Fabulous Giveaway
This is what my bedside table looks like only it’s got various oils & things as well (Ylang-Ylang, Lavender, Chamomile)…
To celebrate the release of the next volume in the Earth/Gaela series, Kim Falconer and I are giving away a stack of signed books.
The official press: Bestselling author Kim Falconer lives in Byron Bay and writes epic science fantasy novels about real people in extraordinary situations—nano-technology, witchcraft, quantum computers, fast horses, hot bards, stunning tattoos and environments on the brink of destruction. Her work is contemporary and ancient, dark and uplifting, shocking and enlightening.
With two trilogies out through HarperCollins Voyager Worldwide, Falconer delivers searing and imaginative fiction. Grounded in heavy research in magic and ancient astrology, her novels are fast making her a leading name in Australian speculative fiction.
Unofficial: I adore Kim, think she is a witch-genius of the highest order and love her books.
To win the physical book or the Kindle version of your choice, go in the draw by answering this question:
Pictured are Rosette, her familiar Drayco and Treeon Temple Swordmaster, Rowan An’ Lawrence.
What Sun Sign do you think he is and why? Be sure to let us know which book you want and which version, Kindle or paperback.
Winners will be drawn & notified with the New Moon on Monday & books shipped on September 1. Have Fun!
CAPRICOOOORN! – well rising at least but I’d say sun as well – check the cheekbones, he’s a “master” of swords, got that – “i’m a loner” vibe combined with beautiful old school traditional regalia and serious skills, he’s in front leading, obviously suffused with ancient magic and probably quite hard on himself.
I’d like the first in the series if I am a lucky gem
At first glance I thought Capricorn too. I think it is the steady, determined gaze. He’s setting his goals and will single-mindedly accomplish them.
Swords, robes in red with black all suggest a strong mars. He does look traditional and also kind of earthy, so if not Cap sun maybe Cap mars.
The series sounds fascinating. Will have to check if it’s at the local library, unless I’m lucky to get the first book as well!
I’m with you urthgem. the cheekbones, the strong forehead, the disappearing hairline, the clear noble and stoic countenance, the questing, his head is even bowed from the weight of the world (ie Saturn) resting on his shoulders.
And let’s be honest, he’s essential Michael Stype in martial-arts-monk-drag.
Cancer because he cooks the curry that Rosette craves:) and looks like Yul Brynner in the image above.
I have loved the first two books in the Quantum enchantment series and am itching to read the third, so that would be it… on kindle.
Oh wow was Yul Brynner a Capricorn? I love him!!! Have you seen him with hair? Check The Sound and the Fury with Joanne Woodward.
I thought he was a Cancerian? Now I’ll go check:)
Sorry Joh, you said that, and i read the comments cross eyed. Yes, he’s Cancer. That’s Cardinal, a leader, isn’t it?
Well I’ve never read these books that’s why I want to win one lol. So it’s hard for me to say but he looks kind of Sagittarius the whole bald head and a temple master thing.
I say bald head because he looks like a monk kinda btw
Is there a correct answer to this? Is it written in the books or does Kim Falconer have a sign in mind not actually printed. Also if I did win I would love to start at the very beginning with the first book. But I doubt I would after Andromeda’s post which would be a worthy winner .
You guys are posting some fabulous answers. Yes, Rosette and Nell discuss the Sword Master’s astro . . . they speculate about his ascendant but Nell knows his Sun and Moon sign.
I have charts for all my main characters as the books are woven with a lot of astrology. Plus, it’s a great reference when I’m working out how a character might respond to various challenges, relationships etc.
I have not read any of these as i usually am not interested in the swords and sorcery thing but i m all about change now so i would like to read the first in the series and i think the swordmaster looks Aries.
Two more things: I am more interested in the cat familiar! I want one!
If he is a swordmaster, wouldn’t he be worried about his cloak catching on a bush? Just saying.
Aries: and he’s going FIRST. Clearly to protect the lady
Cancer, I’ve known one closely that thought he was a strong brooding warrior. Haven’t read Kim before, so i’d love a good introduction book, the physical book please…. so I can smell and touch the paper and ink
I agree… ink on paper. Preferrably handwritten, first edition, bk1. Thanks!! Hee.
He really oozes the Lord of the animals card in the Sacred Circle tarot. Some reason I think Scorpio, but have only ever known one scorp male. Cernunnos, the horned god. And fire, but with an earthy green.
About a Man on the Path of the Stray:
=======================
He is a Cancerian Lunarian Man
Brooding, soulful and slightly tan.
Perhaps he is a Scorpio Ascending?
With a depth that is powerful -
Almost heart-rending!
Saggitarian of Moon
A dreamer and wanderer,
Gazer at stars and thoughtful ponderer.
Yes, yes I know, you asked only his Sun,
But of winners we know, there is only one.
P.s.
Must add with his Leo MC,
He is quite the catch, he couldn’t not be!
Therefore his 7th is ruled by Taurus
He is devoted to one
who stands out from the chorus.
I’m hoping it’s me,
(though he looks like my hub)
he seems really cute
He’d fit in my hot tub.
Book 1 Paperback.
awesome!
Well I give up right now
I reckon Scorp – that sword is a sting in the tail if ever I saw one. But your poetry is tres amusing !! So I shall bow out not-very-gracefully grinding my teeth slightly that you beat me to it. And so well…
Oh and my one consolation is that I have a friend who both looks and vibes like this
That would be an awesome consolation, DT
If it was people’s choice I’d vote you the winner
I was going to say Scorp. His robe looks like a Scorp tail and the sword is ready to sting. But it was his bald head that gave it away for me, all that extra testosterone must = sexy Scorp
nice one Andie !! xx
Thank you guys, thats sweet.
Andromeda, that’s perfect. Hope you get a book at least to take to your hot tub!
Well I think he is an Aries Sun and may have a Virgo rising Moon in Aquarius. He is a Mars like personality with the focus of a Virgo and the usual qualities of an Aquarius Moon. I do not know the books so the first seems appropriate is I win. Thanks
The password is not working for daily horoscope for me, nor have I got the new one VIA email. I see mm has posted the password on fb for 12 hours, has anyone’s got that problem? My desperate need to find answers to my problems in the horoscope will have to go unsatisfied at this time : (
Oh got them now, no worries!
I think he is Pisces man. He has pisces tilt to the head – open and listening. He is sensitive, which is shown by his swordsmanship and fact that he is wearing open necked sort of thicked layered robe thing with an open neck. Good looking and pisces sort of jaw thing going on. Dunno? Maybe. I would like the first book in series please – Path of the Stray – an dhes obviously a bit spiritual.
Aries sun sign. warrior,focused, red and black robing, mark/scar on face.
Protective mode, point person… knife drawn at the ready!
The feeling of no nonesense.
Never read any of the books so the first one in paper form will do nicely!!
This is fun!!
Inger
He looks a lot like my ex-husband, who was a pagan Buddhist, in posture and attitude, so I am going to say Scorpio, with extra Scorpio on the side. Sensitive, yes, but badass in a subtle, quiet way (like the founder of Aikido, who was described in combat as “like fighting with an empty shirt”), and with a complete inner certainty. And also in favour of dramatic regalia and “bells and smells” spiritual practices. I’ve not read any of the books, so the first of the series would be my choice, in Kindle form if available in Canada, otherwise dead tree.
He feels like Taurus to me, although that may be rising.
He looks like a taurus to me . He is standing there as steady as a rock. He doesn’t look like he’s going to start doing fancy Karate moves, he looks like he moves slow and deliberately. His eyes are dark too.
Hi, new to commenting here but have been checking it out for a few weeks now. It’s something I look forward to every morning
He seems like he’s got an earthy energy going on. Most likely a Cap- v. serious, dedicated, calm, and collected (high cheekbones!). I agree w/virgo squared he must have at least mars in cap.
If I were lucky enough to win I’d like the 1st book in the series.
Welcome Kata!
I believe Swordmaster An’ Lawrence may be a Pisces guy. There’s some ambivalence in his posture, that bow of the head. Whatever his role in his own story, it may have been thrust upon him by a twist of fate.
This guy in the picture may be blessed with physical strength and beauty but he is unsure of himself and with that comes the need to control and manipulate. Rosette seems like she is keeping a healthy boundary and distance and her sword is at the ready too. Her animal friend is like a buffer between them.
Pisces men are dependable friends but if they get the sense you’re about to ascend to a slightly more positive view of oneself and seeking a higher vibe, they’ll most likely run to the beer store to rummage through a basket of sell-offs. Looks to me like he might want to help protect Rosette but doesn’t believe he deserves her as a mate. He’ll use his own chiron wounds as an excuse to keep his distance and if she makes a move, he won’t respect her for liking him.
So Pisces.
Aquarius. Gut reaction. I think it must be because of the robes, I can’t imagine any other male sign wearing robes–even if they live in a fantasy reality where robes are the appropriate garb. However he definitely has a strong mars, what with the protective warrior vibe going on, so Aries or Scorp Rising? I can see a Scorp guy getting into the whole zen warrior vibe more so than Ram-man so I’m going to go with Scorp Rising too…I mean just look at that intensity.
Paperback Path of the Stray. Sounds like the title of my life right now.
At first I said, Cancer. That was my instinct… something about the nose and the dark, sensitive profile. Also, I’ve known a few Katakas to be into the nobility and chivalry of protecting a lady while waving around their great big… blade of steel. (ahem)
But then I looked at his robe, trailing along the ground and getting ready to get stuck in that thorn bush, and I thought… knowing the vagaries of my own sun sign… this dude is DEFINITELY a Pisces.
I want the first book, because I haven’t read any of them.
Love it. Bring on the big blade of steel, I say.
Totally OT here but I hope you guys on the Northeast U.S. are staying safe from the earthquake!
Thanks YotF! I’m in New Jersey and felt it. It lasted about 30 seconds and sounded like big rocks were falling on the roof and rolling away. Took me a moment to figure out what was going on (NJ not exactly being a hot zone for quakes), as I stood in the kitchen and listened to the cups and dishes clinking in the cabinets for seemingly no reason. Then I realized the floor and walls were vibrating, such a weird sensation! Like two subway trains are rolling over and under your house at the same time. Thankfully no damage though and that seems to be the case in most places from what I’ve heard so far.
These are such wonderful comments. I love how you are analyzing it all so minutely. An’ Lawrence would love that too!
Aha! Alright, so I’ve never read any of the books. I don’t know if they would even be available for purchase in the US (as I don’t have a kindle) or if this contest extends to the US, but my Scorpy sense just tingled when I read that “An’ Lawrence would love that too!” THAT to me seems like you’re giving a clue, to say that the character appreciates the deep probing and scrutiny of one’s psyche, and who better than a zen-like spiritual martial arts master to contemplate the deep philosophical questions of the universe. Judging purely from this picture I would say Scorpio. He couldn’t be Capricorn because well…Cappies climb UP mountains and he’s descending downhill in this illustration. His gaze is cast down, not up and out like her’s. He’s withdrawn from the world around him, introspective, thinking deep thoughts while she’s opening up to it and taking in all that her senses can gather. He’s wearing red (close enough) robes edged in black sleeves. Red and black are Scorpio colors. And the shaved head, I do know a handful of Scorpio guys with shaved heads. Not bald from having lost their hair, but shaved intentionally as part of a minimalist aesthetic. Scorpios are all or nothing, afterall.
As for other plantetary influences, maybe some Virgo for the discipline needed to master swordplay. Possibly some Capricorn for that reason too and because he has the expression that whatever he’s doing is “work” and that he’s toiling through it. Maybe Aries for the physicality and leadership aspects involved. If he’s living a monastic zen-like life style than I don’t see how a Cancer could cope with the lack of comfortable clutter, or a Taurus with the lack of luxury and richness. But I’m thinking more along Buddhist lines, and maybe his setting is more palace like and opulent. Those robes look more ornamental and suited to meditating on a silken cushion than the sort of attire you’d wear to go romping in the hillsides. However, a crab being called away from their cozy abode to lead someone through the hills might be irked enough to brood as he seems to be doing.
Overall though I go with Scorpio. A Scorpio would like that everyone was “trying” to figure them out. Although, being figured out too easily (if at all) and losing our mysterious allure and intrigue is something we don’t like!
I’ll take Book One, Series One…if there’s a chance to receive one.
Unless he’s shouldering a mobile to his ear, this man is a Pisces. He’s alert and receptive to the subtle forces which guide his warrior side to action. He possesses an inner tension between mystic and warrior. His dress camouflages his sensitivity.
I love how balanced this little group is.
She is very ethereal – looking up, looking like she is floating, communicating with her comrades in the other dimensions while the veil is at its thinnest for the day. Getting her info required for the journey they are on and what ever draws them forth with such a urgent and determioned power.
He is grounding so intently like it is his job to keep them all from floating off into that protal. He also can hear the whisper through the portal and is already putting together the action plan in his mind. He is using his vast store of power to send forth energy to triumph.
mmm power to ground, power to know, power to warp the energy of the forward time. The focus, the intensity yet also the sensitivity. What astro scape was it when he emerged into this dimension, this body…..
I would have to say air sun/mercury, most likely Aqua. The focus and obvious mental construction is above and beyond. Perhaps a powerful conjunction that crosses aqua and pisces which accounts for extrordinary sensitivitys and amazing mind power. Perhaps Sun/mercury/neptune/moont conjunct with the sun and mercury in aqua and neptune and Moon in Pisces. I would have to say that there is a also a strong earth force at play, perhaps a grand earth trine. Definately Mars, maybe Saturn and Jupiter. Perhaps Jupiter conjunct venus in Taurus, Mars in Cap and Saturn in Virgo.
Add an Aries Rising for the fire in his eyes with Uranus conjunct his AC and in Aries.
I just really want to know more about what they are up to and so will be reading the books anyway, can’t wait.
My astro knowledge is limited to my chart and observing those closest to me – but here it goes!
I am going for Sun Sign of the Twins as I feel the Temple An’ Lawrence is different to Nells Rowan – but not is a split kind-of-a-way, a two sides of the same coin thing (my experience with Geminis). I think his rising sign is the Scorpion – especially as Mars would be the ruling planet of Scorp on Gaela. I think The Sword Master has trained past the Scorpion and the Dove aspects of the sign and demonstrates the Eagle aspect. I think his Moon must be in a fire sign – when he reaches Earth I think he still has that resolve to move forward though his emotional state must be pretty haggard.
Thanks for the opportunity, that was fun! I am reading Path of The Stray at the moment and am looking forward to the new book!
Too Late, just ordered Journey by Night only yesterday coincidentally.
So enjoyed the other 3 even though i read book 3 instead of 2 and became
a little confused, knowing i had missed some crucial events to the whole story.
Brilliant plots and characters.
Think he’s an Arian-Scorp like persona.
Scorpio – deep, moody and passionate. He is an intense and private individual – the mystery surrounding his presence only adds to the allure. I’d give him a Virgo or Capricorn moon because he carries himself with a practicality that comes from an earth sign, and his skill with the sword says to me that he is highly self-disciplined and expects perfectionism in all he strives to achieve.
This is fun, there is so much in this lovely cover illo… My guess, he is:
Aries sun – the brow, the martial red and black, the sword, the leader
Cap rising – the cheekbones, the title, the mysticism, the curry (all the Cap men I know are good cooks
)
Scorp moon – the brooding air, the suggestion of veiled power
Path of the Stray in hard copy has been on my wish list for ages now…
Who did the illustration? It’s very beautiful.
You can see all the cover art here,http://www.kimfalconer.com/all_coves.html
Cliff Nielsen did the covers on the first three books and my son, Aaron Briggs, did the next three.
I am so loving your answers!
Ares Sun & Virgo Rising, possibly Cap moon. Why? Just a feeling but may be projecting . . . reminds me of someone I know
Aries (or sag) sun, aqua moon, scorpio rising ?
Definitely an Aries. He’s got his grip firmly on the hilt of his sword, ready to engage in some kick ass neuromancer martial arts. His head is bald but only because he’s completely ruled by his head as an Aries is – there’s less to get in the way of his brilliance and his connection to the cosmos. His steely gaze is set on the next horizon to conquer and he leads the troupe with a fierce cause to set the world on fire…in a good way. A Prometheus looking for the next god to outsmart.
The Spell of Rosette in paperback for sure.
I think Gemini. Very first thought upon seeing the shaved head. (Maybe based on old associations w friends IRL.)
the picture seems like he’s (and she) on a mission to find people, important people, maybe they don’t know who yet, to talk to …to make some important connections. Is that a book he’s holding?
Not sure about the lady. Maybe she’s a scorp, someone with a foot in the other world, and he is her spokesperson for at least this one event.
then again I suppose anyone crossing a mountain range carrying swords and wearing cloaks are on a mission to find something? people optional?
Hang ON. Not trying to hedge my bets here, and it does seem a little obvious, but mountain range…mission…swords and cloaks (cloak and dagger? more mediaeval)…in the company of a beautiful adventuress with a giant black cat… surely…SAGGITARIUS??
She gazing upwards is the ethereal one and he with downward gaze is bold protective & practical – virgo sun (perfect folds in his sleeves, giving service) leo merc & venus (can’t help making a generous offer to guide & protect a lady in need – altho he feels a bit chagrined about it at this juncture !!) Kataka moon (bald head, soft face, kind) scorp neptune (delusions of a life/death quest) & aires mars (sword-master)
The mountain behind him is giving an appearance of horns on his head or perhaps its a fools hat ? I’d say cap rising and draconic sun in aqua.
Path of the Stray pls, as its the path I’m on too !!
Back again!
Sun in Ceres (Virgo) and Moon in Scorpio – couldn’t resist following the breadcrumb trail via FB
(The Sword Masters Sun and Moon are an exact swap of mine, interesting!)
And MM fans if you haven’t read any of Kim Falconers books, with the core themes she explores in her books I am confident you’ll really like them!
wasn’t this a guessing competition…?
PS I can’t believe I was so wrong about the signs.
Is that the answer or another guess? I thought there was some Virgo in there somewhere. Takes a Sun Scorp with Virgo Moon to pick out a Virgo Sun with Scorp Moon I guess, lol.
Sorry guys, didn’t mean to present as a party pooper! My second guess could well be a red herring!
) *is that the sound of hearty backpeddling?*
I personally would hazard to say that once An’ Lawrence was set free apon he page the determined his own reality – or perhaps set about forming a new/alternate one…
Anyway, IMHO there is no right or wrong when it comes to fishing for clues via the cylces of the planets in our solar system, for they too are only clues in the greater scheme (imho again, obvioulsy
We still have until the New Moon to convince the judges!!
I am very excited to hear that Journey by Night is all about Nell/Kali!
BB all!
Happy New Moon everyone! Your answers astound me. Really spot on! (and this is just the artist’s conception!) Mystic and I loved them all, esp your logic and wit!
We have some winners, but first, here is an excerpt from The Spell of Rosette that tells all. It’s a convo between the witch, Nellion, and her apprentice Rosette.
***
Who’s the Sword Master?’
‘An’ Lawrence,’ Nell said evenly.
‘What’s his chart like? Would he be a good teacher?’
‘The sun in the sign of Ceres, conjunct Saturn.’
‘Meticulous. Refined, strong and exacting?’
‘To say the least.’
‘Moon?’
‘Scorpion.’
She whistled. ‘Intense?’
‘Very.’
‘He’d like me?’
Nell murmured, ‘I imagine he would . . .’
‘And he’s from?’
‘From the east, Rosette — beyond the fields of Corsanon.’ She smiled. ‘He learned his art from the priestesses of Timbali, many years ago.’
‘Before the Corsanon wars?’
‘And during.’
‘Only initiates with great potential can train with Timbali witches. Isn’t that true, Nell? Either that or they’re descendants of the old monarchy . . .’ She looked at Nell’s lips. Her smile was twitching. ‘Is he of that line?’
Nell nodded.
‘Incredible! I thought they were all dead.’ . . .‘Is he married?’
Nell shook her head. ‘A free spirit, that one.’ An’ Lawrence is from the ancient line, just like his mother and father before him.’ Nell muttered under her breath, ‘And demons if he doesn’t know it.’
***
How awesome that you tuned into the earthy or Capricorn element (Sun/Saturn) and the Scorpio. Ceres in Gaelean Astro is Virgo and in the chart I created for this character he indeed has Mars in Aries, Jupiter in Cancer and Node in Gemini!
The winners are:
Belinda
Andromeda
Urthgem
Please email me Mystic Book Giveaway in the title and tell me the book you are after, the format (kindle or paperback) and where to send. (enchantment at kimfalconer dot com)
Thank you everyone for this most excellent discussion!
xxKimxx
Wow, Kimmy, that’s awesome! I really look forward to getting into your books and reading some clever astro impulsed writing. As a fellow Le Guin fan, I am sure I will adore, especially from the above excerpt. Thank you, thank you, will be in touch, Xx.
You’re very welcome! Sending this week!!!! xxx
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