Sunday Snippet: Going to Extremes

Happy Father's Day to anyone celebrating. For those not for whatever reason, I hope your day is filled with peace and calm and you find your joy.

It's been a really rough week. I definitely didn't make it through the worst the week prior. I had a lot more yuck to get through. Thankfully, I'm now down to some nagging congestion, but I can breathe again and I'm not coughing every five minutes, which makes me happy because we're due for some awful heat this week.

Managed to stay mostly on top of my work projects. I'm not as far along as I'd like to be, but I'm within my window to meet my deadlines. Not being 100 percent isn't fun but at least I can work around being less than my best. If I had a job with set hours, I'd still probably be fighting through the slog of upper respiratory yuck.

Had a very slow week of viewing. I didn't have the brain power to get involved in much of anything but comfort shows like Perry Mason and Midsomer Murders.

I did catch another Best in Paradise and thoroughly enjoyed the introduction from Don Warrington. It's fun to hear him speak without the Caribbean accent.

I also watched another Death in Paradise and it's one I only saw bits and pieces of when it first aired. Nice to see if from start to finish.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Hopefully I'll be back to somewhat normal for next week's entry.

Tonight's post is from Going to Extremes, a novella that got a start from a writing community prompt.

Here's the miniblurb:

In a magickal realm where dragons are born and raised, a proctor is using dark arts to gain control over the mystical beasts. To stop his plot, the undermage, Clemson Sentre, sends his best wranglers, Osana Wrang and Calix Sentre, to remove the proctor from power during an event with an esteemed rival. But the dangerous and daring plan goes awry and puts the couple in peril and makes them face how they feel for each other.

And a preview snippet…

Osana Wrang bumped into Calix Sentre when she rounded the corner to the undermage's chambers. "Um, sorry about that." She stepped back and smoothed her palm over her short cape. "Did your uncle summon you, also?" There could be no way Clemson Sentre found out about her recent liaison with Calix … right?

Not that it mattered. They didn't break any rules by sharing a bed … er … couch then a bed. But Clemson might not be thrilled his protégé nephew decided to hook up with her.

At least I'm his favorite student—and wrangler—ever.

Calix lifted his chin. "He did. Any clue what this is all about?" He propped a shoulder along the wall.

Osana shook her head. "Nope. You don't think he found out we're…" She trailed off because she had no idea how to refer to their new status.

Friends with benefits?

More than coworkers?

Rivals that smash on the downlow?

She pulled her thoughts in and met Calix's gaze. "Sorry. Never mind." What they called themselves didn't matter right now.

Calix's lips curved in a smirk. "No. I don't think. Wouldn't matter anyway. We're grown-ass adults and the two best dragon wranglers on his campus." Folding his arms over his chest, he grunted. "And we're at the top of the mage roster also. Having incredible sex doesn't change any of that." His eyebrow arched, daring her to counter his statement.

She couldn't because she got hung up on the incredible sex part. Because, yeah, no argument there. Which he'd know considering they'd been friends since entering the Silverwing Academy as students seven years ago. Even if their kinship made no sense. They approached everything from opposite ends. Calix slid into whatever he tackled with measured thought and astute reasoning. She jumped in feet first and slogged through whatever stood in her way.

Calix cleared his throat to get her attention. "Os? Am I wrong? Has everything changed?" A note of worry entered his voice.

She blinked. "What? No. Well, of course, it changes a little, but not the important stuff." She'd stab herself in the before she let that happen.

Calix pushed away from the wall. "Then let's see what the old man wants, yeah?"

She nodded. "Absolutely." Lifting her hand, she knocked on the heavy teak doors.

I just started this one and I'm already having so much fun writing this duo. Can't wait to see what happens next.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Dawn of the Sun

Ohio weather is tripping on some kind of psychedelic drug right now. We're in our third winter at the moment, so hopefully actual spring will happen in about two weeks. Of course, we'll have to give or take a month because who knows how long the state will be under the influence.

Had a crazy week of work, a mom crisis mode occurrence, and of course the weird weather, which wreaks havoc on my sinuses.

I didn't get much television watched this week. Too many things going on to really pay attention to my shows.

I did get an episode of Death in Paradise watched and enjoyed it. I hadn't seen any of this one and ended up really liking the mystery.

I also started an episode of Elementary and should finish it up today. I love the fun dynamic of Holmes and Watson after last week's near miss with Watson's life.

Other than that, I might be back on track this week, but I won't hold my breath. My brain is doing weird things and having a very hard time staying focused on more than one thing at a time. It's driving me batshit.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Dawn of the Sun, a novella that launches a couple on a journey to save their people.

Here's the miniblurb:

Apollo and Aurora aren't supposed to get together, but the Universe has other ideas. When everything starts to go sideways, two mortals personify the ancient deities and balance is restored.

And a preview snippet…

Alston fought the hands keeping him from being at Aleina's side. "Let me go, you assholes." He had to tell her … so many things.

Like how much he needed her. He didn't care if they argued all the time. She made him think and feel and challenged him to change his perspective. She drove him beyond insane sometimes, but also sent him to dizzying heights. He didn't want to be in a world that didn't have her. What the hell would that even look like?

Aleina breathed in a sharp gasp of air and the medical team went into action getting her stabilized. Alston shrugged off the restraining grip of the orderly and relaxed when the healer gave the all clear. Everyone stepped back from the gurney and Aleina slowly opened her eyes.

The healer clasped Aleina's palm. "You're finally on the road to recovery. You need some rest, and we'll evaluate you overnight." She eased away and nodded for the physician to assess the patient.

