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DR. GNOME is on the loose!!!

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!

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!!

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!!

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!!!

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

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?

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!!!

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

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

Click HERE to goto my contest page.

Thanks, and good luck!!

Release Date for Mayhem Minis!!

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!

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

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!!

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

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!!

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/

NEGATIVE IMAGE is Released!

Negative Image
By Donna Michaels
Available now at The Wild Rose Press



13 pages--Sensual

Blurb

Photographer Lisa Clarke thought working the Senator’s Inaugural Ball would be just another job. But when she inadvertently photographs a serial killer with his next victim, her easy assignment turns into a life or death situation. When the killer targets Lisa, she’s put into police protection and faces danger of another kind. Sexy Detective Dean Jennings.

Lisa and Dean give into their fiery attraction, but their interlude is cut short by the killer. With their wits as their only weapon, will they be able to outsmart a killer bent on revenge? Or will their passion-filled night cost them their lives?


Excerpt

“Okay. You can look now.” Bringing them to a halt, he removed his hand from her eyes and she gasped.

Washed in a romantic glow, the cozy living room sported an assortment of candles and dinner for two. She turned to him. “How did you…when did you?”

Mischief sparkled in his green eyes. “When you were taking your shower.”

“Oh, that explains it.” Swaying into him, she slid her hands over the shadowed ridges of his chest and playfully pouted. “I was wondering why you didn’t join me.”

He growled and crushed her close. Mouth parted, she eagerly awaiting his searing kiss.

It never came.

His hungry expression turned to alarm. Stiffening, he released her and scanned the room.

Fear quickened her pulse. Throat dry, she touched his elbow. “Dean, what is it? What’s wrong?”

“Something’s…off. I need to get you out of here. Now!”

************************
Thanks for reading.

Donna Michaels

The Money Bunny by JT Schultz is Released!!

The Money Bunny -

Available Now! From Forbidden Publications

Blurb:

A bunny on a bus?

Jackson Hunter thought he had seen it all until one bad day forces him to take the bus. A nutcase in a bunny outfit and designer sunglasses hops on, gives out money in a card to every passenger, then hops off. Chasing the bunny down a sidewalk after it hops away is weirder. Finding out the beautiful blonde at a bar that has caught his eye is not only the runaway rabbit, but the lawyer suing him sends the fur flying and leads to some fancy footwork.

Attorney Abigail Crosby has it all. She also has zero patience for Hunter Industries, the company that plans to destroy the neighborhood she grew up in and leave families without affordable housing. How was she to know that the hunk on the bus could fill the void in her life that she never noticed before? Only after great conversation, shared meals, and mind-blowing sex she discovers that he is the defendant. With the court date fast approaching, emotions are running high. Can she pull a rabbit out of her hat, saving her career and what she has with Jack, or in the end will it boil down to the money bunny?

Excerpt:

His voice alone caressed her skin and she fought for composure. Abby had reminded herself she was an attorney, and had forced herself to speak, but telling him that stalking was illegal may not have been her best move.

Suave, real suave in winning over Prince Charming. Her cheeks stung. Yep, undoubted, she was blushing. Son of a bitch! To think, I’m a professional.

“I’m sure I would have remembered if we had met.” His voice was deep, sexy, and she highly doubted it was meant to turn her on. Or was it?

“Um, I guess you wouldn’t believe me…”

Something flickered in his dark, brown eyes and they sparkled. His long, jet-black lashes blinked in disbelief as he leaned in closer to her. The smell of his cologne affected her the same way it had on the bus earlier that day. When his nose brushed lightly against her neck up to her ear, her skin heated and her breath was lost. Her nipples tightened beneath the light fabric from his skin touching hers. The air sucked out of her lungs and rational thought--hell any thought had vanished.

“I received an envelope today that smelled as wonderful as you.”

Inhaling sharply, she stepped back, blinked, and glanced around. “How did you know?”
His warm chuckle filled the air, warming it and her body considerably. His eyes danced. “I didn’t until you spoke.”

“Please don’t tell.” She barely heard her voice; how was he supposed to hear her?

“I won’t.” His smile was broad, making him even sexier and her thong damp. “I didn’t think I would see you again.”

“What are you doing here?” She glanced to the drink in his hand. Talk about a stupid question.

“Well, contrary to what you may think, I’m not stalking you, but if I had known it was one of the options, I may have considered it.” He laughed. The sound was incredible and turned her on. “I was checking out a blonde and thinking honestly of another woman in a bunny outfit that I would never see again.” His expression had grown more serious and his voice had become quieter.

“And now that you know that they are one in the same?” Why did he make her nervous? Right-- gorgeous, tall, dark, and downright delicious in a really expensive suit.

“I’m amazed that we are again in the same spot at the same time.” His brows furrowed. “And I’m wondering if I will be able to get your name.”

Okay, he is also charming. “I’m Abby.”

“Abby, I like it. I’m Jack, and now that we have that out of the way, what would it take to convince you to leave this place with me for something quieter?”

“An answer.” She wasn’t coy by nature, but then again, nature didn’t normally have the hunkiest man in the world cross her path twice in the same day.

“Well, I have an answer, what would be the question.”

Here goes nothing. “Your place or mine?”

RAINING MEN by JT Schultz is released!!

Announcing the release of JT's fun, sexy--LMAO read

Raining Men.

Available at: Forbidden Publications & JT'S Website.

Here's the blurb:

A ball player, a police officer and a fireman oh my!

It’s raining men and the weather outside is hunky, hunkier and hot! At least gallery owner Charly Jamison is convinced after moving from New York back to California. Her closest friends are nearby and its miles away from a stalker. The only other woman on the block where she lives, is a sweet little church lady that has “messages” for her and there is a gorgeous man at every turn.

All the men in her life want her, while there is only one man that holds her heart. Her friends are crazier than she is and she’s the one living a double life painting erotic pictures under an alias--Joey Sinn. Not a problem, every man in the world wants her too. Charly’s gallery opening fast approaches, the threats of the stalker are back into full swing and her life spins into a downpour of wrong, but more than delicious men. Who will save her? Will it be the man she loves and in the end, will he love her too?

Enjoy your copy today!

SOLD---Negative Image------

I'm happy to announce, Regina Cross, Crimson Editor at The Wild Rose Press, has offered a contract for my romantic suspens short story, Negative Image.

Here's the blurb:

Assigned to photograph the Senator’s Inaugural Ball, photographer Lisa Clarke thought it was just another job. She was wrong. Inadvertently photographing a serial killer with his next victim, her easy assignment turns into a life or death situation. Surviving his attack but unable to identify him, she’s put under police protection and faces danger of another kind. Sexy Detective Dean Jennings.

Told the killer is caught, they give into their fiery attraction and spend a passion-filled night. But when their interlude is cut short by the appearance of the real killer, the night turns deadly. Will they keep their wits about them long enough to survive or will they become just another negative image?

Keep an eye here and my website: www.donnamichaelsauthor.com for the cover and release date.

Thanks and have a safe holiday weekend.

Cowboy's Wish is released!!!

Check out another wonderful release from

my author friend, JT Schultz!

Cowboy's Wish is available at:

http://www.jtschultz.com/novellas.htm

and

The Wild Rose Press

Enjoy!!

After breaking off her engagement to a man she didn’t love, fashion designer Melanie Rourke has moved from Calgary to Dallas for a fresh start—as long as she can avoid running into ancient history. But fate has other ideas, and a broken-down truck and a Texas downpour leave her stranded with Cody Armstrong, the man she loved and lost.

Cody loves his new ranch outside Dallas, but it didn’t take him long to realize that leaving Melanie behind was a big mistake. Problem is, by the time he went back to find her, Melanie was engaged to someone else. How could he have given his heart to someone so fickle? But now he has an all-too-single Melanie in his house. Will she end up in his bed and in his arms? Only if this cowboy gets his wish.

SIX OF HEARTS is Released!!

Woohoo!! It's finally out!!!!

The romantic suspense epic novel from my author friend,

JT Schultz has been released!!

Six of Hearts is available now at:
http://www.forbiddenpublications.com/index.html

and http://www.jtschultz.com

Blurb:

Undercover officer Devon Kelly hates homicides, especially, when he knows the victim. The death of one his sister’s friends affects Devon hard since he went to school with her. He thinks back to his sister’s clique, the ‘six of hearts’. The six very rich, very popular, and very pretty girls get him thinking about the leader of the pack. Faith had been the queen of the hearts and had not only ruled the school but every guy’s attention. She had certainly held Devon’s.

Faith Lacey is CEO of her family’s company, Lacey Things Lingerie. She comes home to attend the funeral of her dead friend only to find that she and surviving friends are the target of a serial killer. Every threat or murder is marked with a six of hearts playing card. She lost her virginity, her heart and her soul to Devon—and saved his life. Now he races to save hers, before the Reaper deals a hand of death. The six of hearts—who knew a playing card could be so deadly.

IF you love romance, suspense, action and a sarcastic heroine, then you'll LOVE this book. DO yourself a favor and buy it today!

SPRING INTO ROMANCE CONTEST

In honor of Spring--time of renewal, rebirth...love....

I'm holding a Spring Into Romance Contest, giving away a set of matching rose stationary, notepad, things-to-do-list and three coordinating pens.

Contest runs from May 7th to Mother's Day, May 13th.

Winners will be drawn on Monday, May 14th

Visit my website for full details.

Good luck!!

HOLY RAVIOLI!! Look at this new release!!

Check out my author friend, JT Schutlz's latest release, Holy Ravioli. This sweet romance and a laugh out loud comedy is available now at Forbidden Publications:

http://www.forbiddenpublications.com/book_pages/holy_ravioli.html

Blurb:
Holy Ravioli! Shira Pravoloni is positive her sweet, though often meddling ma has officially flipped her noodle. Not only does she want Shira’s wedding blessed by the Pope, she is going to help find a man for her, since she isn’t even dating. In her attempt to dodge her mother, she runs out of her office and into the hunkiest man she has ever seen. He not only rescues her from her mother but after a few dates and a few kisses, soon gets her thinking there might be worse fates than marriage.
Joseph Pocente works—that’s all he does. Unless, getting a lecture from his mother about not being married constitutes as a hobby. The more time he spends with Shira, the more he realizes he wants to be with her. So when he finds out she is getting married, it’s a recipe for disaster. When he finds out her arranged marriage is to his cousin, he plans to stop her from marrying someone other than him.
Toss in some crazy family members, a boxing match, and a ravioli-craving priest and it is a wacky race to the alter. The only question remains, who will be the groom?

SOLD--Fated Hearts--a Full ms To The Wild Rose Press

My first attempt at writting once my youngest started school full day, six years ago...is now going to be published by The Wild Rose Press.

Fated Hearts will be released as a full ms for their Yellow Rose line. I have a sequel to edit and submit, so who knows??? Maybe the Hero's brother may get his day in the sun, too.

A VALENTINE IN JULY is released today

Check out this fun, sexy and intriguing read

by author, JT Schultz.

Valentino De Marcus has it all, a loving family, a successful surfing school and an amazing woman. She’s sexy, smart and--in his dreams. Val stares out the window and wishes on a shooting star to find the woman that visits him nightly. He notices the thin scratches left by fingernails on his shoulder. He knows she’s real and their fates in destiny’s hand.Private Investigator Tia O’Shea isn’t crazy. She knows that the man that invades her dreams is real. He has to be, she has a bite on her neck to prove it. She just has to find him. One night she follows her client’s cheating husband and witnesses him murder someone. He discovers her and chases her. Rescued by the hunky man of her dream, it’s a good time to get his name.Val’s an immortal day-walking vampire and Tia’s a slayer. Somewhere along the murder mystery way, they fall in love. Suddenly, life and death, has a whole new meaning.

You can purchase this e-book by clicking the links below. Enjoy!

JT Shultz Website

The Wild Rose Press

Check out CHASING CLOVER!

Are you looking for a fun/sexy read?

Then Chasing Clover by JT Schultz

is the book for you.

You can purchase the romantic comedy at:

JT's Website

or

Forbidden Press

Enjoy!!

SOLD two Short Stories to Forbidden Publications!!

I'm happy to announce the sale of two short stories to Forbidden Publications. Rescued Heart and Dr. Gnome.

I'm thrilled to be working with Rene and her team. I've heard nothing but wonderful things about her from my author friend, JT Schultz.

Thanks, Rene, for taking me on and I look forward to this being the start of a great author/publisher relationship.

Look at my author friend, JT Schultz' cool cover!

How's that for exciting??

A Valentine In July is set to be released on the 23rd of this month.

You can find it at The Wild Rose Press or JT Schultz's website.

I can't wait! Valentine is one hot vampire. mmm.

Good luck with it, hun!

Happy Birthday to my Tango!

Seven years ago, Tango, our first rescued cat, was born in a shelter. He was one of the lucky ones. His mother was picked up when she was pregnant, so he and his siblings were born at the shelter and not on the streets.

Then we were the lucky ones. We went to pick out one kitten from many at the shelter and he ended up picking us out. We peeked through the glass in the door, and out of the 14+ cats and kittens, he came running to us and tried to climb up the door. How could we possibly resist him after that? We adopted him on Memorial Day that year and he's been a character ever since.

The shelter had named him Mango, so we just changed the M to a T and called him Tango. Now, whenever people visit, they all ask if they can take him home because he's incredibly beautiful. He weighs 20lbs and is very fluffy and friendly. He'll get on his hind legs and beg to be petted. Needless to say, it works every time. Even to those who aren't cat lovers.

Happy Birthday, Tango! I hope and pray we have many more!

Valentine's Day Do-Over is # 1 Best Seller!

Woohoo! My Champagne Mini Rose- Valentine's Day Do-Over - took the Number One spot on the Best Sellers lists at The Wild Rose Press!

I'd just like to thank everyone who made Rome's and Ivy's story hit #1!

Thank you for your support!

Just thought I'd pop in

to wish my good friend a Happy Birthday!!

You know who you are.:)

I finally get a few good days to write with no 'running' involved in my day and what happens? I get the dang flu from my hubby who had a reaction to his flu shot...sheez.

Anyhow, just popping on quick before I crawl back in bed.

Hope your bday is a great one!!

Valentine's Day Do-Over Winner

...is.........Christine Columbus!!
Congratulations for winning my Valentine's Day Do-Over contest. Good luck with the Powerball ticket. I hope your winning streak continues! As soon as I dig out of the snow, I shall get your Heart-Shaped box filled with:
-Candy Hearts
-Chocolate
-Promo goodies
-Perfume
-And of course, the Powerball ticket for this Sat. Feb. 17th

over to the post office. Good luck!!

I'd also like to thank everyone who entered and made this contest such a wonderful success. Please check my website in the next few weeks for my upcoming Spring Into Romance contest.

Thank you.

My First Blog Post

Well, I did it.

I managed to work around the html and my homebound family, to get this blog up and running. I have yet to figure out how to link my book covers to my selling page but that'll have to wait for another day. I have a Hero who's about to be kissed...and he won't wait any longer. LOL

I shall try to get in here and post little tidbits everyday to keep you all informed of what's going on in my writing world and so I can hear what's going on in yours.

Have a good one!