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

Sunday Snippet: Rumpled and Worn

Yeesh. So far, May has been a very chilly month. Our high yesterday hit forty-five degrees. Brrr. I'm going to try really hard to remember this when I'm crying because it's eighty-five in October. Just saying.

I didn't quite get everything tracked down that I wanted to last week so I'm carrying it over to this week. I think I'm going to make May my month to get stuff done. And, I'll be honest, it'll probably spill over into June. Time moves faster than I like sometimes.

Pretty good work week all things considered. I closed out a project and came close to finishing the final steps two others. Finished up a copy edit on a long manuscript and started a proofread on another. I have a continuation of another project on the books for this week also. I love to be busy.

Not a bad viewing week. I got through my usual list of shows, which makes me happy. I didn't get to watch any of my back burner shows or a concert, but maybe this week.

Started out with the season-twelve premier of the Brokenwood Mysteries. Thoroughly enjoyed the episode. Love having the cast of recurring characters making appearances.

Watched the final behind the scenes bonus of Foyle's War and enjoyed seeing the effort that went into creating the battle scene. Should be starting the final season this week.

Caught the opening episode of the next Poirot season. Kind of fun to see how little Poirot enjoyed retirement. And a really good mystery also.

Finished up the two-part Silent Witness premier. A very twisty story with lots of layers. I think I'm going to like having the team work at the new Bowman Center.

Elementary ended up being really interesting. I'm enjoying the Shinwell training and the case ended up being way complicated than I thought it would be.

Watched the second episode of Young Justice and I enjoyed seeing the team come together. Looking forward to more.

Caught another episode of Star Trek: Lower Decks and, whoo boy. Gotta say Mariner got shafted. Should be fun and interesting to see how things play out over the rest of the season.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Rumpled and Worn, a modern-day twist on the Rumpelstiltskin tale.

Here's the miniblurb:

Lindie Lands strikes a deal with the Rumpleman—keep her crazy stalker at bay and she'll hand over the first man she falls for. But when she finally finds a lasting love with Cole Darrington, she's not willing to give him up and together they outsmart the Rumpleman.

And a preview snippet…

With a hard dick, bursting to get free, Cole gave a one-word answer. "Bedroom?" Why not keep things simple?

Lindie's lip curved in a sexy smile while her fingers undid the row of buttons on his borrowed shirt. "Thought you'd never ask."

The fabric played peekaboo with her breasts and his cock strained against his zipper. He held out a hand and when her fingers brushed his, he tugged her forward, sweeping an arm under her legs to whisk her off her feet. Settling her against his chest, her butt perched over his hard-on, he carried her into his room. His eyes feasted on her bountiful rack.

Placing her on the bed, he stepped back and stripped off his shirt. Her heated gaze roamed over him before fastening on his fingers popping the button of his fly. He unzipped slowly, amping up the tension. Her breathing went a little shallow when he eased the denim past his hips. He let the jeans pool at his feet and his erection jutted out, hard and ready.

She licked her lips. "Oh, my…" Her gaze met his.

A swell of pride filled him. He didn't have many complaints, but her opinion mattered. And the approval in her eyes served to make him even harder.

She sat up and shrugged out of his shirt, her nipples tightening into taut nubs. He wanted to tease and torment the dusky peaks with his lips and teeth. She got up on her knees, her fingers slipping under the waistband of her panties.

Cole strode to the bed. "Please, let me." He had to touch her.

She gave him a sensual smile and removed her hands, letting them hang loosely at her sides. He put a knee on the bed and reached out, feeling like a kid on the winter solstice ready to unwrap something special. He palmed her ass, loving the way it fit his hand.

She put her arms around his neck, and he hooked his thumbs under the waistband. Leaning in, he captured her lips and eased the satiny fabric past her hips. He wrapped an arm around her and lowered her to the bed, dragging her panties off to let them fall on the floor.

Her tongue dueled with his, notching the heat up. He slid a palm over her smooth calf and up along her thigh. She parted her legs, welcoming the glide of fingers over her slick folds.

Breaking the kiss, he moaned. "Oh, sweetness, you're hot and wet."

She flicked her tongue over her lower lip and nodded. "And so ready." Her fingers circled around his dick. "But I want a taste first."

Happy to oblige, he maneuvered around until they were side by side, in opposite directions. "As long as I can sample, too."

She responded by licking the tip of his cock then engulfing a large portion of his shaft. He made a hum of satisfaction before delving between her legs to swipe his tongue along her labia. Sweet nectar flowed and he added a finger, inserting the digit, loving the way her walls clamped and held him prisoner. He'd happily stay shackled to her … for however long she wanted him to.

I really love how this story is coming together and can't wait to see where it goes.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Rule of the Son

Another bonkers week of fighting a cold and lack of sleep while trying to keep a lot of plates spinning. I have another week of tracking some things down that I really don't want to put off any longer and, honestly, I always forget how much time it takes to this stuff sometimes. I'd love an extra four hours in a day so I could stay caught up.

The weather is doing its usual back and forth thing, plus we're at that stage of spring where it's full-on construction season. I have to laugh because some of the detours have detours. It's bonkers.

Really good work week. I've got several projects in flux at the moment and if the timing goes well (spoiler alert: it rarely does), I'll move two off my plate and add two more. I did put a final checkmark on one of my developmental editing projects. I had a lot of fun working on that one.

Had a pretty solid viewing week. I made it through my usual list of shows and kind of added an extra one because one of my streamers is being a pain and wanting an upgrade for immediate access to new seasons. I'm not okay with paying more so I'll play the waiting game.

Finished up the fifth season of My Life Is Murder and I'm very happy with where all the characters are. I love Madison's growth and Will choosing to stay on the straight and narrow makes me smile. This group would be so much fun to hang out with.

Caught another behind the scenes bit with Foyle's War. I'm always interested in how they pull things together and this one had several segments about makeup, wardrobe, and sets. I think I have one more before the next season.

Watched another episode of Poirot and finished up the sixth season. From what I remember, there's a five-year break before the beginning of the next one. Stay tuned to see if I'm right.

Started the new season of Death in Paradise and thoroughly enjoyed the opening salvo. The commissioner is back. Darlene is gone and will be missed. A new sergeant is in the mix. Seb is still Seb. And DI Wilson has a clue that his half-brother is a terrible, no-good, awful person. Catherine and Naomi are the glue that holds everything together.

Elementary had another terrific episode. I really like where all the characters are right now, and I love Sherlock kind of going out on a limb for Shinwell. Looking forward to seeing more on this plot point.

Started a new to me series with Young Justice. I've seen a few of the episodes, but I've never seen how the series kicked off. So far, I'm enjoying the ride.

Caught another episode of Star Trek: Lower Decks and quite enjoyed the adventure. Always lovely to see special guest stars and this week we had George Takei. Such a fun episode.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Rule of the Son, the final installment in an unnamed as of yet series.

Here's the miniblurb:

With help from the Book of Pythia, Aleina Foyle and Alston Saddington establish a new colony and end their journey to find a new home. Now that their goal is achieved, they have to return the essences of Aurora and Apollo to the dieties, which creates a dilemma—the couple is called to create the new government, and both are exhausted … until Pythia comes up with a solution to help them out.

And a preview snippet…

Aleina bit back a smile. "Geez, give her a chance to finish a thought." She directed her attention to the oracle. "He has manners. But he forgets that sometimes." Lacing her fingers with Alston, she squeezed his hand.

Pythia gave a nod. "I know. But he's asking the right questions. We do have another task if you're willing to take it on." She folded her hands in her lap.

Alston snorted. "Figured."

Aleina's lips twitched. "Let's hear her out. Nothing can be as difficult as what we've just finished." At least she hoped not.

Pythia lifted her chin. "Once you transfer the essence back to the Apollo and Aurora, they'd like to bestow a gift upon you." She gave Alston a hard stare. "And, yes, there are some strings attached."

Aleina gripped his hand again. "Let her say what she needs to before you start peppering her with questions again."

Pythia didn't waste time with words. Instead, she showed Aleina and Alston what the gods wanted from them. To become the new leaders and establish a government. Aleina's heart sank. She honestly didn't have the fortitude to work that hard. And neither did Alston.

She met the oracle's gaze. "You paint a lovely picture. But speaking for both of us, we're exhausted. We led the way to our new home. Got everyone there safely. Life is too short to spend the rest of it launching a new government." She side-eyed Alston and he grunted his agreement.

Pythia broke her silence. "We understand your reluctance. And we hope you'll consider our solution." She leaned forward. "The gods will grant you a double lifespan to give you time to get settled and establish a new system of governing. Whether you know it or not, your people are looking to you to guide and help them find their way in a democratic society that represents everyone." She paused a moment. "And they're also suggesting you pick another person or two to help you."

Aleina blinked. That idea changed things a little. And she had a very good idea of who she'd like to request as their partners. She turned to face Alston.

He gave a slow nod. "Frank and Sindy. Without them, we wouldn't have made it." He focused on Pythia. "If they agree, we'll say yes to this request." He angled his head and arched his brows.

Aleina's head bobbed up and down. "Yeah, they have to choose. And if they say no, we're going to have to decline also."

A whooshing sound rustled behind them, and Apollo and Aurora entered the alcove.

Apollo gave them a wide smile. "Your friends will agree. They already chose their path when they offered their assistance on your perilous journey."

Aurora wrapped her arm around Apollo. "He speaks the truth. When you return to the mortal coil, they'll be waiting for you."

Pythia rose to her feet. "We should initiate the transfer." She directed her gaze to Aleina and Alston. "Their time here grows short."

Aleina stood with Alston by her side. "What do we have to do?"

Apollo moved to face Alston and Aurora took a spot in front of Aleina.

Pythia spread her arms wide. "Place your foreheads against each other." Once they were in position, Pythia drew her hands together. "You may begin."

Apollo and Aurora whispered in their ancient languages and a glowing orb of golden light formed in front of Alston and Aleina. The spheres changed to green and blue and entered the deities. Aleina and Alston sank to their knees, both gasping for air.

Pythia murmured an incantation then placed her palms on each of them. "Go and serve your people."

Everything went gray and dark and Aleina braced for a rough ride back to the mortal coil.

The last thing she remembered before everything went inky and black were Pythia's final words.

"You'll find answers and guidance in my book and in your dreams."

I'm kind of pleased with how this series is shaping up. The final book is in the beginning stages, and I have to make more progress on the other two before I can really dig in to this one.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: A Rockin' Yule (a Holiday Spirit short)

What a wild week. We're back to almost winter temperatures with freeze warnings this weekend and the first part of the week. My cold is sorta kinda over, but the crazy weather probably won't help.

Had a pretty decent work week. I'm in flux on a number of projects but the work is moving steadily along. I'm happy to stay busy.

Pretty good viewing week also. I finished up a rewatch and have to pick a new show to watch on one of my streamers … and I have no idea what I want to choose.

Started off with My Life Is Murder and it was so fun to see a regular in one of the shows I watch do a guest turn in this episode. Can't wait to watch the finale this week.

Caught another behind the scenes episode of Foyle's War and enjoyed it. I have one or two more before starting the next season of the show.

Watched another episode of Poirot and loved the mystery. Hastings completely falling for the girl ended up being very interesting along with Poirot kind of lending a helping hand. Very cool.

Started the new season of Silent Witness. Jack's new look is … okay? Enjoy them being in a new city, and I'm liking the vibe of the characters.

Elementary, as usual, didn't disappoint. Such an interesting case and having Sherlock go out on a limb for Shinwell was rather cool.

Finished up my Batman Beyond rewatch and, honestly, the show holds up. Not sure what I'll pick next, but it might be DC universe adjacent.

Watched another Star Trek: Lower Decks. Kind of fun to have a one-off character come back and not end up being an actual hero. I like the risky maneuver there.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from A Rockin' Yule, a holiday spirit short featuring a hellhound and a nymph.

Here's the miniblurb:

Saffron Sapienza is in trouble with her hellhound pack for being wild and overindulgent. She's looking for an escape in the hopes of letting her latest scandal die down. Gabriel Gabor has a big decision to make—become nobleman of the nymphs or give the job to his archrival, a man who tries to take everything Gabriel has. A holiday spirit, Jolly Jingleman, brings the duo together at a secluded bed and breakfast over Yule and works his magick to help the couple find their holiday cheer along with some direction for their future.

And a preview snippet…

Gabriel Gabor rubbed at his temple. "I don't know what else you think I can do here, Mason. The holiday season is in full swing, and everyone is distracted by upcoming events." Gabriel paced back and forth in front of the roaring fire in Mason Mulgrave's living room.

Gabriel made his appeal to the nymphs—they needed to integrate into the human realm or risk growing stagnant with their dwindling numbers. The fae glade members approached Gabriel to take over after Mason retired. The group wanted Gabe as their nobleman yet didn't want his advice or to follow his recommendation for a better future.

Mason steepled his fingers. "Tyson's not helping the situation. He's got a bunch of the group frothing at the mouth about tradition and staying in our own confines. Why mess with perfection, blah-blah-blah." He blew out a long, slow breath.

Gabriel snorted. "The stupid thing is, Tyson wanted to integrate not six months ago, but when you approached me to become nobleman—and most of the group backed me as your choice—Tyson backtracked and decided to throw his hat in to muddy up the waters." Which Gabriel should have expected.

Tyson Truman wanted whatever Gabriel had.

Mason sighed. "I should've been prepared for that possibility." He got up and added on the log to the fire—even though it burned hot and steady. "Now we have to have a vote, and it could go either way." He settled back in his wingback chair.

Gabriel voiced his nagging thought. "It'll go one way if I step aside." At this point, he might as well.

Mason's gaze snapped to Gabriel. "You're not serious."

Gabriel shrugged. "I think I am. Do you really want a decade or more of strife and turmoil? You know if I win the vote, Tyson will work behind the scenes to wreak havoc. If he wins the vote, we risk dying off and ending the nymph lineage." He held Mason's stare. "I honestly don't want to be around for either eventuality." Because losing the little they had left didn't appeal at all.

Mason frowned and got to his feet. "You'll think about sticking it out though, won't you?"

Gabriel rolled a shoulder. "I'll take a few days and let you know right after the Yule holiday."

Mason clapped him on the back. "I'll wish you a happy yule then—even though you've got a lot of thinking to do." He walked Gabe to the door.

Gabriel left Mason's small cottage and started the walk to his bungalow, tucked into a copse of trees, flanked by a rolling hillside. "Right. Happy Yule is something of an oxymoron this year."

Having so much fun with the holiday spirit shorts. I love writing the pairings and adding a dash of merriment with the holiday spirits.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye