Sunday Snippet: Mirror of the Mist

This is going to be a super busy week. The best part is my daughter is graduating from grad school on Friday. I'm so excited for her. And very proud of her accomplishments!

Our weather did the warm up then plummet back down thing this week. Gorgeous, though. Everything is turning green and blooming. I love those first signs of new growth.

Got a lot finished up with work projects. I think I'm getting closer to having a work-life balance again. I hope so because I have a busy May and June coming up and need to get some things done around my house.

Pretty decent week of viewing. I ended up keeping Dark Winds on the back burner because one of my faves dropped new episodes.

I finished up the run of London Kills. I'm quite happy with where things ended up on the chance there won't be any new episodes. I will say I'm not keen on the other DI so I'm hoping that's not going to be a thing if there is more to this series.

Brokenwood Mysteries is back! Watched the premiere episode and it didn't disappoint. Kind of twisty and turny and a little bit bonkers, which is perfect. Also rather nice to see Mike's house again. It's been missing the last few seasons.

Enjoyed an episode of Death in Paradise. I'd seen most of this one and liked it. I'm interested in how things with Selwyn's daughter will end up playing out.

Caught another episode of Beyond Paradise. I'm almost finished with the second season and hope the third will be available soon. Really liked the episode. I loved the interactions with Esther and Zoe. And really loved watching Anne deal with the letdown of finding out her new man is married.

Watched another episode of Batman Beyond. I have vague memories of this one but don't remember enough to know if Blight will end up making a return. My money is on yes.

Finished out the week with an episode of Classic Rugrats and, again, both were new to me. Actually loved the crawl space one. And, weirdly, I really enjoy Taffy.

That's it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Mirror of the Mist, a novella that puts a spin on the Snow White fairytale.

Here's the miniblurb:

An urban riff on Snow White, Cecelia Dumond, a black arts priestess, tasks Dys Hunter to assassinate her counterpart, a mystic oracle named Lyric Song. Dys goes undercover in a fight club to gain access to the powerful beauty. Little does he know, she's the one to lead him home, back to his rightful place as heir to his father's empire.

And a preview snippet…

"Did you accomplish your goal?"

Dys gazed longingly into the mirror he communicated through. "I'm in. I'll sign the contract tomorrow." Which would get him one step closer to the end game.

Her lips curved in a sensual smile. "Excellent. What were your impressions of Lyric Song?" She reclined on her chaise, bending her knee and propping her foot on the end of the seat.

Dys thought a moment before answering. "She's savvy and very much in control." He didn't mention her beauty or the almost instant zing he got when he first laid eyes on her.

Which … bothered him. His loyalty to Cecelia notwithstanding, he'd never been drawn to another woman. Bedded others, yes. Usually at Cecelia's behest. And the reward for doing so never failed to be worth those sanctioned indiscretions.

Cecelia arched her brows. "She rules the roost then? Our intel is accurate on that front?" She shifted her position, draping an arm over the side of the chaise.

Dys nodded. "She makes the decisions. In fact, I have to live on sight for the duration of my first contract." Based on what his guides showed him his quarters would be a step up from the studio apartment Cecelia put him up in.

Cecelia lunged forward. "You what? This information wasn't in the dossier I procured." Her lips pulled into a frown. "A nasty surprise that will make communicating difficult." An angry huff escaped her lips.

Dys arched his brows. "I could use the leverage we have about their side projects. She might back down and allow me to live away from the facility." He'd used that knowledge to get in, but he'd pull the trump again if his mistress required him to do so.

Cecelia waved a hand. "No. For now, follow all instructions you're given. I want you to get close with the two men you called goons. They're inner circle. That's where you need to be." Her irritation eased and she settled back into a sexy pose.

Dys frowned. "Should I attempt seduction? To help gain access to the secret aspects of their other sidelines?" Wouldn't be a hardship if his mistress ordered him to get close with Lyric.

Cecelia's lips curved. "If you're not bedding her within two weeks, something's wrong. No woman should be able to resist your charm … or that prime physique."

Dys basked under the praise … but he also held back his misgivings, something he normally didn't do with Cecelia. Lyric wouldn't be strung along by her libido. She'd made that pretty clear. But … he almost welcomed the challenge of convincing her otherwise.

Cecelia snapped her fingers. "Dys, you have nothing to worry about. She'll fall for you. And you'll be handsomely rewarded when you complete this mission. Never fear." Her legs fell open and she trailed a finger along her stomach.

Dys lifted his chin. "Yes, mistress. I await that moment." He'd succeed and make her happy.

She gave him one of her special smiles. "I will too, my dear one. And I'll find a way to contact you for updates. Until then … remain my loyal subject." She waggled her fingers, and the mirror went back to normal.

Dys shook his head. He missed Cecelia … but didn't have the constant, burning ache for her he normally did when he had to leave her realm. Instead, anticipation filled him for his next interaction with Lyric … he couldn't wait to sign the contract and start his journey with Thune Ultimate Fighting Factory.

I'm having fun with this one. There will be many twists and turns in story for Dys.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye 

Sunday Snippet: Mind the Shadows (a Warlock's Curse novella)

Very long week. Once again, the weather is all over the map, but spring might be peeking around the corner. Or, well, possibly summer. We could see eighty degrees (F) this week.

I might be seeing the light at the end of the tunnel on numerous work projects. I'm kind of excited about a couple of them being closer to the author's publication date. I have several nonfiction projects that have been super challenging but they're great books.

Had a decent viewing week. I did skip my new show this week. Didn't have the mindset to watch. Dark Winds will hopefully return during this upcoming week.

I'm almost finished with London Kills and it's such a good show. I've really enjoyed the way the weekly cases weave in and out of the overall story arc. And the character growth has been well done.

Caught another episode of Death in Paradise with the season twelve holiday episode. Really good storyline! It's fun to get Selwyn backstory.

Watched another episode of Beyond Paradise. Sad to see Anne get caught up in a not-so-great situation. Loved the way Martha handled Zoe's mistake. Also fun to have Humphrey and Martha approved for fostering.

Got blown away by another episode of Elementary. The case ended up being intriguing and the end? Wow. Did not expect that to happen.

Watched an episode of Batman Beyond and enjoyed it. I remember this one from my original run through and loved the call back to Batman: The Animated Series.

Enjoyed another episode of Classic Rugrats. I don't remember either of the vignettes and particularly liked the video game one.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Mind the Shadows, a Warlock's Curse novella.

Here's the miniblurb:

Nadia Iris discovers the terrible truth about her lineage and confronts the man responsible. Her father's dark plan for the future isn't high on her list of things to get done … but reuniting with Falk Ridenour is. Too bad her dad has other ideas for Nadia.

And a preview snippet…

Nadia sank into Falk's embrace. Guh. I've missed him so much. Why not relish the moment? Might be all they would have for a while.

She eased back. "Do you want something to drink? Eat?" Just because her sperm donor thought she lacked civility, it didn't mean she hadn't been taught basic manners.

Falk tilted his head to one side and studied her for a long moment. "Uh-uh. Just want you." His hand slid down her arm and caught her palm in his.

Her heart soared. "That I can arrange. But … not here." She turned and tugged him through the living room and kitchen, leading him out to the backyard and the cozy gazebo. "Don't trust the old man not to have the cottage under magickal surveillance." Entering the large enclosure, she turned and faced Falk.

His eyebrows arched. "This place isn't?" His gaze took in the plush accommodations.

She shook her head. "Not that I've found. I don't think he knows how much I use this space for myself." Or how many personal touches she'd added for protection.

Falk's lips twitched. "Hasn't learned not to underestimate you yet. That's his mistake." He drew her closer. "This is perfect. A small slice of solitude." He cupped her nape and lowered his head to mesh his lips with hers.

Nadia wrapped her arms around him. The world looked brighter now. Like Falk brought the sun and put the color back where it belonged.

Everything with Boris turned gray, dark, and ugly most of the time.

Falk mouth moved up to her ear. "Don't let him invade your space here or harsh your calm." His fingers slipped under her shirt. "It's just you and me. No one else." Inching the fabric upward, he dipped down to flick his tongue over a nipple through her bra.

Right. Boris would not ruin this reunion for her.

Nadia did a slow nod. "Just you and me. No one else." Her fingers undid the button on his pants and lowered the zipper.

Falk flashed a smile. "There you are." He eased her tee up and over her head. "For the next … oh, let's say an hour or so … just be…" His fingers slid her bra straps down. "Focus on your senses." Unhooking the lingerie, he let her take over to remove the garment while he stepped out of his pants and yanked his shirt over his head.

Nadia sucked in a breath. She'd forgotten how much she enjoyed looking at him. Yeah, letting her senses take over added to the heightened awareness running through her veins.

Falk slipped his fingers under her waistband and dragged her leggings down past her hips. She kicked them aside and grasped his hips, needing to be skin-to-skin with him. He cupped her ass and lifted, urging her to wrap her legs around his waist, trapping the hard length of his cock between them.

Her mouth hovered an inch away from his. "I'm so happy you're here…" She slanted her lips over his and thrust her tongue past his teeth.

She didn't come up for air until he settled on the edge of the bed, skimmed his palms along her torso, and kneaded her breasts.

Her head fell back, and she gasped. "I need you so much right now."

Falk nuzzled her throat. "I'm all yours." He leaned back on his elbows.

Nadia grasped his heavy length and rose up bringing her hips forward then sank down. Falk let out a low moan and Nadia made a hum of satisfaction. They fit perfectly together.

Planting her hands on his chest, she rocked slowly over him. "You're all mine…"

I'm so excited about this series. Nadia and Falk are fun to write and I love their vibe.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Mendacium

Geez, halfway through the month already and I feel like I'm stuck in reverse. Not to say I'm not getting anything done. I am. Most of it is work related, which I'm not complaining about. But … I do need to do a better work-life balance. Even my daily oracle card draw is pointing me in that direction.

I'm still buried under multiple projects, and all are making solid progress. I've never had so many nonfiction manuscripts and I'm actually enjoying being able to switch back and forth between the variety of genres there and with my fiction manuscripts. I have a holiday horror story, a romance, and a mystery in fictional work.

Not a bad viewing week. I made it through my usual round of shows did get to add the new show. I enjoyed it and will add it to my current roster. There's one additional show I'd like to work in, but I'm not sure if I'll be able to.

Caught another episode of London Kills and, yep, the beginning of the showdown with David and Vivienne started. Can't wait to see what happens next. Rob and Billie should probably brace for impact.

The new show I started is Dark Winds. So far, really enjoy the premise and the pacing. The acting is top-notch also. I had a sneaking suspicion the new deputy would end up being more than met the eye. Glad I was right about that.

Watched another episode of Death in Paradise and enjoyed it. I'd seen most of this one at some point on Ovation and I liked having the full episode from beginning to end. I'm also enjoying Darlene a lot. Glad they added her to the team.

Enjoyed another episode of Beyond Paradise. It's so much fun watching Martha's mom going on dates. I'm also interested in how things shake out with the fostering situation. Very cool to have some Margo backstory also.

Caught an episode of Elementary and I'm kind of sad Kitty is headed for parts unknown for now. I do love that her story had a satisfying resolution. Also so happy we got to see how she kind of saved Sherlock from himself.

Watched another episode of Batman Beyond. Inque made another appearance and that was fun. Also kind of cool to see Bruce back in the field and how much Terry tried to protect him.

Finished up with an episode of Classic Rugrats. Enjoyed both vignettes and also discovered I have more episodes than I thought I had left. This isn't bad news.

And that's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Mendacium, a novella that works through a betrayal to bring a couple together.

Here's the miniblurb:

Kelby Svet and Reave Systevich work for Mendacium, a covert organization that monitors magical ability among the human population. When powers go out of control or get abused, Kelby and Reave deal with the fallout—until a betrayal puts them on different sides.

And a preview snippet…

Kelby Svet didn't like her odds right now. "C'mon, fellas. Cut a girl a break." She did a slow circle, keeping the trio of magick abusers in her sight.

The tallest one, Jones something, snorted. "Right. The only break we'll give you is me calling dibs. My friends here are the smash and grab type." He ignored their rude comebacks. "Unlike me, who enjoys taking things nice and slow." He leered and moved a step closer to her.

Kelby grunted. "Not what I heard. The three of you have been tearing through the neighborhood, wreaking havoc and leaving a trail a novice could follow." She turned again, slowly, making sure to keep the other two in her peripheral vision. "I'm not a novice. This is the end of your terror trip." For at least two of them.

Maybe.

The trio lacked finesse, but they could wield magick. She had serious doubts she'd be able to take all three down without any kind of backup. She cursed her handler, Pope Cantas, for sending her out on this assignment. The man liked putting her ass on the line and taking chances with her life. Where's the help he promised?

The short, squatty guy, Marlin or Morley something, sneered. "Whadaya think you can do to stop us? You're one tiny woman against three men." He puffed his chest out and lunged forward.

The third guy, name unknown, cackled. "Yeah, like you have any kind of chance." He spread his arms and muttered the beginning of an incantation.

Kelby countered with a quick silencing spell. It wouldn't last long, but it might buy her some time. She had to make a move, to choose which one to go for first. Her gut said Jones—intel listed him as the one with the most power and experience—but she ran the risk of taking on more than she could handle with him, giving the other two an opportunity to combine forces. Hovering on the brink of disaster, she sighed with relief when the door crashed open. Her sigh turned to a groan when her gaze clashed with the man who entered.

Reave Systevich.

Damn Pope for sending him.

Then again, Reave's experience probably made him the best option.

He moved into the dimly lit room with a barrage of swirling wind, drawing the attention of the three men. Kelby used the distraction to adjust her position and flank the trio. Her chin lifted and Reave shifted to his left, giving her a brief nod. She had the lead.

The unschooled group put their backs to each other and made some noise, mumbling under their breaths. Kelby kept her gaze on their hands, leaving Reave to listen and make sure they weren’t trying to use a combination spell. Tactics shuffled in her brain, and one stood out—the whiplash maneuver. Glancing up, she met Reave’s gaze and used her eyes to indicate the parlay by doing a fast flick to her right and a slow glide to the left. A quick quirk of one side of Reave’s mouth showed his agreement.

She didn’t have to clue him in on which man to target, Jones being the obvious choice. Reave didn’t waste time, giving her a curt nod. They each made a hashing motion with their hands, focusing their intent on the tall man. He whipped backward to the outer wall of the building then flew forward, crashing into the other two before slamming into the opposing side of the interior surface. Silent, mutual agreement had Reave heading for Jones. Kelby made short work of subduing the other two with physical tethers and a binding spell.

Reave dragged Jones to the middle of the space. "Good call with the whiplash." He dumped the tallest of the trio on the pile. "He's out cold for now. You got extra restraints?" His eyebrows arched in question.

Kelby dug another pair out. "Thanks for the backup. Pope didn't say who he'd be sending." She handed the tethers to Reave.

He bent to secure Jones's hands. "Yeah, well, don't like doing favors for him, but you? I don't mind helping out." His head snapped upward, and he flashed a grin.

Kelby cracked a smile. "Much appreciated. Pope is definitely an acquired taste." And sometimes even she could barely stand the bitter flavor her handler dished out.

Reave straightened. "He's also an asshole on a power trip but thank fuck I don't have to deal with him often." His head tilted toward the door. "You have transport, or did he send you in unprepared as usual?"

Her face flamed, because she couldn't deny Pope only gave her sketchy details. "I was within walking distance when they pinpointed their location." Why did she feel the need to cover for her handler?

Reave snorted. "Right. Let's get them hauled out to my ride." He grabbed the smaller two by their collars and pulled them to their feet. "I'll get Jones." Leaning down, he grabbed the unconscious guy and started tugging him to the door.

Kelby directed the other two outside and into Reave's SUV.

He maneuvered Jones into the back of the vehicle and secured the hatch before coming around to her side. "Might as well ride in with me. Unless you have to head back out on patrol?"

Kelby only hesitated a moment. "I do have to go back out, but I might as well help get this lot processed." She popped the passenger door open. "Thanks for the lift." Even if it would be awkward.

Reave's lips quirked again. "Sure thing." He strode over to the driver's side and slid behind the wheel.

Kelby settled in and gazed out the window. Now that the dangerous group had been subdued, she let her mind spin out to how circumstances kept putting her in Reave's orbit. In any other scenario, she'd be thrilled to work with him. Actually, she liked him. A lot.

But she never acted on the attraction she had for him. Because we have a history … and it's not the good kind. So … she avoided getting sexually tangled up with him. Which sucked balls because adrenaline flowed hot after that takedown and she kind of wanted him in a bad way.

Yet … she'd be stupid to think he'd want to pursue anything. After all, she'd been responsible for his best friend's death. And she really didn't like having red on her ledger.

Kind of a long preview this week, but I'm so happy with this scene.

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Melee

April is off to a weird start. We had a tornado warning in the wee hours of Thursday morning. That was fun. The temperature warmed up then dropped back down with a chance of snow tomorrow or Tuesday. But, sure, we aren't having any climate issues.

Still plugging along on multiple work projects. I did finish up two and added another new one to my pile. I'm very happy to be busy!

Had a decent viewing week. Ended up making it through my full slate of shows and I think I know which new program I'm adding to the lot. I'll give it a view and report back.

Actually realized I did finish up London Kills last week, so I ended up watching another full episode. Things are headed for a showdown with David and Vivienne and I'm here for that.

Watched Death in Paradise and enjoyed the episode. Discovered Izzy is still around and, well, still not a fan. If she returns, maybe she'll grow on me.

Caught Beyond Paradise and thoroughly enjoyed it. So nice to have a little backstory for Esther. And, if rumors prove true, a potential love interest in season three. That'll be fun.

Enjoyed an episode of Elementary. I'm definitely interested in how things will play out with Kitty's attacker. I can't wait to see if it gets resolved in the next installment.

Watched an episode of Batman Beyond. This is one I remembered from my original run through. Quite liked seeing it again.

Caught another episode of Classic Rugrats and it's one I don't remember so a new-to-me episode. Thoroughly enjoyed it. Only a few more left before I move on to the reboot again.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Melee, a novella that puts a couple through a trial by fire.

Here's the miniblurb:

Josie Walls and Parson Parrington gain extraordinary skills when they're captured and experimented on in a remote laboratory in an icy tundra. Longing to be free, they put their newfound abilities to the test, escaping their prison and going on the run.

And a preview snippet…

Josie alternated between floating on a cloud and diving into hot burning coals. Heat coursed through her veins and her skin felt like it sizzled.

Somewhere in the periphery, a tersely worded questions burst from Hollis. "What do you mean the experiment failed? You were supposed to make them pliable and programmable to do my bidding?"

A nasal voice responded. "We told you the serum might not be ready yet. You said you didn't care. Well, this is what happens when you don't."

The sound of a fist hitting flesh bounced off the walls.

"You have three weeks to fix this mess. For now, put them in containment." A door slammed.

No doubt Hollis made his usual dramatic exit.

Shuffling feet drew close to Josie and fingers wrapped around her wrist.

"Ack! Shit. She's burning up." The shuffling turned to scampering and then fumbling hands. "El? This is Em. Check your subject. Mine is burning up."

Josie focused on the voice, trying to shake off the lethargy and drowning, bobbing sensation from the drugs. Brief stretches of semiconsciousness followed by long periods of dark dives into nightmarish dreamscapes had Josie struggling to form coherent thoughts. The adrenaline from the lab tech—at least she assumed the nasal voice belonged to a technician—gave her a jolt and helped her stay on this side of wakefulness.

Em made a garbled choking sound. "So, yours isn't burning up but they're giving you shocks? Like the static kind?" He sighed. "No, no. I didn't foresee this either. But the stupid, blundering ass didn't exactly give us time to test the serum, did he?" Another sigh. "No, he didn't take it well. Yeah, he wants us to fix it. And no, I don't have a damn clue how."

Josie strained to make sense of the one-sided conversation. What the hell did Hollis give her … them. She'd almost forgotten Parson. He'd been moved to another room … cell … whatever the fuck they wanted to call it.

Nasal Em snorted. "Aw, fuck. If this is what you think it is, and we've trigged some kind of latent ability in the subjects, we're all fucked. It doesn't matter what Hollis wants." A pause. "Yeah, yeah. I'll make the notations. And I'll increase the sedation dosage. Yes. Yes. Then I'll get some sleep. From here on out, we have to document everything." Em ended the call and started back toward Josie, muttering to himself. "We're so off the page we're not even in the book anymore. Hell, we're not in the same library." He grabbed a rolling cart and slid it beside the gurney. "At this point, all bets are off and we're officially in uncharted territory."

A sharp prick against her bicep brought the fuzziness back. Josie dreaded going back under and succumbing to the inky darkness of unconsciousness. But … she had something she didn't have before…

Hope.

I'm having a lot of fun with this story. Josie and Parson are going through it, and they'll have to use everything they have to get through this challenge.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Maybe This Seems Familiar

Even though March is my birth month and the birth month of my mom and one of my best friends, I'm kind of glad to kick it to the curb. It's been a wild ride this month. That said, it's also been intensely productive, so I'm really not complaining.

The weather is still drunk, wildly surging one direction then lurching back only to zing forward again. My sinuses hate me right now. And my throat has that I just swallowed glass with a gravel chaser sound at the moment.

Still buried with work but I'm making great progress on all fronts. I added another new hourly project to the pile and made a big dent in that one yesterday.

Not a bad week for viewing. I got through my usual slate and did a marathon watch to finish out the week.

Ended up watching two episodes of Elementary and both were actually terrific. I'm very interested in seeing how things with Kitty play out in the next few installments.

Caught two episodes of Batman Beyond. Always happy to see the Royal Flush show up and I liked the throwback to Bane.

Also enjoyed two Classic Rugrats episodes. I'm about halfway through the final season and I think I'll pick back up with the new reboot once I'm finished up.

Caught another episode of Death in Paradise and I'm enjoying having Darlene working with the team. She's a great addition. Also glad to see Neville's sister exit. Maybe she'll grow on me, but I didn't enjoy her at all.

Watched the first official episode of season two Beyond Paradise. Really enjoyed the way the mystery unfolded. Also loved the resolution.

I ended up not quite finishing the episode of London Kills but I should have that one completed this week.

That's it for the life update. Tonight's post is from Maybe This Seems Familiar, a novella that pulls a couple together after a big loss.

Here's the miniblurb:

A tragic death sends Inyx Pic, an Adept Major, into a brittle shell of self-doubt. When Philo Batson, her Adept Master, pushes Inyx to get back to teaching, her armor of disillusionment cracks and anger and grief come pouring out, leaving Philo to handle the fallout.

And a preview snippet…

Adept major Inyx Pic cast a recall spell. "No, Marlax. You're skipping steps and your ass is really gonna hurt when you get knocked on it from backlash." She absorbed the random energy from calling in the attempted conjure.

Marlax Tillie snarled. "I'm not a baby mage. I don't need the training wheels, Major Pic." Her eyes flashed with anger. "You're holding me back, and it's not fair." She flounced to her worktable.

Inyx bit back a string of curses. "Fair isn't why we're here. You can't move on to the next class if you don't master the finer points of conjuring." How many times had Inyx listened to lectures about finesse?

And how many times had she wanted to smash her fist into Philo Batson's face because he never shut up about learning the basics forward, backward, and upside down? Probably as many as she'd wanted to strip him naked and make him passionate about something other than conjuring. Too bad she'd never pushed harder to make that happen.

Then again, she had very good reasons for not doing so. Even if he'd made it clear he'd be interested…

"Major Pic? Am I free to go?" Marlax arched her winged brows.

Inyx blinked and shook off the cobwebs. "You can leave after you've listed the ten steps to safely conjure. Then come back tomorrow and we'll start again." She made her way to the stool sitting at the head of the classroom. "The rest of you are dismissed. See you tomorrow." Sinking down, she tried to recalibrate and find her center.

Next time, she'd send the random energy out the window instead of taking it on. She'd spend the rest of the day wired one moment and dragging ass the next. At least she didn't have to teach any more this afternoon.

Marlax slapped her notebook open and huffed out sigh. She scribbled the assigned list down the page, tore it out, and brought it to Inyx. She reviewed the steps and gave a nod.

Marlax rolled her eyes. "It's not that I don't know what they are. It's—"

Inyx finished the thought for her student. "You think they're stupid. I don't need to be an oracle to figure that out." She folded the paper and tucked it into Marlax's shirt pocket. "Come in tomorrow, do what you need to do, and you'll be golden." If Marlax tried to leap ahead again, she'd be wearing the list on her forehead.

Marlax snorted, whirled around, gathered her stuff, and stomped out the door, nearly running Philo over when he entered.

His brows went up. "Do I want to know what that's about?" He propped his hip on the worktable across from her desk.

Inyx sighed. "It's been a day. That one wants to fly before she can walk." And damn if the plebe didn't raise a bunch of red flags.

Philo smirked. "That sounds familiar."

I think I finally have the tone I want for this story. Philo and Inyx have a long history of dancing around each other and it's fun to write them edging closer together.

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Manifest Legend

Geez, I can't believe we're almost through March. This has been such a busy month and it's flying by. A few outside distractions added to the mix this week and were something of a big time suck.

My work projects are still chugging along and I'm making progress on my side gig I hope to launch soon. Technically it's already out in the world but I'm adding a big layer to the whole thing. Of course, I pick a moment in time when I'm crazy busy. But I love a good challenge.

As usual, the weather is all over the map. We've had a lot of wind rolling through, stirring up dust and who knows what else. And the temps are doing the back-and-forth dance. I'm looking forward to having some even, leveled-out days … whenever that might be.

Slow viewing week again. Partly due to work stuff and I'm also in a bit of a slump. I might be edging toward a binge-watching phase, which I haven't really done for a long while.

I got most of the way through the episode of London Kills I started last week. It's the opening ep of the fourth season so I kind of want to pay attention and I keep missing key things, so I'll finish it when I have more brain power.

Watched an episode of Death in Paradise and thoroughly enjoyed it. I'd seen bits and pieces of this one so kind of knew what to expect. I very much remember absolutely disliking Neville's sister with an intense passion and that didn't change. Maybe she'll grow on me, but I doubt it.

Also caught the holiday episode of Beyond Paradise and totally loved it! Christmas shows make me happy and this episode seemed to pull the periphery cast into each other's orbits and I loved that. Looking forward to diving into the rest of season two. And, oddly, the timing ended up being perfect for the crossover last week when Humph returned to the beach. Not sure how I did that.

I did another binge marathon of Peter Gunn also. I'm loving some of the live channels on Plex.

That's it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Manifest Legend, an introductory short to the Insula Ara series.

Here's the miniblurb:

Insula Ara is a mystical island offering sanctuary to those in need, but when she reveals herself for the first time, Cedric Edward Teasdale, former crewman of a privateer, almost blows his chance for refuge … and a reunion with his lost love.

And a preview snippet…

A warm hand smoothed the side of Ceet's face, and he turned over in his sleep. "Dammit, Emaline, ye haunt me even in my dreams."

Feminine laughter filled his ears. "Well, Cedric, you deserve no less. Leavin' me the ye did. But I'm not ahauntin' you, ye daft man. I'm sitting right beside you." A sharp pinch on his bicep followed the statement.

Ceet bolted upright and scrambled to the edge of the bed. "Emaline? What? How?" He blinked and shook his head. "This can't be possible." Or could it…

He reached under the pillow and retrieved the compass. Did you bring my love back to me? The device grew warm under his palm.

Ceet threw the covers back and slid to the edge of the bed. "Emaline Gruder, I've missed ye, I have." His hands cupped her face. "And I love you." His vision grew misty, and his head dropped.

Emaline threw her arms around him. "And I you, Cedric." She eased back. "And if I understand how this is supposed to work, we'll have all the time we ever wanted to be together." She hugged him close again.

Ceet wrapped his arms around her. "Ah, Emaline. I surely hope so. I surely do." He shifted his position and patted the bed then tugged Emaline down beside him. "This island, Sanctuary is her name, is wonderous and full of marvels you've never imagined." His gaze went to the rafters of the room. "She can create buildings, like this here abode. And she made a barn and provided animals for my use." He met Emaline's gaze. "But you have to be certain about what you want, my love. Once yer committed, you can't leave. At least that's how it works for me." And he didn't regret his choice … except for the loneliness.

Which seemed to be resolved.

Emaline placed her head on Ceet's shoulder. "My darling, Cedric. Why would I want to leave? I've wanted to spend my life with you for as long as I can remember. When I got ill and you didn't return, my heart broke." Her voice grew thick and heavy. "And then I was somewhere in between. Dead but not. Wavering but tethered because I didn't get a farewell from you." She clasped his hand. "Now I'm here and we can have a life together…" Her head angled so she could meet his gaze. "But it's a little different for me. When someone else needs the island, I'll have to go away. But I'll always return to you. Always." She straightened and glanced around the room. "And to my new sanctuary … Insula Ara."

Ceet hauled her close. "Then it's time to start our life together…" His mouth claimed hers and everything in his world turned bright and brilliant.

Ceet literally sprang up and decided he wanted his story told, then he captured my heart when sitting down to write it.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Man Up

The work project abundance continues. I'm plugging along and chiseling away at the four current projects I have on my plate—two copy edits, a proofread, and a developmental edit are the main events. I also have a set of revisions to review and a read through to start. It's chaotic but also … fun? I love that everything I'm working on right now is so different. Not one of the manuscripts is similar to the other ones.

As usual, totally unhinged weather in Ohio. It's cold. It's hot. It's both in one day. Rain, sun, gloomy clouds, and hey, a chance for more snow. I did get lucky and had a mostly clear night for the recent blood moon eclipse, which was amazing to watch. Being a night owl comes in very hand sometimes.

Had a limited viewing schedule this week, mainly because I needed to focus on the words in the manuscripts. I did get a few things watched. I might have to give binge watching something for background noise a go for the next few weeks.

Finished up Beyond Paradise and thoroughly enjoyed the first season finale. They packed so much into this episode. The case, Humph and Archie fight, more shenanigans from the Chief Super, Esther and Hump bonding, Margo being Margo, Kelby being Kelby, and of course, the crew from Death in Paradise at the end. I can't wait to watch the first holiday episode this week!

Caught an episode of Elementary and quite enjoyed it. Interesting interactions between the consulting trio and the police duo and twisty bits thrown in to keep things rolling.

Enjoyed an episode of Batman Beyond. It's one I definitely remembered and liked during my first watch of this series.

Watched an episode of Classic Rugrats and actually remember this one, which is odd because most of the ninth season has been new-to-me stuff.

Started an episode of London Kills, the opener to the fourth season. I had to stop partway through because I need to pay attention and this isn't the week for me to do that.

Also binged a marathon of Peter Gunn on one of the live PlexTV channels. I've been hitting Plex up for a lot of viewing fare lately and I might end up using it over the next several weeks for background noise. Stay tuned.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Man Up, a novella that brings a couple together when they compete to see who can outdo who.

Here's the miniblurb:

Hattie Hale and Nero Palmer, instructors at the Academy of Light, are supposed to set the example, but can't quite get past their competitive natures. A drunken game of one-ups-manship goes all the way to the sleeping chamber because neither will admit to being outdone.

And a preview snippet…

Hattie wished she could sip her mug of coffee slowly, but she always inhaled the first blast of caffeine of the day. "Right, then. I'm ready for a refill. You can talk now." She reached for the carafe and filled her mug while carefully watching him through her lashes.

She had to give the guy props. He'd kept up with her last night and didn't seem too bad off. In fact, he appeared to be doing just fine. A notch of respect ticked up for him.

Nero's chin lifted. "Ground rules? Let's start there." He propped an ankle on his knee. "We need some surprises because we know each other's strengths and weaknesses in the classroom."

Hattie blinked. "Wow. You've given this some thought, haven't you?" She didn't care how they competed because her main goal had been to … what had been the original point?

Right. She kind of wanted to test the waters and see if anything developed between them. But … she didn't want to be obvious.

Nero arched his brows. "Why wouldn't I? You issued a challenge and, well, it could be fun to compete for something other than test grades." He nodded toward the pot on the ottoman. "Mind if I have more? The coffee really is excellent."

Hattie's lips twitched. "Can I count that as a win?" She scooted the carafe closer to him.

Nero laughed. "Why not? I have to concede it's better than anything I've ever brewed." He refilled his mug and shook his head.

An idea popped into her mind. "Okay. Let's make one of our ground rules competing in nonmagickal areas." She had a couple of super-secret recipes she could pull out and blow his mind with.

Nero pondered for a moment. "Yeah. I'm down with that. Like a mix of magick we don't use in the classroom and regular, everyday stuff." Sipping from the mug, he watched her over the rim of the cup.

Hattie hid a smirk. "All right. I'll cook dinner tonight. You can cook tomorrow. Monday … well, we'll see how it goes. We can use it as a tiebreaker if we need to." Warming up to the plan, she made another suggestion. "For something magickal, I think we should try something with runes. Set a ward and see if the other can break it." She loved puzzles.

Nero tilted his head. "Yeah, okay. For nonmagickal, I'm thinking darts? I have a board in my shed. We could go best two out of three." He paused a moment. "For something with magick, how about layered hexes? We'll start at the same time and see who finishes first?"

Hattie added a stipulation. "Somewhere neutral for the runes and hexes. That way neither of us has an advantage over the other." She flashed a smile. "I'm not worried about the darts. Two out of three makes it fair." Settling back, she sipped more coffee.

Nero set his empty cup on the ottoman. "I think we're good to go. Like you said, we can use Monday if we need tiebreakers for anything." He made to stand up.

Hattie held up a hand. "Hold up a minute. I'm already one ahead of you with the coffee. I think we should switch nights. You cook tonight and I'll cook tomorrow." She had to give him a shot at keeping things even.

Nero narrowed his gaze again. "You need to get groceries, don't you?" The sly twist to his lips gave away his teasing.

She snorted. "No, but I was thinking we could maybe get the dart game out of the way after dinner." Mainly because she wanted to see him in his own space to get some ideas for the layered hexes.

Nero shrugged. "Let's say seven for dinner." He got up and started for the door. "Don't be late."

She grinned. "Wouldn't dream of it. See you then."

Having a lot of fun with this one. Competing as a get to know each other outside of their professional setting is a hoot to write.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye