Sunday Snippet: Nothing but the Truth

It's very sauna-like outside with muggy weather and lots of humidity. Makes me want a pool in a big way. Went down a big rabbit hole researching what's available that won't break the bank and discovered some genius ideas. It won't happen this summer, but I have a new goal for next summer!

Hit a wall on my great cleanout project. But I'm determined to get back on it this week. Even if I only get a little done each day it's something. I'm thinking I might make a chart and log increments of time spent. If I see the forward progress it helps.

Ended up having a super busy work week. Several projects came back at the same time and a new one started. It's been a plate-spinning couple of months with so many different things stacking up against each other. I love the variety and I think that helps keep me from losing my mind.

I did end up having a great viewing week. I did a full round of shows and got to include the two I tend to keep on the back burner when things are jammed.

Started with Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries. I'm almost through the first season and this is total comfort viewing.

Watched another episode of Art Detectives and I'm really enjoying this show. Shazia is a lot of fun and the mystery with Mick's dad is intriguing. Looking forward to more.

Caught an episode of Death in Paradise. Love to see Selwyn with his daughter. The mystery ended up being excellent and the resolution had a nice twist.

Enjoyed another episode of Poirot. I'm kind of fond of the episodes that don't have murders. This one was kind of madcap and that's always fun.

Watched the season four premiere of Elementary. Watson being ready to kick the shit out of the Holmes patriarch is awesome. I loved her interaction with one of the stooges. And the first glimpse of Holmes the Great? So incredible. Excellent choice of actor to play him. I can't wait to see what happens next.

Caught another episode of Batman Beyond. It's one I remembered, and I enjoyed it. Terry and Max are a great team.

Enjoyed another episode of Lower Decks and definitely plan to stick with this one. Even when I'm annoyed by some of the character bits, it's a fun watch.

Got to get the season ten finale of Peak Practice viewed. Interesting to have Kate back, especially since Will is kind of ready to move on. The vehicle accident played out with lots of tension and the two little girls with Tom ended up being better than I thought it would be.

Last but not least, I got to watch another episode of Reacher. This show, man. It's so good. And that ending. Wow. Reacher's big feet keep stepping in steaming piles. Just saying.

And that's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Nothing but the Truth, a novella where the characters decide honesty is the best policy.

Here's the miniblurb:

Lexa Chan and Quint Maximoff work the seedy underworld of supernatural bounty hunting. Lexa's got a tough as nails reputation and she competes with Quint's larger than life persona. The Halfway, a bar catering to supernatural and mortal beings, is neutral ground where Lexa and Quint form an interesting relationship.

And a preview snippet…

Lexa rode a wave of bliss. There's sex and then there's S-E-X in all caps. Being with Quint definitely deserved the second option.

She might have to face another hard truth soon. Quint would be hard to beat when it came to physical and intimate relations. Her nerve endings all but hummed with satisfaction and she hadn't hit her peak yet.

She crested the rise, though. "Unf. So good." She kept one hand on his shoulder and the other planted on his chest.

Her breath came out in short, raspy bursts. Quint's fingers grasped her thighs, and she welcomed the burn of his skin against hers. With one palm he skimmed her torso and reached up to cup a breast. When his thumb brushed over her nipple, the sensation went straight to her core and her hips jerked harder and faster.

She lifted her head and met his gaze. "Come with me, Quint." Her inner walls tightened around his hard length, and she toppled over the edge.

Quint let out a low moan and followed behind her. His thighs went taut, and air hissed out between his teeth. When she collapsed down to her elbows, he wrapped his arms around her and meshed his lips with hers.

When the feeling returned to her limbs, she eased back and rested her forehead against his. "Full truth? That was amazing." Sliding off to one side, she curled up against him, biting back a yawn.

Quint eyed the bed. "We could use some shut-eye." He slowly got to his feet and held a hand out to her.

Lexa didn't hesitate. She clasped his palm and crossed the room with him. Crawling up onto the mattress, she tugged him down beside her. He stretched out on his side, his gaze slowly traveling over her nude form. His turn to view her myriads of scars. He lingered on each imperfection almost with reverence. She didn't shy away from being viewed. He understood the toll battle took on the physical being.

Which meant … he also had a good idea how many wounds went unseen. The ones that marred the psyche instead of the body. Something shifted inside Lexa. A crack opened and she couldn't close it back up if she tried.

And … oddly … for once she didn't want to.

I like writing quiet moments between characters and ending on one for this scene ended up working so well.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

 

Sunday Snippet: Loud As Hell

What a week! My brain is all spinny at the moment because I have an abundance of work projects in my inbox. I love having a full calendar. That said, I need about five more hours in each day, please and thank you.

Honestly, the overflowing inbox comes at an excellent time for me. I have several things that need attention, one of them being the brakes on my car. Now to buckle under and get the work done.

