Sunday Snippet: Quell the Boom

Yeesh. We're already halfway through the month and I have barely scratched the surface on holiday stuff. In all fairness, I'm not really feeling it this year. There's just too much terrible going on from mass shootings to the kidnapping of people off the streets. Good will toward man doesn't seem to be a thing anymore … unless it's a specific type of man.

Ohio is super cold and snowy right now. We got about six inches last night and the temperature plummeted down to single digits. It's in the teens at the moment. Won't last long. We're supposed to be in the mid-fifties by Thursday. Seriously.

Work projects are moving along. I'm finishing up a proofread and working on a copy edit. I have another new project getting ready to start soon and another copy edit coming next week. I also have the memoir that I'm reviewing as the author makes changes.

I got a few of my regular shows watched this week. I'm still in a blah place and haven't been able to dedicate the time to viewing. I did get a good bit of my mountain of laundry completed, which is a huge accomplishment. I have a new hanging rack I want to get set up but can't until I get the backlog of clothes cleared.

I did finish up Foyle's War and will be starting a new season this week. The next one only has two episodes, which means they might be a little longer. If that's the case, I might be breaking the episodes into two chunks.

I also got the season finale of Beyond Paradise in. I wanted to get it watched before the holiday special and I got it done. Really hope there's some good stuff around the corner for Esther and Archie. My fingers are crossed. Also … Martha and Humphrey are really great foster parents. It hurts my heart every time they send one of their fosters back.

In an odd twist, I caught a holiday episode of Poirot. Thoroughly enjoyed the mystery even without Hastings and Miss Lemon or Inspector Japp. Gotta say the Egyptian prince being a complete prat ended up being fun to watch. I would not have blamed Poirot if he lost his calm and thwacked that guy on the head.

That's it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Quell the Boom, a novella that brings a couple together when they have to catch a mad bomber.

Here's the miniblurb:

Quinna Joltz and Efran Pendragon, experts in diffusing magical bombs, tend to let their rivalry take center stage, but when an unbalanced wizard plants devices that can bring down their entire city, they agree to work together. The adrenaline-filled race finally gives them some perspective and a little bit of common ground to share.

And a preview snippet…

Efran Pendragon did a slow walk around the hex bomb suspended from the ceiling joists of the old barn. "Tricky son of a bitch." And way harder to assess than the previous two explosive devices he'd diffused earlier this month.

Folding his arms across his chest, he stared upward. No way to tell if levitating would trigger the device. And no way to tell if there were any trip-wire spells surrounding the bomb. If he tried to cut it down to see if he could diffuse on the ground, it could blow up, taking him and the barn with it.

Exhaling on a hard breath, he ran multiple simulations through his brain, trying to envision the safest way to handle the situation. "Gonna be a two or three step process." A possible solution settled on the edge of his mind.

He brought the idea into focus, carefully examining the pros and cons of each move. First step … dampening spell. If the bomb triggered, at least the damage would be contained … to him.

Next would be a spell to disengage the bomb from the rafters. "This part is gonna be a pain in the ass." A wrong word or phrase could send the thing crashing to the floor, which the dampening spell wouldn't stop.

The last part … getting it somewhere safe to either diffuse or trigger had him a little stumped. He couldn't risk translocation or teleporting, but maybe…

A smile curved his lips. "I can cloak it until I'm clear of the building and in a safe spot." Yeah, that could work.

Centering his mind, he began a long series of incantations and didn't stop until he had the explosive device outside and well away from the barn. Gently lowering the bomb, he kept the dampening spell active then ran like hell once it touched the ground. The loud boom made his ears ring but otherwise did no harm … at least not to him.

But the field now had a small crater strewn with debris from the explosion.

He approached with caution and carefully picked though the pieces, gathering what might be useful for his bosses at Hampstead. No doubt they'd be in conference with the team from Briarcliff.

Which probably meant a joint operation. "And I know who they'll stick me with. Quinna Joltz." Just thinking about her gave him heartburn.

She always, always, had an answer. Even if she didn't have a clue. He'd never met anyone who spent so much time being snarky and obnoxious.

Heading toward the road, he decided a nice, long walk would do him good. "Give me plenty of time to wrap my head around the idea of working with Quinna."

Why did such a gorgeous creature have to be a massive pain in the ass?

This one is a lot of fun to write. Efran and Quinna have a lot more in common than they think.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Protect the Target

Well, the first week of December is in the books, and it ended up being super busy for me. I had a follow-up appointment with my primary care doctor, and we went over the results from the colonoscopy. While everything looks okay, I have to go back for another scan in six months. Um … yay? Bleh. I also have several moles we're going to remove in January and my blood pressure is still a little high so I'm starting meds for that. All in all, a productive appointment.

I'm not juggling as many work projects, but I have a tricky copyedit that I need to do some research on and a proofread that's due next week. I also have reading to do for the developmental edit of the memoir. I also have two more projects waiting in the wings. I like the idea of having a strong end to the year.

I did not get much viewed this week. I've been in a bit of a slump and just needed a break. I did do some binge watching of Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries, My Life Is Murder, and I got a bit more the of Foyle's War episode watched.

Other than that, I had adulting to do like check insurance coverage for the procedures I need to have and paying bills. I hate how much time that stuff eats up.

That's it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Protect the Target, a novella that puts the main characters is harm's way and they use subterfuge to outsmart their opponent.

Here's the miniblurb:

Noya Vix is a walking target with a lot of magical factions coming after her, the most persistent being Lenj Gottman, who wants to exploit her precognitive ability. Booth Wanderlux is her number one protector, but he's got issues with keeping Noya out of harm's way because she refuses to lay low until Lenj is caught.

And a preview snippet…

Noya Vix focused on the series of runes and oghams just inside the veil of a shadow glade. "This could be the one." Closing her eyes, she calmed her breathing and opened her mind.

Images shuffled in her head and thoughts tried to intrude, but she shut the door on them and only allowed the visual array prominence. Three pieces clicked into place, but the others didn't.

Exhaling on a sigh, she silently cursed the lack of progress. "Dammit." She started to uncross her legs but a hand on her shoulder kept her sitting down.

Booth Wanderlux crouched beside her. "We've got company again." He motioned for her to follow him, staying low to the ground.

She got to her knees and crawled behind his retreated form. "How the fuck did they find us this time?" She hadn't told anyone which shadow glade they would be checking.

Booth grunted but said nothing. He used his preternatural ability to lead them through the veil and into safety. No doubt he'd have plenty to say once they cleared the danger zone.

Noya would give up her precognitive skill if it meant making Lenj Gottman lose his major hard-on for her. The man made life more of a hell for her than trying to find a new glade for her mage brethren. He figured if he could control her, he'd be able to become the de facto leader of the society.

She huffed out a breath. "Over my dead body." Which, yeah, could become her reality if Booth didn't have her back.

Gottman represented everything terrible happening in their current home. Depleted resources, unbalanced representation, and a forceful consolidation of power against everything she held dear. Their entire system teetered on the brink of disaster … all because of one man.

Booth shifted carefully through the veil, leading Noya out into the dim light of dusk in their current glade. Clasping her hand, he stuck close to the tree line until they cleared the boundary of the property and entered the relative safety of their estate grounds. She trudged beside him, taking the stone path up to the house.

Outside the door, she tugged him to a stop. "Do you know how they found us?" Keeping her voice low, she angled her head toward the entrance. "Starkey's gonna have questions." He always did.

Booth lifted a shoulder. "I can only guess, and that's not going to go over well with him." He paused a moment. "The attempts to get to you are weighing on him. He's gonna be ready to take action after this one." Twisting the knob, he pushed the door open.

Noya sighed. "Which means he's going to be in total Grandpa-mode. Great." Not.

Because not only did she have to deliver bad news she'd also have to fight Starkey to keep trying to find a new glade.

Fun times.

I'm having fun with this story even if it's coming together in weird out of sequence bursts.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Price Paid

Final day of November and it's cold and windy outside. We're due for some snow in the next day or so. I'm kind of not prepared. It's been a long week.

Had to prep for the colonoscopy on Monday and I can now commiserate with anyone who's gone through the process. It's not fun. Seriously not fun. By the time I got to the surgery center, I was completely spaced out, which maybe didn't hurt. I have a major phobia of being put under and I was in full freak-out mode. Thankfully, everything went well and even though it was a holiday weekend, I got the test results back and all looks okay. Whew!

Had a full slate of work projects also. I'm a little behind because, honestly, while I should have bounced right back from the procedure, I ended up being out of it until Thursday. I have a copy edit I have to finish up today then I'll have a little breathing room.

I literally watched one of my normal slate of shows this week. I'm hoping to get back on track, but even with breathing room, I've got a busy week ahead. We'll see how it goes.

I did get an episode of Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries in. It was a fun episode that I enjoyed the first time around.

I started an episode of Foyle's War but haven't made it all the way through yet. I'll probably pick up with it this week and finish out the round of my usual shows.

That's it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Price Paid, a novella featuring a couple trying to overcome a betrayal to take down a foe.

Here's the miniblurb:

Reva Bane's actions lead Mitch Vanderman to a lot of harm, but seeking atonement shouldn't cause so much pain. Then again, betrayal sometimes demands a price paid in blood, and Reva is willing to shed some if he'll finally forgive her.

And a preview snippet…

Reva dropped down through the skylight in the council house's residency wing. It's showdown time. More like a sneak attack. She didn't want an audience or a registered visit.

Making her way through the dimly lit hallways, she paused outside Barax's door. According to Alonzo, their leader would be there … waiting on a companion that would not be showing up.

Without preamble, she flung the door open and marched to his room.

Naked and sprawled on the bed, he glanced up when she entered his space. "What the hell are you doing here? I've got someone coming. Unless you want an x-rated show, you'll turn around and leave the way you came in." He grabbed the edge of the sheet and yanked it over his midsection.

Reva snorted. "Yeah … about that. You're date for the evening found something better to do." Shrugging the backpack from her shoulders, Reva unzipped it and dumped the contents at the foot of the mattress.

The color drained from his face, but he tried to salvage his fuck up. "What's that?"

She gave him a hard glare. "Your spy gear. And before you try to deny you planted them, I have the checkout sheet with your signature signing the equipment out." Warming up to her victory, she gave him a sweet smile. "But don't worry. I won't use the information." Waiting a single beat, she pinned him with her gaze. "Yet."

His shoulders slumped with relief. Too bad it wouldn't last long.

She snarled. "But … here are my new ground rules. First, back the fuck off. I'll take on my share of the shit assignments you're going to give me because, frankly, I don't give a damn about anything anymore." Pacing back and forth, she laid out the rest of her terms. "If you even think about trying to fuck with my personal space or my life, I'll use my brand-new trump card." She stopped waved her hand over the equipment. "And possibly a blade on things you'd like to keep." She'd love to slice him to pieces.

He sputtered. "You did not just threaten my life." His eyes narrowed.

She snorted. "Yeah, I did. All you have to do to stay safe is don't be a dick." She gathered her backpack and slipped it back over her shoulders. "I'll give you wide berth, you give me the same, and we'll be copacetic." She turned to leave.

Barax scrambled forward. "I want you to be my queen, Reva."

She whirled around. "We're not fucking royalty, you dumbass. We're hunters." Her jaw clenched. "We have a code. And you broke it. Multiple times. All because I'm not interested in being your bedwarmer." And she never would be.

Barax made a garbled choking sound. "Don't talk to me about breaking code. You shacked up with a rival."

Reva stilled. "And I paid your required recompense even if I didn't owe it." And the thought clawed its way through her on a daily basis.

Barax's mouth dropped open and he roared. "Didn't owe it? How do you figure that?"

Reva counted off, lifting one finger. "Because I never pulled punches out there, regardless of who I slept with." She added a second. "I never talked about ongoing missions." Raised a third. "I never compromised our team." Her hand curled into a fist. "In essence … I. Did. Nothing. Wrong." Her voice dropped to a snarl. "Unlike you, who invaded my space. Who revealed information to the council without following the standard procedure of presenting your evidence to me first." Because he'd have to admit how he got his proof. "And why did you do all this? Because you couldn't blackmail me into your bed." She leaned closer to him. "Your days are numbered, Barax. Let that thought keep you warm at night." Turning, she walked toward the door without a backward glance.

Too bad the brilliant victory over Barax did nothing to ease the guilt of betraying Mitch.

This one is slightly dark, but I love writing the characters. Coming back from betraying someone is a hard challenge.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

 

Sunday Snippet: Prank Police

Another busy week in the books and I'm gearing up for a chaotic ride for the upcoming one. I have a colonoscopy scheduled for Tuesday and, frankly, I'm not excited. But at least it'll be done and over early in the week.

Ohio is still doing the back and forth weather stuff. At least it's not a wild fluctuation. More like fifties one day, high thirties the next. I'm not complaining because it's time for the cool down and I like chillier weather.

I have a slow start to my work week because of the colonoscopy, but I have a full of projects. A copy edit and a design proofread are underway and I should have another copy edit sliding in by midweek. I also have an author Zoom session either Tuesday or Wednesday. I very much enjoy the variety of projects I'm working on. I'm also looking forward to a possible collaboration on a fun idea with a few colleagues sometime soon.

Had an okay viewing week. I had time to hit the back burner shows but found I needed a break. My focus slipped by the weekend and I ended up keeping them on simmer for now.

Started the week with Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries. Season three is kind of a wild ride and I waffle between enjoying having Phryne's dad causing problems and wishing we had more episodes without him.

Caught another episode of Foyle's War and thoroughly enjoyed it. It's one I remember from my first run through of the series. The acting is top notch throughout from beginning to end.

Enjoyed another episode of Beyond Paradise. I love Martha and Humphrey with their foster daughter. Kind of bummed Esther decided to break things off with Archie. Hopefully, that's a red herring.

Watched another episode of Poirot and enjoyed it. I don't have any memories of watching this one before and I always love how terrible Hastings is at Miss Lemon's filing system.

Elementary ended up being excellent. I like Joan trying to navigate having a half-sister. The case also proved interesting. And definitely a little scary.

Caught the season three opener of Batman Beyond. Always fun to see the Royal Flush gang. I'd forgotten how this one ended and I enjoyed it.

Also watched an episode of Lower Decks. I'm very much enjoying how many easter eggs are in this show. Lots of fun!

And that's it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Prank Police, a novella that features a couple getting their comeuppance with a new class of recruits.

Here's the miniblurb:

The mage academy is rife with pranksters, and Zenna Doyle and Kyrk Rydercroft must corral the new recruits when they all test their newfound powers. And to top it off, the couple pulls duty at the worst time—the night of the blue moon when magic is at its strongest.

And a preview snippet…

Holy shit. Sex with Kyrk always satisfied … but the enchantment spell ramped things up to the stratosphere. Which…

She moaned. "Dammit. Wait one—" A wave of utter bliss rolled over her.

Fuck. She had to focus. Or the spell could break containment and spread over the entire campus.

Kyrk grunted. "What the hell, Zenn?" He shuddered then snapped his gaze to hers.

She nodded. "Yeah. We have to … have to …" Gah!

She wanted to rock her hips over his and chase the spiraling pleasure coursing through her veins.

His fingers dug into her hips. "Right. Right. Gonna need your help." He began a low incantation to ward the area under a dome.

Zenna joined the spellcasting, adding her magick to his. Battling the strong desire to give in to the waiting ecstasy, they managed to construct a protective dome over the commons area to keep the enchantment contained to one specific area. And they only had to start over twice.

Barrier secure, Zenna smashed her lips against Kyrk's and gave full rein to the lust threatening to overtake her.

Kyrk hummed low in his throat. "Not gonna last, Zenn. You're too hot for me to have any control." He thrust upward, driving deep.

Zenna hissed out a harsh breath. "Don't care. This spell means we'll be ready to go without a long wait time." Her hips rocked back and forth, increasing in speed.

Kyrk made a garbled sound. "Guh. I'm right there. Come with me…" He worked his fingers between them and found her clit.

Zenna cried out, toppling over the edge and crashing into a wave of orgasmic haze. Kyrk followed right behind her, his thighs going taut. Zenna wrapped her arms around his shoulders, holding on when his legs gave out and he sank to the floor.

Kyrk rested his forehead against hers. "Round one complete. That was … amazing."

She gave a slow nod. "So amazing." Easing her head back, she met his gaze. "Gonna be a wild ride until the sun comes up." At least they had most of the class under one roof.

Kyrk's hand skimmed up along her torso. "Pretty sure we'll enjoy the journey." His mouth ghosted along her shoulder.

Zenna didn't reply … instead, she gave herself over to the magickal power building between them again.

Heh. This story is so much fun to write. Zenna and Kyrk have their work cut out for them.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Place of Honor

It's been a busy week. We're still kind of off-kilter after the loss of our doggo. Our younger one is adjusting and I'm thankful for that. Our vet office is amazing, and they've been wonderful throughout this whole process.

Ohio weather is being very Ohio right now. Warm up, cool down, something kind of in between. I had to clear snow off my car at the beginning of last week. It didn't stick around, which is okay with me. I don't mind snow, but I'm also not quite ready for it yet.

Work was very busy this past week. Had a terrific Zoom meeting with an author and two other members of a team I often work with. We're getting ready to hand over the project for the next steps. Also had another Zoom session with a different author and they're making headway on their memoir. Finished up a developmental edit and we're getting ready to hand that one off also. Had an older project pop back up and I think we have that one resolved. I also finished up a copy edit and started a new proofread.

Not a bad viewing week either. I made it through all of my usual slate of shows. The next two weeks are going to be a little iffy, but I'll make an effort to stay current.

I started with the season three opener of Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries. The introduction of her dad was fun, and I liked seeing Jack show a little jealousy.

Also caught another episode of Foyle's War and I'd forgotten how much of a role Andrew played in this episode. If I remember correctly, we won't see him again for a while.

Watched another episode of Beyond Paradise. I'm enjoying Archie and Esther's romance a lot. I loved Humphrey being in the uncomfortable position of having to question Martha as a suspect to clear her. And I'm so glad Anne finally spilled the beans about her biopsy.

Enjoyed an episode of Poirot. I love Hastings and Miss Lemon investigating and then chatting about Poirot. The lengths he went to to protect the countess kind of charmed me.

Elementary had a great episode. Discovering Joan has a half-sister is interesting. I also love how tangled up everything ended up being. Bringing Mycroft into the equation is a snare that will have some repercussions, I think. Especially with the NSA showing up again.

Caught an episode of Batman Beyond and thoroughly enjoyed it. I remembered it from my original watch. Getting Ace's backstory is great.

Also got to watch another episode of Lower Decks. The characters are starting to gel for me, and Mariner is way less annoying this season. Very glad I stuck with this one.

That's it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Place of Honor, a novella with a dark flair that brings a couple together the hard way.

Here's the miniblurb:

A band of bounty hunters go after urban legends, bagging, tagging, and removing the threat from cities, towns, villages, and sprawling rural landscapes. Wiley Star has a score to settle and Hex Harrigan can't deny her quest for vengeance—but when Wiley lands on the wrong end of a double cross, it's up to Hex to track her whereabouts and save the day, which proves difficult because his personal feelings keep getting in the way.

And a preview snippet…

"We weren't responsible for your sister's death."

By the fifth day of poking at the Reavers, Wiley had taken out half a dozen of the members.

And she finally got one to cough up some intel. "So … who killed her?" If this assclown died before he spilled, she'd lose her mind.

The demon coughed, a trickle of blood leaking from his lips. "Vicious new gang threading their way into town. The … Dark—" Another round of wracking coughs. "D-Darkwings." His breathing got raspy. "Leader's name is Mango something."

Who the fuck are the Darkwings? And why the hell don't I know anything about them?

She twisted her fist in his vest. "Where do I find this gang?" She'd tear several new assholes when she caught up with them.

The demon made a garbled choking sound. "N-no … no clue. You think we haven't tried to? They're like cockroaches. Rarely come out into the daylight." His breath seized in his throat and he went lax.

Wiley growled. "Dammit." At least she had a name.

She could hunt this group down and avenge her sister's death.

Wiley stood up from her crouch to find herself surrounded by a group of demons in full motorcycle regalia. The Darkwings, no doubt. At least she didn't have to waste time looking for them.

The leader, this Mango something, had an oily smile. "Fuck. Wish I'd've known there were two of you before we took your sister out." His black gaze gave Wiley a slow once-over from head to toe.

Wiley snarked a comeback. "You're gonna wish you'd never laid eyes on me, jackass." She lifted her chin and held his gaze.

Mango snorted. "I don't think so, sweet ass. Allow me to introduce you to my queen." He stepped to one side.

A gorgeous vision of a woman eased forward and moved to stand toe to toe with Wiley. "You're a beautiful and strong woman." She cocked her head to one side and inhaled deeply.

Wiley found herself doing the same, tilting her head to mimic the woman's actions. And instead of inhaling, Wiley exhaled because the air forcibly exited her lungs. Fuck. A succubus. And she's putting me under her control. Try as Wiley might, she could not look away from the woman.

The woman straightened her head. "My name is Anissa, queen of the Darkwings. You will swear fealty to me."

Wiley tried to snort but couldn't. She expended every effort to look away and break the hold Anissa had on Wiley.

Instead, she slid deeper into thrall. "I swear fealty to you." Dammit!

Anissa's lips curved. "Very good. You'll now swear fealty to my king, Mango Sallivan."

Mango moved to stand beside Anissa. He reached out and groped Wiley's breasts. "Let's hear it, sweet ass." He leaned in closer.

Bile rose in her throat and she fought to keep the words from escaping.

He squeezed her breasts harder and jerked her forward. "Now." The order hissed out.

Her monotone voice answered. "I swear fealty to the king." She'd capitulated, held fast by the bondage of her words.

Mango made a low humming sound deep in his throat. "Yeah you do. You're gonna be a star attraction for me and my crew." His forked tongue darted out, and he grasped his crotch, rubbing the hard ridge under the black leather.

Wiley blinked, not caring about the implication of his gesture. "As you wish, my king."

He let out an evil laugh and cupped her chin in his hand. "Damn straight, honey pot." He sealed her fate by slanting his mouth over hers to the cheers of his other companions.

This story is coming together and it's a challenging tale to write. I love Wiley and hate putting her through the wringer she's going to go through but she double dog dared me to.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: The Pit and the Pyre

I'm going to start with a doggo update. We thought our older doggo was doing better but, sadly, that wasn't the case. The vet took an aspirated sample of her lymph node, and the results came back as cancerous, probably MAST cell. The prognosis is never great for that diagnosis. But we planned to keep her comfortable and spend as much time as we could with her. Unfortunately, she took a turn for the worse and on November 7, we let her go to the great beyond. Hardest decision to make but she stopped eating and couldn't really afford to lose more weight than she already had. My heart hurts right now, but we're trying to ease the loss for our other doggo and that's been a blessing.

Obviously, even with everything going on with our dog, work continued. I finished up a proofread and have a new one scheduled for the upcoming week. I also have a couple of client calls and I'm excited about those. I'm in the middle of a copy edit for an opening book to a new series and it's going well.

I had an okay viewing week. I made it most of the way through my regular shows, with the exception of Lower Decks. I'll get back to it this week. I hope.

Finished up the second season of Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries. I love the Christmas in July episode so much. There's some subtle groundwork being laid for the final season and I appreciate being able to look back and see it.

Caught another episode of Foyle's War. I really wanted to smash everyone working against Foyle in the face. The arrogance of the military spies grated hard on me this time around.

Beyond Paradise ended up being a lot of fun. I like the romance with Archie and Ester. And I love Humphrey and Martha with their fostering. I'm a little put out with the mom being so cagey. I get the why but it's annoying. I'm kind of hoping she ends up confiding in Zoe.

Watched another episode of Poirot and enjoyed it. I loved having him hoodwinked into solving a murder because an author wrote himself into a corner. And having the author kind of save the day was fun.

Elementary ended up being a great episode. I love Sherlock putting forth effort in his relationship and getting it wrong for the right reasons.

Enjoyed another episode of Batman Beyond. Loved Bruce and Max working together to find Terry. I had some vague memories of this one but didn't remember everything that happened.

That's it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from The Pit and the Pyre, a novella featuring a second chance at romance with an added twist.

Here's the miniblurb:

Virgo Sohn walks through five years of hellfire to get back to Gunn Gladstone, but she finds him married to Glynne Allmore. Accepting the hand dealt, Virgo refuses to explain the circumstances of her return until Glynne succumbs to a raging virus and Gunn feels he should join her on the pyre.

And a preview snippet…

After the exchange with Gunn, Virgo had no idea how to win the last challenge she faced. "He pretty much hates me, and I can't blame him." But if she wanted to remain on the mortal coil, she had to win him back.

Nothing like an impossible hurdle to jump over. Or maybe flaming hoops to jump through would be a better analogy considering the hellfire council gave her an expiration date.

Virgo walked up the path from the caverns toward the town proper. "At least I gave him something to chew on. He won't be able to resist trying to figure out the how, and that gives me time to work on the why." A difficult task, but one worth the effort.

What a journey to find such a simple answer.

Virgo spent the first three years of her trial trying to become a better person for Gunn. She finally realized she didn't have to change for him. She needed to change for her. So, she atoned for her family's sins, brandishing the flames of hellfire inward to scorch the past and direct her righteous truth where it needed to be. At home.

She snorted. "But I didn't come out unscathed." Nope … she carried a burden, one that could make or break her acceptance back into the assembly.

Her heavy load had two unequal sides. 

Crossing the main thoroughfare, she darted into the green quad, one of her favorite spaces. A place where she could think and ponder and hopefully come up with a way to expose and weed out her naysayer. The one who started the crusade against her.

She found her favorite spot, a little copse of trees with a comfortable bench and lots of quiet.

Sitting on the warm wooden surface, she heaved a sigh. "Vausch Minslow is my second biggest problem." The bigger obstacle would always be Gunn.

Minslow had left her alone since her return, but he only bided his time. He'd make a move soon … because he wouldn't have a choice. She planned to force his hand in the very near future. Her task to bring him down would even the score.

Her lips twisted. "He's been working hard behind the scenes, using Gunn's distraction with Glynne to make headway." The man wanted to send the assembly back to the dark ages and allow the use of black magick.

The hellfire council had major issues with the idea. They controlled the balance of light and dark. The Maiden Flame—head of the council and a badass of epic proportions—didn't appreciate Minslow's backhanded methods for trying to get around a parameter set in place centuries ago.

Virgo only had one concern regarding Vausch. "If he talks the quorum into banishing me, my mission ends, and I'll succumb back into the flames." She'd need to tread carefully and expose him at the right moment … whenever that might be.

The bigger and harder challenge would be Gunn. "I can tell him about Minslow but I can't let on about anything else." The Maiden Flame gave firm instructions about what Virgo could and could not reveal.

Surely, Gunn would soften his stance. He loved Virgo once. She could win him over again. She had to remind him and get him to remember how good they'd been together.

Before she walked away … her biggest sin.

Her worst crime … not trusting the love they shared.

Her penance wiped her family's misdeeds clean away. But the fact she turned her back on Gunn rested wholly and completely on her.

And the Maiden Flame made resolving that issue the price for Virgo's freedom.

Nothing like giving a guy up then having to make him fall in love with me again.

This story is taking some twists and turns I didn't expect, and I love when that happens.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Picture Perfect

Welcome, November! Honestly, October had great points and not-so-great points. Having a sick pet is not fun. Trying to figure out exactly what's going on isn't either. But she appears to be doing better so that's a plus.

We had a spectacular trick-or-treat night. The weather ended up being cooperative. Chilly but not cold, slightly windy but not gusty, and no rain. The past few years we've had flurries, frigid temperatures, rain, and the blowy, serious wind that makes everyone miserable. Having almost perfect weather is a nice change.

Had an okay work week. I finished up a copy edit and started a new proofread. Finalized a developmental edit with only formatting left to do before it moves over to a copy editor. I have a bit of research to do for the other developmental edit I'm working on and I should have that at least started today.

Not a bad week of viewing. I made it all the way through my current slate of shows. I didn't hit the backburner ones but, again, sick doggo equals a lot of time.

Started with Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries and I'm almost finished with the second season. I really did enjoy the downfall of Jack's former father-in-law. I also loved how disgusted Rosie ended up being with her dad. Christmas episode is up next and it's one I love to pieces.

Caught another episode of Foyle's War and finished out the second season. I'd forgotten Andrew crashed his plane and he had a bit of a romance with Sam. Looking forward to starting the third season.

Watched an episode of Beyond Paradise and thoroughly enjoyed Humphrey and Martha interacting with their new foster. Also quite enjoyed the Ester and Archie banter. I really hope Kelby ends up getting a girl because he's the sweetest guy ever.

Enjoyed an episode of Poirot. A lot of twisty-turns in this one and Poirot getting all bent over Hastings using the bathroom as a darkroom was hilarious.

Elementary ended up being very interesting. I'm kind of wary of Joan trying to get a mole inside Moreland's company. I think it's for protection so Moreland's enemies can't hurt Sherlock and, by extension, Joan. I'm very interested in whether Moreland is setting this up on purpose or if he's just underestimating Joan. Should be fun to find out.

Caught an episode of Batman Beyond and didn't really remember this one. Ended up liking it a lot. Always good to see Bruce out of the manor.

Lower Decks was so much fun. Beckett is growing on me and Boimler isn't annoying me as much either. And the theme song is still stuck in my head. I think it might be my favorite out of all the Trek shows.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Picture Perfect, a novella that pulls a couple back together after one literally goes through a trial by fire.

Here's the miniblurb:

Faeryn Carnes, a fire elemental, crossed through the Shroud, leaving the mortal plane. But when she returned, an unheard of occurrence, Seth Jacobson, an air elemental, is the only person she can count on, which seems impossible because Faeryn believes air and fire can't mix.

And a preview snippet…

Several hours later, Faeryn yawned and glanced over toward Seth. His head bent forward, and his finger moved across the page. Occasionally, he'd stop and highlight a section of the book.

The noise in her head receded a little and her eyes grew heavy. Did she dare try to sleep? Yeah, you need the rest. She hadn't had more than an hour or two at a time since she'd returned.

She focused on Seth, watching him work. Her mind stilled and her brain slipped into slumber. Muted images rolled through her awareness, seemingly on fast forward. An occasional burst of color would pop, and the frame would freeze.

Faeryn crossed the shroud and entered the flames … a woman grasped Faeryn and carried her though the flames … and argued her case in a dark chamber filled with voices … the woman fused herself to Faeryn … Vinard's visage loomed huge and menacing … a man dangled on a precipice, trapped in a cage … more debate raged in the background … the voices rose urgent with anger and determination … the woman faded away … but Faeryn stayed tethered to her … until she crossed through the veil again … not dead but not fully alive either and the incessant buzzing of his voice began.

I am the fire elemental. You are my vessel, and you must defeat—

"Faeryn! Hey, come on. Come back to me." Fear laced Seth's voice. "Breathe, Faeryn. Come on."

Vinard!

Her eyes blinked open and she gasped, coughing and choking on the air rushing into her lungs. Seth's shoulders slumped and he gathered her to his chest. She wrapped her arms around his waist and clung to him. A balm of safety in her perilous world.

He eased back and held her gaze. "You okay? You gave me a scare." His hand cupped her face.

She leaned into his palm. "What happened? What did I do?" Her eyes darted back and forth, taking in the low embers of the fire and the first streaks of light in the sky beyond the window. "How long was I out?"

Seth angled around on the sofa and hauled her up onto his lap. "Most of the night. I figured you needed the downtime and didn't disturb you … until you started talking in your sleep. The words sounded ancient, and I tried to translate but then you went completely stiff and I think you stopped breathing." He shook his head. "Scared the hell out of me."

She'd slept most of the night? Had to be because of Seth. He offered her a safe haven, and she could let down her guard.

She laced their fingers together. "Sorry about that. I can't believe I actually slept most of the night." She huffed out a breath. "What a wild ride, though."

Seth tucked her closer to his side. "Do you remember anything?" His brows arched.

She half-shrugged. "Bit and pieces. I might have some answers but I'm not sure." Her heart twisted. "I feel like they're right there … but also just out of reach." A sigh escaped before she could stop it.

Seth rubbed her shoulder. "That's frustrating but…" He trailed off on a yawn.

Faeryn nudged him. "Maybe you need to get some rest, and we can talk about what I remember when you can think straight." She gave him a wobbly grin.

Seth scrunched down, keeping her in his arms, and pulled a throw off the back of the couch. "That's a plan. And, no, you're not going anywhere. Even if you don't fall asleep, I'll rest better knowing you're here and safe for the moment." He draped the blanket over them.

Faeryn brushed her lips over his jawline. "There's no place I'd rather be right now." Her mouth quirked because he'd already drifted off.

She turned her thoughts to the last moments of her dream. If the vision proved true, she had a large piece of the puzzle … but what would that answer cost her?

I'm kind of happy with how this one is coming together. Faeryn is a fun character to write even if she'd living on the edge right now.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye