Last week, I introduced you to Emery, the heroine of Catching the Cowboy, the first book in the Summer Creek series. Today, I’m excited for you to meet Hudson Cole, the hero.
As I mentioned in an earlier blog post, Summer Creek is the blending of two ideas I had for new books. When I first began imagining a new ranch series, I knew the hero of the first book was going to be burly and a bit surly (but that just hides his marshmallow heart). Hudson Cole is a combination of that character with the one I dreamed up when I began thinking about this series.
Hud is a cowboy, a rancher, a father, a grandson, a brother, and a good friend. Those who make their way past that serious exterior find a good, honest, hardworking, loyal person. He’s grown up in Summer Creek, knows everyone there, volunteers when he’s needed and often before he’s asked, and does his best to help others.
Summer Creek Ranch is his home. The ranch has been in his family for generations. He lives there with his grandmother, Nell, and his precocious daughter, Cricket, who Hud thinks is six going on thirty. While Hud can be a bit standoffish to strangers, he is a big softie when it comes to his little girl.
When I was envisioning Hud, what he’d look like, who he would be, the first image that popped into my head was of Henry Cavill.
You know – Henry of the Superman and Justice League movies? That Henry.
Not only is he incredibly handsome, he’s just perfect for how I pictured Hud in my head. Those blue eyes, that dimpled chin…
Swoon!
Even though this isn’t one of my historical romances – I’m still saying swoon!
Henry really is exactly how I picture Hud. I think there is a sweetness about him, a softness in his eyes, that I envision Emery seeing in Hud, in spite of how much he tries to hide it, especially from her.
Here’s a little excerpt from when Hud first sets eyes on Emery:
Unexpected visitors rarely showed up at the ranch, and certainly not in cars that cost more than he’d make all year. The possibility existed that his grandmother had invited someone and forgot to mention it to him. It wouldn’t be the first or last time.
As he approached the house, Hud observed a driver getting out of the car, then two older men exiting the backseat. One of them looked familiar, but he couldn’t place why. A slim young woman slid out and stood between the men. His breath caught for a moment as he watched the afternoon light create a halo around her, making her skin glow and her hair sparkle like each strand was spun with gold.
Painful recollections from his past, of another golden-haired woman, slapped over him with the force of a tidal wave. He brought a gloved hand to his chest, rubbing at the ache that suddenly began to throb in the region of his heart. Determined to ignore the tumultuous feelings generated by his thoughts, he shoved the memories back down in the fortress buried deep in his soul where he kept them.
Don’t miss out on Emery and Hud’s story. Order your copy today for just $1.99. The book releases June 9!
It’s available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Apple!
12 Responses
I am so excited for this new book and series. I love love the cover!! That cover is BEAUTIFUL. I especially love books with children and Grandparents. I love Cass and Nana from the Grass Valley series and I just know Cricket and Grammy will find a place in my heart as well. All your wonderful characters come alive in the pages of your books just as if they are living, breathing friends. I believe that’s one reason I love your books so well is that you make your characters come alive and they walk straight into my my heart. Love and Hugs to you Shanna
So love hearing that, Glenda. It makes my heart happy to know my characters touch your heart. Thank you, sweet friend!
Hi Shanna, I’m eagerly awaiting the release of this book. I agree with Glenda’s comment..I like stories with grandparents and children too!
Hope you and your dad are doing well. Enjoy some outdoor time and sweet sunshine. Blessings, my friend.
Cindy
Thank you so much, Cindy. We are doing okay – thank you for asking.
And I think grandparents and little ones are so fun to add to stories. Hope you enjoy meeting the Cole family!
Swoon for sure! This sounds like an amazing book and series! Best of luck!
Aw, thank you so much, Stephanie! <3
Can’t wait! And man alive, but Hudson is crazy handsome! Love your books 💝
Stay safe and healthy!
Aw, thank you, Judy! Hope you’ll love Emery and Hud’s story, too!
I am excited to read this story. I love the cover and yes, swoon worthy hot guys. Is this new town close to Grass Valley?
Seems a bit familiar.
This will be another wonderful series.
How many books are planned for this series?
Hi Dorothy,
This town is about 3 1/2 hours from Grass Valley, but who knows if one of the Thompsons or Morgans might show up. 🙂
I’m really excited about this new series and right now have three books planned to release this year, but plans for more in the future. It could have as many as the Pendleton series if readers like the characters and the setting.
Thanks for stopping in today!
Have a great weekend!
I kind of wanted May to take its time about leaving us (like it would stick around right) but after reading both Emerie’s and Hud’s exerpts I sure hope June comes on quickly!
A bit silly, but I am wanting to read this new series. These two are going to make a spectacular story!
Thank you Shanna! With each of your books I think I’ve thanked you for bringing us terrific and believable situations that work out in the best way possible.
The pictures make it all seem more real too.
Oh, thank you, Janie! I know what you mean about May lingering, but eager for June and the book to arrive, too. Thank you for your faithful readership – and friendship. I so appreciate you. And thanks for the kind words, too.
Have a wonderful weekend!