I don’t know a lot about astrology or the zodiac or even what my rising sign is. (It’s based on the exact time you were born, and no one remembers mine. “I think it was in the morning,” my dad once told me, helpfully.) I grew up reading those horoscopes that were in the back of magazines and newspapers that were wildly general, like “People are drawn to your nature,” or “Today is a good day to make that decision you’ve been thinking about,” so it’s easy to see why I’m dubious.

But there’s been a lot of chatter lately about the current astrological situation, and I have to say, I am here for it.

Apparently, Saturn and Neptune are meeting today at 0° Aries, and friends, I have no idea what that means! Some people say that it’s “an unprecedented alignment that signals something is resetting, and not just metaphorically.” Out with the old ways, in with the new.

And then on Tuesday, we welcomed in the year of the Fire Horse in the Chinese Zodiac, and the new moon was in Aquarius, and there was a solar eclipse — all on the same day, which made lots of people on Threads say there was a portal opening. 

Okay, so I don’t know if a portal opened, but the Fire Horse stuff seems exciting for anyone taking on a new endeavor — like, oh, say, relaunching their mystery series or self-publishing a novella that was so much fun to write that it feels like it could be a new series. 

Some of the themes I’ve seen mentioned are forward momentum, bold transformation, independence, breaking free from constraints, intense energy and passion, enthusiasm, and potential. Maybe I’m projecting, but it feels like it could be a big year for creative accomplishments! (And yes, there are some that are a little more daunting, like “volatility,” but let’s focus on the positives…) 

I particularly liked this horoscope for people like me who were born in the Year of the Goat: “Success through CREATIVITY. Your art, your vision, your unique perspective — THAT’s what the world needs. Stop doubting it. Your moment: May-August.”

So in this year when I’m reconnecting with the mystery community, publishing books, planning new series, trying to figure out how I can write ALL THE IDEAS at the same time, going to two amazing mystery conferences, and suddenly feeling like I, myself, am on fire, I’m definitely embracing some of that Fire Horse energy. 

Giddy up.

Readers, do you believe in horoscopes? Yay or … neigh? (Sorry I could’t resist.) What would you like the Year of the Fire Horse to usher in for you?

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Marla Cooper is the author of the Kelsey McKenna Destination Wedding Mysteries and WELCOME TO COZY TOWN, an absurdly cozy novella. Learn more at www.marlacooper.com.