Sunday Snippet: Red Cap

Whew. Long week filled with so many things going on. And, of course, weird weather. I also didn't sleep well at all … probably due to the upcoming time change. It's like my body and brain knows it's coming and tries to resist accordingly.

Ohio started the week with cold weather then warmed up to seventy degrees yesterday. We also had a lot of rain. Which gave us a lot of foggy mornings. Bleh.

Work projects are less backlogged than they were. I mostly finished up the developmental edit on the memoir, which feels good. A few small things left then it's off for a copy edit and proofread. This is such a great book! Also finished up a copy edit and started a new one. The new one is first person, which I'm not fond of. I also started a new proofreading project on a nonfiction book. I love being busy!

Had a decent viewing week. Made it through my usual slate of shows and did a little binge watching when I needed some background noise.

Started off with another episode of My Life Is Murder. Very fun to see a familiar face in the guest stars. One of the things I love about watching shows from New Zealand and Australia are the amazing actors who pop up frequently.

Ended up watching another Foyle's War episode instead of finishing the previous one. It's one of my favorites and finished out the season. Looking forward to starting a new season this week.

Caught another episode of Return to Paradise and enjoyed watching it. Mackenzie trying to find her footing while avoiding the landmines of being back home is kind of compelling. And the supporting cast is fun.

Enjoyed another episode of Poirot. I like it when it's actually kind of easy to figure out the who then watch how the what and why happen.

Elementary had another great episode. I'm very interested in Joan's relationship with her former patient. My hope is he ends up not falling back into old and bad habits. The case also ended up being interesting with a twist or two I didn't expect.

Watched another episode of Batman Beyond and it's one I only partially remember. It's a two-part episode and I'm looking forward to the resolution.

Star Trek: Lower Decks had a great episode. It's always fun to see rivalries pop up and to learn interesting things about the other characters. The relaxation planet thread of the story ended up being very entertaining.

That's it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Red Cap, a bit of a twist on the Red Riding Hood fairy tale.

Here's the miniblurb:

Magan Drone, a red-capped tree nymph, is ordered to protect Cass Warrison, a spell-casting earth sprite tasked with guarding the land from the wolf-shifter clan. Magan isn't thrilled with the duty—she and Cass share a complicated past—but her handy skill with a crossbow can stop an evil prophecy from coming to light. She'll do her job and save the day, but no way will she let Cass back into her life.

And a preview snippet…

Cass fought against the restraints tying him to the bed. "So, what's your plan here?" Two other women stood sentinel at the doorway leading to the living room.

Blondie, aka Siera Morganstern, gave him a sultry smile. "To mate with you, of course." She tilted her head toward the other two. "My sisters, Eva and Greta, are looking forward to the task." Her gaze went to the window. "And my other two sisters, Tilda and Vash will take whatever is left over." She calmly walked back and forth in front of the bed, very pleased with herself.

Cass wanted to keep her talking to hopefully spellcast his way to freedom. "So, the twisted ankle thing was a ploy?"

Siera smirked. "All the better to appeal to your innate sense of chivalry." Eva snorted and Siera silenced her with a frown.

Cass grunted. "And the flirty banter on the way to the cottage?" Whatever they used to bind him didn't respond to any of his spells.

Siera shrugged. "All the better to whet your appetite. We studied your preferences. You have a thing for blondes."

Yeah, not anymore.

Cass snorted. "And the invitation for lunch?" Maybe he could cast three objects and take them out that way.

Siera's lips curved. "All the better to lure you in, of course. And it worked."

Cass couldn't remember any of the items in the living room, so he couldn't call anything forth to knock the two sisters by the door out. "And your great-aunt?"

Siera sniffed. "Not my aunt. More a life given in the ultimate battle for survival." Her gaze went to Greta, who lifted her chin in acknowledgment of the deed.

Cass mourned the loss and accepted his responsibility in her death. "And here? Why this location?"

The she-wolf gave him another sultry smile. "What's better than a secluded cottage for a romantic tryst?" The upward tilt of her mouth quickly twisted into a grimace, and she clutched her shoulder.

Magan entered after winging the she-wolf with an arrow. Greta immediately crouched into a defensive stance, but Magan fired off another volley and struck her through the upper arm. Eva grabbed Greta and hauled her out of the room.

Magan crossed over and sliced the bonds restraining Cass. "What she means is out here no one will hear you scream like a girl when she and her bitchy sisters take as much of your semen as possible." She notched another arrow.

Cass cringed and quickly sat up. "What are you talking about?"

Magan nodded toward the dresser where five large glass canisters took up space. "You didn't think those were medicine dispensers, did you?"

Siera snarled. "You'll never get out of here alive. My sisters will tear you apart and feast on your bones." Getting to her feet, she winced in pain.

Magan only arched a brow. "I doubt that." She crossed to the window. "I already trapped two. Once you're dealt with, I'll get the other two."

Siera raged over the loss of her backup. "My pack will come for you."

Magan huffed out a breath. "Let them. Now that Mr. Clueless over there is finally in the know, they won't stand a chance." She turned, planted her feet, and squared her shoulders. "You do realize he's unmatched when it comes to spellcasting?"

Siera yanked the arrow out of her shoulder. "Why do you think we targeted him?" She staunched the flow of blood with Cass's discarded shirt.

Magan snorted. "Because you're stupid. He's pissed off now…" She slid her gaze toward him. "Or at least he should be—"

Cass broke in. "Oh, definitely pissed over here." And humiliated.

Magan rolled her eyes like she had an express line into his thoughts.

She ignored him and directed her attention back to Siera. "Yeah, so, your pack? Totally screwed."

Fear crept into Siera's voice. "Spare them. This was my plan. The others didn't condone the operation. Not even my sisters."

Cass had heard enough. "That's unfortunate for them." He whispered an incantation and spellcasted Siera back to where she came from.

Magan turned to face him. "Be right back. I'll be sending the others on their with a strong back-the-fuck-off message." She headed for the door but glared at him over her shoulder. "Do not leave this cottage."

Cass sank down on the edge of the bed, his gaze going to the glass canisters. "No fucking way." He directed a spell and shattered all of them.

I'm having so much fun with this twist on a classic fairy tale. Cass and Magan are a joy to write.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye 

Sunday Snippet: Ramona for the Win (Academic Magic)

Geez, I can't believe we're into March. February ended up being a complete blur for me. Then again, it's such a short month, even if I think it's weird how two or three days can make such a big difference.

Ohio weather is still acting like a drunk toddler. Warm one day, cold the next. Snow. Rain. Sunny skies. I am excited that it's getting light earlier, especially when I have to leave at six thirty to play taxi service.

Work projects are still rather backlogged. Well, maybe not backlogged more like stacking one on top of the other. I love being busy, but I have to admit, I've been a little overwhelmed lately. Then again, it's a good problem to have.

My viewing stayed on course for the most part. I made it through most of my usual shows. I've been itching to start something new but haven't quite decided what I want to watch yet.

Started the week with the fifth-season premiere of My Life Is Murder and once again, this show doesn't disappoint. Such a fun episode.

Watched most of an episode of Foyle's War. It's one I remembered and I enjoyed it, but kept getting distracted so I'll finish it up this week.

Another newish show for me is Return to Paradise. I've watched most of the first season but not in order, so I started the series from episode one.

Caught another episode of Poirot and thoroughly enjoyed the mystery and seeing Poirot in his native surroundings.

Elementary ended up being a fun watch. I like it when Sherlock and Joan are on opposite sides of an issue but aren't nasty about it. And the case they solved was really interesting.

Watched another episode of Batman Beyond and remembered it after I got started on it. I enjoy seeing how far Terry has come since the beginning of the series.

Star Trek: Lower Decks had a great episode. Kendi is such a fun character and I love her. Also great to see Boimler, Mariner, and Rutherford in action together. It's been a while since they had a good adventure.

That's pretty much it for the life update. Tonight's post is from Ramona for the Win, book three of the Academic Magic series.

Here's the miniblurb:

Ramona and Melick finally have their personal relationship on solid ground, but the timing couldn't be worse. The academy is under attack, and it falls to Ramona to save the day by infiltrating the rival's headquarters by using the downed dragon. She's confident she can get inside and stop the assaults—if Melick will get out of her way.

And a preview snippet…

Ramona sat stirring her coffee with an eye on the window. "How can I pull off infiltrating the compound?" She set the spoon aside and brought the mug up to her lips.

"Careful planning and having some backup along for the ride." Melick strolled into the kitchen, his hair damp from a shower.

Ramona slid her gaze over him. He hadn't dressed yet, and the towel rode low on his hips. She could so easily get distracted from what she needed to do today. Maybe after he had a mug of coffee they could head back to bed and…

What?

She put the sexy movie in her head on pause. "Wait. Did you say backup along for the ride?" With the dragon?

Melick gave a nod and poured a cup of java. "I did. Yes." He turned and leaned against the counter.

Ramona tilted her head to one side. "How do you see that working … and who did you have in mind as backup?" Her brain went to the schematics of the beast, the seed of his idea taking root.

Melick shrugged. "I'm thinking one person could hitch a ride in that subspace pocket just below where the tail meets the lower torso. It'll be warm and toasty because the fire cauldron is right behind it, but I think someone could fit." He blew across the top of the mug.

Ramona's head slowly bobbed up and down. "Yeah … that might work." And they might be able to add some dampening material on the outside of that barrier to keep the temperature down.

Melick took a long sip of his coffee. "As for who … that would be your choice." He met her gaze. "It doesn't have to be me, but … I'd like you to consider it." He sent her a half smile then ambled out of the kitchen … probably to get dressed.

Ramona contemplated adding another person to the mix. The plan had merit. Two going behind the wall gave them better odds. But …

Grabbing her mug, she got and headed for the bedroom. "Hey, Melick … there's one problem with choosing you…"

This series is a lot of fun to write. Romana and Melick are such a cool couple.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Raid at Midnight (an Under the Black Raven Banner novella)

I'm happy to say I managed to pull off a surprise birthday celebration for my husband with the help of our daughter and a few other very good and awesome friends. I held it at the elementary school where he works as a custodian and surprisingly got everything and everyone in to the cafeteria without him finding out. I'm so happy we surprised him!

That party capped off a very busy week between trying to figure out what the weather is going to do from one moment to the next and work projects dropping from the sky to not feeling the greatest because of said weather. We're gearing up for some additional snow so that should be fun.

As mentioned, work projects are piling up and I'm happy to be busy. I have a good mix of genres at the moment and I enjoy the variety. I should have two finished up this week and two more starting. I'm excited and hope this trend continues!

Had an okay week of viewing. I managed to get through my usual schedule of shows and caught a little more of the Olympics. I'm not a rabid fan, but I do enjoy amazing athletes compete for their countries.

Started the week with Midsomer Murders and finished up season 25. I have to say, I thoroughly enjoyed this season. The writing kind of blew me away and the humorous moments made me happy. More of this please!

Caught the premiere episode of Foyle's War season seven and it's one I remembered. I do miss the sergeant and kind of hope he ends up showing up again.

Finished season twenty-eight of Silent Witness and I love ending on the wedding on Jack and Nikki with the hint of where they'll be going in the next season. The new team is amazing, and I'm thrilled they'll be sticking around.

Enjoyed another episode of Poirot and loved how Hastings and Poirot were concerned about Miss Lemon but ended up not having to be because of a cat.

Elementary had another great episode. Kind of fun to see Sherlock wake Joan up with a violin. I also think Sherlock nudging Gregson to get married actually made sense. Sherlock's awkwardness always makes me smile.

Watched another episode of Batman Beyond and it isn't the last one of the series. I have several more to watch before having to decide which show to pick up next.

Caught another episode of Star Trek: Lower Decks and rather enjoyed the new vibe between the characters. I have to admit, I'm kind of meh about the Ransom character. We'll see if he grows on me the way Beckett did.

That's it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Raid at Midnight, book one of the Under the Black Raven Banner series. (Series name is subject to change…)

Here's the miniblurb:

Verity Jones joins an elite group of civilian protectors in a battle-torn land. She's the daughter of an ace fighter pilot who tore up the skies in the first epic war. Emory Cavendish is the lead pilot, and his crew pulls off amazing feats, largely thanks to Verity, which drives their commanding officer mad to the point of putting Verity in danger.

And a preview snippet…

Verity paced back and forth in her equipment room. She'd overheard Whitcomb accuse Emory of thinking with his dick. Grabbing a chair, she dropped down on it and heaved a sigh.

Is that what Emory is doing?

Riffling through her sketches, she snagged a pencil and tapped it on the pages. She didn't want to believe Whitcomb's accusation. The man defined the word asshole.

Her lips twisted. "Not to mention misogynist." Didn't mean the colonel couldn't have a valid point about Emory's interest in her.

She heard movement in the bedroom, but she stayed put, even when Emory called out for her. She didn't want to talk to Emory yet. Too bad … because he didn't take the hint and leave.

Instead, he came into her workspace and put his hands on her shoulders. "You're in the clear. Whitcomb blew his stack but I talked him around."

Verity tensed. Talked him around how?

Emory squeezed her with his fingers. "You're to keep a low profile, but I'm thinking we should do a test flight tonight, on the new equipment you developed."

Verity stood up, shaking his hands off her. "Is that what you think or what your cock thinks?" Damn him.

Emory narrowed his gaze. "You've been listening at doors? Did you stick around to hear me set him straight?" His eyebrows arched.

No, she'd left as soon as Whitcomb made the accusation.

Still… "Did he have a point? Why do you trust me so much?" She hated how much this bothered her.

Emory made a rude snort then pushed back. "Let me get this straight. You think the reason I put the lives of our men in your hands, encourage you to fly and create news ways to keep us ahead of the enemy, and basically give you free rein is all because I fuck you?" He flung a hand out. "Is your opinion of your skills lower than Whitcomb's?" He planted his hands on his hips, squaring up against her.

Ouch. Put that way, she didn't blame him for being crude. Her shoulders slumped.

Duly chastised, she apologized. "I'm sorry. After experiencing such a high from completing the drop, I guess it stung—a lot—to have the colonel reduce me down to being your bed partner." She grimaced. "I should be angry with him, not you. Please ignore what I said."

Still pissed off, Emory shook his head. "No, we need to get a few things crystal clear here. You've proven your worth. I don't doubt you can build a plane from the ground up—you've pretty much proven it with the relic we're going to test later." His voice softened. "You give a damn about the men. You fly better than anyone I've ever seen. And one day soon, you'll be leading missions." His lips kicked up in a wry grin. "Basically, what I'm saying is we'd be stupid not to put your skills to use."

Verity's mouth curved. "You paint a pretty picture, but Whitcomb won't be easy to get around." She sighed, wishing things could be different.

Emory reached out and hauled her close. "Whitcomb is mine to get around. Leave him to me."

At this point, Verity didn't have a better plan. She wrapped her arms around Emory and held on tight.

I love this series so much. Verity and Emory are a joy to write, and I'm having so much fun with them!

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Rack and Ruin

Halfway through the month and it's nonstop gangbusters. I'm planning a super-secret thing I can't talk about for this Friday. I seriously hope I can pull this off.

The weather is warming up a little, so the snow is finally melting. That also means it's muddy and squishy outside during the day and slippery and slidey at night. I have a pond in my driveway when it's sunny and an ice rink when it gets dark.

Work projects are steady and still coming. I finished up a nightmare project—I hope—and I'm glad to move on from that one. Completed a copy edit and started a new one. Had some hourly editorial review work I started and finished this week. I had another one going that I'm making headway on and I'm finishing up a developmental edit, which I hope to have completed by next week. I also have a backburner project that I need to jump back into. All in all … yeah, it's been busy.

I did manage to get through my usual slate of shows. I even watched some of the Olympic events, but I'm not really following anyone or anything. The skeleton events fascinate me. My idea of fun is definitely not jumping on a tiny sled while going seventy-plus miles—headfirst—down an icy super-slide of death. That said, kudos to the athletes who make it look easy. And scary.

Started the week with Midsomer Murders and thoroughly enjoyed the mystery. I've been waiting for this one, because the previews were intriguing. Death by cuckoo clock is a wild way to go. Just saying.

Finished up season six of Foyle's War, and I'd forgotten how bleak the end of the war ended up being for everyone. I mean there was obviously a call for celebration, but the uncertainty for all the characters, or most of them, is very strong.

Started a new two-part Silent Witness and quite enjoyed Jack and Nikki realizing they don't have a lot of friends outside of their work. I'm very interested in the little beat about Nikki maybe leaving the Lyell to start a new facility. That could prove interesting for next season.

Enjoyed an episode of Poirot. It's always fun when Miss Lemon saves the day with research. And really nice to see Poirot support a young woman's dreams.

Elementary ended up being very interesting. I love how much Joan wants to help her former patient, but she also didn't discount the aunt's concerns. And Sherlock's ruthless takedown of the CEO ended up being a chef's kiss moment.

Caught another Batman Beyond episode and I believe I'm near the end of the series run. Not sure what I'll pick up next, but I might dive into another Batman series.

Watched the opening episode for season three of Star Trek: Lower Decks and thoroughly enjoyed seeing Beckett interact with her dad. Also loved seeing everyone else in civilian mode. Season three should be a fun ride.

That's pretty much it for the life update. Tonight's post is from Rack and Ruin, a novella that explores what happens when two characters catch each other in compromising positions.

Here's the miniblurb:

Vespa Thorn, a maintenance adept for the Mage Ministry of Defense, is an addictive gambler—whenever, wherever, she'll go all in. Hale Walterson, a special forces soldier has a problem with sex—he can't get enough of it. Vespa wants Hale, but he's the one thing she won't bet on … until he challenges her to keep up with him.

And a preview snippet…

Shit. No, she didn't usually do anything extracurricular in her jumpsuit.

She glanced around the room before responding. "Actually, no." She should probably explain the anomaly. "Sometimes, when I get off late and there's a big game getting started, I shave corners."

But she usually didn't do that at the hotel.

She cocked her head to one side. "Wait a minute. Were you following me the same night?"

He shook his head. "Nope. I stumbled on to you the same way anyone from the ministry would. I walked into Dino's for a drink and the crowd in the corner drew my attention. There you were work suit tied around your waist." His lips quirked in a bit of a smirk.

Vespa huffed out a breath. "I don't do that often. I had a stake in that game from the night before." Not that he needed to know that information.

Hale rolled a shoulder. "Hey, it's none of my business—except if you get busted, we'll lose our top tech. And that would suck."

She basked a little in the compliment.

Then she sobered. "I'm careful who I play with. None of them would compromise me." She believed that with her whole being.

Hale gave a nod. "Maybe not. But those suits with that coloring are highly recognizable. The players might be fine but the bystanders? Probably not so much."

Well, hell. He made a good argument.

She clicked her tongue against her teeth. "True enough." Meeting his gaze, she lifted her chin. "Thanks for the heads-up."

His head bobbed. "Same. Looks like we need to be a little more careful."

Too right.

She asked the question burning in her mind. "You never worry about your companions?" Kind of a stupid question when she had zero concern about her gambling crew.

One side of Hale's mouth curved upward. "Nina and Tina are paid to be discreet."

Vespa's mouth dropped open. He pays for sex? Seriously?

Hale snorted. "Pick your jaw up. I use their agency because they're vetted and don't leak information. My drive for sex ruins relationships and a string of ex-girlfriends is more dangerous to my health and job than the expense is to my wallet."

Her curiosity went into overdrive. "I'd wager you haven't met the right woman yet then." Did she really just say that?

Especially the implied meaning being she might be the right female.

Hale flicked his tongue against his teeth. "You volunteering?" His gaze narrowed.

Am I? She had to admit he presented a challenge, because she had no idea if she could keep up, but she wanted to find out. And … she'd wager he'd take her on one hell of a ride.

She lifted her chin. "Maybe." She side-eyed the room. "Not really the place to discuss this topic."

Hale grunted. "Fair enough. Since I owe you dinner, at the very least, why don't we meet up top and continue this conversation."

As much as she loved the Willow, her gut said they needed to keep the hotel neutral ground … for now.

Tilting her head to one side, she made a different suggestion. "Let's meet off site. No sense mixing work and play here anymore than we already do."

He held her gaze a long moment then nodded. "Okay. What did you have in mind?"

She pushed away from the table. "Pick me up at my place." She gave him her address. "We'll see where the night takes us."

Hale got to his feet. "Deal. But we're definitely going to be talking about that maybe you threw out."

Vespa grinned and stuck out her hand. "You're on!" After a firm shake, she made her way out of the room.

She might be jumping into a fire, but she couldn't resist.

I love how this story is coming together. Vespa and Hale are fun characters who like to challenge each other and everyone else.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Quiver Full of Arrows

February is going to be a wild month. It's already shorter than average and my project load is intense plus I have two birthdays hitting a week apart. A big one for the husband, which involves a super-secret aspect that's challenging to pull off.

Ohio is still deep into its cold spell, which I'm actually okay with. We're also still digging out of the huge snowfall we got last week. It's hilarious that I get stuck in my own driveway. But I do.

As mentioned, work projects are falling out of the sky right now and that's not a bad thing. But it is a bit of a hurdle to manage making sure they're all getting the attention they need. I'd love to have about five more hours each day.

Had a better than normal viewing week. Some of my projects involve tedious busywork, and it's nice to have something on in the background. I even got to one of my back-burner shows.

Started off with Midsommer Murders and thoroughly enjoyed the episode. It also made me want to take up lawn bowling. I remember playing something like that, along with croquet, when little.

Caught another episode of Foyle's War and it's one I remembered well from the original watch. I have one more episode in the sixth season and I'm looking forward to watching it this week.

Watched the second half of Silent Witness and whew! So many twists and turns. And, of course, the obnoxious asshat is the actual target … yet somehow manages to come through partially unscathed. Really loved the team doing what they needed to do regardless of the consequences.

Enjoyed an episode of Poirot. Loved how he got a chance to revisit a murder he wasn't allowed to solve the first time. Lots of twisty turns.

Elementary didn't disappoint with the opening of the fifth season. I love that Joan probably saved her former patient by offering a helping hand. Also love that Sherlock recognized she needed something more.

Caught another episode of Batman Beyond and kind of loved the teamwork with Gotham PD and taking down the poacher. I'd forgotten about this episode.

Watched the season two finale of Star Trek: Lower Decks and, wow, what a way to end the season. Looking forward to catching what happens next.

Also started another episode of Peak Practice. It's painful to watch Sam completely fall from grace. I might end up forwarded through some of it because it hurts to watch.

That's pretty much it for the life update. Tonight's post is from Quiver Full of Arrows, a novella that mashes up superpowers and fae magick.

Here's the miniblurb:

Frey Witter, codename Crossfire, is sent to bring in mercenary for hire, Solaris Polanski, aka Moon Shadow, for a covert mission. He's got one little problem. Solaris answers to no one—and she used to work for the other side.

And a preview snippet…

Solaris braced for seeing Norm Coleman again. Something she rarely, as in never, enjoyed. He'd recruited her at the tender age of sixteen—almost thirteen years ago. The only thing she'd credit him with is teaching her to take a beating. No, he'd never abused her with physical violence. Her parents took top prize there.

She waited for Crossfire to key in the access code and while he scanned his credentials, she trudged back to the beginning of her relationship with Coleman.

Norm's tactics were and still are much more sinister and slyly developed than a mere physical ambush. Cajolery, manipulation, emotional thievery, and gaslighting were his go-to favorites.

Being different—having her ability of extra sensory perception aka the sixth sense—and being able to hold her own from a young age got her into a lot of trouble. The very reason my parents decided I needed to have the evil beat out of me. When their brutalization didn't work, they cashed in and sold her to a program for gifted children when she turned twelve.

The program proved to be a sham—the people running if were training spies. Infiltration, seduction, all the tricks of the trade. Norm came in, took one look at her and bought out her contract. He wanted her young enough to train for agency purposes but old enough to handle the physical aspects. I learned the emotional toll on my own and finally escaped.

Only to be brought back. Dammit.

Crossfire led the way through the maze of corridors, and she followed at a slightly slower pace. Norm hadn't moved his cushy office, still residing at the top of the stairs in a space that overlooked the main hub of operations. A large concrete platform jutted out from the enclosed area, leaving plenty of room for a staging location … or in her case, a place to cool her heels whenever Norm wanted to make her wait.

Which she wouldn't do today.

Brushing past Crossfire, she strode into Norm's space and cleared her throat. He looked up, arching a brow. His silence a grudging acknowledgment of her presence; his lack of surprise an irritation she'd have to live with.

Solaris tossed the bag of diamonds on the desk. "My compliments. It better buy me some time and consideration." She kept her gaze on her former employer but appreciated Frey taking a post just inside the door.

Norm shook out the gems and flicked his gaze up to her. "Petty thievery is beneath you." His fingers trailed through the pile of sparkly bits.

Solaris snorted. "Half a billion in untraceable diamonds is a fucking wet dream for black-op budgets. The only thing petty about it is your inability to accept the windfall without being a raging dick." She folded her arms over her chest but winced and dropped them down again.

Her ribs still ached from her time with the trio of thugs in the railroad turnstile.

Norm leaned back and gave her a bland smile. "I see you're still using the old standby of letting yourself get caught and brutalized. Haven't you outgrown the need for pain?" He widened his eyes in his usual fashion.

Her fingers curled into her palms. "Considering I learned all the tricks of the pain trade from you, you're stating the obvious." She slowly straightened her hands. "Are you ready to give me what I need? Because I'm fresh out of patience and the desire to breathe the same air as you."

Coleman scooped up the diamonds and returned them to the bag. "You've got the time." He tucked the gems into his shirt pocket and leaned back again. "I'm listening."

She swallowed the bile rising in her throat. "Pay attention then. These are my terms…"

I have so much love for this story! Solaris and Frey are such a great couple to write.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Quilt of Fate

Man, January felt like it flew by but also seemed like it lasted a full decade. It's so weird how that happens. It could also be because I've been fighting a yucky cold and I'm not enjoying that at all.

Ohio has been in the longest cold spell I can remember. Highs only in the teens and lows in the single digits or below zero. Usually, we'll get that for a day or three. But this has been going on for over a week. At least I haven't had to go out much and deal with the brutal temperatures.

Had a fairly busy work week. Finished up the romantasy copy edit and did a little more on the manuscript that needed TLC. I'm digging into the memoir and getting it ready for a copy edit by another editor. I struggled through endnote hell with my regular author's project. Weirdly, I've had significantly more projects with footnotes or endnotes lately. It's not a trend I enjoy, but it's a new challenge, which I do like.

Had an okay viewing week. I made it through a full round of shows, which included starting a new season of one of my regulars. If possible, I might try to add a random backburner show this week.

Started season twenty-five of Midsommer Murders, and the opening episode didn't disappoint. Someone mentioned on BlueSky that this season is filled with humorous moments and that makes me so happy. Looking forward to more.

Caught another episode of Foyle's War with the opening of season six. A full year passed with Christopher no longer working as a policeman. Of course, he got sucked back in and the team is back together.

Watched the first of a two-part Silent Witness and, whew, what an episode. I have a fairly good idea of where this one is going and it's not pretty. Nikki is going to have her hands full when she's back at the Lyell.

Enjoyed another episode of Poirot. I love how many pursuits Hastings has. Hunting, golf, driving, and of course, working with Poirot. And Miss Lemon is a true gem.

Elementary ended it's fourth season with an interesting twist. I kind of enjoyed the whole Moreland Holmes arc. I'm looking forward to what season five brings to the table.

Watched another Batman Beyond and it's one I remembered. Bruce's dip in the Lazarus pool made a great episode, especially with being able to fight off a group of thugs with Terry. Such a fun episode.

Caught another episode of Star Trek: Lower Decks and enjoyed it. Very fun to see Klingon and Vulcan lower deck crews. And the end scene with the Borg lower deck was kind of funny.

And that's it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Quilt of Fate, a novella that follows a couple while they lead their people to a new home and rebuild their romance … with a little help along the way.

Here's the miniblurb:

Nadie Fall and Cable Reilly are transported to an alternate reality by the Moerae. Clotho, Lachesis, and Atropos have plans for the fated couple who couldn't save their original universe but can alter the future for their new one.

And a preview snippet…

Nadie Fall slammed her hand on the conference table. "Why did you ask me here if you're not going to listen?" The owlish blinking from the eight council members would have made her laugh under any other circumstances.

But not today. Dire situations sucked the humor out of everything. And they didn't have time to play games.

Cable Reilly, the bane of her existence, cleared his throat. "There's a difference between listening and going blindly into a harebrained scheme.'' He gave her a look that dared her to throw down with him.

She drew in a deep breath. Once upon a time she'd not only throw down with Cable, she'd have willingly gone to the mat for him. Those days are long gone!

Ignoring the former love of her life, she met the gaze of the chief elder. "The signposts are there. The scrolls said they would be. But we can't spend months making a decision." She gave each council member a hard look. "We're losing people who can manipulate the shadows, and we're losing our window to move safely through the realms." She couldn't state the circumstances any more plainly.

Cable snorted. "Always with the doom and gloom." He pushed away from the wall. "Speaking from a place of reason, maybe discount the dire tone and focus on the resources we have right now and what the projected numbers will be if we wait." His gaze homed in on Nadie. "The wraith threat can't be beat if we don't have a plan. People need time to prepare." Again, he arched his brows, almost daring her to argue.

As if Nadie didn't account for the fact they would need prep time. She wanted to punch him. Or smash his face into a wall.

Instead, she lifted her chin. "The sooner those preparations begin, the sooner we can leave the wraith invasion behind." She waited a beat. "And the fewer friends we'll say good-bye to." Turning, she made a beeline to the double doors and left the chamber.

Cable could stick around and wait for the vote. She'd said her piece, and he'd countered. As he always did now.

She sighed. "Damn, I miss being on the same page with him." And … she missed sharing a bed with him.

I'm very pleased with how this one is coming together. It's also very close to being finished. I can't wait to share it!

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: A Quiet Hell

Whew. We got hit with a ton of snow last night and this morning. About fourteen inches. My county is under a rare level three snow emergency. I had to drive out this morning and, it wasn't horrible but I definitely drove slowly. And we only had about seven inches at that point. So glad I don't have to go out anymore today.

Had a crazy-busy work week. A project came back that needed some extra TLC after numerous author revisions. I'm still working on the memoir, and I started a new project with one of my regular authors. Also working on a long romantasy novel and hitting the series book when I can.

Had a slower week of viewing with everything else going on. Prepping for the snowstorm took up some time and I needed to focus on the work stuff.

I did watch Miss Fisher and the Crypt of Tears. I thoroughly enjoyed this fan-backed movie project. A very cool way to cap the series.

Also caught an episode of Foyle's War that finished out the fifth season. I'd completely forgotten Foyle actually resigned from the police force. Looking forward to starting the next season.

Finished up the second half of Silent Witness. Again, the twists and turns were amazing. So many red herrings. And a side story that ended up being compelling.

Enjoyed another episode of Poirot. This one had an interesting side plot with Miss Lemon that I loved.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from A Quiet Hell, a novella that explores a paranormal connection between the main characters.

Here's the miniblurb:

Mattox Lang lives in a quiet hell, seeing and sensing paranormal activity. Bruce Wendelson has haunting dreams that linger, but he can never recall the details. Mattox understands Bruce's torment and hopes to ease her own by helping him deal with the nightmares.

And a preview snippet…

"Why do I gotta be here, Mom?" Bruce Wendelson sent his brother Bailey a mean look. "I'm not the one getting in trouble." Stupid Bailey caused all the problems.

Bailey balled up his fist and punched Bruce in the arm.

Bruce snorted. As if that hurt.

Their mom, Tillie, separated the boys and entered the therapist's office. "Bailey won't come by himself, and it's only forty-five minutes." She blew her bangs out of her face and signed them in.

Bruce rolled his eyes. Easy for her to say. She doesn't have to sit with shithead Bailey.

He leaned against the counter. "It's forty-five minutes twice a week, Mom. That's an hour and a half." Time he could be spending with his friends, doing what fourteen-year-old boys did.

Instead, he had to babysit his ten-year-old brother because he wouldn't grow a pair and do therapy on his own.

Bruce folded his arms across his chest. "He's got the balls to be a dick in class, why can't have them for this?" Geez, he shouldn't have to explain how much this sucked.

Tillie pulled Bruce aside. "Bruce Malcolm Wendelson, what have I told about your language?" She hissed the words between clenched teeth.

Bruce heaved a sigh. "It's not fair, Mom." Not much had been fair lately.

Her face softened and deep sadness filled her eyes. "It's not fair that your dad died so young either. Bailey's really struggling." She paused. "And you are too. Ninety minutes isn't too much to ask of you."

Bruce rolled his eyes again. "Whatever, Mom." He'd sit through the stupid counseling session—his own quiet hell—and listen to Bailey garner sympathy for their loss.

And, yeah, last year had been difficult, but Bruce managed to get through a school day without trashing his teachers, destroying gym equipment, or setting fire to anything. But … Bruce would stop complaining to his mom. She didn't need the added burden. Not when she missed their dad as much as Bruce did.

The counselor called Bailey's name.

Bruce heaved a sigh. "Better to suffer in silence." He followed Bailey into the office and started the mental countdown until they could leave.

I have a lot of love for this story. Mattox and Bruce are such an interesting couple and I love writing the vibe between them.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye