Sunday Snippet: Sentinel's Watch

Whew. The week flew by. I'm in a weird place where I'm getting a lot accomplished but feel like I'm spinning my wheels. So bizarre. Felt the same way last week.

We've had chilly, cool weather with rain. And the week ahead looked like it might be soggy also but is now showing no rain in the forecast. Strange.

Had a pretty okay work week. I have a project I thought completed but apparently it hasn't. The author is wordsmithing and making more changes. Something that isn't fun to do once we're in the design proofread stage. That stuff should happen during the copy edit. I'm making good headway on a science book proofread, which is actually great because the science is way over my head. Really interesting book, though. Started a new copy edit on a mystery thriller and it's going to be a twisty turny ride. Also have a developmental edit I need to get back to. Oh, and possibly a new author signing on for a fun project. Excited to see where that goes.

Pretty good viewing week also. I ended up making it through the whole slate of shows and got a few extras in. Not bad!

Started with Foyle's War and watched the first half of the episode. It's truly remarkable how eerily history repeats itself. This show is twenty-years old, and the themes are as relevant today as they were when the show filmed and the history this show is portraying. Uncanny.

Caught another episode of Brokenwood Mysteries. Honestly, I love this show so much. There's always a new twist around the corner. And the main cast and recurring characters are so solid.

Watched another episode of Death in Paradise. Very pleased to see the commissioner working hard to regain the trust of the island. Also love seeing Naomi stepping up. It would be so great to see her take on the role of DI … if the show could alter its course a little.

Enjoyed another episode of Poirot. Nice to see Hastings kind of called out over his advice when his wife asked that he take a holiday. I like these later seasons of the show.

Elementary ended up being interesting. Felt bad for Shinwell. But also enjoyed seeing him strive to be better. Sherlock and Joan also had a twisty case, which ended up going in a direction I didn't expect.

Caught another episode of Young Justice and I really enjoy seeing the team come together. Looks like we'll get to see Artemis in the next episode.

Truly enjoyed an episode of Star Trek Lower Decks. Loved the whole vibe with Mariner and Jack. Also loved Rutherford getting his promotion. Looking forward to seeing what the cold open is about later in the season.

Watched another episode of Peak Practice. Gotta say, I didn't expect to be rather sad during the whole episode, but I ended up grabbing tissues before it was over.

Also used some Kanopy tickets and watched The Thin Man, one of my favorite classic films. I really, really wish the other films were available for streaming.

That's pretty much it for the life update. Tonight's post is from Sentinel's Watch, the follow-up to A Capsized Buccaneer.

Here's the miniblurb:

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

And a preview snippet…

Kallen briskly walked up five blocks to an old fire station and let herself in the back door. "Can't believe how much space I have here." Or that she'd bought the building outright.

And the place had two stories—a bonus that didn't happen often.

She tossed her keys on the old communication panel and started her workout routine. Running up the steps that started next to the back door, she followed along the top perimeter past the office on the concrete landing around the corner and down to the supply area where the turnout gear and other equipment used to be stored. She blew past that and made another corner turn and flew past the sleeping quarters. A tarnished pole that had seen a lot of use back in the day ran through the floor down to the main level. Her lips quirked because the realtor informed her they'd remove the long apparatus before she closed on the sale, and Kallen threatened to walk away from the deal if they even tried.

She laughed. "What's the point of having an old fire station if there isn't a pole?" Not that she'd used it yet, but she'd figure out a way to incorporate it into her workouts.

She finished the circuit, increasing her speed with each turn around the upper level. She stopped when everything blurred in her vision and the lingering dust formed into a whirling tornado. Trying a suggestion from Doc Marcus, she sped down the front stairs and hit the button for the large bay door. The spinning vortex of dust escaped through the opening in a whoosh before collapsing in a pile on the apron.

Kallen closed the door and grinned. "I can't believe that worked." She'd update the doc when she stopped by his office later this morning.

She always made her visits during his off hours. "The fewer people who know about me the better." He'd already put his neck on the line by falsifying her medical records, giving her the out she needed to be released from her contract. "But he'll be thrilled with this new information."

She owed the man a lot, considering she had no one else to talk to about her superpowers. And she struggled with the inactivity and lack of being in an arena. Having Doc Marcus give her new challenges every week helped keep her from going mad.

As did the sporadic news he provided about Zeb. Man, I weirdly miss him. Strange, because they hadn't been together long. But she finally met a guy that didn't suck and now she couldn't be with him. Because his family is complete shit.

It pissed her off, even if she got why he put a pin in the relationship before it really got started. They each had a new reality to deal with and cover stories to maintain. Her coach wanted her to transition to training and scouting, and she might test the waters at some point. But she needed to make absolutely certain she couldn't hurt anyone if she did. So … she put her art degree to use and planned to start creating large sculptures in the smaller bay area of the fire department.

Which she would get to after another hour of testing her physical boundaries.

She snorted. "Not like I need more than four hours of sleep to function anymore." A side effect of her ability.

Heading for the climbing net, she decided to use nothing but her hands to hoist herself up to the second floor. She put everything else out of her mind. Zeb. Her former coach. What the hell to actually do about the weird limbo she currently existed in.

If she started thinking about anything too deeply, she'd spiral out of control.

Huffing out a breath, she dropped down to the main floor. "And nobody wants to see what'll happen if I do that."

 

I like how this story is coming together and it might spur an idea of two for more books.

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Seeing Red

May is shaping up to be a weird month. I'm feeling kind of rushed but at the same time like I'm bogged down in mud. I think that's a sign that big change is coming and I'm not always as go with the flow as I'd like to be. We'll see what the summer brings.

Work projects are in a good place. I finished up a proofread and only have a few random changes to check. Also moved a copy edit off my plate. I'm continuing work on a design proofread and started a manuscript proofread over the weekend. I have a client call this week on a memoir and a developmental edit I'm returning to after a bit of a break. All in all, shaping up to be a busy week.

Hoping to put in some work on my sorely neglected website to get things moving on one of the side hustles I've been working on for a long time. I'm putting this in writing as a motivator!

Had a really good viewing week. I got through my full slate of shows and got one of my back-burner ones in also.

Started out with finishing up Foyle's War and thoroughly enjoyed the episode. I'm not sure I actually got to see this one during my original run through.

Also caught another episode of Brokenwood Mysteries. Ended up really enjoying this one also. Very fun to see some previous characters return.

Watched an episode of Silent Witness and I love that Jack is considering teaching. That could end up being fun to watch. Also love his interactions with Kat.

Enjoyed an episode of Poirot. Poor Hastings has had a run of bad luck with his investments. Very fun to see Poirot not enjoy his health retreat until the mystery starts.

Elementary had another great episode. Season five has been very enjoyable with the cast gelling in a great way. Loved the guy getting his comeuppance because he couldn't resist leaving the country for a hockey match.

Watched another episode of Young Justice and I ended up really enjoying how the team worked together even while completely blowing their original mission.

Caught the season four premier of Star Trek: Lower Decks and enjoyed every moment. Fun to see the growth of the characters and also fun to see so many callbacks to other Trek shows.

Hit an episode of Peak Practice and enjoyed it. Really felt for Alex and Carrie. And I also really loved Will changing his mind about the case with the sisters. Then again, if he'd listened to Alex in the first place he wouldn't have had to.

That's it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Seeing Red, a novella that puts a couple with superpowers in a tricky situation that forces them to examine their feelings.

Here's the miniblurb:

Vesta Crock can't stand tension, and a major meta-human uprising puts everyone on edge. Jones Blaylock becomes her target for a series of supposedly fun pranks, but when a fellow member of their team gets injured, Jones sees red and that's not a good thing for the firestarter.

And a preview snippet…

By the third day of mixed-team training, Jones still didn't have his head wrapped around his situation with Vesta. "The timing is terrible." And wouldn't get any better.

Stan had the helm and ran simulations. Vesta bucked orders twice—arguing the scenes were too far off the grid. She made her point on the first throw down, getting up in Stan's grill.

But Jones stepped in on the second before Stan lost his shit. "Vesta, take five. Now."

She glared but walked off the floor.

Jones had to cut through the tension between them from the other night. Right. Exactly how to do that he hadn't figured out. Be nice if I had a guidebook or something.

He gave her five full minutes before he confronted her. "Look, we have to work every possibility. You know this. Why are you making it difficult?" And making his life problematic at the same time.

Vesta opened with a blazing volley. "Because this is stupid. You have two elite teams of meta-humans who've gone through the same training. At this point, we'll either have our shit together or we don't. Running endless sims accomplishes nothing other than having two groups get on each other's nerves." She paused a moment. "And with no outside downtime, it's like holding a match to a powder keg." She met his gaze. "Don't be shocked when it blows." Planting her hands on her hips, frustration and anger rolled off her in waves.

Jones blinked. Her righteous fury took his breath away and made his blood surge in his veins. He had to get a handle on his reaction to her. After he put her firmly in her place.

He leaned in close to her. "Look, it's a team-building exercise. Get your ass back over there and participate or forget about being in on the takedown." Which meant even longer in lockdown.

Vesta snarled. "Fine. But this is a waste of everyone's time." She stalked back to the floor and took point for the next simulation.

After the confrontation, Jones clasped the metal railing with an iron grip. He didn't notice his reaction, but Stan did. Jones heated the steel rod Stan had his elbows resting on.

Stan jerked upright. "Damn, man. You're gonna melt that if you're not careful." He rubbed at his chafed skin.

Jones winced and apologized. "Yeah, sorry. I need a minute." He got ready to leave, unsettled over the slip.

Stan grunted. "Yeah, don't blame you for losing control around your loud-mouthed hotheaded team member." He moved to the console and loaded up the next run through.

Jones didn't reply but the insult irritated him. Vesta could absolutely be a pain in the ass. Kind of came with the territory of having superpowers. But she didn't have a lock on the top spot.

And Stan definitely pushed the limit on repetitive scenarios. Something Jones would mention during their one-on-one debrief after the day's work. Right now, he needed a walk around the facility to cool off.

And figure out how to not heat up everything he came in contact with.

Having fun with this one. Vesta and Jones can be volatile, and their situation is a powder keg.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Justified

Big cold snap with a little bit of snow this week in weather. I'm getting much better about making sure I have layers on even if it's just a quick trip outside with the doggos. I also haven't had a major cold yet this season and I hope I didn't just jinx that fact.

Semibusy work week with finishing a proofread and working on two copy edits. I'm hoping to have some projects to work on over the holiday break. I'm not great at having a week or two off then trying to gear back up into work mode.

Fairly decent week of viewing. I'm trying to decide what new show to add to my usual slate of viewing fare. I'm leaning toward Beyond Paradise, but I'm not completely sure yet.

Caught another episode of Mr. and Mrs. Murder. I hadn't seen much if any of this episode and I enjoyed it. I think I have a handful of episodes left before it'll be time to switch to another show.

Watched another episode of London Kills and tensions are running high. The case ended up being very interesting and Viv and Rob are pushing the line by investigating David. Looking forward to more of this one.

Enjoyed another episode of Death in Paradise. Part one of a two-part arc and the lead-in to the show's one hundredth episode. Loved seeing Camille at the end and can't wait to watch the next episode. I've seen almost all of it and loved it.

Finished up season two of Elementary. I still think Mycroft is an ass even if I get why he did things the way he did. I'm a little on the fence about where Sherlock and Joan left things. I'll be interested to see where they pick up with season three.

Started the two-part series finale of The Batman. I don't remember if I actually watched this before or not but it was a good episode. I think I might move on to Batman Beyond after this.

Also watched another episode Classic Rugrats. I hadn't seen either of the vignettes and enjoyed both.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Justified, a novella that brings a couple with unique skills together to face a common enemy.

Here's the miniblurb:

Electra Cage and Nix Naught shouldn't be together. She's firmly on the side of law and order and he's on whatever side pays the most. They justify their liaison when they discover a common enemy—one they'll need their unique skill sets to destroy.

And a preview snippet…

Damn, she noticed everything. Maybe too much. No one else would've clocked to the fact Nix didn't actually use a key to enter the building. Her uncanny and spooky accurate ability to miss nothing piqued his curiosity. Definitely more to Electra than a smokin' hot body, steel-trap mind, and sexual energy.

Nix wanted to discover what else made her stand out.

And why Walton wanted her out of commission.

Nix led her to the middle of the open space where skylights let in rays from the moon. Electra scanned the room, her gaze missing nothing.

She glanced back at him. "Is your friend home?"

Nix's lips quirked. "At the moment, he's on a sabbatical somewhere no one else can get to." Kincaid didn't always reside on this plane of existence, something only a few were privy to.

Nix appreciated being one of the select group. The pagan master would approve of Nix's use of the sanctuary as neutral ground. Especially if he used it to find answers.

He settled down onto a pile of cushions. "Please, make yourself comfortable." He debated over how to start and how much to tell her.

Electra gracefully removed her jacket and sank down across from him.

Before he said anything, he wanted one simple point made clear. "Why are we here?"

Electra frowned. "Because you didn't want to talk in the bar."

Nix shot her a look. Playing obtuse didn't look good on her.

She sighed. "We're here because I'm close to discovering your secret."

Nix prompted her for more. "And?"

Electra kicked her shoes off and planted her feet in his lap, very close to his crotch. "Anything you tell me stays between you and me and won't be used against you." She paused a moment. "Unless you've committed murder. All bets are off if you've killed anyone."

Nix nodded. "Fair enough. But I'm not a hitman." Even if Walton wanted Nix to cross that line.

And Nix's gut said the fucker would want exactly that.

Electra waved a hand. "Fine. You're a boy scout. Now satisfy my curiosity about this…" Her foot slid upward, coming to rest on his dick.

Nix popped the button on his pants. "It might be easier to show you…"

I'm having so much fun with this story. Electra and Nix will end up making a great team in or out of bed.

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Belle of the Underground (a First Breed Nation novella)

I'm having a weird month so far. I'm doing well with posting daily relaxation, stress reducer things to avoid becoming the Scrinch (Scrooge and the Gringe combined), yet I'm also feeling kind of down, which is not the norm for me. I'm thinking a happy medium might be the best I'll do this year and I'm okay with that.

Had a week of busywork projects, which ended up being kind of fun. I like jumping around and moving back and forth between jobs. Keeps me on my toes and paying attention.

Had a solid week of television. A lot of what I worked on this week let me have background noise and I got a lot of shows watched!

I started with the first sixtieth anniversary special for Doctor Who. Thoroughly enjoyed having Ten and Donna back together. Looking forward to the second special this week.

Trying out a new to me show with Elementary. Watched the first two episodes and I like it so far. I didn't watch at all when it originally aired and I'm looking forward to seeing more of this show.

Caught two episodes of The Batman and should be semi-close to the end of season one. Looking forward to more of this one.

Enjoyed two episodes of Classic Rugrats. Liked both and loved the play on vintage TV shows the ghost stories episode had.

Watched two episodes of VIP and remembered one from the original airing of the show. Lots of fun with the ice bullets before they were really a thing.

Caught another episode of My Life Is Murder and ended up liking it a lot. The drag queen setting was fun and the snark fest between Alexa and the manager deserves a chef's kiss.

Enjoyed another Agatha Raisin episode. It's the first of a two-parter so I'm excited to see what happens next. Very fun to watch Agatha and James navigate living together.

Finished the second half of a two-part Silent Witness. Actually liked how this one played out. It's cool to revisit old cases and the one they went back to ended up being an important one.

Caught another Death in Paradise episode. I'm enjoying Florence and Humph working together. And I'm fond of the JP and Dwayne dynamic.

Also started a new Passionflix series with The Secret Life of Amy Benson. Got the first episode in and I'm intrigued so far. Looking forward to seeing how the two seasons play out.

That's it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Belle of the Underground, a novella that launches the First Breed Nation series.

Here's the miniblurb:

Raven Malone doesn't have an easy job, but she's a mix of freak and geek so both groups are willing to work with her. She meets her match when regular guy, Gio Roberts, starts poking around in her cover up of an unexplained murder. Sparks fly, especially when she lets him in on the underground community she's established. They forge a bond and work side by side, trying to keep everything together. 

And a preview snippet…

Flushing slightly because she'd completely understood his meaning, Gio quickened his step until he reached her side. "What did this used to be? Aside from the subway part. I got that much." He stuck close to her as she led him out and across an old, unfinished tunnel then up into another area.

Raven leaned against the wall, propping one foot behind her on the smooth surface. "From what we can tell, the area we're getting ready to head into was once a subsection of an old hospital. Long abandoned."

"How long have you been down here?"

She punched in a series of numbers and the door slid open. "We've been gathering down here for as long as anyone can remember. The more modern aspects have all occurred in the last five years." She entered the area and he followed, stunned at the sight greeting his eyes.

"What the hell?" He'd been expecting something dank and dusty. This was far from it.

Raven chuckled. "I know. It's rather amazing."

They stood in the middle of a lab, a pretty well set up one.

"There's a clinic through the big doors over there." Raven pointed to the east. "And we have a containment center through the ones along the back wall."

"Containment center?"

"Nothing big, but it's where I hope to hold the one responsible for the killings."  

Gio shot her a skeptical glance. "What exactly do you think you can do down here that can't be done up there?" He pointed toward the city above them.

"Trust me when I say it'll be better if you let us handle it." She wound her way around the equipment to make her way to a large board hanging in the middle of the room. "The cops upstairs will never be able to bring this person in and make a case."

Gio made his way to her location and stood across the table from her. "Look, you can't handle this. The justice system isn't perfect, but it works." He placed his elbows on the table and leaned toward her. "The victims' families need justice and closure. You can't act as judge and jury. Unless someone put you in charge up there and I missed it."  

Raven snorted. "First, we're talking about down here. And yes, I am the one in charge. You might say I'm the HBIC … and if you knew the whole story, you'd understand exactly how true that statement is. Second, if your system could deal with this, I'd let it. Believe me when I say it's hundreds of times easier."

He considered her words. "Then why don't you let it?" He had a very strong feeling he wouldn't like her answer.

She crooked her finger at him. "C'mere. I'll show you." With a flourish she tugged a white drape off the board hanging above the table.

Gio is so much fun to write. He already walks a fine line and after meeting Raven the line is stretched even tighter.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye 

Sunday Snippet: Xtremely Personal

And our above normal temperatures are over for now. Most of the week ended up being kind of hot and humid. Friday brought some rain and cooler weather, like a twenty-degree drop. It definitely feels more like fall.

Busy with work projects and I'm getting closer to launching the new venture I've been working on. I'm not quite ready for prime time but I'm getting there. So excited!

Kind of a slow week for viewing television. I had some distractions and ended up being focused on other things.

I caught another episode of Agatha Raisin and thoroughly enjoyed it. Agatha might end up getting her man, but my big question is whether she'll want to hold on after she gets him. I kind of like the true to life vibe this show has.

Finished up the second part of Silent Witness and actually kind of enjoyed the twisty turns this one took. Also enjoyed seeing Nikki and Matt try to work through a bumpy bit.

Caught another episode of Death in Paradise. I'm somewhere in the middle of whether I like how the commissioner tries to nose in these early seasons. I love the character and I like how he interacts with the others even if I'm not completely sure if he's 100 percent legit sometimes.

Watched another episode of Only Murders in the Building. Lots of little shout outs to Broadway in this episode and I liked that. Also loved seeing Oliver's son so concerned about his dad. Kind of bummed there's a new detective, but holding out hope we'll see our favorite one later.

Started season three of my Battlestar Galactica rewatch. The opening episode ranks right up there with "33" for being so well done. The next episode is also stellar. Can't wait to watch it again.

Enjoyed an episode of The Batman. The Joker returned and wreaked havoc per usual, which is always fun. And Alfred's snark was on point as always.

Watched an episode of Classic Rugrats. Kind of fun to see some bumps in adjusting to having Dil in the mix. I'll always have a soft spot for the first five seasons because those were the ones I watched the most with my oldest kiddo, but I also enjoy the newer seasons because they have a larger dynamic, especially when two more characters are added to the mix.

Started another episode of VIP and should finish it up later today. I forgot how many dream sequences this show had whether it be sleeping or waking ones. They're always kind of odd but fun.

That's pretty it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Xtremely Personal, the second book in the Xtreme Justice trilogy.

Here's the miniblurb:

A blast from Cythe's past comes blowing in at the worst possible time. Nyx struggles to adjust to being part of a team and half of a couple and dealing with Cythe's ex isn't high on her list of things she wants to accomplish. The duo has to thwart the ex-girlfriend's troublemaking, and both have to brace for a showdown of epic proportions.

And a preview snippet…

Nyx didn't need to buy a clue to instinctively know Cythe's past stood in front of him.

And he's not happy about it.

A myriad of emotions rolled through Nyx—concern, curiosity, and annoyance. But oddly, jealousy didn't rear its ugly head. Mainly because Nyx planned to calmly stake her claim and leave no doubt in the other woman's mind where Cythe's affections were now.

She strolled down the stairs and walked over to Cythe's side, tilting her chin up to give him a long, lingering kiss.

Breaking the embrace, she gave him a crooked smile. "Hey." Her arm went around his waist.

Cythe cupped her ass. "Hey, yourself." His voice rumbled in the sexy way she loved.

Nyx directed her attention to the woman intruding on her plans. "This is the ex?" A cool vision in a skintight pantsuit that aimed to be seductive complete with a zipper from the neck down to the apex of her legs.

Would make removal slick and easy.

Cythe nodded. "Uh-huh. Maris Thompkins. And she's just leaving." His head jerked toward the door.

Nyx tsked. "Not yet, Cythe. She hasn't given you an answer." Nyx fixed her gaze on Maris. "I believe he asked why you came back after years of being away and what, exactly, it is you really want." She gave Cythe a sideways glance. "Is that about the gist of it?"

When he nodded, Nyx raised her brows and focused on Maris again.

Maris's nostrils flared but she didn't reply. Her eyes darkened with anger, and she pressed her lips together in a display of frustration.

Nyx placed her head on Cythe's shoulder but didn't break eye contact with Maris. "We're waiting. I suggest you get on with the explanation in short order." She straightened. "As you can see, we have plans and you're not invited to participate."

Maris snarled. "Never mind why I'm here. I obviously didn't know Cythe had a little playmate." She turned her full attention to Cythe. "You'll regret this. I had plans for our future and you've fucked that up now." She started toward the door.

Nyx waited until Maris had her hand on the knob. "Maris?" When the other woman paused and glanced over her shoulder, Nyx finished. "I'm not a playmate. Cythe and I are partners. You'd do well to remember that."

Maris let out a rude snort and yanked the door open, letting it slam shut behind her.

Nyx turned back to Cythe and raised her gaze to the loft. "My place?"

Cythe grunted. "Absolutely. Gonna be a while before the stench of her return wears off down here." He snagged her hand and started for the spiral staircase.

I have so much love for this couple. They're fun to write and like to turn convention on its side. Can't wait to see where the rest of this story goes.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Xtreme Vibrations (Xtreme Justice)

Welcome to Spooky Season month! I love October even if we're having unseasonably higher temperatures. Fall is such a fickle season in Ohio, but I'm hoping for an actual cooling down before winter snow comes calling.

Super busy work week with little projects, which actually gave me some time to write and organize. I'm hoping to launch a new venture in the next couple of weeks and having that extra time is helping.

Not a bad week for viewing television. The timing of my work projects overlapped a lot this week, so I didn't get to watch as much.

Watched the first of a two-parter Silent Witness. This one is very twisty and I'm afraid Nikki is headed for heartbreak. I love the premise of the case, though.

Caught another episode of Death in Paradise. The contrast between Richard and Humphrey is fun. Richard was very tight-lipped and refused to be vulnerable. Humphrey is super vulnerable almost from the word go. He's also much more in tune with people in general.

Started season three of Only Murders in the Building. Gotta say, I'm not quite as riveted as I was for the first two seasons, but I love that we get to dive into Oliver's world. We kind of started in Mabel's even if we didn't know that fact at first, and season two brought Charles's past into the picture, literally. It's fun to see Oliver interact with the theater crowd.

Watched another episode of The Batman. Rather enjoyed the take on the puppet master Scarface in this 'verse. And Alfred setting up Bruce's dating profile always makes me chuckle.

Started season six of Classic Rugrats. Introducing Dil with two episodes of how life is different was a good choice. Loved Spike saving the day in his episode.

Caught another episode of VIP. Lots of fun and they nailed the trash TV talk-show vibe of the late nineties / early aughts.

Started another episode of My Life Is Murder and I'm enjoying it. Alexa is a tough nut to crack sometimes and I kind of like that. I do get a little annoyed when she's callous and treats others like they're a waste of her time. Hopefully that smooths out at some point.

And that's pretty much if for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Xtreme Vibrations, a meta human romance and part of the Xtreme Justice series.

Here's the miniblurb:

Cythe and Nyx have one solid ally in their life—Stanja Davidich. When a former mentor kidnaps Stanja to use her vibrating power to wreak havoc on the high seas, Cythe and Nyx go against orders to rescue Stanja. But during the attempt, Nyx falls into a trap and Cythe races the clock to get the women in his life back before he dies from being separated from Nyx.

And a preview snippet…

Cythe followed Nyx out of the briefing room doing a silent countdown. Three … two … one…

Nyx whirled to face, pitching her voice low. "What the hell was that? Are they serious about not trying to find Stanja?" The words hissed out in anger.

Cythe gave her a head shake. "Not here. Let's head home." He grasped her elbow and led her outside. "The walls have ears and eyes. We can't discuss this here." Ushering her into their SUV, he darted around and slid behind the wheel.

When Nyx opened her mouth, still fuming mad, he held up his fist in a stop motion then twirled his finger around, indicating the vehicle might be bugged. Nyx huffed out an angry breath and crossed her arms over her chest. She lifted her chin, more or less telling to get the stick out … because she had a lot more to say.

Cythe took the shortest route back to his building. Once he parked, Nyx had the door open and traveled halfway up the stairs to the loft before he even cut the engine. Cythe got out and braced for a pissed-off confrontation. Heading up the steps, he paused at the midpoint. Nyx held a hefty envelope in her hands and wore a bemused expression on her face.

Cythe shrugged. He had no idea where it came from or how it got on the landing outside her door.

Nyx handed the envelope over and entered her space. "What the hell is going on, Cythe?" She waited for him to follow her in then shut the door.

Cythe set the envelope on the table. "Obviously, the UNIT brass thinks Stanja turned traitor. They were pretty damn clear during that briefing." He studied the packet, his gut certain it had come from Stanja.

Nyx snorted. "No shit. But that doesn't explain why they wouldn't try to find her. If for no other reason than to use her as an example." She circled the room, pent-up energy rolling off her in waves.

Cythe grunted. "Yeah, well, there's an unwritten rule about handling those who exit UNIT under less than ideal circumstances … which means they'll be looking for her, but it's not the kind of all hands on deck kind of thing." He finally caved and grabbed the envelope again, making a blade with his forefinger and tearing through the seal.

Nyx made a low growling sound. "You mean she'll be hunted down like an animal." Her hands balled into fists. "Won't she?"

Cythe pulled out a bound book and several folded pages. "Uh, yeah, probably." He opened the topmost note and quickly scanned the contents.

Nyx marched over and jabbed a finger into his shoulder. "And you're okay with that? I mean, Stanja pisses me off on the regular, but I can't believe she turned her back on UNIT. The damn place means too much to her." She went to poke him again.

Cythe snatched her fingers. "She didn't. Turn her back on UNIT." He handed the missive to Nyx. "She's been grabbed by a ghost from her past."

Nyx read the brief note. "Holy fuck." Her gaze met Cythe's. "What're we gonna do to get her back?"

Cythe huffed out a breath. "Great question."

I'm having a lot of fun with this series. Cythe and Nyx are a true joy to write.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Xtreme Attraction (Xtreme Justice book one)

Our temperature warmed up again but didn't get super-hot, so the week ended up being very nice. The leaves are starting to turn and are already falling to the ground. I'm sad the colors aren't nearly as bright as they used to be.

Had a busy work week with lots of potential new projects. I also had some extra time to finish up a fall holiday short story, which makes me so happy! I ended up getting a good chunk of writing done and hope that continues this week.

Ended up with a decent week of viewing television. I got a little distracted with writing so about one full round of my current lineup. Not bad all things considered.

Watched two episodes of My Life Is Murder. So far, I'm enjoying the series. I feel like I might get a little annoyed with Alexa, but it's early days yet and that might change. I do love the supporting characters and how Alexa's backstory is unfolding at a slow drip.

Got almost two episodes of Agatha Raisin watched. I'll be finishing the second one up later today. Another show where I love the supporting characters so much. And Agatha is a lot of fun.

Finished up the second half of Silent Witness, which finished out season twenty-two. I thoroughly enjoyed Nikki knowing in her gut she hadn't made a mistake and then following that through to prove it. I was kind of bummed the assistant ended up being the reason for the problems. Also loved the additional case of the drug-trial testing and how that one played out.

Started season three of Death in Paradise. I've watched the episode before, but it's a great example of how to bring in a new character while giving the original a proper send-off. Looking forward to Humphrey's tenure.

Finished up Fantasy Island's second season. I ended up being fairly pleased with the lack of extended angst between Elena and Javier. So nice to see Ruby's daughter and follow that story. The wives' club fantasy ended up being pretty great also. If and when the writer and actor strike is over, I'll look forward to a season three if the show is renewed.

Caught another episode of The Batman and it's one I'd forgotten. I like having some different or lesser-known rogue characters. And the Alfred and Bruce interactions are fun in this series.

Watched a double-header of Battlestar Galactica with "Lay Down Your Burden," the season two finale episodes. So much to love and so much to not love about these two episodes. And I'm still completely amazed with how prescient this series ended up being. It's freaky sometimes.

Enjoyed an episode of Classic Rugrats, which ended season five and ushered in the first movie and baby Dil. I'd completely forgotten about Charles's parents being in this one. Kind of cool to see them.

Also caught another episode of VIP. It's one I remember from way back in the day and a fun one, where Tasha actually give Val kudos. This is an over-the-top wild show but so much fun to watch.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Xtreme Attraction, the opening book of a trilogy about metahumans.

Here's the miniblurb:

The double X gene found in junk DNA makes life very interesting for a group of humans. Nyx Boit reshapes matter with her force of will. Cythe Baldetto literally has blades of steel at his fingertips. When Cythe is sent to recruit Nyx, she wants no part of his offer. To make her point, she converts his arrows, darts, and knives into liquid pools at his feet. Finally meeting his match, Cythe figures recruiting Nyx is out, but wooing her is most definitely in.

And a preview snippet…

You could kill me if you ever decide you're tired of me…

Cythe wanted to reassure Nyx. He didn't think he could ever harm her.

He cupped her face. "Yes, I suppose that's possible, but it's not probable. I'm not wired that way."

The ex love of his life would be dead if he had been.

He drew Nyx off the bar stool and led her to the couch. "In the interest of full disclosure, I had one other person I reacted to the way I did the first moment I laid eyes on you." He rarely thought of her and didn't want to now.

Nyx settled back and tucked her legs under her. "What happened?"

Cythe shrugged, unwilling to share the truly intimate details. "She wouldn't commit."

And he nearly lost his life because of her inability to do so.

Nyx met his gaze. "Is she still around?" Her voice wobbled just a little.

His lips curved. "She's not dead, if that's what you're asking." He sobered. "But, no, she's not around at the moment." And hopefully wouldn't be anytime soon.

Nyx nodded. "But you have history?" She spoke quietly.

Cythe inclined his chin. "Yes. But there's no longer a connection in that way." And there never would be again.

Nyx shook her head. "What about the pheromones?"

Cythe answered with honesty. "They affect her, but not me. Not anymore. When she broke the covenant, I almost died. But we'd just discovered the latent by product in my DNA. That said, I can't ever be with her again. The desire is no longer there…" He met Nyx's gaze again. "On my end, anyway. Physically, I have no reaction."

Nyx filled in the blanks. "But she does?" Her eyebrows arched.

Cythe nodded. "Yes." Hence the reason his ex had made tracks as quickly as possible.

Nyx shrugged. "That sucks for her."

Cythe couldn't argue. "It does. And she couldn't control the way she responded to me … which made for a lot of tense interactions."

And became part of the reason she left for places unknown. She didn't want a full commitment, but she also didn't want to constantly want Cythe.

He faced Nyx. "I'm telling you everything because I want to avoid the same scenario with you. Can you understand?" His gut said if they acted on the attraction in a physical sense, all bets would be off.

And that probably wouldn't bode well for either of them.

Nyx nodded. "I think so…" She got up and slowly paced his living area. "But I'm trying to wrap my head around it all."

He understood. He'd dropped a major truth bomb on her.

I'm enjoying this couple. They're fun to write and the three books are coming together the way I'd hoped they would.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Voltage

Wow. August snuck up on me. I need someone to slow time down a little so I can catch up. I did have a great week with work projects and I'm hoping that trend continues through the end of the year.

Had an okay week with watching television. I'm going through a weird phase where I'm feeling kind of blah about everything I'm viewing. Not because the shows aren't interesting … more because my attention is very scattered and it's hard to focus right now.

I started and ended the week with episodes of Strangest Things. Seriously, there are some truly weird and bizarre items featured on this show. People are strange sometimes.

Caught another episode of Classic Rugrats. Both featured fun bits with Grandpa Lou (Lew? I honestly can't remember how it's spelled.) They also had an in loving memory of David Doyle, the actor who voiced the character. Nice reminder of his work.

Watched another episode of Madame Blanc Mysteries. We're an episode away from the end of season two and I'm not sure if I'm interested in whatever the creepy lady has in store for Jean or not. I'm on the fence about whether I hope there's a resolution to wrap this part up or if it should continue through season three, if there is one.

Enjoyed another episode of Cannes Confidential. This show is so much fun even with the dark theme swirling in the background. I really hope there's another season of this.

Started a new two-part Silent Witness. Very interesting premise. I'm not completely sure I have this one figured out, but I think I do.

Caught another Death in Paradise, which finished out the first season. Looking forward to starting season two this week.

Continued my rewatch of Battlestar Galactica with "Black Market." I have so much love for this episode even though it has a lot of flaws. Getting action-hero Lee is kind of worth having some thrown-in plot devices.

Watched another Fantasy Island episode and, again, I'm cautiously optimistic with how they're handling the personal lives of the characters. Also really enjoyed the fantasy of the three women. Such a great episode!

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Voltage, a metahuman novella where the dynamics shift with a couple, and they gain some insight into each other.

Here's the miniblurb:

Tess Truvient, Gentry Malloway, and Hunter Keepman use their meta-human abilities for the cause of justice by working with a covert organization with a global reach. Tess and Hunter have a volatile relationship, on one day and off the next. Enter new recruit, Gentry, and Tess finds a much-needed distraction—if only for a few months—except something about Gentry draws her in and she's caught off guard when it's time for him to ship out to his permanent post.

And a preview snippet…

Tess melted into the kiss.

Aw, hell. He always knows how to push my buttons.

She responded, her hands skimming over the skin she knew so well. Hunter worked hard to maintain his physique and stay in top shape. But his powerful brain drew her in and held her interest.

He moved behind her, his hands sliding over her stomach to delve into her pants. He found her clit and swirled a finger around the hard nub. Her knees buckled and Hunter caught her, bracing his back against the lockers and tugging her ass onto his lap.

Tess worked the buttons of her fatigues loose and inched them down to give him some space. Hunter took the advantage and worked two fingers into her hot core. Brushing his thumb in counterpoint to the thrust of his hand, he quickly got her off.

She shuddered against him, a wave of pleasure crashing over her. Her bones turned to mush, and she collapsed in a spent heap. The man always knew exactly what to do to make her fly over the edge of bliss.

When she angled around to meet his lips, Hunter gave her a quick, hard kiss but eased away and straightened, nudging her to her feet.

She faced him, tilting her head. "You don't want me to return the favor?" Her palm cupped the hard ridge of his cock.

She'd gladly provide a toe-curling blowjob. If only to take the edge off. Mutual satisfaction worked as a great mood lifter.

Hunter shook his head. "Not right now. I wanted something of you to take home with me." His fingers glistened with her essence. "I won't expect you tonight … and you'll have the courtesy of giving me a heads-up if you move on with him, right?" An eyebrow arched.

She blinked but nodded, quickly yanking her fatigues up and fastening them. "Uh, yes. Of course." Caught between satiation and bewilderment, she didn't know what else to say.

Leaning in, Hunter gave her a sweetly sexy kiss then with a final glance at her, he headed for the exit.

She stared after him, his stricken face haunting her when he left.

This story might end up going in a direction I didn't expect. The sages are whispering in a corner right now and that usually means they're up to no good.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Think Twice

Celebrated my thirty-fourth anniversary this weekend! We had crappy weather, so we brought Chinese home and stayed in for the evening.

Had another busy work week and I'm so thankful the projects are rolling in. Working on a terrific manuscript and I'm so excited to dive into the story. This will be a fun one!

Had a so-so week of viewing television. I'm still focusing on the great cleanup and spent a good amount of time reorganizing and rearranging things in my living room.

I did finish up Wednesday and I enjoy this show so much. I'm excited to see where things go from here.

Caught another episode of Classic Rugrats. The autumn leaves one is fun. I love how much this show still appeals to both kids and adults.

Watched the premier episode of Brokenwood Mysteries season nine. This is another show I have a lot of love for. I miss a few of the original recurring characters but I'm enjoying some of the newer ones. Trudy in particular ends up being fun.

Enjoyed an episode of Endeavor. I'm kind of sad to see Thursday falling in with the new crew. But I'm hoping there might be a twist to this thread. We'll see what happens.

Caught another episode of Classic Who. I'm nearing the end of the classic episodes and I'm happy I did a full rewatch. There are a bunch of episodes I either missed as a kid or completely forgot.

Started a new Silent Witness two-parter. I kind of like seeing Nikki in therapy. Not really sure what's going on with Jack, but he's never boring. Thomas is another one I'm not sure about. His interaction, or lack thereof, with his daughter left a lot to be desired. Clarissa is awesome as always.

Enjoyed another episode of Battlestar Galactica. This is another one of my favorites because Lee Adama steps fully into the role of being a badass.

Also needed some background noise and I ended up watching the Surf Now channel and The Forgotten Coast. Ended up enjoying it a lot.

Started another episode of Strangest Things. Kind of an odd mix of topics with this one, but very interesting so far.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Think Twice, a novella where the characters take two steps forward and one step back more than once with each other.

Here's the mini-blurb:

When Judd Millian asks Pru Watson to work with him to take out the evil invading their city, she doesn't hesitate to say yes. But when he wants something more, she's reluctant, unable to commit to an answer. The indecision drives a wedge between them, but Pru won't let Judd get sucked into the worst part of her past.

And a preview snippet…

Pru hesitated before answering. "Because you matter. This is my mess to clean up. I can't deal with something happening to you because of me."

Judd opened his mouth, closed it, swallowed hard then visibly relaxed his stance before he finally spoke. "You do realize you're doing exactly the thing you never wanted me to do, right? You're taking the decision out of my hands and not giving me a choice." He held her gaze, daring her to counter.

And she wanted to. Wanted to deny the truth of his words. But she couldn't because he'd called things exactly right.

Her shoulders slumped. "I do now." She whirled away. "I've been so blind. Because I let my need for revenge and closure consume and drive me to the point of absurdity." She turned back to face Judd. "I don't have to do everything alone. Especially this. The good of all takes priority. I finally understand this." How many times had he pulled her out of the fire.

Going it alone didn't matter because Judd always turned up at the right time.

She needed him for a lot of things, but only one she had confidence to ask about. "I'd like to plan the op together. Can we do that?" Anything else would maybe come later.

Judd tilted his head to one side. "And after?" He didn't spell it out, but what he wanted couldn't be clearer.

She bit her lip, chewing over her response. "I don't know. What I want and what I can have are often two very different things." At least to her brain they were.

Judd shook his head. "They don't have to be. The fact you won't see the difference is a big part of our problem." He sighed. "And honestly, we can plan an op together and maybe get lucky and pull it off, but half the trouble is the constant start, stop, move forward, go back, then dive headlong off a cliff. It's exhausting and it's not healthy for either of us." He started walking back and forth. "I've given you all the space I possibly can. I don't think it's too much to ask to have some kind of assurance that once this is over … we can actually, I don't know, maybe have a conversation about where we go from here and what we want from the future."

She gave a nod. "It's not. Too much I mean. You're asking me to make a decision before we get tangled back up in trying to eliminate the evil running rampant in the city." The idea scared the hell out of her, but he deserved some kind of assurance.

Judd and Pru are on the same side but often at cross purposes. This ended up being a conversation they needed to have.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye