Deck Review – Phantomwise Tarot by Erin Morgenstern

Every month, Amazon, Etsy, crowd-funding platforms, and bookstores release numerous tarot and oracle decks. There are now thousands of decks available, ranging from new releases to out-of-print ones. Reviewing a deck helps readers decide whether to purchase it, focusing on factors like card quality, artwork, and guidebook usefulness. This month, I’ve chosen to critique The Phantomwise Tarot by Erin Morgenstern.

The Cards

From the Erin Morgenstern’s Website:

A fantastical 78-card tarot deck and guidebook hand-painted by the award-winning author of the spellbinding bestseller The Night Circus.

Welcome to The Phantomwise Tarot. This black-and-white world is a little bit circusy, a little bit Wonderland, and a little bit nocturnal phantasia of its own invention. It is a mix of myth and fairy tale, where each individual you meet may be an illusion, reflection, or distortion.

When Erin Morgenstern was working on her international bestseller The Night Circus, she began a creative exercise to better understand the complexities of the tarot. This painted series captures the themes of each of the 78 cards in a traditional Rider-Waite-Smith tarot deck with equal parts whimsy and mystery. Archetypal figures like The Fool, The Hierophant, and The Lovers emerge from dark skies and swirling clouds. The ravens may not be what they seem. The cats know more than they’ll ever tell. The accompanying guidebook offers interpretations of the cards and suggested spreads for tarot readings for beginners and expert readers alike.

These cards have waited patiently for over a decade to find their way into the world. Please welcome them into yours.

• Tarot Deck Review: Spirit Animal Oracle by Colette Baron-Reid

Card Stock and Shuffling

Printed on medium to thick card stock, these cards have a matte finish with rounded corners. Even if you have small hands, they are easy to riffle shuffle. The cards flex well because the card stock is of medium thickness. Since they have a matte finish, the cards do not stick together when you first get them out of the box. Because the card stock is pretty good, they will last for many years, even with extended use.

Artwork and the Visual Accessibility of the Phantomwise Tarot by Erin Morgenstern

The artwork for this deck is quite beautiful and visually appealing. The deck does follow the Rider-Waite designs. So, if you are familiar with a Rider-Waite deck, this one will be easy to learn and use. Also, the deck’s visual accessibility is very good. You will need to learn the meanings of the cards if you are not familiar with a Rider-Waite tarot. The cards do not have any keywords on them. Therefore, the booklet is necessary. Some cards are easy to interpret visually, but others will not be straightforward. For this reason, the booklet is most helpful.

The King of Wands

Meaning:

The King of Wands embodies the master of art and leadership, exuding a direct and fearless demeanor. He is enthusiastic and charismatic, often becoming the center of attention with his commanding presence. His visionary nature drives him to pursue bold ideas and inspire others, always prepared to achieve his ambitious goals. Therefore, he is a natural leader who thrives in dynamic environments, motivating those around him with his confidence and passion. His energy and determination make him a powerful force, capable of turning dreams into reality through his unwavering commitment.

Justice

Meaning:

The Justice card symbolizes viewing things with a rational eye, emphasizing the importance of stepping back and observing situations objectively. It encourages detachment and fairness, and making decisions without bias or emotion. As a result, Justice prompts assessing what is necessary and taking decisive action, maintaining balance and equity. Advocating for integrity and moral righteousness, this card represents the pursuit of truth and accountability. Consequently, it serves as a reminder to weigh all factors carefully, prioritize honesty, and deliver impartial judgments. Justice embodies the principles of cause and effect, ensuring that actions align with ethical standards and universal laws.

Nine of Cups

Meaning:

The Nine of Cups symbolizes feeling contented and secure in emotions, representing a state of emotional satisfaction and well-being. Thus, it signifies taking pleasure in accomplishments, enjoying the rewards of hard work and dedication. This card reflects dreams fulfilled and goals achieved, bringing a deep sense of happiness and fulfillment. The Nine of Cups is often referred to as the “wish card.” When it appears, it indicates that desires are coming to fruition and personal aspirations are present. Additionally, it is a card of joy and abundance, highlighting a period of harmony and gratitude in life.

• Tarot Deck Review: Santa Muerte Tarot by Fabio Listrani

Explanation of the Cards

The deck comes with a very nice, and if simple, guidebook. It has six sections: Introduction, Suggestions for How to Read the Cards, Spreads, Author’s Note, the Major Arcana, and the Minor Arcana. Along with the artwork, the booklet is a nice addition to this deck. Gratefully, the description for each card is brief, but pithy. Each page displays two cards with a paragraph of explanation. The first few sentences describe the card, and the remaining sentences provide the meaning. Consequently, you can see the writer’s skill in each one of the card descriptions.

Usefulness

The Phantomwise Tarot is a very useful deck with fun and visually effective imagery. Positively, this makes the cards accessible for both beginners and experienced readers. By enhancing intuitive connections, its captivating artwork brings each card to life. Suitable for public and private settings, the deck’s versatility allows for insightful readings in any environment. Its engaging visuals and thoughtful design ensure a memorable experience. So, the deck is an excellent choice for personal growth and professional use alike.

Rating

I rate the Phantomwise Tarot 5 out of 5 stars for its excellent reworking of the artwork into the theme of Erin Morgenstern’s The Night Circus. And, it perfectly aligns with the Rider Waite tarot. The card stock is of high quality, ensuring durability and a great feel during readings. Additionally, the accompanying guidebook is very good, providing insightful interpretations and guidance. This deck’s unique blend of stunning visuals and literary inspiration makes it a standout choice for any tarot enthusiast.

Where to Buy the Phantomwise Tarot by Erin Morgenstern

If you like the Phantomwise Tarot by Erin Morgenstern and wish to purchase a copy, you can do so online or in a major bookstore.

• Tarot Deck Review: The Answer is Simple by Sonia Choquette

Credit Photo : Erin Morgenstern