Sunday Snippet: Mendacium

December is flying by. I had a busy week trying to get things organized and moved around from the new furniture saga and also dealing getting one kid off to Disney with her grandfather and trying to help another kid during a flare up of his ongoing medical issue. Also had a couple of work projects thrown in.

Slower than usual week for television. I started out by finishing up the final arc of Five on Classic Who. I'd forgotten how much of a snarky snipe Six started out as. Started the first episode of his full arc to end season twenty-one.

Caught another episode of Mysteries of Apollo. I might have inadvertently watched two episodes but I won't know for certain until this week.

Watched two episodes of The Muppet Show. Jean Pierre Rampal and Paul Simon were the guest stars.

Finished up the first season of Fantasy Island. Man, I have to give kudos. I really enjoyed this first season. I'm looking forward to the holiday special next week.

Caught another episode of Peak Practice. It was a tough one to watch and had a lot going on. Erica held her own but, man, what a wringer they put her through.

Enjoyed another MasterClass lesson with Bill Nye. This one focused on how science changes your perspective. Pretty interesting.

Totally flubbed thinking I'd be watching The Ready Room for season one of Star Trek: Discovery only to realize the behind the scenes show didn't start until season two. So … I watched the first episode of the second season. Man, I'm really loving this show. So great to have the introduction of Pike and get some insight on Spock. Really looking forward to this season.

Watched another episode of Chicago Med. Lots of stuff going on but a solid viewing experience. Feels like everyone is kind of heading for a breaking point, Robin and Sarah, especially. Nice to see April and Ethan going public.

Caught another episode of The Madame Blanc Mysteries. Whew. Plot is moving forward in a big way. I think I have two more episodes and I'm kind of wondering how the main arc is going to be resolved. I'm also hoping for another season of this show. It's a lot of fun.

Finished up the second part of Silent Witness. Harry went through a rough ride. I'm not completely certain the police detective wasn't playing both sides but I liked that.

That's pretty much it for this week's television update. I'll be starting season two of The Witcher this week, which means I'll be putting Glitch on hold until I wrap that up.

Tonight's post is from Mendacium, a novella that puts my characters on opposite sides and they have to find their way back to each other.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Kelby Svet and Reave Systevich work for Mendacium, a covert organization that monitors magical ability among the human population. When powers go out of control or get abused, Kelby and Reave deal with the fallout—until a betrayal puts them on different sides.

And a preview snippet…

Kelby woke to an incessant buzzing in her ear. "Dammit, Pope. Can I have one fucking night to myself?"

"It's after ten, Kelb. Get your ass up and meet me at the grotto. I've got a job for you."

She hated the nickname her handler used. Pope could be a huge dick. Did she even want to meet him?

Not really. And last night's conversation played over and over in her mind. Kel, let's wrap this case and cut out. Find somewhere quiet away from the politics and constant policing and enjoy life. Man, she didn't expect Reave's suggestion to take root and sprout winding tendrils in her brain.

But the idea had her thinking.

Rising slowly, she carefully slid out of bed and crept to the bathroom. Why did she need to be stealthy? The answer rubbed a raw spot in her heart.

"Because I have to meet Pope. I can't quit until I do."

Am I going to quit?

She honestly didn't know. But she needed time and space to clear her head and meeting with Pope would give her both. She could always come back to Reave after she'd weighed the options.

Grabbing her clothes, she dressed quickly then splashed cold water on her face. She popped the door open and paused on her way to the living room to watch Reave for a moment. He slept deeply, with one arm shoved under the pillow and the other lying on his stomach. Her heart skipped a beat. The man her want things she hadn't dared to think about and she had to resist the urge to crawl back in bed with him. Damn Pope and his stupid job.

Shaking her head, she entered the living room and found her boots. After slipping her feet inside, she stuck her head back into the bedroom for another quick glimpse of Reave before she crossed over and left the safe house.

Before she shimmered away, she sent a silent promise. "I'll be back, Reave. Count on it."

Famous last words … Kelby may or may not regret uttering them.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Unforeseen Consequences

Is it really August? Man, I'm actually kind of thankful. I'm ready for 2020 to be over and done with. It's been a very crazy year.

Had a fairly busy week of calls with potential new clients and a new project starting. It's been kind of slow since May and I'm excited to see if things pick up a little now.

I also got quite a few of my long-form brainstorming sessions converted into text. I'm seriously thrilled with this!! I can't wait to see how many I get translated and transferred over this week.

Didn't get a lot of shows watched this week, but I did catch another couple of episodes of Danger Man.

Also watched episode seven of The Witcher and I'm so happy there's going to be another season of this show.

I'll be catching the second Gabriel's Inferno movie this week, even if I have to stay up super late to watch. I'm looking forward to this one.

I'll hopefully be catching up with a few other shows also. It's been hit or miss with both time and lack of focus to get into a show.

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

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…

Stella entered the headmaster's office when he called out a greeting. "Wilson, it's that time of year…" Her voice trailed off and she hoped he picked up on the meaning.

