Cartomancy Answer Spread for Finding a Missing Pet

Where Is the Cat?

This is a reading I did for my brother back in 2015.  I want to share this reading again with detailed feedback because it's an example of when the cards accurately answered the question, but I misinterpreted the response. It's important to know that even seasoned professional readers can make mistakes. So please don't be so hard on yourself as you're learning the Art of Cartomancy.

My brother’s cat, Bailey, ran away. She escaped on a Tuesday morning while my brother was moving furniture into his new home. My brother and several of his friends had searched the neighborhood and the woods around his place for three days, but there was no sign of Bailey. My brother was frantic, and he hoped that the cards might provide a clue about where to find the missing cat…

I decided to drawn an Answer Spread. For specific instructions on how to interpret this spread, please see my article on the Answer Spread.

The Middle Column

In the Answer Spread, I always look to the middle column to find the answer to the question. Where is Bailey? The Ace of Hearts is hearth and home. The 2 of Spades represents a separation. I read these cards to show that the cat ran away from home.  Well, of course the cat ran away...that is the whole purpose for the reading. How straightforward the cards can be when answering the question. Where is the cat? The cat ran away.  This combination of cards also suggested to me that Bailey was removed from the area around of the home. In other words, the cat was not nearby, and would not be found in the surrounding neighborhood. This part proved true.

The First Column

The first column of cards provides a premise for the situation. These cards showed that the cat was in an environment (5 of Diamonds) that is warm and safe and secure (10 of Hearts). This was good news. It suggested that the cat had not been harmed or injured. The 5 of Diamonds specifically suggests an urban environment (the city). The 10 of Hearts can point to a place where people go to relax and have fun.

There is a busy street with businesses and food establishments not far from the sub-division where my brother’s townhouse is located. The 5 of Diamonds is also a card of attraction. The 10 of Hearts also corresponds to the compass direction south, which is exactly where the business district is located in reference to the townhouse. It seemed likely that the cat had gone in that direction, perhaps attracted by the noise, and the smell of food. This was helpful information because it provided an area to narrow the search. My feeling was that the cat may be hiding behind one of the food establishments on the strip.

Last Column

Finally, the last column provides additional information to consider. The 2 of Hearts can represent a child or a pet. The fact that Bailey was represented by a card in the pivot position of the spread suggested to me that she would be found safe and sound. The Jack of Diamonds suggested that the cat may be in the care of a boy or young man. Or perhaps this person (my nephew?) would be the one to find the missing cat. It’s interesting to note that I had done another reading in which I asked if the cat would return home. The same Jack of Diamonds appeared in the other reading, also in the last column, but with the 2 of Clubs suggesting help or assistance. For the Jack to appear in both readings was a sure sign to me that this person would play an important role in the situation. Fortunately, the 4 of Hearts (reconciliation) appeared in the previous reading to confirm that the cat would return home...so we remained hopeful.

Feedback: 

This is a case where I misinterpreted the middle column, and missed what the cards were trying to tell me. My brother had recently moved into the townhouse from which the Bailey had run off. As the cards suggested, she was found back at my brother's old place of residence, about two miles south of the new townhouse. 

Rather than telling me the cat had left home, the cards were trying to let me know that Bailey would be located back at the home my brother had left. Bailey did have to pass through the shopping district and cross a busy highway to get back to the old residence. The young man in the reading was a prior neighbor who had spotted Bailey and had given her a temporary home until my brother could retrieve her. I was able to accurately pick up on all of the important details, except for the exact location where Bailey could be found.

Even after all my years of working with the cards, I can sometimes allow my personal bias or my expectations to influence a reading despite my dedication to being as objective as possible. This is particularly true when reading for myself or for someone I love. It's an important lesson. NO reader is infallible.

Death in the Playing Cards

Most people don’t like to talk about death. In fact, I don’t think it’s an exaggeration to say that at least 99% of the people I read for do not want to hear about death in their cards.  I can’t say I blame them-- I don’t particularly care to talk about death either.  I know it’s an uncomfortable subject, but as readers it’s only a matter of time before we encounter death in the cards.  So what do you do when you see the seeker’s death or the death of someone close to the seeker in your reading?

No reader is 100% accurate regardless of their claims to the contrary.  For this reason, I choose never to predict death in my readings.  Why frighten or worry someone needlessly?  On the other hand, I’m a firm believer in the old adage “forewarned is forearmed.”  Readings are not set in stone.  They predict the natural course of events based on the current influences at the time of the reading.

In some cases, the querent may have the ability to influence the final outcome.  Therefore, although I won’t predict death, I will offer strong warnings when appropriate.  If I see sickness connected to the death, I will advise the seeker that he or she is overdue for a health checkup.  If I see an accident or injury, I will warn the seeker to be cautious while driving or dealing with potentially dangerous equipment.

In almost every instance that I have encountered death in the cards, the seeker was already aware that someone around them was close to death.  When I mention that I see someone who is seriously ill around them, they immediately confirm that they have a friend or family member with a terminal illness.

Perhaps the most difficult, and the most spiritual, readings for me have been for people with a terminal illness who know they are dying.  They come looking for hope or comfort, or confirmation that their lives were meaningful.  These readings should be approached with love and honesty-and above all, spiritual truth.

Death in the Playing Cards:

My grandmother used the Ace of Spades in the reversed position to denote death, and that is the way I first learned to read that card.  It’s interesting to note that the Ace of Spades was the only card in the entire deck that she read both upright and reversed.  Over the years I have dropped the reversed meaning of the Ace of Spades, and instead I use combinations of Spades along with the Ace to represent physical death.

In order to predict a physical death in the playing cards, the Ace of Spades should be clustered with other spades such as the 2♠ (separation), 4♠ (illness), 3♠ (disease), 5♠ (loss & tears), 6♠ (moving on), 8♠ (sickness), 9♠ (accident or injury) and 10♠ (the afterlife).  I have to see a cluster of at least three or four of these Spades along with the Ace before I would even consider that I see a death in the cards.

A cluster of spades including the Ace, but without the 2♠, 5♠ or 6♠ could indicate a fear of death.  The seeker is worried about that she or a loved one is near death.  A cluster of small spades without the Ace can indicate the same thing. I once had a client who was a bit of a hypochondriac. In every reading she would pull almost the entire suit of Spades, minus the 2, 5 and 6. I would have to assure her each time that I did not see any serious health issues for her before her cards would reflect her life rather than her fears.

You might see the Ace of Spades along with other small spades in the position of past influences in a reading.  This indicates that the seeker has recently experienced the loss of a loved one, and is still dealing with the grief.

Sometimes when death appears in the cards, particularly when the Spades fall separately in the reading, it refers to a tragic incident the seeker will hear about.  Although the news doesn’t affect them personally, the tragedy can cause a psychic or emotional disturbance that is forewarned by the cards. My daily cards the morning of the Sandy Hook tragedy were the Jack of Spades + the 9 of Spades + 10 of Spades. It's hard to imagine a worse trio of cards. I had no idea what was about to transpire, but I knew it would be bad. Although the event did not affect me personally on a physical level, I was deeply affected emotionally.

I believe that as readers we have an ethical responsibility to the seeker to provide honest, helpful, and positive information.  I don’t think it is ethical or helpful to frighten someone with predictions of doom.  As always, let your conscience and intuition be your guide.

Will Trump Be Elected for a Second Term as President of the US?

This is a reading that I did for a client back on September 9th of this year, that I only now got permission to post publicly. I wanted to post this reading in response to a Lenormand reading that was recently posted by Fennario (Stella). I know her to be a super talented reader, so I was happy to see that her reading showed similar information to my own. You can have a look at her insightful reading at her blog, Fate Keeps on Happening.

The question the client asked was, "Will Trump be elected for a second term as president of the US?

Here are the cards that fell...

KC + 2H + 9D + QS + 8S + QH + JS

This 7-card spread is a traditional Italian Neapolitan layout called "La Settenaria," as taught by Renee Cafiero in his wonderful book, La Vera Settenaria Sciolta. 

The first thing I always look for in a reading is any card that may refer to the subject of the reading. The 9 of Diamonds jumped out at me immediately since it can indicate a government job, hence the presidency.

The King of Clubs is a businessman, and I take him to represent the significator of the reading, Donald Trump. The first trio of cards suggests to me that he fully expects to hold on to the presidency for another four years.

The middle or Heart Card of the reading often carries a lot of weight in interpreting the spread. The Queen represents a woman, and her appearance as a spade can show authority or power. The Spade court cards often represent people involved in the legal system. The fact that she appears as a Spade also reveals that she is blocking the energy of the 9 of Diamonds. She is an obstacle to Trumps expectations for 2020.

Now that we know Nancy Pelosi has finally launched an formal impeachment inquiry, I'm pretty sure that the Queen represents her. Even at the time of the reading I suspected the Queen of Spades was the Speaker of the House.

The 8 of Spades has several symbolic meanings that can apply to this reading. First it is the "investigation" card, showing that the Queen would be launching an investigation. The 8 of Spades is also a health card, usually indicating poor health. The 9 of Diamonds is the brain. I wonder if Trumps mental health will one of the subjects under investigation. Perhaps more in tune with the question, it shows that the Queen brings disappointment to Trumps aspirations for another four years in office.

The final trio of cards is curious, and at this point I can only speculate about their significance. Here we find another woman, and she is hemmed in by Spades. Her hands are tied. She is a maternal figure. She is in harmony with the 2 of Hearts indicating that she has aspirations of her own. Can we finally expect a female in Oval Office in 2020? Perhaps the Jack of Spades indicated that her running mate will be a man.

Or maybe the Queen of Hearts is another woman who will be instrumental in Trump's downfall. She could be part of the investigation. The Jack of Spades suggests that she brings bad news that helps lead to Trump's final undoing.

My final thought is that perhaps the Queen of Hearts, who can be read as a family member, represents Ivanka Trump. The Jack could represent Kushner, or even Don Jr. Will they take the tumble along with their patriarch? It's not always easy to know for sure who is who in a reading.

What is clear to me is that the final card, the Jack of Spades, is traditionally a very unfavorable card. It is the card of spying and surveillance. Trumps actions and behaviors will be evaluated with a fine-toothed comb. The Jack also confirms for me a "no" answer to the question of whether Trump will be re-elected in 2020.

My feeling is that the House will vote to impeach. I'm not so sure that the Senate will actually vote to remove Trump from office. Either way, the cards suggest that the impeachment inquiry will squash Trumps aspirations for another run at the presidency.

Cartomancy Card Meanings and Combinations

Ace of Hearts

Suit Influence:

Hearts:
Love, emotions, feelings, romance, marriage, children, happiness, peace, contentment, comfort, compassion, compatibility, sympathy, empathy, sharing, family matters, relationships, friends, intimacy, rest, relaxation, amusement, entertainment, fun, fantasy, summer, warmth, laziness, pleasure, peace, calm, creativity, art, beauty, soul connections, religion, hope, healing, intuition, honesty, trust and goodwill.  

Characteristics:
Romantic, loving, nurturing, sensitive, sensuous, emotional, intuitive, imaginative, creative, artistic, calm, empathetic, empathic, sympathetic, protective, parental, family-oriented, lovable, light-hearted, lazy, complacent, indulgent, self-indulgent, moody.

Number Influence:

The Number 1: New beginning, first, best, starting out, source, initiative, individuality, the self, solitude, leadership, the conscious mind and conscious control, will.

How to Read the Ace of  Hearts:

Traditionally the Ace of Hearts is a card of love. happiness and celebrations.  The Ace symbolism combined with the Heart symbolism may indicate the birth of a new love, or the beginning of an emotionally fulfilling period in the querent’s life.

The number 1 symbolizes the beginning, or source.  When combined with the suit of hearts, it denotes the source of one’s emotional support which in most cases is the home and the family.

The Ace of Hearts specifically symbolizes the home and domestic affairs. It can refer to the actual building in which one resides, or it can denote the idea of feeling comfortable and “at home.” It can describe your personal environment, your neighborhood, where you hang your hat. In a general sense the A♥ represents a strong foundation.

The A♥ can indicate a change of residence, or a return home after being away for a period of time.  The A♥ can refer to real estate and the sale or purchase of a home.  The  A♥ can also represent a specific family member, or refer to one’s family in general.

My grandmother called the A♥ “La Casa” which means “the house” or “home” in Italian.  For her this card would denote wherever a person held residence.  It could be a house, an
apartment, a hotel, or even a car if that was where the individual called “home.”  The surrounding card would reveal the current situation in the home, and any problems or changes affecting the querent's home life.

The A♥ is also a card of protection. I can remember my grandmother sliding an Ace
of Hearts inside the picture frame behind a photo before she hung it on the wall. She believed the Ace would protect the home and bring good luck.

Ace of Heart Characteristics:

The A♥ will describe someone as: a family member, family-oriented, a homebody, a home owner, comfortable, ready to settle down and start a family, paternal, maternal, parental, neighborly, stable, grounded, strong.

Body Connection:

The A♥  represents the soul


Card multiples:

• 2 Aces - Leadership and authority.


• 3 Aces - an unexpected twist of fate.


• 4 Aces - Major changes that affect every area of life.

Suggested Card Combinations with the Ace of Hearts:

A♥ + Face Card =  someone coming to the home, or someone who is home and family oriented.  The A♥ with the K♣ it would denote a builder or contractor. With a group of Face cards, the A♥ would represent a family reunion, or a family celebration.

Hearts

A♥ + 2♥ = a pregnancy in the family, a domestic animal, a small house, a dog house, a doll house, pet habitat

A♥ + 3♥ = beginning of a new relationship, a church, a house of worship, a religious group, spiritual connection to higher power, love in the home, a house party, decorating the home

A♥ + 4♥ = housemate, sharing living quarters, a brothel

A♥ + 5♥ = daughter's home, girlfriend's home, curtains, fabrics, wallpaper, carpeting.

A♥ + 6♥ = son's home, male friend's home, a love nest, family trust, a soulmate, family karma

A♥ + 7♥ = second home, or two-family dwelling, a surprise comes to the home

A♥ + 8♥ = neighbor, roommate, living together, household spirit, loving family

A♥ + 9♥ = home and hearth, happy home, family wishes

A♥ + 10♥ = summer home, the roof of the house, family compatibility

Clubs

A♥ + A♣ = a mortgage, or a contract on the sale or purchase of a home, the basement in the home

A♥ + 2♣ = household help, maid, cleaning woman, maintenance man

A♥ + 3♣ = garden, yard, a greenhouse, neighborhood

A♥ + 4♣ = motor home, home garage, landline telephone

A♥ + 5♣ = home in the country, housework

A♥ + 6♣ =  family advice, a home gym

A♥ + 7♣ = home repairs, a family discussion/argument

A♥ + 8♣ = work from home, housework, family meeting, daily routine in the home

A♥ + 9♣ = vacation home, travel lodge, motel, hotel, home away from home, going on vacation

A♥ + 10♣ = real estate business, home based business, beach house, vacation home

Spades

A♥ + A♠ = a family decision, loss in the family

A♥ + 2♠ = selling the home. anger or annoying problems in the home, household pests

A♥ + 3♠ = growing problem in the home, meddlesome family member, losing one's home

A♥ + 4♠ = structural problems in the home, cramped household, quarantine, smothering family, a sick family member

A♥ + 5♠ = leaving home, moving, unhappy home

A♥ + 6♠ = a mobile home, moving out, plumbing, septic system

A♥ + 7♠ = problems in the home, an abandoned house, a crack house, a drug house

A♥ + 8♠ = a home inspection, disappointments in the family

A♥ + 9♠ = damage to the home, a dilapidated house, a condemned house

A♥ + 10♠ = winter home, the floor in the home, a haunted house

Diamonds

A♥ + A♦ = remodeling the home, changes in the home

A♥ + 2♦ = family dinner, home insurance. rent payment

A♥ + 3♦ = time share rental, temporary home, vagabond

A♥ + 4♦ = home office, rental home, apartment, condo

A♥ + 5♦ = a home in the city, furnishings for the home, land, acreage

A♥ + 6♦ = a home computer,  jealousy in the home, a stubborn or possessive family member, erratic behavior in the home

A♥ + 7♦ = a showroom home, an expensive home, a wealthy family, a famous house

A♥ + 8♦ = household budget, windows (eyes of the home)

A♥ + 9♦ = electrical wiring in the home, mortgage payment

A♥ + 10♦ = a luxury home, a home investment, family nest egg, home equity

Fun with Cartomancy Combinations: Business Places

Let's have some fun with cartomancy combinations! When I think about times I have most impressed a querent in a reading, it is when I was able to identify their place of work or business without them saying a word. The first time this happened to me I was reading for a young woman who worked as a hair stylist. At the center of her spread I saw the Ace of Clubs with the 3 of Hearts. I blurted out, "I see a beauty salon, you're a hairdresser!" I will never forget her shocked expression. Actually, I was just as shocked as she was. These moments don't happen in every reading, but when they do they confirm the magic of the playing cards, and never fail to thrill me.

The Ace of Clubs can represent a large building or place of business. The 10 of Clubs can also represent a place of business. The difference between the two cards can be subtle. In most cases, the Ace of Clubs will denote a large building or an institution or place where customers go to be served. The 10 of Clubs will usually represent a place where merchandise is sold. The Ace of Hearts will also sometimes represent a place of business such as a private practice. The best way to explain the differences is to show some examples...

If you need help with working out the combinations, please check out my lists of cartomancy card meanings.

3 of Hearts = beauty

Ace of Clubs + 3 of Hearts = beauty salon
10 of Clubs + 3 of Hearts = beauty supply store, beauty industry
Ace of Hearts + 3 of Hearts = interior designer, cosmetics, home vanity

6 of Clubs = book

Ace of Clubs + 6 of Clubs = library or publishing company, or factory
10 of Clubs + 6 of Clubs = bookstore
Ace of Hearts + 6 of Clubs = home library

4 of Clubs = car or a telephone call

Ace of Clubs + 4 of Clubs = car parking garage, or the telephone company
10 of Clubs + 4 of Clubs = car dealership, or phone store
Ace of Hearts + 4 of Clubs = landline phone

8 of Spades = doctor or ill health

Ace of Clubs + 8 of Spades = hospital
10 of Clubs + 8 of Spades = medical supply store
Ace of Hearts + 8 of Spades = doctor's office or dentist's office.

2 of Diamonds = food

Ace of Clubs + 2 of Diamonds = restaurant
10 of Clubs + 2 of Diamonds = grocery store
Ace of Hearts + 2 of Diamonds = kitchen

7 of Spades = liquor, drugs or medicine

Ace of Clubs + 7 of Spades = bar/nightclub or factory distillery or winery, pharmaceutical company
10 of Clubs + 7 of Spades = liquor store, drug store/pharmacy
Ace of Hearts + 7 Spades = home liquor cabinet, medicine cabinet

Ace of Clubs + 10 of Clubs = large corporation
Ace of Hearts + 10 of Clubs = family business
Ace of Clubs + Ace of Hearts = apartment building/complex

These are just a few of the combinations possible. Please keep in mind that many of these combinations have alternate meanings which will depend on context and surrounding cards. For example, the 10 of Clubs + 6 of Clubs can also represent a pool, or the act of swimming. The Ace of Hearts + 3 of Hearts can indicate redecorating the home. Your intuition will help you hone in on the right interpretation, and you'll often find that multiple interpretations will be valid and meaningful for the querent.

See if you can work out your own places of business based on the list of cartomancy card meanings. Feel free to post your combination(s) in the comment section below, and I will be happy to offer comments and/or suggestions. Alternately, you can post on my Art of Cartomancy Facebook page. I'm going to post a link there to this blog article.

Playing Cards Are Multidimensional

One of my favorite characteristics of working with the playing cards is that the cards rarely mean only one thing. I learned with other oracles that the cards should stick to answering the question, and only the question. I was taught that any divergent interpretation will invariably lead to an inaccurate reading. I don't know if that is true of Tarot, but it is the way I was taught to read Lenormand.

The playing cards are multidimensional. They always provide a straightforward answer to any question, but with their diverse meanings they will almost always provide additional information not at all related to that question. In my experience this additional information is unfailingly valid and accurate. I find the same thing can happen when I read the Italian Sibilla, which is one reason why I love the Sibilla so much.

Poker Faces by Zach Abel

The advantage of using a multidimensional oracle is that you can get a lot of general information from just a few cards. In the 1990's I worked the monthly psychic fair at a metaphysical bookstore. Client expectations were somewhat different from today. Back then people expected me to dive in immediately and tell them about their lives. Questions would come later, based on the initial reading. Now clients tend to be much more focused on a specific question or area of life they want to explore. Anyway, back in the day I could give a life reading in 20 minutes with only eight or ten cards on the table. Each card would function two or three different ways in the layout and cover a lot of detailed information-- most of which was immediately meaningful and valid for the client.

The following reading is an interesting example of a multidimensional spread that I did for a female client recently. Let's call her Jan, and thank her for allowing me to post her reading publicly for educational purposes. Jan is a 42 year old female who has taken the first steps toward creating her own business. She contacted me for a 5-Card email reading to ask how I see the new business developing in the next few months. Here are the cards that appeared in her reading...

The Fortune Teller's Deck by Jane Lyle

I first review the number of cards from each suit, and their interactions, to get a general feeling for the energy surrounding the question. The Spade jumps out immediately. It's a small value Spade so I know it's not a big obstacle, but it can definitely show delays or slow progress. The Spade is surrounded by Diamonds, which represent spirit, energy and optimism. The Diamonds show me the energy and enthusiasm invested in the business, and help to mollify that nasty Spade. The remaining cards are Clubs which represent progress and growth and good luck. I already have a good impression of how the business will develop just by analyzing the card suits.

In a Line of Five I next look to the center card, which I like to call the pivot card, or hinge pin of the reading. This one card alone will often answer the question, and the surrounding cards will help fill in the details surrounding the matter. The Jack of Diamonds is a good card in financial readings. It can be about profits and cash flow. But the Jack is the face card with the least value in a suit of cards. It indicates the start of something, or a small increase. The Jack of Diamonds confirms the answer. It shows a good financial start, and some small but solid progress over the next few months.

Now let's dig into the surrounding cards to get more information...

The 4 of Spades is a card of restrictions and slow movement. It confirms a slow start for the business. The 9 of Clubs is a great card for business. It shows forward movement, and gives a sense of heading in the right direction. There can be no doubt that progress will be slow at first, but the client is definitely on the right track with her new business, and on the right road to eventual success.

Finally let's look at the first and last cards in the spread. The first card represents the premise of the situation in question. The Ace of Diamonds shows a new beginning. It confirms the theme of the reading, and let's me know that the cards are responding accurately to the question. The final card represents the outcome, and it shows change-- all of the fives represent change in one form or another. The 5 of Clubs is a change in a social or work/business situation. It's always a change for the better, unless followed by an unfavorable card. In this case, the 5 of Clubs ends the row of cards, showing the continued progress and growth of the business into the future.

The cards have satisfactorily answered the question. But something else jumped out at me about this reading. The Jack of Diamonds with the 4 of Spades suggests a young person who is not feeling well. The 4 of Spades can be a card of illness, and it always grabs my attention when it falls in a spread. The surrounding Diamonds suggest a nervous problem, stress, or low energy. That felt right to me. I saw a young person, probably male, who was feeling depressed or exhausted. I saw this person taking a trip (9 of Clubs) to the country (5 of Clubs)-- perhaps a camping trip. This person needs to get away, and recharge (Ace of Diamonds). The 5 of Clubs promises that the trip will bring a positive change to both his social and work life.

I always share the alternative interpretations I see in a reading. I've learned that this additional information can be important to the client. In this case the client confirmed that her son was feeling burned out from school and his job, and had developed some health issues related to stress. He had not mentioned any plans to travel, so I advised the mom to suggest a trip for the son to spend some time in nature. I assured her that the cards suggested that the trip would be beneficial for her son, and that the young man would be fine.

When the cards show a problem, they invariably also indicate one or more solutions. The client was grateful for the alternate interpretation because she was worried about her son. The cards, in their multidimensional and helpful ways, answered the client's question, and also addressed a matter that had been stewing in the back of her mind.

The Jack of Spades

The Jack of Spades (JS) is a skillful, clever young man. In some of the older cartomancy meanings he represents an unsettled, erratic, emotionally inconsistent young man; or simply the thoughts of the Queen or King of Spades. Although Jacks can represent young people of either sex, the Jack of Spades is most often read as a young male.

In coloring, the Suit of Spades is considered the darkest of the deck, and represents people with dark brown to black hair, and dark brown eyes.

Traditional meanings associated with the Jack of Spades:

Positive Aspects:

• A dark-haired, dark-complected youth
• A youth from a foreign country
• A youth in uniform; soldier or cadet
• Skillful, clever youth 
• An intellectual youth; math whiz
• Young leader; knows how to take charge

Negative Aspects:

• A youth in trouble
• A gang leader
• Juvenile delinquent; the bad kid at school
• Cold and calculating youth
• Gossiping, spying youth
• Inconsistent, erratic, emotionally immature youth
• Emotionally controlled and detached

Of course the meaning you choose for this card will depend on the surrounding cards as well as a good dose of your own intuition.

Some combinations with the JS:

JH/JS: The querent’s son or brother or boyfriend is in the military or is a rookie police officer.

Two Jacks:
Quarrel or court case pending (especially with 5D)

Three Jacks:
Boys night out

Four Jacks:
Boys school, boy scouts, organization consisting of all young men

Modern Meanings for the Jack of Spades:

In modern Cartomancy, the Jack of Spades can represent watching and surveillance, in all of its many forms. This is based on the card’s traditional meaning as The Spiteful Spy.


JS + 8D = watching something or someone carefully

JS + 8D +6C = watching TV

JS + 8S = a private investigator

JS + 10S = a stalker

JS + 8C = a security officer

JS + AH = a home security/surveillance system

AC + JS + 8S = the FBI

AC + JS + 10S = the CIA

7 of Spades

The 7 of Spades in Modern Cartomancy can warn of a challenging situation. It is not a card we hope to see, particularly in a love reading. Generally the 7 of Spades represents a setback or a reversal of fortune, and in relationship readings it invariably shows a cooling off of affections.

For example, the 4 of Hearts with the 7 of Spades would show a marriage or partnership on the rocks. There is a cooling of affections, and one or both parties feel frustrated and unfulfilled. This combination can also suggest that the partner drinks too much.

The 7 is Spades is the "drinking" card. It can denote imbibing alcohol or partaking of any kind of intoxicating substance including both prescription medications and illegal drugs. The combination 7 of Spades and Ace of Spades (the mind) can show intoxication. If the 4 of Spades is nearby, it can denote a hangover.

When surrounded by positive or neutral cards, the 7 of Spades can refer to social drinking or recreational drug use. With cards indicating a party or social interaction, the 7 of Spades will usually indicate that liquor will be a part of the celebration. The combination 7 of Spades with the 3 of Hearts can denote a cocktail party.

When the 7 of Spades falls between two Face Cards it shows the two people going out for drinks. If the 7 of Spades appears  surrounded by multiple Face Cards, it shows a night out on the town with a group of people. A predominance of Clubs would indicate celebrating with co-workers. A predominance of hearts would show a night out with friends.

When falling with cards from the Club suit, denoting career or profession, the 7 of Spades can describe someone who works as a bartender, a barback, or a cocktail server. If the 2 of Diamonds is nearby, it would indicate that they work in a restaurant where liquor is also served.

The 7 of Spades is also the Card of addiction. Alcoholism or drug addiction is commonly represented by the combination 7 of Spades and 9 of Spades. The 9 of Spades shows something harmful (although this combination can also indicate that your prescription medication is causing you harm). If the 5 of Spades is nearby, it will show that others (family members, friends, etc.) can be hurt as well by the substance abuse.

The 7 of Spades is also a "water" card, but usually only in a negative sense.* It can predict anything from a faucet drip to a leaky pipe to an inconvenient rainstorm.

If you're looking to purchase a home, and the cards show the 7 of Spades near the Ace of Hearts along with a money card, you can be sure that you'll find a problem with the plumbing that will be costly to repair.

The absence of a big money card may simply indicate that the water heater needs replacement, especially if the 7 of Hearts is also present.

With Diamonds, the 7 of Spades will show financial setbacks. The surrounding cards will usually indicate the cause. If the 3 of Spades (loss) is nearby with a money card, it would show a gambling or trading losses.

In a general sense, the 7 of Spades is a card of stagnation and frustration.

When this card begins a line of cards, it indicates a long delay before the events outlined by the following cards can play out.

When the 7 of Spades ends a line of cards, it can show a lack of progress, or a stalled situation. It will usually indicate that events  will not play out as you hoped.

When it appears in the middle of a line of cards, the 7 of Spades indicates that the preceding cards are blocked, and the following cards are delayed. If the subsequent cards are positive, the situation will require patience and perseverance to achieve the predicted outcome.

Whenever and wherever it appears, the 7 of Spades is rarely a welcomed sight. You can bet that patience and perseverance will be required to overcome a difficult period of setbacks and frustrations.

* The card that represents water in a positive sense, such as swimming or boating, is the 10 of Clubs.

Accuracy in a Cartomancy Reading

The querent, let's call her Rebecca, is a 46 year old female who was shocked when her husband asked her for a divorce. The request seemed to come out of nowhere, and Rebecca wracked her brains to determine why. Sure, there had not been much action in the bedroom lately, but the marriage seemed happy. Perhaps the bedroom was the key. Could there be another woman?

Rebecca confronted her husband. He denied having an affair, and would only say that he no longer wanted to be married. In desperation Rebecca came for a reading. She wanted to learn her husband's real reason for wanting to end their 18 year marriage.

Rebecca asks, "Is my husband leaving me for another woman?"

These cards can mean many things based on the context of Rebecca's situation, but to ensure the highest level of accuracy, I have learned to follow two important rules...

1. Keep my focus on the question.


2. Keep it simple

I have to remind myself that the question does not deal with Rebecca herself, her thoughts or intentions. The question does not deal  with the current status of her marriage, or any past influences affecting the marriage. The question does not deal with whether or not the divorce will take place. All of these questions are valid, but they would each require a different focus in a separate spread. The focus of the question for this spread is the husband's thoughts and intentions behind asking for a divorce, and more specifically whether he is leaving Rebecca for another woman.

I have to remind myself to keep it simple. It's too easy to read into these cards, and wander from the focus of the question. I first notice what does not appear in the spread. If the husband is leaving for another woman, I would expect to see her represented in the cards since she is a major factor in the focus of the question. I might expect to see a Queen, or perhaps the 5 of Hearts to denote that a younger woman is leading the man astray. No lady appears in the cards. There must be some other reason for the divorce request.

Let's look at what does show up in the cards. The first column represents the premise of the question. What is behind the husband's decision to ask for a divorce? The King of Spades is a separated or divorced man, or perhaps a man who wishes to separate himself. This interpretation plays very nicely into the focus of our question since we know that the husband wants a divorce. The 4 of Hearts is the partnership card, and it also carries several other meanings relevant to the question: marriage, sex, the spouse, sharing, emotional stability, etc. These are the things that the man wants to separate himself from. He is not interested in being married, nor is he interested in having an affair, and probably has not been interested in these things for a long while.

The middle column answers the question, why is the husband asking for a divorce? The 5 of Spades shows the man's intentions. The Ace of Spades says he has already made up his mind. He wants the divorce. The Ace of Spades also provides us with a clue why. It is the card of death and rebirth. It signifies lost causes and irreparable decisions leading to total upheaval, and a new situation. The husband wants to end his current conditions, and to be reborn to a new life. The Ace also corresponds to the number 1, and is symbolic of standing alone. He wants to leave his wife so he can be alone to pursue this new life.

We can look to the final column for more information about why the man seeks a new life. The 10 of Hearts tells us where his heart is, what or whom he wants to marry. The 10 of Clubs is the business card. Perhaps the man is married to his business?

No. Rebecca informs me that her husband does not own a business, and he is not particularly dedicated to his job. The other primary meaning for the 10 of Clubs is "travel by or near water," and with the pair of 10's, a combination signaling long-distant travel, this meaning suddenly seems very clear to me.

I ask Rebecca, "Does your husband own a boat?" The 10 of Clubs in the pivot position, the most significant card in the spread, is the clue. It can sometimes represent a boat.

She responds, "Yes he does. It's his baby. He's always loved that thing more than me." Rebecca goes on to say that it has always been her husband's dream to live in the islands and offer fishing and sight-seeing tours to tourists. She further adds that she had not been supportive of what she considered to be a silly, irresponsible pipe dream.

Bingo! The man is not leaving his wife for another woman. In the simplest terms, having a wife (4H) is an impediment (KS) to realizing his life's dream (10H) of sailing away to the islands (10C). His motivation for asking for the divorce (5S) is to break free and start a new life (AS). This man is married (10H) to his boat (10C). He has zero interest (KS) in an attachment with a wife or lover (4H).

It would have been too easy to see intrigues and underlying drama in these cards based on what seems at first glance to be a potentially scandalous situation. But the husband was being truthful about his motivations. By keeping the reading simple and focused on the question, I was able to give Rebecca accurate and meaningful information to help ease her fears, and uncover the true reason her husband is leaving her.

Cartomancy Reading: The Aspiring Bartender

I originally posted this reading on my Art of Cartomancy Facebook page as a group exercise. I decided to also post the reading on the blog with a very detailed break down because this particular spread provides an outstanding example of how the cards when read in context go to the very heart of an issue or problem.

The reading was done on June the 2nd of this year, 2016. The querent is a young woman who has been applying at various bars and restaurants for a position as bartender. She is currently working as a server in a hotel restaurant. The querent asks, "Will I be successful in procuring a job as a bartender in the next three months?"

I shuffled the cards while focusing on her question. Then I spread the deck face-down on the table, and randomly drew the following five cards...

The first thing I notice about the spread is the predominance of black cards. The three black and two red cards suggest a probable "no" in answer to the question, but the querent may have the power to positively influence the final outcome.

Next my attention is drawn to the middle card in the spread which I call the "hinge," and on which the rest of the reading hangs. I'm pleased to see the 10 of Clubs because it confirms the theme of the reading: business, career and work experience.

The pillars of the reading stand out for me. The pillars are first, middle and final cards which are read in combination, and provide a brief summary of the reading. The 9 of Hearts is the wish card, and it reveals the querent's desire. The 10 of Clubs and 7 of Spades is the classic combination that represents a bar or nightclub. The querent desires a career tending bar, and these cards suggest that she has the potential to achieve her wish, although perhaps not within the desired time frame. Now we need to look deeper into the cards to discover why.

I'm drawn next to the 9 of Hearts to investigate the influences affecting the querent's desire to become a bartender. The combination of the 2 of Diamonds and 10 of Clubs represents a restaurant. We know the current has restaurant experience which is confirmed by the 2 of Diamonds with the 10 of Clubs. The querent confirmed that she would prefer to tend bar in a restaurant rather than in a bar or nightclub.

Unfortunately the 2 of Diamonds is not in harmony (does not reflect or mirror) with the 7 of Spades. If these cards were in harmony they could be combined with the 9 of Hearts to show that the querent would get her wish. Also notice that the 2 of Diamonds is in harmony with the 3 of Spades which suggests a block or obstacle. The wish card is in harmony the bar/nightclub card, showing that the querent will have better luck finding a bartending job in a bar or nightclub.

So then why will the querent fail to find work as a bartender within the next three months? When the cards tell us "no," they should also tell us "why," and offer one or more possible solutions. Let's take a look at the middle three cards which usually carry the most significance.

We know that the 10 of Clubs represents the querent's career. The action in the spread moves from left to right so we can confirm with the 2 of Diamonds that she has past experience working as a server in a restaurant. The cards following the 10 of Clubs will show future career portions. The 7 of Spades follows to indicate that a bartending job is in the future, but it is blocked by that inauspicious 3 of Spades.

The 3 of Spades represents confusion or a lack of understanding (among other things), so we can infer that it is a lack of knowledge or skill or experience that has prevented the querent from being hired for her dream job. We can further infer that if the girl can acquire some knowledge or experience in bartending, she can remove the block and manifest her wish.

I'm intrigued by the 7 of Spades as the outcome card because it is generally a very negative influence, and can show setbacks and frustrations. But the 7 of Spades is also the drinking or alcohol card, and based on the context of the reading, it perfectly represents and confirms the querent's desired outcome of a position tending bar and mixing drinks.

I advised the querent that she needs to set her sights on acquiring more knowledge and experience in bartending in order to make herself more attractive to potential employers. I suggested that she offer to volunteer on her days off at the bar in the restaurant where she currently works. Her manager may be grateful for the extra help. I also suggested that she look into attending a bartending class. Such classes may be offered inexpensively through an adult education programs in her local area, or she could investigate an actual bartending school. The querent promised to follow up on my suggestions, and then let me know what happens.

Five Card Draw: Pregnancy Prediction

The consultant is a 40 year old woman who asks, "Will I get pregnant in the next three months?" She provides no additional information.

For the yes/no question I draw five cards with the intention that the ratio of black cards to red will provide a simple answer. It is also my intention that the individual cards will provide details to further explain the answer. For specific information on how I read the suit colors to answer a yes-or-no question, please see my article: Cartomancy Technique for Answering Yes-or-No Questions.

I received permission from the consultant to share this reading because it's short and sweet and to the point, and I think it provides an excellent example of how I read the classic Line of Five cards in cartomancy.  I analyze the cards step by step using the following process...

Step 1: I take note of the center card (heart card) which serves as a hinge on which the rest of the reading turns.

Step 2: I read the middle three cards in combination.

Step 3: I read the first three cards in combination.

Step 4: I read the last three cards in combination, taking special note of the final card which serves as the outcome card.

Step 5: I take note of the cards that mirror or reflect each other in the reading.

Step 6: I read the first, middle and last cards in combination as a summary of the reading.

When I first glance at the cards, I immediately notice the predominance of black cards which gives a most likely NO answer to the question. The consultant will not succeed in getting pregnant within the next three months.

My attention is next drawn to the heart card of the reading, the Ace of Diamonds. I always look for the theme of the question to be reflected in the reading, and the Ace of Diamonds is the spark of life, and would represent the desired conception.  The  Ace is hemmed in by spades on either side indicating a serious problem, and confirming that conception will not happen within the specified time frame.

Next I ask myself, who is the King of Spades? Perhaps he is the consultant's husband?  No. The adjacent card (8 of Spades) is the doctor card, and it describes the King. My impression is that the King of Spades represents a doctor. The card following the 8 of Spades shows what kind of doctor-- Ace of Diamonds shows one who deals with conception issues, or a fertility specialist. This idea is confirmed for me by the classic combination of the 8 of Spades with the 9 of Spades which mirror each other in the center of the spread, and denote a medical procedure. These cards surround the Ace of Diamonds suggesting that medical intervention may be necessary to facilitate conception.  When the cards indicate a problem or obstacle, they invariably also provide one or more possible solutions.

Finally, on to the last trio of cards. The 9 of Spades follows the Ace of Diamonds, and shows disappointment, and represents the difficulty with conception. The 4 of Clubs is a service card, and indicates help with resolving issues. The 4 of Clubs ends the line, and suggests an eventual resolution to the fertility problem represented by the 9 of Spades. I notice that the 4 of Clubs mirrors the King of Spades. This shows a consultation, and suggests to me that the doctor will serve to help correct the problem.

My prediction is that the querent will not be able to conceive within the next three months, but if she consults with a fertility specialist, the doctor will help resolve the problem. The fact that the Ace of Diamonds appears in the heart position of the reading is a hopeful sign that conception will eventually be possible.

The querent confirmed that she has a history of problems with getting pregnant, and that she is already receiving treatments at a fertility clinic.

8 of Diamonds

The Diamond suit is considered positive for the most part, but there are several Diamond cards that can show restriction and limitation. The 8 of Diamonds (8D) is one such card because it combines the balance of the number eight with the restless, unpredictable energy of the Diamond suit. The result is a card of caution that can reveal the need to strive for balance particularly in financial matters.

When the 8 of Diamonds falls with other cards of the Diamond suit, it most often warns of financial difficulties. This card can show a shortage of funds, or the need to curtail spending and balance the household budget. As an example, the AD + 8D can be a bank statement that shows deposits and withdrawals, or a credit card statement that shows credits and debits. The combination 4D + 8D would indicate a depleted bank account. With the 6D, the 8D would show putting aside money and saving for a rainy day.

The 8 of Diamonds falling with heart cards will still advise caution. It shows the need for careful planning in order to manifest your desires. In relationship readings the 8 of Diamonds will indicate an intellectual compatibility that relates more to friendship than to love or passion. When this card turns up, he's probably more interested in your mind than your body.  The 8 of Diamonds can also indicate an ungenerous spirit, both in the financial sense and the emotional sense. The King of  hearts with the 8 of Diamonds is emotionally guarded. The King of Diamonds with the 8 of Diamonds is a cheapskate.

When the 8 of Diamonds falls with Clubs it will advise cautious actions, or reveal business budgetary concerns.  My grandmother called this card "Money Coming and Going" because it highlights the financial flow-- where money is earned and where money is spent. This card can be a warning that the money is going out as fast as it comes in. The AC + 8D refers to the tax office (IRS), which saps our earnings.

Spades intensify the restrictive and cautionary qualities of the 8 of Diamonds, and will show forced or imposed limitations.  The classic combination for heavy debt is the 8D + 9S. The 9S shows a crushing obligation. The 2C (gifts) with the 8D can show disability or unemployment benefits-- someone forced to live on a restricted income. The AC is usually nearby to confirm the government assistance.

In health readings the 8 of Diamonds represents the eyes and vision. For example, the 8D with the 8S (the doctor card) would show an ophthalmologist or optometrist. The 8D followed by the 4S would denote vision problems. If the 3S is nearby, you're probably looking at eye disease.

In physical description readings the 8 of Diamonds will refer to something notable about the person's eyes. Nine times out of ten this will simply indicate that the person wears eyeglasses.

The meaning eyes can extend to the idea of seeing, or looking, or watching. For example, the combination 8D + 3H shows watching something artistic, and will usually refer to viewing art or some kind of performance such as a play. The 8D + 6C  is a television (viewing media), and the 8D + 2D is usually a movie (the 2D is the card of fiction and imagination). The 8D with the 4C can refer to the screen on your smartphone. In a general reading the cards surrounding the 8 of Diamonds can show what the person is looking for in life.

The 8 of Diamonds is the counting card. It counts what we have, and it counts what we don't have.  As such, it can represent numbers and mathematics.  In a career reading the 8D + 4D would show someone who is certified with numbers, or works as an accountant (CPA). The 8D + 6C is someone who balances the books, or is a bookkeeper.

In a reading for locating a lost item the 8 of Diamonds represents the pantry where food is stored. It makes perfect sense when you consider that the pantry is similar to a financial account. Food is deposited (stored) to be spent and then replenished-- coming and going.

Lastly, when looking at timing the 8 of Diamonds points toward the future, and will show delays for the present. It says, "Don't push things. Now is not the time for rash action. Now is the time for caution and careful planning, and future success is possible."

6 of Diamonds

The 6 of Diamonds (6D) combines the connectivity of the number six with the intellectual detachment of the suit of Diamonds, and brings a general sense of restriction to a reading. As such, it can be a tricky card to interpret. Of course the best interpretation will always depend on several key factors... the context of the question, the influence of surrounding cards, and the readers intuition.

When surrounded by Hearts, the 6 of Diamonds will often indicate shyness or withdrawal. It can denote withholding something, or a lack of communication. This is particularly true for questions about love and romance. If you ask "Will he/she call?" and the 6D appears, you can be pretty sure that he/she won't call.

With other Diamonds the 6 of Diamonds will usually show nervousness, or reveal an unsettled situation. For financial questions, this card can be similar to the Some Money card in the Gypsy Fortune Telling deck. It may indicate a small amount of money, usually less than expected or less that what you need. This card can also show a small or moderate success, particularly when it shows up as the outcome of the matter. The end result may not meet your grand expectations, but the outcome could be a lot worse.

When falling with clubs, the 6 of Diamonds can indicate technology and electronic communication. This is the "computer" card, and can represent any electronic or digital device. The standard combination that represents a computer is the 6D + 6C. Specifically, the 6C represents "information or a book," so the combination indicates "an electronic book." If the 8C (the work card) is nearby you're looking at a programmer, or someone who works in information technology.

This card also covers the sciences and social services. For example, the 6D + 3H = occult science or religious science. The 3H is a mystical card that represents the Holy Trinity; and mind, body, spirit.  The 6D+ 9D = psychic sciences (clairvoyance, clairsentience, etc.), and the 6D + 8D = mathematics.

When the 6 of Diamonds is beset by Spades, it can turn ugly and reveal jealousy and possessiveness at worst, or stubbornness and unresponsiveness at best.  The 6D + 2S is the classic combination for jealousy because the 2S adds anger and vindictiveness to the mix.

In health questions the 6 of Diamonds represents the nervous system. With the 2D it can indicate a nervous stomach. If Spades are nearby, particularly the 4 or 8 of Spades, it is probably a stomach ulcer. The 6D, as the technology card, can also represent diagnostic equipment in a health reading.

When appearing next to a court card it can describe that person as timid or shy. It may also reveal a techie or science guy/gal. Beware when the 6 of Diamond falls with the King of Spade. He can be very jealous and possessive. If other Spades are near, he can turn violent and dangerous.

As you can see, the 6 of Diamonds brings restriction or limitation to a reading. It also represents everything related to science and technology. Therefore this card carries many meanings, and requires careful consideration to ensure the best or most appropriate interpretation in a reading.

Horoscope Spread: The Perfect Match?

The Cartomancy Horoscope Spread is perfect for exploring complex situations that require addressing multiple related questions. I find this spread to be particularly useful for business inquiries which may include several elements that must be evaluated. For example the spread works well for exploring all of the details involved in purchasing or selling a home.
Is He the Perfect Roommate?

I drew the following cards for my brother when he was debating over the idea of taking a roommate. He needed insight into the pros and cons of sharing his home with an acquaintance he did not know well. My brother was living alone in a three-bedroom townhouse. He knew that taking a housemate made financial sense, but he wanted to be sure that the man would be a suitable roommate. Because this is a complex topic with several aspects to consider, I chose the Horoscope Spread to address the various concerns.
Area of focus: Would this friend be a suitable roommate?

I asked my brother to shuffle the cards while concentrating on his area of focus for the reading. Then I dealt 12 cards from the top of the shuffled deck, and laid them into the 12 houses of the astrological wheel as illustrated in the following diagram:

Areas of Inquiry

My aim was to do the intuitive equivalent of a background check on the prospective roommate. I needed to explore the following questions in order to make a determination about his suitability as a roommate, and assess the future success of the living arrangement.

• Does the roommate have a stable source of income?
• How does the roommate handle his money?
• Is the roommate emotionally stable?
• Does the roommate have good communication skills?
• Does the roommate keep his living quarters neat and clean?
• Does the roommate have a wild social life?
• Is the roommate's life philosophy compatible?

Relevant Houses for the Questions

1st House: represents the querent himself, his attitude, and motivations.
4th House: represents the querent's townhouse
4th House (roommate's 10th House): represents the roommate's career
7th House: represents the roommate himself, his attitude and motivations.
8th House: (roommate's 2nd House) the roommate's finances
9th House: the querent's philosophy on life
9th House (roommate's 3rd House): how the roommate communicates
10th House (roommates 4th House): the roommates lifestyle in the home
12th House (roommates's 6th House): the roommate's work ethic

Each house of the horoscope encompasses a wide range of possible meanings. For this reading I focus only on the meanings that apply directly to the area of focus for our inquiry.

Relevant Cards and Keywords

8 of Diamonds: careful planning, caution with money
8 of Hearts: sharing and cooperation, optimism
4 of Hearts: partnership, union, comfort and security
7 of Clubs: hard work, steady actions, evaluations
10 of Spades: fear, worry, ambition, heavy responsibility
Queen of Spades: authoritative, detached, conscientious
Jack of Spades: watchful, reserved, emotionally awkward
9 of Clubs: travel, good luck, distance, expansion
7 of Spades: stagnation, routines, frustration, unable to move forward

Interpreting the Cartomancy Horoscope

First I looked at the attitudes and motivations of both the querent and the prospective roommate. What is the querent looking for in a roommate? Is the roommate a suitable house companion? Or does the roommate lead a double life as an ax murderer?

The 1st House (House of the Self) represents the querent and his personality. It describes his attitude and motivations in reference to the question. The 1st house also sets the tone of the reading. The 8 of Diamonds describes my brother as cautious and deliberate. He intends to carefully evaluate all of the pros and cons of accepting the roommate.

The 4th House (House of the Home) represents the querent's townhouse. The 4 of Hearts is the card of partnerships, and confirms that the cards are in tune with the question of bringing a roommate into the home. The 4 of Hearts also shows that my brother loves his home. It is a place of comfort and security.

The 7th House (House of the Partner) represents the roommate and serves as the roommate's 1st house. It describes the roommate's attitude and motivations in reference to the question. The 8 of Hearts describes the roommate as companionable and cooperative. He is honest, and open-minded and willing to compromise. He is motivated by a willingness to share.

The 8 of Diamonds suggests that for my brother, the decision to take a roommate is a very serious matter. He is motivated by the prospect of reducing his monthly expenses with the supplemental income from the roommate. But he wants to be sure that taking on a roommate will not upset the harmony and tranquility of his personal space. The 8 of Hearts suggests that the prospective roommate is friendly and trustworthy. In terms of his personality, attitude and motivations, he seems to be a perfect match.

Then I wanted to take a look at the roommate's finances to determine if he spends his money wisely, and if he will have enough to cover the expenses each month.

The 8th House is the Roommate's 2nd House of finances. The 7 of Clubs indicates a steady income. The roommate works hard for his money, and he is careful with his spending.

The 4th House is the roommate's 10th House of career. The 4 of Hearts shows that the roommate loves his work. He feels comfortable and secure in his job. We could even say that he's married to his work.

The 12th House is the roommate's 6th House of service, which can tell us something about his work ethic, and his attitude toward work in general. The 10 of Spades indicates high ambitions. He takes his work very seriously and worries about meeting his responsibilities.

The cards indicate that the roommate is conscientious about his work and about his spending. He should have no trouble covering his monthly expenses.

Next I needed to evaluate the roommate's lifestyle at home, and assess how he maintains his living quarters. Is he a slob? Will he be negligent with the furnishings and fixtures? I also wanted to look at the kinds of people he may potentially entertain in the townhouse.

The 10th House is the roommate's 4th House of house and home. The Queen of Spades is meticulous about her appearance and surroundings. She is authoritative, and not afraid to take responsibility. She is detached and private.

The 5th House is the roommate's 11th House of friendships and social activities. The Jack of Spades is watchful and reserved. He can be jealous and spiteful when provoked.

The Spades can be negative influences, but their significance must be weighed against the 8 of Hearts which describes the roommate's basic demeanor. The Queen of Spades indicates that the roommate will be respectful of the townhouse and of my brother's property. The roommate will clean up after himself, and accept any chores or responsibilities required of him. He will keep to himself, and not infringe on my brother's personal space. The Queen of Spades further suggests to me that the roommate is not going to bring women into the house. The Jack of Spades suggests that the roommate may experience social anxiety, and probably has a few close friends. He isn't likely to host wild parties in the townhouse.

Finally, I needed to evaluate whether the roommate and my brother will get along together. There are two houses I can look at to help me determine compatibility. First, good communication is crucial in any relationship. Next I can evaluate each person's basic life philosophy to see if they share a common ground.

The 3rd House shows how the querent communicates his ideas to others. The 9 of Clubs indicates that my brother is an expansive communicator. He enjoys participating in conversations on a wide-ranging topics. He is straightforward, and he is not afraid to speak his mind.

The 9th House is the roommate's 3rd house of communication. The 7 of Spades warns that the roommate is more reserved. He holds back his thoughts and opinions, which may cause resentments to brew under the surface. He is easily frustrated in his communications, and isn't always willing or able to hear the other person's point of view.

The 9th House represents the querent's philosophy of life. The 7 of Spades suggests that my brother espouses traditional values. He is set in his ways. He follows established routines, and does not accept change easily. He is slow to take action, and he avoids making rash decisions.

The 3rd House is the roommate's 9th House. The 9 of Clubs suggests that the roommate is more broad minded. He enjoys culture and travel and learning new things. He is impulsive and spontaneous. He is not afraid to dive head first into unfamiliar territory, and explore all that life has to offer.

It struck me that the opposing perspectives on life, and the contrasting skills with communication, could result in the two men having a beneficial influence on each other. The prospective roommate could inspire my brother to rise above his limitations, and more readily embrace spontaneity and change. My brother might help the roommate learn to communicate more freely, and to better manage his social awkwardness.

I advised my brother that the prospective roommate would be a wonderful fit. He is honest and dependable, and will respect my brother's property and personal boundaries-- the perfect match for a roommate.

After weighing all of the information, my brother decided to move forward with taking on the roommate. They have been living together for several months, and both are pleased with the arrangement.

Cartomancy Horoscope Spread for Answering Questions

The Cartomancy Horoscope Spread is perfect for when the querent requires detailed information about an important matter which may include several related questions. This spread allows me to hone in on a specific topic, and answer all the related questions without the need to reshuffle the deck and redraw cards.

The Horoscope Spread is based on the horary astrological chart which is divided into twelve sections. Each section (or house) is ruled by one of the signs of the zodiac. By combining the basic horary astrology house meanings with the cartomancy card meanings, the Horoscope Spread can provide very specific information regarding all aspects of the matter in question.

Drawing the Cards

Shuffle the cards while focusing on the general topic to be explored. You may decide that certain cards will serve as significators in the spread. For example, if the querent wishes to know about a love interest, you can set your intention that the Queen of Hearts will represent the querent, and the King of Hearts will represent her love interest. These cards may not show up in the spread, but if they do they will carry special significance determined by the houses into which they fall.

Next the cards are dealt around the astrological wheel, placing one card into each house of the zodiac, beginning with the first house, as shown in the following diagram:

 Guidelines for Interpreting the Spread

• The specific questions will determine which houses are relevant (not all of the cards in the spread may be relevant). The card in each relevant house will provide the information to answer the question.


• The relevant cards are interpreted within the context of each question, and within the framework of the houses into which they fall.


• I deal from the top of the shuffled deck. Alternately, you can spread the cards face-down on the table and randomly draw one card for each house of the horoscope.


• I place only one card into each house because the focus is on one topic only. I experience a high level of accuracy with this spread provided that all of the questions are related to the single topic that was the focus of the shuffle.  I have asked up to 8 questions with excellent results.

For a general reading, or for multiple questions that are not related to a single topic, you can place up to three cards into each house to focus on each individual area of the querent's life in more detail. 

Meanings of the Houses 

1st House

Represents the querent. The querent's personal life and appearance, beginnings, new projects, length of life.

Direction: East

2nd House

Finances, values, lost or stolen objects, movable possessions, potential poverty or wealth, resources, material things desired, business transactions, earnings.

Direction: East North-East

3rd House

Siblings, relatives, neighbors. Short journeys. Schooling, early education. Personal communication, letters, emails, advice. Gossip, rumors, news. 

Direction: North North-East

4th House

Home, parents, father, domestic issues, buried treasure, land, real estate, inheritances from parents, houses, farms, agriculture, old age, mines. The end of any matter 

Direction: North

5th House

Children, women, luxury, affairs, gambling, hobbies, stocks, romance, pregnancy, elections, entertainment, feasts, eating, drinking, parties, fun. Personal creativity. Bodies of water, rain. Teaching.

Direction: North North-west

6th House

Health, illness, diseases, injuries, misfortunes. Hygiene, healing. Daily work, daily routines. Pets, small animals. Servants, employees.

Direction: West North-west

7th House

Partner (marriage and business), lover, spouse, divorce, lawsuits, contracts. Quarrels, open rivals, competitors. Thieves, robbers, dishonors. Any unidentified person. The astrologer.

Direction: West

8th House

Shared resources, death, and birth. Surgery. Life transformations, occult studies. Taxes, debts, mortgages and loans. Legacies, inheritance from other than parents, other people's money or resources, corporate money. Investigations. Poverty, suffering, dangers. Sleep.

Direction: West South-West

9th House

Long-distance travel, religion, philosophy, education, higher learning. Lawyers, professionals. Dreams, divination. Wisdom. The arts. Public communication, media, publishing.

Direction: South South-West

10th House

Career, vocation. Mother. Superiors, authority, employer, government. Status, fortune, success, glory, reputation, honors. Environment, the weather. 

Direction: South

11th House

Friends, sources of help. Protection, riches, presents. good fortune, Joy, hopes and wishes, praise, confidence, goals. Social activities, group endeavors.

Direction: South South-East

12th House

Loss, imprisonment, secret enemies, black magic. Retreat and solitude. Widowhood, fears. Secrets, suffering, afflictions. Large animals. Hidden life, unconscious thoughts. Institutions, hospitalization. Suicide, murder. Vagabonds, prostitutes, beggars. Charity. Drugs and alcohol.

Direction: South South-West