Sunday Snippet: Elective Campaign

It's a long weekend in the US for the Memorial Day holiday and also graduation weekend for our local high school. Seems like a great time to have lovely weather, right? It's Ohio so the answer would be probably not. It's cloudy with a chance of rain. But at least the temperature is in the high sixties instead of the low fifties, which is more like March instead of May.

I'm making headway on the multiple work projects. Two have shifted off my plate for the next step in the publishing process and the other six are coming along. I should have at least two more finished up this week. YAY!

Had a pretty solid week of viewing. I did make it through my regular slate of shows and got started on my two new ones. Or, one new one and one that always seems to simmer on the back burner.

Enjoyed another episode in my rewatch of Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries. The first couple of episodes do such a great job of setting up the dynamic between the characters and I thoroughly enjoy the actors so much.

Watched another episode of Death in Paradise and like how awkward things are between Selwyn and his daughter. I also kind of enjoy Katherine being in his face but I also think she kind of oversteps sometimes.

Caught another episode of Poirot and enjoyed it. I often feel like the relationship between Poirot and Japp is shortchanged because we don't really see how that started, but the interactions are fun.

Enjoyed another Brokenwood Mysteries. Kind of weird but awesome the victim is someone we met in an earlier episode. And the mystery took some wild turns, which is always fun.

Watched another episode of Elementary and loved the interactions with Joan and Sherlock. The ice cream touch at the end is perfection.

Caught an episode of Batman Beyond and it's one I don't really remember much of but also one that I quite enjoyed. There's nothing like a storyline where a character is trapped in a computer and wants to escape to the real world. It's a weird trope that I love.

Enjoyed another episode of Classic Rugrats. The two vignettes are ones that were new to me, and I liked both. Weird bit with some out of order information as the Finsters were still calling their dog puppy instead of Pepper.

Watched another episode of Return to Paradise and I'm still enjoying this one. I'm very interested in seeing what happens with Mackenzie and her ex-fiancé. There's a lot of good potential to be very messy with this situation.

I got started on a new episode of Peak Practice but didn't make it all the way through. I'll try to finish it up this week.

Also started a new episode of Reacher, but paused because I need to pay attention and couldn't focus like I wanted to. I'll definitely finish this one up this week.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Elective Campaign, a novella about starting over in a new place with a new person.

Here's the miniblurb:

Mac is running for reelection and needs a logistical planner on his roster to win. Yancy has the training and background, but she presents a problem … Mac is very attracted to her. They fight the pull but give in, and once it's discovered, he might lose more than the election.

And a snippety peek…

Yancy went for a run. Her phone started pinging with news notifications and she read them on her watch. Some good. Some bad.

She slowed to a walk. "Ugh. I hate the notoriety." She wanted to do a good job, not fight through social media to make changes.

An older couple walking the trail caught her attention.

The woman gave a brief wave. "Aren't you the new logistical planner?" She shifted off the course and made her way toward Yancy.

Yancy nodded. "Yes." She took a drink from her water bottle. "First time I've been on this path. I started back at the lake, and I love how this is set up."

The duo showed surprise.

The man gave her an impressed look. "The previous planner rarely ventured away from city hall." He waved a hand. "Don't get me wrong, a super nice guy, but he didn't get out and about much."

Yancy wouldn't bad-mouth anyone whose circumstances she didn't know. "I'm new to the area, and I figured the best way to help the city run smoothly is to know the streets." She recapped her bottle.

The older lady gave Yancy a long look. "Did you get the job by sleeping with our esteemed city leader?"

Point-blank with nary a blink.

Yancy had to respect her bluntness. "Considering I haven't slept with Mayor Davison, no." She bit back a grin when the duo slid each other sideways glances.

The lady arched a brow. "Well, why not? That Mac is a handsome guy."

The gentleman nudged his wife with his elbow. "Or as the granddaughter likes to say, he's a total smoke show."

Yancy sputtered out a laugh. "That's what my daughter says also." She thrust her hand forward. "It's been wonderful meeting you."

The older couple introduced themselves as Scott and Stephanie Prospect.

Scott shook firmly and held on for a longer moment. "The city needs people like you and Mac. Best of luck with the election."

Stephanie leaned in and pitched her voice low. "You two shouldn't let Jackman spin the facts. Just saying."

The encounter gave Yancy food for thought. While cooling down from her run, she called Mac on the way back to her car. "Let's make some plans after I get moved in to my office."

Mac sputtered a little. "Okay. Are you sure?"

She smiled. "I am. And I'll fill you in when we meet. End of the workday tomorrow?" Why wait?

He didn't hesitate. "Absolutely. I'm tied up in meetings all day, but I'll stop by when I'm done."

Her lips curved even more. "Sounds great. See you then." She ended the call and made a beeline for her vehicle.

Can't wait to tell Viv I have plans to make plans.

I have so much love for Yancy and Mac and they needed someone else to root for them!

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: Elective Campaign

Had a fairly busy week between work and the new venture I'm putting together. The play I'm editing is so much fun. It's deep and twisty and bonkers in the best possible way. I hope I have another chance to edit more plays.

Had a pretty good week trying to catch up to my regular viewing schedule. I'm not quite there yet because other things have been pulling my attention away from screen time. Also, my sleep schedule is all messed up at the moment. Not sure why, but probably hormone-related. Fun.

I watched an episode of Peak Practice and should finish up season eight this week. From what I've reviewed, seasons nine through twelve go a little off the normal path and dive deeper into soap opera territory. I'm okay with that.

Caught two more MasterClass lessons with Roxane Gay. I truly love listening to her speak. The first one focused on engaging with you readers and I ended up getting a lot out of that one. The second lesson noted the importance of having a day job for stability and I also appreciated what she had to say about that topic.

Started The Umbrella Academy and, so far, I love it. I'm two episodes in and I like the dynamic between the characters and I'm excited to see what comes next. Looking forward to diving deep on this one.

Enjoyed the season finale of The Ready Room. Pretty sure Wil takes over for the next one and I'll look forward to his take on Discovery.

Watched another episode of Chicago Med and I have a weird feeling I know where things will end up going with Will and Asher. Fairly sure this might end up being my last season. I do love anything with Dr. Charles, Maggie, and Miss Goodwin. I also love Ethan. We'll see what happens by the end of the season.

Caught another Batman: The Animated Series. I loved Poison Ivy's introduction in this series and also seeing more of Harvey Dent before things happen with him.

Enjoyed a little more of Resisting Roots but didn't get to finish the movie yet.

Watched another Ted Lasso. I'm definitely a fan. Keeley cracks me up and I love where things are going with her. Ted kind of broke my heart yet made me so happy when he benched Jamie. I truly hope there's some kind of redeeming arc for him because I literally loath him at the moment.

Caught another Agatha Christie Hour and thoroughly enjoyed it. I like the non-mystery aspect of this show because there's still a lot of suspense, which I love.

Started season twenty of Silent Witness and quite enjoyed the opening first part. Looking forward to finishing this one up next week.

Almost finished with season twenty-five of Classic Who. The greatest show in the galaxy will hopefully end on a great note for the season. I'm pretty sure that brings me close to the end of the classic episodes. Not sure if I'll jump to New Who or switch to a different genre for a while.

Watched another episode of Strangest Things. I like diving into the mysterious objects they feature and learning new information. The cast of experts is very diverse and I love that.

Caught another episode of The Book of Boba Fett. Loved the pickup from when Fennic went down in The Mandalorian. I seriously love this show.

Enjoyed another episode of Only Murders in the Building. There's so much awkwardness that is played to perfection by the three main cast members. I'm excited to see what happens in the next episode.

Watched an episode of Blue Heelers and ended up enjoying it a lot. Wayne actually ended up being a fairly decent guy in this one and that's not always the case.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Elective Campaign, a novella that follows the characters as they navigate a new job and campaign for mayor with a blossoming relationship.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Mac is running for reelection and needs a logistical planner on his roster to win. Yancy has the training and background but she presents a problem … Mac is very attracted to her. They fight the pull but give in, and once it's discovered, he might lose more than the election.

And a snippety peek…

Yancy pulled into the hotel parking lot. "Well, I'm glad they had a room available. Nice view of the rivers." The three-story building sat on the side where one river formed from two merging together.

Viv got out and turned around in a circle. "I like it. So many trees. Can you imagine what this'll look like in the fall?" She popped the back door open. "Just an overnight bag? Or full suitcase?"

Yancy pondered a moment. "For now, let's go with overnight bags. We'll have to dig for suitcases." They entered the lobby and quickly got checked in.

Once they were in the room, Yancy settled on one of the beds. "So, you're really interested in staying?" She had to admit a bit of a good vibe if they did.

Viv plopped down close to the headboard. "I'm all for it. I love the area and the town." She tucked her feet under her legs. "I mean, it's big enough to not know every little thing about everyone else, but yet it's small enough for everyone to matter." Reaching into her tote bag, she withdrew a stack of pamphlets. "And look at all the stuff there is to do. This area has wineries, a brewery, a historic village. All this stuff is right up your alley, Mom." She handed a tri-folded leaflet over that featured a downtown revitalization schedule of events.

Yancy browsed through the information and met her daughter's gaze. "Okay, we'll see how it goes." She dug the card Mac gave her out and then retrieved her laptop. "Why don't you see what's available on the job boards? I'll give Shari Campbell a call and ask if she can recommend houses or apartments."

Viv grinned. "This is awesome, Mom. I think we're going to love it here." She whipped out her phone and started scrolling.

Yancy got up and stepped to the window looking out over the river. A good feeling settled over her and she savored it. A new place to call home and start over sounded perfect.

She typed in the number on the card and smiled when Shari answered. "Hello, this might sound strange, but I received your card from Mac Davison and he suggested I call…"

This is a fun story to write. I love having a mother-daughter relationship mixed with the dynamic of finding a new romance.

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin 

Sunday Snippet: Elective Campaign

I spent the past week wondering where half the year has gone quickly followed by feeling like it's been a decade since January. Anyone else have that experience? It's kind of insane how weird this year has been.

I did get a few shows watched while I worked on several projects. I had a week where I wanted some good background noise and got multiple episodes of Danger Man in. I truly enjoy this classic show.

I also started another episode of Blue Heelers. I'm almost through the second season of the show and I'm enjoying how things get changed up. I also love seeing how rural Australia is portrayed.

Have almost all of Riverdale's "Tangerine" in the watched column. Man, lots of reveals and good stuff in this episode. As much as I loathe and dislike Hiram, I kind of loved how Veronica sticks it to him. That said, I dread her storyline revolving around one-upping her dad all the time … if that's the direction the story goes in. Cheryl's situation with her mummy dearest ended up being a load of fun to watch. Archie's vigilantism biting him on the ass ended up being better than I thought it would be. Also loved Jughead finally getting to the bottom of the whole deal with his grandfather and the mystery books. And Betty … not quite sure how I feel about everything going on with her. I do have a theory about who's doing what to whom and I can't wait to see if I'm right.

Last but not least … I finally watched "Fadeout", the finale of Arrow. I have to say I couldn't have asked for a better end to the series. I'm so sad to see this chapter of the Arrowverse close but I'm also thrilled to have been a part of the experience from the very beginning. I got to watch the characters grow and change and become who and what they're meant to be. I think my favorite thing about this whole season are the callbacks to previous seasons and the cavalcade of familiar faces from the past—seriously, I don't think they missed anyone—and how they made Oliver's send-off worth its weight in green arrows. The fadeout with Oliver and Felicity in Moira's office ended up being pretty much a perfect endcap to the entire series. My glass is raised and my pile of tissues is testament to the emotional journey I took with the cast and crew of one of my very favorite shows ever.

Whew. I'm actually getting a kick in the feels all over again.

And that's a good note to wrap up television for this week. Tonight's post is from Elective Campaign, a novella that's been a lot of fun to write, especially the mother / daughter relationship.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Mac is running for reelection and needs a logistical planner on his roster to win. Yancy has the training and background but she presents a problem … Mac is very attracted to her. They fight the pull but give in and once it's discovered, he might lose more than the election.

And a snippety peek…

Mac exited his vehicle outside the municipal building and nearly collided with a stunning woman. "Whoa." He grasped her elbow, making sure she didn't lose her balance. "Sorry about that. Is there something I can help you with?" He definitely didn't recognize the beauty.

Her brows furrowed. "Uh, maybe. I'm looking for the municipal court." She waved a piece of paper. "I got a speeding ticket and would like to pay the fine." Her cheeks colored a little.

Mac inclined his chin. "Ah, the court is on the lower level. I'll walk you around. I'm stopping in to see the city attorney anyway." The converted school building served as city hall and housed the municipal court. "I take it you're not from around here?" She couldn't be if she didn't know the odd setup of the building.

She shook her head. "No, I'm from Illinois." She didn't add more but fell into step beside him. "Nice little city here."

His chest puffed out a little. "Thanks. I'll pass that along to the city council. We've got a meeting later tonight." He loved hearing praise from nonresidents.

She tilted her head. "You're on the council?" She gave him a slow once-over.

His lips quirked. "Not on the council, no. I'm the mayor." He stuck out his hand. "Mac Davison." He chuckled when her eyes widened.

She grasped his palm. "Yancy Malloy, alleged speed demon." Her lips curved. "I missed the lower limit posted just outside the city limits. Got caught going fifty-seven in a fifty zone."

Mac chuckled. "I'll bet Deputy Stonemark wrote your ticket. He's a stickler for enforcing the speed limit close to the traffic ramps." The ordinance passed two years ago to help with the lake quadrant project.

Yancy nodded. "He would be the one, yes. He was very kind about the whole thing. Said I could come and pay the fine today, so here I am."

They'd reached the entrance to the municipal court. Mac almost hated to end the conversation. Something about Yancy Malloy sparked his interest.

He opened the door and ushered her inside with a sweep of his arm. "If you head straight down this hall, you'll find the clerk's office. Someone there will be happy to help you settle your fine." He paused by the short set of stairs leading to the law director's office. "It was nice meeting you, Ms. Malloy."

She gave him a wide smile. "It's Yancy, and very nice to meet you too." She headed toward the clerk's office.

Mac only spent about five minutes with the city attorney, dropping off some zoning committee questions for the council meeting. He trotted down the stairs and almost bumped into Yancy again.

She flashed a quick grin. "We need to stop meeting like this."

He laughed. "I take it you're all set then?" He couldn't believe his lucky timing.

She nodded. "Quick and painless … except for the hit to my bank account." She started toward the exit.

He quickly followed. "Would you mind if I walked along with you? I'm headed back to the upper parking lot too."

She gave him a shy sideways glance. "Not at all. Pleasant company is always welcome."

He got a kick of the low-key flirting they were engaged in. When they reached the sidewalk leading to the parking lot, a teenage girl hopped off the hood of a car, waving two bags of takeout.

"Mom! You'll never believe it. They have a quaint Victorian house that's been turned into a restaurant. It's gorgeous."

Mac's heart sank a little. It never occurred that Yancy might be married. And from the looks of her daughter, she would've been very young when it happened.

He recovered quickly. "English Charm. Best chicken salad sandwiches on the planet." He pointed to the east. "The family's owned the house for generations."

Yancy grinned and took a bag from her daughter. "And you're in love with the place, aren't you?" She gave her daughter an indulgent smile.

The girl gave an eager nod. "This is such a cool town, Mom. We should think about staying here." She shot Mac a side-eye. "Who's your new friend?" Curiosity filled her tone.

Mac liked her. The teenager had vibrancy and sass but didn't cover it up with lots of attitude. She also had respectful air about her.

Yancy quirked an eyebrow. "This is the mayor, Mac Davison." She glanced in his direction. "Mr. Davison, this is my daughter, Vivian."

Vivian thrust her hand outward. "Viv, please. Vivian is usually reserved for when I do something exasperating." She shot Yancy a smirk.

Charmed beyond measure, Mac shook hands with Viv. "It's nice to meet you." He picked up the thread she'd dropped earlier. "Did you mention something about staying? Are you considering a move from Illinois?" He directed the last part of the question to Yancy.

Viv answered. "We're settling somewhere in Ohio, just don't know where yet." She waved her bag and headed for the car. "I'm starved. Drinks are inside, Mom. But don't rush." She met Mac's gaze. "Mom and I aren't in a big hurry and we have no one else to worry about." With a head tilt and sly grin, she ducked inside the vehicle and closed the door.

Yancy heaved a sigh and shook her head. "My daughter lacks any kind of subtlety, as you've probably figured out." Her cheeks bloomed with color again.

Mac chuckled. "Her roundabout way of informing me you're single?" He really hoped so.

Yancy snorted. "Not so roundabout, but, yes. I've always been single. And, yes, to answer your earlier question, we're making a move. I have some extended family here in Ohio."

Mac stuck a foot on the lower rung of the wood fence and folded his forearms on his knee. "Are they close by?"

She shook her head. "Not really. And we're not all that close, but I loved visiting when I was a kid. Viv and I needed a change of scenery and she's all for the adventure."

Mac hoped they'd consider sticking around. He wouldn't be doing his due diligence if he didn't make an attempt to garner new residents.

Reaching into his pocket, he withdrew his wallet and fished out a card. "Sheri Campbell is our chamber of commerce director." She also happened to be his step-sister. "Give her a call and she'll get you set up with a place to stay … if you're really interested in sticking around." He handed the card over to Yancy.

Sheri loved helping new people get their bearings.

Yancy eyed the card. "I might just do that." With a smile, she turned and headed for her car. "It really was nice meeting you."

Mac waited until her vehicle left the parking lot before he whipped out his phone and made a quick call to his step-sister.

I like Viv and Yancy's relationship. They're close but not completely in each other's pockets. Mac adds a really fun layer to their dynamic too.

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: Elective Campaign

Hello, February! We've got snow and slushy ick outside today. Perfect weather for the big game I won't be watching. LOL

So… The Flash definitely got Barry out his regular cell, which is terrific. Sadly, he ended up in a much worse predicament. Nice that he got to do a good deed before landing there.

Black Lightning continues to make me happy. I need a few hours to binge watch all the eps together so I can truly immerse into the universe. Looking forward to that.

I'm behind an episode of Riverdale. Need to catch up this week before the new episode.

Arrow… wow. I have so much love for this show. The dueling teams sadden me but I like where everyone is for the moment. I have a truly bad vibe that I won't share just yet but it's going to make me really angry if I'm right. Not mad in a bad way so maybe disappointed is a better word. Stay tuned. LOL

Got through another four episodes of Chicago Fire and I'm so glad the almost lethally lame fill-in chief is gone. Nice to see Welsh do something terrific for once.

I'm almost through season one of The Punisher. Gotta say this show pisses me off to no end but for all the right reasons. I'm kind of interested and waiting to see where they take the Lewis storyline. Right now it's not meshing well with the other parts. We'll see how it goes.

Also need to catch up on my period dramas. Hopefully, I'll have something for next week.

That's it for television this week. Tonight's post is from Elective Campaign, a novella built on the idea of having a couple navigate a new relationship while on is up for reelection as mayor of their small city.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Mac is running for reelection and needs a logistical planner on his roster to win. Yancy has the training and background but she presents a problem… Mac is very attracted to her. They fight the pull but give in and once it's discovered, he might lose more than the election.

And a snippety peek…

Yancy Malloy settled in behind the wheel and glanced toward her daughter. "Ready, Viv?" She needed to know the sixteen year old could handle leaving on such short notice.

Vivian flicked Yancy a sideways glance and a quirky grin. "Bring on the adventure, Mom. Let's blow this town." She hooked her phone to the auxiliary cable and music started. "This is my road trip playlist. A good mix of your music and mine." She adjusted the volume then settle back in her seat.

Yancy thanked the universe for giving her a resilient kid. They'd practically grown up together, Yancy giving birth at sixteen. Life hadn't been easy. God knew. But the time to move on gained urgency. Vivian's dad, Yancy's ex, had a parole hearing in the next month. Yancy didn't want to throw her daughter's life into chaos if he got released.

But maybe she should wait and let Viv decide if she wanted to meet the man.

Vivian turned the volume down. "Mom? What's going on?" She angled in her seat to engage in conversation.

Yancy blew out a breath. "Nothing, Viv. No… not nothing. Are you sure you're okay with this? Moving to another state? Leaving all your friends behind?"

Vivian snorted. "Mom… I'm not leaving them behind. We'll stay in touch with social media. Not like we're moving to a different planet."

True, but they didn't know where they'd end up. Yancy just wanted to put some distance between her and Vivian's dad. Pete Anderson hadn't asked about his daughter once during his fifteen year stint for aggravated robbery and involuntary manslaughter. Until last month. Yancy's shock at hearing from him quickly morphed into concern. She didn't want Vivian dragged into Pete's world. But Yancy didn't hide the letter from Vivian. Instead, she'd had a frank conversation with her about Pete, giving Viv the option of meeting him. Her daughter flatly refused. Why on earth would she want anything to do with a guy whose sole contribution to her life had been the donation of sperm and nothing else?

Yancy had to hand it to her daughter. She didn't mince words.

Vivian snapped her fingers. "Hello? We're wasting daylight, Mom. Put it in gear or let me drive." She waggled her eyebrows hopefully.

Yancy snorted. "Oh, no. You know it's not a good idea for you to be driving across state lines. It's only an hour to the border." Out of Illinois and into Indiana, then on to Ohio.

Vivian accepted her fate. "Yeah, yeah. I'm just along for the ride." She brightened. "And to act as the music coordinator." She turned the volume back up and faced forward again.

Yancy put the car in gear and eased out into traffic. "Let the adventure begin."

This one is giving me some challenge. The sages are a little stingy with how they want the story to unfold but I love what's on the page so far.

That's it for this week. Happy reading.

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: Elective Campaign

WooHoo! Halloween is almost here! I love the fall holiday and even plan to decorate my all-year-round tree with some cool lights and creepy ribbon. I'm even planning to do a Thanksgiving themed tree if time doesn't get away from me. LOL

Television round up this week… not bad overall. I totally stayed away from discussing The Walking Dead, mainly because I didn't want to spoil anyone and I couldn't talk about the show without going into detail. I'll take a moment to say I LOVE how this season is kicking off and leave things there.

As always, I'm thrilled with how The Flash and Arrow are progressing. I thoroughly enjoy the alternate Flash and I like how Thea's time in the pit is being handled. Really interested to see how Sarah's resurrection plays out. (Hint… she'll be fine… eventually).

Agents of SHIELD continues to intrigue me. I have several theories floating around in my head about how things will play out, and I'm actually loving how many different storylines are being addressed. Keep it up!

Gotham and Sleepy Hollow are on my catch up list. Last week's schedule went off the rails so I'm watching both shows on demand.

Lost Girl and The Murdoch Mysteries are also staying excellent. And I started a new show called The Romeo Section that has me very interested. I'll keep everyone posted on how I fare with that one.

Finally, Doctor Who… eh. Seriously, I'm seeing so many people rave about the new season and I'm really not feeling it. The fandom theory that Ashildr will end up being Missy and the Doctor created the Master doesn't work for me. However, there is one way I could get behind the concept… Missy isn't a regeneration of the Master, but she decided to play the role. That might be an interesting twist.

Anyway, TV update for the week is over.

Tonight's post is from Elective Campaign, a novella where my main characters lose the battle of fighting their attraction.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Mac is running for reelection and needs a logistical planner on his roster to win. Yancy has the training and background but she presents a problem… Mac is very attracted to her. They fight the pull but give in and once it's discovered, he might lose more than the election.

And a snippety peek…

Mac Davison settled back in his chair and heaved a sigh. "You're sure Steve is going to retire?" He didn't begrudge the man's decision, but the timing couldn't be worse to lose his logistics manager.

Tyler nodded. "Yeah. And he knows the move is going to leave you in a bad position for re-election." His campaign manager and best friend settled into the seat across the desk. "Stewart's got thirty years and a previous reign as mayor to work from and launch his platform."

Mac snorted. "Said stint in office left the city almost bankrupt and took two other decent guys winning to put to rights." He snagged the petition signature list from his top drawer. "The top twenty-five names will the cronies who back him financially and he'll want to repay their loyalty by making one of the logistics manager."

Steve knew the city inside and out, kept everything running smoothly and had a plan for the expansion of services.

Tyler agreed. "None with Steve's experience and know-how. I'd give it less than six months before the entire operation is a total mess." He steepled his fingers. "And less than nine for Stewart to start lining his pockets again by diverting funds to his 'special programs'."

Stewart Jackman would effectively rape the city's coffers and ignore the opportunities the revitalization of the lake quadrant could bring to their collective doorstep.

Mac slapped a hand on the desk. "Dammit. I don't want to lose the momentum we've built with the parks and rec renovation and expansion, the big homecoming weekend celebration, and the new vacation trade we've drawn from the lake quadrant project." He'd spearheaded those projects and wanted to add a few more.

Tyler shook his head. "Look, Mac. No one says you're going to lose. People do know you're the one who got things moving with the vacation trade. We're close to the lake shore, but far enough away to keep prices reasonable." His lips curved. "I don't think there was an empty B&B, cabin, or rental home the entire past two summers."

Mac nodded. "And that's not including the two hotels and three motels. Sandy Beckman told me the conference bookings are up year round at her location." He pinned Tyler with his gaze. "The Christmas festival is gaining traction, giving businesses an extra push at the end of the year."

Tyler started jotting notes on his legal pad. "See… that's something to build on with your campaign."

Mac heaved a sigh. "Except without a logistics manager, who's going to make sure we've got adequate parking available for bigger crowds? Or the budget to add extra sanitation and police presence to cover the week-long shindig? Those are necessary details."

Tyler shrugged. "Your new logistics manager? You need to put the word out now, before Steve makes it official. I can clear channels and make sure he understands you're not pushing him to leave sooner, but trying to replace the irreplaceable."

Mac grinned. "Your spin-doctoring skills are unmatched, my friend. I'm glad you're on my side." He opened up his laptop. "I'll get started on the job posting now and forward it to you to get Steve's input." With any luck, he'd have the man's help with the hiring process, too.

Tyler stood up. "Sounds the beginning of a plan." He crossed the office to the door. "Next time… you're picking up lunch before we have an impromptu meeting."

Mac frowned. "Yeah, sorry about that." He flashed a grin. "Next time, bring me better news and I won't be so distracted."

Tyler chuckled. "Deal." He left the office and whistled an off-key tune.

Mac shook his head again. He'd need a lot of luck to find someone and have them in place before the election. And maybe a touch of intervention from fate.

Mac is about to get his fondest wish… but the other shoe doesn't take long to drop.

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: Elective Campaign

Happy New Year!!

I hope 2014 is filled with everyone my readers want and, of course, lots of reading!

I'm not a big fan of resolutions, but I do love setting goals. This year, my hope is to publish at least six manuscripts and learn more about the graphic end of the business. Luckily, my oldest kidlet is something of a whiz when it comes to creating great designs, so I have a built-in tutor.

I'm also feeling a strong pull to get back into crafting and being creative. My youngest is all for this and wants to help out. I'm looking forward to the bonding time we'll have.

And my middle child is my TV buddy. We watch a lot of the same shows and spend quality time chatting and dissecting the episodes. All in all, a good time.

The husband is an avid golfer and I'm hoping we'll get to spend some time on the course together. Even when I only go along for the ride, which is about half the time, it's a nice way to relax and catch up with each other.

On the television show front, Sherlock is back!! The convergence of acting, writing, and filming just makes me so happy. New episodes of my other favorite shows start soon. Banshee returns this Friday and I'm excited and on edge just thinking about it. I have no idea why that show sucks me in, but it completely does. J

Tonight's post is from Elective Campaign, a contemporary novella featuring something I don't write very often—a teenager as a secondary character. J So far, she's been fun to write and gives her former wild child mom a run for her money in acting like an adult.

Here's the tagline:

Mac is running for reelection and needs a logistical planner on his roster to win. Yancy has the training and background but she presents a problem… Mac is very attracted to her. They fight the pull but give in and once it's discovered, he might lose more than the election.

And a snippety peek…

Yancy flung herself on the couch and banged her head against the cushion.

"Mom, you're not going to solve anything by giving yourself a headache."

Yancy shot her daughter a sideways glance. "I already have a headache, Viv. It started about an hour after I applied for the job."

Vivian rolled her eyes. "You're such a drama queen." She got up and walked into the kitchen. "Isn't that supposed to be my territory? I'm the sixteen-year-old." Pulling the freezer door open, she grabbed some ice and filled a glass. "Let me guess. Mac asked you out for dinner again, right?"

Yancy heaved a sigh. "No, he wanted to see a movie this time."

Vivian made her way back to the couch and handed Yancy a glass of water. "Mom, I say this with the love of a daughter—you're an idiot." She plopped down on the sofa. "That guy's a keeper. I'm a teenager, but even I know he's good people."

Yancy snorted. "Are you sure you're not the mom in this relationship?"

Vivian had a gift for boiling shit down to the bone and getting to the marrow.

Yancy drained the glass, then held it to her forehead, letting the cool surface calm the pounding throb. "Viv, it's not about how good he is. There's already talk about us and we've gone out one time." She placed the glass on the table. "I want and need this job. He's up for reelection. Rumors can kill both."

Vivian reached out and grasped Yancy's hand. "Mom, if you'll excuse the language, that's bullshit." She squeezed Yancy's fingers. "You're thinking about the guy who donated his sperm to make me—"

Yancy interrupted. "You know I don't like it when you refer to your dad in those terms."

Vivian shrugged. "Too bad. That's how I think of him. And I'm old enough to have an opinion now, Mom."

Yancy wouldn't argue the point. Vivian had been old enough to have opinions from the age of four. And unafraid to voice those pearls of wisdom.

Vivian is turning out to be an awesome character. She's a good balance for her mom, Yancy. And Mac's lucky to have Viv in his corner. :D

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin