HOROSCOPE

Starcast

Mars (Mr. Aggression) swaggers out of dark, mysterious Scorpio into sizzling Saj just as the sun highlights Aquarius. Mars loves nothing more than to start fights. Aquarius is all about independence. Could be the stalemate to end all stalemates. Aries (March 20-April 18) Mars’ jab to the midsection signals a call to arms. Mr. Aggression adds muscle to your bustle while Uranus provides highpowered backup. Connections made now, memos sent, blogs posted set the tone for the rest of 2018.

Taurus (April 19-May 19) This week, sidestep any indication of Mars-driven wildness. People and their money can be so finicky. Fortunately, that savvy Taurus cool ensures that you’re a past master/mistress at wheeling and dealing.

Gemini (May 20-June 20) Mars stomps and snorts in your one-on-one sector, while the sun provides a power base. You’re a wild-side walk waiting to happen. Share outrageous dreams with partners and they can get real.

Cancer (June 21-July 21) You surely know that what you do telegraphs a clear picture of who and what you are. As Mars blasts a trail through your work sector, the time’s come to strike while the stars are hot. Get out there and strut yourself.

Leo (July 22-Aug. 22) Yes, yes, we know that you were made for the Great World, not for pusillanimous errands and repairs. That’s agreed, but this is not — repeat not — the week to goof off. Go ahead, “sweat the small stuff ” now.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) Does Minerva really need to tell a dutiful Virgo to CALL HOME? Hard to believe, but true. Mighty Mars in your root cellar issues a potent charge to take action in the family togetherness department. While you’re at it, establish contact with a contractor, a decorator or a cleaning person.

Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) Mars hammers communications, demands that you take chances, learn something outrageous. Friends play a part in these shenanigans, but remember: No matter how many people are in the car, you are still the driver.

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 20) Fasten your seat belt and get ready for a roller-coaster ride. Mars is all about force and sudden change. And, since this dynamo is focused on your assets, what happens next could be great ... or not so great.

Sagittarius (Nov. 21-Dec. 20) You work hard at being cool. Nothing ruffles you. Or so it seems. Guess again! Mars in your sign is a potent reminder of what a hottie you really are. You’ll want to raise the ante, push to the max.

Capricorn (Dec. 21-Jan. 19) Uh-oh! Mars is getting uncomfortably active in your house of secrets. Yes, you’re brave, a secret risk taker. That makes for an adventurous life, but Scorpios can be too fearless for their own good.

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 17) You Waterbearers have the devil’s advocate slot down cold. Just don’t be a brat about it. Come on, play nice! Most everyone thinks you’re the living end. You are, aren’t you?

Pisces (Feb. 18-March 19) Lusty Mars drives a hard bargain in your career house. If only hot pants in high places weren’t so tricky. Look around, people are getting sued and fired. Is it worth it? No. But that’s always easier for someone else to say.

Minerva’s mailbag

So many readers want to start 2018 off with astrology readings. A very good idea! But though I’ve delighted in writing this column for more than 20 years and hope to continue for many more, I’m a novelist. Charts are fascinating to do since everyone reveals a theme of some kind, but they are also time-consuming.

May I suggest the astrologer that I go to every year? His name is Duncan Nanney, and he resides in San Jose.

All good wishes for this new year.

To ask Minerva a question, go to www.askminerva.com or write to Minerva, Sunday Datebook, San Francisco Chronicle, 901 Mission St., San Francisco, CA 94103.