Title: Cougar
Author: Christine Davies
Genre: Historical Romance
Book Blurb:
When Cady Grayson inherits her grandfather’s ranch, she must navigate a world of deception to find the thwarted heir—before he finds her. She might survive the hidden dangers, if only she could crush her fascination with the man who drifts in and out of her life, leaving her wanting more.
Cougar is a man torn between two worlds. Of mixed heritage, he has been shunned by the family he knew as a child. He becomes Cady’s ally but, unwilling to let her into his heart, keeps a tight rein on his emotions and escalating attraction.
Meanwhile, a secret could douse the beginning spark of love. Can Cougar and Cady set aside long-held beliefs to let fiery passion forge an eternal bond?
Excerpt:
“How did you know my name?”
“I was sent here to take you to Santa Fe.” When her eyes widened in disbelief, he added, “Your grandfather asked me to meet you, before he—”
“Why didn’t you say so earlier?”
“I didn’t know who you were until I saw the hotel register.”
“Who are you?”
“Cougar.”
“Yes, I know your name. But who are you?”
“A friend of your grandfather’s.”
“Hmm,” Cady murmured uneasily. He seemed awfully young to be a friend of her grandfather’s. Perhaps he was the son of a friend. That was a bit more reassuring…and believable.
“I’ll give you a few minutes to dress and pack.”
“Why?”
“We’re leaving.”
“But the stage—”
“We won’t be taking the stage.”
“Why not?”
“We can’t afford to wait. It’s obvious what they wanted—”
“They’re gone now,” she pointed out.
“They may come back,” he countered.
“I will take my chances and wait for the stage,” she said stubbornly. “But don’t let me stop you. You may leave—”
“You don’t seem to understand,” he admonished, his tone stern. “You’re in danger. What if I hadn’t arrived when I did? What if I hadn’t even been in the hotel?” He cocked his head, arching one brow. “Can you honestly believe they won’t try again?”
She started to refute his logic, but her earlier scare returned, sapping her of the strength to argue. She sank to the bed, torn with uncertainty. If he spoke the truth, her grandfather had trusted him enough to escort her to his ranch in Santa Fe, so she should be able to trust him as well. If he lied…well, time would tell. And she most certainly did not want to be here if those ruffians did come back.
“All right, I will go with you.”
Cougar sat down next to her on the bed, wanting to comfort her. It wasn’t at all like him, but he’d heard the uncertainty—or was it anxiety—in her voice. He put his arm around her shoulders and drew her up against his side. He pushed her face against his chest and stroked her hair, unintentionally stirring up the scent of violets. The fragrance awakened something deep inside, a feeling altogether new to him.
Cady allowed herself to be comforted and relaxed in his embrace. It had been so long since anyone had treated her with kindness, she was more than content to accept what he offered. After a moment, though, her body was again suffused with warmth, the fluttering in her stomach returned, and flustered, she pulled away.
“I’m fine, truly,” she told him, her voice trembling.
Without thinking, Cougar did what he had wanted to do since he had first laid eyes on her. He kissed her. Nudging her chin up with one finger, he brushed his mouth lightly across hers. The contact was electrifying, surprising them both, and sending a powerful current running through them at lightning speed. They gazed into each other’s eyes, as if trying to understand what had just happened. When none dawned, he bent down and captured her mouth, settling his lips on hers and pulling her in closer. Several long minutes of pure bliss passed.
Buy Links (including Goodreads and BookBub):
Publisher: https://wildrosepress.com/product/cougar/
What’s your favorite part about being a romance author?
Having been a fan of the genre for years, I now get to stretch my imagination and create characters who, after overcoming setbacks, danger, and their own issues, are joined in a blaze of love.
Here’s my tip to add romance to your love life:
Open yourself up to the romantic possibilities around you; and don’t be afraid to take a chance on love.
Giveaway –
One lucky reader will win a $100 Amazon gift card.
Open internationally.
Runs February 1 – 28, 2025
Drawing will be held on March 1, 2025.
Author Biography:
I have always had a passion for love stories. At an early age, I started reading historical romance novels which inspired me to write one of my own. When I'm not weaving romance and mystery to create my stories, I enjoy floral film photography, watching classic movies, and chocolate.
Social Media Links:
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Website christine-davies.com