Sunday Snippet: Along the Shore (a South of the Border novella)

Wow, March is being its typical mercurial self. Warm up and then plunge back into the teens and single digits. The back-and-forth weather is normal but not fun.

Crazy-busy week with work projects. I'm thrilled to have my calendar filling up and excited to start some new manuscripts. Also getting more details sorted out for Tip Jar Shorts. I need to find a full day I can dedicate to getting everything where it needs to be.

Very limited viewing this week. My brain decided it needed quiet to focus on the reading I needed to finish up for one of my work projects. I probably needed the break.

I did get more of the One Lane Bridge episode watched. I might take a brief vacation from this one. There's a lot going on in this show and focus is going to be important so I don't miss anything.

Finished up season three of London Kills with the behind-the-scenes bonus episode. I always enjoy getting a deeper look at how everything comes together in a series.

Started another episode of Death in Paradise. I'm about halfway through and I like the tension in this one. Also enjoyed Neville and Commissioner Patterson being on the same page for once.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Along the Shore, a South of the Border novella.

Here's the miniblurb:

Vail Ericsson, a freelance security expert and skilled tracker, can find anyone for a price. But when he trails Ellery Quantrell to Mexico, he discovers she's not an escapee but a target, and his role changes from pursuer to protector, whether Ellery wants him as a shield or not.

And a snippety peek…

Ellery could take the heat. She could handle bugs and plants with stinging leaves. But she could not, would not, should not have to deal with the man currently hauling her through the sand with little care to the fact it stuck to her skin, burned the bottoms of her feet, and made her scalp itch. She didn't know which she hated more. The big oaf or the tiny, granulated pebbles that made her almost wish for the frigid tundra she'd finally escaped from two months ago.

I was so damned close to getting out—all the way out—from under Puchenko's thumb. Until big, bad, and bothersome showed up to become a huge pain in my ass. She didn't voice her running commentary because, frankly, Mr. Mercenary wouldn't give a damn how hard she'd worked to flee from her brother's fucked-up bargain that landed her in Ivan's clutches.

She could ask Vail to slow down but decided not to give him the satisfaction of a nice query. Instead, she opted to blast him for making the soles of her feet become a shredded mess. Oh, and a bleeding one, as well.

She planted herself in the sand, flinching against the sharp, stabbing pain. "Hey, call me stupid, but blood leaves a trail, right?" She pulled back hard on the hand trying to drag her forward. "Something traceable your friendly goon squad could use to follow us?" She lifted her leg and turned her ankle to show the oozing, red streaks and broken skin.

Vail dropped his gaze to her feet and winced. "Looks painful." He shrugged. "But too bad, we're not stopping. Maybe you should've kept your shoes on."

She smirked. "If I had, I wouldn't have been able to wing them at your head."

Vail snorted. "Not my fault they got dragged out to sea by a wave." His hand went to his nape. "I am surprised you didn't give me a concussion when you tried to knock me out with that fallen limb."

Ellery flushed hotly but stood her ground. "You have a really hard head." And the driftwood didn't make a good weapon.

Vail sneered. "So I've been told." He grabbed her hand again. "Quit bitching. We're almost there."

He started forward and Ellery followed, each step a burning reminder of why she wouldn't get tangled up with anyone ever again.

Especially if they were hot to look at but had the personality of a big ape.

This couple is so much fun to write. They're very unhappy with their circumstances, which is a joy to explore.

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin 

Sunday Snippet: Along the Shore (a South of the Border novella)

We had some rain that gave us mild temperatures, which I thoroughly enjoyed. I don't mind hot weather but there's something about being able to be outside with a nice breeze and sunshine that makes me happy.

Solid work week. Had a few small projects that I cleared off my desk and had a new one arrive in my inbox. My plates seem to be spinning nicely at the moment.

Good week of viewing. I did the same thing as last week and only tried for one round of my usual streaming services. I might be adding one more to the list after talking to my sibling. He made some good recommendations.

Watched another episode of The Snoopy Show. This one had a vignette on using the library and happiness being a good book. I feel that sentiment all the way to my toes.

Caught another episode of Signora Volpe. I love this show. I truly hope there will be another series because there's only one episode left.

Viewed the first of a two-part Silent Witness and ended up being very intrigued. Very much looking forward to the second part of this one.

Enjoyed the second part of a Classic Who arc. It's nice to see a familiar face from a previous incarnation. The third part will be the end of this season, I think. I'm not sure if there's another one after this. If not, I'll be starting a new show before I dive into New Who.

Watched another episode of Most Terrifying Places in America. I'm fascinated by the legend and lore revealed in the sequences. I'm not sure I'd be cool with trying to stay somewhere that's known for being haunted but I love hearing about the stories.

Caught another episode of The Mandalorian. Gotta say I'm thoroughly enjoying this show. The pacing is excellent and I'm excited to see what happens next.

Viewed another episode of Harrow and I truly dislike the new boss. I'm also not thrilled with Grace's ex being in town. If there's another season and things get really convoluted, I'm done. As much as I love the cases, I don't want the other drama.

Enjoyed another episode of Blue Heelers. I liked seeing how another country handles the wildfires that tend to rage at the worst possible time. Not really into the whole taking the hospital hostage thing, mainly because the two characters are a little too over the top for me. We'll see how the second part goes this week.

Started a new MasterClass with Roxane Gay. I'm very much looking forward to her lessons.

Watched another Babysitter's Club and thoroughly enjoyed the episode. It's nice to see more of the sibling relationships and the way the parents interact.

Viewed two more episodes of Classic Rugrats. One was a favorite and the other was one I thoroughly enjoy.

Caught another episode of Chicago Med and discovered something I didn't know about one of the Chicago Fire characters. Good information. Also can't wait for Nat to discover she's being completely gaslit by her new fiancé. Here's hoping the fallout from that doesn't do too much damage.

Started the PassionFlix movie Tangled and I'm having fun watching it. I didn't know if I'd like this one but I'm so glad I'm watching.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Along the Shore, a South of the Border novella featuring one character on the run and the other sent to find her.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Vail Ericsson, a freelance security expert and skilled tracker, can find anyone for a price. But when he trails Ellery Quantrell to Mexico, he discovers she's not an escapee but a target and his role changes from pursuer to protector, whether Ellery wants him as a shield or not.

And a snippety peek…

Kiernan Darby hooked the trailer up to the rig in front of it. "Okay. You're good to go." She double-checked the pin, making sure it held true when the truck eased slowly down the lane.

The brake lights flashed, the vehicle stopped and the owner of the thirty-five foot sail boat stuck his head out the window. "Hey, I've got a yacht that's seen better days. Think you could do your primo reno job on it?" He added a mile-wide grin, full of straight white teeth.

Kiernan's lips turned up at the flirtatious attempt. Norman Honeywell had serious good looks, but her heart belonged to someone else.

She shook her head. "Nah. I'm strictly a sailing kind of gal." She glanced toward Lars Rademacher, her business partner and rekindled flame, and winked.

Lars stepped up behind her, wrapping his arms around her waist.

Norm got the hint and tossed off a casual wave. "Just thought I'd ask. Take care, now." He chugged down the sandy lane and pulled out onto the highway, disappearing from sight.

Kiernan leaned back into Lars. "Worried I'd be tempted?" At one time, yachts were her specialty. A very long time ago.

Lars hummed against her ear. "About the boat … or him?" His tongue flicked over her lobe, sending shivers along her skin.

Kiernan turned so his hands could slide down to cup her ass. "The boat, moron. He didn't stand a chance." She lifted her chin and gave Lars a quick, hard kiss.

She tried to step back, but Lars hauled her close, snagged her lips with his and plundered her mouth. Kier forgot about everything but the white-hot flame Lars ignited.

~:~

Lars had more concern about Romeo's interest in Kier than his question about the yacht. But it might not hurt to run a check on the guy. After using Kiernan as bait to lure a dangerous enemy out into the open, Lars wouldn't take any more chances than he had to.

