Sunday Snippet: Keeping Him Real

Another bonkers week of fighting a cold and lack of sleep while trying to keep a lot of plates spinning. I have another week of tracking some things down that I really don't want to put off any longer and, honestly, I always forget how much time it takes to this stuff sometimes. I'd love an extra four hours in a day so I could stay caught up.

The weather is doing its usual back and forth thing, plus we're at that stage of spring where it's full-on construction season. I have to laugh because some of the detours have detours. It's bonkers.

Really good work week. I've got several projects in flux at the moment and if the timing goes well (spoiler alert: it rarely does), I'll move two off my plate and add two more. I did put a final checkmark on one of my developmental editing projects. I had a lot of fun working on that one.

Had a pretty solid viewing week. I made it through my usual list of shows and kind of added an extra one because one of my streamers is being a pain and wanting an upgrade for immediate access to new seasons. I'm not okay with paying more so I'll play the waiting game.

Finished up the fifth season of My Life Is Murder and I'm very happy with where all the characters are. I love Madison's growth and Will choosing to stay on the straight and narrow makes me smile. This group would be so much fun to hang out with.

Caught another behind the scenes bit with Foyle's War. I'm always interested in how they pull things together and this one had several segments about makeup, wardrobe, and sets. I think I have one more before the next season.

Watched another episode of Poirot and finished up the sixth season. From what I remember, there's a five-year break before the beginning of the next one. Stay tuned to see if I'm right.

Started the new season of Death in Paradise and thoroughly enjoyed the opening salvo. The commissioner is back. Darlene is gone and will be missed. A new sergeant is in the mix. Seb is still Seb. And DI Wilson has a clue that his half-brother is a terrible, no-good, awful person. Catherine and Naomi are the glue that holds everything together.

Elementary had another terrific episode. I really like where all the characters are right now, and I love Sherlock kind of going out on a limb for Shinwell. Looking forward to seeing more on this plot point.

Started a new to me series with Young Justice. I've seen a few of the episodes, but I've never seen how the series kicked off. So far, I'm enjoying the ride.

Caught another episode of Star Trek: Lower Decks and quite enjoyed the adventure. Always lovely to see special guest stars and this week we had George Takei. Such a fun episode.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Keeping Him Real, a novella that pulls a couple together while one tries to help the other with work-life balance.

Here's the miniblurb:

Hugo Mitchell is the glue that holds his family's business together and they rely on him for more than they should. Gayle Dawson is a long-time friend who works with Hugo. She becomes the match that sparks a transformation within Hugo where he finally stops taking up all the slack and starts to enjoy life … as long as she's in it.

And a snippety peek…

Hugo finished putting the inventory away and contemplated Gayle's words. "She doesn't have my situation wrong." When Wayne and Vince dodged helping out, not only did they suck as brothers, they also showed their asses to everyone else.

Especially when both knew the bar would have a busy weekend.

Hugo snorted. "They sure love the ready cash to buy a new go-pro or a new software subscription for their web hijinks." But actually doing the work for said cash?

Not so much.

And Hugo could be a hard ass and make them help. Like Gayle said … they were grown-ass men and should start acting like it.

But … the last time Hugo put a foot down and made them toe the line, his brothers decided to make Hugo the subject of one of their segments. "And I didn't enjoy being in the limelight." Not when they could edit the footage however they wanted to and he came off looking like a complete moron.

It took weeks for the teasing to die down not only from the family but the patrons of the bar too. Thankfully, he had people he could count on. Ramona for one. She'd been with the bar for a long time, coming to work for his parents not long after they opened. She didn't let Wayne and Vince get away with not pitching in. Hence the reason they liked to hang out in the bar after breakfast then flee before she came in.

Wayne and Vince might be able to make a living with their platforms, but they couldn't support themselves completely. Unlike Hugo's other siblings, Aimee and Dante. They always popped in on their days off, and if they didn't do a full shift, they at least eased the burden for a few hours. Hugo appreciated the effort. Maybe helped that they were the oldest and decided quickly they wanted to keep a hand in the family business but also wanted their own careers.

And then … well … Hugo had Gayle. A breath of fresh air he always looked forward to having. He pretty much fell for her the first week she started working.

But he never said anything. "After all, she counts on me for a paycheck." Kinda inappropriate to seek something more, even if she flirted up a storm with him.

Which led to the next reason he didn't pursue anything else. He literally didn't have the time to put into a relationship. And she deserved someone who could go all out for her.

Dragging the kegs closer to the steps, he huffed out a breath. "Who knows? Maybe someday." He could dream, right?

I'm in the very beginning stages of this one, but it's going to be fun to see where the story goes.

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: Justice Is Served

What a wild week. We're back to almost winter temperatures with freeze warnings this weekend and the first part of the week. My cold is sorta kinda over, but the crazy weather probably won't help.

Had a pretty decent work week. I'm in flux on a number of projects but the work is moving steadily along. I'm happy to stay busy.

Pretty good viewing week also. I finished up a rewatch and have to pick a new show to watch on one of my streamers … and I have no idea what I want to choose.

Started off with My Life Is Murder and it was so fun to see a regular in one of the shows I watch do a guest turn in this episode. Can't wait to watch the finale this week.

Caught another behind the scenes episode of Foyle's War and enjoyed it. I have one or two more before starting the next season of the show.

Watched another episode of Poirot and loved the mystery. Hastings completely falling for the girl ended up being very interesting along with Poirot kind of lending a helping hand. Very cool.

Started the new season of Silent Witness. Jack's new look is … okay? Enjoy them being in a new city, and I'm liking the vibe of the characters.

Elementary, as usual, didn't disappoint. Such an interesting case and having Sherlock go out on a limb for Shinwell was rather cool.

Finished up my Batman Beyond rewatch and, honestly, the show holds up. Not sure what I'll pick next, but it might be DC universe adjacent.

Watched another Star Trek: Lower Decks. Kind of fun to have a one-off character come back and not end up being an actual hero. I like the risky maneuver there.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Justice Is Served, a novella that brings a couple together during an advocacy.

Here's the miniblurb:

Derby Stack is a cold-blooded killer, but not by choice. She's convicted for her crime, but Nate Mobius's specialized legal firm takes an interest in her case. Nate gradually wins Derby over and together they uncover a sinister trail leading back to her childhood therapist.

And a snippety peek…

Great question.

Not like she asked to have some righteous, nosy woman poking around in her dismal life.

Derby mimicked Nate's stance, bracing her back against the chair. "You're here because I apparently have the unlucky right to an advocate … who thinks she knows what's best for everyone on the planet." She rolled her eyes. "As if." Derby shrugged again. "Whatever. Not like I'm in any hurry to die a slow death in prison."

Tired of talking, she got up and started for the door—then remembered he hadn't given her permission to leave.

Heaving a sigh, she turned and kept her head low. "Are we through here? I have to have your okay to leave." She had to have someone's okay to take a piss.

Nate gave her a tight smile and waved his hand toward the door. When she pounded on the heavy metal, he got up, gathered his stuff, and moved to stand beside her.

Wilma yanked the door open and glanced back and forth between them. "Well, now. Aren't you two a cute couple?" Her wheezing laugh grated on Derby's ears.

Derby brushed past the guard and took her place one step behind the woman. Nate exited the room.

Ignoring Wilma's presence, he addressed Derby. "I'll be in touch soon. If you need anything, let Laura know or have the warden contact the legal firm."

Derby barely stopped from rolling her eyes. She lifted her chin, acknowledging she'd heard him. Wilma watched the exchange with avid interest. She also fixed her gaze on Nate's ass and didn't stop staring until he'd crossed into the admin area to sign out.

Wilma gave a low whistle. "Man's got a hot bod hiding under that suit." She practically licked her lips.

Derby didn't doubt he probably did, but she didn't share her opinion one way or the other. Wilma could perv all she wanted. Derby didn't do fantasies—not anymore.

Wilma jerked her head toward the cell block. "Let's go, Stack. You've got extra time in the library since you missed the last thirty minutes."

Derby hid her surprise. "Yeah, okay." She followed Wilma back to the only sanctuary she had.

And smashed down the flair of hope the guard's unexpected and out-of-character kindness sparked.

I really love how this one is coming together. Derby isn't quite sure what's going on, but she's in for a wild ride.

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: Just Take a Moment

Bleh. I've been fighting a yucky cold all week and I'm feeling a little better but not quite 100 percent. I'd be happy if the coughing could be a wee bit less.

Weather has been steadily warming up. We've dipped back down a couple of times but thankfully it's been gradual without the wild forty-degree swings in twenty-four hours. Been getting a lot of rain, which is causing high water and some flooding. Combine that with ongoing construction and the onset of tree-trimming and getting anywhere is something of a challenge. It pays to leave early.

Another busy work week. Finished up another proofread, continued work on one, and started an assessment read through. Also finished up a read through on another project that keeps lingering in the shadows. Started a new proofread that's a lot of fun so far.

Had a decent viewing week even though I slept a lot because of the yuck. I made it all the way through my usual slate of shows and added an addition to the lineup.

Started off with My Life Is Murder and thoroughly enjoyed the mystery along with getting more Harry backstory. I think the next two episodes are a two-parter that makes the finale. Can't wait to watch.

Watched the first behind the scenes for Foyle's War. Kind of enjoyed seeing the process of how they do what they do to film the period specific series.

Finished up the first season of Return to Paradise. I have no idea when season two will be available on the streaming platform, but I'll look forward to it.

Caught another episode of Poirot and completely enjoyed poor Japp trying to manage on his own then having a harder time after accepting Poirot's invitation to stay with him. Fun to see Miss Lemon's sister.

Elementary ended up being very entertaining. The twisty start proved interesting and Joan's advice to Sherlock turned out to be great. I love where their relationship is at this point.

Watched another episode of Batman Beyond and had completely forgotten about this one. I think I have one more left before I'll need to find a new series to watch or rewatch.

Also caught another episode of Star Trek: Lower Decks and quite enjoyed learning about Tendi's pirate past. Always fun to see characters from other Trek shows pop up in the episodes and Deep Space Nine counts as a character. Just saying.

I continued to use my Kanopy tickets to watch Fleetwood Mac: The Dance. This was such a great concert film, with quite a few surprises. Glad I got to watch.

That's it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Just Take a Moment, a novella that explores a second chance at romance.

Here's the miniblurb:

Sheila Hogan has spent eight years in the military and returns home to bury her mother. Troy Collins is the guy she left behind, and, after a bumpy reunion, she realizes he's still a source of strength and calm. Sheila has thirty days to decide if she's going to sign on for another four years or muster out and explore the future with Troy.

And a snippety peek…

Troy stared at the empty space Sheila left behind. Whispers rose and filled the room when she departed. Eyes darted his way.

The funeral director stepped in. "Ms. Hogan is taking a few moments to compose herself. Please give her some time and space." He stood sentinel next to the casket.

Troy shook his head. "That went about as well as I expected." He moved through the room, filled with flowers and pictures of Lydia's life. Not much different from his dad's viewing. But with a different set of lifetime memories.

Pushing his way out the door, he walked down the steps and across the parking lot. "Maybe I shouldn't have come." He'd debated the idea, not sure how he'd react to seeing Sheila again.

He didn't think about her reaction to seeing him.

He snorted. "Guess I know the answer now." The her seeing him part.

He didn't have a handle on so close to her yet. She obviously looked different. Eight years changed people. The navy appeared to have been good for her. She'd never been soft and giggly. He loved that about her. She spoke her mind and expected him to do the same.

Except when it came to leaving. She hadn't said a word about enlisting in the military. Hadn't mentioned she'd be heading out two days after graduation.

He paused by his car. "I really should've seen it coming, though." She'd laid the groundwork … he'd been too blind to see the gears turning.

He popped the door open and settled behind the wheel, his mind drifting back to Lydia giving him the news about Sheila being gone. Lydia brought him in, set him down, and explained that her daughter had some ghosts that needed laid to rest. Clarity hit him between the eyes. Sheila never really got over her dad walking out. Lydia agreed. Sheila wanted to see the world because she thought it would help her understand why her dad left.

Lydia shook her head. "I fear she'll be sorely disappointed. Jack didn't walk away to traipse all over the planet. He left because he couldn't handle being responsible for himself let alone anyone else." She'd grabbed his hand. "I'm sorry she didn't have the courage to tell you. But I think she feared she wouldn't go if she did. She'd let you talk her out of leaving."

At the time, he didn't want to admit he would've tried to convince her to not do something she wanted. But after some soul-searching and talking to his mom, he had to own the idea he probably would have. Or worse … given her an ultimatum.

Shaking off the memory, he started the car. He'd done what he'd come for. Offered his condolences for Sheila's loss. And okay, things went sideways pretty fast. A better man would track her down and apologize, but he didn't have it in him at the moment. Besides, he didn't owe her anything.

But Lydia had always being kind to him, even when he'd asked her to keep him out of the loop when it came to her daughter. She respected the request. But she'd come to his dad's funeral, and Troy's mom appreciated the gesture.

A weird thought hit him. He and his mom had each other to lean on when his dad passed and left their finances in a mess. 

Sheila didn't have anyone to rely on. No parent to help pick up the pieces.

At least not a present one.

Putting the vehicle in gear, he eased out of the parking space and turned toward the exit. His headlights flashed on the lone figure sitting on the stone ledge, head bent forward and shoulders shaking.

He almost stopped … but decided against doing so. He didn't want to make her grief worse.

But a part of him let go of the thread of resentment he'd held on to for so long.

No matter what remained unsaid between them, they'd each lost a parent and that meant they shared some common ground. Maybe not enough to forgive and forget … but probably enough for him cut her a break and move on from the hurt she'd caused.

Just starting out with this one but very happy with how it's coming together. Sheila and Troy are a bit of a challenge to write and I like that.

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: Just Skip Dessert

Happy Easter to those who celebrate. Happy regular Sunday to those who don't. After three days of lovely temperatures, we're back to mid-forties and chilly. I'll take the cooler weather because the warm-up seemed to bring the ticks out. Pulled three of them off my spouse yesterday. That's usually a May through October problem.

Got to enjoy a wonderful Friday with my daughter at an art walk. She's a project manager for a county arts council and knows many of the artists. So much fun!

Had a busy work week. Finished up a copy edit and proofread for one of the publishers I edit for. Also finished a proofread for a memoir. Continued work on two other proofreads. I have a developmental edit to start this week and hopefully another copy edit.

Ended up with an okay viewing week. I got through most of the shows I watch. I ended up skipping two because I didn't feel well and couldn't concentrate on more than one thing at a time. I did get some cleaning and decluttering done when I needed a break from work projects.

Started off with My Life Is Murder and quite enjoyed the mystery. I love Alexa and Madison's friendship, especially when Madison pushes Alexa out of her comfort zone.

Caught another Foyle's War and ended the eighth season. Loved Sam's good news and kind of felt sorry for Miss Pierce. There are several behind the scenes episodes that I hope to watch this week.

Watched another Return to Paradise and I'm almost finished with the first season. Not sure when the second will be available to me, but I'll look forward to it.

Also enjoyed another episode of Poirot. A holiday episode with a truly distasteful antagonist that thankfully didn't last long. I loved Poirot coming to Japp's rescue once the singing started. If you know, you know.

Elementary ended up being very good. I'm kind of interested to see where Joan's story goes with Shin. Also enjoyed Sherlock's chess match with Shin.

I binge-watched some Brokenwood Mysteries. The new season starts this week and I'll dive into it as soon as I finish up My Life Is Murder.

That's it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Just Skip Dessert, a novella that puts one of the characters in a tricky situation and gives the other character a chance to lend a helping hand.

Here's the miniblurb:

Wanda Craig and Dewey Pearson are the two newest teachers at Cheltenson Academy, a private school, and they hit it off right away. When a family emergency calls Wanda away right before the end of semester dinner for the new academic advisors, Dewey gets to deal with an inappropriate advance from the headmaster's wife. When Wanda returns, she takes steps to give Dewey a better experience.

And a snippety peek…

Dewey's new boss stopped in front of a brick bungalow where a woman with wavy blond hair sashayed back and forth from one side of the porch to the other.

Chalmers frowned. "Ellyn, what are you doing here?" His gaze narrowed on the woman.

Ellyn waved a hand. "Chalmers, dear, I'm here to welcome the newest additions to our exalted ranks, of course." She smiled sweetly at Chalmers. "Please do the introductions."

Chalmers made a grumbling sound. "This is Ellyn, my wife." He stepped up onto the porch and withdrew a key from his pocket. "Ellyn, this is Dewey Pearson and Wanda Craig." He unlocked the door and pushed it open.

Ellyn barely spared a glance for Wanda, acknowledging her with a brief lift of eyebrows.

For Dewey, she tucked her hand around his arm after giving him a slow once-over. "It's so lovely to meet you. Let's go in for a quick tour, shall we?" She didn't wait for an answer, guiding Dewey into the bungalow.

Chalmers made a grumbling sound again. "Yes, yes. By all means, show them around." He retrieved another key and held it out for Wanda. "You're right next door." He pointed to the quaint stone cottage on the right side.

Wanda murmured her thanks. "Much appreciated." She trailed behind Dewey and Ellyn.

Chalmers stepped inside. "Ellyn, don't be long. We want to give Pearson and Craig time to get settled." He met Dewey's gaze. "Report to my office at eight a.m. and I'll go over your responsibilities." Glancing toward Wanda, he lifted his chin. "I'll meet you directly after lunch and we'll get you sorted over at the theater." He gave Ellyn a brief look.

She waved her free hand. "Go on, dear. I know how busy you are the week before classes start. I'll see you at dinner." Turning away from her husband, she led Dewey further into the house.

Dewey grew increasingly annoyed at the way Ellyn wouldn't let go of his arm while she showed the main points of the bungalow. She also blithely ignored Wanda, which irritated Dewey, especially when Ellyn continued to flirt outrageously with him. Dewey worked to bring Wanda into the conversation and remind Ellyn the other woman existed.

He asked about the layout of the houses even though they were the same on the information sheets. "Wanda, any questions about your cottage?"

She smirked a little and got a good swipe or two in with a polite innocence that counted as … anything but innocent. "Oh no. None at all. Mrs. Grove is doing a lovely job with the grand tour." Keeping things formal by calling Ellyn Mrs. Grove earned Wanda a sharp glance.

Dewey's lips twitched, but he remained silent.

Wanda got another jab in when they finished the walkthrough. "Mrs. Grove, your husband has been so welcoming and kind. It's remarkable how both of you are working in tandem to make us feel like part of the family."

Ellyn's nostrils flared, but she gave Wanda a tight smile.

Wanda shot one last missile across the bow. "And I think your husband is going to be a great boss."

Dewey admired the way his newest coworker rather put Ellyn Chalmers in her place without being catty or bitchy about it. Frankly, he wanted to applaud the new theater director's ad-libbing, show-stealing moxie. They'd reached the front door again and Ellyn visibly stewed at Wanda's gentle reminders about Ellyn's marital status.

However … since she had no reason to continue holding on to Dewey, she inclined her head and stepped toward the door. "Yes, well, it's wonderful to have you." She met Dewey's gaze. "We always host a dinner party for our new educators." She flicked her attention to Wanda. "Chalmers will let you know the date and time, but it'll be soon." With another tight smile, she exited Dewey's new residence.

Dewey waited until the door firmly closed behind her before he turned to Wanda. "Uh, wow." He had no other words.

Wanda laughed. "Yeah, she's not subtle, is she?"

Dewey chuckled. "Not one bit. But you were amazing."

I'm in the beginning stages of this one but it's so much fun to write!

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: Just Do It Already

Ugh. So many small irritants combined to make the week rather challenging. Car problems, house problems, and too many things hitting at once. I'll get through it all, but I'm stressing out, which isn't fun.

The great news is we didn't lose power even with the wild back and forth temperatures. I have a feeling April won't be much better than March when it comes to stabilizing the weather patterns. If only the world could figure out what's causing all the bizarre weather. Yes, that's sarcasm. The world knows what the problem is.

Got a lot of work completed over the week. I have four main projects on my schedule and I'm plugging away at all of them. Finishing up two but have two more waiting in the wings. I also have a couple of backburner projects that I'll be dipping into again.

Had a semi-decent viewing week. Two of my projects involve some tedious cleanup and it's nice to have something on in the background to keep things interesting. I made it through most of my usual shows.

I started with Foyle's War and enjoyed the episode. Kind of sad to see his female counterpart moved to the sidelines again. Lovely to see Sam help her husband get elected as an MP.

Caught another episode of Return to Paradise. I remembered most of this one and enjoyed seeing some familiar faces from other shows I've watched set in Australia.

Enjoyed another episode of Poirot. Really fun to see a couple of very young costars in this one. Also thoroughly enjoyed the mystery.

Elementary had a great episode. I didn't quite make it all the way through because I got distracted, but I enjoyed it.

Watched another episode of Batman Beyond. I thoroughly enjoyed this one, and I'm about two episodes from the end of the series and I need to decide what I'll be watching next. Maybe a Justice League series.

Caught another episode of Star Trek: Lower Decks and very much enjoyed watching Boimler lose his mind. Very fun!

I also had a chance to use my library membership to watch a Stevie Nicks concert via the Kanopy app. I'm going to work hard to make sure I'm taking advantage of everything my local libraries offer. The concert was so good!

That's it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Just Do It Already, a sexy short that got a start with a writing community prompt.

Here's the miniblurb:

On an annual get together with a group of friends, Minnie Roberts gets her chance to test the waters with Reuben Harper who's had a string of bad luck with the dating pool. Reuben is blind to Minnie's interest, and she catches him off guard when she suggests a strings-free weekend with each other.

And a snippety peek…

Reuben put a halt to his brain trying to spin out of control. "Um, yeah. We can go with that." Helping a friend out.

Did she only see him as that. A friend? Of course. What else could she see him as? Except maybe the cranky asshole he'd been lately.

He cocked his head. "Should there be some ground rules?" And what would that look like?

Minnie's lips kicked upward. "I thought you didn't have to overthink things."

Reuben grunted. "Right. I don't. But I also don't want to trash anything either." Friendships were hard to keep.

And he had a solid group right now.

Minnie gave a nod. "Me either. So, let's head back to the condo and see where things go." She met his gaze. "For now, consider us friends with benefits for the duration of our stay here. After that…" She let her voice trail off.

A bridge they could cross when they got there.

He couldn't argue the logic. "Okay. I'm down with that." He got up and held out a hand. "Let's go."

She flashed a quick smile and grasped his fingers. "Yes, let's go." She slid off the chair and fell into step beside him.

He paused by the door. "Should we tell the others?" And what, exactly, would they say to their group? Hey, we're gonna go sex it up. Catch you later.

Minnie shook her head. "They'll be out there until the sun comes up. You know the tradition."

Right. He did. They usually closed the bar down then walked on the beach until the first rays of dawn broke the horizon.

The stroll to the condo passed quickly and without conversation. But their fingers were still laced together. He liked the feel of her hand intertwined with his.

Once inside the rental, they parted and Minnie set her bag on the coffee table then entered the kitchen area. She fussed with the cups they left behind earlier, and he pulled the fridge door open to have something to do then shut it, because, really? Not exactly a smooth transition from friends to lovers.

We're both nervous. Big step to hook up with a friend. Especially one he wanted to keep after whatever happened … happened.

Reuben raked a hand through his hair. "How do we start this?" Stupid question, but he honestly had no idea how to approach hooking up with her.

Minnie stilled after putting the glasses in the sink, but only for a moment.

She hopped up on the island and tugged him closer. "A kiss might be a good idea." Her lips twisted with a wry smile.

Yeah, locking lips could work. And he'd always wondered what hers would feel like against his. Guess I'm about to find out…

He leaned in, his mouth hovering close to hers. She put her hands on his chest and took a shaky breath. Reuben hesitated… Just do it already! He caught her mouth with his, thinking to start small … but as soon as their lips meshed, flames ignited in his bloodstream and his tongue slid past her teeth. Minnie groaned and hauled him closer, wrapping her legs around his waist.

Holy shit. Fireworks went off in his brain and he scooped her off the counter, carrying her toward the nearest comfortable surface … the couch in the living room. He needed to explore every inch of her…

And he didn't have to ask how to do that.

This is a fun one to write. I love friends who become more even if they don't think they will.

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: Just Dance

Whew. It's been a long week. Can't say it's been terrible, more a constant state of busy. I did manage to take care of several personal life things that I've been putting off so that's a bonus. But I've also been scattered all over the place and that makes me bananapants.

Ohio is gearing up for another weather event where we have 84 degrees today for the high and by Monday, the high will be in the low forties. The barometer hates me right now. Also planning for power outages because when the temperature shifts that much in twenty-four to forty-eight hours and thunderstorms are thrown in, things tend to happen. Wind shears, lightning strikes, flash floods that take out trees. Yeah, definitely hope for the best but prep for the worst.

Work projects have been stacked up with more coming in. I'm very happy to be busy! I finished up a proofread of a terrific nonfiction book, got through a copy edit that ended up having some possibly big consistency concerns. Set up the start of a manuscript proofread to start this week and scheduled a read through of a manuscript that I'll be doing a developmental edit on. I have a few odds and ends that I'll be working on wherever I can also.

Did not get a lot of viewing done this week. Didn't have the bandwidth and needed to focus on work projects. Also ended up having a very productive writing week.

I did finish up Foyle's War and I enjoyed rewatching. I'd forgotten how reluctant Foyle was to join the security forces.

Also caught another episode of My Life Is Murder and thoroughly enjoyed the mystery. I love Rueben letting himself get pulled into the capers.

Still need to finish Poirot from last week. I'll probably start over because I didn't get very far into the episode before I had to pause.

That's it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Just Dance, a novella that brings the characters together for a second chance at romance.

Here's the miniblurb:

When Kevin Hale returns home to help his family put their craft brewery on the map, he has to work with Alice Frank—the girl he left behind—to launch an event to benefit local businesses in a slow summer month. Alice is wary of getting involved with Kevin again—his wanderlust is well-known and she's definitely a hometown girl—but his creativity spurs hers and she takes a chance that he'll stick around this time.

And a snippety peek…

Alice Frank clicked out of the email forwarded by the director with a shaky hand. "Kevin Hale. Geez." Eight years ago, she dreamed she'd be married to him with their future mapped out.

Except things didn't work out that way. Kevin ditched college and signed on as an apprentice for a touring company that staged big shows at convention centers. Now … he wanted to meet the event coordinator about an idea he had for a summer festival.

And she happened to be said coordinator. And he wanted to meet next week. Shit.

Leaning back in her chair, she exhaled slowly. "Not sure if I can deal with seeing him again." He'd broken her heart … and left a few scars behind in the process.

She'd had sporadic updates from his brothers, but they thankfully kept the news to a minimum. And, okay, when Alice ran into his mom at the holiday bazaar, Brenna had mentioned she expected Kevin home soon. But she hadn't said a word about him staying.

Alice snorted. "Not that I would've believed her." And not after Kevin all but said he'd never settle for a tiny, little Podunk town when the whole wide world waited out there for him.

And the worst part? When she mentioned maybe going with him, he'd scoffed. In no uncertain terms, he'd brutally trashed any possibility. His exact words? You'd never leave with me. Even if you did, you wouldn't stay. You lack the imagination it takes to do this kind of work. And vision. Your entire world view exists in this town. Nowhere else.

Her mouth twisted. "But he was wrong." Maybe not about traveling the world.

But she had left Canal Ridge. She went to college in the capital city and lived there for four years. Okay, she hadn't gone far. But she loved living in the city and still enjoyed visiting when she got the chance.

She inhaled deeply. "Maybe it's not Europe or wherever else Kevin ended up working, but it opened my eyes." And sparked her imagination.

She wanted to give back to the community that cared for her and gave her a home. She worked hard to find solutions for small businesses and the limited large companies that provided jobs and revenue for their small town. And she ended up being very good at her job.

Exhaling slowly again, she opened her calendar app and tentatively scheduled two meeting times. "Of course I can deal with seeing him." She got over him a long time ago. "I'll listen to this idea of his and find a way to make it happen." But she wouldn't be the one working with him.

She had a deep well of resources she could pull from. And, no doubt, a bunch of people would volunteer to be part welcoming him home. Which meant she didn't have to be.

Did that sound petty? Maybe. But just because she'd managed to get over their brutal breakup didn't mean she had to interact with him any more than necessary for as long as he'd be here.

Because she didn't believe he'd actually stick around. He'd be home long enough to see this summer festival happen then traipse off to parts unknown again. And good riddance when he did.

After compiling a very professional email, she sent it out through cyberspace. "Okay, Kev. Let's see how you handle a blast from the past."

I think this one is going to be a lot of fun. Alice and Kevin have to get over some preconceived notions about each other and it's interesting to watch that unfold.

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: Jingle, Jangle, Jingle

What a week. Our weather went completely insane and we got a wild mix of rain and wind. We lost power on Friday afternoon and finally had it restored on Saturday after about eighteen hours. Thankfully, it didn't get super cold overnight.

Work projects are moving along. I finished up the memoir and have two new potential jobs. I'm still working on a proofread and have some final touches to put on a copy edit. I'm hoping to get to a developmental edit that I put on the back burner last month because it's a manuscript that will launch an amazing series.

Had a limited viewing week. I managed to get through a couple of my usual shows but didn't get through my whole slate. Too many things pulling my attention and focus.

Started with My Life Is Murder and thoroughly enjoyed the mystery. Always fun to see Will and the sibling relationship he has with Alexa. Per usual, Madison had some great scenes.

Caught most of an episode of Foyle's War. I'd forgotten he kind of got pulled into the spy scene. Really fun to see his interactions with Sam after her marriage. Kind of bummed they recast the guy who played her fiancé in the previous season.

Watched an episode of Return to Paradise and it's one I remembered. I love the quirky interactions Mackenzie has with everyone but I really, really love when she has to deal with her messy emotions. Watching her apologize to Glen almost physically hurt to observe. Very good moment between them.

Started an episode of Poirot but didn't get a chance to finish it before I crashed. I'll finish it up and start the round of shows again.

That's it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Jingle, Jangle, Jingle, a holiday themed novella with a twist on a classic story.

Here's the miniblurb:

Work keeps getting in the way of Felicia Hammond and Marshall Greene being able to spend time together. When Marshall pulls off a holiday vacation package, they're excited to get away together. But Felicia is added to the schedule at the hospital and won't be able to go. Unknown to each other, both try to make the best out of the situation so they can have a happy holiday season.

And a snippety peek…

Felicia entered the house to the incredible aroma of Mamie's Diner food. After the day she'd had, she loved Marshall for thinking of this.

She found him setting the plates on the table. "You want to grab a shower before we eat?" He turned to get two glasses of water with lemon slices in them.

She gave a quick nod. "Yeah, I'll be five minutes." Just long enough to rinse the day off and leave the hospital behind.

Turning the water on, she rubbed at the back of her neck. Normally, when her shift descended into chaos, she could roll with the hits and come up smiling. Not so much today.

Stripping out of her scrubs, she stepped under the spray. "Universe, save me from docs who have to throw entire units off schedule." In his defense … he just transferred from a military hospital, but…

Damn. Did he have to gum up the system and throw everything off kilter?

After soaping up and rinsing off, she twisted the knob off and grabbed her towel. A quick dry down and lotion application followed then she slid into comfortable yoga pants and a T-shirt. The hot water helped ease her tense muscles and the yummy food would soothe the rest of her.

She strolled into the kitchen and settled across from Marshall. "This is awesome. It's been a day." Flashing a smile, she picked up her fork. "What made you think of this?" Tucking into the open-faced roast beef, she met his gaze.

His eyes crinkled. "We're going to the mountains for Christmas. I got an incredible deal on a house because the owners are spending the holidays with family." He scooped up a pile of carrots and shoved them into his mouth.

Felicia blinked. "No way. Seriously?" A week in the mountains sounded amazing.

No hospital. No new doctors to school on protocol. No patient alarms going off.

Marshall nodded. "Yeah, sent a deposit and have the directions and instructions for picking up the key." He grinned.

Felicia sighed. "I can't wait. I'll log in to the employee portal after dinner and put in for the time off." She had two weeks of vacation left and could bank one for the following year.

Marshall grasped her fingers. "Be good to get away for a while. Just the two of us." He lifted his glass with his free hand. "Here's to a merry and bright holiday."

She clinked her cup against his. "Ho, ho, ho." With Thanksgiving around the corner, she had something to look forward to in a few weeks. "I love you for this surprise." She waited a beat. "And dinner."

Marshall waggled his eyebrows. "I know the way to your heart." He squeezed her hand.

Felicia gave him a wicked smile. "And I know the best way to thank you…" Her gaze went to their bedroom.

Marshall's lips kicked up on one side. "Then we'd better finish eating so we've got energy to burn."

Felicia laughed and dug back into the succulent roast beef.

This is a fun one to write. Marshall and Felicia are a cool couple.

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin