Skye Ritchey's Blog, page 30

Sunday Snippet: Stay the Course (Warlock's Curse book one)

We're entering week … eh, I'm not even sure … of the social distancing and I'm truly hoping we start to see the case numbers come down. We're doing what we can to stay inside and away from others. We do try to order from our local restaurants a night or two a week to help support the establishments.
Had a slower than normal week of television viewing. I started out by finishing up Strike Back's third episode. I'm very excited for the rest of the season. I also caught the declassified short for this episode.
I started a new episode of Blue Heelers and hope to finish it this upcoming week. So far, I'm truly enjoying this show.
Watched the end of a Gargoyles episode and got two more in. I don't remember Xanatos being such a cheesy villain when I watched this show with my oldest. Man, he is one though.
Started the first season of The Witcher. Gotta say I'm intrigued. Here's hoping the rest of the season measures up.
For fun, I watched the blooper reel for Dirty, Sexy Saint and laughed out loud a couple of times. I love how much behind the scenes Passionflix shares with its members.
Caught another episode of Arrow. I'm not sure if it's because I know it's ending or if the writing has just kicked it up a notch but I can honestly say I end up getting all choked up with tears in every episode so far. We're getting to the home stretch so I don't expect that to change.
Also watched another episode of Murdoch Mysteries and thoroughly enjoyed it. Having the ladies take center stage was much appreciated. I'm a little intrigued by Violet showing her sharpened teeth, which probably won't bode well for William and Julia in the next two episodes. That said, I'll be happy if Miss Violet Hart ends up going down in flames. I'm not a fan.
And that's pretty much it for television this week. Tonight's post is from Stay the Course, a novella that opens the Warlock's Curse series.
Here's the mini-blurb:
Nadia Iris is at a crossroads and has to choose whether to find her path to fulfillment as an adept or stay stagnant in her current position. She decides to go on a journey quest, but has to leave Falk Ridenour behind. Falk isn't happy, but supports her choice, even knowing the hardship she'll face.
And a preview snippet…What do I want?Nadia wanted to punch a hole in the universe and disappear. She wanted to figure her shit out and become a white-robed witch. She wanted … to be normal, dammit.She heaved a sigh. "I want all this…" She motioned around the classroom. "To be easier like it is for everyone else. I'm tired of being a freak of nature. Can you fix that?" Would that he could or at least tell her why she struggled so much.Falk made his way to her side. "I would if I could. You know that." His tone held a wealth of sincerity.And she believed him. Hell, he already had. Falk didn't treat her like a total misfit … unlike everyone else in the coven's rookery, the school for discovering and learning about their gifts.Falk grabbed her hand and tugged her over to the small couch by the windows. "Look, let's give magick a break for a while." He waited until she sat and put her feet under her thighs. "What else do you enjoy doing during downtime? Reading? Music? Art?" He angled toward her and gave her his full attention.Geez. Something of a loaded question. And a little out of her comfort zone. She could be snarky and say she liked to have lots of sex, but he didn't deserve the disrespect. Any discussion of her weird hobbies involved letting Falk get a peek inside her chaotic mind and she weighed how much of her inner self to reveal. Then again, what did she have to lose?Maybe she'd test the interest level a little. "You really don't want to know what I get up to when I'm not in class, do you?" She wouldn't blame him if he didn't.His gaze didn't waver. "I wouldn't have asked if I didn't."Okay, then. She'd start with something somewhat simple but a little dangerous. See if he really wanted to dive into the freak show she called her life.Standing, she held out her hand. "Come on, it's better if I show you." A break sounded wonderful … even if Falk might live to regret taking an interest.
I'm very excited about this series. The ideas popped very quickly and the other books are pretty much plotted. Now to find the time to really flesh everything out and get them finished up.


That's it for this week.
Cheers!
Skye

Sunday Snippet: A Spellbound Yule

Gotta say, the whole limiting of physical distance and having my youngest's senior year pretty much cancelled is both easier and harder than I thought it would be. I have three people in the house who are pretty much deemed essential workers. One is in food production and the other two are grocery workers. If the reins get tighter on limiting movement, I'm pretty sure they won't get a break.
For me, as someone who's worked from home for the past decade or so, it's business as usual for the most part. I have more interruptions than usual but otherwise, my routine hasn't changed overmuch. There's something comforting in that.
Had a semi-decent week of watching television. I finished up the Heart Guy from last week and I'll give it a go. I have a feeling this one is going to have messy relationships and I always like train-wreck shows.
Also caught another arc of Classic Who. It's always fun to see the effects from the late sixties and early seventies. Doctor Who isn't any better or worse for shows of its time.
Watched another episode of Peak Practice and enjoyed it. I'm finally starting to get into the relationships and getting to know the villagers. I love the scenery in the show.
Caught the livestream of the Dropkick Murphysconcert on St. Patrick's Day. Terrific show and highly entertaining. I hope to catch some of the Broadway shows that are available for streaming also.
Watched the rest of season one of Danger Man. I'll be starting season two in the upcoming week.
Started episode three of Strike Back. Nice to have a familiar face back in the fold. Also, Chetri is really growing on me. She's got quite a personality and interacting more as an equal with the rest of the team. I love that.
That's pretty much it for television this week. Tonight's post is from A Spellbound Yule, a holiday spirit sexy short.
Here's the mini-blurb:
Holiday spirit, Bertram Goldwreath, has to bring Oakley Oliver, a witch and Calder Conrad, a warlock together over the Yule holiday so they can settle a territorial dispute. Oakley is looking forward to a quiet getaway at a bed and breakfast … until Calder invades her interlude and sparks fly.
And a preview snippet…
Bertram Goldwreath kneaded the dough for his famous tipsy tinsel knots. "I can't believe how many we went through last year." The annual Yule gala for his fellow holiday spirits had become a showcase for his baking skills.He divided the dough into four different sections for flavoring and coloring. Crossing to the ingredients spread out on his counter, he began the selection process of picking out the perfect mix of sparkle and cheer. He grabbed a bottle of glittery silver sugar just before the zing tingled up his arm.Bertram heaved a sigh. "Damn. It figures." He snatched up a container of glaze laced with peppermint schnapps and stomped back to the island where his dough awaited.With a snap of his fingers, he summoned the assignment from the ether.Carefully wrapping up three of the sections, he stashed them inside the fridge then returned to work on the fourth. Sprinkling flour on the smooth butcher block surface, he slapped the ball of dough down and worked out any air bubbles while reading the issue he'd have to handle before he could finish his tipsy tinsel knots.Pausing, his eyebrow quirked. "Goodness, they love to save the big challenges for the holidays." His task to bring a witch and a warlock together wouldn't be easy.Oakley Oliver inherited her position as the Lawngrove coven leader from her grandmother when she passed on to the afterlife just after the summer solstice. Oakley's mom didn't survive giving birth and Oracle Oliver accepted the responsibility of raising her granddaughter. Grandma O never dreamed she wouldn't have time to fully prepare Oakley for assuming the leadership role. But her gift of foresight failed nine times out of ten when it came to family.Bertram rolled his eyes. "Isn't that always the way? Provide soothsaying for everyone else but can't help out your own." He went back to working the dough and reading the background for Oakley.The older witches were putting pressure on Oakley to keep a tract of land—one involved in a long-standing dispute—which should have been turned over to the local warden of warlocks during the past year's Samhain celebration, according to a treaty made between the groups over fifty years ago. And they had her over a barrel because if they didn't accept her as the coven leader before the first anniversary of Oracle's death, Oakley's legacy status would be revoked and she'd be out of Lawngrove for good.Bertram shook his head. "Grandma O, you left Oakley a pretty big mess." Of course, she couldn't shoulder the blame.A nasty divorce between a witch and a warlock put the ownership of the land in question and the resolution, meant to be a short-term solution, didn't solve anything. Every decade the tract traded hands. Witches had the use for ten years then the warlocks got a turn. So far, the only thing the treaty accomplished had been to keep the two factions on opposing sides.Rolling out the dough, Bertram snorted. "A terrible situation, especially since a group of the witches is trying to renege on the deal." And, boy, the warlocks weren't happy about being denied their rightful ownership.Calder Conrad, the current head of the Yardbrook warden, had stepped up his campaign to have the coven honor the agreement. And, okay, his methods left a lot to be desired. A barrage of messages, timed to arrive at inconvenient times, had been dropping for the past week. Of course, Oakley kind of left him with little choice.He'd respectfully given her three months to deal with her grandmother's death before broaching the topic.Bertram tsked. "Probably should've struck when they were all reeling with loss." A cutthroat idea, maybe, but one that might have worked.Instead, the delay gave the old guard biddies time to strategize and close ranks. Calder had an uphill battle to make the exchange of ownership and Oakley needed to either step into the role of leadership and make decisions or let the elder witches run roughshod.The spirit chuckled. "Gotta give it to Conrad. The man has a gift for wreaking havoc on Oakley's schedule." He sobered. "Which'll be fun to get around since the powers that be want the couple together and end the rift." The miracle of Yule can only do so much.Using a spatula, Bertram cut precise lines in the dough, creating a dozen strands. "At least I know exactly where to send the duo. Goodacre Bed and Breakfast is the perfect location to get these two hooked up." Secluded, beautiful, and tucked away in the nether realm, the place would be spellbinding during the holiday season and just the spot for the witch and warlock to work things out on a fundamental level.Bertram huffed out a laugh. "And precisely what I need to pull this off." Dusting off his hands, he put a damp towel over his creation then popped into the mist to get the inn ready for two occupants.
I love writing the holiday spirit sexy shorts. Coming up with the spirit names is half the fun, especially when adding a bit of a holiday twist to them.
That's it for this week.
Cheers!
Skye

Sunday Snippet: The Souvenir

Yeesh, it's practically winter again. We had a bit of sun, rain, and snow today. Crazy. But I got to meet up with my two high school best friends for our last excursion before we hang back and wait to see what the global pandemic ends up doing.
Had a lighter than normal work week and got some cleaning done. I had some decent viewing also. Started out with finishing up the second episode of Strike Back. It ended up being a darned terrific episode. I have a nasty feeling how the series will end. Anytime a blood feud is mentioned … just saying.
I caught several episodes of Danger Man, putting me about halfway through the first season. Really like this show.
Watched an episode of Arrow and thoroughly enjoyed revisiting Russia. Also loved how John brought Roy back into the fold. I should be getting close to the big crossover event.
Got the Halloween episode of Riverdale in. Gotta say the whole Jason thing really creeps me out. Mr. Honey also creeps me out. I'm a Reggie fan even though he can be something of a douche canoe. I loved the Archie and Veronica storylines. But the best probably had to be the Betty and Jughead bits. Stonewall or whatever the hell the name of the prep school is has some dark twisty people. And, of course, Betty's ordeal with the prank phone calls ended up being well done. I'm not sure what the hell Charles is up to but here's hoping it's not something truly crappy. The little end caps with the flash forwards keep me intrigued.
Also watched an episode of Murdoch Mysteries. Loved the clip-show angle and revisiting the Meyer / Clegg rivalry. I had a true suspicion Clegg wasn't actually dead. That said, I'm not sure I like the fact he's not. Just saying.
Started a new series for me … The Heart Guy. I'm giving it a test run to see if it's what I want to dive into now that I've reached the end of Midsomer Murdersfor now.
And that's it for television this week. Tonight's post is from The Souvenir, a novella that got a start with writing community prompt and book two of the Academy of Light series.
Here's the mini-blurb:
Melick Traynor and Ramona Peartry, childhood friends and top students in the Academy of Light, compete for prominence in their respective classes. But when Melick throws out a challenge, Ramona takes an insane risk to prove him wrong and winds up tangling with the dragon plaguing campus grounds.
And a preview snippet…
She cursed her own stupidity. No one knew she'd come out to the secondary practice field. Against the rules, but she always bent them to suit her whims. And usually got away with it.But not this time.Her nose thumbing would have to bite her in the ass… and right after she'd pulled off the ultimate coup. Stupid, stupid, stupid. Ramona knew better. She'd lost track of time and stayed out too long. The giant dragon had plagued the Academy of Light for six long months. Sometimes more than one beast rained fire and destruction on the campus grounds, but it always happened just around dusk when the sun started its descent toward the horizon. And the beasts always eluded capture. None of the traps laid for the creatures seemed to lure them at all. It had the upper levels in a state of perpetual frustration. And here she came… out for some extra practice and boom! The damn thing finds her. Okay, okay, she could work with this. She only had to survive the encounter.The beast hurtled past and made a surprisingly agile turn to come back at her. Ramona had to do something to slow it down. She bobbed up and down, hovering and weaving back and forth to stay out of its line of fire. She didn't have any weapons and probably couldn't control a beast the size of the dragon with a spell. Not on her own. But she might be able to do some damage with projectile missiles. She whispered a hasty incantation and called on the surrounding rocks and large stones to line up beside her. One by one she sent them flying toward the huge beast as it got closer and closer to her. It dipped and spun around, snarling and growling, spewing flames and heat, several streams only narrowly missing her.Dammit, she had to do something to bring it down. Ah ha! Perhaps a combination of the projectiles and a seeking spell? What could it hurt? Ramona gathered up more debris and held it, ready to hurtle toward the beast. She reached down deep and spoke the ancient words of the incantation, adding a twist of her own. "Find the weakness and bring it down." She sent the thought out to the hovering arsenal then flung it toward the dragon. The beast continued its flight directly toward her, tail swishing back and forth with angry snaps. The rocks followed its path but the beast showed keen reasoning skill, flapping huge wings to increase its speed. Closer and closer, it got to Ramona, who realized it nefarious plan almost too late. She'd be caught in the line of fire… what hit the dragon would hit her too. Piss and bones. That would teach her to underestimate the intelligence of a foe. Options limited and panic rising, Ramona put as much space between her and the dragon as possible. She urged the debris to shape itself into a singular weapon and let out a cheer when it targeted the soft underbody below the column of the dragon's neck. The weakest spot. She hoped. When the large pile hit the area, Ramona hovered safely in air. The dragon jerked, stopping short and made a pained roar. Puffs of smoke belched out its nostrils but no flames followed. The short-lived victory didn't last long. The dragon dropped like a stone, rolling end over end with a speed she hadn't expected. She attempted to get clear, but its spiked, scary tail flipped wildly and caught her just below the knee. Shooting daggers of agony spread out, running up her thigh and down her calf. Damn, hurt like a bitch. The zing of pain broke her concentration and Ramona let out a startled yelp then got pulled into the dragon's trajectory.Oh, no. They were gonna land hard on the field. Thinking quickly, Ramona muttered a shielding spell and kept the bulk of the dragon's weight from crushing her. But she also trapped herself underneath the huge beast with no way out. If she broke the spell, she'd be flattened. And if she didn't … she'd eventually run out of air. Stupid, stupid, stupid. Melick would shake his head and chastise her for nothing thinking her plan through. The guy had contingencies for contingencies and drove Ramona mad with it. Although she sorely wished she'd heeded his advice to always have one strategic backup in place.She had no doubt she'd hear all about her lapse when she got back to the academy. If she got back. Pushing her fear aside, Ramona lamented her situation. She had almost no wiggle room. She could lie down or stay bent in a perpetual squat. Her knee ached and throbbed, she had to get the pressure off the joint. Easing onto her side, she groaned and tried to get comfortable.
I love this fun series. Ramona and Melick are friendly rivals that become more and it's one of my favorite tropes to write.


That's it for this week.
Cheers!
Skye

Sunday Snippet: Slip of the Tongue

What a weird weather week. Of course, it's March in Ohio so not exactly uncommon. We had beautiful spring-like temperatures at the beginning of the week and by Thursday it got chilly again. A little bit of snowy flakes and brrr! degrees outside.
Finished up a big project and another one on the smaller side and also started a new one. Needless to say, I didn't get a lot of television in this week.
I watched the last Midsomer Murders that's currently available. I rather hope they do another season. I love this show.
I also caught another series one episode of Peak Practice. I'm enjoying this series quite a lot.
I started the eleventh series of Classic Who and loved the introduction of Sarah Jane. I'm so sad Elisabeth isn't with us anymore. She made Sarah Jane such a great character.
I've watched about eight more episodes of Danger Man. John Drake is definitely a pre-Bond character study. The first season is a lot of fun so far.
Caught two more episodes of Gargoyles. The second season is quite a mish-mash. Not to say it's not good but a lot is going on.
Started the second episode of Strike Back's final season. This show. I'm going to miss it when it's gone.
Hmm. Maybe I watched more television than I thought. But that's it for this week. Tonight's post is from Slip of the Tongue, a novella that got a start with a writing community prompt.
Here's the mini-blurb:
Sylvie Brown and Holden Baker are word alchemists, creating the strongest, most intricate spells in their realm. One slip of the tongue can bring catastrophic destruction … or it can garner surprising results. Sylvie learns two little words can hold a wealth of meaning.
And a preview snippet…
He loved the way the word alchemist blushed while at the same time sending him a look filled with sin and seduction. The messy bun atop her head tilted to one side and several strands had escaped to frame her face. The disheveled appearance suited her.And conjured images of how she'd look in his bed.He let go of her hand. "I really wouldn't." Surprisingly, he'd responded to her on contact.He rarely made connections with people, male or female, on an initial introduction. Experience taught him most weren't what they presented to the world. But… Sylvie lacked guile.Her shoot-from-the-hip style showed she aimed straight and true. Well, duh. Being a word alchemist probably helped. The intent behind people's words often bled through on spellcasts and Sylvie would have to be especially careful with how hers were taken. Which explained how and why she'd made a solid first impression with him.She laughed and shook her head. "You might regret having that thought. Right now, as much as my body is screaming for some hot and heavy action, my brain is too full of shit that needs to be done." Flicking him another sultry glance, she turned away. "Like the fortification of our wards and protections." Reluctant acceptance filled her gaze when she met his again.Holden gave her a slow and thorough once-over. "So, we'll save that thought for later then." He nodded toward her interrupted project. "Do you need to finish up with that?"Her eyes widened only for a second before she covered her surprise. He'd seen through the invisibility hex, one of his skills, and wanted to show her a glimpse of what he could do.She sighed. "Yeah, I do." Heading toward her kitchen area, she stopped by a long table separating the two rooms. "Can you use this space to set up? I figure it's got plenty of room to spread out and we can each sit at one end." Her hand swept over the area.Holden assessed the surface and agreed. "What about your meals? Will this"—he held up the tube of blueprints—"get in the way?" Four different sets would take up a lot of ground.Sylvie laughed. "I never eat at the table. But the room looked so empty, I put one in to balance the space." Turning again, she started toward the cloaked spellcast.Curious now, Holden asked, "Where do you eat?" He'd need to get some recommendations since he didn't know the lay of the land yet.Sylvie pointed to the living area. "In front of the fire or down at the pub in the village."A low table surrounded by pillows separated a loveseat and sofa on either side of the hearth. Two wingback chairs faced the mantle, creating a cozy spot for conversation or contemplation. She had excellent taste and a minimalist style.Holden flashed a smile. "I might have you show me where this pub is. I'm a sucker for a good stew and hearty bread." His mouth watered thinking about both.Sylvie grinned. "It's fish and chips for me. Nothing beats a good beer batter." She glanced toward the clock. "Let me finish up and I'll be happy to treat you. My way of saying welcome to Thornglade and thank you for being here."Holden looked forward to spending time with her. "Sounds great. I'll get started here while you work." So far, he had no reservations about accepting this job.He hoped that wouldn't change later.
I enjoy witty banter and having a story set around words and the play on them that can be very fun and lead to good and not so good things. Sylvie and Holden are masters at their craft and use their words wisely.


That's it for this week.
Cheers!
Skye

Sunday Snippet: Six Degrees of Separation (an Academy of Light novella)

Well … the beginning of my birthday week is off to a chilly start. The good news is the temps are supposed to warm up this week, which is kind of nice. I could use a little mild weather to improve my mood. The other good news is our new roof did indeed fix the leak situation. We had several days of icy rain and no drips!
Busy week on the work front again. I like having multiple projects but a particularly brutal edit made for a long seven days. I'm looking forward to the new week.
Light viewing schedule for television. I needed to focus on work in a big way. I finished up the premiere episode of Strike Back and, okay, Coltrane's attitude improved. Hmm. Maybe not improved, but at least I get why he's kind of off the rails. A terrific episode overall.
Watched two more episodes of Gargoyles and I think I missed both in the original run. I enjoyed viewing the new-to-me ones.
Caught another episode of Arrow and thoroughly enjoyed the somewhat insane mix of past and present in the aptly titled "Present Tense" episode. I'm looking forward to a return to Russia in the next one.
Watched an episode of Murdoch Mysteries and quite liked revisiting an old nemesis of William's, especially since he's been somewhat converted into an ally. I also loved the intrigue of having Brackenreid's daughter meet his wife.
Started an episode of Riverdale and got sidetracked with work. I'm hoping to finish up soon and maybe see the end of the farmies once and for all. Fingers crossed.
Other than the above, I caught an airing of Grease 2, which is actually one of my all-time favorite movies. I even like it better than the original. I also did a marathon of mystery movies on Hallmark Movies and Mysteries.
That's pretty much it for television. Tonight's post is from Six Degrees of Separation, book two in the Academy of Light series.
Here's the mini-blurb:
Melick Traynor and Ramona Peartry, two Academy of Light magicians, have a single passionate encounter after Ramona nearly loses her life to a dragon. But when they navigate their new relationship status, Melick has to step down as Ramona's precept, but neglects to tell her why.
And a preview snippet…
Sawitch saved the day. Melick continued to mull over possibilities to get Ramona engaged in a project a week later. She remained immobile, doing the barest of bare minimum therapy. Melick dropped by daily, but Ramona acted bored and disinterested. Frustrated and frazzled, he'd leave within half an hour.Master Sawitch stopped him after a particularly brutal silent treatment from Ramona. He had the request for precept change in hand."Why should I sign this?" His voice had the growly quality it got when Sawitch didn't like something.Melick sighed. The guy always made things more difficult than necessary. Melick considered making an excuse, but opted for the truth instead."Because I have feelings for Ramona and need to be free to pursue them."The old man narrowed his eyes. "She feel the same?" He frowned his displeasure.An image of her face in the throes of passion flashed in his mind. "I don't know. But I can't find out while I'm still bound." He didn't volunteer additional details.Sawitch pondered for a moment. "You can't find out while she's still in the healing chambers either." The chastising tone grated on Melick.But the man had a point. "Look. I've tried everything I can think of … short of casting a spell to light a fire under her ass. She won't budge."Sawitch grew thoughtful. "You know, that dragon is giving the technos a bunch of trouble."Melick blinked and shook his head. "And why the hell would I care about th—" It hit him. "It's biomechanical." Not his field of expertise, but…The master's lips twitched. "Your Ramona has an interest, yes?" He quirked a brow.Melick nodded, chagrined he hadn't thought to check the progress with the dragon. "She certainly does." Finally … a simple solution, one he could make work.Sawitch lifted the clipboard and signed the transfer request. "I'll start interviewing candidates tomorrow." He started down the corridor.Melick called him back. "Master Sawitch." The older man stopped. "Why the help? You don't like either one of us."Sawitch shook his head. "Ramona can be a pain in the ass, but she felled the beast. That took balls." His eyes got a crafty look in them. "And smarts. Always thought she had it in her to be more than flash and flair." Pride crept into his gaze. "She finally proved it."Melick inclined his head, acknowledging Sawitch's change of heart. "And me?" He almost couldn't wait to hear what altered the master's perception of him.Sawitch gave Melick a long considering look. "The Mage Superior asked me to think about something the other day." Melick lifted a brow. "And it involved me?"Sawitch shook his head. "Not directly, no. It concerned the future of the Academy of Light." He waited a moment, and then continued. "He wondered who I thought would serve it best … once he's gone."Melick frowned. "I don't understand. He's not going anywhere. Is he?" He couldn't. Not anytime soon.Sawitch got it. "Not yet. But he will one day and I don't like to admit that fact." He sighed. "The thing is, it made me face the possibility … whether I wanted to or not."Melick had to give him credit for the admission. "And?"Sawitch sighed. "I don't like change. But Afton thinks you're the best man for the job." His nose wrinkled, but he didn't dispel the old man's belief. "He also said you'll need someone like Ramona by your side. To keep you in check and to give you a shove when necessary." Sawitch shrugged. "The old man isn't wrong."Closest thing to admitting Afton had it right and Melick wouldn't get anything better than that. Sawitch, for all intent and purpose, had just given Melick his seal of approval, something he figured he'd have to fight tooth and nail to receive.Stunned, Melick went with his gut. "I'm not sure how to respond." Once given, Sawitch made sure his support didn't waver. The man held loyalty at the top of his list.Sawitch snorted. "Yeah, well … don't let it go to your head. You've got a long wait to wear the sage's robes."Melick didn't argue. He didn't say anything, still shocked by Sawitch's actions.The master gave him a nudge. "You've also got a prickly female to get motivated. What're you waiting for?"Melick blinked. "Right. Right. On my way." He turned, resisting the urge to look back, pretty certain the exchange hadn't been an optical illusion.He wondered if his luck would hold when he visited Ramona.
I'm excited about the Academy of Light series of books I have planned. There will be several others featuring different types of characters and possibly different schools within the academy.


That's it for this week.
Cheers!
Skye

Sunday Snippet: Sh*t Happens

WooHoo! I have a new roof on my garage and both porches. Our back porch actually includes our bathroom and laundry room and we’ve had leaks for the past five years. Here’s to not having those anymore! We went with a blue metal and it looks terrific with the slate roof of the house. I’m thrilled the job took, I’m not kidding, a day and a half. I figured it would take a week to get it all done. Glad I was wrong.
Busy week on the work front. Finished up a project and started two more. I did get some television viewing in but had a light week.
I caught an episode of Riverdale and enjoyed getting back to the regular timeline. I’m completely creeped out with Cheryl’s weird deal with her corpse brother but I love the battle of wills she’s having with the new principal. Loved having some story with Reggie. Also liked seeing Mad Dog join the group. I want Kevin and Betty to get back to their usual friendship and I’m happy to see him kind of wake up to the evils of the farmies. Here’s hoping Fangs comes back to the fold.
I watched The Will, a Passionflix original movie, and thoroughly enjoyed it! The casting ended up being spot-on and I had fun watching this one. I’ll be looking forward to the next release Passionflix puts out.
Caught another episode of Danger Man aka Secret Agent. I forever have The Prisoner in my mind when I watch these episodes even if they’re not technically related. Probably because I watched The Prisoner first.
Watched the third episode of Midsomer Murders. Enjoyed it a lot. It had some good twists and turns I didn’t expect.
Viewed another first season episode of Peak Practice. I’m not quite sure what I’m supposed to think about Will. The character is, I think, the only one who remained for all twelve series. Right now, he’s kind of a petulant, whiny child most of the time and I don’t know if I’m supposed to like him or not. Since it’s only four episodes so far, I’ll reserve judgment.
Finished up Classic Who season ten with Three and the end of Jo’s tenure as a companion. The Green Death episodes were a pretty interesting arc and I like how Jo ended her time with the doctor. Looking forward to starting season eleven.
Strike Back is back, as noted in last week’s post. I’m currently watching the first episode of the season and, wow, Coltrane definitely has a big-ass chip on his shoulder. He kind of acts like he didn’t have his ass saved by his team not so long ago. That said, I’m not all the way through the first episode yet so I’ll reserve judgment.
And that’s pretty much it for television this week. Tonight’s post is from Shit Happens, a sexy short that got a start with a writing community prompt.
Here’s the mini-blurb:
Nyla White, an up and coming paranormal cage fighter, has buttloads of potential but her 'Sh*t happens' attitude prevents her from attaining the top spot. Erik Stevens, her trainer, pushes her to use her emotions to own her talent, which Nyla is hesitant to do—because she's got strong feelings for Erik.
And a preview snippet…
Erik exited the council chambers with Nyla's future in the ring intact.Barely.Pissed off, he headed for the competitor area behind the main ring. "The raw, untapped talent she has is wasted. She refuses to control the energy." He gave a brief nod to the sentinel at the entrance of the combatant area.Erik had worked and worked with Nyla, trying to break through the walls she put up. But she wouldn't make a connection, something she needed to help control and harness her latent ability to manipulate magick. And he couldn't figure out why.Slowing down, he exhaled slowly. "She needs an emotional tether to ground her." If she didn't find something, she'd never achieve her goal of rising to the top of the arena battles. "I don't even care if it's with me or not." Bullshit. He cared.He wanted her to find a connection with him.Yeah? Remember Gengi?Right. That ended in wrecked lives and wounded reputations. But only because the trainer-fighter fit had been all wrong from the start.Erik leaned against the wall outside the locker room. "Gengi Bartlemas had no business being groomed for magickal bouts." Her skill level served better uses elsewhere.It's why I never do favors for anyone anymore.With Nyla, he owed no one but her anything. Except she didn't always trust he had her best interest in mind. And look where that got her.Pushing away from the wall, he paced back and forth. "She's had fifteen minutes to shower. Time to read her the riot act."
A little shorter than usual but I need to flesh out a few details and I’m not quite ready to put those on the page yet. Erik has some history he has to deal with.


That’s it for this week.
Cheers!
Skye

Sunday Snippet: Shine One On

Ugh. What a rough week. I've been battling some wicked-bad insomnia lately and I hate walking around like a zombie and trying to catch some much needed rest whenever I can. Not a fun time.
I did have a wonderful revelation on Thursday, which was my youngest's eighteenth birthday. To date, the husband and I have successfully raised three offspring to adulthood. Now to get her through prom and graduation then off to college. LOL
Slow week for television, mainly due to the insomnia. I caught a full arc of Classic Who and had a thought… the Daleks have been around for a long, long time. Just saying.
Got back into Gargoyles and watched a couple of episodes. The second season is super long and it'll be a while before I get through all of the various stories.
Watched a few episodes of Danger Man. This is pretty much a rewatch of the series for me, but it's nice to have a thirty-minute show to sink into while I'm doing dishes or cooking dinner.
Caught an episode of Murdoch Mysteries and finally discovered what would happen with the neighbors. I'd forgotten about the hotel detective and his mad vendetta against Murdoch. All in all, a satisfying wrap-up to the storyline. Sadly, the widow might end up rearing her vengeful head at some point in the series. That should be interesting.
I watched another episode of Arrow and I can honestly say I'm impressed with Stephen's performance. He brings the emotional element to the screen every episode. That said, he mentioned in an interview that Emily's decision to not be involved in most of season eight made the show feel kind of wrong (absolutely paraphrasing here) because Felicity is the heart of the show and no Felicity means no heart. I totally get that. But… it's kind of cool to see the reunions Oliver is having with people from his past. Talia and Thea teaming up could be a show on its own, especially if Nyssa got involved at some point. Just saying. Also really interesting to see what's going on in the futurescape, especially with the twist at the end of the episode.
Getting ready to start an episode of Riverdale and watch the premiere episode of Strike Back's final season. I also plan to watch the Passionflix original, The Will sometime this week. Looking forward to some great screen time.
That's it for television this week. Tonight's post is from Shine One On, a novella that got a start with a writing community prompt.
Here's the mini-blurb:
Against state regulations, Maxine Wynne braves the revenuer to provide speakeasy owner, Drake Kestleman, enough moonshine to keep his customers happy. When Maxine is caught, Drake launches Operation Shine One On to get her out of danger and back in business.
And a preview snippet…
"Get off her!" Drake grabbed a patron in a chokehold and flung him across the hall.A guilty flush stained one of his dancer's cheeks. While Lily Tyler had a ripped bodice, her short skirt had been tucked into the wide belt of her showgirl costume. A sure sign she hadn't been attacked.The customer grabbed Drake's shoulder. "Hey, she offered me a poke for fifty dollars. I paid up front, just like she asked." He huffed out a breath. "I'm owed my piece."Drake shook off the hammy fist. "I run a speakeasy not a brothel." He peeled two fifties off his roll of cash. "Take this—double what you paid—and try Pennyweathers down the block." He pointed toward the exit. "Never accept an offer from one of my showgirls again."The man buttoned and zipped up. "Maybe you should tell them not to lure hardworking men back here for a little fun." He sent a glare in Lily's direction.Drake stepped between the man and his dancer. "I'll handle my business, don't you worry." Just as soon as the guy left.Which he did by spinning on his heel and muttering about crappy women and getting shortchanged.Drake turned and met Lily's gaze. She had the grace to flush and look away. Damn right, she should. He didn't have a license for sex work and didn't want the hassle of having one.He shrugged out of his jacket and tossed it to her. "Cover yourself up." They'd have to go out to the main floor.She draped the suit coat around her shoulders and untucked her skirt.He pointed down the hall. "My office. Now." He barely kept the growl from his voice.Lily shot him a scathing look but preceded him down the corridor to his office.Drake shut the door and crossed over to his desk. "What the hell did you think you were doing?" He had a solid idea… but he wanted to hear it from her.Lily rolled a shoulder, letting the jacket fall to the floor. "You're not interested… or so you said." She tilted her head to one side.And he'd been right. She'd lured on of his customers in as an attention-getting stunt. All because Drake had spurned her desire to become more than a showgirl to him. Did she think he'd be jealous?Lily sent him a coy smile. "But perhaps you are now…" She made a show of puffing out her chest.Drake barely kept from rolling his eyes. "I'm not. You know I don't mix things up with my employees." And he never would.Lily's shoulders slumped. "Then at least I would've been fifty bucks ahead." Her tone indicated he'd ruined her fun.Well, she could have all the fun she wanted… just not here.He shook his head. "Oh, you'll be ahead." Reaching for his cash, he snagged a hundred and pressed it into her palm. "Consider this severance pay." Combined with the fifty she still had, it doubled what she made dancing three nights a week. "Won't take you long to triple this at Pennyweathers." If she wanted to earn on her back, he wouldn't stop her.Lily's eyes went wide. "You're firing me?"Drake nodded. "Absolutely. There's nothing wrong with brothel work, but it's not what I do here." And every last one of his employees received that information on their hire date.Lily's mouth worked for several moments. "B-bu-but, I don't want to be a Pennyweather trollop." The nickname trembled from her lips.Drake tsked. "You played a losing hand, Lily… and this is the fallout." He brushed past her and opened the door. "Don't come back."Lily squared her shoulders and sashayed out with a huff. "You'll regret getting rid of me." Glancing back, she lifted her chin. "I could've rocked your world."Drake bit back a snort. "I doubt that."It took a special kind of woman to rock his world. An image of Maxine Wynn filled his mind. Independent, fiercely loyal to her employees, and so curvaceously gorgeous Drake's head spun.Lily definitely didn't fit that mold.
I love playing with something of an alternative history. If I achieve my goal, this will have a twenties feel mixed with a contemporary vibe.


That's it for this week.
Cheers!
Skye

Sunday Snippet: Seeing Red

So, we finally have snow in Ohio. Not a lot but enough to remind people it's actually winter. This isn't a bad thing. I'm hoping that means we won't have blizzards in April or May. Just saying.
After a very slow January workwise, February is going like gangbusters. I'd rather be busy than not so no complaints here. I did have a slow week of television though.
I started with an episode of Murdoch Mysteries and enjoyed it. Fun to see a familiar face with Ruth's brother showing up. Should be interesting to see what happens with Henry now that Ruth has access to loads of money again. Also interesting happenings with William and Julia's neighbors. I'm still not quite sure what to expect with them.
Caught the Frankie Drake Mysteries finale for season three. Always fun when a character returns to stir up trouble for Frankie and the girls. I'm hoping season four continues to have a big focus on the friendships.
Arrow's second episode ended up being better than I anticipated. Interested to see what happens with Lyla. I truly love the mix of present and future in these episodes.
Caught another episode of Midsomer Murders and quite enjoyed it. It's fun when the case doesn't quite go where I think it will.
Also watched another series one episode of Peak Practice. I gotta say Will's wife is quite the piece of work. I have no idea how long she lasts but I'm thinking it's not through the end of the series. That's not a bad thing.
I saved the best for last. I finally watched the season four premiere for Riverdale. I'd be lying if I said there was no ugly sobbing involved. Because there was. A lot of it. I honestly didn't expect less, I mean I'd been warned by at least three people to have a box of tissues. Needless to say, I did and used an undetermined amount of said box.
I can honestly say I can't imagine a better tribute to Fred Andrews. I loved how pretty much everyone put aside their grievances—Reggie and Cheryl in particular—and paid homage to a stalwart member of the community. Reggie's gesture with providing a hearse moved him up a notch on my like-the-guy meter. And Cheryl's conversation with Mary and her about face regarding the parade had a nice symmetry. I have no clue what the hell her deal is with CorpseJason but I don't need to know for this episode to work so well. Relenting on having a parade to celebrate Fred's life and put the focus on someone not a Blossom is big badass energy and I'm here for it.
FP taking on a role of filling big shoes also worked well for me. Figuring out where Archie was and what he planned to do when he found out who ended up being responsible for Fred's death and his subsequent response of calling in Archie's friends showed a good bit of foresight for the former Serpent leader. I also loved the way he handled asking Archie if he'd mind an escort home. I knew what was coming. I figured out what Cheryl wanted to do. And, man, I literally grabbed the box of tissues and pretty much sobbed through the whole thing. Throw in Jughead's obituary and the reaction shots of people reading—the focus being on the grown-ups, friends and enemies—and, yep, the tears flowed again.
Shannen Doherty's guest appearance was a nice touch. For those of us who are a certain age, the poignancy of having her involved in memorializing Fred and, in turn, Luke Perry packs a punch and creates a nice thread that goes from beginning to end.
The other part I found poignant is Betty at the cemetery by her dad's grave. Season three ended with Hal being murdered by Penelope and it's easy to forget that happened and have it eclipsed by Fred's demise. The trashing of his plot, while sad for Betty, serves as a solid visual reminder of where things left off.
Finally… the last scene of Archie in the garage sifting through memories of his dad, the only scenes that actually showed Fred in action, was extremely well done. Kudos to KJ, the writing team, and the film crew for what, I'm sure, had to be a difficult time.
All in all, a terrific sendoff for Fred and Luke. Next week, I'll dive back into the normal batshit crazy world of Riverdale and enjoy the hell out of it.
That's pretty much it for television this week. Tonight's post is from Seeing Red, a novella that got a start with a writing community prompt.
Here's the mini-blurb:
Vesta Crock can't stand tension and a major meta-human uprising puts everyone on edge. Jones Blaylock becomes her target for a series of supposedly fun pranks, but when a fellow member of their team gets injured, Jones sees red and that's not a good thing for the firestarter.
And a preview snippet…
Jones didn't blame Vesta for being antsy. She'd asked everything he wanted answers to also. Tyrian had something of a god complex when he got to lead briefings. Sometimes pushing through made him a good leader… other times, it made him an ass.Being an ass ruled the day today.Tyrian stepped back from the podium. "That's it. Any questions?" He purposefully didn't look toward Jones's team.Jones stood up. "What's the estimated timeframe for this confinement?" The caution because someone had taken out the communications array might be important, but keeping people with super human power in lockdown begged for trouble. "What's the thinking on the watch situation? Regular schedule or intermittent change-ups?" He shot a quick glance toward Vesta, hoping she understood he actually did have her back and to give her unvoiced credit for asking smart questions.She lifted her chin in a quick acknowledgment.Jones finished up. "And do you have an official date for the completion of the array?" Which should give a clue as to when the lockdown would end.Tyrian's lips thinned. "I haven't been received any timeframe about the comm array yet. We'll handle the watch schedules by mixing those with the team training and downtime. Team leaders will meet after the briefing to get something put together." He shot a look at Vesta then back to Jones. "Any other questions from the gallery?"Jones sat down and gave Vesta a warning look. She tucked her cards back inside her vest pocket. He pinned Tyrian with a hard gaze but said nothing.Tyrian smirked. "In that case, we're dismissed." He swept out of the room via the back entrance.Vesta snorted. "Asshole." She got up and stalked toward the opposite exit but paused and turned to face Jones. "Thanks… for what you did. The entire room wanted answers, which we didn't get, but at least the questions got asked." She angled back around.He sometimes forgot about her latent ability to read people. Part of her talent of pushing suggestions on others involved being able to burrow inside one individual but it also let her absorb the general feeling and mood of everyone around her. No wonder frustration got the better of her during the briefing.Jones called out. "They were smart questions, but you already know that." Her keen intelligence often got her in trouble.No… zero patience got her into numerous scrapes. The smarts made her mistakes more spectacular.Vesta paused and shot a glance over her shoulder. "I do. And so does Tyrian. He wants to appear a lot more knowledgeable than he is and that's why it pisses him off when anyone pushes back. I don't give a hang if he gets pissy with me." Because she could take his snippy snipes where others sometimes couldn't.Jones completely understood why Vesta pushed the big red button that screamed do not touch. But he walked a fine line. Not crushing her spirit worked to his advantage but he constantly had to weigh how much to let her get away with when it affected the other team members too.Vesta shrugged. "I'm sorry he's going to be a dick when you're figuring out the watch schedule." She started for the door again.Jones didn't want to let her brood alone. "Hey, let's get the team together in an hour and we'll strategize game plans to work on during the lockdown." He'd send a notification to the others.Vesta groaned and rolled her eyes.Jones quirked a brow. "Do you have something better to do?" She couldn't exactly go anywhere.Vesta replied with her usual razor wit. "Not really, but smokin' hot sex sounds like way more fun." Her lips twisted in a wry smirk.Jones usually didn't encourage the innuendo but today he shot back. "Hmm. Can't accommodate you today. We'll see what tomorrow looks like."Her mouth dropped open and Jones had the singular pleasure of getting the last word in with her.
I like where this one is going. Vesta doesn't do well with confinement and I like the challenge of writing how she deals with her dilemma.


That's it for this week.
Cheers!
Skye

Sunday Snippet: Same Time Next Year

Hello, February. An extra day in the month probably won't make much difference, right? Eh, January already felt like an entire year, so here's hoping February doesn't.
Another slow week for television viewing, but not a bad one. I finished up season three of Riverdale and, whew, what an ending. Talk about jamming a crap-ton of stuff into forty-three minutes. That said, wow. I'm still processing all the crazypants. I'm very glad I can start season four this week. I'll be dreading the first episode but can't wait to see what happens from here. Hopefully something utterly horrible for Hiram is on the horizon but I doubt it. Sigh.
Midsomer Murders had a good opener for series twenty-one. One down and three to go. Then I have to find another show to start. I have a few on my list to check out.
Caught another episode of Peak Practice. I went back to the first season again. I'll watch another of the final season this week.
Watched another full arc of Classic Who and have one more set before starting the last season with Three. Looking forward to Sarah Jane episodes.
That's pretty much it for television this week. Tonight's post is from Same Time Next Year, a novella that got a start with a writing community prompt.
Here's the mini-blurb:
After commiserating over failed hook-ups, Tessa Gem and Hart Cantley make a date for the following year at the same time, but they have no idea their fae collective will be at war when they meet again.
And a preview snippet…
Hart Cantley entered the diner side of the roadhouse just before six am when the first fingers of early light started thrusting in the sky.He made his way to the counter. "Can I order a full pot of coffee?" The waitress gave a nod and picked up a carafe pouring the hot liquid into a thermos style pitcher.Hart snagged a mug and settled into a corner booth. He could go for something stronger—the twenty-four hour bar only a short trip through the roadhouse lobby—but drinking into a stupor wouldn't change what happened. A time machine, maybe, but not alcohol.Hart snorted. "God, what an idiot."His phone pinged with a message."What the hell, bro? Where did you go last night?"His brother's text stirred the dying memory of the previous evening back to life. A hot blonde with killer curves, a round ass, and a sex-on-steroids voice.Hart texted Joppy back. "Don't ask. You'll hear all about it soon enough."Hart blamed a two-month undercover stint with celibate monks for his big misstep—thinking with his dick instead of his brain. A rare occurrence, thank the everlasting universe. He poured a mug of coffee and barely got a sip in before his phone pinged again."Dude, you just stepped into a big steaming pile."Well, fuck. Didn't take long for her mouth to run wild. Not that he didn't expect this exact scenario. Any moment, he'd get a call or text from him mom—the reigning drama queen—and be expected to make promises he had no intention of keeping to settle her down.His luck? She'd ask for his firstborn child to raise "the right way" since she'd failed so miserably with him.He rolled his eyes. "Whatever, Mom."And now he'd started talking to thin air.He received another text. "Mom's on the warpath. Lay low for a while."Hart responded back. "Yeah, going radio silent. Later, bro." He turned his phone off and tucked it into his pocket.What a mess he'd landed into. He needed to find a nice, uncomplicated woman to spend time with. Hell… she didn't even have to be free from challenges as long as she had zero potential to become a member of his family.Something his soon-to-be-married-for-the-fourth-time mother made damned difficult.
I love writing Tessa and Hart. Their vibe is fun and snarky and I'm always smiling when I write their scenes.


That's it for this week.
Cheers!
Skye

Sunday Snippet: Rumpled and Worn

Wow, I can't believe January is almost over. Actually… yeah, I can. It's been a strange month. The weather is definitely not winter-like, which I'm not really complaining about. It might be nice to have snow… but maybe after we get our roof repaired.
Slow week for television as I had a few projects to get caught up on. I caught a new arc of Classic Who episodes. I'm in the tenth season and have one more to go with Three.
Also watched two more episodes of Gargoyles and finished out the first season. The second is super long with something like fifty-plus episodes. I'll gradually make my way through those.
I watched the first episode season eight's Arrow. Man… I'm going to miss this show so much. I'm excited there might be carry-on with Mia and the Dinah's and I actually hope some of the others in the 2040 version of Starling City find their way to the new show.
Caught an episode of Murdoch Mysteries and loved it. I always find it fun when they have historical figures mixed in with the regular cast. And I love the soft jabs the show takes at current events.
Watched another episode of Frankie Drake Mysteries and I have one left for the third season. I really love how they work Flo and Mary into the storylines and I'll be interested to see what season four has on the horizon. If there is a season four.
Started the Riverdale finale for season three. I'm so hoping Edgar is gone for season four and I know Hiram isn't but I at least I might get one wish to come true. Seriously, I hate Hiram with the passion of a thousand burning suns. Ugh.
And that's pretty much it for television this week. Tonight's post is from Rumpled and Worn, a sexy short that got a start with a writing community prompt about taking an established fairy tale and putting a new twist on it. I chose Rumplestilsken for this one.
Here's the mini-blurb:
Lindie Lands strikes a deal with the Rumpleman—keep her crazy stalker at bay and she'll hand over the first man she falls for. But when she finally finds a lasting love with Cole Darrington, she's not willing to give him up and together they outsmart the Rumpleman.
And a preview snippet…
Cole Darrington knocked on Mabel Hawthorn's door. "Mrs. H? I'm going down to the ATM. Do you need anything?" He usually tried to ask whenever he went out later in the evening, especially since Mrs. H tended to run out of milk, eggs, and other baking supplies.The oak slab swung inward and Mabel poked her head outside. "Ah, Cole. Come in for a moment, will you? I've got a wee list almost ready." Which could mean she had one or two things or up to a dozen items.Cole stepped inside the tidy apartment. "Smells good in here. What sinfully delicious thing are you baking tonight?" From the aroma, he'd put his money on some kind of cake.Mrs. H handed him a scrap of paper. "Mini coffee cakes. I need some cinnamon for dusting to mix with sugar for dusting the tops." She nodded at the jar on her counter. "Take what you need—"Cole held up a hand. "Uh-uh. One container of cinnamon won't break the bank, Mrs. H." He tucked the paper in his pocket—not that he needed it—to humor Mabel.She narrowed her eyes. "Well, then, I'll be bringing some of the cakes over for you to sample." Turning around, she bustled around, putting the mixing bowl into her sink.Cole patted his stomach. "You're a very bad influence, Mrs. H."She angled her head around, giving him a grin. "I'm not the one you need to worry about." She referred to her prophetic statement about the woman Cole would spend his life with.Cole only half-believed her crazy theory he'd immediately know when he met her from the jolt that would supposedly shoot from his palm to his heart. Mrs. H had some mystical notions about love and soul mates and how the universe helped guide people on their right path. He'd never completely discount Mabel's statements because she'd been instrumental in helping Cole discover his calling as personal trainer and gym owner. You get what people need to motivate them and you're not an asshole about it. His lips quirked. Mrs. H didn't mince words.Mabel paused from washing the bowl and cocked her head to one side. "Better hurry. Rain's coming." She sent a glance over her shoulder.Cole gave a nod. "You've never been wrong. I'm headed out now." A quick trip to the local grocery then a stop at the ATM shouldn't take too long.She lifted her chin in farewell and Cole backed out of her apartment, closing the door quietly behind him.When he stepped out onto the sidewalk in the murky darkness of evening, a low rumble of thunder rolled in the distance. Cole shook his head and dashed across the street.
I love reworking fairy tales and adding an urban flavor to them. This one is so much fun.


That's it for this week.
Cheers!
Skye