...is the title (for now) of a free reader magnet I’m working on in The Arrow and The Flame universe. It’s delightful to be back with Captain Dinesh Martin and Simon White, Squid, Domingo, and the rest of the crew. I realized that I haven’t composed a free story for readers and potential readers in a while, and that introducing folks to the Arrow and her crew might be a good idea to increase sales of the books in my pirate series. 

This story will primarily feature Simon, Squid, and Domingo on an excursion to the markets of Port Royal while Captain Martin supervises repairs of his ship. Domingo is hopeful of finding clothing more suitable to his gender bending sense of fashion, and he has the idea to convince Simon that Dinesh might enjoy some scanty garments in the bedroom if Simon were to purchase and wear them for him. This takes some persuasion but ultimately results in Simon giving it a try and dressing like an 18th century working girl to seduce his beloved captain.

Just before book #2, A Hellish Thing, came out last week, I signed book #3, Mist and Snow, with NineStar Press for release some time in early 2027.

Guys, this book was a bit of a slog, I won’t lie. Although, that doesn’t reflect at all in the pacing and content. I’m really, really pleased with how it turned out, and my editor will no doubt help me to make it even better. There is no lurking evil presence in Mist and Snow, but there are two fascinating new characters. Smoke and Fleur are introduced at the very end of A Hellish Thing, and I’m pleased to say they factor in a pretty big way in book #3.

Particularly Smoke, who has the same intensity, confidence, and charisma as Captain Martin. Having them both aboard the same ship presents some interesting dynamics. Dinesh Martin isn’t used to having his authority questioned or to being called out on his behaviour. But Smoke isn’t afraid to tell him what she thinks.

Smoke and her partner, Fleur, bring a fresh perspective to the Arrow and her crew, and challenge both Dinesh and Simon to affirm the life they truly want to live.