Sunday Snippet: Rack and Ruin

Okay, Riverdale, you have my attention. My high hopes were met and surpassed. Here's hoping the following episodes stay the course. My sister blog, Universes Altered, might pick up a weekly recap on this show. The acting and cast are a terrific mix and I look forward to seeing what this crew does.

Gotham's follow-up episode intrigued me. I'll lay money Leigh made a deal to stay away from Jim to spare his life. We'll see how long that lasts. Having Jerome loose in the city will be chaotic, to say the least. If the origin story I think is playing out continues, I'm in. I also love the other two prongs of the cold war between Ed and Oswald along with the mama drama between Selena and Bruce. Thoroughly love how the trio of plot threads are playing out.

The Flash returned and didn't disappoint. Future vibing is kind of cool, but something tells me the crew is going to have burnt asses before it's all over.

Legends of Tomorrow always makes me happy when they visit someone famous before they're, well, famous. Having George Lucas kind of made the show. While I rather enjoyed Malcolm and Damien's team-up, I'm not sure how much fun it'll be if it's overused. I don't, however, think Mick and Stein sharing screen time will ever get old. More of that, please.

Arrow rocked, as usual. I have some doubts about the district attorney really helping Oliver, but we'll see what happens. Having Earth 2 Laurel is an interesting twist. Looking forward to seeing what happens there. Loved the bonding moment between Curtis and Rene, too.

Finished up Strike Back through season three. Holding off on four, but should start it soon. Got caught up on The Librarians, Murdoch Mysteries, and Teen Wolf. I'm thrilled to be current on all three. Whew. Missed the premiere of The Magicians and hope to catch up on that one soon.

Decided to forego watching MacGyver for now. I might binge watch after the season is over. The show just isn't holding my attention like I want it to and the cast shake-ups aren't something I'm thrilled with.

And that's it for television this week. Tonight's post is from Rack and Ruin, a novella that got a start with a writing community prompt. Drugs, alcohol, whatever the vice of choice is, one character can't resist and can't dig out of the hole, but the other one will try. I liked the concept of having the main characters addicted to something and needing to work their way out of the bad decision angle.

Here's the mini-blurb:

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…

Vespa cashed in her winnings and casually strolled out of the underground gaming den riding the euphoric high of coming out on top. Maybe she could find another game. Dice. It had been a while since she rolled the cubes. She sent a seek spell out to find a location. Eighth-floor laundry room.

Grinning, she stepped onto the escalator. Her eyes narrowed when she spied Hale. He couldn't be there on business; he didn't have the standard issue black on black attire the m-mods usually adopted when on duty. Instead, he wore civilian clothes, nice ones at that. And he'd passed the third level, which housed the security hub in the hotel. He must be headed toward the private rooms. Curiosity piqued, she stepped off on the seventh floor instead of staying on for the level above.

She followed him through the atrium but remained a respectable distance behind. She didn't get off to bust his chops, more to satisfy her inquisitive nature. He never gave her shit about her gambling, and his carnal pursuits were none of her business. But she often wondered how he managed to satisfy his cravings and not have the m-mod brass catch wind of them.

She might just find out.

He took a corridor to his left and Vespa slowed down, not wanting to cramp his style. Or get caught. She peeked around the corner of the wall and discovered Hale using a keycard to unlock a door. It opened before he could finish the action and two very curvy women greeted him in nothing but smiles.

Vespa's eyes went wide and she bit back a gasp when Hale hauled one of them close, his mouth closing over the painted, red lips of her mouth. The other female grabbed Hale's lapel and dragged him into the room. The door closed softly behind him but Vespa heard the tittering giggles of the women before it shut completely.

Shaking her head, she made her way back to the escalator, noting the security cameras placed strategically throughout the level. Heading up to the eighth floor, she made sure she stayed out of sight when she worked her way to the laundry area. Hale hadn't bothered when he went to his room, which concerned Vespa.

"Sloppy isn't usually his style."

She rapped on the door, two long, three short, and then whispered the incantation for entrance. The steel slabs swung open, giving her admittance. The hum of voices and the rattle of dice being thrown grabbed hold of her but not before she promised to have a casual chat with Hale… very soon.

I'm excited to see where I can take this one. I have a couple of ideas but the sages haven't settled on one direction yet.

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Quiver Full of Arrows

Okay, I finally finished the six seasons of Hawaii Five-0 that were available on Netflix. Only a few small quibbles, the biggest being it makes me insane when actors play two different, unrelated roles on the same show. I love Ingo Rademacher, but don't make him the parent of a kidnapped child in one episode and then call him back to play a prosecuting attorney trying to bring Five-0 down. Seriously? Were there no other actors who could have played one of those roles? Ugh.

And thank the universe the whole Gabriel Waincroft saga is over. Yeesh.

I'm all caught up on Teen Wolf and aside from wanting to throw things because they brought Theo the Asshat back, I'm loving this season.

I'm working on The Librarians and should start catching up on Murdoch Mysteries and Sherlock this week.

Gotham returned and, yeah, definitely happy it's back on my screen. Now I need all my other DC shows to come back. Also looking forward to seeing what Riverdale ends up bringing to the table. That one could be really fun or truly terrible. Fingers crossed for the first option.

And that's it for television. Tonight's post is from Quiver Full of Arrows, a novella that started with a writing community prompt of having a super hero type character meet a mercenary for hire, answers to no one character.

Here's the mini-blurb:

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

And a preview snippet…

Moon Shadow had a reputation for getting out of awkward situations. Since Frey had her cornered, he prepared for defensive tactics. He had the exits covered, but no one could foresee every contingency.

She'd proved to be an elusive shadow, difficult to pin down and almost impossible to capture.

Unless she wanted to be caught.

She didn't flinch or look away. "You're obviously in control. Your call is whatever you decide." Gripping the ice pack, she placed it over her eye again.

Crossfire snorted. "You'd like me to think I have control, but you're calculating the distance and speed you need to throw that ice pack as a distraction." When her lips thinned to a flat line, he let his curve slightly upward. "Go ahead, Moon Shadow. Let's figure out who has the upper hand." Anticipation filled him and he waited for her next move.

She struck quickly, tossing the bag high in the air then pulled a drop and roll maneuver. He didn't fall for the distraction and kept his focus aimed on her. The icepack took out the overhead light, but Frey didn't illumination to follow her trail. Keeping his arrow notched, he monitored her progress when she headed toward the side exit of the warehouse. He slowed his pace, waiting for a reaction.

"Son of a bitch!"

His lips curved into a full smile and he strolled out the door. Solaris hung from her feet, swinging lightly back and forth from one of the trusses. Her mumbled curses streamed steadily from her mouth.

Frey set his crossbow aside and grabbed the rope to lower her to the ground. "You know, killing you would be a waste." He stood over her, hands planted on his hips. "Keeping you around should prove to be fun."

I think this one is going to be a ton of fun to write.

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Quilt of Fate

Another crazy week with weather. At least we didn't get the huge ice storm the forecasters predicted. Thank the universe.

This week in television saw a lot of Hawaii Five-0. I'm developing a healthy obsession with Alex O'Loughlin and Scott Caan. I'm working on season six and then it'll be a waiting period until season seven is done airing. Gotta say I'm pretty pleased with the continuity on this show. That said, I do have a couple of questions that haven't been answered yet. Maybe they'll have a resolution later?

Still need to catch up on The Librarians and Teen Wolf. Gotham returns this week, I think. I'm interested in seeing how the death of Mario is resolved.

Missed the return of Agents of SHIELD. Playing catch up on that one, too. So many good shows, so little time.

Tonight's post is from Quilt of Fate, a novella that started with a writing community prompt of "ruined earth scenario".

Here's the mini-blurb:

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

And a preview snippet…

Cable loved Nadie's answer. "You have such a positive outlook on life." He kept his gaze focused on the trio approaching them.

Nadie tilted her head to one side. "Yeah, well, we've been kicked in the teeth a lot lately." Pain edged her features.

Cable wrapped an arm around her waist. "True. But look around us, Nadie." A sliver of hope took hold and Cable didn't tamp it down. "This is what we were searching for… maybe we've finally found it."

Nadie carefully watched the trio as they got closer. "You'll forgive me if I don't hold my breath." Her eyes narrowed when the group frowned in unison.

Nadie's shoulders squared and she stepped away from Cable. He let her put some space between them but put a hand on her arm to keep her near. They didn't need a confrontation yet.

The group of women stopped several yards away, close enough they would be able to converse, but far enough they weren't within arm's reach. Smart and cagey. Cable planted his feet, ready to give chase if they decided to flee. Right now, the women were the only way he and Nadie could get some answers.

The youngest of the three broke ranks, taking a step forward. "There will be questions answered, but first you're going to follow us." Her long hair fluttered around her face from the gentle breeze, but her lower lip jutted out in sneering pout.

Nadie crossed her arms and shot Cable a sideways glance. "Did you ask a question?"

He shook his head. "No, but I just had the thought we'd be getting answers soon." And now he couldn't rule out an otherworldly aspect.

Nadie directed her attention back to the trio. "So… you're mind readers then?" She set her jaw, indicating she wouldn't be following anyone until she got what she needed.

The eldest of the group held up a hand, withered from age. "No questions. You follow or go back to the ruination you left behind." Her commanding tone demanded no argument.

Cable kept his mouth shut. No way would he jump into the battle of feminine wills. He liked his balls and wanted to keep them for future generations.

Nadie sized up all three females, taking her time with thorough once-overs. The only woman who hadn't spoken got the longest view. Aged somewhere between the other two, her round face exuded warmth. She didn't have the sullen attitude of the youngest or the authoritative presence of the craggy oldest.

The middle-aged woman held out a hand. "Come. We'll explain and answer your many questions." She swept her arm toward the tropical visage lining the shore.

A small cottage stood under the waving palms, the path leading to the front door barely visible. Cable turned and met Nadie's gaze. She lifted a shoulder and started trudging after the women.

Equal parts wary and curious, Cable brought up the end of the procession. When they reached the bungalow, the women stopped, turned, and faced the couple.

"Welcome to our home." As one, they moved to the side, the door swinging open on its own. "We are the Moerae."

Nadie let out a laugh. "Well… I totally didn't see that one coming."

I think it's going to be fun to play with the Fates. Cable remains somewhat in awe of the trio, but Nadie has their number. She'll push every button the group of women has.

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: A Quiet Hell

As usual, the weather in Ohio is all over the map. A balmy fifty degrees one day and single digits the next. It's crazy.

I'm working my way through my binge watch of Hawaii Five-0. I'm currently in season 4 at the halfway mark. I'm rather happy with the continuity to this point. When shows play with their history and / or rewrite it, I get a little cranky. (I'm looking at you NCIS: LA)

Need to catch up on The Librarians and Teen Wolf. Definitely looking forward to the return of my regular shows later this month.

Tonight's post is from A Quiet Hell, a novella that started with a writing community prompt of getting help or going to counseling.

Here's the mini-blurb:

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

And a preview snippet…

Bruce dropped to Mattox's side. "Hey, are you okay?" He checked for a pulse and breathed easier when he found one.

Marie cleared the room, ushering the other group members out.

She returned and placed a hand on Bruce's shoulder. "Can you help get her up? We can get her settled on the sofa over here." Waving a hand, she indicated the couch she had in mind.

Bruce didn't argue, he swept his arm under her legs and gathered Mattox close. "I got her." He deposited her on the cushions and sat beside her.

Her reaction to meeting him had him perplexed. Yet, she drew him in, even in her unconscious state. Something about Mattox called to him on a deep level.

And the idea freaked him out.

Marie placed a cool washcloth over Mattox's forehead. Bruce didn't even know the counselor had left to get one. Definitely off his game right now.

He glanced up. "Does this happen often?" Marie mentioned Mattox had some kind of psychic attunement thing—the reason she wanted to introduce them.

Bruce didn't know if he believed in abilities of that nature, but he'd reached his limit and decided meeting her couldn't hurt anything.

Never occurred she might be the one to suffer.

Marie shook her head. "No, never. Mattox is one of the strongest women I know." She pulled a chair around and sat beside the couch.

Bruce went to stand, but Mattox started coming around.  Her eyes blinked open and went wide. She flung her arm across her line of sight and eased to a sitting position.

Bruce moved to the other end of the cushions, giving her some space.

She kept her gaze averted. "Sorry about that." She looked in Marie's direction. "I don't usually faint when I meet new people." Her head angled toward Bruce, but her hair kept her eyes hidden from his view. "This will sound insane, but if I'm going to work with you, we need to keep some distance." She paused a moment. "At least until I get a handle on things."

Bruce frowned. "Things? We barely met before you dropped like a stone." He scooted a little further away.

Mattox let out a garbled laugh. "Yeah, well, I don't know how else to describe what happened. I looked into your eyes and everything went black." She lifted a shoulder. "I'm assuming that means there's a super strong connection. Whatever vibes you're giving off are powerful." She glanced at Marie. "As much as I hate to even think this, group sessions probably won't work here."

Bruce sat up. "Hold up. You're not suggesting something one on one, are you?" He got up and paced back and forth. "Because you just said you passed out because you looked me in the eyes. How can we accomplish anything if you're unconscious?" He glared in Marie's direction. "You know what? Thanks for the effort, but I'm done here." He started for the exit.

"You'll never sleep again if you don't face the demons in your dreams."

Mattox's words stopped him cold.

He turned and carefully avoided her gaze. "How do you know?"

Mattox got up, swaying slightly. "Because I see what's in your head and I can help you find out what they want."

I love the paranormal flavor in this one. Not exactly standard fare but lots of fun to write.

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Quicksilver Flash

A very Happy New Year to all!

Hope everyone survived the holiday season and 2017 is starting out with peace and joy.

I finished up my Great Holiday Show Binge Watch Extravaganza for the most part. Mainly single episode shows from a wide variety of dramas. I still have a couple of shows on my DVR that I'll watch after everyone goes back to school and work.

Started a binge watch of the reboot of Hawaii Five-0. After watching the Christmas episodes, I had enough interest to start the series. So far, I'm enjoying the reboot and started season two yesterday.

Looking forward to the return of my regular shows this month.

That's it for television this week. Tonight's post is from Quicksilver Flash, a novella based on a writing community prompt.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Winsome Crown, a scientist's daughter, searches for her lost father in the wilds of the mountains. Lynx Hadrington lives alone and away from society—by choice. When Winsome stumbles onto his little piece of sanctuary, he can't deny her plea for help, but he fears the worst for her dad. Only one person has ever survived a brush with the Quicksilver Flash—him.

And a preview snippet…

Winsome bit back a curse at his stunned blink. "Argh, sorry." She turned and faced the fire. "It's been a rough week and I'm barely keeping it together." She glanced back over her shoulder. "You're a hard man to find, Mr. Hadrington."

He folded his arms over his chest. "There's a reason for that, Ms. Crown." His gaze didn't waver when it met hers. "And I don't know where your father is."

Her shoulders slumped. "You were my last hope. Can you at least tell me when you last saw him?" Wadsworth Crown loved his work above everything else… except his daughter.

Three months without a word meant something happened to him.

A battle played out over Lynx's face. Indecision, determination, and finally resignation crossed his features. An iridescent shimmer gleamed over his forearms and traveled upward to his neck before touching his chin, cheeks and forehead.

Winsome gasped. "Oh, my god. What happened to you?" An inkling occurred, but she refused to leap to conclusions.

Her father would scowl and growl if she did.

Lynx shook his head, his features returning to normal. "Nothing. And you've wasted a trip. I haven't seen the professor for almost a year." He turned away from her, yanking the sleeves of his shirt down to his wrists.

Winsome frowned. "Going all glowified is not nothing." She needed answers and she'd push to get them. "You've been in contact with something… otherworldly… haven't you?" Her father's notes mentioned a substance he couldn't identify.

Lynx whirled around, his gaze fierce. "My affliction is none of your business, Ms. Crown." He grasped her shoulders and nudged her toward the fireplace. "You can get warmed up, but then I want you to head back out to wherever you came from." He moved her coat closer to the fire.

Winsome bit her tongue. She'd done it again. Shoved her way into a blunder.

She sank to her knees, defeated. "Give me fifteen. I'll be out the door." Swaying slightly, she fought back a wave of despair.

Five weeks of travel, chasing the thinnest of leads with scraps of information, and she finally found someone who'd been in contact with her dad. Moisture pricked behind her eyelids and Winsome wanted to give the free rein to fall. But she couldn't. Lynx Hadrington wanted her to clear out. Her vision blurry with unshed tears, she slowly got to her feet and reached for her parka with a shaky hand. Head swimming with exhaustion, she couldn't seem to get her arms into the sleeves.

Lynx grasped her shoulders and turned her to face him. "Ms. Crown—"

She cut him off. "Please, call me Win. My dad's the one who stands on formalities." Lifting her gaze, his face swam in and out of focus. "And, I'm… I'm…" The words got stuck in her throat, a shudder wracked her body, and the world went dark.

Strong arms wrapped around her and cushioned her fall. Her last coherent moment before inky blackness surrounded her.

There's something about writing quest stories that appeals to me. I'm having a lot of fun with this one.

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye