Skye Ritchey's Blog, page 24

Sunday Snippet: Feeding the Fury

Geez, half of May is gone and I have no idea where it went. At least the weather has somewhat improved and feels more like spring heading into summer.

Had a fairly decent week of work and television viewing. Finished up a project and completed another one.

I started a new episode of Blue Heelers and got about halfway through. So far, it's an interesting one.

I caught the penultimate episode of No Offence. I have a feeling the finale is going to be a doozy. I'm looking forward to starting the third series.

I finished up the second part of Silent Witness. I should be ready to move on to season eleven in the near future. I think I have one more two-parter to watch.

Watched another arc of Classic Who. Once again, I got a little annoyed with Four. There's something about his arrogance that rubs me wrong. Pretty decent four-part series of episodes leading up to the six-part finale, which I'm looking forward to.

Caught another episode of UFOs: The Lost Evidence. This one focused on pilots and astronauts that had experiences seeing unidentified flying objects.

Watched a couple of The Muppet Show episodes. Don Knotts and Zero Mostel were the guests. I'd forgotten they had a new opening for the second season. I'm kind of partial to the first season's opener.

Caught another episode of The Hardy Boys. I like this show. For me, there's a lot of nostalgia because it harkens back to phones with cords, unorganized or unstructured days, eight-bit video games, and hanging out with friends. The mystery and dangerous stuff is icing on the cake.

Also started another episode of Peak Practice. Jack's in Africa and Beth and Will are trying to manage the practice while they wait on a replacement doctor. I have a feeling this episode might end up being a sad one.

That's it for television this week. Tonight's post is from Feeding the Fury, a novella where my main characters join forces to defeat a harsh antagonist.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Larue and Wade displease the Fury and she orders them to battle each other in the pyre. But the two top mages decide they won't kill each other for her pleasure, instead they'll invoke the Rite of Phoenix and if they survive, the Fury will have to abdicate her throne.

And a preview snippet…

Larue strolled the perimeter of the training room, observing her novices work increasingly difficult spells. "They're such a good group." She enjoyed this class so much.

Making another circuit, she paused and helped one of the youngest students adjust her technique. "Hold your palm level, don't curve your fingers." Larue demonstrated the proper method.

The pupil gave her a wide smile. "Thanks, Larue. I always struggle with the right placement." She practiced several times, gaining confidence.

Larue grinned. "There you go. And trust me when I say you'll appreciate the nuance." She waited a beat. "Especially when curved palms bring forth something completely different. Instead of a fire ball you end up with what amounts to a snow cone."

The group laughed then all eyes went wide when a portal closed behind Wade. They'd been so engrossed none had noticed it opening.

Wade quirked an eyebrow. "Listen to her. She's right, you know. Getting a handle on the subtleties now will save your ass in the future." He moved to stand by Larue's side.

She waved the novices back to their practice. "I'm pretty sure you just made everyone's day by dropping in." Her gaze narrowed. "Why did you?" Not like him to intrude during lesson-time.

He shook his head. "I didn't make their day. You did. You're well-liked and this group kind of worships you." He started for the exit but angled his head around. "As they probably should." He gave her wide grin before leaving her space.

The compliment warmed her even if he'd dodged answering the question. She loved teaching and watching talent bloom in the younger wards. Their struggles and achievements reminded her of how hard but rewarding magick could be. This class especially made her proud.

She frowned. "I hate that their talent will be used to keep Helena in power." A kick of guilt landed in her chest.

Larue had no place to go when she couldn't control her power and Helena had taken Larue in. She learned control and discipline and quickly advanced up the ranks. Becoming the top female mage surpassed anything Larue thought she'd accomplish.

"I found a home here." But lately she'd been unsettled.

An itchy, edgy uncertainty crawled in her mind. Something big loomed on the horizon and Larue felt the pull whenever Wade entered her vicinity. And when Helena went on a rampage, which seemed to be more frequent lately.

Larue dismissed the novices because her concentration had been broken and they'd worked hard today. She gave each an encouraging word on their way out. Why didn't Helena foster this kind of reward system?

Larue snorted. "Because she has people like me who do." Even when Helena had given Larue a place to stay and learn, others taught her.

Helena had better things to do, like arrange pyre tournaments where she pitted mages that had fallen out of favor or those she'd grown bored with against each other or had them go up against her current champions. Larue earned her top spot by defeating her predecessor who promptly ended up banished to another realm.

She still had reservations about that. "Maybe that's why my gratitude only goes so far." She could be next on Helena's hit list, top spot or not.

Her mind went back to Wade's unexpected appearance in the class. He fascinated Larue but she never gave any indication she might be interested in anything more than friendship. Wade could have his pick of anyone in Helena's orbit, including the Fury herself. And … Helena made it clear she'd soon have him and no one dared deny her.

I love this story. Larue and Wade are ready for change and they'll have as much as they can handle in the near future.

That's it for this week.

 

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Fancy Meeting You Here

Happy Mother's Day to all the moms out there. We're having some unseasonably chilly and rainy weather but it's nice to have my youngest home for the weekend.

Had a weird mix of editing work and a bunch of stuff I needed to catch up on this week. I did manage to get some solid writing time in also, which makes me very happy. I finished up a manuscript I've been working on for a long time and got it ready for some beta readers! I also finished a sexy short and have it ready for some critique as well.

Not a bad week for television. I started a new to me show on Hulu with The Hardy Boys. The first episode had a lot going on but I enjoyed it. My brother highly recommended the series because he liked it a lot. We remember the original Hardy Boys from way back in the day so I'll go with his recommendation.

I started a Master Class series on graphic design. I'm not going to win any awards, but I have an interest in the topic and I like to know what goes into making things like book covers and media for marketing purposes. I have several more classes to watch and I'm looking forward to them.

Caught the second episode of Chilling Adventures of Sabrina. So far, I'm still in. I like looking at the world through Sabrina's eyes and watching how everyone reacts with her. I'm split down the middle with the aunts and I love her cousin. Harvey and Sabrina's friends are fun also. The jury is out on the teacher. I have a bit of a hang up about the actress because she played a character I really didn't like on Doctor Who. That's not her fault, it's part of the Moffet era that I didn't enjoy.

Watched another episode of Peak Practice and it was a tough one, but I enjoyed it. I'm looking forward to seeing the next one even though Beth and Jack are kind of going through the wringer right now.

Started a new episode of Blue Heelers. It's interesting to see how witness protection works in another country. I also love to see how the small-town heelers have a better grasp on how things work than the big city guys.

I finished the first season of Picard and, wow, I did not expect to be a sobbing mess. That said, I thoroughly enjoyed the show. It took me some time to really get into the series, but I ended up getting pretty invested in the core group. I am left with a couple of questions, which isn't a bad thing. I'll look forward to seeing if those get answered in the second season.

Caught another episode of Chicago Med and it's part of a crossover event I remember watching. I'm ready for the next episode, hopefully this week.

Last but not least, I caught another Passionflix holiday Quickie with Just Say When. It was on the shorter side but didn't suffer for it. A nice little bit of angsty merriment.

That's it for television this week. Tonight's post is from Fancy Meeting You Here, a novella that features two characters on opposing sides trying to navigate a relationship.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Jonni Mars and Val Janison are enforcers for two opposing mage families and have a friendly rivalry. When Val, a member of the ruling house, shows up at Jonni's favorite underground dive, she's both infuriated and intrigued, and more than a little surprised to meet him under almost normal circumstances.

And a preview snippet…

Val crouched against the warehouse wall, listening carefully to the man inside. Philan belched orders into the phone. So far, he'd arranged a meet-up with the human trafficking arm of his empire and scheduled a shipment of drugs to move out in two days.

"He won't see the rewards from either venture."

Val's senses kicked in and he skimmed the side of the building, instincts on high alert. Someone else is here. Reaching the end of bricks, he stayed back, merged with the shadows. He's used a cloaking spell to remain out of sight, but he didn't add a noise dampening cue.

He waited until the person emerged from the darkness of the alley. Female, well-versed in fighting techniques based on her confident stride and wary countenance. She looks familiar.

She paused, her gaze scanning side to side then quietly ordered. "You might as well show yourself. I don't care how many of you assholes I have to go through to get inside." Her arms crossed in front of her waist and readied to withdraw weapons.

Val let go of his shadow mantle and appeared before her. No use hiding, especially if he didn't want to draw undue attention out here. And, dammit, where did he know her from.

She snorted. "Nice trick." Then she got a look at him. "Great balls. Fucking Janis clan royalty." She tilted her head. "No way you went black. Why are you here?" Her arms relaxed but her shoulders remained tense and rigid.

Ah, Jonni Mars. A Marsoni enforcer. Interesting.

But he didn't like her snotty tone, like he'd ruined her day. Then he remembered. Rochelle. Best friend. Shit.

Had they come for the same thing then?

He lifted his chin. "Probably the same reason you are." His mind spun with potential pros and cons.

She rocked back on her heels. "I doubt that." Her gaze landed anywhere but on him.

Liar. She'd come for the same purpose.

Val got up close and in her face. "You shouldn't. I'm calling bullshit here. You're here for the same reason I am … and I think we're going to help each other." A bold statement, but not a huge leap of logic.

She arched a brow. "Is that right? And what is it we're going to do?"

He held her gaze. "Put Philan down."

Her gaze went flat and she shook her head. "Screw that. There's no way."

I'm excited about this story, which has ended up being morphing into another book, and possibly a third.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Fan the Flames

Hello, May! I'll be honest, I had a momentary freak out when I realized we're a month away from being halfway done with the year. It's so weird how time seems to fly by so fast but it also drags on for what seems like decades. Geez.

Had an okay week of television. I started a new to me show The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina, which I enjoyed. It's pretty creepy and I'm intrigued enough to keep watching.

Watched the penultimate episode of Picard. It went in a direction I didn't expect and I'm not quite sure how I feel about where things are at the moment. I'm looking forward to the finale.

Caught another Passionflix holiday Quickie. Sexy Scroogeended up being pretty good. I liked the couple's chemistry and the Uber driver was fun.

Started another new episode of Blue Heelers. I'm almost finished with this one and I'm interested to see where things go. They're starting something of a serialized continuation and I'm down with that.

Watched Chicago Med and enjoyed it. I'm four episodes in and I'm getting a better feel for who the cast is. It's helpful to have some experience with the Chicago crossovers.

Caught another episode of No Offence. Things are moving along at a good clip and I'm pretty interested in seeing where the new boss lands where Viv is concerned. I kind of love the feud between Nora and Viv.

Started the first part of Silent Witness. This one is very twisty and I can't wait to see if I'm right about who the killers are.

Watched another arc of Classic Who. I'm kind of amazed at how a show from thirty years ago manages to kind of hit on things that are happening right now.

Ended up getting in another episode of UFOs: The Lost Evidence. This one featured segments on death-bed confessions from government officials and military people.

Also managed to finish the first season of The Muppet Show and I'm getting ready to start the second. First guest star is Don Knotts, which should make for a fun show.

That's it for the weekly update. Tonight's post is from Fan the Flames, a novella that features a cupid bringing a couple together.

Here's the mini-blurb:

A modern day cupid discovers a couple with matching auras and thinks he'll have an easy time matching them up. Right ... not so much. While Jamie and Alix definitely have the hots for each other, one big obstacle stands in their way—Jamie's job.

And a preview snippet…

"Sorry I'm late, Joe."

Joe handed Jamie a folder with the presentation schedule. "No problem. They're waiting for you, go on in." He clapped Jamie on the back.

Jamie did a quick scan of the designers listed in the file on the way to his seat. The chief shot him a brief glance of disapproval, but didn't bust Jamie's chops. No doubt the man had read the after action reports. Settling back, Jamie half-listened while the introductions were made, his eyes drawn again to the file. Alixandra Golden, currently with Gung Ho designs, rang a bell. He shifted slightly and took a long drink from his coffee mug. Gung Ho, a catchy play on the owner's last name, specialized in residential design. And Jamie remembered why Alixandra seemed familiar. He'd toured one of the holiday homes she designed. A sugary confection of gingerbread Victoriana that made him want to heave before he'd hit the second floor. Strictly speaking, she'd remained true to the period, capturing the flair of Victorian flounces with a mix of antique originals and beautifully crafted reproductions. Why anyone would want to live among so much frou-frou lace and floral prints, he'd never understand. The whole house reminded him of the Candy-land board game he'd played as a kid.

And she wanted to do the interior of the fire station's residential area? No effing way. Not if he had anything to say about the subject.

She took her spot at the center of the room and brought out her design boards, propping them on the easel, the top one facing away from her audience. Doing a slow five count to focus her thoughts, she smiled and opened her mouth to start her presentation.

Jamie rolled his eyes. "Is the reason you have your design boards facing away because you're going to dazzle us with pink, frilly concoctions and an explosion of chintz fabric?"

The banter in this story is so much fun to write. Joe starts out being very grumpy but he changes his tune in a big hurry.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Events in Motion

Weird weather week with sun followed by a huge middle finger FU from Mother Nature with snow and rain. At least I got a lot of stuff done around the house and had time to get a good bit of writing in also.

Decent week for television. I caught another episode of Picardand thoroughly enjoyed it. I loved getting some additional background on Chris. I'm honestly not completely sure how I feel about the Romulans but I love the intrigue of everything that's going on.

Watched another episode of Chicago Med and also loved getting more background about Rhodes. I'm a fan of the actor and I'm a total sucker for characters who have dad issues.

Since it snowed this week, I watched a Passionflix holiday Quickie. A Holiday Lift ended up being pretty fun. I love the whole stuck in an elevator trope.

Ended up watching a complete episode of Blue Heelers and started another one. I love stumbling across actors who got their start on this show. A favorite from City Homicideguest starred in one of the episodes.

Finished up the second part of Silent Witness and it went in a direction I didn't expect. I love it when shows do that.

Caught another episode of No Offence. Again, the show went in a direction I completely didn't expect it to go in. Excellent stuff!

Watched a full arc of Classic Who. I ended up getting annoyed with Four again. Sometimes he's just a bit too full of himself.

Enjoyed another episode of UFOs: The Lost Evidence. This one focused on possible earth landings and linked several ancient cultures to the mythology. Very fun episode.

Caught two more episodes of The Muppet Show. I'm almost finished with the first season and really enjoyed Ethel Merman's stint as a guest star.

Last, but not least, I watched another episode of Peak Practice. I'm not quite finished with it yet but it's going to have a sad ending so I'm putting it off. LOL

That's it for life and television updates this week. Tonight's post is from Events in Motion, a novella where the main characters are on a path designed by fate and they're not sure they want to be there.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Fate has a plan for Drury, one she's not all that certain she wants to follow. Porter doesn't believe in destiny, but when Drury sets a chain of events in motion, he has to change his perspective or risk losing her to chance.

And a preview snippet…

Porter ducked out of the grotto. "Meditation, bah!" Why the hell did Dru think she had to commune with whatever the hell she thought existed out there?

He strode down the sidewalk with his hands clenched into fists.

"You're an idiot, Porter Magda."

He whirled to find the oracle, Gwyn Beecha, gliding toward him.

Moving off the walkway, he braced his shoulders against a mighty oak. "Thanks for the observation, Gwyn. Wanna share what I did wrong this time?" He couldn't wait to get another verbal bitchslap from someone.

"You don't help her."

He assumed the her to be Dru. "I've been there for her. The safe port in the storm when she wrecks her life. What more do you want?" He closed his eyes.

Gwyn tsked. "Such a burden. But hers is bigger. You know that somewhere deep inside you."

Gah! He hated the soothsayer bullshit. Even when a kernel of truth existed in her words.

He lowered his chin. "I know she needs someone and I'm it. The rest … I don't care about." The whole destiny from on high mumbo-jumbo did not impress him. "Or believe in."

Gwyn lifted a shoulder in a delicate move. "Believe in destiny or don't, but you have to have faith in something." She pinned him with a hard stare.

Damn, he hated Gwyn's all-seeing gaze. "I have faith in Dru. Always have. Always will." The otherworldly stuff he could do without.

Gwyn narrowed her gaze. "Do you love her?"

He didn't hesitate. "Yes." He did, pretty much more than anything.

Gwyn lifted her chin. "Then you have to give your full support. No matter what. If you don't, Porter, we'll all lose her. I can't underscore this enough." She put her hand on his arm. "Get out of your own way and do what needs to be done."

With those final words, she turned and slowly glided away.

Porter started after her. "What the hell has she seen?" Didn't matter … he obviously needed to do more.

Too bad he didn't know exactly what.

And maybe that's the whole point.

When I plotted this one out I ended up having additional ideas for how things should play out. There will two more installments of Dru and Porter's story.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: An Eternal Yule

Not a bad week overall. I had time to get some solid organizing completed and I'm happy to make progress on that project. Also got in a good bit of writing, which always makes me happy.

Pretty good week for television viewing. I caught another episode of Picard and, wow, I didn't see one of the deaths coming. Nice to catch up with old friends.

Watched another episode of Chicago Med. It's good to fill in some blanks from previous seasons of the other Chicago shows.

Got another episode of No Offence viewed and, seriously, thoroughly enjoyed it. Viv, Dinah, and Joy are terrific characters.

Started another two-part Silent Witness. This ended being an interesting episode. I'm looking forward to watching the second part.

Caught another arc of Classic Who. I gotta be honest, this season Four is kind of annoying me. He's not quite as fun as the previous seasons.

Watched another episode of UFOs: The Lost Evidence. This one focused on past and present possible visitations. Interesting stuff.

Got two more episodes of The Muppet Show. I'd completely forgotten they let one of the old guys backstage for a while. He's not nearly as fun when he's not with his partner.

Caught an episode of Peak Practice and it had a lot going on but ended up being really good. I'm thinking there will be a sad good-bye in the near future.

Started a new episode of Blue Heelers. I'm hoping to get a little more about Rose. I'm still trying to make a connection with that character.

That's pretty much it for television this week. Tonight's post is from An Eternal Yule, a Holiday Spirit short.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Tortured vampire Haddon Hobbs can't seem to fight his bloodlust anymore and it's going to be the end of him if he can't. Psychic Tabitha Tarheel is tired of seeing the worst the world has to offer in her visions. Holiday spirit Joy Garland brings the two together over the Yule season to help them find renewed hope for the future.

And a preview snippet…

Tabitha double-checked to make sure her sign had been turned to closedbefore she locked the front door and switched off the lights. Walking through her shop, the Divine Divined, she straightened a few things, reset a couple of crystals, and ran her hand over the large spirit catcher at the bottom of the steps leading to her apartment. She didn't need illumination, knowing the interior of her space by memory.

Pulling the door open, she headed upstairs. "Another day of crazy sales and yuletide cheer." Except for Lisa Gilpis.

Tabitha had left at the break of dawn after having a dream about the recently divorced woman. She'd gone straight to the precinct house and met with Monica Sturgis, a friendly detective that didn't scoff at Tabitha's visions.

Tabitha sighed and closed her eyes. "Why couldn't I save Lisa?" Because the vision of Lisa's murder happened after her life slipped away. "But at least I led the police to her killer." Which didn't make her feel any better.

Tabitha entered her apartment and went to start a shower. She hated the visions during the solstice season. They rarely bore glad tidings.

Sitting at her vanity, she took her hair out of the messy bun. "Why can't I ever see sugarplum fairies instead of stabbing knives?" Meeting her reflection's gaze, she sighed. "I dread the holiday this year.'' She'd rather be alone and away from everyone.

The air around her shifted and a zing pulsed along her nerve endings. Being attuned to the netherworld, Tabitha got up and turned the water off. Exiting into her living area, she checked the windows then nodded when a knock sounded on her door. Crossing the room, she pulled the heavy wood open and blinked when an envelope fluttered outside.

Looking both ways, she retrieved the waggling parchment and slowly shut the door. "Weird.'' Taking a look at the item in her hands, she slid her thumb under the ornate seal and the paper unfolded. "Huh, it's some kind of invitation."

 

Taking a break from the sight's you see

Is something you'd like to do.

The visions you have and can't unsee

Take a hard toll on you.

Here's a chance to get what you want.

Take a trip through the mist

Shed your worries and relax alone.

Clear your mind and set the tone

To celebrate Yule with good cheer

And remember what the season means each new year.

 

A handwritten note followed the brief, typeset invitation…

 

The Goodacre Bed and Breakfast offers solitude and peace. Cross through the veil and start to heal your mind and soul.

 

A time to move through the shrouded fog surrounding the nether realm ended the missive.

Tabitha smiled and blew out a shaky breath. "What perfect timing." She'd grab a quick shower and pack some comfortable clothes and a few books along with her nature sounds app on her phone. "I'll be set for a very peaceful and relaxing holiday."

With Goodacre being in the netherworld, Tabitha would also be vision free regarding the real world for the duration of her stay.

She turned the water back on. "Maybe I'll never leave…"

I love the holiday spirit shorts. It's so much fun to create these scenarios then bring the couple together to see what happens.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: An Enticing Yule

A lovely week with warmer temperatures and some rain. Excited to see some spring weather rolling in. It's supposed to be in the high fifties and sixties this week and I'm totally down with that, even if it gets chilly at night.

Not a bad week for writing either. I played catch-up on a few more manuscripts and fleshed out some plot bunnies. The sages are on a roll right now and I'm not sure what prompted their creativity. I won't complain though.

Good week of television also. I watched a couple of movies starting with Enola Holmes, which I ended up really enjoying. Glad to hear there will be another one at some point. I also watched a total favorite of mine, Grease 2. This is one of those cases where I loved the sequel more than the original. Seriously.

I restarted my watch of Picard, picking up with episode six. Wow, a lot to unpack in that episode. I'm excited to see what happens next.

I finally started Chicago Med. I've been waiting to see the first season and ended up getting access. Enjoyed the first episode.

Caught two episodes of Peak Practice. I ended the second season and started the third. Both were good episodes.

Watched another episode of No Offence. I like the overarching storyline for the new season and the wrap-up of the previous season's fallout. I'll be honest and admit I'm not keen on the new supervisor but I'll reserve judgment for now.

Finished up the second part of Silent Witness and it was as twisty as I thought it would be. Enjoyed the two-parter.

Started season fifteen of Classic Who. Pretty decent opening arc the lighthouse setting. Interestingly, it ties into one of those unsolved mysteries of the unexplained and I love it when the show does that kind of thing.

Caught another episode of UFOs: The Lost Evidence. This one focused on Area 52 and what might or might not be going on there.

Two more episodes of The Muppet Show are complete. I'd forgotten about Harry the mad bomber. He made an appearance and blew some stuff up.

That's about it for television and this week's wrap-up. Tonight's post is from An Enticing Yule, a Holiday Spirit sexy short.

Here's the mini-blurb:

A shifter and a watcher have to find their Yule cheer … with a little help from holiday spirit, Cinnamon Mistleberry. She's got her work cut out for her. Pandora Prewitt is a multi-shifter struggling to find her true form or risk banishment from her tribe. Dexter Diamond is a watcher, the group of preternatural humans who document the shifter chronicles, questioning his life's work. Cinnamon brings the duo together at Yule to show them the enticing value of love.

And a preview snippet…

Pandora entered her small cottage and slammed the door. "Dammit. I know what I have to do. Riding my ass won't make it happen any sooner." She paced back and forth, giving her anger full rein.

Fear crept in, hovering on the fringe.

She stopped. "No, I won't be swayed by scare-mongering." If the pack pushed her out, so be it.

No. On her own, she'd surely lose her mind. Already, the symptoms of feral psychosis nudged at her. She struggled to focus during her shifts and each time she tried a new form and failed to connect, she died a little more.

"Why can't I find the right fit?" The thought of being banished or locked away in a psychiatric ward almost choked her.

She wouldn't survive. She wanted to soar with freedom, live the way her pack members did—in harmony with their animal side. Frustrated, she flung her jacket off and tossed it on the table.

When a loud knock sounded, she stomped to the door. "By all that rules the universe, leave me alone." Yanking the heavy oak toward her, she stared at empty space. "What the hell?" She'd fully expected to find her pack alpha frothing at the mouth.

Instead, a burst of smoke delivered a sealed envelope that landed on her small porch. Glancing around, Pandora bent down to retrieve the parcel. No one hid in the bushes or along the tree line.

Closing the door, she flipped the letter over and back. "No address or name. Huh."

An ornate seal gave an official-looking flair.

A thread of worry wound its way through her. "I hope this isn't bad news."

She had until after the Yule holiday—through the first of the year, in fact—to find her true form.

A horrible thought occurred. "Unless the pack decided to cut their losses." She blinkdly walked into the living room.

They wouldn't push her out before the holiday, would they? Why wouldn't her alpha deliver the news himself if they did? The envelope trembled along with her hands. Should she open it or not?

"Gah. Only one way to find out what's inside." She slipped her finger under the seal and lifted the flap.

Pulling out an embossed card, she breathed a sigh of relief.

 

The search for your form needs a key for the lock

A place to lay low without pressure from a ticking clock.

Come to Goodacre for nurturing care.

The discovery of your nature might be found there.

 

Instructions to confirm the reservation and how to arrive in the nether realm via the mists followed the invitation, along with a seasonal Yule message.

Pandora didn't hesitate. "Yes, definitely yes." The parchment etched her reply on the page then winked out of sight.

Pandora dashed into her bedroom and packed for an extended stay. "If nothing else, I won't have to walk on eggshells around everyone who's waiting for me to sink or shift."

As if she enjoyed the constant scrutiny.

I'm super thrilled with how this story came together. I have so much fun with the holiday spirit shorts.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Elemental Healing (a Lantern Jack tale)

Happy Easter to those who celebrate. We're having a low-key day without a lot of fanfare. That's exactly the way I like to celebrate holidays and my middle kiddo had his gallbladder removed earlier this week so being kind of quiet is a good thing.

Had a decent week of television viewing. My work schedule is still sporadic and I've been able to catch up on a few more writing projects. I'm also taking some time to organize my works in progress and then I hope to plan out a tentative schedule to finish up the ones that are close to being done.

I started a new episode of Blue Heelers and, so far, it's pretty good. I'm a little confused about the new character being in uniform but hopefully that will resolve itself by the end of the episode.

Watched the first episode of No Offence's second season. Really nice setup for the overarching storyline. I really love Viv and Dinah's dynamic. This show is so excellent.

Caught the opening episodes of the tenth season of Silent Witness. Really liked the first two-parter. I've started the third episode and I think it's going to be a twisty one.

Watched the final arc of Doctor Who's fourteenth season. Pretty solid storyline and I'm starting to like the dynamic between Four and Leela. I like her.

I ended up with a free six-month trial of Discovery+ so I started a show called UFOs: The Lost Evidence. I love diving into theories of visitors from outer space.

Watched two more episodes of The Muppet Show. Both were very funny. I've discovered I really enjoy the ballroom dance segments. Considering I'm not a huge comedy fan, this is high praise.

And that's pretty much it for this week's update. Tonight's post is from Elemental Healing, a Lantern Jack sexy short.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Lantern Jack is back to right another wrong. Erica Ellis is a fire demon whose powers are going out of control. She needs intervention and an ancient ritual could save her from harming others. Perth Pettigrew is a mystic knight and knows the old rites. Too bad he's no longer using his gift. It's up to Lantern Jack to bring the two together for some elemental healing.

And a preview snippet…

Perth finally slowed down several blocks away from the beautiful fire demon. "Nice I can still sense the type." He'd learned early on how to tell one kind of fae from another.

He'd thought the ability had gone into a deep slumber. Five years. Half a decade since he'd used his training in the mystical healing arts.

"Not since Alisa died."

Died, right. Killed helping a demon in the underground movement.

"We were brash and arrogant, thinking we could help demons on the down low." He climbed the stairs to his home. "Not worth it."

Letting himself into the loft he used to share with Alisa, he tossed his keys on the counter. The room spun a little, his adrenaline waning.

"Figures. That's what I get for using my power after being dormant for five years." And it would be the last time.

If he didn't perform the rejuvenation ritual on All Hallows, he'd lose the ability to do more than spiritual healing; not that he'd done much lately.

"How can I, when my spirit is broken?" The image of the red-hot fire demon flickered in his brain.

Nope. He wouldn't get involved. He'd made his decision. No more pushing the envelope. Time to get out. Her inner conflict all but oozed out of her. She lacked skill and her power frightened her.

"Damn, she looked terrified." His lips quirked. "And pissed." He sobered.

An angry fire demon with no control didn't bode well. He discounted his concern. "She has the whiskey." No doubt she used the alcohol to curb her impulses.

Perth had seen the tactic work before.

"Too bad it won't help her for long." The power flowing through her rivaled anything he'd previously worked with. "She's dangerous." But beautiful.

Like Alisa had been. He picked up a photo of her smiling and happy. "Time to put these away." He found a box and packed the images of his former life inside.

He didn't need them anymore. He no longer had that life. He'd soon start on a different path.

Placing the last picture in the container, he traced his fingers over the glass. "Time to say good-bye, long past time." The only thing left would be to let his mystic powers wane.

I like writing Perth and his conflict and reluctance to get involved with a fire demon. The Lantern Jack stories are so much fun to write.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Dawn of the Son

It's been a weird week but also a productive one. I can't quite believe March is almost over. My middle kid has gallbladder surgery on Tuesday and my youngest kid has a long weekend coming up and I'm kind of excited to have everyone home.

Very slow work week so I got to focus on writing again. Made a lot of progress on the back end with a good bit or organizing and updating files. I got some new projects launched and made a big dent in some older ones that have been on the back burner. It's always nice to feel productive.

Also got some cleaning done, which is terrific and long overdue. I've been setting a timer and sticking with one area for that timeframe. Seems to be working well so far. I pick a room, set the limit, and get busy. Makes the job seem less daunting.

On the television front, I got three arcs of Classic Whowatched this week. I'm almost finished with season fourteen and I miss Sarah Jane but Leela is pretty fun. I don't think I've seen any Leela episodes so it's kind of fun to see new fare.

I also watched several more episodes of The Muppet Show. I'm about halfway through the first season and other than remembering how annoying Miss Piggy's karate chops are I'm having great memories.

Caught the second part of Silent Witness and finished out the ninth season. I'll be starting ten this week.

Got another episode of Peak Practice in and should have one more for the second season then ready to start the third. I'm not sure how long Jack and Beth will be sticking around but I'm really enjoying this show.

I also got to catch an episode of Murdoch Mysteries. I'm behind on the new season, but I like to binge this show so I'll get caught up soon.

That's pretty much it for television this week. Tonight's post is from Dawn of the Son, a novella that got started with a writing community prompt.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Apollo and Aurora aren't supposed to get together, but the Universe has other ideas. When everything starts to go sideways, two mortals personify the ancient deities and balance is restored.

And a preview snippet…

Aurora entered Apollo's grotto and propped a shoulder on the marble column. "The oracle said it's time." She moved forward, coming to a stop beside the love of her life—a man she couldn't have.

Apollo reached out and drew her forward. "Pythia found them. The two who can fulfill the prophecy." He only held her for a moment; otherwise, she'd start to dissipate.

The curse of belonging to a different pantheon. She only had brief windows of opportunity to see and converse with Apollo, something that drove both mad.

Rules are rules—even when they're stupid.

Apollo's lips curved. "Railing at the forced limitations doesn't make them go away and cuts into the brief time we have together." He withdrew a scroll and spread it open. "Pythia provided me with this…" He waved his hand over the parchment.

A couple appeared, their life unfolding on the page. Aleina Foyle and Alston Saddington fought their way through a war that ravaged their planet. Now they were part of the leading force that had to convince the population to leave their homes and take to the stars. The warfare decimated their home to the point it wouldn't recover.

Aurora tilted her head. "She's magnificent." Aleina had strength and faith that did little to curb her headstrong ways. "Has Pythia started planting the seeds yet?"

Apollo nodded. "With waking dreams and nightscape visions. It's going to take a toll on Aleina." He frowned, his poet's heart battling with his hunter's mind.

Aurora turned her attention to Alston. "He's an enigma. He doesn't believe in the pantheon but he has a wellspring of fortitude and a moral fiber that runs strong." She met Apollo's gaze. "Will he accept his role for what needs to be done to save humanity?" If he didn't, she'd have a very long wait to be with her love.

Apollo studied the scroll. "For her, yes. He'll resist and fight the current, but the prophecy indicates he'll carry through." He waved his hand over the vision and the parchment returned to normal.

Aurora sighed. "I wish I could be there when you bring Aleina over. It's not fair, these tiny openings in the veil never last long enough." Already, the pull to return to her side tugged at her.

Apollo gathered her close. "Patience, my love. We'll be together soon." He meshed his lips with hers, taking the kiss long and deep.

The moment ended when Pythia entered the grotto. "My dears, time is short. Aurora must return to her side or humanity's fate will come to an end." The oracle stood vigil over the rift in the veil. "The mists swirl and her path will obscure soon."

Aurora sent Pythia a grateful smile. "Thank you. For everything." Pythia's role in bringing the prophecy to light would always endear her to Aurora.

Taking one last lingering look at Apollo, Aurora made her way out of his grotto and slipped through the mists to her side of the veil. The plot set, the pieces in motion, she hoped the oracle's vision for saving humanity held true.

The goddess of the dawn would soon be chasing the moon away and seeking her light, the god of the sun. Aurora had the power to intervene and give humanity its last chance to get things right. But she'd need her poet hunter to balance the universe. Aleina had the strength to carry the burden of bringing the people together. Alston had the right mix of military bearing and political savvy to keep them on the path.

And the triggering event would take place soon to bring Aurora and Apollo together on the mortal coil.

What started out as a single standalone title has morphed into a trilogy. I'm not how that happened, but I'm running with it.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Dangerous Elements (a Lantern Jack tale)

I did get my vaccine this past Tuesday and only had mild side effects, for which I'm very grateful. I'm glad it's out of the way and look forward to everyone else getting theirs and finding a new normal.

Had another slower work week and caught up on more writing. It's nice to focus for longer periods when I'm able to. Had a few distractions involving family member health issues but both of those were expected.

Television ended up being fairly decent this week. I finished a new arc of Classic Who and it might be the last one with Sarah Jane Smith. I'm not sure but should find out this week.

Caught an episode of Peak Practice. Jack and Amanda finally got married and had some drama prior to the wedding.

Caught the last two episodes of No Offence's first season and, wow, what a great ending. A little twisty and turny but very satisfying. Also caught the deleted scenes and a behind the scenes meeting of the cast and creator. Worth the watch.

Watched a couple episodes of The Muppet Show. Again, I had some great memories of watching as a kid. I'm enjoying diving back into the show.

Started a new episode of Blue Heelers but haven't made it very far yet. Looks like a good episode so far.

Caught another episode of Silent Witness. Almost at the end of season nine. This looks like another good two-parter.

Did a binge marathon of Hawaii Five-0 and watched a good portion of season nine. I'll have to revisit because I missed some key points, but it's a decent season so far.

That's pretty much it for television this week. Tonight's post is from Dangerous Elements, a Lantern Jack tale featuring a shifter and a guardian.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Lantern Jack is back to right another wrong. The long-standing animosity between shifters and the human council comes to a dangerous head. Dahlia Derringer is next in line to rule the council and she's stepping into the role because a shifter almost took her father's life. Otto Orpheus leads the shifters and he's furious a rogue fox acted against his orders. Samhain is nigh and the shifters need to replenish their aura … if Otto can get Dahlia's permission to do so.

And a preview snippet…

Otto Orpheus stood outside the Derringer house, with an ugly jack-o-lantern on the porch, biting back anger and frustration. "How dare the council refuse entry to the sacred lands?" He crumpled the letter.

Were they trying to kill off the shifters?

He knocked, fully expecting a tense conversation with Dean Derringer, the head of the human council. Otto wanted a treaty, one that would allow access to the land throughout the year. If he had to concede to small numbers and having his people escorted throughout their visit, he'd do it. He'd do anything to get his clan healthy and whole again.

The door jerked open and Otto nearly swallowed his tongue when a vision of female loveliness greeted him. Tall and sensuous, she had legs for days but also glorious curves. He loved a woman with some hips. His eyes scanned upward and he almost fell in love with the gorgeous female … until he met her gaze—hard, furious, and unyielding. Dahlia Derringer had certainly grown up in the ten years since he'd seen her last.

She huffed out a breath. "What do you want?" Her chest heaved with indignation.

Otto showed her the letter. "To speak with Dean. He can't bar us from the sacred lands. He can't refuse—" His words were cut off when she shoved him on the shoulder.

Dahlia snarled. "He didn't, I did." She gave him another jab.

What the hell?

Otto shook his head. "Why? What's going on?" What on earth happened?

She stepped back, her mouth a thin slash across her face. "Leave. Now." She started to close the door.

He stuck his foot out to stop her.  "Hold up. What the hell is going on here?" He couldn't go anywhere until he got some answers.

Dahlia got pissed. "You dare show up when my father's life hangs in the balance? Demanding entry to sacred lands? No, I don't think so." She made another effort to slam the door.

Did I step into an alternate reality? What's going on here? He literally had zero clue what had her so furious. How did Dean's life hang in the balance? Her chest rose and fell with anger and her gaze, while glittering with rage, also held an underlying note of concern. She truly feared for her dad's life.

But he needed to secure entry to their sacred area. "Wait a minute. What happened to Dean? I haven't been informed of any of this."

She rolled her eyes. "Do you expect me to believe you? Really?" She turned and walked toward the hall.

Otto followed her but stayed close to the door. "I don't expect anything. I'm asking what's going on. If you refuse to answer, I can't address or defend whatever it is you think I've done wrong."

And for once he hadn't been plotting or planning anything.

I have such a good time writing the Lantern Jack tales. Otto and Dahlia are a fun couple to put on the page.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye 

Sunday Snippet: Lost in Translation (Crystal Shard Brotherhood)

Well, I think I get my vaccine this week. I'm actually rather excited they made it to my age range. I'll look forward to being able to be out and about more than I currently am.

Had a slower work week, which ended up being nice to get caught up on some writing and start some new projects that have been waiting in the wings. Also caught some television.

Ended up watching two arcs of Classic Who. I am in season fourteen and but I'm not halfway as I originally thought.

Caught two episodes of No Offence. I'm almost finished with the first season and it's getting really good. I'm thoroughly enjoying this show.

Watched the first part of Silent Witness and started the second. It's actually kind of a creepy episode.

Caught another episode of Peak Practice, which ended up being really good. I'm near the end of the second season and almost ready to start the third.

Started a new episode of Blue Heelers and it continues a bit from the previous episode. It's getting a little more into the personal lives of the characters.

Also watched several episodes of The Muppet Show. I'm having some seriously fun childhood flashbacks.

And that's pretty much it for television this week. Tonight's post is from Lost in Translation, a Crystal Shard Brotherhood novella.

Here's the mini-blurb:

A body dumped outside a fortress. A scroll located in twelve different locations. A trap sprung. But the brethren are too smart to take the bait. Jackson Alexander and Jacey Durham have to turn the tables on the nemesis trying to dismantle the Crystal Shard Brotherhood.

And a preview snippet…

The scary look on Jacks's face didn't deter Jacey from trying to remember what happened.

She thought back, the twinge of pain less intense this time. "I got a phone call." She left out the encoded part for now, better to hold the information back until she knew more about Jacks. "Left to meet the driver."

She had a memory of walking to the lift, going down in the empty tram, and heading through the lobby of her building.

The bump on her head started to throb, but she continued. "I was early so I waited by the doors." Things got a little fuzzier after that. "The car pulled along the curb so I exited and went out to meet it." She frowned. "The driver usually gets out and opens the door, but he didn't this time." Why hadn't he? She wished the details weren't so murky in her head.

Jack showed an interest in that statement. "That the first time that's happened?"

Jacey shook her head. "No. But it's not common." Her hand rubbed absently along the bruised area on her head.

Jacks noticed. "You okay? We can stop if you need to."

He clearly didn't want to. Curiosity warred with concern on his face. With a dash of wariness.

Jacey shrugged off the fatigue. "No. I'm fine. But there's not much more I can tell you." She pushed her limits. "The door popped open from the inside and I entered…" Jacey frowned again. She got a little more—a flash of a face—but nothing clear. The visage got shoved aside by the memory of a stinging pinch on her arm.

Her eyes widened and her hand went to the spot on her bicep. "I was injected with something." But what?

Her eyes flew to Jacks. "I think I was drugged." Buy why? She didn't have a clue who would want to do something like that. Or why they'd want to then beat her and dump her outside the keep.

Her head ached and now her arm throbbed.

I'm excited about moving ahead on this series. I don't have all the books plotted out but I do have some good beats jotted down so I at least know where things are going.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye