Review - Decode Tarot

Decode Tarot: Master Meanings, Reversals and Combinations

Author: Debra Zachau

Red Feather/Schiffer Publishing, September 2024 

Description: 176-page paperback book

Book Size: 6 x 9

"One single card is not a complete reading because each card you lay down tells more of the story."

"Decode Tarot takes you from reading upright only along with traditional meanings into specific combinations, crosses, and reversals that have proved accurate by testing them over thousands of readings and client feedback."

Master the Minors, Master the Courts, and Master the Majors.

After a short introduction, Part One: Mastering the Minors begins with a brief look at the Tarot cards as a whole, separating them into sections, and a glance at the different suits.

The Suits And Their Personalities is very revealing, although I would have liked to have a little more on this topic. The Celtic cross is covered briefly, along with reversals, combinations, and timing.

Timing: "I never waiver from a one-month format and assign 30 days to each card."

As you begin the journey through the Minors, you'll see the number/element, main keyword(s), an image from the Rider-Waite Deck, information about the card, combinations and reversals. This is not the typical list of combinations. The author explains the reasoning for the combinations and gives examples. 

There are reading examples throughout, but also full readings.  Within the Master the Minors, there are two full readings. One is "I Just Lost My Job!". The author explains what she sees within the cards and then explains how she presents the reading to the client. She also gives a gem of information about the last card of the Celtic Cross. 

"If the last card is not a Major Arcana, I keep laying down cards, each representing 30 days, to see how long this phase will last."

Part Two: Master the Courts starts with a Traditional Overview Of The Court Cards, followed by Here Are My Exceptions to These Rules That Have Served Me Well. 

"Pages are dependent people, whether they are under 18 of age or an adult, with limited capacity to support themselves."

Each Court is presented with images, a brief overview, a list of people and characters who fit within the family, and a deeper dive into the family, with combinations and reversals. There is another full reading in this section, along with other gems of knowledge. 

"Generally, I read Kings and Queens as people first and energy second."

Mastering the Majors begins with an introduction to the Divine Councils: Guardians, Teachers and Mentors, Guides, and Angels.

The Journey of the Fool opens the door to the Major Arcana. After each card's name and an image, the text walks you through a summary of the card, including meanings, reversals and combinations.

"The World completes the road from the young novice with the heroic Fool's heart to a well-rounded and wise conclusion described by the World."

"If this life's journey was expressed in a straight line, it would look like this:" Debra Zachau shares her thoughts on the Fool's Journey through each of the Major cards.

A short conclusion page wraps up the guide.

I did a few personal readings, using the Decode Tarot. The overall readings did not change, but I felt they went a little deeper because of the added knowledge of the cards. 

There was only one thing in this whole book I found a little off-putting. The author does not believe one should read for themselves; therefore, the text refers to the client as a reference point. 

I, personally, have never had trouble reading for myself. I've reached out to others on occasion to confirm to myself I wasn't mis-reading because of my closeness to the situation. They've always come back with very similar readings. I believe you can determine whether reading for yourself results in good readings. 

I highly recommend Decode Tarot by Debra Zachau to anyone, and everyone, interesting in learning or diving deeper into the Tarot.

Grab your copy at  Red Feather/Schiffer Publishing.

(Review Product supplied by Schiffer Publishing)

Review: The Magick of Lenormand Card Reading

The Magick of Lenormand Card Reading

Author: Kalliope

Artist: Yasmeen Westwood

Red Feather/Schiffer Publishing, 2024

Description: 280-page paperback book

Book Size: 7 x 10

The creators of the Lenormand of Enchantment have created a book that goes beyond the original guide available with the deck. The Magick of Lenormand Card Reading takes you into the depths of Lenormand, covering a multitude of topics and situations.

"The system outlined in this book is my personal tried-and-true method that works and can be easily applied to any life situation. This current volume is written with the professional reader in mind, with expanded meanings and new combinations, allowing you to foster an even-deeper, more magickal relationship with the cards."

The Author covers the basics, from how to use the book to journaling and practice exercises. The Tips and Tricks section shares a multitude of information, from The Red-String Method to card order and word play combinations.  

The 36 Magickal Moments chapter supplies you with spells for each Lenormand card. How to Read the Cards offers a few pointers and delves into casting the cards from the simple yes/no method to in-depth tips on the Grand Tableau.

The bulk of the book covers the cards, both individually and in combinations. Each card presentation has number and name, a poem, and an image of the card. The illustrations are from the Lenormand of the Enchantment. The cards are described in length, along with keywords, timing, meaning, the card in aspect to love, career, wellness, finances, and modern day, and affirmation, cartomancy, Combinations, and ends with a quote.

This is a very extensive guidebook that will take you further into the Lenormand world. There's so much here, it's a little hard to share the depth. Each card has seven or more pages of information. You may get a little overwhelmed. 

It's important to remember when diving into Lenormand to take what feels right for you in the guides, and discard the rest. As said, there's a lot of information in this book, but the Lenormand is a never-ending journey. Just remember to take it slow to get the most growth from your connection with the cards. 

The Scythe pages begin with number and name. The poem begins the text.

"Sharp and dangerously slicing, cut down to my very core

Sudden and unexpected accident, left me disconnected and sore

Irrevocable divisions, splitting halves the rendering them apart

Separating quickly, leaves a wake of broken shards in my heart"

After the image, you see the first part of the description.

"As the sun sets on the year's final harvest, the Scythe emerges from the field of golden wheat, catching the last wisps of fading light glinting off its sharp edges. Shimmering flaxen shafts of wheat are swaying in the breeze …."

Further into the Scythe pages, you find the card in different aspects.

Scythe in Modern Day - "The Grim Reaper, a motorcycle club (Sons of Anarchy), symbol of death, injectables/vaccine."

Affirmation - "When things suddenly and unexpectedly leave my life, I will trust in that wisdom and let them go with compassion and love."

The Cartomancy of the card takes you to an even deeper level of the Lenormand. The Jack of Diamonds - "This Jack is preoccupied with having the need for security, both emotionally and financially, but keeps this vulnerability to himself."

The sections on Combinations dive deep and are expansive. The Scythe and Clover - "green wound (infected), very risky, temporarily detached, brief separation, wild accident, brief division, temporarily disconnected, easily broken, temporarily cut off, brief threat, very risky, brief emergency"

The most important thing to remember when reading with the Lenormand is to maintain context to the question, which should be very focused in order to receive an understandable answer.

I'm not sure if I would recommend this book to a beginner. It's so easy to get overwhelmed by information when dealing with this simple 36-card deck. You really need to begin at the beginning and slowly delve into deeper parts of this system. In my opinion, too much information will kill your intuition and confidence.

With that said, I highly recommend this book to the seasoned reader. You're bound to discover something useful within the text. 

Grab your copy at  Red Feather/Schiffer Publishing.

(Review Product supplied by Schiffer Publishing)

Review: The Magic of Numbers

The Magic of Numbers: Numerology's Power Revealed

Author: Lori Reid

Red Feather/Schiffer Publishing, 2023

Description: 80-page paperback book

Book Size: 5 x 7

The Magic of Numbers is an easy-to-use, simple read. The guide will give you a glimpse into the doorway of Numerology.

After a short introduction to Numerology, "Depending on the different levels of interpretation, numerology can be as easy or as complex as the practitioner might want to make it..."

Chapter One: Birthdays offers you the calculations to obtain your Destiny Number, an overview of each number, and an exercise that will open your eyes to the cycles within your life. 

"...the critical importance about your actual date of birth is that this number will reveal insights into your life cycle and into the sequences of events that are likely to occur to you throughout your life."

Chapter Two: What's in a Name? gives you the calculations and methods to obtain your Expression Number. "When decoded, the Expression Number of a name yields valuable insights into the power of its sound." Each Expression Number is explained in the personality profile. There is also a table of Harmonies showing the numbers that will be harmonious or at variance with your Expression Number.

Chapter Three: Love and Attraction gives an overview of each Expression Number in Love and In Partnership with other Expression Numbers.

Chapter Four: Work and Money offers suggested occupations for your Destiny or Expression Number with an overview of each Number at Work.

Chapter Five: Keys to the Door gives the calculations needed to find your home's personality. A House-Personal Compatibility Table identifies if your house number is compatible or discordant with your birthday or destiny number. Each House Number is explained in a Character Guide to your House.

A short Conclusion and an About the Author closes this short dive into Numerology.

"Understanding numbers opens our awareness, shows us the interconnections that govern our lives and gives us the knowledge we need to control our destinies."

I recommend this book to anyone who has the desire to take that first step into studying Numerology or if you are just a little curious about the whole aspect. 

The Magic of Numbers makes it easy and uncomplicated for you to get a taste of what the Power of Numerology is all about. 

Grab your copy at  Red Feather/Schiffer Publishing.

(Review Product supplied by Schiffer Publishing)

Review: Eternal Seeker Oracle

Eternal Seeker Oracle

Author: Pamela Steele

Artist: Pamela Steele

Red Feather/Schiffer Publishing, 2021

Description: 33 card deck, 128-page companion book, box with magnetic closure lid.

Card Size: 3 1/2 by 5

"The images, although inspired by the Major Arcana, seek to delve into the core authenticity of the archetypes that is reflected by the title of each card."

Pamela Steele has created a magical oracle deck. Twenty-two cards are based on the Major Arcana and eleven additional cards are added to make a well-rounded look into understanding your life and gaining advice for personal and spiritual dilemmas. 

The images in this deck are beautiful. Above, you see the 7 Tradition card which is inspired by the Tarot's "The Hierophant." 25 The Weaver was inspired by the Steele Wizard Tarot's "The Weaver". 30 and 31 are part of the additional cards. Also, notice the connections the bottom of the cards form. The energy and connectivity of this deck is amazing. 

They are printed on good card-stock, making them easy to shuffle. The size of the cards makes for easy handling. I have only positive things to say about this deck. It will definitely stay in my collection.

The companion book opens with a Foreword by Benebell Wen. The Eternal Seeker Oracle "...will be a treasured oracle that connects an old-school generation of diviners with the new." 

Pamela Steele covers reader ethics, explains what an oracle deck is, shares how to care and 'feed' your deck, gives tips on keeping a journal, and discusses how to compose a question, along with tips on shuffling and dealing the cards.

The author shares six spreads in detail, but also encourages you to create your own. She makes it clear that there is no wrong way to use this deck. The companion book is only a guide to help you in your journey.

 

The bulk of the companion book covers the cards, including an image, the name and number, a phrase, along with a phrase on the numerical value, a summary of the card, and the suggested meanings of upright and reversed cards. A generous amount of space is given to make Notes after each card section.

The card backing also has relevance in the author's creation. She shares a short explanation of its importance. She closes the companion book with a few words on her journey, acknowledgements, resources, references, and quotes.

"Have faith; there is always hope."

I highly recommend this deck. The vibrant images are amazing, the energy is positive, and the cards delve into a new aspect of understanding. This could be your first oracle deck, or one to add to your collection. It would make a great stand alone, or an addition to your Tarot or Lenormand readings.

Grab your copy at Red Feather/Schiffer Publishing.

(Review Product supplied by Schiffer Publishing)

Review: The Art of Kipper Reading: Decoding Powerful Messages

The Art of Kipper Reading: Decoding Powerful Messages

Author: Alexandre Musruck

Red Feather/Schiffer Publishing, 2020

Description: Card Size: Paperback, 288 pages

“with Kipper cards, the position of the seeker is Key!”

The Kipper cards are similar to the Lenormand, but with its own personality. When I first came across these cards, I was intrigued by the 36 card deck. I wish I’d had this book from the beginning. Alexandre Musruck has written the one guide you need to uncover the secret of reading this German deck and have accurate readings.

The Author gives a brief history of the deck, a short introduction to the individual cards. 

The bulk of the book covers the meanings of each card and their connection to one another. In each card section, there are the basic keywords, core meaning, mantra, influence, direction, quick answer, and topic card. Each section has card combos, plus positional combos for the people cards. 

The author wraps up the book with some spreads and reading examples, diving deep into the Grand Tableau layout, and a few more additional tips. At the back of the book, you find 32 pages devoted to your own Kipper Journal.

I recommend this book to anyone wanting to learn to read the Kipper Cards.

Grab your copy from Red Feather/Schiffer Publishing. 

See Companion Deck review.

(Review Product supplied by Schiffer Publishing)

 

Review: Tarot for the Fiction Writer by Paula Chaffee Scardamalia

Tarot for the Fiction Writer
Author: Paula Chaffee Scardamalia

Schifffer Publishing, 2019

Description: Hard cover book, 159 pages

HOW 78 CARDS CAN TAKE YOU FROM IDEA TO PUBLICATION

Tarot for the Fiction Writers offers a look at your journey as a writer, but also the journey of your character through the story. The author explores each card – what the card represents, how that relates to you, questions to ask concerning you, how it relates to your character, and questions to ask your character.

After a quick introduction, the author covers the basics of the Tarot - from choosing your deck, Tarot structure, numerology, court cards, and spreads. The coverage is brief but accomplishes a good foundation to begin working with the cards. 

The book is divided into Four Parts. At the end of each, the author has provided multiple pages for you to take notes. Part One includes the Tarot basic introduction, covers the Fool to the Emperor, and delves into the court cards. Part Two runs from the Hierophant to the Tower. Part Three explores the Star to the World. Part Four wraps it all up and offers a few spreads to help in your storytelling. The author closes the book with resource pages of writing and tarot recommendations, and a quick reference guide of the cards.

Throughout the book, the author cross-references Tarot figures with fiction characters and fiction works. There’s a broad range from Dumbledore to Princess Leia, and from Jewel of the Nile to Top Gun. You are sure to find some familiar connections within the text.

But, will this book help you be a better writer?

Yes, I believe that by exploring your own journey and the characteristics of your character, you could very well come to the end of the book with a better understanding of being a writer.

What I don’t see here is a book that will take you from idea to publication, at least not in a step by step method. Your best approach to this book would be to explore the contents, the questions, and the information as it pertains to you and the different characters you may create. And then apply that new knowledge to your work.

I recommend Tarot for the Fiction Writer to the tarot reader for a deeper look at the Major Arcana cards and the Court Cards. I recommend it to writers who wish to get a better outlook on themselves as writers and a new connection with their characters.

 

Grab your copy from Schiffer Publishing.

(Review Product supplied by Schiffer Publishing)

Review: Tarot Tracker: A Year-Long Journey

Tarot Tracker: A Year-Long Journey
Author: Angelo Nasios
Schiffer Publishing, 2017
Description: Hardback Book

“While the Tarot Tracker is designed with Tarot in mind, you can also use this journal with non-Tarot decks if you desire.”

The Tarot Tracker is a journal, but it is so much more. Angelo Nasios has created a guide for daily journaling, a system to help build your tarot knowledge, and pages to fill with a year’s worth of discovery.

“Tarot Tracker is designed to be your annual journal that tracks your entire year with Tarot.”

You begin your Year-Long Journey by calculating your Card of the Year. An example is given, along with the process for calculating your card. Once discovered, you write about the card and what you think the influence might be for you. The author provides a Year Card Reference Section to help you along.

“The Year Card represents an overall theme or energy that represents the year in your life.”

This is followed by a Meaning Tracker, where you can express your thoughts on each card as you begin the year. These may be traditions meanings, thoughts of your likes/dislikes, or even your emotional reactions. These meanings are yours, as you see the cards, at this time.

At the back of the book, there is a Meaning Tracker Revisited. Here you will once again go through your meanings of each card, inspired by your year-long journey. To assist with understanding the cards, the author supplies an Appendix of Card Keywords. The Seasonal Tracker gives you a place to explore The New Year Reading and a Birthday Reading.

The bulk of the book is devoted to daily cards, offering areas for both Day Reading and Night Reading, along with possible questions to explore.

This would make a great gift for someone just starting out in Tarot. The structure within the Tarot Tracker is perfect for keeping up with daily cards and working your way through the Tarot.

It would also work great for someone lacking the discipline to make it through the whole year of daily pulls. Once you start writing in the book, you are going to want to complete it. Think of it as a new year’s resolution with structure.

If you want to learn the tarot, if you love journaling, and/or if you’ve always wanted to see how the cards could play out over the whole year, one day at a time, you’ll find the needed structure within the cover of the Tarot Tracker: A Year-Long Journey.

Grab your copy from Schiffer Publishing. 

You may also be interested in my review of Angelo Nasios’ Tarot: Unlocking the Arcana.



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Review: Fortune Teller's Handbook

Fortune Teller’s Handbook
Author: Sasha Fenton
Hampton Roads Publishing, 2017
Description: 192-page Paperback Book

Red Wheel/Weiser has brought back another of Sasha Fenton’s successful titles with the Fortune Teller’s Handbook.

The Fortune Teller’s Handbook is an introduction to 20 divination methods. As the author acknowledges, “These twenty chapters are just the tip of the iceberg.” And, in the areas the author is less familiar; she calls upon other professionals for their knowledge.

The Fortune Teller’s Handbook is definitely a fun and interesting read. You may find yourself discovering a tool you never knew existed, like flower reading. The author goes from the most logical systems to the kind of ‘weird’ systems. Within the covers of this book, you can easily discover something you didn’t know.

Did you know that Playing cards are a spin-off from the Minor Arcana of the Tarot deck? Okay, but did you know they are also a spin-off of chess, which itself is a spin-off from the Tarot?

Did you know you could use three American quarters to perform an I Ching reading?

The Fortune Teller’s Handbook covers such systems as crystal ball gazing, numerology readings, using a pendulum, throwing bones, and many more techniques. The book is an introductory into these many systems, but once you get hooked, there are many books out there to further your studies in whichever direction(s) you may choose.

I recommend the Fortune Teller’s Handbook to anyone interested in divination, beginners and those already in the game. I’d also recommend the book to anyone curious about the process of fortune telling, whether you intend to follow the path or not.

Grab your copy from Red Wheel/Weiser Publishing.

You may also enjoy my review of Fortune Telling by Tarot Cards by Sasha Fenton.


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Review: King Billy and the Royal Road

King Billy and the Royal Road
Author: RC Ajuonuma
SilverWood Books, 2017

Description: 81 page book

"King Billy and the Royal Road" is a story of a boy who wakes up one morning and begins a journey through the Major Arcana cards of the Tarot.


The story is formatted in three line poetry verses, with some rhyming. The flow of the story is of a sing-song melody. The black and white images, provided by Beverley Young, are delightful and compliment the story perfectly.

"He opened the bag,

which he wiggled and wagged,

and pulled from inside an old sword."

The book is divided into three parts which coincide with a three part break down of the Major Arcana stages of progression: Part 1 - The Way to Your Heart (Consciousness), Part 2 - Be Brave, Be True (Subconscious), Part 3 - What Was Lost Can Be Found (Superconscious).

Young Billy wakes up one morning to an empty refrigerator and is unable to wake his mother, so he decides to go find some food. What he finds is much more. He discovers a whole new world, as he's never ventured beyond his own backyard.

With a sack and a stick, young Billy (The Fool) skirts past his growling dog and sets off on his journey. His first encounter is with a man in a hat with a cape and a tan (The Magician). And the journey continues with Billy moving through the characters and the lessons of the Major Arcana of the Tarot.

The book is presented as a children's book, but I do suggest scanning through the book before you begin the story with your child. There is one section I found a little unsettling, but this may just be me. In Chapter 8, the king (not Billy) has been slain, beheaded. This one part made me feel the book may be more suitable for young teenagers. Again, this is only my opinion.

"With hands glowing red

round the king's severed head,

she lifted it up like a crown."

It was a pleasure to have the chance to read this book by RC Ajuonuma. Young adults will enjoy this introduction to the world of Tarot. It would also be an enjoyable read for adults and experienced tarot enthusiast.

Grab your copy from SilverWood Books or Amazon.


(Review Product supplied by RC Ajuonuma)

Review: Fortune Telling by Tarot Cards

Fortune Telling by Tarot Cards
A Beginner’s Guide to Understanding the Tarot
Author: Sasha Fenton
Red Wheel/Weiser, 2017

Description: 224 page book

"Lay your future out before you with tarot cards. Once you know how to interpret them, you can understand yourself and others better and be able to accurately predict what’s going to happen in the future.”

Note: Fortune Telling by Tarot Cards by Sasha Fenton is a reprint of a 2002 version.

Fortune Telling by Tarot Cards is exactly what it says: A Beginner's Guide to Understanding the Tarot. There are many of these types of books out there, but some are better than others. For me, this one feels like one of the good ones.

After a short introduction, the book is divided into three parts.

Part One: Tarot and Fortune Telling

The author covers the History of Tarot and then Guidelines, Ritual, and Procedures. And then, you get some extra bits with chapters on the Arcanas and the Court Cards. It's not really what she shares but how she shares it that I enjoyed. In fact, the author's voice has a great deal to do with my enjoyment of this Beginner's Guide.

One of the areas covered in the Arcana chapter is the suits. The author shares a story she uses in her beginner workshops.

“You are fed up with your job. The job is unsatisfying … This is a Swords matter, as it shows something needs to be done.”

“Finally, you find the job you want. The pay is good… The practical side of this looks good, and practical matters are related to Coins.” – The author uses Coins when referring to Pentacles.

The Court Card chapter makes it clear we all have trouble with their interpretations, and gives a few ways to attempt to interpret them, and then makes it clear how randomly these may work once, but not the next time.

“The Court cards usually give beginners a great deal of trouble, because there are no clear cut rules for reading them, and while many tarot experts have tried to lay down various rules none can really be relied upon.”

Part Two: Card Interpretation

The Major Arcana includes Card Title, Image, Keywords, Key Ideas, Upright Meanings, and Reversals. Some of the cards also include an Additional Suggestions Section.

(Note: Although the Waite Deck is used for illustrations, the author has put Justice in the No. 8 position, rather than the No. 11 position.)

The Star - "This card is truly the Star of hope, as it brings hope, faith, and optimism to any part of the spread that it touches."

The Minor Arcana is divided into chapters by Suit, and includes Card Title, Image, Keywords, Upright meanings, and Reversals. Again, some of these include an Additional Suggestion piece.

Six of Coins - "Sharing out money and resources."

The author ends this part with a chapter on Linking Cards. She goes over various methods to help link the cards to form a comprehensive reading.

Part Three: Reading the Cards

In Preparing Your Deck, the author gives methods for using Upright and Reversals in a reading. There are two chapters focused on Spreads - General and Focused. Other Areas covered include: Timing Events, Energies of the Cards (the Elements), and Failed Readings (the Why and useful alternatives). 

The book ends with a Quick Card Lookup, which includes Quick Clues to the Majors and the Minors and the Cards Categorized by Concept.

I highly recommend this book for beginners.

As a seasoned reader, I found both the information and the author's voice refreshing. I will be keeping this one on my shelf.


Grab your copy of Fortune Telling by Tarot Cards at Red Wheel Weiser.

(Review Product supplied by Red Wheel Weiser)

Review: Claiming Your Power Through Astrology: A Spiritual Workbook

Claiming Your Power Through Astrology: A Spiritual Workbook
Author: Emily Klintworth
Schiffer Publishing, 2017

Description: 128 page Spiral-bound workbook

I’ve been trying to complete this workbook, so I could give a full review, but yet again I find myself in the world of Astrology and not enough time to do the exercises justice. I'm at the halfway point of the book. I'm jumping in to give you a quick review, so you can grab your copy and get started. That’s how sure I am that you are going to want this one.

“You are about to embark on a journey, one where you will be provided with the opportunity to step outside yourself – to view your life through the lens of the cosmos.”

Claiming Your Power Through Astrology gives you everything you need to help you to discover who you are, where you are going, and what you might expect to experience in this lifetime. You will need internet access to grab a copy of your Natal Chart Navigator. You may also need a copy machine if you wish to use the exercises more than one time. The rest is following along, step by step, and filling in the worksheets. It’s not a fast process, nor is it an easy road to follow. You will most likely need to reference the example exercises at the back of the book. All you have to put in is a little time and effort, but the results are amazing.

Section One - Exploring Your Natal Chart
As you read through the Chapters, you’ll learn about each topic and move into an exercise. The author guides you with clear instructions and examples at the back of the book. Remember to have patience as you move along. Sometimes, you may feel as if you are wandering around, a little lost, but keep following along. You end the first section with a nice little bow, pulling it all together and gaining a glimpse of the plans you made before you arrived here for you journey.

“Piece together all the information you have decoded in the previous exercises – gain the awareness needed to understand yourself through the cosmic perspective.”

Section Two - Aligning with The Cosmos
Each chapter brings more knowledge of the planets, their effect on your life, and the best way to align yourself for the best life possible. From relationships to life lessons, there’s much to learn in this section. I can’t wait to get started on this second section of the book. It’s sure to be an enlightening endeavor. Flipping to the back and final exercise, you’ll be producing an official Natal Chart, which looks to bring everything you’ve learned from beginning to end into one tidy chart.

Personally, this workbook has taken me to a level of astrology I wasn’t even aware of existed. Years ago, I signed up for a predictive astrology course, but to be honest it’s still sitting on my computer, pretty much untouched. I have to pick and choose where to put my energy and this one just never made it to the top of the list, although it continues to be on my list.

No one was there to hold my hand and guide me forward. With this workbook, the author is there by your side, easing you forward and walking you through step by step.

Grab your copy at Schiffer Publishing.

Learn more about Emily Klintworth and her mission “to provide easy do-it-yourself astrology books that empower and support you on your path” at www.AbsolutelyAstrology.com.

Enjoy your Spiritual Awakening!


(Review Product supplied by Schiffer Publishing)

Review: Midlife is Not a Crisis

Midlife is Not a Crisis: Using Astrology to Thrive in the Second Half of Life
Author: Virginia Bell
Red Wheel/Weiser, 2017

Description: 264 page book

"Midlife Is Not a Crisis combines astrology, inspiration, and wisdom about aging to empower people to live more fully in the second half of life."

I absolutely love Astrology. But, I have to admit this is one of my interests which holds me to the sidelines. I've read quite a bit on the subject, but have yet to completely understand the system of it all.

Midlife is not a Crisis! I wish this book had arrived sooner. I'm nearing the end of my Midlife Cycle, which according to the author is from ages 37-45.

The book covers much more than the Midlife. After a brief introduction, Virginia Bell explains the six Cycles of our power years and gives an overview of astrology on the basis of the birth chart. You don't need to be an astrology genius to follow along, thank goodness.

The rest of the book is divided into chapters on each of the cycles. The author shares personal experiences and stories of public figures throughout the book.

Honestly, I've been trying to get through this book for a while now, but I haven't made it to the end. I've scanned over the pages in order to be able to offer this short review. I'm sure your wondering why? Is it that bad?

I keep halting in my reading to grab a copy of my natal chart to discover what the text meant for me. For example, "The sign and house where we have Saturn is where we are cautious, slow, and often stuck; it's an area that doesn't come naturally or easily. As a result, we have to work on it, which is why we often become proficient in that area." Could you read that and not go searching back through the initial Astrology Overview of the book with the information from your natal chart to find out what it means to you?

Astrology is astronomy brought down to earth and applied to the affairs of men. – Ralph Waldo Emerson

I guess the most important thing I can tell you at this point, which the author voices in her own words, is:

You don't need any prior knowledge of astrology, but I have included an overview of the basics. It comes with a warning: astrology is seductive and can become addictive. You will enter a magical realm, one filled with mythology, archetypes, and stories that can capture your imagination, open your mind, and shake up your beliefs.

Enjoy!

Grab your copy at Red Wheel Weiser.

(Review Product supplied by Red Wheel Weiser)

Review: The Empath's Quest: Finding Your Destiny

The Empath's Quest: Finding Your Destiny
Author: Bety Comerford and Steve Wilson
Schiffer Publishing, 2016

Description: 112 page hardback book

"There's a method, a plan, a synchronicity to the universe that all falls into place when one understands how the plan works."

"Understanding the love and energy behind your destiny, acquainting yourself with your own personal timeline, releasing the geometry that moves you forward on that timeline, and knowing how it all works together will assist you to make better choices, to overcome the difficulties in life we all experience, and live the life you were meant to live.

The title, Finding Your Destiny, gives the reader false hope of finding a step by step method within the covers of this book. But, with that said, I thoroughly enjoyed this read. I have a better understanding of the energies around us and the possibility of a timeline, a plan we set before birth.

"Everything that is described in this book has happened to one or both of us. Nothing is made up. The realizations, the lessons, the situations are those we have lived through in our own personal journeys."

The Empath's Quest: Finding Your Destiny is a creative non-fiction featuring Alex and three woman of differing experiences with spirituality and energy, along with extra inserts by the authors exploring the lessons further.

The journey begins on a plane and follows the group during a trip to Arizona. From the moment the engines start, Alex reveals realizations of past experiences and new lessons learned by the group.

With each of his revelations, a spark jumped within my soul. I have gained a better understanding of my own experiences. I often feel the need to block the energies swirling about me, but after reading this, I now understanding it is better to manage the chaos and learn lessons from the experience.

Throughout the book, the authors share more knowledge on the lessons revealed by Alex, such as the Higher Aspect of Manifestation, the Higher Aspect of each element - air, fire, water, earth, energetic exposure, Surrendering to Your Timeline, and more.

"You know you've reached the higher energy when things in fold without effort on your part."

I recommend this book to anyone interested in learning more about energies, manifestation, and your destined path. No matter where you are in your own journey, you will find something here to help you move through your day, through your life.

Grab your copy at Schiffer Publishing.


(Review Product supplied by Schiffer Publishing)

Review: Today's Journey Tarot - A Traveler's Guide

Today's Journey Tarot: A Traveler's Guide
Author: Expanding Dimensions
Expanding Dimensions, 2013

Description: 183 page companion book

"Open yourself to the Tarot and allow it to be your guide on Today's Journey."



The Today's Journey Tarot was published in 2011. My review of the deck appeared in October. Years later, the authors decided to create an expanded companion book. I received a complimentary copy in 2014, but never got around to reviewing it. So, here it is, my review of Today's Journey Tarot: A Traveler's Guide.

Today's Journey Tarot: A Traveler's Guide takes this updated version of the Tarot to a new level. While the little white book included with the deck gives you plenty to get you started, the Traveler's Guide gives you a more in-depth journey.

Key 0 Beginning - The simplest action can lead to the most profound discovery.

The bulk of the guide gives detailed explanations of each card, giving equal attention to both the Keys (Major Arcana), and the Minor Arcana. The card sections include a black and white card image, followed by the card Name, a short phrase of wisdom and its primary concepts (keywords). The authors give a detailed description of the card and a commentary on the card's meaning, colors and symbols. A suggested interpretation is given, followed by a meditation statement, and a daily reading phrase.


The rest of the guide is divided into sections on spreads, answered question on the Tarot, a Tarot Reader Code of Ethics, Meditation, and Numbers, Colors, and Symbols. The guide closes with biographies of the members of Expanding Dimensions.

Key 21 Completion - Every ending is a new beginning.

A Traveler's Guide is a great addition to the Today's Journey Tarot deck. I recommend it to anyone who loves this deck and wants to explore it a little deeper from the viewpoint of its authors. If you are just getting around to grabbing this deck, I suggest the purchase of the companion book. It will be a great tool to get you started and further explore your journey.


Grab your copy at Amazon.

Further explore the Deck and its Authors at Today's Journey Tarot.

(Review Product supplied by Expanding Dimensions)

Review: Tarot by Design Workbook

Tarot by Design Workbook
Author: Diana Heyne
Red Wheel/Weiser, 2017

Description: 176 page coloring/workbook


"Color and Learn Your Way into the Cards"



Adult Coloring books have become a huge trend over the last few years. I guess it shouldn't surprise anyone to see one set to the theme of the Tarot. But, Tarot by Design is much more than a coloring book, and it's not just for adults. The Tarot by Design Workbook is designed for anyone interested in the Tarot, whether beginner or novice.

"Geared toward an enjoyable and intuitive understanding of the basic meanings of the tarot through coloring, brief word prompts and short rhythmic phrases, Tarot by Design Workbook aims to make the foundational learning of tarot a pleasurable task for beginners and others who would like to deepen their connection with the symbolic images."

Tarot by Design features original color-in images of all 78 Tarot cards, each accompanied by a unique learning page. The learning page contains the card title, keywords for upright and reversal meanings, and a section for your own notes and personal doodling's. For the Major Arcana cards, the page also contains a short phrase to help in the learning process. At the end of the book, there are ten blank pages for your own personal journaling or collaging, with a framework art piece provided.


Keywords: "Disaster, Calamity, Emotional Upheaval, Disruption, Sudden Change"

Reversal: "Fear of Change, Lies, Imprisonment, Narrow Avoidance of Disaster"

Phrase: "A storm came out of nowhere and tore our stronghold down, in fear & lamentation we tumbled to the ground..."

Keywords: "Happiness, Wishes Fulfilled, Comfort, Luxury, Satisfaction, Getting What One Wants"

Reversal: "Dissatisfaction, Greed, Materialism, Poor Lifestyle Choices"

Blank pages for your own personal journaling provide a creative area to do readings, focus on a single card, or even design your own version of a particular card.



"Unlock the mystery and magic, secrets and symbolism of the Tarot through this informative, yet fun teaching tool that engages both intuition and intellect."

I recommend the Tarot by Design Workbook to anyone who enjoys coloring and has an interest in the Tarot. I can't wait to get some color on these pages. What fun!

"Don't feel bound by any set of rules for making your color choices."

I would like to add to the author's words stated above. Don't feel bound by any rules at all. Have fun and play with this workbook. Allow your intuition to flow as you set upon this wonderful journey. If something pops into your head as you color, write it down, sketch it out. You will find a new world of possibilities within the pages of this workbook.


Grab your copy at Red Wheel Weiser.

(Review Product supplied by Red Wheel Weiser)

Review: Tarot For One

Tarot for One: The Art of Reading for Yourself
Author - Courtney Weber
Red Wheel/Weiser, 2016

Description - 243 page paperback book

"Tarot and mirrors share the same role: they reflect truth."

Tarot For One will take you on a journey through the tarot, bring you closer to understanding the cards and yourself, and offers exercises and examples to practice your craft.

Weber begins her book with an introduction to the tarot and self-reading, covering such topics as tarot history, how self-reading is different from other readings, the practice of pulling a card a day, and more.

"You are the central character in your own personal myth."

"The twenty-two cards of the Major Arcana depict the great myths we personally lead."

The second chapter focuses on the Fool's Journey: the story of tarot and your place in it. Weber gives an overview of life experiences associated with the twenty-two cards of the Major Arcana, along with character examples and exercises to help you discover your own Fool's journey.

"In Back to the Future, Marty McFly travels back in time in his Fool's journey, and his Empress moment appears when one of the first people he meets in his journey is his mother as a teenager."

In chapter three, the court cards are described from the angles of Character, Traits, Experience, and Reversals. The multiple exercises help you to get in touch with these characters, dispelling the awkward nature most readers have in understanding the court cards. She also offers a technique to reveal if the card is referring to you or someone else.

The numbered cards of the minor arcana are explained from suit to numerical value in chapter four. Exercises range from what the numbers are trying to tell you, to mini picture books in each card, to pulling the whole deck together for a reading, with multiple example readings.

Through exercises and example readings, chapter five assists you in recognizing the voice of tarot by looking at the different ways one card can reflect on different situations, and then by comparing deliberately pulled cards against random pulls - your viewpoint versus the Tarot's opinion. She also suggests some decks may prefer one topic over another and offers an exercise to unlock the voice of your deck.

"The first thing to note: you do not have to read reversed cards."

Chapter six suggests there are six potential ways to interpret reversals and provides explanations and examples of each situation. A technique is offered to determine which of the six ways is to be used in the reading of the reversal. Instructions on using reversals in yes or no questions are also presented.

The main theme of chapter seven is what's missing from your Tarot readings, such as no cups and/or no court cards. It also looks into working with the tough cards, both the 'good' and 'bad' cards of the deck.

Reading for yourself is not always a good idea. Chapter eight covers situations and solutions for these times.

"When we are worried, we are blinded by our fears that things will not turn out in the way we want. Any cards we pull that do not relate to our desired outcome will look like bad omens and will make us feel worse."

Weber offers a wide variety of twenty possible spreads in chapter nine, from the traditional Celtic Cross spread to unique spreads, such as a spread to determine how long a desired outcome may take with ideas of the events surrounding the outcome.

Throughout the book, Weber insists the cards respond to your own reflections, making it important to form your own interpretations, rather than blindly following the meanings offered by others. Suggested meanings should be used as guidelines, not rules.  Even your own interpretations should be looked as guidelines as you move along in your tarot journey.

"Our intuitive responses to the cards will change and evolve-sometimes even within a single reading."

I recommend Tarot for One to anyone just beginning their tarot journey.

In my experience, reading for yourself is a great way to explore the tarot and develop the skills necessary to read for others.

I would also recommend it to experienced readers who enjoy discovering new techniques in their process.

Tarot for One offers a number of approaches to the tarot which were new to me, and I'm guessing would be new to many readers. This one is definitely not a repeat of the other tarot guides out there.

Courtney Weber is a Wiccan priestess, writer, Tarot advisor, and activist. You can discover more about the author of Tarot for One and creator of Tarot of the Boroughs at her website: www.thecocowitch.com.

Grab your copy at Red Wheel Weiser.

(Review Product supplied by Red Wheel Weiser.)

Review: Let Your Spirit Guides Speak

Let Your Spirit Guides Speak
Author: Debra Landwehr Engle
Hampton Roads Publishing Company

"...a major problem in all our lives: we keep looking to other people for answers, which may give us a quick fix but eventually leaves us disappointed, frustrated, and seeking once again."
"...So, if that's the problem, what's the solution?
Turning inward and asking for the guidance that's designed specifically for you."

Let Your Spirit Guides Speak provides guidance into understanding and listening to your spirit guides. The author alternates between her own words and words received from her spirit guide, Ella.

Engle shares some of her experiences with her Spirit Guides. These alone, for me, made the book worth the read.

One of my favorite stories involved her guide answering a mundane question with a single word. How many times have you asked yourself a question, only to receive a simple, straightforward answer a moment later? Sometimes this arrives by words within your own mind. But isn't it exciting when it comes from an outside source, such as words in a song or voices on the television? These wondrous events are very likely offered by your spirit guide or some other higher source.

My other favorite story was of the Lady in the Blue Dress. Engle shares her experience of meeting a higher version of herself. I found the whole concept to be fascinating, although I haven't had much luck creating such an experience of my own. But, I'll keep trying.

Engle offers suggestions and advice for communication with your own spirit guides. I personally didn't find anything new in this part of the book.

She goes over such advice as:

• Ask for a close parking space to ease into communications.
• Use the technique of auto-writing to connect.
• Your spirit guide will always be positive, never negative.

These are all things, I've read in most Spirit Guide books.

Engle poses questions to her spirit guide and then transcribes her responses. For me, the transcriptions seemed slightly stilted. But, one can't control the words offered by your spirit guide. Of course, that's not to say there wasn't wisdom within this part of the text.

"Your purpose and identity are not your job or where you live or what you own. Your purpose and identity are to extend divine love. You do these things in a way that's different from everyone around you because you have unique skills and abilities. But in the end, your purpose is love. Hey, that's our purpose too! Let's work together, and we can extend it faster and more effectively. We respect and admire you, and we are honored to call you our friend."

Let Your Spirit Guides Speak offers a nice introductory into communicating with your Spirit Guide.

I would recommend this book to anyone just getting started with connecting with their Spirit Guide. But, I'd also recommend it to someone already experienced, but looking for a light read and enjoys hearing of others experiences with their Spirit Guide.


Grab your copy at Red Wheel Weiser.



(Review Product supplied by Red Wheel Weiser.)

Review: Astrology Plain & Simple

Astrology Plain & Simple
Author: Cass and Janie Jackson
162 pages - Paperback Book
Hampton Roads Publishing Company

“There is nothing simple about astrology.”

The authors, Cass and Janie Jackson, take astrology and reduce it to a level anyone can understand.

Fun Fact: "The astrological signs that begin with Aries and continue through Pisces are known collectively as the signs of the zodiac. These names are derived from groups of stars that we know as constellations. Most of these constellations were thought to represent animals...hence the names: Aries, the ram, Taurus, the bull..., and so on. The Greeks called these constellations zodiakos kyklos - 'circles of animals' - which translates into the English word 'zodiac'. "

Is this the only book you’ll ever need, as stated on the cover?

If you want to learn about astrology, understand the zodiac and a few other related astrology topics, and learn to understand your birth chart, then yes this is the only book you’ll need.

If you want to explore beyond the basics, you’ll need to go further in your studies.

After a short introduction, the book covers:
• The Zodiac – includes a table of the signs, their corresponding animal or symbols and dates.
• The Signs of the Zodiac – the main characteristics for each Sun sign.
• Genders, Elements, and Qualities – explains these additional categories in relation to the signs.
• The Planets – explains their meanings and how they relate within your birth chart.
• Your Rising Sign – gives a brief explanation of finding your rising sign and each signs characteristics.
• Moon Signs – explains finding and interpreting your moon sign.
• Houses of the Zodiac – explains what each house represents.
• The Aspects – defines the different aspects and their relation to the planets.
• Chart Interpretation – gives steps to start your interpretation and touches upon predictive interpretation.

Overall, this book will make a nice addition to my bookshelf. I can't wait to sit down with my own birth chart and conduct my own interpretations.

Astrology Plain & Simple would be a good book for an astrology novice, or a quick guide for an advanced astrologer.


Grab your copy at Red Wheel Weiser.



(Review Product supplied by Red Wheel Weiser.)

Review: Tarot Unlocking the Arcana

Tarot Unlocking the Arcana
Author: Angelo Nasios
239-pages - Hard Cover Book
Schiffer Publishing, Ltd, 2016

A new voice and perspective on Tarot: Angelo Nasios shares his accumulated knowledge in Tarot Unlocking the Arcana.

At 239 pages, this nice hardcover book covers a lot of information.

The book begins with a preface, an introduction, and a summary of the book’s section. In brief, what you will discover within this book is:

1. An introduction to the Tarot – an explanation of what makes up the Tarot deck, the purpose of the Tarot, myths, ideas on how it works, and suggestions to picking your deck.
2. How to get started with the Tarot – covers all the basics including wording and activating your question, a short overview of all the cards, reading reversal with examples, and more. 
3. Attributions to the Tarot – including astrology, elements, and numerology.
4. Tarot History, Religion, and Philosophy
5. Tarot Spreads – a collection of 20 spreads, including the popular Celtic Cross
6. Sample Readings – predictions of past news and media topics
7. Tarot Education and Taboos
8. The Minor Arcana – description, symbolism and meaning, and in the reading meaning
9. The Court Cards – elemental and astrology associations, along with description, symbolism and meaning, and in the reading meaning
10. The Major Arcana – an overview of each card and the in the reading meaning

Overall, this is a great book for beginners. It could also supply experienced readers with a fresh perspective of the Tarot.

Grab your copy at Schiffer Publishing.

(Review Product supplied by Schiffer Publishing.)

The Celtic Cross Tarot Spread by Shannon MacLeod

Anyone can read the tarot, but not everyone wants to take the time and energy to study the cards and develop knowledge through long hours and many practice readings.

Shannon MacLeod has put it all out there for you, making it simple to throw the cards out and quickly put words to your spread.

Her book, Celtic Cross Tarot Spread: Cutting to the Chase, introduces three spreads—the Celtic Cross, Three Cards, and One Card, with positional explanations and instructions on how to use the book to translate the cards into a reading.

The remainder of the book is devoted to the 78 tarot cards. She provides the meaning of each card, upright and reversed, in each position of the Celtic Cross.

Shannon approaches the whole with a pinch of humor.

I do have some negative feelings on this whole aspect of “Painting-by-Numbers” method introduced by this book. To me, it takes away from the tarot as a whole. Tarot is meant to be explored by the individual and embraced by the intuitive connection the cards can provide. You are the artist and the Tarot becomes the tool.

With that said, I do think people will like this book. Especially someone who wants to just throw a few cards from time to time and see what happens. Not everyone wants to be a tarot reader. This book will give you the means to cast a quick reading and get a little meaning out of the cards pulled. And who knows, it may lead you down the Tarot Journey, a road you may not have taken otherwise.

Available at Schiffer Publishing in October, 2014.

You may also enjoy:
Tarot Spreads & Layouts by Jeanne Fiorini 
The Tarot Playbook by Lynda Cowles
Gaining Archetypal Vision by Toni Gilbert