The Secret Scroll

Mind Body & Soul Ezine Book Review: The Secret Scroll - by Andrew Sinclair. With colour photos and hand-drawings, acknowledgements and notes. Introduction biography of the author by the author. 218 pages. 2002

I received this book in the post with a request for an honest review! It begins with a beautiful story from 1330 and of the heart of Robert the Bruce, being taken to Jerusalem for burial by an ancestor of the author. Much of the St Clair family history goes back far beyond 1,000 years to the lands of the river Epte in Normandy. We read of the Gnostics, and the connection between the Templars and Freemasons, hidden knowledge, mysticism, hermetic and cabalistic knowledge, and how the Kirkwall scroll of Orkney, now in a Masonic lodge on an island in the North Atlantic, holds the key to many of the greatest mysteries, such as the Ark of the Covenant, the Garden of Eden, and the Grail itself and how geometric designs were learnt from mosques in the holy land. The remains of Templars were often interred in the position of the skull over crossed leg bones, a position which I found extraordinary, like much else in this book. 

The author connects the Christian Templars with the Freemasons who are not Christians. I was shocked that the author criticised Jacques de Molay for “ruining his sect by ordering it to surrender and confess” even under excruciating torture, peine forte et dure! I notice the author has changed the title of the Order from The Poor Fellow Soldiers of Christ and the Temple of Solomon to the Order of the Temple, thereby cutting out both the oath of poverty and duty to Jesus Christ. This says a lot about the intention of the book and the way it presents the lives of the Templars especially, and the emphasis of the text on heresy whilst ignoring the New Testament!

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. 

Runic Tarot

Mind Body & Soul Ezine Card Deck Review: Runic Tarot - Valhalla, the Realm of the Gods. By Jack Sephiroth, Zhang  and Jaymi Elford. Published by Lo Scarabeo. £34 

Like seeing through a glass darkly, you will love these mythical Viking styled photographic computer generated warriors, strong, masculine, dressed to the nines and looking very exciting indeed though with muted and shaded colouring which adds to the mystique. 

Wands, horns, short blades, and shields are the suits; the Court Cards are Page, Knight, Queen, and King. For the spreads, we have Odin’s Sight with 4 cards, Norn’s Spin which has 3 cards and Magical Action, 4 cards. These cards are not predictive but will help access a moment of clarity that sheds light on our inner world and the way we approach life. 

Folk Lore Tarot

Mind Body & Soul Ezine Card Deck Review: Folk Lore Tarot - Guidance for Today from Ancient Storytellers’ Wisdom by Rowan Ortins. Boxed set of 78 cards and Guidebook. Published by U S Games Systems Inc. $24.95

Card Sample: Temperance XIV Upright: balance, harmony, moderation, priorities. Reversed: imbalance, frustration, excess, addiction. One of the most well-known elements of Chinese culture and mythology is the Chinese dragon, also called long. These legendary creatures are associated with power, strength and good luck. Chinese emperors often use the dragon to symbolise their imperial authority. Other important and successful people have often been compared to these noble creatures as well. Dragons are believed to be able to control aspects of the weather, especially rainfall. Different colours of Chinese dragons carry additional symbolism. For example, blue dragons are said to represent nature, peace and tranquility, red dragons represent fortune and happiness. The Temperance card reminds us to strive for balance and harmony in every aspect of our lives. The symbol is that of Aquarius, and this is the philosophy of balance and the watering down the elements and emotions that are too strong. It is no surprise then, that this card shows the symbol of Aquarius, the zodiac sign of the water bearer. The sign represents thoughts, ideas, and intuition, and encourages us to think and stay calm instead of acting on our impulses. ♒️ 

The Lover’s Path Tarot

Mind Body & Soul Ezine Card Deck Review: The Lover’s Path Tarot by Kris Waldherr. Boxed set of 78 cards and Guidebook. Published by US Games Ststens. Inc. RRP: £25.83 

The card container is a drawer pull box with a pack of quality produced cards inside. The Oracle comes with a little white booklet with information on how to use the cards, the importance of love and good relationships, and the basic meanings of this specific deck. There is a Lovers Path Spreadsheet of good strong plasticised paper. The art is inspired by Kris Waldherr’s visit to Italy, the Renaissance, art, architecture, books, countryside. 

Enjoyable mythological and historical love dramas are featured in this Tarot. Each Major is retitled and highlights a romantic story. The Minors are divided into 4 story suits. Suits are Arrows, Staves, Coins and Cups.  Ideal for romantic readings, bearing in mind the traditional problems associated with love and its related traumas. Do not give bad news unless you tell your Enquirer how to deal with their problems (this information is not included). 

Mind Mapping

Mind Body & Soul Ezine Book Review: The Mind Map Book by the late Tony Buzan published by BBC Books, 320 pages.

Tony Buzan is the leading authority on mind mapping and if you are a student, creative, business person, a child or learner of any kind, whatever your speciality, this is the book for you! In full colour too so it is marvellous value for money!

The Tantric Dakini Oracle

Mind Body & Soul Ezine Card Deck Review: The Tantric Dakini Oracle by Nik Douglas and Penny Slinger. Published by Destiny Books. 65 Cards and instruction book in quality drawer pull presentation box. US $35 : Can $39.99

“Look into the mirror of your mind - The home of the Secret Dakini.”

The sandstone Ranipur Jharial Temple in Sambalpur region of India dates from the 8th century when it was an initiation centre. It has 64 statues of the Dakini goddesses surrounding an inner court space where there is a statue of Shiva dancing. These are the inspiration for this oracle deck. 

The Dakinis are aspects of archetypal energies. They is a comparison with the Tarot and a parallel as the 22 Dakinis relate to the 22 cards of the Tarot’s Major Arcana. The further 40 cards in the Tantric Dakini Oracle relate to the Tarot’s pip cards. This deck has 4 elemental suits of 10 cards, and 3 Time Cards that represent the Past, Present and Future. 

Tarot Cards of Modern Goddesses

Mind Body & Soul Card Deck Review: Tarot Cards of Modern Goddesses by Cecilia Lattari, artwork by Petra Braun. Drawer pull box containing set of 78 cards and full colour guidebook. Published by Rockpool Publishing. UK £19.99 

Sample Card: Crone of Cups “The Crone of Cups is she who has full control of her emotions. She has lived a lot and now knows how to control that which has destabilised her in the past. She can be someone who doesn’t show what they feel because her gazes are forward-looking, broad and rational. Often she represents people who have roles that listen and care, such as psycho psychologists, doctors and healers. She prefers not to show her vulnerability, but knows well that this too can be a great strength. Here, Yemaya is the water of a lake, calm, with the defined borders, reflected in the sky.”

These cards are dedicated to goddesses and help with female empowerment in each goddess myth, archetype and ancient divinity. All celebrate the fearless spirit of women. Multi cultural card deck with figurative artwork featuring women in all kinds of lively and colourful roles. suits are Wands, Swords, And Pentacles, with Court Cards titled Page (child), Knight (adolescent), Queen (woman) and King (crone). Each King is shown as a Crone, a goddess of complete wisdom. Each Major Arcana card is associated with a classical goddess plus a woman of our time, the Minors are ordinary but inspirational women, made divine through skill, work, or other contribution. 

Grand Lenormand

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.

Mythic Oracle

Mind Body and Soul Ezine Card Deck Review: Mythic Oracle - Wisdom of the Ancient Greek Pantheon by Carisa Mellado with artwork by Michele-lee Phelan. Boxed 45 card and information booklet set.

Greek gods and goddesses reflect our own human lives and the cards are designed to guide us through life cycles. They reflect the archetypal hero, Odysseus and his epic journey, from departure to initiation and eventual return home. We use this to assist us in our journey through life. We begin with an awakening, experience challenges, overcome difficulties. We must go down into our deepest level to discover new perspectives, our illusions need to be broken, our convictions clarified. We will integrate this new self into the world of the future, mastering both, our inner life and our outer world.

Mlle Lenormand - Time-Life Books

Mind Body & Soul Ezine card deck review: Mlle Lenormand by AGM Urania are a deck of 36 cards based on the renowned 19th century card diviner, Marie Anne Lenormand of Paris. This is a special edition for Time-Life Books. The cards have no writing or numbers, just pictures on

the card faces which have a French 1700 ambiance (for instance, man on a horse with chateau in the distance and a lady in full French gown). Some cards have playing card features including court cards and each card carries a number and fancy M for Marie in a cartouche. These cards, known as the 'Blue Owl' were first produced in 1920 and originate in the Biedermeier period. 

Runes Oracle Cards

Mind Body & Soul Ezine Card Review: Runes Oracle Cards by Bianca Luna with artwork by Cosimo Musio. The box contains an instruction book (in English, Italian, Spanish, French, Dutch, Portugese and Russian languages) and 24 cards.

This deck was commissioned by Lo Scarabeo and I enjoyed the excellent paintings. Runes are the ancient alphabet of the Nordic people and each image is a symbol which has meaning. There is information about the author, and instuctions on how to read and divine with the cards and how to prepare yourself for a reading. Each card is detailed with information about its ancient meaning, a key word for quick reference, the image portrayed on the card, what kind of energy the card has, and a suggested meditatation on each card. 

There are several spreads offered, The Milestone is a very simple one card reading. The Celtic Cross uses four cards, The Spread of the Three Wise Men has three cards, Spread of the Psychic has four cards. There is useful information about meditation, such as a Classic and a Focused Meditation style, and how to use the cards as a talisman. You can charge a card with power so that you can leave it by your bedside while you sleep and it will give you the power you require. 

Blue Bird Lenormand Cards

Mind Body & Soul Ezine Card Deck Review: Blue Bird Lenormand Fortune Telling Cards by Stuart R Kaplan. Published by U S Games Systems Inc. Pack includes 36 cards and little white information booklet.

Dali Tarot Universal

Mind Body Soul Tarot Card Review: Dali Tarot Universal.
Artwork by Salvadore Dali, Text (192 pages). Published by Taschen. £42.95

The Salvador Dali Tarot Book is a prestigious Jubilee edition paperback of quality full colour reproductions of the 78 cards in the Dali Universal Tarot deck. It contains detailed interpretations for each card, information about layout and method of choosing and reading, the sources and inspiration of the images and further information about Dali and his work with the Tarot.

No Place for a Woman

Mind Body & Soul Ezine Book Review: No Place for a Woman - The Political and Spiritual Power Abuse of Women Within Catholicism by Debra Maria Flint. Lantern Publishing & Media. 2024. RRP £18.99 Released in April 2024. 

This book has many reviews by eminent theologians and it has several quotes including one from the current Pope Francis. 

The text is well written and knowledgeably researched. It ranges wide in its references, and digs deep into the patriarchal heart over the long era of Christianity. It explains how the New Testament has been manipulated to disfavour women and to promote men into positions of power. It also includes a personal experience by the author that shows that today, church prejudices towards women is continuing. 

This is a powerfully insightful - and highly valuable book - that is suitable for all Christians to read. 

A penetrating and a profound and provoking account of the unjust and manipulative sexual mores of the Roman Catholic priesthood. 

Impactful and original, new material. This book will radically change your perspective! The sequel is on its way! 

The Masks of Christ

Mind Body & Soul Ezine Book Review: The Masks of Christ - Behind the Lies and Cover-Ups About the Man Believed to be God by Lynn Pickett and Clive Prince.