Aleina glanced around, her gaze landing on Alston. His shoulders hunched and he tried to shrink into the background. Now that she'd stabilized, he didn't need to be here. And she probably didn't want him to be. He'd been so happy she came back from the brink and didn't think about leaving as soon as she'd opened her eyes. He thought about heading out now, though.

When she didn't look away, her gaze completely inscrutable, Alston started to head for the door.

She called him back. "Alston, wait." Her voice rasped and she cleared her throat before nodding toward the healer. "Can we have the room? I want Alston to stay so we can talk for a while." She shuffled a little on the bed and the physician propped a pillow behind her back.

The healer frowned. "Not too long. You'll need rest to recover." Her lips quirked. "I realize that's a big ask, but I'm not taking any chances with you." With a pointed look, she left the room and called for everyone else to follow her.

Alston moved forward, standing beside the bed. "Thank the universe you're alive." He reached for her hand and squeezed it between his.

She smiled. "Grab a seat. I have a lot to tell you." Her eyes flashed with excitement.

He tilted his head, not quite sure how to take her almost jubilant mood. But he pulled a chair around and settled beside the bed. He didn't care about anything else but spending time with her.

Until she launched into something about a between life and death thing. The she shared a vision of the future granted by Pythia—a glorious future, where their children would rule or shape the world for generations to come.

And he had no idea what to do with the onslaught of information except try to absorb the words and make sense of them later.

I like how this story is shaping up. There should be two more books following this one and I can't wait to see how they go.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: X Plus Y

Our fall-like weather remained with us … to the point we had record lows. I have to laugh a little because it's like a yoyo swinging up and down with record temperatures in both directions. It's nuts.

Had a very solid work week. Possible new projects that I'm excited about and finishing up a big one, which feels really good.

Not a bad week for viewing television. I didn't make it through two times like last week but had almost a full rotation of the shows I normally watch.

Enjoyed another Agatha Raisin episode. I'm settling in with this cast of characters and I love the village vibe. Looking forward to more episodes.

Started a new Silent Witness two-parter and I'm really interested in where this one goes and what's going on at the Lyle. The second half should be terrific.

Caught the finale for season two of Death in Paradise. I'm a little sad because the season three opener is obviously the loss of one of the main characters. But I'm excited to start in with a new character.

Watched another Fantasy Island episode and thoroughly enjoyed it. I'm also happy to report Roark and Javier seem to be on better footing and the angst factor did not get amped to ten or above. A pleasant surprise. The whole deal with Ruby should be interesting to watch unfold. Not sure how I want things to go there.

Enjoyed another episode of The Batman. This one featured Firefly and I kind of loved the Bruce and Alfred banter in this episode.

Caught another episode of Classic Rugrats and loved it. One part had the babies journeying to the basement ala Indiana Jones style. The second one had the full set of McNultys for a birthday party. So much fun.

Started another episode of VIP but didn't make it all the way through. Too many interruptions to finish, but I hope to get the rest watched today.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from X Plus Y, a novella that brings DNA into the equation for a couple.

Here's the miniblurb:

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

And a preview snippet…

Wolf's adopted grandfather called Wolf into his private chamber. He spread his hands, indicating Wolf should have a seat. Wolf declined. Whatever the old man said, Wolf wouldn't be sticking around long.

Malton sighed and settled in the chair closest to the fire. "Are you serious about handfasting with the Gault girl?" His eyebrows arched in question.

Wolf didn't hesitate, he answered truthfully. "Yes." The old man wouldn't get more until he got to whatever point he wanted to make.

Malton studied him for a long moment. "Did you lie when you said you had no emotional feeling for her?" The question came out on a raspy growl.

Wolf again answered honestly. "No. I didn't have an emotional connection to her at the time." Mainly because he'd refused to look deeper … a stupid mistake.

The elder quirked his eyebrow.

Wolf continued in more detail. "Listen, old man, when I discovered my feelings, I tried to do right and move on." He laid everything out.

The refusal to see Vail or seek her out. The choice to move away from cage fighting. The constant resisting temptation.

Vail finally sat down. "But I can't fight the pull." He didn't want to anymore.

Vermassey sighed again. "There's a reason you can't." He stared into the flames. "She's got the extra Y gene." He turned and met Wolf's gaze. "And you've got the additional X one."

If the old man had dropped a bomb in the room, Wolf wouldn't have blinked. But this? This had Wolf's head snapping back in disbelief.

Wolf scoffed. "That's bullshit. Only royal bloodlines have the extra genes." And he definitely didn't come from Vermassey stock, despite his acquired last name.

Malton gave a nod. "Yes, that's true." He laid a gnarled hand on Wolf's. "You're my grandson, Wolf. You were fathered by my oldest child." His free hand fisted on the arm of the chair. "He wouldn't claim you, but as soon as I found out, I did. And your father went to his grave not knowing, by my design." His gruff statement belied the internal rage he held for his deceased son.

Wolf honestly didn't have a clue how to respond … so he said nothing.

The chieftain, hell, his grandfather, held Wolf's gaze. "You have to know mixing the two bloodlines could create chaos. Any child of yours will be potential threats." His tone held no malice, which actually meant the peril wouldn't come from the council.

But … old grievances could. Over my dead body. If he and Vail had children, anyone coming after them would have to get through both.

Then again … mixing the bloodlines could also go the other direction.

Wolf countered. "Any children we have could also be potential guardians and buffers by uniting the houses." Rivalries could end.

Malton's lips curved in a partial smile. "Only time will tell, my boy. Only time will tell."

This one took a twist I didn't expect, and I'm happy with how everything is falling into place.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: A Timely Distraction

Finally have a little bit of spring weather, which is a nice change from the cold and dreary yuck of last week. Taking the doggos out won't be as much of a chore and they like it when the temperatures are mild.

Super, super busy work week. I dropped a quick copy edit in for a healthcare workbook and managed to get the revisions reviewed and back to the author in record time. Might have a few tweaks left, but otherwise that project is in the books.

Also completed a clean copy return for a romance novel that I thoroughly enjoyed. I've been lucky enough to edit the whole series and I'm excited for more!

Finished up a full copy edit on a novel and have the file ready for author review. I'll be forwarding it later today and I'm excited to finish book one so we can jump into book two. This is a fun series to work on.

Also finished up a manuscript evaluation for a new adult novel and I can't wait to work on this series with the author. I love the concept and the characters are messy and fun, which is what I like in the new adult genre.

All those projects didn't leave a lot of time for television this week, which I'm actually okay with. When projects are fun and interesting, I fall right into work mode and enjoy what I do so much!

I did finish up The Mandalorian. This episode ended up being terrific. Ahsoka's introduction and her interaction with Grogu topped my favorite moments. Having the Mandalorian and Jedi working together also made things interesting. I love this show.

I started the next episode of Only Murders in the Building but didn't get to finish. I'll probably watch the rest later tonight.

Also missed my weekly rewatch of Battlestar Galactica. We're doing a double-header for the last two episodes of season one and I didn't have the chunk of time needed to do that this week. Bummer.

My daughter also finished up this semester of college and came home this weekend. She'll be here about a month before heading off to Michigan for a paid internship in a summer stock theater. So excited for her!

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from A Timely Distraction, a novella with a fairytale vibe.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Donahue Stuart, prince and heir to his father's throne, longs for grand adventures, but danger lurks from raiders and marauders, out for royal blood. Enter Lady Vivian, daughter of the king's oldest friend, and a kindred spirit who shows Hue he can have all the magnificent escapades he wants, right in his own realm.

And a preview snippet…

Hue tucked Vivian's hand around his elbow. "Your ingenuity amazes me. How did you come up with the idea to lure the guard to the front gates while we snuck out the back?" He paused at a vendor's table.

Vivian smiled. "Practice. But you'll only be able to pull that off once or twice a year." Damon didn't hire idiots to guard his only son.

They spent the day strolling through the markets, making purchases, mainly small trinkets and baubles. Vivian loved the freedom to mingle with the villagers. She'd found a lovely gray servant's dress made from the softest cotton with plain buttons and a simple sash attached at the waistline. Hue wore sturdy black pants and a homespun shirt in shades of red and gray. He'd added a low-fitting hat that hid part of his face to avoid being easily recognized. Viv admired the fit of his attire. The man made whatever he had on look incredible.

Hue nudged her shoulder. "Are you hungry? Would you mind eating here in the village or would you rather go back to the castle?" He glanced around and nodded toward an inn.

Vivian nodded. "Here sounds wonderful." She paid for her purchase then handed the card to Hue. "A rendition of the hawthorn tree and a memento of today." She hoped he would understand the significance.

Hue grinned. "It's perfect. Whenever I look at it, I'll think of you, the lady of Hawthorne Manor." He slipped the card into his shirt pocket. "Thank you."

Vivian's lips quirked. "You're welcome." She fell into step beside him, and they made their way to the dining area of the inn.

After they finished two dinners of stew and crusty rolls, Hue asked for two stout ales. Vivian loved how he didn't insist she drink something different from him. He lifted his mug and gave her a silent toast.

She raised hers. "To a day well spent."

Hue nodded. "To a day well spent." He drained half the mug.

Vivian followed suit and relished the comfortable hazy glow the alcohol provided.

Hue settled back, relaxing with his ale. "So, I've been curious all day. Why are you at the palace?" He crossed his leg over his opposite knee.

Vivian chuckled a little. "Well, the earl sent me to stay until my latest suitor debacle dies down." She took a large sip of her brew. "I refused one of his important cronies." The beer soured on her tongue when she thought about Wally.

Hue's eyebrows arched. "Did he have bug eyes or some other disfigurement?"

Viv shook her head. "No and I wouldn't care about that." She appreciated a finely made male but didn't use handsomeness as a measure of worth. "Wally is the definition of a stuffed shirt. He's very tied to protocol and maintaining strict standards." She paused a moment then opted for total honesty. "I'm not cut out for prim and proper trappings. I hate them. And I won't let anyone tame my spirit." She'd done Wallace Windsor a favor by rejecting him.

Hue's gaze drifted toward the window. "I know how you feel. I'm tied to protocol and strict standards. And protocol demands I marry and produce an heir before I can travel the lands outside of Kendara." His voice took on a dejected tone.

Vivian laced her fingers with his. "And that limitation chafes, doesn't it?" She definitely understood the dilemma.

Hue nodded then leaned in closer. "What if my perfect mate is out among the world? My dad met my mom while visiting an ally's court." He sighed. "Then the dragon wars started and travel for heirs became restricted." He frowned. "I don't want to settle until I've had the opportunity to explore the world outside of Kendara."

The statement crushed Viv a little, but she got it. "You want what your parents had. Which means you don't want to acquire a mistress on one of your journeys and have to tuck her away somewhere because you're in a loveless marriage." Right now, the reminder sucked the wind from Viv's sails.

And she had a quandary. She'd give about anything to have Hue notice her or want her. Maybe if she planted a hint…

Viv finished her mug of ale and used the liquid courage to tug Hue forward and mesh their lips together. She only lingered a moment, enough to show the embrace to be more than a friendly peck but not long enough to suggest something seductive. Getting too familiar would only tangle her heart into knots.

She eased away and brushed her thumb over his lower lip. "I understand your frustration and I hope you find exactly what you're looking for."

Even if it couldn't be her.

Hue blinked and shook his head a little. "I hope so, too." He gave her a lopsided smile.

Viv pushed away from the table. "We should probably head back before nightfall. My guess is we'll meet the guard on the way if we don't."

Hue barked out a laugh and got to his feet. "No doubt you're right." He crooked his elbow and tucked her hand around it again. "Thank you for the delightful diversion today."

Vivian inclined her head. "You're quite welcome." Plan number one down.

She couldn't wait to spring her next idea on him.

I have so much love for this story. Hue and Vivian are a fun couple and they're easy to write.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Ramona for the Win

Had a truly fall-weather week … to the point we had to turn the heat on. We'll probably get another brief spell of warmer temperatures before things settle down into actual fall. Or, we could have snow before Halloween. It's Ohio.

Busy work week with several projects going at the same time. I did get through a round of my usual viewing schedule.

Ted Lasso didn't disappoint with Rebecca's reveal and the catalyst for her finally making it happen ended up being so good. I rather hope Rupert dies in a fire or maybe gets hit by a double-decker bus in the near future. What a twat. Keeley continues to make me laugh out loud and I have so much love for her.

Caught another episode of The Agatha Christie Hour, which ended up being quite a fun episode even if the whole point was to gaslight one poor guy into handing over something that didn't even belong to him.

I picked up where I left of with Endeavor in season five and caught back up with the characters. I'm looking forward to more and seeing where things go.

Started a new two-part Silent Witness and thoroughly enjoyed the twists in the episode. I'm not quite sure who the culprit is and that's always fun for me.

Enjoyed another episode of Classic Who. Loved seeing Three's car pulled out of mothballs and the interactions between the brigadier and the Doctor. So much fun.

Finished up the first season of Strangest Things and I'm looking forward to the second. I love seeing how they try to figure out what the relics are and how they were used.

Started Ms. Marvel and loved the first episode. I'm very excited to dive into this series. Kamala and Bruno are awesome!

Only Murders in the Building had an awesome episode with the Superfans. Seriously, I loved so much about how everything played out. Okay, except at the end. Now I can't wait to find out what happened to the bassoonist. I have so many theories, but two stand out and I'll share if either one of those is correct.

Finished up season three of Blue Heelers and said good-bye to Wayne. I'm actually kind of glad it was indeed a random act as the episode title suggested. I'm kind of bummed out that I'll only be able to watch one more season in order then I'll have to skip to the later seasons. Streaming sucks sometimes.

Watched another MasterClass lesson with Roxane Gay. She discussed being a good literary citizen in this one and I enjoyed what she had to say. Kindness doesn't cost a red cent and being considerate of others is sometimes a lost gesture that should be the norm instead of the exception.

The Umbrella Academy had another terrific episode. I love how much chaos there is and also how the characters end up being there for each other even when they'd rather be anywhere else.

Caught an episode of Classic Rugrats and laughed out loud more than once and remembered doing the same when watching with the kiddos.

Finished off the week with Batman: The Animated Series and the introduction of the Clock King. I loved this episode when it originally aired and enjoyed it again this time around.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Ramona for the Win, book three in an as of yet unnamed series.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Ramona and Melick finally have their personal relationship on solid ground, but the timing couldn't be worse. The academy is under attack and it falls to Ramona to save the day by infiltrating the rival's headquarters by using the downed dragon. She's confident she can get inside and stop the assaults—if Melick will get out of her way.

And a preview snippet…

Melick appreciated Ramona's tactics. Get his mind of her impending departure and have fun at the same time. He could always count on her to go hard with sex when she didn't want to think too hard.

He didn't want to either.

Depositing her on the bed, he didn't waste time, muttering a quick incantation to remove their clothes.

Ramona raised her eyebrows. "Not like you to cheat." She waited a beat. "I like it." Scrambling backward, she beckoned to him. "Where were we?"

Melick grinned and crawled up beside her. "Right about here…" His mouth covered her again and her hands went around his neck.

He cupped her ass and angled around so she straddled his thighs. She broke the kiss and planted her palms on his chest. Rising up, she moved her hips forward and sank down slowly, exactly the way he loved.

Grasping her waist, his palms skimmed up her sides. "Great to be on the same page with this." He flexed his hips, going a little deeper.

Ramona made a low purring sound. "MmHmm. The one place we always see eye-to-eye." She rocked back and forth with exquisite slowness.

Melick cupped her breasts, his thumbs brushing over her nipples. Ramona's head lolled back and she shuddered. Her fingers curled into her palms and Melick rose up to pull a taut peak between his lips.

Ramona upped the pace, her breath rasping out in short bursts. She reached back with one hand to fondle his balls. Tingling pleasure spread out drifting down his thighs and up along his spine.

He groaned and thrust upward. "You know that drives me wild." His hips bucked against hers.

Ramona's lips twisted. "I like you wild. Give me more." Her pelvis rotated side to side.

Her inner muscles tightened and added friction around his shaft. Melick dug his feet into the mattress and pumped harder, giving her what she asked for.

Ramona hummed. "Yeah, that's it. I'm so close." Her fingers dug into his chest.

Melick urged her on. "Let it go, Ramona. Come for me." He grasped her thighs, hanging on by a thread.

She shuddered and gasped, rocking her hips back and forth. "Now, Melick. Come with me."

Stars burst behind his eyelids and he let her take him with her. His orgasm thrummed through his veins and his nerve-endings crackled on a blissful wave. No matter what else happened between them, this would never change.

Ramona collapsed atop his chest and nuzzled his throat. "We needed that." She shifted sideways and snuggled up close.

Melick wrapped an arm around her. "We did. Now it's rest and recharge time. We can jump back in to planning how to get your dragon under control later."

Ramona yawned and gave a nod. "Later is good."

With a quick spell, Melick dimmed the lights and let sleep claim him.

This series is so much fun. Ramona and Melick are rarely on the same page but they're always in the same chapter.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Quilt of Fate

Had a fairly busy week between work and the new venture I'm putting together. The play I'm editing is so much fun. It's deep and twisty and bonkers in the best possible way. I hope I have another chance to edit more plays.

Had a pretty good week trying to catch up to my regular viewing schedule. I'm not quite there yet because other things have been pulling my attention away from screen time. Also, my sleep schedule is all messed up at the moment. Not sure why, but probably hormone-related. Fun.

I watched an episode of Peak Practice and should finish up season eight this week. From what I've reviewed, seasons nine through twelve go a little off the normal path and dive deeper into soap opera territory. I'm okay with that.

Caught two more MasterClass lessons with Roxane Gay. I truly love listening to her speak. The first one focused on engaging with you readers and I ended up getting a lot out of that one. The second lesson noted the importance of having a day job for stability and I also appreciated what she had to say about that topic.

Started The Umbrella Academy and, so far, I love it. I'm two episodes in and I like the dynamic between the characters and I'm excited to see what comes next. Looking forward to diving deep on this one.

Enjoyed the season finale of The Ready Room. Pretty sure Wil takes over for the next one and I'll look forward to his take on Discovery.

Watched another episode of Chicago Med and I have a weird feeling I know where things will end up going with Will and Asher. Fairly sure this might end up being my last season. I do love anything with Dr. Charles, Maggie, and Miss Goodwin. I also love Ethan. We'll see what happens by the end of the season.

Caught another Batman: The Animated Series. I loved Poison Ivy's introduction in this series and also seeing more of Harvey Dent before things happen with him.

Enjoyed a little more of Resisting Roots but didn't get to finish the movie yet.

Watched another Ted Lasso. I'm definitely a fan. Keeley cracks me up and I love where things are going with her. Ted kind of broke my heart yet made me so happy when he benched Jamie. I truly hope there's some kind of redeeming arc for him because I literally loath him at the moment.

Caught another Agatha Christie Hour and thoroughly enjoyed it. I like the non-mystery aspect of this show because there's still a lot of suspense, which I love.

Started season twenty of Silent Witness and quite enjoyed the opening first part. Looking forward to finishing this one up next week.

Almost finished with season twenty-five of Classic Who. The greatest show in the galaxy will hopefully end on a great note for the season. I'm pretty sure that brings me close to the end of the classic episodes. Not sure if I'll jump to New Who or switch to a different genre for a while.

Watched another episode of Strangest Things. I like diving into the mysterious objects they feature and learning new information. The cast of experts is very diverse and I love that.

Caught another episode of The Book of Boba Fett. Loved the pickup from when Fennic went down in The Mandalorian. I seriously love this show.

Enjoyed another episode of Only Murders in the Building. There's so much awkwardness that is played to perfection by the three main cast members. I'm excited to see what happens in the next episode.

Watched an episode of Blue Heelers and ended up enjoying it a lot. Wayne actually ended up being a fairly decent guy in this one and that's not always the case.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Quilt of Fate, a novella that explores what happens with the Fates step in and point a couple in the right direction to save their people.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Nadie Fall and Cable Reilly are transported to an alternate reality by the Moerae. Clotho, Lachesis, and Atropos have plans for the fated couple who couldn't save their original universe but can alter the future for their new one.

And a preview snippet…

A trio of women, representing fate personified or the moerae, held a glowing tapestry. The threads pulsed and flickered, weaving together under their guided tutelage. Except for one darkened and stormy area. The women observed the fallout of the ruined planet.

Atropos, the crone, grumbled while she placed her palm over the gray-tinged stain. "Bah! We should let this group end. They're a stain on humanity." Her lips flattened in distaste and she snipped three tangled lines.

Clotho, the maiden, shook her head. "No, no, no. They have so much potential." She spun new spools of glimmering thread while she spoke. "And, yes, they made a mess when they created the wraith, but their lack of foresight in creating the creatures that would be their downfall is a hard lesson learned." She paused her wheel. "They won't make the same mistake twice, right?" Her nimble fingers returned to pulling on the cords.

Lachesis, the motherly matron, twisted two threads together. "If they're provided with the right guidance, the humans will thrive and survive." She picked up another strand and guided it toward a new direction. "They stumble and fall, but get back up and try again. With time, their minds open and they see what needs to be seen."

Atropos rolled her eyes. "And you think these two are the answer?" She pointed to a strong dual threadline.

Clotho nodded with a dreamy expression. "Oh, yes. They're so right for each other." She gave a sappy sigh.

Atropos snorted. "You've got to be kidding. They're a veritable train wreck who can't get their act together to save themselves much less the rest of the population." Disgust oozed from her voice.

Clotho stuck out her tongue. She never liked being scolded by the crone.

Lachesis added her sage wisdom. "It's hard to stay on the tracks when everything is an obstacle. The choice will be theirs. If they want to find what they seek, they will.'' She picked up a needle and merged several threads together.

Atropos shook her head. "If they choose to. My faith isn't strong on that front. Two steps forward and three back." She waved a hand. "It's always the same with them."

Lachesis kept her voice gentle. "But it doesn't have to be. Their threads are strong. And the love is there. If they learn to face conflict together instead of letting it come between them, there's hope." She made a sweeping gesture and pulled the darkened area into stark contrast.

Atropos gave a rude snort. "A tiny minuscule strand of it." She held up a hand and smashed her thumb and forefinger together.

Clotho gave Atropos a hard look. "Sometimes that hope is all they need." She shot to her feet and the tapestry disappeared.

Atropos rose to her full height and moved to stand toe-to-toe with the maiden. "And sometimes it's not enough but you're too moony over those two to see what's in front of you."

Lachesis stepped between the other two, her presence a soothing balm. "It's a good thing we'll soon find out if hope can save them, isn't it?" She turned and headed for her room. "Time will tell as it always does."

With that said, the maiden and the crone gave each other one last narrowed-eyed glance and each retired to their sanctuaries as well.

The moerae had much to prepare for.

I love having fun with making fate step in to alter the course of a couple. Nadie and Cable might not enjoy it as much as I do.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Quest for Home

The first week of August didn't end up being horrible and hot. We did get some humidity but the temperatures weren't terrible. I didn't have any big work projects and got to focus on a lot of writing. I also had a terrific brainstorm idea that I hope to talk more about in the near future!

Solid week of viewing television in the background while I got to work on writing. I'm a little ahead of my weekly schedule and hope I can work another movie in this week.

I caught two episodes of The Snoopy Show. This is such a great thing to have on in the background when I need some noise and funny stuff.

Watched an episode of the Agatha Christie Hour. The slightly paranormal angle made me happy.

Enjoyed a two-part Silent Witness and ended up liking it a lot. A good twisty plot on this one.

Finished up an arc of Classic Who and started a new one. The cybermen made an appearance in the new arc.

Also got the last episode of Most Terrifying Places in America watched. The final episode focused on the unnatural world and had some good stories.

Caught another episode of Moon Knight. This show is such a nice mix of action and humor with some interesting lore thrown in. I really love it.

Watched the penultimate episode of Harrow. Next should be the big finale and all I have to say is nothing bad better happen to Fern or Cal. At this point, I don't care if James is a good guy or a bad guy, I'm not a fan at all. Fairley makes me so happy and Grace … well, I really hoped they wouldn't do a weird triangle thing, but it looks like that might be in store for next season, if there is one. Bleh.

Enjoyed an episode of Blue Heelers, which kind of picked up where the last one left off. Loved how the characters pieced everything together and got Nick off the hot seat for the most part. We'll see what happens on the next episode.

Caught another MasterClass lesson with Roxane Gay. She talked about consuming and criticizing culture and I took a couple of valuable points away with me. I enjoy listening to her so much.

Watched another episode of the Babysitters Club. I say it often, but I'm so disappointed this show won't have any more episodes. It's fun and witty but always has some great dramatic moments also.

Thoroughly enjoyed two Classic Rugrats episodes. The Passover episode is one of my favorites and I'd forgotten that was in season three.

Caught another episode of Driven from Passionflix. So much happened and cliffhanger end hit hard. Can't wait to watch the next one!

Have to say I'm so disappointed in Natalie's characterization on Chicago Med. I realize we're close to when she'll be leaving but, man, she definitely did Will wrong on this one. I loved Daniel's arc and the understated way he showed his grief over CeeCee's death.

Finished up The Force Awakens and I'm so glad I've watched the movie from beginning to end and not in sporadic pieces. Looking forward to episode VIII.

Watched another Batman: The Animated Series episode. This is probably my all-time favorite animated series and the Dr. Freeze storyline is a particular favorite in the first season.

Caught another episode of The Brokenwood Mysteries. This one had a lot of twists and I liked them. Gina continues to crack me up on a regular basis.

Started a new docuseries with Strangest Things. This is another show where I've bits and pieces of episodes and I'm excited to watch them in order and all the way through.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Quest for Home, a follow-up to Events in Motion.

Here's the mini-blurb:

A world-ending natural disaster is imminent and Drury Amanze—Fate's chosen messenger—has to convince everyone to follow her to a new location. Porter Magda becomes Drury's touchstone while she battles resistance and disinterest from the community. While they race the clock, Porter props Drury up against the toll transporting their entire civilization to safety takes on her during their quest for a new home.

And a preview snippet…

Drury Amanze slid her gaze sideways. "Are you ready?" She held tightly to Porter Magda's hand.

He squeezed her fingers. "Always. Let's go." Focusing his eyes on the glowing circle he gave a nod.

Dru stepped into the unknown, placing her feet directly in the center of the round portal. Porter stood by her side and in the space of a heartbeat her breath whooshed from her lungs and weightlessness surrounded her. Dru didn't know if she actually floated through time and space or if her brain needed to imagine she did. But her one solid thought zeroed in on Porter and the fact he still held fast to her.

Her tether and touchstone. Her one and only constant.

When she inhaled, everything stopped and she stumbled. Porter's strong arms steadied her even though her feet touched grassy earth. She blinked in darkness.

Once her eyes adjusted, she gasped. The stars were bright overhead, something missing from their night sky for decades. Her head spun with possibilities.

Porter wrapped an arm around her. "Do you know where we are?" His fingers cupped her shoulder.

She didn't … but they weren't on their planet anymore. The constellations weren't right. But, oh, they were beautiful.

She angled her head around, taking in the quiet wonder of their surroundings. "I'm not sure where we are, but this is home." She met his gaze. "And it's a long, long way from where we started." The idea overwhelmed her a little.

Porter hugged her close. "Kind of fitting, don't you think? A whole new solar system…" His voice held wonder and amazement.

She didn't respond, too wrapped up in staring at the sky.

Porter moved behind her, encircling her with his arms. "You're an astounding woman, Dru." His lips brushed over her throat.

She turned, facing him. "Maybe not." Her gaze scanned the location around them. "I have no idea how we'll get back."

I'm enjoying the mystical aspect of this story and can't wait to get deep into the journey of these characters.

That's it for this week.

 

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: The Pit and the Pyre

Geez, what a week. Starting late Monday night, a super-cell storm blew through Ohio. Around 11:30 pm, the tornado sirens went off in my little village. We took cover in our bathroom, mainly because our two doggos will not go down the basement steps and the bathroom is the most protected interior room in the house. By 12:15 am, we got the all clear, but the power went out around 12:05 … and didn't come back on until Thursday at 5:30 pm. It's been … a wild week.

Thankfully, we were able to borrow a generator to keep our AC (temps in the mid to high 90s), fridge and freezers going. We had one light in our living room and a charging station to keep our devices charged up. Not that it mattered much. The storm damaged a cell tower and we barely had a signal. I literally had one spot in the house where I could get one. The joys of living in a rural area.

Spent most of my time keeping the generator full, checking on my neighbors, and checking out my dad's house—luckily for him, he'd left early Tuesday morning for a vacation—after rerouting to get to the airport. Downed trees were everywhere. All in all, though, we were very lucky that we didn't have a lot of damage. Unfortunately, my cousin had a tree fall on their house. Weirdly, we had another storm blow through on Thursday that caused three fires from lightning strikes. Mother Nature isn't messing around right now.

So … I had a very minimal viewing week. And I'm playing catch-up on my work projects. I don't mind being a little bit behind, mainly because I'm happy and grateful we still have a house and didn't lose our fully stocked freezers. A huge hat-tip to the linemen and workers who still have their hands full trying to restore power to other locations.

I did get an episode of The Snoopy Show in. I'm almost finished with the first season and I'll be checking out the second one after I'm done.

I caught the cast interviews for Loch Ness and enjoyed getting some insight into the characters and the actors portraying them. I'll be finishing up with behind the scenes sometime next week.

Finished up a Silent Witness two-parter and quite enjoyed the twisty turns the episode took. I'm very much liking the later seasons of this show.

Ended up completing season 24 of Classic Who. Mel is going off on her own adventure and it looks like Ace is going to be the new companion. I'll start season 25 this week.

Caught another episode of Most Terrifying Places in America. A focus on historical locations ended up being pretty interesting.

Watched another episode of The Mandalorian. Again, I love the pacing of this show. There are a lot of little moments that stack up to add great impact.

Got another episode of The Hardy Boys in and the plot is getting deeper. There's a lot of cat and mouse stuff going on and I kind of like it. The pacing is a little weird but I'm happy to overlook a few glitches.

Also caught another episode of Peak Practice to round out the week. Not sure if I'll be caught back up by my next post, but I'm only a little behind and can live with that.

That's it for the life update. Tonight's post is from The Pit and the Pyre, a novella that puts the characters on the path to a reunion but the obstacles are many along the way.

Here's the mini-blurb:

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…

Gunn paused outside the maze. "Why? Why couldn't she trust me?" Did it matter?

At the moment, not one damn bit. Even if she did trust him, she'd convinced herself she had to go. To leave him and the assembly in the dust.

He started for the quorum hall. "I'll never forgive her for that." How could he, especially after laying everything on the line for her?

Entering the huge building, steeped with magick and wisdom along with storied history, he headed for the assembly chambers where he'd have to start putting a game plan together so he didn't lose any ground after backing Virgo earlier.

He'd almost made it to his office when Vausch Minslow poked his head out of a conference room. Gunn kept his grimace inside; Minslow led the opposition and spearheaded the campaign to send Virgo to exile. Gunn didn't need a confrontation right now.

He greeted his colleague. "Minslow. You're here late." He crossed the corridor and twisted the knob of his office door.

Vausch darted out of the darkened room and followed. "Been waiting on you. That was quite a speech you gave earlier. Virgo should be groveling at your feet." He stepped inside Gunn's space uninvited.

Gunn went behind his desk, needing some distance away from Minslow. "What the hell for? Being the lone voice of dissent?" He snorted. "Didn't do her any good." And it didn't matter now.

Vausch shook his head. "You'd be wrong there. The quorum convened a special session and took another vote." He made a sour face. "You changed enough minds to have a majority. The decision to banish her has been reversed."

Gunn swallowed his shock. And then his anger. She'd left for nothing. Entered the pit of hellfire, sacrificing herself for her family's sins … for no damned reason.

Gunn's fingers curled into his palms to avoid letting his magick loose on Vausch. "Doesn't matter." He met the other man's gaze, carefully keeping his rage in check. "You got your wish. Virgo's gone."

Minslow's eyebrows arched. "She didn't waste any time." He shrugged. "I'm sure you can reach out. Let her know she's got a reprieve."

Gunn lifted his chin. "You'd be wrong there." He directed Minslow's words back to him. "She didn't leave the assembly." He paused, taking a moment to suppress the bile rising in his throat. "Virgo entered the pit."

Vausch's face took on a sickly green pallor. "She did what? But that means—"

Gunn cut Minslow off. "Yeah, it does. It means she's executing a trial by hellfire."

And no one in the history of the assembly had ever survived once they'd been consumed by the flames.

I love how much Gunn dislikes Vausch. He can't quite put his finger on the why—with the exception of Vausch leading the charge to get rid of Virgo—but Gunn really loathes the guy.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye 

Sunday Snippet: On the Circuit

It's been a wild and busy week! I'm buried with work projects, which I'm thrilled to have—even if I could use about four more hours in each day. Good problems to have.

Had a slower than normal television viewing week, but I kind of expect that when I'm trying to keep plates spinning with work and only have a small wobble here and there.

I caught two episodes of Hawkeye and I'm kind of bummed there's only one left. I'm loving this show a lot.

Caught the season three premiere of Harrow and I already intensely dislike the new boss. That said, I kind of love the shifting dynamics of the character relationships. Fern could grow up just a little, but I like where everyone else is for the most part.

Watched another episode of Blue Heelers and liked the way everything played out. Really good case of the week on this one.

Enjoyed another MasterClass lesson with Neil de Grasse Tyson. Learned about cognitive bias and have a much better understanding of how that works.

Caught another episode of Young Wallander: Killer's Shadow. Poor Kurt gets his ass kicked on a regular basis. Glad to see Reza get bumped up to detective. Poor Rusk has a lot going on at the moment.

Got two more episodes of Classic Rugrats in and thoroughly enjoyed. I love the call outs to stuff from my younger years. That's why the original show is genius. Enjoyable for parents and kids.

Watched another episode of Chicago Med and things got interesting at the end. Not sure I'm down with Will possibly hooking up with Agent Lee. Really kind of squicked out by Nat's involvement with the dad of her former patient. But I love the whole saga of Daniel's ex and everything that's going on with that.

Enjoyed another episode of The Snoopy Show. I like how the short vignettes are themed around a topic. This one had Halloween stuff and it was a lot of fun.

Caught another episode of Loch Ness and I'm kind of amazed how things are moving forward but at what seems like a maddeningly slow pace. A couple of big reveals in this episode.

Finished up season seventeen of Silent Witness and should start eighteen this week. Have to say I quite liked how this one ended. Glad Jack will be sticking around.

Watched another episode of Classic Who. Poor Seven just doesn't have a lot to work with. That said, I'm kind of enjoying this arc.

Enjoyed another episode of The Laundry Guy. I think I could honestly watch multiple seasons of this show. Patric needs his own YouTube channel. I'd totally subscribe.

Also watched another episode of The Hardy Boys and have a lot of love for this show. It's so much fun to talk to my brother about the episodes after we see them. Brings back a lot of eighties memories.

That's it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from On the Circuit, a novella that features dragon rodeos and two bull-fighting characters that keep the riders safe.

Here's the mini-blurb:

The popularity of breaking dragons on the rodeo trail lures Reggie Pitch to test her mettle as a bullfighter. She works her way up from green recruit and tries out for the big show with Dwight Merlyn as her trainer, which proves intimidating because not only is he attractive as hell, he's a third generation handler and his family breeds the rankest, meanest beasts on the circuit.

And a preview snippet…

Dwight arrived at the bar and scanned the room for Reggie. "Not here yet. Good." He needed time to come down from the high of facing down rank bulls for the last several hours.

The rodeo owner, Jeb McCallister, signaled Dwight over to the counter. Dwight ambled over, ready for anything. Jeb had a lock on the circuit in this area. He owned the arena, the bar, and most of the supply shops. He also had shares in the crew quarters and family housing.

The dragons were the only thing the man didn't have a financial interest in … Dwight's family had full control of the stock and breeding of the beasts. What started out as a relationship of necessity between the two clans had turned into lifelong friendship—at least for three generations. Dwight respected the hell out of Jeb, even when he butted into Dwight's personal life.

Jeb tapped the wood surface. "Get this man a shot."

Mathis, the bartender and one of Jeb's brothers, poured amber liquid into a glass. "Hell of night out there. New bull fighter is coming along." He slid the tumbler toward Dwight.

Dwight gave a nod. "Yeah, she's got some chops." He downed the drink.

Jeb snorted. "Hell, she's got more than that. That little slip of a woman put on one hell of a show." He leaned his forearms on the bar. "She gonna stick around?"

He left the real part of the question unasked. Would Reggie follow Nordstrom?

Dwight inclined his head. "Far as I know. She gave Nordstrom the boot right after you did." His lips curved when he remembered how well she'd handled that scene.

Jeb cocked his head to one side. "Tread carefully, my boy." The warning tone had humor laced through it.

Dwight huffed out a breath. "Always do." He spied Reggie enter and pushed away from the bar. "But I appreciate the advice." He lifted his chin. "Even if I don't plan on taking it."

Jeb and Mathis rolled their eyes. Dwight didn't care. He'd pretty much made up his mind to let nature take its course with Reggie. If they ended up twisted around each other, so be it.

He could question the choice later.

I love this story so much! As a rodeo fan, I'm challenged by writing the scenes with the dragons, but moments like the preview are fun to dig into.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye