This Is the Astrological Sign That Affects Your Love Life

Whether you’re newly engaged or newly single, a die-hard romantic or notorious realist, it’s hard to deny the warm glow of l-o-v-e this time of year. If you let it, Valentine’s Day can be a hopeful time that’s full of potential (hey, self-love counts too). And as fate would have it, there’s an easy and telling way to understand how you should be approaching your love life. While your sun sign rules your personality, your moon sign rules your emotional core; Mercury rules communication, and Venus rules love, beauty, and pleasure. Knowing where Venus falls in your unique natal chart means knowing your romantic habits, what you value in a partner, and what brings you pleasure.

venus sign — love and money

We all know Venus as the goddess of love, but she — and her ruling planet — are much more than that. Venus rules both Taurus and Libra, which affects how we approach money, what we take pleasure in, where we find beauty, and how we express ourselves artistically. It tells us how we attract others and what we find attractive in others. It explains how we like to spend our leisure time and where we find comfort. It’s basically all the good bits of life, rolled up into one planet.

Once you know your Venus sign, you can also figure out which of your astrological houses Venus is in. That will give you an even greater understanding of how you view love and what you value in relationships. Say you’ve got Venus in Aries in your third house — the house of perception. Astrological translation: You’re confident, forward, and use honest communication to charm and flirt. See, we just solved all your romantic problems!

Below, we focus mainly on partnerships, but remember you can apply these basic tenants to the other aspects of Venus as well.

the meaning of each venus zodiac sign

Aries: Big reputation, big reputation… oooh, you and me… Taylor Swift knows what’s up, Venus in Aries. When it comes to love, you never hesitate to go after exactly what you want. You’re forward and flirty, and you have fun with the chase. You’re looking for adventure and spontaneity, but still give (and expect) total loyalty. Yours is a big, bold kind of love with lots of fun thrown in.

Taurus: Since Venus falls in Taurus within the natural zodiac, you feel completely at home here. In fact, Venus in Taurus is all about feeling comfortable, secure, and settled in your romantic relationships. You’re a serial monogamist with a possessive streak, which is really just you looking out for your own stability. You revel in life’s creature comforts and enjoy spending cozy nights in with your love, drinking awesome wine, and enjoying a killer cheeseboard.

Gemini: The way to a Venus in Gemini’s heart is through their mind — witty conversation is the only way to win you over. You crave variety and stimulation and need a partner who’s up for trying new things and making last-minute plans, and appreciates your need for independence. You can’t do everything together, and a little time apart just means more to talk about once you reunite.

Cancer: Ruled by the moon, Cancers are the resident nurturers of the cosmos. View that sensitivity through a Venus-tinted lens and you’ve got one of the most caring, loyal, and sweet signs in the zodiac. As a Venus in Cancer, you’re looking for stability, warmth, and protection from your partner — and to give that back to them as well. Your love is true and deep, which means you often worry if your S.O. feels the same. Resist testing their commitment and let their actions speak for themselves.

Leo: Loving a Venus in Leo feels like being wrapped in a huge hug. Leos are loyal and affectionate — the more PDA, the better. You crave romance and attention, and you want a partner who can make you feel like their world revolves around you. Yes, for all your boastful showmanship, you’re really just looking for someone who will adore you (just be sure they know you adore them back).

Virgo: You approach love the way a Virgo sun sign approaches anything — you’re dedicated to your relationships and work hard to make sure they’re healthy and strong. You’re an amazing listener and will help your partner work through any problem without judgment or impatience. As a perceptive, detail-oriented lover, you’re a master at “the little things,” whether it’s picking up your S.O.’s fave brand of kombucha or packing their lunch when you know they’re busy at work.

Libra: Ever the diplomat, you’re all about maintaining peace in a relationship, Venus in Libra. You’re constantly checking in on your partner’s feelings and love to share your own — talking about your relationship is your version of flirting. Fairness is important to you, but you’ll often sacrifice your own needs if it means avoiding conflict — just remember you can be kind without becoming a doormat!

Scorpio: A relationship with you is intensely passionate, Venus in Scorpio, but we bet you already knew that. You love deeply with an unfaltering loyalty that can initially be intimidating to others (even if that intensity is what drew them to you in the first place). You’re a purely emotional being and put high priority on physical affection and attraction. With that said, you’ve got a notorious jealous streak that you’ve got to keep in check if you want to keep a committed partner (and we know you do!).

Sagittarius: It’s safe to assume you don’t have trouble finding love, Venus in Sag. You’re funny, generous, adventurous, and super friendly. For you, a partner is someone who shares your sense of wanderlust and is willing to live with more than a little uncertainty in their lives. That said, the moment you feel suffocated or tied down, your initial instinct is to run. Instead, be forthcoming with your partner about your need for independence and you can have your cake and eat it too.

Capricorn: First comes love, then comes marriage, then comes baby… you know the rest, because you basically invented the phrase. Structure, stability, and common sense rule your heart, and you want a partner who values these traditional ideals too. While outwardly practical, you’re actually a hopeless romantic — your commitment is a pure kind of devotion and you’re ready to grow old with someone. What’s more romantic than that?!

Aquarius: A poufy white dress and big rambling reception were never part of your plans. You approach relationships with an open mind, never one to attach labels or make declarations. Instead, you’re interested in breaking some rules, having some fun, and sharing new experiences with your partner. You appreciate your partner’s individuality and will never hold anyone back from being themselves. Just be careful not to let this laissez-faire attitude look like you don’t care, ’cause no one likes feeling expendable.

Pisces: Unconditional love is an elusive sentiment, but one you definitely hold dear, Venus in Pisces. You’re a nonjudgmental partner who embraces all your partner’s flaws and even thrives on struggle. Of course, you’ve got to be careful not to develop a hero complex and understand the difference between trying to support someone and save them. That said, you’re a romantic soul with a dreamy outlook on love.

How does your Venus sign affect your love life? Tweet us @BritandCo and tell us what you’ve learned!

(Photo via Getty)

As the leaves turn and a crisp chill fills the air, it’s the perfect moment to refresh your nail game with colors that embody the season and resonate with your astrological identity. This fall and winter, explore nail polish shades that align with your sun sign to enhance your personal style and connect with the energies of the cosmos. Consider your rising sign, too — it’s an inspiring way to switch up your look and add a fresh layer of expression. Let your nails be a canvas for your astrological journey, reflecting the beauty of the universe as you celebrate the magic of the season!

Here’s a breakdown of each zodiac sign's ideal nail polish colors, tailored to their elemental and planetary energy.

Sephora

Aries: Classic Red

Element: Fire

As the bold and passionate leader of the zodiac, Aries thrives on confidence. A classic red nail polish embodies the fiery spirit of Aries, perfect for making a statement. This shade resonates with Mars, Aries' ruling planet, enhancing your courage and determination. Wear it to ignite your ambition this season.

Amazon

Taurus: Mauve

Element: Earth

Taurus is all about luxury and stability, making mauve the ideal choice. This soft, sophisticated color reflects the earthy elegance of Taurus. Ruled by Venus, this shade will help you embrace your love for beauty and comfort. Pair your mauve nails with cozy fabrics to enhance that warm, grounded feeling.

Amazon

Gemini: Navy Blue

Element: Air

The duality of Gemini is mirrored in the depth of navy blue. This versatile color suits every occasion and reflects Gemini's ever-curious nature. Ruled by Mercury, navy blue promotes communication and intellect, making it perfect for Gemini’s social butterfly tendencies. Use this shade to express your multifaceted personality this season.

Amazon

Cancer: Limestone Gray

Element: Water

For nurturing Cancer, limestone gray offers a soothing, calming presence. This soft neutral complements the emotional depth of this water sign. Ruled by the Moon, gray connects you to your intuition and sensitivity, making it a great choice for introspective moments. Perfect for cozy nights in, this shade adds a touch of serenity to your look.

Target

Leo: Daisy Yellow

Element: Fire

Bright and cheerful, daisy yellow captures Leo's vibrant essence. This shade reflects Leo's sunny disposition and love for the spotlight. With the Sun as your ruler, wearing this joyful hue can boost your confidence and charisma, making it the perfect statement for any winter gathering.

Target

Virgo: Light Gray

Element: Earth

Virgo's practicality shines through with light gray, which exudes sophistication and simplicity. This understated shade reflects Virgo's meticulous nature, allowing for a polished, put-together look. Ruled by Mercury, light gray enhances your analytical skills and attention to detail, making it a chic yet practical choice for fall.

Target

Libra: Rose Pink

Element: Air

Libra’s love for harmony and beauty is perfectly captured in rose pink. This romantic shade complements Libra’s charm and grace, enhancing relationships and social interactions. Ruled by Venus, rose pink aligns with your aesthetic sensibilities, making it a go-to polish for any occasion.

Amazon

Scorpio: Plum

Element: Water

Deep, mysterious plum mirrors the intensity of Scorpio. This rich color evokes passion and depth, resonating with Scorpio’s emotional intensity. Ruled by Pluto, plum enhances your transformative energy and can help you tap into your innermost desires. Wear this shade to embody your magnetic presence this season.

OPI

Sagittarius: Amber

Element: Fire

Sagittarius thrives on adventure, and amber captures that spirit perfectly. This warm, golden hue reflects the optimistic and free-spirited nature of Sagittarius. Ruled by Jupiter, amber promotes abundance and exploration, making it ideal for the adventurous soul looking to embrace new experiences this fall.

Amazon

Capricorn: Elderberry

Element: Earth

For the ambitious Capricorn, elderberry offers a sophisticated yet rich shade that signifies strength and resilience. This dark berry tone resonates with Capricorn’s earthy practicality. Ruled by Saturn, elderberry promotes discipline and focus, making it perfect for the driven individual who values hard work.

Sephora

Aquarius: Icy Blue

Element: Air

Aquarius thrives on innovation, and icy blue embodies that unique, forward-thinking energy. This cool, refreshing color resonates with the unconventional spirit of Aquarius. Ruled by Uranus, icy blue enhances creativity and independence, making it a perfect choice for those who want to stand out this season.

Amazon

Pisces: Lavender

Element: Water

Dreamy and intuitive, Pisces is best represented by soft lavender. This gentle shade reflects the creativity and sensitivity of this water sign. Ruled by Neptune, lavender enhances your connection to your dreams and imagination, making it an ideal polish for the artistic soul looking to embrace the magic of fall.

Looking for more astrology advice? Be sure to submit your questions to Ask Lumi here!

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We all know Taylor Swift is the QUEEN of squads, but it's clear that she also loves a good one-on-one BFF date. Whether she's attending Emma Stone's movie premiere or joining Selena Gomez for dinner, Taylor loves spending time with her friends just as much as she loves getting cozy with Travis Kelce. And at a recent Kansas City Chiefs game, the Reputation singer was seen posing with Brittany Holmes — and Brittany's baby bump! We love our WAGs literally so much, so here are all their best BFF moments.

Taylor Swift & Brittany Mahomes Full Friendship Timeline

Jamie Squire/Getty Images

September 30, 2023 — Brittany Mahomes and Taylor Swift Have Dinner

After the first Kansas City Chiefs game Taylor showed up to support her beau, Taylor and Brittany grabbed dinner with the rest of their friends in New York City. Sophie Turner and Blake Lively were also in attendance, and this is one dinner party I'd love to join.

"They dined in a private room. Everyone had a blast,” a source told PEOPLE. “They all got along and were just laughing all night over drinks and delicious food."

October 1, 2023 — Taylor Swift and Brittany Mahomes Watch A Chiefs Game Together

The celeb friend group continues as Brittany Mahomes, Taylor Swift, Blake Lively, Ryan Reynolds, and Hugh Jackman watch the Chiefs V. New York Jets. I've never been so interested in football.

David Eulitt/Getty Images

October 13, 2023 — Brittany Mahomes Is "Thrilled" To Join Taylor's Friend Group

After Taylor and Brittany watched another game together on the 12th, a source told US Weekly just how much Brittany has enjoyed spending time with the popstar.

“Brittany is thrilled to be building a genuine friendship with Taylor. They’ve hung out a couple of times and have grown fairly close in a short period of time," the source says. "Brittany thinks Taylor is so sweet and down-to-earth, and they get along really great. The fact that Patrick and Travis are best friends makes things even better. They’re having a blast and love cheering on their men together.”

October 22, 2023 — Taylor Swift and Brittany Mahomes Show Off Their New Handshake

We group up with the iconic Parent Trap handshake (which was also kind of a dance?), so it only makes since we should hyper fixate on another handshake during our adult years.

Stacy Revere/Getty Images

November 4, 2023 — It's Girls' Night Out!

Taylor Swift has always taken GNO seriously, and in November, she was joined by Brittany, Sophie Turner, Selena Gomez, Cara Delevingne, and Gigi Hadid. Don't mind me, I'm just daydreaming about this group chat.

“Brittany is having a blast hanging out with Taylor and her friends," another source told US Weekly. "She loves making new friends and loves how down-to-earth Sophie, Gigi, Selena and Cara all are.”

December 1, 2023 — Brittany & Patrick Mahomes Join Taylor & Travis At A Holiday Bar

Remember the holiday bar that had us convinced Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce were living an IRL rom-com? Brittany and Patrick Mahomes were also there! Brittany and her hubby wore matching reindeer onesies and rumor has it Taylor and Travis wore matching holiday sweaters.

Maddie Meyer/Getty Images

December 25, 2023 — Brittany Mahomes and Taylor Swift Spend Christmas Together

Spending any major holiday together is a pretty big deal, which is why I was floored when Taylor Swift showed up to the Chiefs' Christmas Day game. She wore an adorable Santa hat with 87 (Travis' number) on it, along with a red sweater and red lipstick. Brittany rocked a Santa hat with Patrick's number 15 and a tweed coat. Ho ho ho!

January 13, 2024 — Taylor Swift and Brittany Mahomes Twin

Showing up to support your SO's? Fun. Showing up in matching jackets? Extra fun.

February 11, 2024 — Brittany Mahomes and Taylor Swift Share a Super Bowl Moment

We have no doubt Taylor Swift and Brittany Mahomes have full confidence in their guys. And after the Chiefs won the Super Bowl (and beat the San Francisco 49ers), Brittany Mahomes was reportedly seen pointing to Taylor and shouting "I told you!"

Al Bello/Getty Images

July 6, 2024 — Brittany Mahomes Attends The Eras Tour

Brittany decided to work smarter not harder when she booked a trip to Amsterdam, and showed up at Taylor's Eras Tour. She won the lottery in the surprise song department — Taylor Swift played a “Sweeter Than Fiction” & ”Holy Ground” mash-up, and a “Mary’s Song (Oh My My My)," ”So High School,” & ”Everything Has Changed” mash-up.

September 8, 2024 — Brittany Mahomes and Taylor Swift Attend The US Open

After Brittany and Taylor partied in Rhode Island together, squashing rumors of a feud when Brittany liked one of Donald Trump's social media posts, the BFFs showed up to the US Open with Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce. They both looked classy chic, with Taylor wearing a gingham dress and Brittany wearing a white polo dress.

Brittany Mahomes/Instagram

October 7, 2024 — Taylor Swift and Brittany Mahomes Hang Out At The Chiefs Game

The WAGs are back at it for the 2024 season, and I'm not mad about it one bit. Not only did Taylor go viral for her metallic faux freckles at the Kansas City Chiefs V. New Orleans Saints, but the BFFs, along with Lyndsay Bell, were also seen cradling Brittany's baby bump! "Same girls, new bump🥹❤️," Brittany said on Instagram.

What's your favorite moment from Brittany Mahomes and Taylor Swift's friendship? Follow us on Facebook for more news on your favorite BFFs and stay tuned for more news!

The solar eclipse last week may have left you feeling a bit hungover — eclipse energy can linger, and its aftershocks might reverberate. Instead of running from those feelings, this week offers an opportunity to solidify what you experienced during that time. If you used the energy to complete something, let go of what no longer serves you, or shift your behaviors.

While all this may have felt like a whirlwind, the coming week could confirm that your choices were valid. It's not too late to plant seeds of intention for the month ahead! If you're curious what this all means for your sign, keep reading for your weekly horoscope!


Filipa Matos

Pluto, the planet of transformation, is beginning its final phase in Capricorn as it turns direct on October 11. (Pluto has been in Capricorn since 2008 — just think of all the radical changes in the world during that time!) Pluto will enter Aquarius on November 20, 2024, and remain there until March 8, 2043. The next 19 years will mark a pivotal period in both our history and personal lives.

For the next five weeks, contemplate what has changed for you since 2008. This is your chance to solidify major realizations in your life. What structures have fallen away, and what has replaced the old? This can relate to your internal psychology, your approach to the world, as well as to tangible structures.

Paisley Alford

Venus, the planet of love, values, and desires, is forming a trine with Mars, the planet of action, assertiveness, and power. This harmonious alignment can manifest in our personal lives as an easy flow of energy between our own feminine and masculine sides, as well as in our relationships with the opposite gender. With Venus in Scorpio and Mars in Cancer, deep connections are favored, and our intuitions are amplified.

Victoria Harder

This week, Mercury, the planet of communication and mental activity, is opposite Chiron, the Wounded Healer. Chiron holds the keys to our evolution, revealing wounds that often hinder us from living our best lives. These wounds may manifest as doubts or insecurities. What is holding you back? What will it take to heal feelings of self-doubt or inadequacy?

We have an opening to explore this mystery, as Jupiter is assisting in this work. Jupiter is sextile Chiron, shining a benevolent light on Chiron's wounds. Make a plan, write it down, and follow the steps as closely as possible until you feel more aligned with your life. Discuss your revelations with a trusted advisor.

Shea Schmidt

Jupiter, the planet of expansion, growth, good fortune, higher education, and philosophy, is turning retrograde on October 9. While Jupiter represents our quest to expand our consciousness and discover truth, it can also lead to overabundance, which may create imbalance. Do you feel like you’ve ventured too far out on that proverbial limb? Are there excesses in your life that have become burdensome? Have you considered going back to school or taking a course?

During this retrograde, which lasts until February 4, 2025, you could change direction. If it feels like you have too much on your plate, re-evaluate and create a new plan. Conversely, you might feel optimistic and energetic in the coming months, believing you can handle anything. It all depends on how you’ve managed things thus far. If you’re ready, go for it! If you feel unbalanced, hold back and reconsider your options. Like all retrogrades, this is a time for planning and re-evaluation.

Ajaila Walker

The Moon will transit from Scorpio through Aquarius this week. It may start off intense, with the lingering effects of the eclipse revealing something hidden. As the Moon enters Sagittarius on Monday, Tuesday, and part of Wednesday, you might feel lighter and more optimistic, believing that everything will work out. On Wednesday and Thursday, it’s time to focus on work as the Moon traverses Capricorn. Stick to a routine, and you will accomplish your goals. On Friday and Saturday, the Moon will be in Aquarius. Do something over the weekend that emphasizes freedom. Embrace your individuality, but remember to consider others. Be philanthropic and help humanity if the opportunity arises.

​Read Your Weekly Horoscope For Your Sun & Rising Sign

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Aries (March 21 – April 20)

This week is optimal for writing, communicating, and self-expression. You may feel extra social and engage in conversations with neighbors, grocery store clerks, or siblings. Host a gathering for your favorite people and allow your intuition to guide these conversations. Something may become clear that has been foggy or hidden. Take time to connect deeply with your soul mates; with clear communication and generosity, you can break through barriers and form profound bonds.

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Taurus (April 21 – May 21)

Are you ready for something new in your career? Tired of the same old routine? This week marks the beginning of a new chapter in your profession. Get creative and think outside the box for solutions; you may be financially rewarded for your unique approach. Use your innate patience, and remember that it’s okay to adjust your plan if things don’t go as expected. This is just the beginning of a 19-year cycle, and your career will undoubtedly transform in many ways.

Brit + Co

Gemini (May 22 – June 21)

You might feel restless at the start of the week. Look for ways to expand your horizons and be open to new ideas. The wider you cast your net, the more you will learn, possibly meeting people from other cultures who can teach you fundamental lessons. This is the start of an expansion that will change your outlook on life. Set yourself up to take advantage of opportunities for higher education, whether in a formal setting or through life experiences. You don’t need to feel pressured to drop everything for a grand adventure; instead, consider planning for growth on many levels.

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Cancer (June 22 – July 22)

You may find yourself daydreaming and wanting to escape the mundane. If you’re in your job solely for the money, you might find it less satisfying. Ethics and spirituality will become important as you navigate this confusing period. Fine-tune your spiritual practice; meditate to connect with your true essence. Find an outlet for your compassion, whether through volunteering or helping those less fortunate. Your intuition is sharp. If being of service motivates you, this could mark the beginning of a meaningful new career helping others.

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Leo (July 23 – August 22)

Your community and friendships are sources of fortune and abundance, but don’t just wait for good things to come to you—be proactive. Communicate with clear intentions and seek collaboration with reciprocity as a motivating factor. Use your unique perspective to solve any issues. Your leadership qualities are prominent; with the best intentions for everyone involved, be as creative as you wish. The more spectacular, the better! Be brave and confident, guided by your wisdom of the heart.

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Virgo (August 23 – September 22)

This week begins a major recalibration of your daily habits and routines. You will learn new approaches to health and have the chance to address core issues and eliminate bad habits. Keep your long-term health in mind as you shift your approach to both physical and mental well-being. Strive to balance your personal and professional responsibilities. Be patient and open to new experiences with a “beginner's mind.” You’re not expected to be an expert right away; it will take time. Enjoy the process of exploration.

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Libra (September 23 – October 22)

You may feel undue pressure at work, pushing yourself to the point of feeling overwhelmed. Now is the time to figure out how to manage your time effectively and accomplish your tasks without neglecting your well-being. With discipline and motivation, you can initiate new regimens to improve your health. Neglecting your well-being may lead to illness, so pare back non-essential activities and replace them with beneficial habits.

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Scorpio (October 23 – November 21)

You may have been re-evaluating your talents and creative endeavors. Are you satisfied with your current expressions of creativity? You might feel low energy and uninspired, but a renewed commitment to your goals can reignite your passion and optimism. Structure and form are necessary for your endeavors to achieve the desired outcomes. Create outlines or spreadsheets to give yourself direction and focus. Remember, discipline and dedication can be forms of creativity.

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Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21)

Reorganization is in order, whether that means remodeling your home, organizing your space, or undergoing inner transformation. This work will require dedication and honesty in soul-searching. What attachments to your past are you willing to release—physical or emotional? It’s a time for renewal. Clean out the garage or attic and consider donating items to organizations that help those in need. Work steadily toward your goals, and you will feel lighter and more in control of your life.

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Capricorn (December 22 – January 19)

Your metamorphosis is nearing completion, and the wisdom you’ve gained is profound. Your experiences have been life-altering. Accept your transformation and allow it to guide your growth. You may have fortunate encounters with authoritative figures who can help you advance on your true path; however, you are a new person with new needs and desires. Explore new ways to feel grounded and secure. The most challenging period has passed, but there is still work ahead. Use your skills in routine and discipline to gain insights from your subconscious. Consider incorporating daily writing into your routine, as the written word holds great power.

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Aquarius (January 20 – February 18)

You have the opportunity to expand your consciousness. Group dynamics can facilitate this; if you’ve been considering joining a cohort of like-minded seekers, now is a good time. Accept that there are forces beyond your control. What you learn during this period may reveal internal impulses and obsessions that lead to universal truths. Your faith in yourself and others will strengthen. Your soul-searching impulses are strong, and relationships may need to transform to remain valid. Any area of your life that feels out of control will be the focus of this transformation. If your life feels smooth, the necessary reconstruction will likely be internal.

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Pisces (February 19 – March 20)

The restlessness you experience this week will pass. You may feel compelled to act erratically due to a strong need for independence and change, making focus more difficult than usual. Your intuition might not be as reliable, so if you find yourself reacting impulsively, take a moment to pause. This is not the time for significant life changes. Patience, flexibility, and adaptability are essential. If you feel the urge to act, ensure it aligns with your heart's desires; let your ego take a back seat for now. You'll feel more at ease next week, and your intuition will provide clarity.

Looking for a more thorough reading? Reach out to Tina at SevenSistersAstrology.com!

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As soon as the first chill hits the air, I like to absorb as much spooky content as possible. That means scary movies, haunted houses, and definitely bone-chillingly-spooky mystery books. And who better to read than the reigning queen of murder mysteries, Tana French? If you've read even one of her books, you would know how spooky with an extra side of scary these stories are — and she has 9 to dive into!

So, here are all the Tana French books, in order. You'll wanna crack these open ASAP — just make sure to lock your doors and leave lights on, because when I say spooky, I really mean it...

Amazon

In The Woods

This is first book in Tana's Dublin Murder Squad series — and it also happens to be her first book she ever published! The story takes place in the summer of 1984 in a small-town suburb of Dublin, Ireland. One night, three children don't come home from playing with their friends. The only thing the police find? A small boy terrified, covered in blood, and unable to remember any of the events that occurred that night.

20 years later, that same petrified boy is now a Dublin detective — Detective Rob — and trying desperately to forget his past (the parts he does remember). Rob is forced to address his past when a young girl is found the exact way he was 20 years ago. Now, he has no choice but to confront what happened...and potentially the killer.

Amazon

The Likeness

In this Dublin Murder Squad sequel, we revisit Cassie Maddox from book 1, who is forced to go back to her old town because of a — you guessed it — murder. She has to go to a crime scene and help solve the case of a girl who was killed wearing an ID of Cassie's old alias. The story keeps getting stranger and stranger for Cassie as she doesn't know who this woman was, or who killed her.

Amazon

Faithful Place

Book three in this series follows Frank Mackey, who in 1985 was planning on running away with his girlfriend...only for her to mysteriously never show up. Frank decided it was probably because she didn't want to be with him anymore. Taking her absence as an answer, he left — but little did he know that Rosie never went home either. Years later, her suitcase shows up at Frank's door, and he's forced to go home to discover what happened to her, once and for all.

Amazon

Broken Harbour

In the fourth installment of this series, we meet Mick — a type A, rule-follower detective on the Dublin Murder Squad. However, when a new murder throws him for a loop, all bets are off. A family in a rich, new development gets murdered mysteriously, and the wife is the only surviving victim. While she's in intensive care, Mick has to figure out why there are dubious and strange factors in the house — like 12 baby monitors focused on holes in the walls, or files being wiped on the family's computer. It's a suspicious case, and what makes it harder is that it's in the neighborhood where Mick, himself, has history. Keep reading to see how this interesting mystery gets solved...or doesn't.

Amazon

The Secret Place

The fifth book of the Dublin Murder series follows Stephen, a young detective wanting to have his shot at joining the Murder Squad. When Detective Frank Mackey's daughter, Holly, comes into the station with crucial evidence, Stephen realizes this is a crime that he just might be able to solve. Suddenly, Stephen, Frank, and Holly team up to figure out how his Holly's friend group might be up to no good.

Amazon

The Trespasser

In French's most recent Dublin Murder Squad book, she tells us the story of Young Detective Antoinette, who isn't sure if she belongs in the murder squad. She's trying to make her way through cases, but feels out of place...that is, until a woman's body shows up, and it could be a potential lovers quarrel-gone-wrong!

Everyone's telling Antoinette that it was the boyfriend, but she can't help but think there's more to the story than meets the eye. The woman's friends say she was in danger, and there seems to be a lurking presence in the town that Antoinette can't get away from. Soon, she won't be able to tell the difference from the girl's killer or Antoinette's own stalker.

Amazon

The Witch Elm

In this new standalone story by Tana French, Toby is out with his friends one night when he's viciously attacked by burglars. The injuries leave him needing care and seeking refuge in the home of his dying uncle, who needs care of his own. The two are able to help each other, until Toby finds a skull in the trunk of the elm tree out back. Detectives start to uncover pieces in this mystery, as Toby comes to terms with the fact that his past isn't what he thought it was...

Amazon

The Searcher

This book has over 139,000 reviews on Goodreads, so you know it's actually a good read. This book the first of a murder mystery series about Cal Hooper, a retired former detective who buys a rustic house in a small, Irish village after his divorce. Cal thinks he's going to get a new life, to start over and find some peace. But when a young boy recruits him to help find his missing brother, Cal uncovers secrets to this town and it might not be as peaceful as he once thought. Will he get himself — and the young boy — into trouble? Or be able to save the day and his new town? Read to find out!

Amazon

The Hunter

In part two of Tana's newest series, Cal has finally built a life for himself. He has a girlfriend, a home he's working on, and a young teenager, Trey, that he's trying to help. But when Trey's absent father comes back into the picture, wreaking havoc and mystery, Cal and his girlfriend are trying to do all they can to protect the young girl. However, Trey's dad brought in a millionaire with a mission to find gold in the town, making their efforts much more difficult. Will they be able to protect Trey from her father, or is it too late?

You'll be dying to find out how Tana's most recent novel ends! Don't believe me? Everyone from the Associated Press to The Washington Post has rave reviews for this sequel!

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Sometimes you just want your cocktail to bite back – and with more than just vodka. When herbal drinks and floral concoctions just don’t do it for you, think about adding a little bit of chili to your libations! You’ve experienced savoriness in your Bloody Mary (and even your margarita from time to time), but how about a gin and tonic or a Moscow mule? It’s time to step out of your comfort zone and try some spicy cocktails with your next brunch feast or happy hour get-together. Scroll down for 14 spicy cocktails that’ll definitely get you sweatin'.

Cozy Cravings

Spicy Watermelon Margaritas

Watermelon is just the refreshing flavor note you need to balance out the jalapeño in these spicy cocktails. (via Cozy Cravings)

Tito's Vodka

Pickle & Jalapeño TitoRita

Pickles and jalapeños go surprisingly well together in this delightfully briny concoction. (via Tito's Vodka)

A Spicy Perspective

Spicy Micheladas

You haven't lived until you've tried a michelada. This iteration works in some extra spice to get the party goin'! (via A Spicy Perspective)

Gastroplant

Jade Mezcal Margarita

These spicy cocktails are like a hybrid between your favorite green juice and a classic marg. Packed with kale, ginger, and orange juice, they're an equally healthy and boozy sip! (via Gastroplant)

Mixop

Mango Habanero Margaritas

Mango and habanero will always be a match made in heaven. You'll get a swig of spicy, fruity, sweet, and sour with these gorgeous spicy cocktails! (via Mixop)

Heather Christo

Spicy BLT Green Bloody Marys

There’s a good chance you’ll never buy store-bought Bloody Mary mix ever again after having these spicy sips. Plus, bacon as a garnish? Yes, please! (via Heather Christo)

Jonathan Melendez

Spicy Tomato Gin + Tonics

Put that cocktail muddler to work with this serrano and tomato-infused gin and tonic. Serve 'em ice-cold with cucumber and a salt, pepper, and cayenne-dipped rim. (via Jonathan Melendez)

Nerds With Knives

Hibiscus Cocktail with Mint & Jalapeño

You may not be surprised to see hibiscus in a cocktail, but you might be shocked to drink it with jalapeño. Don’t knock it ’til you try it, because the flavor is *fire.* (via Nerds With Knives)

Inspired by Charm

Sweet Heat

If you’re intimidated by adding peppers to your spicy cocktails, try adding a small amount to a sweet drink to balance it out. This one has jalapeño suspended in a mixture of vodka, pineapple juice, and simple syrup. (via Inspired by Charm)

Cooking For Keeps

Mango & Serrano Chili Daiquiris

Take your stay-cation seriously by lounging outside with a pitcher of these spicy mango daiquiris. You might want to have a glass of water nearby, because these puppies pack a punch. (via Cooking For Keeps)

Cookie + Kate

Pineapple Cilantro Serrano Cocktails

Make these spicy cocktails at home to serve a whole crowd of happy tequila drinkers. (via Cookie + Kate)

Best Friends for Frosting

Pineapple Jalapeño Sangria

Your sangria isn’t immune to the power of peppers. Go for a ripe Chardonnay with tropical flavors to best match up with the pineapple juice and jalapeño! (via Best Friends for Frosting)

Cake ‘n Knife

Spicy Jalapeño Gimlet

You don’t need a ton of frills to enjoy a zesty, spicy cocktail. This gimlet requires only good quality vodka, lime juice, and jalapeño simple syrup to create a strong sip. (via Cake ‘n Knife)

Foolproof Living

Cilantro-Infused Spicy Jalapeño Margaritas

This little number is not for the faint of heart. Thankfully, the sweet and sour flavor of the margarita mix and the cooling effect of cilantro diffuse the spiciness, so it doesn’t totally overwhelm the palate. (via Foolproof Living)

Hello Little Home

Spicy Grapefruit Paloma

If you’re over the classic margarita, a paloma is a great tequila cocktail to take its place! (via Hello Little Home)

Vintage Kitty

Spicy Thai Basil Cucumber Cocktail

Use cucumber and basil to create a cooling base to saturate this bev with spicy flavor. (via Vintage Kitty)

Check out our complete list of hot cocktails for more drink inspiration!

This post has been updated with additional reporting by Meredith Holser.