Skye Ritchey's Blog, page 13

Sunday Snippet: Unforeseen Consequences

Can't believe Juneis almost over. This year is flying by so quickly. Or maybe it's just so muchis out of control it seems that way.

Great week of work.I'm finishing up two big projects and hopefully setting up the groundwork formore. I'd love to find some balance between big jobs and smaller ones.

Had a decent weekfor viewing. We had some weather roll through, and I took the precaution of notstarting anything when we might lose power.

I started a newtwo-parter of Silent Witness. Kind of an interesting premise and I'm notcompletely sure where this one is going. I like that.

Caught another episodeof Death in Paradise, and it's one I hadn't seen yet. I do love watchingthe series in chronological order.

Continued my rewatchof Battlestar Galactica with "Final Cut," which is one of myvery favorite episodes. There's a lot going on in this one and it's all amazing.

Finished the secondseason of Only Murders in the Building and, holy hell, I loved how itended! Can't wait for season three!

Also managed tocatch another episode of Classic Rugrats. It brought back some memoriesbecause my kiddos wanted to try flan because of this one.

And that's prettymuch it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Unforeseen Consequences,a novella about a couple whose past comes back to visit.

Here's themini-blurb:

In the School for the Extraordinarily Gifted, StellaStubbs and Dak Satterfield hold the record for the most challenges won. Asinstructors, they no longer join in on the fun, but both enjoy watching theirstudents try to break their top scores—until a dangerous element is introducedand they discover their last wager won had unforeseen consequences.

And a preview snippet…

After playing voyeur while Stella andDak had sex, Wilson Phelps slipped two fingers inside his student's wet and warmsheath. "Ah, my pet. You enjoyed that, didn't you. You're taking myfingers with ease." He brushed his thumb over her clit.

Erin Zephyr squirmed and nodded."Yes, Master Phelps. They're beautiful together."

Her ass cheeks nudged against hishard dick, taking a bit of the sting out of the compliment. Wilson didn't wantto hear about them being beautiful together. Or have Erin fall into a romantictrap with hearts in her eyes. He wanted her to pay attention to Stella'stechnique.

Because one day he'd have the dreamof Stella writhing under him, but until then, Erin would serve as a conduit.

He added pressure to Erin's nub ofnerves. "Did you see how Stella worked his cock?" She's got all theright moves. Brought both tremendous pleasure." More silky essencescovered his fingers.

Erin reached back and cupped hiserection. "When can I try that with you?" Her fingers wrapped aroundhis girth.

Wilson's lips twisted. "Areyou in a rush then? Do my fingers and tongue not bring you pleasure?" Thestudent had a lot to learn before he'd take things further.

Erin slid her palm up and down hislength. "Yes, Master Phelps." She brushed her thumb over the head ofhis cock. "But I want to feel this hard dick deep inside me." Herfingers added pressure and firmness before stroking again.

The crudely expressed desire would eventuallybe tempered when Erin learned how to truly please him. Right now, he wanted tofinish this session and find his own release, which would be soon. If hevisualized Stella holding his hard shaft between her fingers, it wouldn't takelong.

He nuzzled Erin's throat, picturingStella in his mind. "I'm close, my pet. Come for me first." He foundthe exact spot to send her over the edge and fluttered his fingers over it.

Erin gasped and shuddered, her handgripping his cock, milking it in long, fast strokes. In his mind's eye, Stellasmiled and urged him to join her in orgasmic bliss. In reality, Erin finishedhim off, her head lolling to one side, her legs trembling against his thighs.

Wilson swallowed a bit of distastewhen he set Erin aside and reached for his pants. "Go ahead and get ashower if you'd like. I have some work to finish up." He picked up the penStella used to sign the wager book and turned it over in his hands.

Erin tilted her head to one side."Would you like to join me?" She padded across his room to theattached bath.

Wilson shook his head. "Nottonight, my pet." He had some incantations to perform. "But I mighttomorrow. If you arrive at the usual time."

She flashed a quick smile."I'll be here. Good night, sir." Ducking into the bath, she quietlyclosed the door.

Wilson got up and crossed to theback of room and entered his office. He retrieved his robe, blood red in color,and slipped it on. Loosening the latch in the back of his closet, he pushed thedoor open to a secret space dedicated to his master plan.

Placing the pen in a place ofprominence, Wilson settled down to his knees and began to chant.

This story went alittle darker than I expected, but it's coming together in a way I love. Idon't usually do the antagonist's point of view, but Phelps wanted to show hisside of things.

 

That's it for thisweek.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Underbelly

Happy Father's Dayto the dads out there, including fur dads and mentors. We've got beautiful weatherafter a very soggy week.

My work projects arebringing me so much joy right now. The books are so amazing! Also heard fromone of my authors on two new stories he's got percolating right now. And I got atext message from one of my current authors that completely made my weekend. So… work is awesome right now.

Had a very goodviewing week. I ended up doubling up on a couple of shows because the moodstruck.

Ended up catchingtwo episodes of the Brokenwood Mysteries. Both were pretty great. Ithoroughly enjoyed meeting another one of Mike's ex-wives. And my heart kind ofbroke for him by the end of that episode. I'll probably finish out season ninethis week.

Finished the completerun of available Classic Who episodes. Have to say in retrospect, it'sweird how there have been seven doctors and only one master. That said, I'mactually kind of happy with how Seven's tenure ended. Not sure if I'll watchthe movie with Eight or just skip over to New Who. It might be a few weeksbefore I start that.

Caught the secondpart of Silent Witness. This two-parter ended up being very twisty and Iliked it. Looking forward to starting a new one this week.

Watched two episodesof Death in Paradise. I'm enjoying watching from the beginning inchronological order. It's nice to see how the original group came together.

Enjoyed thepenultimate episode of Only Murders in the Building. What a cool twistor three. Can't wait to watch the finale this week.

Caught anotherepisode of Classic Rugrats. This is my nostalgia show. I have so manygreat memories of watching this when my kiddos were little.

Watched an episodeof Peak Practice. Joanna breaks my heart sometimes. And we're nearingthe end of season nine when things don't go so well for her.

Continued my rewatchof Battlestar Galactica with a double-header of "Home Part I and II."These are two of my favorite episodes of season two. The fleet is brought back together,and the acting is stellar.

Enjoyed anotherepisode of Madame Blanc Mysteries. Very interesting development at theend. I have a feeling I'll either love or hate the twist.

That's pretty muchit for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Underbelly, anovella with an urban noir vibe and characters who get to pull off a heist.

Here's themini-blurb:

Jarrod Steele is a private investigator who deals withthe weird and the unknown and can find anything his clients want. Hissuper-efficient assistant, Maylin Rose, along with her unique skill set, makessure of it.

And a preview snippet…

Jarrod reached out through alooking glass spell. As predicted, his harpy of a grandmother ignored his callattempts for a full hour.

When he finally got through, SopharellaWhetstone snapped and sniped. "You know I don't appreciate being summonedvia a spell. If you want to speak to me, you can come to the estate." Hertone oozed censure.

Jarrod bit back. "ConsideringI don't know where you are twenty-four hours a day, which estate should I tryfirst?" It could take him days to figure out which home she happened to bestaying in.

She snarked. "If you botheredkeeping in touch, you'd know where I am."

Jarrod shot back. "Yet, youdon't answer calls or spell-casts until it suits you. Kind of makes it hard tofind out where you are." He arched his brows. "See the problem?"He bit his tongue to avoid saying more.

She harrumphed. "Touché. Whatdo you want?" Her image wavered a little then grew stronger.

She'd added her considerable powerto the spell.

Jarrod got to the point. "Whatdo you know about Aston Pemburke?"

Her lips puckered. "Bah! Nouveauxmagick. Bought and paid for by the Pemburkes. Not worth my time." She senta piercing stare his way. "Why are you wasting yours with him?" Hertone had curiosity laced through it.

Jarrod didn't answer, instead hereplied. "He almost got me killed tonight. And I know there's somethingnot showing in his background."

Her visage softened a little."Are you hurt? Did he cause harm to you?" She couldn't quite keep theconcern from her voice.

Jarrod grunted. "I'm fine. Butif he didn't set me up, I want to know who did."

Grandma Sophie demanded a fullaccount. "Start at the beginning and tell me everything."

Jarrod shook his head. "I'm boundby my contract to keep the details under wraps." His reluctance to sharewent deep with her.

She snapped. "If I don't haveall the details, I can't provide the right information."

Jarrod snorted. "Meaning youcan't give out the crumbs you choose to like ammunition if I don't provide abig enough target." No way would he give her cannon fodder to use againstanother family.

She waved her hand. "Not thistime. Whatever you say goes to my grave. I won't have your life threatened."

Unless she did the threatening.

Jarrod gave her the rundown. She listenedwithout interrupting—for once—and nodded several times.

Leaning forward, she asked onequestion. "Did the Pemburkes purchase this cube or steal it?"

Jarrod lifted his chin."According to my research, they bought it. There's a transfer of ownershipin the archives."

She settled back in her chair."The short answer is Aston has a sister whose relationship has beenexpunged from the family records. She married an up-and-coming magick mongernamed Jayson Barrowman." Her face twisted in distaste. "The cubeworks on a blood imprint, meaning anyone with the family DNA can wield thepower." She paused a moment. "And the power could be astronomical. Barrowmanwill, no doubt, want to use it for nefarious purposes."

Jarrod growled. "Son of abitch." He wanted to smash Aston Pemburke in the mouth.

His grandmother huffed out anexasperated sigh. "What on earth are you doing with a group of lowlifeslike them?"

Jarrod matched her biting tone."Getting paid. Thanks for the help, Grandmother." He cut theconference off with a wave of his hand.

He'd pay later. The next time heneeded help.

Rising from the table, he hissedout his frustration. "Stupid class wars." But, damn, the hierarchy aspectexplained a thing or two.

I love this couple!There might be a possibility of more adventures if the sages cooperate.

That's it for thisweek.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Uncommonly Good

Getting a laterthan usual start on my blog post today. We lost power for about four hours. Finallygot some rain after about ten days and the power blips. It's not even storming.Go figure.

Still moving along onmy work projects. I'm so excited about the two manuscripts I'm editing. Bothare part of a series with two different authors. Can't wait for the rest of theworld to see them!

Had a pretty goodweek of viewing television. I'm still in the midst of the great clean out sonot a huge amount, but a few extra hours.

Started the premiereepisode of Grease: Rise of the Pink Ladies. So far, I'm loving it. I pausedmid-episode mainly because I want to be able to watch uninterrupted.

Caught another episodeof Brokenwood Mysteries. Quite a good mystery for this one. Thoroughlyenjoyed the episode.

Watched another episodeof Peak Practice and enjoyed it. This one had some action, which doesn'thappen often.

Enjoyed thepenultimate episode of Classic Who's season twenty-six and I'm lookingforward to the finale. Then I have to decide if I'm jumping into New Whoor taking a break.

Caught the first halfof a Silent Witness two-parter. Intriguing episode with some odd littletwists. Looking forward to seeing how it ends.

Continued myrewatch of Battlestar Galactica with "The Farm". I have mixedfeelings about this episode. Loved the creeptastic look into what the cylonsare up to on Caprica. Hated the deeper dive into my most disliked character inthe entire series. So, enjoyed watching with my co-watcher but tempered thatwith knowing what will come later with the most disliked character. Should bedoing a double-header next week!

Watched another episodeof Death in Paradise. I'm very happy to be starting this series from thebeginning and working my way through in the established order. This is such afun watch.

Enjoyed another episodeof Only Murders in the Building. Such a great episode! Things are movinginto place, and I can't wait to see what happens next.

Caught the firstepisode of Madam Blanc Mysteries' second season. It's a holiday themedepisode and actually quite terrific. I'm kind of wondering if Dom and Caronwill be vying for Jean's affections, which I hope won't be the case.

And that's prettymuch it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from UncommonlyGood, a novella that brings two mages from different sides together under unusualcircumstances.

Here's themini-blurb:

Shelby Fewes and Creed Campanalla have a very friendlyrivalry vying for top name in their respective dark and light organizations.When Creed is ordered to eliminate Shelby for retaliation, he makes a differentcall and the duo have an uncommonly good time proving the two sides can liveand love together.

And a preview snippet…

Creed didn't pull his punches. "You'vemade a huge impression on the light master." And not a good one.

Shelby snorted. "Let me guess.You're supposed to make me go away." She did a slow walk around his livingarea, fingering the tapestries hanging on the wall.

Creed grunted. "Yeah, but I'mmaking a different call." Everything in his gut screamed to dig deeper.

Shelby arched her brows."What? Out of the goodness of your heart?" Her gaze dropped to hisgroin. "Or maybe you're thinking with some other muscle?" Her lipstwisted in a smirk, and she took a seat on the sofa.

Creed frowned. "My attractionfor you has nothing to do with my decision. The way you fought in the cage andthe conversation I overheard after the shower does." She'd been dealt aterrible hand.

Shelby's mouth thinned. "Youeavesdropped?" She leaned back and folded her arms over her chest.

Creed lifted a shoulder. "Iplanned to duck in and compliment your sense of fair play but saw the darkoverling looming over you. And, yes, I stuck around to hear what he had tosay."

Shelby shook her head. "Andthat alone made you change your mind?" Her tone called bullshit.

Creed flung a hand out. "Youknow what? I was already questioning my orders after the fight. And, okay, moreso after the free show you gave, but the clincher is your ten years ofservitude. You're what? Twenty-five?" He took up the other end of thecouch.

She nodded.

Creed fought the bile rising in histhroat. "So, you started serving at fifteen?" Way too young to do thestuff she did.

She narrowed her eyes. "Isthere a point to this math lesson?" She cocked her head to one side."Where are you going with this?"

Creed bit back a sigh. "Yes,there's a point. You started serving before the age of consent. I'm betting ol'Evil Dark didn't give you a choice, did he?" And the dark overlingprobably didn't share the age limit with Shelby.

Shelby frowned. "Why would he?My mom ODed and owed him a crap ton of money. Someone had to pay herdebt."

Creed gnashed his teeth."Okay, but, by law, you couldn't be held responsible because you wereunder seventeen. You should've been placed in a neutral haven until you pickeda side." He paused. "Have you ever declared fealty to the dark? Orgone through the ceremony?"

Shelby tilted her head to one sidepondering. "No. But I signed a contract to pay back my mother'sdebt."

Creed all but snarled. "Acontract you can't be bound to because it breaks about a dozen laws. Thedark overling will be lucky if he's not removed from power."

Shelby's eyes widened. "Youmean—" She broke off, the full realization of what had been done to herhitting hard. "Oh, hell no." She got up and paced back and forth."I've been running around maiming and killing at his whim for no damnedreason?" Her hands balled into fists. "Fuck that."

Creed got to his feet. "Cutyourself a break. You didn't know, right?" He crossed to a cart and pickedup a bottle of alcohol.

Shelby shook her head. "No, noI didn't." She ran a hand through her hair. "I barely had time toprocess finding my mom before he swooped in and had the contract in myface." She put her hands on her hips and tilted her head back, her eyes shutand her face twisted in pain.

A need to protect her rose unbiddenin his mind. He couldn't shake how horribly she'd been wronged.

He poured her a drink andpressed it into her hands then nodded toward the couch. "Why don't wesettle in and start at the beginning?"

I love, love, lovethis story. Creed and Shelby are very well matched even if they're supposed tobe on opposite sides.

 

That's it for thisweek.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Twilight Kingdom

The first week of Juneis in the books and I got a big chunk of my garage cleaned out, which makes me veryhappy.

Work projects aremoving along and I'm hoping to line up another project or two in the nearfuture. I love a full calendar!

I had a decent weekof television even with the great garage cleanout. I'm not up to my regularschedule yet and I'm actually okay with that.

I finished up thesecond half of Silent Witness and actually liked the kind of twistyending it had. Lots of red herrings in this episode.

Started a watch of Deathin Paradise. I've never seen this series from the actual beginning and I'mexcited to dive in.

Caught anotherepisode of Only Murders in the Building and I loved having some Mabelbackstory. The fact she loved The X-Files as a kid makes me so happy.

Continued myrewatch of Battlestar Galactica. "Resistance" is such a greatepisode … with the exception of introducing a character I absolutely dislikedwith intense passion.

Watched an episodeof Classic Rugrats. The two segments were ones I had forgotten and I'malways happy to watch those.

That's pretty muchit for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Twilight Kingdom,a reimagining of Sleeping Beauty.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Jess Gillian heads to the outer rim planets to get awayfrom his overbearing parents—the royal consorts of their home planet. When theheir is away, the evil Maniforti will play, luring Nareen Rhom, a palace ward,into a relationship so he can get close to the rulers. When Nareen gets wise, Maniforticasts a spell holding the entire kingdom in his thrall—until Jess returns andsets things straight.

And a preview snippet…

Jess woke up with a groan."What the hell happened?" His last clear memory had the no-namebounty hunter saying something about making it worse.

A cool hand pressed against hisforehead. "Damn. Glad you finally came to."

Jess blinked to clear his blurryvision and found the bounty hunter's face hovering over his. Shit. Not good.

He snagged her wrist and jerked herforward. "You bitch. Why are you trying to kill me?" The accusationflew past his lips before he could stop it.

She snatched her arm away. "I'mnot—stupid man—if I made an attempt on your life, you'd be dead." Shesnorted. "I've been protecting you but trying not to interfere." Sherolled her eyes. "That didn't work out well." Sarcasm came naturallyto her.

Jess's eyes widened."Protecting me? What the hell for?" He'd been fine until she showedup in that backwater bar.

The bounty hunter shrugged."The prince consort hired me to keep tabs on you. But … I can't reach him.And that's concerning." A note of worry crept into her tone.

Jess grunted. "Becausesomething's wrong. Nari reached out. Probably saved my life, actually … rightbefore you got here." He paused, recalling the desperation in Nari's plea."Dammit. How long have I been out?"

The bounty hunter lifted ashoulder. "Two days, but—"

Jess winced. "Shit!" Hesat up and gasped in pain.

She shoved him back down."Hold on. You're not gonna be worth anything if you undo everything I justdid." She gathered up some nasty smelling herbs and packed them againsthis skin. "You need at least two more days—preferably three—before you'reback in top form." Scooping the concoction into a leather pouch, shetucked it into her bag.

Jess grimaced, but very carefully satup again. "Get me some clothes." He didn't have two or three days towaste.

She frowned. "Did you hearwhat I said?"

He lifted his chin. "Yeah.It'll take at least that long to get back home. I'll recuperate on theway." His gaze scanned the room, much cleaner than he'd remembered leavingit.

She made her displeasure known butdid as he asked, going to the chest of drawers and retrieving a pair of pantsand a shirt.

A thought crept into his head. Oldmagick. He blinked. Didn't feel telepathic but it did make an odd kind of sense.

The bounty hunter tossed theclothes to him. "I still think it's a good idea to wait." But shegathered her jacket and slid the messenger bag over her shoulder.

While he dressed, he questioned thebounty hunter. "What do you know about the ancient rites?" He onlyknew as much as Nari shared with him.

No-name's brows drew together."Why?"

He shook his head. "Just afeeling, but it's like one that's not mine."

The bounty hunter blew out a harshbreath. "Geez, if we're dealing with the old guard shit, we need to gonow."

Jess snorted. "Which is what Isuggested in the first place."

I love this story!It has a few twists that are so much fun to write.

 

That's it for thisweek.

Cheers!

Skye 

Sunday Snippet: Turning the Tide (a Black Raven Banner novella)

I can't believewe're at the end of May already. The year is flying by a lot faster than I wantit to. Then again, it's been busier than usual for me, so time is kind of relativeright now.

Had a great weekwith work projects. I'm making steady progress on both and still enjoying them.It's so much fun when you love the work.

Had a somewhatlimited viewing week. I'm trying to figure out the whole HBOMax is Max now and,oh, yeah, it includes Discovery+. I have both so I have to figure it all out. Iwon't be paying twice for the same thing.

I watched adouble-header of Battlestar Galactica with the second and third episodesof season two. I can't say enough about how strong the first ten episodes are.This show rarely missed in the first two seasons.

Also caught anotherepisode of The Brokenwood Mysteries. I have so much love for this show. Italso makes me happy when people pop back up. I kind of miss a few of theoriginal recurring characters but it's nice to have the continuity this showtries for.

Enjoyed anotherepisode of Classic Who. I think I might have one or two left to finishout the classic run of episodes. Not sure if I'll start a new rewatch of the NewWho or not, but I'm excited for the new doctor and the anniversaryspecials.

I'll be startingthe second part of Silent Witness this week. I'm also going to change uphow I do my viewing. I normally scroll through my streaming services and watchone show from each, but that hasn't been cutting it lately. I think I'll startwatching whatever strikes my interest and go from there.

That's pretty muchit for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Turning the Tide,a Black Raven Banner novella.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Verity and Emory have to balance the personal with theprofessional when they're back at Black Raven command. They're tasked withtaking out a crucial enemy stronghold by exploiting a vulnerable weakness. Theremoval of the base will give the allied forces a way into the heart of enemyterritory. Just when they think they're ready to go, Verity's ace fighter pilotdad shows up to see his daughter … and meet the man who wants her—EmoryCavendish.

And a preview snippet…

Emory wished foranother R and R furlough. "The lack of interruptions were a plus." Hefinished buttoning his shirt and entered the briefing area.

Worthington greetedhim. "Your French connection paid off. Word just came through." He retrieveda box of simulation props from the cupboard.

Emory quirked a brow."Troop movement?" The resistance had been busy.

Worthington nodded whenmore people filed into the room. Verity, a large mug of coffee in her hand,strolled in behind Percy. She took a spot on the wall, letting the guys gatheraround the table.

Worthington called themeeting to order. "All right, now that we have everyone, here's the mainpoint." He unfurled a large map and spread it on the table. "Theenemy forces are starting to move around the first base Cavendish located.We've got orders to plan an air attack." His hand motioned to alliedterritory. "Ground forces are going to move out within forty-eight hourswith an estimated arrival sometime late in the week." He paused and pinnedEmory with his gaze. "I'm assigning Cavendish and Jones as leads on this,but everyone needs to work the table." His focus switched to Verity.

She came forward andeased up to Emory, her gaze sweeping the mock-up of hand-drawn locations. Sheshot a glance toward Emory then nodded. She wanted him to take the lead.

He picked up a modelrepresenting a troop transport vehicle. "Let's start with where the groundforces will be." He placed the truck on the map surface.

For the next two hoursthey plotted, arranged, planned, discarded, and finally got a working operationhashed out. Emory nudged Verity and she put the final plane on the board. Theone she'd be flying.

She stepped back."Okay, does everyone understand their role for this mission?" Allheads nodded.

She swept the piecesoff the table and slid a sideways glance toward Worthington.

He chuckled and liftedhis chin. "Good, let's go through it one more time. Jones, why don't youget us started."

Emory picked up thetransport and handed it to Verity.

A voice from the backof the room called out. "What the ever-loving hell is my daughter doingknee-deep in a briefing?"

All heads turned and aline of pilots shuffled to obscure the table from the intruder's sight. The manstood with his feet planted in black leather boots and his hands fisted at hisside. Emory recognized him; had seen his stern countenance in photographs manytimes. Victor "Ace" Jones.

Verity's father.

Well,hell.

This is theconcluding book to the Black Raven Banner—if the name doesn't changeagain—series and I'm so happy with how it's coming together.

 

That's it for thisweek.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: The Truth Hurts

Greetings! It'sbeen another busy week and I'm still excited about my ongoing projects. They'recompletely different genres and it's fun to have that variety while working.

Somewhat limitedviewing week again. I've been in a place where background noise is more distractingthan helpful, which occasionally happens. I notice it more on day when I didn'tget solid sleep the night before.

I did catch most ofPennyworth. I have the last act of the episode to watch. This show isdark in all the ways I like shows to be. And I love getting to see Alfredactually grieve. And having Ripper be the catalyst that pulls him out is kindof a master stroke. Such a great show!

Also continued my BattlestarGalactica rewatch. We started season two and the first ten episodes are soterrific. The second half of the season is also excellent, but I remember somuch about those first ten.

That's pretty muchit for the life update. I am hoping to get some gardening in this week so staytuned.

Tonight's post isfrom The Truth Hurts, a novella that brings a couple back together afterone receives bad news.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Mardi Darr discovers her current lover is an enemy agentwith an enchanted chip in his head. She gives the okay for a risky surgery, andit lands him in a submersion chamber with no brain activity. Heth Santiago isresponsible for Mardi being with Staz and he needs to help Mardi accept thetruth … even though it hurts like a bitch.

And a preview snippet…

Halfway through the second bottleof Abernath, Mardi finally chewed through her chaotic feelings. "I'm notpissed about the surgery, you know. I enjoyed Staz's company, and he was therewhen I needed someone, but … I ruined a man's life." And she lovedHeth.

Always would—even if the stupid manthought she didn't know her own mind.

Heth set his empty glass aside."Hence the reason you're here, drinking to soothe the hurt." He gavea nod of understanding. "What do you want to do after getting stupid drunk?"Leaning back in his chair, he arched his brows.

She shrugged. "Not sure, butplanning revenge sounds pretty good." She'd take on every sorcerer on theplanet if she could.

Heth grunted. "Want somehelp?" He straightened and poured another shot.

She nearly choked on her surprise."Why? You don't even like Staz." A fact he'd made clear more thanonce.

Heth leaned in close. "Likinghim has nothing to do with wanting to help. I love you."

Her mouth dropped open. "Youcan't say that to me. Not now." She shook her head, even while she wantedto bask in his words.

Heth downed his shot. "Yeah,my timing sucks. But I realized how stupid I was right after you got togetherwith Staz." He pinned her with his gaze. "And I wouldn't get in theway of what you two had going on."

She huffed out a breath."Which turned out to be nothing. Or did you miss the part where they usedhim as a pawn?" Somehow that fact did nothing to ease her guilt.

Heth shook his head. "I definitelydidn't miss that part. But Staz being a pawn rests on my shoulders as much asyours."

Because he walked away. He didn'thave to say the words. His meaning came through every with crystal clarity.

Her shoulders slumped. "I wantto hate you so much right now." But she'd never be able to.

Heth inclined his chin. "Iknow. And I don't blame you. But I will help you seek justice for Staz.I owe both of you that much." He nudged the Abernath toward her.

She shoved the bottle aside."You know what? I'm gonna put everything on the table here. We willget payback for Staz. But we can't do that until you and I work out yourissues with us being a couple." She settled back. "So starttalking."

This story ismaking me happy. I like messy characters because they're fun to write.

 

That's it for thisweek.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Trip the Light Fantastic

Happy Mother's Dayto all who celebrate. For me, this includes those who mentor others becausebeing a mom isn't always about giving birth to a person or have fur babies.

Had another busywork week and I'm thrilled to have multiple projects to dig into. I love what Ido and being freelance means being happy when the work is rolling in.

Had a limitedviewing week with so many other things going on. I sadly lost one of my auntsI've been particularly close to and needed some quiet reflection time.

I did get thedouble-header of the last two episodes for the first season of BattlestarGalactica in, and they held up as being one of the most perfect seasonfinales of all time.

I also finished upthe episode of Only Murders in the Building. Gotta say I had a feelingthe artist would do something creepy and she totally did.

Other than that, Iwatched my classic standby of Perry Mason and also caught some earlyseasons of Midsomer Murders.

That's pretty muchit for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Trip the LightFantastic, a Chaos series novella.

Here's themini-blurb:

Esme Von Staunton and Ashton Sylvester think they mightbe going insane. Ashton's weird attunement with Esme draws her into his bizarrenightmare of hallucinations and doing things neither remember. Esme's brotherEric stumbles onto a plot by Baron Mobride and races to save his source and hisfavorite couple, but Mobride has other ideas and doesn't plan to let Ericthwart him.

And a preview snippet…

Eric Von Staunton quietly enteredthe seductively lit room, his gaze drinking in the sight of Bonnie Lancasterwhile she lightly powdered the apples of her cheeks. "My gorgeous woman,you don't need facial enhancement. You're perfect as is." For six monthshe'd been visiting her and paying for her services.

But only to keep up appearances.

Bonnie swiveled around and leapt toher feet. "Eric! I'm happy to see you." She dropped the brush to hervanity and launched herself toward him.

He caught her in his arms andslanted his mouth over hers. He welcomed her enthusiastic response of a lowmoan in her throat. Long ago, he'd hoped to have a shot with her, butcircumstances drove a wedge into that plan. He took up the fight against the horrificconditions most of the populace had to work under and Bonnie fell on hard timesand took a position in the privacy rooms at the Emporium of Entertainment. Bychance, Eric bumped into her when Ash sent Eric to ferret out some information.Their renewed acquaintance brought old feelings to the surface and Eric tumbledheadlong into love with her again. Bonnie returned the sentiment but remainedas a top draw at the emporium.

Bonnie eased away from him."How long can you stay? Do we have the night?" She loosened the sashof her robe, easing it from her shoulders.

Eric nudged her toward the bed."You're most definitely spoken for until dawn breaks over thehorizon." He shrugged out of his jacket but stopped when she shook herhead.

Her hands smoothed over his shirt."Let me. I love undressing you." She made short work of undoing thebuttons and sliding her palms against his skin. "It's like unwrapping alovely present and revealing a longed-for gift." Pushing the garment fromhis body, she started on his pants.

Eric gave her free rein. He'd likeher to leave the emporium, but he wouldn't press the issue. He couldn't offerher a home ... yet. He shared the carriage house on Ashton Sylvester's estatewith Delphinius Dieter and they had a standing agreement to keep their romanticentanglements elsewhere. Eric didn't like accepting charity from Ash, and Esmeargued with Eric about how Ash didn't consider Eric a burden. Ash appreciatedEric's brilliant ideas and liked to invest in sure bets, which Eric wouldhappily accept. But he also wanted to make his own way. So … Eric had meetingsabout his inventions with manufacturers scheduled.

Bonnie cupped Eric's erection."Time to turn your brain off, my love, and enjoy our precious timetogether." Her fingers circled his length then glided along hisshaft.

Eric nodded. "You're right."He swept an arm under her thighs and scooped her up. "Starting rightnow." Depositing her on the bed, he pulled the laces of her camisole looseand helped her shrug out of the garment. "I hope you're ready for a longnight…" His head dipped and he captured a taut nipple between his lips.

I'm so happy Ericis finally coming together. The sages weren't telling me what he wanted, andBonnie ended up being exactly right for him.

 

That's it for thisweek.

Cheers!

Skye 

Sunday Snippet: A Timely Distraction

Finally have alittle bit of spring weather, which is a nice change from the cold and drearyyuck of last week. Taking the doggos out won't be as much of a chore and theylike it when the temperatures are mild.

Super, super busywork week. I dropped a quick copy edit in for a healthcare workbook and managedto get the revisions reviewed and back to the author in record time. Might havea few tweaks left, but otherwise that project is in the books.

Also completed aclean copy return for a romance novel that I thoroughly enjoyed. I've beenlucky enough to edit the whole series and I'm excited for more!

Finished up a fullcopy edit on a novel and have the file ready for author review. I'll beforwarding it later today and I'm excited to finish book one so we can jumpinto book two. This is a fun series to work on.

Also finished up amanuscript evaluation for a new adult novel and I can't wait to work on thisseries with the author. I love the concept and the characters are messy andfun, which is what I like in the new adult genre.

All those projectsdidn't leave a lot of time for television this week, which I'm actually okaywith. When projects are fun and interesting, I fall right into work mode andenjoy what I do so much!

I did finish up TheMandalorian. This episode ended up being terrific. Ahsoka's introductionand her interaction with Grogu topped my favorite moments. Having theMandalorian and Jedi working together also made things interesting. I love thisshow.

I started the nextepisode of Only Murders in the Building but didn't get to finish. I'llprobably watch the rest later tonight.

Also missed myweekly rewatch of Battlestar Galactica. We're doing a double-header forthe last two episodes of season one and I didn't have the chunk of time neededto do that this week. Bummer.

My daughter alsofinished up this semester of college and came home this weekend. She'll be hereabout a month before heading off to Michigan for a paid internship in a summerstock theater. So excited for her!

That's pretty muchit for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from A TimelyDistraction, a novella with a fairytale vibe.

Here's themini-blurb:

Donahue Stuart, prince and heir to his father's throne,longs for grand adventures, but danger lurks from raiders and marauders, outfor royal blood. Enter Lady Vivian, daughter of the king's oldest friend, and akindred spirit who shows Hue he can have all the magnificent escapades hewants, right in his own realm.

And a previewsnippet…

Hue tucked Vivian's hand around hiselbow. "Your ingenuity amazes me. How did you come up with the idea tolure the guard to the front gates while we snuck out the back?" He pausedat a vendor's table.

Vivian smiled. "Practice. Butyou'll only be able to pull that off once or twice a year." Damon didn'thire idiots to guard his only son.

They spent the day strollingthrough the markets, making purchases, mainly small trinkets and baubles.Vivian loved the freedom to mingle with the villagers. She'd found a lovelygray servant's dress made from the softest cotton with plain buttons and asimple sash attached at the waistline. Hue wore sturdy black pants and ahomespun shirt in shades of red and gray. He'd added a low-fitting hat that hidpart of his face to avoid being easily recognized. Viv admired the fit of hisattire. The man made whatever he had on look incredible.

Hue nudged her shoulder. "Areyou hungry? Would you mind eating here in the village or would you rather goback to the castle?" He glanced around and nodded toward an inn.

Vivian nodded. "Here soundswonderful." She paid for her purchase then handed the card to Hue. "Arendition of the hawthorn tree and a memento of today." She hoped he wouldunderstand the significance.

Hue grinned. "It's perfect.Whenever I look at it, I'll think of you, the lady of Hawthorne Manor." Heslipped the card into his shirt pocket. "Thank you."

Vivian's lips quirked. "You'rewelcome." She fell into step beside him, and they made their way to thedining area of the inn.

After they finished two dinners ofstew and crusty rolls, Hue asked for two stout ales. Vivian loved how he didn'tinsist she drink something different from him. He lifted his mug and gave her asilent toast.

She raised hers. "To a daywell spent."

Hue nodded. "To a day wellspent." He drained half the mug.

Vivian followed suit and relishedthe comfortable hazy glow the alcohol provided.

Hue settled back, relaxing with hisale. "So, I've been curious all day. Why are you at the palace?" Hecrossed his leg over his opposite knee.

Vivian chuckled a little."Well, the earl sent me to stay until my latest suitor debacle dies down."She took a large sip of her brew. "I refused one of his importantcronies." The beer soured on her tongue when she thought about Wally.

Hue's eyebrows arched. "Did hehave bug eyes or some other disfigurement?"

Viv shook her head. "No and Iwouldn't care about that." She appreciated a finely made male but didn'tuse handsomeness as a measure of worth. "Wally is the definition of astuffed shirt. He's very tied to protocol and maintaining strict standards."She paused a moment then opted for total honesty. "I'm not cut out forprim and proper trappings. I hate them. And I won't let anyone tame myspirit." She'd done Wallace Windsor a favor by rejecting him.

Hue's gaze drifted toward thewindow. "I know how you feel. I'm tied to protocol and strict standards.And protocol demands I marry and produce an heir before I can travel the landsoutside of Kendara." His voice took on a dejected tone.

Vivian laced her fingers with his."And that limitation chafes, doesn't it?" She definitely understoodthe dilemma.

Hue nodded then leaned in closer."What if my perfect mate is out among the world? My dad met my mom whilevisiting an ally's court." He sighed. "Then the dragon wars startedand travel for heirs became restricted." He frowned. "I don't want tosettle until I've had the opportunity to explore the world outside ofKendara."

The statement crushed Viv a little,but she got it. "You want what your parents had. Which means you don'twant to acquire a mistress on one of your journeys and have to tuck her awaysomewhere because you're in a loveless marriage." Right now, the remindersucked the wind from Viv's sails.

And she had a quandary. She'd giveabout anything to have Hue notice her or want her. Maybe if she planted ahint…

Viv finished her mug of ale andused the liquid courage to tug Hue forward and mesh their lips together. Sheonly lingered a moment, enough to show the embrace to be more than a friendlypeck but not long enough to suggest something seductive. Getting too familiarwould only tangle her heart into knots.

She eased away and brushed herthumb over his lower lip. "I understand your frustration and I hope youfind exactly what you're looking for."

Even if it couldn't be her.

Hue blinked and shook his head alittle. "I hope so, too." He gave her a lopsided smile.

Viv pushed away from the table."We should probably head back before nightfall. My guess is we'll meet theguard on the way if we don't."

Hue barked out a laugh and got tohis feet. "No doubt you're right." He crooked his elbow and tuckedher hand around it again. "Thank you for the delightful diversiontoday."

Vivian inclined her head. "You'requite welcome." Plan number one down.

She couldn't wait to spring hernext idea on him.

I have so much lovefor this story. Hue and Vivian are a fun couple and they're easy to write.

 

That's it for thisweek.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: This Is Your Life

Well, April stillfeels like a mix of winter and summer but not spring. We have hot days thenplummet back to cold. I’m hoping May evens it out and we hold steady for awhile.

Had a crazy-busyweek with work. More projects coming in hot and needing immediate attention. I’mso happy that all of them are absolutely fun and exciting to work on. I lovethem!

I did have verylimited time for viewing this week. I don’t mind the trade off, because I usuallyhave an old standby on in the background like Perry Mason, Columbo,or Murder, She Wrote.

I did finish up StrangestThings and I ended up enjoying the episode.

I also caughtanother episode in my great rewatch of Battlestar Galactica. This upcomingweek, we’re going with a double header to round out season one.

I’ll be starting anew episode of The Mandalorian later tonight.

I also got tolisten to my daughter’s radio show. It’s finals week and they get to choosetheir music. My daughter and her co-DJ picked seventies hits for their timeslot. And they made great choices if I do say so. And I do.

That’s pretty muchit for the life update this week. Tonight’s post is from This Is Your Life, anovella with hex magick playing a role in keeping a couple apart.

Here’s the mini-blurb:

After a harrowing month of captivity in a rival faction'sterritory, Welch Harrinson can't seem to find his will to keep living. RinaLewes devises a perfect way to remind Welch why life can be good.

And a preview snippet…

Rina couldn't take it anymore.Welch's distance created a chasm in her heart and soul. She had to find a wayto reach him, remind him of their love and passion. Hell, he needed to rememberhis identity.

She paced back and forth, turningideas over in her head. The Shringla clan worked some serious hex magic,turning Welch into a shell of his former self. She couldn't counter withoutknowing the exact incantations their rivals had used, but she might be able towork around the potential traps by nudging Welch down memory lane, rebuildinghis knowledge of self and hopefully renewing their bond.

She crossed the floor and picked upthe phone, dialing the one person who wanted Welch back as badly as her. Hisfather. For his son, he'd put aside his petty judgments of Rina's lack ofbloodline.

She hoped.

He finally picked up on the thirdring. "Harrinson's Holistic Health."

She took a deep breath."Wiggam? It's Rina. Can we meet at the coffee shop?"

Wiggam responded. "Is thisabout Welch?" He thanked a customer and the bell chimed over the door.

Rina answered simply."Yes." She wouldn't waste more words.

Wiggam paused a moment. "Giveme fifteen minutes to have Shirley come in. I'll be there."

The line disconnected and Rinasnorted. "Don't bother asking if I can be there in fifteen." Sheshook her head. "Someday that man will get a piece of my mind."Grabbing her bag, she shoved the phone inside and exited the cottage.

She'd play very nicely with theelder Harrinson … for now.

The drive passed in a blur, hermind spinning with how to tell Wiggam his son had no clue who they were. And ifthat old man gave her any kind of shit, she'd lose it. Bad enough Welch didn'tappreciate her at the moment. Wiggam never had and probably never would singher praises.

Her lips quirked. "Not likeI'll join the chorus for him either." Making the turn into the parkinglot, she cut the engine and dragged in a deep breath. "Nothing for it.Gotta bring my biggest detractor up to speed."

Rina and Wiggamwill eventually find some common ground, but it’s not going to be an easyjourney. Welch is the glue that will hold them together.

That’s it for thisweek.

 

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Think Twice

Celebrated my thirty-fourthanniversary this weekend! We had crappy weather, so we brought Chinese home andstayed in for the evening.

Had another busywork week and I'm so thankful the projects are rolling in. Working on aterrific manuscript and I'm so excited to dive into the story. This will be afun one!

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

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

Caught another episodeof Classic Rugrats. The autumn leaves one is fun. I love how much thisshow still appeals to both kids and adults.

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

Enjoyed an episodeof Endeavor. I'm kind of sad to see Thursday falling in with the newcrew. But I'm hoping there might be a twist to this thread. We'll see whathappens.

Caught anotherepisode of Classic Who. I'm nearing the end of the classic episodes andI'm happy I did a full rewatch. There are a bunch of episodes I either missedas a kid or completely forgot.

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

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

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

Started another episodeof Strangest Things. Kind of an odd mix of topics with this one, butvery interesting so far.

That's pretty muchit for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Think Twice, anovella where the characters take two steps forward and one step back more thanonce with each other.

Here's the mini-blurb:

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

And a preview snippet…

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

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

And she wanted to. Wanted to denythe truth of his words. But she couldn't because he'd called things exactlyright.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Judd and Pru are onthe same side but often at cross purposes. This ended up being a conversationthey needed to have.

 

That's it for thisweek.

Cheers!

Skye