In 1970 a program was initiated to restock one of America's deadliest and most efficient predators back into the wilds of South Carolina. This predatory restocking program, organized by a well-intentioned group of environmentalists and a university biologist unwittingly unleashed a lawless, unmerciful, and remorseless scourge on a low country community. The animal chosen for this program was the North American Cougar, a merciless predator designed to stalk, kill, and eat other animals. The program, a success, helped to control the rapidly increasing deer herd within South Carolina, and soon was left unattended, forgotten.until a devastating hurricane thirty years later forces one of these predators from the shielding forests and blackwater swamps. She is forced to search for easier prey amongst modern society. Her only chance for survival, for food, is.MAN. A veteran law enforcement officer and a gregarious wildlife biologist join forces to end the murderous rampage. Hunter becomes prey as they resolutely seek to remove this primeval "ghost in the shadows" from society. She is ancient instincts.She is man's fear of the darkness . She is cunning and deadly.She is PUMA READER'S PRAISE "Puma is a fast paced thriller set in current day South Carolina. This is a captivating novel and keeps the reader in suspense. Although this book exhibits extraordinary skill in writing, this thriller is not recommended for younger children or those weak of heart.." -Cassie A Barrow, Confederate Veteran July/August 2007 "Ted Gragg has masterfully created an 'edge of your seat' thriller set in the wilds.I couldn't put it down and neither can you." -Lt. Colonel Mark A. Singleton USMC. retired "Puma is a tale reminiscent of Jack London's 'Call of the Wild' with a modern-day monster as terrifying as Grendel's Beowulf. Puma is a book that only Ted Gragg could write. Based on his personal experiences...it masterfully describes a unique land and its people, traditions and values. It also skillfully reflects the keen eye of a seasoned outdoorsman sportsman, guide, and story-teller." -Stewart Pabst, Director (ret) Horry County Museum Director S.C. Civil War Museum "Fast-moving, dramatic, and peopled with colorful Southern characters. Reads like a movie script" -Rod O. Gragg, Author Covered With Glory