Sunday Snippet: Quick Draw

Geez. I can't believe January is almost over. It's been a month. Hell, it's been a year and we're only through the first month. Heh.

Had a crazy-busy work week and I'm so thrilled! Several new projects are in my calendar and I'm moving full steam ahead on my new venture. Truly hoping I'll have it ready to launch in the next few weeks.

Solid week of viewing. Didn't quite make it through my full list of shows, but the new work projects are taking priority and I'm totally okay with that.

Started with My Life Is Murder. So much fun to see Renee O'Connor acting with Lucy Lawless again. A great episode.

Enjoyed another Agatha Raisin episode. Nice to have James back even though I have a feeling he won't be a permanent fixture. The episode ended on a cliffhanger so I'm looking forward to picking back up this week.

Watched the first of a two-part Silent Witness. The tension building in this episode ended up being excellent. I'm a bit disappointed in Nikki's story thread. The student seriously screamed creepy stalker from the first moment he popped up on screen. I have a very sneaking suspicion he did something and if true, I really want a major repercussion. I'm also hoping like hell Jack's family isn't going to be smaller by the end of the next episode.

Caught another episode of Death in Paradise and had seen bits and pieces of this one. So glad I got to watch the whole thing. I like getting backstory for the island cast.

Enjoyed an episode of Elementary. Kind of loved Sherlock sort of being there for Watson at the end. The dynamic between the two characters is fun to watch. Getting a glimpse of Jane's backstory is also nice. Makes me wonder about the lawyer guy though. I'm not a fan of fast and loose storytelling.

Started season two of The Batman. I remember being so disappointed they changed the theme song. I do rather like the introduction of Batgirl.

Watched another episode of Classic Rugrats. Loved this the first time it aired and thoroughly enjoyed again. So much fun.

Starting my viewing schedule over again. The Secret Life of Amy Benson, VIP, and Battlestar Galactica will hopefully get a watch this week. I also need to pick back up with Peak Practice in the near future.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Quick Draw, a novella where the characters have to remember to not make sweeping assumptions about each other.

Here's the miniblurb:

Utah Slace has a constant stream of male and female visitors coming and going from her apartment and Hoyt Lancelot, her neighbor, draws the quick conclusion he's moved in next to a prostitute. Utah decides he needs a lesson in why making snap judgments is not a good idea.

And a snippety peek…

Utah loved cutting preconceived notions down to size. She couldn't wait to see how her new neighbor responded to her calling him on his bullshit. His response would go a long way toward setting the tone of their future interactions.

Hoyt grunted and lifted his hand. "Guilty as charged." His chin inclined. "And I hope you'll accept my apology. That was a dick move." He snagged her gaze with his and didn't look away.

Utah slowly nodded and tilted her head to one side. "It was a dick move." Her gaze narrowed a little. "But I'll let you off the hook because it looks like you're in pain." She pushed her door open wider. "If you'll excuse the mess, I can help with that." Entering her apartment, she kept going, fairly certain Hoyt would follow.

He did with a question on his lips. "How did you know? About the pain?" His hand went to his shoulder and rubbed.

She smiled. "I'm full of surprises." Leading the way, she guided Hoyt to the massage area and patted the table. "I teach art therapy, but I'm also a licensed massage therapist and mental health counsellor, which is why I have people coming and going at all hours. I keep my schedule flexible to help when clients are in crisis."

Hoyt's face reddened and he cast his gaze around her space, taking in the art supplies, the covered wall with Morse's work behind the curtain, the chaise and chair tucked into another corner where she did her quiet therapy sessions. Beyond the main living area which doubled as her working office, she had a kitchen, bath, and two bedrooms. The spare functioned as her study or den and had her couch, two chairs, a television, and all her creature comforts for downtime.

She rarely entertained anyone in that space. But she might consider doing so if the person could reserve judgment for her chosen profession.

Hoyt gave her a sheepish look. "I really stepped in it, didn't I?" He nodded toward the shelving unit that contained her oils and music system. "Again, I'm sorry for jumping to a terrible conclusion."

Utah shrugged. "Honestly, I can't really blame you. Unless you're in the know, you wouldn't have any idea why so many people come in and out of my apartment. I used to have an office but it's hard to reach people in that kind of atmosphere sometimes. Working from my home seems to build trust and intimacy and helps me break through barriers." She paused and shook her head. "Sorry. I get a little carried away sometimes." Her gaze went to his shoulder. "What did you do, if you don't mind me asking?"

Hoyt's lips twisted in a wry grimace. "Got caught in a building collapse and stuck dangling when the floor gave way." His fingers rubbed at the juncture of his shoulder blade and neck. "I'm on medical leave from the fire department while I do physical therapy and rehab."

Utah cocked her head. "How much longer until you're cleared?" Based on his range of motion, she'd guess a few more months.

Hoyt huffed out a breath. "If all goes well, about two months. But I've had a couple of setbacks." He frowned. "Of my own doing. I picked up a bartending job at a drag club and I forget to take it easier than usual sometimes."

Utah arched her brows. "Drab club? Which one?" She barely hid her surprise.

Hoyt's mouth curved in a half-smile. "Boscoe's. It's three or four nights a week and when they have a show, I tend to overexert myself behind the bar."

Utah jerked her head toward the table. "If you're interested, I could probably help with that." If he combined massage with the PT, he could probably stay on target.

Hoyt's eyes widened. "You want to massage me?"

She laughed. "Let's clarify here. I want to massage your shoulder and see if it helps." Anything else would fully depend on whether they could find a vibe that worked on a personal level.

And she rather hoped they did.

This is a lot of fun to write. Utah is so unconventional, and Hoyt needs a little of that in his life right now.

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

 

Sunday Snippet: Pumpkin Patch Honeymoon (an Organic Nature short)

Still bitterly cold in Ohio, but by midweek, we'll see high forties and low fifties and lots of rain. We're going to have a lot of sick people in the near future. The back-and-forth weather is horrible for keeping folks healthy.

Busy work week again, which I'm so thankful for. I'm also working on my new venture and should have news soon. I'm hoping by February.

Decent viewing week. I didn't quite make a full run-through of all my shows, but I got very close.

Started with My Life Is Murder again. Very interesting episode with some fun backstory. I love getting more information about the characters.

Watched a holiday episode of Agatha Raisin. This one kicked off season four and it ended up being a lot of fun. I loved the mix of characters.

Finally continued my rewatch of Battlestar Galactica with the feature of Razor. We had to backtrack a little to pick up with this one. I'd forgotten how much I loved Lee in this special feature.

Caught an episode of Silent Witness, which finished up a two-parter. I feel for Jack, and I loved getting some more details about his family. I feel for what Ryan's been through, but I'm glad Jack is finished covering for his brother.

Watched another episode of Death in Paradise. This is another episode I didn't get to see, and I quite enjoyed following the clues. Looking forward to another episode

Enjoyed another episode of Elementary. Lots of twists and turns in this one. Also loved Joan trying to find Sherlock a sponsor and him not quite being able to just say he doesn't want her to leave at the end of her contract.

Caught the final episode of The Batman season one. Excellent finale with three of the big bads trying to unmask Batman. Also loved the introduction of Commissioner Gordon. Looking forward to starting season two.

Watched another episode of Classic Rugrats. Both vignettes were ones I didn't remember so nice to have something new to me.

Started season two of The Secret Life of Amy Benson and rather liked the first episode. I'm a little curious how much book detail is being left out, but I don't think it takes away from what we're seeing.

Also started an episode of VIP but didn't get to finish it. I'm not even sure what's going on yet.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Pumpkin Patch Honeymoon, an Organic Nature short.

Here's the miniblurb:

Eppie and Vin's unconventional journey comes full circle when they make a lasting commitment in the pumpkin patch where their story began. They decide a staycation will be the perfect endcap and discover during their idyllic week that passion only grows the more in love they fall.

And a snippety peek…

Eppie finished securing a makeshift awning and stepped back to gauge her newly constructed design. "This should do." At least for now.

The idea to increase privacy and separate the honeymoon sanctuary from the main house struck just as she'd crossed the yard to wait for Vin. Coupling a large tarp in a sunny orange and her hanging basket poles created a fenced-off area that blocked the view from the drive and dampened some of the noise that accompanied vehicles coming and going. Eppie tilted her head and surveyed the combination.

"If you hang those dark red and yellow mums, you'll have a showpiece."

Vin's footsteps crunched on the crushed gravel walkway.

Eppie turned and smiled. "You know, this could end up working for holiday decorations, too." She envisioned changing out the tarp color for the seasons.

Vin wrapped an arm around her. "This looks great. We could dance naked behind here and no one would know." His hip bumped hers.

Eppie laughed and angled her head upward. Vin took his cue and meshed his lips with hers. Their honeymoon had just officially started.

Easing away from him, she nodded toward the shed. "We're on the wrong side for naked dancing." And probably in the wrong time of year.

The wind had a bite to it and picked that moment to gust through the yard, kicking up some fallen leaves.

Vin's lips quirked. "So we are. Looks like Mother Nature isn't going to cooperate either." He clasped her hand and led her around the awning then swept her up into his arms.

Eppie grinned. "Mother Nature can do her worst. You and I are prepared for anything." She waited for Vin to carry her into the shed then motioned around the interior.

Vin set her down and let out a low whistle. "It's spectacular." His gaze narrowed. "Is that a tub?" He took a step forward and ran his fingers along the edge. "Where did this come from?" He glanced back over his shoulder.

Eppie grinned. "Dani found it at a closeout sale. She thought it would be perfect for our honeymoon." Her sister knew Eppie so well.

Vin waggled his eyebrows. "She made the right call. I can't wait to try this out." He pulled his shirttail free of his pants.

Eppie chuckled. "As in now?" She loved him for being in sync with her.

Vin nodded and tugged his waffle knit over his head. "Absolutely." He reached into the shower and pulled the nozzle off the hook, draped it over the edge of the copper tub, then turned the water on.

Eppie shed her shirt and pants. "I've got just the thing to add." She snagged a packet of her bath salts and sprinkled it into the spray of liquid.

Vin inhaled deeply. "Mmmm. Apple, some kind of spice … sage, maybe? And something a little deeper. Smells amazing." He shucked his pants.

Eppie bounced on her toes. "You got it! I wanted something that reminded me of a warm sweater on a fall day." Her fingers trailed in the water. "It's already selling like gangbusters." And if she tweaked the recipe a little by adding cranberry notes, she could make a merry holiday scent.

Vin shut the tap off and returned the nozzle to the shower. "Yeah, I think you pulled it off." He nodded toward the tub. "Let's soak in the atmosphere up close and personal." Grasping the rolled edge, he entered the steaming confines and held out a hand.

Eppie grasped his fingers and joined him. Vin settled down, leaning against the raised end. Eppie slid between his legs, using his chest as backrest.

She sighed and relaxed into him. "I think this might be the best gift my sister has ever given me." Her fingers swirled designs in the water.

Vin's hands ghosted over her shoulders. "Remind me to thank her." His lips brushed over the column of her throat. "We'll leave out how we christened it, though."

Eppie snorted out a laugh. "You don't have to. She already figured it would take less than five minutes for us to decide to start with a nice soak…"

This series is so much fun and I'm very excited to finish up the rest of the stories.

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: Photo Ops

Brrrr. It's cold outside. Thankfully, we only lost power once during the first gusty windstorm and didn't lose it all while the wind howled over the last three days. And I can live with a couple of inches of snow. Not a huge fan of temperatures in the teens but layers help when I have to take the dogs out.

Had a super-busy work week and I'm thrilled to have my calendar filling up with projects. I like to stay steady because it keeps me motivated and focused. When I have too much free time I get lost in a haze.

Not a bad week for viewing. I made a full circuit through my regular shows minus the rewatch of Battlestar Galactica. The power blip caused a delay there.

Started the week with My Life Is Murder and enjoyed the episode. The mystery ended up being pretty decent.

Caught the second half of Agatha Raisin and thoroughly enjoyed. The cast really hits on all cylinders and even though I miss James, I love the vibe of these characters.

Started a new two-part Silent Witness. I'm kind of happy to see Jack's familial issues. His brother is a piece of work and I'm interested to see where things go with him. Rather like the new colleague. Looking forward to seeing how she fits in.

Watched another episode of Death in Paradise. I didn't really remember this one so I enjoyed it. Fun to see the commissioner on the suspect board.

Caught another episode of Elementary and quite liked the way Sherlock ended up being on the outs with both Joan and the captain. Fun episode.

Enjoyed another episode of The Batman. I'm nearing the end of the first season and all the players are established for the most part. And the episodes are holding up fairly well.

Watched another episode of Classic Rugrats. I didn't remember either of the vignettes so really enjoyed watching both.

Finished out the first season of The Secret Life of Amy Benson. I'm intrigued and interested in how things are going to play out in the next season, which I'll probably start this week.

Also managed to finish the episode of VIP that I started last week. Looking forward to a new one this week if time permits.

That's it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Photo Ops, a novella that pits the main characters against each other in a fun oneupmanship plot.

Here's the miniblurb:

When Mace McKenna decides not to participate in the annual Officers of the City charity calendar photo shoot, Nina Dean won't let up until he caves. But when Nina loses a bet and has to pose for the women's version, she soon discovers Mace is the orchestrator of the whole thing.

And a snippety peek…

Nina frowned at the caller ID and answered her phone on the third ring. "Misha, what's up?" He wouldn't be calling with good news.

He cut right to the chase. "McKenna's being his usual hard-assed self and refusing to participate in the fundraiser."

Nina blinked. "You got the go ahead already? I thought you were calling to say the council shot the idea down." Her day looked brighter.

Misha snorted. "I told you getting the shoot would be easy. The not easy part is getting your superior officer to get on board."

Nina sighed. "Yeah … that figures." Hard ass talked a big game about boosting morale yet wouldn't do his fair share.

And she needed to make this happen. Not only to serve Mace a little payback but also because she wanted to help raise money for the charity.

Being able to dedicate a full month to staring at Mace added a nice layer of icing on top.

Misha huffed out a breath. "Got any ideas? This kind of doesn't work without him. He's supposed to be the face of the campaign."

Nina shuffled through several possible solutions in her mind. "You know, I think I just might." She landed on one that should do the trick.

Misha grunted. "Care to share?"

Nina's lips curved. "Maybe only the barest of details." She loved to string her friend along.

Misha made a disgusted sound. "Nina, I need something here. If you can't get him on board, I've gotta start looking for someone else to be the face of this campaign."

Nina rolled her eyes. "Misha, have I ever let you down? And we're not counting the time I fixed you up with Brenna Shoults." She did not get the matchmaking gene.

Misha didn't relent. "Seriously … how do you plan to make the man cave and show up for this charity photo op?"

Nina grinned. "My plan is simple and, quite frankly, the only logical thing to do." She paused for effect and to drive Misha mad. "I'm going to use his own words against him."

Misha laughed. "Oh … he's going to love that."

Nina doubted Mace would appreciate her twisted appeal to his better nature but didn't care at the moment.

She had to get him to participate in the fundraising campaign.

Nina has the perfect strategy to bring Mace on board for the shoot, but he's not above turning the tables at all.

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: Parade on Main (an Organic Nature short)

Well, January in Ohio has been the usual weird warm one day, cool the next, and hey, let's throw some snow into the mix. It's not a lot of snow, but it's enough to be annoying until we get the first really good blanket of the white stuff.

Solid work week. I had a bunch of projects going and added a few to my calendar. I'm kind of excited to be delving into some new territory. I also got a lot done on my new venture and updating my website, which is very much needed. I've neglected it for far too long.

Had a decent week of television. Didn't quite make it through every show, but I got most of my current slate watched.

Stared the week with My Life Is Murder and kind of liked seeing a bit of Alexa's past even if her friend ended up being the culprit.

Caught the first part of a two-part Agatha Raisin. Enjoyed it for the most part. I'm not a fan of the whole lack of progress with Bill and Toni, but I loved having Roy back.

Finished up the second part of Silent Witness and I'm disappointed they lost Adam after a handful of episodes. What a twist though.

Watched another episode of Death in Paradise, starting the fifth season. I'm very much enjoying being able to watch all the episodes in chronological order.

Enjoyed an episode of Elementary. I kind of like the lack of boundaries and the need to establish them. This episode kind of brought that idea home in a big way.

Caught another episode of The Batman. "Grundy's Night" ended up being so much fun and it's one I didn't quite remember from my original run through.

Watched another Classic Rugrats. I actually didn't remember either of these, so it was fun to watch.

Finally, started a new episode of The Secret Life of Amy Benson. I'm enjoying this series, but I also feel like a lot is being left off the screen. Probably the biggest fallback when adapting books for viewing. That said, I love that Passionflix is doing this. So many books to choose from and they've chosen some of the very best.

That's it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Parade on Main, an Organic Nature short featuring the Memorial Day holiday.

Here's the miniblurb:

Eppie and Vin help the brother of Vin's best friend find his footing when he arrives in town to be the honored speaker at the Memorial Day parade. Vin recounts his brief stint in the military and Eppie plays matchmaker—something she swore she'd never do.

And a snippety peek…

Eppie tilted her head, her gaze tracking Lily climbing into Greg's truck. "Huh. Didn't expect that to happen." She carried a tray of used cups into the house.

Dani and Ken pulled out behind Lily and Greg and Vin entered through the side door to grab a trash bag to refill the wooden barrel outside.

Eppie caught Vin's eye. "Did you have anything to do with Greg giving Lily a ride?" Her lips quirked.

He shook his head. "I didn't, no." His eyebrows arched. "Dani did. She said both kids were crashed out in the back seat, and Lily said she didn't want to disturb them." He paused a moment. "Then … Dani suggested Greg give Lily a lift home and, of course, Hannah seconded the idea."

Eppie snorted. "So, my sister is playing matchmaker." She nodded.

Vin's eye widened. "Something tells me you might have had something to do with that, right?"

Eppie shrugged. "I may have given her a heads-up that Greg and Lily both had some wounds that needed to heal." She worried at her lower lip. "I swore I wouldn't play cupid. I probably should've kept my mouth shut."

Vin discounted the idea. "Nah. Like you said. Let nature take its course." He ducked out to put the bag in the barrel.

Eppie pondered the nudge she gave Dani, tamping down the kick of guilt creeping up her spine. "There's no harm in opening a door. Whether Lily and Greg walk through it is up to them." Right?

Vin put his arms around Eppie. "Giving them a chance is fine. It's not like you're contriving to put them in the same place at the same time or going out of your way to convince them they should hook up." He rested his chin on her shoulder.

Eppie did a slow nod. "True. The whole letting nature take its course worked for us." She turned to face him. "And we're still doing it..." Eppie grasped Vin's hand and started for the stairs.

Vin followed her up, his hands skimming along her torso. "And we have Dani to thank for introducing us…" He shrugged out of his shirt and popped the button of his pants.

Eppie grinned. "We do. And if Lily and Greg get together, she can have all the credit." She stripped off her shorts and yanked her tank top over her head.

Vin nudged her back onto the bed. "See … the only person you're playing cupid with is me." He grasped her calves and slid her butt to the edge of the mattress then dropped down to his knees.

Eppie shut up because Vin's mouth would soon be occupied with something other than talking…

This series is so much fun to write. Looking forward to getting this one finished and hopefully ready to go for a summer release.

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin