Sunday Snippet: Events in Motion

Can't believe we're almost through April. And yet … it's been a really long month. May has some great things happening, namely my youngest graduating from college. She starts grad school in the fall, and I'm amazed by her. I can't wait to see what she does with her future.

Had an okay week of viewing. I'm behind on my work projects so I didn't push hard to get stuff watched, but I did make a full rotation of my shows.

I finished the regular series of My Life Is Murder. I have the bonus content left to watch. I actually loved this show. And, to my astonishment, it looks like there will be a fourth season! And it premieres tonight if I can trust the interwebs.

Caught an episode of Madame Blanc Mysteries. A little disappointed with the friction and push back from Caron about interference with the case, but it's probably a little more true to life than not.

Finished up Silent Witness and loved how it ended. Things didn't go quite the way I expected. I love it when that happens.

Watched the first episode of Jack's tenure of Death in Paradise. I liked the transition from Humphrey to Jack. We're also getting into episodes I've not seen anything of yet and I'm excited to watch new stuff.

Enjoyed an episode of Elementary. This one didn't have the police coming to Sherlock for consultation. He brought a case to them, and I'd like to see more of that. Almost through the first season so maybe I'll get what I want here.

Caught another episode of The Batman and it's one I remembered watching before. I love it when Alfred's past comes calling. He's got some interesting friends.

Watched an episode of Classic Rugrats and, again, this is a new to me one. I don't remember either of the vignettes and that's always fun for me.

Finished out the week with some more Peak Practice. I'm trying to get through the episode I started a few weeks ago. I might get it finished this week.

That's it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Events in Motion, a novella that explores the journey a couple has to take to find a new home.

Here's the miniblurb:

Fate has a plan for Drury, one she's not all that certain she wants to follow. Porter doesn't believe in destiny, but when Drury sets a chain of events in motion, he has to change his perspective or risk losing her to chance.

And a preview snippet…

Drury reached a deep level of meditation. The oracle said Dru would be able to achieve what she needed to. Foretold the future that would rely on something involving Dru and taking a new path.

As if doing actual meditation doesn't already count as something new and different.

She rarely got to the place where her focus zeroed in on specifics. Most of the time, meditating allowed her to silence the noise in her head for short bursts—long enough to stay sane but not lengthy enough to subdue the constant, quiet roar. Porter helped but she shouldn't keep using him.

Fuzzy images gained clarity in her mind's eye. A large, looming structure shifted through a series of snapshot moments. Quick flashes, barely more than blips in her brain shuffled like pages being turned. These are familiar. I know where this is.

Her eyes popped open. "I have to go to the temple." She took a moment to recenter her being then got to her feet.

Crossing the room, she started packing, tossing necessities into a large duffle. With no way of knowing how long she would need, she added enough to cover a week. Movement from behind had her turning to discover Porter leaning against the door jamb.

She zipped her bag. "I'm going to the temple. Whatever questions I have … the answers will be there." Or at least the starting point would be there.

Porter nodded. "Give me fifteen minutes. I'm going with you." He pushed away from the door and headed for the front entrance.

Her gaze narrowed but she didn't argue. She wanted him along. Instinct told her she could use his steady presence. And her heart settled somewhere between hope and wary consternation over his offer to come along.

Hoisting the duffle over her shoulder, she followed him. "Do you want to meet me there?" She set the bag on the table and grabbed a backpack to store water and food.

Porter shook his head. "No. From this moment forward, where you go I go. I'll pack, grab some more supplies then come back for you." He met her gaze. "Fifteen minutes. I promise." His hand twisted the doorknob.

Tears pricked behind her eyelids. "Why are you doing this?" She didn't really deserve his support.

Porter tilted his head to one side. "You need someone in your corner, Dru. I'm that person. I've got your back, and I always will." Pulling the door open, he headed outside.

She blinked hard to clear her vision, letting the teardrops trickle down her cheeks. Because … she didn't just need someone.

She needed him.

I'm very pleased with how this story is shaking out. Dru is in for a wild ride and Porter will keep her grounded.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Whipped Cream and Chocolate Dreams

September has ushered in yo-yo weather. We had record low overnight temperatures this past week and we're supposed to end up with record high temperatures this week. My sinuses are not happy right now.

I'm still finishing up the copy edit for the extended project and should have it ready this week. I'm looking forward to starting a new project in the next week or so. September is shaping up to be a busy month and that makes me happy.

Didn't have a bad week of viewing. I got a lot of episodes in and finished up a series, which means I get to start a new one this week. I have no idea what that will be yet, but probably a mystery.

I caught two episodes of Death in Paradise. One I remember seeing before and the other new to me. This is why I love going back and watching in chronological order.

Also watched two episodes of Fantasy Island. Enjoyed both for the fantasy aspect. Did not enjoy the angst factor. As usual, you take a perfectly good couple and break them up for a stupid reason. Depending on how the next few episodes go, I'm probably done with this show.

Enjoyed two episodes of The Batman. Bane and Catwoman were introduced and the Catwoman episode was a lot of fun. The Bane episode wasn't bad either.

Caught two episodes of Classic Rugrats. The four vignettes were all ones I'd remembered and pretty fun to watch again.

Finished up the Agatha Christie Hour and enjoyed the final episode. I love mistaken identity hijinks and this episode had a splashy party to boot. So much fun.

Caught the second half of Suspects and thoroughly enjoyed watching the team unravel the tangled web of who did it. Also kind of great to get some insight into the characters' personal lives.

Finally watched the season nine finale of Peak Practice. It was as hard as I thought it would be. I'm not looking forward to Andrew's personal life being a main focus of season ten, but I'll still be watching.

Finished the second half of Silent Witness. This one ended up being very twisty and I like that. Looking forward to the next two-parter. Might get more insight into Jack's character.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Whipped Cream and Chocolate Dreams, a novella where a dream tender and cupid have a running challenge that brings three characters together.

Here's the miniblurb:

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

And a preview snippet…

Deacon stayed outside, chilling on the hammock, after Cal and Nita went in to stream a movie. "I've seen the entire Marvelverse at least twice." Tipping his bottle to his mouth, he finished off the remaining cider.

He loved having Nita back in their small beach town. Growing up, he'd looked forward to when she'd arrive on Memorial Day weekend to spend the summer with her gram. She started coming their seventh-grade year and somehow brought Deke and Callen into her circle from their initial meeting in the ice cream parlor. Being year rounders, he and Cal went to the same school, but they rarely hung out together.

Until she arrived that first summer.

Once Nita showed up, she insisted the first two people she met had to stroll the beach in the mornings with her—before it got crowded and they had to start working their summer jobs. For a decade, the trio spent time together for three months each year during high school and college. And Cal became Deke's best friend.

The past three years, Nita couldn't make it for more than a week or two. She landed a job managing a chain of boutiques as soon as she graduated from her university.

Deke tsked. "Then her gram got sick." An aggressive form of cancer took her life within six months of being diagnosed.

Nita came down with her parents for the funeral. He and Cal attended but they had work commitments. Deke worked for the local fire department and Cal's computer science degree made him an in-demand consultant. When she called to say she'd be moving down full-time, he and Cal met to coordinate their schedules.

And talk about Nita. Both cared for her but wouldn't compete with each other. If she wanted one, she'd let them know. Deke had a thing for her going way back. He dated but not seriously. Cal ended a two-year relationship right after college and only did casual hookups since then.

Shaking his head, he got up and put his bottle in the recycling bin. "Time to call it a night. Thoughts are getting a little too cozy right now." He headed inside to find his bed.

I'm having a lot of fun with this story. This trio of friends is a joy to write and I love playing with the dynamic between them.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Unforeseen Consequences

Can't believe June is almost over. This year is flying by so quickly. Or maybe it's just so much is out of control it seems that way.

Great week of work. I'm finishing up two big projects and hopefully setting up the groundwork for more. I'd love to find some balance between big jobs and smaller ones.

Had a decent week for viewing. We had some weather roll through, and I took the precaution of not starting anything when we might lose power.

I started a new two-parter of Silent Witness. Kind of an interesting premise and I'm not completely sure where this one is going. I like that.

Caught another episode of Death in Paradise, and it's one I hadn't seen yet. I do love watching the series in chronological order.

Continued my rewatch of Battlestar Galactica with "Final Cut," which is one of my very favorite episodes. There's a lot going on in this one and it's all amazing.

Finished the second season of Only Murders in the Building and, holy hell, I loved how it ended! Can't wait for season three!

Also managed to catch another episode of Classic Rugrats. It brought back some memories because my kiddos wanted to try flan because of this one.

And that's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Unforeseen Consequences, a novella about a couple whose past comes back to visit.

Here's the mini-blurb:

In the School for the Extraordinarily Gifted, Stella Stubbs and Dak Satterfield hold the record for the most challenges won. As instructors, they no longer join in on the fun, but both enjoy watching their students try to break their top scores—until a dangerous element is introduced and they discover their last wager won had unforeseen consequences.

And a preview snippet…

After playing voyeur while Stella and Dak had sex, Wilson Phelps slipped two fingers inside his student's wet and warm sheath. "Ah, my pet. You enjoyed that, didn't you. You're taking my fingers with ease." He brushed his thumb over her clit.

Erin Zephyr squirmed and nodded. "Yes, Master Phelps. They're beautiful together."

Her ass cheeks nudged against his hard dick, taking a bit of the sting out of the compliment. Wilson didn't want to hear about them being beautiful together. Or have Erin fall into a romantic trap with hearts in her eyes. He wanted her to pay attention to Stella's technique.

Because one day he'd have the dream of Stella writhing under him, but until then, Erin would serve as a conduit.

He added pressure to Erin's nub of nerves. "Did you see how Stella worked his cock?" She's got all the right moves. Brought both tremendous pleasure." More silky essences covered his fingers.

Erin reached back and cupped his erection. "When can I try that with you?" Her fingers wrapped around his girth.

Wilson's lips twisted. "Are you in a rush then? Do my fingers and tongue not bring you pleasure?" The student had a lot to learn before he'd take things further.

Erin slid her palm up and down his length. "Yes, Master Phelps." She brushed her thumb over the head of his cock. "But I want to feel this hard dick deep inside me." Her fingers added pressure and firmness before stroking again.

The crudely expressed desire would eventually be tempered when Erin learned how to truly please him. Right now, he wanted to finish this session and find his own release, which would be soon. If he visualized Stella holding his hard shaft between her fingers, it wouldn't take long.

He nuzzled Erin's throat, picturing Stella in his mind. "I'm close, my pet. Come for me first." He found the exact spot to send her over the edge and fluttered his fingers over it.

Erin gasped and shuddered, her hand gripping his cock, milking it in long, fast strokes. In his mind's eye, Stella smiled and urged him to join her in orgasmic bliss. In reality, Erin finished him off, her head lolling to one side, her legs trembling against his thighs.

Wilson swallowed a bit of distaste when he set Erin aside and reached for his pants. "Go ahead and get a shower if you'd like. I have some work to finish up." He picked up the pen Stella used to sign the wager book and turned it over in his hands.

Erin tilted her head to one side. "Would you like to join me?" She padded across his room to the attached bath.

Wilson shook his head. "Not tonight, my pet." He had some incantations to perform. "But I might tomorrow. If you arrive at the usual time."

She flashed a quick smile. "I'll be here. Good night, sir." Ducking into the bath, she quietly closed the door.

Wilson got up and crossed to the back of room and entered his office. He retrieved his robe, blood red in color, and slipped it on. Loosening the latch in the back of his closet, he pushed the door open to a secret space dedicated to his master plan.

Placing the pen in a place of prominence, Wilson settled down to his knees and began to chant.

This story went a little darker than I expected, but it's coming together in a way I love. I don't usually do the antagonist's point of view, but Phelps wanted to show his side of things.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: The Truth Hurts

Greetings! It's been another busy week and I'm still excited about my ongoing projects. They're completely different genres and it's fun to have that variety while working.

Somewhat limited viewing week again. I've been in a place where background noise is more distracting than helpful, which occasionally happens. I notice it more on day when I didn't get solid sleep the night before.

I did catch most of Pennyworth. I have the last act of the episode to watch. This show is dark in all the ways I like shows to be. And I love getting to see Alfred actually grieve. And having Ripper be the catalyst that pulls him out is kind of a master stroke. Such a great show!

Also continued my Battlestar Galactica rewatch. We started season two and the first ten episodes are so terrific. The second half of the season is also excellent, but I remember so much about those first ten.

That's pretty much it for the life update. I am hoping to get some gardening in this week so stay tuned.

Tonight's post is from The Truth Hurts, a novella that brings a couple back together after one receives bad news.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Mardi Darr discovers her current lover is an enemy agent with an enchanted chip in his head. She gives the okay for a risky surgery, and it lands him in a submersion chamber with no brain activity. Heth Santiago is responsible for Mardi being with Staz and he needs to help Mardi accept the truth … even though it hurts like a bitch.

And a preview snippet…

Halfway through the second bottle of Abernath, Mardi finally chewed through her chaotic feelings. "I'm not pissed about the surgery, you know. I enjoyed Staz's company, and he was there when I needed someone, but … I ruined a man's life." And she loved Heth.

Always would—even if the stupid man thought she didn't know her own mind.

Heth set his empty glass aside. "Hence the reason you're here, drinking to soothe the hurt." He gave a nod of understanding. "What do you want to do after getting stupid drunk?" Leaning back in his chair, he arched his brows.

She shrugged. "Not sure, but planning revenge sounds pretty good." She'd take on every sorcerer on the planet if she could.

Heth grunted. "Want some help?" He straightened and poured another shot.

She nearly choked on her surprise. "Why? You don't even like Staz." A fact he'd made clear more than once.

Heth leaned in close. "Liking him has nothing to do with wanting to help. I love you."

Her mouth dropped open. "You can't say that to me. Not now." She shook her head, even while she wanted to bask in his words.

Heth downed his shot. "Yeah, my timing sucks. But I realized how stupid I was right after you got together with Staz." He pinned her with his gaze. "And I wouldn't get in the way of what you two had going on."

She huffed out a breath. "Which turned out to be nothing. Or did you miss the part where they used him as a pawn?" Somehow that fact did nothing to ease her guilt.

Heth shook his head. "I definitely didn't miss that part. But Staz being a pawn rests on my shoulders as much as yours."

Because he walked away. He didn't have to say the words. His meaning came through every with crystal clarity.

Her shoulders slumped. "I want to hate you so much right now." But she'd never be able to.

Heth inclined his chin. "I know. And I don't blame you. But I will help you seek justice for Staz. I owe both of you that much." He nudged the Abernath toward her.

She shoved the bottle aside. "You know what? I'm gonna put everything on the table here. We will get payback for Staz. But we can't do that until you and I work out your issues with us being a couple." She settled back. "So start talking."

This story is making me happy. I like messy characters because they're fun to write.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: That Explains Everything

Had a wild week with several work projects coming in hot and taxiing on the runway. Also had some wild weather, which isn't a big shock. We're supposed to be chilly again sometime next week, which I'm not looking forward to.

Very slow week of viewing. Between the work projects, weather, and an award ceremony for my daughter's university, I didn't get a lot watched.

I did get another episode of Pennyworth watched and, ugh, it kind of broke my heart. The fallout is not going to be pretty, I'm sure.

Watched one my very favorite episodes of Battlestar Galactica with "Tigh Me Up, Tigh Me Down." Seriously, the acting in this episode is beyond stellar. The dinner party from hell has to be one of the funniest scenes in the entire series, which okay, might not be saying much because the subject matter of the series isn't always open to humor. But kudos to the writers for working it in whenever they could.

I also started a new episode of Wednesday and I'm definitely settling in and enjoying the wild ride. The snark is top notch and Wednesday's quest to find answers that keeps generating more questions intrigues me. I love this show.

And that's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from That Explains Everything, a novella that puts the characters in a precarious situation with a master manipulator.

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 woke up after spending a full week with Staz being home. "He hasn't mentioned when he'll have to leave this time." Oddly, she looked forward to him going out again.

Brax probably played a role there. The desire for Staz to stay grew weaker with each passing day and the pull to see Brax nosed in hard. Usually, she dreaded letting Staz go, hence the reason they tended to fight before he headed out for a tracking excursion.

She got up to make coffee, refusing to think too hard about the reason she wouldn't put up a big fuss when Staz took off again, which would no doubt be soon.

She entered the kitchen and found Staz pouring two mugs of liquid manna.

Her heart softened a little. "Thanks, you didn't have to do this." He rarely did anything domestic around the cottage—unless he had to leave early.

Only then did he take over coffee duty.

Staz gave her an odd smile. "I know, but you do so much for me, and I don't always show you how much I appreciate it." He backed up to lean against the counter.

She tilted her head to one side for a moment then gave him a long, considering look. Maybe they'd get through a farewell without arguing, for once. Might be a first for them.

She straightened and took a bracing gulp of the brew. "It's so sweet of you." She pulled eggs from the fridge and got breakfast started, putting four slices of bread in the toaster.

Halfway through cooking, her fingers grew tingly. She put the spatula aside and flexed her hands. When she reached for the utensil again, the room grew fuzzy and her ears had a roaring sound in them.

She turned. "Staz?" Her vision swam and she got dizzy. "There's something..." She collapsed, barely able to stay conscious.

Staz crouched down, leaning in close to her. "The only wrong is your boyfriend Brax won't be seeing you today." He dragged her to the door before picking her up and hoisting her over his shoulder. "I can't believe you've been sleeping with him. Ruined the plan, you stupid bitch." Nudging the heavy oak slab open, he carried her to his car.

Her last thought focused on Brax before the full extent of how duped she'd been hit her hard.

Tasha's situation is going to hit hard when she finally regains consciousness. And Staz will have some explaining to do.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Stay the Course (Warlock's Curse)

February has been the oddest month. Between weird weather and random catastrophes, it's been a doozy. I'm kind of happy to be welcoming March in this week.

Finished up a work project and made really great progress on one of the others. I'm blessed with authors who turn revisions around in record time. It's very helpful and keeps their work fresh in my mind.

I also made some progress on my new venture. Only a tiny amount, but it makes me happy to chip away at my to-do list. Brings me a wee bit closer to be able to launch.

Didn't get a lot of television watched, but I did finish up Strangest Things. I have so much fun listening to the experts discuss the weird and wonderful artifacts.

I also continued my Battlestar Galactica rewatch. This week's episode was one of my favorites, "Bastille Day." Some truly excellent parallels about picking a side and being true to a set of core beliefs.

I also started season two of The Mandalorian. I hoped to finish up Ms. Marvel before starting another Star Wars show, but I want to be up to date for season three.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Stay the Course, the opening book for the Warlock's Curse series.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Nadia Iris is at a crossroads and has to choose whether to find her path to fulfillment as an adept or stay stagnant in her current position. She decides to go on a journey quest but has to leave Falk Ridenour behind. Falk isn't happy, but supports her choice, even knowing the hardship she'll face.

And a preview snippet…

Falk stared up at the building. "Are you serious?" Even if only three stories, the height seemed daunting.

Nadia smirked with a nod. "Absolutely." She bounced on her toes and rubbed her hands together.

He glanced toward her. "And you can't use magick to scale the side?" Or keep from crashing to the ground…

Nadia's brows drew together. "Where's the fun in that?" The sideways glance she sent his way dared him to refuse.

He wouldn't—he needed to reach her and help her find her center. Falk went with the moment, mainly because Nadia had finally relaxed and showed him another side. One he liked even more than the angry, frustrated woman he had to help guide.

Placing his hand on the rough stone, he nodded. "Let's do this." And don't let us die.

She started, placing her foot on the windowsill. "Follow me." Grasping the side trim of the window, she pulled herself up then reached out for the lower edge of the porch roof.

After hoisting herself onto the slightly slanted surface, she repeated the process by placing her foot on the sill in the gable in the center of the second floor then scrabbled up onto the peak, using her arms to keep her balance. Reaching up, she gripped the eave of the third floor roof and stuck her foot on the cedar siding and pushed upward. She planted her knee on the spouting running along the roofline and launched forward onto the angled pitch of the top floor.

Falk followed her, putting his feet and hands as close to where she'd put hers as possible. He had the advantage of being a few inches taller than Nadia and cleared the first and second floor without issue. Once he almost made it to the top, he had a premonition of her—alone, bedraggled, and defeated—and he lost focus. His knee slipped off the spouting and he dropped down, scrambling to hold on to the rough shingles.

Nadia grasped his biceps, then his hand, tugging him upward. He toppled forward with a grunt his mind still full of Nadia's miserable countenance. Straightening himself up, he sat back on his butt, breathing deeply. The vision faded, replaced by her concerned face studying him carefully.

She looked him over. "You okay?"

He lifted his chin but said nothing, especially when she tilted her head to one side with a narrowed gaze. Then she dropped down beside him and leaned back on her elbows. The rightness of having at his side settled over him. He'd examine and meditate on the precognitive event later.

Nadia needed this distraction and he needed to figure out the puzzle she represented. And, if he had to be honest, he wanted to spend the time with her. Away from the classroom and training hall where she had nothing to prove. Not that she has to prove anything to me. Too bad the board of elders didn't feel the way Falk did.

Nadia nudged his shoulder. "Look up." She tilted her head back and gazed at the night sky.

Falk did as she suggested. "Wow." Stars sparkled and glittered overhead. "I see why you love the view from up here." He dropped back to his elbows to get more comfortable.

Nadia chuckled. "I come up here a lot, especially after a frustrating training session." She slid her gaze his way. "Being on the rooftop gives me perspective."

He could see why. Having the night sky spread out filled with endless possibilities would be a nice blanket to cover a rough day. Made making the climb up kind of worth it. Getting down … maybe not so much.

He angled toward her a little. "Gotta be honest. Pretty sure I'll be using magick to get down." If she thought less of him so be it.

Nadia let out a laugh. "No need for that." She pointed to the rear gable. "There's an access door to the third floor over there." Her face split with a wide grin.

Falk arched his brows. "Would've been nice to know that earlier." But he had to chuckle.

Only Nadia could convince him to try scaling a manor house just for fun.

He sobered when a brief flash of his earlier vision filled his mind. An odd sense of foreboding dimmed his enjoyment of being with her … but only for a moment. He pushed the precognitive event aside and looked back up at the sky.

I love this series. Nadia and Falk won't have an easy path but moments like climbing a house together give them good memories.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: The Souvenir

Well, February has so far been a crazy mix of freezing, in the teens temperatures and mild almost spring-like weather. Mother Nature is in a mercurial mood right now and it's wild trying to figure out how to dress for the day. I miss being able to get my winter stuff out and not having to bother with warm-weather clothes for a couple of months.

Had a busy week with work projects and have a couple more lined up in the near future. I'm kind of happy they're all different types of manuscripts and none are in the same stage of editing.

Had a slow week of television. I'm still working to get everything from the old PC to the new one and ran into another snag with trying to set up my email accounts. Spent a large portion of the week trying to figure that out and get it working. Bleh.

I did catch the pilot episode of Pennyworth and really enjoyed it. I've heard great things and now that I know season three is the end, I'm going to attempt to watch before it disappears too.

I also watched the second part of the Battlestar Galactica miniseries with one of my friends. I'm so excited to have this rewatch party to look forward to each week. We'll be trying two episodes a week starting with season one.

Got a start on the latest season of Midsomer Murders. Barely got through the opening credits so I'll have to finish up this week.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from The Souvenir, a novella that starts a four-book series that has yet to be named.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Melick Traynor and Ramona Peartry, childhood friends and top students in the Academy of Light, compete for prominence in their respective classes. But when Melick throws out a challenge, Ramona takes an insane risk to prove him wrong and winds up tangling with the dragon plaguing campus grounds.

And a preview snippet…

Melick Traynor stormed into the mage superior's tower. "You can't call off the search for Ramona." He risked much, voicing his opinion, but the mage superior would at least let him vent.

The man happened to be his grandfather.

Melick stopped in front of Afton Traynor's large table. "We can't give up on her." Missing for most of the day, the hour approached midnight when the cumbersome beast liked to plague the campus with its ire. No one not on patrol should be out alone. And Ramona didn't report in, which didn't necessarily mean anything, but the weird vibe Melick couldn't shake said otherwise.

He'd been blessedly happy for the session break because she'd have something else to focus on like figuring out if she wanted to stay in dorms or move to a residential cottage. The bane of his existence, Ramona loved nothing more than pulling pranks, stunts, and practical jokes whenever he'd be close at hand. And usually on the receiving end of more than a few.

He'd gladly forgive every single happenstance if they found her. Melick didn't realize how much he'd grown to care about her until he no longer had her underfoot.

The mage superior glanced up, his eyes stern. "Do you believe I want to?" He unclasped his hands and indicated Melick should sit.

Melick didn't. Instead, he paced. How did he express how important Ramona had become? Afton cared deeply, of course he would. Ramona's grandfather had been Afton's best friend. When he passed on, the elder Traynor took on the role of surrogate keeper.

"It's session break and we're spread too thin to keep this up." Afton rose and gathered his robes, draping them like a mantle over his shoulders. "We must be vigilant and guard against more attacks."

He slowly walked around his table and Melick noticed how tired his grandfather appeared.

Afton stopped by the tower window, gazing out at the grounds below. "Ramona is capable. Very much so. Her natural ability surpasses many of the upper level ranks." He angled his head to shoot Melick a knowing look. "You, of all people, know this."

Melick did. But she lacked control, especially when it came to physical manifestations and that usually led to trouble. And Grandfather is well aware of that.

Melick heaved a sigh. "I won't give up on her." He met the older man's gaze. "No one can stop me from searching on my own time."

The no one Melick referred to was Master Sawitch. His grandfather's oldest living friend and number two in the Academy of Light echelon. Sawitch had a major problem with Ramona. They butted heads over everything from the pranks she played to his rigid adherence to the Book of Lumina. Ramona thought set boundaries should be pushed against and Sawitch believed the opposite.

Their opposing point of views made for some interesting debates in open forum.

And Ramona got away with pushing the envelope due to her status as the ward of the mage superior. Afton doted on Ramona, much to Sawitch's consternation. Melick quite enjoyed the drama centered on the dynamics when they played out, especially when not directed at him.

I'm still trying to decide if this will be an Academy of Light story or if I'll rename the place of study, but Melick and Ramona don't care as long as they're front and center.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Slip of the Tongue

I had a jam-packed week of setting up a new PC and transferring files while trying to also stay on top of my work projects. In all honesty, I can't complain about the process. Of course, things went wrong because that's how it always goes. I didn't have the right cable to connect my monitor to the tower, but I found one in my stash of never-throw-away-this-type-of-thing pile of stuff I keep for that sole purpose. And once I figured out how to configure the network, transferring files has gone pretty smooth. I have a couple of final things to work out but I can take some time to do that stuff.

Didn't watch a lot of television because I needed to focus and my desk had several variations before I got the final layout figured out.

I did finish out season three of Batman: The Animated Series. I'm happy I got it done before the great wipeout from all existence. The episodes to complete the series were "Judgment Day," which I loved, "Beware the Creeper," which I also kind of enjoyed, and "Mad Love," which seems like a weird episode to end on because it's all about the Joker and Harley, but it's actually a terrific endcap for the series, because it's also about the role Batman plays in that relationship.

I also started a Battlestar Galactica rewatch with one of my best friends. We're doing weekly viewings and we've started with the miniseries. There were so many little things I'd forgotten and a lot of iconic stuff I definitely remembered. This show had such an impact on me and I'm kind of excited and terrified to travel on the journey again. LOL

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Slip of the Tongue a novella about two word alchemists that are tasked with protecting the premier of their district, which isn't an easy assignment because one has control issues and the other isn't quite what he seems.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Sylvie Brown and Holden Baker are word alchemists, creating the strongest, most intricate spells in their realm. One slip of the tongue can bring catastrophic destruction … or it can garner surprising results. Sylvie learns two little words can hold a wealth of meaning.

And a preview snippet…

 

Holden grabbed Sylvie, hauling her up. "I didn't do this." He had no idea who the hell did.

The premier nodded. "No, dear boy, I did." He glanced over his shoulder. "A simple summoning spell worked nicely." His lips twitched a little.

Boone glared. "Depends on who you ask. I don't take kindly to being yanked out of my district."

Sylvie stiffened. "But why? Why bring him here when we've worked so hard to keep him out." Her voice went hoarse on the word.

The premier squared his shoulders. "To settle this once and for all. If he wants a war, he'll be sorely disappointed. If I can pull him to me at my will, he can't hope to keep his power … not when word gets out."

Boone snarled. "I won't stop, old man. You caught me off guard once, it won't happen again." An angry glare accompanied the threat.

The premiere tsked. "I figured as much. And you're wrong…" He snapped his fingers and Boone changed into a large, gleaming crystal. "I caught you a second time, too." He reached down and picked up the purple facet.

Holden blinked then laughed. "I'll be damned. We should've thought of that." A rather genius solution to the Boone problem.

The premier glanced in Holden's direction. "Sometimes, the old ways are the best."

Holden flushed under the scrutiny. "About that, I can explain." Or he'd at least try.

The premier waved off the idea. "No need. But you do owe us recompense. I think finishing the job you began will do to start. Mr. Thargren won't be the last to try force, but we will be opening a dialog to find a peaceful solution." He turned his attention to Sylvie. "I'll be relying on you for assistance, my girl."

Her head bowed. "Yes, sir."

Holden stepped up. "If I can be of help, please count on me." He'd do whatever he could to move things toward a good outcome.

The premier held Holden's gaze for several long moments. "Won't be up to me." He glanced toward Sylvie then back to Holden. "Prove your worth, son." He stepped back inside his chambers and closed the door.

Holden's respect for the man grew by more than one notch. No wonder his grandpa liked Angus so much.

He turned and faced Sylvie. "I'll be ready, bright and early, to start on the reinforcements."

She nodded and started to walk away, her movements stiff and weary.

She got to the end of the corridor before she paused, looking back over her shoulder. "Thank you. For tonight." She didn't wait for a response, continuing away from him.

Holden watched her with a heavy heart. "I have a lot of ground to make up. And it's not gonna be easy."

Holden really stuck his foot in the mud and Sylvie won't be quick to forgive, but he'll do what the premier told him and prove his worth.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Six Degrees of Separation

Had a fairly decent week with work projects coming together and the upper respiratory yuck staying solidly in the background. I continued improving and the cough is down to a manageable level with over-the-counter meds. Whew.

I'm almost finished with Batman: The Animated Series and then I'll get back to a wider variety of shows again. This week's episodes were "Love is a Croc," "The Ultimate Thrill," "Cult of the Cat," which I go back and forth on whether I like it or not. "Critters" is not one of my favorites. I do love "Animal Act" because Dick gets to revisit his circus family and it's followed by my favorite season three episode of "Old Wounds," which shows the messy breakup of Batman and Robin and how Batgirl played a role. I have a few issues with season three and one of them is the way Bruce / Batman became a complete hardass and, quite frankly, a giant dick a lot of the time.

"Legends of the Dark Knight" is fun because it's a complete departure from the norm and explores a couple of alternate versions of the dynamic duo.

Almost forgot about "Girls' Night Out," with Live Wire and Supergirl guest starring. That's a fun episode.

I finished up with "Chemistry," which is kind of a meh episode for me. I think I have three more episodes and I'll have the rewatch completed.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Six Degrees of Separation, a novella that explores the changing dynamic between two characters.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Melick Traynor and Ramona Peartry, two Academy of Light magicians, have a single passionate encounter after Ramona nearly loses her life to a dragon. But when they navigate their new relationship status, Melick has to step down as Ramona's precept, but neglects to tell her why.

And a preview snippet…

Melick entered Ramona's alcove and found her shuffling through the ever present cards.

He stopped and announced. "You're getting up today." He lifted a brow, daring her to argue.

Ramona flicked her gaze up and back down. "Really? You got a trick up your sleeve to make that happen?" Her fingers nimbly flipped the cards over, setting up a solitary game.

Melick smirked. "As a matter of fact? I do." He moved further into the alcove but stayed close to the open door.

Ramona grunted. "It's gonna take more than a flashy spell to make me move." Her fingers flexed over the deck. "And I'm not in the mood to chat, so shove off." The monotone barely changed.

Melick sighed. "Is this about the precept change?"

She shrugged. "You can't have any faith in me if you wanna make me someone else's burden." She still refused to meet his gaze.

Melick made a garbled choking sound. "Ramona. Do you trust me?" Why did she have to be difficult?

She snorted. "I used to."

He'd take the tiny opening. "Good enough." He moved closer and all but compelled her to look at him. "I can't, right this very moment, get into why I'm asking for the change. But it's not because you're a burden. Far from it. Can you just go with that for now?"

Pursing her lips, she studied him. "Fine." She rolled her shoulders again. "Whatever."

He bit back a grin. He'd gotten to her. She battled with herself, but she'd give him some room and lay off the snide, snippy attitude for a while.

She scooped the cards up again. "Still waiting."

Her voice drew him from his thoughts. "You haven't checked in with the mechno mancers have you?" Time to get her motivated.

She frowned. "Why would I?" She waved an arm over her injured leg. "I've been a little laid up."

Melick nodded. "Right." He eased a bit closer and leaned in a little. "See … the problem with being cut off and out of the loop is that you miss all the good information."

She narrowed her eyes. "What am I missing?" She shook her head. "I've got everything I need. Three squares. A comfy bed." She waved the deck back and forth. "Entertainment."

Melick gave an exaggerated lift of his chin. "Sure. Sure. All true." He propped a hip on the side of her bed. "But you don’t know the latest details about the dragon you felled. I'd think you'd be interested in that."

Shot him a curious look. "Why?"

He dropped a crumb. "They got the beast torn apart." He stopped there.

She made a frustrated sound. "And?"

He added another small clue. "It's not at all what they expected." He stopped again.

Ramona smacked the cards on the table. "Meaning what? If you don’t spit it out, I'm gonna have to hurt you."

And there he had her. Finally.

Melick snorted. "You'd have to actually get up to do that."

"Melick…" Underlying menace filled her tone.

He held up a hand. "Fine. The beast isn't all gears and motherboards, Ramona. It's biomechanical." He paused a moment. "A living, breathing, organic being."

Her mouth dropped open. "What did you just say?"

He leaned in. "You heard me. And it's giving the mechno mancers fits. They can't figure out how the thing functioned."

Ramona growled. "But that's my deal. Why didn't anyone tell me?"

Melick could see the burning itch to take a look fill her. To dive into a new project and figure out what made the dragon tick.

He grunted. "Well, maybe because you're all laid up and can't help out." He shrugged. "Too bad, also. They're getting cranky and that usually means they'll bring out the blow torches soon…"

I love this series so much. Melick and Ramona are a joy to write and watching them try to get their acts together is fun.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Sh*t Happens

Ugh. What a week. I ended up succumbing to the upper respiratory yuck that started with my middle kiddo. I took him to the doctor on Monday and by late that evening, I already started feeling pretty ick. Slept most of the day on Tuesday—not kidding, about fifteen hours—and still felt terrible on Wednesday, with worsening symptoms, continuous cough, inability to breathe regularly, and basically everything hurt, up to and including my hair. Got in to see the doctor on Thursday afternoon, got tested for the flu, which came back negative, got something for the cough and came home. Finally got some additional sleep and started feeling slightly better by Friday evening. Continued to improve Saturday and finally think I've turned the corner. Going to take everything nice and slow through Tuesday and follow up with the doctor, but at least I can think clearly again. Definitely a wild ride for a few days.

Did not get a lot of television watched. Well, I did. But I don't remember a huge chunk of it. I did get some additional episodes of Batman: The Animated Series in before falling off the cliff of craziness.

Finished up "Joker's Millions," which I remember but forgot how much I actually enjoyed. Also caught "Growing Pains," "Mean Seasons," a truly excellent episode, "The Demon Within," "Over the Edge," and "Torch Song."

I hope I can still finish up the final season before HBOMax sucks the joy out of life by removing it from their service. Fingers crossed I don't end up with a new yuck thing to deal with.

That's more than anyone wanted to know about my life this week! Tonight's post is from Sh*t Happens, a novella that sees the characters circling each other with a need for connection but a big fear stands in the way.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Nyla White, an up and coming paranormal cage fighter, has buttloads of potential but her shit-happens attitude prevents her from attaining the top spot. Erik Stevens, her trainer, pushes her to use her emotions to own her talent, which Nyla is hesitant to do—because she's got strong feelings for Erik.

And a preview snippet…

"How do I reach her?" Erik waited for Nyla by pacing the half-center mark of the training circle and repeating the question over and over in his mind.

He had her fight queued up and ready for review. The list of items to cover landed on the lengthy side. He vowed to not lose his calm … she never reacted well when he came unglued. His best scenario had her coming in rested, relaxed, and ready to review and improve.

But … she entered strung tighter than a bow and only got more rigid when her gaze scanned the televisions. Okay, they'd need a change in plan. He couldn't handle a two-fisted dose of Nyla attitude right from the start.

He shut the screens off and faced her. "Let's work out first." Get the blood flowing, maybe find her happy place, then discuss the bout … worth a try.

She paused, tilted her head and opened her mouth. Erik waited, encouraging her silently to say her piece. Instead of speaking, she clamped her jaw shut and only nodded. Turning around, she started going through the opening moves of her discipline routine.

Frustration punched its way through his first layer of calm. But Erik rolled with the flow. He studied and observed, taking a big step back and watching the fluid motion of her body going through the warm-up. The graceful arc and dip of her movements, precise and near perfect through each degree, prepared her for the second phase by clearing her mind.

She takes my breath away.

He had to get through to her. Her underlying latent ability to wield magick would only grow stronger if she learned to control and use her emotions as a conduit. The breakdown always occurred when she fought her instinct to open up and remove her filters.

When she finished the first stage and eased into the second—a combination of static motion and the use of her ability—the energy in the air stayed pliant and easy to manipulate. Erik took the opportunity to join her on the circle. She faltered, only for a moment … but long enough to make her stiffen up and lose the rhythm.

She made a low growl of frustration and tried to push onward.

Erik grasped her shoulder, halting her movement. "What's going on with you?" She glanced away and his determination kicked into overdrive. "Nyla, you've got to talk to me."

If she didn't, they'd never get through this challenge.

Nyla and Erik definitely need to have a conversation even if Nyla's not a big fan of chatting about her feelings.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Sentinel's Watch

Welcome 2023! Here's hoping everyone has a great year filled with everything good and terrific!

The final week of the year ended up being crazy busy. The weather started out pretty frigid but by the final day, we had temperatures in the fifties. I'm taking extra precautions because rapid changes in the weather wreak havoc on my sinuses.

I got a few more episodes of Batman: The Animated Series viewed. "Harley's Holiday" is one of my favorites. There's a lot of good stuff in that episode.

"Make 'Em Laugh" is also a fun episode. Very interesting to see the Joker as a regular Joe … until he's not anymore.

Batgirl returned and became pals with Catwoman, which ended up being a lot of fun to watch. I do have some questions on how Selena knew to post her message on the campus message board. Just saying.

"Lock-Up" is one I'd forgotten about, but I enjoyed it. I loved the ending where he pretty much gets exactly what he wanted in a weird, twisted way.

I also got to watch "Deep Freeze" and enjoyed having Victor back for a bit. Also nice to see another familiar face, which if memory serves, we might see again.

I'll be continuing the rewatch and hopefully get through the rest of season two and all of three before they're removed from the streaming service. I'm very annoyed over losing great shows for someone else's bottom line. Grrr.

That's pretty much it for the life update. Tonight's post is from Sentinel's Watch, a follow-up to A Capsized Buccaneer with Zeb and Kallen having another adventure.

Here's the mini-blurb:

After gaining some unique super powers and being rescued from a not-so-deserted island, Kallen Bond and Zeb Bertelli go their separate ways because Zeb cut a deal with his family to leave Kallen alone. But the deal can't last long, because the Bertellis plan to kidnap Kallen so more highly profitable experiments can be done on her and Zeb won't stand for their interference.

And a preview snippet…

Zeb Bertelli listened carefully to a one-sided conversation Kallen Bard had with herself. His lips curved when she made a garbled choking sound and basically decided to get over herself.

Stirring his coffee, he chuckled. "I can almost picture her rolling her eyes." He didn't attempt to see through her window, even if he'd probably be able to with his enhanced sight.

Somehow, that kind of intrusion would be too much. Just listening to her crossed lines he should be stepping over. Not after he'd cut the deal of a lifetime with his family by guaranteeing Kallen's safety as long as he didn't have contact with her.

His hand fisted the spoon. "Should've known better." And, deep down, he had.

His relatives weren't great on honoring agreements that didn't suit their broader agenda.

Zeb snorted. "Which is why I'm sitting in a diner at two a.m., keeping vigil over someone I promised to never see again." But he'd keep watch, from a distance at least.

He'd spent the last six months having no actual contact with her. "I miss her." A lot.

Which surprised him … because he figured not being with her would get easier. He'd never cared about someone the way he'd cared for her.

But he'd been determined to hold up his end of the stupid bargain he'd made. Until he heard her name mentioned during one of the family confabs. They had plans for Kallen, nefarious ones, if they got their hands on her.

His hand fisted again. "She's off limits." Or she should be.

But, the general consensus had been she might be too dangerous to leave on her own and she could prove to be a profitable asset if they played their cards right.

Zeb didn't like that idea one damn bit. "Might be time to rock the boat with seismic waves." For the first time, he pondered breaking his promise to his mom.

His hearing picked up Kallen's footsteps coming down the stairs from her loft apartment. Downing his mug of coffee, he tossed several bills on the table and got to his feet. He'd be following her when she exited her building.

Not that Kallen couldn't handle pretty much anything. She had superhuman strength and speed. But … if he knew his family—and he did—they'd have a plan to counter her power, especially if she didn't see them coming.

He waited by the door until she started up the street. "Good thing they won't see me coming or expect anyone to have her back." After all, his family didn't think his enhancements made him dangerous…

"I aim to prove them wrong."

I have a lot of love for these characters. Zeb and Kallen keep surprising each other and it's fun to write their interactions.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye