Sunday Snippet: Six Degrees of Separation

Happy Father's Day to all the dads, father figures, mentors, and fur dads out there. And if this is a hard day, please find peace where you can.

It's so mild in Ohio right now and I'll take the comfortable temperatures. We're supposed to have a soggy week, but the rain is welcome. Hopefully without flooding.

Busy work week with multiple projects crossing my desk. I have a potential new project with a new author starting possibly soon. Finished up a proofread and got that one invoiced. Continued work on a memoir developmental edit, pulling several files together into a single document. Also finished a copy edit and returned it for review. Started a new one that's on the long side, close to one hundred thousand words. A jammed week ahead.

Had a pretty good viewing week. I made it through my regular stable of shows and started one of my back-burner ones. I didn't end up making it all the way through but I'll finish it up this week. I hope.

Started with a Foyle's War behind the scenes interview with one of the guest stars. Very interesting.

Watched another episode of Tales from Irish Castles. Truly a fun series to watch. So many castles in Ireland.

Caught another episode of Death in Paradise and kind of loved the bit of a cliffhanger. I also kind of like how Mervin is settling in with the other officers. Very cool to see the new sarge completely supported by the commissioner also.

Also enjoyed another episode of Poirot. Very interesting case with an unexpected ending. So many colorful characters.

Elementary ended up being a little mind-blowing. I'm really interested in how the whole Shinwell situation will be resolved.

Caught another episode of Young Justice and I'm rather enjoying seeing how the team is coming together.

Also watched another episode of Star Trek Lower Decks and I'm really amazed by how much I love this show. Started out being pretty iffy on whether I'd like it or not and I'm totally in if I haven't mentioned it before.

Started an episode of Peak Practice and made it about halfway through. There's a lot going on in this one and I didn't want to miss anything. I'll finish up this week. Maybe.

That's it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Six Degrees of Separation, a book in the Academy of Light series.

Here's the miniblurb:

Melick Traynor and Ramona Peartry, two Academy of Light magicians, have a single passionate encounter after Ramona nearly loses her life to a dragon. But when they navigate their new relationship status, Melick has to step down as Ramona's precept, but neglects to tell her why.

And a preview snippet…

Ramona had a big problem and didn't want to face the issue at the moment.

Being here had taken a big prod from Melick to get her out of bed and on her feet. His casually dropped bomb—the dragon isn't an organic creature, but biomechanical—had her brain screaming to get a better look.

She snorted. "Just as he'd known it would." The guy knew her too well.

He even had a pair of crutches at the ready and handed them over as soon as she sat up. A quick round of instructions from the medical staff—rest and elevate her leg frequently and do light physical therapy to keep her muscles warmed—and off she went to the lab. It didn't take her long to get lost in the intricacies of the highly advanced beast.

She'd been inside the dragon most of the day, working out the flight systems with the mechno master and his assistant. As soon as they'd discovered the dragon to be biomechanical, they hit a wall. Which she could help them scale.

She'd itched to get close and take a look. "Well, I got one." She'd quite literally crawled into the belly of the beast to see how it flew.

The mechno mancer peppered her with questions, and Ramona finally snarled for him to shut up and let her work. She'd figure it out … eventually. If he gave her the space to do so.

He'd gone for a meal break with the assistant. Melick had left a long time ago. He'd only stuck around for about ten minutes to make sure she got settled and hadn't returned. Even pissed off over the suggested precept change, she'd welcome his presence at the moment.

Heaving a sigh, she closed her eyes. "I need to head back to the infirmary and let the medical staff yell at me for not keeping my leg flexible." She'd completely lost track of time while she worked out the flight schematics.

The problem with getting back to the alcove? She couldn’t get out of the damn creature. Well and truly screwed, her leg and hip throbbed from inactivity.

Ramona tried to scoot backward to slide out of the confined area but by her fifth attempt to get out, frustration warred with pain. She tried lifting her leg over the hump but kept hitting the top of the dragon's midsection. Her knee had stiffened and she couldn’t flatten her leg out enough to get past the barrier.

Dammit, dammit, dammit. Why hadn’t she made it a point to move in and out of the stupid thing on a frequent basis? For that matter, why had she let the insane urge to help the mechno mancer figure out the dragon's systems drive her to leave the alcove in the first place?

She knew the answer to that.

Melick.

She let out a growl "Always Melick."

Why were they so awkward right now? What did her getting back on her feet have to do with anything? Ramona figured he used the excuse as his way of stepping back now that the crisis had been averted. But they couldn't put the pool experience back in the box. Hell, she didn't want to. She would admit being disappointed, but she'd rather have him as a friend than lose him altogether.

They were in a weird place she didn't enjoy. He continued to stop by several times a day, which made her happy and drove her mad, depending on her mood.

During one of the mad phases, she'd basically told him to fuck off, especially when he tried to be there for her when she made her first tentative attempt to get back on her feet. She hated being weak. She really hated being weak in front of Melick.

She'd finally refused to even try to keep going on the crutches, and he'd left in a fit of exasperation. She regretted not having his company, but fear had her by the throat, damn it. What if she didn’t get it together? What if the binding spells didn't last long enough to finish healing her knee?

The possibility of not being able to walk without aid freaked her out.

This story is all over the place but it's finally coming together. I love Ramona and Melick so much.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Shit Happens

Kind of a long week and I'm glad it's over. There's something nice about starting a new week with a clean slate. Even if projects linger from one week to the next or challenges still need to be met.

We've got wild weather in Ohio again. Muggy and hot until a storm rolls through then it's lovely for a day until it gets muggy and hot again. The humidity is not fun.

Had a solid work week. One of the projects I thought was finished ended up having more revisions. At this point, the author is wordsmithing and really should leave things alone. That said, it's her last book and giving some grace can't hurt. I'm hoping to finish up a proofread on a science book this week and start a new project about a family history. I also have a developmental edit to get back to and copy edit to finish up. The copy edit is a holiday book and I'm so happy to have one of those to edit.

Had a pretty decent viewing week. I made it through my regular slate of shows, which actually made me happy. It was a busy week, and I ended up being kind of drained.

Started the week by finishing up an episode of Foyle's War. I do believe I have only the bonus episodes left.

Started a new series about Irish castles and thoroughly enjoyed the first episode. So much history I don't know, and I love learning new things.

Caught another episode of Silent Witness. The move to Birmingham seems to be resetting the series with a lot of darker content. I'm actually interested to see how this plays out.

Watched another episode of Poirot and enjoyed one of the better known classics with "Death on the Nile."

Elementary kind of blew my mind. Not sure how I feel about the whole Shinwell thing. It's going to prove interesting to discover Joan's reaction.

Enjoyed an episode of Young Justice. So far, I like the unfolding of the first season. The pacing is pretty good and the reveals are well-earned.

Also caught another episode of Star Trek Lower Decks and really loved the interactions. I honestly didn't know if I'd find my groove with this show, but I did!

That's it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Shit Happens, a sexy short where the characters have to work through past trauma to get their act together.

Here's the miniblurb:

Nyla White, an up-and-coming paranormal cage fighter, has buttloads of potential but her 'Sh*t happens' attitude prevents her from attaining the top spot. Erik Stevens, her trainer, pushes her to use her emotions to own her talent, which Nyla is hesitant to do—because she's got strong feelings for Erik.

And a preview snippet…

You've got to talk to me…

Her shoulders slumped. "I can't, Erik." She spun away, shaking off the excess energy.

He followed her. "Why? There's gotta be a reason for shutting me out. Not letting anyone in." His frustration came through loud and clear.

As always.

She paused, waging an internal battle with herself over what to tell him. "You know I lost everything, right?" She slowly turned to face him.

He nodded. "I do."

She paced back and forth. "I can't lose this. I won't." She needed one thing no one could take away from her.

The championship and prestige that went with it would be her singular achievement. Something earned and hers to keep. Just once, she wanted things to go her way.

Erik shook his head. "That doesn't explain—" Confusion marred his features.

She cut him off. "You're the why. I can't let anyone in for the same reason I shut you out." Her voice lowered. "Because you'll see—everything—if I open up." The admission cost her some pride, but she couldn't hold the way she felt in any longer.

Or deal with his constant pushing.

Erik's mouth dropped open, then snapped shut. "Oh."

Nyla threw her hands up. "Yes, oh. Do you get it now?" She definitely couldn't work with him anymore.

Erik gave a jerky nod. "Yeah, I get it." He turned away. "And I'm sorry. I should have seen it."

Nyla's gut twisted into knots. "No, you shouldn't have. And you wouldn't have if I didn't open my big fat mouth." She crossed the floor and grabbed her jacket.

She had to get out. Get away. Keep a shred of dignity.

Shrugging into the coat, she managed a calm tone. "I'll grab my gear and find a new trainer." Heading for the door, she refused to get teary eyed and blubbery over him.

Seriously happy with how this story is coming together. Both characters have some trauma they have to deal with and some hurdles to get over.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Shine One On

Wow. June is kicking my ass and it's only seven days old. I'm choosing to look at the beginning of the month as the bottom of the well and it can only get better, because I won't be able to handle another appliance going down. Thankfully, delivery services are available on Sunday and I have shiny new fridge to replace the one that died on Friday. And my coffeemaker decided to be wonky this morning so, yeah, I'm still trying to troubleshoot that one. Glad I can pour over in an emergency.

Other than the appliance fiasco, the weather is all over the map, which isn't unusual in Ohio. More chilly days and a few really humid ones. Rain, wind, and little bit of sun. We're supposed to have a drippy week, which is okay because I don't think it's supposed to be severe weather.

Pretty decent work week. I finished up a few projects and should be close to finishing up the one that won't seem to end. Started a new proofread and I'm making good progress on it, even with the appliance distractions.

Had an okay viewing week also. Made it through my usual list of shows but didn't get to the back-burner ones.

Started the week with half an episode of Foyle's War. Should finish it up this week and move on to the bonus episodes.

Also caught the season twelve finale of Brokenwood Mysteries. Really enjoyed this season and hope to have another one because this is definitely a comfort show.

Watched an episode of Death in Paradise. Loved getting some good character building for Seb. I'm also looking forward to getting some for the new sergeant.

Enjoyed an episode of Poirot. This one took a bit of a twist and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Looking forward to the next episode.

Elementary finished up a two-parter and the resolution ended up being fun. Also loved Sherlock's excitement about becoming a godparent.

Caught another episode of Young Justice and quite enjoyed it. Very fun to see Wally face his disbelief in magic.

Loved watching an episode of Star Trek Lower Decks. The callbacks to other series are such a delight in this show.

That's pretty much it for the life update. Tonight's post is from Shine One On, a novella that explores an alternate history where prohibition didn't get repealed.

Here's the miniblurb:

In a prohibition era, Maxine Wynne provides speakeasy owner Drake Kestleman premium moonshine to keep his customers happy. When a corrupt revenuer goes after Maxine, Drake launches a plan to get her out of danger and out from under the shadow of the government bureaucrat.

And a preview snippet…

With his cock wedged between them, Drake flexed his hips, feigning full intercourse. "And action." He whispered the words against her ear.

By the third fake thrust, he feared getting off, the friction of her warm skin against his dick almost too pleasurable to bear. Her guttural moan suggested she wanted him as much as he wanted her. Maxine's fingers raked down his back to dig into his ass and he fought the urge to spill all over her belly. The primal need to be buried deep in her hot core kept him from doing so. And, damn, if he didn't welcome the tsk-tsk-tsking sound from behind and Maxine's startled yelp from below when each sound came. She scrambled under the single sheet on the bed, pushing Drake aside.

Saul smirked and gave a rude snort. "Really, Maxine? You expect me to buy the false modesty?" His gaze drilled into her.

Drake stood and moved to block the view of Maxine from four sets of prying eyes. He didn't try to cover his nakedness and bit back a bark of laughter when four gazes dropped to his softening shaft.

Stepping up to stand toe-to-toe with Saul, Drake snarled. "There's nothing false about her modesty. No one invited you in."

Saul's face reddened. "We pounded on the door and announced our presence and intention to search. Not our fault your carnal pursuits prevented you from hearing us." His gaze flicked to Maxine. "Although, the distraction is understandable." His tongue snaked out to lick his lips.

Drake jabbed a finger in Saul's chest. "Take your leave. As you can see, we're not hiding anything here." Except maybe raging lust.

Saul stood his ground. "We'll be searching the premises since we're already here." He motioned for his three henchmen to spread out.

Drake shrugged. "Feel free to do so." He followed Saul to the doorway. "We'll be out in a moment." He started to shut the door.

Saul stopped him with a booted foot blocking the heavy slab of wood. "Leave it open. I'm not taking any chances with you two." His gaze raked over Maxine when she sat up, holding the sheet against her.

Drake wanted to punch the man. Saul definitely made his interest in Maxine clear, and he wanted to covertly watch her dress. Maxine rolled her eyes and slipped from the bed. Saul's shadow fell across the living room floor from where he hovered, no doubt peering through the crack between the door and the jamb. And to her credit, she put on a show, holding Drake's gaze while dressing, knowing she had an avid audience.

When Drake's dick got hard again, her lips curved in a sexy smile and she winked at him.

Turning, she sauntered out into the main room and sidled up to Saul. "Hope you enjoyed the show." She slapped him hard across the face. "Consider that your price of admission, you son of a bitch."

Her show of defiance had Drake wanting to drag her back to the bed and finish what they started. Instead, he found his pants and started dressing.

This book is so much fun. Drake and Maxine have some steamy chemistry.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Shaken Alliance

I'm looking forward to seeing the end of May. It hasn't been a bad month or anything. It's nice to feel like I'm starting with a clean slate.

We've had some rainy weather but it's keeping the temperatures mild, which I love. Really hoping the cooler weather sticks around for another week or two. I have some yard and garden work I want to do.

Work ended up being pretty okay. I still have the wordsmithing author making changes, but I think the project manager is putting a stop to that. Hopefully, we'll be able to get the proofread over the finish line. I'll be finishing up the science book proofread this week. And I have a copy edit that should finish sometime tonight or tomorrow. It's the twisty mystery thriller and it's definitely been a wild ride.

Not a bad week for viewing. I got through my usual list of shows but didn't end up adding any of my reserve ones.

Started out by finishing up the episode of Foyle's War. I have one episode left then some bonus material to watch.

Caught another episode of Brokenwood Mysteries and quite enjoyed it. Very interesting to see Mike move house and how the transition worked into the case.

Finished up the second part of Silent Witness. Super happy to see Jack accepted as a professor. Also rather liked the resolution of the case.

Enjoyed an episode of Poirot. Always fun when he's kind of on his own. The case was very interesting also. I like it when he's solving old ones.

Elementary ended on an interesting note. I'm wondering if the mention of Sherlock's dad is going to come into play for the second half. Also fun to see Kitty again.

Watched an episode of Young Justice and I'm intrigued. The addition of Artemis could prove interesting. I'm leaning toward double agent.

Caught another episode of Star Trek Lower Decks. Fun to see Boimler handle his first away mission. Also really fun to watch the other three try to outsmart their superior officers.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Shaken Alliances, the opening book for the Technorati series.

Here's the miniblurb:

Janna Allgood, a corporal in the Alliance, is the best at what she does, bringing Technorati deceivers to justice. But when she's assigned the task of tracking down the notorious leader of the rogue technomancers, she discovers a new calling, one that puts her life in danger because it may bring down the Alliance she works for.

And a preview snippet…

Janna moved into the cool down phase of her workout simulation. She only had time for a very quick shower before her appointment. Which she should probably get to if she didn't want to be a terrible hostess.

"Take your time. I'll come to you when you're ready."

Her lips quirked. "Allow fifteen minutes. I won't be long." She stripped off her clothes and rinsed off the perspiration from her exercise.

After toweling dry, she dressed in comfortable attire—a pair of loose-fitting pants and a long, flowing tunic. She left her feet bare, enjoying the sensation of the woven reed carpeting under her toes. Retrieving the light meal she'd prepared earlier, she placed it on the low table in her seating area and went back for a large pitcher of geely fruit infused water.

The gentle nudge to her mind came at exactly the right moment.

She smiled. "Come in. I hope you're doing well today."

Her dearest mentor entered her quarters, his long robes gliding over the floor. "I am, indeed. What have you prepared for us? I hope you didn't go to a lot of trouble." He settled on her long sofa.

Janna sat perpendicular to him in a soft chair. "I have dumplings and string noodles with an array of sauces. Also some roasted tanga meat." She plucked a skewer off the serving platter and set it on a plate.

The dumplings were packed with vegetables that paired well with the meat and noodles. Her mentor ate heartily, which satisfied Janna because he'd been looking a little frail lately. Then again, he had a demanding schedule.

When they finished, he brought up the reason he'd requested this meeting. "How did your interview with DeBerg go today?"

Janna answered honestly. "As we expected. He gave me a plum assignment and the trappings that go with it." She projected that portion of their meeting into her mentor's mind.

He frowned when he glimpsed the slimy innuendo coming from DeBerg.

Janna pulled back. "I didn't want to share that part." She had tremendous power and control of her mind-sharing ability, but her mentor had decades more.

He inclined his head. "I know. But you can't hide the underhanded tactics he uses. You'll have to walk a precarious path to keep him at bay while you attempt to complete the work." His head tilted to one side. "You neglected to share who your quarry would be. Is there a reason?"

She shook her head. "No, I'd rather speak of the task instead." She paused a moment. "DeBerg gave me the assignment of bringing in Paxton Teller. The number one most wanted member of the Technorati."

Her mentor's eyes widened. "It's a big task, are you ready?" His voice held no censure, but he'd be unwise not to wonder.

She answered with a question of her own. "Do you doubt my abilities, wise one?"

He met her gaze. "Not at all, dear Janna. But I worry for you. There is much more at play here than bringing in Paxton Teller." He leaned forward. "You have to know if you fail, you'll be exactly where DeBerg wants you."

Janna nodded. "In his debt, under his thumb, and a convenient scapegoat if he needs one." She'd come to that conclusion while doing her workout. "My belief is he's getting ready to make a move. Working behind the scenes to puff himself up and Teller will be his crowning achievement." The idea should have pleased her.

But … instead … she had grave concerns.

The wise one smiled. "And what does that tell you?"

She shrugged. "There are cracks in the machine. DeBerg doesn't want to fall through one, so he's going to attempt a climb." Her lips twisted. "Which means he's going to displace someone at the top … and he might use me to make that happen." She didn't have to add the part about her mentor being the one to get knocked off his perch.

The wise one lifted his chin. "Perhaps. But I'm well protected." He sighed. "Which doesn't mean this isn't worrisome." He settled more comfortably on the couch. "There have been rumblings going on for a long time. But the Technorati have been making some bold moves." His gaze met hers. "And you'll be directly in the crosshairs between the Alliance and the shadow magicians."

She hand-waved his concern. "I'll do my job. If there's a way to bring Teller in, I'll make it happen." She hadn't failed yet.

Her mentor sat quietly for a moment. "Janna, have you ever felt a call for something different?"

She blinked at the change of topic. Did she? She often yearned for more satisfying work. But she had nowhere else to go in the Alliance.

The wise one planted a seed. "Maybe you should seek more."

She shifted her inner gaze to him. "What more is there?" Technomancers were no longer allowed to hold elected positions.

He frowned. "If you can't imagine or don't know, I can't say more."

She let instinct guide her next question. "I've been reading the old texts. Are they true?" Were they really being held back from realizing their full potential?

The wise one's head dipped. "They're a very good place to start."

I'm excited about this opening book. I'm hoping to get this series mapped out and launched sometime soon.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Sentinel's Watch

Whew. The week flew by. I'm in a weird place where I'm getting a lot accomplished but feel like I'm spinning my wheels. So bizarre. Felt the same way last week.

We've had chilly, cool weather with rain. And the week ahead looked like it might be soggy also but is now showing no rain in the forecast. Strange.

Had a pretty okay work week. I have a project I thought completed but apparently it hasn't. The author is wordsmithing and making more changes. Something that isn't fun to do once we're in the design proofread stage. That stuff should happen during the copy edit. I'm making good headway on a science book proofread, which is actually great because the science is way over my head. Really interesting book, though. Started a new copy edit on a mystery thriller and it's going to be a twisty turny ride. Also have a developmental edit I need to get back to. Oh, and possibly a new author signing on for a fun project. Excited to see where that goes.

Pretty good viewing week also. I ended up making it through the whole slate of shows and got a few extras in. Not bad!

Started with Foyle's War and watched the first half of the episode. It's truly remarkable how eerily history repeats itself. This show is twenty-years old, and the themes are as relevant today as they were when the show filmed and the history this show is portraying. Uncanny.

Caught another episode of Brokenwood Mysteries. Honestly, I love this show so much. There's always a new twist around the corner. And the main cast and recurring characters are so solid.

Watched another episode of Death in Paradise. Very pleased to see the commissioner working hard to regain the trust of the island. Also love seeing Naomi stepping up. It would be so great to see her take on the role of DI … if the show could alter its course a little.

Enjoyed another episode of Poirot. Nice to see Hastings kind of called out over his advice when his wife asked that he take a holiday. I like these later seasons of the show.

Elementary ended up being interesting. Felt bad for Shinwell. But also enjoyed seeing him strive to be better. Sherlock and Joan also had a twisty case, which ended up going in a direction I didn't expect.

Caught another episode of Young Justice and I really enjoy seeing the team come together. Looks like we'll get to see Artemis in the next episode.

Truly enjoyed an episode of Star Trek Lower Decks. Loved the whole vibe with Mariner and Jack. Also loved Rutherford getting his promotion. Looking forward to seeing what the cold open is about later in the season.

Watched another episode of Peak Practice. Gotta say, I didn't expect to be rather sad during the whole episode, but I ended up grabbing tissues before it was over.

Also used some Kanopy tickets and watched The Thin Man, one of my favorite classic films. I really, really wish the other films were available for streaming.

That's pretty much it for the life update. Tonight's post is from Sentinel's Watch, the follow-up to A Capsized Buccaneer.

Here's the miniblurb:

After gaining some unique super powers and being rescued from a not-so-deserted island, Kallen Bond and Zeb Bertelli go their separate ways because Zeb cut a deal with his family to leave Kallen alone. But the deal can't last long, because the Bertellis plan to kidnap Kallen so more highly profitable experiments can be done on her and Zeb won't stand for their interference.

And a preview snippet…

Kallen briskly walked up five blocks to an old fire station and let herself in the back door. "Can't believe how much space I have here." Or that she'd bought the building outright.

And the place had two stories—a bonus that didn't happen often.

She tossed her keys on the old communication panel and started her workout routine. Running up the steps that started next to the back door, she followed along the top perimeter past the office on the concrete landing around the corner and down to the supply area where the turnout gear and other equipment used to be stored. She blew past that and made another corner turn and flew past the sleeping quarters. A tarnished pole that had seen a lot of use back in the day ran through the floor down to the main level. Her lips quirked because the realtor informed her they'd remove the long apparatus before she closed on the sale, and Kallen threatened to walk away from the deal if they even tried.

She laughed. "What's the point of having an old fire station if there isn't a pole?" Not that she'd used it yet, but she'd figure out a way to incorporate it into her workouts.

She finished the circuit, increasing her speed with each turn around the upper level. She stopped when everything blurred in her vision and the lingering dust formed into a whirling tornado. Trying a suggestion from Doc Marcus, she sped down the front stairs and hit the button for the large bay door. The spinning vortex of dust escaped through the opening in a whoosh before collapsing in a pile on the apron.

Kallen closed the door and grinned. "I can't believe that worked." She'd update the doc when she stopped by his office later this morning.

She always made her visits during his off hours. "The fewer people who know about me the better." He'd already put his neck on the line by falsifying her medical records, giving her the out she needed to be released from her contract. "But he'll be thrilled with this new information."

She owed the man a lot, considering she had no one else to talk to about her superpowers. And she struggled with the inactivity and lack of being in an arena. Having Doc Marcus give her new challenges every week helped keep her from going mad.

As did the sporadic news he provided about Zeb. Man, I weirdly miss him. Strange, because they hadn't been together long. But she finally met a guy that didn't suck and now she couldn't be with him. Because his family is complete shit.

It pissed her off, even if she got why he put a pin in the relationship before it really got started. They each had a new reality to deal with and cover stories to maintain. Her coach wanted her to transition to training and scouting, and she might test the waters at some point. But she needed to make absolutely certain she couldn't hurt anyone if she did. So … she put her art degree to use and planned to start creating large sculptures in the smaller bay area of the fire department.

Which she would get to after another hour of testing her physical boundaries.

She snorted. "Not like I need more than four hours of sleep to function anymore." A side effect of her ability.

Heading for the climbing net, she decided to use nothing but her hands to hoist herself up to the second floor. She put everything else out of her mind. Zeb. Her former coach. What the hell to actually do about the weird limbo she currently existed in.

If she started thinking about anything too deeply, she'd spiral out of control.

Huffing out a breath, she dropped down to the main floor. "And nobody wants to see what'll happen if I do that."

 

I like how this story is coming together and it might spur an idea of two for more books.

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Seeing Red

May is shaping up to be a weird month. I'm feeling kind of rushed but at the same time like I'm bogged down in mud. I think that's a sign that big change is coming and I'm not always as go with the flow as I'd like to be. We'll see what the summer brings.

Work projects are in a good place. I finished up a proofread and only have a few random changes to check. Also moved a copy edit off my plate. I'm continuing work on a design proofread and started a manuscript proofread over the weekend. I have a client call this week on a memoir and a developmental edit I'm returning to after a bit of a break. All in all, shaping up to be a busy week.

Hoping to put in some work on my sorely neglected website to get things moving on one of the side hustles I've been working on for a long time. I'm putting this in writing as a motivator!

Had a really good viewing week. I got through my full slate of shows and got one of my back-burner ones in also.

Started out with finishing up Foyle's War and thoroughly enjoyed the episode. I'm not sure I actually got to see this one during my original run through.

Also caught another episode of Brokenwood Mysteries. Ended up really enjoying this one also. Very fun to see some previous characters return.

Watched an episode of Silent Witness and I love that Jack is considering teaching. That could end up being fun to watch. Also love his interactions with Kat.

Enjoyed an episode of Poirot. Poor Hastings has had a run of bad luck with his investments. Very fun to see Poirot not enjoy his health retreat until the mystery starts.

Elementary had another great episode. Season five has been very enjoyable with the cast gelling in a great way. Loved the guy getting his comeuppance because he couldn't resist leaving the country for a hockey match.

Watched another episode of Young Justice and I ended up really enjoying how the team worked together even while completely blowing their original mission.

Caught the season four premier of Star Trek: Lower Decks and enjoyed every moment. Fun to see the growth of the characters and also fun to see so many callbacks to other Trek shows.

Hit an episode of Peak Practice and enjoyed it. Really felt for Alex and Carrie. And I also really loved Will changing his mind about the case with the sisters. Then again, if he'd listened to Alex in the first place he wouldn't have had to.

That's it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Seeing Red, a novella that puts a couple with superpowers in a tricky situation that forces them to examine their feelings.

Here's the miniblurb:

Vesta Crock can't stand tension, and a major meta-human uprising puts everyone on edge. Jones Blaylock becomes her target for a series of supposedly fun pranks, but when a fellow member of their team gets injured, Jones sees red and that's not a good thing for the firestarter.

And a preview snippet…

By the third day of mixed-team training, Jones still didn't have his head wrapped around his situation with Vesta. "The timing is terrible." And wouldn't get any better.

Stan had the helm and ran simulations. Vesta bucked orders twice—arguing the scenes were too far off the grid. She made her point on the first throw down, getting up in Stan's grill.

But Jones stepped in on the second before Stan lost his shit. "Vesta, take five. Now."

She glared but walked off the floor.

Jones had to cut through the tension between them from the other night. Right. Exactly how to do that he hadn't figured out. Be nice if I had a guidebook or something.

He gave her five full minutes before he confronted her. "Look, we have to work every possibility. You know this. Why are you making it difficult?" And making his life problematic at the same time.

Vesta opened with a blazing volley. "Because this is stupid. You have two elite teams of meta-humans who've gone through the same training. At this point, we'll either have our shit together or we don't. Running endless sims accomplishes nothing other than having two groups get on each other's nerves." She paused a moment. "And with no outside downtime, it's like holding a match to a powder keg." She met his gaze. "Don't be shocked when it blows." Planting her hands on her hips, frustration and anger rolled off her in waves.

Jones blinked. Her righteous fury took his breath away and made his blood surge in his veins. He had to get a handle on his reaction to her. After he put her firmly in her place.

He leaned in close to her. "Look, it's a team-building exercise. Get your ass back over there and participate or forget about being in on the takedown." Which meant even longer in lockdown.

Vesta snarled. "Fine. But this is a waste of everyone's time." She stalked back to the floor and took point for the next simulation.

After the confrontation, Jones clasped the metal railing with an iron grip. He didn't notice his reaction, but Stan did. Jones heated the steel rod Stan had his elbows resting on.

Stan jerked upright. "Damn, man. You're gonna melt that if you're not careful." He rubbed at his chafed skin.

Jones winced and apologized. "Yeah, sorry. I need a minute." He got ready to leave, unsettled over the slip.

Stan grunted. "Yeah, don't blame you for losing control around your loud-mouthed hotheaded team member." He moved to the console and loaded up the next run through.

Jones didn't reply but the insult irritated him. Vesta could absolutely be a pain in the ass. Kind of came with the territory of having superpowers. But she didn't have a lock on the top spot.

And Stan definitely pushed the limit on repetitive scenarios. Something Jones would mention during their one-on-one debrief after the day's work. Right now, he needed a walk around the facility to cool off.

And figure out how to not heat up everything he came in contact with.

Having fun with this one. Vesta and Jones can be volatile, and their situation is a powder keg.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Same Time Next Year

Happy Mother's Day to all the moms, grandmas, mentors, fur baby mothers, aunties, found moms, and mother figures. I hope this day is joyful and everything you want it to be. For all those out there who have a hard time with this day, I hope peace and serenity find you.

Coming off a super-busy week with a lot going on between work and home. There are times I really wish I could split myself in two so I could get more accomplished.

Work projects ended up being chaotic. A bunch are finishing up, which is great. But they're also closing out with little things that need attention and happening all at once. Whew! I'm actually not sure how I made it through the week.

I have a couple of new projects starting this week and they're fairly normal, which is good for my executive function. I at least feel like I'll be able to breathe.

Even with all the chaos projects, I ended having a decent viewing week. Made it through my usual slate of shows. I didn't get to watch any extras, but I'm okay with that.

Started out with Brokenwood Mysteries and really enjoyed the mystery. I rather like Reverend Green and Doctor Plummer and seeing them work through a rough patch kind of made the whole show.

Got started on an episode of Foyle's War and need to finish it up this week. I'd forgotten how twisty the last two seasons were with the spy thrilled angle.

Caught another episode of Death in Paradise. Thoroughly enjoyed Mervin and Solomon interacting. Kind of curious where they'll go with things and I have a feeling it won't be to a good place.

Enjoyed another episode of Poirot and loved having Hastings return. The twisty, twisty tale also made for great viewing. Love it when Poirot almost stumbles then catches himself before he faceplants.

Elementary ended up being really good. I love Joan having Marcus's back. Getting the dirt for him made me so happy. Also loved the mystery they had to solve.

Watched another episode of Young Justice and I'm pretty interested in where things go. I like the team figuring out how to interact and I look forward to seeing their new member.

Finished up the third season of Star Trek: Lower Decks. Gotta say for someone who really disliked Mariner well into the second season, I'd probably die for her now. That's a great character arc. Just saying.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Same Time Next Year, a paranormal novella that brings a couple together when they offer aid and comfort for each other.

Here's the miniblurb:

After commiserating over failed hookups, Tessa Gem and Hart Cantley make a date for the following year at the same time, but they have no idea their fae collective will be at war when they meet again.

And a preview snippet…

Hart blinked. "I think I took a harder blow on the head than I thought. I couldn't have heard you right." Tessa Gem pulling a one-eighty?

Yeah … no. He didn't see that one coming.

Tessa met his gaze. "Yes, you did." She settled closer to him. "Head injury aside, I know you've had thoughts about how to incite change. What are your ideas?"

Hart took a moment before answering. "I don't know where to start. But equal representation is key. And the mad power grabs have to end." Hopefully starting with his mother.

Tessa nodded and added her two cents. "It's gotta start at the top. Lop off the head to cure the disease." She huffed out a breath.

Hart widened his eyes. "You've given this some thought, too." Who knew a seed had been planted the last time they spoke.

Tessa shrugged. "Yeah. A lot recently. I'm good at kicking in doors and sweeping up the riffraff. But I didn't sign on to enforce policy that's become discriminatory or to line some fat cat's pockets." Her tongue clicked against her teeth, making a derisive sound.

A pocket of righteousness unfurled in his gut. If rank-and-file Tessa could revise her stance, progress might be possible. Change had to start somewhere.

But… "I don't disagree with your theory, but I gotta challenge you to project what would happen if the top dogs were removed." Starting at the top would be bold but problematic.

Tessa took a moment, the wheels spinning in her brain. "Okay, yes, as a wake-up call, it would work. But long-term … more power-grabbing paws are going to stick their mitts in." She grimaced. "And we're right back where we started."

Hart grunted. "Exactly." Two steps forward followed by about five steps back.

Tessa cocked her head. "So … what's the plan?" A speculative gleam entered her gaze.

He gave her his best innocent brow arch.

She rolled her eyes. "Look, I know you have one. And I'm in, Hart." A frown marred her features. "Unless you don't trust me."

Really happy with how this one is coming together. Tessa and Hart want the same thing, and they'll need to work together to make it happen.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye