Cougar's First Christmas

Cascade Shifters #1.5

by Jessie Donovan

Willing to chance arrest and jail time, cougar-shifter Sean Fisher wants to make human Lauren Spencer his mate and Christmas is the perfect time to do it. However, on the way to obtain her parents' approval, a car runs them off the road. When Sean wakes up, he's tied up and alone, at the mercy of an anti-shifter group.

Six months ago, Lauren never would've pictured herself with a cougar-shifter, but Sean was everything she hoped for and was willing to risk it all to be his mate. Yet when a staged car crash tears him from her side, Lauren must reach out to his clan--a clan she's never met--for help before it's too late.

Can Lauren and Sean be together for Christmas? Or, will their differences be too much to overcome and rip them apart?

Genres: Paranormal Romance, Shapeshifters, Paranormal, Audiobook, Contemporary Romance, Novella, Romance

95 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 4, 2014

About the author

Jessie Donovan has sold over half a million books, has given away hundreds of thousands more to readers for free, and has even hit the NY Times and USA Today bestseller lists. She is best known for her dragon-shifter series, but also writes about magic users, aliens, and even has a crazy romantic comedy series set in Scotland. When not reading a book, attempting to tame her yard, or traipsing around some foreign country on a shoestring, she can often be found interacting with her readers on Facebook. She lives near Seattle, where, yes, it rains a lot but it also makes everything green.

Reviews

[Melanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

5*s
Review posted here...
http://bookpassionforlife.blogspot.co...

Cougar’s First Christmas is a novella in the Cascade Shifters series and as the title suggests we have a cougar to swoon over. Sean Fisher is a cougar shifter who has chosen to make Christmas all about his girlfriend Lauren by proposing and making her his mate. Lauren Spencer is human and really shouldn’t be with a shifter, it’s illegal for starters but with people being attacked by the Human Purity movement – times are scary for those connected to the shifters.
They are both willing to take the risk and start by setting off to meet Lauren’s parents…..but on the way they are crashed into and forced off the road. When Lauren comes to, Sean is gone and the only thing Lauren can think to do is contact the one person she knows will help him – his alpha. With that phone call, Lauren is thrust into the shifter world where she must show her mettle and demand that Sean be rescued…. Will they ever be together again? Will Lauren be able to give him her secret Christmas present? Will the shifters even accept her?
I really enjoyed this book and loved the Christmas theme, what could be more perfect than a Christmas proposal? I liked that Sean & Lauren’s relationship isn’t allowed but that they’re willing to take the risk for love, there’s something about a forbidden love that pulls at your heartstrings more because you know they could be dragged apart at any minute…. And of course that is what happens. We became aware of the shifter enemies in book one and it is carried over well here, we see just what they’re about in how far they will go to get their way. Everyone hates prejudice apart from those who inflict it but the lengths some will go to in the name of purity is horrid and really makes you feel just what the shifters are up against…. And that is just one of the enemies. It was nice to see a few familiar faces too as the shifters rally for Sean’s rescue and it was good to see how they reacted to Lauren. Even though there was plenty of drama and plenty of sexytime to steam up those pages…. there is an overwhelming sense of family, love, hope, acceptance and new beginnings. This was a great dip into the Cascade Shifters world and complimented book one perfectly – I look forward to more

[Eva Millien · Rating 5 out of 5]

Willing to risk it all, cougar-shifter Sean Fisher wants to make human Lauren Spencer his mate but before they can get her parents’ permission Sean is taken captive by an anti-shifter group in this exciting paranormal holiday romance.

With a fast paced and smooth flowing plot, this romance hold reader’s captive with suspense, excitement and romance. The reader’s can’t help but get caught up in the passion that exudes from Sean and Lauren as they try to figure out a way for their happily after. The chemistry explodes from the pages and the sex scenes are scorching but he’s a shifter and she’s human and it’s against the law for them to be together

Spine tingling anticipation builds throughout the story as Lauren and Sean are run off the road and Sean is taken. Lauren will have to reach out to the clan for help if Sean is to survive but one thing is for sure the strong willed Lauren take them all on to get her man.

The fascinating world draws readers in while the strong compelling characters ensures that they come back for more and the well written scenes and details bring the story to life and I for one can’t wait to read the next one.

4 ½ STARS

[Emily Graves · Rating 4 out of 5]

Short, smutty, dramatic and sweet. Everything I expected from the title and cover.

[iliana G · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was given this ARC by the author to beta read and for an honest review.
I don't think i have found one book of Jessie's that i didn't like.
In this one we meet Sean and Lauran truly and madly in love with each other but with all the odds against them as he is a cougar and she is a human and that love is a no go.
The goverment is against them the laws are against them and even the Human Purity is against them.
Will they be able to over come all the difficutlies?

[Rachel-RN · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent novella. It had some romance and drama. Well paced and plotted. Just might have to check out more from this author.

[Sydney M Neblett · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’ll be home for Christmas

This book might be a novella, but the author managed a fully fleshed out story in these short pages. I love that we got to see the strength of the characters and their love for each other before she threw us right into the deep end of danger. They had to fight long and hard for their HEA, but during it all they found their perfect Christmas gift. This is the first book I’ve read of the author’s that didn’t include dragons and I enjoyed every minute of it. I am looking forward to reading more of her work in the future.

[Hilary Collins · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brilliant Series

Cougar’s First Christmas (Cascade Shifters Book 2) by Jessie Donovan. Cougar shifter Sean and human Lauren had fallen in love but it’s illegal for humans to live with shifters they had to be careful what they did but Human Purity, who hated humans being with shifters, had noticed and kidnapped Sean. Lauren was not taken, managed to find Sean’s mobile and phoned the shifter Clan leader who organised Sean’s rescue.

[Melissa · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked this book. I did find in the beginning the repetition of calling Lauren human a bit annoying. We all know she is human and that Sean is a shifter let’s stop repeating it so much. The rest of the story was good.

[John Piper · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love this series! Jessie is an amazing author!

[Avey Shannon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great story, wonderful characters!!

[Katrina D'amour · Rating 5 out of 5]

Strong

I loved it but only wished it were longer. The strength of Lauren as a human is uplifting and the intense emotion was provoking.

[Deborah Countryman · Rating 3 out of 5]

Cowbear's First Christmas

Lauren a human, and in love with Sean a Cougar Shifter. It is Lauren Christmas wish to be mated wish Sean!

[Brenda Allen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jessie Donovan has a way with keeping you interested in a story. Great book. A must read.

[Tena Burton · Rating 5 out of 5]

😀

I really love this author and I loved this book I can't wait to read more by her Off to the next book

[Jonel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Donovan has created another winning story in her Cascade Shifters series. She takes us back into to her sinfully hot and decadently dangerous world without missing a beat. This well written novella is both suspenseful and emotional. Donovan also continues to build her shifter world, broadening our horizons throughout.

I loved getting to know these new characters. The trials that they have to face and the sacrifices that they have to make are so daunting that you’re left wondering how they could possibly come to a conclusion. At the same time, the joy that they have when they’re together allows you to understand that in reality their decision wasn’t really a decision at all, but simply a fact of life for them. I also enjoyed the reappearance of characters from the other Cascade Shifters stories. Their cameos not only served to tie the series together but also allows you to place this story in the broader context of the packs as a whole.

This brilliant standalone novella is the perfect read for shifters and humans alike. The trace of heat & scent of danger will keep you on your toes while giving you a dash of Christmas spirit.

Please note that I received a complimentary copy of this work in exchange for an honest review.

[Cassandra · Rating 5 out of 5]

My Thoughts - 5 out of 5 Unicorns - I loved it!!!
***Received this ebook from the author for an honest review but I also bought it as soon as it released :)

The cover is awesome, but you would think that she was the cougar with her eyes. I totally love the cover, and it definitely attracts a shifter lover like me to grab it and read it.

Okay this is a novella, so it is a quick read. I wish it was another full book because it was over way too quickly. Of course this book also is for adults only and has some very steamy scenes in it. It was awesome and full of action and drama. Jessie really is a fabulous author and one of my favorites :)

I loved Lauren as a character because she didn’t take crap from anyone, and she is very loyal. She wouldn’t let a shifter try to intimidate her.

Sean is strong and sweet. I totally wish I had a shifter of my own just like him :)

Okay, so I’m wondering when the bears are going to become part of the book series, and I really hope another book comes out soon because I already love this series :)

I highly recommend this book and series to those awesome people who want a shifter of their own and especially if you already have enjoyed some of Jessie’s stories because you won’t want to miss this one :)

[Yvonne Daniels · Rating 5 out of 5]

I rate this five stars. Jessie Donovan create amazing Christmas story. Once I started reading nothing make put it down untl I was finish and wanting more The story is steamy and hot. I am in love this romance of Sean and Lauren their love is passionate. We were given a taste of the characthers from other books in the series. Sean will go to any lengths to get to Lauren. Their trust and love is the kind where either could get you killed or worse. Sean realizes when he awakes and Lauren isn't with him that he must get to her. Lauren is trying to rally the clan to fine him. While Sean is held captive Lauren is learning the clan and she reveals that she is pregnant and will help Sean anyway she can. This story will keep you turning the pages and so when you finish this book in the series, you'll be wishing that you could read the next book in the series. I especially like the way the author incorporate characthers from prior books in the series. I can't say this enough that this BOOK is AWESOME FANTASTIC BOOK. A MUST READ !!!! If your list is long like mine, this one should be on TOP OF PILE

[Jess O. (From Jess to You) · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 out of 5 stars!! After six months of being together Sean wants to officially claim Lauren as his mate and propose to her, even if that means going against the laws and figuratively putting targets on their back for the purist groups to attack them...

Sean and Lauren's connection is palpable in a way that make the reader want to read more about them! Both are feisty which made reading about what they go through to protect one another, and their relationship, an enjoyable experience. It definitely got me interested in this series! In addition, it also reminded me a bit of Ms. Ashley’s Shifters Unbound Series with the way the world knows about shifters, most don’t like them, and there are laws against them.

Read more of this review and A TEASER here: http://frommetoyouvideophoto.blogspot.com/2015/11/made-grade-taming-alpha-by-20-fabulous.html

[Cheri · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am lucky enough to have both ebook and audio of this wonderful story.

In Sean and Lauren's world shifter's are not allowed to date, and certainly not marry or mate with humans. Love doesn't always follow the rules and these two certainly don't. They risk punishment from the law and torture from hate shifter groups.We see them on Christmas eve. A joyous, steamy evening with unforgettable gift exchanges. The next day they begin their journey for Sean to meet the parents. The best-laid plans--Lauren wakes alone in the in the car, contacting Sean's clan to help him.It isn't just the hate groups that are against the match. But, not everyone in the cougar clan is against either. Will they help rescue him? If they do and are successful, what about Sean and Lauren? Can they be together? Where will they go?There are surprises and celebrations, feisty mates and alpha males, enough steam to warm a winter day and a book you will want to hear again and again. As always, Jessie Donovan gives a gift of words to her fan--I am one of her biggest fans.

[Terisia · Rating 5 out of 5]

In this book in the Cascade Shifters series, Jessie Donovan continues her fresh way of looking at the world of shifters, and how it relates to and with the human world. Sean, a cougar shifter, and Lauren, the human destined to be his mate, must hide their relationship in a world where shifter and human mating is illegal. When they set out to share Christmas with Lauren's parents, the Human Purity group manages to kidnap Sean. Lauren is strong, and she does what needs to be done to save her love's life. She still has a surprise to share with Sean, and it's a big one.

This is a sweet, hot story that made me think about the prejudices humans hold against people and things different than they are. I recommend you read this book, and be sure to read Jessie's other books - they are terrific!

(I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.)

[Miranda Beazley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this book from the author in return for an honest review.

Humans and shifters are not supposed to mate, they're not even supposed to date but Sean is a cougar shifter who has fallen in love with Lauren a human. It's their first Christmas and Sean asks Lauren to be his mate. She is hesitant as first and on the way to her parents to introduce them to Sean for the first time tragedy strikes. They are separated by Human Purity. Now the race is on to defy their captors.

This was a novella full of fun, full of action and adventure. A great addition to the cascade shifters series. Lauren is such a strong female, she's anything but a shrinking violet and the way she stands up for herself is amazing. Sean is an amazing mate and spends the book ensuring Lauren's safety.

Can't wait to see what else Jessie brings to the cascade shifters series.

[Jocelyn Devon · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a story about Lauren, a human female and Sean, a cougar shifter who fall in love. It is against the law for a human and a shifter to be a couple, fall in love, marry and mate but Lauren and Sean are determined to be together. There is a Human Purity hate group that is determined to keep the human race as pure as possible. If they have to kill a few shifters in the process all the better.

Lauren is a feisty, determined woman who knows what she wants and is willing to risk her life for the man she loves. Sean is a man determined to protect what is his even if it means he must risk his own well being. I enjoyed this story and the romance that bloomed between this couple. I admired Lauren's courage when it came time to prove what she was capable of and her love for Sean to other shifters.

I look forward to reading more of this series in the future.

[Judy Lewis · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved it! This is the third story from the Cascade Shifters Series and I love them all. Exciting! Well Written! Smart! Imaginative! Thrilling! Captivating! Romantic! Sweet! Sensual! Sexy! Ms. Donovan has once again demonstrated her exceptional talent and writing ability. The characters are sweet, quirky and interesting. The story draws you in while weaving a web of magic and fantasy around you. It entertains and enthralls you with the promise of true love conquers all. Who doesn't love a sweet Christmas miracle with a special little surprise kicker.......right? This story has it all! Sexy Cougar shifter-check! Beautiful strong heroine-check! Romance, true love and angst-check! Such a wonderful story to celebrate the Christmas season!

[Shelley · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a novella and part of Ms. Donovan’s Cascade Shifters. I haven’t read the previous stories and can report that it is indeed, a standalone read.

Sean Fisher is a cougar shifter, and he is in love with Lauren Spencer, a human. The pair live during a time when it is illegal for humans and shifters to date or live together, so they’re both treading a narrow line. This is a Christmas story of two people who love each other but can’t be together without sacrifices and danger.

The love scenes are hot. The characters are fleshed out and very much in love. The writing is good. While the plot is something I’ve read before countless times, this book was an easy and pleasant way to while away my evening.

Book provided by author in exchange for an honest review.

[Ana · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another Cascade Shifter

When I read Sylas story I fell in love with the Cascade Shifters, not to mention I've never stopped thinking of Sy..lol

Sean and Lauren are an unlikely couple not only is he white and she black, but he is a cougar shifter and she is human. They also live in times when there is much prejudice against shifters, it is against the law for humans and shifters to have a relationship.

Sean and Lauren have found a love for each other that knows no bounds and they are willing to face all the bigotry that exists. Will they be able to overcome all the obstacles thrown their way?

Again Ms. Donovan has me hooked, this is the 2nd book off hers I've read tonight and if I had more I'd read them too...Hurry and write some more will ya?

[Claudia · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved it!
My first contact with Jessie Donovan and I am hooked.
Part of the Taming the Alpha Pack, sweet and short story.
The shifters secret is out. Humans know about them and as usual they hate everything they do not know about. The Shifters are not allowed to interact with humans on a personal level, they usually stay on their territory and are persecuted by hate groups.
Sean and Lauren are dating since 6 months and are in love.
Christmas is a special occasion for both of them to confess their secrets and desires.
After Sean is kidnapped by a hate group, he escapes with the help of Sean's pack mates. Lauren and Sean get their HEA (don't want to give spoilers). It was enough to make me get the other books in the series.

[Persefani D · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book totally surpassed the awesomeness of the first Cascade Shifters books "Reclaiming the Wolf" and it's prequel "Convincing the Cougar". The main female lead, Lauren, was a tough chick and didn't let anyone walk all over her which I loved. I also liked the fact the she wasn't your typical white character. While I might be as pale as they come, I love stories that have ethnic and cultural variety in their characters. It also made me happy that the story is set around Christmas because I just LOVE holidays. You know…..a Halloween story would be pretty awesome too….*hint hint* lol :)

[Cilicia White · Rating 5 out of 5]

Six months after they first started dating Sean and Lauren are on their way to visit their families to celebrate their first Christmas together, but of course things don't go as planned and they are attacked by people who want to eliminate all shifters and punish humans who dare to be with them. Since it is illegal for the pair to be together Lauren must go to Sean's pack to help her get back her love. Even though this story is only a novella it has lots of action and also a HEA. Can't wait for the next book in this series.

I received a copy of this book for a honest review...

[Chuck Christy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have always found Ms. Donovans writing style enjoyable, and found this book to be no different. The book pulls you in from the start and never lets you go. In these pages you will find, love, romance, and adventure. What else could you ask for? The story follows a cougar shifter, and his human girlfriend, who he wants to make his mate. The story twist and turns to a climatic happy finish. If you like fantasy romance, then you will not be disappointed. I had the privilege of reading this book prior to it's release.

[Donna Hokanson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Delayed Christmas present
This is a wonderful holiday story about a shifter (Sean) and his human love (Lauren). With Human Purest wanting to stop loves like this happening and separating them. Trouble comes for them on the way to Sean meeting Laurens parents for the first time. Cane love triumph over the human purist and there plans to separate them. Well written and very entertaining to read this self-contained story.