Sunday Snippet: Blending In

The final weekend of 2020 is very chilly and snowy in Ohio. We got about eight inches over the holiday and I can't complain. I wouldn't mind temperature above the teens but as long as we bundle up, it's not bad. I got the doggos some fleece vests to keep them a little warmer when we go out for potty breaks in the wee hours of the morning.

Watched some holiday fare for a good part of the week. Mainly some classic television special episodes, which are always fun.

I did start Gabriel's Inferno part three and have it ready to go again sometime tomorrow. So far, I'm enjoying it. The sleazy ex finally made an appearance and is getting ready to wreak havoc on Gabriel and Julia. Should be fun.

I caught an episode of Silent Witness, the second to last with Amanda Burton. It ended on a cliffhanger so I need to watch the next one ASAP.

Also started a new episode of Blue Heelers. I'm really enjoying this one. One of the heelers is suspected of murder but he didn't do it. So far, it's a great episode.

That's it for television this week. Tonight's post is from Blending In, a novella that has two undercover characters finding their footing with each other and their case.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Wren and Ethan go undercover in the seedy Bottoms. Ethan's by the book style clashes with Wren's off the cuff attitude, but when a powerful mage makes a threat, they'll have to forge an unbreakable bond or go down in flames.

And a preview snippet…

Ethan considered Wren's justification. "Okay, what's next?" He might as well roll with tide.

She suggested an info gathering opportunity. "No engagement. We go in, get some intel, and come out. That's it." She made a few adjustments to her outfit, knotting the T-shirt under her breasts and letting her hair down.

Ethan followed Wren into Hunter's Glen, his heart pumping with both anticipation and trepidation. He didn't do on-the-fly work and he feared it would show. He didn't want to let her down.

Once inside, he waited for his eyes to adjust to the dim interior. "I'll follow your lead. I need a few minutes to get into the role and follow the vibe." And maybe get his shit together.

Wren jerked her head, acknowledging the request. She led him through the throng of people and directly by the trio who'd drawn their attention. The mood coming from the bar area consisted of boisterous bravado mixed with an angry undertone.

Ethan adopted a besotted demeanor, trailing behind Wren like he couldn't wait to get his hands on her. Not a hard sell for him. This might not be as difficult as he'd thought.

She led him to a corner table in a shadowy recess close to the bar. Good cover and strategically located. He admired her quick and spot-on assessment.

Tugging him close, she spoke quietly in his ear. "Look oblivious to everyone but me, but pay very close attention to the conversations." She settled onto a chair and gave him a sexy smile.

He scooted his around so he could play the part she assigned to him. Leaning one arm over her shoulder, he twisted her toward him so they looked extra cozy. Her eyes went wide but she didn't resist. And a note of admiration crept into the dark depths. He'd made the right move.

She tilted her head toward him, doing a good impression of a private conversation, but her attention focused on the bar. Ethan tracked the conversations at the line of pool tables. Deviating from the plan might end up paying off if the first hour they spent barely touching their drinks and eavesdropping indicated anything.

He leaned in, speaking in low tones. "Sounds like the triple threat is here to meet the wall of muscle on table two." He eased back and gave her bold stare.

Wren tipped her chin. "Sounds right. They're waiting until the weasel-faced guy leaves. They don't trust him." She scooted closer, almost sitting on his lap.

But it put her in a prime position when the trio of Orion men made their way to the pool tables. Under the guise of practically making out, Ethan and Wren spent the next sixty minutes carefully catching the bulk of the planned attack on a group of fae intermediaries. Wren's eyes widened when the crucial piece of information dropped. The big ringleader told the trio to be ready within the week.

Ethan made a move to stand, pushing his chair back a little, but Wren slid up onto his lap.

She rested her forehead against his. "Not yet. Too obvious. Let the game wind down first." She eased back and held his gaze.

He didn't argue and gave a barely perceptible nod. Moving his hands up, he palmed her thighs, keeping her from shifting back to her seat. Her lips quirked but she didn't resist.

The final ball sank into the pocket and a round of drinks was raised to the winners. Ethan checked his urge to make tracks. He'd follow Wren's lead again.

When they drew a stare or two from the burly bikers and some raunchy commentary, Wren did a sensuous slide off his lap and tugged him upward.

They left to whistles and catcalls and thankfully before anyone tried something stupid.

Once outside, she clasped his palm. "We're primed with some good intel. Keep acting the part until we clear the next block." She shivered a little from the bite in the wind.

Ethan wrapped an arm around her and tucked her into his side. Neither spoke, pretending to be too into each other to talk. They made their way across the street and headed for the little apartment over the thrift shop.

I like how this story is coming together. All the pieces are in place and I'm excited to see them merge together.

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Believe

Happy holiday season to everyone! I'm ready for a busy week and a quiet Christmas. We're always pretty low-key and this year my oldest is in the middle of moving out for the first time. I'm thrilled for him but don't envy the chaos. Moving is challenging when it isn't the holiday. LOL

Didn't get much television watched this week. Have an ongoing project that's due by the beginning of January and I'm focused on getting it finished up.

I did listen to a lot of holiday tunes while working and I got sucked into a Scorpion binge marathon. Other than that, I watched the usual classic Perry Mason and The Saint.

Looking forward possibly getting to the movies I'd like to watch this week.

Tonight's post is from Believe, a novella that features a journey to trust the inner self and the one person that knows the most about that self.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Shaelyn Hardwick is a talented mage, but lacks control. When she inadvertently causes another's death, she flees under the cover of darkness. Innis Talmadge goes to the mat for Shaelyn and gets dismissed for his efforts. He tracks her down and a battle ensues. Shaelyn doesn't trust her ability, but she trusts Innis and he has to show her how to believe in herself again.

And a preview snippet…

I killed someone.

Shae got up and paced her floor. "I can't stay here." She couldn't face the mage council.

Even if they let her stay, she didn't trust herself anymore. She didn't believe she wouldn't hurt anyone else.

She gathered up one single suitcase and exited her room. "Innis is gonna be pissed when I don't show at eight." Her steps didn't slow.

She couldn't worry about him. Not right now. But her heart twisted a little.

He drove her mad most of the time but he also taught her so much. "And gives me advice I usually don't heed." She didn't want to tarnish him with her fuck-up.

Innis gave a damn about her and it would lead to his downfall. Or, hell, maybe his death. She didn't have the gift of prophecy, but her dream held vivid clarity. She had the power to end Innis and she couldn't deal with the idea at all.

Strolling out of the manor, she made her way to the grotto to teleport in relative obscurity. She didn't want anyone to know she'd left until she had a good bit of distance between her and the mage campus.

"I have to go somewhere…" Her main thought of escape didn't include a destination. "The fringe. I'll head there."

Dammit. But not right away. She needed to be smart about this. The fringe would be perfect to get lost for a while. The wild-wild-west vibe of the desert mining area would perfectly suit her mood and the need to lay low.

She stepped into the center of the grotto and focused her mind. "A place where no one knows or cares about me." But first, she'd hit the biggest city in the next state.

A zigzag approach. Take some time to earn funds to set up a buffer. She'd hop around instead of taking a direct route. A few paychecks would come in handy in case she didn't find work right away in the fringe.

And the roundabout travel would throw anyone off her trail … because her gut said Innis would try to follow her. And the more distance she kept between them the better.

I like how this story is coming together. Innis has Shae's number but he'll have to get past her call-forwarding. LOL

That's it for this week.

 

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Behind the Line (Black Raven Banner)

Well, another week kind of flew by. My work schedule is filling in again and that makes me very happy.

Had a semi-decent week for television. I ended up watching a lot of behind the scenes and bloopers from Passionflix. Gabriel's Inferno, Dirty Sexy Saint, The Will, and Matchmaker's Playbook. Thoroughly enjoyed all of them!

Caught up on some classic television. Watched a lot of Perry Mason and The Saint. I'd forgotten how much intrigue the classic Perry Mason shows had in them. Lots more than the modernized version from the eighties.

Also started a new mystery on Ovation. Caught the first two episodes of Crossing Lines. Enjoyed both so I'll be trying to catch those as they air.

I'd hoped to catch Gabriel's Inferno part three this past week but couldn't find time to really sink into the movie. I'll give it a go this week coming up. Also want to watch the holiday quickies releasing on Passionflix.

That's pretty much it for television this week. Tonight's post is from Behind the Line, a novella in the Black Raven Banner series. Yes, this is a new name for the series. Hopefully I'll land on the right one soon.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Emory Cavendish is trapped behind enemy lines and Verity Jones mounts a rescue mission, thinking she won't get much help. Surprise doesn't express her emotion when every other pilot jockeys for a spot on the team to save Emory. Their hard-won acceptance fills Verity with confidence and gratitude. She'll need their full support to bring Emory home.

And a preview snippet…

Emory Cavendish stumbled through the woods—not far from his downed plane—in enemy territory. "I gotta find some cover." Wounded and bleeding, his first priority had to be the… What?

His head throbbed and his vision blurred. Thinking clearly became a struggle. Pausing, Emory ran a hand over the back of his head. Sure enough, his fingers brushed over a large tender spot and big lump.

But he couldn't slow down. "Head injury. Great. At least I know my name." He repeated it over and over and started making his way toward a clearing … no a rutted roadway.

He'd stepped back down into washout gully when a lone horse cart came along and stopped along the side of the road. An older gentleman peered into the shadows then lifted a lantern. Caught, Emory couldn't do much but pull his sidearm.

The old man's eyes widened. "I came to offer assistance." He met Emory's gaze. "Are you planning to end my life?"

Emory's hand wavered and he lowered the weapon. "Gonna be hard to do when I see two of you." His vision swam again and he swayed on his feet.

The gentleman slid from the wagon and propped an arm under Emory's shoulder. "The name's Marcel Rainier." When Emory flinched, Marcel's gaze dropped to Emory's side. "You're wounded? My home isn't far. I can help, tend the wound." He started in the direction of the cart.

Emory dug his heels in. "No, can't. Not yet." He glanced over his shoulder. "I can't leave the plane out in the open." Easing away from Marcel, he almost fell backward when his head spun.

Marcel grasped Emory's bicep. "All right. I can help." He propped Emory up again. "You're English, yes?" When Emory gave a terse nod, Marcel heaved a relieved sigh. "Your plane came down in a good spot." He started toward the wagon again. "The homes surrounding this forest are all resistance. I'll signal the others and they can make cover for the plane." Reaching under the seat, Marcel withdrew an ornate box.

Emory frowned then huffed out a breath of surprise when Rainier opened the top and revealed a short-wave radio setup. Leaning against the side of the cart, he waited for Marcel to tap out a message. After a few long seconds, a response beeped back in return. Marcel nodded and put the device back under the seat.

He clasped Emory's shoulder. "Three men are coming. We'll wait here; should only take a few minutes." Glancing down, he tsked. "Let's get the bleeding slowed." Riffling in the bed of the wagon, he brought out a small bag that had torn fabric rolled into makeshift bandages.

Tearing a long strip off, he wound the material around Emory's midsection and tied it off. Emory winced and sucked in a harsh breath. Damn, that hurt. He shoved the pain aside and remembered the mission. And Verity. And all the men with Black Raven counting on him.

Marcel gave a grunt. "There. That should do until we can get a better look." He turned when rustling sounded behind them. "Ah, gentlemen, thank you for coming out."

Three men approached with wary movement. Emory straightened as much as he could and met each of their gazes. The trio swam before him, but he managed to blink and clear his vision.

Marcel briefly explained the need to secure the plane. "Our friend, Mister … I'm sorry"—he glanced in Emory's direction—"I don't know your name…"

Emory lifted his chin. "Cavendish. Emory Cavendish." He didn't say more; they'd discover who he flew for when they got the plane covered.

Marcel's lips curved. "Our friend, Mr. Cavendish will direct us to where he came down and we'll get the plane hidden."

With the five of them, providing cover didn't take long. Emory didn't help much with gathering the branches, but he did get his bag and—in a moment of clarity—located the beacon Verity installed and activated the device.

Emory struggled through another wave of dizziness on the way back to Marcel's cart. When the man helped him get settled in the back, Emory placed his hand over the wound on his side. His fingers came away with blood on them. Marcel hadn't gone more than a few feet after turning the wagon before Emory lost consciousness.

I have a lot of love for this series and the third book is proving to be so much fun to write. Book four is plotted and planned so I hope to have the whole set ready for publishing by late next year.

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Beastly Shadows (A Lantern Jack tale)

Crap. It's December. I'm not even close to being holiday-ready. Then again, it's been a really weird year. Update from last week. The youngest is negative for Covid. She's home and having fun with the dogs. The middle kiddo? Well, he ended up back in the emergency department again. The acid reducer seems to be working, but we've discovered he's got kidney stones. There might be more going on but we won't know until he follows up with a urologist. All I know is he's tired of feeling like crap. Fingers crossed we get whatever is up with him figured out.

Kind of a slow week in television. I watched several more episodes of Silent Witness. I'm almost finished with season seven. I'll start eight this upcoming week and then I'll be at the place I originally started watching the series.

Started a new episode of Blue Heelers and got about halfway through. I'll finish it up this week.

Also plan to watch Gabriel's Inferno part three and some holiday quickies from Passionflix this week. Looking forward to diving into those!

Tonight's post is from Beastly Shadows, a Lantern Jack short featuring a shifter and a hunter.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Lantern Jack is back. To end a centuries-old feud between werewolves and the hunters, Lantern Jack has to right another wrong. He sets out to bring childhood friends Bebe Beasley and Mannix Mortimer together on Halloween night, but to do so he has to put Mannix in the path of a bullet.

And a preview snippet…

Mannix Mortimer got raked over the coals in the Moonshadow MC clubhouse.

The alpha, Magnus, slammed his hand on the table. "Dammit, Mannix. I'm ordering you to take a vacation. Or at least leave town for a few. I'm tired of bailing your ass out of jail every weekend." His palm curled into a fist, the first and only warning he'd give.

Mannix snarled. "Not my fault Beasley has a bone to pick with me all the time." Bastian Beasley could suck a dick for all Mannix cared.

Magnus raised a brow.

Mannix rolled his eyes. "Yeah, fine. I intervened when our friendly asshole of a sheriff had that group of teens freaked out over trumped-up charges. I mean, they TPed a house for fuck's sake." He flung his arms out. "Did you want me to walk away when he pulled his weapon on them? I thought we didn't do that shit anymore."

The Mortimer pack hadn't always stood up for righteous causes. But for over a decade, they'd cleaned up their act and didn't trash the town or hunt human prey. And they no longer turned a blind eye to the sometimes cruel nature of the Beasleys, especially their leader, Bastian.

Magnus heaved a sigh. "We don't. But it didn't have to be you. Bastian's had a hard-on for you since you helped that sweet young thing he had his eye on get out of town."

Yep. That one random act—stepping in when Bastian got up close and pervy with a waitress at the truck stop on the interstate—had started the whole shitstorm Mannix had lived with for five years. I'm tired of getting tagged for everything from a hangnail to B and E.

But he'd obey his alpha and head out of town. "Fine, I'll go north to wood country." At least there he could run unhindered.

He got up and left the meeting, making his unhappiness clear by slamming the door. Exiting the clubhouse, he stopped short when he noticed a creepy Jack-o-lantern on the picnic table. "What the hell?" Shaking his head, he swung a leg over his bike and started the engine. "Someone needs a lesson in how to carve a pumpkin." Rolling out of the parking lot, he headed up the road … and gave a middle finger to the sheriff's office on his way past.

Mannix and Bebe are so much fun to write. This is one of my favorite Lantern Jack tales.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Beast in the Belfry

I hope everyone had a terrific Thanksgiving, if celebrating. I had an oddly weird week. My youngest is in quarantine because she ended up being exposed to Covid at her university. Thankfully, she could go to my dad's house to isolate from the rest of us—he was out of town visiting my brother. She got her test on Friday and we should have the results by Wednesday—fingers crossed. She's restricting herself to an upstairs bedroom and bathroom and carefully disinfecting anything she touches. And, of course, she's keeping a mask on unless she's in the bedroom. Needless to say, she's not having a lot of fun, but we'd all rather be safe and limit other exposure.

The middle kiddo has GERD. He's been five days free from throwing up, thank whatever rules the universe—and a prescription for a strong acid reducer. Considering he spent anywhere from two to four hours at a time being sick for over ten days, he's feeling way better. He'll be changing a few things in his diet to hopefully help alleviate the symptoms even more.

Happy to say my oldest is doing just fine. He's getting ready to move out in the near future and looking forward to having more space.

Had a decent week watching television. I started off with a full arc of Classic Who and caught the full four-part Planet of Evil.

Started a new-to-me drama The Queens of Mystery. Thoroughly enjoyed the first episode and look forward to finishing up the second part.

Watched several more episodes of Silent Witness. I'm almost through with the third episode of season seven.

Also caught a full slate of Ovation mysteries throughout Thursday and Friday. Also watched quite a few Classic Perry Mason and The Saint episodes. I've been seeking out comfort television lately.

That's pretty much it for television this week. Tonight's post is from Beast in the Belfry, a novella that's a bit of a twist on Beauty and the Beast with a gender swap thrown in for fun.

Here's the mini-blurb:

A curse leaves artist Vittoria Blahm disfigured and marred for life. But Cal Gilligan sees the true woman under the scars and he falls hard for her when she saves him from plunging to his death. Vittoria can't quite believe anyone wants her and fears risking her heart to the possibility.

And a preview snippet…

Cal gazed out on the expanse of buildings on campus—an unshakable feeling of home settling over him. He swung a leg over the open window and settled on the sill. A sound caught his attention and he turned, taking in easels and paints, the couch, bed, and kitchenette. Shit! Did someone live here?

A wild-haired, screeching person flew out of the shadows, their hands raised for attack. Startled, Cal gasped when its—no, her—face came into view.

"Get out! Get out!" She grabbed his arm, tugging hard. "Leave. Now!" Fear filled her gaze but also anger.

Cal tried to duck out of the way, but in his haste he tottered sideways and went crashing through the open window. He skidded along the tiled roof, scrabbling to hold on. A firm grip on his wrist kept him from sliding—thank the universe—and gave him time to pull himself back up and into the tower. The woman scrambled away, cowering against the wall.

Cal stepped forward but didn't invade her personal space. "Thank you. You pretty much saved me from a horrible death." How he spoke calmly when his heart thundered, he'd never know.

She flicked her gaze to him but quickly glanced away. "You need to leave. This is my home." Her hands balled into fists.

Cal apologized. "I'm sorry. I didn't know." Something about her called to him.

The mission work his parents did exposed him to distraught, damaged people. This woman had deep-running scars on the inside. Probably more painful than the ones marring her face.

He slowly stuck out his hand, palm up. "Cal Gilligan. U of M is my alma mater, but I've been gone for several years." When she didn't respond, he continued. "I didn't mean to invade your space. I just accepted a position in the literature department and I used to come here all the time, especially during my final year." Silence. "Anyway, please accept my apology again. I'll leave now." He tucked his hand inside his pocket and crossed the floor, heading for the steps but stopped short when he passed the painting. "My God. This is incredible." He shot her a look. "Did you paint this?"

I'm very attached to this story. I love the challenge of putting a personal spin on a fairy tale and making it take place in a modern setting is a lot of fun.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye 

Sunday Snippet: All Day Sucker (Paranormal)

Well, back to illness again. Middle kiddo is experiencing something more than the stomach flu. Not sure what it is yet, but it’s not pleasant. Hope to have some answers by mid-week. It’s not fun watching them go through the rough ride.

Not a bad week for television but had some distractions with the above-mentioned illness. I watched the rest of Silent Witness’s sixth season and should be starting season seven this week.

Also caught another episode of Blue Heelers. I’m still enjoying this show a lot. And, wow, there are a bunch of seasons on this one.

Caught my usual mystery fare on Ovation again. Hoping to find a Bond movie marathon over the Thanksgiving weekend to watch.

That’s pretty much it for television this week. Tonight’s post is from All Day Sucker, a sexy short promotional companion piece for Cupid's Curse.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Archer and Bree, Cupids of the First Order, have an eternity together, which means they like to keep things interesting. Archer plans a dinner party as a surprise for Bree but she ends up blowing his mind instead.

And a preview snippet…

Even though Bree buzzed with sexual tension, she thoroughly enjoyed the wonderful dinner with her favorite people. Who knew the cupids I used to lampoon would become such good friends? She loved all of them dearly. Even Merry, who used to make Bree insanely jealous.

Especially when Bree arrived at the grotto and found Merry laughing it up with Arch. Bree wanted to smash the woman's face in. But … the reunion that followed—thanks to Aphrodite's carefully enacted plan—rocked Bree's world right down to her red-painted toenails. A lovely series of images flashed in Bree's mind and she sizzled with erotic need.

Bree sent Arch a very hot glance and licked her lips. She'd devour him right here if he gave the go-ahead. Which he wouldn't. Damn the man.

Merry caught the vibe coming off Bree and, after everyone finished up their last bites of food, she made an astute observation. "As much as I'm sure we'd all love to spend hours with our favorite couple, something tells me Bree wants to spend hours blowing Arch's mind … among other things." Her eyebrows waggled.

Bree laughed. "You know me a little too well … but I'm glad you do."

Merry took her cue and got up, carrying her plate and glass into the kitchen. Everyone else good-naturedly helped clean up then offered a round of good-byes. The flurry of activity and innuendo-laden ribbing only heightened Bree's desire.

Hugs and kisses preceded everyone on their way out the door, which Bree closed and locked.

Then, she turned to face Arch, whose gaze darkened to a sexy smolder.

Bree gave him a long, slow grin. "Happy anniversary, my love." She unfastened the clasp of her dress and let it slide to the floor.

I love this couple. Cupid's Curse ended up being so much fun to write, I needed to catch up with Bree and Archer to see how they were doing.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Zip Cuffs

How did we get to the halfway mark of November already? See, the month is flying by again. At least I didn't have any illness or medical drama this week. LOL

I caught some television but not much. Watched several more episodes of Silent Witness. I'm happy to have the opportunity to see how Leo and Harry were introduced. I originally started watching the show sometime around season nine, I think.

I also spent a fair amount of time catching up on laundry and watched a few episodes of Blue Heelers. The new guy is finally starting to grow on me.

I also caught my usual mystery shows on Ovation and did a brief dive into classic Perry Mason. I've been in the mood for mysteries lately.

That's pretty much it for television this week. Tonight's post is from Zip Cuffs, a novella that got a start with a writing community prompt. This is also a working title until the sages give me a good one.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Thrayce Stratton finally has the man she wants, Dino Singer, but when all evidence points to him as the culprit behind several gruesome fae murders, she'll absolutely do her job as an enforcer—including using zip cuffs to get what she needs from Dino.

And a preview snippet…

Dino led Thrayce to the exit and outside then paused by the door. "My place?" He hadn't thought that far ahead.

She nodded. "It's closer. Not that distance matters all that much." She leaned into his side, shivering a little from the cold wind.

He started forward, draping an arm around her. "What's up with tracking? Done for the night?" She should be, but he had no idea how she ran things now that they weren't partners anymore.

Thrayce shrugged. "Pretty much. Could always get a call later." Not like they never got settled in for the night only to get an emergency send out.

Which he didn't miss all that much. But he still got late-night calls but they didn't involve going out to track anyone.

They walked to his place in companionable silence. Thrayce didn't miss a step on the way, her feet traveling the several block trek numerous times. He could do the same going to hers.

She followed him up the steps to his front door and placed her hand on his. "Why now?" Her steady gaze held his.

She didn't need to clarify. It had been months and he could've made a move at any time.

So many reasons, but he gave her the important one. "Because I miss you, more than I ever thought possible." Everything else, all the other roadblocks, paled in comparison.

Her eyes widened at the admission but she grinned. "'Bout time." She lifted her chin and pressed her mouth against his.

And, damn, he'd definitely missed her lips.

Not breaking the kiss, he unlocked and opened the door to drag her inside. He kicked the solid oak shut and leaned back, hauling her against him. She flung her coat off, letting it hit the floor. He worked his hands under her shirt while she slid his jacket over his shoulders. One arm at a time, he shrugged the garment off. Thrayce fisted her hand in his shirt and backed toward the stairs. Still kissing, he paused only long enough to drag his shirt over his head. Up one step, she did the same to hers. Two more and they each shoved pants out of the way. Leaving the garments where they landed, they made it up several more steps before her bra dropped to the ground. At the top of the stairs, they broke their lip-lock long enough to shed the last remaining barriers then found themselves skin-to-skin.

Dino cupped her ass, hauling her close, and nudged her into the bedroom. She turned within his arms and led the way to the soft mattress, tugging him down beside her. His lips found her throat and she moaned.

The sound ignited his blood and he didn't want to be anywhere else but in bed with her for the foreseeable future.

Or at least for the rest of the night.

Nuzzling her collarbone, his hands explored her, ghosting over her skin. She did the same, knowing exactly where to touch and how to make him hot and hard for her. Familiarity settled over him and he hated how much he'd freely given up.

I'm excited about how this story is coming together. I still have a few quirks to figure out but the sages are cooperating and giving me good ideas.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Your Call

Yikes. What a week. We have a new president, which I'm rather thankful for. I hope things slowly get back to at least an even keel. I spent two evenings in two different emergency departments and got to play Dr. Mom with my daughter after she took a spill while riding her rip-stick. Also got some health screening done. It's been a little crazy for the first week of a month.

Didn't get much television watched. I viewed my usual fare on Ovation and caught a few more episodes of Silent Witness. Also ended up catching a few episodes of Death in Paradise, which I enjoyed.

Had a great conversation with my brother about shows we've both watched. We're fans of Australian dramas and recommend anything new we've come across to each other.

That's pretty much it for television this week. I might be back on a semi-regular schedule soon.

Tonight's post is from Your Call, a novella that got a start with a writing community prompt.

Here's the mini-blurb:

After an epic battle with a spell weaver, Norje Blayheart and Barrick Nembly—adept mages—aren't sure they can stay together as a couple. Their love can be used against them and neither can risk being pawns in the looming war between the weavers and the mages.

And a preview snippet…

Barrick jerked awake. An obnoxious sound came from the phone on the nightstand.

He nudged Norje and handed her the device. "It's yours." No one else used thrash metal for a ringtone.

She groaned but answered. "Hello." Pushing up to her elbow, she listened intently. "Yeah, fine. I'll head out as soon as I can. Yes, it'll be within the hour." She cut the call. "Geez, what crawled up Hoyt's ass?" Moving to sit upright, she swung her legs over the mattress.

Barrick rolled to his side. "What's  up?" Hoyt liked to push buttons but he'd been on a tear lately.

She shrugged. "Apparently, the world is going to end if I don't get out and patrol right away. Well, more like gather intelligence. Hoyt wants me to skulk around down at the riverfront and see if I pick up anything." She stretched her arms over her head and tilted her head from side to side.

Barrick sat up and propped his shoulders against the pillows. "Damn. If I'd known you were gonna get a call out, we could've gone straight to bed." Right, maybe not.

Norje angled around. "And miss out on that incredible experience?" She snorted. "Bite your tongue, Barrick. Never." Getting up, she crossed to the dresser and dragged out one of Barrick's T-shirts.

He grinned. "Help yourself." He got a kick when she wore his clothes.

She chuckled. "I gotta bring more of my stuff over. Didn't think I'd need work clothes tonight." Dragging the shirt over her head, she glanced over her shoulder. "Please tell me at least one pair of my leggings is here."

He nodded toward the wardrobe. "Second shelf." She could conjure whatever she needed but if she met any trouble, she wouldn't be at full power.

Grabbing the garment, she stuffed her legs inside. "I'll keep you posted." Winding her hair up, she tucked it under a clip. "Better get some rest. I'll lay odds Hoyt'll call you out tomorrow." Snagging his canvas duster, she crossed back to the bed.

Barrick leaned over and caught her face with one hand. "Wake me up when you get back." His lips met hers for a lingering kiss.

She inclined her chin and gave him a wave then exited the bedroom. A few seconds later, the door opened and closed. Barrick settled back, closing his eyes. She really did need to get her stuff moved over. Unless she wanted to wait until after their handfasting.

He shook his head. "Won't be a bit surprised if Hoyt finds a way to conveniently forget we've got downtime scheduled."

This story is coming together nicely. I like where Norje and Barrick are headed … straight into danger.

That's it for this week.

 

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Xtremely Personal (Xtreme Justice)

Well, November is here. Gotta say, I hope it doesn't pass as slowly as September but not as fast as October. I'll look forward to a month that actually feels like a month again. Who knows when that'll happen?

Busy week with work projects. I didn't get a lot of new television watched. I mainly caught a few of the holiday movies on Hallmark and Lifetime and watched a lot of Ovation.

I did catch an episode of Blue Heelers. Also started a new one. The new guy in season two is still kind of annoying me. Here's hoping he settles down soon.

I also watched several episodes of Silent Witness. Finished up season five and started on six.

I also got to do early voting. My daughter and I went on Thursday and, thankfully, didn't have a long wait. One of the benefits to living in a rural area. I'll be happy when the election is over. It's been an exhausting ride this year.

Tonight's post is from Xtremely Personal, a novella in the Xtreme Justice series.

Here's the mini-blurb:

A blast from Cythe's past comes blowing in at the worst possible time. Nyx struggles to adjust being part of a team and half of a couple and dealing with Cythe's ex isn't high on her list of things she wants to accomplish. The duo has to thwart the ex-girlfriend's troublemaking and both have to brace for a showdown of epic proportions.

And a preview snippet…

Cythe Baldetto entered his loft ready to head up to the studio apartment where Nyx Boit resided. He'd just received terrific news and couldn't wait to share it with her. Thank you, Stanja.

"Hello, Cythe."

The voice stopped him cold. No … it couldn't be. He slowly turned, his gut dropping to his toes.

"What do you want, Maris?"

Maris Thompkins—his ex—had draped herself over his bed in what she probably assumed to be a seductive pose. Completely lost on him, he wanted the woman in the studio upstairs. Her timing reeked … and smacked of something nefarious. Why did she come back now?

She shrugged. "The same thing I always want, Cythe. You." Moving to a sitting position, she flipped her hair over her shoulder.

Cythe shook his head. "We've been down this road before. I'm not available." And he never would be.

She rose to her feet and sauntered toward him. "Ahhh … but you could be. Once upon a time you were as hot for me as I am for you." Making a slow circle around him, she put one hand on his chest and made another half-circle, wrapping herself around his back. "You know I'm a slave to the lust I feel for you. I'll do anything you want." Her voice buzzed along his ear, raspy and husky.

At one time, the smoky quality set flame to him … now it left him cold.

He disengaged from her. "Don't want a slave. Never did." Turning to face her, he crossed his arms over his chest. "Once upon a time, I wanted a future with you. You chose to walk away." And I almost died. "I'm not looking for a repeat performance if you suddenly change your mind and decide to cut and run."

She pouted. "You don't think I learned from my biggest mistake." Her gaze rose to meet his. "But I have. I want another shot, Cythe. I can't resist the pull anymore. I have to be with you." She added a desperate tone to her plea and started toward him.

Cythe held up a hand and backed away. "There is no pull unless you're in close proximity, which you haven't been for years. So, why now and, again, what do you want?"

A throat cleared. "I'd love to hear the answer to his questions, too."

At the bottom of the spiral staircase he'd installed to the studio apartment, Nyx stood, wearing only a short kimono—pretty much leaving no doubt as to the role she played in his life.

Shit's about to get real interesting.

I'm having so much fun with this series. I love Cythe and Nyx and figuring out where they're going in their work and personal lives.

That's it for this week.

 

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Xtreme Vibrations

Well, we're almost to the end of another month and I'm trying to contemplate what the final two months of 2020 are going to be like. Frankly, I can't do it. LOL And we still have a full moon to get through in October.

Had a slower than normal week for television. I'm honestly not in the mood to watch much and have been catching marathons on regular cable for the most part. Hallmark started their holiday fare and one of the books I copy edited is featured as a new movie this year. Last year, another book I copy edited had a premiere. That's always so exciting!

I did catch an episode or two of Silent Witness, but other than that, I mainly watch Ovation. I'm crossing my fingers they don't have a major programming change anytime soon. That happens so frequently for me. I fall in love with the line-up and all of a sudden, some new honcho comes in and effs it all up. I'm looking at you HGTV, SyFy, and BBC America. Or, I lose access to a channel that usually has classic stuff I really enjoy. Sigh.

Tonight's post is from Xtreme Vibrations, a novella in the Xtreme Justice series.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Cythe and Nyx have one solid ally in their life—Stanja Davidich. When a former mentor kidnaps Stanja to use her vibrating power to wreak havoc on the high seas, Cythe and Nyx go against orders to rescue Stanja. But during the attempt, Nyx falls into a trap and Cythe races the clock to get the women in his life back before he dies from being separated from Nyx.

And a preview snippet…

Stanja Davidich entered her townhouse and tossed her keys on the table. She froze; her fingers flexing, ready to unleash her power. Someone lurked in the shadows.

"Hello, Stanja."

Her eyes slid shut. Fuck. Why couldn't it be anyone but him?

She didn't speak but turned slowly toward the corner where the voice came from. Staying silent, she waited. Engaging first would show weakness and she refused to ever willingly hand over whatever slim advantage she had.

"It's been a minute." The sarcasm lashed out like a coil, striking hard and deep.

Closer to a decade. Eight and a half years, to be accurate. And she didn't miss the roller coaster ride one damn bit.

At least she'd repeated the idea over and over as often as necessary.

He emerged into the light spilling in from outside. "Come on, Stanja. You had to know this day would come."

She schooled her features but got a kick in the gut. He looked damned good. Then again, he always had. Too much so.

He circled around her then moved to stand toe to toe, his hot breath fanning her face.

She held his gaze, keeping hers as steady as possible. "I rather hoped not." She could have cheerfully lived without ever laying eyes on him again.

He smirked. "There she is. The icy queen of understatement." He leaned in close. "But I know how hot the woman underneath runs, don't I?"

He used to. Once upon a time. Back before he turned his back on UNIT to seek his fortune elsewhere.

She'd moved on. And while she'd never forgotten him—it would be too dangerous to do so—she'd stuffed their past in a dark, out-of-the-way place in the back of her mind. To have him come back now … dammit, his presence didn't bode well for her.

His lips twisted into a sneer. "I've come to collect, Stanja, on the favor you owe…"

Right. More like a debt from a long ago saga that didn't end well for either of them.

She opened her mouth to reject the idea but he pushed his finger against her lips.

"No doubt you want to refuse, but I won't let you. I planned for this." He snapped his fingers and she dropped like a stone.

He caught her under the arms and dragged her to the back entrance. She hated him and his ability to render people immobile, or unconscious, or even fully comatose. Of course, he'd want her awake but compliant. He wanted her to experience every bit of humiliation he could dish out.

But she figured this day would come. She had his number the same way he had hers. Had intimate knowledge of the way his mind worked.

And she'd prepared. Carefully and quietly. Within twenty-four hours, the news of her disappearance would make its way to UNIT. Twelve hours after that, the only two people she trusted in the world would hold her life in their hands.

Don't let me down, Cythe. You and Nyx are all that stands between my past and my future.

I'm falling in love with this series. I'm so happy with how the opening scene of book three came together. This is such a fun series to write.

That's it for this week.

 

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Xtreme Attraction

Wow, how can half the month be over already? Time either seems to fly by at the rate of insanity yet it often feels like it an entire decade exists within a twenty-four hour period. It's trippy.

Had a bunch of projects land in my inbox this week so television ended up being on the short end. I finished up a Blue Heelers episode and have another one ready to go.

Also made it through two-thirds of Silent Witness's fifth season. Two interesting cases. Looking forward to finishing up the last two episodes.

I watched a lot of the morning mysteries on Ovation again. I enjoy having those shows on in the background, especially when I’m shredding a ton of old paper files.

Looking forward to hopefully finishing up Picard and catching up on Riverdale and Roswell, New Mexico. As I mentioned, this is probably my last season of Riverdale. I literally can't stomach Hiram and I’m pretty sure he won't be going anywhere when the new season premieres.

That's the short list for television this week. Tonight's post is from Xtreme Attraction, a novella that got a start with a writing community prompt. This is book one in the Xtreme Justice series.

Here's the mini-blurb:

The double X gene found in junk DNA makes life very interesting for a group of humans. Nyx Boit reshapes matter with her force of will. Cythe Baldetto literally has blades of steel at his fingertips. When Cythe is sent to recruit Nyx, she wants no part of his offer. To make her point, she converts his arrows, darts, and knives into liquid pools at his feet. Finally meeting his match, Cythe figures recruiting Nyx is out, but wooing her is most definitely in.

And a preview snippet…

Nyx tilted her head to one side. "Why are you helping me?"

Cythe scooped out two platefuls of food. "Two reasons. I've been where you are." He slid one dish in front of her. "And I'm still really attracted to you."

And I'm attracted to him. Why fight it? She leaned across the counter and kissed him. She had a strong reaction. Lust thrummed through her veins and her body tingled everywhere. The kiss spun out of control and Nyx needed more, needed all of him. Right now.

She all but tried to climb all over him, scooting over the counter, scooting the plates out of the way. Cythe pushed her away. Hard. If he'd slapped her in the face, she might be less pissed off. Who the hell does he think he is?

Cythe swiped his thumb over his lower lip. "You're pissed off and so hot for me you can't stand it, right?"

She opened her mouth to snap his head off then blinked. He'd nailed her reaction exactly. She craved him, desperately. Her fingers itched to touch him and smooth over his skin.

She nodded. "Yeah. What the hell?" She'd never been so hot for a man so quickly.

He scooted the plates back and made a noticeable effort to calm his breathing and body.

When he'd gained control of both, he sat on the stool across from her. "You're reacting to my mating pheromones." Glancing away, he took a bite of his meal. "You can't be certain you truly want me." He met her stare again.

She sat back down and picked up her chopsticks. "I can be pretty damned clear I found you more than a little hot from the moment we met." She slurped the food from the utensils.

He had a quirky little smile play over his lips. "Good to know it was a mutual thing. But ... if I didn't stop you—and it took an iron will of control, believe me—I would have made you mine."

She tilted her head. How could that be a bad thing?" The self-discipline impressed her though. She narrowed her gaze. "What aren't you telling me?"

He chewed his food a moment. "If we continue, the pull will only get stronger."

She didn't see a problem. "Meaning what?" Why did it matter?

He sighed. "You're attracted to me now, but you'd become dependent on me physically, almost like a craving."

The light bulb went off. Holy shit. Now she completely understood.

He shook his head. "It's not fair to you unless you're certain—absolutely certain." He pinned her with his gaze for a long moment.

Nyx finished off her food, pondering everything he'd said.

She placed her chopstick on the plate. "Is there a downside for you?" There had to be, right?

He hesitated.

Nyx held up a hand. "I want full disclosure. If you can be hurt, I have to know."

He filled in the blanks. "The downside is ... once the full mating process is complete, if you ever decide to leave me, I'll die. Or at least it's a strong possibility."

Well, fuck.

She tried to wrap her head around the idea. "What if I die or get killed?"

He rolled a shoulder.  "That's my one way out … if the mental bond is severed upon your death."

She snorted. "So, basically, you could kill me if you ever decide you're tired of me." Talk about potential for a bad breakup.

I'm having a lot of fun with this series. Nyx and Cythe have a good vibe that I enjoy writing.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: X Plus Y

Well, it's been a wild and bumpy week. My husband ended up with the flu in the middle of a pandemic. Not a lot of fun for him. The rest of us are trying to take any and all precautions so we don't end up with it also. Bleh.

Finished up a work project and had a little downtime before my next one begins. I'm actually kind of thrilled to have a bit of a break. I normally work every day of the week and having a couple of days off is lovely.

A so-so week of television. I finished up season four of Silent Witness and started on season five.

I also caught another arc of Classic Who. I'm on the second season of Four's tenure. Finishing out the "Terror of the Zygons."

Other than that, I mainly caught some Mystery Alley marathons on Ovation. I needed some background noise while I did a ton of shredding.

Other than that, I'm hoping to finish up Picard this week and maybe get back to Riverdale and Roswell, New Mexico.

That's pretty much it for television this week. Tonight's post is from X Plus Y, a novella that got a start with a writing community prompt.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Vail Gault and Wolf Vermassey have a wicked, powerful attraction for each other. Too bad their clans are brutal rivals in the underground world of meta-human politics. Pitted against each other, they can never be more than opponents in a cage match who happen to have sex that makes their sparring matches look like cakewalks.

And a preview snippet…

Vail opened her door to find Mort Camen standing outside. "What do you want, Camen?" She really didn't have the stomach to deal with a stalker.

Mort shoved a stack of photos at her. "I want you on your knees if you want me to keep quiet about this." He grabbed his crotch, making it clear why he wanted her on her knees.

Vail dumped the pictures in the trashcan. "I don't think so, Camen. As you can see, I've got all the cock I can handle. I don't need another one." As if she'd ever get within five feet of his naked body.

Mort sneered. "Come on, bitch. You give it up for Wolf and Wolf is okay with sharing. It's the Vermassey way." He tried to push his way inside her house.

Vail blocked him and snarled. "Good for him. I'm not okay with assholes sniffing around when they're not welcome. I don't give a shit who gave you permission. Members of the House of Aronson do nothing they choose not to." She smashed her fist in his face, sending him sprawling backward.

The very idea that Wolf condoned this crap sent her rage meter into the red zone. Stomping over to Mort, she jabbed her booted toe into his ribs then grabbed him by the hair and dragged him to her car. Jamming her knee into his kidney, she yanked the door open and shoved him into the backseat.

Mort howled when she slammed it closed, crunching his knee in the process. "Damn you. What the hell? You have no right trying to kick my ass. Where do you think you're taking me?"

Sliding behind the wheel, she answered his questions in order. "What the hell did you expect? I didn't try to kick your ass, I did kick it." She glanced in the rearview mirror and grinned when she spotted the blood dripping from his nose. "As for where we're going, you'll find out in less than ten minutes." She floored the car and drove straight to Wolf's place.

Dragging Mort out of the vehicle, she frog-marched him to Wolf's front door.

When Wolf answered her loud pounding, she pushed Camen to his knees. "How dare you send a goon after me? Not my fault someone got wise and started taking pictures." Her anger spilled over. "Be ready for a really rough fight this week. I don't care who sees the pictures. I won't be blackmailed." She smacked her palm upside Mort's head. "And I won't be shared." She met Wolf's gaze. "Ever." Turning on her heel, she stalked back to her car and peeled out of his drive.

She didn't realize tears streamed down her face until she pulled up to her house.

I love where this story is going. Wolf and Vail will turn their world on its side but they'll have some flaming hoops to jump through first.

 

That's it for this week.

 

Cheers!

 

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Whipped Cream and Chocolate Dreams

Welcome to October, the month with two full moons. Make of that what you will. I had a terrific week. Made a ton of progress on the cleanout and organization. Got a new set of rune stones. Met my two best friends for an evening of fun and laughter. And made headway on a work project.

Not a bad week for television. I watched a lot of Silent Witness. Finished up the third season and started on the fourth. It's shorter than the previous seasons, so I should be ready to start the fifth early this coming week.

Started a new episode of Blue Heelers. Apparently Nick's past has come calling. Not very far into yet but it's an interesting episode.

Watched part of the first episode of Bomb Girls. I'm excited about diving into this series. I've heard some great things about it.

I also watched a bunch of videos about rune casting again. They're very soothing, especially when I'm shredding paper.

Tonight's post is from Whipped Cream and Chocolate Dreams, a novella that got a start with a writing community prompt.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Nita, Deacon, and Callen fall victim to Morpho, the Dream Tender, who plants vivid imagery in their minds while they slumber. When the trio wakes up primed and ready for action, they try to fight the erotic pull, but fail.

And a preview snippet…

Callen appreciated Nita calling him. And Deke. They'd been a trio every summer while growing up. Now that Nita inherited the ice cream shop from her gram, she'd be a permanent resident, like Deke and Callen.

He dusted off his hands. "I'm hungry. How's grilled chicken sound for dinner?" He'd brought some over from his place.

Nita made a yummy sound in her throat. "Awesome. I've got cabbage and can make a slaw." She glanced around before heading for the door.

Deke added his two cents. "Perfect for chicken tacos. Got any tortillas?" He closed the door and Nita locked up.

She gave a nod. "I do. Cal, you good with tacos?" She fell into step between them, just like when they were young.

His stomach growled. "Absolutely. Won't take long to grill up the chicken. You guys get the slaw and everything else ready?" He followed Nita into the house her grandmother left her, three blocks over from the ice cream shop.

Deke and Nita gave Callen a thumbs-up and he grabbed the marinated breasts from the fridge and fired up the grill. Deke brought a beer out and set it on the patio table. Callen popped the top and took a long swallow. Ten minutes later, he finished the brew and plated the meat.

Entering through the backdoor, he placed the platter on the counter. "Bird's cooked. Need help with anything else?" He tossed his bottle in the trash bin and grabbed another.

Nita glanced over her shoulder, her hair still damp from a shower. "We're good. If you wanna grab a shower, the water should be hot. I timed Deke to make sure he didn't hog it all." Her lips twitched.

Callen laughed. "Man, you're still doing that?" He shook his head and ducked into the small three-quarter bath off the kitchen.

He and Deke both had a couple changes of clothes stowed in the linen cabinet. They'd be here at least the rest of the week to help Nita get ready to reopen the shop.

After quickly rinsing the day's work off, he entered the kitchen and took his place in the assembly line for taco-making. Lots of laughter, reminiscing, and flirty banter between trips back for more and dinner counted as a success.

Deke leaned back in his chair and groaned. "Let's head outside. If I stay in here, I'll eat more and I'm stuffed." He scooted back and crossed over to the fridge. "I got some hard cider at the new place by the orchard. Let's have some."

Callen and Nita followed Deke out to the patio and settled in at the table.

Once everyone had a bottle of the cider, Callen lifted his. "Here's to picking up where we left off and the first weekend of operation reopen."

Deke and Nita tapped their bottles against Callen's. Nothing quite like good friends and being reunited.

This is a fun concept and I love mixing the otherworldly aspect in. The trio makes it easy for me, too. I love long-standing friendships.

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye