The Sacred Circle Tarot Deck

Mind Body & Soul Ezine Card Deck Review: The Sacred Circle Tarot Deck - A Celtic Pagan Journey by Anna Franklin, illustrated by Paul Mason. Pack of 78 cards and information book. Published by Llewellyn Books. US $25.99 

Sample reading from the book: The Druid - “This card indicates that new opportunities will arise for you, and you will have the chance to put your ideas into practice. This will give you a chance to demonstrate your expertise and give your confidence a huge boost. This card may hold the opportunity to learn new skills from a helpful teacher, particularly in the area of science or medicine. This is also a promising card for those with ambitions in the area of the performing arts, as it indicates new inspiration and exceptional talent. Reversed. There is an imbalance of some kind, whether it is one of approach, attitude, or lifestyle. Your attitudes are rather rigid and set. Anything new is frightening, and you feel safer sticking to established forms.”

This is a Pagan deck which focusses on Britain and Ireland, the sacred sites, symbols, landscapes, colours and seasons. Many of the cards have name changes from traditional titles, such as The Green Man for The Fool, The Lady for The Empress, The Lord for The Emperor, The Druid for The Hierophant, and so on. Each of the new titles are explained. The suits are Swords, Wands, Cups, and Discs. The Court Cards are Page, Knight, Queen and King. Upright and reversed meanings are provided. Two spreads are suggested, The Circle Spread of 9 cards and The Planetary Spread of 7 cards.

Anna Franklin is a Third Degree Witch and High Priestess of the Hearth of Arianrhod. She is the author of 30 books and the creator of Fairy Ring Oracle and Pagan Ways Tarot. Paul Mason is an artist, illustrator and photographer. 

The card images are described as ‘photomontage’ - computer generated. I would like to know where the iconic places shown on the cards can be found. The Tarot cards show photographs of recognisable people, and I wonder what personal energies we are working with!  However, the card images are colourful and enjoyable and it is suggested  they can be used for divination or meditation. 

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