Sunday Snippet: Ringside Seats

Ugh. So many small irritants combined to make the week rather challenging. Car problems, house problems, and too many things hitting at once. I'll get through it all, but I'm stressing out, which isn't fun.

The great news is we didn't lose power even with the wild back and forth temperatures. I have a feeling April won't be much better than March when it comes to stabilizing the weather patterns. If only the world could figure out what's causing all the bizarre weather. Yes, that's sarcasm. The world knows what the problem is.

Got a lot of work completed over the week. I have four main projects on my schedule and I'm plugging away at all of them. Finishing up two but have two more waiting in the wings. I also have a couple of backburner projects that I'll be dipping into again.

Had a semi-decent viewing week. Two of my projects involve some tedious cleanup and it's nice to have something on in the background to keep things interesting. I made it through most of my usual shows.

I started with Foyle's War and enjoyed the episode. Kind of sad to see his female counterpart moved to the sidelines again. Lovely to see Sam help her husband get elected as an MP.

Caught another episode of Return to Paradise. I remembered most of this one and enjoyed seeing some familiar faces from other shows I've watched set in Australia.

Enjoyed another episode of Poirot. Really fun to see a couple of very young costars in this one. Also thoroughly enjoyed the mystery.

Elementary had a great episode. I didn't quite make it all the way through because I got distracted, but I enjoyed it.

Watched another episode of Batman Beyond. I thoroughly enjoyed this one, and I'm about two episodes from the end of the series and I need to decide what I'll be watching next. Maybe a Justice League series.

Caught another episode of Star Trek: Lower Decks and very much enjoyed watching Boimler lose his mind. Very fun!

I also had a chance to use my library membership to watch a Stevie Nicks concert via the Kanopy app. I'm going to work hard to make sure I'm taking advantage of everything my local libraries offer. The concert was so good!

That's it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Ringside Seats, a novella where a couple battles it out in paranormal cage fight during finals week.

Here's the miniblurb:

An unclaimed attraction leads to some aggressive score settling in the apprentice's ring, when Vita Morj and Keb Pennyson are challenged to see who'd win in a magical bout. It may end up a draw, because neither opponent plans to give quarter.

And a preview snippet…

Keb had enough of sparring with his mom and dad.

He heaved a sigh and scooted away from the battle. "Vita, since my parents are being insufferable, why don't we have dinner in town?" He turned toward her spot at the table and blinked. "Where the hell did she go?" How did I miss her leaving?

Mathers rolled the dinner cart inside the room. "The young lady left … about ten minutes ago." He started serving the food with a bland expression.

Keb cursed and left the dining room. He grabbed his coat and checked for his keys. He had to catch up with Vita.

His mother darted after him. "Where do you think you're going?" Her voice rose to a shrill peak.

Keb didn't break stride before yanking the door open. "It's a long walk back to town and, since we're in the academy, we're still under restriction. She can't use a teleport to get home." He left both parents sputtering.

Shocked and surprised by the turn of events, he slid behind the wheel of his car and spun out exiting the drive.

He shook his head. "I can't believe she left." Shame washed over him. "First time a date has walked out on me." He kind of admired her for doing it.

He caught up with her halfway down the and rolled his window down. "You don't have to walk. I'll take you back." He slowed to a crawl.

She snorted and continued walking. "Not. A. Chance." She kept her gaze straight ahead, not even bothering to glance in his direction.

His eyes widened. "You're refusing to go with me? It's a long way back, and you're not dressed for a hike." A fissure of guilt twisted in his gut.

She paused and gave him a hard look. "No. Apparently, I dressed for your rebellion." She clicked her tongue against her teeth. "To be perfectly clear, I'm not here for that kind of bullshit. No one uses me and gets away with it." She blinked watery eyes, turned, and started walking again.

As far as scathing setdowns went, she unloaded with both barrels. She also kicked serious ass. Respect for her went up another notch.

He threw the car in park and hopped out, running to catch up with her. "Look, you're right. And I apologize." He grasped her shoulder.

Vita rolled her eyes. "Too little, too late, Keb." She started forward again but stopped and faced him. "Out of curiosity … how did you see this ending? After you fucked with your parents? We'd what? Leave together, have dinner somewhere else, and you'd offer some consolation sex?" Her voice caught and she swallowed hard.

He flushed because she'd literally called his planned evening.

She tsked. "That's really too bad. If you'd been honest and hadn't pretended you were interested in me, I might have enjoyed being part of your little show." Her lips twisted in a sad smile. "As for the rest of your planned evening … it's definitely your loss. Because I would've rocked your world." She shook her head. "You'll never know how much now." She met his gaze. "It's sad, too. I should've known better. I mean, what could someone like you possibly see in me?" She inhaled deeply. "But I really liked you, so I fell hook, line, and sinker." A

Keb reached out. "Shit. Let me make it up to you. I pulled a dick move, and you got hurt in the crossfire." He cupped her face with one hand, swiping his thumb over an errant teardrop.

Vita jerked away from him. "Your dick move is barely a blip on my radar, and I'll be fine. You have no idea how strong I've had to be my whole life." She arched her brows. "But you? You have to live with the consequences … which means you'll be on my bad side from now on." A dark shadow entered her gaze. "And that's not going to be fun for you." She took off, casting an invisibility cloak so he couldn't follow her.

Keb returned home with the sinking knowledge he'd underestimated Vita Morj in the worst possible way…

And with the absolute certainty he'd just blown something that could have been terrific.

I have so much love for this story. Vita has some scathing sass and Keb definitely lands on the wrong side of her, which makes this a lot of fun to write.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Reflections (a Through the Mirror Darkly novella)

Whew. It's been a long week. Can't say it's been terrible, more a constant state of busy. I did manage to take care of several personal life things that I've been putting off so that's a bonus. But I've also been scattered all over the place and that makes me bananapants.

Ohio is gearing up for another weather event where we have 84 degrees today for the high and by Monday, the high will be in the low forties. The barometer hates me right now. Also planning for power outages because when the temperature shifts that much in twenty-four to forty-eight hours and thunderstorms are thrown in, things tend to happen. Wind shears, lightning strikes, flash floods that take out trees. Yeah, definitely hope for the best but prep for the worst.

Work projects have been stacked up with more coming in. I'm very happy to be busy! I finished up a proofread of a terrific nonfiction book, got through a copy edit that ended up having some possibly big consistency concerns. Set up the start of a manuscript proofread to start this week and scheduled a read through of a manuscript that I'll be doing a developmental edit on. I have a few odds and ends that I'll be working on wherever I can also.

Did not get a lot of viewing done this week. Didn't have the bandwidth and needed to focus on work projects. Also ended up having a very productive writing week.

I did finish up Foyle's War and I enjoyed rewatching. I'd forgotten how reluctant Foyle was to join the security forces.

Also caught another episode of My Life Is Murder and thoroughly enjoyed the mystery. I love Rueben letting himself get pulled into the capers.

Still need to finish Poirot from last week. I'll probably start over because I didn't get very far into the episode before I had to pause.

That's it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Reflections, a novella for the Through the Mirror Darkly universe.

Here's the miniblurb:

The ornate mirror in her grandmother's house creeps Everley Bonice out. When she arrives to settle her grandmother's estate, the mirror depicts erotic images of Everley with a man who seems familiar but one Everley can't place. When Vannes Sullivan shows up to deliver groceries to the house, Everley decides to discover the secrets of the mirror-scenes she keeps seeing, because Vannes is the man in the reflection.

And a preview snippet…

Everley pulled herself together. Okay, the guy from the mirror arriving on her doorstep had to mean something. But she couldn't just blurt out why she had such a strong reaction when she greeted him. She could just hear herself. Oh, hi. Don't mind me. I just watched the two of us have smokin' hot sex in a mirror.

Laughter bubbled up and out and Everley slapped her hand over her mouth. Get it together, Everley. Gah, he'd think she'd been touched by insanity if she shared that gem of information.

She opened the door when he came up the steps. "Thanks for bringing the groceries, you can sit them right there." She pointed to the spot next to the door.

He gave her an odd look but put the boxes down and set the bag beside them. "I'm Vannes Sullivan." He thrust his palm out. "I'm sorry for your loss."

She hesitated a moment before shaking his hand. "Thank you. I'll miss her." Yep, an electric charge surged up her arm when they clasped hands.

What the hell is going on?

Vannes blinked and glanced at his fingers, waggling them a little. Did he get the same jolt she had? Unnerved, Everley needed to get him out of the house. She needed to figure out why he appeared with her in the mirror.

"Uh, thanks again for bringing the groceries." Did that sound as lame as she thought it did?

He flashed a quick smile. "My pleasure. Our number is on Ernie's fridge if you need anything else. Don't hesitate to call." He started toward the door.

She worried her lower lip and pushed the door open. "Thanks, um, I won't."

He took the cue and left, heading for the van. He gave her another warm smile before pulling away from the house. Everley closed the door and put the groceries away on autopilot.

Her mind spun with confusion. She didn't do attraction—not anymore. She lived in a nice safe bubble—cocooned by her work and creative endeavors.

She shook her head. "I need to stay busy. I'm going to finally sort out those notes and journals. Maybe they'll explain that freakish mirror."

Because as much as she didn't want to know how it worked … she had to figure it out.

I love this story and how it's coming together. The concept is so much fun to write.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Red-Eyed Monster

What a week. Our weather went completely insane and we got a wild mix of rain and wind. We lost power on Friday afternoon and finally had it restored on Saturday after about eighteen hours. Thankfully, it didn't get super cold overnight.

Work projects are moving along. I finished up the memoir and have two new potential jobs. I'm still working on a proofread and have some final touches to put on a copy edit. I'm hoping to get to a developmental edit that I put on the back burner last month because it's a manuscript that will launch an amazing series.

Had a limited viewing week. I managed to get through a couple of my usual shows but didn't get through my whole slate. Too many things pulling my attention and focus.

Started with My Life Is Murder and thoroughly enjoyed the mystery. Always fun to see Will and the sibling relationship he has with Alexa. Per usual, Madison had some great scenes.

Caught most of an episode of Foyle's War. I'd forgotten he kind of got pulled into the spy scene. Really fun to see his interactions with Sam after her marriage. Kind of bummed they recast the guy who played her fiancé in the previous season.

Watched an episode of Return to Paradise and it's one I remembered. I love the quirky interactions Mackenzie has with everyone but I really, really love when she has to deal with her messy emotions. Watching her apologize to Glen almost physically hurt to observe. Very good moment between them.

Started an episode of Poirot but didn't get a chance to finish it before I crashed. I'll finish it up and start the round of shows again.

That's it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Red-Eyed Monster, a novella that leads a couple into a dangerous situation.

Here's the miniblurb:

Psyche Hood and Errol Winkham are best friends, growing up together in the enchanted realm. A sinister darkness and red-eyed metal monster is moving in and Psyche drags Errol out to pick up the trail, little knowing she's playing right into the evil wizard's plan. He wants the red-eyed monster to rain fire down on Errol so Psyche will be alone and his for the taking.

And a preview snippet…

Psyche held the mental block against Errol, mainly to keep Marcus from gleaning too much from her.

She argued with the dark mage. "I want to learn everything now." She used a petulant tone.

Marcus waved his hand. "It's too soon. Your destiny will be fulfilled, but not yet." His voice brooked zero argument.

Psyche planted her hands on her hips. "My destiny is mine to decide." She hoped Errol caught the hint, because she wanted to lead Marcus into a trap. "I want my future to start now."

Marcus gave her a long, considering look. "In that case, since you know your own mind, the final step to embrace your new life and achieve your full potential is to kill your white knight. Once he's gone, your fate will be complete." His lips twisted in a sinister smile.

Psyche arched a brow. "And would the reverse be true?" She edged closer to Errol. "If I were to say..." She pressed the tip of her blade against her finger. "Decide to go in the opposite direction..." The end pierced her skin and a drop of blood beaded on the surface. "Will my destiny be complete." The savage look Marcus sent her confirmed her instinct.

Marcus snarled. "You don't want that. You want to own the dark arts and rule by my side." The words hissed from his mouth.

Psyche took a deep, calming breath. "You know, Marcus, I'm tired of being told what I want." She held her hand out and let the drop of blood drip from her finger. "So here's the deal." She held his gaze. "I get to decide who I am and what I'm going to do and—this is the important part…" She edged closer to the trapped Errol. "Who gets to be by my side." She crossed into the circle opened by her blood. "That person isn't you."

Marcus charged forward. "You don't know what you're saying!" He halted at the edge of the circle unable to cross over the line.

Clasping Errol's hand, she whispered, "Mystic portal." She squeezed his fingers.

Errol's head snapped up, and he spoke the incantation with her. Marcus roared his anger but couldn't stop the swirl of air or the vortex that pulled him into the ether. Psyche used her new knowledge to seal the dark mage into exile. The burst of light and dark power took a toll, and Errol caught her when she collapsed.

He swept a hand over her forehead. "Psyche? Hey, are you still with me?" Worry edged his tone.

Psyche opened her eyes. "I'm always with you, Errol. Let's go home." She accepted his help getting to her feet and put her arms around him when he spoke a teleport spell and landed them inside his cottage.

She still had to deal with her dad, but right now, she wanted a hot shower and Errol by her side. 

I'm very happy with how this story is coming together. Errol and Psyche are such a great couple.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

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