Release of Kiss Of Death by Sharon Donovan, and a very specal guest

I'm thrilled to announce the release of my dear friend, the late Sharon Donovan's, newest and sadly, last, book Kiss Of Death, starring her best loved creation, the gorgeous Oliver.

Sharon was working on this story before she tragically passed away in April 2012 following further heart problems and complications. Her editor, The Wild Rose Press's Lori Graham has worked closely with her family and friends to get the finished story edited and published as part of the Wild Rose Press Red Christmas series, and we are thrilled that after Lori's hard work, it is released just in time for Christmas, a wonderful gift for a friend or family member's Kindle or book reader - or for yourself.

I am delighted to have Lori herself on my blog to tell us a little more about Sharon and her writing. 




HL: Good morning Lori.  It's such an honour to have you here today to talk about Sharon's new book. I'm curious to know, how did you first come to be Sharon's editor? 

Lori: Sharon first came to me with a short story she had written for an inspirational line.  She was surprisingly timid in her approach.  The piece she had written had a lot of technical issues but the plotline was so cute, I couldn’t resist.  It took us longer to finish that story than I anticipated but when she submitted again, I was happy to contract her again.  Sharon was so creative and so eager that working with her was a joy.  We worked on a couple of short stories with her confidence increasing with each story.  It wasn’t until she came to me with the idea to do Her Biggest Fan that we started to talk about personal things and I came to know her.  I was shocked to discover she was blind but it also explained so many things I had wondered about during our editing phases.  Because she was so determined and the storyline was very inventive, I couldn’t resist taking on the challenge and partnering with her in that first full length novel.  We had our bumps but, it was such a fun journey, I have never regretted it.

HL:   What it was like to work with her, especially considering how much she had to cope with, and did her zany sense of humour come across .

Lori:  Like I said, for a long time, I had no idea what she coped with. Her upbeat attitude overrode everything else around her.  I always loved hearing from her because that positivity made it a joy to simply talk to her, let alone work with her.  During the course of time, Oliver was introduced into our lives.  This “concierge” on her website truly is the picture of her humor.  His clever quips and blatant innuendos were a joy and I can’t tell you the number of times I laughed out loud when I would “visit” her there. 
  

Oliver - (c) Sharon Donovan

HL: Oh yes, Oliver *sigh*. He had all the ladies who visited her blog in a swoon with his shameless flattery, and yes, who could help but smile at his "naughty but nice" comments and innuendos. (And I had the enviable job of "dressing" him for the blog.)  What an amazing character she created!

I'm sure everyone would love to hear more about any funny things that happened or were said between you.

Lori: I can’t even begin to count the number of times she cheered me up, whether it was her personally or her wit and caring through Oliver’s “voice.”  The thing I will also remember about her, though, was the caring she shared.  The first time she was in the hospital for the heart issues, I had been sending her flowers, cards and notes (knowing her family would share them with her).  Because she was in ICU for so long, it never occurred to me to do anything else—until the day I picked up the phone and heard her voice.  With everything going on for her, I could hear the smile on her face as we talked.  We talked several times after that.  The funny thing is she made the comment she was only in the hospital to gather information for a new suspense idea she had.  I sure wish we could have seen Oliver as a doctor.  I can only imagine how wonderful he would have been in that role.

HL:  Ah, Dr Oliver wouldn't that have been something! And yes, I know just what you mean about  the smile in her voice.  I was lucky enough to speak to Sharon on the phone myself a few times, and  her voice was like the sun coming out from behind a cloud! What do you think readers will love about this book?

Lori: Kiss of Death…oh my where do I start?  It might surprise you to know I actually rejected this story the first time around.  Let me surprise you further by saying she thanked me for doing so.  I hated to reject it. However, it just wasn’t quite there and I was pretty detailed in the information I sent her.  It was what she needed, though, to get the creative juices flowing and flesh out some areas that needed some work.  It occurred to me after she died that I would never get to see what she did with it.  I was so thrilled when I talked to her family and they asked me to finish it.  I feel so blessed and honored to have been allowed to play a role in the final phases of Kiss of Death.  While there were areas that I had to write and do the editing work without her, it definitely stays in her voice and you can feel her presence on every page.

Normally, when it is time for a manuscript to go to format/galley/publication, I am pretty ready for it to move along.  (By that time, an editor has read the story multiple times and is ready for a new challenge.)  With this one, it was really hard to let it go.  It actually took me two days to hit the send button but, in the end, I knew we had a deadline we had to meet to get it out this Christmas.

I truly hope you enjoy this last installment of Sharon’s journey with Oliver.  I know how much Sharon valued each reader who came through her life.  I can’t tell you the number of times she shared how humbled she was when people actually read what she wrote.  So on her behalf, thank you and I hope you enjoy Kiss of Death.

HL: Lori, thank you so much for sharing your lovely memories of Sharon with us, and I can well imagine how hard it was to finally let this story go. I'm sure Sharon is looking down from Heaven smiling and wishing she could send Oliver round with a tray of champagne, so before we find out more about Kiss of Death let's raise a toast to Sharon Donovan and Oliver,  and  to Sharon's wonderful editor Lori Graham!

KISS OF DEATH

BLURB:
Santa Must Die.The words in Camille Lafayette's dream are a chilling prelude of events to come. She sees herself as the killer, and when the murder is actually committed, she becomes the prime suspect.

When handsome Detective Oliver Sharone turns up at her New Orleans family home, he is searching for answers. The evidence against her seems damning. An image captured on the victim's camera resembles Camille, and the red feather mask worn by the murderer came from her shop.The instant chemistry between Camille and Oliver is an added complication, which grows deeper as they work together to discover the truth. It becomes a race against time to find the real murderer before he not only loses his heart completely, but the killer strikes again. And this time the victim could be Camille herself.

Excerpt: 

He flashed his badge and offered a cheeky smile. “Detective Oliver Sharoné, New Orleans P.D., Homicide. Are you Camille Lafayette?”

Lulled by the patois of Cajun French in his voice, Camille just stood there, mouth agape. Now that she could clearly see him, he had the most dazzling smile she’d ever seen.

“Ma’am?” His lyrical voice was music to her ears. A rush of hormones surged through her, leaving her weak in the knees. Feeling a burning gush of desire, she forced herself to nod, running her tongue through a very dry mouth and pushing out the words.

“Yes, I’m Camille Lafayette. Is there a problem, Detective?”

Thunder and lightning crashed and collided, wilder and wilder, echoing the primitive beat of her heart. Silhouetted by roiling thunderclouds, Detective Oliver Sharoné looked like a dark and dangerous warrior. Dizzy and lightheaded, feeling drunk with emotion, Camille was as highly charged as the electrical storm. “May I come in for a moment, Ms. Lafayette? I would like to ask you a few questions in regard to a murder I’m investigating.” Camille’s breath caught in her throat. A bolt of panic surged through her. Shaken by the impact, she stammered for words and said nothing. Her pulse fluttered wildly in the hollow of her throat. This sexy cop was about to turn her world upside down.

More details on The Wild Rose Press Site HERE

Sharon was one of the authors on The Author Roast and Toast
Her blog is http://sharondonovan.blogspot.co.uk/
Her website is http://sharonadonovan.com/

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

CONTEST

To win a copy of 'Kiss Of Death' just answer this question in the comments section.

Where does Camille Lafeyette live?

(The answer is in the post)

The winner will be announced on 10th December

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

(I'm also featured on Nancy Jardine's Blog today with a little more about Sharon)
http://nancyjardine.blogspot.co.uk/

Donna Michaels -release day for 'Captive Hero'

I'm so happy to welcome Donna Michaels to my blog today.  Happy release day, Donna, and congratulations.  Put your feet up. get something delicious from the replicator and tell us about yourself and your book.

Donna:   Thanks so much for having me here today. I’m excited and nervous about my first ever self-published release. But this story is special. 

Several years ago, I started writing CAPTIVE HERO as a submission to HQN Blaze, of all things. I'd heard they were entertaining the idea of acquiring time-shift novels. But, then I snagged a pitch meeting with Kate Duffy from Kensington at RT Pittsburg, so I changed the story to a novella. She requested the full, but bless her, she died unexpectedly before giving me a yes or no. I didn't have the heart to do anything with it for awhile, so it sat on my hard drive until this summer after I talked to Sky Purington about self-publishing. I dusted it off, lengthened (it's now 346 print pages), changed the ending to what I wanted and viola--Captive Hero (Book One in my Time-shift Heroes Series) was done.

I'm trying to swim with the big fishes here. lol CH isn't exactly your cookie cutter book. I didn't have to conform the story so it's a little different than anything else I have published. It’s hotter, sexier, and…well, different. I'm really excited and scared about it. Hoping it's well received. I paid an editor to go through it (thrilled to find Stacy D. Holmes freelanced) and she loved it. A lot. So, that made me feel a little easier about going out-side the box on this one.

Buy link:

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B009XLK6CY

Thanks again, for letting me talk about CAPTIVE HERO today. You can learn more about me and my works at my website:  www.donnamichaelsauthor.com  Sign up for my newsletter to keep up with my news, exclusive contests and more!

Bio:

I’m happily married to a military man for over 26 years. We have four children and several rescued cats. My oldest son is married to a wonderful girl who is in her second year of law school. My twin boys are in college, and my daughter is a junior in high school. Yes, life is never dull around our house. 

Reading romance was always a joy to me, and once my daughter entered first grade and I had the house to myself during the day—I started writing romance. Now, several years later, I’m multi-published in eBook and print. I write from short to epic in several romance genres, and am now branching out into self-publishing.

My links:

https://facebook.com/donna.michaels.31

https://twitter.com/Donna_Michaels

http://donnamichaelsauthor.blogspot.com/

http://www.goodreads.com/Donna_Michaels

http://pinterest.com/donnamichaels/

So interesting to learn more about you, Donna.  Now let's see your stunning cover and find out more about the story itself.

Blurb:

When Marine Corp test pilot, Captain Samantha Sheppard accidentally flies back in time and inadvertently saves the life of a WWII VMF Black Sheep pilot, she changes history and makes a crack decision to abduct him back to the present. With the timeline in jeopardy, she hides the handsome pilot at her secluded cabin in the Colorado wilderness.

But convincing her sexy, stubborn captive that he is now in another century proves harder than she anticipated—and soon it becomes difficult to tell who is captor and who is captive when the more he learns about the future, the more Sam discovers about the past, and the soul-deep connection between them.

As their flames of desire burn into overdrive, her flying Ace makes a historical discovery that threatens her family’s very existence. Sam’s fears are taken to new heights when she realizes the only way to fix the time-line is to sacrifice her captive hero...or is it?

Can love truly survive the test of time?

Excerpt: 

Excitement momentarily stamped out her apprehension. Holy smokes. They actually did it. She and Maria were the first to go invisible.

And back to World War II.

“I told you Brad was full of surprises,” Maria stated.

Stretching her free hand out in front, Sam walked forward until her palm met smooth, warm metal. Wow. Just like science fiction. Her shoulders dropped. Only, this wasn’t a movie and no gorgeous, bald, muscle-bound hero would save the day. It was up to her.

“Well, I hope Brad has a surprise to take us back home.” Sam reentered the craft and shut the door. After a few deep, clean breaths, she realized her friend was staring with wide eyes.

“Of course he will. There’s no alternative. If this is 1943 like that voice said, then we don’t belong here. We could change people’s timelines…their very existence. If we interfere, people could vanish from our time. We could vanish.” A long curl broke free from Maria’s regulation barrette as her auburn head shook hard. “No. We must do whatever it takes to get back to our present without interacting with anyone here. Including your grandfather.”

Sam’s chin snapped up.

“Yes. I know you think the Shep on the radio is your grandfather, and the crazy thing is…I think you’re right. But that’s all the more reason to remain unnoticed.”

Sam’s chest tightened until breathing became painful. “I agree. We can’t stay, but neither can Captain Mitchell. He was supposed to die today.”

A deep V wrinkled Maria’s brow. A sight rarely seen on her good-natured friend.

“How do you know? Maybe that Zero was only supposed to hit him a few times.” Maria approached, dark eyes hopeful. “He could’ve outmaneuvered or—”

“No. On December 28^th 1943 Captain Anthony Mitchell went down in a dogfight over the South Pacific,” Sam recited the aged statement word for word. “He was supposed to die today. My grandfather told me. In fact, I know when each and every Black Sheep died or went MIA.”

Maria closed her eyes and exhaled. “This isn’t good.”

“No. Not at all.” Sam rubbed her temples, wracking her brain once again for a solution.

Her friend’s eyes snapped open. “You have to kill him.”

And that wasn’t it.

“No.”  She’d already had the perfect opportunity and was unable to pull the trigger.

 “Yes,” Maria countered. “Look, you said it yourself, Sams. He doesn’t belong here now. His survival will change the course of history, and who knows what will happen.” Jamming her hands on her hips, her copilot frantically paced the ten-by-ten-foot cockpit.

Sam had never seen Maria so upset. Another first for the infallible Lieutenant.

With her dark gaze focused on the floor, the petite bombshell continued to ramble.  “Maybe he does something to allow more terrorists to attack, or…or serial killers. Or a President’s assassination. No.” She stopped, strode straight back to Sam, and grabbed her upper arms. “We can’t let him live. If the captain was supposed to die today and we just screwed that up, then we have to make it right. We have to kill him.” 

Bile rose up Sam’s throat, souring her taste buds. “No!” She jerked out of Maria’s grasp and stumbled to the front of the craft to look out at the picturesque island—so calm, so tranquil.

So full of horrors.

“I can’t kill him, Maria. I won’t kill him.” Her gut clenched at the very thought. “He’s a hero. A Marine. He doesn’t deserve to die.”

God, she could never…

“Well, what are we going to do? We can’t let him change history.” Maria walked over, leaned back against the hull and pinched the bridge of her nose. “I don’t want to kill him either. What other option do we have?”

 “Wait.” Sam cocked her head and tapped her chin, a small niggle of an idea taking root in her brain. “Technically, the captain just needs to go MIA and be removed from this time.”

“Oh ho ho. Wait a minute. Hold on, girlfriend. What are you saying?” Maria dropped her hand and straightened, alarm darkening her already dark gaze. “You’re not thinking of doing what I think you’re thinking of doing…are you?” Her eyes widened. “Oh my God. You are! You’re going to kidnap that man and take him to the twenty-first century!”

Thanks Donna, this sounds like a wonderful story - congratulations again and wishing you many, many sales.

'STARQUEST'    'CHILDREN OF THE MIST'  (The sequel to Starquest)  Dancing With Fate      'Freeread':'A BARGAIN WITH DEATH

                 Also available on Kindle

NEW RELEASE BY SHARON DONOVAN

 My dear friend Sharon has a new release today!


CONGRATULATIONS SHARON,
I hope you'll soon be feeling stronger and able to celebrate properly.

HER BIGGEST FAN - release date 24th September 2010

This is a great, edge of the seat romantic suspense.  I  loved reading it, and it kept me on the edge of my seat!
 
BLURB:

From the shadows of the woods, he keeps vigil. The stage is set to drive the pretty little princess insane. He’s coming for her. And when he catches her, he’ll pounce on her like the big bad wolf.

After receiving a disturbing fan letter, New York Times best-selling author Tess Kincaid flees to the New England home she’s inherited following her father’s death. The manor has been tainted, every room staged to resemble the way it was in its glory days. However when Tess calls the police, the chilling props vanish into thin air.

Ruggedly handsome Sheriff Mike Andretti is called to investigate the reported burning candles, dancing gargoyles and otherworldly events. When he discovers no trace of the eerie setting, he finds himself caught between duty and desire. Is the woman with the bewitching green eyes delusional or is this a trap of twisted wit set by a demented fan?

(Pages 278) Sensual
ISBN: 1-60154-813-3 

Excerpt

Cool air drifted out of the ballroom, carrying the scent of burning candles and cigarettes.

 

Music floated through the corridor, the seductive undertone hauntingly familiar. The music was hypnotic, mesmerizing. Tess could barely think over the loud beat of her heart. Every sense screamed to beware. She was about to come face-to-face with her stalker, her biggest fan. But over the hammering of her heart and accelerated senses, her will to put an end to this deadly game prevailed. She had to face him, find out who was behind this bizarre masquerade. Anticipation mounting, she made the turn at the end of the corridor and came to a riveting halt.

A female wax gargoyle stood in the doorway, long blonde hair billowing in the breeze. Her glass eyes shimmered with madness, an eerie smile on her face. In one hand, she held a mission bell, the other reaching out for a candle.

Music played from the old phonograph, the plucking of guitar strings laced with seduction. A breeze blew in through open terrace doors, stirring the sweet scent of jasmine from the candelabras.
Two wax nymphs stood at the bar, glass eyes shining bright in the candlelight, pliable fingers wrapped around flutes of pink champagne. Lit cigarettes burned in ashtrays. From behind the bar, a winged monster served drinks.

In the center of the ballroom, two gargoyles held a pose as if they were dancing, their waxy bodies closely pressed together, their reflections glowing in the mirrored ceiling. From the old phonograph in the corner, the hypnotic music played.

Tess gasped, her hand clasping her mouth. “Oh, my God!”

Mike raised his gun, circled the room. “Come out with your hands up. Hancock County Sheriff. Put your hands where I can see them.” 

Purchase link:
http://www.thewildrosepress.com/her-biggest-fan-p-4234.html?zenid=f3c41bab65e544378926cef26195f5e8

You can follow Sharon's progress on her Blog, which I'm updating as and when I get news.

http://sharondonovan.blogspot.com/

Karlene Blakemore-Mowle - release day for 'Fallout'

It's my great pleasure to welcome Karlene Blakemore Knowle to my blog today, to celebrate the release of her novel 'Fallout', from the Wild Rose Press.

(There is a short silence as Karlene steps forward onto the stage. She waits while the thunderous applause dies down. Lyn gestures to Karlene to take a seat.)

HL: Make your self comfortable, and tell us a little bit about yourself first, Karlene.

KB: I have four children and a real life hero husband. I started writing about nine years ago then stopped to have children. I’ve since thrown myself back into writing a year ago and haven’t been able to stop.

HL: That's how it gets one, Karlene! LOL. Have you had anything published, apart from 'Fallout'? KB: I had a small play performed locally and Fallout is my first published book.HL: The first book is always so exciting, Karlene and it must have been fun to see your own play performed. Before we read the blurb and excerpt of your book, tell us what you enjoy writing about the most?KB: I love to write about Australia and its diverse landscapes. I have been fortunate enough to have lived in both extremes and have a deep and loyal love for all regions of my big, beautiful country. On weekend’s I love to enjoy the beautiful coast, I’m lucky enough to call home.

HL: It's wonderful to live in a beautiful location, isn't it. It does help to inspire the muse! Finally, where can readers contact you, Karlene?

KB: I can be contacted on facebook, MySpace, and Twitter.
Feel free to come and take a look at my blog: http://karlybm.blogspot.com where you can find my trailer to Fallout and special interviews with Jake and Tully.

HL: That's a great trailer, Karlene, and I loved reading the interviews. I understand you've also just received a new contract, so it's double congratulations and a double celebration, wow, what a great day for you!

Now let's find out more about your new book release!

Blurb for Fallout. RELEASING TODAY!

Risking their lives for others is second nature, but can they trust each other enough to risk their hearts?

Tully Chambers is no damsel in distress. An up and coming detective, she had her sights set on promotion until the day her partner was murdered and she ended up on the run from the mob.

Jake Holden has demons of his own. Having served his country for over twenty years, he’s found himself wounded, alone, and without a plan for his future. What starts as a simple diversion--trying to figure out the feisty little waitress next door—turns out to be his most dangerous mission yet.
From the tropics of Far North Queensland to the rugged isolation of the Northern Territory in Australia, two modern-day warriors discover their greatest fear isn’t that of a madman’s revenge–but of laying their hearts on the line for love.


Excerpt for Fallout.

Someone was trying to break in…

“Who are you?” she demanded.

“What the hell?” The intruder struggled, to twist without success, beneath her.

Tully registered his deep voice before repeating her question. “Who. Are. You?”

“Jake Holden,” he growled back.

“Why are you breaking into my house?”

“Lady, I have no idea what you’re talking about. This is my house. I’m trying to open my door.”

Now that her eyes had adjusted to the light outside Tully could make out the profile of a strong face, grimacing in pain. He had short dark hair and was nicely built. Under her knee she noticed his strong neck and broad shoulders. He didn’t have the physique of a body builder, all muscle and no neck, but he still appeared to be very fit. She also smelt alcohol. While she wouldn’t have said he was inebriated, his reaction time had been off a little.

“I just moved in today. You can check my licence and see for yourself,” he offered, grunting in pain.

“Where is it?”

“Well, if you let me up I’ll get it out for you”

She wasn’t about to let this guy up just yet, not until she got to the bottom of this. “Where’s your licence?”

“Front right hand side in my trousers.” His tone came out stiff and full of wounded indignation.

“You’ve gotta be kidding me. Who keeps their wallet in their front pocket?” she scoffed, thinking he had to be lying to create an opportunity to make a break for it.“It’s not in my wallet, I just took my ID and cash to the pub,” he growled. “But if the thought of sticking your hand down my pants scares you—”

Ooh you can't leave it there Karlene - oh well what a great hook! Thank you so much for being my special guest today, and I hope you have loads of sales.

Purchase 'Fallout' Here: http://www.thewildrosepress.com/fallout-p-3855.html

Donna Marie Rogers

It's my great pleasure to welcome Romance author Donna Marie Rogers to my blog to day, on the first day of her tour. Donna lives in a renovated old schoolhouse in beautiful Northeast Wisconsin with her husband and children. She's an avid gardener and home-canner, as well as an admitted reality TV junkie. Her passion to read is only exceeded by her passion to write, so when she's not doing the wife and mother thing, you can usually find her sitting at her computer creating exciting new characters, fresh new worlds, and always happily-ever-afters.

To whet your appetite, here's the 'blurb' her new release, 'Meant To Be' which will be released by The Wild Rose Press on 17th July.

She's running from her past, he's unsure about his future. Maybe together they can figure out what was MEANT TO BE. Officer Garrett Jamison is at the lowest point in his life. He’s lost faith in his ability as a police officer after unwittingly setting his sister up with a dirty cop. Garrett ended up getting shot, and his sister's son kidnapped right out of his own bed. He takes a leave from the force, in need of some time to make a decision about his future. Too bad he can't get a decent night's sleep thanks to his sexy new neighbor and her howling cat.

Jessica McGovern moves halfway across the country to start a new life in Green Bay, Wisconsin after her ex-husband is convicted of involuntary manslaughter in the death of their young son. Her new neighbor is as infuriating as he is handsome, but when her ex is released from prison early and shows up in town, Jessica discovers she's never needed anyone more...

Oh, that sounds very intriguing - and a howling cat? Hmm, lets find out a bit more with an excerpt:

Standing there in nothing but a pair of black gym shorts, he was too hot for words. Damn him.

"So what can I do for you?" He leaned negligently against the doorframe, an almost pleasant smile curving his lips.

"I'm here to see Nick. Is he home?"

The smile disappeared. He straightened and crossed his arms over his chest, which made those huge biceps bulge even more. Jessica realized for the first time he had a tattoo. Huh. She wouldn't have thought him the type. Frankly, she thought tattoos were sexy, if they weren't garish, which his wasn't. It looked to be some sort of Chinese symbols.

Probably means `He-with-head-too-big-for-hat.'

"You're barking up the wrong tree there, honey. Nicky's married to his computer."

"Not that it's any of your business, but that's exactly why I'm here. I'm having trouble with my online service and was hoping he could help." Now why did she feel the urge to explain herself? Double damn him.

He looked her up and down in an insultingly blatant manner. "I know a thing or two about computers.

"No kidding? Great, next time I need help surfing the porno sites, you'll be the first one I call."

His eyes went cold. "You think I'm just some big, dumb Neanderthal, don't you?"

Jessica gave him the same insulting once over he'd given her. "If the leopard toga fits..."

"I happen to have a BS in Computer Science."

Hands on hips, jaw working furiously, he looked so offended Jessica was hard-pressed not to laugh. "I don't understand. You could be making a lot more money in computers than you are as a cop. And you wouldn't be putting your life in danger on a daily basis." She glanced meaningfully at the scarred flesh visible just above the waistband of his shorts.

"This didn't happen in the line of duty. Besides, I love being a cop."

He said it as if she should've instinctually known it. Jessica sighed. Garrett Jamison was turning out to be much deeper than she'd imagined. "It's a noble profession. It's also a very dangerous one."

"True enough. But it's not as if I have a family who's dependent on me."

She reached up to tuck a stray lock of hair behind her ear. "What about your uncle, or your sister and brothers? Or your nephew? I'm sure they'd all be devastated if something happened to you."

"What about you?"

His voice had taken on a deep, sexy timbre that turned Jessica's knees to mush. Garrett Jamison was entirely too gorgeous for his own good--or for hers. "What about me?"

Before she knew what he was about, he reached out and cupped the side of her face, tracing his thumb over her cheekbone. "Would you miss me if something happened?"

"What a thing to ask," she breathed, her gaze centered on his full lips. "I barely know you." Was he going to kiss her? Right there where any of the neighbors could see? Not that she'd mind...

"Uncle Garrett, the game's set up. Can we order pizza now?

Garrett snatched back his hand, and Jessica's gaze dropped to the little boy leaning possessively against his leg.

Was it her imagination, or was the little stinker glaring daggers at her?

"Hi, Ethan, my name is Jessica"

I know."

Nope, not her imagination. In fact, the scowl on his face was downright hostile. Now what in the world had she done to warrant such disfavor?

"Ethan, you watch your manners," Garrett growled.

"Yes, sir."

He cast her one last mutinous scowl, then turned and ran back into the house. Jessica had to resist the urge to laugh. She wouldn't take his behavior personally. The boy obviously adored his uncle and didn't care to share him. Another fascinating layer of Garrett Jamison--loving uncle.

"Sorry about that. Ethan's a good kid. I'm not sure what got into him."

"My guess would be old-fashioned jealousy. You two apparently have plans for the evening, and when he saw us...talking, his young mind assumed I was trying to lure you away."

A frown creased his forehead. "I don't know. Ethan knows I'd never abandon him. For anyone."

Ouch, point taken. She shrugged. "You know him better than I do. I'm just telling you what I saw. Well, this has been fun, but I need to get back. Mr. Louie doesn't like to watch TV alone."

Garrett chuckled. "Give His Highness a scratch behind the ears for me."

"What? Just this afternoon you suggested I have him euthanized

"Good Lord, woman, can't you take a joke?" Garrett winked at her, then stepped back and closed the door.

Jessica shook her head. The man was crazy, no doubt about it. He was also so handsome it should be a crime. With a sigh of frustration, she headed back home to watch Wheel of Fortune.

HL: That Garett sounds a real 'hottie'. Go on then, I'm sure everyone's dying to know a bit more about you. Tell us a little about yourself and your childhood.

DMR: Oh, good, I get to bore you right out of the gate...LOL I'm a wife and mother of two awesome daughters, 5 and 10. We moved up to Northeast Wisconsin about 15 years ago from the south suburbs of Chicago, where my husband and I both grew up. I suppose I had a typical childhood. I'm a child of the 70s and 80s, so I grew up with Atari, Kool-Aid, classic rock, and the Brady Bunch. :)

HL: The Brady Bunch eh? And what do you do for fun when you're not writing?

DMR: Besides reading and watching my kids play, I'm a gardener and home canner. I also love to watch TV, which isn't such a good thing. But I love reality shows, soap operas, sitcoms, House, Bones...LOL

HL:Sounds like you have plenty to keep you occupied, *grin*! so when did you start writing?

DMR: I first started writing back in the early nineties. After years of reading every romance novel I could get my hands on, I decided to take a stab at writing one of my own. And I quickly discovered that writing an entire story wasn't as easy as I thought it would be. I have a stack of notebooks full of partially written stories. But then I sat down at my computer in early 2004 with a kernel of an idea, and eight months later I typed THE END of There's Only Been You. I started writing Meant To Be almost immediately after since I was so in love with Garrett by then...LOL

HL: Oh, yes. I know what it's like to fall for a character. What comes first then, the plot or the characters?

DMR: For me, the characters. All of my stories are character driven, which is important to me. Soap operas are plot driven, which can be super frustrating for longtime fans. Because I'm writing a series, I wouldn't want my readers to think, "Wait, he/she wouldn't do that!"

HL: Tell us about your latest release, and what you think readers will enjoy about it.

DME: There was never any doubt I'd write Garrett's story and make this a series. I fell in love with the big lug immediately. Garrett is a good guy, but he's a moody SOB...LOL

OFFICER GARRETT JAMISON is at the lowest point of his life. He believes a cop’s greatest asset is his instinct and feels he lost his the night he got shot and his precious nephew kidnapped right out of his own bed. So he takes a leave from the force while he considers whether he wants to remain a police officer, or start looking into another career. If only his infuriating—and gorgeous—neighbor would keep her pesky cat from howling outside his window at all hours of the night...

JESSICA MCGOVERN struggles back from the brink of depression after the death of her young son. She packs up her old pickup truck, her mammoth gray-and-white tabby, Mr Louie, and moves halfway across the country for a fresh start in Wisconsin where she’s rented her uncle’s house. As it turns out, Midwesterners are just as friendly as she’s always heard they were. Too bad her cran

ky new neighbor is the exception to the rule...

HL: Now, that does sound intriguing. Mr Louie sounds a 'cutie' too, LOL. OK then. If someone were to play one of your characters in a movie, which character and what actor would it be and why?

DMR: I think Sam Elliot would make a great Uncle Luke. Garrett's a 6' 5" dark-haired

hulk, so no one really comes to mind to play him. But there's anactor on the soap opera One Life To Live who I think would make a perfect Jack Sutton (Jack's story is in the works). His name is Mark Lawson:

HL: Mm, Mark Lawson! Good choice. I like Sam Elliot too!! Have you a favourite actor/hunk? Would this be the same guy you mentioned above?

DMR: I admit, I've quickly fallen in lust with Mark Lawson. But some of my favorite hunks are Maksim Chmerkovskiy of Dancing With the Stars; actors Ryan Reynolds, David Boreanaz, Gerard Butler; and singer Joe Nichols (I don't even like country music, but that man is HOT! LOL)

HL: What have you learned about writing since you were published that surprised you the most?

DMR: Promotion is hard work! LOL

HL: What’s your writing process? Has it changed since writing your first book?

Sadly, I have no writing process at the moment. I hope that once my baby starts Kindergarten this fall, I'll finally be able to set aside a nice chunk of time during the day for writing...and exercising!

DMR: Do you listen to music when you write and if so, what kind of music – or do you find it distracts you?

HL: I don't, really. I usually have the TV on...which can be a problem since I get sucked into a good program quite easily...LOL

HL: Do you have a support system? Do you have a writing community? What valuable lessons have you learned from them?

DMR: I have an amazing group of writing friends from my local chapter who help me stay positive and on track. My critique partner, Stacey Joy Netzel (also my co-author on Welcome To Redemtion), is amazingly supportive, as are my good friends Jamie & Dulcie. I've learned so many things from all of them, though nothing specific comes to mind. Sorry, I'm terrible under pressure...LOL

HL: What is your personal definition of success?

DMR: Happy, healthy children, a roof over our head, food on the table, a little money in the bank, family, friends...I can't think of anything else I need to be successful in life.

As far as writing, making the NY Times Bestseller list would be a dream come true. I could die a happy camper.

HL: What is your favourite source of inspiration?

DMR: There's just nothing better than reading a good book to recharge my creative battery. In fact, I've been charging my 'battery' for a couple weeks now...LOL

HL: Is there any advice, as a new writer, that you were either given, or wish you had been given?

DMR: I spent a lot of time tweaking my manuscripts per contest judge's comments/suggestions, which became incredibly frustrating as the comments started to become contradictory. I finally learned to just trust my gut instincts.

HL: If you were an animal, which one do you think you would be, and why?

DMR: Geez...I don't know...LOL I'm a Leo, so probably a lion. And I sure do love the story of Christian the lion. I even have a youtube video on my Myspace www.myspace.com/donnamarierogers

HL: Oh yes, there was a documentary on the tv over here not long ago. So wonderful to see an animal back in the wild where it belongs, but still remembering its human friends. Finally Donna, is there a question you really, really wish someone would ask, but they never do? If so what would be your reply?

DMR: "Donna, who do you think is the sexiest hero ever written?"

"Joe Winston from Say No To Joe? by Lori Foster.

HL: "I have to admit I haven't read that one - now I'm going to have to, to find out more about Joe Winston!
Thank you for being my guest here today, Donna, it's been wonderful finding out more about you, and I wish you amazing sales with 'Meant To Be.'

DMR: Thank you so much for letting me kick off my virtual blog tour with you, Lyn.

HL: It's been a real pleasure, Donna.

You can find out more about Donna Marie Rogers at her website: http://www.donnamarierogers.com/

RELEASE DAY!

Today sees the official release of the sequel to my debut novel 'Starquest'. I have to tell you I loved writing 'Starquest' it was 'the book of my heart' as they say - but I really enjoyed writing 'Children Of The Mist' too, and the characters had a few surprises for me, which were fun to discover along the way.

My sweet friend and fellow author, who has, herself, some wonderful releases with the Wild Rose Press, and some more in the pipeline, is generously hosting a contest to celebrate my new release at:

http://www.skypuringtonwrites.blogspot.com/

Please help me show my appreciation by popping along to her blog and enter the contest - you have nothing to lose but a little time and enjoy browsing around her fascinating blog while you're there.

I'm also intervied by Twisted Sisters at
http://3twistedsisters.wordpress.com/
And join in as we all guzzle a glass of virtual champagne!

Phew after all that excitement, I think I need to lie down!

RELEASED TODAY!

Today's the day!


After what seems an eternity, STARQUEST finally sees the light of day! I am so excited and I can hardly believe it. I've also had a revised print date - Starquest will be in paperback on 5th DEMBER, just in time for Christmas.

To add to the excitement, I was interviewed today by Christina Phillips. (Thanks Christina, I really enjoyed being interviewed by you.)

You can read the interview HERE

Also I'm holding a CONTEST on my My Space Blog. To find out all about it, go to my Starquest My Space and check out Jess's Blog.



To whet your appetite, here's a short excerpt from the first chapter:

Part One
Chapter One

The scream of the red alert cut rudely into Jess’s dreams, waking her Instantly. She sprang from her bunk and ordered the computer to shut off the alarm, then pulled on her bodysuit and raced the short distance from her cabin to the flight deck. She flung herself at the control panels. The flickering lights above the main computer console and the figures on the visual output screen demanded immediate attention.

Her fingers elicited no response when she ran them rapidly over the tactile command pads. She looked up and addressed the main computer panel.

“Jaii, these readings are crazy. We’re way off course and nothing’s working on manual, either. I thought I’d fixed the fault. What’s going on?”

The image before her wavered, the familiar features distorted.

Emergency, the J.A.II series computer intoned, with what sounded like a Hint of panic. Serious malfunction of auto navigation array, inertia dampers and control systems, including shrouding device failure. Life support systems severely compromised. All systems currently operating on emergency power. Auto-repair systems unable to reverse degradation. Main drive calculated to reach critical mass in fourteen minutes and nine seconds.

“What? Why didn’t you wake me earlier?”

Such action would have been pointless. You could have done nothing further. I anticipated that the auto-repair systems would keep the situation under control. When the position became unsustainable, I transmitted an emergency beacon before waking you.

“What are the chances of the signal being received?”

There is insufficient data to form an accurate prediction.

“A guess would do.”

The image darkened as if about to fail completely, although a moment later it sputtered grudgingly back to life.

“Well, I can’t see help reaching us before the ship blows,” Jess muttered, her voice grim. She had only one course of action available. She was

heading in the direction of the emergency airlock and her escape pod when the computer’s voice made her stop and turn back to the flight deck again.

It appears...the signal...has been answered. My sensors indicate a large starship on our trajectory. Available data shows that since it would have been outside the range of our sensors when the beacon was transmitted, it must have attained previously unrecorded speeds to reach us so quickly. We are currently being scanned.

Despite the distortion, combined with the gravity of the situation, Jess had a fleeting sense of something akin to amusement. The computer gave the impression of looking and sounding almost envious as it recited the data relating to the other ship’s size and speed. The strange ship was obviously larger and more powerful than anything previously encountered — and phenomenally fast.

“It would help if our scanners were operational,” Jess said in frustration. Frantically she activated another control, and the titanium shield covering the observation panel slid back. “Well, at least something works.” She gasped at the sight of the starship speeding toward her craft. She took in the long, sleek lines of the main hull with its lethal-looking weapons array. The nacelles on each side gave the appearance of the backward sweeping wings of a gigantic bird of prey. Its graceful double tailfins glowed, radiating a pulsing, golden light. Jess tore her gaze from the panel. Her situation was too critical to muse over the aesthetics of the unknown vessel. She had to leave her ship, and quickly.

Attention, the computer commanded. Imperative you eject in the escape vehicle immediately. Repeat, eject immediately. Life support systems are not sustainable. Drive mass will reach critical in eleven minutes and thirty-seven seconds. All functions deteriorating. I am no longer able...to...stabilise...

The electronic voice slowed and then faded completely, the image dissipating as if it had never existed.

If you'd like your very own copy, there is a purchase link HERE