Sunday Snippet: Underbelly

Yeah, had another rough week. But I actually think things are looking up in general. Just need to get through a few tricky situations involving vehicles and we'll be back on track. So heartened to see the huge turnout and big changes from the US election. Having a little hope is a wonderful feeling.

Got my brake parts ordered and should have them this week, which is better than expected. The last time I ordered parts, it took almost a month for them to come in. Once the brakes are done on my car, we have to figure out the tires on my middle kid's car. After the first of the year, it'll be time to do alignments on the cars. Can't wait. Yes, that's sarcasm.

Had a busy work week. My left shoulder has been bothering me and pulling my focus, especially since I had a long copy edit to finish and a rush holiday manuscript to get completed. I got it done and was so happy to have another holiday story to edit. It's a good one! I started a new proofread and hope to find my groove on it soon. I'm still a little distracted. Also had a great client call on a wellness book that I'm very excited about.

Because of the shoulder issues, I didn't get much accomplished on the viewing front. Hoping this week will be a little different, but I'm not counting on anything. As usual, I binged Death in Paradise and adjacent spinoffs.

I did get an episode of Marple watched and thoroughly enjoyed it. Lots of great guest stars. This one finished out season four so I'll be starting five this week.

Watched the final Poirot. I can honestly say it broke my heart a little, but it was so good to see Hastings again. As a send off for the famous detective, it's satisfying. I love full-circle narratives.

Elementary ended up being pretty interesting. Not sure how I feel about weaving Moriarty back into the storyline, but it adds a wrinkle to a few things. Could be twisty to see how things play out.

That's life the update this week. Tonight's post is from Underbelly, a novella that explores a partnership of work and play.

Here's the miniblurb:

Jarrod Steele is a private investigator who deals with the weird and the unknown and can find anything his clients want. His super-efficient assistant, Maylin Rose, along with her unique skill set, makes sure of it.

And a preview snippet…

Maylin returned to her desk and casually flipped off the intercom, before glancing up. "It'll only take a moment to get the document ready." She picked up the sheet Jarrod placed on the desk.

Aston tried to flirt a little. "You're beautiful. Would you let me buy you dinner sometime?" He gripped his jacket, pulling the sides together, and attempted a casual pose.

Maylin politely shot him down. "That's nice of you, but I've got a steady guy who treats me exactly right." And he occupied the adjoining office.

Aston's shoulders slumped. "I should've guessed." He stuffed his hands in his pockets.

Maylin filled in the details on the contract. "If you'll sign and initial in the places I've marked, then issue a check or wire transfer for the amount on line three, Mr. Steele will get started on your case." Which could prove to be interesting.

Aston took care of the deposit and signed the contract. "I'll hear from you soon, I hope." He took his leave.

Jarrod entered the outer office. "Thoughts?" He leaned against the jamb.

Maylin never got over the thrill over being his equal. Or how much she valued his nonconventional acceptance of her opinion and skills. She and Jarrod might put on a show for the world at large, but he always treated her like a partner.

Something she'd forever be grateful for, because no one from her past had valued any contribution she'd made before. But … Jarrod didn't want her gratitude. He wanted her—mind, body, soul. And since she got the same in return, she couldn't be happier.

Maylin crossed the floor and pulled out a small ladder. "I think I start with study and research of the estate." She climbed up and retrieved a large book of maps. "And you should maybe reach out to some of your otherworld friends and find out what kind of protective measures we'll need." Stepping back down, she moved to the desk and placed the book on the edge.

Jarrod grunted and pushed away from the doorway. "Have I mentioned how amazing it is when we're on the same page lately?" He nodded toward the phone. "Let's order dinner and see how much progress we make before calling it a night."

Maylin flashed a grin. "Already planned to. I'll have it delivered at six and we can compare notes then." She shooed him away and grabbed the handset.

While dialing, she flipped the book open and started thumbing through the pages.

I love this story so much. Maylin and Jarrod are a fun couple.

 

That's it for this week,

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Uncommonly Good

Yeesh. Rough week for Star Trek fans. Chekov and Picard in the same week?? Come on, Universe. Do better and space things out a little more.

Another crazy seven days. I did vote early so that's done. Still need to order my brake parts. Time got away from me, and I had a couple of bills that needed to be paid. The glamorous life I lead, right?

Work projects continue and are going fairly smooth for now. I'm adding a few new things, and I have to prep for two calls this week. One is a new client that signed on last week and one is a potential new author. Looking forward to seeing how both calls go.

Had another limited viewing week. Too many things calling for my attention and focusing ended up taking a lot of bandwidth. Hoping to get more viewed this week. I did do two binge marathons of Death in Paradise.

I did get an episode of Marple in and thoroughly enjoyed the mystery. It got very twisty, as Christie mysteries do. Lots of fun guest stars also.

Watched the next to last Poirot and found it kind of bittersweet. Nice to see the duchess back to round out that thread. It looks like Hastings will return for the finale, and I'm looking forward to his return.

Elementary had a bit of a bombshell episode. Nice to see Sherlock and his dad sort of mend fences. Not sure how I feel about the return of a nemesis.

That's a wrap for the life update. Tonight's post is from Uncommonly Good, a novella that gives friendly rivals a chance to be more.

Here's the miniblurb:

Shelby Fewes and Creed Campanalla have a very friendly rivalry vying for top name in their respective dark and light organizations. When Creed is ordered to eliminate Shelby for retaliation, he makes a different call, and the duo have an uncommonly good time proving the two sides can live and love together.

And a preview snippet…

Shelby let her thoughts wander while clearing her stuff from the locker. Too bad they all meandered toward her opponent Creed. Something about that guy lit her up in very inappropriate places.

She smirked. "Then again, I live on the corner of inappropriate and bad decision avenue." She paused her action when footsteps sounded behind her.

The dark leader entered the space. His face left no doubt what he thought of the match.

She sighed. "You're not happy." Is he ever?

He agreed. "I'm not. Lost a lot of money, and you missed an opportunity to strike a blow to the light."

She rolled her eyes. "Look, you didn't make that a request. And you didn't lose any more than you bet. A draw doesn't pay out on either side." She'd been doing cage matches long enough to know how the ante system worked.

His eyes narrowed. "Still, I won't see that ten grand." He planted his hands on his hips, emphasizing his displeasure.

She shrugged. "I have news for you. That's not my problem." She met his gaze. "And don't even think about trying to add it to what I owe. You didn't specify a penalty if I lost, which I didn't, by the way."

Malcolm tsked. "You could have had a clear victory."

Shelby's mouth dropped open. "Only if I killed him, which is against the rules and harshly dealt with."

Right. Like he would care.

She appealed to what really mattered to him. "You won't see another dime of winnings, if I'm not allowed to compete." And, frankly, she needed the matches if she wanted to stay sane.

Malcolm snorted. "I'm the dark overling. I can buy you a permanent spot."

Shelby jerked her head back and forth. "I don't play that way. Never will." She turned away from Malcom. "I fight fair or not at all." She shot a hard look over her shoulder. "So back off and let me finish packing up so I can get out of here."

Malcolm eyes narrowed to slits again, but he said nothing before turning and strolling out the door.

Shelby finished tossing her gear into her duffel, slammed the locker closed, and headed for the door. She wanted to crawl into bed and fall into a dreamless sleep. Too bad she'd probably have Malcolm's swarthy visage rolling through her head instead.

This one is coming together nicely, and I'm excited to see where it goes.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Twilight Kingdom

Yeesh. October has been a month. Honestly, not quite as fraught as September, but the nasty cold definitely didn't help things. That said, I'm feeling so much better and I'm grateful for that.

Still need to do the brakes on my car and it should be sometime soon. I can already hear the grinding sound, which means I need to get the parts ordered ASAP. My middle kid also needs a new tire very soon. He'll be using our inflator this week because he starts a new job on Wednesday.

The weather continued to be rather cool and chilly. It warmed up in the afternoon, but the early mornings were frosty and frigid. Had to break out the window scraper already.

Work projects went smoother this week. I finished up a copy edit and started a new one. I also completed the evaluation I needed to finish up. Still waiting on word about the possible new project. Also need to schedule a call about another new project in the wings. Very excited to see where everything goes.

Had a seriously limited viewing week. Trying to catch up on the work projects took a lot of my focus. I only made it through three of my regularly watched shows. I did do more Death in Paradise binge watching so there's that.

Stared with Marple and enjoyed the mystery. I'm warming up to the new actress and loved the interactions with everyone on the screen. The mystery was kind of over the top and I appreciated the way the cast played off each other.

Also finished up Britain's Most Scenic Counties and truly enjoyed the stops in Cheshire. Not sure what I'll go with next, but it will definitely be something cultural.

Completed season two of Return to Paradise and, wow, what a finale. I can honestly say every single character knocked it out of the park. Anna Samson is remarkable as Mackenzie, and I very much loved the progress she's made with Colin. Loved the final moments with Glenn. So much to enjoy with episode and this show. I'm so excited for season three.

I started an episode of Poirot but didn't make it through the whole thing. I'll try to finish up this week. We'll see if I end up getting more than three full episodes watched.

That's it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Twilight Kingdom, a novella that puts a twist on the Sleeping Beauty fairytale.

Here's the miniblurb:

Jess Gillian heads to the outer rim planets to get away from his overbearing parents—the royal consorts of their home planet. When the heir is away, the evil Maniforti will play, luring Nareen Rhom, a palace ward, into a relationship so he can get close to the rulers. When Nareen gets wise, Maniforti casts a spell holding the entire kingdom in his thrall—until Jess returns and sets things straight.

And a preview snippet…

Jess jerked awake at the telepathically shouted Jess! just in time to see a glinting blade descending from above.

Reflex kicked in and he rolled to his side, feeling the oddly warm steel plunge into his flesh just below his ribcage. "Dammit!" He swung outward, knocking his assailant to the floor, the knife clattering on the wooden planks.

Scrabbling out from under the sheet, Jess started to give chase, but his vision swam and the person made their escape, a hulking shadow exiting through the door. Jess tried to follow, but his steps were awkward and staggering. His mind swirling and fuzzy, he didn't go after them. He grabbed at the wall, trying to keep his balance.

Nari called. Her urgent tone kicked up his adrenaline. She needed him. He tried to reach out and connect with her, but the pain from his wound blocked him. He grabbed a T-shirt to staunch the flow of blood oozing from the slice in his side.

Feeling weak, he struggled into his pants. "I shouldn't feel so drained. What the hell?" He took halting steps toward the door but stumbled to his knees.

Vision swimming, he bit the inside of his cheek. He had to get moving. Couldn't stay here. No accident this time. Someone tried to kill him. And if they made an effort to take him out maybe they were trying to harm Nari also.

A figure loomed in front of him—female—reaching out to steady him. "Easy there, big fella. You're gonna make it worse." Her hand grasped his shoulder.

His brain spun, but he attempted to stand, trying to shake out from under her grip. He needed to get out, to secure transport. He. Had. To. Get. To…

"Nari…" Jess collapsed but got a look at the person offering assistance—the bounty hunter—before he passed out.

Having a lot of fun writing this one. I love putting fun spins on fairytales.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Turning the Tide (a Black Watch banner novella)

Whew. Rough week. The nasty cold bit down hard, and I struggled to get through any and everything. I think I finally kicked the worst of it yesterday. Got a solid eight hours of sleep and only woke up twice coughing. The three days before? Only got two to three hours of sleep at a time before the coughing fits would wake me up and I couldn't get back to sleep. Not fun.

The tire drama is finally at an end. Now it's on to brakes for my car. That's still going to be a November problem.

We got our first cold snap and finally had to turn the furnace on today. I'm usually good until the interior of the house hits the low sixties. Woke to sixty-two degrees and, yeah, kicked the thermostat to heat. Pretty sure we'll be back in the seventies by the middle of the week and I'll turn it off again … hopefully until November.

Work projects were rough this week, mainly because of my cold. The whole fuzzy bunny slippers in my head feeling doesn't match well with trying to read words and edit manuscripts. I did finish up a proofread and started a copy edit. I also reviewed the opening chapters of a manuscript for a potential new client. I have an evaluation I need to work on and should be able to start hitting that one hard this week.

Had a semi-okay viewing week. I didn't make it all the way through my regular slate of shows because of the aforementioned cold, but I got most of the way through.

Started with Marple and I'm warming up to the new actress playing the role. She's not quite as snappy as the previous actress but she embodies Jane just the same.

Watched another episode of Britain's Most Scenic Counties and enjoyed the various stops in Cheshire. If I had to pick between Kent and Cheshire, I'd lean toward Kent, but Cheshire is gaining momentum.

Caught an episode of Return to Paradise and I can honestly say this season is kind of knocking it out of the park. The emotional upheaval of Mac being back in Paradise Cove is so well done. I love her interactions with Philomena are amazing.

Enjoyed another episode of Poirot and continue to love his friendship with Ariadne. I think I have two episodes left of this version of the show. Looking forward to those.

Elementary had another great episode. I'm enjoying the way the show is weaving in outside elements to the case and tying them together.

I also did some binge watching of Death in Paradise per usual. Sometimes it's nice to have a comfort show on in the background.

That's it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Turning the Tide, a to be named banner novella. Yeah, the title of this series keeps changing and it's driving me bonkers.

Here's the miniblurb:

Verity and Emory have to balance the personal with the professional when they're back at Black Raven command. They're tasked with taking out a crucial enemy stronghold by exploiting a vulnerable weakness. The removal of the base will give the allied forces a way into the heart of enemy territory. Just when they think they're ready to go, Verity's ace fighter pilot dad shows up to see his daughter … and meet the man who wants her—Emory Cavendish.

And a preview snippet…

Well, hell.

Verity closed her eyes for a brief moment before glancing up and meeting her father's angry gaze. "Hello, Ace. What brings you to Blackwatch command?" She kept her voice calm and casual … even though the looming figure of Victor Jones had her hackles rising.

As much as it pained her to do so, she shot Worthington a quick look for help. She carefully avoided Emory's gaze for the moment.

Worthington stepped out from behind the table. "Jones, as you can see, we're busy right now and this operation is need to know only." The implied meaning being Victor Jones did not need to know.

Verity bit back a smirk. Wonder how long he's wanted to nail my dad with that one?

She finally sought Emory's and took the boost of confidence his smile gave her.

Worthington directed Victor to the door then glanced back. "Finish the run through. I'll get Ace here something to drink and find some quarters for him." He pushed Victor through in front of him. "Come by when you're finished." He gave Verity a pointed look before leaving.

Verity let out the breath she'd been holding when her dad offered no objection and the door closed softly behind them. All eyes were on her, so she broke the tension.

"You all can scrape your jaws off the floor. He's just a man."

Laughter erupted and Emory placed the next piece on the board.

When the others began setting the stage, Emory leaned in, keeping his voice low. "Were you expecting him?"

She shook her head. "Nope. Haven't even heard from him since I received my orders.'' And his arrival didn't bode well.

Emory cut into her depressing thought. "Are you okay?" Concern laced his tone.

Verity lifted a shoulder. "I'll get back to you on that." She waited a beat. "You'll come with me to see him after this is over?" She actually wanted Emory to meet her dad, and she had a feeling she'd need Emory's moral support … both as the CAG and as her lover.

Emory lifted his chin. "Absolutely." He held her gaze a moment longer before diving back into the run through.

This series is so much fun to write, and I'm so happy with where things are … with the exception of trying to nail down a name for it.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Truth Hurts

Heh, so far the bumps have not smoothed over in October. But … that could have more to do with the yucky cold I picked up from the husband. It's like I have fuzzy slippers in my head, and I'm not a fan.

Our tire trauma is still ongoing. I now have four tires paid for and the appointment is scheduled for this week. I still have to have my front and rear rotors and pads replaced as soon as possible also. That might end up being a November problem. I do want to get that managed before we start getting snow.

Still having fairly mild weather. I love having an actual fall. I'm hoping we're not having fake fall, and we'll end up with ninety degree days again. But won't be surprised if it happens.

Had a decent work week even with the cold. I'm moving slowly on the evaluation, but the book is pretty interesting. Finished up a copy edit and started a proofread. I'm hoping to finish the proofread later today. I also need to hit my backburner project that I keep putting on hold.

Had a sketchy viewing week. Between the cold and other things going on, I didn't quite make it through my usual line up. I did do a binge watch of Death in Paradise.

Started with Marple and thoroughly enjoyed the episode. Very fun to see the mystery unfold and watch Jane piece everything together. Fun watching experience.

Watched another episode of Britain's Most Scenic Counties. I'm enjoying Cheshire. There are a lot of interesting bits and bobs. While the white cliffs of Dover in Kent definitely draw attention, there seems to be more urban adventures in Cheshire.

Enjoyed an episode of Return to Paradise. I'm very much on the fence with Mac and Glenn's interactions. Watching her calm him down was a lot of fun. Knife-thick tension there. Also really enjoyed getting some insight to Colin's past in this one.

Caught another episode of Poirot and, wow, what an adventure. Thoroughly enjoyed seeing the band get back together. I've missed Hastings, Lemon, and Japp.

Elementary had a terrific episode. Glad to see Sherlock somewhat back to his old self. I loved how much confidence he has in Joan's ability to be a great parent. Also quite liked the interactions between Joan and the pregnant mom. What a great episode.

Started an episode of Young Justice but ran out of steam. I'll finish it up this week. I think I remember this one or at least parts of it.

That's it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Truth Hurts, a novella that reunites a couple under terrible circumstances.

Here's the miniblurb:

Mardi Darr discovers her current lover is an enemy agent with an enchanted chip in his head. She gives the okay for a risky surgery, and it lands him in a submersion chamber with no brain activity. Heth Santiago is responsible for Mardi being with Staz and he needs to help Mardi accept the truth … even though it hurts like a bitch.

And a preview snippet…

After reuniting in the chapel, Heth agreed moving their liaison to her place made sense. They had a lot to discuss. And two more days of sex to make up for lost time didn't hurt either.

He tucked his arm around Mardi and spooned up against her. "You have a damn comfortable bed." Considering they'd done pretty much everything from there since they got here, probably a good thing.

Mardi stretched against Heth. "Do you really think this plan will work?" She said the words quietly.

Heth trailed his fingers down her arm. "How can they resist? You're walking into their realm and calling them out. They'll want to prove they can take you." And they needed to believe they could.

Mardi shifted around to face him. "But you're not going to let them." Her finger made a circular motion over his heart.

Heth shook his head. "Nope. Once we have you face-to-face with the leaders, we'll work our magick and put them in the same condition as Staz." Minus the enchanted chip, which they didn't need.

Mardi's eyes darkened. "Then we hit the underlings with the offer to talk access to alliance status." They wouldn't need to control her if they became full members.

Heth finished out the plan. "But only if they cease and desist with the attacks on mages and wizards." If the Street Hawks didn't agree … all their planning could blow up in their face.

Mardi held his gaze. "It could all go to hell." Her mouth flattened into a thin line.

Heth nodded. "Yeah, it could. And if that happens, we go out together." Because she wouldn't stand for being used against their community.

Mardi didn't blink. "Agreed." Her voice held stern conviction.

And he held no doubt they'd follow through. Neither had anything without the other. And they wouldn't give the Street Hawks the unlimited power they sought to gain through her.

She cupped his face. "I love you, Heth. Always."

He confirmed his feelings. "Always, Mardi. I love you." Leaning in, he slanted his mouth over hers.

This one is coming together nicely. Very happy with the plan Mardi and Heth put together.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Trip the Light Fantastic (a Chaos novella)

It's spooky month!! Kind of happy to see the end of September. It was definitely a rough month. October is starting with a few bumps but here's hoping they'll smooth over soon.

Got my new tires and what a difference. Hit a snag with the husband's tires. We can't do two. It's all-wheel drive so they'll only replace all four. Sigh. We now have to wait until this weekend to get them replaced. Tires are expensive.

Had truly lovely weather. Mild temperatures that feel like fall are such a surprise. I'm not holding my breath that we won't end up with a big spike again, so I'm enjoying while I can.

Had a decent work week. Had another super challenging copy edit but got through it. Almost finished up with the evaluation read through. And I might be able to get back to my lingering project, which needs attention. I'm also hoping to make headway on my side project, which I'd really like to launch soon.

Good viewing week. I made it through my usual group of shows. I also included two binge marathons of Death in Paradise. The show makes me happy.

Began with Marple. Interesting episode that had some wild twists and turns. Very fun to see Tom Baker on screen.

Started the new season of Britain's Most Scenic Counties and enjoyed the introduction to Cheshire. Another area I'd love to visit at some point.

Caught another episode of Return to Paradise and enjoyed the mystery. Also really enjoyed seeing Mackenzie try to figure out the appeal of dating apps. Loved the interaction between her and the team also.

Watched an episode of Poirot and I'm really enjoying Ariadne Oliver. She's such a fun character. The mystery also ended up being twisty, which I also enjoyed.

Elementary had a great episode. I'm enjoying Sherlock's challenge with recovering from the concussion. Not sure how I feel about the serial killer getting away. Kind of hoping he gets caught without taking out anyone else.

Enjoyed another episode of Young Justice. I remembered some of this one and liked the pacing of the plot. Always fun to see Wally learn life lessons.

Caught another episode of Star Trek Lower Decks and loved the callbacks to Next Generation and Voyager. This show knows how to pay homage to its ancestors.

That's it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Trip the Light Fantastic, a Chaos novella.

Here's the miniblurb:

Esme Von Staunton and Ashton Sylvester think they might be going insane. Ashton's weird attunement with Esme draws her into his bizarre nightmare of hallucinations and doing things neither remember. Esme's brother Eric stumbles onto a plot by Baron Mobride and races to save his information source and his favorite couple, but Mobride has other ideas and doesn't plan to let Eric thwart him.

And a preview snippet…

Bonnie woke to muffled voices and no idea what happened. Wait. Her throat hurt.

Memories surfaced. She had a session with Baron Mobride. Something she never enjoyed. The man had a cruel streak and couldn't seem to find release until he exercised some kind of physical dominance on his partner.

Damn! He choked me into unconsciousness. No wonder her throat hurt.

She wisely remained still, but opened her eyes slightly and listened carefully. Baron Mobride stood beside the door, speaking with two of his flunkies. One had a deep, grunty voice and the other sniffled and wheezed when he spoke.

Mobride shoved his legs into his pants. "Continue the project." He buttoned up and grabbed his shirt.

The sniffly one lowered his voice. "Including Sylvester?"

Mobride gave a nod. "Yes, with two more deliveries per week."

The other flunky grunted. "Got some questions about that, boss. 'Specially if you don't want—"

Mobride cut him off. "Shut it. Hold on." Mobride went back to the bed and smacked Bonnie on the ass. "Hey. Wake up." He gripped her shoulder, shaking hard.

Bonnie pretended to jolt back to consciousness. "Wha … what happened?" Her hand went to her throat, rubbing gently.

Mobride smirked. "No matter. Get out and give me the room." He threw her wrap on the bed.

Bonnie pulled the garment over her and sat up. "Baron Mobride. This is my area." She turned away and slid the robe over her shoulders. "I can't leave or I won't make my night's quota."

Mobride snorted. "You're leaving." He peeled several bills off a wad of cash and tossed them on the bed. "Get out. Now."

She scrambled up after grabbing the money. "Yes, Baron." Stuffing the payment into her pocket, she edged past the two men standing in the doorway, keeping her eyes downcast.

She'd seen enough of them before Mobride kicked her out to recognize the faces if she needed to.

The men entered the room and slammed the door behind them.

Bonnie huffed out a breath. "What is Mobride up to?" She slowly made her way down the corridor and entered the bathroom.

Pacing back and forth, she pondered what she overheard.

The baron had something nefarious in the works. "And somehow it involves Ashton Sylvester." She had to Eric know.

Could she wait until Eric's next appointment or should she send a message?

Heaving a sigh, she sat on the edge of the bathtub. "I'll probably wait. Sending a message will be too risky." She couldn't trust word wouldn't get back to Mobride … not with the amount of money the man spent at Tildaswail.

She sent a silent missive to the universe. Let everything be all right until Eric returns.

I have a lot of love for this series. The cast of characters is so much fun to write.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: A Timely Distraction

Yeesh. Still dealing with the tire issue but have an appointment to get the replacements on Tuesday. I can't wait. But … we now have to get two new tires for my husband's vehicle. It's like dominoes falling … one thing after another.

Had some seriously cool temperatures this week. Also rain. Rain. Rain. Rain. We're supposed to have clear weather for the beginning of the week but more rain from Thursday through the weekend.

Work projects were pretty smooth this week. I finished up the wild ride copy edit and completed a proofread that had a few issues but overall ended up being great. Still working on the evaluation and making good project. I have another back burner project I'm hoping to get to this week.

Had a solid viewing week. I made it through my usual slate of shows and got to binge Death in Paradise a couple of days.

Started with Marple again and enjoyed the mystery. There were a lot of twists and turns with a resolution that ended up being sad but excellent.

Finished up the first season of Britain's Most Scenic Counties. Thoroughly enjoyed visiting Kent and look forward to the next season and new location.

Caught another episode of Return to Paradise and enjoyed it again. Reggie reminds me of Margo from Beyond Paradise. Both are filled with local knowledge and wield their power when it counts the most. Great mystery also.

Watched another Poirot and liked the twists and turns. Very interesting to hear all the discussion of the upcoming war and having three mysteries instead of one ended up being quite fun.

Elementary got a little freaky. The possible serial killer struck very close to home, and I really hope things don't go in an obvious direction. Can't wait to watch the next episode to see if they do or don't.

Enjoyed an episode of Young Justice and loved seeing the young team dealing with being the grown-ups in the room. Kind of interested to see what happens with the stolen bit.

Ended the week with an episode of Star Trek Lower Decks and totally loved the call back to the original series. Fun episode with plenty of weird thrown in for good measure. I'm going to be very sad when I finish this one.

That's the life update this week. Tonight's post is from A Timely Distraction, a riff on a fairy-tale romance that brings a couple together.

Here's the miniblurb:

Donahue Stuart, prince and heir to his father's throne, longs for grand adventures, but danger lurks from raiders and marauders, out for royal blood. Enter Lady Vivian, daughter of the king's oldest friend, and a kindred spirit who shows Donahue he can have all the magnificent escapades he wants, right in his own realm.

And a preview snippet…

Hue set aside the stack of correspondence he'd finished. "Might as well tackle the letter from Delia now." He'd shuffled her missive to the bottom of his pile because he'd rather not deal with whatever might be inside.

But he couldn't put off making it clear they would not be meeting for a tryst again. Or that she would ever become his mistress. Maybe he could provide a few names for her. She could find a protector of her choice—unlike the exchange with Fitzmar, who had offered for her before she'd even had an opportunity to meet other courtiers—and give her a chance to forge her own future.

He slipped a letter opener under the wax seal and started to withdraw the parchment. A rapid series of soft knocks distracted him, and he glanced up to Lady Vivian bursting through his door. Her unexpected entrance caught him by surprise.

Placing the envelope under the desk blotter, he arched his brows. "Lady Vivian. I heard you were here for a visit." And she'd grown more beautiful if that were possible.

Her eyes always drew him … they sparkled with hidden depths that suggested she held secrets she didn't share with others. Once again, he cursed the close friendship their fathers shared. Otherwise, he'd make every effort to pursue her.

Vivian gave him a smile. "Yes, I missed seeing you when I arrived. You were out riding, think?" Her gaze swept the room before landing on him.

He leaned back in his chair. "And what is your purpose for seeking me out?" Not that he cared, she provided a wonderful diversion to an unpleasant task.

Vivian spun around and flounced onto his settee. "I'm seeking you out, because I'm bored and restless." She sat up suddenly. "Would you be interested in visiting the village?" Her eyes were bright with excitement.

The idea sounded dull, but she seemed thrilled by the prospect.

Hue shrugged. "I'm not, but I'll tag along." He got up and crossed the room to pull the cord that would summon the guard.

Vivian bounded up off the sofa and stopped him with a hand on his bicep. "Er … I have another idea. Let's head to the storage room and dig around a little." She leaned in and lowered her voice. "I thought we might dress up—or down as the case may be—as commoners." An impish grin spread over her face.

Hue narrowed his eyes. "Are you serious?" He cocked his head when possibilities filled his mind.

Being out of royal garb would give him some freedom to move about, unencumbered by the trappings of being the heir.

Viv nodded. "Absolutely. Let's see how much fun we can have." Her voice took on a sultry tone.

He smiled wide. "How do we lose the guard?" He had no doubt she would make things interesting.

Vivian patted his shoulder. "Leave that to me."

This is such a fun story to write. I love the chemistry between Vivian and Hue!

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye