Step into the untamed frontier of the Savage series by Cassie Edwards, where passionate romances between Native American warriors and spirited settlers ignite against a backdrop of rugged landscapes and cultural clashes! This beloved collection of historical romance novels, steeped in drama and sensuality, has captivated readers with its vivid storytelling, even as it stirred controversy. Let’s explore the wild heart of Savage and why it remains a cornerstone of Native American romance.
How Savage Began
Cassie Edwards, a prolific romance novelist, launched the Savage series in 1993 with Savage Illusion. Inspired by her Cheyenne grandmother, Edwards aimed to weave tales of love that honored Native American cultures while embracing the steamy allure of historical romance. Over nearly two decades, she penned 35 standalone novels, each set in the American frontier, blending meticulous tribal research with formulaic yet addictive love stories that hooked millions of readers.
The Heart of Savage
The Savage series thrives on its signature blend of erotic romance, cultural tension, and vivid settings. Take Savage Illusion, where Jolena, a Blackfoot woman raised by white settlers, falls for Spotted Eagle, a warrior who awakens her heritage and heart. In Savage Spirit, Chief Cloud Eagle kidnaps Alicia, a white woman, sparking a forbidden passion amidst tribal rivalries. Savage Secrets follows Rebecca Veach, whose quest for her outlaw brother leads to a steamy romance with a renowned Native warrior. Each novel delivers melodrama, with rugged heroes and brave heroines navigating love against societal odds.
Themes of forbidden love, cultural identity, and survival dominate the series. Edwards’ lush descriptions of frontier life—from Minnesota forests to Wyoming plains—immerse readers, though her portrayals of Native traditions have faced criticism for inaccuracies and stereotypes. Despite this, her unapologetically sensual style and fast-paced plots keep fans returning for more, earning the series its ‘bodice-ripper’ reputation.
Why Savage Resonates
The Savage series carved a niche in the romance genre, selling over 10 million copies by 2007 and earning Edwards a Romantic Times Lifetime Achievement Award. Its bold exploration of interracial romance in a historical context resonated with readers craving escapist passion. Though plagiarism accusations in 2008 tarnished Edwards’ career, leading to her retirement after Savage Dawn in 2009, fans still cherish the series for its nostalgic charm and unapologetic drama. Savage remains a testament to the enduring appeal of Native American romance, inviting readers to embrace its wild allure.
- First Book: Savage Illusion (1993)
- Last Book: Savage Dawn (2009)
- Total Books: 35
- Awards: Romantic Times Lifetime Achievement Award
Ready to lose yourself in a world of rugged warriors and fiery heroines? Grab Savage Illusion and dive into the passionate frontier of Cassie Edwards’ Savage series!