Weather in Ohio is typical for March. Maybe a little on the extreme side, but March always seems to be whiplashing back and forth between winter and spring. Today is springlike with temps in the fifties. Yesterday we barely broke freezing for our high.

Another very limited week for viewing. I'm not kidding when I say five more hours each day would be helpful. Just saying.

I did finish up the Death in Paradise episode I started last week. So sad to see Florance leave again. But what a way to go out. And pretty sure we'll see her again.

Also started a Beyond Paradise episode, which will finish out the first season. I'm really enjoying this show.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Loud As Hell, a follow-up story to A Quiet Hell.

Here's the miniblurb:

Bailey Wendelson has come a long way and learned a lot since almost trapping his brother in a prison for the paranormally gifted. When Bailey meets Yazmin Meechum, a woman with siren capabilities, she has no desire for his assistance, but he won't walk away because she's being followed by the people he used to work for.

And a preview snippet…

Yazmin pushed her cart to the self-checkout area. "Gotta love twenty-four-hour grocery stores." She always waited until after eleven p.m. because the aisles were more or less deserted.

She ran her items over the scanner and paid with her debit card. She smiled and nodded when the night-shift manager asked if he could put her cart away. Grasping the bags, she exited the store and retrieved her key from her jacket pocket.

The parking lot lighting left a lot to be desired, but the tradeoff of fewer people to deal with ranked pretty high on her list. With the exception of talking to herself, she rarely had to interact verbally with anyone. Luckily, she didn't have far to go.

She hit her key fob to unlock her car. "Home. Unpack. Binge watch something until I fall asleep." Not exactly a thrill a minute but she'd grown used to the routine.

Almost to the vehicle, she'd just pressed the trunk button when a large man grabbed her arm and tried to pull her into a van sitting opposite to her sedate sedan. She screamed and the groceries went flying. Twisting and turning, she started to fight back when another guy attempted to scoop her legs up. Kicking out, she shouted for help again.

A metal baton came out of nowhere and cracked the guy trying to grab her legs on the head. He landed on the asphalt with a loud grunt. The other brute let her go and engaged in a fight with her rescuer. Punches were thrown and the baton struck the assailant on the knee, the shoulder, and the nape.

The rescuer whirled around, and Yazmin's eyes went wide. Bailey Wendelson. Holy shit.

His head jerked toward her car. "It's not safe. Pretty sure they planted a tracking device." He collapsed the baton and tucked it into his coat. "We don't have much time. Will you let me get you somewhere safe?" His eyebrows arched.

Not trusting her voice, she gave a shaky nod.

He used his thumb to point over his shoulder. "I'm over here. Sorry about the groceries, but we need to get moving now." He headed for his vehicle, not waiting to see if she followed.

But follow she did, sliding into the passenger seat of the running car. Bailey put the SUV in gear and gunned the engine, lurching forward and barely stopping before pulling out onto the nearly deserted street.

Yazmin hunched into her coat and stared straight ahead. Who were the men and what did they want? How did Bailey know she'd need help? Willing her heart rate to slow down, she twisted her hands in her lap. What the hell am I getting into?

Then a ridiculous thought pinged in her brain. Dammit. My trunk is still open.

I'm having a lot of fun with this story. Bailey really wanted to redeem himself after being a bit of an ass in the first book.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Loss

Wow, March is being its typical mercurial self. Warm up and then plunge back into the teens and single digits. The back-and-forth weather is normal but not fun.

Crazy-busy week with work projects. I'm thrilled to have my calendar filling up and excited to start some new manuscripts. Also getting more details sorted out for Tip Jar Shorts. I need to find a full day I can dedicate to getting everything where it needs to be.

Very limited viewing this week. My brain decided it needed quiet to focus on the reading I needed to finish up for one of my work projects. I probably needed the break.

I did get more of the One Lane Bridge episode watched. I might take a brief vacation from this one. There's a lot going on in this show and focus is going to be important so I don't miss anything.

Finished up season three of London Kills with the behind-the-scenes bonus episode. I always enjoy getting a deeper look at how everything comes together in a series.

Started another episode of Death in Paradise. I'm about halfway through and I like the tension in this one. Also enjoyed Neville and Commissioner Patterson being on the same page for once.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Loss, a novella that explores how the main characters deal with a devastating blow.

Here's the miniblurb:

Welsh Hollingsworth is the golden child of Clan Grimstone, but when he's expected to fill the void left when his dad is killed, he can't quite figure out how and he hopes Cagney Gaines can help him find some insight. Cagney can't deal with the loss of her mentor, the one constant in her chaotic world and she leaves when Welsh needs her the most. One year later, she returns to find a very different Welsh—one who doesn't welcome her with open arms.

And a preview snippet…

Cagney surveyed the group gathered on the tracks and lining the subway platform. "I've gotta hand it to Welsh. He mobilized the clan in a hurry.'' She met Jacko's gaze. "He's not happy about staying behind." She wouldn't be either if she'd been in his place.

Jacko rolled a shoulder. "Someone needs to call the shots and, like it or not, that's him." He shook his head. "And he needs to be protected. This is a coordinated attack. Taking the old man out? Bold move to get the ball rolling."

Cagney nodded. "Bold but stupid." The one thing Clan Grimstone didn't lack?

Loyalty.

Word of Wallace's death at the hands of Bainbridge spread quickly, and members all but poured out of the woodwork at Hollingsworth House. With communication lines blown, the telepaths were working in a chain to get logistics and movement down and relay orders on. Cagney had met Jacko at the subway terminal and, along with twenty women and thirty men, had a trap set for the Stoneworth clansmen.

The sound of screeching wheels on metal echoed through the tunnel.

Jacko nudged her shoulder. "This should be them. The train is dark." He readied his pouch to give the signal.

The man's bag of tricks never failed to amaze Cagney. Damn good thing he'd arrived at the house in one piece to get the details of Wallace's death. Cagney didn't know if she could have led this battle on her own. Not with—

Guh. She couldn't even think about Wallace not being around when she got back. No way.

Jacko clasped her shoulder with a gnarled hand. "Easy, Cag. I need you here with me." With a gentle squeeze, he let go and readied to launch the counterattack.

Cagney gave him another nod. "On your mark." Shoving aside her grief, she let the anger take control.

When Jacko gave the go, Cagney unleashed her rage and rained hellfire down on the darkened car. Men spilled out on both sides, and Jacko directed the other clansmen in a strategic skirmish that quickly cut the Stoneworth numbers to half. Now, with a fair fight, both groups pulled back on their magick and entered into physical battle mode.

Cagney jumped into the middle of the fray, each blow, kick, punch, and strike chipping away at the tenuous hold on her pain. By the time the Grimstone side had the advantage, rounding up the stragglers of Clan Stoneworth, and she threw her final fist, the tears blurred her vision.

Connecting with her adversary's jaw, she growled. "For Wallace." She let the opponent hit the tracks in a heap of battered flesh.

Jacko made his way to her side. "The old man would be proud of you." He flung an arm around her shoulders. "Let's go see how our new leader fared." He limped forward, a little worse for the skirmish.

Cagney didn't argue, and she appreciated Jacko ignoring the grief overflowing from her eyes. His gaze held a sheen of moisture too. Exhausted and overwhelmed, Cagney didn't stop the stream of tears, letting them run freely. But she'd be dry-eyed when they briefed Welsh—because he would need her to be strong and unbreakable when they got back.

And she would be both even if it killed her.

This one is coming together in so many ways I didn't expect, and I'm excited to see what else unfolds.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Lie to Me

Whew. It's been a week. I'm under the weather and not enjoying that at all. I'm behind on my two work projects and we're getting a buttload of snow at the moment. Also … I'm on cold medication and it's making me loopy. Fun times.

I made a video for Tip Jar and I'm pretty pleased with how it turned out. I'm excited about this new endeavor and hope it gets some traction.

Really slow week for viewing. Between being under the weather and everything else going on in the world, I didn't have the spoons to really dive into my shows.

I didn't end up finishing the episode of One Lane Bridge. I'm hoping to get to it this week.

I did watch the finale of London Kills and it ended up being pretty thrilling. I have a behind the scenes episode to watch and then I'll be starting the next season.

Caught an episode of Death in Paradise and enjoyed it. I'm liking Neville a lot more this season. Very interested in how things play out with Florance's under cover job.

Started an episode of Beyond Paradise and should finish it today. I ended up sleeping a lot over the weekend and just didn't have a chance to get the whole episode in. I did get a chuckle that Humph named his duck Selwyn because that's the commissioner's name from Death in Paradise. Not sure how I missed that before.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Lie to Me, an urban fantasy romance.

Here's the miniblurb:

Jana Ricks has a target on her back, and she wants Rhys McPherson to help her get rid of it. Rhys loves Jana, but may not be able to 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…

Several hours later, Rhys ruled out hex cat and hell hound. "It doesn't make sense." Plus, dammit, nothing he'd tried revealed the animal.

And it had to be an animal.

Frustrated, he ran a hand through his hair. "What other magickal being could it be?" Not many were controllable even by dark magick.

A dark steed? Too big. Cloven goat? Too small and focused. Cloven goats only created havoc. Jinx rats weren't particularly useful except as annoyances because of the bad luck they brought. The same with pox hares. Crossing paths with the mangy rabbits could induce insomnia and indigestion, but not much else.

Another thought hit. "Maybe a vex fox." Rhys shuffled some of the texts on the table to uncover the one he needed. "Ah, no. Too rare." No sightings in the last several decades.

Jana entered the living room, carrying a tray of bubbling concoctions. "Here's the next batch." She placed the mixtures at his elbow.

She'd proven to be extremely helpful. Spell casting and brewing potions were often tedious, but she plowed through with perseverance. She'd even labeled the containers to help him find the ones he wanted quickly.

He met her gaze. "Thank you. Let's see what these reveal." He waited until she sat across from him then selected the first pot and worked successively through the batch trying to bring forth the nasty predator dogging Jana.

The action took him back … to when they'd done this kind of thing a lot. He missed her—them. But they couldn't work as a couple.

He didn't blame her for Rand's death, but she did hold responsibility. He couldn't get past that. Not yet.

Maybe not ever. Especially with Lindi and the kids as a constant reminder. But he loved Jana. Always would.

When none of the new spell potions worked, ideas and thoughts started shuffling in his head. "Let's go over the info again. Your gut said hell hound or hex cat, right?" She rarely missed.

Jana nodded. "But the spells aren't revealing the beast."

Rhys scraped a hand over his head. "Why? Dammit. Why can't I figure it out?" This kind of situation shouldn't be beyond him.

Jana rocked back in her chair. "Maybe it's both." She shrugged one shoulder.

Bingo! She might have just hit the jackpot.

Profound inspiration smacked him in the forehead. "Holy shit." Rhys went to a new book—one he'd discounted earlier. "You might be onto something." He thumbed through the pages. "A blended link with a side of cloaking." He read through the details and whistled low between his teeth. "That's some powerful fucking magick." But the concept fit.

Her chair thumped forward. "Who's got the ability to pull that off?" Jana frowned.

Rhys slid his gaze sideways. "One brain teaser at a time. Let's see if we're right first."

He transcribed the pages for the necessary spells then helped gather the necessary ingredients.

While filling the vials, he explained the process. "We'll need to work together. Uncloak first, break the link, then banish the creatures." Excitement to be working with her thrummed in his veins when he filled the vials. "Are you ready?"

It took a while for me to figure out where this story wanted to go, but I'm so happy with where it's headed now.

 

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: Countdown to Midnight

Well, March definitely enters the year with a roar. We've had the crazy weather that hops back and forth between warm and cold along with snow showers, thunderstorms, and thirty-degree temperature changes in twenty-four hours. Weirdly, it's somehow fitting that March is my birth month. Volatile and a wee bit mercurial.

My focus is still all over the place, but I have multiple work projects, which helps when I need a change of scenery. It drives me batty when I read the same paragraph over and over because I keep getting distracted by everything. Being able to hop from one manuscript to another helps in a weird way.

Had a decent week of viewing. Still not quite getting a full slate in, but I'm happy with the shows I'm keeping up with. I'm having issues with one of the streamers on a device, but I got the show watched despite the tech glitches.

Started out with the finale of Agatha Raisin. I have a bonus behind-the-scenes episode to watch then it's on to a new show. I'll miss this one. I've had so much fun watching the characters interact and solve mysteries.

Caught another Silent Witness episode. So sorry about Jack's dad. And the whole deal with his mom is beyond sad. Very nice to see Nikki be there for him. I'm wondering about Simone at the moment and Sam is playing a very cagey game.

Enjoyed another Death in Paradise. I'd seen most of this one and enjoyed it the first time. I love Martha to bits and can't wait to finish Humphrey's run to start Beyond Paradise in the near future.

Watched another episode of Elementary. Interesting episode and I'm almost sorry the FBI lady will live to show up again in the future.

Caught an episode of The Batman. I had vague memories of watching this the first time but not everything. I'm still not sure how I feel about Batgirl. I think I end up liking her better once Robin enters the show.

Enjoyed another episode of Classic Rugrats. I didn't remember either of the vignettes, which I'm kind of happy about. The later seasons were kind of hit or miss for us when the kiddos were young.

Finished the second season of The Secret Life of Amy Benson and I'm really hoping we get a third. I'm invested in the characters and want to see what happens next.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Countdown to Midnight, a novella that reunites a couple in the run up to New Year's Eve.

Here's the miniblurb:

When a necromancer is hell-bent on raising an army of ghostly beings on the cusp of the New Year, Jace Pembroke, a mystic advisor, is called to stop the spirit-wrangler, but she can't do it alone. She needs help from ghost hunter Ridley Saint, but convincing him won't be easy because they used to be a couple and she walked away because a ghostly ancestor took up residence in Jace's home. Fighting the clock as it ticks toward midnight, Jace has to stay mum about what tips her off to keep Ridley away from her ghost and attempt to banish the spirit-wrangler trying to bring the beings across the divide.

And a preview snippet…

Solstice Eve

Jace Pembroke relaxed in a tub full of bubbles. "Finally have some time to recharge and nourish my inner self." Closing her eyes, she sank lower in the water, letting the frothy suds brush up against her chin.

"Jacie, my girl. You've got big trouble brewing."

Jace's eyes popped open. "Gram, I don't want to hear anything negative right now. You know how hard I've been working to sort out everyone's issues." The holiday season brought out so much in people … sadly, not all of it good.

Jace's grandmother took corporeal form, something she could only do on the solstices and equinoxes.

She wagged a finger. "I know, I know. But this can't wait. Norman Thurgooder is getting ready to wreak havoc in the city, right here in our glade." She paced back and forth.

Jace's nose scrunched up in concentration. "Thurgooder. Why is that name—" She broke off when the memory clicked. "Wait, the necromancer?" What kind of shit plan did the spirit-wrangler want to unleash?

Mellie Pembroke paused long enough to nod. "Yes, the necromancer. Rumblings are strong on the other side. Everyone is excited about New Year's Eve when Thurgooder has decided to launch his master plan." She waved her hands back and forth. "Get out of that tub and get dressed. We've got a lot to get through and you'll be a prune by the time I'm done explaining." She faded out then called from Jace's bedroom. "Don't waste time, Jacie."

Jace heaved a sigh and pulled the stopper from the tub. Only one other person called her Jacie and Jace couldn't let her thoughts go to him right now. Too many memories to sort through and not enough time to take a trip down that lane.

Drying off, she firmly closed the door on her past. "I walked away from Ridley for a reason." And that reason happened to be in her bedroom right now.

Jace made the short trip to her room and found her gram pacing again. "Okay, Gram, you're going to make me dizzy if you keep up with the back and forth on my floor." She pointed to the chair in the corner. "Take a seat and I'll get dressed." Rifling through her drawers, she pulled out a pair of leggings and a waffle-knit shirt.

Mellie shook her head. "No time for sitting, Jacie. You've got someplace to be and a favor to ask." She waved her hand and continued walking.

Jace frowned. "Where, exactly, do I have be?" She pulled the pants on and shrugged into the shirt. "And who am I asking for a favor?" Yanking another drawer open, she found a pair of thick socks and tugged them on.

Mellie paused and leveled her gaze on Jace. "You have to find that young man of yours. We're going to need his help."

Say what? She couldn't have heard her grandmother correctly. No way could she bring a ghost hunter in to whatever the necromancer had planned. Ridley's first action would be to send Mellie to the afterlife.

Jace blinked and shook her head. "Hell, no, Gram. That's not going to happen."

This story is in the very beginning stages, but I'm having so much fun writing it. I love a good ghost versus an evil being.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Urban Grit

Welcome July! The month that my doggos hate with the intensity of a thousand suns. And we actually got an early start on the fireworks this year … about mid-June or at least the last two weekends. Personally, I love a good fireworks show. The dogs really don't. They get antsy and want to go outside but hate it outside because of the loud crackle and booms. It's exhausting.

Had a good week with work. Finished up two projects and made way to get started on a new one. I'm hoping to slide in some extra freelance work this month because I'm in between two developmental edits at the moment and could use something to keep my busy.

Also had a bit of a scare with my dad. He ended up in the hospital for a few days but he's doing well.

Not a bad week for television. I'm really angry I didn't get to watch Grease: Rise of the Pink Ladies before Paramount yanked it. It angers me that studios can pull whatever they want to write off for tax purposes. I'd love to be able to do that on a personal level.

I finished up the ninth season of Brokenwood Mysteries. Actually loved the episode. This is such a comfort watch for me. Looking forward to starting Cannes Confidential this week, especially since one of my favorite actors is involved.

Caught another episode of Madame Blanc Mysteries and enjoyed the mystery. Not sure I'm excited about having the creepy woman back but I'll reserve judgment on that one. I love the cast of characters in this show.

Finished up the second part of Silent Witness and the episode definitely took a turn I didn't expect. I like it when that happens!

Enjoyed another episode of Death in Paradise. I'd seen most of this one before and I'm glad I got to watch the whole episode. I'm loving this show.

Continued my rewatch of Battlestar Galactica with "Flight of the Phoenix." This one had so much going on and it was all spectacular. The pilot interaction ended up being my favorite thing, as usual. But lots of good stuff overall.

Started the second season of Fantasy Island. I'm about halfway through the episode and enjoying it so far. I'm definitely here for Raphael and Elena interactions!

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Urban Grit, a novella about a couple that drags their friends into a dangerous situation then have to solve the problem.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Keeley Fitz and Holt Matterworth produce and star in the reality docu-style web drama, Urban Grit. They shamelessly drag their friends along on their adventures where they try to bust and debunk urban myths … except they quickly learn most legends all have a basis in truth.

And a preview snippet…

Holt stopped the SUV by the main gate and waited for Dean to get inside before pulling up the property assessments for the house and acreage. "This covers everything listed on the deed." He made the map go full screen on the tablet.

Keeley leaned closer. "So, the house is pretty much centrally located on the plotted area. What's this section behind the summer kitchen?" The small structure sat directly behind the house.

Holt glanced at the key in the lower portion of the monitor. "Looks like a cemetery, according to the symbols here." He pointed to a square going around the bordered off area. "It's surrounded by shrubbery and has an iron gate if this picture is accurate." The image had a date about ten years old on it.

Dean frowned. "There are two more outbuildings on the east side of the property and three in the northwest corner. That's a lot of ground to cover."

Holt gave a nod. "We should maybe start here." He pointed to the far side of the grounds that butted up against the neighbor's boundary line.

Dean cocked his head. "Why not go through the main gate?" He fidgeted, his impatience rolling off him in waves.

Holt countered. "The hound might be guarding the entrance. And we can't see it, so I'd rather start from the back and work through those areas first." He didn't like not having a clue about where to begin.

Dean grunted. "Good point. Rear of the property we go." He started to pop the door open.

Keeley put up a hand. "Hold up. Let's start with the cemetery. It's out in the open and we'll have more room to maneuver." She dug through the duffel bag at her feet and brought out three bags of salt. "If we get trapped or chased, the salt should neutralize the hellhound and keep him from coming after us." She handed two of the bags over and kept one for herself.

Holt didn't roll his eyes, but he doubted the salt would offer much in the way of protection. "Look, there's a lane that goes along the east side of the property. Let's drive as far as we can then cut through the trees toward the cemetery on foot."

Keeley and Dean settled back, and Holt started the engine again. He carefully maneuvered the SUV over the jutted track and finally came to a stop about two-thirds of the way down the trail. A fallen tree blocked the rest of the path.

Dean scrambled out of the vehicle. "This might be good. According to the assessor's marks, if we cut through here, the cemetery should be in our sights." He started toward the tree line.

Keeley met Holt's gaze. "Let him take the lead. We'll back him up." She started forward, hefting the bag of salt under one arm.

"Hey! I see someone. It's gotta be Joanie." Dean started off a run.

Keeley quickly caught him. "Slow down. I know you want to find out if it's her, but if you run and the hound isn't at the front gate, it'll give chase." She sent Holt a pleading glance.

Holt lifted his chin. "She's right. Let's take our time and listen for anything prowling around on the way. If it's Joanie, she needs us to get there in one piece."

Dean huffed out a breath. "Fine. You're right. Let's go." He started forward again at a slower pace.

Holt kept his ears tuned to any odd sounds. When they approached the hedge line, the gnarled branches were so overgrown he didn't think they'd get through. But Keeley found a small opening and motioned for them.

She held some branches back. "We should fit through here. You guys go first and I'll hold the branches back." She made a bigger hole.

Dean ducked through and Holt quickly followed. Keeley turned and backed through then let go of the swath she held. Turning, her eyes went wide, and she nodded toward the figure waving their hands up and down.

Dean's lips curved. "It's her! I'd recognize that monstrosity of a coat anywhere." He started forward but paused. "Go slow. Don't run."

Keeley nudged Holt with her shoulder. "He's getting it." She followed behind.

Holt brought up the rear still listening for the sounds of growling or running footsteps … or paws as the case might be.

Joanie called out when they got closer. "You're okay. The hound is prowling outside the gate over there." She pointed to the rusted barrier.

Dean swept her up. "Are you okay? Did it hurt you?" He set her down and started checking her over.

Joanie shook her head. "No, once it tore the door off the freezer, I kind of held my ground while it circled me. It came toward me, snarling and snapping but stopped when I put my hands down." She shuddered a little. "Then it got behind me and nudged me out of the freezer and kept pushing me until we got here. I started for the house, but it growled and started butting its head against me again until I finally figured out where it wanted me to go." She held up her phone. "There's a lot of information about hellhounds on the web. I'm pretty sure it won't let me leave the property. But I do think we might be able to get to the house."

Holt shook his head. "That's a terrible idea. We should get the hell out of Dodge and as far away from her as we can." He raked a hand over his head. "There has to be something better than going back to the house."

Dean whirled around. "Tough shit. We're going there. I won't put Joanie in any more danger." He wrapped an arm around her.

Holt frowned. "Look, there's a cabin about ten miles away that's secluded and should be safe." He didn't think sticking around with a ravaging beast would be a good plan.

Joanie gave a quick shake of her head. "I'd rather not chance having the hellhound follow us there and hurt innocent people." She tucked her injured hand in her pocket.

Keeley agreed. "They're right, Holt. We can at least poke around in the house and set up for a few days to figure things out. We've got our gear and we can take turns making runs for supplies if we need them."

Holt made a low growl. "Fine. But this is a shit plan." He tore the bag of salt open. "Get your bags open, put Joanie between you two, and let's make a break for it." He led the group, pouring a trail of the white crystals on the way.

Longer than usual peek but I'm happy with how this turned out.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Quelling Hunger

Well, July kind of blew right by. It's been a busy month with a lot going on and that always makes the days seem to speed along.

Had a decent week finishing up a work project and making some solid headway on a couple of my personal projects. This is on top of having one kid in NYC and another that landed in the ED then got admitted to the hospital for three days and two nights. Thankfully, he's doing okay.

Actually got a lot of viewing completed also. I'm currently watching The Force Awakens. It's kind of a rewatch, but I haven't seen the whole movie from start to finish … ever. I've always come in at weird random places so I've seen the whole thing, but not in chronological order. I'm strange that way.

Also caught another episode of The Brokenwood Mysteries. This one had a very interesting twisty mystery and I thoroughly enjoyed it.

Watched the second half of Silent Witness and kind of loved where it ended up going. I like the way the two-part episodes are playing out right now.

Enjoyed another episode of Classic Who. Ace keeps growing on me. I love her as the companion for the Doctor. There's way less screaming, which is a bonus.

Caught another episode of Most Terrifying Places in America. This one focused on ghostly encounters and I enjoyed it.

Watched another episode of Moon Knight. Honestly, I kind of love this show. It's a little campy, which keeps the darker aspect of the storyline in check. It works for me and I love it.

Ended up enjoying another episode of The Hardy Boys. There are a lot of twists and turns this season and some have worked better than others. Joe truly annoyed the crap out of me but I think they might pull all that together by the end of the season.

Caught another episode of Peak Practice. I ended up enjoying the less soap-operaish storyline this week.

Enjoyed another MasterClass lesson with Roxane Gay. This week she talked about revisions, editing, and proofreading. I love that phase of writing and I loved what she had to say about her methods. She's also not a big fan of the phrase kill your darlings. I've never liked that one and it's nice to have someone like Roxane say she doesn't either.

Watched another episode of The Babysitter's Club. I'm honestly so disappointed there won't be another season of this show. It's really coming together in this second season.

Caught an episode of The Ready Room. This one featured Shazad Latif and I completely enjoyed the interview. He had some great insight.

Enjoyed the second episode of Driven. Tawny can die in a fire and that would make me really happy. Not sure I like the dude or, well, possibly dudette following Riley. Becks makes me very happy. I love this series so much.

Watched another episode of Chicago Med. I'm so surprised Will kind of shut Natalie down. Not that it wasn't deserved, but I was surprised nonetheless. Glad to see Maggie might not lose Ben. I'm seriously not sure what the hell is going on with April. Should be in for some interesting future episodes.

Caught another episode of Batman: The Animated Series. This is probably my all-time favorite animated show ever. I'm happy I'm rewatching again.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Quelling Hunger, a novella that puts a heavy strain on the relationship between the main characters.

Here's the mini-blurb:

When a storm destroys the food warehouses in the city, Rita Steed and Fletch Lancaster are tasked with keeping the peace while half-rations are necessary until the rooftop gardens can produce more crops. Heading up the sector patrol, neither is certain they can maintain the status quo when quelling hunger seems to be impossible.

And a preview snippet…

Fletch thrust forward, going deep in one smooth motion. "Another challenge?" His lips nuzzled her ear. "You sure you want to keep throwing them out?" He bit gently on the lobe.

Rita shuddered. "Mmm. If it gets you hot and bothered, absolutely." Her hands cupped his ass, urging him to go deeper.

Fletch used his palm at the small of her back then grinded against her. "Rita, just being with you gets me hot and hard. No need for incentives." He pulled almost all the way then drove forward again, just the way she liked.

Rita moaned. "Good to know some things don't change." Her mouth sought his and she slipped her tongue past his teeth.

Fletch gave himself over to her desire. He kept a steady pace and held her hips securely against his groin. Rita drew the kiss out in the way he loved, her passion consuming each of them.

His thighs flexed and she wrapped her leg around his waist a little tighter. Her fingers dug into his back and her core gripped his dick with increased pressure. Not long now… He worked his free hand between them and found the hard nub of nerves. Brushing over the cluster with rapid-fire strokes, he aimed to set her off.

Rita broke the kiss on a gasp. "Ah, yes! Right there." Her head dropped back, exposing her throat.

Fletch took advantage, grazing his teeth over taut skin. Goose bumps rose on her skin and he soothed the area with the rasp of his tongue. She writhed in his arms, her hips rolling as much as he'd allow.

Her hot breath fanned over his shoulder. "Come with me, Fletch. I'm so close." Her hands moved up to grip his biceps.

He pushed harder, ready to fly off the edge behind her. "Let it go. I'm right there with you."

Rita shuddered, her eyes losing focus. Her inner muscles contracted, squeezing his hard shaft with velvety softness. He thrust upward one last time and came with her name on his lips.

Rita's back arched and her breathing went shallow when the orgasm washed over her. Spent, she went limp, her leg sliding down his. Fletch skimmed a hand along her side and she curled into him. He grabbed the blanket from the end of the futon and drew it over them.

Rita yawned. "Definitely the best thing on the planet." She turned on her side, spooning into him.

Fletch draped an arm over her torso. "I aim to please."

A brief moment of something special and intimate before the next hurdle presents itself.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Quell the Boom

Whew. What a day. But I had a great week. I'm getting ready to start a very exciting new project and moving along on another one. I also got to spend three days with one of my friends at a gorgeous Airbnb not far from where I live.

Actually stayed pretty much caught up on my regular viewing schedule—watching ahead a little definitely helped.

Started a new Classic Who arc and kind of enjoyed the storyline. Looking forward to seeing what happens this week.

Watched another episode of Most Terrifying Places in America. This one had Devil's Playground as the title and it kind of fit based on the anecdotes.

Caught the second episode of Moon Knight and enjoyed it. I like the series so far and look forward to another episode.

Enjoyed another episode of Harrow. I have two episodes left and I'm pretty interested in seeing how they play out. I loved the mention of the two big bads from the earlier seasons. I'm glad someone finally kind of connected those dots.

Watched another episode of Blue Heelers and things took a turn I didn't expect, which is always fun. Looking forward to the next episode.

Completed another MasterClass with Roxane Gay. She focused on research this time and, again, I got some good ideas from her lesson.

Caught another episode of The Babysitter's Club. I like the new girls and I love how much growth Christy showed. Actually, all the girls showed some growth and it's terrific to see.

Enjoyed two more episodes of Classic Rugrats. Oddly, they were very Angelica-centric which I didn't remember.

Watched an episode of Chicago Med and enjoyed it, even if it ended up being a little soap-operaish. I did like the way the storylines played out.

Finished up the opening episodes of Batman: the Animated Series. Looking forward to really diving back into this series.

Started season three of Driven, a Passionflix original series. Terrific premiere episode. I'm excited to see where things go from this point.

Also caught another episode of The Snoopy Show. This one had a great mix of the characters and each vignette had great humor.

That's pretty much it for the life update. Tonight's post is from Quell the Boom, a novella that puts rival characters together to solve a dangerous situation.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Quinna Joltz and Efran Pendragon, experts in diffusing magical bombs, tend to let their rivalry take center stage, but when an unbalanced wizard plants devices that can bring down their entire city, they agree to work together. The adrenaline filled race finally gives them some perspective and a little bit of common ground to share.

And a preview snippet…

Quinna forgot about everything—food, the incantations, the bombs. The kiss blew her mind. Efran did not lack in the creative department when it came to mashing lips together.

How did I not know this?

She might have started the lip-lock but Efran quickly took control. His hands cupped her face and he teased and tempted, his head slanting to take the embrace deeper. Her brain melted when his tongue slipped past her teeth to duel with hers.

This is exactly what I need. I need Efran and really hot sex.

As soon as the thought hit, she tried to squash it. Then gave in and let the idea blossom in her mind. Why the hell shouldn't they take a much-needed break for food and fun?

She eased away and blinked. "Wow. Ensnared in a web of my own making." She met his gaze. "You've got some mad skills, Efran." She hooked a finger in his shirt collar. "I want more." She leaned in and caught his mouth with hers.

Working her hands under his shirt, she inched the fabric up. Warm skin met her fingertips and she craved more. Pushing his shirt up further, she splayed her palm over his chest.

Efran grasped her hand. "Uh, might not be the best time for this." His fingers curled around hers.

Quinna glanced downward. "At least one part of you disagrees with that statement." The long, hard evidence couldn't be denied.

Efran lifted his shoulder. "All well and true, but we've got something way more important to deal with, don't you think?" His thumb made a circular motion over her skin.

He's not nearly as chill as he's pretending, whether he knows it or not.

Quinna opted for full-blown honesty. "If you think I struggled to concentrate before, it'll be worse now." She met his gaze. "My brain is going to focus on one thing right now and that would be getting naked with you and burning through the overload of energy I need to expel." Her brain wanted what it wanted.

Efran huffed out a breath. "Damn. You don't mince words, do you?" He stepped away, clearly needing some space.

Quinna shrugged. "With what we do, I try hard not to. But don't get caught up in the brutal honesty. I'm not losing sight of the importance of being prepared for what we have to do." She paused a moment. "But you nailed my problem earlier. I have to take a break. And I'll point out the fact that I've followed your plan up to this point. Maybe you could be a little flexible now." A horrible thought hit her. "Or do you not find me attractive?" Just because his body had a physical response didn't mean he liked it.

Efran shook his head. "I find you annoying, distracting, and a little insane." He ran a hand through his hair. "But, I also find you so incredibly sexy I struggle to think straight sometimes." His hand dropped and he slumped against the counter.

Quinna blinked. "You could have fooled me." But at least the sparks weren't one-sided.

Efran's lips curved. "Yeah, well, I'm very good at compartmentalizing."

Quinna moved closer to him. "Maybe you should relax the death grip you have on yourself. For an hour or so…" Probably wouldn't be enough time, but she didn't want to push her luck.

Efran closed the distance between them. "Maybe I should." He cupped her face again and brought his mouth to hers.

This is a fun story. Writing characters that have very different methods for solving problems is entertaining!

That's it for this week.

 

Cheers!

Skye