Skye Ritchey's Blog, page 12

Sunday Snippet: Whipped Cream and Chocolate Dreams

September hasushered in yo-yo weather. We had record low overnight temperatures this pastweek and we're supposed to end up with record high temperatures this week. Mysinuses are not happy right now.

I'm still finishingup the copy edit for the extended project and should have it ready this week. I'mlooking forward to starting a new project in the next week or so. September isshaping up to be a busy month and that makes me happy.

Didn't have a badweek of viewing. I got a lot of episodes in and finished up a series, whichmeans I get to start a new one this week. I have no idea what that will be yet,but probably a mystery.

I caught twoepisodes of Death in Paradise. One I remember seeing before and theother new to me. This is why I love going back and watching in chronologicalorder.

Also watched two episodesof Fantasy Island. Enjoyed both for the fantasy aspect. Did not enjoy theangst factor. As usual, you take a perfectly good couple and break them up fora stupid reason. Depending on how the next few episodes go, I'm probably donewith this show.

Enjoyed two episodesof The Batman. Bane and Catwoman were introduced and the Catwoman episodewas a lot of fun. The Bane episode wasn't bad either.

Caught two episodesof Classic Rugrats. The four vignettes were all ones I'd remembered andpretty fun to watch again.

Finished up the AgathaChristie Hour and enjoyed the final episode. I love mistaken identityhijinks and this episode had a splashy party to boot. So much fun.

Caught the secondhalf of Suspects and thoroughly enjoyed watching the team unravel thetangled web of who did it. Also kind of great to get some insight into thecharacters' personal lives.

Finally watched theseason nine finale of Peak Practice. It was as hard as I thought it wouldbe. I'm not looking forward to Andrew's personal life being a main focus of seasonten, but I'll still be watching.

Finished the secondhalf of Silent Witness. This one ended up being very twisty and I likethat. Looking forward to the next two-parter. Might get more insight into Jack'scharacter.

That's pretty muchit for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Whipped Cream andChocolate Dreams, a novella where a dream tender and cupid have a runningchallenge that brings three characters together.

Here's the miniblurb:

Nita, Deacon, and Callen fall victim to Morpho, the DreamTender, who plants vivid imagery in their minds while they slumber. When thetrio wakes up primed and ready for action, they try to fight the erotic pull,but fail.

And a preview snippet…

Deacon stayed outside, chilling onthe hammock, after Cal and Nita went in to stream a movie. "I've seen theentire Marvelverse at least twice." Tipping his bottle to his mouth, hefinished off the remaining cider.

He loved having Nita back in theirsmall beach town. Growing up, he'd looked forward to when she'd arrive onMemorial Day weekend to spend the summer with her gram. She started comingtheir seventh-grade year and somehow brought Deke and Callen into her circlefrom their initial meeting in the ice cream parlor. Being year rounders, he andCal went to the same school, but they rarely hung out together.

Until she arrived that first summer.

Once Nita showed up, she insistedthe first two people she met had to stroll the beach in the mornings with her—beforeit got crowded and they had to start working their summer jobs. For a decade,the trio spent time together for three months each year during high school andcollege. And Cal became Deke's best friend.

The past three years, Nita couldn'tmake it for more than a week or two. She landed a job managing a chain ofboutiques as soon as she graduated from her university.

Deke tsked. "Then her gram gotsick." An aggressive form of cancer took her life within six months ofbeing diagnosed.

Nita came down with her parents forthe funeral. He and Cal attended but they had work commitments. Deke worked forthe local fire department and Cal's computer science degree made him anin-demand consultant. When she called to say she'd be moving down full-time, heand Cal met to coordinate their schedules.

And talk about Nita. Both cared forher but wouldn't compete with each other. If she wanted one, she'd let themknow. Deke had a thing for her going way back. He dated but not seriously. Calended a two-year relationship right after college and only did casual hookupssince then.

Shaking his head, he got up and puthis bottle in the recycling bin. "Time to call it a night. Thoughts are gettinga little too cozy right now." He headed inside to find his bed.

I'm having a lot offun with this story. This trio of friends is a joy to write and I love playingwith the dynamic between them.

 

That's it for thisweek.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Whatever It Takes

Wow, August kind offlew by. I'm always amazed how fast the week slips away, which probably means Ineed to go outside and get some grounding time in. I'm going to blink, andit'll be the holiday season. Just saying. Maybe I'll moon watch this week withthe blue supermoon happening.

Had a busy workweek. I'm finishing up an extended project and working on a new manuscript copyedit. Also gearing up for a new developmental edit and a new manuscriptassessment in September. Looking forward to working on new books in these twoseries.

Had a decent week ofviewing television. I still haven't watched the final episode of Peak Practiceseason nine. I needed good vibes this week and didn't want anything to bum mymojo.

I actually caughttwo episodes of Suspects. I finished out the first season and startedseason two. The second season is four episodes but they're both two-parters.Looking forward to seeing what happens. I'm a bit bummed that I can't watch allfive seasons of this show … unless they become available on the streamer I'mcurrently using.

Finished the firstseason of Cannes Confidential. My choice for the big bad was correct andthat makes me happy. I'm so hoping there will be a second season of this show.

Caught the secondhalf of Silent Witness's two-parter. Ended up enjoying the twists thisone took. A great cast of guest stars really added to the storyline.

Watched anotherepisode of Death in Paradise. This show makes me happy, which might seemweird because it's always about a murder. The cast is amazing and that's why Ilove it.

I'm on the fencewith Fantasy Island. I enjoyed the episode but I'm not here for havingangst solely for the sake of having angst. No thanks. We'll see how the seasonends.

Finally continuedmy rewatch of Battlestar Galactica. "Sacrifices" ended upbeing such an interesting episode even if it shortchanged a couple ofcharacters. One of the critiques I have about this show is not digging into thestorylines when they should have. The previously on Battlestar Galacticadoes a lot of heavy lifting in seasons two through four and it's notnecessarily a good thing.

Watched anotherepisode of The Batman. This one introduced Penguin and I'd forgotten howmuch I enjoyed this episode.

Caught anotherepisode of Classic Rugrats. Aunt Miriam made another appearance as didthe McNulty's.

Restarted the AgathaChristie Hour and enjoyed the episode. I have one episode left in thisseries and then I'll have to decide if I want to dive into another Christieseries or find something new.

That's pretty muchit for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Whatever It Takes,a novella that puts a couple on a treacherous path to find their version ofhappily ever after.

Here's the miniblurb:

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

And a preview snippet…

Something's wrong. Lys should havefinished by now.

Baron backed up and glanced at thetimer. "She's been in there too long." Longer than anyone else todate.

He kept the comment under hisbreath. He wouldn't disturb the watchers. They had a job to do and didn't needto be distracted … again. Magheen's interruption earlier only drew theattention of one other, so Lys wouldn't suffer any penalties.

If only his mind seek had worked,he'd have a better idea of what might be going on with Lysanor. The unease ofnot being able to pinpoint what troubled him didn't sit well. He'd never beenblocked before.

Ready to call an end to the testand send a team to pull her out, he hesitated. Lys would be crushed if hestepped in. She had worked and trained hard to get her shot at the gauntlet. Ifshe failed, she'd lose her status and rank within the realm. Earning another chancewouldn't be easy, but Lys would do it … if only to be by his side.

She had the skill to be a master inthe magedom. And her intuition rarely missed the mark. Discovering her path wouldput them one step closer to the vision he had of their future.

So, he waited. "Gotta give hertime. At least a little more." He couldn't let her stay in much longer.

Because he couldn't lose her.

Too much time in the gauntlet couldbe fatal. The exertion needed to get through coupled with the mental staminarequired sometimes wreaked havoc on the central nervous system. And while mostrecovered, a rare few had permanent damage. He wouldn't risk that with Lysanor.

He grabbed the handheld receiver."Give her five more minutes then send in the med techs." Hanging up,he ignored the raised eyebrows of the other three people in the viewing room.

They couldn't hold his decisionagainst Lysanor. If she made it out, the watchers could chalk his caution up toan overreaction on his end. But he'd rather err on the safe side and have ateam ready and waiting.

Curling his fingers into his palms,he exhaled slowly. "Come on, Lys. Cross back through." And do itsoon…

I like the way thisstory is coming together. Lysanor and Baron have a battle ahead of them and thefight will be worth it.

 

That's it for thisweek.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Weapons of Mass Destruction

Had a very busyweek with work projects and family stuff. I'm kind of exhausted but not in abad way. My sleep schedule is somewhat all over the map and that doesn't help.Insomnia is a definite pain in the butt.

I had a pretty solidweek of viewing television. I got another full round of shows in and might beadding one or two in the next week.

I picked back upwith Suspects and enjoyed the episode. This show is a little chaotic andI like that. I also rather like the characters.

Caught anotherepisode of Cannes Confidential and thoroughly enjoyed it. I have oneepisode left and I'm not ready for the season to end. I truly hope there's moreto come from this show. It's so good!

Watched thepenultimate episode of Peak Practice season nine. I'm bracing for impactfor the finale. Then it's on to season ten!

Started a newtwo-parter of Silent Witness. Very interesting episode and I'm not surewhere part two is going to go. This isn't a bad thing.

Enjoyed anotherepisode of Death in Paradise. This is such a fun show even if there'salways a murder to solve.

Caught anotherepisode of Fantasy Island and, yep, my biggest pet peeve happened. Takea couple and tear them apart for stupid reasons. I'll finish out the season andsee what happens, but I'm cranky now and that probably means I won't watchanything else if it has another season.

Started a rewatchof The Batman. I rather liked this series. I might also be able tofinish my rewatch of Batman: The Animated Series. For whatever reason,it seems to be available again.

Watched another ClassicRugrats episode with two eps I'd forgotten about. Season five seems to havequite a few of those.

Missed watching BattlestarGalactica this week. My viewing partner had a family commitment and we'repicking up again this week.

That's it for thelife update. Tonight's post is from Weapons of Mass Destruction, a sexyshort that got a start with a writing community prompt.

Here's theminiblurb:

Bennie Sheehan and Sutton McBride are instructors at amage academy. When they're trapped by a group of students pulling an elaboratelark—a yearly tradition—the former classmates reminisce about a favoriteteacher and discover a mutual attraction for each other. The game then becomeswhether they can act on their feelings before the group of academic trickstersundo their prank.

 

And a preview snippet…

 

Bennie Sheehan reachedfor another archive and opened the book. "I know there's a reference tothe topic in one of these tomes." She occupied the large table in thecenter of the academy's library and had half the surface covered.

She used the index,running her finger along the side of the page. "Aha! Yes. I knew I'd findsomething." She snagged a bookmark and turned to the noted page. "Whydid I agree to take over Carmody's advanced rune class after half term?"Because he'd planned a sabbatical and she had the lightest course load at themoment.

Right.

Because she'd only beenback at the Bramblewood Academy for half a semester.

Setting the book aside,she checked over her list. She had everything she needed to get started afterthe mid-term break. "Hopefully, I won't have to bring everyone up to speedwhen I take over Carmody's class." The guy rarely stuck to his syllabus.

A noise in the upperstacks drew her attention and she glanced upward. The head librarian, SuttonMcBride, guided a cart of books from the center of the left wing usingspellwork to return the titles to their rightful place. He moved like a maestroconducting an elaborate symphony.

Bennie tilted her headto one side. "He's only improved in half a decade." They'd graduatedfrom Bramblewood the same year but didn't have many classes together.

She'd had a huge crushon Sutton—like half their class—and always kind of regretted not being moresocial during her four years of study. If she had been, she might have had anopportunity to take a shot with him. Sutton participated in a slew of activities.The mage society, competitive spellcasters, the underground rune club, and thelock and key group.

Her lips curved."I belonged to study sessions for one and spent ninety percent of my timecrouched over my desk poring over my notes." Kind of like now.

She went back to herresearch, double-checking the resources she wanted to use. About halfwaythrough the review, an odd feeling settled over her. It's too quiet.

The library usually hada buzz of muted tones and whispers. Right now, the space almost echoed withsilence. No hum from groups huddled together discussing their latest projectsor the slick sounds of pages being turned. Only utter stillness.

Bennie got up and didsome quick recon. The windows on the first floor were shuttered, no light reflectingin from the streetlamps outside. The upper stacks didn't have moonlightfiltering in through the large glass panes at either end of the library. A hardball of dread settled in her stomach when she attempted to open the main doorsand they didn't budge.

She tried the sideentrances next and couldn't get through. The doors weren't locked, yetsomething, a spell or hex, held them in place. For thoroughness, she checkedthe window closest to her, but nope, it wouldn't move.

She put her hands onher hips. "Dammit. Locked in and trapped. What the hell is going on?"As soon as the words left her mouth, realization of the date kicked in."Shit. Midterm break." She sighed.

Time for the annualbiggest magick prank week of the year. Just for tricks and grins.

And I'm stuck in themiddle of one. 

 

I'm having a lot offun with this story. It's early days yet, but Bennie and Sutton are coolcharacters and a joy to write.

 

That's it for thisweek.

 

Cheers!

 

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Wandering Soul

I sometimes wonderif time is speeding up. The week flew by. Then again, I have multiple work projectsgoing right now and they're all at different stages.

Had a decent weekof television viewing. Not quite as heavy as last week but I got through a fullround of my current shows.

Actually startedand ended the week with Classic Rugrats. I'm currently watching season fiveand it's weirdly missing Susie Carmichael. Maybe there's more of her in thelater episodes.

Finished up the secondseason of Madame Blanc Mysteries. Ended up fairly pleased with theresolution of Jean's stalker. Very glad and hopeful we don't have to see moreof her.

Caught anotherepisode of Cannes Confidential. I seriously love this show. The cast isamazing and the chemistry with all of them is terrific. I have a very sneakysuspicion one of the main characters is going to be a bad guy and I'm actually kindof here for that if it happens.

Watched anotherepisode of Peak Practice. I have two left in season nine and it's going tobe kind of heartbreaking because I know what's coming. Also, Andrew isseriously annoying right now and I'm not sure if he'll improve or not.

Continued myrewatch of Battlestar Galactica with "Scar." This is anotherone of my favorite episodes even if, like "Black Market," there are somebig flaws with development for later episodes. One of the best conversations ofthe entire series is in this episode.

Finished up atwo-part Silent Witness. The culprit was indeed one of two characters Ithought it might be. Such a great episode.

Started season twoof Death in Paradise. Good opening episode with some familiar faces inthe guest stars. I love catching my favorite actors in other roles.

Enjoyed an episodeof Fantasy Island. So cool to kind of see how Elena assumed the role ofhost. I'm very curious about Ruby's mystery woman. I have a theory about herand I hope we get some answers before the end of the season.

Finished up seasontwo of Strangest Things. I'd be interested in more episodes, but I won'thold my breath. The combination of Discovery and HBO Max is the stupidest thingever and I'm honestly not sure I'll even continue trying to find shows I wantto watch.

That's pretty muchit for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Wandering Soul,a novella that got a start with a writing community prompt.

Here's theminiblurb:

When unsettling dreams haunt Isobel Graff, she turns toan old friend to help her work through them. Garfield McCaskill has long buriedhis feelings for Isobel and when she seeks his assistance, he's thrilled …until he realizes the person she trusts the most—him—is part of the reasonshe's having the nocturnal visions.

And a preview snippet…

Isobel Graff let out amoan and tossed over onto her back. "Uggghhh. What's going on?" Herhead thrashed on the pillow and images swirled in her mind.

Music. Music came fromall angles. The chords dissonant and clashing against each other. She put herhands against her ears and closed her eyes, trying to keep the sound at bay.

When that action didn'thelp, she gave up and her eyes popped open. A figure lurked in the shadows, thesubtle shift of black, gray, and fuzzy whisps of white hiding facial features.

It's a man. Whycan't I see his face?

The orchestral sounddissipated, the strident crash and boom becoming muted. The inky fog whorledaround her encompassing everything … except the figure standing somewhere nearbut not close enough to touch.

Isobel tried anyway."Who are you?" She reached out, her hands fumbling in the cloudy vaporthat kept changing direction.

The figure turned, theheavy mist of gray swallowing him up. Isobel didn't understand the bereftsensation left behind when he disappeared into the darkness.

The music crescendoed,rising to a headache-inducing level. Isobel ran, stumbling over unseenobstacles, trying to escape. The smashing, thrashing cacophony followed and shesank to her knees, covering her head. Her mouth opened on a scream, anything todrown out the noise that wouldn't cease.

Her eyes snapped openand the harsh sound coming from deep inside her chest stopped. Blessed silenceenveloped her.

Lifting a shaky hand toher forehead, she blinked the remnants of the nightmarish dream away."What's going on with me?" She shuddered and glanced around.

The rose-red fingers ofthe breaking dawn peeked in through her window. Her sheets were twisted andflung aside. Her quilt hung over the edge of her bed. All evidence of thephysical cost of her reckless slumber.

Dragging the quilt upand around her, Isobel propped her pillows against the headboard. Leaning back,she tried to shuffle the vision into something that made sense. The jumble inher brain wouldn't settle, similar to the dance of shadows and the constant thrumand thunder of the music she'd heard.

Shaking her head, she rubbedher temples. "Even now, my ears are ringing…"

Unwilling to fall backasleep, she drew her knees up, resting her cheek on them while gazing out thewindow. "Nothing like being afraid of what my dreams might bring…" Shestayed there, an unsettled weight between her shoulders, until the sun roseover the horizon.

This story is verymuch in the beginning stages but I'm excited to see where it goes. I love writingIsobel.

 

That's it for thisweek.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Voltage

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

Had an okay weekwith watching television. I'm going through a weird phase where I'm feelingkind of blah about everything I'm viewing. Not because the shows aren'tinteresting … more because my attention is very scattered and it's hard tofocus right now.

I started and endedthe week with episodes of Strangest Things. Seriously, there are sometruly weird and bizarre items featured on this show. People are strangesometimes.

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

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

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

Started a newtwo-part Silent Witness. Very interesting premise. I'm not completelysure I have this one figured out, but I think I do.

Caught another Deathin Paradise, which finished out the first season. Looking forward tostarting season two this week.

Continued myrewatch of Battlestar Galactica with "Black Market." I have somuch love for this episode even though it has a lot of flaws. Getting action-heroLee is kind of worth having some thrown-in plot devices.

Watched another FantasyIsland episode and, again, I'm cautiously optimistic with how they'rehandling the personal lives of the characters. Also really enjoyed the fantasyof the three women. Such a great episode!

That's pretty muchit for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Voltage, a metahumannovella where the dynamics shift with a couple, and they gain some insight intoeach other.

Here's theminiblurb:

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

And a preview snippet…

Tess melted into the kiss.

Aw, hell. He always knows how topush my buttons.

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

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

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

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

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

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

She'd gladly provide a toe-curlingblowjob. If only to take the edge off. Mutual satisfaction worked as a greatmood lifter.

Hunter shook his head. "Notright now. I wanted something of you to take home with me." His fingersglistened with her essence. "I won't expect you tonight … and you'll havethe courtesy of giving me a heads-up if you move on with him, right?" Aneyebrow arched.

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

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

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

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

 

That's it for thisweek.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Veering Off Course

Whew! Busy week,which I love. My youngest kidlet got engaged last weekend and we've been ridingthat wave of excitement this week.

Finished up onework project and got another new one. It's a mystery and I love those! Alsoplugging along with an ongoing LitRPG manuscript that's also a sci-fi/fantasymash-up. I love the series!

Had an okay week oftelevision viewing. I didn't get through as much as I thought I would but I'mcool with that.

I finished up theepisode of Peak Practice and enjoyed it. I've got two episodes left andI'm bracing for impact because I know what's coming.

Caught the secondpart of Silent Witness and I'm happy to say I figured out the real culprit.It took some really twisty turns and I'm pretty sure there might have been adangling plot thread but, honestly, a great episode.

Enjoyed another episodeof Death in Paradise. I'm almost finished with the first season, andit's been terrific seeing the series in chronological order. Can't wait tostart the next season.

Continued myrewatch of Battlestar Galactica with "Epiphanies." I'dforgotten how much this episode set up for the following seasons. And I'malways blown away by how incredibly good James Callis is the role of Baltar.

I also caughtanother episode of Fantasy Island. Really enjoyed this one. I'm very,very cautiously optimistic with the Javier and Elena storyline. I'm going to beso disappointed if it ends up being trashed for the sake of angst.

And that's prettymuch it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Veering OffCourse, a novella that separates a couple just when they're close to havinga future.

Here's theminiblurb:

Raine Shippley tends to go her own way, always veeringoff course. When her true path is revealed, Dalton Tucker thinks they'llfinally have a chance, but Raine disappears and he's left to follow the trailalone … or so he thinks.

And a preview snippet…

Raine brought a mug of coffee intoDalton's study. "Any luck with the research?" Considering he hadn'thad much sleep while keeping her under, she didn't know how his eyes weren't crossingwhile reading.

Dalton hid a yawn and accepted thecup. "Well, one name keeps coming up. But I'd like to do a little more sleuthingbefore I get your hopes up." He settled in a chair by the fire.

Raine dropped down in the matchingwingback. "Gonna be hard to raise them anyway." She met his gaze."But I appreciate the caution." Turning her attention to theflickering flames, she zoned out while Dalton sipped his hot java.

She startled when Dalton draped asoft throw over her.

He smiled and returned to his chair,picking up an open notebook. "You looked chilly." He flipped a pageover.

She snuggled into the blanket."I think I was. Sorry I fell asleep again." The lethargy drover hermad.

Dalton shrugged. "You need therest. And it gave me time to do some more research." He turned toward her."I think I found someone who might be able to help you."

She arched a brow. "The namethat keeps popping up?"

He nodded. "Faeryn Carnes. Shesurvived entering the shroud and returning. I'd think the experience would giveher extra insight about the inner workings of elementals." His fingertraced over the name on the paper.

Raine leaned forward. "Do youknow her? As in, have you ever met her?" Strangers could be squicked outby multiple wielders.

Hell, friends and acquaintances gotfreaked out around Raine.

Dalton shook his head. "Notpersonally. But I've got her contact information and, if you're willing, I cansee if she'll meet with us." He nodded toward his phone.

Raine lifted her chin. "Yeah.I mean, at this point, what can it hurt? The worst that can happen is she saysno." She turned her attention back to the flames.

Dalton got up and moved into thekitchen to make the call.

Raine stared at the flickeringorange and yellow of the snapping and popping wood in the grate. Her minddrifted and the fire dimmed then flared. She didn't consciously make thealteration. The element picked up on her mood and acted accordingly.

Clearing the cobwebs of slumberfrom her brain, she focused her gaze on the hearth and followed the dancingdips and dives of the tendrils drifting up toward the chimney flue. Her visionblurred and a vivid image filled her mind.

She stood in the center of a pentagramwith four points soaked in elemental magick with a shroud for each—earth, air,water, and fire. The fifth point, the top of the star, swirled with shadows andcloaked itself in darkness. The final part represented her. The self. Theblackness would remain until she got a handle on her abilities.

The vision shifted and fourcaricatures branched off from the center and made their way to each elementalshroud. Then, one by one, they merged and moved to the fifth, hidden point. Noone else entered the picture. Only she could make this happen, and she had tofollow her true path.

Her head snapped up. "I haveto walk alone." Her heart sank … because leaving Dalton behind wouldn't beeasy.

If she chose to follow the vision…

Dalton popped back into the room."Faeryn wants to meet you. If you're up for it, she'd like you to stop bytoday." He pocketed his phone and arched his brows.

Raine got up and folded theblanket. "Let's go. You don't mind coming with me, do you?" She'dmeet with Faeryn alone but hoped Dalton would at least be there for moralsupport.

A smile quirked his lips."Nope. She's about an hour north of us. Maybe we can stop for something toeat on our way back." He waggled his eyebrows with the suggestion of food.

Raine grinned. "Pretty surethat's a backhanded way of saying you'd rather I didn't cook." Sheretrieved her jacket from the peg shelf by the door.

Dalton gave her an innocent look."I would never imply anything of the sort." He chuckled. "But Iwill say it outright." He breezed past her and started down the sidewalk.

Raine laughed. Because she did suckat making meals. And not because she couldn't control her abilities … she trulydidn't enjoy cooking.

She sobered on her way to the car. Sheloved Dalton for bringing some humor to the day. But she also dreaded what theconversation with Faeryn might reveal…

I'm happy with howthis story is coming together. It's also great to revisit Faeryn.

 

That's it for thisweek.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Various Reasons

Still chuggingalong on various work projects, but I'm at the in-between stages on a few. Ilike having some free time to focus on writing.

Not a bad week forviewing television. I had to create a workaround for one of the shows I watch,but I'm happy I managed to remember how to set things up.

Caught anotherepisode of Fantasy Island and, wow, I love the unexpected surprise. I'mcautiously optimistic the reveal won't trash things between Elena and Rafael.I'm not holding my breath though. One of the writers is known to mess things upto ramp up the angst factor.

Watched anotherepisode of Strangest Things. I'm always interested in the ancient thingsthey review, but I'm also fascinated by the crazy contraptions featured.

Enjoyed anotherepisode of Classic Rugrats. The puns and play on words are always fun.One of the greatest things about this show is the appeal to all age groups.

I finally finishedthe Passionflix original, Resisting Roots. I ended up really liking thisone. It's not quite as steamy as some of the other movies, but I'm okay withthat.

Caught anotherepisode of Madame Blanc Mysteries. Enjoyed this one. Very glad Dom isback in good form.

Watched another episodeof Cannes Confidential. I love this show! Camille and Harry are fun, andthe underlying, sinister vibe is present but also subtle. Such a great show.

Continued myrewatch of Battlestar Galactica. This week we did a double header of "ResurrectionShip Part One and Two". The next few episodes are solid, but the showstumbles a little leading up to the season two finale. Too many threads thatneeded some loving care got dropped.

I also startedanother episode of Peak Practice and need to finish that one up latertonight.

That's it for thisweek's life update. Tonight's post is from Various Reasons, a novella thatexplores whether it matters if the timing is perfect to make a commitment.

Here's themini-blurb:

Paloma and Cedric keep putting off thinking or talkingabout the future—they've got a fae war on their hands, but after a particularlyugly skirmish, Paloma decides it's time to open the topic for discussion.Cedric is so shocked, he's not quite sure he believes her, but once Paloma getsthrough the list of various reasons, he's close to getting on board.

And a preview snippet…

Cedric made his way to the privatebath in the office of the old subway terminal. "Not like Paloma to give upbragging time." He tugged his shirt off, wincing at the putrid aroma thenstripped off his jeans and bagged them up to destroy.

Turning the water on, he steppedunder the blast of welcome heat against his aching body. Unwinding from thebattle, he finally gave his concern free rein. Paloma had been a little offtonight. Maybe she got injured and didn't want to tell him.

He paused after grabbing a washcloth."Or maybe she's ready to call it quits." His gut churned at thethought.

But … he'd dragged her into thefray. She'd been happy going about her daily grind and never using her gifts. She'dfollowed him to the league when he'd pointed out they needed people to hold theline after the blood scribe died without a successor.

Realistically, the league edgedever closer to putting a hierarchy in place. At a snail-crawl pace.Paloma had been patient, sticking by his side and having his back. For fiveyears. How much longer would she be willing to wait?

He couldn't lose her. Not now. Hecreated a long list of various reasons he needed her to stick around.

Soaping up his washcloth, hestarted at the top of his head. "First and foremost … can't imagine lifewithout her." She'd become a part of him … the best part.

Sloshing the terrycloth over hisshoulders, he added two more items. "She's smart and funny, an incrediblecombination." Brains and humor could be such a turn-on.

He added more soap and started onhis torso. "She keeps me sane on bad days and on good days, she brings thecrazy fun times." No one got him like she did.

She understood the drive to keepthe peace. Her sense of fair play kept her in the battle when others would'vewalked a long time ago. And her innate talent elevated everyone in the cause.

He loved being with her. Lovedeverything she brought to their relationship. Loved…

Pausing mid-scrub, he blinked."I love her." More than his own life.

He wanted forever with her.

Shaking his head, he finished andrinsed off. "Forever could end tomorrow." Especially if Palomawalked.

He'd have to convince her what aterrible idea that would be.

Drying off, he found some clean clothesand fought the unsettled coil of tension in his stomach. He skipped writing upa report on their actions and went searching for a few important things to takeup top. Halfway out the door, he turned back and dug through the desk drawerfor one last item … a lighter, as promised.

Adding it to the small box, heheaded for the door. "Time to make an impression."

This story is comingalong nicely. Cedric keeps nudging me to go in a direction I didn't think Iwould, and I'm having fun seeing what he's trying to reveal.

 

That's it for thisweek.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Variation on Violence (First Breed Nation)

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

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

I did watch thepremiere episode of Cannes Confidential and thoroughly enjoyed it! It'sgot intrigue and charm and the cast is stellar. Looking forward to the nextepisode.

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

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

Started a newtwo-part Silent Witness and, wow, this one had some twists and aheartbreaking scene that I almost couldn't watch. Kind of looking forward toseeing where it goes.

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

That's it for thelife update this week. Tonight's post is from Variations on Violence, aFirst Breed Nation novella.

Here's themini-blurb:

Nichol Gothe and Brewster Walters, two detectives in themajor 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 decidewhether to trust she's working for justice or turn her in to the task forcecommander. Nichol sends him reeling when she reveals how deeply the secretsociety of freaks and geeks has infiltrated the regular human world.

And a preview snippet…

Hitching his pants up with onehand, Brewster dashed to the door and yanked it open. Grabbing their voyeurbefore 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?" Brewstertucked his spent cock back into his pants and glared at the guy. "I don't puton 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 someheavy bravado. "Like to see you try." He sneered in Brewster'sdirection.

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

Five seconds later, the guy let outa strangled cry, his hands going to his groin. "W-wh-what did you do tome?" He pulled the front of his pants and checked to make sure his manlybits 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 mysight. I'll be in the chapel at the designated time." The old church actedas a neutral meeting place to conduct business. "Tell Cardinal not to belate." Brewster glanced over his shoulder. "And remind him this oneisn'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 anunintelligible response and scurried out of the building.

Nichol choked out a flabbergastedsound. "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, Ishould play the part, right?" Confidence rolled through him after gettingthe 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, youcan bet someone less dense would clock it also." She put a hand on hischest. "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 thekiss spun out of control. He wanted nothing more than a bed and her—preferablynaked—for the foreseeable future. But … they didn't have that kind of time. Hestill had a meeting to get to.

Then again … they had a couple ofhours before that happened.

Brewster pulled back. "Groundrules…" 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 andyou put me in my place."

He narrowed his eyes. "With noretaliation?"

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

He lifted his chin. "Fairenough." He caught her hands in his. "Any objection to getting thehell out of here?" His head jerked toward the door. "And continuingthis somewhere more comfortable?"

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

This story iscoming together in a way I didn't expect, which is terrific. Brewster's abilitywent in a completely different direction than the one originally planned and I loveit.

 

That's it for thisweek.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Utter Not a Word

Well, it's been aweek. I hit a slump even though I got a lot accomplished. Not sure why I endedup being so distracted, but I struggled to stay focused on anything.

Had a very slow viewingweek, probably due to being randomly distracted by everything.

I watched anotherepisode of Strangest Things and enjoyed the artifacts featured. Thisshow makes interesting connections when they're trying to figure out whatsomething is.

Caught a Deathin Paradise marathon, which ended up being fun to watch. I'm still doing afull watch in chronological order, but fun to have a whole day of great episodes.

Enjoyed another episodeof Battlestar Galactica. We finished up the first half of season two andduring our discussion we remembered how long we had to wait for the next half,especially because the episode kind of ends on something of a cliffhanger. Andthere were so many great moments in this episode!

I planned to start CannesConfidential this week but ended up being too distracted. I'll be watchingit in the very near future and will post my reaction next week.

That's pretty muchit for television this week. Tonight's post is from Utter Not a Word, anovella that brings a couple together after the murder of a dear friend and thedeath of a mentor.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Maren Roth is reeling over the loss of her oldest friendafter a skirmish with an opposing faction goes horribly wrong. Wayne Edelman, asuperior adept with the responsibility of their sect resting in his hands,offers comfort and support in a very unexpected way and Maren realizes the manhas become an expert on reading her moods. With a huge battle brewing, shetakes solace in the concept that together with Wayne, they might have afighting chance at winning.

And a preview snippet…

"Jessie, no! Don't sendthe—"

Maren woke up with a scream, herhead pounding and her eyes filling with tears.

The dark room cast gray and blackshadows and didn't resemble the warehouse.

A hand reached for her. Wayne'shere.

Right here.

"Hey, careful now." Wayneeased up from the chair and settled beside her. "You're back at the manor."He grasped her shoulders and turned her to face him. "You've got a nastybump on your head, and you're banged up."

Yep. Physically and emotionally.Banged up. Wrecked. Ravaged.

Maren bit the inside of her cheekbut couldn't stop the flow of liquid streaming down her cheeks. She opened hermouth, but nothing came out but a garbled whimper that ended on a sob.

Wayne carefully scooped her up ontohis lap. "Yeah, it's hitting hard. I know." He smoothed a hand overher hair.

Maren tucked her head under hischin. "She's gone. My oldest friend in the world." She took thetissues Wayne grabbed for her. "I can't deal."

How did she go on without Jessie?

Wayne hugged her closer. "Iknow. I know." His fingers carefully pressed around her nape. "How'sthe head?"

She grimaced. "Hurts. Thetears aren't helping." But damned if she could stop them.

He nodded. "Yeah, I get it.But you'll feel better letting all that out." He reached over and turned onthe lamp then carefully checked her cuts and scrapes. "Any pain fromthese?"

Maren shook her head. "I can'tfeel them. I'm too numb." She shivered a little and wondered if feelinglike drowning underwater would ever stop.

Wayne dragged the blanket up andover her shoulders. "Do you remember what happened after Jessie wentdown?" His voice held no censure but something wrong must have happened.

Maren shook her head. "I remembergiving her the rites and burning her. You bringing me here. Vaguely rememberthe shower." She eased back to meet his gaze. "Why?"

Concern creased the corners of hiseyes. "Do you remember using hellfire at all?"

I unleashed hellfire? Geez. That explained the concern. Notin a chastising way, because he also stayed with her because of her head injury.But if she used the forbidden deterrent, he'd have some serious explaining todo.

Maren shook her head again. "Idon't. Not really. Did I hurt anyone?" She had no recollection of whathappened to the wizards and their team of mages.

Wayne shrugged. "Somewhat, butno one died." He didn't elaborate or say how bad any injuries were.

Maren wanted to care but couldn't."I'm not at a place where she can give a shit about hurting the wizardswho killed Jessie." Her shoulders squared and an ache went through her.

Wayne grunted then gently proddedfor answers. "Did you intend to kill them?" Again, his tone lackedany heat or anger—he only needed to ask.

She rolled her good shoulder."Honest answer? I don't know. I can't be sure one way or the other." Rageand fear fueled her after Jessie went down. "But I can say if I wantedthem dead not even you could've stopped me." Her eyes filled again. "So… I guess that's the answer we'll have to live with." Her throat cloggedand swallowed another sob.

Wayne cupped her face. "It'lldo, because I agree. If you'd wanted them dead, they would be." He shiftedhis position and settled a little further into the pillows on her bed.

Maren put her head on his shoulder,letting the tears fall and the muffled sobs escape. Wayne whispered soothingwords, creating a safe zone to express her grief. She didn't know how long shecried before she drifted off again.

But she appreciated having him withher … because, right there in Wayne's arms, she finally found a moment of solace.

I'm taking a bit ofa dive into the grieving process with this story and I'm pretty happy with how it'scoming together right now.

 

That's it for thisweek.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Urban Grit

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

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

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

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

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

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

Finished up the secondpart of Silent Witness and the episode definitely took a turn I didn'texpect. I like it when that happens!

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

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

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

That's pretty muchit for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Urban Grit, anovella about a couple that drags their friends into a dangerous situation thenhave to solve the problem.

Here's the mini-blurb:

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

And a preview snippet…

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

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

Holt glanced at the key in thelower portion of the monitor. "Looks like a cemetery, according to the symbolshere." 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 twomore outbuildings on the east side of the property and three in the northwestcorner. That's a lot of ground to cover."

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

Dean cocked his head. "Why notgo through the main gate?" He fidgeted, his impatience rolling off him inwaves.

Holt countered. "The houndmight be guarding the entrance. And we can't see it, so I'd rather start fromthe back and work through those areas first." He didn't like not having aclue 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. "Holdup. Let's start with the cemetery. It's out in the open and we'll have moreroom to maneuver." She dug through the duffel bag at her feet and broughtout three bags of salt. "If we get trapped or chased, the salt shouldneutralize the hellhound and keep him from coming after us." She handed twoof the bags over and kept one for herself.

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

Keeley and Dean settled back, andHolt started the engine again. He carefully maneuvered the SUV over the juttedtrack and finally came to a stop about two-thirds of the way down the trail. Afallen 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 throughhere, the cemetery should be in our sights." He started toward the treeline.

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

"Hey! I see someone. It'sgotta 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 andthe hound isn't at the front gate, it'll give chase." She sent Holt apleading glance.

Holt lifted his chin. "She'sright. 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 slowerpace.

Holt kept his ears tuned to any oddsounds. When they approached the hedge line, the gnarled branches were soovergrown he didn't think they'd get through. But Keeley found a small openingand motioned for them.

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

Dean ducked through and Holtquickly followed. Keeley turned and backed through then let go of the swath sheheld. Turning, her eyes went wide, and she nodded toward the figure wavingtheir hands up and down.

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

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

Holt brought up the rear stilllistening for the sounds of growling or running footsteps … or paws as the casemight be.

Joanie called out when they gotcloser. "You're okay. The hound is prowling outside the gate overthere." She pointed to the rusted barrier.

Dean swept her up. "Are youokay? 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 itcircled me. It came toward me, snarling and snapping but stopped when I put myhands down." She shuddered a little. "Then it got behind me andnudged me out of the freezer and kept pushing me until we got here. I startedfor the house, but it growled and started butting its head against me againuntil I finally figured out where it wanted me to go." She held up herphone. "There's a lot of information about hellhounds on the web. I'mpretty sure it won't let me leave the property. But I do think we might be ableto get to the house."

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

Dean whirled around. "Toughshit. We're going there. I won't put Joanie in any more danger." Hewrapped an arm around her.

Holt frowned. "Look, there's acabin about ten miles away that's secluded and should be safe." He didn'tthink sticking around with a ravaging beast would be a good plan.

Joanie gave a quick shake of herhead. "I'd rather not chance having the hellhound follow us there and hurtinnocent 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 tofigure things out. We've got our gear and we can take turns making runs forsupplies if we need them."

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

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

 

That's it for thisweek.

Cheers!

Skye