His lips twisted in a wry smirk. "Ah … and you've come to get the ball rolling so to speak?" He withdrew a folder from his drawer. "You always did like to be the first one, didn't you?" The file had a blank page on the top of a full two decades' worth of predictive wagers.

Stella's lips curved when memories assailed her. "I don't have to be the first … but I do like being the last one standing." The very first time had been her and Dak against Wilson.

Wonder if he remembers?

Wilson flicked his gaze to her. "From what I remember, you have a habit of getting what you want." He turned the folder toward her. "We'll see if you can hit the mark this year." He placed a pen on top of the page.

Stella cocked her head and quirked an eyebrow. "Will you be joining in?" She filled in the first line with her prediction and added Dak's name beside hers.

Phelps frowned, his mouth flattening to a thin line. "The entries should be individual ones. Is there a reason Satterfield can't pick another number?" He leaned back in his chair, giving her a speculative stare.

Stella rolled a shoulder. "If we disagreed, absolutely. But we don't. Neither of us thinks we'll lose anyone this go around." She tapped the paper. "This is one of the best groups we've ever had. Possibly rivaling our class way back when." She didn't exaggerate; the vibe from this group took her back a decade.

Wilson gave her a bland look then shrugged. "Fine. Since I'm still finding my footing, we'll let it go this year." He took the folder and closed it. "But next year, there might be some changes." His tone didn't match the placid look on his face.

Wonder what kind of grudge he's still holding?

Stella resisted the urge to find out, but pressed for some additional information. "Will you be making a lot of sweeping changes? Or sticking mainly with the status quo?" She didn't see a need to mess with a good system but wouldn't discount a new perspective.

Phelps narrowed his eyes. "I'm not completely certain. I'm still going through the staff files." He folded his arms across his chest. "You've been here pretty much since graduation, haven't you?"

Yeah, she had. And she didn't regret it one bit. She and Dak traveled during their breaks but the school had become their home. They'd never leave voluntarily.

Giving Wilson a nod, she answered with a question. "Have you ever found a place that speaks to you on an instinctive level? That's what I found here. From the very first day." Might sound a little out there, but true nonetheless.

Wilson inclined his chin. "I thought the same thing until senior year." A dark look crossed his face but cleared almost immediately. "But ten years of new experiences makes me appreciate what can happen here. I'm glad to be back." He stood up and came around the front of his desk. "It's not quite the same, but it's starting to feel like home again."

Stella smiled even though his words struck a weird chord. "Well, it's good to have you back." She jerked her head toward the door. "I'm gonna be late for training, but thanks for letting me get my name down first." Starting for the exit, she paused when he mumbled something under his breath.

Shaking her head, she gave him a second to continue but he didn't say anything else.

When she reached the jamb, Wilson called out a farewell. She gave a small wave and ducked out of the room. An odd sense of foreboding settled between her shoulders but she shook it off, putting the vibe down to opening the door to the past.

Maybe Wilson didn't like the reminder that she and Dak were a package deal.

I love a little cat and mouse and this scene ended up being a lot of fun to write.

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Underbelly

I seriously can't believe I'll be moving my daughter into her dorm in three weeks. It's coming up fast! She's very excited and I think I have almost everything she needs to be prepared for the daily masking, temperature taking, and hand sanitizing she's going to have to do.

On a super-positive note, I found an app that will let me not only brainstorm but will translate the long-form handwritten brainstorming I've done into text! This is true game changer for me. I'm so, so, so excited.

Had a semi-slow week for watching shows. I made some serious progress on getting my office cleared and organized. I'm almost ready to add a bookcase or two. I've been a little light on work projects so this is a terrific time to get the tedious sort, sort, sorting accomplished.

I did get to watch another episode of Peak Practice. I'm about midway through the second season and I have a sneaking suspicion someone will be leaving at the end of this one.

Also rewatched the second episode of Ms. Fisher's Modern Murder Mysteries. I truly love this spinoff.

Caught "The Sontaren Experiment" episodes of Classic Who. It's a lot of fun to visit Sarah Jane way back when. I miss Elisabeth a lot.

Watched episode four of Picard. I'm trying to figure out what the captain's deal is. All of his holographs are versions of himself? I kind of love it but also really wonder about it.

Got a few more episodes of Danger Man in, both ones I didn't remember. I thoroughly enjoyed each.

Also watched another compilation of Cirque du Soleil shows. I honestly can't fathom how the performers do what they do. I'm always, always amazed at their ability. And the costumers and makeup artists along with the musicians pull everything together. It's mind-blowing.

That's it for television this week. Tonight's post is from Underbelly, a novella that got a start with a writing community prompt.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Jarrod Steele is a private investigator who deals with the weird and the unknown and can find anything his clients want. His super-efficient assistant, Maylin Rose, along with her unique skill set, makes sure of it.

And a preview snippet…

Jarrod straightened his clothes and grinned. Maylin started typing—something she could actually do but not accurately at her current speed—just before their prospective client entered the office.

She rose to offer a standard greeting. "Mr. Pemburke? Mr. Steele will see you right away." Ushering the man into Jarrod's office, she made the introductions. "Jarrod Steele, this is Mr. Aston Pemburke."

Jarrod stood and offered his hand. "Pemburke, what can I do for you?"

Maylin ducked out, no doubt going back to her desk to resume typing, but not before she turned the intercom record button on. She'd have an earphone in so she could listen to the entire meeting.

Aston didn't waste time, getting directly to the point. "Steele, I'd like to hire you to retrieve an object stolen from my family's estate." He sat down and reached inside his interior jacket pocket. "This is what was taken." He handed Jarrod a photograph of a cube with carved runes embedded on all sides.

Jarrod's curiosity piqued and he met Aston's gaze. "I'll need to know what I'm getting into here. The runes imply magick. Is there a protective spell or backlash to deal with?" He'd run into some nasty scenarios and now charged his client's accordingly.

Aston's eyes widened. "Uh, I'm not certain. The object is my father's and he doesn't know it's missing yet." He leaned forward. "I'd like to keep it that way. I know who has it but I can't get close to him."

Interesting. Jarrod mentally added another line item to the bottom line, as would Maylin when she gave Pemburke the contract.

Jarrod pulled out a notepad. "I guarantee confidentiality. You're the client. The rest of your family can be none the wiser." He glanced up. "Tell me who has it and anything else you can think of regarding the artifact."

Aston snarled. "Jayson Barrowman is the cretin who stole the cube from our home. He'll have it secured in his compound, which is a gated, guarded, and gilded monstrosity located in the foothills of Quark Mountain." His hands fisted in his lap. "You're not going to have an easy time of getting the cube back. I attended a party last month and it's nowhere on the main levels of the house. But I know it's there."

Jarrod narrowed his gaze. "How, exactly, do you know?" A red flag went up.

Aston shrugged. "I scried for the object. It's there but nowhere on the upper levels." He shifted his position on the chair. "Barrowman has to have a sublevel. There's no other explanation."

Jarrod jotted the information down but Maylin would already be researching the architect and builder details. "I'll look into whether or not he has one. It's not a problem if he does." Jarrod paused and met Aston's gaze. "Do you have proof of ownership? If you don't, things could get sticky." He'd had his share of off the books item-retrieval, which always got dangerous.

Aston withdrew another document. "This is a copy of the decree that gave my family control of the cube. My grandfather purchased the artifact from the Manchurins three decades ago."

Jarrod had a working knowledge of the Manchurins. Old family, old magick, old money that ran dry. But he now had a thread he could pull to find out more about the cube. Especially if Pemburke didn't give Jarrod more to go on.

Jarrod prodded Aston a little. "Okay, you've got ownership. Why did Barrowman steal the item?" A dispute between buyers couldn't be ruled out.

Aston glanced away. "I'm not completely certain. The cube has immense power if the wielder understands the runes and how they work. Barrowman fancies himself a dark arts master." Pemburke met Jarrod's gaze again. "Which means he could turn the power against whomever he wants to."

Well, hell. The stakes just anted up. And Pemburke knew more than he wanted to share with Jarrod. Another dollar sign to add to the contract.

Jarrod stood. "Pemburke, the terms for this case will be fluid, dependent upon what I'll need to get in and out of Barrowman's estate and how much trouble I have doing so." He wrote an amount down. "This is the amount to put me on retainer." Sliding the paper toward Aston, he waited until the man nodded to continue. "If I don't have the job finished within a week, I'll provide an update to you and only you. Since you want this to stay confidential, I'll contact you via a messenger service under the name Atlas Limited." He moved around the desk and directed Pemburke to Maylin's desk. "Maylin, please provide a standard contract with this amount as a retainer. We're leaving the expenses open-ended for now."

Maylin turned and opened a file cabinet to retrieve a contract.

Jarrod thrust his hand forward. "Thanks for coming in, Pemburke. I'll leave you in Maylin's capable hands." After a firm handshake, Jarrod reentered his office and strode over to the windows.

He didn't like the potential for mishap the cube represented. He'd be doing some careful research on any side effects handling the item might generate. Neither he nor Maylin needed another curse to be unleashed on them.

They almost hadn't survived the last one.

This story took on a life of its own and I'm completely okay with that. The sages knew exactly what little twist to add to make this ten times better.

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

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

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

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

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

Available here

Book Tagline:

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

Blurb:

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

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

And an excerpt…

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Don't forget to check out our other authors!

Cheers!

Skye Ritchey

Sunday Snippet: Rack and Ruin

I have a new furnace! It's shiny and pretty and takes up a lot less space than our old one did. And it's amazing how nice and toasty the house is again. Here's hoping the much-improved energy efficiency pays off too.

My workload is still crazypants. Trying to get prepped for having the equipment going in and out of our house didn't leave me a lot of time the past week. I also have a goal of seriously getting rid of a bunch of stuff that's been collecting in odd, random places for the past two decades.

I did get some television watched, starting with another episode of Midsomer Murders. I think I might have found the show I'll be replacing Midsomer with, but I have made a final decision yet.

Caught a few more episodes of Sapphire and Steel and watched a full arc of Classic Who. Sapphire and Steel is actually pretty interesting with a different style.

Watched a Halloween episode of Murdoch Mysteries, which ended up being pretty fun. I love it when William has to deal with people and things he doesn't feel comfortable with. Pretty cool variation on the theme song also.

Also caught another episode of Frankie Drake Mysteries. I really do like this show and the friendship between Frankie, Trudy, Flo, and Mary. My favorite season is still the first one, but if this is going to be a long-haul show, I'm down with the changes to the style.

That's pretty much it for television this week. Tonight's post is from Rack and Ruin, a novella that got a start with a writing community prompt.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Vespa Thorn, a maintenance adept for the Mage Ministry of Defense, is an addictive gambler—whenever, wherever, she'll go all in. Hale Walterson, a special forces soldier has a problem with sex—he can't get enough of it. Vespa wants Hale, but he's the one thing she won't bet on until he challenges her to keep up with him.

And a preview snippet…

Hale Walterson bit back a groan. Just his luck the best tech pulled duty today because she always found a reason to bust his balls. Blowing out a long breath, he strode into the well-ordered workspace.

He placed his wrecked stun-winder in front of Vespa Thorn, the maintenance adept. "This needs fixing." Maybe he'd get lucky and the clipboard she held would keep her attention.

Nope.

She set the board aside and frowned. "Again?" Picking up the device, she began an inspection of the charred defensive weapon.

Hale slowly turned to make his way out of the workshop, hoping like hell the too-pretty-for-maintenance-work mage didn't put the pieces together before he made his escape.

Not his fault his M-MOD unit kept getting called out to break up disruptions.

Vespa growled. "Hold it right there, Walterson." She marched around the counter and brought the stun-winder with her.

Hale paused, a kick of guilt hitting him in the gut. He had abused the weapon, but not on purpose. His last eight-hour shift only had forty-five minutes of downtime. Probably wouldn't matter to her though.

She poked him in the chest. "What did I tell you about not giving the stun-winder enough time to recharge before amping up to a higher setting?" Her face expressed her disgust.

Hale shrugged. "It's a design flaw." He couldn't resist a small dig. "One you should work on fixing." Getting her wound might not be his best move, but the weapon did have too many limitations.

Vespa made a garbled choking sound. "No. It's user error. You abuse the device." She turned and headed for her workstation. "How can a hot guy who has brains and brawn not understand simple instructions?" She placed the stun-winder on the surface of her area and ducked down to get some spare parts.

She thinks I'm hot. Good to know.

Vespa continued with her tirade. "We're supposed to stun our targets as a last resort when spells can't contain them." She removed the burned out charging cartridge and replaced it with a fresh one.

Hale defended his side. "Yeah, well, in the middle of a melee it's not always possible to get an incantation out when fists are flying." A lame excuse, but still true.

Vespa rolled her eyes. "Whatever. Maybe you should use shorter spells so you don't overtax that big brain of yours." She checked the readiness of the stun-winder.

It charged but wouldn't fire. Hale glanced down and braced for impact. The compliment about his intelligence would definitely get called into question now.

She shot him a sideways glance. "What else did you do to my weapon?" The sputtered and died again.

Hale's head whipped up and he quirked an eyebrow. "Your weapon?" He folded his arms over his chest. "Last time I checked my name is on the registration."

Vespa dismantled the stun-winder piece by piece. "If you want your name to stay there, you need to take care of the stunner." She grabbed a cloth and started cleaning the gun.

Hale flushed because she had a point. "I'll apologize for the condition. I've been neglectful about proper cleaning." He'd own being lax… too many distractions that he needed to get under control.

He grabbed another rag and started helping—the least he could do, right?

Especially if he wanted to stay on her good side.

I love Vespa and Hale! They're terrific at what they do but not without faults, which they'll discover about each other soon.

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Juvenile Behavior

As someone with family and friends who have served or are serving in the military, I'd like to thank all of our service members for their courage, sacrifices, and efforts. Thank you.

It's been a rough week with two difficult manuscripts and the end of daylight savings. Seriously, I've been all out of sorts and my internal clock hasn't caught up yet. LOL

I didn't get a lot of television in this week—see above for why—but I did stay current on usual shows. The Last Ship killed off another of my faves, which means I'm trying to prepare for a high body count in the finale. A box of tissues and alcohol might be involved. Just saying.

Arrow kicked some butt. I'm kind of liking the flash forward stuff, especially because the flashbacks are a thing of the past for the most part. I'll give kudos to Stephen, Emily, and Katie because I think they're doing some stellar work. The rest of the cast is on point also. Riverdale's Midnight Club episode rocked. The more batshit this show gets the more I seem to enjoy it. And it's definitely over the top.

Legends of Tomorrow keeps delivering great episodes. I'm always excited to see who's going to interact with whom. The constantly changing dynamic of the cast is so much fun.

I did catch an episode of The No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency and, honestly, I love this show. It's going to go down as one of my favorite viewing experiences. I also caught an episode of Classic Who and finished up an episode of Midsomer Murders.

That's it on the television front. Tonight's post is from Juvenile Behavior, a novella that started with a writing community prompt of using a magical setting with two top mages.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Freddie and Owen, top adepts putting cadets through their paces at the Mage Academy, are very much in love but refuse to act on their attraction. But when the Mage Principal has enough of their antics, he strips them of their rank and tenure and pushes them to act like grown-ups instead of juvenile delinquents.

And a preview snippet…

Freddie Radd burst through the doors of the Mage Academy and stopped to drag air into her lungs after the hard run from the lower dormitory bathing suite.

Owen Parker followed hot on her heels. "That… was so much fun!" He caught her hand in his and dragged her toward the gardens east of the quad.

Freddie breathed a sigh of relief. Sometimes Owen let regret bite him on the ass before they even finished one of their practical jokes on the cadets. Their latest—exploding confetti bombs in the shower heads—had been a stroke of genius. The squeals and cursing worth hiding in a cramped laundry bin to view their handiwork.

Confetti almost topped glitter for being difficult to get rid of.

Sharing her brainstorm with Owen and pulling it off made her entire day and Freddie danced on the edge of being happy, almost forgetting she and Owen would never be. The euphoria never lasted long. She always crashed back down when the hard truth smacked her in the face. Owen Parker could be her best friend and fellow instructor but never her lover. No matter how attracted they were to each other.

Stupid family feuds.

Owen snapped his fingers. "Hey, come on. Come back to me." He gave her a long, questioning look.

Freddie smiled and shoved the melancholy aside. "Sorry, what's next?" Owen got to choose their final adventure for the day.

His lips curved in a triumphant smirk. "We're going to do something no one has done in over two decades." Reaching into his pack, he retrieved a bottle of Amberlane, a potent alcohol distilled with magick.

Freddie's eyes went wide. "Where did you get that?" The golden elixir topped the list of contraband adepts always sought.

Oh… they could have some fun with that liquor.

Owen waggled his eyebrows. "Sometimes it pays to have an inside connection."

Yeah, it did. Owen's great-grandfather cofounded the Mage Academy and his family still held authority. Unlike hers—who got shoved aside in a power play.

Which made her acceptance to the academy at age twelve and her subsequent position as an instructor something to shock the board… and set the rumor mill to overload.

Freddie didn't care about the drama. She'd proven herself on merit by working harder than anyone else. Except maybe Owen. He walked a fine line between upholding the family name and making one for himself.

A brilliant idea flashed in her mind. "Let's go to the maze." The constant changing layout never failed to entertain.

Owen stared in her direction. "You know the side effects to Amberlane, don't you?"

Oh, yes. She did. Maybe she'd have lucid waking dreams of really hot sex with him.

Giving him a nod, she grabbed his hand. "Of course. What's the worst that can happen?" She started for the entrance of the maze, dragging him along. "Let's go."

I'm having fun with this story. Friends to lovers is a favorite trope and I love the family drama on top of everything.

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Fistful of Sorry

Happy Father's Day to all the dads out there. And if you're not a dad, happy weekend!

It's been a long week with back and forth temperatures that always wreak havoc with my allergies. Bleh. But… not a bad week for television viewing. I started out with more Mutant X and followed with Endeavor and Midsomer Murders.

Then I hit The Sarah Conner Chronicles. I'd forgotten how dramatic Derek's entrance to the fold was. I'm also a little more than halfway through Constantine and I liked the fallen angel episode.

I finished up The Batman season four and really enjoyed the series. I think there might be a few more episodes floating around but I'm not sure. I caught several episodes of Classic Who up through the third episode in the Key of Marinus arc.

Pensacola Wings of Gold isn't half bad. Fits in with my military-themed shows of Strike Back and Band of Brothers. Chicago Fire is just over the midway point and I'm hoping to finish out the season soon. I caught Sense8's "Demons" episode and really enjoyed it. It's not as hard to keep things straight as I thought it would be. Really, a great show.

Loved seeing Hurst go down on Blind Spot. I need to mainline some episodes because they're getting close to expiration. This makes me a little angry. I realize the season is over but, honestly, unless the DVD is going to be released within a month, keep the episode live, dammit. Just saying.

That's it for television this week. Tonight's post is from Fistful of Sorry, a novella about how the main characters approach their work from opposite angles and how not listening to each other can have harsh consequences.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Orly Manx and Cal Luminity always approach situations from opposite angles but usually end up on the same side. When Orly pushes a cadet too far during training, she apologizes to Cal for not following his advice. But Cal isn't interested in listening or quick to forgive, which drives a wedge between them and Orly realizes how much she needs Cal to play yin to her yang. Clearly in the wrong, Orly can't take back her actions, so making amends is all she has left.

And a preview snippet…

Orly answered the door only half-awake. "Cal, what's up?" She stepped back, letting him into her suite of rooms. "Is that coffee I smell?" Mmmm, gotta love a man who knew all her weaknesses.

Cal strolled over to the table and dropped a drink carrier in the middle. "Yeah, and…" He shook a bag filled with something in the food category. "Some of those glazed donut breakfast sandwiches you love so much." Reaching in, he pulled one out and handed it over.

She moaned. "What did I do to deserve such a decadent treat?" She unwrapped the pure goodness of an egg, sausage, cheese, bacon, ham, and a hashbrown stuffed between two pieces of a pan-fried glazed donut.

Sitting down, she motioned for him to join her. Considering the day of the week, she didn't expect to see him until class started. They saved hooking up for weekends when semesters were in session.

Cal settled across from her and popped the lid off his coffee. "I had a meeting with Barnabas Mikkleson this morning." He blew across the steaming brew, his face pensive.

Orly quirked a brow. "An elder mage first thing on a Monday? Did someone die?" She removed her cap from her cup and waited for it to cool.

Cal blinked and shook his head. "No, nothing like that. He's got a grandson coming into the program." He folded the wrapper back and took a bite of his sandwich. "Filled me in on some of his background." He finished chewing and swallowed. "We might want to look at a lighter approach with this kid." Setting the food aside, he took a long drink and eyed Orly over the rim of the cup.

She did a slow ten-count to move through the red haze of anger licking at her brain. One, two. Barnabas sucked for putting Cal in a position of suggesting a change. Three, four. And Cal sucked for making the damned suggestion. Five, six. She threw in Cal's connection to the elders through his grandfather. Seven, eight. And added how much drama the whole deal would create. Nine, ten. And finally arrived at her foregone conclusion. Not a chance in hell would she treat any cadet with kid gloves.

"No effing way." She got up and paced back and forth. "We're the best, Cal. We should be trusted to do the job the way we see fit." And not have anyone run interference for their family members.

Cal sighed and opened his mouth to speak.

Orly cut him off. "I'm not changing my methods. End of story." She dropped back down to her seat and folded her arms across her chest.

Cal's mouth thinned to straight line. "We've had this argument before. Will you never realize each mage has individual strengths and weaknesses?" He leaned forward, poking a finger in her direction. "Which means some need a different approach to learn."

Orly waved a hand. "Will you never learn our responsibility rests in breaking new recruits down and building them back up?" She huffed out breath. "We'll keep having this damn argument until you do."

Cal gathered the remnants of his breakfast and dumped the trash in the can. "Guess there's nothing for it but to brace for a bumpy ride." He shook his head. "Especially if you're going to remain inflexible."

Orly stood up and headed for her door. "Guess you're right." Twisting the knob, she pulled the heavy oak slab open.

She didn't want to argue and having him leave now would save them a huge fight. She truly hoped they could leave this conflict in the classroom and still have their weekends together.

Cal closed his eyes for a moment then slowly made his way to her side. "I'll be keeping an eye on things, Orly. Mikkleson's request wasn't made lightly."

Sweeping her arm toward the corridor, she nodded. "Whatever, Cal. What we do works and if Barnabas's grandkid can't cut it, it's not our problem."

Cal pinned her with his gaze. "I think you're going to discover it'll very much become our problem." He crossed the threshold. "See you in class later."

Orly resisted the urge to slam the door behind him. Wouldn't help the situation or make her feel better. And the loud sound would only serve to increase the dull headache that bloomed along her temples.

She might as well grab a shower and get ready for a challenging day in the classroom.

I truly love writing these characters. It's fun to show two sides of a challenge where both characters think they're right, then break it down from there.

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Whatever it Takes

Well… another homecoming is in the books and life can return to semi-normal, which is still crazy but less so. LOL

Terrific week for television with shows returning for their fall premieres (and one season ender)!

The Last Ship's finale was everything I'd hoped for. The people I wanted to see not make it died in appropriate ways and they didn't touch anyone on my "better not kill" list, so, yeah, I'm thrilled to bits with how the season ended. And it looks like season five will be terrific! Can't wait for next summer.

I honestly didn't know if I'd like The Flash, but it ended up being a great episode. Cisco keeps things interesting and I like where Caitlyn is right now. Same goes for Legends of Tomorrow. Their reboot after messing up all of time is excellent. Can't wait to see what they end up doing for the rest of the season.

Arrow's premiere rocked. I really didn't know how they'd end up resolving the island explosion and it looks like there will be plenty of repercussions. I'm interested in what happened to the few we didn't see in the opening episode, namely the former league crew. I can honestly say it was awesome to see Raisa back with Oliver, too.

Gotham had another terrific episode. This show just keeps getting better and better. I like how they're beginning to weave Bruce's story into Gordon's… finally. I'm pretty "meh" about the Sophia Falcone stuff but we'll see where it goes.

My Netflix queue random pick ended up being Midsomer Murders. I'm enjoying a nice revisit to this show.

And that's it for television this week. Tonight's post is from Whatever it Takes, a novella that got a two-word prompt start of "baby steps".

Here's the mini-blurb:

Lysanor Bela runs the gauntlet and while she survives the experience, it messes with her mind. She has a vision of killing Baron Saltman—and gauntlet revelations are never wrong. Lys will do whatever it takes to keep Baron alive as long as possible—even if it means walking away from their relationship.

And a preview snippet…

Baron Saltman entered the challenge room, assailed by memories of his journey almost a year ago. He approached the next participant, the only one allowed to do so.

He placed an arm around her. "Good luck, Lys. You've got this." When she turned and flashed a smile, he hauled her closer, hugging her for encouragement.

No one had an easy time when they ran the gauntlet. The fiery maze structure pushed its participants through a series of increasingly difficult scenarios, often throwing past hardships in the path to serve as distractions. The gauntlet acted as a shield for the upper levels of the magical hierarchy, weeding out the weak-minded and less skilled, advancing only those who managed to get through. The ones who left intact normally had a precognitive event that helped show them their future path. Occasionally the vision could be clouded and unclear, which could be scary for the young mages.

But Lysanor Bela feared nothing.

When she tilted her chin up and met his gaze, he gave in to instinct and slanted his mouth over hers, his lips moving with assurance and promise. He'd be here when she finished her run, waiting to start their life together. When she eased away, she gave him one last, lingering took followed by a solid nod.

With a final curve of her lips, she turned to face the flaming wall of the gauntlet. "I'm ready."

Baron backed away, keeping her in his sight until he had to turn to climb the stairs to the viewing alcove. He jogged the short distance upward then took his spot for the ceremony. Only three other people were there and he ignored their presence, focusing on the woman he loved.

He leaned forward and made the announcement. "You may begin."

She squared her shoulders and placed her right foot on the burning entrance line. Taking a deep breath, she started her journey through the gauntlet to test her will and fortitude and prepare her for the master level of magedom. Baron stood riveted, the memories of his experience floating through his mind. The challenge he faced almost did him in, but his trial by fire ended with the accompanying vision of a powerful future for Lysanor and him.

They would eventually be the ruling couple of the realm. But… not without some serious obstacles. He hated how the hurdles they would face were hidden in shadow when he'd run the gauntlet but the outcome—ruling with Lys—outweighed his concern.

She only had to make it through and the future belonged to them. Baron couldn't wait to spend his remaining days with his one and only love.

I'm excited to see where this one goes. Looking forward to getting more on the page.

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Twilight Kingdom

Ugh, the rain continues and it's making the outdoors feel like a sauna. I'm not against saunas but, ugh, I'd rather not have one 24 / 7. Besides… you can't run around outside with only a towel on. Okay, I guess it's not impossible, but I won't be doing it anytime soon. LOL

I had a friend recommend Will for my viewing pleasure. I haven't started it yet, but I'll give it a go. She's in love with everything about the show.

Have to play catch up again on my Syfy Friday night shows. I hate being behind and it sucks that on Demand and the Syfy app won't show the latest episode immediately. I have a lot of growly, snarly words about that topic.

Great news! Wynonna Earp is renewed for season three. I'm soooo happy we'll have more demon-killing gun action in the town of Purgatory. Woo!

Lots of terrific trailer action coming from SDCC. I'm looking forward to The Defenders if only for the awesome snark potential.

The Last Ship's new trailer is making me very impatient for the season to start already. Less than a month away, but still feels way too long.

Also… the final episodes of Teen Wolf start next week and I'm excited to see how the series ends.

One final note… I'm actually excited for Doctor Who again! Nothing against Moffat, he's written a few of my very favorite episodes but, ugh, he almost ruined the series for me. The entire last season just rubbed me wrong. I wish him nothing but the best with whatever he's involved in from here on out.

That's it for television this week. Tonight's post is from Twilight Kingdom, a novella based on the prompt of writing a spin on Sleeping Beauty.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Jess Gillian heads to the outer rim planets to get away from his overbearing parents—the royal consorts of their home planet. When the heir is away, the evil Maniforti will play, luring Nareen Rhom, a palace ward, into a relationship so he can get close to the rulers. When Nareen gets wise, Maniforti casts a spell holding the entire kingdom in his thrall—until Jess returns and sets things straight.

And a preview snippet…

Eric Maniforti paced his war room. "By the twilight, I will get those mineral rights." His assembled staff bobbed their heads up and down.

Their action—more like inaction—pissed him off.

He slammed a hand on the long table. "Do any of you moronic imbeciles have ideas?"

One of his more cutthroat directors sneered. "Take the consort out and you'll get whatever you want."

Eric considered but discarded the idea. "I want the Scandavar mineral rights not a full-scale scramble for power. Eliminate Jantzen and the vacuum created would suck every noble on every planet in the system into a mad gambol for the ruling spot." Something he wanted, but why fight a war when he could topple the consort by underhanded tactics?

A skittish cabinet member raised a hand. "It's rumored the consort is very attached to the queen and heir. You could use one to make Gillian back off."

Eric tilted his head to one side, pondering the suggestion. "Not bad." A quick succession of ways to implement the nefarious plan.

One stood out.

Maniforti snapped his fingers. "Poison. At the annual court dinner. I'll remove the heir and usurp the ruling position." A sneering smile twisted his lips.

Toppling the House of Gillian would be an accomplishment, open doors for Maniforti, and establish him as a true master of the political machine. He could unleash the old ways once again and no longer have to hide his true nature. Removing Jess Gillian from the mortal coil only added a layer of satisfaction for Eric. His animosity and rivalry with the other man carried through from their childhood years spent in scholar's chambers. Jess could do no wrong and Eric hated being second best.

Landau, the skittish member, cleared his throat. "You're going for the son instead of the wife?"

Eric pinned him with a glare. "Did I not just say that? The reigning queen can no longer bear children. Take the heir out and the line ends with Jantzen." A fitting end for the overbearing ruler.

Kirkus, the cutthroat director, smirked. "Motion for this meeting to be adjourned so our esteemed leader can finalize his plan." A round of seconds filtered through the room.

Eric rapped his fist on the table. "So be it."

Once the members filed out of the area, he settled down at the table and drew the needed materials to the spot directly in front of him. While he mixed the fatal concoction, he whispered words in an ancient language, weaving a spell around the ingredients. If caught, he'd suffer a torturous end. Consort Gillian had harsh laws against the use of magick, especially the old rituals. When Maniforti gained control of the courts, he'd bring back the glorious rites and watch Jantzen burn.

Soon. Very soon.

So far, I'm loving the ideas for putting my mark on the classic fairy tale.

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Lie to Me

March 27, 2016

Happy Easter to those who observe and celebrate. We're having some lovely weather in Ohio, which might only last twenty-four hours because—hello!—it's Ohio. LOL I'm still battling the flu… apparently I got the full two-week version. Yay, me.

That said, I did enjoy my week of new shows on television. The Walking Dead followed up the Carol / Maggie excellence with another terrific episode. I'm still not all that excited for Negan to show up, but eh, we'll see what happens when he does.

Gotham took a turn I didn't expect and I'm definitely interested in where things go from here. Nygma is one crafty, creepy dude. The Magicians continues to keep me intrigued. I truly love the dynamic between Penny and Quentin. The Lost Girl finale had me sobbing… again. I'm going to miss that show so much. Bitten twisted the spikes in a little deeper, but I loved the spin with making Rachel the one with powers instead of Rocco. Awesome to see Paige again.

The Flash made a reveal I didn't expect until the end of the season, so kudos for keeping me on my toes. Arrow took a turn I didn't exactly like, but I'm in for the long haul with Oliver and company. Looking forward to a new Legends episode this week.

Agents of SHIELD keeps getting better and better. I'm excited for the Most Wanted spin off. I love those characters.

The finale for Murdoch Mysteries proved excellent. I can't believe they keep coming up with great stuff after almost ten years. Here's to another terrific season whenever it premieres.

And that's the television update for this week.

Tonight's post is from Lie to Me, an urban fantasy / contemporary paranormal novella where my main characters have to deal with a malevolent force before they get their lives on track.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Jana Ricks has a target on her back and she wants Rhys McPherson to help her get rid of it. Rhys loves Jana, but can't protect her, not if they want to stay alive, which he's determined to make happen… even if it means giving up the future he wants.

And a preview snippet…

Jana Ricks thrashed through the woods behind her house. "What the flaming hell is on my ass?" She'd pushed her daily run to late evening, hoping for cooler temperatures.

The summer humidity, worse than it had been for five years, sucked the will to exercise out of Jana during the day.

Thudding footfalls and snapping brush spurred Jana forward. She had no idea who she'd pissed off, but her gut screamed "otherworldly" pursuit. And that meant even if she made the safety of her cottage, she might not lose whatever creature nipped at her heels.

Spying the back patio, she used a burst of energy and rocketed the last few hundred feet to reach the neatly laid brick pavers. Spinning around, her breath heaving in and out, she crossed her arms in an 'X' then spread them out into a 'T'. She muttered an intricate series of words then punched both hands toward the inky black sky. Drawing power from her surroundings, she brought her arms downward in a sharp motion and sent the incantation out in all directions.

A moment later, a piercing yelp followed by a low, menacing growl met her ears.

Anger kicked hard in her chest. "Dammit. A hell hound or a hex cat." Her thighs screamed with agony because of the hard run, but she walked the perimeter of her patio, touching her foot to a series of runes on the bordering bricks. "Let's see you get past my wards, you mangy cur." Shaky legs carried her to the French doors, leading into her humble abode.

She entered and made a beeline for her phone, sitting on the kitchen table. Swiping through her contacts, her thumb hovered over the screen a moment before she hit the call icon. Lifting the device to her ear, she tamped down the fear and anger, ignored the thundering reluctance pumping along with her pulse, and waited for the recipient to respond.

On the third ring, they did.

She took a deep breath and closed her eyes. "Hey, it's Jana. I need help."

I'm really liking the way this one is coming together. I do need to take a day and really plot out the rest of the story, mainly to make sure I don't spin off in too many directions.

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye