The 10 Best True Crime-Inspired Books To Read If You Crave A Different Kind Of Summer Thrill

What is 'The God of the Woods' about? 

The God of the Woods starts off camp counselor Louise's realization that a prominent camper named Barbara Van Laar is missing. The young girl's disappearance has a trickle down effect that immediately reminds everyone of the similar situation that happened to her brother Bear years ago. It's ironic because everyone remembers how devastating the events surrounding Bear was, but everything isn't as it seems.

Not only are the Van Laars wealthy, they're also well-connected to resources that have helped them spin certain narratives that had damning effects on people unfortunate enough to be in their vicinity. What's worse is there are some people in Shattuck who know more than the family thinks they do.

Why should I read it?

If you binge watched the Ruby Franke documentary, you'll love reading about the mysterious connection between the Van Laar children's disappearance and the effect it had everyone. It's told from various POVs, but the dots connect in such a way that'll leave your mouth hanging open.

Who's developing the series? 

According to Deadline, Sony TV's so impressed with working with Liz Moore that it's greenlit The God of the Woods and The Unseen World "for series development."

Who's producing it?

Neal H. Moritz and Pavun Shetty will be executive producers for The God of the Woods TV series! Deadline also reports they're behind the Long Bright River series that's currently streaming on Peacock!

Has a cast been announced? 

Not yet! But we have a few ideas about who should play a few of the key characters! We'd love to see the following:

• Sophie Thatcher as Louise
• Alexander Skarsgård as Peter Van Lar III
• Stellan Skarsgård as Peter Van Lar II
• Jessica Chastain or Naomi Watts as Alice Van Laar

When will it premiere on TV?

A TV premiere date hasn't been announced yet, but we'll let you know as soon as it is!

Read 'The God of the Woods' Before The Series Premieres

The God of the Woods by Liz Moore

What is On Swift Horses about?

On Swift Horses Plot

Muriel begins a new life with her husband Lee when he returns to California from the Korean War. But the life they're building together — and their future — changes forever when Lee's brother Julius, a headstrong gambler, arrives. Julius is attractive, charismatic, and hiding plenty of secrets.

According to the official synopsis, "when Julius takes off in search of the young card cheat he’s fallen for, Muriel’s longing for something more propels her into a secret life of her own, gambling on racehorses and exploring a love she never dreamed possible."

The story explores LGBTQ+ identity and desire in the 1950s, but does so with a hopeful tone rather than a devastating one. “The first scenes that we filmed were the scenes we had together, so we got all of that done with—when we were apart, we had put the groundwork in,” Daisy tells Vanity Fair of working with Jacob, who adds, "I believe Taylor Swift calls it an invisible string.”

"I loved the connection between gambling and risk-taking, and pushing the boundaries of her desire and what she’s looking for,” Daisy adds. “Muriel’s rebellion throughout the film is quite quiet, in the small ways in which she takes back her power by concealing things. A lot of what’s happening is behind closed doors.”

Who's in the cast of On Swift Horses?

On Swift Horses Cast

On Swift Horses stars Daisy Edgar-Jones, Jacob Elordi, Will Poulter, Sasha Calle, and Diego Calva.

"It's not hard to make chemistry with Jacob because he's just so charismatic," Daisy said during a Q&A, via People, adding that the script "felt almost like reading poetry and so much of what happens is in the subtext."

"This movie is just about love,” Calle added. “It’s important to just feel that — whoever that might be, where that takes you. It’s important to feel that and to feel safe in it.”

Has On Swift Horses been released?

On Swift Horses Release Date

On Swift Horses premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival on September 7, and is currently looking for a distributor. Check back here for news on its release date!

Watch The Teaser Trailer For 'On Swift Horses'

As charming as Julius appears in the teaser trailer, his brother Lee tells Muriel they live differently than he does. "He's just not like us," he says before a scene cuts to Muriel exploring her own "passions." Based on this, On Swift Horses appears to blur the lines of love, lust, secrets, and recognizing one's identity.

The month begins with Mercury stationing direct on April 7, lifting the mental fog and restoring our ability to make clear, confident decisions. Plans that once felt delayed now begin to move, and fresh ideas take shape. Keep a Tiger’s Eye crystal nearby — it strengthens focus and mental stamina, ensuring you stay grounded as you organize your thoughts. Journaling with a gold or yellow candle burning beside you can amplify insights, helping you map out the next steps with clarity and intention.

By April 12, the Full Moon in Libra paired with Venus stationing direct shifts the focus to love, harmony, and balance. This lunation illuminates relationship dynamics, inviting epiphanies and closure where needed. This full moon is about healing and recalibrating the heart, releasing past heartbreak, mending a connection, or stepping into newfound independence. The color green serves as a powerful ally now — wear it, light green candles, or spend time in nature to activate the heart chakra and promote emotional renewal. Holding rose quartz during meditation can help soothe old wounds and open space for self-love and deeper connections.

Mid-month, the energy ignites. Mercury moves into Aries on April 16, sharpening our communication and making us more direct. Just days later, Mars enters Leo on April 18, filling the cosmos with boldness, confidence, and creative fire. If you’ve been waiting for the right time to act on an idea, launch a project, or step into a leadership role, this is it. Fire-element crystals like Citrine, Pyrite, and Tiger’s Eye will amplify motivation, pushing you to take action without hesitation. Red is the power color of the moment — using red light therapy, burning red candles, or wearing red clothing can ignite passion, courage, and drive.

As the Sun enters Taurus on April 19, the intense fiery momentum finds an anchor. Taurus season invites patience, stability, and intentional growth. It’s a time to assess what truly matters and build something meaningful. Ground yourself with Citrine and Pyrite, two potent allies for attracting abundance and strengthening resolve. Taking a barefoot walk in nature or placing your hands on the earth can help channel Taurus’s stabilizing energy.

April 27 brings a powerful New Moon in Taurus, marking a moment for deep manifestation work. This lunation encourages us to blend practicality with passion, turning dreams into reality through tangible action. To invite prosperity, smudge your space with Palo Santo to clear stagnant energy, then set intentions by writing them on paper and placing them under a green candle or a Citrine crystal. Taurus energy reminds us that true manifestation isn’t just about wishing — it’s about laying the foundation for what we desire.

As the month comes to a close, Venus re-enters Aries on April 30, reigniting passion, confidence, and desire. Whether it’s in love, creativity, or personal goals, this transit encourages boldness and direct action. Using red light therapy, surrounding yourself with red candles, or wearing red clothing can activate your inner fire, empowering you to step forward with complete assertion.

With fire and earth energy woven throughout April, the Universe hands you the tools for creation, stability, and success. Are you ready to claim them? Read on to discover what this month has in store for your Sun, Moon, and Rising sign!

​Key Astrology Dates for April 2025

• 4/7 Mercury Stations Direct
• 4/12 Full Moon in Libra and Venus Stations Direct
• 4/16 Mercury enters Aries
• 4/18 Mars enters Leo
• 4/19 Sun enters Taurus
• 4/27 New Moon in Taurus
• 4/30 Venus enters Aries

Aries (March 21 – April 20)

Ready to step into your power, Aries? Expect to feel energized as Mercury stations direct on April 7 in your twelfth house, clearing away uncertainty while also helping you see clearly regarding your past. By April 16, Mercury enters your sign, sharpening your thoughts and giving you the confidence to speak your truth.

The Full Moon in Libra on April 12 illuminates your seventh house of relationships, bringing clarity to partnerships. Whether deepening a connection or deciding to move forward solo, the universe pushes you to seek truth and balance in your love story. Venus also stations direct in your twelfth house, helping you release outdated emotional patterns before it enters Aries on April 30, making you irresistible and ready for a fresh start.

Mars, your ruling planet, blazes into Leo and your fifth house on April 18, igniting creativity, romance, and joy. Expect a boost in passion — whether in love, art, or personal pursuits, something magical will be crafted by your own doing. Believe in your vision. By the end of April, expect to rebuild your sense of self and money game as the Sun’s shift into Taurus on April 19 in your second house will help you establish solid foundations behind your plans. Luckily, the New Moon in Taurus on April 27 is perfect for manifesting stability and abundance--create a mood board and interweave a solid plan to back it up.

Taurus (April 21 – May 21)

As a stable-loving sign, this month encourages deep reflection and inner work, Taurus. Mercury direct on April 7 in your eleventh house, clears up confusion around friendships and your long-term plans. The messenger planet then moves into your twelfth house by April 16, allowing you to be intentional with your energy and selective in what you truly want.

The Full Moon in Libra on April 12 highlights your sixth house of well-being, revealing where you need more balance in your daily life. Treating your body like a temple would be a crucial first step while refining your work-life flow. Venus, your ruling planet, also stations direct in your eleventh house, restoring harmony to social connections before the love planet slips into your twelfth house on April 30, awakening hidden desires and spiritual insights.

Expect to evaluate your personal security and family life as Mars enters Leo and your fourth house on April 18. This cosmic event encourages you to view your standing at home while establishing movement — it can be renovation time, moving to a new home, or simply reorganizing your space. This will unleash your inner Zen. Then, the spotlight turns to you when the Sun enters Taurus on April 19, amplifying your inner confidence and self-expression. The New Moon in your sign on April 27 is a cosmic reset—set intentions that align with your deepest aspirations.

Gemini (May 22 – June 21)

As the social butterfly of the zodiac, expect to spread your wings and fly this month, Gemini! April brings lots of social and career opportunities and Mercury direct in your tenth house on April 7 kicks off with you making bold moves in your career and long-term vision. Expect a lot of messages and networking opportunities by April 16, when Mercury enters Aries and your eleventh house, manifesting fresh conversations, collaborations, and exciting new social connections. Reach out and share your ideas--the public is waiting.

This month gets even better for you involving your passions as the Full Moon in Libra in your fifth house on April 12 cultivates the complete picture involving your creativity and romance — it's time to share where your heart truly lies. Venus, also stationing direct in your tenth house, restores harmony in professional matters before moving into your eleventh house on April 30, enhancing friendships and attracting valuable allies.

Step into the limelight and get moving when Mars shifts back into Leo on April 18, activating your third house of communication and sparking bold ideas. Your voice is impactful, whether writing, speaking, or networking. As the Sun moves into Taurus on April 19, the cosmic energy shifts inward, calling for rest and spiritual renewal. It has been a very busy month, and this is the opportunity for you to focus inward and review your accomplishments. The New Moon in Taurus on April 27 invites you to release what no longer serves you, set intentions for healing, and establish a new focus involving your true desires.

Cancer (June 22 – July 22)

Cancer, the tides are turning in your favor, this month shifts your focus from inner exploration to big wins! Mercury stations direct on April 7 in your ninth house, clearing up any recent confusion around travel, education, or big-picture plans. Pick up from where you left off and begin laying the foundation in your goals. On April 16, Mercury enters your tenth house, sharpening your professional ambitions and making it easier to communicate your goals.

The Full Moon in Libra on April 12 phases into your fourth house, focusing attention to home, family, and emotional foundations. A shift in your personal life may resolve, allowing you to create balance. Venus also stations direct in your ninth house, smoothing out travel or academic pursuits before moving into your tenth house on April 30, helping you gain recognition in your career.

The action planet, Mars shifts into Leo on April 18, powering up your second house of finances. Your motivation to build security grows, and new income opportunities could surface. Your aspirations begin to take roots as you share your ideas with groups when the Sun enters Taurus on April 19. Take advantage and reach out to those who align with your vision. The New Moon in Taurus on April 27 invites you to set intentions around friendships and future dreams. By month’s end, Venus in Aries elevates your professional appeal — your hard work won’t go unnoticed.

Leo (July 23 – August 22)

As the bold and bright sign of the zodiac, Leo, April is a month filled with significant shifts involving your way of communicating and yet complete satisfaction surrounding your ideas. Mercury direct on April 7 in your eighth house, helps you move forward in financial and emotional matters. It's time to disentangle the unresolved issues with resources or have that uncomfortable conversation to clear the air. By April 16, Mercury enters your ninth house, turning up the tempo involving your vision and big-picture thinking. Conversations around travel, education, or personal growth gain momentum.

The Full Moon in Libra on April 12 shines its light on your third house of communication, bringing essential conversations to the surface. Whether it’s a decision, an agreement, or a revelation, clarity arrives. Venus stations direct in your eighth house, easing tensions around intimacy and shared resources before moving into your ninth house on April 30, sparking your thirst for adventure and new experiences.

Expect your natural charisma to emerge when Mars charges into your sign on April 18, lighting the fire within and pushing you into action. Confidence surges, and your presence is impossible to ignore. When the Sun moves into Taurus on April 19, career ambitions take center stage, and with Mars on your side, name your terms. The New Moon in Taurus on April 27 is the perfect time to set intentions for professional success or to make a move involving your career direction.

Virgo (August 23 – September 22)

As the saying goes, the Universe has your back, Virgo. You are more supported than you know, and this month is about inner work and getting out of your comfort zone involving relationships and vulnerability. Mercury direct in your seventh house on April 7, pushing you to review your communication game in relationships and partnerships. Be clear and speak from your heart to get what you want. By April 16, Mercury moves into your eighth house, turning your thoughts and dialogue toward intimacy, vulnerability and insecurity. Transparency is the key to closure.

Then the Full Moon in Libra on April 12 illuminates your second house of finances and self-worth. Expect a shift in your income, an understanding of your spending habits, or a financial decision. Have gratitude for everything you have built on your journey. Venus also stations direct in your seventh house, restoring partnership harmony before moving into your eighth house on April 30, deepening emotional and financial bonds.

Expect the need to declutter the mind from old patterns as Mars enters Leo on April 18, energizing your twelfth house and encouraging you to reflect before your next move. Clear out by resting. Your creativity, and subconscious healing will play a key role in your evolution. Expect a silver lining in your journey when the Sun enters Taurus on April 19, encouraging you to focus on new opportunities in learning, travel, and personal beliefs. The New Moon on April 27 will reinforce a new outlet for you to explore these realms involving you set intentions for growth and exploration.

Libra (September 23 – October 22)

Libra, this month is about recalibration — stepping into your power while redefining key relationships. Mercury stations will be direct on April 7 in your sixth house, clearing up past delays with work, health, and daily routines. By April 16, Mercury enters your seventh house, sharpening communication in partnerships and helping you get your point across--expect progress as you relay your true thoughts.

The Full Moon in Libra on April 12 illuminates your first house, creating a turning point in your journey. A chapter of self-understanding cultivates, allowing you to move on in complete confidence. Venus, your ruling planet, also stations direct in your sixth house, restoring balance to your daily life before shifting into your seventh house on April 30, bringing harmony and attraction into your relationships.

Mars enters Leo on April 18, energizing your eleventh house of friendships and plans. This is a time to connect, collaborate, and take action on long-term dreams. The need for focusing inward and finding clarity with deeper matters begins when the Sun shifts to Taurus on April 19, shifting priorities to intimacy, shared finances, inner work, and emotional healing. A deeper understanding awakens as you accept your vulnerability. Speak with your partner and dissect what needs to be done to help you find footing and security. The New Moon in Taurus on April 27 is perfect for initiating a new approach around intimacy and financial stability. As you do the work by month’s end, relationships take shape in magical ways.

Scorpio (October 23 - November 21)

As the mysterious sign of the zodiac, this month brings a shift from inner reflection to action, Scorpio, guiding you toward liberation in personal and professional matters. Beginning on April 7, Mercury stations direct in your fifth house, clearing out creative blocks while rekindling passion. Then, organization and refining your daily routines and overall wellbeing will be vital when Mercury enters your sixth house by April 16.

Expect to review your inner life and release emotional baggage when the Full Moon in Libra phases into your twelfth house on April 12. Meditate, journal, or book an energy healing. Closure happens when you allow the information to surface, creating space for new beginnings. The love planet, Venus, breathes life in your fifth house, restoring your faith in love and artistic inspiration. Then, it proceeds into your sixth house on April 30, bringing pleasant exchanges and beauty to your daily life and body.

The fun begins when Mars, your co-ruler, enters Leo on April 18, activates your tenth house of career and public recognition. Your ambition surges, pushing you to take bold steps toward your goals. Expect by month's end to get even more exciting when the Sun in Taurus moves into your seventh house of relationships on April 19. It's time to manifest your dream relationship or to evolve your current partnership when the New Moon phases into your seventh house on April 27, offering a fresh start — business or personal. You will continue to be motivated and energized by the end of the month with Venus in Aries by your side, enhancing productivity and pleasant work opportunities. Shine your light and don't hold yourself back from getting what you want.

Sagittarius (November 21 – December 21)

Do you often wear your heart on your sleeve, Sagittarius? The Universe fully supports this and wants nothing more than for you to be happy. It all begins with you securing your roots this month. April creates momentum in both your personal life and long-term aspirations. Mercury stations direct on April 7 in your fourth house, resolving home and family-related delays. It can be a vital period for you to explore your ancestral history or speak with your family, and you will feel a stronger bond and be more anchored in your purpose as you explore your lineage. By April 16, Mercury moves into your fifth house, bringing a new wave of creative energy, romance, and playful self-expression. Conversations flow effortlessly, making this a great time to reconnect with joy.

The Full Moon in Libra on April 12 lights up your eleventh house, signaling a turning point in friendships and future goals. A collaborative effort may reach completion, or you may gain clarity about the people who genuinely support your vision. Venus stations direct in your fourth house, restoring harmony and beauty in your personal space before shifting into your fifth house on April 30, fueling passion, creativity, and love.

Traveling or expanding your outlets may be on the horizon as Mars enters Leo on April 18, igniting your ninth house of adventure. Your thirst for new experiences intensifies — follow your curiosity. As the Sun moves into Taurus on April 19, attention shifts to daily routines and wellness. As it is a very exciting month, establishing a wellness practice or regimen will help you feel more centered. The great news is that the New Moon in Taurus on April 27 invites you to set intentions for stability and productivity, ensuring you reach your wellness goals.

Capricorn (December 21 – January 19)

As the ambitious sign of the zodiac, April brings a turning point, Capricorn, guiding you to reclaim balance in your personal and professional life. On April 7, Mercury stations direct in your 3rd house, clearing up recent miscommunications and mental fog. If plans have stalled, clarity returns, paving the way for confident decision-making — especially as Mercury enters your 4th house on April 16, shifting your focus toward home, family, and inner security.

The Full Moon in Libra on April 12 illuminates your 10th house, bringing a closure in career matters. Recognition or closure in a professional endeavor arrives, prompting you to reassess your ambitions. With Venus stationing direct in your 3rd house, smoother communication and heartfelt conversations flow, later influencing your home life as Venus enters your 4th house on April 30.

Your personal life will be your main priority mid-month as momentum builds with Mars moving into your 8th house on April 18, intensifying transformation, financial matters, and intimate connections. Expect more fire in the bedroom or spicy interactions if you have been experiencing drawbacks lately. Be wild and free by expressing your vulnerability. Speaking of romance, by April 19, the Sun shifts into your 5th house, stimulating creativity, pleasure, and self-expression. This energy deepens with the New Moon in Taurus on April 27, a prime moment to set intentions around passion projects, romance, and joy. Step into the month’s momentum — your foundation is strengthening, and your inner light is waiting to shine as you live in complete joy and freedom.

Aquarius (January 20 – February 19)

When destiny calls you Aquarius, you must be ready to claim it! April sets the stage for progress, clarity, and deepening connections. Mercury stations direct on April 7 in your 2nd house, untangling recent financial confusion and bringing fresh insights into money matters. If financial plans have been stalled, expect movement. By April 16, Mercury enters your 3rd house, powering up your voice and encouraging meaningful discussions.

The Full Moon in Libra on April 12 highlights your 9th house, bringing a moment of truth about travel, education, or personal growth. A vision you’ve been working toward reaches a turning point, helping you see the bigger picture. With Venus stationing direct in your 2nd house, financial matters begin to stabilize, and later this month, as Venus moves into your 3rd house on April 30, conversations around money, business, or creative ventures take on a harmonious flow. As you prioritize organization this month, expect your goals and confidence to take shape.

Relationships intensify as Mars enters your 7th house on April 18, heightening passion and stimulating interactions. Although Mars may make you ruffle some feathers, allowing others to have their say is essential. Listen intently to your partner, then find a common ground to attract progression. The Sun then shifts into your 4th house on April 19, calling your attention to home and emotional foundations. Use the New Moon in Taurus on April 27 to set intentions around stability, family, and creating a sanctuary that supports your evolving vision.

Pisces (February 20 – March 21)

As the empath of the zodiac, Pisces, April clears the path for renewal, confidence, and deeper alignment with your values. Mercury stations direct on April 7 in your 1st house, lifting mental fog and helping you communicate clearly. Decisions that once felt uncertain now feel more aligned. Your self-esteem builds as Mercury moves into your 2nd house on April 16, financial planning and self-worth take center stage, encouraging you to pursue what truly matters.

The Full Moon in Libra on April 12 activates your 8th house, creating a turning point in your approach to shared resources, intimacy, or emotional healing. This lunation provides closure and clarity if you've been navigating financial agreements or deep personal transformation. Your life will flow positively as you face your fears and let go. The great news is that you are equipped to enter a new stage of expression as Venus stations direct in your first house, restoring a sense of inner harmony and acceptance in your journey. As Venus moves into your 2nd house on April 30, financial abundance and self-confidence gains momentum.

Abundance flows where your energy goes, and your productivity levels up as Mars enters your 6th house on April 18, nudging you to refine your routines and prioritize wellness practices. You are ready to share a message or solidify an idea when the Sun in Taurus lights up your 3rd house on April 19, amplifying your reach and connection with others. Use the New Moon in Taurus on April 27 to set intentions around learning, writing, or networking — your words have power, and new opportunities are on the horizon.