Secrets of Paradise Tarot - Caribbean folklore and religious traditions in one deck
Most tarot decks draw their symbolism from European tradition. This one does not. Secrets of Paradise Tarot replaces swords with Spanish banners and places figures like La Virgen de la Providencia at the centre.
Leticia Ferrer-Rivera designed the system, Laura Bello drew the cards. Together they bring a deck that makes the spiritual practices of Latin Caribbean communities visible without simplifying them.
What you see on the cards
The imagery draws from religious ceremonies, dance, ancestral symbolism and local folklore. Laura Bello worked previously on theatre sets and murals, and that shows in the composition. Colours are bright and saturated. The figures claim space.
Each card carries a story that combines traditional tarot meaning with cultural layers. Not as decoration, but as structure. The symbolism asks for recognition from those who grew up with it, and for curiosity from those who did not.
Who this deck works for
This deck is designed to be read intuitively. The guidebook explains the connection between classic tarot meanings and the specific iconography, which makes it accessible for beginners willing to take the time.
For people with a Latin American background it offers recognition. For others it works as an introduction to a spiritual tradition rarely shown so explicitly in tarot.
Use this deck for readings about family, heritage or finding your place. The symbolism supports questions tied to roots and identity.
About Leticia Ferrer-Rivera and Laura Bello
Leticia Ferrer-Rivera is a tarot reader, Wiccan high priestess and spiritual coach. She worked previously in performing arts and crime prevention, and brings that background into her approach to the cards.
Laura Bello is an artist from Uruguay with a strong focus on theatre and murals. Her work gives the cards a narrative strength that goes beyond decoration.
Specifications
- Number of cards: 78
- Card size: 70 x 120 mm
- Language: English (cards and guidebook)
- Material: Sturdy cardstock with matte finish
- Packaging: Illustrated storage box
- Weight: approx. 580 grams
- Publisher: U.S. Games Systems Inc.
- Author: Leticia Ferrer-Rivera
- Illustrator: Laura Bello
Questions we often get
How does this deck differ from a classic Rider-Waite deck?
The symbolism is built differently. Where Rider-Waite draws from European traditions, this deck takes its imagery from Caribbean and Latin American folklore and religious practices. The structure remains recognisable, but the content is different.
Is the guidebook detailed enough to understand the cultural symbolism?
Yes. The book explains the link between traditional tarot meanings and the specific iconography of this deck. It gives enough context to work with the cards, even if you are not familiar with the cultural background.
