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