They played it a bit safe. Yeah, the top man in EDGE had finally been eliminated, but Lars had spent enough time as a covert operative he'd need a calculator to tally up his enemy list. He could name a dozen off the top of his head.

Kier tore her mouth from his and nudged his forehead. "Less thinking, more kissing." Her teeth caught his lower lip and she nipped playfully, pulling him back to the task at hand.

Lars focused on her. The play of her skin under his fingertips, the way her eyes slid shut when he groaned against her ear and the splay of her hands when they smoothed down his back to cup his ass. He growled, wanting to have her right there on the patio, but they'd done that yesterday, on the chaise between the house and her shop, when she'd … a shudder tore through Lars. Kiernan's mouth created magic, no matter where she put her lips.

He swept his arm under her legs and lifted her, laughing when she kicked her flip flops off, not caring where they landed. Her mouth hit his, and the kiss went from zero to scorching in under a second. He started toward the house and made it halfway when his phone rang. Juggling Kier, he fished it out of his pocket. He didn't give the number out to more than a handful of people so when the number came up as unavailable he had a moment of concern. Setting Kier down, he let the call go to voicemail. He kept an arm around her waist then listened to the message when it showed ready. Very brief, the call had a return number and a code word—Apollo. He glanced toward Kier and frowned, following her into the house when she grabbed his hand and tugged him forward.

It had been longer than five years since the Greek gods had been used as security codes.

Someone from his old life, but out of the field, had just reached out.

Although Ellery and Vail are the main characters, Kiernan and Lars do feature in this story and I love their introduction to the tale.

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: Along the Shore

Gotta say, the whole limiting of physical distance and having my youngest's senior year pretty much cancelled is both easier and harder than I thought it would be. I have three people in the house who are pretty much deemed essential workers. One is in food production and the other two are grocery workers. If the reins get tighter on limiting movement, I'm pretty sure they won't get a break.

For me, as someone who's worked from home for the past decade or so, it's business as usual for the most part. I have more interruptions than usual but otherwise, my routine hasn't changed overmuch. There's something comforting in that.

Had a semi-decent week of watching television. I finished up the Heart Guy from last week and I'll give it a go. I have a feeling this one is going to have messy relationships and I always like train-wreck shows.

Also caught another arc of Classic Who. It's always fun to see the effects from the late sixties and early seventies. Doctor Who isn't any better or worse for shows of its time.

Watched another episode of Peak Practice and enjoyed it. I'm finally starting to get into the relationships and getting to know the villagers. I love the scenery in the show.

Caught the livestream of the Dropkick Murphys concert on St. Patrick's Day. Terrific show and highly entertaining. I hope to catch some of the Broadway shows that are available for streaming also.

Watched the rest of season one of Danger Man. I'll be starting season two in the upcoming week.

Started episode three of Strike Back. Nice to have a familiar face back in the fold. Also, Chetri is really growing on me. She's got quite a personality and interacting more as an equal with the rest of the team. I love that.

That's pretty much it for television this week. Tonight's post is from Along the Shore, a South of the Border novella.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Vail Ericsson, a freelance security expert and skilled tracker, can find anyone for a price. But when he trails Ellery Quantrell to Mexico, he discovers she's not an escapee but a target and his role changes from pursuer to protector, whether Ellery wants him as a shield or not.

And a snippety peek…

Vail kept Ellery close, dodging through the busiest streets he could find. Every couple of blocks a pop followed by a bullet striking near them started pissing Vail off. They had to have spotter somewhere. He needed to find a secure location and make a call. He had a contact close by, if scuttlebutt proved accurate. He and Ellery could take cover there and figure out what to do next.

Another shot narrowly missed his shoulder and Vail snarled. "Son of a bitch. That one was too close." He stuck his head around a corner and found the alley filled with delivery trucks.

Ellery snorted. "Not fun when you're a target, is it?" She stepped back, but another bullet landed several inches away.

Vail frowned. Either Puchenko hired incompetent idiots or they were missing on purpose. Even the shot that landed close to his shoulder wouldn't have killed him, only incapacitated him, leaving Ellery vulnerable.

He took a moment to assess the situation. Ellery had a biting tongue and bitchy attitude, but she'd either cooperate with him … or risk dying. Her options sucked worse than his and Vail didn't think she had a death wish, although stealing from Puchenko called her intelligence into question.

"Hello." Her fingers snapped in front of his face. "The gunfire stopped. Are you paying attention here?"

He growled. "Yes, dammit. We're going to make a run for the stone building across the alley and up two blocks. Do you see the one I mean?" He glanced down, meeting her bold stare.

She peered over his shoulder then nodded. "Yeah, I see it. And then what?" Her head swiveled and she checked behind them.

Vail didn't respond until they were in the alley. "Then I make a call to a friend of mine." God damn, he hoped he still had a friend.

Word had gone around his contact no longer did covert ops. But once an agent, always an agent. He'd still have calls forwarded to whatever number he happened to be using at the moment. And the guy owed Vail at least one ginormous favor for stitching up the deep and ugly wound he received in a wicked knife fight. Damn fool man.

A lot like Vail at the moment. He cursed his employers for wanting Ellery Quantrell found. He lamented the fact she'd taken money from Ivan Puchenko. Why the hell a woman who looked like her would cross Ivan had Vail stymied.

But the agency wanted her, and they'd get her … if Vail didn't kill her first. Or the team shooting bullets their way didn't take them out. A flash of guilt gnawed his gut. Ellery had walked away from Puchenko—no easy feat—and managed to stay hidden for two months. Okay, six weeks. He'd tracked her to Mexico and spent two weeks learning her habits and movements. But she'd pegged it earlier. Ivan's men showed up on the very day he finally made contact? Too much of a coincidence. Either they'd followed him or Ivan had someone at the agency feeding him information. Which sucked balls. Because Vail wouldn't reach out for backup and put their lives in even more danger. Instead he'd call in a favor and hope like hell it didn't bite him in the ass.

Vail found an unlocked door, pushed it open and shoved Ellery inside. She whirled around, shooting him a death glare.

He kicked the door shut, but not before she planted a hand on his chest. "If you drag, push, shove, or in any other way manhandle me, I swear you'll be heaving your guts up…" Her gaze dropped to his groin area. "Is that perfectly clear?"

Vail smirked. "Yes, ma'am. Crystal." He set about securing the exit, barring the heavy wood with some metal rebar then stacking several wooden crates in front to provide some cover.

Ellery folded her arms under her breasts. "A little overkill, isn't it?" She lifted a brow. "There wasn't any more gunfire once we crossed the alley."

Vail snarled. "They're regrouping and planning their next move." He dug his phone out of his pocket and scrolled through his list. "Time to make that call." He pushed send and hoped like hell the old code he planned to use would let his friend know Vail needed some serious ass-kicking help.

The call went to voice mail and Vail uttered one word. "Apollo."

God of the hunt but also a healer. The code lingo might be old, but the meaning should be clear.

Ellery heaved a sigh. "Now what?" She wandered around the small storage room.

Vail found an old folding chair and set it in front of her. "Now, we wait."

I'm having a ton of fun writing the dialog between Vail and Ellery. She's not thrilled Vail found her and at this point neither is he.

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: Along the Shore

Hello, October. We're getting into the fall season and that means the rest of the year is going to fly by! The beginning of October always marks the start of the holiday season for me. Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas / Yule. I'm excited!

The Last Ship had a decent episode. I was so hoping Giorgio got blown up but, alas, not the case. Here's hoping he meets with a satisfying ending sometime in the near future. His whole family can go up in flames and I wouldn't shed a tear.

I haven't watched Teen Wolf's finale yet. I'm not quite ready for its end. But it's going to be terrific. I have no doubt.

Got a few more episodes of The Defenders in. I really didn't see Alexandria's end… if it's an actual ending. You just never know with the Hand.

Hawaii Five-0 said goodbye to Max in a great episode. I'm about halfway through the season and still enjoying.

Gotham's second episode ended up being excellent. I love how everything is coming together. Interesting to see Barbara back on the screen.

That's it for television this week. Looking forward to more of my favorite shows being back soon. Tonight's post is from Along the Shore, a South of the Border tale.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Vail Ericsson, a freelance security expert and skilled tracker, can find anyone for a price. But when he trails Ellery Quantrell to Mexico, he discovers she's not an escapee but a target and his role changes from pursuer to protector, whether Ellery wants him as a shield or not.

And a snippety peek…

Oh dear, if looks could kill, she'd be in serious danger right now. Okay, more danger. She hoped someone called the emergency services for the booth owner. Ellery liked the woman, Carmela, and had chatted with her almost every day since Ellery had arrived in Mexico.

She risked another glance at the man who'd come after her. He didn't have the countenance of Ivan's usual entourage of bodyguards and hired protection. Then again, he said he'd been tasked with tracking her down and returning her to Ivan.

No way in hell would she return. Not even for her brother.

The man kept his gaze moving, his body angling back and forth until he got a good look at all the upper levels and balconies. He might not be a standard Ivan goon, but Ellery didn't trust him. Not for a minute. The guy had military or mercenary training. With his build, though smaller than Puchenko's usual slabs of beefy, muscled brutes, he would no doubt hold his own. He had dark hair, a little shaggy on the top, so probably mercenary instead of military. His eyes, a rich, dark brown, had a piercing intensity. They didn't miss anything.

And currently, his gaze landed on her like a physical blow.

He quirked a brow and opened his mouth to speak, but frowned instead. His head snapped around just when a soft pop sounded. A bullet struck the stone slab less than two inches from Ellery. She squeaked but didn't scream. She'd grown too used to bullets flying to be completely freaked out.

But she didn't fight the guy when he dragged her from the seat and shoved her in front of him, marching her toward cover. He ducked into the first building they came to and pushed her against the interior wall while he did a quick assessment of their situation.

They were pinned down inside the small gift shop, unless they could exit out a back entrance. If the store had one. Some of the smaller boutiques received their deliveries at neighboring locations. A wash of anger hit Ellery. She'd been free and clear until one stupid man showed up, leading Puchenko's men right to her.

She tapped him on the shoulder. "Exactly how're you going to get us out of this one, Mr Big Shot?" Snarking at him wouldn't help their circumstances, but damn, the sarcasm gave her a needed boost.

The guy narrowed his gaze. "The name's Vail and I will figure this out." He grabbed her hand and pulled her toward the shop owner. "You got a back entrance?"

The man held up his hands and shook his head. He didn't speak English. Ellery translated and asked again in Spanish. The owner smiled and nodded, pointing the way to the rear exit.

Vail tugged her behind him, his longer strides making it hard for her to keep up. Ellery followed for now. She'd find a way to lose him once they got back outside and she could make a break for it.

Attractive or not, Vail had brought the hounds of hell to her door and Ellery wouldn't soon forgive or forget.

I'm having so much fun writing Vail and Ellery and it's nice to revisit Lars and Kiernan, too.

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: Along the Shore

So… some good TV this week. Strike Back continues to be excellent viewing. Awesome to see Martinez and Richmond kick ass as they're trained to do. I did call the wife, which is all I'll say for now. Can't wait for the next installment!

Orphan Black, once again, totally blew everything out of the water. Seriously, every time I think I'm cool to settle back and watch, another twist has me sitting on the edge of my seat with my mouth hanging open. I love it!

Defiance returned and, geez, cleaned freaking house. Not only is the E-rep gone, with the exception of Berlin—thankfully—but three regular characters are no more. I love having Nolan and Amanda working in tandem. We'll see how long that lasts.

The premiere of Dark Matter has me intrigued enough to keep watching. I like the blend of characters so far. Hopefully, as the show unfolds, that'll stay the case. Who knows? Killjoys opens next week and I'm very much looking forward to adding it to my Friday night viewing.

More on new shows next week…

Tonight's post is from Along the Shore, a novella in the South of the Border series. Kiernan and Lars from Down in Mexico will make an appearance or two.

Here's the tagline:

Vail Ericsson, a freelance security expert and skilled tracker, can find anyone for a price. But when he trails Ellery Quantrell to Mexico, he discovers she's not an escapee but target and his role changes from pursuer to protector, whether Ellery wants him as a shield or not.

And a snippety peek…

Vail Ericcson spotted his target and strolled over to her table. "Ellery Quantrell?"

The woman in question glanced up from her book. "I'm sure you're not speaking to me. I have no idea who you mean." She went back to reading.

Vail pulled a chair out and settled across from her. "Miss Quantrell, let's not play games." He folded his hand on top of the table. "I'm very good at what I do and I've been hired to track you down and get you back to Mr. Puchenko."

Ellery closed her book again and met his gaze. "Ivan Puchenko doesn't own me, regardless of what he may think." She tucked the paperback into her oversized, straw bag. "I don't take orders from him or anyone else, including you." She rose from her seat and strolled away.

Vail frowned. He'd been led to believe Ellery would capitulate quickly and fall in with being returned to Puchenko's estate. Glancing up, he kept her in his line of sight and tried to figure his next move.

So much for easy. Vail needed her to get inside Puchenko's operation. If he could get at least one tracking device planted, he'd call it a win and walk away clean.

Rising, he followed Ellery at a discreet distance. He'd have to try a different approach. He'd been ordered not to mention the funds Ellery transferred into her account, but he might have to use that information as leverage to get her to come along.

She paused outside a market vendor and chatted with the woman operating the booth. Vail observed, taking in the relaxed demeanor. Ellery Quantrell didn't appear to have a trouble in the world. How a woman could pilfer close to half a million dollars and not bat an eyelash when caught kind of amazed Vail. Then again, she had a cool beauty working in her favor. She used her blonde hair, blue eyes, and curves to great advantage. Dressed with a casual elegance, her clothing fit the tropics. A flowing, breezy, tunic style tank top in shades of blue over a khaki miniskirt showed off her toned limbs. The wedge espadrilles weren't made for long walks, meaning she had to be staying nearby.

Vail would trail her to her hotel or rental unit and then reassess his options for getting her to cooperate.

A single flash of light in the distance gave him a split second warning.

He called out. "Ellery!"

Even after saving her life, Ellery is less than thrilled to be in Vail's company, for an excellent reason…

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: Along the Shore

This is a snippet from the follow up to Down in Mexico. If you haven't read that one yet...why not? LOL

The main characters, Lars and Kiernan, will feature in this one to help Vail and Ellery along their journey. :)

Here's a tag line: Vail Ericsson, a freelance security expert and skilled tracker, can find anyone for a price. But when he trails Ellery Quantrell to Mexico, he discovers she's not an escapee but target and his role changes from pursuer to protector, whether Ellery wants him as a shield or not.

And the snippet for Along the Shore...

"Come on, let's go." Vail Ericcson extended his hand, offering assistance.

Ellery Quantrell glanced up through her eyelashes. "I know you're not talking to me." She blew her limp bangs out of her face. "I just told you, I'm done taking orders."

Vail made a choking sound. "Then by all means, consider it a request, but get your ass up and get moving. The shooter could still be on our trail." His eyes scanned the horizon, his gaze shooting up to check the rooftops.

Ellery snorted. "On your trail, not mine. I've been here two months with nothing but rest and relaxation. You show up and less than twenty-four hours later, I'm dodging bullets." She glared. "Thanks for that."

Vail responded with a nasty look. What else could he do? She spoke the truth.

Ellery shrugged. "Like I said. I'm done. Until you can convince me it's worth my time and effort to help you out, I'm sitting right here in this park, on this bench, and enjoying the sun."

This one has been so much fun to write but still has a long way to go. Stay tuned for more sneak peeks.

Happy Reading!

Skylin