Feminine Christ by Seren & Azra Bertrand. Published by Bear & Co. 

Mary Magdalene, as we know from original and earliest sources was a Jewish woman who assisted Jesus and the apostles with their finances. She had seven demons driven from her by Jesus, and was at the foot of the cross when he was crucified. And she is reputed to have been the first person to see the risen Christ. Even this last point about her life is debatable. Women were not considered reliable witnesses, especially one who had been affected with 7 demons. As a Biblical persona, she has been confused with Mary of Bethany, and Mary of Egypt, hence the accusation of prostitution - a terrible slur against her name. 

This book is a NewAge/Fertility Goddess genre paperback. It’s about a pagan Mary Magdalene, coupled with assumptions and corruptions, and it’s about a different kind of Jesus to the one that is prophecies and documented in the Old & New Testaments. For 1,400 years, Mary Magdalene suffered a gross injustice, as she was accused by the Papacy of prostitution. There is nothing in the New Testament to associate her name with this way of making her money. Was Jesus a pimp living off immoral earnings? It is highly unlikely that this Mary was a prostitute, as Jewish women and the entire society were extremely sexually oppressed. At the time, with Roman soldiers in the city, disease would have been rampant amongst prostitutes and they would have been violently driven from the city. 

Ben Mijuskovic - Loneliness

Mind Body & Soul Ezine Book Review: Loneliness in Philosophy, Psychology, and Literature by Ben Lazare Mijuskovic  is available on Kindle £2.52 with 309 pages and there is a FREE download of the book from the website.

This book focuses on the link between literature, psychology and philosophy throughout time and on humankind's ability to deal with loneliness. The author, Ben Mijuskovic, explores the various ways society uses loneliness, for example, "punishing" prisoners by isolation from others. The book discusses in detail the reasons why children fear being alone and how adults deal with a similar anxiety but do not share their concerns with others. The author is a Professor and this is very much reflected in the style of writing. The book provides in depth academic understanding and will be of great interest to students and fellow academics. Reviewer: Susan Griffiths

The Wife of Jesus

Mind Body & Soul Ezine Book Review: The Wife of Jesus - Ancient Texts and Modern Scandals by Anthony Le Donne

Would an itinerant preacher have the responsibilities of a wife and children one wonders, especially as Jesus provoked ire from the powerful Jewish elite! The Essenes were celibate, and John, the cousin of Jesus, an ascetic, may have been an Essene. Maybe Jesus was too! There is question whether The Gospel of Jesus’ Wife is a forgery! Was Jesus married and if so, to whom? This is the subject of this study and unlike many sensationalised and lucrative accounts, it is dealt with in an academic manner by a scholar of Jesus and the time in which he lived, and with an open mind and without an agenda! It is written in a chatty and easy, modern style. 

The Wisdom of Mary Magdalene Cards

Mind Body Soul Ezine Card Deck Review: The Wisdom of Mary Magdalene Inspiration Cards by Sharon Hooper and Susun Luvit published by Sanctuary Publications, Boxed set of 36 cards plus instruction booklet.

These 36 card images are taken from classical paintings, some well known, others rarer, and depict Mary Magdalene in her roles as described in The Gnostic Gospel of Mary, The Gospel of Thomas and other texts related to her roles as the the archetype of an ever unconditional loving Divine Feminine. "If Mary Magdalene were alive today, what teaching would she give to you to address your concerns? Can you recognise love in your life? How would she uplife and guide you in your life?" 

Each card carries a message from ancient texts. 

My favourite Mary Magdalene card deck! Review by Wendy Stokes  https://wendystokes.co.uk

The Power Deck Review

Mind Body & Soul Ezine Card Deck Review: The Power Deck - The Cards of Wisdom by Lynn V Andrews with artwork by Rob Schouten. Book and 45 cards in pack published by Jeremy P Tarcher. For personal self development rather than reading for others because 'to heal our planet we must first heal ourselves'. You are instructed to pick a card each morning for beauty, health, strength and wisdom. The booklet provides information on how to use the cards. There is also a 'sacred wheel' 6 card spread offered. Cards divide into directions and colours to represent the required energy. There is an exercise to work with fear and instructions on keeping a journal with 7 questions for guidance. A daily prayer for empowerment is provided.

Magdalene Oracle Cards

Mind Body Soul Ezine Card Deck Review: Magdalene Oracle - An Ocean of Eternal Love by Toni Carmine Salerno, published by Blue Angel Publishing, 45 cards in a boxed set with instruction booklet. £17.99

Mary Magdalene is presented through the modern artwork and text of Toni Carmine Salerno, with figurative and some abstract paintings. Mary Magdalene is the bearer of infinite love and timeless wisdom and the deck can be used for personal guidance or for simple readings. For each card, a 150 word reading is supplied. 

Text description and meaning of the cards follows: 

Sacred Earth Oracle

Mind Body &Soul Ezine Card Deck Review: Sacred Earth Oracle by Toni Carmine Salerno & Leela J Williams. Artwork by Helena Nelson-Reed. Published by Blue Angel. Boxed set of 43 cards and guidebook. 

Sample: The card of Discernment. Earthly Meaning: "The books, films and people you choose to spend time with, subtly feed your beliefs about how the world works. Choosing good food means your body can absorb all the nutrients that it needs for optimal health. The same applies for the information and attitudes you surround yourself with. Be selective about the movies, books and the conversations you have. Give yourself the opportunity to absorb higher thinking, greater visions and deeper love. Spiritual Meaning: Breathe in the Divine Mother’s love for this world. Surround yourself with the works of peace and compassion. Take on the beauty and joy of living. Increase your concentration of love, and it will naturally flow out into the world, from high to low, following the channel to where it is needed most. The energy you foster in yourself and in the world is a choice. Be selective. Choose love. Insight: When particles move from areas of high concentration to a low concentration, it is called diffusion. 

Enchanted Earth Oracle

Mind Body & Soul Ezine Card Deck Review: Enchanted Earth Oracle by Jessica Lahoud, illustrated by Amanda Clark. Quality flip top box containing 36 Cards and full colour Guidebook by Rockpool Publishing. RRP US $28.95 :UK £20.99 

Sample card from the Guidebook: 8 Forgive Keywords: Compassion, Healing, Forgiveness. “I allow compassion and forgiveness to flow through me.” This card invites you to embrace the transformative power of forgiveness. When you forgive, you do so for yourself and for others. You are standing at the threshold of healing, only blocked by your commitment to hold onto what wounds you. Don’t allow your heart to be hardened by the hurt you have sustained. Instead release the burdens, resentment and pain and open your heart to compassion for yourself as well as for whoever needs your forgiveness at this time. You may not always feel that someone is deserving of your forgiveness. This card serves to remind you that when you allow yourself to forgive and allow yourself to say “I won’t carry this pain anymore. I deserve to be free of this weight. It’s no longer mine to carry.” Be firm in your boundaries to prevent future pain, while releasing whatever binds you to that wound. Make space for peace within. With your heart open and your spirit brimming with love, you create space in your life with positive energy to flourish. Over time you’ll see your growth and you will blossom, free from the shadows of resentment.

The Angel Oracle

Mind Body & Soul Ezine Card Deck Review: The Angel Oracle - Working with the Angels for Guidance, Inspiration and Love by Ambika Wauters. Published by Eddison Books £21.99
36 gold leaf edged cards (card size: 5" x 3") plus explanatory booklet in a high quality drawer pull box.

"Praise be to all angels forever" Tobit 11:15

Cards feature attractive mediaeval style angel images with a title and subtitle. The book provides information about angels of all kinds, their powers and duties, from which realm they originate, their function and gifts. There are stories about angels from history and personal experience. In addition, there is advice on how to use the cards, prepare for a reading, how to ask a question and receive an answer for the highest good - all a beginner would need to know. Spreads are suggested with sample readings, including a one card, a 2 card Yin/Yang, a 3 card Past, Present and Future, a 4 card Four Function Psychological, a 5 card Tree of Life, a 6 card Sacred Cross and a 13 card Zodiac spread. Having worked for some time with angels in this way, I can recommend using them, even just choosing a card to meditate on each day. They have a definite magic and the author, Ambika Wauters, is an expert in the field of angelology!

The Rose Oracle

Mind Body & Soul Ezine Card Deck Review: The Rose Oracle by Rebecca Campbell, set of 44 cards and Guidebook. Published by Hay House US $26.99 : Can $35.99 : UK £22.99 (March 2022) 

“Unlock the mysteries of the rose, connect to the divine feminine, nature, beauty. May Her healing mysteries call you home to your true nature.”

The rose is an ancient symbol of love and perfection. It is known as the Queen of flowers. The cards call us to meet the Mother Rose, connect to the goddess, to beauty, and to nature. Its perfume, soft velvet petals and beauty have provided great joy across the generations and across many countries of the world. The cards help us to reconnect with the garden, the Earth, the divine feminine, with seasons and cycles. 

Flower Reading Cards

Mind Body & Soul Ezine Card Deck Review: Flower Reading Cards - Discover the Language of Nature by Cheralyn Darcey (author and artist), published by Rockpool Publishing, 36 cards in magnetic flip to open box with high quality explanatory booklet £14.99 Author website: www.cheralyndarcy.com

International flowers are featured, each card carries a title and subtitle, and linocut artwork, which is also painted by hand. The meanings have been developed through research and enquiry, personal experience and observation. In the booklet, each card has its common name and latin name, meaning, challenges, a botanical profile and a place of origin. Each flower has been given a personality by this environmental artist who uses recycled materials for the past twenty years for her artworks. Also provided is information on how to use the cards, pick a flower for each day, for oracle readings, meditation, healing and education. 

Archangel Fire Oracle

Mind Body & Soul Ezine Card Deck Review: Archangel Fire Oracle by Alexandra Wenman. Boxed set of 40 cards and guidebook. Published by Findhorn Press. US $25 : Canada $31.50 : U.K. £15.99 

This is an enjoyable deck of cards. It introduces us to 40 high ranking angelic icons who act as Divine Guides through the messages they transmit to us about spiritual evolution, of ‘ascension’ and ‘enlightenment’. The cards are divided into 17 different suits that relate to chakras, colour schemes, and frames and includes a balance of male and female energies. 

Through these, we connect to our inner truths, our authenticity, to move to a place of deeper and higher consciousness. A similar on each card is to assist with attunement and to purify us so we can live to our greatest potential. By working with angelic qualities you can strengthen your connection to the divine. 

The Earthcraft Oracle

Mind Body & Soul Ezine Card Deck Review: The Earthcraft Oracle by Juliet Diaz and Lorraine Anderson with art by Danielle Boodoo-Fortune, published by Hay House, boxed set of 44 cards with guidebook. US $19.99 Can $ 25.99 

‘Earth Mother I worship thee for thy body is my temple, my religion reclaimed.’

“Cut the vine, pick the fruit, take a bow, thank the root.”

The topic of planetary welfare is of utmost importance, and this card deck helps us to focus on the planet as our birthplace, our home, our provider and our Mother. It reminds us to reconnect to the Earth, and to ourselves and to respect and appreciate the healing we are offered. Indigenous people have handed down knowledge that we have forgotten about the Earth and its wonders. The importance of the Earth is detailed within the deck’s messages, and the deck can appeal to women (and men) of all races, genders, sizes and skin tones - all are children of Mother Earth. 

Divine Feminine Archangel Oracle

Mind Body & Soul Ezine Card Deck Review: Divine Feminine Archangel Oracle - Protection and Support from the Divine by Claire Stone. Boxed set of 44 cards and Guidebook. Published by Rockpool Publishing. June 2025. RRP Au $32.99 : US $24.95 : UK $18.99 

Sample Card - Archeia Haniel 6 Moon Magic. “Archeia Haniel, grace of the goddess, is the angel of the moon and the twin ray of Archangel Nathaniel. Among many things they can help you manifest abundance and understand the feminine cycles within nature. Crystals: moonstone, selenite and white howlight. You have an affinity with the moon, which is why Archeia Haniel is attracted to your luminous light. You are a priestess at  heart, a healer and lover of the natural world. Happy and contented in your own skin, you no longer seek reassurance from anybody as you have nothing to prove to the world. Archeia Haniel acknowledges you as an asset to the spiritual community. Continue illuminating the path for others by setting a shining example. Be a living testament to how spirituality enriches lives. If people turn to you for guidance, lead them gently. Allow them to discover their own insights as this is the true essence of a great spiritual teacher. Remember to recharge your batteries after providing a listening ear, otherwise your psychic insights could become distorted. Bask under the moonlight and ask Haniel to wrap you in her brilliant white light so your aura remains crystal clear. Additional meanings: you are sensitive to the phases of the moon and are a natural born healer, psychic and mystic. Join or create a sisterhood circle. Keep your next moves to yourself. Retreat inward. Track your menstrual cycle, if applicable. Actions: make a wish on the next new or full moon. Affirmation: by the power of the moon upon this night, I embrace feminine wisdom and glean insight.”

Earth Medicine

Mind Body & Soul Ezine Book Review: Earth Medicine - Ancestors' Ways of Harmony For Many Moons by Jamie Sams, published by Harper. Paperback 383 pages

Native American culture is intelligent,p - it respects nature with respect and conservation - it appreciates beauty - of the variety of the plant and animal kingdoms - of the landscapes of mountains, rivers and beaches - and of the universal rhythms and powers, of the sun, moon and stars.

Chelsea Physic Garden Herbal Review

Mind Body & Soul Ezine Book Review: Chelsea Physic Garden Herbal - The Essential Guide to Herbs for Living by Deni Bown, hardback, published by Pavilion.

Divided into chapters of aphrodisiacs, aromatics, balsams, barks and woods, colourings, foliage, poisons, relaxants, edibles, tonics, and more. Everything you want to know about seed, leaf, flower and fruit of the herbal world. Modern high quality colour photography with several full colour plates of antique hand drawn and coloured botany images. 

Guardian Angel Cards

Mind, Body & Soul Zine Card Deck Review: Guardian Angel Cards - Loving Messages from theAngels, 44 cards by Toni Carmine Salerno, 44 cards with no images, no booklet, just text and colour on heart shaped cards, giving a message of inspiration, guidance and healing. Brief but positive 50 word information typed on the coloured cards. How to use the cards to receive an answer to a question are given in the information on how to use the cards. Cards are divided into suits with 5 cards containing a short prayer. Artist and author, Toni Carmine Saleerno has produced a very large number of card decks for his Australian publishing house, Blue Angel. Twee! So easy to read the short text message directly from the card. A nice gift! Send an oracle card with a message to a friend with a birthday card!  

The Female Archangels Oracle

Mind Body & Soul Ezine Card Deck Review: The Female Archangels Oracle by Calista, illustrated by Marie-Joe Fourzali. Boxed set of 44 cards and Guidebook. Published by Findhorn Press.  RRP US $25.00 Can: $31.50          Open your wings and get set to fly! 

Sample: Archangel Gabriel - No 6. Speak Your Truth. Short Angel Message - Feel your feelings and say what needs to be said. Speak your Truth. Expanded Meaning: Gabriel reflects divine strength, and serves on the White and Crystalline Ray of Harmony, Purity and Communication with his counterpart, Achaia Hope. Gabriel helps us tap into our emotional strength so we can be real and honest. If you have children or work with them, ask Gabriel to help you best cater to their needs. Gabriel will help balance emotions, will aid conception and childbirth, creativity through writing and purification. Reverse Card Reading: soften your rigidity. Communicate from your heart to honour everyone and everything. Rise like an Angel -  Writing with your Inner Child. This is a cathartic exercise that can heal emotional pain and emotional vacancy. You may also find yourself more playful and buoyant. Gather paper and a pen, then ask Archangel Gabriel to sit with you. Breathe in his crystalline light to create greater honesty and understanding within your mind. Close your eyes and imagine you’re in a child. What age, size, mood, and other meaningful impressions do you see? Write it down, and invite the child to write through you. Listen as a compassionate observer. Take a breath in and read their message. Now write again from your heart in response. Swap over as many times as it feels appropriate. Stay heart centred and enjoy the space of acknowledging and sharing truth. Know your emotions do not define you, yet by listening to them, cycles of destructive behaviour can end. Give love to your inner child as you resolve to make peace with the past. No matter what happened, you don’t have to live in the painful days of the past. Ask your inner child how you can honour them in your everyday life. Then close the exercise by giving each other a big hug. As you thank Gabriel notice how different you feel. Blessing: With hands on your heart say aloud three times “by listening to my needs and following through with what supports me, I uplift the world.” 

The Angel Guide Oracle

The Angel Guide Oracle by Kyle Gray with artwork by Jennifer Hawkyard, published by Hay House, Boxed set of 44 cards and Guidebook. US: $19.99 CAN: $25.99 UK: £15.99

Text from the inside box: Thank you, angels, for reminding me of your presence and for revealing to me what I need to know. I am willing to listen and receive. And so it is! 

Angels record our life and evolution. They are extensions of divine love and are messengers from God. When we connect to angels, we connect to God. They want to guide and protect us and send us messages, signs and reminders of our true and highest aspirations. We all have a guardian angel to guide us and who knows us intimately because they were created especially for us. 

Cherub Angel Cards for Children

Mind Body & Soul Ezine Card Deck Review: Cherub Angel Cards for Children by Doreen Virtue with paintings by Donna Brooks is published by Hay House. The Magnetic closing box is sturdy and good quality and contains an explanatory booklet and 44 child size cards. Each card is titled with a picture of a cherub, many have a multicultural emphasis. Wings, halos, pets and flowers in natural settings are featured on the cards. Children have an affinity for angels and this card deck is suitable for young school aged children and will make a charming gift to stimulate interest and enjoyment.

The information explains how to prepare the cards, clear them with a prayer, fan them and hold them to your heart and ask a question, shuffle and say another prayer (to God, Holy Spirit, Jesus and Mother Mary and Archangel Michael), choose a card and read from the booklet. Explanations are in alphabetic order of the card titles. The easiest method is to choose a card for each day but there is a three card, past, present and future spread. Each card has a 30 - 50 word explanation.

Influence of the Angels Tarot

Mind Body & Soul Ezine Card Deck Review: Influence of the Angels by Jody Boginski Barbessi, published by US Games Systems Inc. $26.95 
Boxed set of 80 gilt edged cards (size 5.25" x 3.5") and explanatory booklet. Each tarot card bears a classical angel image pertaining to a tarot card plus two aide memoire cards for minor arcana, suit and number meanings. Card faces bear an image and title. The book provides information about each card with an angelic message of an affirmation or cautionary advice, blessing or prayer, the symbols of each card are explained with direct and shadow meanings. All information on how to get the best from the cards and a reading are included. Spreads suggested are a 5 Card Influence of the Angels, and a 4 Card Heart of the Matter. Two sisters, Jody and Karen designed the deck. A particularly beautiful Card Deck. I enjoyed working with these ornate and elegant cards. They have a depth that provide excellent readings - a deluge deck! 

Whispers of Healing

Mind Body & Soul Card Deck Review: Whispers of Healing Oracle Cards by Angela Hartfield with illustrations  by Josephine Wall. Boxed set of cards and instruction booklet. £17.99 Blue Angel Publishing.

“I will restore health unto thee and I will heal thee of thy wounds”. Jeremiah 30:17

In this deck we have 50 cards, size: 17cm x 12cm, each with an image by the popular visionary artist, Josephine Wall. Additionally, in the booklet, there is information on how to use the cards, how to prepare them, ask a question, select cards, and 200 words of explanation about the energy of the card, the image’s symbolism, colours and chakras. Spreads are for a one-card reading for a daily message, or a three-card reading. You are invited to keep a journal of your card choices, readings and outcomes. 

Whispers of the Ocean

Mind Body & Soul Ezine Card Deck Review: Whispers of the Ocean Oracle Cards by Angela Hartfield, published by Blue Angel Publishing, Boxed set of 50 Cards and Guidebook, £17.99

How relevant this topic is! Ideal energies for an oracle deck! Oceans are the life blood of our planet, of the goddess Gaia upon which we all live and have our being. Three quarters of the surface of our planet is composed of water. The oceans produce a quarter of our precious oxygen supplies. We must care for our seas and not pollute them. Save the oceans! 

The guidebook provides information about the relevance of our oceans. Water is a symbol for our collective unconscious and helps us to imagine our emotional depths. The oceans are our ancient mother as all life is thought to originate in the seas. Under the oceans are mountains, volcanoes and trenches and a huge number of life forms that are yet to be discovered. When we connect with the wisdom of the ocean, we learn to appreciate and understand the immense importance of water and the beauty and wisdom that lies there. 

Monthly Oracle Reading

The first card I have chosen for December is from The Angel Oracle and is titled 'Discernment'. It bears the inscription "Through the grace of the divine, I am able to know the right path". This angel has risen above the clouds of confusion, and holds an orb of clarity. When we focus on the light, we are able to see the highest good. This card teaches us to honour our inner voice, which guides us towards the development of our spiritual gifts and skills. It will help us to sense the healthiest path open to us. This might not be the most popular or easiest path, but it is a true and wise one and one that is intelligent and heartfelt. We can pray to this angel to help us to develop greater insight, to hear the angels when they whisper to us in warning, or to direct us to take a particular path which is of integrity, autheniticity and transparency.

Angel Wisdom Tarot

Mind Body & Soul Card Deck Review:  Angel Wisdom Tarot by Radleigh Valentine. Boxed set of 78 cards and guidebook, published by Hay House UK £18.32 : US $24.99 : Can $33.99 

Dedicated to Archangels Uriel and Gabriel with gratitude for endless epiphanies. “Thank you Angels for guiding my life every day.” 

Sample Card: Strength XI Archangel Ariel, the Lioness of God is connected to the Earth and its animals. She inspires you to have confidence and sensitivity. This card represents power and courage through kindness and compassion. You can conquer your challenges. Have faith and truth in yourself. It asks you to have a soft touch with words and actions. Your sensitivity is a gift that can navigate you through troubled times. You can stand up for yourself, coupling assertiveness with dignity, grace and willpower. Forgive yourself when you get something wrong. Have the courage of your convictions. 

The Only Book of Wiccan Spells You’ll Ever Need

Mind Body & Soul Ezine Book Review: The Only Book of Wiccan Spells You’ll Ever Need. By Marian Singer, Trish MacGregor, & Skye Alexander. Published by Adams Media. RRP US: $11.95 Can: $12.50

In it’s 2nd edition, all the authors are wiccans of long standing having appeared on radio, in magazines and on TV. This book provides the basis for all kinds of spellwork, 100 are detailed. The 8 sabbats, correspondences, the use of gemstones, meditations, visualisations, manifesting. how to create a grimoire (Book of Shadows), understanding witchcraft and spellcraft are included. Important information about ethics is described and could have been more detailed. 

Hedgewitch Botanical Oracle Review

Mind Body & Soul Ezine Card Deck Review: Hedgewitch Botanical Oracle by Siolo Thompson. Published by Llewellyn Publications. 40 card set in sturdy presentation box with full colour instruction book. £22.50

Enjoyment from the Boundary Lands! 

Siolo Thompson is a self taught artist living in Seattle, Washington. She uses multi media for her artwork which draws inspiration from the grimoires of the foraging witch and healer. She also created the Linestrider Tarot deck.

The artwork is intended to allow identification of the plant and the book provides information on herb lore, the history of the 40 plants with seasonal recipes, an associated Tarot card, descriptions of plants, where to find them, the way they were used and how to use them, what part is used and whether they are culinary or medicinal. The deck offers guidance for the seeker or a focus for meditation and it can also be used as a flash card study guide as the seeker learns how to identify plants, blossom, leaf shoots and fruits.  It is a way for the seeker to approach the natural world, gaining delight, knowledge and magic.

The Real Witches' Kitchen Review

Mind Body & Soul Ezine Book Review: The Real Witches Kitchen - Spells, Recipes, Oils, Lotions and Potions from the Witches' Hearth by Kate West, published by Thorsons/Element.

Useful and interesting, this book describes how to be a witch and enjoy the razzmatazz of creativity and discovery, either alone or to share with others. What is a witch? You will find out! The Wheel of the Year is important for rites and ceremonies, sacred space, spellwork, a Book of Shadows, and personal development and responsibilities which are promoted.

Seasons of the Witch Mabon Oracle

Mind Body & Soul Ezine Card Deck Review: Seasons of the Witch Mabon Oracle by Lorriane Anderson & Juliet Diaz. Boxed set of 44 cards and guidebook. Published by Rockpool Publishing. RRP US $24.95 UK £18.99 (6th July 2023)

“ To find enlightenment, seek nowhere, it lies within you.”

Mabon, The autumn equinox a time of balance, slowing down, evaluation, surrender, transition, creating boundaries, letting go, clearing blocks, developing new perspectives, and preparing for winter. A time to enjoy the season as colours and energies change. The deck can be used throughout the year, not just for autumn equinox. Yule, Beltain, Samhain and other seasonal festivals are also available. 

The Witching Hour Oracle

Mind Body & Soul Ezine Card Deck Review: The Witching Hour Oracle by Cherie Gerhardt, boxed set of  cards and guidebook, published by US Games Systems Inc. Release date 1/6/2022 £22.99 

Please note that Rockpool Publishing have released a card deck with the title Witching Hour Oracle, written by Lorraine Anderson, June 2023. 

Sample Card: 30 The Blood Moon - Justice, Waning Moon, Crone.The Waning Blood Moon is the time for justice. The Crone is pictured on this card with a firm sturdy grip on the scales of justice, referring to fairness by weighing the evidence. The scales represent her consideration of her current existence and her mortality. The crone is blindfold to represent impartiality to the situation. Drawing this card is time to consider just behaviour or treatment in a specific set of circumstances. Have you been fair in a particular situation with a loved one? Have you rushed to a conclusion without considering the thoughts and feelings of another person? Or has someone not treated you fairly in a recent situation? The time is right to find where the iniquity lies and bring justice to that situation.

Dark Magic Oracle

Mind Body & Soul Ezine Card Deck Review: Dark Magic Oracle - Reveal the Light Within by Fiona Horne. Boxed set of 36 cards and Guidebook. Published by Rockpool Publishing.  US $24.95 : UK £18.99 

Release date: 31st August, 2023

“It has to be dark to see the stars”

Glinting green lettering on the box and silvered edges makes this a stylish deck designed to deal with difficult emotions relating to the inner child. The full colour guidebook gives us all information required for a reading. Each card carries a spell or a ritual to aid healing. There is information on the ethical sourcing of crystals. Spreads are the Sole card for a daily reading, the Dual two card, the Triad three card, and the Pentacle 5 card.

Oracle of Novice Witches

Mind Body & Soul Ezine Card Deck Review: Oracle of Novice Witches - Messages from the Magical World, written by Francesca Matteoni, art by Elisa Macellari. Boxed set of cards and guidebook. Published 1st September 2022 by US Games Systems Inc., £21.99 

Here we have 50 cards divided into three sections of suits. We start with ‘witches and wizards’, these  feature 24 people from history, mythology and literature who had a reputation for differing types of spiritual knowledge. Then we have 13 objects, known to be used in witchcraft, then lastly 13 animals that could be called witches’ familiars! 

The Jolanda Witch Tarot

Mind Body & Soulja Ezine Card Deck Review: The Jolanda Witch Tarot - The Healing Art of Magic by Rosie Bjorkman & Hans Arnold. Boxed set of 78 cards and Guidebook. Published by Findhorn Press. RRP US $40.00 : Can $49.99

This Tarot deck has a strong female emphasis. It also has a witchcraft theme, which covers female archetypes, animal guides, esoteric symbolism, alchemy, and shamanic, Theosophy, Jungian psychology and many other traditions. The author is known as Jolanda the Witch. She trained in the Deer Tribe Metis Medicine Society and this is her ‘method’ of reading Tarot. The artist is Hans Arnold who has produced a very nice RWS influenced deck with clear images and nice colouring. 

Silver Witchcraft Tarot

Mind Body & Soul Ezine Card a deck Review: Silver Witchcraft Tarot by Barbara Moore, artwork by Franco Rivolli. Published by Lo Scarabeo. 

Each major Silver Witchcraft card has a definition and keywords. The images are highly individualised Anne add to a reading. Milestones, turning points, lessons and warnings of events to come that are outside our control.  Insight and understanding of our situation is what we seek in the Tarot card reading. This deck provides bridges and connections, and like RWS can be used for divination or meditation. I like Barbara Moore! Intellectual and down to earth. 

Card decks also by Barbara Moore: Steampunk Tarot, Mystical Manga Tarot and Triple GoddessTarot. 

This deck is profiled in  the Total Tarot course collection in magazine numbers 42 and 43.

White Witch Tarot

Mind Body & Soul Ezine Card Deck Review: White Witch Tarot by Maja D’Aoust, Boxed set of 22 Cards and Book, Published by REDFeather Publishing, US $24.99. UK  £22.99 ISBN: 978-0-7643-5367-3

Attractive black and glinting gold box has magnetic clip to safely hold the contents of instruction book and 22 Major Arcana cards with gold leaf edges, based on the Rider-Waite-Smith system with traditional titles. The artwork is white and gold pen sketching on black. The more you look into the art, the more you see of faces, birds, hands, animals, landscapes, and quite clever and magical, as things are not as they seem! 

Witchful Thinking

Mind Body & Soul Ezine Book Review: Witchful Thinking - The Wise Woman’s Handbook for Creating a Charmed Life, by Zoe Howe. Quality paperback, all text, no images, 278 pages Published by Llewellyn Books. US $18.99 UK £14

Zoe Howe is known as the ‘Rock’n Roll Witch of the Soho Radio station! This is a compilation of her family traditions and her collection of solitary witch advice. It incorporates folklore, discovery and play, and the old ways of the nature knower, and several major archetypes are provided. Important rules of the ethical witch are included, and examples are provided from other well known witches who give extra guidance. 

Spells, rituals and protections, and information on how to build an altar, cast a circle, work with moon and planetary energies, seasonal activities and personal empowerment, healing and divination methods, plants, chakras, and crystals, expressing your authenticity, and heaps more meat! It’s good value for money. For the solitary and developing witch, I am recommending Witchful Thinking! We all need a charmed life! 

Traditional Witchcraft for Urban Living

Mind Body & Soul Ezine Book Review: Traditional Witchcraft for Urban Living, by Melusine Draco, Paperback £9.99 E-book £6.99, Published by Moon Books

Melusine Draco’s many books on the occult have a well-deserved reputation for being informative, interesting and useful. This book is ideal for the solitary practitioner living in a town or city (the author provides differences between ‘witchcraft’ per se and ‘wicca’ per se). It is possible to know about herbal lore, to honour nature and to practice magical arts anywhere in the world. She accepts that criticism of witchcraft is still very common in the twenty-first century and suggests it is necessary to be discreet, yet confident. The book contains excellent advice and many good exercises. It also gives an understanding of the problems that present themselves to those living in a built-up area. 

Seasons of the Witch Winter Tarot

Mind Body & Soul Ezine Card Deck Review: Seasons of the Witch Winter Tarot - A Journey through Yule and Imbolc By Lorraine Anderson. Illustrated by Tirana Lukovic. Boxed set of 78 Cards and full colour Guidebook. Published by Rockpool Publishing. RRP US $ 29.99 : UK £23.99 Visit: https://www.rockpoolpublishing.com/seasons-of-the-witch-winter-tarot

Quality box with shining blue highlights contains a full Tarot deck and guidebook which details how the four Seasons of the Witch Oracle decks and the four Seasons of the Witch Tarot decks came to be created. Here with the Winter Tarot, we have the season of rest, reflection, recuperation and transformation. The archetypes are ancient yet updated for the modern person living in today’s world. They remember the shadow self, the weaknesses and negativity that can ruin a life. So a question might be: What does my soul need to learn today? A One-card pull and three Six-card spreads are suggested. 

Witchcraft - David Salisbury

Mind Body & Soul Ezine Book Review: The Deep Heart of Witchcraft - Expanding the Core of Magickal Practice by David Salisbury Published by Moon Books 251 pages £12.99 

David Salisbury comes from a place of being – from having lived the forces that he writes about, from interacting with them on a daily basis in his life. I was very impressed when I glanced at the table of contents, and the very “simple” manner in which this book is organized – the five elements (Air, Fire, Water, Earth, and Spirit), the Gods, Deep Ritual In Witchcraft, Spinning the Wheel, and Putting it all together.