Many religious influences are detailed, from the pagan, Samaritan, Hellenism, and other religious movements that were popular at the time Jesus lived. The controversies are discussed, such as Morton Smith’s discovery of the Secret Gospel of Mark and Jesse, and his research on magic. Topics include historical references, analysis of the Jerusalem temple, the life and acts of the Gospel writers, Gnosticism, the crucifixion of Jesus, the Baptist, St James, Joseph of Arimathea, Paul of Tarsus, Simon Peter, Josephus, Mary the Mother, and the Magdalene, Egypt, Galilee and Jerusalem, and other influences and recordings of the life of Christ. 

The Masks of Christ offers a full critique on all aspects of Christianity - and Christians, and the debunking of Jesus and the New Testament writings. Was Jesus a Jew? Did he really have sexual intercourse with the Samaritan woman at the well?  Was he responsible for the murder of John the Baptist? 

Previously, the authors wrote ‘The Sion Revelation’, and ‘Turin Shroud - How Leonardo da Vinci Fooled History’ so their emphasis is on radically taking apart the Gospels, even one could say demolishing the entire story of Christ. 

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. 

Rota Mundi Tarot

Mind Body & Soul Ezine Card Deck Review: Rota Mundi Tarot  - The Rosicrucian Arcanum by Daniel E Loeb. Published by REDFeather/Schiffer Publishing. Presentation boxed set of 78 Cards and Guidebook. US: $34.99 and U.K.: £31.99 

Are you seeking a very special conceptual Tarot deck in order to deliver in depth, and extraordinary readings? This is it! 

This innovative deck honours the original Fraternity of the Rose Cross, subsequent Rosicrucians and invisible colleges. Alchemy, Gnosticism, hermeticism, Kabbalah, Judeo-Christian mysticism and other antique secret knowledge sources, known only to selected members of society are revealed.

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: 

 

Magdalene Manifestation Cards

Mind, Body & Soul Ezine Card Deck Review: Magdalene Manifestation Cards - Create Abundance through Love by Danielle Rama Hoffman, published by Bear & Co (22/6/2023) US:$30.00 CAN$37.50 UK£20.99 

The sturdy magnetic lid box holds 44 cards and the accompanying guidebook. Hoffman is also the author of The Temples of Light, The Council of Light and The Tablets of Light. 

Each Magdalene Manifestation Card has a computerised design, a title, a subtitle, and a short message of 15 words. For example, the first card in the deck is titled “Yummy Money and is first of the Resource Codes. The subtitle is Thriving Mission and the message is ‘Money is designed to champion your mission. Let money do things for you and watch your mission thrive.” Others in the Resource Codes are titled: Sublime Time, Divine Relationships, and Radiant Energy’.”

The concept of this deck is to replace lack based consciousness with abundance and prosperity. The guidebook is extensive and the text provides a 10 word quote for each card, a 200 word message and a 400 word Application. The guidebook opens with a dedication from the author and the Magdalene Midwives, and we have lots of information about developing a higher dimensional collective intelligence, harnessing your co-creational power, deepening your Magdalene Manifestation Practice, assisting your ascension, and making intimate connections with Source and learning about Holograms. Your multi-dimensionality will expedite manifestation even while you sleep! 

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

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 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?

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. 

14 Steps to Awaken the Sacred Feminine

Mind Body & Soul Book Review: 14 Steps to Awaken the Sacred Feminine - Women in the Circle of Mary Magdalene by Joan Norton and Margaret Starbird. Published by Bear & Co. US $14 : Can $17. 

Each chapter provides a lesson/group activity as taken from the structure of the Los Angeles Magdalene Circle based on Margaret Starbird’s work with Mary Magdalene as the married female counterpart to Jesus. This Mary is the Bridegroom, Mary of Bethany, as well as the Mary of the Gnostic gospels. Information about her life with Jesus and also her journey by boat by France. 

Each meeting involves a prayer, music, sharing of experiences, meditation, scripture reading, describing dreams, channelling, journaling, and other group and solo practices. Poems included and a rosary devoted to the Magdalene. 

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. 

The Secret Legacy of Jesus and Mary Magdalene

Mind Body & Soul Ezine Book Review: Jesus Mary Joseph - The Secret Legacy of Jesus and Mary Magdalene by Ariadne Green published by Palm Leaf Press, 316 pages £10.80

'The truth is not hard to kill and a lie well told is immortal' Mark Twain

In the sixth century, Pope Gregory manipulated information provided in the New Testament about the life of Jesus of Nazareth, and he accused Mary Magdalene of being a prostitute! He also changed the role of Jesus and the message of his mission. This book explains that Jesus and Mary Magdalene were married and had children, and they travelled from Judea to Egypt and then to Gaul and to Britain. This is a well researched book which provides detailed information and new material of considerable interest. I sensed whilst reading it, a peace and tranquility, and a beauty that the author, Ariadne Green, imparts to the reader. Green has a background in Educational Psychology, with a thesis in the Philosophy of Psychology, focussing on consciousness studies. She is also a dream expert who devoted ten years to producing this particular book, including a visit to places in the Middle East associated with the life of Jesus and Mary Magdalene.

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 source the fragments of text that comprise the Gnostic Gospels, we read that Mary Magdalene was a gifted visionary and spiritual teacher and was intended to lead the Jerusalem group following the death of Jesus but was prevented by the male authority figures who were also the Disciples of Jesus. Jack Angelo had a personal insight in France that the Gospel of St John the Evangelist was actually written by Mary Magdalene to endorse the importance of women’s teaching, and bring about healing and transformation. 

A glossary and suggestions for further reading are included. 

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 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?  

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. 

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.

Beowulf Oracle

Mind Body & Soul Ezine Card Deck Review: Beowulf Oracle  - Wisdom from the Northern Kingdoms by John Matthews and Virginia Chandler, illustrated by Joe Machine. Published by Schiffer Publishing. Drawer pull quality boxed set of 22 cards with instruction book. U.K. £29.99  US  $29.99

“Fate will often save a uncursed man, if his strength is constant.” 

Hwaet! Listen!  This is the first word of the Beowulf poem which tells a long tale of huge difficulties, dangers, interpersonal relationships, battles and treasures, and great acts of courage. 

The Language of Letting Go

Mind Body & Soul Ezine Book Review: The Language of Letting Go by Melody Beattie. 

A book of 365 advice style meditations provided on a daily reading basis. Melody shares her recommendations for letting go of anxiety, despondency, needyness, frustrations, and other common problems, replacing them with confidence, joy, self understanding and positivity. Each daily meditation is followed by a one sentence prayer. AA and other similar programmes for recovery from addictions, codependency and compulsions are the foundation of this book. 

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

Healing into Life & Death

Mind Body & Soul Book Review: Healing into Life & Death by Stephen Levine. 

This is a marvellous book as it takes us through many aspects of how different people approach death, and the healing that can take place preparing for this transition. It's moving, wise and caring. And heartwarming in its ability to articulate very difficult concepts. The author is very experienced in this work having studied with Elizabeth Kubler-Ross and run a free helpline for those approaching death. He was also the Director of the Hanuman Foundation Dying Project. What is revealed is the peace and joy that can be achieved by coming to terms with the inevitable, and some who were preparing to die, managed to live, and have a rich and rewarding experience, knowing who they were and what they wanted to accomplish at the end of their life. 

Talking Story

Mind Body & Soul Ezine Book Review - One Woman’s Quest to Preserve Ancient Spiritual and Healing Traditions by Marie-Rose Phan-le. Published by North Atlantic Books. RRP US $18.95 : Can $22.50 

“God turns you from one feeling to another and teaches you by means of opposites, that you need two wings to fly not one.” Rumi

“What is good is bad!” Author’s mother’s philosophy. 

Goddess Spirit Oracle Deck

Mind Body & Soul Ezine Card Deck Review: Goddess Spirit Oracle Deck. Writer & Artist, Rachael Johnson, published by Blue Angel Publishing, 44 cards with accompanying Guidebook. Card size: 12cm x 17cm £18.99

Women (and girls - though none older than middle age) and of varying nationalities feature in this deck by full time U.K. artist and designer Rachael Johnson, now residing in Australia’s Gold Coast. The card deck is divided into 7 Chakra Energy cards, 11 Arcana Goddess cards, 7 The Septuple, and 8 Lunar Energy cards. Many of the goddesses mentioned in this oracle helped Rachael Johnson to create it and we are instructed to follow our own intuition when using the cards, whether connecting to feminine power of the Lunar Energy or honouring and connecting to the Arcana cards by placing them on your altar. You can also draw a card and keep a journal of your thoughts and experiences, or use the cards for divination. 

Lost Oracle Review

Mind Body & Soul Ezine Card Deck Review: Lost Oracle - Ancient wisdom to find your way in a modern world by Fiona Horne. Boxed set of 36 cards and full colour guidebook. Published by Rockpool Publishing. RRP : US $24?95 : UK £18.99 

Sample card: 36 Chalice of Charity. Here is a promise of sustenance, abundance and replenishment. This cup offers also sanctity and safe passage for those who go with the flow of life. Drink from it and there will be blessings of emotional momentum, helping you to get past old worn out attitudes and trapped emotional states. This is the cup of plenty, offering fluidity, adaptability and transformation. 

This is a chalice of enchantment and emotional abundance which replenishes your reservoir and nurtures seeds of positivity. Be confident in the energy that is foretold when this card is drawn. Like the Holy Grail of King Arthur’s legend, Chalice of Charity serves as a supreme source of refreshment by providing drink that never depletes. 

Mystical Healing Oracle Review

Mind, Body & Soul Ezine Card Deck Review: Mystical Healing Oracle - Intuitive guidance to transform your soul by Inna Segal. Boxed set of 36 cards and full colour Guidebook. Published by Rockpool Publishing. RRP US $26.95 : UK £19.99

Sample Card: Number 11. 

Examine Your integrity - stand strong in your convictions. Your “I” has been weakened, which means that you are vulnerable to other peoples influence. Only you can decide, through clear objective thinking and feelings, what is the best for you in the situation. Take the time to go within, to look at the bigger picture. Ask what are the long-term consequences of your decision. You are being asked to examine your personal integrity and make a stand for something that aligns with your strongest ideals. The choices you make now will not only impact your life but also your experience in the spiritual worlds and your future life. Even though you may feel that you are giving up a fantastic opportunity, be aware that new, potent possibilities are opening up and these possibilities will allow you to influence others in a truly positive manner, thereby creating ripples of goodness in the world.

Alchemystic Woodcut Tarot

Mind, Body & Soul Ezine Card Deck Review: The Alchemystic Woodcut Tarot - Secret Wisdom of the Ages by D W Prudence, published by Red Feather. £33.99 Quality boxed set of 78 cards and guidebook. Card Size: 5” x 3.5”. 

Daniel W Prudence is known as Dwell With Prudence. He is a hypnotherapist with a background in esoteric topics, such as symbolism, alchemy, Kabbalah and Tarot. The deck has numerous quotes from the Judaeo-Christian Bible making the deck’s system religious in nature, and leaning towards Christianity.

 

The Holy Grail

Mind Body & Soul Ezine Book Review: The Holy Grail - Its Origins, Secrets & Meaning Revealed by Malcolm Godwin.  

Early Grail and Arthurian stories are brought to life in this full colour book, which is related in the present tense, with explanations, comparisons, illustrations, and providing major events whilst keeping the poetic beauty and complexity of the original texts. All the great Grail personages are included: the Fool, Le Conte del Graal, Peredur, Parzival, Lancelot, The Fisher King, Maidens of the Well and the Lady of the Fountain, the Castle, Mary Magdalene, and the Black Virgin and many others. The hallowed relics: the sword, the paten, the cup, and the spear are also described. The book leads us to the question, the Wasteland, the hero’s path, the female principle, and to Tarot cards which are majored at the end of the book. 

Kenya - My Story Review

Mind Body & Soul Ezine Book Review: Kenya - My Story by J. L. McKinney. Published by Michael Terence Publishing. (Release date 12th July, 2024)  RRP: £12.99 

This is a true and moving story of Jeanette’s life in Kenya - but who goes on holiday to Africa and decides to stay to start a business? Jeanette was always an adventurer, like Voltaire’s Candide, she lives life to the maximum! Who could believe that she survived three years in the sleazy, seedy and sordid backwaters of an African Mafia hell hole? She did because she is resilient, strong and caring, and had love in her life, however misguided it was! 

Enthralling, entertaining and exciting! Shocking and disturbing! A sequel is being prepared! 

The Spiritual Roots of the Tarot

Mind, Body & Soul Ezine Book Review: The Spiritual Roots of the Tarot - The Cathar Code Hidden in the Cards by Russell A Sturgess. Published by Inner Traditions. US $24.99 : CAN $31.50 Quality paperback 339 pages. 

Many photos are included including full colour glossy images to illustrate the text which covers what is described as the Western Tradition of Mindfulness that has its roots in Christian Gnosticism, and includes the Medieval Theology of Love - sacred knowledge of the holy grail that leads to inner peace and enlightenment. The author, Russell Sturgess was conducting research into the Tarot when he realised that the Cathars, when accused of heresy, had hidden their Gnostic Christian wisdom teachings within the Major Arcana of the Marseilles Tarot card images. The Magician and the Strength cards hold keys to recalibrating Christ consciousness alongside particular cards within the deck that act as pivotal energies to take us from ignorance to awareness, and through to what the Cathars referred to as the ‘Kingdom of Heaven’ which is presented within these cards. These are medieval mysteries for our modern day. 

A Guide to Sacred Activism

Mind Body & Soul Ezine Book Review: A Guide to Sacred Activism By Andrew Harvey  Paperback £10.99  Published by Hay House Author website: http://www.andrewharvey.net/

Andrew Harvey is 2011 winner of the prestigious Nautilus Silver Award for Social Change and is the founder of the international Institute for Sacred Activism and the Academy of Sacred Leadership. He has taught at Oxford and Cornell and other prestigious universities. He is known as a modern day visionary and mystic but, for me, his role is close to that of the Old Testament prophets; urgently warning, kindly admonishing and desperately pleading to prevent planetary suicide. 

The Spirit of Nature Oracle

Mind Body & Soul Ezine Card Deck Review: The Spirit of Nature Oracle - Ancient Wisdom from the Green Man and the Celtic Ogam Tree Alphabet by John Matthews and Will Worthington. Published by Eddison Books Ltd. Boxed set of 25 cards plus book. Deck previously known as "The Green Man Tree Oracle".

“It is wise to listen to the voices of the trees for they tell us much that we might otherwise forget” Tacitus.

Pieces of bark or stone with letters from the Celtic alphabet known as Ogam have been used for divination for 1,600 years. Information about this 'secret' alphabet, sacred groves and the Green Man are provided in the companion book.  Each card carries an image of one of the sacred trees of the Celtic people, with the title of the tree and the Ogam letter it represents. For each tree, a divinatory meaning, tradition and lore are supplied. 

In Between Tarot

Mind Body & Soul Ezine Card Deck Review: In Between Tarot by Janine Worthington and Art by Franco Rivoli. Published by Lo Scarabeo. 

We have the Before Tarot and the After Tarot which add to the understanding of the RWS deck. This one focuses on the energies between the cards and how they link together, and relate to the cards either side of the one chosen. They are idea, for single card readings, and for single card meditation. There are zodiac, numerology alchemical and pagan hints. Wands are fire, Pentacles are Earth, Swords are Air and Cups are Water. 

Rainbow Tribe

Mind Body & Soul Ezine Book Review: Rainbow Tribe - Ordinary People Journeying on the Red Road by Ed McGoo - Eagle Man. Published by Harper San Francisco.

The author, Ed McGaa known as Eagle Man is a Oglala Sioux, born on a reservation with the number 15287 who joined the marine corps and became a fighter pilot. He holds a law degree from the University of South Dakota and is the author of many books on spirituality and philosophy. This book is dedicated to several First Nation teachers who the author admires “to the rare warriors with special courage to go out to the lonely edge - the chasm of change - where the detractors are many and the supporters are few.”

Who are the Rainbows? “Rainbow people work in cities and towns. Some are housewives raising their young. Rainbows work, thrive, vote, pay taxes, abide by laws, and our drug-free, abstain from or rarely touch alcohol, and do what almost everyone else does legally in this land. They also do ceremony and have found a closer connection to the creative entity all around them. 

Loftus: The Hall of Dreams Extract

 

Chapter III. The House of the Dead

“There had stood a great house in the centre of the gardens, where now was left only that fragment of ruin. This house had been empty for a great while; years before his—the ancient man’s—birth. It was a place shunned by the people of the village, as it had been shunned by their fathers before them. There were many things said about it, and all were of evil. No one ever went near it, either by day or night. In the village it was a synonym of all that is unholy and dreadful.”

~ William Hope Hodgson, The House on the Borderland

Gilded Reverie Lenormand

Mind Body & Soul Ezine Card Deck Review: Gilded Reverie Lenormand Gold Edged 'Expanded Edition' by Ciro Marchetti published by U S Games Systems Inc. 47 cards with explanatory book.

The card faces have a contemporary computer graphic presentation, a number and playing card information. Added to the 36 Lenormand deck, the author has added 8 special supplementary cards with information on how to use the extra cards in a reading. There is a simple Nine-Card Spread with sample reading, The Fortune-Telling Day Spread with 9 cards with sample provided, The Chocolate Box Spread with 18 cards and sample. I find the images are easy to connect with and inspire my readings. I like these cards very much and appreciate the extra cards in the Expanded Edition. If  I had to use one word, I would say 'glamorous!' 

Healing Through Indigenous Wisdom

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. 

Horse Wisdom Oracle Review

Mind Body & Soul Ezine Card Deck Review: HORSE WISDOM ORACLE by Kathy Pike. Artwork by Laurie Prindle. RRP: $36.95 Boxed set of 44 Cards and Guidebook. Publisher: Blue Angel

The author is an equine expert and has written books about horses and their healing ability.

Follow these horse messages and allow them to lead you on a journey to authenticity. The majestic and graceful presence of horses provides comfort and joy to humanity. Each card carries a message of courage, kindness, gentleness, and strength. 44 excellent artworks of horses are provided in this boxed set. Each message reflects Kathy's unique approach and relationship to horses. Horses offer you a unique approach to healing and creation. 

The Journey Oracle

Mind Body & Soul Ezine Card Deck Review: The Journey Oracle - Discover Your Personal Pathway by Adrienne Trafford  Boxed set of 46 Cards published by Schiffer Publishing, RRP £22.99 $24.99 

The stylised figurative female images are pleasant and strong, most are portraits which accompany a hundred words of text that explains what the card says, and what the card means. The artist and deck creator, Adrienne Trafford studied art in Italy and graduated from Kutztown University. She is a charity worker and enjoys dog rehoming. 

Sample Card: 6 Desire: What the card says: Your craving is like a thirst that cannot be easily sated.