Snippet Sunday - Take the Reins - Hogtied and Carried

Welcome to the Snippet Sunday on the Weird, the Wild, and the Wicked. Thank you so much for visiting. If you choose to comment today, I really appreciate it. The snippets are from my upcoming release, Take the Reins, a fantasy adventure with romantic elements. This story is connected to my SEALs romantic suspense and will be out December 10, 2014. You can read last week's snippet HERE.

In this snippet, Bethany is dealing with an overbearing centaur who's pretty sure she's mythical. Bethany agrees. She has no idea where she is, but she gets up close and personal with a Greek myth, whether she likes it or not.

“You will come with me or you will be hogtied and carried.”

“Not today.” She reached out and twisted one of his nipples like she’d done to her older brother as kids.

He yelped and released her. Bethany scrambled out of reach and bolted for the trees. She’d never outrun him, but she bet dollars to doughnuts they couldn’t climb. Yay for being related to apes! She dodged the bigger bodies, and shot for the nearest Maple looking trunk. Leaping for the lowest branch, she prayed her grip would hold and no one caught her ankles.

Shouts and hoof beats clattered after her as her hands hit the wood and she dragged herself up into the leafy canopy. She’d hit the second set of branches when an angry squeal made her turn and her gaze fixed on the wicked barb of a notched arrow.

“You will get down now."

"No." Bethany shook her head.

"You will come down or I will shoot you down. Any questions?”

Bethany swallowed bile. “Not at the moment, no.”

Bethany's no fool. She knows about compound bows. ;) There are several great authors on the Weekend Writer Warriors list and in the Snippet Sunday Facebook group. A few of my favorites are Charley Descoteaux, SJ Maylee, Gem Sivad, Goran Zidar, Veronica Scott, and Sarah Wesson.

Here's the blurb to Take the Reins, available everywhere December 10, 2014:

Social change is normal for a senator’s daughter, but affecting gender politics in centaurs wasn’t on Bethany’s agenda.

All Bethany Stanton needed was time away to think. She never imagined a walk with her horse might lead her so far from home. When she steps through a rift between worlds at an old archaeological site, she realizes she has bigger problems than marriage to the man of her nightmares. Like a herd of centaurs with distressing views on gender equality and “mythical” humans.

As part of the Supernatural Anomalies Investigative Field Unit, Major Stephen “Mack” McMacken has seen and done more weird stuff than written in a science fiction novel. When called in to track down a U.S. Senator’s missing daughter, Mack figures it’s more a case of runaway rich girl than supernatural mystery. Until his team finds the portal and he’s nearly torched by a dying phoenix.

In a world ruled by mythical beasts, Mack and Bethany find themselves on trial for endangering the centaur village. With the only escape route they know gone, working together to establish their innocence might prove easier than avoiding seductive Sirens and ravenous native beasts.

And then there’s the not-so-simple matter of finding a way back home…

Thanks for stopping by and happy reading. :)

Snippet Sunday - Take the Reins - Twilight Zone

Welcome to the Snippet Sunday on the Weird, the Wild, and the Wicked. Thank you so much for visiting. If you choose to comment today, I really appreciate it. The snippets are from my upcoming release, Take the Reins, a fantasy adventure with romantic elements. This story is connected to my SEALs romantic suspense and will be out December 10, 2014. You can read last week's snippet HERE.

In this snippet, the Senator Stanton's daughter Bethany is missing. Bethany agrees. She has no idea where she is, but she gets up close and personal with a Greek myth, whether she likes it or not.

The centaur’s scowl only deepened. He bent at what would be a human waist, leaning on his spear and stuck his nose no more than six inches from hers.

“What are you?”

Bethany gaped at the bearded face before her. She hadn’t expected his voice to be so musical or smooth when coupled with such a harsh visage. “I…”

“What are you? Druid? Gorgon?”

Bethany drew back. “Wait, what? No, I’m human.”

Deep brown eyes scanned her face, the scowl never leaving his features. “Humans are a myth.”

The words were so absurd, Bethany laughed. “I’ve stepped into the Twilight Zone.”

He snorted just like a horse would and straightened. “I do not know what that is or what you are, but you should not be here. Get up.”

Bethany scrambled to her feet and glanced over the centaur’s—shoulder? Back?―toward the maple, hoping to find Killian unharmed. If she could just get to him she might be able to get away. But while four-legged creatures filled the archaeological site, none of them sported a “simple” horse head.

Jeez, it’s like the leftovers from The Godfather.

Sounds like the senator is playin' fast and loose with his daughter's life. ;) There are several great authors on the Weekend Writer Warriors list and in the Snippet Sunday Facebook group. A few of my favorites are Charley Descoteaux, SJ Maylee, Gem Sivad, Goran Zidar, Veronica Scott, and Sarah Wesson.

Here's the blurb to Take the Reins, available everywhere December 10, 2014:

Social change is normal for a senator’s daughter, but affecting gender politics in centaurs wasn’t on Bethany’s agenda.

All Bethany Stanton needed was time away to think. She never imagined a walk with her horse might lead her so far from home. When she steps through a rift between worlds at an old archaeological site, she realizes she has bigger problems than marriage to the man of her nightmares. Like a herd of centaurs with distressing views on gender equality and “mythical” humans.

As part of the Supernatural Anomalies Investigative Field Unit, Major Stephen “Mack” McMacken has seen and done more weird stuff than written in a science fiction novel. When called in to track down a U.S. Senator’s missing daughter, Mack figures it’s more a case of runaway rich girl than supernatural mystery. Until his team finds the portal and he’s nearly torched by a dying phoenix.

In a world ruled by mythical beasts, Mack and Bethany find themselves on trial for endangering the centaur village. With the only escape route they know gone, working together to establish their innocence might prove easier than avoiding seductive Sirens and ravenous native beasts.

And then there’s the not-so-simple matter of finding a way back home…

Thanks for stopping by and happy reading. :)

#ThursThreads - Week 145 - Winners

Week 145 of #ThursThreads had some terrific tales. I'm honored to see all of the returning writers and read your stories. It was so nice to see so many of you this week! Thank you for coming back again and again to write and for helping me celebrate these years of flash. Great thanks to Nara Malone for judging this week. There will be NO #THURSTHREADS next week as it's the Thanksgiving holiday and I'll be celebrating with family. Be sure to check out the #ThursThreads #flashfiction group on FB to keep up with news, etc.

Entries:

• Siobhan Muir | @SiobhanMuir
• A.J. Walker | @zevonesque
• Jason McKinney | @jason_mckinney
• Sheilagh Lee | @SweetSheil 
• Rebecca Brennan | @bexbrennan
• Anna Lund | @AnnaLund2011
• Denise Golinowski | @dgolinowski
• Silver James | @SilverJames_
• Lynne Hunt | @HayAddict
• Mary Rose
• Anne Odom | @AFOdom
• Charley Emma | @lindorfan
• Lizzie Koch | @Lizzie_Koch
• Bronwyn Green | @Bronwyn_Green
• Cara Michaels | @caramichaels
• Kelly Heinen | @Aightball
• Eric Martell | @drmagoo

Nara says: I looked for a story that grabbed my attention and didn't let go right up until the end. I also looked for a strong sense of showing me in rich or unique language, versus just telling me what happened. I like an image that sticks with me. Some two hours later, at midnight, and I could still tell you the things those stories made me see and feel. I didn't have to look back. Nice work.

Winners Announcement:

Honorable Mentions

Denise Golinowski | @DGolinowski

Nara says: Denise's tale pictured for me the lipstick cam and those sexy alluring moves of the women chatting--that line about libidos was excellent.

Eric Martell | @drmagoo

Nara says: It was that cat watching and also the emotion it brought out that got me. I really like the progression of how he takes us thru a torturer's mind in so few words.

Rebecca Brennan | @bexbrennan

Nara says: Again it was the visuals of the stripper and removing that final scarf that really pulled me in.

Week 145 Winner

Anne Odom | @AFOdom

Nara says: The winner left an image of poker chips stuck to a woman's butt that just made the whole story crystal clear.

Poker Night

Donnie tossed his dreads behind his shoulder and flopped into the cafe’s patio chair. I threw a stack of bills on the table. “There you go, D. Now we’re square.”

He grinned. “So, you won big at Jenn’s poker game? I expected it to devolve into a screaming match.”

“Oh, it did.” I closed my notebook and twisted my greying hair into a bun. “Followed by some shoving. Then Jenn grabbed Steph and planted a brutal kiss on her. Next thing, Steph’s ripping Jen’s clothes off and throwing her down on the table.”

“Holy hell.”

“Indeed.” I sipped at my coffee. “Money and poker chips flew everywhere. Except, of course, for the bits that stuck to Jen’s ass.”

“So,” Donnie waved the money at me. “Did you steal this from the pot and dash?”

“Ha! No. We all just sat there and watched. I mean, no one expects live porn at a poker game.”

“You watched the *whole* thing?”

“Well, it *was* a quickie.” I shrugged and turned my face to the sun. “And I was in for big money.”

“So what did Jenn and Steph say?”

“Mostly grunting, ‘Oh God’, and ‘Yesyesyes!’”

“No, dumbass.” Donnie backhanded my shoulder, and I laughed. “After.”

“Absolutely nothing. Picked the poker chips, cards, and money off Jen’s backside and threw their clothes back on.”

“And just kept playing.”

“Yep. Those bills you’re waving around could be covered in Jen’s sex sweat.” I flashed him a smile. “Consider it interest on the debt.”

Congratulations Two Time Winner Anne, Denis, Eric, and Rebecca! Don't forget to claim your badges and display them with pride. You certainly earned it!

Pass on the great news on Twitter, Facebook, Google Plus, shiny mirrors, Morse Code, and signal flags. Check out all the stories here. Again there will be NO #THURSTHREADS next week as it's the Thanksgiving holiday and I'll be celebrating with family. Thanks for stopping by and happy reading! :)

#ThursThreads - The Challenge That Ties Tales Together - Week 145

Welcome back to the Weird, the Wild, & the Wicked. It's Thursday today so get your flash ready to celebrate and write a #flashfiction thread! Welcome to Week 145 of #ThursThreads, the challenge that ties tales together. Want to keep up each week? You're welcome to join the FB #ThursThreads group where we'll do events and make announcements. Need the rules? Read on.

Here's how it works:

• The prompt is a line from the previous week's winning tale.
• The prompt can appear ANYWHERE in your story and is included in your word count.

Rules to the Game:

• This is a Flash Fiction challenge, which means your story must be a minimum of 100 words, maximum of 250.
• Incorporate the prompt anywhere into your story (included in your word count).
• Post your story in the comments section of this post
• Include your word count (or be excluded from judging)
• Include your Twitter handle or email (so we know how to find you)
• The challenge is open 7 AM to 8 PM Mountain Time
• The winner will be announced on Friday, depending on how early the judge gets up.

How it benefits you:

• You get a nifty cool badge to display on your blog or site (because we're all about promotion - you know you are!)
• You get instant recognition of your writing prowess on this blog!
• Your writing colleagues shall announce and proclaim your greatness on Facebook, Twitter, and Google Plus

Our Judge for Week 145:

OpenSim master, #flashfiction writer, and erotic romance author, Nara Malone.

Nara on Facebook

Nara on Twitter

Nara on Google Plus

Nara on Goodreads

And now your #ThursThreads Challenge, tying tales together.

The Prompt:

“Just sat there and watched.”

All stories written herein are the property (both intellectual and physical) of the authors. Now, away with you, Flash Fiction Fanatics, and show us your #ThursThreads. Good luck!

Mid Week Tease - The Beltane Witch - Spells and Vows

Welcome to the Weird, the Wild, & the Wicked for a new year of Mid Week Tease hosted by Sandra Bunino.

Authors: this is a great opportunity to spotlight a few lines or even a paragraph or two from a new release or backlisted title. Readers: you get to sample some delicious snippets! We’ll do our best to tease, titillate and tantalize you into the weekend.

Today I'm offering snippets from The Beltane Witch, a paranormal romance, and Book 2 in the Cloudburst Colorado series. Sabrina Foxglove gave herself a nasty concussion and Darius is taking care of her, but she doesn't trust him any further than she can spit.

“Be at ease, Lady Foxglove. I have some small skill at preparing tea.” He gave her a sexy, lopsided smile. “Perhaps you’d allow me to care for you a little longer.”

“I don’t really have any choice, do I?” Sabrina eyed his self-assured expression. “You’re here now. You’re not likely to leave short of me physically throwing you out, and I’m in no condition to throw anything.”

Darius shrugged. “I suppose you could always use a banishment spell, but it would seem rather ungrateful since I have helped you.”

“Banishment spell?” Sabrina bit her lip. “What are you talking about?”

He cocked his head. “You don’t know about banishment spells?”

“No. Would it really get rid of you?”

He nodded. “Much like they say revoking permission prevents vampires from entering your dwelling.”

She’d ask about vampires later. “How does it work?”

“If you don’t know the spell, I won’t teach you now.”

“Why not?”

“Because it’s imperative I stay and help you ready yourself for the Court’s arrival.” He crossed his arms over his broad chest.

“I don’t know you, Mr. Winterbourne. You’re a stranger and I’ll do everything in my power to protect my children.” She gritted her teeth as she prepared to get up.

“Peace, Lady Foxglove.” He laid a warm hand against her shoulder. “I mean you and your children no harm.”

“How do I know that? Words aren’t very substantial when I know nothing about you.” She shook her head slowly to keep from jarring it. “I’m sorry, I’m used to doing everything myself, and it won’t change just because you think you can do better.”

Darius’s expression turned mutinous, but he tipped his chin up and placed a hand over his heart. “Upon my honor, my family name, and place as the Summer Court’s Chamberlain, I swear I mean you and your family no harm, and I shall do my utmost to help and protect you all.”

A ripple of energy swirled around them and spread throughout the room at the end of his vow.

Available at Amazon | Smashwords | Barnes & Noble | Kobo Books

Thanks for stopping by and happy reading. If you want to read more from other authors, click the link and enjoy...

Snippet Sunday - Take the Reins - Multiple Worlds

Welcome to the Snippet Sunday on the Weird, the Wild, and the Wicked. Thank you so much for visiting. If you choose to comment today, I really appreciate it. The snippets are from my upcoming release, Take the Reins, a fantasy adventure with romantic elements. This story is connected to my SEALs romantic suspense and should be out later this month.

In this snippet, the Senator Stanton's daughter Bethany is missing. Bethany is the younger sister to CPO Kevin Stanton of Beta Squad, my SEALs team. Senator Stanton has asked a special group in the Army to take on this mission and Major McMacken has basically told him he's not interested and walked out.

"We can't." Coolidge glanced around to be sure no one else overheard. Mack damn near rollled his eyes at the man's furtive motions. "Please come back into the office. I'll explain everything."

"No, Mr. Coolidge. That won't be necessary. We're done here."

"Please, Major, I beg you. Bethany isn't here... in this world."

Mack raised eyebrows. "We got multiple worlds now, Mr. Coolidge?"

Again, the smarmy man glanced around. "Come back to the office."

Despite Mack's better judgment, his curiosity prodded him to follow the wealthy weasel back to Stanton's office. Coolidge knocked and Stanton let him in, a satisfied smile curling his thin lips.

"I see you've come to your senses, Major."

"No, sir, I've come for explanations. If there really isn't one, then I'll be on my way. See, just like you, I have places to be and people to kill."

The senator gave him a flat look. "I've killed no one in my career, Major."

"That remains to be seen, Senator. You did say your daughter's missing and you won't give me the necessary information to find her. I'm thinkin' that's signing her death warrant."

Sounds like the senator is playin' fast and loose with his daughter's life. ;) There are several great authors on the Weekend Writer Warriors list and in the Snippet Sunday Facebook group. A few of my favorites are Charley Descoteaux, SJ Maylee, Gem Sivad, Goran Zidar, Veronica Scott, and Sarah Wesson.

Thanks for stopping by and happy reading. :)

#ThursThreads - Week 144 - Winners

Week 144 of #ThursThreads had some terrific tales. I'm honored to see all of the returning writers and read your stories. It was so nice to see so many of you this week! Thank you for coming back again and again to write and for helping me celebrate these years of flash. Great thanks to Michael C. Icofs for judging this week. Be sure to check out the #ThursThreads #flashfiction group on FB to keep up with news, etc.

Entries:

• Anastasia Vitsky | @AnastasiaVitsky
• Sheilagh Lee | @SweetSheil 
• Anna Lund | @AnnaLund2011
• Sandi Layne | @Sandyquill
• Kelly Heinen | @Aightball
• Silver James | @SilverJames_
• Siobhan Muir | @SiobhanMuir
• Wendy Strain | @WendyStrain
• Charles W. Jones | @ChuckWesJ
• Charley Emma | @lindorfan
• Michael C. Icofs | @MichaelCIcofs
• Lizzie Koch | @Lizzie_Koch
• Mary Decker | @mishmhem
• Mary Rose
• Ruth Long | @Bullishink
• Cara Michaels | @caramichaels

Winners Announcement:

Honorable Mentions

Ruth Long | @Bullishink

Michael says: In the span of 250 words, we find that the person who we thought was the villain turns out the be something of an antihero. Hints at complex motives, a splash of the supernatural, and the threat of what will happen to Brash once Jankowski learns of his treachery.

Kelly Heinen | @aightball

Michael says: I enjoyed the conflict she painted in the mother, and how in one sentence, she created enormous depth in the character of the doctor. Great work.

Sandi Layne | @sandyquill

Michael says: This was a great example of using efficient words to paint the shadow of a picture with enough detail to let readers wade in and fill in the rest for themselves. One sentence about tearing a gown tells me more about the Princess, and Odenlin's opinion of her than a whole paragraph might have.

Lizzie Koch | @Lizzie_Koch

Michael says: Compelling scene in which we see a character's selfish motives backfire on her. The very act that she sees as her deliverance turns out to be the one that will likely lead to her own death. Karma's a bitch....

Week 144 Winner

Charley Emma | @lindorfan

Michael says: I chose this piece for several reasons. First, it wonderfully blurs the boundary between poetry and prose. Second, Although it’s never explicitly spelled out, I imagined a teddy bear as I read it, and being able to point the reader to such a specific image without actually invoking the words is certainly an achievement. Finally, there was a poignancy in the words that connected me to nostalgia, loss, and passing the torch. And it did all that in 141 words. A wonderfully emotional piece.

"Take care of him won't you?
He has seen quite a lot.
Fights and brawls and spillages the lot.
He has sat there on the on the ledge.
Just sat there and watched
Till he was taken down to be loved
Which was quite a lot!
He has seen tutors teaching
Witnessed Children in their squabbling
Silently never judging.
You will take care of him won't you.
He has listened to my flute practice silently encouraging
He has listened silently to my woes and dreams.
He has watched me attempt to master the piano
Never once did he judge me
He has been my best friend above all.
Now I care for you my sweetheart
He can not have my care as much
So I give him to you...
You will love him won't you?
You will take care of him?

Congratulations Two Time Winner Charley, Ruth, Kelly, Sandi, and Lizzie! Don't forget to claim your badges and display them with pride. You certainly earned it!

Pass on the great news on Twitter, Facebook, Google Plus, shiny mirrors, Morse Code, and signal flags. Check out all the stories here. Thanks for stopping by and happy reading! :)

#ThursThreads - The Challenge That Ties Tales Together - Week 144

Welcome back to the Weird, the Wild, & the Wicked. It's Thursday today so get your flash ready to celebrate and write a #flashfiction thread! Welcome to Week 144 of #ThursThreads, the challenge that ties tales together. Want to keep up each week? You're welcome to join the FB #ThursThreads group where we'll do events and make announcements. Need the rules? Read on.

Here's how it works:

• The prompt is a line from the previous week's winning tale.
• The prompt can appear ANYWHERE in your story and is included in your word count.

Rules to the Game:

• This is a Flash Fiction challenge, which means your story must be a minimum of 100 words, maximum of 250.
• Incorporate the prompt anywhere into your story (included in your word count).
• Post your story in the comments section of this post
• Include your word count (or be excluded from judging)
• Include your Twitter handle or email (so we know how to find you)
• The challenge is open 7 AM to 8 PM Mountain Time
• The winner will be announced on Friday, depending on how early the judge gets up.

How it benefits you:

• You get a nifty cool badge to display on your blog or site (because we're all about promotion - you know you are!)
• You get instant recognition of your writing prowess on this blog!
• Your writing colleagues shall announce and proclaim your greatness on Facebook, Twitter, and Google Plus

Our Judge for Week 144:

Role-player, freelance graphic designer, and FemDomme erotica author, Michael C. Icofs.

Michael on Facebook

Michael on Twitter

Michael on Google Plus

Michael on Goodreads

And now your #ThursThreads Challenge, tying tales together.

The Prompt:

“Take care of him.”

All stories written herein are the property (both intellectual and physical) of the authors. Now, away with you, Flash Fiction Fanatics, and show us your #ThursThreads. Good luck!

Mid Week Tease - The Beltane Witch - Holding His Big Sword

Welcome to the Weird, the Wild, & the Wicked for a new year of Mid Week Tease hosted by Sandra Bunino.

Authors: this is a great opportunity to spotlight a few lines or even a paragraph or two from a new release or backlisted title. Readers: you get to sample some delicious snippets! We’ll do our best to tease, titillate and tantalize you into the weekend.

Today I'm offering snippets from The Beltane Witch, a paranormal romance, and Book 2 in the Cloudburst Colorado series. Sabrina Foxglove gave herself a nasty concussion and now Darius is taking her home. She suspects ulterior motives, but she's too loopy to fight it.

“She won’t be alone. I’ll be there to help look after her.” Darius’s voice rumbled against Sabrina’s shoulder.

“No, you don’t have to.” She didn’t want him anywhere near her home when she felt so vulnerable.

“I want to, Ms. Foxglove. And it’s no trouble. I’ll be happy to stay as long as you need.”

Sabrina glared at him while the women who’d overheard sighed with “awwws” and “ohhhhs” at his kindness, but she knew his game. His innocent look only added to her frustration.

The sneaky bastard just got into my home and got a free place to stay.

“All right then, we’ll get you home in a blink.”

Moira led them through the kitchen to the back rooms of the bar and gathered her purse, coat, and keys. She hustled them out the door to her snow-dusted Jeep parked beneath a small overhang. Darius set Sabrina in the back seat and climbed in beside her while Moira stepped out to sweep the windshield. Sabrina wondered where he’d put his huge sword, grateful she didn’t have to hold it for him in the car.

Oh, man, that sounds bad. Can I hold your big sword, Darius? She had to stifle a giggle. Thank the Goddess he can’t hear my thoughts.

“All ready?” Moira asked as she started up the Jeep.

“Yes.” Darius brushed her shoulder with his as he sat back, and she inhaled a scented gust of warmth from his jacket.

Sabrina turned her face before he noticed how much she enjoyed it. She let her gaze drift out her window, hoping the drive home would be quick so she could get away from Darius’s sensual allure.

They left the town and headed across the railroad tracks, bumping over two sets of them laid side by side. Her gaze followed them where they merged together in a synchronicity of rails and ties. Sabrina wondered if her life would ever find such a connection, the perfect blending of two life-lines into one continuous path.

She laughed silently at herself. Not likely after Tommy.

She turned her head just enough to glance at Darius’s noble profile.

And not likely with this peacock, either. He’s a player and the Fae’s minion. Definitely not husband material.

Sabrina tried to ignore the flare of pain from her burned belly. Why am I even thinking of husbands? Marty Robinson must have rubbed off on me after his last threat. She sighed and closed her eyes. A woman needs a husband like a zebra needs a frying pan.

Available at Amazon | Smashwords | Barnes & Noble | Kobo Books

Thanks for stopping by and happy reading. If you want to read more from other authors, click the link and enjoy...

Snippet Sunday - Take the Reins - Something Abnormal

Welcome to the Snippet Sunday on the Weird, the Wild, and the Wicked. Thank you so much for visiting. If you choose to comment today, I really appreciate it. The snippets are from my upcoming release, Take the Reins, a fantasy adventure with romantic elements. This story is connected to my SEALs romantic suspense and should be out later this month.

In this snippet, the Senator Stanton's daughter Bethany is missing. Bethany is the younger sister to CPO Kevin Stanton of Beta Squad, my SEALs team. Senator Stanton has asked a special group in the Army to take on this mission despite his connections to the SEALs or the FBI. Major McMacken has yet to be convinced his team is needed.

Major Stephen "Mack" McMacken stood at parade rest while he stared at the man behind a large mahogany desk. "I'm sorry, sir. Can you repeat that?"

"I want you and your team to investigate the disappearance of my daughter, Bethany Stanton." Senator James William Stanton of Kentucky met Mack's gaze with utter confidence.

"Isn't this a job for the FBI rather than the Army, sir?"

The Senator didn't quite sneer, but his lip twitched and his chin rose. "If I had any confidence in the FBI or their ability to tackle this problem, Major, I'd have called them. But the uniqueness of this event necessitates the use of a far more capable force."

Mack digested the enigmatic statement and tried to ignore the sinking feeling in his gut. As part of the Army's Supernatural Anomalies Investigative Field Unit or SnAIFU, it was his job to investigate the weird events encountered by the military. And one damn letter off from SNAFU which is where we find ourselves most of the time.

"Are you saying there's something abnormal going on with your daughter, Senator?"

Methinks the Senator is keeping more secrets than usual. ;) There are several great authors on the Weekend Writer Warriors list and in the Snippet Sunday Facebook group. A few of my favorites are Charley Descoteaux, SJ Maylee, Gem Sivad, Goran Zidar, Veronica Scott, and Sarah Wesson.

Thanks for stopping by and happy reading. :)

#ThursThreads - Week 143 - Winners

Week 143 of #ThursThreads had some terrific tales. I'm honored to see all of the returning writers and read your stories. It was so nice to see so many of you this week! Thank you for coming back again and again to write and for helping me celebrate these years of flash. Be sure to check out the #ThursThreads #flashfiction group on FB to keep up with news, etc.

Entries:

• Kirsten Blacketer | @kirblacketer
• Brad O'Neill | @AntonioAngelo21
• Warren C Bennett | @warrencbennett
• Anna Lund | @AnnaLund2011
• Silver James | @SilverJames_
• Siobhan Muir | @SiobhanMuir
• Eden Connor | @EdenConnor
• Cate Derham | @Cate_Derham
• Susanne Matthews | @jandsmatt
• Rebecca Brennan | @bexbrennan
• Olivia Starke | @OliviaStarke
• Richard Gibney | @ragtaggiggagon
• Miranda Kate | @PurpleQueenNL
• Louisa Bacio | @Louisabacio
• Josh Peters | @josbgosh
• Mary Decker | @mishmhem
• Kelly Heinen | @Aightball
• Even Sultry | @EvenSultry

Winners Announcement:

Honorable Mentions

Josh Peters | @joshbgosh

Siobhan says: Ever the fan of girl-kicks-ass, I really liked the way this tale was set up. At first it seems he's rescuing her, and to some extent he is. But in reality he's merely bringing her the tools for her own escape and she certainly can hold her own. When you give a woman a knife... ;)

Miranda Kate | @PurpleQueenNL

Siobhan says: As a mother, pedophiles piss me off to no end and having one caught, even in fiction, warms my heart. Despite the subject matter, the tale was well written and the ambiance of the situation came through clearly. Nicely done.

Eden Connor | @EdenConnor

Siobhan says: Most of the stories had a dark connotation to them, but this one was sultry, sexy, and humorous. I loved that the narrator enjoyed the idea of the sex toy so much he was willing to call his boss for more work to pay for it. LOL Awesome.

Week 143 Winner

Kirsten Blacketer | @kirblacketer

Siobhan says: What I loved most about this story was the overall menace of the rescuer, and then the spark of recognition. I was sucked in by the ambiance and accents in just the few words chosen. I also liked what was done with the man who thought peddling women a viable career. Nicely done.

Henry frowned at the tall man as he shoved the hooded captive forward. He bit back the sharp retort that bubbled up from his conscience.

"Here she is, sir." The man handed him the chain connected to the shackles around her wrists.

"I pray you haven't damaged the merchandise," Henry said with an air of authority.

"Oi, she's still in good condition. That I guarantee." The man's wide smile revealed a hole where his two front teeth should have been.

Henry reached up to draw back the hood when the man interjected.

"Not until I've had my money, guv."

"I'd like to see what I'm buying." He took an intimidating step forward.

The man shrank back. "Alright, alright, have a look then."

He flipped the hood back. Her dark eyes met his through her matted black hair. A flicker of recognition dawned in their inky depths. As his fingers tipped her chin up, her hair fell back from her face revealing a large purple bruise along her cheek and consuming her eye. Henry sighed and dropped his hand.

"She fought us. Twas nothing I could do about that shiner." The man backed up as Henry approached him. He gave him a coin and then turned to walk away, leading the woman with the chain.

"Thank you kindly, guv. Nice doing business with you."

Henry reached his carriage and turned to the man standing beside it holding a cane. "Take care of him."

A scream split the silent night. Henry grinned.

Congratulations Winner Kirsten, Josh, Miranda, and Eden! Don't forget to claim your badges and display them with pride. You certainly earned it!

Pass on the great news on Twitter, Facebook, Google Plus, shiny mirrors, Morse Code, and signal flags. Check out all the stories here. Thanks for stopping by and happy reading! :)

#ThursThreads - The Challenge That Ties Tales Together - Week 143

Welcome back to the Weird, the Wild, & the Wicked. It's Thursday today so get your flash ready to celebrate and write a #flashfiction thread! Welcome to Week 143 of #ThursThreads, the challenge that ties tales together. Want to keep up each week? You're welcome to join the FB #ThursThreads group where we'll do events and make announcements. Need the rules? Read on.

Here's how it works:

• The prompt is a line from the previous week's winning tale.
• The prompt can appear ANYWHERE in your story and is included in your word count.

Rules to the Game:

• This is a Flash Fiction challenge, which means your story must be a minimum of 100 words, maximum of 250.
• Incorporate the prompt anywhere into your story (included in your word count).
• Post your story in the comments section of this post
• Include your word count (or be excluded from judging)
• Include your Twitter handle or email (so we know how to find you)
• The challenge is open 7 AM to 8 PM Mountain Time
• The winner will be announced on Friday, depending on how early the judge gets up.

How it benefits you:

• You get a nifty cool badge to display on your blog or site (because we're all about promotion - you know you are!)
• You get instant recognition of your writing prowess on this blog!
• Your writing colleagues shall announce and proclaim your greatness on Facebook, Twitter, and Google Plus

Our Judge for Week 143:

Your hostess, the Scottish Word Slinger, Siobhan Muir.

Siobhan on Facebook

Siobhan on Twitter

Siobhan on Google Plus

Siobhan on Goodreads

And now your #ThursThreads Challenge, tying tales together.

The Prompt:

“I’d like to see what I’m buying.”

All stories written herein are the property (both intellectual and physical) of the authors. Now, away with you, Flash Fiction Fanatics, and show us your #ThursThreads. Good luck!

Mid Week Tease - The Beltane Witch - Tir na nOg

Welcome to the Weird, the Wild, & the Wicked for a new year of Mid Week Tease hosted by Sandra Bunino.

Authors: this is a great opportunity to spotlight a few lines or even a paragraph or two from a new release or backlisted title. Readers: you get to sample some delicious snippets! We’ll do our best to tease, titillate and tantalize you into the weekend.

Today I'm offering snippets from The Beltane Witch, a paranormal romance, and Book 2 in the Cloudburst Colorado series. Sabrina Foxglove knocked herself out at the coffee shop and now she's at an mysterious misty world. Darius has found her, he must convince her to come with him before things get worse.

Sabrina gritted her teeth and flailed for his hand, desperate to reach him. When his warm fingers closed around her frozen skin, relief flooded through her as he drew her into his embrace.

“There you go, acushla.” Darius gathered her into the folds of his coat as he wrapped his arms around her. “You’re safe now. I’ve got you.”

As soon as she touched him, her lungs expanded and blessedly sweet air filled her chest. Her belly burned and her head ached, but everything paled before the wonderful ability to simply inhale. Never taking it for granted again.

“I couldn’t breathe.” Her voice rasped no louder than a whisper, but any sound made her happy.

“I know, acushla, but you’re all right now. Come, let’s get to solid ground.”

Darius shifted his body to escort her the remaining steps to the terminus before the great tree, never releasing her waist. She kept her gaze focused on the hazy branches, but the scents of autumn leaves baking in the sunshine and pumpkin spices filled her nose. As much as she loved spring, the scents of the harvest season gave her comfort, and his natural scents, mixed with the leather he wore, brought the harvest alive.

Goddess of all, he smells wonderful.

“Sorry?”

Crap. Did she say it aloud? “I said it smells wonderful here now that I can breathe.”

“I’m glad you can. I thought I’d lost you.” Darius’s voice sounded remarkably serious.

“Lost me? So I was dying?” A sick feeling hit Sabrina’s stomach as she reached the tree, touching its marbled bark. “I was that close?”

His teal eyes held no humor. “You stopped breathing when you hit your head.”

Sabrina frowned. “I hit my head?”

“In the coffee house.”

She looked around at the misty environs. “Where are we now, then?”

“At the bridge.”

A rather obvious answer, but she realized he’d capitalized the first letters: The Bridge. She swallowed hard. “Like the Rainbow Bridge of Norse beliefs?”

“The very same.”

Sabrina looked back over her shoulder at the rope bridge disappearing into the mists. “I stood on the other side. I was on Tír na nÓg.”

“Yes.”

“Oh, Goddess, my children.” She clutched his shirt.

“They are well, little witch, and so are you. But we must come back to the conscious world or there will be more trouble than just a little headache.”

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