Sunday Snippet: Variation on Violence (First Breed Nation)

Had a busy week with a new work project landing in my inbox. It's a holiday novel and I'm so excited because I love editing holiday stories! I'm also working on a proofread, which is a nice complement to a copy edit.

Had a slow week of viewing due to another loss of a relative. 2023 has been a rough year for the older generation in my family. I hope the final months are loss free.

I did watch the premiere episode of Cannes Confidential and thoroughly enjoyed it! It's got intrigue and charm and the cast is stellar. Looking forward to the next episode.

Also caught another episode of the Madame Blanc Mysteries. I'm slightly disappointed in the angst factor between the main characters but I'll roll through and see what happens. Very excited Gloria has a new guy even if he's competition for Dom.

Watched an episode of Peak Practice and found it kind of interesting. I liked getting some additional screen time for the deaf characters introduced earlier. Also kind of liked Andrew figuring out what he doesn't want.

Started a new two-part Silent Witness and, wow, this one had some twists and a heartbreaking scene that I almost couldn't watch. Kind of looking forward to seeing where it goes.

Caught another Death in Paradise. Enjoyed the guys trying to avoid bringing Richard in on the case while he was down with a tropical fever but loved that they ended up doing it anyway.

That's it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Variations on Violence, a First Breed Nation novella.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Nichol Gothe and Brewster Walters, two detectives in the major crimes unit, go undercover to bust up a rebel alliance in the undercity. But when Nichol has to use her meta-human ability, Brewster can't decide whether to trust she's working for justice or turn her in to the task force commander. Nichol sends him reeling when she reveals how deeply the secret society of freaks and geeks has infiltrated the regular human world.

And a preview snippet…

Hitching his pants up with one hand, Brewster dashed to the door and yanked it open. Grabbing their voyeur before he could flee, Brewster dragged him inside and kicked the door shut. Their audience of one growled a curse at Brewster.

"Who the fuck are you?" Brewster tucked his spent cock back into his pants and glared at the guy. "I don't put on a show for anyone, not even paying customers. If I catch you watching again, I'll serve your dick to the rats. Are we clear?"

The guy tried to front with some heavy bravado. "Like to see you try." He sneered in Brewster's direction.

Brewster stalked closer, standing toe-to-toe with the man. He caught and held the man's gaze and planted an image of his threat.

Five seconds later, the guy let out a strangled cry, his hands going to his groin. "W-wh-what did you do to me?" He pulled the front of his pants and checked to make sure his manly bits were still intact.

Brewster gave him a nasty smirk. "Showed you a small try. Pretty sure you don't want the actual act, right?" He turned and walked back in Nichol's direction. "Get the hell out of my sight. I'll be in the chapel at the designated time." The old church acted as a neutral meeting place to conduct business. "Tell Cardinal not to be late." Brewster glanced over his shoulder. "And remind him this one isn't on the menu."

The guy's head bobbed up and down. "Right. Chapel. I'll tell him." His hand inched toward the door.

Brewster added a parting shot. "And don't even think about telling him how close you came to losing your dick."

The guy stuttered out an unintelligible response and scurried out of the building.

Nichol choked out a flabbergasted sound. "What. The hell. Was that?" She planted her hands on her hips.

Brewster lifted one shoulder. "Playing a role. If I'm supposed to be a badass dealer of human flesh, I should play the part, right?" Confidence rolled through him after getting the result he hoped for with the scrawny man.

Nichol fanned her face. "Geez, it's kind of a turn-on." She met his gaze. "But … a word of warning … I didn't miss the draw of energy from the air around us. If I caught it, you can bet someone less dense would clock it also." She put a hand on his chest. "You might need to exercise a little caution."

Brewster leaned in close. "Exercise caution? You mean like this?" His mouth covered hers again.

Nichol melted against him, and the kiss spun out of control. He wanted nothing more than a bed and her—preferably naked—for the foreseeable future. But … they didn't have that kind of time. He still had a meeting to get to.

Then again … they had a couple of hours before that happened.

Brewster pulled back. "Ground rules…" He could very easily get distracted.

Nichol blinked then focused on him. "Ground rules?" Her hands skimmed along his torso.

He nodded. "We're undercover. Whatever happens between us can't affect the job."

Nichol huffed out a breath. "Pretty sure it'll only lend credibility to the work."

Brewster arched his brows. "And when you can't call the shots? What happens then?"

She snorted. "I get pissed and you put me in my place."

He narrowed his eyes. "With no retaliation?"

Nichol smirked. "Oh, Brewster. Where's the fun in that? Of course, I'll retaliate." She smoothed her hand down his chest. "But never where it'll put us in jeopardy."

He lifted his chin. "Fair enough." He caught her hands in his. "Any objection to getting the hell out of here?" His head jerked toward the door. "And continuing this somewhere more comfortable?"

Nichol gave him a slow, sexy smile. "Not a single one…"

This story is coming together in a way I didn't expect, which is terrific. Brewster's ability went in a completely different direction than the one originally planned and I love it.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Variations on Violence

Final Sunday of August. I'm kind of looking forward to the fall season even if it's going to very different. With a global pandemic and an election coming up, I don't think it'll be the lovely season I always look forward to. That said, cooler temperatures will be welcome. Even though it hasn't been overly hot this summer, I really love the crisp air of fall.

Had a decent week of office reorganization and not a bad one for television viewing, considering I had no power for twenty-one hours thanks to a thunderstorm with wicked nasty lightning. A tree not far from our house got struck and it took out a couple of pole transformers. We were really lucky that we caught a break from the heat of the day before.

Not a bad week for television viewing but not great either. I caught an episode of Peak Practice and enjoyed it. I'm halfway through the second season.

Watched the third episode of Ms. Fisher's Modern Murder Mysteries and it's definitely my favorite of the four episodes. I love the sci-fi feel and the background with Bertie.

Caught the Classic Who run of Genesis of the Daleks arc. I've seen this group of episodes before and enjoyed them. It's especially fun because New Who brought in big tie-in to these episodes.

Also watched another episode of Danger Man. I'm on the last two available on Amazon, which makes me sad.

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

Here's the mini-blurb:

Nichol Gothe and Brewster Walters, two detectives in the major crimes unit, go undercover to bust up rebel alliance in the under city. But when Nichol has to use her meta-human ability, Brewster can't decide whether to trust she's working for justice or turn her in to the task force commander. Nichol sends him reeling when she reveals how deeply the secret society of freaks and geeks has infiltrated the regular human world.

And a preview snippet…

Nichol followed Brewster docilely until they exited the bar, turned to head down the alley, and started toward a row of squat houses. "What the hell, Brewster?" She kept her voice pitched low because Cardinal had eyes and ears everywhere lately.

Brewster nudged her up into the first dilapidated cottage-sized abode. "You're asking me what the hell?" He backed her into a corner, invading her personal space.

And, okay, a very smart move because they could get company at any time. But the delay would have Cardinal on high alert. They couldn't waste a lot of time here.

Nichol kept her voice down. "I already explained about setting the bar. Cardinal can't think he has any kind of rights to me, which means there can't be any strife between us." She blew out a harsh breath. "We have to sell this. Can you make it look real?" Even if she'd been the one to throw him off their plan.

Brewster snorted. "Are you kidding me? You got a feel of my dick, right? Selling it's not gonna be a problem." To prove his point, he flexed his hips, pressing the hard ridge of his cock against the apex of her thighs. "Making it not be real is gonna be the challenge." He didn't back up, keeping his thighs against her.

Her brain sizzled. God. Damn. Her body responded, heat zinging straight to her core, awareness pooling and making her panties damp with lustful desire. She wanted him so badly she could almost taste it. Could she risk a brief sample right now?

Throwing caution to the wind, Nichol quickly unbuttoned his pants and lowered the zipper, much to his surprise—if the breath he sucked in and the step he took back meant anything. When her palm curled around his velvety shaft, she shuddered. The man had length and girth, a dangerous combination for someone like Nichol, who preferred both. Oh, geez. We can't, can we?

Brewster hissed, his stomach twitching. "Nichol … what are you—" He broke off when she dragged his shaft out of his pants.

Fuck it. We absolutely can. She hauled him forward, fisting her free hand in his shirt. Grabbing hold of his shoulder, she braced her back against the wall and scrunched up higher, wrapping a leg around his waist.

She met his gaze. "Then let's make it real, Brewster." She reached down, pulling her panties aside. "Right now."

Shock entered his gaze, but a hungry need lurked right behind it. "I'm not sure you're ready. I could hurt—"

She rocked her hips, dipping down to brush her labia over the head of his cock, letting the tip enter her pussy. "Feel that, Brewster? I'm beyond ready." So far beyond, she needed it … him … now. "Fuck me." Footsteps echoed on the porch. "Right now."

He gave a nod and groaned, driving into her with a smooth, hard thrust.

She let out a hum of satisfaction. "Ahhh … yes." He filled her, stretching her out the way she loved.

He slapped one hand on the wall behind them and roughly palmed her breast with the other.

His breath fanned against her ear. "We've got company." He didn't stop moving, his thighs flexing, his mouth ghosting over her skin.

If anything, she got more turned on. Having an audience didn't bother her and she didn't have to perform or fake a gasping response. With every pump of his hips, Brewster eased her closer to a climax. His grunts of exertion had goose bumps rising on her skin and her breaths coming out in panting rasps.

Nichol risked a glanced through her slitted eyelids. A shadow lurked outside the window. No doubt the unwanted intruder had a terrific view of Brewster's ass and her leg wrapped around his waist. Let them watch a master class in fucking.

Because, oh, god, quickies rarely did more than take the edge off the tension for her, but this … would be a full-blown release. Probably a toe-curling one.

Nichol opened her eyes and met his gaze. "I'm gonna come." Her mouth caught his just when she broke, a wave of bliss coursing through her bloodstream.

Brewster growled low in his throat and followed behind, pressing his groin into her and grinding over her sensitive clit.

An aftershock made her shudder and if he hadn't lowered his hand to cup her ass, she would've slid down the wall in a boneless heap.

Catching her breath, she whispered. "Audience of one outside." Getting her feet under her, she palmed the wall to stay upright when Brewster let go.

If she didn't know the real Brewster, the cold, twisting smile crossing his face would've given her pause.

Gotta say, I love this world. I'm always sad because I can't give it the attention I want to on a regular basis. Hopefully that day will come soon.

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Variations on Violence

The Last Ship continues with its excellence. The tough love from Captain Meylan and Master Chief is something Chandler needed. I loved the twisty twist of "Hello, Fletch". I'm very interested in seeing what he does. Can't wait for tonight's episode.

Teen Wolf continues bringing old faces back and I'm so happy! At this point, I'm ready for the guidance counselor to die already. Truly, I pretty much hate her. Gerard is a love to hate character, but the counselor… not so much. She's just annoyingly irritating.

I got started on The Defenders and quite like it so far. The way the four main characters are coming together is pretty terrific and the snark is spot on. Should get at least one more episode in today.

Also started season seven of Hawaii Five-0. I'm enjoying the episodes so far. Not sure I'll be down with a season eight without Chin and Kono so this might be my last season.

I'll be starting the British show Fearless soon. Can't wait to watch Jamie Bamber on my screen again. Which means… I'll probably be binge watching the BSG marathon on Syfy next weekend. LOL

Oh! Terrific news. Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries is going super-sized and coming to the big screen. The crowdsourcing campaign reached its initial goal within forty-eight hours and the funds are still rolling in. Can't wait to see what the movie brings.

That's it for television this week. Tonight's post is from Variations on Violence, a novella in the First Breed series.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Nichol Gothe and Brewster Walters, two detectives in the major crimes unit, go undercover to bust up rebel alliance in the under city. But when Nichol has to use her meta-human ability, Brewster can't decide whether to trust she's working for justice or turn her in to the task force commander. Nichol sends him reeling when she reveals how deeply the secret society of freaks and geeks has infiltrated the regular human world.

And a preview snippet…

Raven stood when Nichol approached. "Detective Gothe, thanks for coming." Her hand shot forward and a smile crossed her face.

The gesture transformed the already attractive woman into a vision of beauty. Nichol automatically shook Raven's hand with a firm grip, but couldn't seem to look away from the piercing gaze of the woman who'd given so many of Nichol's kind refuge. Nichol would swear she didn't do the awestruck thing, but meeting Raven in person probably counted as being close.

She blinked and finally let go of Raven's palm. "Er, sorry." Settling across from the woman when Raven sat down, Nichol got her shit together. "I'm happy to meet. Captain Daniels mentioned you wanted to brief me on the undercover op." The urge to pepper the woman with questions fought hard to win the moment.

But Nichol resisted. She owed Raven the respect of waiting at least five full minutes before diving into a Q&A with her.

Raven's lips curved and she nodded. "Yes, I asked him for this meeting." She studied Nichol a moment. "But first, you're wondering why the hell I'm saddling you with Brewster Walters, aren't you?" The smile disappeared and one eyebrow arched.

Nichol flushed, a little unnerved by Raven's perception. "Well… in a word… yeah." Hopefully, she didn't sound bitchy, but the idea of taking a normal into the underground sure seemed crazy.

Raven raked a hand through her hair. "How much do you know about my story? Not about being the leader of the underground, but about my origin."

Nichol lifted a shoulder. "As much as most of us do. You have the same messed up DNA the rest of us have, but you were also experimented on, which enhanced your latent abilities, right?" Raven became the leader of the freaks and geeks because she had a foot on both sides.

Raven lifted her chin. "Yeah, that about covers it." Her tone indicated further discussion wouldn't happen. "And that brings us to the reason I want Brewster with you working the underground…" Her voice trailed off and she pursed her lips for a moment.

Nichol quirked an eyebrow. "Which is…" Impertinent maybe, but she didn't like beating around the issue.

Raven placed her elbows on the table. "Brewster Walters was at the same research facility I escaped from." She leaned forward a little and lowered her voice. "And… he has no idea he's one of us."

Nichol blinked, stunned stupid.

Well, hell.

I love this potential series and hope I can find the time to finish writing a couple of the stories I want to tell.

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Variations on Violence

Once again, Bitten turned in a great episode. I'm loving the subtle shift to more dark and scary this season. Arrow and The Flash both had great episodes, too. I'm really looking forward to watching Oliver and Thea train together. I'm also thrilled Laurel finally told Lance about Sara. That particular storyline dragged on a lot longer than it should have.

A few new teasers have been airing for Orphan Black and my interest is growing by the day. Here's hoping be get some backstory for Paul. I'm really looking forward to seeing more of him this season.

Tonight's post is from Variations on Violence, a novella in the First Breed Nation universe.

Here's the tagline:

Nichol Gothe and Brewster Walters, two detectives in the major crimes unit, go undercover to bust up rebel alliance in the under city. But when Nichol has to use her meta-human ability, Brewster can't decide whether to trust she's working for justice or turn her in to the task force commander. Nichol sends him reeling when she reveals how deeply the secret society of freaks and geeks has infiltrated the regular human world.

And a preview snippet…

"Gothe, I need you to stick around a minute." Captain Daniels shut the door behind Brewster.

Nichol crossed her arms over her chest. "I hope it's to explain what the hell you're thinking by assigning me to work with Walters." Her blood pressure shot up. "He's got no clue what we're really up against."

Daniels sighed. "Look, Nic, I wouldn't do this to you if I didn't have orders from above, er, I mean below." He loosened his tie and ran a hand through his already mussed hair. "Raven specifically requested you and she's waiting at the coffee shop across the street for additional briefing."

Her curiosity piqued, Nichol relaxed a little. "Is there anything you can tell me? I don't want to go in completely cold when I meet her." A personal meet up with Raven meant something big.

Possibly huge.

Daniels shot her a sideways glance. "Walters. And that's all I'm going to say." His head jerked toward the door. "Get moving. Raven will fill you in."

Nichol exhaled slowly, willing her mind to stay calm. "Yeah, okay. Going to meet the HBIC." She started forward but paused. "She really asked for me?" Daniels opened his mouth, but Nichol held up a hand. "Never mind. You said she did, so she did. I'm done asking stupid questions." She twisted the knob and pulled the door open. "Thanks, Captain." She exited the office and made a beeline for the stairs.

Get a grip, Nic. Raven gets up and puts a bra on every day, just like you.

Or did she? Nichol had no idea how Raven's days unfolded. The one and only time Nichol had met the woman she'd been on the trail of a freak who preyed on normals. Raven tracked the guy down and, as far as Nichol knew, had him locked away underground.

Leaving the station house, Nichol dashed across the street and entered the coffee shop, glancing around and spotting Raven in a corner booth. Taking another deep breath, Nichol headed over, dying to find out why she'd been chosen.

I have no idea exactly where this one is going, but I'm fun finding out.

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye