The Classic Author You *Need* to Read Based on Your Zodiac Sign

What To Expect For The Taurus New Moon In 2024

This New Moon in Taurus brings a soothing sense of calm and stability, perfect for grounding and setting intentions.

This is the perfect opportunity to unlock your inner sage. Get that yoga mat out and begin that meditation practice you have been wondering about — and don't forget to use an aroma therapy diffuser to amp up your experience! Besides Pluto beginning its retrograde dance, it's a calm week in the cosmos, and what better time than now? The best part is that we can look forward to the New Moon in Taurus on May 7th, meaning that we're officially out of the eclipse fog from last month, along with Mercury retrograde. Phew. It will be steadily calm and attract a new flow of centeredness within your consciousness. There is serene magic in the air, and you cannot help but feel grace and composure. Get acquainted with earth-based practices such as crystal work, smudging your home, or becoming a plant parent.

Also, an overflow of earth energy (grand earth trine and stellium) will enable us to ground down our ideas. Venus, alongside Jupiter and Uranus, is trailing this New Moon. Although Taurus is seen as fixed and stagnant in energy, we can use this secure sign to our advantage when it involves our long-term ventures - romantically or life-purpose. This grand earth trine includes the asteroids Lilith in Virgo (the shadow feminine/magic) and Ceres in Capricorn (the earth mother/resources), along with the New Moon in Taurus (beauty and finances). This cosmic trio will promote a peaceful interchange of groundedness and realistic expectations that involve our long-term visions. It's also a powerful time to manifest our dreams. These earth goddesses will give you a clearer vision of what you truly want while you receive a download of information regarding the steps toward success. It's also a fantastic time to renew your vows or create that dating profile with Venus, the love planet, embodied in her sign, which means that our senses will be heightened and the romantic mood will be lit.

Friendly suggestion: Have a date with yourself, book a photoshoot, or visit the salon because your beauty will magnify and reflect in your aura. You may get lucky with Venus on your side.

This power day will also have support and backing from Saturn, the planet of structure and disciplines. With Saturn in Pisces, the line of structure involves our long-term dreams and addressing our past karma. You must face your past and address the missteps or unresolved matters to move forward in your journey. The great news is that this New Moon will be in a supportive position with Saturn, and this will grant you acceptance and resolution involving past dealings. You'll feel steady and ready to move forward. This aspect encourages discipline, responsibility, and practicality in your process. Use this energy to focus on long-term goals and take practical steps towards your ambitions. Once you remove that cosmic baggage (I'm sure you will at this point), it will awaken your magical self, and you will attract results.

New Moon In Taurus Horoscopes For Your Sun, Moon, & Rising Signs

Aries

This lunation will bring a flow of centeredness and certainty regarding the next steps in your journey. The New Moon in your 2nd house will help you see your wants and needs. Take a moment to pause and reflect on your deepest desires and aspirations. What truly brings you joy and fulfillment? Slow down and reconnect with your inner self. Saturn in your 12th house will help you see your past patterns (subconsciously) and grant you the grace to let go and rebuild your self-worth. Use this lunar energy to set intentions for nurturing your sense of security and stability. Whether financial goals, inner work, or cultivating a sense of belonging, trust that the Universe supports your journey toward manifesting abundance in all its forms. You will see the results when you make peace with the past. You are strong.

Taurus

This cosmic alignment is like a fresh breeze sweeping your life, bringing a renewed sense of purpose and vitality. With the New Moon in your sign (lucky you) along with Venus, your aura will magnify in the best way possible. Use this time to plant seeds of intention that align with your confidence. What do you truly want to manifest in your life? Whether pursuing your passions, nurturing your relationships, or investing in your personal growth, the time is now to believe in the magic the Universe can grant. With all this earth energy on your side, you have endless support from networks and friends who will cheer you on. Factor in your dreams and aspirations and get ready to witness its progression. Let your light shine bright.

Gemini

Saturn will place a challenge to your personal beliefs, but is it a challenge? Perhaps it's an opportunity to explore your journey's root cause of stagnation. As the New Moon phases into your 12th, it will enable you to step back from the hustle culture and carve out moments of stillness and introspection. This is a period for you to reflect on what truly matters. You will reach a breakthrough regarding what's holding you back from achieving your dreams. Become open-minded and curious (this is your jam). Use this lunar energy to recharge your spiritual batteries and set intentions for inner peace and emotional well-being. Whether through meditation, journaling, or simply spending time in nature, trust that this cosmic alignment guides you toward a more profound sense of connection and clarity. Approach life like a child.

Cancer

Get ready to root down your aspirations and strengthen your connections, Cancer. This New Moon will power up your opportunity to build your dreams. If that book idea or business venture has been placed on hold, now is the time to build from the ground up. Nothing else can stand in your way if you store passion in your core. With Saturn positioned in your 9th house, you have the strength to get started. This is also a fantastic time to nurture your present connections or connect with your soul family that will cherish your devotedness. Nonprofit work or getting involved with causes will also attract serendipitous connections that can lead to your soul's fulfillment. Be open, and you will see the magic unfold. You are ready.

Leo

This lunar event will allow you to align with your long-term goals and public standing. The New Moon in Taurus, Venus, and Uranus will ignite inspiration and the grit to start anew or at least become bold in your approach. With Saturn residing in your resources and intimacy sector of life, it's time to get serious and begin planting your intentions involving these matters, and this requires you to hold still and analyze your inner world. Arrange a sit down with your partner or have a quiet moment to attract clarity. You will understand how to steer your professional path with determination and, most importantly, become more aligned with your heart. If you're feeling any sense of doubt in your direction, (don't) Venus will give you that dash of confidence, making it a magical moment for you to get what you want. Wear your crown proudly.

Virgo

The world will be your oyster Virgo. These past few weeks have been intense; expect a second wind approaching. This New Moon will allow you to step into a new paradigm or venture. Take a class or start your meditation practice. With the moon taking place in your 9th house, you're in for a new awakening that involves your personal beliefs and vision. As a fellow earth sign like Taurus, your manifestation abilities will level up, and you will get ready to take the reins and take charge of your ventures. There is an opportunity to strengthen or form a love connection with Saturn, who supports you fully. Arrange a discussion or send that text message to clear the air. Observe what gets you excited or inspired, which jumpstarts things for you. Trust your gut.

Libra

Inner work is in store, with the New Moon phasing into your 8th house, it invites you to retreat. Meanwhile, Saturn's continued rein in your 6th house prompts a reevaluation of your daily rituals and health practices. Take this opportunity to refine your routines, prioritizing self-care and vitality. Whether single or in a relationship, this lunar event will ignite self-discovery and inner growth. Dedicate time to nurturing your relationship with yourself through self-love practices like meditation or journaling. This New Moon will be reflective but helpful for learning the importance of honoring your emotional depth and well-being. Believe in yourself.

Scorpio

Love approaches as this New Moon occurs in your 7th house of partnerships and commitment. Single or taken, you will feel a stirring in your heart filled with hope as love can be felt in every connection you make. Friends, family, or lovers, you will understand the roots of your love story and be given the antidote to break free from the past and start anew. This is your chance to manifest your dream partnership or breathe new life into your current relationship. Have a date with yourself or with your friends to open your heart. Saturn will also help you learn how to discern your connections and enable you to see what boundaries or structures need setting. Trust in the flow of genuine love and let your heart guide you towards the connection you deserve. Ah, l'amour!

Sagittarius

Get ready to feel renewal as the New Moon powers up your 6th house of health and daily routines. Whatever is weighing you down in your daily life (physically or energetically), you will understand its root cause. Breaking free from toxic work environments or prioritizing your self-care will help you embrace healthier habits that nourish your mind, body, and spirit self. Book a spa day or get your aura photo taken. Meanwhile, Saturn's influence in your 4th house of home and family prompts you to find a balance between work and personal life. Schedule downtime and connect emotionally with loved ones to strengthen your emotional connections and well-being. Clear out and rejuvenate.

Capricorn

Let your hair down and embrace your wild side, Capricorn. With the New Moon lighting up your 5th house of dating, children, and creativity, you hold a lot of cosmic support in these ventures. Create a dating profile or reignite the fires of your current relationship; this is your chance to feel love in its purest form. You're also supported if you're considering starting a family (this lunation will give you the green light). Saturn, your ruler planet, will emphasize the importance of practicality and clear communication this week. Although playful and fun, use this lunation to ground your long-term goals and plans, ensuring they are realistic and achievable. By articulating your ideas effectively, you will feel confident in your plans, setting the stage for success. Cheers to you!

Aquarius

Slow down and observe your family life, as the New Moon in your 4th house will inspire you to reconnect with your loved ones while also analyzing your stance on your connection. Prioritizing downtime and reconnecting with your family roots will create healing for unresolved issues. It's also a fantastic opportunity to renovate your home or relocate to a place that will nourish your soul. This week, Saturn will encourage you to take a grounded approach to your financial endeavors. Use this time to assess your financial situation and cultivate confidence in managing money effectively. Consider long-term investments and business ventures, and focus on budgeting more strategically to achieve your financial goals per your plans. You got this.

Pisces

Have you been in hermit mode lately, Pisces? Get ready for a wave of creative inspiration and confidence, as the New Moon in your 3rd house will grant you a new flow of ideas. This alignment will allow you to start a new venture that aligns with your passion. Saturn's presence in your 1st house supports you in getting serious about your goals and aspirations. By preserving your energy and building solidity in your approach to life, you'll find more excellent stability and success in all areas of your life. Trust in your ability to articulate your thoughts and beliefs, and allow yourself to step into the spotlight confidently. Use this influence to discern where you invest your energy, focusing on activities and relationships that align with your long-term vision. Something magical is brewing.

The Best Romantasy Books

Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros

*Sigh* Where do I start? This book squeezed my heart and cradled it at the same time. It also stoked an inner fire that felt eerily similar to a couple of scenes in the book that I've bookmarked 👀.

Meeting Violet Sorrengail was like peeling back the layers of thoughts I had about myself as a child. She initially thinks she's too fragile to be a gifted dragon rider like her siblings Brennan and Mira, but her mother — General Sorrengail — isn't easily swayed. So, off Violet goes to train or die trying.

From enemies who are more than willing to kill her at a heartbeat to developing a deep bond with two dragons — something that's unheard of — Violet finds herself realizing she's more powerful than she's given herself credit for.

Iron Flame by Rebecca Yarros

I'm still trying to make sense of the way Iron Flame took my emotions on the wildest ride. Although I'm still recovering and yearning for more, I have to commend Rebecca Yarros for giving us two of the best Romantasy books of our time.

When we catch up with Violet Sorrengail again, she's managed to enter her second year at Basgiath War College without dying. Although she's a lot more resilient than she gives herself credit for, she knows there's still so much to learn.

The lessons she's learning are harsher and it seems like she's still being targeted for several reasons. As she tries hard to navigate the things she needs to learn in order to survive, she begins realizing there's an internal threat that's far greater than anyone could've imagined.

It'll take all of her allies, her dragons, and her greatest love to eliminate this threat. The problem is that nothing will ever be the same once it's all said and done.

Deep Is The Fen by Lili Wilinson

If you're looking for a romantasy book that's a little less spicy, Deep Is The Fen is a great read!

It centers around Merry's reluctant interactions with the magic she's been trying so hard to stay away from. When she finds out that her best friend Teddy is joining the Toadmen, she makes it her personal mission to stop him. What she doesn't think anyone knows is her ability to see the swirling magic that surrounds all life forms.

It's this same second sight that comes in handy as she joins forces with her sworn enemy Caraway Boswell. Together, they attend the famed Toad ritual in Deeping Fen and it's only until it's too late that Merry realizes the Toadmen are more sinister than she thought.

And they've been waiting for her.

The Midnight Bargain by C.L. Polk

If you have a taste for more magic, you'll love reading The Midnight Bargain.

Unlike our heroine in Deep Is The Fen, Beatrice Clayborn embraces that she's able to use magic, but she has keep it hidden lest she be confined by a 'marital collar.' If you just shuddered, I'm here to tell you it's as bad as it sounds.

Our dear Beatrice wants to become a Magus, but her family is more concerned with making sure she's prepared to secure an amazing marriage. In other words, women aren't supposed to be able to wield magic as powerfully as men. There's also the fact that her family isn't exactly wealthy so her getting married would truly help them.

Still, Beatrice decides to keep pursuing a desire to become a Magus though her plans are almost ruined when another sorceress steals the one thing that'll secure her position. Desperate to have it in her possession again, Beatrice does a bit of conjuring that leads her to a crossroads.

Will she choose her dreams over her family's future or will she give up everything — magic, who she is at her core, and her goals — to save them?

The Hemlock Queen by Hannah Whitten

I highly recommend that you read The Foxglove King before starting this book, but it's on the list because it's my favorite out of the series!

The Hemlock Queen picks up after the twisted king August has died, but his influence is still felt among the royal court. They're not exactly thrilled that Prince Bastian and the trusted Lore are trying to change what they've become used to, creating a lot more unruliness than they were anticipating. It's in the midst of this that Lore can sense a coldheartedness growing in Prince Bastian that wasn't there before.

As time passes, something begins beckoning to Lore to pay more attention to things around her. It wants her to find the truth about herself and what's in front of her.

She'll have to race against the time to find the answers before she loses Bastian and everything else she loves.

The Hanging City by Charlie N. Holmberg

Lark has spent years hiding from her overly domineering father and hasn't found a place to call home yet. The thing that's kept her safe is her ability to cause anyone to feel fear in her presence which has come in handy. With no other options, she decides to seek refuge among the trolls in Cagmar.

She's quickly accepted into their society because they realize she's not like most humans that are in Cagmar. The only rule she has to follow is to never kill a troll even though the most powerful one utterly despises her for being human.

She'll have to learn how to survive in a brand new way while figuring out things about herself, her past, and the family she grew up in.

As a Power of Women honoree, Mariska was recognized in regards to her work as an advocate for sexual assault survivors. She took the stage and used her platform to discuss rape and assault conviction reversals, shining a light on the recent overturned ruling in Harvey Weinstein's landmark NYC case. Here's what she said:

Today I want to talk about reversing convictions, and more specifically I want to talk to you about how impossible it is to reverse mine. It’s impossible to reverse my conviction that survivors matter. It is impossible to reverse my conviction that what happens to us matters, and that our society must respond to survivors with a more a compassionate, holistically, deeper, and more nuanced understanding of what healing means.

It is impossible to reverse my conviction that after a trauma, survivors can reclaim lives of hope, of possibility, of audacious risk, beautiful intimacy, and glorious, glorious abundant joy. And I stand before you as evidence of that statement.

It is impossible to reverse my conviction that we must listen to survivors as experts on what justice means. It is extraordinary how little their voices are consulted, let alone incorporated, in the process of deciding how to repair harm. Justice is not a one-size-fits-all journey.

It is impossible to reverse my conviction that patriarchal impunity has to end. Patriarchal impunity is when a male-dominated system exempts perpetrators from punishment. Studies show that only 20% of all rape cases in the U.S. are reported to the police, and that between 5 and 0% of all rapes result in a guilty plea or a conviction. So why do 80% of victims not report? Because they're met with a system that grants impunity to perpetrators; a system that blames victims; a system that accepts only those victims who are experienced as "real" rape; a system that completely misunderstands the neurobiology of trauma, which causes behavior in women that doesn't fit the picture of how a "real victim" would act.

Is that change needed that victims should just pull themselves together? Just buck up and report anyway? No. No, it's the system that receives them that needs to change

It is impossible to reverse my conviction — and the conviction of my extraordinary team, The Joyful Heart — that the backlog of untested rape kits can be brought to zero; that the testing of all new kits must be mandated; that we need a statewide kit tracking system; and that survivors have the right to access the status of their kits.

It is impossible to reverse my conviction that grammar — yes, grammar — that we use when we speak about rape must change. In the sentence, "A woman is raped," there's a crime and there's a victim, but there's no perpetrator. Where's the perpetrator? Where is he? Statistically, as we know, most likely he's walking free. He's so free that he doesn't even appear in the language about the crime that he committed. Is that not extraordinary? It's extraordinary that in the very grammar, the perpetrator goes free. Reintroducing perpetrators in the language of rape will make some very unwieldy grammar, but that's the nature of change. It's unwieldy, it's messy, it's uncomfortable, but it's necessary.

Hargitay continued on in her prolific speech to describe that rape shouldn't be considered a "crime of passion" because it's "not simply the next step in the trajectory of his passion" when a man takes a consensual hookup too far and assaults a woman against her will. She stated that it's "an exercise of power," doubling down that the language we use is important.

The speech went on to address that rape is both about power and control, as a "construct" that was "built, and assembled, and reinforced over time." She noted that there are people with these positions of power — and she specifically called out those in the entertainment industry — that could make a difference and aligned themselves to victims and survivors.

After this and some other remarks, Hargitay specifically called out the Weinstein conviction reversal. She said:

I do want to say something about the Harvey Weinstein conviction, specifically about the reason that it was overturned: too many women's voices. Too many women's voices were allowed to speak. Hallelujah! Amen! I can't imagine anything more beautiful than that. The Daily podcast episode talked about how it was so risky for the prosecution to have that many women testify. Risky to let women speak? You're damn right it is!

Too many women speaking brings change. Too many women speaking shakes the establishment. Too many women means we get listened to more, and people might actually hear what we have to say. Look what happened when women started saying just two words, right? Me too — just as an example — a tidal wave of change. Me too.

And then of course, there was the response: the Me Too Movement. The backlash. The examination of whether the changes that have come are lasting, or are even positive. Of course there's a backlash! What did they expect? For women to speak repeatedly, loudly, together, with a purpose — for there to be no backlash? The backlash is evidence of how powerful those voices were, how powerful those voices ARE.

Watch Mariska Hargitay's Full Speech Here

Turns out that your TV heroes really can be your IRL heroes after all. Long live Olivia Benson! Long live Mariska Hargitay!