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!

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! 

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.

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. 

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. 

Earth Song Oracle

Mind Body & Soul Card Deck Review: Earth Song Oracle - Guidance and Wisdom from Mother Nature by Tarn Ellis. boxed set of 36 cards and Guidebook. Published by Rockpool Publishing/ RRP £18.99 

Tarn Ellis provides advice and inspiration from nature in this modern oracle card deck. The box glints with red gold highlights and the cards are edged with the same red gold. 

Biographical information in the opening pages and how to use the oracle, such as pick a card at random when you need it or ask a question and pick a card. There are also useful spreads, such as the 3 card Timeline or the Five-Card Flower. Each card image offers a red earthy clay colour, a number, a title,  subtitle and short sentence of guidance. In the Guidebook, there is a 200 word ‘song’ of understanding of the energy of the card’s title, and a 200 word piece of advice. 

Feminine Wisdom Oracle

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

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

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

Great Eastern Oracle

Mind Body & Soul Ezine Car Deck Review: Great Eastern Oracle - Empowering Guidance of the Mystics from Ancient to Modern Times by Rassouli. Published by Blue Angel Publishing. Boxed set of 44 cards with accompanying Guidebook. £18.99 

Rassouli lives in Southern California. He lives a vigil of love through the surrendered heart, exhibiting his artwork, and writing inspirational books and creating card decks. He is the oracle creator and artist. This Oracle is based on the unknown with ideas from the great sages. The card images reflect the mystery contained within. There are differences between Eastern and Western philosophy, with self realisation from the East and self-creation from the West. This oracle is the Eastern, and we await the publication of the deck of the Western sages. 

Dog Speak Cards

Mind Body & Soul Ezine Card Deck Review: Dog Speak Cards - How To Learn Your Pup’s Body Language Published by Rockpool Publishing. Pack of 24 self explanatory cards RRP US $14.95 : UK £12.99 Released 4th July 2024

Each of the cards has an image and a title. They are divided into 2 suits, one is How to Teach Your Dog This behaviour, such as Sit, Stay, Lie Down, etc., and What You Should Do If You See This, such as Eating Grass, Chasing Tail, Panting, etc. 

On the back of the cards are explanations in 150 words. 

Helpful tips in card form. Designed to be given as a gift to new dog owners. 

What Would Britney Do?

Mind Body & Soul Ezine Card Deck Review: What Would Britney Do? pack of 24 cards. Published by  Rockpool Publishing. RRP US $14.95 : UK £12.95 29th August 2024

Each card carries an attractive artwork of Britney Spears and a title. On the back of the cards is the information about the artwork, and a 30 word life advice/guidance. 

Sample: Own It Take charge of everyone and everything in your domain. With a cast of 44 dancers, magicians, clowns and acrobats Britney really was the ringleader of her very own circus. She called the shots and commanded the stage through this amazing performance.

Fenestra Tarot Review

Mind, Body & Soul Ezine Card Deck Review: Fenestra Tarot by Chatriya, Published by US Games Systems Inc. £18.75 Pack contains 78 cards and instruction leaflet. Card size: 3” x 5” (7 x 12 cm). 

Thai artist Chatriya Hemharnvibul has produced this very beautiful card deck, having previously produced artwork for Wicca Cards. Definitely a fine colourist and expert figurative painter, the artwork will delight. The title of the deck ‘Fenestra’ means ‘windows’ in Latin and the intention behind the title is to open windows within the imagination. I think this is a deck, created by a female for females, due to its gentleness and soft energy. Only a little white information insert with very basic information in several European languages is included in the pack but the artwork of the cards says it all! 

Mythos Tarot Review

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

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

Tarot Illuminati Review

Mind Body & Soul Ezine Card Deck Review: Tarot Illuminati – The Light Within by Erik C Dunne, published by Lo Scarabeo 

The digital artwork is extremely ornate and very elegant and includes some interesting symbolism with strong archetypal energies. This is certainly the most stylish and glamourous deck I’ve seen and for those who like to meditate on tarot cards, the images invite you to step within and experience the profound and magical landscape. I especially like the colouring. Working with the cards, I found them the most inspirational of the card decks I have in my extensive collection. I found that when I used large spreads I felt quite mind-blown due to the degree of power which is generated from these cards. 

Tarot Medieval Review

Mind Body & Soul Ezine Card Deck Review: Tarot Medieval - The Mysteries of the Initiates Path by Caitlin Matthews with illustrations by Wil Kingham. Boxed set of cards and full colour book. Published by REDFeather (subsidiary of Schiffer Publishing) May 2023 UK £27.99 : US $29.99

A magnetic flip top box opens to display a comprehensive book and 78 cards. Size: 13.5 x 10.5 cm. Caitlin Matthews has translated, edited and provided additional material to revive an original, lost Tarot deck by Francis Rolt-Wheeler. The artwork is produced by Wil Kingham from originals by Christian Loring. 

A fascinating story begins with the highly praised Christian Loring who is a specialist in medieval art, and knowledgeable about Qabala. She meets with the esoteric teacher and L’Astrosophie magazine publisher, Francis Rolt-Wheeler to produce a Tarot deck but during WW2 it is becomes lost.