Sunday Snippet: Midnight Cruise

Yeesh. I'd really like Ohio weather to calm the eff down. We've had storms all week and we're getting hammered today. Severe thunderstorm warnings, tornado warnings, it's wild.

We did have a break in the yucky weather on Friday and got to attend a fun concert to benefit our local botanical garden and a local pet shelter. We had a truly great time and my extended family participated in the musical lineup.

Had a busy work week filled with some tedious little stuff and some technology problems. I did manage to get a copy edit finished up and worked on formatting a family history book that has a ton of images in it. That one is kind of challenging because the copy edit can't be done with the images in the document and I'm pulling them out and adding design tags.

Not a bad viewing week. I made it through my usual slate and started a back-burner episode. The weather kind of affected being able to finish that one. I also did another binge watch of Death in Paradise on Ovation.

Started with an episode of Marple and enjoyed it. I rather liked the cast of characters in this episode and, whew, did it have some twisty turns.

Started a new series for me with Adrian Dunbar's Coastal Ireland. I love seeing the landscape and shorelines of the country. It's so beautiful.

Caught an episode of Beyond Paradise and I'm so bummed that Humphrey has to reduce his staff by one. I hope it ends up working out by the end of the season. I also wish I understood more about why Esther doesn't want to be happy with Archie. Maybe they'll delve into that a little more.

Watched an episode of Poirot and truly enjoyed it. Always nice to see old friends and the behind-the-scenes machinations were interesting.

Elementary had a great opening to its sixth season. Sherlock's struggle post-concussion adds an interesting layer of conflict and I'm happy with Joan's response.

Caught an episode of Young Justice and enjoyed it. Great to see the team pull together and also nice to see the Justice League's trust in their ability.

Enjoyed the season opener of Star Trek Lower Decks season five. Very fun to see a mirror of the crew and how different things could turn out.

Watched The Thin Man again because I was in the mood for something fun. I need to find the other Nick and Nora movies somewhere, because they're so enjoyable.

Started an episode of Peak Practice but the thunderstorms put a halt to finishing it. I'll maybe get to it later this week.

That's it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Midnight Cruise, a New Year's Eve holiday novella.

Here's the miniblurb:

Once upon a time, Bessie Marshall met Cesar Wright, and they had a glorious fling for the week of spring break during their senior year of college. Fast forward five years and Cesar is back in his hometown to launch a new business venture, and he wants his friends to help him make a test run on New Year's Eve. Imagine his shock when he bumps into Bessie—who moved to the riverfront city two years after graduation—and she wants nothing to do with him, which shouldn't surprise him considering he left her without so much as a good-bye.

And a snippety peek…

Cesar mentally pumped his fist in the air. He had her … or at least her professional interest. The rest could come later. He hoped.

He gave her a verbal nudge. "Bessie? Can you work with me?" His dad would wonder how Cesar could cede control by asking that question.

Because she didn't play parry and feint conversational games. She'd blast him with both barrels straight between the eyes. He really hoped she wouldn't leave him dead with brain matter leaking from his head.

Bessie pressed her lips together and inhaled deeply through her nose. "Can I? Yes, I'm sure I can." She paused. "A better question to ask is will I work with you. Because the answer to that one is more complicated." Leaning back, she crossed her arms over her chest.

Cesar frowned. "What can I do to simplify things?" He really wanted her, specifically, to help him get the riverboat project off the ground.

And mainly because her skill could make it happen. The secondary reason … yeah … he needed to unpack that a little more before he could articulate what he hoped for there. But he couldn't do either if she said no.

Bessie sighed. "Honestly? You could explain why this means so much." Her fingers curled into her palms. "Why is it important to have me run this launch when you couldn't be bothered to send a text or leave a note or even…" Her voice dropped to a whisper. "Say anything five years ago?" Her gaze dipped briefly to her hands before she pushed up out of the chair and shook her head. "No, actually, forget what I just said." She pinned him with a fierce glare. "Double my project fee and I'll put the launch campaign together for your stupid boat." Turning, she dashed from the room and the click-clack of her heels echoed in the hall.

Cesar sat in stunned silence for several moments before the magnitude of her exit crashed into him. Damn. He never realized how his emergency call and hastily arranged flight played out on her end. He didn't have time to do anything more than dress in the clothes he'd had on the day before and meet the driver waiting for him under the portico to take him to the airport. He literally flew to Europe with his phone and passport. By the time he landed, he had another driver waiting—with a change of clothes in the car—to whisk him off to put out the raging inferno his older brother Carrick set aflame when he mangled a merger negotiation then cut out and basically disappeared for a while.

Cesar closed his eyes. "I didn't think about Bessie until four days later … after I cleaned up Carrick's mess." At that point, sending a text seemed too impersonal after being in her personal space for so many days.

And the thousands of miles between them meant he couldn't exactly make any kind of promises to her.

His head hit the cushioned backrest. "Still could've handled things better." Hindsight being a rank bitch didn't really help. "I definitely have some amends to make."

Too bad he had no idea where to even start.

This one is in the very beginning stages, but I love what the sages are feeding me. Cesar will definitely be groveling at some point.

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: Meet Me by the Mistletoe

Had a fun time at my high school reunion on Saturday … even though it was very hot and super humid. Got to see people I haven't seen in absolute ages. So nice to catch up with everyone.

Weather has been a little wild. Big temperature swings again. We've also had some rumbling thunderstorms with interesting lightning. We're supposed to have a very rainy week with more storms rolling through so that should be fun.

Had a busy work week with a few projects coming in for final touches and should be getting close to the finish line. Made more progress on the developmental edit I've been working on and might be close to finishing that one up also. Finished up a proofread and started a new copy edit. Not a bad week.

Made it through my usual slate of shows so had a good viewing week also. I even got to finish up one of my backburner shows. I'll be starting a new series this week and I'm looking forward to picking one out. I also did another Death in Paradise binge on Sunday.

Caught an episode of Marple and rather enjoyed the twists and turns. It was kind of fun to have the show set during the holiday season but not be overtly holidayish.

Finished up Ireland Coast and Country. Enjoyed the dip into some of the country's locations and remarkable scenery.

Started season four of Beyond Paradise. Fun episode setting up a big quandary for Humphrey. I'm kind of excited to see what hijinks Humph and Martha get into with renovating their new house. Very happy to be revisiting Shipton Abbot.

Caught another episode of Poirot and actually enjoyed seeing him in a very different setting. The mystery had some interesting twists and I liked that.

Elementary ended on a concerning note and I'm glad I can drop right into the next season without a long wait. Happy to have the Shinwell murder resolved, and I'm truly thrilled that Moriarty isn't the mystery woman, even though her identity makes me sad.

Watched another episode of Young Justice and enjoyed watching the team come together even when they were on the outs.

Finished up season four of Star Trek Lower Decks and, seriously, I'm going to miss this show so much. I loved everything about this finale … except one thing. Losing a team member sucked but at least there's a chance she'll return.

Also finished up an episode of Peak Practice. It ended up being a pretty good one but had a lot going on. So happy Tom finally owned his feelings!

That's the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Meet Me by the Mistletoe, a follow up to Merry and Bright.

Here's the miniblurb:

Presley Griffith wants to create one more new holiday tradition with her men, Gunnar Stewart and Frazier Boyle, and celebrate their one-year anniversary with style. With hectic schedules revolving around the hospital, fire station and police department, she's not sure she can pull it off. A cryptic message to meet her by the mistletoe at a secluded bed and breakfast brings both men calling with bells on.

And a snippety peek…

Presley ducked away from the window and moved to the wide, arched doorway separating the foyer from the front parlor. "I'm nervous and excited at the same time." Standing under the mistletoe at the brownstone, she pocketed the key she got to show the guys the property.

A light rapping sounded on the front door.

Presley used a quiet voice. "Come in." Her excitement grew when the oak slab swung open.

Gunnar and Frazier stepped across the threshold, each sending wary gazes in different directions.

Frazier moved further into the house. "What's going on?" He tilted his head to one side.

Gunnar nodded and asked the same with widened eyes.

Presley gave them a sultry smirk. "I'll explain as soon as you do what you're supposed to do under the mistletoe." Her gaze slid upward to the fresh sprig hanging in the arch.

Both men grinned and moved into her personal space; Frazier in front of her and Gunnar behind. Frazier leaned over her and planted a kiss on Gunnar, then dropped his chin and meshed his mouth with hers. Gunnar's lips sought the column of her throat, nuzzling up to her ear. Frazier's tongue slipped against hers, lingering and exploring. His hands gripped her hips, pulling her flush against his. Gunnar's palms skimmed down her arms before moving forward to cup her breasts.

Presley moaned and eased away from Frazier to angle her head back to embrace Gunnar. He hummed against her mouth before taking the kiss deeper. His arms wrapped around her and Frazier, bringing them all closer together.

She could stand here all night, making out with her two favorite people on the planet. But … she promised to let them in on her secret. Reluctantly, she ended the lip-lock.

Fanning her face, she smiled. "Whew. You two give the best holiday greetings." Her lips spread wider.

Fraz narrowed his gaze. "She's grinning like a Cheshire cat." He looked at Gunnar who nodded.

Presley stepped away from their small circle. "I have the biggest surprise for you guys, and this is part of it…" She spun around. "I want to put an offer on this brownstone so we can live together." She couldn't keep the elation out of her voice.

Gunnar eyebrows arched. "Can you afford it?" He scrutinized the room they were in, taking in the fireplace with a crooked hearth and the dusty floors.

Presley shook her head. "Not without help. That's why I want to pool our resources and buy it together." If they didn't have to pay rent anymore, they could swing the mortgage payments.

Gunnar cast a doubtful gaze around again. "Needs a lot of work." He moved further into the parlor and turned the light on in the family room.

Presley nodded. "I know. But it's livable, if unattractive. What do you guys think?" The place had so much potential.

Fraz's head bobbed. "I see the possibilities. But Gunnar's got a point. This is going to take a ton of work." His neck craned, and he looked out to the foyer with a wide staircase going up one wall and a short hallway that led to the kitchen, den, study, and the old servants' quarters with two bathrooms and two bedrooms—none of which he could see yet. "With our schedules we might not get a lot done." He shoved his hands into his pants pockets.

Presley, a little deflated, pressed onward. "But you'll at least think about it?" Hope filled her tone.

Gunnar glanced toward Frazier and they had a silent conversation with looks alone.

She could almost hear them in her head.

Location is convenient.

Need to see the rest of the place, but it's big.

Lots of room to spread out.

Gonna need time to think about it.

Yeah … but worth pondering.

Gunnar turned off the light in the living room and moved to stand beside Frazier.

"We'll consider it." As usual, they spoke in unison.

Presley perked up. "Terrific! We can tour the whole house and grounds later." She paused and sucked in a deep breath. "Now … for the big part of my surprise." She withdrew the brochure for the bed and breakfast. "This is why I can't afford the brownstone on my own." She opened the trifold page. "I bought the Mystic Moon Bed and Breakfast and since they suspended bookings until the final sale and the new year, it's ours for the holidays."

Frazier barked out a laugh. "That's why you said not to make plans for tomorrow!"

Gunnar chuckled. "And why you packed a bag for us." He smirked. "You've been a busy girl."

Presley preened. "I had to do something to top last year." She dangled the keys. "Are you two up for a fully furnished manor house with all the comforts of home?"

Each man crooked an elbow, and Presley looped her hands through them. Frazier turned off the light in the parlor and Gunnar picked up her bag by the steps.

They exited the house, ready to head off for a new adventure.

I love this throuple so much. And I'm having fun writing another merry adventure for them.

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: Make Me

August is starting out with a weird vibe. The temperatures have been very mild and I'm wondering how much we'll pay for that in the fall months or the winter. Thrilled for the kiddos going back to school in a week or so because they might not roast during the first few weeks like they normally do.

I'm still trying to get some things that I've been putting off in the checked boxes. I did manage to fix the leak in my bathtub, which was way overdue. Should help with my water bill. I got the part needed to fix the washing machine and that's a project for this week. I hope.

Work projects are going somewhat smoothly. I did have the book that won't go away come back one more time. The developmental edit I've got on the back burner is heating up again. I'm also working on a coaching project that's part pull the manuscript together and part help the author get it ready for a copy edit. Had a solid week with copy edits and proofreads also.

Had another good week for viewing. Nothing extra but made it through my usual slate of shows. Also did another Death in Paradise binge of older seasons.

Started with another episode of Marple. I kind of like the actress playing Jane. She's kind of snappy and a little punchy (not physically) with her dialog and I love it.

Also watched another episode of Ireland Coast and Country. I'm really enjoying this series. I now want to make vermouth. Just saying.

Caught an episode of Death in Paradise and finished up season fifteen. I ended up kind of liking the niece. Looking forward to the holiday episode if there is one this year. And also kind of excited about the next season. I really love this show.

Enjoyed an episode of Poirot. The mystery ended up being kind of twisty and I loved seeing Poirot's author friend again. She's a hoot.

Elementary ended up being really good. The whole thing with the woman who leads meetings and Sherlock kind of came from left field, but I'll hold out to see what happens with that. I'll be disappointed if she ends up being Moriarty. The whole take down of the gang is really interesting. Can't wait to see what happens there.

Watched another episode of Young Justice and pieces are falling in place. Nearing the end of the first season and I'm interested in seeing what happens to the team.

Also caught another episode of Star Trek Lower Decks and love how the season-arc mystery is coming together. Also enjoyed the Cerritos team pulling off a ruse to get what they needed. And the name drops from other shows always make me happy.

That wraps up the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Make Me, a novella that brings a couple together under fraught circumstance.

Here's the miniblurb:

Adri Leonard and Moses Nichols train and manage recruits for a private security firm. When Adri loses a team in the field, she refuses to train a new group. Moses has to get her back on board because they need a support team ASAP for a mission-critical operation and he's not above using their long-standing personal connection to make it happen.

And snippety peek…

Her lips still tingled from Moses's kiss. But … weirdly … the lip-lock jumpstarted her brain. She didn't know how, but his mouth on hers gave her clarity when nothing else would. She knew the importance of getting support teams in the field. Knew Victor counted on her to get them up and running. He'd get some additional people up to speed to help train, but right now, she had the responsibility. And while no one blamed her for losing a full team, she didn't trust herself to not miss anything.

She glanced up to meet Moses's gaze. "We don't have to do this." She appreciated his willingness to sift through the recruits, but she had a bigger favor to ask.

Moses frowned. "Adri, we do. We can't start with anyone green. This class will put give four teams the support they need, and we—"

She cut in. "No. That's not what I mean. Bring them all back." She inhaled deeply then exhaled slowly. "I'll get them up to speed." She met his gaze again. "But … I need you with me." She paused, not quite sure how to drop the big request in his lap.

Moses relaxed. "Of course, I'm with you. All the way." He started to close the folders.

Adri shook her head. "Not what I mean, Moses. I mean with me … as in sitting in on the classes and training sessions." A huge time suck when he already had a full load of work.

Moses blinked and leaned back in his chair. "Okay. Talk to me. How will I be helping you?" He dragged a notebook out from under the folders and snagged his pen.

Adri's foot bounced on the floor, nervous energy zinging through her. "I need you to be eyes and ears and make sure I stay on track. I can't miss anything important." She pushed away from the table and paced back and forth.

Moses leaned back again. "You do realize you've been—"

She hand-waved him. "Yeah, yeah. I've been training people for dangerous situations for a long time." She paused and met his gaze. "But I seriously don't trust myself right now … which could put more people in the line of fire." She sat back down, her shoulders slumping forward.

Moses cocked his head. "Okay. I'll do this. But you have to know that I trust you." He tapped his notebook. "Vic trusts you. You're the only one who doesn't trust yourself right now." His voice lowered. "But I'll help you. Any way I can." His hand covered hers.

Adri pressed her lips together. "It's a big ask. You're already overloaded with monitoring the other teams that don't have support." She refused to let her eyes well up, even if Moses had seen her cry more than once.

Moses's lips curved. "I'll talk to Vic. Maybe he can send some help from the private venue side. We've got guys with military training over there."

Adri huffed out a breath. "Maybe I should transfer out to that side. Would be so much easier to deal with." Very rarely did anyone get stuck in a potential hot zone.

Moses snorted. "Not really … because the corporate side requires a lot of schmoozing and you hate playing nice with irritating people." He squeezed her fingers.

Adri laughed, feeling much lighter if Moses could make jokes. "Sometimes I think you might know me a little too well." And he knew her even better after that steamy kiss.

Which she had no idea what to do with … except hope there might be more.

I'm kind of excited to see how this one comes together. Adri has some issues to get through, and Moses is just the guy to help her.

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin