Donna Michaels - Author of Romaginative Fiction

Wild Rose Press Editor Guest Blogging Today!

2008-06-26T06:22:00.004-05:00

Ever wonder what an editor looks for in a story?

Well here's your chance to get the inside scoop with one of the Yellow Rose editors from The Wild Rose Press, Stacy D. Holmes, Senior Editor of the contemporary cowboy line. Yeehaw!

I had the pleasure of working with Stacy on two Yellow Rose stories:

Ten Things I'd Do For A Cowboy - an LASR Best E-Book Short Romance 2007 Nominee

Fated Hearts (e-rel 8/22/08 Print 2/20/09) which just received a NOR Reviewer Top Pick

Thanks for helping me achieve them, Stacy!

So if you're interested in writing contemporary westerns (cowboys), check out what Stacy has to say:

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

What draws us to a Cowboy?

Cowboys are one of the original Alpha males. They are hard, solitary, driven by the law of the land, rugged, strong, and mysterious. Whew....sorry, hot from just thinking about them LOL.

But! Not all cowboys are Alpha—and that’s what I love about the modern day westerns. Beta cowboys, those hunky ranch-hands, good ol’ boy neighbors and smiling, Stetson wearing two-steppers are just as big and adding a wonderful variety to cowboy stories these days.

In the Yellow Rose Line of the Wild Rose Press (http://www.thewildrosepress.com/) we look for both of these heroes....and the women strong enough to corral their hearts. First and foremost, we want a good story with a strong romance.

Fresh ideas with interesting plots will capture our attention as well as good solid writing. From an editor’s point of view, I can’t express enough how important it is to have someone else look over your work and proof it for the simple things like spelling and grammar. The story could be great but may be hard to find amongst a poorly proofed manuscript.

Along with regular submission, we also have a special series that took off like a freshly branded bull! Wayback, Texas is a small town that hosts a rodeo every Saturday night and we’ve invited authors to write about the characters in this town. We’ve had some fantastic stories released already and a wonderful response—so much so that we had to create its own home at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/waybacktexas/ so that we could list the details of the town for easy access to potential authors of this series. If you want to write for this series, the best thing to do is join this loop and then read the available stories to really get a feel for the town.

One of the unique things about The Wild Rose Press is that we offer short stories. Those short enough to read over a lunchtime break to those that only take an afternoon in the sunshine. Personally, I would love to see more short story submission here in the Yellow Rose line along with the longer pieces.

Best of all, if you’ve ever wanted to sample a cowboy...er a cowboy story LOL, we have a Free Read available right now on our website at The Wild Rose Press. Marry Me, Cowboy, is a fun little story that you can get...FOR FREE! Free cowboys....could there be anything better?

Click HERE to download for Free!

While you're there, check out the other wonderful Free Reads and great stories from the terrific authors at The Wild Rose Press!

Thank you so much Donna for letting me share your blog today! If anyone has any questions, feel free to leave them in the comments and I’ll be popping back to answer them for you!

Stacy D. Holmes, Senior Editor, Yellow Rose, The Wild Rose Press

Check out my FREE READ with The Wild Rose Press

2008-06-18T07:08:00.006-05:00

Would you like to sample my writing? Are you new to E-books? See how painless they are and start your cyber bookshelf with my Free Read today!

Wayback When
by Donna Michaels

Way back when Kaydee Harper was young she fell for Jensen Ballard but he treated her like a kid sister. Now, years later, Jensen’s in Wayback for the local rodeo. Can the bull rider resist the stubborn cowgirl or will she bring him to his knees in under eight seconds?

(Wayback When is a little glimpse into TWRP's terrific Rodeo Cowboy Series set in Wayback Texas. Like cowboys? Then check out the wonderful stories in the Wayback Series at TWRP!)

Click HERE to download WAYBACK WHEN for free...right Now!!

Afterwards, have fun browsing the many romance genres and lengths at The Wild Rose Press. There are a lot of wonderful books from myself and fellow WRP Authors to stock your new cyber shelves. Let us keep you in the read.

And remember, Save a Tree--Read an E-book!

Please feel free to drop me a note at donna_michaels @ msn. com (minus the spaces) and let me know what you think of Wayback When. I'd love to hear from you anytime!

Thanks, and Happy Reading!!

~Donna Michaels

MY FIRST PRINT RELEASE!!

2008-03-14T10:35:00.001-05:00

Meet Your Mate

By Donna Michaels

220 Pages Spicy

ISBN 1-60154-148-1

Buy Link for The Wild Rose Press

Buy Link for Fictionwise

Buy Link for Amazon

Buy Link for Barnes & Noble

Read Reviews

View Trailer

BLURB

Ex-Army Ranger Capt. Jack ‘Dodger’ Anderson would rather run naked through a minefield in the Afghan desert than participate in a reality television show, but when his brother Matthew begins to receive threats, Jack quickly becomes Matthew’s shadow. As if the investigation isn’t baffling enough, he has to contend with the addition of a beautiful and vaguely familiar new contestant.

Security specialist, Brielle Chapman reluctantly agrees to help her uncle by going undercover as a contestant on the Meet Your Mate reality show. Having nearly failed on a similar assignment, she wants to prove she still has a future in this business. But when the brother of the groom turns out to be Dodger, the object of her secret desire from an embarrassing prior undercover case, her job becomes harder. Does he recognize her? And how can she investigate with their sizzling attraction fogging her brain? Determined to finish the job, she brings the case to a surprising climax, uncovers the culprit and meets her own mate.

*********

Thanks for reading.

In honor of this print release, I'm holding a fun contest involving pictures of my Heroes being match to pictures of my Heroines. Click HERE for all the details and to view the prize: Genuine Garnet Necklace and matching Earring.

Donna Michaels

Author of Romaginative Fiction
www.donnamichaelsauthor.com

Multi-Author Contest: WISHING FOR A SPRING ROUND-UP

2008-03-03T11:29:00.001-05:00

A hint of spring is in the air. In horsey circles, spring means it's time to kick up our heels and celebrate life. In keeping with the season, we've rounded-up thirteen authors with horses in their books. The Wishing for Spring Round Up is all about great books, romance, and horses. Come and celebrate spring with these authors and win free books.

To enter –
The list of questions is posted at each participating author’s website. Contestants must visit every website to find an answer to a question. Compile your list of answers in an email to contest@juliannastephens.com. The contest opens on March 1 and closes on March 16. Winners will be notified via email by March 20. One entry per contestant.

The prizes –
Each author will donate either a download or a print copy of her book. For print books, a snail mail address will be required. Winners will be randomly chosen from entries with the correct answers.

Enter today and win!

Here’s a sneak peek at my question:

What's the name of the ranch where wild mustangs transition in TEN THINGS I'D DO FOR A COWBOY?

Here's the Contest Link for the full details:

http://www.donnamichaelsauthor.com/springroundupcontest.htm

Good luck!!

Donna Michaels
Author of Romaginative Fiction
www.donnamichaelsauthor.com

VALENTINE'S DAY DO-OVER PART II: THE SIBIINGS is Released!!

2008-02-06T15:19:00.000-05:00

Round 2 for Eros has begun! And he thought last year was bad...

Valentine’s Day Do-Over Part II: The Siblings
by Donna Michaels
85 Pages-Spicy
$3.00
Available at The Wild Rose Press

Blurb

Eros, God of Love, thought bringing soul mates Ivy Valentine and Roman Hartt together last year was tough, until he met their siblings: Mia and Race.

Forced to suffer the same do-over fate his younger brother endured last Valentine’s Day, Racine Hartt must share the holiday madness with his worst nightmare—his beautiful superior, Major Mia Valentine.

Mia doesn’t have time for irresponsible men in her life and is not happy to discover she’s stuck in a repeat Valentine’s Day with the handsome, yet chauvinistic Captain Racine Hartt. With her sister’s wedding day in jeopardy of never arriving, Mia looks for someone else, anyone else other than the sexy Captain to fill the slot.

How many days will it take this military minded couple to look past their preconceived notions and see into each other’s hearts? Can Eros accomplish this miracle? Or will the world repeat Valentine’s Day forever?

Excerpt(First 2 and 1/2 pages)

“If I hear hon or sweetheart one more time, I swear I’m gonna choke down a grenade and spit out the pin!” Race Hartt had a headache and knew he was about to make it worse. He didn’t care. He had to get out of there.

Deliberately head-butting the swinging kitchen door, he winced against the added pain but continued to stomp through his mother’s kitchen and family room before he found solitude outside on her deck.

Pacing the ten-by-ten wooden floor, he sucked in deep, calming breaths. How could his family expect him to endure two days of this lovey-dovey crap? I can’t do it. Exhaling the rose- scented air brewing from his mother’s abundant garden, he reached for the phone hooked on his belt.

He’d already served two tours in Iraq, but surely his Commanding Officer could find another conflict and deploy him. Anything had to be better than this torture. Okay, technically he couldn’t just pick up on a moment’s notice; he wasn’t part of the quick strike Brigade, but maybe his C.O. could assign some sort of task important enough to get him out of this pre-wedding/wedding crap.

A school. Or no, wait! He was Army Supply. He could travel to one of the armories up north for equipment.

“Where the hell’s…” He frowned at his empty belt loop. “My phone?”

“Racine Hartt!”

Raquel Hartt’s pretty features darkened as she stepped outside and shut the French door. Spine stiffer than her mouth- uh oh - she meant business.

“You get back inside and be nice to your brother and his future family.”

“Aw, Ma! Do you have to call me that? You make me sound like I just ran five clicks uphill in full gear.” He grimaced. No one but his mother got away with calling him his full name without receiving a special five-knuckled kiss. Well, her, his C.O. and superior officers, of course.

Her expression softened.

“But I love your name. Why, your father, God rest his soul, his heart was racing the night we—”

“Mom!” His hand flew up, palm vertical. The jerking movement intensified his nauseated stomach and throbbing head. He masked the accompanying wince behind a grimace and firm tone. “Do not finish that sentence. My stomach is already queasy from Mr. Softie and his merry Valentines giggling and laughing like girls in there.” He pivoted around to grip the railing and drew in more rose-scented air.

“Race, honey.” His mother joined him and cupped his shoulder. “Most of them are girls, except for your dad’s brother, Uncle Max, and Ivy’s two uncles.”

“Whatever.” He continued to grumble.

Mostly because she was right. The handful of cousins and aunts from both sides really weren’t bad. On a good day, he’d have no trouble suffering their company, but today wasn’t a good day.

He’d stayed out until dawn entertaining the dancer he’d hired to perform at his brother’s bachelor party last night. When it was obvious Rome wanted nothing extra from the pretty blonde, Race hated to see a good dancer go to waste, so he took her home—literally.

His less-than-stellar mood was a direct result of being forced to come here at the God-awful hour of eleven in the morning for some sort of brunch. A chore very taxing on his barely recovered body, not to mentionon his brain.

Just what was brunch anyway? An excuse to combine two meals? This was not how he wanted to spend his Valentine’s Day. And that was another thing…

“Ma.” He twisted until his hip rested against the rail. “If today is Valentine’s Day, one year since Rome and Ivy met, why didn’t they want their wedding today? Rome’s so mushy, I would’ve thought V-day would’ve been a shoe-in. Why tomorrow?”

“They said it was because February fifteenth was technically the start of their new life together. Works out great for the HarttBeat Foundation’s Annual Valentine’s Day Masquerade, though. We’re able to include the rehearsal dinner.” She glanced at her watch. “Which starts in less than seven hours.”

After his dad died, his mother started HarttBeats Foundation, a charity targeting heart disease. Every year they held a successful costumed charity ball. Although proud of his mom, Race wasn’t a fan of Valentine’s Day activities or the highly overrated holiday.

He straightened as a thought occurred. “Do you need help setting up? I can run there right now.”

She laughed and patted his chest. “Wow, such eagerness. Where was that attitude last year? I had to practically pull your teeth to get you to help out.”

“Well, I didn’t have an afternoon filled with females gushing and giggling over chiffon organs and Andy Hardy shoes looming over my head”

She laughed harder.

What’d I say?

“Its chiffon organza and Pierre Hardy,” she explained.

“Isn’t that what I said?”

“No.” She giggled.

“Whatever. So do you need my help? Can I go to the Masquerade early, Mom? Please?” He purposefully widened his eyes and blinked.

“Yes, you can go with me. No need to flash those baby blues, you rogue.”

“Thanks, mom.” He bent down and kissed her cheek.

“Now come on back inside. The Valentines are nice people. And you haven’t even met Ivy’s sister yet. Mia should be here any minute. She’s lovely, Race. You should’ve shown up at the planning sessions. After all, you’re going to be standing up with this girl. I would’ve thought you’d at least like to meet her first.”

“Nah.” Not if she’s anything like the Major Valentine who’d transferred to the depot two months back. He’d rather be flogged and boiled in oil. Overexposure to that type of frozen female could cause frostbite—and he liked his extremities.

*****************

Thanks for reading. Click HERE to and scroll down for details on the Two Part VDDO Part II Contest.

Donna Michaels
Author of Romaginative Fiction
http://www.donnamichaelsauthor.com/

MEET YOUR MATE is released!!

2008-01-18T10:54:00.000-05:00

Hurray! Part one of my long awaited dream of being an author has begun!!!

My first full length novel has been e-released today!!! (Part two will take place in March when the print novel is in my eager little hands!!!) Not that I haven't enjoyed writing short stories or any of their releases! I shall continue to write all types and sizes of romances! It's just as important to me as breathing.

Meet Your Mate

By Donna Michaels

220 Pages Spicy

$5.00

E-Book Available Now

at The Wild Rose Press

Print Release 3/14/08

View Trailer

BLURB

Ex-Army Ranger Capt. Jack 'Dodger' Anderson would rather run naked through a minefield in the Afghan desert than participate in a reality television show, but when his brother Matthew begins to receive threats, Jack quickly becomes Matthew's shadow. As if the investigation isn't baffling enough, he has to contend with the addition of a beautiful and vaguely familiar new contestant.

EXCERPT

"Why exactly did you come on this show, Ms. Bennett?" He stepped in front of her, his presence demanding she look at him.

Glancing up, she shrugged and tried to keep some truth in their conversation. "I wanted to meet your brother."

"What for?"

"To learn origami." She smirked, lifting her hands. "Why do you think?"

His gaze narrowed. He wasn't amused.

She sighed. "Look, I know I can make your brother happy. Isn't that what matters?"

"How?"

"What do you mean, how?"

He placed his hands on either side of her on the desk and leaned in. "By kissing him the minute you two were alone?"

She blinked. "You saw that? Well, you're not very observant for—" Brielle stopped before she gave herself away.

"For what?" His finger traced her jaw. "A man? That's right, Ms. Bennett. I am a man. Maybe you'd like to kiss me too?"

Oh, you've no idea!

*****************

Thanks for reading.

Click Here for detail of my Meet Your Mate Special Release Contest.

Donna Michaels

Author of Romaginative Fiction

www.donnamichaelsauthor.com

THE TRUTH is out there!! New Release Today!

2008-01-16T10:49:00.000-05:00

The Truth About Daydreams

By Donna Michaels
14 pages—Sweet
$1.50
Available at The Wild Rose Press

Blurb

I, Lexi Harper, college graduate with a bachelor’s degree in Network Cyber Security, used to have a sound mind, until I returned to my hometown of Fodders Creek and attended the Malloy’s cookout. Eagerly looking forward to greet as an adult, Brad Malloy, the man of my daydreams…which still persist to this day—I hadn’t counted on his younger brother, Sammy, my childhood partner in crime, to have transformed into a super hero hunk capable of attracting my signal.

Did I waste all those years Brad-worshiping when I should’ve noticed my best friend? I realized the answer the moment I discovered the truth about daydreams.

Excerpt

“Oh, Lexi…you’re my world, my love, my life,” Brad said, his lips on my neck nuzzling a path to my ear.

Goosebumps raced down my body in search of my toes. I’d waited a decade to hear Brad Malloy profess his love and hardly believed his acknowledgement was finally happening.

Firm lips heated a trail along my jaw, and my heart beat faster the nearer his lips moved toward my mouth. The kiss I’d longed for…hoped for…ached for. His mouth inched closer…closer…

“Lexi?”

No! I groaned as Brad and his full, tender lips faded away, replaced by my assistant’s wrinkled forehead.

“Lexi. You’re wanted on line one.”

**********

Thanks for reading,

Donna Michaels

Best Short e-Book Nomination at LASR

2008-01-02T07:40:00.000-05:00

Click HERE to vote!

I'm thrilled to announce my short story, "Ten Things I'd Do for a Cowboy" was nominated for Best E-Book Short Romance at The Long and Short of It.

Thank you to those who nominated me. I feel like a winner already.

Merry Christmas

2007-12-24T08:19:00.001-05:00

Free Comments & Graphics

DR. GNOME is on the loose!!!

2007-12-13T10:50:00.001-05:00

Dr. Gnome
By Donna Michaels
139 Pages-Hot
$4.99
Available now at Forbidden Publications
View the Trailer

Blurb

What’s the world to do when gold starts disappearing and the agents assigned to the case are turned into life-size lawn ornaments?

Send in Double O Fang Agent Pierce De Vein, and Shifter Intelligence Agent (SIA) Kitty Katt to investigate. Unhappy with their forced alliance, each loner must learn to work with a partner and stop trying to outdo one another long enough to solve the case. When the evidence points to an evil gnome and his army of rogue leprechauns, the agents infiltrate the organization in the forms of a bat and a cat.

Will their plan work, or will they end up sleeping with the daisies as a pair of garden decorations?

Excerpt

“Let me do the talking.” He got out and slammed his car door without waiting for her reply.

“Now, why would I do that?” His pain-in-the-fang partner stared at him from across the hood, one finely arched brow raised as if in flight.

Suppressing a growl, he rounded the bumper and stepped onto the sidewalk. “Because, these are my people and I said so.” Fists clenched, he reminded himself the supercilious woman falling into step wouldn’t be around much longer.

Known as the Dirty Harry of P.L.A.S.M.A, he never kept a partner long—they either died or defected to the other side.

“Your people?” She snorted for a few steps, then stopped.

He glanced at her slackened body.

Overcome, she laughed so hard tears rolled down her heart-shaped face and dripped into the peek of her exposed cleavage. His groin tightened. Had the drop traveled the whole valley? He ripped his gaze away. This was no time to be aroused. Ignoring his libido, he stomped toward the bar. She wasn’t even his type. Hell, she wasn’t even human.

Neither was he, but that wasn’t the point.

Her laughter followed him down the street like a disco tune—painful to his ears.

That’s it! He flew to her side in less than half a second. Wind from his hastening blew his hair into her face. “Yes, my people. Do you have a problem with that, Ms. Katt?”

She didn’t flinch—didn’t blink. “I just can’t picture you having people. Who do you think you are, friggin’ Lord of the Fangs?” Amusement burst into her eyes, turning them a brilliant green. She slumped back against the closed pawn shop, the metal security door creaking under her shuddering weight.

“Great. I’m partnered with the feline version of Don Rickles.” He stared up at the stars. A lot of work needed to be done and he was losing the night sky. His gaze bounced to the snickering woman. “This is good. This is very helpful. Yeah, you stay here and laugh.” Muttering a curse, he shook his head and proceeded to the pub without her. Even if she didn’t last long, you’d think P.L.A.S.M.A would’ve given him someone more useful than Chuckles the Cat.

********

Thanks for reading,

Donna Michaels
http://www.donnamichaelsauthor.com/

HOLIDAY SPIRIT--Released Today!

2007-12-05T12:19:00.000-05:00

Holiday Spirit
by Donna Michaels
20 pages-Sweet
$1.50
Available now at The Wild Rose Press

Blurb

Every year, during the winter solstice, a door is opened for ghosts to move on. And every year, Lucius Beamount and his ghost wife, Hattie Mae, pass up the opportunity in order to help mankind. This year is no exception. Jeff Grayson and his wife Carolyn need to be reunited for a very special reason. The bumbling fun begins when Jeff leaves L.A. to fly home to surprise his wife—who's on a plane bound for California to surprise him. Little do they know they're about to encounter some Holiday Spirit.

Excerpt

“You’d better get back to Jeff. How are you going to get him to L. A.?”

“I don’t know. It’ll take a Christmas miracle. You got any?”

Hattie reached across a sleeping Carolyn to place her hand over his. “That’s not my department. But I have faith in you.”

“Glad somebody does.”

“Now, Lucius, don’t start feeling sorry for yourself. You have to help that boy. Why don’t you try to assist him at the counter?”

“Oh, Ma, you don’t mean…?”

“Yes, I do. Possession.”

“Maybe you have lost your senses. I’ve kept you grounded for too long, Ma. I’m sorry.” He squeezed her hand.

“Oh now, stop talking nonsense. I haven’t lost my senses. I just happen to believe you won’t repeat that last incident. You’ve been practicing and I’m sure you’ll have better control of your motor skills.”

**********
Thanks for reading,

Donna Michaels
www.donnamichaelsauthor.com

Celebrate my First Anniversary of being published!!

2007-12-03T10:11:00.000-05:00

Just read the Dr. Gnome excerpt page and answer this question:

How many streetlights did Pierce count?

Send your answer to donna_michaels@msn.com with 1st Anniversary in the subject line.
One winner will be chosen at random to receive the bound copy of Dr. Gnome plus a few surprise goodies, and I'll draw two runner's up to receive a free PDF version.

Contest runs from December 1st to December 30th. Winners will be drawn on December 31st and announced here on the website as well as notified through email.

Good luck and thank you for a memorable year!!

What's The Name of That Christmas Carol? Multi-Author Scavenger Hunt Contest!!

2007-11-19T10:34:00.000-05:00

Put a little ho-ho-ho into your holidays by playing
WHAT'S THE NAME OF THAT CHRISTMAS CAROL?
Contest runs from Nov 15-Dec 24

Certain to trigger fond memories, this scavenger hunt may also bring you and your loved ones together in the grand game of carol identification, and land you one of our 21 prizes. That's right, 14 authors and 21 prizes! You don't have to be perfect in guessing, but naming them all right will get you entered into our final grand prize drawing—making it a chance at 22 prizes.

Here's what you need to do to enter:

1.) Just visit each of the authors' websites & find the line from that author's chosen carol. If you end up somewhere other than the author's contest page, just look for their contest page link, there'll be one. Start with mine: Donna Michaels then follow the other author links from my site.

2.) Make a list of the author's name and the carol's title. And make certain to check it twice!

3.) E-mail your list to happyendings2007@aol.com by midnight CST on Christmas Eve.Prizes will be awarded by Jan. 1, 2008--due to the craziness of the holidays. Please do not worry we have forgotten. Good luck and thanks for playing!

MAYHEM MINIS Released Today!!!

2007-10-25T07:49:00.001-05:00

Forbidden Publications released my Anthology today!!! Mayhem Minis is a collection of three Short Romantic Tales of three different sub genres; One Comedy, One Contemp & One Adventure.

Below is the purchase info, blurbs and a quick excerpt to each story. Enjoy, and thanks for reading!

Mayhem Minis
by Donna Michaels
Anthology/Sensual
26 Pages
Available at Forbidden Publications

Blurbs:

Hunk Slave – Blurb

What’s Christine Conrad to do when her best friend drags her to a charity bachelor auction? Fall for a hunk-slave, of course.

Soul Survivor – Blurb

After investing nearly a decade in tracking down, and delivering justice to her parents’ killer, FBI Agent Leah Wilson must face a scary thought: What is she supposed to do now? Her former superior, Jason Hathaway, shows up at her parents’ grave to offer support…and an answer.

Neptune’s Gift – Blurb

Deciphering Neptune’s scroll brings archeologist Dr. Laurel Adams face to face with the deity and a whole tomb-load of danger. Locked inside with carnivorous creatures, it’s up to her fiancé Carter Jackson, the expedition leader, to guide her and her team to safety. But will they all survive?

Excerpts:

Hunk Slave – Excerpt

“I can’t believe I let you drag me here. I must’ve been crazy.” Christine Conrad shook her head, bouncing a brown curl into her face as she maneuvered through the crowded hotel lobby.

Dressed to impress, women of all ages, shapes and sizes littered the establishment, eager for the charity auction to begin. The event’s big, glossy poster caught her eye. Help a Child. Buy a Hunk.

“I don’t know what’s crazier—me not having a date in weeks, or you sitting at home reading Macbeth to your cats.” Scowling, her friend Taylor Grant pushed through the crowd.

“It’s not my fault they hate Hamlet.”

Her friend glanced sideways at her. “Why do I bother?”

“Exactly. If I leave now, I can finish reading Act II to them tonight.” She eyed the exit and cursed herself for allowing her friend to talk her into wearing a pair of black, do-me heels. She’d probably break both her ankles before she reached the door.

As if sensing her need to flee, Taylor grabbed her hand. “Oh no you don’t. You’re here to help me buy a hunk-slave.”

She reeled back. “Hunk-slave?”

Her redheaded friend grinned. “Yep. I’m here to get me a good-looking man to do what I wish.”

“Boy, do I feel sorry for the guy you win.”

“Don’t be. I can promise you he’ll be smiling by the time the date is over.” Devilment gleamed from her friend’s gaze. “You know, Chrissie, since you’re here, you might as well have some fun too. Why don’t you bid?”

She snorted. My friend has lost her mind! “Me? Own a hunk-slave? Ah, no thanks. I like my dates willing.”

Soul Survivor — Excerpt

“It’s over, Mom and Dad.” Fragile lilac branches quivered under the pressure of Leah Wilson’s grip and bit into the soft flesh of her palm. The fragrant blossoms became a purple blur as she knelt in the soft grass, still wet with morning dew. “I did it. He’s behind bars where he belongs.”

Half elated, half devastated, she placed the flowers on the graves and allowed tears to fall freely for the first time in years. Lovingly tracing their names, her fingers slid into the groves of the cold, granite surface.

Judge William Connolly and Beloved Wife Katherine Connolly.

She shivered. A name was missing. Hers.

Why? Why couldn’t I have been murdered, too?

Shoulders trembling, she gazed unseeing at the green strands of earth protruding from her grip. “I should’ve been with you when the car exploded, not away on some high school field trip.” Fist shaking, she ripped out a clump of grass.

Why have I been left to survive on my own?

Neptune’s Gift – Excerpt

“Hudson, Phillips, come with me. Everyone else wait here with Laurel and the professor.”

As he stepped into the chamber and possible danger, her heartbeat quickened. None of her discoveries mattered without him.

“Are you seeing this?” the professor whispered.

Oblivious, the room and all its possessions took second fiddle as her eyes remained on her walking treasure. Heart pounding, senses on alert, she willed things to go smooth.

Carter inched around the room, lighting wall torches while checking for booby traps and unseen perils. Finally, in what seemed like hours, he returned.

“Okay. It’s safe.

Professor Weston’s whoop of joy drowned out her sigh of relief. With the danger dispelled, excitement replaced worry, and eager to devour the history teeming before her, she stepped inside and gasped.

SUPERNATURAL SEASON THREE OPENER

2007-10-05T08:30:00.000-05:00

The Magnificent Seven

What can I say? I enjoyed it.

The events were believable, the new and old characters worked well, and although I wasn't used to seeing a happy Dean, I understand why he would act that way.

I had my usual laughs; Dean's remark about the movie "Seven" had me snorting, despite how off-color it was...hehe And I especially loved how Sam wanted Dean's knife so he could gauge his eyes out after having walked in on Dean with the twins. ROFL

Once again, the special effects were top knotch! The dehydrated family on the couch was very impressive. Kuddos to their FX team!

WoohhOOOooo to Ruby! I am very pleased with how they've written in her character so far. Love her special blade! I can't wait to learn more about her and where she came upon that weapon. Too cool!

And Sam wanting to goto Louisianna to meet up with someone who might be able to help Dean with his curse was right on. Dean confessing the contingency to his curse--Sam will die if Dean tries to break it--made this viewer very happy. Great job, Eric.

I was relieved to see they're keeping them all in character. I get so worried they may slip. Although, I sure hope Dean snaps out of his happy soon, and gets back to his edge. I love him edgy.

How about you? What are your thoughts? Did you like the episode? If so, why? If not, why? I'd love to know.

K...I read on one of the Supernatural sites about next week's episode. I will NOT miss that one. I'm already chomping at the bit!

Have a great weekend, and thanks for reading.

Donna Michaels

http://www.donnamichaelsauthor.com/

SUPERNATURAL SEASON 3 Starts Tonight-What Are Your Thoughts?

2007-10-04T08:14:00.000-05:00

It’s here! It’s finally here! Season 3 of the hit CW Series, Supernatural.

Two years ago, I was working part time cleaning a private school in the evenings and I can remember coming home, tired and sore, needing time to unwind when I stumbled across a gem of show on it’s original timeslot, Tuesday nights. It was new, about two brothers, looking for their dad, as well as the demon that killed their mother and tried to take the younger brother when he was only 6 months old.

Okay, I was intrigued. I love the paranormal, so I watched the pilot.

Holy Impalas! What a show. There was no fluff; no stereo-typical scares or costumes; no mediocre acting. This show had possibilities.

Let’s start with the acting.

Jensen Ackles, who portrays the older brother, Dean Winchester—NAILED that character. He plays the rough-around-the-edges brother, forced to hunt the supernatural and take care of his brother at a young age. He’s strong, kick-ass, uncouth, sarcastic, witty, sexy, shows a touch of vulnerability here and there, and the attitude? Wow. There’s almost no gray areas with Dean. It’s black and white. “If it’s supernatural, we kill it.” Of course, just as there is in real life, Dean discovers there are always gray areas, like in ‘Bloodlust,’ one of the vampire episodes. Jensen embraces this character and makes him so believable I sometimes forget Dean is not real. Jensen is that good.

Jared Padelcki, who portrays the younger brother, Sam Winchester, is perfect for the role. He plays the Stanford drop-out who’s girlfriend was murdered by the same demon that killed his mother and tried to take him as a child. He’s strong, yet vulnerable, compassionate, smart, tall-at 6’4”, more up-to-date with the times, and scared he’ll turn evil because the demon has plans for him. Jared has a playground of emotions to work with here, and he works them well.

As you can tell, I love Sam and Dean, I love the music, the incredible car but the real reason I continued to tune in to the CW on Thursday nights at 9PM, is because of Eric Kripke and his crack writing team! As an author, I find it hard to watch a show without dissecting it, wanting to change things, make comments like: “They should’ve done this…or that’s not possible…not real.” I’ve NEVER ever said that after a single episode of Supernatural. THAT makes the show a clear winner in my book.

Do I own Season One and Two boxed sets? You bet! I’m lucky enough to have a birthday in October, so for two years now, I’ve purchased the DVD sets and TOLD my husband and kids they’re giving me that for my present. LOL. Works well. Two of my four children are faithful watcher of the show, anyway. As a matter of fact, one of my twins is dressing up as Sam Winchester for Halloween and his friend, Will is dressing up as Dean. Should be interesting.

Episodes. What are your favorites?

I have many but if I must narrow it down, then in Season One, I have three: “Faith”-What happens when you stop someone from dying who’s meant to die? An innocent takes your place. Brilliant! “Home”-The boys come face to face with their dead mother. Sniff. Yes, I cried. And “Hellhouse”-By far the funniest dang episode to date. My kids and I still go around saying… “Who ya gonna call?” Man, too funny. I hope those amateur ghost hunters show up on another episode.

In Season Two, all the episodes rocked, but if I must narrow it down, then I have two: “What Is, And What Should Never Be”- Dean encounters a Djinn and has the chance to live out his days as if the demon never happened. Thought-provoking episode. Oh, yeah. I cried. That was such a tough choice. I’ve no idea what I would’ve done in Dean’s shoes. And “Heart” –The boys encounter another ‘gray area’ when they try to cure an innocent girl who was bitten by a werewolf. Powerful episode.

Needless to say, I’m looking forward to the start of Season Three tonight. I sure hope Eric and his team can keep up the tight writing! They’re adding two female characters this season: Ruby—a very capable hunter who will be introduced on tonight’s premiere episode. And Bella, who hunts, but I think is ruled by a ‘higher’ power…and is searching for something. She debuts in two weeks, I believe. Those characters will have reoccurring roles and they sound interesting enough for me to give them a chance.

What are your thoughts? I’d love to know what you think. Which episode was your favorite and why? Who’s your favorite character? Please leave a comment and don’t forget to spread the word about the wonderful world of Winchester!

If you’re interested in keeping Supernatural alive and making sure it doesn’t die like “Dresdin Files”, then check out these links and see what you can do to spread the word:

http://www.myspace.com/team_winchester

http://www.teamwinchester.com/TW_mainpage.htm

Be sure to drop by tomorrow when I'll share my thoughts on tonight's 9PM Season 3 Premiere and you can share yours.

Congratulations to the Winners of my Fall Into Romance Contest!!!

2007-09-30T11:52:00.000-05:00

Winner of my Logo T-Shirt and surprise goodies is: Jeanette Jackson!!
Congratulations, Jeanette!!

Winners of my goodie stuffed envelopes are: Blackroze and Laura Kubitz!!
Congratulations, Blackroze and Laura!!

A special thanks to them and to all who entered.

Be sure to check my Contest/Events page this week for the announcement of my October Contest!!

New Review for Negative Image From LASR

2007-09-29T11:47:00.000-05:00

There's nothing negative about Negative Image except I wanted more!

Xeranthemum

Reviewer for The Long And Short Of It

Rating: 4 Books

To read the full review for my Crimson Rosette, click the link below:

http://longandshortreviews.blogspot.com/

Thank you, Long and Short!

FALL INTO ROMANCE CONTEST

2007-09-21T07:45:00.001-05:00

Click HERE to goto my contest page.

Thanks, and good luck!!

Release Date for Mayhem Minis!!

2007-09-16T20:14:00.000-05:00

I'm excited to announce October 25th is the release date for my mini romance anthology, Mayhem Minis, through Forbidden Publications.

Mayhem Minis is my second release with FP and I have a third release currently at Galley.

This anthology (aptly named after my net nickname-Mayhem) contains three romantic snippets, each with a different sub-genre.

Hunk Slave - is my romantic comedy brief...as if you couldn't tell by the title...hehe

Soul Survivor - is my romantic contemporary, and

Neptune's Gift - is my romantic adventure...to which the voices have NOT shut up, so yes, I'll be penning a much longer sequel in the distance future.

DJ has done a super job on my cover. As soon as it gets the final approval, I will proudly post the beauty for all to enjoy.

Have a great one,

Donna

Yeehaaw!! There's a Yummy Cowboy Available Today!

2007-09-05T10:53:00.001-05:00

Ten Things I’d Do for a Cowboy
By Donna Michaels
Available Now from The Wild Rose Press
60 Pages—Spicy

Blurb

Journalist, Amanda Lang, wishes she’d never written the article, “Ten Things I’d Do for a Cowboy”. Thanks to her, cowboy Rafe Buchanan lost his marriage, his bank account and nearly his ranch because it had been her husband his wife ran away with. Now, two years and a divorce later, Amanda is back on Buchanan soil to write another article, film a documentary and deliver a face-to-face apology.

Rafe Buchanan wants the woman gone. The Buchanan Wild Mustang and Burro Transition Ranch is his life and, after almost losing it once, he isn’t about to allow another disaster. But when he sets out to make the beauty voluntarily leave, his tactics take an unexpected turn. Could there be more than wild horses in transition on his ranch?

Excerpt

Unable to stop himself, he stepped closer. “What exactly are you offering, Ms. Lang?”

“I…” Blinking, she drew in a breath. Her rising chest captured his interest.

Despite her thin frame, the woman had curves. He’d never noticed that before. His gaze roamed down her belly, the curl of her waist, hips that almost came to his and long legs hugged by a pair of faded jeans. She was taller than Larissa, and although she tilted her head to look at him, the angle wasn’t as extreme as his ex-wife’s. Larissa used to complain about a crook in her neck.

Amanda wouldn’t have that problem.

Sex with her would be different.

His pulse increased and he reached out to cup her face. “You may be onto something there, Ms. Lang.” Thumb tracing her lower lip, he liked the full, soft feel and promise they held.

“Wh—what are you doing?” She asked against his finger.

Spikes of desire shot to his groin. “I’ve decided to take you up on your offer.”

“Offer? Wh—what offer?” Her eyes widened, reminding him of that new foal again.

“You’re offer to have sex.” He held tight and backed her into the wall when she tried to jerk away. “You said you’d give me anything, and I’ve decided, since Brian had sex with my wife, I should have sex with his.”

********************
Thanks for reading,

Donna Michaels
http://www.donnamichaelsauthor.com/

My Shameless Pimping of Judi Fennell & Her Gather.com First Chapter Contest Entry

2007-08-31T15:34:00.000-05:00

My friend Judi Fennell has an entry in the new Gather.com First Chapter Contest.

In Over Her Head is a delightful story full of humor, romance and suspense. Click Here to read her entry and vote at Gather.com. I know you'll be hooked.

Judi needs your vote to advance to the next round. The winner will receive a book deal with Simon & Schuster. You can be a part of making her dream come true, and giving the world a talented new author.

Check out Judi's Website for more details and view her cool Book Trailer.

Just when you thought it was safe to fall in love...
Below is the blurb and Judi's personal message on how to vote.

As always, thanks for reading.
Donna Michaels

In Over Her Head
by Judi Fennell

When Erica Peck, one terrified-of-the-ocean marina owner, finds herself at the bottom of the sea conversing with a merman named Reel, she thinks she’s died and gone to her own version of Hell.

When the Oceanic Council demands she and Reel retrieve a lost cache of diamonds from the resident sea monster in return for their lives, she knows she’s died and gone to Hell.

When they escape the monster and end up on a deserted island, she amends her opinion - she’s died and gone to Heaven.But when Reel sacrifices himself to allow her to return to her world, she realizes that, Heaven or Hell, with Reel, she’s In Over Her Head.

A Message From Judi:

Many of you may recognize my name from the recent American Title contest or the original Gather.com/Simon & Schuster First Chapters Contest. My manuscript, Beauty and The Best, was a finalist in each of these contests - the ONLY Romance in the Top 20 of the Gather.com contest (out of over 2,600 entries from all genres of fiction).

My latest manuscript, In Over Her Head, is entered in the NEW version of the Gather.com contest, which is strictly for Romance.

Like American Idol, the Gather contest allows the public to help select the winners. Votes of 10 are the only ones that count and those entries with the most 10s advance to Round 2. There are two rounds of voting, August 27 - Sept 18 and Sept 24 - Oct 8.

Donna has been kind enough to feature my entry and I’d love for you to come check it out. The first chapter is up and awaiting your votes.

To vote:

1. Click on the link to go to my entry.

2. Click on JOIN TODAY in the upper right corner.

3. Complete the information on the left side. IMPORTANT: Write down your username and password. Password CANNOT be longer than 6 characters.

4. Click SIGN UP - IT’S FREE.

5. This will take you back to my entry. Read/page down through my entry and click on the 10 star. Be careful, because once you click on a star, your vote is registered. ONLY 10s count!! And leave a comment - Gather.com is giving out Borders gift cards for the best comment and the number of unique comments counts toward the final score!

6. Tell your friends, family, co-workers, neighbors, etc.! That’s it!Thank you so very much and I hope you enjoy Erica and Reel’s adventure! And please feel free to stop by my website to see more of my work. http://www.judifennell.com/

My First Paranormal-THE HUNTED-Released Today!!

2007-08-29T09:40:00.001-05:00

The Hunted
by Donna Michaels
Available now at The Wild Rose Press
11 pages Spicy

BLURB

When a bullet interrupts their intimate rendezvous at a Mayan ruin, Jaden Quantrill and her now wounded lover, Raphael Estes, escape into the Mexican jungle with four armed men on their trail. Tired of running, and at Raphael’s insistence, Jaden answers the call of her wild—the jaguar within—and soon the hunters become The Hunted.

EXCERPT

A crack, like board hitting board, echoed through the Steles, stone blocks, before something thudded the ground by her ear and tore at her hair.

“Ouch. What was that?” She looked up at Raphael and gasped.

Blood flowed from a hole in his chest, streaking down his torso into the earth at his knee. With a growl, he fell on top of her and rolled them into the cover of the jungle.

“Raphael! Raphael, are you all right?” She moved from underneath to roll him onto his back. Blood continued to flow from his wound, but at a slower pace.

“No, although, I will be.” He squeezed her hand and looked her up and down. “The bullet went clear through. Thank God it didn’t hit you.”

“Bullet?” She leaned over him to draw in a breath. “It wasn’t silver.”

“No. It’s my guess they’re just thrill-seeking poachers.” He struggled to his feet. “But we have to go. They’ve started to track us.”

*************

Thanks for reading,

Donna Michaels
www.donnamichaelsauthor.com

Check out the cover to THE HUNTED

2007-08-14T10:59:00.001-05:00

Nicola did a wonderful job on the cover to my upcoming Black Rose Rosette paranormal release, The Hunted.

BLURB

When a bullet interrupts their intimate rendezvous at a Mayan ruin, Jaden Quantrill and her now wounded lover, Raphael Estes, escape into the Mexican jungle with four armed men on their trail. Tired of running, and at Raphael’s insistence, Jaden answers the call of her wild—the jaguar within—and soon the hunters become The Hunted.

Keep an eye here for release news. Thanks.

RESCUED HEART Released!!

2007-07-26T14:03:00.000-05:00

Rescued Heart
By Donna Michaels
Romantic Action/Suspense
24 pages
Available now at Forbidden Publications

Blurb

Lt. Fallon Carter is on a mission; an unauthorized mission to rescue the man she loves, Cpt. Kade Taggart, her commander and secret lover for the past few months.

Captured during a failed assignment, thanks to a mole in their team, he’s in the hands of the enemy and she can’t trust anyone but herself to go in and get him out. Will she be too late? Can she flush out the mole and safely rescue the man who holds her heart?

Excerpt

This is bad.

Lt. Fallon Carter stood at attention with her three remaining team members when Colonel Hampton entered the briefing room. Her heart rocked into her ribs at his serious expression. Something was terribly wrong.

“At ease. Take a seat.” The air crackled with tension while her squad waited for the brass to explain their visit. “As of 0800, Recon Team has failed to complete their mission.”

Kade.

Her ability to move or breathe ceased as the news registered in her rapidly numbing brain. Only death would stop him from completing a mission.

“Lieutenant Eric Saunders was wounded. He’s being treated and debriefed as we speak.” The Colonel paused and looked around the room.

Breath still held, she waited for him to continue. For the first time in her life, she was scared.

“Commander Kade Taggart was captured.”

No!

She clamped her jaw to keep from crying out. No one must know of the personal hell the Colonel’s words caused. Calm on the outside, her mind raced into action. Thankful to hear the man she loved was alive, she knew something was off. Captain Kade Taggart was too smart to let that happen. He analyzed his missions carefully, allowing for every possible scenario. This didn’t make sense.

Her eyes scanned the others in the room. McGee, Sawyer, Lucy. Instinct told her this was the work of a traitor. But who? For the past year she’d trusted all of them with her life. Looking from face to face, no one appeared guilty. Her gut didn’t agree. She sighed inwardly. All signs logically pointed to Eric, but he lay in quarantine, and she had no hope of speaking to him.
The room remained silent as the debriefing continued, and it wasn’t until it was over that someone spoke up.

“Colonel Hampton, Sir.” McGee stood, gaining the departing man’s attention. “What’s being done about the commander? Will there be a rescue mission?”

Her pulse quickened. She watched the colonel intently. She’d be the first to volunteer.

“The State Department’s aware of the circumstances. Until we get word from them, they’ll be no rescue.”

*********************

Thanks for reading.

Donna Michaels
http://www.donnamichaelsauthor.com/