The thing that everyone always tells you first about this deck is that it's black and white - which may sound less lavish than a full colour deck.

Think again.

In fact one of the many wonderful things about the Victoria Regina is the way in which the intricacy of the images feels both subdued and lush - if you thought you didn't like black and white decks try this one - it will change your mind. It manages to feel delicate and lavish at the same time. The images are fabulously well composed and have a lot of atmosphere about them.

It's also one of those rare decks with a very intelligent sense of humour - it's one of the things I most enjoy about it. The
Victoria Regina never talks down to you. Challenging to use at times - but shouldn't all good decks challenge the reader? It's also very warm, enlightening and has real depth. It's a beautifully careful, caring piece of work by someone with a great sense of artistry and the skill to realise it.

The book is also GREAT. I use it now as a general tarot book because again, it's intelligent, not too obvious - it doesn't just churn out the formulaic meanings - and it's really well thought through. It can always offer something of value to a reading - and it's a fun way to pick up some history too!

Very warmly recommended - all in all The Victoria Regina is one of my favourites and I think always will be.

- and maybe I should also just add that as a deck designer myself this is a piece of work that I very much respect - it's done with real care, skill and knowledge.