Can astrology inspire a fiction novel? For celebrity astrologer Jen Freed, the answer is yes.

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When writing her first novel, “Beyond Aquarius,” published in February, Freed tells TODAY.com she used her career as both a therapist and astrologer to inform the distinctive storyline.

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The book incorporates astrology using an innovative approach, where each chapter is inspired by a specific astrological transit or terminology. (As an astrologer myself, I can say it's a rarity to find astrology woven into the fictional storyline in this way.)

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In the book, Cam and Jules, two total opposites, meet at a yoga retreat and don't immediately connect as friends. However, as the story evolves, the two end up staying in touch until unexpected events summon them back into each other’s lives again.

 

Actor Jane Lynch, one of Freed’s clients, described the book as “star-crossed lovers but with astrological lessons and a magical conclusion” in a review Freed shared with TODAY.com.

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“Friendship is at the core of this book, and I believe is the most foundational basis for any lasting relationship. Jane Lynch says she loves the book because it’s uncynical. Others say they learned so much about love from reading it,” Freed says.

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Though this is her first novel, Freed has previously written multiple books about astrology and self improvement, including “A Map to Your Soul: Using the Astrology of Fire, Earth, Air, and Water to Live Deeply and Fully.”

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Below, read Freed’s interview with TODAY.com about her career as a “psychological astrologer” and writing “Beyond Aquarius.”

 

This interview has been edited.

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What is your approach to astrology and how did you come to define it?

 

Astrology is a non-biased meaning-making system that helps people feel a sense of profound belonging. I think of astrology as a portal to our divine possibilities. It is a tool to help each person find the map of their soul. After coaching people for 40 years, I can safely say that there is something magical and mysterious to this ancient art. I think it is a living symbolic system that reminds people that we live in an animated, enchanted universe. I believe each person has incarnated to contribute their distinct and unique gifts and to face their hardships and overcome them.

 

What do you say to people who don’t ‘get’ astrology?

 

I don’t say much to people who do not get astrology, just as I do not say much to people that don’t get falling in love. The greatest mysteries in life are for people who are willing to see beyond conventional definitions and prescriptions. I have far too many people asking me to work with them for me to be concerned with people that do not have a taste for astrology.

 

How has astrology changed your life and your clients’ lives?

 

Astrology has been my most comforting tool in times of loss and stress and has definitely helped others through times of deep pain and suffering. I noticed that, for my clients, it provides an extremely helpful context to understand the cycles of their life.

 

What is a psychological astrologer?

 

A psychological astrologer is someone who has been trained and certified as a psychotherapist, as well as being certified as an astrologer. Whereas astrology shows the map of the soul, psychology provides the tools and the methods to deal with the inevitable difficulties and joyful expansions in our life.

 

How did you come to have such a star-studded clientele?

 

I came to have such a star-studded clientele because people found my work to be so helpful. They referred me to their friends and family. It turns out that celebrities and famous people have families and friends that look out for them!

 

Once I had coached a few famous people, it became inevitable that my circle of clients would include more high profile people.

 

How did you use astrology in your novel?

 

Each chapter of my novel begins with an astrology transit. This cycle forecasts the content of the chapter. I also dig into the basics of the astrology charts of the two main characters.

 

Are astrology and fiction a natural fit?

 

They were definitely a natural fit for me because I believe that fiction and the divine mysteries are here to uplift us and inspire us.

 

Was there a time when you didn’t think this would work — combining astrology and fiction?

 

I am a fairly confident and spontaneous and courageous person. It never occurs to me that great ideas cannot be worked out with hard work, support and perseverance.

 

Do you hope people learn about astrology by reading the book?

 

I hope that people will be inspired to love more deeply and feel a little bit closer to understanding the magic of the planets, the luminous canopy of our lives.