Sunday Snippet: Going Downhill

Ugh. I'm fighting something, a cold, a virus, some other kind of ick. Not having fun with it at all. I have two client calls this week and I'm hoping I can manage both.

We got back up in the high eighties this week. Supposed to have some rain on Monday or Tuesday and I'm kind of excited for that. We definitely need it. The drought has been upgraded to moderate.

Not a bad work week. I'm almost finished with one of my work projects and making solid headway on another that should be complete by the end of October. I start a new one sometime early in October and I'm looking forward to working on that one. I'll find out if another new project will be starting on Tuesday.

Had a semi-decent viewing week. Between not feeling the best and trying to finish up work projects, I didn't know if I'd be able to watch much. But I made it through my usual shows and got to watch the back-burner ones also.

Started with Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries and quite enjoyed the rewatch. It's one I remembered from my original run through. Being in the US, it's fun to watch how footy affects those that have a long, long history with the sport.

Caught another episode of Foyle's War. This show is so well written, and I love the cast. So many super young actors who have gone on to amazing roles.

Watched a new Death in Paradise. I'm slowly coming around on Wilson. I think he might make a good addition to the team. The new police officer is also kind of growing on me. I love that he kind of came up with the solution to keeping Selwyn in his job.

Enjoyed another Poirot. Kind of leading everyone on a merry chase but keep them from going to France was very entertaining. Loved how Japp kept thinking he'd be losing his pension.

Caught another episode of Elementary. I very much like the Joan and Sherlock vibe this season. Really not sure what's going on with the stalker detective but I hope Joan watches her back.

Watched another Batman Beyond and didn't really remember this one. I have a vague memory of the conversation between Terry and Barbara but that's kind of all I remembered.

Enjoyed another episode of Lower Decks. The opener for season two ended up being entertaining. I really do appreciate the callbacks to all the other series. Fun bit with Boimler at the end.

Finished up the episode of Peak Practice I started a few weeks ago. Sam is going to be in a lot of trouble and I'm not sure I'm going to like how things go down with him.

Also finally started season two of Reacher. I'm almost finished with the first episode, but I had to pause because of the whole cold / virus / yuck thing going on. Should finish it up this week. I think the very best moment so far is the Terminator easter egg. Kudos to the writer of the episode for that!

That's it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Going Downhill, a novella that explores a former couple reuniting and getting past their previous issues.

Here's the miniblurb:

Zetta and Mace have a messy breakup and dive into relationships with other people. Five years later they bump into each other, and both are worse for being apart.

And a snippety peek…

Four years later…

Zetta walked home after turning in her notice to the magazine. "I'm so tired of taking the same pictures over and over again." Truthfully, the shine wore off the job within two years. "And now it's about not having the stones to go back home, which is where I want to be." Home being the place she ran away from five years ago.

Except she couldn't quite face the idea of returning to her old stomping grounds. Not yet.

But she couldn’t continue as she had been. After the initial honeymoon phase ended—for work and her marriage—she'd gone downhill fast. And couldn't stand the person she'd become.

Jogging up the steps, she let herself into the empty house. She had no idea where Paul went, but since she hadn't come home last night, he could be anywhere. Likely the bar around the corner … his favorite place to drink his sorrows away.

She sighed and sank down onto the sofa. "Paul doesn't deserve my shit." He’d drink himself to death within five years. “If we keep going like we are.” Which they wouldn't.

His key sounded in the lock.

He entered and stopped, both happy and defeated to see her. “Who were you with this time?” Placing his phone on the shelf by the door, he entered the living room.

Zetta shrugged. “Names aren’t important." The never were.

Paul tossed his keys on the console table. “Right. Just the hard body and stiff dick. I keep forgetting that.” He sat down across from her.

Zetta shook her head. “No, you don't.” She never boasted about her extra-curricular activities, but Paul had a solid handle on her preferences.

Because they all looked like Mace.

Paul snorted. “Yeah, I do. Five minutes after you walk in the door, I forget everything except the fact you came home.” His lip curled in disgust, hopefully at her and not at himself.

Zetta leaned forward. "What happens when I don’t, Paul? Or if I didn’t return?" She pushed her point. "What happens if I leave and don't come back?"

Paul immediately got what she tried to say. “Then I deal. I always knew we were on borrowed time, Zee. That you’d wake up sooner or later and realize you picked the wrong guy.” He paused. “The part I didn’t figure for certain was whether you’d have the courtesy to tell me when that time came or not.” He met her gaze. “Now I know.”

Zetta swallowed hard. The defeat in his voice kicked her guilty conscience hard. Deservedly so. She’d done this to a man who should be happy with a wife and kids.

She moved off the chair and settled in beside Paul. “I’m sorry, Paul, You deserve so much more and so much better than me.” She rested her head on his shoulder.

Paul put an arm around her. “I know, but I couldn't walk away. I'd never do that to any woman, not after what my mom went through.”

Zetta lifted her face. “It’s not fair to you, though. And instead of you walking away from me, can we maybe look at this as me setting you free?” Because she needed to let him go; so he could find someone worthy of him.

He pressed a kiss to her temple. “We can do that, Zetta. I won’t fight a divorce, but I’m staying out here.” He shifted and turned to face her. “I’m assuming you’ll be headed back east?”

Zetta didn’t commit, because she hadn’t thought that far ahead. “Honestly? I have no idea where I’ll end up." Maybe she would make it home and maybe she wouldn't. "And, oddly, I’m totally okay with that."

This one is challenging in a way that I really like. The characters are messy and not completely where they need to be as people. I like writing this type of story.

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: Going All Out

Whew. It's been a week. I won't comment on the political spectrum at the moment but it's mentally draining to say the least. The good news is I got a couple of projects finished up and I'm taking that as a win because of the whole brain drain.

Our weather last week was very fall-like and I thoroughly enjoyed it. We're back to higher temperatures again but that's pretty typical. We definitely need some rain. I'd even take a nasty thunderstorm to get some at this point.

As mentioned, I finished up two projects and have a small break before the next one begins. I'm taking advantage to dive deeper into a couple of my manuscripts. It's fun to revisit what I've already completed.

Had a decent viewing week. Even if a little distracted. I made it through my usual stable of shows for the most part. Did not get to either backburner shows.

Started with Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries. One of my favorite episodes for Jack and Phryne chemistry. I also love how deep of a hole Hugh digs for himself.

Began a rewatch of a favorite comfort show with Foyle's War. It's been years since I've seen any of the episodes and I'm looking forward to diving back into this show.

Caught another Death in Paradise and I have to say I love Darlene so much. Her interactions with Patterson blew me away. The mystery ended up being pretty interesting also. Kind of a heartbreaking moment with Wilson but I think there's more to the story of his mom's death.

Enjoyed another episode of Poirot. Fun to see the FBI show up to work with Japp and very fun to see Hastings think fast on his feet when creating a diversion for Poirot.

Elementary had a very interesting episode. I'm so intrigued by Moreland's journey this season. I haven't quite figured out if he's genuine or not and I kind of feel like he's not completely sure either, which I like. A lot.

Watched another episode of Batman Beyond and it's one I have vague memories of, mainly because it was a fun episode. Nice to see Howard back also.

Finished the first season finale of Lower Decks and after a rough start rather enjoyed the episode. And it left off with enough of a what just happened vibe that I'm interested in season two. My one hope is Mariner won't annoy me so much in season two. We'll see what happens.

Still hoping to get season two of Reacher underway this week. A lot will depend on what the work calendar ends up looking like. I have two client Zoom meetings and have no idea how long either will last.

That's it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Going All Out, a novella that explores a couple finally getting together after dancing around their attraction.

Here's the miniblurb:

Lance and Xola work together and have a solid friendship, but there's always a little something more between them. Lance proposes a date, something other than a movie or grabbing a bite to eat at the same time. Xola accepts and the fun—and nervous tension—begins.

And a snippety peek…

Lance knocked on Xola's door and blinked when she opened it. "Wow. You're perfect." He winced, mentally chastising himself for sounding stupid.

Xola raised a brow. "You sure?" She turned and stuck her butt out. "Does my ass look okay in capris?" She pressed her lips together to keep from laughing.

Her ass would look good in anything.

He tilted his head to one side and went for a cheeky response. "Good enough to eat." He loved bantering with her.

Xola grinned. "Tempting, but you promised me dinner." She grabbed her phone and a slim wallet, tucking both into her pocket.

He gave a nod. "So I did. Hope you like Italian." He really didn't have a backup plan.

Her eyes brightened. "I do." She closed the door behind them and slipped her key in another pocket.

They chatted about work on the way to the restaurant. Neutral topic and a safe zone. Especially when both were trying to pick their way around the whole work-life boundaries.

When he pulled into the parking lot, her mouth dropped open and she got excited.

Her head whipped around. "Pangrazios! How did you get a table?"

He shrugged. "My godfather owns the restaurant." He cut the engine and popped his door open. "I worked here growing up. Dominic always has a table for me." He shuffled around the front of the vehicle and crooked his elbow with Xola stepped out of the car.

She flashed a wide smile. "See … that sounds like a lot of fun. And way more dangerous than being a lifeguard, which is what I did as soon as I passed the test." She leaned in closer to him. "And by dangerous I mean having the opportunity to eat my weight in pasta and pie."

Lance laughed. "It was one of the perks. The trick is loading up on the house salad first." He pulled her chair out and got her seated.

Xola gave a slow nod. "Probably wouldn't have had the willpower to do that. Not when the heavenly scent of garlic, oregano, and everything else wafted all around." She rolled a shoulder. "And being a lifeguard is what got me interested in taking the paramedic course."

Lance arched his brows. "I didn't know that's how you decided to become a medic." His head bobbed up and down. "I like this. An opportunity to discover more about you."

They gave their drink orders and decided to split a basic pie with pepperoni and extra parmesan. Not quite ten minutes later, they had their food. And Lance had to confess he'd called ahead to have them start a pizza.

Xola chuckled. "Okay, points for that one." She helped herself to a thick slice. "What else do you have planned for the night?"

Lance blew across the top of his piece of pie. "Well, I picked a few things I thought you'd be interested in." He took a large bite and quickly chewed and swallowed. "There's an art festival on the riverfront, a pops concert with the city orchestra at Menlow Park, and a blues night at Chadwick's bar. Your choice." He really didn't care what she opted for because he'd enjoy himself no matter what she decided.

Xola took her first bite and closed her eyes. "Oh, man, this is so good." She pondered a moment. "All the options sound fun, but let's do the pops concert. It's a gorgeous night for it."

Lance agreed. "Great pick. Should be a lot of fun."

Xola met his gaze. "Yeah. I'm glad we're doing this…" Her lips curved in a tentative smile.

Lance lifted his chin. "Me too." Any leftover nervous tension drained, and he tucked back into his food.

I love diving into a friends-to-lovers story. Xola and Lance are fun to write.

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: Ghost of a Chance

September is starting off with a bang. And crazy busy. Also a full blood moon, which is always fun to see.

Spent all day Saturday in Hocking Hills with a group of cousins on my mom's side of the family. We have so much fun when we get together. We're already planning the third annual gathering for next year.

I finished up two work projects this week and made progress on two more. I have a new one starting this week also. Possibly two. I'm hoping the due dates are a little more staggered.

Had an okay viewing week. I made it almost all the way through my usual slate of shows with the exception of Lower Decks. I started it but need to finish it up. It's the first season finale so there seems to be a lot going on.

Started with Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries and it's one I really enjoyed on my original run through. Always fun to see Dot stand up for not only herself but others.

Finished up season four of Madame Blanc Mysteries. Very happy to see Jean and Dom work through their issues. Loved how Dom proposed and how everyone knew they were meant to be together.

Caught another episode of Death in Paradise. I'm interested in where things will go with Selwyn. The new officer is going to be fun. I love the vibe he has. DI Wilson might or might not grow on me.

Enjoyed another episode of Poirot. The entire trip to the coast just to hear good things instead of bad from Japp is such a Poirot thing to do. And the side plot with Lemon was fun.

Elementary had an interesting case along with an interesting side case. I like how Moreland reached out to Joan, and she figured things out with what's going on with him. And I love that she told Sherlock. Also really thrilled Sherlock met the character on the autism spectrum at her level, seemingly with care and patience.

Watched another episode of Batman Beyond and I didn't remember much of this one. Ended up quite enjoying it.

Started the Lower Decks episode. I do enjoy how many easter eggs are in this show. Mentions of other characters and episodes from all the various series are so much fun.

I didn't get to start season two of Reacher. I'm hoping I have the time this week, but I'm not going to rush in. I like to be able to focus on this show.

Also didn't get to finish up the Peak Practice episode I started, but I'll get back to it soon.

That's it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Ghost of a Chance, a novella that brings a couple together over shared grief.

Here's the miniblurb:

Valerie Queen and Jay Pennyworth meet through Chad Adsworth, Jay's best friend. When Chad is killed in a car crash, Valerie reunites with Jay after five years. When the chance meeting leads to a long discussion, they end up spending the night together … but the specter of Chad hovering between them may be more than they can overcome.

And a snippety peek…

Val touched up her makeup. "This is stupid. Why bother?" After all, Jay had seen her at her worst.

Yeah, he had and wouldn't care what she looked like. But she cared. Jay freaking Pennyworth. In her bookstore.

She tilted her head to one side. "That took some thought." She couldn't quite deny being a little impressed he'd made the effort.

So … dinner and … what? What did she think would happen?

Frowning, she left the bathroom and grabbed her purse. "Hell, what do I want to happen?" The way he eyed her … sex could be in the mix.

She shook her head. "But maybe not a good idea." For a lot of reasons.

The main one? She'd be breaking her number one rule—no entanglements—if anything happened between them. She had a strong connection to Jay.

Leaving her apartment, she walked toward O'Shae's. "Just wait and see, Val." No need to get ahead of herself.

Jay waited outside the restaurant under the awning. "Place has had a bit of a face lift." He smiled and glanced at the new sign on the brick exterior of the building.

Val grinned. "The original is inside behind the bar in all its weathered glory." She preceded him inside when he opened and held the door.

While she spoke with the hostess, Jay perused the photos hanging in the entryway. Probably some good memories for him. The restaurant had been a mainstay in for decades.

They were led to a two-person booth in the back corner of the main eating area.

After giving their drink order, Jay arched his brows. "This is cozy. I don't remember this booth being here." He craned his neck, looking at some of the other updates.

Val nodded. "About three years ago, they renovated the kitchen and this space opened up." The cute little booth and two small café tables added extra seating.

While they ate, they caught up on other new additions and improvements. Valerie appreciated the vibe of getting to know each other again over light conversation. Nothing heavy and not a word about Chad … yet. Talking about him would be inevitable … but perspective and hindsight gained over five years put her in a good place to do it.

After the server cleared their dishes, Jay settled back in his seat. "How long have you had the bookstore?"

Valerie's lips quirked. "Almost four years. The space came on the market, and I was looking for something new and different." She'd used the bulk of the life insurance Chad left her to buy the building.

Jay arched his brows. "And you're doing okay? I mean, how could you not be. The location is great."

Valerie nodded. "It is. And, yeah, I have a dedicated clientele, and my online orders almost surpass the store sales." She gained a lot of customers from her social media posts and interactions.

Jay peppered her with more questions, and she got to explain her theme nights for romance, cozy mysteries, and thrillers, a new feature she'd added this past year. A popular one. She even had some Zoom participants.

Jay shook his head. "That's amazing, Val. You've really found your niche." His lips curved in a wry grin. "Here's hoping I can find mine."

A perfect opening. "Gotta admit, you surprised me when you said you'd mustered out. I really thought you'd be career military." She smiled. "Excited for you, though. Did your interview go well?" She hadn't wanted to ask earlier but now seemed like a good time to do so.

Mainly because she enjoyed spending time with him and didn't want the night to end yet.

Jay inclined his chin. "I think it did. I have an interview with a different company in Colorado, but I'm not sold on moving there." He rolled one shoulder. "I guess it'll depend on what they offer if they decide I'm a good fit for them." He met her gaze. "Frankly, I think I'd like to stick around here even if the pay might be better in Colorado. Might be better perks."

Val's brows furrowed. "Such as?" Maybe the hometown connection appealed to him

Jay didn't hesitate. "You're here, for one."

A charged moment passed between them. He'd surprised her again. And not in a bad way. In fact, his response nudged her to do what she'd wanted since he walked into her store.

She nodded toward the exit. "Would you like to come back to my place? If you don't have plans…"

Jay waved for the check. "I'd like that. A lot."

Her heart did a flip. She had no idea where this might be headed, but she really wanted to find out.

Even if they broke all her carefully thought-out rules.

This story is near to my heart. Val and Jay are taking some tentative steps, and I enjoy writing their journey.

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin