Sunday Snippet: Raid at Midnight

Wow, half of July is gone and I'm trying to get my office organized and figure out how we're going to get my daughter moved into her dorm. If she can even move into the place. The clear out and organization is going better than expected. I ordered several types of smaller bookcases and some drawers to help corral all the crap I've had surrounding me for close to a decade. It's way past time.

I didn't get a ton of television watched this week but I do have a few updates. First, I'm still having feels about Arrow's final episode. There might be more coming about the series as a whole at some point.

Caught Roswell, New Mexico and honestly truly enjoyed the episode, "I'll Stand by You." The entire cast got some solid screen time and that makes me very happy. Special kudos for Michael and Isabel's arc and I loved Kyle telling Liz she's family because he gets what she means now. I'm starting to truly appreciate the complexities of the characters' interactions. So good.

Watched the penultimate episode of Strike Back and, damn, the cast brought their A games. Seriously, every single moment had me on the edge of my seat. The crazy fight between Coltrane and Wyatt topped the list because the size difference is almost comical but the entire point wasn't lost on me. The trio needed to clear the air and that was the best way to do it. And I'll freely admit I absolutely loved Chetri's journey. I love that she pretty gave a giant middle finger to her captors and that her end didn't happen before the team arrived. Another huge eff you to the antagonists. Excellent viewing. Seriously.

Started another new episode of Blue Heelers and this one is off the charts crazy. Different from the usual and I like that.

Began a rewatch of Hollywood Dirt, a Passionflix original. I love the chemistry between the actors and I also appreciate the fact that the casting department will go back to actors who are terrific.

Caught several episodes of Danger Man and both were ones I don't remember watching. Each ended up being terrific.

That's pretty much my week in a nutshell. Tonight's post is from Raid at Midnight, formerly known as Under the Black Hawk Banner, which became the series title. I've done a little research and decided I need to make a change for the series and it's tentatively going to be Under the Black Raven Banner.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Verity Jones joins an elite group of civilian protectors in a battle-torn land. She's the daughter of an ace fighter pilot who tore up the skies in the first epic war. Emory Cavendish is the lead pilot and his crew pulls off amazing feats, largely thanks to Verity, which drives their commanding officer mad to the point of putting Verity in danger.

And a preview snippet…

Emory quelled the urge to stare at the newest member of the group. Whitcomb already set a terrible standard with his lack of welcome. Emory didn't care who worked on their planes as long as they flew.

He led Specialist Jones down a darkened corridor then withdrew another set of keys. "We'll be heading to the east wing. No one is currently housed there, but it's kept clean and ready." After unlocking the door, he motioned for VJ to precede him.

She stepped through the doorway and paused. "This isn't going to cause problems, is it? Only having one person in the entire wing?" Her eyes squinted when he pressed the lightswitch.

Emory's lips curved. "Not at all. We're not fully staffed, but we do have a group that comes in to clean and air out the unused sections of the manor once a week. We have a cook that stays here full-time and his wife does the bulk of the cleaning and laundry. I'll introduce them to you…" He paused and tilted his head. "What do you prefer to be called? We're fairly casual around here since we're a civilian outfit." Only Whitcomb really adhered to rank and structure. "Do you go by your initials?"

His companion lifted a shoulder. "Sometimes. But Jones is fine. I'm used to being referred to by my last name." Her gaze darted away from his.

He shook his head. "We have two other Joneses. Do you mind if I ask what the VJ stands for?"

She frowned for a moment. "Uh, Verity is my first name. The middle name is Jay, as in J-A-Y." She rolled her eyes. "My dad's got a thing for family names and every generation's firstborn has that middle name."

Emory stopped at a set of stairs. "Up this way." His curiosity compelled him to ask more questions. "So, the firstborns are usually male then?" Her lips quirked and the smile reached her eyes.

She gave a nod. "Got it on the first guess." Her gaze raked over the landing when they topped the stairs. "Wow. I'm going to be the only one here?" A slight echo bounced off the walls.

Emory lifted his chin. "For now, yes. Whitcomb, no doubt, thinks you'll go stir-crazy not having any kind of company and you'll ask for a transfer straight away." He paused and caught her gaze. "But you're not gonna give him that satisfaction, are you?" He arched a brow to let her know he hoped she wouldn't.

Verity grinned. "Probably not. I tend to stick to my guns." She sobered. "And I will prove my worth." Her tone held a ton of conviction.

Emory flashed a smile. "I have no doubt…" Making a quick decision, he added, "Verity."

She blinked, showing her surprise. "Um, okay. I appreciate the confidence." She glanced around then met his gaze again. "Do I take my pick? I'm a little out of my depth here."

Emory shook his head. "Me too. And, yes, choose a room or rooms, whatever you'd like. I'll see if Mrs. Bainbridge can sort out a kettle and maybe a hot plate for your use." He pointed down the hallway. "There's a loo at either end of the corridor and you can do some washing in the one on this end if you need to."

He waited while Verity poked her head into a few of the rooms then chose one. A good choice. The window looked out over the hangar and the runway would be in full view.

Once she placed her rucksack at the end of the bed, he gave her a full briefing on the planes and upcoming missions. She asked intelligent questions, not surprising given the credentials and signatures she'd brought with her. But she completely threw him when she asked for details about a damaged rudder and the degree it affected the yaw. Only someone who flew would really think to ask something that specific.

Intrigued beyond measure, Emory started piecing a few bits of information together. First and foremost, the home office finally sent someone who could maintain their small fleet of planes and really understand how they got used. Secondly, she had a ton of pull if the president and prime minister endorsed her presence. And, finally, whether she liked it or not, he had a pretty good idea where her intrinsic knowledge came from. And Whitcomb is going to be dead in the air if he thinks he'll run her out of the group.

He wanted to verify his gut instinct, but if it proved correct, Verity Jones would be a valuable asset to the Black Raven program.

Female or not.

I love this series! I think I've finally got a handle on how everything is going to play out. There might be a few tweaks here and there, but the alternate reality thing is so much fun to write.

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Turning the Tide

June is coming to a close and I can honestly say this feels like the longest effing year while at the same time the days are flying off the calendar. It's bizarre and baffling. 2020 is probably going to go down as the year I want to forget but won't be able to. LOL

Rather slow week of television but I did get a few things watched. I started with Kings of Broadway, a charity program on YouTube. Thoroughly enjoyed it.

Started season three of Danger Man and thought it would be color episodes, but it's not yet. Enjoyed the first episode.

Caught another episode of Strike Back and Strike Back Declassified. I've only got two episodes left and then I'll have to start a rewatch because I love these characters so much.

Started a new episode of Blue Heelers and look forward to seeing how it ends. I like this Aussie drama and have a feeling I'll be seeing a lot of familiar faces.

Watched another episode of Gargoyles. It's one I don't remember so it was nice to have something to sink into. I think I'm about a third of the way through the second season.

That's pretty much it for television this week. Tonight's post is from Turning the Tide, a Black Hawk Banner novella. Interestingly enough, the series name is going to change, but I haven't landed on the new title yet.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Verity and Emory have to balance the personal with the professional when they're back at Blackhawk command. They're tasked with taking out a crucial enemy stronghold by exploiting a vulnerable weakness. The removal of the base will give the allied forces a way into the heart of enemy territory. Just when they think they're ready to go, Verity's ace fighter pilot dad shows up to see his daughter … and meet the man who wants her—Emory Cavendish.

And a preview snippet…

Verity Jones kept her gaze on the panel in the wall of her room. She loosened the belt of her robe, anticipation filling her. Any moment now, Emory Cavendish would enter her room through the secret passageway and her night would be perfect.

A soft click sounded a heartbeat before the panel slid outward and Emory came through.

Verity's eyes widened and a laugh escaped. "Ah, Emory. You're eager tonight, aren't you?" His shirt and pants were thrown over his shoulder and his boots dangled from his fingertips.

He flashed a grin. "I'm always eager to be with you and we don't have enough time together." He shrugged. "I figured I'd cut through the preliminaries." Placing his boots beside the secret door, he then dropped his clothes on the wooden chair beside the writing table.

Verity moved forward, her robe billowing around her legs. "I love a smart man." Her fingers worked under his cotton T-shirt. "And you left me something to remove." She pushed the fabric upward and Emory lifted his arms, making it easy for her to slip the garment over his head.

His hands cupped her shoulders and edged the silky material away from her skin. The robe hit the floor the same moment his boxers did. Skin-to-skin, they tumbled to the bed and their lips met.

Verity loved everything about kissing Emory. He never rushed through an embrace, took his time exploring her mouth before he moved on to a sensuous skate along her jawline and down to her collarbone. He left a burning trail over the top of her breasts and paused to nuzzle between them before choosing which pebbled nipple he'd tease with his tongue.

Verity used her hands to skim over his back, down his torso, and finally cupped his ass. She kneaded the flesh then worked her hands around to palm his erection. The shaft swelled in reaction and her fingers curled around the girth, adding stimulation.

Emory's lips ghosted over her skin with a satisfied hum when he maneuvered his way back upward. "We're not gonna last long tonight, are we?" He cupped a breast, thumbing over the taut peak.

Verity shook her head. "Not the first time, no." Her legs splayed, inviting him closer, and she guided his cock to her entrance.

Emory flexed his hips, ready to thrust deeply but a rapid knock on her door kept him from following through. He rolled to his side and Verity scrambled off the bed to grab her robe.

Tying the sash, she called out, "Be there in a minute." She checked to make sure Emory had ducked out of sight before twisting the knob.

Percy waited outside, pacing back and forth. He stopped when she stepped out into the hallway. To his credit, he didn't gawk at her attire.

Instead, he blew out a long exhale. "Important intel's coming in. Worthington needs you two." He jerked his head toward the main wing.

Verity raised a brow but let the two slide. She and Emory worked at being discreet but the entire company probably had a solid handle on their status. As long as they didn't flaunt their relationship, the status quo would be golden.

Verity lifted her chin. "I'll make sure Emory gets the message." After Percy gave her a brief salute, she closed the door to find Emory tugging on his boxers.

The sight pained her, watching him cover his magnificent ass. She looked away, searching for her discarded uniform.

He glanced over his shoulder. "I'll head down through the passageway." He dragged his shirt on then jammed his legs into his fatigues. "Don't think Worthington would appreciate me showing up sans pants." He didn't take the time to button up, instead yanking his uniform shirt on.

Verity chuckled. "He might not, but I sure would appreciate it."

Okay, maybe not. She'd be useless if they had to plan a mission.

Emory's lips quirked. "We'd get nothing done if I tried that." He got up and cupped her cheek. "I'll see you down there." He leaned in and caught her mouth in a kiss.

Verity melted into him for a moment then stepped away so he could head down. She opted against her uniform and threw some regular clothes on and exited her room to attend the briefing.

Julie met Verity on the way up the stairs. Holding a mug of tea in one hand and a warmed pot in the other. Verity had no doubt where Julie had been—holed up in Worthington's room.

She shook her head. "There's something about late-night tea runs, isn't there?" Her teasing tone had Julie's lips twitching.

She lifted a shoulder. "The tea is just so much better in the main wing instead of our makeshift kitchenette."

Verity laughed. "I hear you." Amazing how the steamy brew left stubble burns on Julie's neck too.

Giving the nurse a quick wave, Verity headed down the stairs and out into the main corridor.

I have this four-book series almost completely planned out. This is, right now, the final book and I'm having so much fun writing the exploits of the characters.

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Raid at Midnight

Hello August! So many things going on this month. School starts for my one and only daughter and one and only student this year. She's involved in the music and athletic departments and the fall tends to be very busy. She's already started her golf season and band practice started also. She had a busy week with band camp from 8 to 3 and then golf qualifying from 4 to 6. She's got the number three spot right now and is happy being there. They have almost twice the amount of girls this year and everyone is excited about growing the sport.

Teen Wolf's premiere didn't disappoint. I'm excited to see how everything wraps up. I loved the surprises and can't wait for more. Keep them coming!

Got a few more episodes of Killjoys in and really like how the season is shaping up. Here's hoping there's a renewal in the future.

I'm also almost caught up on Dark Matter. I continue to enjoy the interactions and character arcs.

Need to catch the last two episodes of Wynonna Earp and I hope I can get that done this week.

Seeing more promo for The Last Ship… looking forward to the premiere in two weeks!!

That's it for television this week. Tonight's post is from Under the Blackhawk Banner, a novella based on a prompt to write an alternative timeline or universe for WWII.

Here's the mini-blurb:

In a battle-torn land, the saving grace is the Blackhawk Banner. Any who fly the flag are protected by the elite group of pilots and their crew who pull off amazing feats of victory. Verity Jones, the lone female in the group, is about to become one of their secret weapons, and Emory Cavendish will make it happen, over the protests of damned near everyone.

And a preview snippet…

Verity Jones strode through the line of men into the huge manor—a former castle—and followed the indicator signs to the company commander's office. She ignored the gaping mouths and widened eyes, very used to the stir she caused. The Blackhawk Banner flew proudly from the parapet, meaning she belonged as much as the next person.

Even if I am a female.

She stopped outside the closed door of Colonel Earl Whitcomb, the head of the civilian base, and rapped sharply on the jamb.

"Enter!"

She took a deep breath, twisted the knob, and walked into the office.

The colonel sat behind his desk and another man occupied the chair facing him. Dark hair, longer than standard military, brushed his shirt collar. He angled his head around and met Verity's gaze with his amber one. He rose slightly and nodded then settled back into the seat. She blinked once then shifted her focus to Whitcomb.

His brows knit and he rose from his seat. "Who the hell are you and how did you get access to my base?" He made a move to come around the desk.

Verity stared straight ahead, coming to attention. "VJ Jones, specialist, reporting for duty." The Blackhawks utilized a rank structure similar to the military even though they operated as a civilian outfit.

Whitcomb's eyes narrowed. "You're a woman." He held out a hand. "Orders. Let me have them."

Verity slid them from her pocket and slapped the papers into his palm. He shook the pages open and scanned the contents, grumbling under his breath. When he finished, he tossed the documents on his desk and folded his arms over his chest.

Verity remained silent, bracing for the usual response.

Whitcomb didn't disappoint. "Don't get too comfortable, Jones. You, no doubt, lied on your application to the Blackhawk program, or deliberately tried to mislead the home office by using your initials instead of your name. Women are not allowed to serve in our elite corps." He moved again, putting the wide expanse of oak between them. "I won't let you remain and become a distraction to the men." His face turned a mottled shade of crimson.

Verity itched to smack the man, but calmly met his gaze. "Sir, you might want to review the signatures on the orders and the addendum they included." She kept her tone even and devoid of the frustration coursing through her.

Whitcomb snatched the papers again and flipped to the final one. His lips thinned to a harsh line and his nostrils flared when he inhaled. Anger tinged with defeat entered his gaze.

He glanced at the man still seated across from him. "Cavendish, apparently the president and the prime minister are well aware they've sent a female to work with us. Find her a place to stay—well away from my men—and brief her on our upcoming missions." He pinned Verity with a nasty glare. "If you cause any trouble or start any fights between my pilots, I don't care whose signatures are present on your orders. I'll make sure you're transferred to a place better suited for your kind." He waved a hand toward her in disgust.

My kind? Meaning a woman with boobs and hips?

Verity bit back the terse response. "I look forward to keeping your planes in the air, Sir. I can start immediately."

Whitcomb shuddered. "That's not necessary. Cavendish will brief you, sort out quarters for you, then, if there's time, he can show you the hangar. But only if it doesn't keep him from his other duties. We're a very busy base, specialist." He nearly spat the title at her.

She shot a quick glance in Cavendish's direction. He'd risen and waited patiently for the colonel's dismissal. Whitcomb shook his head and motioned for them to leave.

Verity kept her anger in check and preceded Cavendish out of the office. When he pulled the door closed, she turned and sized him up. He didn't wear the mantle of rage like Whitcomb. In fact, he appeared relaxed and at ease. Might she have a potential ally?

She thrust her hand forward. "We haven't been properly introduced. VJ Jones."

He grasped her palm. "The colonel is short on pleasantries, especially when his world tilts on its axis. Emory Cavendish, captain of the air guard." His firm shake didn't linger, which she appreciated.

But his words caught her off guard. "Captain of the air guard? Why on earth are you acting as my tour guide then?" Whitcomb couldn't be more of an ass.

Emory gave her a half-smile. "Being a civilian operation, we wear a lot of hats around here." He started forward, toward the main hall of the estate.

Verity followed then fell into step beside him. "Meaning you're the colonel's go-to guy when he doesn't want to deal with something distasteful?" Namely her.

Emory huffed out a laugh. "You catch on very quickly, Specialist Jones." He paused a moment. "It won't be easy, but you'll fit in just fine around here." He took a set of keys from his pocket and slid one into a locked door. "Let's get started with some quarters. How about I brief you on the way?"

Verity gave a nod. "Sounds efficient. Please, lead on." Stepping into a darkened wing, she squared her shoulders and took the first steps toward her new place in life.

I'm having a terrific time writing this one. The sages are already feeding me ideas for more books so hopefully Emory and Verity's story will continue.

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Raid at Midnight

I love it when characters creep me out on television shows. The marine colonel on Banshee is a total madman and takes the mantle of crazypants from the Red Bone leader Chayton Littlestone. Gotta say, he lost points this past week, but I won't get into why in this venue. I may have to dust off my Universes Altered blog and go to town on this season. LOL

Other television news… eh, not much until this upcoming week. Looking forward to new episodes of Arrow and The Flash. Hoping for some great stuff from Gotham and Sleepy Hollow, too.

Lastly, come on February. I need Bitten and The Walking Dead back on my screen. :D

Tonight's post is from Under the Blackhawk Banner, a novella with something of an alternative universe.

Here's the tagline:

In a battle torn land, the saving grace is the Blackhawk Banner. Any who fly the flag are protected by the elite group of pilots and their crew who pull off amazing feats of victory. Verity Jones, the lone female in the group, is about to become one of their secret weapons, and Emory Cavendish will make it happen, over the protests of damned near everyone.

And a preview snippet…

"Cavendish!" The company commander bellowed from his office.

Emory sighed and placed his pencil in the holder and gathered up the report, stuffing the pages in the folder on his desk. He rose, squared his shoulders, and started for the CO's office. No doubt, the man discovered who'd flown the last mission.

"Cavendi—" Earl Whitcomb paused mid-shout. "'Bout damned time you got your ass in here." He pointed to the seat opposite his desk. "Take a seat, Captain. And you'd better be ready to explain yourself." Whitcomb dropped down, his heavy girth rattling the chair on its hinges.

Emory crossed his legs at the ankles and settled back. He didn't expect the meeting with his CO to last long, but he made it a point to remain calm and collected. Whitcomb raised a brow, indicating Emory should get talking.

Emory cleared his throat. "Verity Jones flew the mission last night and you're not happy about it?" He wanted everything nice and clear when he filled out his report.

Whitcomb exploded. "You're goddamned right I'm not happy, Cavendish. What the hell are you thinking?" He waved a hand. "Never mind. You're not thinking with your brain." The man leaned forward and lowered his voice. "You're thinking with your cock. And I won't have it." He hissed the last few words.

Okay, not what Emory expected. The blistering tirade, yes. The red-faced anger, absolutely. But an accusation of being led around by his shaft? Not bloody likely.

Emory straightened. "With all due respect, Sir. You couldn't be more wrong." He got up and paced, back and forth, seeking a cool head before speaking again. "Do you have any idea who her father is?" Victor 'Aces' Jones, the best damned Blackhawk pilot out of WWI.

Whitcomb snorted. "Of course I know who he is. Why the hell do you think I even let the woman near my planes?" He leaned back, folding his hands over his hefty belly.

Emory paused. "Your planes, Sir? All aircraft belong to the Blackhawk cause. And who do you think keeps them flying?" He started his trek back and forth again. "Verity Jones. She knows every inch of those machines, can coax miracles from them, and you know what else?" Emory stopped directly in front of the desk. "She can fly like no one else I've ever seen."

Whitcomb opened his mouth, but Emory held up a hand. The old man narrowed his eyes, but remained silent.

Emory dragged in a deep breath. "I won't deny I find Specialist Jones fascinating, but she's bloody damned good at what she does…" He pinned Whitcomb with his gaze. "And that includes running missions. She got in and out of enemy territory right under their noses. Who else could have pulled that off?"

Whitcomb lifted a brow. "Aside from you?" He shrugged. "No one. But I don't want a woman flying under the Blackhawk banner. What's next? Combat patrols?" He shook his head. "No. I won't have a member of the fairer sex showing up all the men who've put their lives on the line." He shoved the chair back and rose from the seat. "It's bad enough she's roaming around the stronghold wearing pants and overalls. Keep a tight leash on her, Cavendish, or you'll be held responsible when everything goes sideways because she's here."

Emory blew out a frustrated breath. "Yes, Sir. I'll make sure she keeps a low profile."

Whitcomb came around the desk and clapped him on the shoulder. "Glad we understand each other, Captain. You're dismissed."

Emory bolted from the office before he said something truly stupid. Like how he planned to have Verity take off after the clock struck midnight to try out the new equipment he had her install on the Bertha Jay.

I have so much love for this story. Emory and Verity are kind of like superheroes, bucking the status quo. Fun!!

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye