Tarot cards, with their rich symbolism and mysterious allure, have fascinated people for centuries.
They’ve also inspired a wealth of creativity in the world of fantasy literature.
Here, we delve into ten enchanting fantasy novels where the tarot’s mystical themes are woven into the fabric of the story.
“The Castle of Crossed Destinies” by Italo Calvino
This literary gem uses tarot cards to tell stories within stories. The narrative sees a group of travellers at a castle who’ve lost their ability to speak and must use tarot cards to communicate their tales. Calvino’s deft handling of the tarot’s symbolism makes this novel a captivating read.
“The Greater Trumps” by Charles Williams
This novel takes its name from the 22 Major Arcana cards, also known as the Greater Trumps in tarot. The story revolves around a unique tarot deck that possesses the ability to control the forces of nature and the universe. A classic tale of power, love, and mysticism.
“Last Call” by Tim Powers
Powers’ ‘Last Call’ merges the world of poker with the symbolism of the tarot deck in an exciting, unconventional narrative. The protagonist must face his past, destiny, and a dangerous antagonist who uses the tarot to manipulate reality. A thrilling combination of Las Vegas, mythology, and tarot.
“The Tarot Sequence” by K.D. Edwards
This series takes the tarot to a whole new level by creating a society where each tarot card represents a ruling family. The protagonist, Rune Saint John, belongs to the fallen Sun Throne and is tasked with unraveling a mystery that ties into the very heart of this tarot-based society.
“The Discovery of Witches” by Deborah Harkness
In ‘The Discovery of Witches’, a bewitched manuscript propels a young scholar into a world of witches, vampires, and daemons. The series often references the tarot, using it as a tool for guidance and prediction, tying it into the overarching narrative.
Honourable mention: “The Raven’s Prophecy Tarot” by Maggie Stiefvater
While not a novel, this tarot deck and accompanying guide book created by the renowned fantasy author Maggie Stiefvater deserve a mention. The guide book weaves a narrative around each card, providing insights into the tarot and the symbolism that Stiefvater incorporates into her own novels.
These books offer a unique fusion of fantasy and tarot, creating captivating worlds where the cards and their meanings come to life.
Whether you’re a seasoned tarot reader or a newcomer to the cards, these tales will take you on a journey through mystical landscapes where the magic of the tarot permeates every page.
