Review: Secret Woods

Secret Woods

Author: Kelly Patton

Red Feather/Schiffer Publishing, 2021

Description: 28 card deck, 72-page companion guide, a die-cut sleeve that offers a peek at the box, which has a magnetic closure lid.

Card Size: about 4x5

"Welcome to the Secret Woods, an immersive realm that surrounds you but is hidden from your normal daily perception - one that is only a peek beyond a thin veil that separates your world from the home of countless peculiar spirits."

The Secret Woods deck is destined to be one of my favorite decks. The artwork pulled me in instantly. I've already had some amazing one card readings. 

The cards feature animals, nature scenes, and some unusual creatures. The images are rich and creative. The intriguing borders and gilded edges are a nice touch to this deck. Printed on thick, mat card stock, the cards shuffle well and fit perfectly even in the smallest of hands.

The Guidebook offers suggestions of how to use the cards, along with a couple of spreads, but the bulk of the book focuses on the cards, which are in alphabetical order. Each card entry contains a picture, its title and phrase, a description, and a deeper look to reveal its message.

I highly recommend the Secret Woods deck to animal and nature lovers. The cards have amazing images and inspiring messages. 

Stop by Friday for A Deeper Look Reading featuring the Secret Woods deck.

Grab your copy from Red Feather/Schiffer Publishing.

(Review Product supplied by Schiffer Publishing)

Review: The Pendulum Kit

The Pendulum Kit

Author: Sig Lonegren

Red Feather/Schiffer Publishing, 2020

"The pendulum is a tool that bridges the gap between the logical left brain and the intuitive right brain. Now you can unlock the mysteries of the earth and its energy fields and tap into the unlimited potential of your own mind as you learn the secrets of dowsing with a pendulum."

The Pendulum Kit comes with everything you need to begin divining answers to any questions. The guidebook guides you through the process and the pendulum is provided for you along with many charts to use for your divining.

I introduced myself to the process of divining with a pendulum years ago. The results were really amazing, but as the author warns, I didn't stick with it long. There's only so many questions you can ask and once answered you set the pendulum aside.

"Too many dowsers who have some initial success with their pendulums find that, after a while, they have less and less use for dowsing, and then they stop all together. The trick is to do just the opposite and see if you can find more and more ways to use dowsing."

The guidebook has a lot of information on the art of dowsing and divining. The most important part though is the exercises provided and the actually going through the process. You begin by finding your pendulum's movements for searching, yes, no, and maybe. 

After that, there are exercises to help you build on your abilities to divine the answers to many questions. You are guided through how to use the many charts provided for you. 

And, to help you not run out of ways to use dowsing, the author provides multiple ideas and different tools to use during your dowsing experience.

I recommend this kit to anyone interested in beginning their journey into the dowsing world. You won't be disappointed with the results and this guide is the perfect beginning.

Grab your kit at Red Feather/Schiffer Publishing.

(Review Product supplied by Schiffer Publishing)

Review: The Shadowland Tarot

The Shadowland Tarot

Author: Monica Bodirsky

Red Feather/Schiffer Publishing, 2020

Description: 78 card deck, 208 page companion guide, Schiffer signature box with magnetic closure lid.

“This deck and book explore the realm of shadows and shadow work to help you seek the wisdom and light of self-awareness.”

The Shadowland Tarot follows the traditional Waite-Smith Tarot system; however the author has changed two of the Major Arcana cards: the Fool is now the Seeker, and the Judgement is Discretion. The artwork of the deck pulls from traditional cards, but is unique in its style. The images are meant to cast light on the shadows to aid in shadow work.

The guidebook first takes you into the reasoning behind this deck and the intent of the author.

"When you use The Shadowland Tarot you will see yourself, your personality, and others reflected within the artwork. After all, aren't we all monsters and misfits to some extent, given our individual quirks and differences?"

The two-page layout for each card is perfect for this deck, with just enough information to make your journey exciting and guided.

After exploring each card, the author leaves you with tips on how to use the deck, guided symbolism, and spreads designed specifically for this deck.

The Three of Wands shows an octopus perched upon a rock, holding candles, lighting the way for a ship to enter the harbors.

"You are lighting the way for many people right now, and they rely upon you to navigate life more than your realize."

Reflection: Am I prepared to respond when opportunity shows itself?

Shadows: Solitary, failure, inaccuracy

The Eight of Pentacles shows an artist decorating a collection of skulls. He is focused and patient as he creates his artwork.

Reflection: What skill do I feel I could use to improve my current situation?

"This message often appears when you are seeking more from your life and are not sure where to begin."

The matching drawstring bag, sold separately, makes a great addition to complete the set. 

I recommend this deck to anyone wanting to do shadow work, but also for any tarot reading. 

Grab your copy from Red Feather/Schiffer Publishing.

(Review Product supplied by Schiffer Publishing)