Sunday Snippet: Drowning Pull

I hope everyone survived the holiday!

My family had a wonderful day—no traveling, just staying home all nice and cozy with our new tech gear and good food. I watched more holiday television episodes and said good-bye to Matt Smith's Doctor. I'm still not quite settled in with the idea of the new actor, but I'll give him a chance.

Looking forward to my fave shows returning. Almost Human, Sleepy Hollow, Arrow, The Tomorrow People, Walking Dead, Sherlock, and probably a few I’m forgetting at the moment. Currently watching a Farscape marathon on Pivot then switching over to some recorded stuff I haven't watched yet.

Tonight's post is from the novella, Drowning Pull. The characters have an instant spark, but circumstances keep them from pursuing the electric connection.

Here's the tagline:

Lane Addison drowns his grief over losing his brother in alcohol, until a blonde distraction sits down beside him. Injured and off the circuit, Weslee decides to have a pity party for one until she sees someone deeper in the well than she is. A hot hook-up later, Lane thinks he's found the perfect woman in Weslee, until she mentions her fiancé.

And the snippety peek…

Lane woke up slowly, with a clear head and vision. He hadn't had that experience since his brother's funeral. Weslee. The name popped into his head at the same moment her thigh brushed over his when she stirred in her slumber. A ghost of a smiled cracked his lips before he sobered and wrapped an arm around her.

She'd given him a gift the night before. Listened to him, commiserated, and shared a major setback she'd recently had. Not exactly standard relationship building blocks, but nothing remotely typical happened in his life since Liam's death. He'd connected with Weslee, bonded with her, and he wanted an opportunity to explore with more depth.

He traced a finger along her jawline and her eyelids fluttered open. "Morning."

Her eyelids fluttered open and a satisfied smile curved her lips. "Morning." She rolled onto her side and stretched the sleepy kinks out.

Lane propped his head on his hand and admired her sleekly muscled curves. He'd already fallen for her personality, the incredible form counted as a bonus. Weslee yawned and relaxed.

Lane leaned in and dropped a kiss on her shoulder. "Thank you. Last night was… wonderful."

Weslee flicked her gaze sideways. "Yeah, it was. More than I expected, too."

Lane bit back a grin. "Maybe we can get together next week? Do dinner or something?"

Weslee frowned and she heaved a sigh. "I'd love to, but well…" Her eyes closed then popped open again. "About that…" She sat up, dragging the sheet up to her shoulders. "You see, next week won't work, or really any time after that."

A sharp stab of dread hit Lane in the gut. He scrambled up and around, facing Weslee.

She wouldn't meet his gaze and the sick ball in the pit of his stomach turned into a harsh throb.

Weslee finally lifted her chin and looked him in the eye. "I'm, well, engaged to Brad Young. I can't do a repeat of last night. I'm sorry."

Lane flinched. A physical blow would've stung less.

He leapt off the bed, grabbing his jeans and dragging them on. "Right, then. Time for me to leave." He yanked his T-shirt over his head. "I can find my way out."

He should have known. Stupid, stupid, stupid. Thought he'd met someone great, but instead he'd found a woman who wanted a hard cock and nothing else.

He stomped through the living room and grabbed his jacket off the back of the couch. He swung his gaze toward the bedroom. Weslee fought a battle with the sheets, trying to get untangled. Good. He had nothing else to say and no desire to hear a 'thanks for the great sex' good-bye.

He flipped the deadbolt, twisted the knob, and pulled the door open, exiting into the hallway. Scanning both directions, he remembered where the elevators were and turned left. Halfway down the hall, he glanced up and wouldn't it just figure… found none other than Brad Young strolling down the corridor.

Brushing past the athlete, Lane muttered. "Good luck, buddy. You're gonna need it."

Brad stopped short, but Weslee burst into the hall, the white sheet wrapped around her. Yeah, not obvious at all what Lane had been talking about. Lane shook his head and kept on moving in the direction of the elevator.

Weslee could sink or swim on her own.

~:~

Sorry to leave it there, but no worries… Lane and Weslee will figure it all out. It might just take a while. LOL

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: Drag Out the List

Happy Almost Holidays!

The family and I are thisclose to being ready for the merry season. We always wait and decorate the tree a day or two before December 25 so the lights are strung, but nothing else until tomorrow. :D

I'm watching holiday episodes of my favorite TV shows. Warehouse 13, Eureka, Doctor Who, and last year's Arrow episode, Year's End. Up next is Leverage with the Ho, Ho, Ho Job. :D

Tonight's post is from Drag Out the List, a short story where my two main characters discuss a certain list one has and fun ensues. :D

Here's the tagline:

Velma and Kade have loads of sexual tension, but Velma keeps him at arm's length. Kade gets the why, but when she pushes him a little too far he turns the tables on her and she ends up in a compromising position—number seventeen on his list.

And a snippety peek…

Kade heaved a sigh. Velma hadn't let up for days. Prancing around the beach with her hot sky blue bikini top and cut off, white denim shorts? Took her sexy teasing one step too far.

Really, Kade? Dozens of females wearing tiny two pieces flitted back and forth on the sand. Kade roundly cursed his stupid inner voice for pointing out the flaw in his logic. None of the dozens of other women were Velma, the single person on the planet that could make his dick hard with a sultry glance. And she damned well understood her effect on him, too.

That part irritated Kade. After talking to Howie, he got the why of holding back and not getting involved. And Kade enjoyed the flirty banter, but just because he understood Velma's hesitation didn't mean she could use him for kicks without consequences.

He needed to find a moment alone with her and Kade finally caught her in a cabana room.

"Look, Velma, I enjoy the fun and games, but you're pushing it a little, don't you think?"

Velma lowered her gaze. "Maybe." She shrugged. "But like you said, you don't mind, right?"

He smirked. "No, not really. But…" He moved forward, invading her personal space. "There are going to be repercussions."

She snorted. "Like what?"

Kade flexed his fingers and started with her sides. Velmo lost it, laughing and twisting around trying to get away. He kept hold, and she finally grabbed at his hands and dragged him down with her to the sandy floor. He landed on top of her, but broke his fall by bracing his hands on either side of her body.

Velma dragged in several deep breaths, then lifted a brow. "Well, Kade… now that you have me right where you want me… what are you gonna do?"

Kade pondered a moment. "I think I might have to go for number seventeen on my list."

~:~

Velma's eyes widened. "You have a list?" The thought made her heart race, especially since he made it sound like he'd been thinking about her a lot.

Kade huffed out a harsh breath. "Damn right. Don't you?" He lowered down onto an elbow, settling onto his side, but keeping her in place.

Velma chuckled. "Not that I'd ever admit to having."

A big grin crossed his face. "Ah, but you see, you just did." He waggled his eyebrows.

Velma laughed. "Okay, you've got me there." She shoved her hand against his chest. "Now let me up." His close proximity made her want things she shouldn't have.

Kade did a quick back and forth with his head. "Nope. Not quite yet."

Her eyes narrowed. "Why not?"

A slow smile spread across his face. "Because I haven't done this yet."

Her breath caught when his head lowered, his warm mouth capturing hers in a firm kiss. His tongue slipped past her lips before she could even think about it. She moaned and cupped his face, bringing him closer, deepening the embrace. Good god, the man had a hot mouth.

And she wanted to find out exactly how much heat they could generate.

If all goes well, it'll be tons of heat. :D :D

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: Down the Middle

Hiya!

Imagine my embarrassment when I realized the Arrow midseason finale actually happened this past Wednesday instead of last week? LOL Oh well, one great thing came out of it…I got a new ep of Arrow and it was AWESOME!! And if the CW doesn't make Flash (or whatever they end up calling it) a series in the very near future, I'm gonna wonder where their brains are. LOL

Shifting gears (pun intended), Sons of Anarchy completely messed with my head. As mentioned, Kurt Sutter rarely goes where I think he will, and he had me going right until the last act of the episode. I pretty much stood up and yelled at the TV, then prayed for someone else's death… which didn't happen, dammit. But in retrospect, I'm actually sort of glad. I now know exactly how I want the final scene of SOA to play out… and if I don't get it, well, Sutter certainly won't give a hang, but I'll be sorely disappointed. I'm at a place with the show where retribution HAS to happen or I'll pretty much feel like it wasn't work seven years of my life. :D

Okay, enough about television this week, more to come about Sleepy Hollow and other shows soon. Tonight's post is from Down the Middle, a novella with the main characters finding some common ground.

Here's the tagline:

Bounty hunter Ursa Goode always gets her man… if Jake Weatherwax doesn't beat her to him. But when a target escapes and comes after her, Ursa has to take Jake up on his offer to work together and split the reward right down the middle. The need for a partner rubs her wrong, but Jake definitely doesn't.

And a snippety peek…

Jake threw up a hand. "You're too fucking close to this whole deal, Ursa. You need someone to pull you back from the edge so you don't go flying off." He shot her a point blank look. "Can't work if you're dead. And you're gonna be dead if you keep taking stupid chances." He turned and paced. "This guy isn't stupid. He knows you, Ursa. Knows how you think." He stopped and met her gaze again. "He pushes every, single button you have."

Ursa tilted her head, considering Jake's laundry list of reasons, focusing in on the important face. "But he doesn't know you." Guy had a steel trap mind, she'd give him that.

Jake grinned wide. "Exactly. He can't predict my every move."

Ursa pondered the suggestion. She didn't like to answer to anyone… but Jake had a valid argument. She did have too much personal baggage with Llewellyn. Changing up her game could only help her win.

She accepted his offer. "So… fifty-fifty split?"

Jake's lips quirked. "Right down the middle." His hand shot out to seal the deal.

Ursa grasped his palm, shaking and giving her word. Jake tightened his grip and tugged her forward, getting up close and personal.

He laid it out. "One thing. If you go off half-cocked again or pull anything solo, I'll shoot you myself." He let go of her hand. "Are we clear?"

She stepped back, resisting the urge to punch him. "Completely." She laid out a rule of her own. "If you ever get in my face like that again, I'll crush your balls in a vice grip." She smirked. "Got it?"

He winced, but nodded. "Understood." He put some additional space between them. "For the record, it's not my style, but your track record isn't the greatest. I needed to make a fast point."

She smiled. "As long as we understand each other." She turned and grabbed her jacket from the chair. "I've got a contact in the brewery district that should be able to point us in a general direction." She glanced back over her shoulder. "You coming?"

He rolled his eyes. "Yeah. Let's go." He retrieved his coat from a hook on the wall.

Ursa opened the door and exited his apartment, a slow grin spreading over her face. Working with someone, no, working with Jake, might just prove to be fun.

And so begins the working relationship. Wonder if it'll spill over into the personal. :D

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: Dodging Bullets

Hello!

Okay, getting the TV stuff out of the way first, as always, but did you watch the Arrow mid-season finally? If you didn't, why not!! Seriously, the show keeps getting better and better, and it was already pretty damned great. :D

Sons of Anarchy finale this week and whoa. I seriously have no idea how anything will play out. Sutter never quite goes where I think he will and that's part of what I love about the show.

Walking Dead gave me a very satisfactory finale even if it killed off one of my favorite characters. Can't ask for more than that, right?

I'm hoping to start Almost Human in the near future and catch up so I can watch in real time. I've heard very good things about the show.

Tonight's post is from Dodging Bullets, a novella featuring characters who've grown up together and still have a connection.

Here's the tagline:

Sable and Gage live on the same street and survive their childhood by having each other's backs. When they grow up, they're still looking out for each other, but instead of ducking verbal barbs and flying objects, they're dodging bullets instead.

And a snippety peek…

Sable unhooked the back gate just in time to dodge the pepper grinder being lobbed at her dad's head. He shot her a look and she turned around, beating a hasty retreat to the nearby novelty store. He'd long ago made Sable promise if she got the raised eyebrow she'd go straight to shop and wait. Ivan would pick her up after Bianca cooled off. Until she did, Sable would hang out with Bernie, the owner and a good friend of Ivan's.

Sometimes her parents acted more like they were twelve instead of Sable. Okay, her mom did. Bianca threw more temper tantrums in a week than Sable had her whole life.

She skipped around the corner and waited for the light to change then darted across the street and made a left. The Aardvark's neon sign shone like a beacon of welcome in a torrential downpour of well, words she shouldn't know or say.

She pushed the door open and shouted. "Hey, Bernie! How's it hanging?"

Her dad's friend shook his head. "Sable, you know that greeting is inappropriate. You're almost a teenager." He came around the counter and nodded towards a couple of customers. "Do you want me to get arrested for contributing to your delinquency?"

Sable snorted. "It's just Gage and Garth. They're not customers. They're a pain in the butt."

Bernie sighed. "No they're not. They hang out here as much as you do." He lowered his voice. "But their dad is a cop and you need to remember that."

The light bulb went off and she nodded. "Sorry, Bernie. I'll just say hi next time."

He grinned and went back to his post behind the cash register. "Do you need a snack? I've got peanut butter and graham crackers."

She cracked a smile. "You got chocolate sprinkles left?" She loved the mix of peanut butter and chocolate.

Bernie chuckled. "You know I do." He jerked his head towards the back. "Keep an eye on things out here. I'll go get it ready."

Sable bounced around the counter and climbed up onto the metal stool Bernie kept stashed just for her. "I got this." She waved Bernie away.

Settling down, she turned her attention to Gage and Garth Waterson. The brothers lived across the street, three doors down from her house. Gage a year older than Sable, Garth a year younger, they often ended up walking home from school together. Other parents picked their kids up, but Bianca Rich couldn't be bothered. Betty Waterson worked as a paramedic for the city's fire department and trusted her boys would get home without incident. With a beat cop for a dad, they knew what to look out for.

"You can't buy that shirt, Garth. Mom will freak out and kick your ass." Gage grabbed the shirt from his younger brother.

Garth slugged him. "You better stop cussing. You'll do it in front of mom and she'll kick your ass." He snagged the tee back and held it out of Gage's reach. "I'll wait 'til she's working a twenty-four and only wear it then." He smirked at his brilliant idea.

Gage rolled his eyes. "Fine. But when she goes apeshit, don't come crying to me." He threw the shirt in the plastic basket and moved over to the ball caps.

She wondered why Gage got so bent over Garth's choice. Maybe the garment had one of the more offensive slogans on it. She shook her head. Gage shouldn't have caved. Garth would forget and get busted wearing the shirt then Gage would take the heat from whatever their mom tried to throw at Garth. He always did.

Her curiosity getting the better of her, Sable slid off the stool and made her way over to the boys. Maybe she could talk Garth into picking something else. She hated how mopey Gage got when their mom started slinging verbal barbs.

She tapped Gage on the shoulder. "Hey. What's going on?" She cast a furtive glance inside their basket.

Well, shit. Gage's reason for concern smacked Sable in the face. Garth didn't choose one of the questionable sayings. He'd opted for a silkscreen of a local band—

The Bangers—her dad's group.

Sable huffed out a breath. "Garth, man, you don't wanna take that shirt home. You'll be lucky if your mom doesn’t set it—and you—on fire."

And then have to call her co-workers to come and put the flames out.

Garth heaved a sigh and went to hang the shirt back on the display rack.

Gage nudged Sable's shoulder. "Thanks, Sable."

Sable nodded and met Gage's gaze. "No problem. I feel bad for Garth."

Gage tilted his head. "Why?"

Sable shrugged. "Because it's not his fault your mom hates my dad."

Sometimes I love writing characters who have a rich history yet can't see what's right in front of them… but Sable and Gage get it and keep their connection, even when they're grown. J

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: The Deep End

Hi!

Not much new in TV this week, so finishing up from last week's new episodes. The Walking Dead is my on the fence show. Some weeks I love it, some weeks I'm very 'meh'. Last week was definitely a 'meh' week, but the new episode tonight is pretty good, but the Governor just doesn't excite me all that much.

Sleepy Hollow continues to make me happy. It's so crazy insane I can't not like it. This week's Arrow and Sons of Anarchy have me ready to get through Monday so I can watch new stuff. J I also quite enjoyed Agents of S.H.E.I.L.D. I'm not nearly as disappointed as a lot of fans are, but I'm a long time believer in setting up story arcs for bigger payoffs later.

That's it for this week. Should have some great reactions for my next post.

Tonight's snippet is from The Deep End, a novella filled with sibling rivalry over the woman of the brothers' dreams.

Here's the tagline: (Which I'm honestly not thrilled with, it needs work)

Raelin is six months into a relationship with Eames, but isn't feeling the spark… until she meets Eric, Eames' brother. The sibling rivalry takes an ugly turn and Raelin takes a big step back so the men can mend fences.

And a snippety peek…

Eric entered the bar and quickly spotted his brother's group in the corner where the larger parties could have semi-privacy for their gatherings. Eames glanced up and waved Eric over.

Weaving through the regular seating area, Eric grinned and shook his head. Eames had a blow-up doll duct taped to the wall and with a bull's eye drawn over her belly button. Eric considered it short of miraculous she actually had clothes painted on. He reached his brother's side and clapped him on the shoulder.

Eames waggled his eyebrows. "Whatya think of my date?" He gestured towards the over-inflated rubber woman.

Eric snorted. "Bro, if I wasn't dating your ex-girlfriend, I'd question your taste in females."

Eames laughed. "You know, this one is a lot easier to control than Raelin. I think I got the better end of the deal." He glanced around. "Where is she?"

Eric frowned. "At home." He grabbed a cold one from the cooler on the table.

Eames cocked his head. "You could've brought her. The invite was you plus one."

Eric rolled his eyes. "You know how she is about guilt." He twisted the cap off and took a long swallow of the pale ale.

Eames nodded. "Uh huh, she doesn't deal well with it." He nudged Eric with an elbow. "As you and I both know."

Eric's lips quirked. "That we do." He shrugged. "I left the invitation open. If she wants to show up, she will."

Eames's lips turned up. "She just did." He jerked his head toward the entrance.

Eric turned and met Raelin's gaze. She lifted a hand and gave him a sheepish smile. Eames reached over, snagged another beer, and handed it to Eric. "Go on. Meet her halfway and remind her she's welcome here."

Eric uncapped the bottle. "Thanks, man." He headed towards Raelin, a slow grin spreading across his face.

She'd dressed casually but still turned heads when she made her way passed the patrons sitting at the bar. A sloppy drunk guy, about college age, did a double take and made a grab for Raelin's arm.

She paused and sweetly smiled. "I wouldn't go there, buddy." She gave his grasping fingers a pointed look.

He huffed out a breath. "Oh yeah? And why's that?"

She leaned in, keeping her tone low. "Because I bite." She raised her chin and met his gaze. "Hard." She snapped her teeth together.

He loosened his grip and raised the offending hand. "Okay, okay. Not touching you anymore."

Eric fought back a grin and reached her side, draping an arm around her shoulder.

The college guy narrowed his eyes. "Hey… why aren't you snapping your teeth at him?"

Raelin wrapped her arm around Eric's waist. "Because he likes it too much."

Laughter erupted on the other side of the man and Eric chuckled.

He drew her closer, pressing a kiss to her temple. "And that's why I love you so much." He leaned in to whisper. "Thanks for coming, Rae."

She shrugged but flashed a smile. "Figured it was time. Your brother's a great guy." She paused and faced Eric. "But he's not you."

Eric grinned. "His date for the night will be glad to hear it." He jerked his head toward the wall.

Raelin glanced over and her jaw dropped then her shoulders shook.

She grabbed Eric's hand. "Come on. I think you need to make the introductions."

Eames and Eric have been so much fun to write. I'm not quite getting this story in order (stupid sages), but the brothers definitely like to make their needs and wants known. J

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: Camden General

Greetings!

Another great TV week. The 50^th anniversary of Doctor Who truly made my entire week. Sooooo nice to watch a show I love on BBC America and not get stuck with ninety-seven episodes of some Gordon Ramsay show and/or Top Gear. Don't get me wrong, both shows are okay, I'm just really tired of how often they're on during the day. The BBC has a HUGE library and I used to love watching all the various offerings before the network got overrun with a chef and three car enthusiasts. *sigh*

Anyway, Arrow delivered and provided several off the charts levels of awesome. Seriously, I live for Wednesdays. Let's see, Sons of Anarchy brought some good stuff to the table. Sometimes I think if certain people would shut up and other certain folks would sit down and have an actual conversation, things might go a whole lot easier. I may have a nice, long post on my TV blog—which rarely gets used—once the season is over.

I could go on but since it seems like next week is hiatus for the Turkey Day holiday, I'll save some reactions for that post.

Tonight's snippet is from Camden General—a working title because I can't think of anything else at the moment—and will probably stay in short erotic territory. The sages are keeping mum at the moment.

Here's the tagline:

Jayden and Whit, two of Camden General's best emergency department staff, come together after losing a patient. Trying to navigate the fallout becomes even more difficult when their one time hook-up turns into a very personal relationship.

And a snippety peek…

Whit finished the patient notes and finally let reaction set in. He'd left the streets to do more with victims, yet his first day on the job with a mega trauma and the lady didn't make it. He wanted five minutes to wrap his head around the death then he'd move on. He ducked into the first assessment room and let the door swing shut. Leaning against the cool surface, he let his eye adjust to the dark space.

A sniffle caught his attention and he straightened, ready to back out of the room. "Uh, sorry. Didn't know anyone was in here." He cracked the door open to exit.

Jayden's hand shot out, halting his progress. She rose up from the stool and backed him into the slab of wood, shutting out the rest of the hospital. Her mouth slammed over his, her lips mashing his against his teeth.

Whit responded, wrapping an arm around the doctor, hauling her close. A little surprised, he hadn't pegged her as being one for emotion. She'd been damned cool during the fight to save their victim's life. But his respect kicked up a notch when he felt her tears against his cheek.

Jayden eased away long enough to issue a request. "Door."

She didn't have to ask twice, or explain. Completely in tune, Whit flipped the lock, open to whatever she had in mind.

Jayden grabbed the front of his scrubs, tugging him forward. "Bed." Her lips burned a hot trail along his jaw.

Okay, he could get on board with the suggestion. His hands slid up under her shirt, skimming her ribs and he guided her back, inching closer to the bed. Her butt hit the mattress and she stopped, her fingers working the drawstring of his pants loose. Whit slipped his palm lower and found an elastic waistband—easy to work with—and thanked the universe. The doc didn't seem interested in finesse.

She shoved his pants down and grasped his erection, her mouth working over his throat. Whit pushed her scrubs down and cupped her ass, urging her to sit on the bed. She scrambled up, keeping hold of his cock, firmly tugging. Whit grabbed his shirt and yanked it over his head. He moved forward, his hand sliding between her thighs, nudging them apart. She leaned back and he followed, finally able to tease and taste her. His lips ghosted over her tummy, his fingers inching under the hemline, trailing a path upward to cup a breast through her lacy bra.

Jayden moaned and bucked her hips. "Now." Her legs wrapped around him, hauling him close.

Whit aimed to please, guiding his shaft to her heated core. He worked the tip along her folds, getting slick to ease the way. Jayden hissed out a breath and writhed against him. Not a patient woman. Whit didn't keep her waiting, thrusting hard and going deep.

Jayden groaned low in her throat. "God, feels good." In the dim light, her gaze met his. "I need to feel good."

Whit braced an arm above her shoulder and dragged his other hand between them, using his fingers to stimulate her clit. "I know, Doc. I'll make it better than good." He pumped his hips, building friction.

Her eyes slid closed and she relaxed, almost like melting into the sex. Whit had no clue if she even knew his name and didn't care. He'd be happy to handle introductions later. The feel of her gripping his dick and grinding against his groin chased every thought but giving her a mind-blowing orgasm away.

Sorry to leave it there, but feel free to imagine what happens next. :D

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Cover Reveal: Merry and Bright (Holiday Wishes Special Call)

I have cover art for my holiday release!!

Coming in December from Silver Publishing!!

Sunday Snippet: Call of the Ripper

Hello!

Gotta say, my television shows are eating my brain lately. I'm dying for Walking Dead tonight even though the Governor makes my skin crawl. I got caught up on Sleepy Hollow and totally love the dynamic of the entire show. Reminds me so much of the X-files. Agents of S.H.E.I.L.D. is coming together pretty nicely. I'm enjoying the character dynamics. Sons of Anarchy keeps me on the edge of my seat and I so want to hate Gemma, but can't quite go across the line into loathing territory. But I would love to see her get some kind of comeuppance. We'll see what happens.

Again, Arrow and Tomorrow People had me glued to my screen on Wednesday. Arrow truly gets better each episode. Tomorrow People keeps me guessing and I hope it stays that way. I'm really excited to see where Haven ends up going and how they'll resolve the current storyline. I can't remember if this is the last season or not, but I'm almost hoping it isn't.

And hey, I'm currently enjoying a Firefly marathon on the Science Channel. I have much love for that show.

So… tonight's post. Call of the Ripper is both fun and hopefully a little creepy. My characters are Ripperologists and Faith has a weird connection to her work, she's been dreaming of the past and decides she needs to visit Whitechapel to maybe sever the tie. Fun times. :D

Here's the tagline:

Two 'Ripperologists' take a working vacation to experience the essence of Jack's madness. But when a modern day stalker takes an interest in their excursion, the call of the ripper hits a little too close for comfort.

And the snippety peek…

Faith sat up in bed. "Holy shit, I know what we need to do." She nudged Sean. "Sean. Wake up." She twisted sideways and rocked him back and forth. "Sean."

He blinked and shook his head. "What?" He turned towards her. "Are you okay? Did you have another nightmare?" He laid a hand on her thigh, squeezing gently.

She jerked her head back and forth. "No. No bad dream this time." She laced her fingers with his. "But I think I know what'll stop them." She leaned down and snagged his lips for a quick kiss. "We have to go to Whitechapel."

Sean groaned and flopped back onto the mattress. "You have got to be kidding me." He stared up at the ceiling and let out a big sigh. "When are we leaving?"

Faith bounced forward and braced her arms on his chest. "Really? We can go?" Her heart rate kicked up a notch, excitement flooding her. "You think it's a good idea?"

He snorted. "Hell, no. It's a terrible idea." He angled sideways and shifted her around, wrapping her in his embrace. "But we'll call it a working vacation. Maybe seeing the Ripper's killing field will drive the bad dreams away."

Faith snuggled back against Sean and dragged his hand to her mouth, grazing her lips over his knuckles. "I love you for being willing to let me find out."

Sean brushed his lips along her throat. "You love me, period." His hands grasped her hips, pulling them into his groin.

Faith laughed and turned, facing him. "I do, yes. And…" Her mouth hovered close to his.

A slow smile spread across his face. "I feel the same for you." He closed the gap and kissed her, hard, his tongue slipping past her lips.

His hand drifted between her legs and Faith moaned, going from playful to wanton in a heartbeat. She bucked against Sean's palm, seeking contact, building friction, and thanking her lucky stars she'd found the absolute best man on the planet.

Sorry, but I'm leaving it there. Needless to say, Faith and Sean have a very active sex life. :D

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: The Cabin

Howdy!

Well, my week in television ended up being pretty damned awesome. Seriously, the Walking Dead kind of caught me off guard, but gotta give it to Rick. When he steps up, he sorta goes full tilt and gets it done. Not sure how I feel about the parting of ways, but I'm leaning towards it being a good thing.

Thoroughly enjoyed Castle, which is a nice change since I've been kind of 'meh' about this season. I love getting to see Rick and Kate together—that kind of never happens and it pisses me off—but the storylines either underwhelmed or made me scratch my head. Sons of Anarchy continues to rip the scabs off old wounds. I love having my smart Jax back. He's always at his best when he's not reacting to and working through shit like watching his best friend die. Very interested to see what side Tara's actions have him landing on. My hope is he'll stay smart, get the Irish out of the way, deal with the DA, and then let the emotional fallout hit. And good Christ, stay away from Gemma so she can't throw gasoline on the fire. *shakes head*

Arrow and The Tomorrow People just make my Wednesday the best day of the week. I can't say enough about Arrow at the moment, and anything I would say would contain spoilers, so *zips lips*. Haven twisted everything sideways again, but hit on a theory I had from the first episode. I kind of can't wait to see how the new wrinkle plays into the mythology. I have more thinky thoughts, but again… spoilers. LOL

So, that's my week in TV. Maybe I should get to the actual post, right? Tonight's snippet is from The Cabin, a novella with one of my favorite tropes—sibling rivalry. This time the brothers don't want the same girl, but they almost let her come between them.

Here's the tagline:

Whip meets the woman of his dreams when tries to convince Kari to give his brother another shot at her art class. But when she can't accommodate the request, Whip still wants to pursue a relationship… until his brother tries to get in the way and Kari decides she won't come between them.

And the snippety peek…

Kari made the trek up the mountain and made her way from the drive around to the back of the cabin, following the heavy thudding sound. She found Whip—stripped of his shirt—chopping wood and stopped to admire his raw masculinity. Instead of announcing her presence, she watched the corded muscles of his arms and back work to split log after log. When he paused to wipe the sweat from his face, he caught sight of her standing at the edge of the porch. He lifted a brow. Instead of flushing with guilt, she boldly met his gaze and strode forward, stopping to stand toe to toe with Whip. She reached up, cupping his face and leaned in to capture his lips with hers. He tasted like hickory and sunshine. The kiss dragged out and Kari didn't care when Whip grabbed her hips, bringing her flush against his chest. She'd missed him, more than she wanted to admit.

Kari finally gives up her losing battle against wanting Whip… and he's going to be very happy.

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: Bonus Score

Hi!

YAY! Strike Back got a renewal even though it'll be the last season. I can live with one more ten episode run with Stonebridge and Scott. I'm torn between wanting to see them go out with a bang—Butch and Sundance style—and hoping like hell my two heroes find a way to be happy and live long lives. :D

And Arrow… holy crap. I can't even form coherent thoughts about last week's episode yet. Without getting too spoileriffic, I'm usually not keen on recasting a primary character, even if they've had almost zero screen time, but I'm definitely reserving judgment on this one. Mainly because I can't wait to see where they take the character and how they tie her into the DC 'verse. *rubs hands together gleefully*

Haven keeps impressing me and doesn't always do what I expect. If I haven't mentioned it before, I LOVE shows that keep me guessing. J

Anyway, time for the actual post. Bonus Score is a manuscript in the beginning stages, but one I hope is going to be so much fun to write. Zeva and Bo meet in an unconventional way and have a spark… but their competitive nature may bring them down before they get started. :D

Here's the tagline:

Zeva and Bo meet through a gaming community and hit it off. They start spending time together and a series of wagers over who the better gamer is takes an interesting turn when sexy distractions become part of the strategy. When they decide to settle up once and for all, a bonus score leads to an unexpected win and the crown is claimed.

The snippety peek…

Zeva Bloom sat at a secluded table in her local coffee shop, her knee bouncing up and down with nervous energy. "Geez, Zeev, you're insane to meet a guy you've seen before." She had a vague idea of what Bo Schneider should look like, but not exact.

She angled her head, taking a quick glance for a guy about six foot tall, with sandy blond hair and a lanky frame.

And noted at least a dozen men who fit the description. "God, I'm such an idiot."

She started to rise, ready to duck out, but her gaze landed on a fairly hot guy wearing a T-shirt a well-known geek logo emblazoned on the front and faded jeans riding low on his hips. Please let him be the guy I'm supposed to meet. She tossed the silent wish to the gaming gods and settled back in her seat, observing his interaction with the barista. He bantered with a flirty vibe, but didn't act like a pervy creeper. Zeva's lips quirked. He'd just earned bonus points, even if his name didn't happen to be Bo. But she sure hoped otherwise.

She took a sip of her iced coffee and slid her gaze sideways. Oh, yeah. He cocked his head to the side and gave her a once over before starting toward the table. Zeva smiled and stood, huffing out a short breath then taking a step forward.

Bo held out his free hand. "Zeva? You look even better than your online avatar."

She grinned and shook. "I just had the same thought about you." She sat back down and nodded toward the empty chair.

Bo dropped down and angled to the side, kicking his long legs out, blocking the floor a little.

He shrugged. "I always bang my knees on the pedestal. It gets old after a while."

Zeva took another sip of her drink, at something of a loss. "Er, it's nice to meet you in person."

Lame. That sounded truly bug ass stupid. Why did she end up agreeing to meet Bo again?

His lips twitched. "Same. I love it when the online persona seems to match the flesh and blood version."

Ah… she remembered the reason. She so wanted to see if the snarky, bantering online gamer resembled the real man. So far, he didn't disappoint.

She leaned forward, resting her forearms on the table. "Did you clear that last level? The one you were on when I had to sign off last night?"

His face split with a huge grin. "Yep. And I got every object so the bonus level opened up."

Zeva rolled her eyes. "You always clear the area, don't you? I don't have the patience for it. I wanna get to the next section and see what's there."

He chuckled. "So you skip all the bonus levels? My roommate does the same thing." He lifted the cup to his mouth and smirked around the lid. "We have a big contest to see who get through with the highest score."

Zeva snorted. "Let me guess, you win, right?" Her lips took a big drag on her straw.

Bo shook his head. "Not always. We've got a tie-breaker going on right now."

Zeva tilted her head. "When you get through, you should find a new challenger."

Bo's eyebrow quirked. "You volunteering?"

Zeva smiled. "I might just be persuaded to kick your ass, yes."

Bo stuck out his hand. "You're on."

And so the game begins. :D

(Not Bo or Zeva)

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: Zane's Ghost

Greetings!

Gah! What a week in television. Agents of S.H.E.I.L.D got interesting, Sons of Anarchy kicked several plots up a notch, Arrow continues to WOW me, Haven had a kick ass episode and Walking Dead still amazes and creeps me out all at the same time. J I already miss Strike Back, but hopefully a new season will be announced, if it hasn't been already.

Shifting gears, tonight's post is from Zane's Ghost, a novella featuring characters that land in the middle of a moral dilemma. Gray and Kella don't make it easy for each other to get out of the quagmire.

Here's the tagline:

When Zane Warchild goes down in the line of duty, Kella Fine blames herself—after all, she realizes her mistake when she crosses a personal line and steps way back from Zane. Gray Warchild grows quickly tired of Kella wearing her guilt like a badge and putting his brother's ghost between them.

And a snippety peek…

Benton Warchild strode into the room. "Shut up. Both of you." He planted his feet and crossed his arms over his chest. "I've had just about enough of listening to you two slice each other to shreds." He jerked his head toward the long, leather couch. "Sit down. And don't even think about ducking out. You're going to listen—and hear—what I have to say."

Kella trudged to the sofa and chose the spot closest to the door. Gray took his time—his only outward display of defiance—and opted to sit at the opposite end, as far away from Kella as possible. His dad didn't move, standing directly between the objects of his wrath and their exit.

Gray settled back, figuring he might as well get comfortable.

Benton sent a scathing glance in each direction. "What, exactly, is your problem?"

A rhetorical question, neither Gray nor Kella answered.

Benton shook his head. "You two have been dancing around something—something that could be good. Why haven't you done anything about it?"

Kella rolled her eyes and looked longingly towards the door. Gray slouched down and kept his mouth shut. He could explain exactly why he and Kella didn't act on their attraction—because the damn fool woman wouldn't let it happen.

Benton studied each for several moments then sighed. "Because of Zane." He turned his attention to Gray. "Your brother wouldn't give a damn if you pursued something with Kella. You're stupid to think he would."

Gray shot back. "Dad, you don't know everything. Zane and I… we had some issues." And almost every damn one had to do with the other two people in the room.

Benton scoffed. "Bullshit. I know more than you think." He pinned Gray with his gaze. "You never talked to me, but Zane did. About everything."

He left the rest hanging. The old man probably assumed Gray would figure things out eventually and realize what they'd talked about. The biggest problem with the concept? Gray seriously doubted Zane had been completely honest with Benton, which meant Gray would continue to keep his mouth closed.

Benton swung his gaze toward Kella. "And you. You hang onto your guilt so tightly, I'm not sure you'll ever let it go. But I'm telling you to try." He paced back and forth. "Zane's gone. It's not your fault. Get over it." He stopped. "Move the hell on and stop wallowing in self-doubt. It doesn't suit you."

Kella opened her mouth to retort but thought better of it. She clamped her lips together and stared straight ahead. Gray almost let her hang under the glower of his dad, but decided to let her off the hook.

He leaned forward, resting his elbows on his knees. "You've made your point, Dad." He glanced up and met his father's gaze. "I think we're done here." Gray made sure the dismissal came through in his tone.

Benton snorted. "Fine. I'm leaving—heading upstairs, in fact," he started for the door, "but if I hear you two going at it again, I'm coming back and I won't be playing referee, I'll be physically kicking you two out the door."

Kella waited until the old man cleared the first landing. "Hard to get a word in with him, isn't it?"

Gray huffed out a breath. "You had your chance." He got up and went to the bar, grabbing a glass from the shelf above it.

Kella followed. "Oh no. Uh uh." She added a tumbler next to his. "Your old man has a way of twisting shit back around and laying open old wounds…" She chose whiskey and poured a healthy amount into the cup. "And jabbing a hot poker into them every damn time."

Gray's lips quirked and he took the bottle from her hands. "Yeah, Dad's kind of notorious for ripping off the scab, says it keeps the sore from festering." He picked up his drink and tossed it back.

Kella slowly sipped. "You know he's wrong, right? Scabs are part of the healing process. Sometimes they leave scars, but those usually fade away."

Gray turned and faced her. "Yours haven't." He held her gaze, waiting for her to look away.

She didn't.

Instead, she took a step closer. "Not yet. But he nailed it. I gotta let go and move forward."

Yep, I'm gonna leave it there. LOL

That's it for this week. Happy reading.

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: Your Move

October 20, 2013

Hello!

So… one of the things I love about The Walking Dead is how much it blows my mind and creeps me out in equal measure. LOL Seriously, the show has so many little nuances that always suck me in, and yet it tops itself weekly by grossing me out to the point of wanting to heave. :D

Let's see, what else? Strike Back season finale did NOT disappoint. I have one or two teeny quibbles, but I had a huge grin on my face with the final scene, so yeah, direct score for season three (or, well, four, if you count the way I do and consider the first series with Armitage and Lincoln as number one). I honestly hope there's another season to watch and enjoy.

Arrow also ranks right up there on my obsession list. I want to talk and write meta posts about how much I love it. I haven't been so obsessed with a show since the reboot of Battlestar Galactica. Sons of Anarchy comes close, but I sort of avoid the fandom circles for the show.

Anyway, tonight's post is from Your Move, a novella about returning home and finding what the character is made of. :D

Here's the tagline:

Reilly Mounts returns to her hometown after an impulsive marriage and a divorce that's turning ugly. Caden Bromley, her high school flame, wants to pick up where they left off, but Reilly needs some time to figure out where he fits in her life… and she has to deal with her soon to be ex.

And a snippety peek…

Reilly entered Caden's office. "When did you deliver the flooring for the bathroom?"

Caden glanced up from his paperwork. "Around eight." He went back to writing numbers on the page.

Reilly flicked her tongue over her lower lip. Eight pm. Shit. Marco would've been in the middle of his seduction routine. Had Caden…

Only one way to find out. "Why didn't you knock? I was home."

Caden snorted. "I'll say. And occupied" He tossed the pencil on his desk. "What's going on, Reilly? I thought you were getting divorced."

She answered. "I am."

Caden lifted a brow. "Really? You sure about that? You were pretty hot and heavy with the guy."

She put her hands on the desk and leaned in. "So what? You don't own me, Caden. You have no right to spy on me."

Caden slowly nodded. "You know what, you're right." He got up and grabbed his jacket from the back of his chair. "You win. I'm done." Caden walked past her to the door.

Dammit. She didn't want to fight with him. She wanted to curl up next to him and unload about the last two days.

"Caden."

His paused, his fingers on the knob.

"Wait."

He dropped his hand to his side. But he wouldn't turn around. Reilly got the message.

The next move would have to be hers.

Reilly's stuck between a rock and hard place, and she really wants the hard place. :D

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: Busted in Bubbles

Hi!

So…. Walking Dead is back!! Arrow premiered!! The Tomorrow People is pretty awesome. Strike Back is one episode away from the finale and ripped my heart out Friday. And Sons of Anarchy is batshit crazy, which I totally love.

TV is good right now, people. So very good. Oddly, when I've got great stuff to engage my mind, I tend to write more prolifically. This is not a bad thing. LOL

Tonight's post revisits a recent release, Busted in Bubbles. I'm thrilled to pieces with how this manuscript turned out and hope everyone else enjoys it as much.

Here's the tagline:

Emsley and Rayne turn up at the same conventions several times a year and Emsley always short sheets Rayne's bed. Imagine her surprise when she lets herself into his cabin to follow tradition and discovers Rayne soaking in a tub full of bubbles. Busted, she can flee the scene or… join a very hot man for some bath time fun.

And another snippety peek…

Rayne settled back in a tub filled with loads of frothy bubbles and lifted a glass of champagne to his lips. He sipped the contents slowly, allowing the sparkling fluid to tease his taste buds. Closing his eyes, he sank down to enjoy the soak, letting the warm water and alcohol work their magic.

Jorn Pestle had made it possible for Rayne to finally take a night and truly kick back and relish life. He'd worked non-stop over the past three years, putting in long hours first with smaller sized companies then moving up to medium ones, always doing the job from start to finish, building his reputation as a man who followed through. He didn't sub-contract anything, preferring to consult, plan, train, and install all aspects of the security systems he recommended and usually built to custom specifications. He rarely went with one particular brand, mainly to avoid becoming complacent. He liked to tweak the product and add additional layers, too.

The work challenged him and he'd set the bar high for his end goal. Today's contract put him one step closer to reaching his objective. Now came the tricky part. After being a solo act, he'd arrived at the point where he needed to bring on a partner—and he had the exact person in mind. He only needed to make an offer and have the individual accept.

Sitting up, he drained the champagne from the glass and refilled the flute. He smiled and closed his eyes. He'd make the proposal soon. This weekend even, if all played out the way he expected.

And it would. He'd done his research. In fact, the candidate he had in mind would probably make an appearance very soon.

Taking another sip, Rayne expelled a satisfied sigh and sank back, letting the bubbles cover him again.

He only had to wait.

And he doesn't have to wait for long… stay tuned.

Click to Buy

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin