Sunday Snippet: Place of Honor

It's been a busy week. We're still kind of off-kilter after the loss of our doggo. Our younger one is adjusting and I'm thankful for that. Our vet office is amazing, and they've been wonderful throughout this whole process.

Ohio weather is being very Ohio right now. Warm up, cool down, something kind of in between. I had to clear snow off my car at the beginning of last week. It didn't stick around, which is okay with me. I don't mind snow, but I'm also not quite ready for it yet.

Work was very busy this past week. Had a terrific Zoom meeting with an author and two other members of a team I often work with. We're getting ready to hand over the project for the next steps. Also had another Zoom session with a different author and they're making headway on their memoir. Finished up a developmental edit and we're getting ready to hand that one off also. Had an older project pop back up and I think we have that one resolved. I also finished up a copy edit and started a new proofread.

Not a bad viewing week either. I made it through all of my usual slate of shows. The next two weeks are going to be a little iffy, but I'll make an effort to stay current.

I started with the season three opener of Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries. The introduction of her dad was fun, and I liked seeing Jack show a little jealousy.

Also caught another episode of Foyle's War and I'd forgotten how much of a role Andrew played in this episode. If I remember correctly, we won't see him again for a while.

Watched another episode of Beyond Paradise. I'm enjoying Archie and Esther's romance a lot. I loved Humphrey being in the uncomfortable position of having to question Martha as a suspect to clear her. And I'm so glad Anne finally spilled the beans about her biopsy.

Enjoyed an episode of Poirot. I love Hastings and Miss Lemon investigating and then chatting about Poirot. The lengths he went to to protect the countess kind of charmed me.

Elementary had a great episode. Discovering Joan has a half-sister is interesting. I also love how tangled up everything ended up being. Bringing Mycroft into the equation is a snare that will have some repercussions, I think. Especially with the NSA showing up again.

Caught an episode of Batman Beyond and thoroughly enjoyed it. I remembered it from my original watch. Getting Ace's backstory is great.

Also got to watch another episode of Lower Decks. The characters are starting to gel for me, and Mariner is way less annoying this season. Very glad I stuck with this one.

That's it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Place of Honor, a novella with a dark flair that brings a couple together the hard way.

Here's the miniblurb:

A band of bounty hunters go after urban legends, bagging, tagging, and removing the threat from cities, towns, villages, and sprawling rural landscapes. Wiley Star has a score to settle and Hex Harrigan can't deny her quest for vengeance—but when Wiley lands on the wrong end of a double cross, it's up to Hex to track her whereabouts and save the day, which proves difficult because his personal feelings keep getting in the way.

And a preview snippet…

"We weren't responsible for your sister's death."

By the fifth day of poking at the Reavers, Wiley had taken out half a dozen of the members.

And she finally got one to cough up some intel. "So … who killed her?" If this assclown died before he spilled, she'd lose her mind.

The demon coughed, a trickle of blood leaking from his lips. "Vicious new gang threading their way into town. The … Dark—" Another round of wracking coughs. "D-Darkwings." His breathing got raspy. "Leader's name is Mango something."

Who the fuck are the Darkwings? And why the hell don't I know anything about them?

She twisted her fist in his vest. "Where do I find this gang?" She'd tear several new assholes when she caught up with them.

The demon made a garbled choking sound. "N-no … no clue. You think we haven't tried to? They're like cockroaches. Rarely come out into the daylight." His breath seized in his throat and he went lax.

Wiley growled. "Dammit." At least she had a name.

She could hunt this group down and avenge her sister's death.

Wiley stood up from her crouch to find herself surrounded by a group of demons in full motorcycle regalia. The Darkwings, no doubt. At least she didn't have to waste time looking for them.

The leader, this Mango something, had an oily smile. "Fuck. Wish I'd've known there were two of you before we took your sister out." His black gaze gave Wiley a slow once-over from head to toe.

Wiley snarked a comeback. "You're gonna wish you'd never laid eyes on me, jackass." She lifted her chin and held his gaze.

Mango snorted. "I don't think so, sweet ass. Allow me to introduce you to my queen." He stepped to one side.

A gorgeous vision of a woman eased forward and moved to stand toe to toe with Wiley. "You're a beautiful and strong woman." She cocked her head to one side and inhaled deeply.

Wiley found herself doing the same, tilting her head to mimic the woman's actions. And instead of inhaling, Wiley exhaled because the air forcibly exited her lungs. Fuck. A succubus. And she's putting me under her control. Try as Wiley might, she could not look away from the woman.

The woman straightened her head. "My name is Anissa, queen of the Darkwings. You will swear fealty to me."

Wiley tried to snort but couldn't. She expended every effort to look away and break the hold Anissa had on Wiley.

Instead, she slid deeper into thrall. "I swear fealty to you." Dammit!

Anissa's lips curved. "Very good. You'll now swear fealty to my king, Mango Sallivan."

Mango moved to stand beside Anissa. He reached out and groped Wiley's breasts. "Let's hear it, sweet ass." He leaned in closer.

Bile rose in her throat and she fought to keep the words from escaping.

He squeezed her breasts harder and jerked her forward. "Now." The order hissed out.

Her monotone voice answered. "I swear fealty to the king." She'd capitulated, held fast by the bondage of her words.

Mango made a low humming sound deep in his throat. "Yeah you do. You're gonna be a star attraction for me and my crew." His forked tongue darted out, and he grasped his crotch, rubbing the hard ridge under the black leather.

Wiley blinked, not caring about the implication of his gesture. "As you wish, my king."

He let out an evil laugh and cupped her chin in his hand. "Damn straight, honey pot." He sealed her fate by slanting his mouth over hers to the cheers of his other companions.

This story is coming together and it's a challenging tale to write. I love Wiley and hate putting her through the wringer she's going to go through but she double dog dared me to.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: The Pit and the Pyre

I'm going to start with a doggo update. We thought our older doggo was doing better but, sadly, that wasn't the case. The vet took an aspirated sample of her lymph node, and the results came back as cancerous, probably MAST cell. The prognosis is never great for that diagnosis. But we planned to keep her comfortable and spend as much time as we could with her. Unfortunately, she took a turn for the worse and on November 7, we let her go to the great beyond. Hardest decision to make but she stopped eating and couldn't really afford to lose more weight than she already had. My heart hurts right now, but we're trying to ease the loss for our other doggo and that's been a blessing.

Obviously, even with everything going on with our dog, work continued. I finished up a proofread and have a new one scheduled for the upcoming week. I also have a couple of client calls and I'm excited about those. I'm in the middle of a copy edit for an opening book to a new series and it's going well.

I had an okay viewing week. I made it most of the way through my regular shows, with the exception of Lower Decks. I'll get back to it this week. I hope.

Finished up the second season of Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries. I love the Christmas in July episode so much. There's some subtle groundwork being laid for the final season and I appreciate being able to look back and see it.

Caught another episode of Foyle's War. I really wanted to smash everyone working against Foyle in the face. The arrogance of the military spies grated hard on me this time around.

Beyond Paradise ended up being a lot of fun. I like the romance with Archie and Ester. And I love Humphrey and Martha with their fostering. I'm a little put out with the mom being so cagey. I get the why but it's annoying. I'm kind of hoping she ends up confiding in Zoe.

Watched another episode of Poirot and enjoyed it. I loved having him hoodwinked into solving a murder because an author wrote himself into a corner. And having the author kind of save the day was fun.

Elementary ended up being a great episode. I love Sherlock putting forth effort in his relationship and getting it wrong for the right reasons.

Enjoyed another episode of Batman Beyond. Loved Bruce and Max working together to find Terry. I had some vague memories of this one but didn't remember everything that happened.

That's it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from The Pit and the Pyre, a novella featuring a second chance at romance with an added twist.

Here's the miniblurb:

Virgo Sohn walks through five years of hellfire to get back to Gunn Gladstone, but she finds him married to Glynne Allmore. Accepting the hand dealt, Virgo refuses to explain the circumstances of her return until Glynne succumbs to a raging virus and Gunn feels he should join her on the pyre.

And a preview snippet…

After the exchange with Gunn, Virgo had no idea how to win the last challenge she faced. "He pretty much hates me, and I can't blame him." But if she wanted to remain on the mortal coil, she had to win him back.

Nothing like an impossible hurdle to jump over. Or maybe flaming hoops to jump through would be a better analogy considering the hellfire council gave her an expiration date.

Virgo walked up the path from the caverns toward the town proper. "At least I gave him something to chew on. He won't be able to resist trying to figure out the how, and that gives me time to work on the why." A difficult task, but one worth the effort.

What a journey to find such a simple answer.

Virgo spent the first three years of her trial trying to become a better person for Gunn. She finally realized she didn't have to change for him. She needed to change for her. So, she atoned for her family's sins, brandishing the flames of hellfire inward to scorch the past and direct her righteous truth where it needed to be. At home.

She snorted. "But I didn't come out unscathed." Nope … she carried a burden, one that could make or break her acceptance back into the assembly.

Her heavy load had two unequal sides. 

Crossing the main thoroughfare, she darted into the green quad, one of her favorite spaces. A place where she could think and ponder and hopefully come up with a way to expose and weed out her naysayer. The one who started the crusade against her.

She found her favorite spot, a little copse of trees with a comfortable bench and lots of quiet.

Sitting on the warm wooden surface, she heaved a sigh. "Vausch Minslow is my second biggest problem." The bigger obstacle would always be Gunn.

Minslow had left her alone since her return, but he only bided his time. He'd make a move soon … because he wouldn't have a choice. She planned to force his hand in the very near future. Her task to bring him down would even the score.

Her lips twisted. "He's been working hard behind the scenes, using Gunn's distraction with Glynne to make headway." The man wanted to send the assembly back to the dark ages and allow the use of black magick.

The hellfire council had major issues with the idea. They controlled the balance of light and dark. The Maiden Flame—head of the council and a badass of epic proportions—didn't appreciate Minslow's backhanded methods for trying to get around a parameter set in place centuries ago.

Virgo only had one concern regarding Vausch. "If he talks the quorum into banishing me, my mission ends, and I'll succumb back into the flames." She'd need to tread carefully and expose him at the right moment … whenever that might be.

The bigger and harder challenge would be Gunn. "I can tell him about Minslow but I can't let on about anything else." The Maiden Flame gave firm instructions about what Virgo could and could not reveal.

Surely, Gunn would soften his stance. He loved Virgo once. She could win him over again. She had to remind him and get him to remember how good they'd been together.

Before she walked away … her biggest sin.

Her worst crime … not trusting the love they shared.

Her penance wiped her family's misdeeds clean away. But the fact she turned her back on Gunn rested wholly and completely on her.

And the Maiden Flame made resolving that issue the price for Virgo's freedom.

Nothing like giving a guy up then having to make him fall in love with me again.

This story is taking some twists and turns I didn't expect, and I love when that happens.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Picture Perfect

Welcome, November! Honestly, October had great points and not-so-great points. Having a sick pet is not fun. Trying to figure out exactly what's going on isn't either. But she appears to be doing better so that's a plus.

We had a spectacular trick-or-treat night. The weather ended up being cooperative. Chilly but not cold, slightly windy but not gusty, and no rain. The past few years we've had flurries, frigid temperatures, rain, and the blowy, serious wind that makes everyone miserable. Having almost perfect weather is a nice change.

Had an okay work week. I finished up a copy edit and started a new proofread. Finalized a developmental edit with only formatting left to do before it moves over to a copy editor. I have a bit of research to do for the other developmental edit I'm working on and I should have that at least started today.

Not a bad week of viewing. I made it all the way through my current slate of shows. I didn't hit the backburner ones but, again, sick doggo equals a lot of time.

Started with Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries and I'm almost finished with the second season. I really did enjoy the downfall of Jack's former father-in-law. I also loved how disgusted Rosie ended up being with her dad. Christmas episode is up next and it's one I love to pieces.

Caught another episode of Foyle's War and finished out the second season. I'd forgotten Andrew crashed his plane and he had a bit of a romance with Sam. Looking forward to starting the third season.

Watched an episode of Beyond Paradise and thoroughly enjoyed Humphrey and Martha interacting with their new foster. Also quite enjoyed the Ester and Archie banter. I really hope Kelby ends up getting a girl because he's the sweetest guy ever.

Enjoyed an episode of Poirot. A lot of twisty-turns in this one and Poirot getting all bent over Hastings using the bathroom as a darkroom was hilarious.

Elementary ended up being very interesting. I'm kind of wary of Joan trying to get a mole inside Moreland's company. I think it's for protection so Moreland's enemies can't hurt Sherlock and, by extension, Joan. I'm very interested in whether Moreland is setting this up on purpose or if he's just underestimating Joan. Should be fun to find out.

Caught an episode of Batman Beyond and didn't really remember this one. Ended up liking it a lot. Always good to see Bruce out of the manor.

Lower Decks was so much fun. Beckett is growing on me and Boimler isn't annoying me as much either. And the theme song is still stuck in my head. I think it might be my favorite out of all the Trek shows.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Picture Perfect, a novella that pulls a couple back together after one literally goes through a trial by fire.

Here's the miniblurb:

Faeryn Carnes, a fire elemental, crossed through the Shroud, leaving the mortal plane. But when she returned, an unheard of occurrence, Seth Jacobson, an air elemental, is the only person she can count on, which seems impossible because Faeryn believes air and fire can't mix.

And a preview snippet…

Several hours later, Faeryn yawned and glanced over toward Seth. His head bent forward, and his finger moved across the page. Occasionally, he'd stop and highlight a section of the book.

The noise in her head receded a little and her eyes grew heavy. Did she dare try to sleep? Yeah, you need the rest. She hadn't had more than an hour or two at a time since she'd returned.

She focused on Seth, watching him work. Her mind stilled and her brain slipped into slumber. Muted images rolled through her awareness, seemingly on fast forward. An occasional burst of color would pop, and the frame would freeze.

Faeryn crossed the shroud and entered the flames … a woman grasped Faeryn and carried her though the flames … and argued her case in a dark chamber filled with voices … the woman fused herself to Faeryn … Vinard's visage loomed huge and menacing … a man dangled on a precipice, trapped in a cage … more debate raged in the background … the voices rose urgent with anger and determination … the woman faded away … but Faeryn stayed tethered to her … until she crossed through the veil again … not dead but not fully alive either and the incessant buzzing of his voice began.

I am the fire elemental. You are my vessel, and you must defeat—

"Faeryn! Hey, come on. Come back to me." Fear laced Seth's voice. "Breathe, Faeryn. Come on."

Vinard!

Her eyes blinked open and she gasped, coughing and choking on the air rushing into her lungs. Seth's shoulders slumped and he gathered her to his chest. She wrapped her arms around his waist and clung to him. A balm of safety in her perilous world.

He eased back and held her gaze. "You okay? You gave me a scare." His hand cupped her face.

She leaned into his palm. "What happened? What did I do?" Her eyes darted back and forth, taking in the low embers of the fire and the first streaks of light in the sky beyond the window. "How long was I out?"

Seth angled around on the sofa and hauled her up onto his lap. "Most of the night. I figured you needed the downtime and didn't disturb you … until you started talking in your sleep. The words sounded ancient, and I tried to translate but then you went completely stiff and I think you stopped breathing." He shook his head. "Scared the hell out of me."

She'd slept most of the night? Had to be because of Seth. He offered her a safe haven, and she could let down her guard.

She laced their fingers together. "Sorry about that. I can't believe I actually slept most of the night." She huffed out a breath. "What a wild ride, though."

Seth tucked her closer to his side. "Do you remember anything?" His brows arched.

She half-shrugged. "Bit and pieces. I might have some answers but I'm not sure." Her heart twisted. "I feel like they're right there … but also just out of reach." A sigh escaped before she could stop it.

Seth rubbed her shoulder. "That's frustrating but…" He trailed off on a yawn.

Faeryn nudged him. "Maybe you need to get some rest, and we can talk about what I remember when you can think straight." She gave him a wobbly grin.

Seth scrunched down, keeping her in his arms, and pulled a throw off the back of the couch. "That's a plan. And, no, you're not going anywhere. Even if you don't fall asleep, I'll rest better knowing you're here and safe for the moment." He draped the blanket over them.

Faeryn brushed her lips over his jawline. "There's no place I'd rather be right now." Her mouth quirked because he'd already drifted off.

She turned her thoughts to the last moments of her dream. If the vision proved true, she had a large piece of the puzzle … but what would that answer cost her?

I'm kind of happy with how this one is coming together. Faeryn is a fun character to write even if she'd living on the edge right now.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Physical Therapy

Geez. I can't believe we're in the last week of October. This month flew by and I'm kind of sad I didn't have the time or energy to enjoy it more.

Doggo update. She's still not quite over the sinus infection. We had a hard time getting her to eat much, and her antibiotic needs to be taken with food. We're surmising she's not interested because she can't smell right now. She's still drinking plenty of water and also gets excited when anyone comes home, so we think she's doing okay. She still doesn't like having her nose wiped to remove the yuck leaking from it though.

Not a bad work week. I had a couple of focus-intense projects to work through, which became a challenge because I'm not sleeping as well as I should be. But … I'm nearing the end of one long project and starting a new longish project and I'm thrilled they're going so well. I finished up a proofread and started a new copy edit also.

Had an okay viewing week. I didn't make it through my full list of shows, but got most of them in. I just didn't have the attention span to watch stuff this week.

I did get an episode of Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries in and I'm getting closer to the end of season two.

Caught another episode of Foyle's War and it's one I didn't remember. It features an actor that used to be one of my faves, but he kind of went off the deep end and I can't really enjoy his work anymore. That's a me problem, I know.

Enjoyed the season three premiere of Beyond Paradise. So nice to see Archie again, even if he tried to muck up Humph and Martha's romance. I really enjoy this show.

Watched another episode of Poirot and enjoyed the mystery. There ended up being a lot going on in this one and it felt like a couple of shortcuts were taken, but overall a fun episode. Well … except for the murder of course.

Elementary ended up being a lot of fun with the twist on the Baskerville lore. I'm so happy with Sherlock's growth as a character and his quietly impassioned plea for the ME to get some help kind of made the episode for me.

I didn't get to watch Batman Beyond or Lower Decks this week because I ran out of steam. Hopefully, I'll get to catch up soon.

That's it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Physical Therapy, a novella that features a rivalry that goes awry and the fallout from the damages.

Here's the miniblurb:

Flint Hollywell, a talented physical therapist, loves nothing more than watching arena ball player Tappen Bligh work her magic on the playing field. But when a possible career-ending injury sidelines Tappen, Flint is determined to get her back on the grass where she thrives on the action.

And a preview snippet…

Flint's mouth hung open, and he grabbed a hold of Mason's jersey. "Did that just fucking happen?" The opposing side's rabid-dog fans just went flying.

Mason blinked. "Uh, yeah. Man. And, um, Tappen's down and not getting up."

Tappen Bligh … down for the count? Shit.

Flint charged down to the field. He had to get to her. A beefy security guy tried to stop Flint, but he flashed his medical creds and the guy quickly cleared Flint.

The agent snagged Flint's collar. "Make sure she's okay. Shit's gonna get real ugly over there." He leaned in closer and fastened a medical badge to Flint's shirt. "Pretty sure Tappen unleashed a spell. That could mean trouble for her."

Flint jerked his head up and down then made a mad dash across the field. He didn't encounter any resistance but had to pick his way through stunned and dazed fans just now trying to get to their feet. A circle of black-shirted security people formed a circle around Tappen. The Demon Dog's coach had the team members sitting on the bench.

Gilda stood off to one side, flanked by two league officials.

Good. Flint had no doubt she'd done Tappen dirty on the field. There better be repercussions for that underhanded bullshit.

He finally reached the protective detail and thanked whatever ruled the universe that they made a hole then quickly closed ranks again. Sirens wailed in the distance, which meant the ambulance should arrive soon. At least he could check Tappen over and offer some assistance.

He knelt by her side just as her eyelids fluttered open. Her pupils were reactive, but her gaze appeared cloudy for a few seconds.

She blinked and shook her head a little. "Well, hello. You've got a friendly face." Her hand went to a temple and rubbed. "You're not going to bash me over the head, are you?" She withdrew her hand and discovered a spot of blood on her fingers.

Flint worked quickly, he brought the hem of his shirt up, bit on the fabric, then tore a strip from the bottom. "I'm definitely not going to do any more damage, but I am going to clean this up a little." He folded the material and pressed it against the wound along her hairline. "The medical team is on the way. You'll have to go to the trauma center and get checked over." From the looks of her, she'd have some recuperating to do.

Another person entered the circle and dropped down beside them.

Tappen winced. "Hey, coach. Think I'm gonna have to sit the rest of this one out." She tried to move but groaned when her knee twisted.

Coach Geri Danvers put a hand on Tappen's shoulder. "We're done. The officials called the game in our favor because of Gilda Radfly's blatant cheating." Her gaze shifted to Flint. "You're a physical therapist, aren't you?"

Flint nodded. "I am. Flint Hollywell." He lifted the makeshift bandage to check the wound. "I work at the trauma center." He motioned for Geri to take over putting pressure on the scrape.

She moved around to get a better angle. "Glad you're here. And it looks like the med team is headed this way."

Flint stood up and met them when they arrived. "Better splint that knee and maybe the ankle also." He moved back, letting them do their jobs.

When they had Tappen loaded onto the cot, he started to head back toward the field.

A callused hand reached out and grasped his. "Hey, Flint. Thanks for coming over." Tappen gave him a wan smile.

Flint squeezed her fingers. "Glad I could be here. I'll check in with you at the trauma center."

Her lips quirked upward again. "I'd like that. See you soon."

Flint shook his head. If anyone told him he'd meet his favorite arena ball player this way, he'd have laughed them out of the room.

So happy with how this story is coming together. I'm not completely sure where it's going next but I'm excited to find out.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Passion's Gate

It's a drippy, dreary day, which actually doesn't bother me. It's been so dry in Ohio, and the rain might help wash all the allergy-inducing yuck away for a while.

Had a solid work week. I finished up a copy edit and started a new one. I'm wrapping up an extended coaching project and moving into the final stages before sending it out for the next steps. Started a new memoir developmental edit, and I'm excited about working on it with the author. I have a couple of other projects waiting in the wings, but my plate is full for the moment.

Doggo update. I think we're through the hard stuff. Who knew having a congested dog could be so exhausting. It sucks because, unlike when my kiddos didn't feel well, the dog can't verbalize what's making them feel poorly. A lot of trial and error to make sure they're doing okay.

Had an okay viewing week. I got through most of my usual shows with the exception of Lower Decks. I ran out of steam and couldn't get that one in.

Started with Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries and enjoyed the episode. The ending always make me smile with Hugh and Dottie getting engaged and Jack and Phryne drinking wine from grapes … that she crushed with her feet.

Watched another episode of Foyle's War and remembered most of it. I'd actually forgotten the underlying thread of Rex being in love with Andrew and Foyle's supportive reaction to the information. A very good episode.

Finished up season fourteen of Death in Paradise. I'm kind of curious about Patterson's departure. If he's really leaving the show, I'll be disappointed as he's been with it since the beginning. However, a changing of the guard isn't always a bad thing. I have a fun thought about who could possibly replace him and if it pans out, it would be very cool.

Enjoyed another episode of Poirot. I really do like the episodes that don't involve a murder. The bond robbery ended up being a lot of fun. Poor Hastings being seasick and his denial of it was a fun side thread.

Elementary had another solid episode. I'm enjoying Joan's journey of getting back to supportive interpersonal relationships. The scenes with her and Gregson were lovely.

Caught another episode of Batman Beyond and it's one I didn't really remember so I enjoyed watching. I think I'm almost through the second season and I can't really remember if there are more after this one or not.

That's it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Passion's Gate, a follow up to Kindred Spirits.

Here's the miniblurb:

Kirby Selwig meets Passion Gates and she rocks his world. She's a force to be reckoned with and a little out of control. Kirby is tasked with tempering her wild spirit—something she has no interest in taming. Too bad she doesn't know Kirby never fails to get results.

And a preview snippet…

Passion paced back and forth in Merrit's space. She wondered why the other woman agreed to work with Vaughn. He killed Passion's best friend. Okay, he didn't do the actual deed, but I still hold him responsible.

Merrit occasionally glanced up from the book she pulled down from the shelf. Her eyes tracked Passion's progress of moving back and forth. Back and forth. Back. And. Forth.

Passion sized the other female up. "You know, I could show you some of the magick I used with the elixir. Could be fun trying to outdo each other." She stopped walking to gauge Merrit's interest.

Merrit turned a page in the book. "Not really interested in competing or working magick with you."

The smooth tone of her voice irritated Passion.

She snorted. "Why? Afraid you'll lose face?" Passion would bet her nonexistent paycheck she could wield spells better than Merrit.

The other woman rolled one shoulder. "No."

Passion flung an arm outwear. "Then what's holding you back?" Magick should be fun and creative.

Merrit looked up from the book. "I'd rather not do irreparable harm and, if pushed, there's a strong possibility I'll melt your brain inside your skull." She paused a moment. "And that would be a great loss for the mage society." She went back reading.

Passion sputtered. "Are you serious? You think I can't protect myself?" Of all the fucking nerve.

Merrit's lips twisted in a wry smile. "Oh, I'm sure you've got quite the bag of tricks but I'll cut through each one like mist." She set the book aside. "I got the double whammy of strong intuitive magick mixed with a very late physical start. Control isn't my strongest suit yet." She pointed a finger in Passion's direction. "When I suggest you tread carefully, it isn't a threat. It's a warning for your safety." She sighed. "And honestly? I won't jeopardize my newly acquired full rites against an untested show-boater." She narrowed her gaze. "Regardless of who you're related to, I'm not taking a chance of ruining what I'm working hard for." With a quick nod, Merrit got up and returned the book to the shelf.

Passion barked out a laugh. "Damn. I really wanted to not like you, but I do. You're all cool-chick chill but your sass has teeth that bite hard, and I damn well love it." She looped her hand around Merrit's elbow. "I have a feeling I'll grow on you until you like me too."

And, oddly, a small little space in the dark corner where Nina's memory resided in Passion's heart became a tiny bit brighter.

I have so much love for this story, even if it's only in the beginning stages. If it comes together the way I hope, it's going to be amazing!

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Order of Aggression

Whew. What a week. We have some actual fall weather, and I love it. Who knows how long it will last. Pretty sure we'll have at least one more heat-up before December and the official start of winter.

Had another busy work week because I'm still playing catch up from being under the weather in late September. I finished a very challenging copy edit of a 95k-word manuscript. Great story with a lot going on.

Update on our doggo. She's doing so much better. She's still a little congested, but she finished her round of antibiotics and the steroid seems to be helping also. Of course, she's drinking a ton of water, which means we're going out for potty breaks about two times her normal rate.

Had a very slow viewing week. The challenging copy edit required a lot of focus. But I did make it most of the way through my regular shows.

Started again with Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries. Enjoyed the episode because it's one I remembered and loved on my original run through.

Caught another episode of Foyle's War and enjoyed watching again. I'd forgotten some of the key moments in this one. Sam sure struggled a bit to find another place to stay after her rooming house got bombed.

Enjoyed another episode of Death in Paradise. Really glad to see Mervin figure out his mom's murder and also so happy to see Mr. Sterling Fox get his walking papers. Smarmy jerk.

Watched another episode of Poirot. I always enjoy when Miss Lemon gets involved in a case. Watching Hasting completely destroy her filing system—after she told him not to touch anything—made me laugh out loud. In his defense, he'd already halfway trashed it before he spoke to her.

Elementary had another solid episode. It's very interesting to watch Sherlock interact with Moreland. So much trauma to unpack between them.

I didn't get to check in with Batman Beyond or Lower Decks this week. I'm hoping to get a full run this upcoming week.

That's it for the life update. Tonight's post is from Order of Aggression, a novella that puts a couple in jeopardy when they have to take an enemy outpost.

Here's the miniblurb:

When Ames Braddock is ordered to take out an enemy outpost with possible civilian casualties, he calls on Parker Hart to be his second, but Parker balks at the idea. Ames isn't thrilled with the mission, but he needs Parker and he's not above using aggression to bring her in line, which gets the job done, but also backfires when she demands satisfaction.

And a preview snippet…

Ames blinked. "Gonna suck more than huge hairy balls. You're insane if you think we can get in through there." His brain hurt thinking about it.

Parker tilted her head toward one shoulder. "This whole idea is madness personified. Don't bitch at me about what it's gonna take to pull it off…" She didn't add more.

Because she didn't need to. They'd be very lucky if they walked away. Her way in? Super complicated and would require intense focus. But … the element of surprise appealed to him on a deep level. This wouldn't be a force strike. It would be surgically precise.

Parker's voice cut through his thoughts. "What about the normies? You know I don't like letting them get caught in the crossfire."

Ames didn't relish civilian losses either. "We'll do what we can to avoid loss of life … but you're right. They won't leave unscathed." He paused a moment. "Honestly, Parks. Most of them know the risks. Hell, that's why a lot of them go to Fifth Street." He got up and paced back and forth. "We'll do the recon, figure out the best time to hit the place to minimize collateral damage, and strike then." Grabbing his jacket, he glanced over his shoulder. "You coming?" He didn't wait for her reply because she'd want to verify everything with her own eyes.

She followed him out the door. "I'm gonna suggest we plan for a Sunday evening. Most of the normals have to work during the week. Traffic will be much lighter in the bar then." Crossing the street with him, her gait slowed when they came to the corner deli. "Hey, I'm gonna grab some essentials. We could be there for a while." This time she didn't wait for a reply, pulling the door open and entering the shop.

Ames went back over the blueprints in his mind. The labyrinth of tunnels and duct work they'd have to use for access to the Fifth Street Saloon would take hours to get through, especially because they'd have to make sure the black mages hadn't set traps up there either.

The idea of spending close to a full day then needing the energy to take the outpost down hurt his brain. He had a solution to that, but Parker would absolutely hate it. Better keep the plan under wraps for now. Maybe a different alternative would reveal itself while they did recon.

Parker exited the deli with two bags of food and drinks. Ames fell into step beside her and enjoyed the relative peace on the walk to the saloon.

Because that quiet calm wouldn't last once he broke the news about the method they'd be using to achieve their goal.

This story is kind of taking on a life of its own, which I'm actually okay with.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Order in the Court

Hello October and welcome spooky season! I love this month for a lot of reasons. The spooky vibe being close to the top of the list, but it's quickly followed by cooler weather—usually—and that means it's soup weather! I love making soup on a cool day and savoring it with crusty breads, grilled cheese, and other creative toppings.

I'm through the worst of the yuck and back to almost normal. Of course, that means something else went sideways. In my case, our older doggo ended up with an emergency trip to the vet because her congestion got so bad her eye swelled up. She's on a steroid and broad-spectrum antibiotic and already seems to be much better already.

I'm slowly getting caught up on my work projects. I need to review the details of two new ones now that my brain isn't in sludge mode. I'm pretty excited about my last quarter of work projects for 2025.

Had an okay viewing week. I didn't quite make it through the whole slate of shows. Lower Decks and Reacher didn't make this week's window.

I did watch another episode of Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries. I'm working my way through season two and I'm enjoying the conflict and tension because it's a real-life quandary. I love Mac for being a voice of reason.

Caught another Foyle's War episode and this is one I'd forgotten. It's so weird how a lot of the themes of this show, which is twenty-some odd years old, are so very prevalent today. Humans are slow learners sometimes.

Death in Paradise ended up being very enjoyable. I'm really not sure about this new police commissioner other than he's way too smarmy and utter unlikable.

Poirot entertained with a way back episode showing how Hastings and Poirot kind of got their start together. Very much enjoyed this one.

Watched another episode of Elementary and quite enjoyed the twisty turns it took. Also loved Joan solving the neighbor issue. Love to see that kind of stuff.

Caught another Batman Beyond and it's one I didn't really remember either. Quite enjoyed the rewatch.

That's it for the life update. Tonight's post is from Order in the Court, a sexy short about how a succubus and a shape shifter keep things interesting.

Here's the miniblurb:

Mace Ormondson, a fae prince, presides over the daily court grievances and disputes. When a new advocate, Nessa Goff, is appointed it turns Mace's world upside down and sideways, because Nessa happens to be the bane of his existence and a huge pain in his ass.

And a preview snippet…

Mace Ormondson stepped into the back alley behind Dandy Jim's and revised his facial features, changing from a blond wizard into the dark-haired fae prince he'd been since birth.

Dan stuck his head outside the back door. "Always nice to have you, Mace. But it's extra special tonight." His eyebrows waggled, a trademark gesture. "Puts on a helluva show, doesn't she?" He made a low growling sound.

Mace's lips quirked. "That she does, Danny boy." Mace hoped she got what she needed.

But he couldn't stick around to find out. Not tonight. Which kind of broke Mace's heart … because he definitely sported a massive hard-on after watching that spectacular, sexy striptease. With every extra hip bump or breast bounce she added because the spectators were so into the dance, Mace grew longer and harder to the point of needing relief soon.

But she exited the stage leaving everyone, male and female, salivating for more and hoping for one last glimpse of the gorgeous Nessa. The shouts for an encore hadn't died down yet. No doubt she basked on the continued surge of energy.

Mace tipped his chin toward the building. "You'll make sure she gets home safe and sound?" He trusted Dan to personally escort Nessa.

Not so much because she needed protection … she could defend herself if necessary. Mace relied on Dan because the two men had been friends since childhood and Dan could read Nessa's fluctuating levels of chi better than anyone. The idea she had about being monogamous might be dangerous to her.

Hell, it's perilous to me.

Especially when he couldn't take care of his reaction until he got home … on the other side of the city.

Dan stepped outside and leaned in close. "You're a shapeshifter, dumbass. Transform. Find a canopy of trees, change back, and take care of your problem." He rolled his eyes. "Sometimes, the royal blood you carry is really obvious." With a slap on Mace's back, Dan went back inside the club.

Mace snorted. "There's a reason he's my best friend." Ducking behind a dumpster, Mace changed into a hawk and soared upward, flying to the east where Menlow Park not only had a gorgeous stand of maple trees, it also had a large lookout station hidden in the leaves.

Mace landed smoothly in the three-room blind and shifted back into human form. He found a comfortable spot on a camp cot and got down to the business at hand. Grasping the heavy length of his cock, he curled his fingers around the girth and firmly tugged back and forth to images of Nessa losing each and every one of those filmy veils.

Having so much fun writing this one. Mace is a little trapped by his royal blood and it's interesting to write that aspect of his character.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: The Orange Gaius

Yeah, rough week. The cold, virus, some other kind of ick from the last post definitely kicked my ass this week. I did manage one of my client calls but had to reschedule the other one. I had no voice and couldn't breathe through all the congestion. Bleh.

The good news is I'm feeling much better. I think everything kind of broke on Friday. I slept a good portion of the day on Saturday. And my head doesn't feel like it weighs ninety pounds anymore.

I got very little accomplished on my work projects last week. I got some reading done but I'll probably review to make sure I didn't miss anything in my notes. I didn't get a lot of editing completed mainly because I feared missing important things. Back to work this week at double-time.

I had an okay viewing week. Very nice to have something on in the background while I tried to focus on the few things I managed to work on.

Started with Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries. I loved this episode because it marked the first time Jack owned his feelings for Phryne. I also love that he didn't even consider the possibility of trying to use his feelings to change her or ask her to be something she isn't. That's one of the reasons this show holds such a big place in my heart.

Caught another episode of Foyle's War. I remembered this one and appreciated how it didn't shy away from there being good and bad people and things at the beginning of the war in England.

Watched another episode of Death in Paradise. I'm warming up to Wilson and I'm enjoying how Naomi is finding her footing with him. I also love Rose and ability to stumble onto exactly what they need for the case. I'm looking forward to Wilson and Naomi digging into his mother's death, which does appear to be more than a tragic accident.

Enjoyed another episode of Poirot. I like it when the mystery isn't a murder, but it's still twisted and tricky. And I love Hastings. Just saying.

Caught another episode of Elementary. It's kind of nice to see Sherlock interested in someone so neurodivergent. Did seem weird that Joan went middle-school student on the idea, but maybe the writers were trying to show their progression? I liked the mystery with this one.

Watched another Batman Beyond. I actually didn't remember this episode so it was nice to dive into a new-to-me story.

Enjoyed another episode of Lower Decks. I might be past the hump on the annoying factor. Great to see Boimler back with the crew and I love the reason for it. I truly do enjoy the callbacks to previous series and episodes. That's so much fun.

Finished up the episode of Reacher I started last week. I'm excited to see what this season brings. I'm also trying to remember that two plus years have passed since the last time Reacher and Neaghly were together.

That's it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from The Orange Gaius, a sexy short that got a start with a writing community prompt and features the characters from A Little Yule Magick.

Here's the miniblurb:

Sygin Ball and Boyd Lagassi return from spring break and find the entire campus town raving about a drink called the Orange Giaus. After trying this amazing concoction and finding it horribly bitter, the couple suspects foul play when their colleagues and friends display signs of lethargy and general malaise. Sygin and Boyd race the clock to prevent someone's nefarious plans from coming to fruition.

And a preview snippet…

Sygin Ball tiptoed across the slate entryway to the front door of the manor house.

She twisted the deadbolt and let her partner Boyd Legassi inside while putting a finger to her lips.

Boyd arched a brow and whispered, "Why are we being quiet?" He carefully set their luggage on the tiled floor.

Sygin kept her voice low. "We're late getting back from spring break, and the entire house is silent … that's beyond weird." Especially after a dust up with their opposing side of mages over the solstice holiday.

Boyd did a slow nod. "Okay, I'll give you that one." He left the bags and made his way toward the dining hall.

After peeking inside and finding it empty, he came back.

Sygin clicked her tongue against her teeth. "Yeah, see? If nothing else, I kind of expected a greeting party because we didn't call ahead to let anyone know we'd be a day later than expected." The reason being the only irresponsible thing they'd done over their ten-day excursion.

They literally overslept and missed the shifting of the veils to get back to the estate.

Boyd shrugged. "It's a little strange no one is here, but maybe everyone is holed up at one of the halls? Or … what if something happened while we were gone?" A notch of worry crept into his voice.

Sygin lifted her chin. "Yeah. Come on. We'd better do a quick look around outside and make sure everything's okay." She relocked the deadbolt and headed for the side entrance she'd come through.

Boyd left their bags and followed her. "Let's not read too much into this." He draped an arm around her shoulder and pressed a kiss to her temple.

Sygin leaned her head on his shoulder. "Yeah. Easier said and all that." Too many rumblings about retaliation to completely let their guard down.

Which didn't bode well for easing back into work mode after taking extending time off.

Kind of excited to see where this one goes. I have the general idea mapped out and I hope it works out the way I want.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Oracle's Prayer

Ugh. I'm fighting something, a cold, a virus, some other kind of ick. Not having fun with it at all. I have two client calls this week and I'm hoping I can manage both.

We got back up in the high eighties this week. Supposed to have some rain on Monday or Tuesday and I'm kind of excited for that. We definitely need it. The drought has been upgraded to moderate.

Not a bad work week. I'm almost finished with one of my work projects and making solid headway on another that should be complete by the end of October. I start a new one sometime early in October and I'm looking forward to working on that one. I'll find out if another new project will be starting on Tuesday.

Had a semi-decent viewing week. Between not feeling the best and trying to finish up work projects, I didn't know if I'd be able to watch much. But I made it through my usual shows and got to watch the back-burner ones also.

Started with Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries and quite enjoyed the rewatch. It's one I remembered from my original run through. Being in the US, it's fun to watch how footy affects those that have a long, long history with the sport.

Caught another episode of Foyle's War. This show is so well written, and I love the cast. So many super young actors who have gone on to amazing roles.

Watched a new Death in Paradise. I'm slowly coming around on Wilson. I think he might make a good addition to the team. The new police officer is also kind of growing on me. I love that he kind of came up with the solution to keeping Selwyn in his job.

Enjoyed another Poirot. Kind of leading everyone on a merry chase but keep them from going to France was very entertaining. Loved how Japp kept thinking he'd be losing his pension.

Caught another episode of Elementary. I very much like the Joan and Sherlock vibe this season. Really not sure what's going on with the stalker detective but I hope Joan watches her back.

Watched another Batman Beyond and didn't really remember this one. I have a vague memory of the conversation between Terry and Barbara but that's kind of all I remembered.

Enjoyed another episode of Lower Decks. The opener for season two ended up being entertaining. I really do appreciate the callbacks to all the other series. Fun bit with Boimler at the end.

Finished up the episode of Peak Practice I started a few weeks ago. Sam is going to be in a lot of trouble and I'm not sure I'm going to like how things go down with him.

Also finally started season two of Reacher. I'm almost finished with the first episode, but I had to pause because of the whole cold / virus / yuck thing going on. Should finish it up this week. I think the very best moment so far is the Terminator easter egg. Kudos to the writer of the episode for that!

That's it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Oracle's Prayer, a novella that explores two people on opposite sides and how they arrived in the middle together.

Here's the miniblurb:

Nason Forn, the daughter of an oracle, goes undercover to trap a wicked mage preying on young apprentices and thinks she's found her man when she discovers Lane Garganess standing over the body of the latest victim. But Lane has a covert identity, too, which puts him in a bad spot and on the wrong end of Nason's wrath.

And a preview snippet…

Nason rushed toward the abbey where one of the trainees lived. She couldn't fight the feeling of something being terribly wrong. As in the dirty, bad wrong of danger. Her mother said Lena Carsale never missed a training session.

Nason shuffled through her memory. "Long, dark hair. Tiny. Very funny." She'd only met Lena once when they crossed paths after Lena finished up a ritual with Paloma.

But she'd been regaling Nason's mom with the story of her first interpretation failure and she'd had such a humorous outlook on the gaffe. Paloma praised her for admitting the novice mistake and not giving up.

Nason darted up the steps to the abbey's front door. "I liked meeting Lena." Georgie also spoke highly of her fellow apprentice.

Nason tried all the rooms on the first floor and came up empty. "It figures." She double-timed taking the stairs to the second level.

Gut instinct—and quiet stillness—had her bypassing the floor and heading for the spiral staircase that led to the two chambers on the third story of the house. They were used for meditation and scrying. The door to the room on the left stood open with no light coming from within. The one on the right had a dim glow coming from beneath the closed panel.

Nason made a sharp turn, quickly twisted the knob, stumbled into the chamber and stopped short. A robed man stood over the prone—and no doubt dead—apprentice. She hadn't made it in time. Dammit, dammit, dammit.

Her less than quiet entrance drew the man's attention and he slowly angled around, attempting to face her. Thinking quickly, she cast a binding spell and halted his progress. She darted forward and threw back his hood, wanting to look into the eyes of the monster before she choked the life out of him with her bare hands.

But when she stepped away, a gasp escaped her throat. "You!" Lane Gargamell?

Shocked, she lost control of the binding spell, and he lunged, grasping her biceps in a biting grip.

He said one word. "Sleep." His gaze flashed with mage fire.

She had one fleeting thought. Aw, shit.

Her eyes slammed shut and her world went dark.

I'm very excited about this one. I love writing characters who think they're enemies but they're not.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye