Sunday Snippet: A Thousand Reasons

I'm a little surprised May is at an end and I shouldn't be. Then again, I spent the entire week getting days mixed up so there's that.

Pretty decent week of television viewing. I started out by finishing the Roswell, New Mexico episode and, frankly, loved it. I like that Maria didn't let Liz off the hook. I'm so glad she knows what's going on now. I also hope she gets over the betrayal and becomes an ally for the alien side. I'm very cautious about Cameron's appearance. Something tells me she's going to be doing a lot of backstabbing but for a good reason. I don't for a moment believe Jesse is as bad off as he makes out to be and we'll be seeing his evil ways rear their ugly heads again. And, finally, Isabel. What a terrific episode for her. I enjoyed the way her connection to Max was explored and explained. I'll look forward to more of this type of storyline for her.

On a fun note, I got to watch my daughter's graduation via YouTube. I can honestly say it was rather nice to sit in a cool house to see her get her diploma rather than sitting in a hot stadium. The circumstances might not have been ideal, but the school put a ton of effort into making the graduation special and I appreciate their work.

I started an episode of The Heart Guy and, well, didn't finish it. The show isn't grabbing me the way I'd hoped. I'll probably come back to it later.

Also caught another episode of Peak Practice and enjoyed it. For a show that's well over twenty years old, some of the storylines are very relevant to today's circumstances.

Caught the beginning arc of the fourth doctor on Classic Who. Four has a long, long run for the show and I'm excited to get started on his tenure.

Watched one episode of Gargoyles and it's another one I didn't remember from my initial viewing. Pretty decent episode with some cat and mouse maneuvers.

Was able to get in another episode of Strike Back and quite enjoyed it. The team now knows what's going on with the blood vendetta and I'm excited for the final three episodes. Can't wait to see how the series ends. The declassified behind the scenes also ended up being really enjoyable.

Caught another episode of The Witcher and I'm getting sucked deeper into the mythology of the show. I thoroughly enjoyed all three storylines, two of which converged together in this episode. I'm interested to see what happens next.

And that's pretty much it for television this week. I'll be starting a new Passionflix movie sometime later tonight and look forward to seeing the first part of Gabriel's Inferno.

Tonight's post is from A Thousand Reasons, a sexy short that started with a writing community prompt.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Dix Benson wants life to finally settle down after he passes the advocacy exam. But when Willow Gold decides to accept a job flying missions in a very hot zone, he can think of at least a thousand reasons it's a very bad idea. Convincing Willow will be the challenge.

And a preview snippet…

Willow Gold signed the contract and thrust her hand forward. "Thank you for this opportunity. I can't wait to get started." She firmly grasped her new boss's palm.

Maxon Barnes gave her a wide grin. "Welcome to the team. You're bringing a lot to the table. We're lucky to have you." He walked her to the door and out into the empty reception area.

Willow waved and made her way to the front entrance. Exiting out into the early evening light, she barely contained her excitement. She'd be dropping into meta-human hot spots and helping to bring them out or protecting them from the locals. The latest wave of enhanced people had the general population in an uproar and reaction had taken a nasty turn.

Willow shook her head. "Good thing Dix is going to be a powerful advocate for them." She had no doubt they'd be celebrating his successful completion of the difficult exam to become a member of the council association.

Being an advocate meant Dix would be part legal eagle, part social worker. And he'd be damned good at both. He had a stake in how meta-humans were treated. Hell, they both did. Neither had great power, but Dix could read people and pick up on their thoughts and feelings and Willow had extrasensory capabilities, kind of like having her five senses on steroids.

She grinned. "Which will be very handy in my new job." The smile faded while she pulled out into the post-rush-hour traffic.

A little edgy, she made a quick pit-stop at a local Gengi house to grab some takeout. Part congratulatory celebration—she had no doubt Dix passed his exam—and part peace offering—she neglected to inform him of her work opportunity, the food haul tantalized her nose and taste buds. Willow pushed a kick of guilt down. Dix had too much on his mind in the lead-up to the final testing. She refused to distract him from his preparation.

But she'd needed something new. She enjoyed her consulting gig with the ministry of meta-affairs but the itch to work directly with people that were only just discovering their power burned in her brain. Getting to them from the outset, helping them get a grip on their new skills, and protecting them from frightened outliers until they could be relocated or handle their ability safely meant the world to Willow.

And Dix is gonna hate it.

Pulling into the garage behind their building, she cut the engine. "I should've told him." Given him time to get used to the idea.

A thousand reasons why she'd kept information to herself tumbled through her mind.

Not stealing his thunder topped the list. But a close second rolled up and stood out. They'd worked long and hard to get where they were—comfortable in a relationship—and this would rock the boat. Possibly even capsize it.

Shoving the thought aside, she grabbed the food and headed inside.

"We'll be fine."

I originally thought this one would be a sci-fi romance, but it keeps wanting to go in a paranormal direction. I finally caved and made some changes.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: This Is Your Life

May 24, 2020

Another crazy weather week in Ohio. Warm, chilly, cold, hot. Seriously, I'm not putting anything seasonal away this year … just in case.

Not a bad week of television viewing. I'm almost finished with the Blue Heelers episode I started last week. I like this one. It's got some twisty turns in it.

Watched the Thanksgiving episode of Riverdale and got just a wee bit misty eyed by the end. Anything to do with Fred and his presence on the show makes me happy though. The dinner from hell Cheryl and company hosted will go down as the most creeptastic but ultimately hysterical I've ever watched on television. Betty and Jughead's Charlie Brown Thanksgiving entertained me even if the cat and mouse with Brett and Donna didn't really shed much light on the situation at the prep school. I spent another episode wishing for Hiram to join Cheryl's family in whatever circle of hell will provide the most torture. I seriously hate the character. Time will tell if I can stomach next season with him in it or not. Chances are … not. Which is unfortunate.

Caught three more episodes of Danger Man. I needed a good background noise show and this one works well. I had several graphic images I needed to work on and it's nice to take a small break when needed and watch the action.

Started an episode of Roswell, New Mexico. This is a show where I enjoy the cat and mouse going on. I'm to the point where Maria discovered Rosa and thinks she's completely lost her mind. Really happy to see Cameron back and I hope she's not going to be some kind of double agent working the alien camp for intel to give to Papa Main. I'll be a little pissed if that's the case. Alex might have bitten off more than he can chew regarding his dad. I'll get more into my thoughts on Isabel next week. I kind of miss Kyle and hope he makes an appearance or has screen time in the next episode.

I also began something a little new but also very old. Listening to soundtracks while I work. Bear McCreary's music is awesome to have playing while writing or editing. I blew through the second and third season soundtracks for Battlestar Galactica this week.

Last, but not least, I finished up the Strike Back episode from last week. I had a feeling while writing my reaction in the last post of what would come but didn't want to dive too deeply into it because it hadn't happened yet. Yes, I'm being cryptic but I don't want to spoil anyone … and maybe I'm not quite ready to face the reality of being one character down. All I can say is stellar acting by every single character. Seriously.

The Strike Back: Declassified episode ended up being funny and poignant. Getting the reactions from the actors and hearing how they prepared ended up being a soothing balm after the gut-wrenching episode. Kudos to shows who do the behind the scenes interviews. I really miss that with Roswell, New Mexico this season.

And that's it for television this week. Tonight's post is from This Is Your Life, a novella that got a start with a writing community prompt.

Here's the mini-blurb:

After a harrowing month of captivity in a rival faction's territory, Welch Harrinson can't seem to find his will to keep living. Rina Lewes devises a perfect way to remind Welch why life can be good.

And a preview snippet…

Welch woke up slowly, blinking against the early morning sun. "Where am I?" Definitely not in the dingy brick building he'd called home for … however long he'd been there.

The image of the warehouse went fuzzy and the length of time grew just out of reach.

He sat up, glancing around. "Nice place." Warm colors bathed the room, a stark contrast to the grimy gray and burnt red brick that nudged around in the back of his mind.

A low throb started in his temples and he rubbed the area with both hands.

Why does my head hurt so much?

The twist of the doorknob had him warily eyeing the door.

A woman entered the room, carrying a mug and plate. Welch eyed her up and down. Pretty. Long hair pulled up in a haphazard bun, loose-fitting clothes on a muscular body, and an almost feline grace to her step. Who is she?

The lady gave him a tired smile. "I didn't know when you'd wake up." She glanced at the items in her hands. "I have herbal tea and a bagel with peanut butter along with some scrambled eggs." She tilted her head to one side. "Are you hungry?"

His stomach growled and he nodded. "Apparently so." He straightened, reaching back to prop up a pillow. "But first … who are you? Why am I here?" Trusting the food and drink might not be a great idea until he had some answers.

The woman's shoulders slumped a little, but she squared them and continued toward the bed. "Before I answer, do you know who you are?" Placing the tea and food on the nightstand, she stepped back to give him some space.

Welch frowned. "Of course I know who I am. Welch Harrinson." He opened his mouth to say more but hit a wall.

He had no idea what he did for a living. Or where he lived. Or if he had any family.

He only knew his name and that he'd been locked away in that damn warehouse for a long freaking time.

A surge of anger rushed up this throat. "Are you the good cop version of my kidnappers?" He had to have been abducted, nothing else made sense. "Do the change of scenery and throw in a pretty face to break me down even more?" Oddly, he couldn't remember anyone's description, only the sound of voices chanting and magick swirling all around him.

The urge to flee almost overwhelmed him and he started to fling the sheet off only to realize he had nothing on. Completely naked, he snarled and shot the woman an angry glare. Whipping the covering back over his legs, he hissed out a frustrated breath.

The woman sighed and settled into the chair between the nightstand and the wall. "I'm not working with the people who abducted you. I'm the one who found you and brought you ho—" She stopped, took a breath then continued. "Here. I'm Rina. And before you ask, your clothes are being cleansed. They were riddled with hex magick." She leaned forward a little. "You don't remember me, right? You didn't last night anyway."

Welch shook his head. "I have no idea who the hell you are, but I guess you have my thanks if you actually did rescue me." He didn't trust her words, but his instincts said she didn't mean him harm.

Rina's lips curved but the smile didn't reach her eyes. "It took a full month and for that I'm sorry." She grew silent and turned her gaze to the window.

Welch's stomach growled again and he picked up the plate. "So, what is this place?" He nibbled the bagel then took a big bite—apparently he liked peanut butter.

Rina turned her attention back to him. "It's your, er, my home." She settled back against the chair. "I'll answer as many questions as I can, but we have to be cautious. You've been through a magickal trial and I've asked someone to come and evaluate your condition."

Welch paused as he reached for the tea. "You called a doctor?" His stomach roiled but damned if he had a clue why.

Rina shook her head. "Not a doctor, no. And if you're at all uncomfortable during the process, say the word and we'll figure something else out."

A buzz sounded and Welch tensed. "Not sure I want to be poked and prodded, even if it's not a doctor."

Rina rose, nodding toward the dresser. "You can finish eating and change into the clothes over there." She started toward the door. "There won't be much in the way of poking and prodding, more a thorough examination of the magick and hopefully a resolution to your memory loss." Her head angled around. "You don't have to trust me, but I hope you'll at least give this a try."

Unable to do much else, he shrugged. "For now, I can't think of another option." He drained half the mug of tea. "Should I meet you out there when I'm ready?"

Rina gave him a brief smile. "Sure. Take your time. There's no rush." She exited the room, closing the door behind her.

Welch exhaled on a long breath. Nothing made sense. The brief flashes of anger and the sick ball of dread that expanded and contracted in his gut made him wary of everything. But … this place, Rina's home, definitely proved to be a huge step up from the shitty confines he'd been in.

He took another bite of the bagel. "Let's hope it's not an exchange from one prison to another."

He'd find out soon enough.

I love the twists this story is taking. Rina's got her work cut out for her and Welch's struggle is a challenge I'm enjoying.

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Think Twice

Well … my youngest is pretty much officially a graduated senior. She got to walk outside—the weather cooperated—and received her diploma in a socially careful ceremony. The entire thing will be shown next week on the scheduled night of commencement. I'm scared and excited for her future. Times are weird, what else can I say?

Semi-decent week of television viewing. Still haven't finished up the third episode of Picard but hope to get to it this week.

Caught an episode of Gargoyles and remembered this one. I like it when they dive into the mythology of the show.

Watched four episodes of Danger Man. I'm enjoying the longer format of the second season. I also really like the black and white episodes. I think the show moves to color in the next season.

Caught another episode of The Witcher. I love this show! The fluid timeline can be a little confusing but I'm staying pretty clear on what's going on. Based on what I've read, by the end of the season, the timelines converge. Here's hoping that's actually the case.

Finally watched the season finale of Murdoch Mysteries. I'll honestly say I'm pleasantly surprised by the way everything unfolded. Not sure I'm keen on Violet getting a second chance but I'll see how things go. I do believe the moral quandary of not always being able to go by the book comes through in a terrific way. It's also quite nice to see William understand things can't always be firmly put into one column or the other. I so love this show!

Started a new episode of Blue Heelers but didn't get very far before I had to pause. I'll try to finish it up this week.

Also in the middle of a Strike Back episode. Quite happy with how they've moved the timeline forward but we still get to see what happened to Mac play out. That was a massive cliffhanger at the end of the previous episode.

And that's pretty much it for television this week. Tonight's post is from Think Twice, a novella that got a start with a writing community prompt.

Here's the mini-blurb:

When Judd Millian asks Pru Watson to work with him to take out the evil invading their city, she doesn't hesitate to say yes. But when he wants something more, she hesitates, unable to commit to an answer. The indecision drives a wedge between them, but Pru won't let Judd get sucked into the worst part of her past.

And a preview snippet…

Judd Millian caught sight of a lone woman peering over the edge of the second-floor balcony. She's the one who stepped into the line of fire. And, like him, she probably had an ability she didn't know much about.

"Millian! A little help here." His colleague held up the automatic rifles the terrorists used.

Judd glanced up again before crossing the short distance to Ben Zoya. Taking the firearms, Judd held them together and used his gift to turn them into a congealed mass. The three men gawked, which looked incredibly odd with their faces under black balaclavas.

Judd handed the weapons back to Ben. "The local LEOs can still pull prints off the magazine if there are any." Usually, the element Judd's team dealt with had higher than average intelligence, so prints might not be an option.

Ben shook his head. "I'm still not used to seeing you do that." He nodded toward the other two team members. "Metro is on the way. Bag and tag these guys then hand them over." He stepped toward the counter. "Ladies and gentlemen, you're all clear. It's safe to come out now."

Heads started popping up from behind the ticket station. Ben motioned the group to come around and they complied, most talking about the woman who'd saved their lives. Shooting Judd a sideways glance, Ben quirked an eyebrow.

Judd shrugged. "Not sure. There's someone on the second floor. That might be who they're talking about." He itched to go after her, maybe discover how much they had in common.

Ben rolled his eyes. "Go on. See if she's still around and maybe find out if she's got any information on this bunch." He didn't have to tell Judd to bring her in, but his tone implied it needed to happen.

He'd do his best, but he wouldn't force anyone to do something against their will.

Judd inclined his chin. "I'll check in when I can." His gaze landed on the spot he'd last seen the woman.

Reaching the second floor, he found the location empty. "She's quiet, that's for certain." He followed the rounded corridor to the left and came upon an empty stairwell leading upward. "Might as well try." He took the steps up three levels and exited out onto the rooftop.

The woman stood at the edge of the wall facing the street below. Her hair whipped in the gusty wind, the dark strands flicking back and forth. He approached quietly, fearing he'd startle her otherwise.

"That's close enough." Her voice carried on the air. "Are you here to take me back?"

His step faltered. Take her back where? Maybe she had the same questions he did … or possibly answers to his questions. Either way, she intrigued the hell out of him and he hoped he got the chance to find out more.

Keeping his distance, he tried to put her at ease. "I don't know where back is. Name's Judd Millian. I think you might have the same type of affliction I have." He clocked the squaring of her shoulders but pushed forward. "Well, not the same. Bullets don't bounce off me…" From her torn clothes, she'd deflected a shit ton of them. "But I can make them harmless before they cut through my body."

She whirled around. "Who are you?" A tiny tremor of fear laced the question.

He frowned. "I told you. My name is—"

She growled. "Not your name, dumbass. Are you military? Black ops? Who are you working for?" Each syllable of the last sentence had perfect enunciation.

Judd took a step toward her but backed off when she tensed, ready to run. "I'm not military, more like private security." Actually, a lot like mercenary for hire but he feared she'd freak if he mentioned that part.

She relaxed but only slightly. "Why are you here?" Her head tilted to one side and she gave him a slow once-over.

Judd widened his stance, hoping to appear conversational. "We've been tracking that trio since they got off their plane. They planned to bomb a building—not sure which one—but something spooked them and they ended up shooting up the station instead." He held back some information; he couldn't reveal the full details yet. "I'm on this rooftop with you for two reasons. One to make sure you're okay. And the second is to find out if you heard or saw anything that might help us." He paused a moment. "Actually, I don't care about the second one. I've only met a handful of people who have our abilities and I didn't want to miss an opportunity to meet another one."

Her lips twisted in a wry smirk. "And that's it? I'm free to go?"

He tried to hide his disappointment. "If you want. Do you have somewhere to be?" He jerked his thumb over his shoulder. "I can make sure you have a ride if you do."

Her face fell. "I have nowhere to go. That's why I was at the station."

A wild idea took root in his brain. "In that case … how are you with heights?" His loft would be quick to get to if they traversed the rooftops … in traffic, it would take thirty minutes.

She gave him a long, level look. "I'm standing on the edge of a building. Heights don't bother me."

He flashed a quick grin. "In that case, if you need a place to crash for the night. Follow me." He made his way to the south side of the building then took off at a run and leaped across the alley.

He didn't stop but smiled again when he heard her land behind him.

So far, his night looked to be very interesting.

I love writing meta-human stories. Working different abilities into the romance is a challenge and fun to do.

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Hook a Book—Get a Great Book on the Line: A Magical Affair #MFRWAuthors #MFRWHooks

Welcome to Book Hooks, the weekly smorgasbord sampler hosted by the MFRW Authors Blog.

Readers: get hooked and reel in some great books. Authors are sharing short excerpts from their work. Please enjoy and consider picking up the full book by clicking on the buy link.

I'm diving into my backlist to reignite my Book Hook mojo. This week's feature is A Magical Affair, a book I had so much fun writing!

Available here

Book Tagline:

A mansion sitting atop a wellspring of magic lets Romy, Heath, and Stacie live out their fantasies. Heath loves the opportunity, but he really wants one thing—for Romy to give up control and let him call the shots.

Blurb:

Romy Bludd and Heath Graystone are very adventurous and happily explore the wilder side of sex. Romy meets Jarvin and Vivica, who give her an opportunity to spend Halloween weekend at Magic Meadows, a mansion sitting atop an ancient wellspring of magic. Romy accepts the offer because she and Heath want to add someone else to the mix and Romy's best friend, Stacie, is back from a ten month stay abroad. The timing couldn't be better for the trio to live out their lustful fantasies.

The mansion and its owners are capable of wondrous transformations, giving Romy and Stacie a wealth of choices to rock Heath's world. A character from his favorite urban thriller, a cougar on the prowl, the plain librarian who wants to hook up with her boss, a roller derby diva with aggression issues, and a reporting duo with blackmail on their minds are on the agenda for the romp-filled weekend.

And an excerpt…

"You're sure about this?" Stacie Williams plopped down beside Romy Bludd. "Our friendship is more important than me having a weekend of super-hot sex with an awesome guy like Heath."

Romy smiled. "Stace, I'm okay because you're my best friend. Heath and I've had this fantasy for two years, and I had issues with bringing someone else in and not being able to control everything." She paused. "But I know you almost better than I know myself. You won't go over-the-top stalker, and you're not harboring any deep, unrequited love for Heath. You just appreciate his hard body and screaming good looks." Kicking her feet up onto the table, she shrugged. "You're not in a relationship at the moment, so no awkward trying to explain why you're traipsing off to a magical mansion for a Halloween weekend tryst—and don't want company."

Stacie grinned. "You're lucky I'm at loose ends and haven't had time to do more than look for a hookup." She propped her feet beside Romy's.

Romy frowned. "I can't believe you were gone for ten months. I missed you." She nudged Stacie's shoulder. "You're never allowed to take off for training abroad again."

Stacie laughed. "Think of it this way, you and Heath had plenty of time to work the kinks out and look at you now." She turned and faced Romy. "Rock solid and happier than I've ever seen you."

Romy shrugged. "He's everything I've ever wanted. It's scary good between us."

"Hence the crazy-ass weekend you have planned." Stacie tilted her head to the side. "Where did you find this place anyway?"

Romy's lips curved. "I got an invite from the owners when I went to inspect the place for their ad layout. We'll be their first trial run."

Stacie leaned in close. "And the magic? Do you think they can really create everything you want?"

Romy nodded. "Oh, yes. I really do."

Stacie shuddered. "God, I can't wait."

"Me either. How perfect, right? Halloween. Costumes, role-playing, and an entire wing all to ourselves." Romy grabbed a notebook from the table. "So help me come up with the best and kinkiest ideas to make this weekend a mind-blowing one for Heath."

That's it for this week's hook. I hope you enjoyed the preview.

Don't forget to check out our other authors!

Cheers!

Skye Ritchey

Sunday Snippet: That Explains Everything

May 10, 2020

Happy Mother's Day to all the moms out there. I'm having a low-key day, which is kind of nice. The past week has been crazy with weird weather—we had snow yesterday … in May—and a lot of uncertainty about how safe it is to start getting back out there and mixing with people.

Had a semi-decent week of television viewing. I'm finally caught up on the Crisis on Infinite Earths crossover and, yeah, I'll save my thoughts on it for last.

Otherwise, I caught a few more episodes of Danger Man. Again, these were two I don't remember in my first run through of the episodes. I really love this classic.

Speaking of classics. I finished up the third doctor's run in Classic Who. I thoroughly enjoyed Jon Pertwee's portrayal. Up next, is the fourth doctor and I'm ready to dive in.

Caught another episode of The Heart Guy and liked it. I have to say it's kind of odd how much I like Hugh because he really is a bit of a dick. But there's a good heart, pardon the pun, under his arrogance and immaturity. I actually had a moment of intense dislike for his boss when she spent the money he cajoled out of Nathan for an MRI on regular supplies. The jury is still out on that situation. I think it was a major smack and her level of smugness irritates me on the regular. Then again, she's dealing with Hugh so there's that. My last thought on the show for this week is really hoping the sister-in-law doesn't do anything stupid like hook up with Hugh again. I don't hold out much hope because that's a hard trope to ignore and the messy fallout is hard to resist.

Also caught the opener of season two Peak Practice. I kind of like where Will is right now. I'm a little weirded out by the whole trying to pray a daughter's asthma away plot line but overall a good episode.

I got to watch another Cirque du Soliel performance with Zed. This one ended up being the whole show from start to finish and, wow, what a show. I'm going to try to catch it again later this week. There's always so much going on I miss stuff.

Started episode three of Picard but CBS All Access is crap for streaming at my house. I have no idea why, but I literally struggle to get episodes watched. Very frustrating.

Last but not least … Crises on Infinite Earths. I give the whole thing a ten out of ten. Backtracking a little, losing Oliver in the opening episode? Bold choice. I can honestly say, I loved everything about the Supergirl portion of the crossover even if it broke my brain.

Following up with Batwoman, what a kick-ass episode. I loved the additional cameos and throwbacks and mash-ups. Having Kevin Conroy as a live-action Batman, albeit a broken one, rocked. Anyone who's a huge fan (um … definitely me) of Batman the Animated Series should have enjoyed the voice actor in this role. I liked the bonding Kate and Kara did too.

Moving on to The Flash, again, thoroughly enjoyed the episode even if, by this point, I decided to have a full box of tissues next to me. I think because I knew what to expect everything hit harder emotionally. I loved the way they brought the Black Lightning 'verse into the fold; a solid choice with Barry and Jefferson bonding over shared circumstances.

The Arrow episode almost did me in. I won't lie. I spent most of it in tears. And they were actually good tears even if I ended up ugly crying for a lot of it. Part of the reason is because Arrow is the first, the show that launched it all and the one I've followed from the very beginning to the very end. I've caught the others, watched a good bit of The Flash and Legends, a little of Supergirl and a smattering of Batwoman, but Arrow is my Arrowverse show. I'm truly, completely in awe of Stephen's performance not only in the crossover but also over the eighth season so far. There's a lot of nuance to his acting and I'm impressed.

The falling action in Legends of Tomorrow didn't stop the flow of tears but the much needed lightness interspersed with the final battle ended up being a good mix. By the time they held the memorial I was literally laughing while sobbing. Not a good look for me but for the crossover an excellent ending. Seeds have been planted and it'll be fun to see how everything shakes out. I'm actually excited by the Earth Prime concept and I loved the voiceover from Oliver kind of laying the groundwork. By the time Barry unveiled the table and with it the hint of a Justice League story I was raring and ready for another crossover. Even if it'll be super weird without Oliver.

So … those are my random thoughts on what ended up being an emotional week of television viewing.

Tonight's post is from That Explains Everything, a novella that got a start with a writing community prompt.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Tasha Yale wants Brax Vermillion, but can't seem to break her connection to Staz Yarrow—until she's taken by Lanai Conns. Finally aware of the nefarious machinations, Tasha fights to get back to her clan and Brax … before it's too late.

And a preview snippet…

Tasha sent Brax a smile when she closed the door and toed her shoes off. "Hi, Brax." Her gaze scanned the room, the sense of coming home filling her mind with calm.

Or maybe the man had that effect on her. She never got the unsettled and conflicted feeling with Brax. His presence had always been steady and true. Probably always would be.

Brax rose and invited her to sit by the fire. "Come on over. It got chilly out there today." He settled back and waited for her to take a spot on the sofa. "How are the orders going? Are you keeping up?" He propped his feet on the coffee table.

Tasha curled her legs up and got comfortable. "For the most part. I'm behind on the scented jars, but I've got stock left for now." She'd try to work some of those in before Staz returned.

Brax quirked a brow. "Have you thought anymore about letting me design a website and online store for you?"

She hedged a little. "I have. I'm not quite ready yet. Staz doesn't want me to set up shop in my shed and he doesn't think I can up with rent in a commercial building." Why he kept putting her off the idea, she had yet to figure out.

Brax frowned. "If you joined the co-op, rent wouldn't be an issue. You'd trade a percentage of your take-in and something suited to your skill set with maintenance. Does he understand how the shops in town work?" His tone implied only a dumbass wouldn't.

And he'd be right. Staz didn't lack understanding. He lacked the desire to have her split time between home and work.

Tasha shrugged. "He gets it. But said I'd have to spend more time making extra product to offset the cost of doing business." But if her business increased from having the exposure, there wouldn't be a loss.

Brax closed his eyes and exhaled slowly. "Okay. What's the objection to an online store?" A valid question with a similar answer to the previous one.

Tasha sighed. "I'd have to store the candles somewhere, which means either renting space or using the shed. Staz doesn't want a delivery carrier stopping by every day to take shipments and he doesn't want a bunch of boxes and packing supplies cluttering up the house or shed." Which didn't make a lot of sense, but she got tired of arguing about it.

Brax shook his head. "You know how I feel about the limitations he puts on you. You're the one footing most of your bills. He shouldn't have a say when it comes to your livelihood. Or at least he should understand a little more." His face set in a hard profile.

Tasha didn't want to ruin the conversation with more Staz talk. "Random subject change … I made progress with my spellwork. If I can refine the cast, I can create candles that enhance or dampen a specific mood. That could open the door to adding in a healing angle with my work." She had a goal of adding elemental healing products to her current inventory.

Brax's eyes widened. "I thought—" He broke off, no doubt getting ready to bring Staz back into the discussion.

Staz didn't like her to practice spellwork or use magick.

Brax started over. "Tell me more." He shuffled his feet off the table and turned to face her, tucking one leg under his thigh.

She grinned. "Well … here's what I started with…"

This story is growing into something a little more than I originally planned and I'm excited by the idea.

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Shaken Alliances (A Technorati novella)

Well, May is starting out fairly chilly and gloomy in my part of the country. It's been quite a while since we've had true spring weather and we're definitely getting it so far. I'm hoping it doesn't rain on the weekend my youngest gets to have her drive-up graduation. We're still not risking anyone's health by having a full-blown commencement ceremony.

Slower than usual week in television. I finally got to finish Picard and Strike Back; also got Strike Back Declassified in. I love those behind the scenes moments and interviews.

Finished up a four-part arc on Gargoyles, watching the last two episodes this week. It's weird how the voice actors are enemies on this show and their characters are allies on Star Trek TNG.

Watched another episode of The Witcher. This show has me very intrigued. Definitely glad there will be another season. At least I think there will be.

Caught several episodes of Danger Man, most being ones I didn't remember. I might have to rewatch The Prisoner when I'm done with this series.

Watched the first episode of Crisis on Infinite Earths with the Supergirl episode. I'll do more this week but I needed a moment to wrap my head around this one. I loved the cameo appearances and look forward to more of those but I'm already crushed by the events in this opening episode. Good stuff. That's all I'm saying.

That's pretty much it for television this week. Tonight's post is from Shaken Alliances, a Technorati novella.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Janna Allgood, a corporal in the Alliance, is the best at what she does, bringing Technorati deceivers to justice. But when she's assigned the task of tracking down the notorious leader of the rogue technomancers, she discovers a new calling, one that puts her life in danger because it may bring down the Alliance she works for.

And a preview snippet…

Rennick chuckled. "My dear boy, you have yet to meet her. You'll no more be able to keep your distance than she'll be able to resist you."

Pax frowned. "Speak plainly. You want us together?" He didn't want to get emotionally entangled.

Rennick chose his words carefully. "Do I want it? Nothing would please me more than my two closest protégés finding happiness with each other. But it goes deeper than that, my boy. You'll need each other. If you want to free the Technorati."

Understanding dawned in Pax's mind. "She's the Key." Great balls. The one variable the Technorati had been seeking for decades.

Rennick hedged. "I can't be completely certain. Not yet. But her bloodline is pure and goes back to the beginning."

Pax had a gut clenching moment of clarity. Janna Allgood would prove to be the Key and Master Rennick had set it up so Pax would be the catalyst for bringing her to the forefront of their movement.

"You're a crafty old man."

The wise one didn't deny the statement. But he didn't have a reply either.

Pax pushed a little. "If there's any possibility of her being the key, I have to request some guidance. A wrong move could cause irreparable harm." He might have a reputation for stopping at nothing to gain freedom for his people, but he would not stoop to damaging a psyche with the kind of power the Key would hold.

Rennick infused his tone with calm. "She's protected but you do have to move with caution. Once she accepts the truth about the Alliance, she'll be open. At least that's my hope."

Pax settled down, letting the master's wisdom guide his questions. "How much does Janna know about the old ways and legends?" If she had no knowledge, his job would be easier for both.

Rennick shared what he'd gleaned. "Her mind has blocked and closed everything out for now. But … she's ripe for tutelage. She's keenly curious when something interests her." He paused a moment before continuing. "You'd be wise to move slowly and let Janna discover and accept her destiny in stages." A wry twist inserted itself into his voice.

Pax closed his eyes. "I'll do my best, as I've always said." The monumental challenge would try Pax's patience, but if Janna acted as the Key, he'd wait it all out.

Rennick's presence started to fade from Pax's mind. "I'll help as much as I can along the way." A vivid image embedded on his departure…

Janna Allgood would not arrive in her dull Alliance uniform. Instead, she'd be wearing siren-red leather pants, black boots, and a dark skintight vest. In short, dressed to rock his world.

He didn't want to lay odds she might just succeed.

I'm still finding my way with this story. The overall arc is pretty much set but bits and pieces keep popping in and demanding attention.

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye