Your horoscope for the week of April 17-23 is eventful, so buckle up for one of the most intense weeks of the year. A lot is at stake right now, so take a deep breath and let the chips fall where they may. Release your need for total control and let the Universe take control, because it goes both ways!
Just before the start of the Taurus season on April 21, a revolutionary total solar eclipse will cast a shadow on the sun at exactly 29 degrees Aries. To say this is blatant “chaos” is an understatement, for not only is Aries one of the most feisty and combative signs in the zodiac, but 29 degrees is what is known as the “anaretic degree.”
In astrology, the anaretic degree is often associated with fatal events and is ominous in the sense that something largely unpredictable could happen. And because an eclipse is already a period of sudden transformations and changes, time will show us the real extent of this eclipse.
Eclipse season isn't the only thing on your agenda this week, as Mercury will also go retrograde at 15 degrees Taurus on April 21, launching a three-week communications overhaul.
Prepare to enter a period of analysis, renovation, reflection and renewal, as Mercury retrograde is a good aspect for paying attention to what has been neglected.
Here's what you can expect for the week ahead, depending on your Sun and/or rising sign (and seriously, you're missing out if you don't read these horoscopes for your rising sign):
How the planets will affect these 3 zodiac signs this week
Aries
This week, you're heading in a new direction.
The week begins on Sunday with the Sun in your own sign of Aries (happy birthday!) making a semi-sextile to Neptune in Pisces and your house of psychic abilities and dreams. You may feel in touch with something greater.
Aries, this could be a gentle caress and nudge from higher powers to move you toward your goal. Or it could be a push into the spotlight.
This week, someone could put you on the spot and ask you about your goals.
On Tuesday, April 18, Venus in Gemini and your house of communication will form a semisquare with Jupiter in your own sign. A task you thought was settled and accomplished now looks like it needs improvement. You may do great things, or have a great opportunity but it will have to be handled quickly. An offer could be gone, gone, gone in no time. But if you want it, you'll have just enough time to make it happen or to take it.
Virgo
This week, small changes could lead to big results.
The week begins with the Sun in Aries and your house of resources making a semi-sextile with Neptune in Pisces.
Virgo, a resource you thought you had access to may evaporate. Someone who promised to help you is not available when you need them. But you'll be fine if you can adjust your plans. You may have to adjust your schedule to accommodate this person, or you may have to seek help from another source.
On Tuesday, April 18, Venus in Gemini and your house of career will make a semi-square with Jupiter in Aries. You may be offered a new project or even a new position in your company.
This will offer you great opportunities, but it could be outside your comfort zone. You will have to work hard to get the job done. And you're quite capable of doing it, of course, but you have to ask yourself if this is where you want to put your time and energy.
Balance
This week, you could dazzle those around you.
The week begins with the Sun in Aries and your house of relationships making a semi-sextile to Neptune in Pisces. You're looking for a little more romance. This may mean sending steamy texts or covering the bed with rose petals.
You could draw ideas from a romance novel or romantic comedy and treat your loved one to a delightful evening that stimulates the senses.
On Tuesday, April 18, Venus in Gemini and your house of travel and adventure will form a semi-square with Jupiter in Aries.
You could be going on an adventure, considering moving, or perhaps you are already on the road. Ideally, you'll go somewhere new, but if it's a familiar place or something for work, try sneaking into a new restaurant or doing a little sightseeing.
Capricorn
This week you will make good choices.
The week begins with the Sun in Aries and your family house making a semi-sextile with Neptune in Pisces. You may have a renewed interest in your family history at this time. An older relative could travel to see you. Or someone will give you a family heirloom, and it will now be up to you to guard that treasure.
You may also receive information that gives you a genealogical clue and helps you fill in your family tree.
On Tuesday, April 18, Venus in Gemini and your house of routines will make a semi-square with Jupiter in Aries. It's possible that your busy work days will give you much satisfaction and weekends will be spent running errands and doing chores.
It's time to find something you enjoy doing and incorporate it into your daily life. This is a good time to take up a hobby like playing guitar, baking a tarte tatin or gardening.

I'm a big fan of short stories about people – I'm a pro at tech and smartphones, serial literature, and writing in my spare time.