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Southern Sanctuary #1
To Woo a Warrior
It was common knowledge that Hadleigh Valhalla was a complete failure when it came to men. Too blood thirsty. Too tall at 6.6ft and without a coy bone in her too voluptuous body. If there had been a ‘fun, flirty and feminine’ test she would have failed it hands down.
Thankfully she was much more suited to her role as an Enforcer, protecting her magically enhanced eccentric extended family on a daily basis from all kinds of nasties. It was a job she loved, much preferring to be out there beheading the baddies than dating any day of the week … much less stressful.
Except now there’s a new threat in town. Great Aunt Alma, the family match maker has returned to the fold and set her sights squarely on all the singletons. Hadleigh will do anything she has to in order to avoid Alma’s matchmaking manoeuvres even if that means signing on as the newest member of the hit reality TV show ‘Paranormal Exterminators.’
Vaughn, Captain of the Goddess Maat’s elite warriors has a mission, to find and annihilate any and all magical beings that threaten to tilt the scales of justice into chaos.
A paranormal reality TV show provides the perfect cover. But there’s trouble on set. Their only female cast member has gone missing and they need a replacement fast. Enter Hadleigh Valhalla, the most luscious thing on two legs he’s seen in a century. From the moment he sets eyes on her he’s determined to make her his.
There’s only one problem, Hadleigh insists she has a strict no dating policy. Claiming she’d rather be fighting than flirting.
A series of mishaps means it’s a race against time for Vaughn and Hadleigh to discover just who is targeting the show and stop them before someone gets seriously hurt or dead. While doing so Vaughn intends to teach Hadleigh to break all the rules and prove to her she is just as much woman as she is warrior.
His warrior. His woman.
Thankfully she was much more suited to her role as an Enforcer, protecting her magically enhanced eccentric extended family on a daily basis from all kinds of nasties. It was a job she loved, much preferring to be out there beheading the baddies than dating any day of the week … much less stressful.
Except now there’s a new threat in town. Great Aunt Alma, the family match maker has returned to the fold and set her sights squarely on all the singletons. Hadleigh will do anything she has to in order to avoid Alma’s matchmaking manoeuvres even if that means signing on as the newest member of the hit reality TV show ‘Paranormal Exterminators.’
Vaughn, Captain of the Goddess Maat’s elite warriors has a mission, to find and annihilate any and all magical beings that threaten to tilt the scales of justice into chaos.
A paranormal reality TV show provides the perfect cover. But there’s trouble on set. Their only female cast member has gone missing and they need a replacement fast. Enter Hadleigh Valhalla, the most luscious thing on two legs he’s seen in a century. From the moment he sets eyes on her he’s determined to make her his.
There’s only one problem, Hadleigh insists she has a strict no dating policy. Claiming she’d rather be fighting than flirting.
A series of mishaps means it’s a race against time for Vaughn and Hadleigh to discover just who is targeting the show and stop them before someone gets seriously hurt or dead. While doing so Vaughn intends to teach Hadleigh to break all the rules and prove to her she is just as much woman as she is warrior.
His warrior. His woman.
250 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 22, 2013
44 people are currently reading
860 people want to read
About the author
Jane Cousins
22 books151 followersAn optimist, yet overly sarcastic. Big on bringing the laughs and the heat to her paranormal romance and cosy mystery series. A huge fan of snark, with a side order of bickering and a double heaping of banter. Delivering to the page sweet alpha males and their more than a match female counterparts. Before wrapping it all up in a hugely satisfying HEA each and every time.
Living in Melbourne, Australia, with her blue tongue lizard, that pokes it head out from under the porch twice a year. When not writing, can generally be found reading.
The Beast of Gloomenthrall - a snarky, fun & hot stand alone romantasy - Released January 2025
Currently hard at work on book 15 - To Crave A Curse (Southern Sanctuary series)
Follow me on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/JaneCousinsW... or Twitter for all the latest - @JCousins_Author
or - become a fan on Goodreads, read my blog and get all the latest news.
Living in Melbourne, Australia, with her blue tongue lizard, that pokes it head out from under the porch twice a year. When not writing, can generally be found reading.
The Beast of Gloomenthrall - a snarky, fun & hot stand alone romantasy - Released January 2025
Currently hard at work on book 15 - To Crave A Curse (Southern Sanctuary series)
Follow me on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/JaneCousinsW... or Twitter for all the latest - @JCousins_Author
or - become a fan on Goodreads, read my blog and get all the latest news.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews
July 5, 2019
That was fun! It started out with a bang when our heroine, Hadleigh, is stuck wearing a bridesmaid's dress from hell. Not only was it a puke-green color and the shape of a potato sack, it also had a multi-colored ass bow. Nothing like getting your friends back for everything they have ever done wrong to you by making them dress like a swamp creature in front of a huge audience.
The flowers really bring the whole outfit together.
Hadleigh is a warrior and 6'5, which is just a tad bit taller than most of us ladies. Like, a foot taller. Because of this, she has a hard time getting dates. Plus, she can never wear cute fuck-me shoes. Always flats...
Every guy is the short guy compared to her.
Everyone in this world is magical, well except the normal humans like us. It totally sucks that we are the schlubs, but whatever. Hadleigh has warrior powers and lives in a town where all of her magical relatives live, and working as one of their protectors. Her aunt manipulates her into auditioning for a reality show that is basically like Ghost Hunters. In other words, bullshit.
The show is basically a cover story for real warriors to hear reports of magical activity that they can squash out so that the schlubs (us) won't know that magic exists. They make a stupid television show that is super fake so that people will scoff and think there is no such thing as ghosts & other nasties.
The warriors are seven hot guys that are demi-god like so I think each one will get a book. The leader of them is the hero in this one. He gets one look at Hadleigh and is instantly in love. He's taller than her, so Hadleigh can finally get those heels she's been eyeing. In a size 16 women's. Yeah, good luck with that, Hadleigh.
At least she never falls over.
The only problem with the book was that Hadleigh had super low self-esteem when it came to her appearance. It got a little old. But, aside from that I really liked it. The warrior dudes were funny, Hadleigh was sarcastic and badass, and there was plenty of magical action going on. I am off to read the next one.
The flowers really bring the whole outfit together.
Hadleigh is a warrior and 6'5, which is just a tad bit taller than most of us ladies. Like, a foot taller. Because of this, she has a hard time getting dates. Plus, she can never wear cute fuck-me shoes. Always flats...
Every guy is the short guy compared to her.
Everyone in this world is magical, well except the normal humans like us. It totally sucks that we are the schlubs, but whatever. Hadleigh has warrior powers and lives in a town where all of her magical relatives live, and working as one of their protectors. Her aunt manipulates her into auditioning for a reality show that is basically like Ghost Hunters. In other words, bullshit.
The show is basically a cover story for real warriors to hear reports of magical activity that they can squash out so that the schlubs (us) won't know that magic exists. They make a stupid television show that is super fake so that people will scoff and think there is no such thing as ghosts & other nasties.
The warriors are seven hot guys that are demi-god like so I think each one will get a book. The leader of them is the hero in this one. He gets one look at Hadleigh and is instantly in love. He's taller than her, so Hadleigh can finally get those heels she's been eyeing. In a size 16 women's. Yeah, good luck with that, Hadleigh.
At least she never falls over.
The only problem with the book was that Hadleigh had super low self-esteem when it came to her appearance. It got a little old. But, aside from that I really liked it. The warrior dudes were funny, Hadleigh was sarcastic and badass, and there was plenty of magical action going on. I am off to read the next one.
June 19, 2017
So happy I found this in my TBR mountain
I love it when I unexpectedly find a gem like this. Even better it's the first in a series! Snarfled them all up over the last week and indulged in late nights since I couldn't put the books down once started.
Hadley the heroine is a delight, strong and feminine. Vaughan is hot, an alpha but not an alphahole, and smart.
The secondary characters are all strong personalities, but afraid to be next on Alma the matchmaker's list.
Definitely going in my keeper, favorite read list. Looking forward to more books by this author.
I love it when I unexpectedly find a gem like this. Even better it's the first in a series! Snarfled them all up over the last week and indulged in late nights since I couldn't put the books down once started.
Hadley the heroine is a delight, strong and feminine. Vaughan is hot, an alpha but not an alphahole, and smart.
The secondary characters are all strong personalities, but afraid to be next on Alma the matchmaker's list.
Definitely going in my keeper, favorite read list. Looking forward to more books by this author.
January 6, 2020
January 6, 2020 update:
My feelings about this book -- actually, this entire series -- have not changed at all. It's so freaking good. I've forgotten how much Hadleigh and Vaughn give me all the feels.
If you like fun, fast-paced, engaging PNR reads, then this couple, with their great banter, their awesome push-and-pull, will definitely bring a smile to your face. Do give this book a try! I highly recommend it!
March 13, 2017 review:
This is such a fun, fun read! Jane Cousins is a new-to-me author and I heard about this series of books from the "PNR/UF Addicts & Newbies" Group. I have already lined up book 2 and plan to read that as soon as I put up this review!
My feelings about this book -- actually, this entire series -- have not changed at all. It's so freaking good. I've forgotten how much Hadleigh and Vaughn give me all the feels.
If you like fun, fast-paced, engaging PNR reads, then this couple, with their great banter, their awesome push-and-pull, will definitely bring a smile to your face. Do give this book a try! I highly recommend it!
March 13, 2017 review:
This is such a fun, fun read! Jane Cousins is a new-to-me author and I heard about this series of books from the "PNR/UF Addicts & Newbies" Group. I have already lined up book 2 and plan to read that as soon as I put up this review!
February 2, 2017
OMG - I LOVED this book. Honestly. From the opening scene of the wedding to the wonderfully satisfying - wrapped up in a giant bow- HEA.
Hadleigh, best heroine I've read in ages. Strong. Capable. Deadly. With some flaws but so darn funny.
Vaughn, our Hero - I'm in love. Where can I get me a Maat warrior to go? Seriously, he was alpha, but he was also sweet and charming. He sets his sights on Hadleigh and he's a goner, only problem is, he has to convince her. And the story lives up to the title - he does set about wooing her - and those dating rules... I just melted.
The family matchmaker, the wacky magic extended family, the bridesmaids, Maat's warriors, the invisible sheep - I loved them all. This world was just so darn charming. The dialogue was at times LOL, fun, snappy, snarky and down right charming.
There's a bit of action, some decent bad guys but for me, this was all about Vaughn wooing Hadleigh. Sigh, just perfect.
Hadleigh, best heroine I've read in ages. Strong. Capable. Deadly. With some flaws but so darn funny.
Vaughn, our Hero - I'm in love. Where can I get me a Maat warrior to go? Seriously, he was alpha, but he was also sweet and charming. He sets his sights on Hadleigh and he's a goner, only problem is, he has to convince her. And the story lives up to the title - he does set about wooing her - and those dating rules... I just melted.
The family matchmaker, the wacky magic extended family, the bridesmaids, Maat's warriors, the invisible sheep - I loved them all. This world was just so darn charming. The dialogue was at times LOL, fun, snappy, snarky and down right charming.
There's a bit of action, some decent bad guys but for me, this was all about Vaughn wooing Hadleigh. Sigh, just perfect.
September 30, 2020
Nearly DNF'ed when the hero, Vaughn, went on a sudden diatribe about how self-obsessed and superficial skinny women are, like no way are they real women. (See page 34, Kindle edition, for reference.) Ok, fine, you want to uplift curvy women, that's great. But please don't do it at the expense of putting down women who aren't curvy. Body shaming goes both ways, and it's disgusting either way. Period.
And the whole little rant about just made my blood boil. Not to mention, why is this even being brought up? And by the hero of all people ?!! Ugh, please no. Could folks just let us women decide what we want to do with our own bodies and NOT condemn us for it, in fiction or in the real world?
Anyways, I could not for the life of me warm up to Vaughn at all, regardless of how "great" and loving he was with Hadleigh. Who, by the way, had wangst-level insecurities that were so over-the-top, it just got annoying to read. And the gross rants about what "real women" are certainly didn't help at all.
On the other hand, the plot was almost non-existent. According to the summary, Hadleigh's supposed to be this tough warrior woman who kicks ass, and combined with the fake cover-up "ghost busters" reality tv show scheme, I was looking forward to some awesome action girl monster-busting moments. Nope, most of it was behind-the-scenes, out of sight. Instead, we got far too many contrived moments of Vaughn trying to woo Hadleigh, who kept wondering why he even bothered because she was oh so not a woman at all. *sigh*
Sure, the dates were kind of cute and some of the dialogue/scenes gave me a chuckle here and there, but I was annoyed and bored out of my mind, wondering where the plot was. The last third of the book was ok, if rushed, but not enough for me to say I really enjoyed it.
This just isn't for me, I guess.
And the whole little rant about just made my blood boil. Not to mention, why is this even being brought up? And by the hero of all people ?!! Ugh, please no. Could folks just let us women decide what we want to do with our own bodies and NOT condemn us for it, in fiction or in the real world?
Anyways, I could not for the life of me warm up to Vaughn at all, regardless of how "great" and loving he was with Hadleigh. Who, by the way, had wangst-level insecurities that were so over-the-top, it just got annoying to read. And the gross rants about what "real women" are certainly didn't help at all.
On the other hand, the plot was almost non-existent. According to the summary, Hadleigh's supposed to be this tough warrior woman who kicks ass, and combined with the fake cover-up "ghost busters" reality tv show scheme, I was looking forward to some awesome action girl monster-busting moments. Nope, most of it was behind-the-scenes, out of sight. Instead, we got far too many contrived moments of Vaughn trying to woo Hadleigh, who kept wondering why he even bothered because she was oh so not a woman at all. *sigh*
Sure, the dates were kind of cute and some of the dialogue/scenes gave me a chuckle here and there, but I was annoyed and bored out of my mind, wondering where the plot was. The last third of the book was ok, if rushed, but not enough for me to say I really enjoyed it.
This just isn't for me, I guess.
July 5, 2020
Squeeeeee!!!! Sorry, but there is no other way to describe the enormous high this book left me on. It rocked. There was magic, an interfering matchmaker, a reality paranormal tv show, 7 alpha warriors to drool over, ugly bridesmaid dresses, invisible sheep, effortless world building and it was fun - so funny I often found myself laughing out loud.
Loved Hadleigh, our heroine. Almost seven feet tall, kick ass and with some issues when it comes to her self-esteem and flirting - but think we can blame a lot of that on her annoyingly wonderful brothers and men who just never understood her or felt threatened by her. Not Vaughn, he takes one look at Hadleigh and he knows that they belong together. Convincing her is the test.
Man, does he step up. The dating rules were sweet and kind of lovely. And the heat these two exuded, that built and built, loved it.
Layered world with heaps of marvellous secondary characters whom I'm looking forward to finding out more about. This was a great blend of fun and heat that made my toes curl. The HEA had me walking on air for a few hours. Diving straight into book 2.
Loved Hadleigh, our heroine. Almost seven feet tall, kick ass and with some issues when it comes to her self-esteem and flirting - but think we can blame a lot of that on her annoyingly wonderful brothers and men who just never understood her or felt threatened by her. Not Vaughn, he takes one look at Hadleigh and he knows that they belong together. Convincing her is the test.
Man, does he step up. The dating rules were sweet and kind of lovely. And the heat these two exuded, that built and built, loved it.
Layered world with heaps of marvellous secondary characters whom I'm looking forward to finding out more about. This was a great blend of fun and heat that made my toes curl. The HEA had me walking on air for a few hours. Diving straight into book 2.
July 19, 2019
If you are a fan of Shelly Laurenston then you will love this Aussie author. Ever had one of those reads where you are both laughing and fanning yourself because of the sizzle factor? Then you need to check this book out.
From page one you are thrown into this magical world, full of fun characters and it kind of feels like coming home.
Hadleigh, our very tall, curvy warrior woman would rather be fighting and has no idea how to flirt. Enter the interfering family match maker who puts her in Vaughn's sights. Our Maat warrior takes one look and he wants to get to know her. Even better, woo her, through a series of sweet/funny dates.
There are some bad guys, a bit of action, a really great/witty sex scene (no skimming, this was cute and hot) lots of zinging dialogue, and best of all a satisfying, tied up in a bow HEA.
Can't wait to dive into book 2.
From page one you are thrown into this magical world, full of fun characters and it kind of feels like coming home.
Hadleigh, our very tall, curvy warrior woman would rather be fighting and has no idea how to flirt. Enter the interfering family match maker who puts her in Vaughn's sights. Our Maat warrior takes one look and he wants to get to know her. Even better, woo her, through a series of sweet/funny dates.
There are some bad guys, a bit of action, a really great/witty sex scene (no skimming, this was cute and hot) lots of zinging dialogue, and best of all a satisfying, tied up in a bow HEA.
Can't wait to dive into book 2.
January 8, 2018
Loved this world. Splendid heroine - witty, kick butt and just awesome. Thought the dating rules were hilarious. Major props to all the secondary characters; her family (plus those invisible ninja sheep) and his awesome fellow warriors. Made me laugh out loud. Humour, action and a sweet steamy romance. Can't wait for the next book in the series.
August 31, 2017
this story was a pleasant surprise...so incredibly sweet. loved that the guy took her on dates to woo her and tried everything in his power to win her over without being overbearing and forceful. loved it
April 15, 2017
3.5 Stars!
I was promised a light hearted fun paranormal romp in an interesting magic system and that is exactly what I got.
I am looking forward to the frothy reading of this series with a matchmaking great aunt on the loose.
I loved the steadfast hero and the kickass warrior heroine. I wish her self esteem issues weren't such and issue and we got more depth in the world and with each of their relationships.
However, I am sure each of these factor will build through out the series making each book more and more rich.
I was promised a light hearted fun paranormal romp in an interesting magic system and that is exactly what I got.
I am looking forward to the frothy reading of this series with a matchmaking great aunt on the loose.
I loved the steadfast hero and the kickass warrior heroine. I wish her self esteem issues weren't such and issue and we got more depth in the world and with each of their relationships.
However, I am sure each of these factor will build through out the series making each book more and more rich.
July 4, 2016
Loved this book. Where has this author been hiding? The characters were wonderful. A gorgeous alpha H who is funny, sweet and way hot. A capable strong h with flaws and a kick ass attitude. Loved their witty dialogue. I was laughing out loud when it came to the dating rules. Even the sex scene made me smile... and hot at the same time. Wow.
This world was interesting (without any major info dumps) and the secondary characters were funny and added layers to this world. I wanted to know more about each and every one of them, so I'm off to dive into book 2, yeah, can't wait.
Loved this first book in the series. And have immediately added Jane Cousins to my list of favourite authors. Anyone who can create a hot steamy romance and make me laugh at the same time deserves it.
This world was interesting (without any major info dumps) and the secondary characters were funny and added layers to this world. I wanted to know more about each and every one of them, so I'm off to dive into book 2, yeah, can't wait.
Loved this first book in the series. And have immediately added Jane Cousins to my list of favourite authors. Anyone who can create a hot steamy romance and make me laugh at the same time deserves it.
October 8, 2016
How good was this book! So cool. And funny. What a great world. Occupied with splendid characters, who are witty, strong, flawed and so much fun.
Loved the H & h. Hadleigh and Vaughn - a romance with sparks, snappy dialogue and a side serving of sweet to add to the hot, hot match up. A very reluctant h, and a determined to win her over - in a sexy/sweet manner - H.
The set-up was original. And there was lots of little elements added that made this world really come alive. Great secondary characters, monsters, and bad guys.
Loved it - and can't wait to dive into book 2.
Loved the H & h. Hadleigh and Vaughn - a romance with sparks, snappy dialogue and a side serving of sweet to add to the hot, hot match up. A very reluctant h, and a determined to win her over - in a sexy/sweet manner - H.
The set-up was original. And there was lots of little elements added that made this world really come alive. Great secondary characters, monsters, and bad guys.
Loved it - and can't wait to dive into book 2.
January 2, 2022
I've tried to read this multiple times over the last 5 years. I finally finished it and didn't like it. The h's low self esteem was tedious, the H didn't communicate. Others love it, think it's funny but not for me. It's sort of mad-cap Aussie humour that was childish and YA. At least it was free.
July 23, 2020
DNF @ 30%. I just couldn't do it. I wanted to love this... so many people on so many threads were talking it up.
My issues were this:
The heroine seems a little off kilter. Like... loves, loves, loves beheading. This screams pschopath to me. It wasn't in a funny, cute, way. It was in a... this girl needs good, professional, therapy sort of way.
The forced hand holding made me feel gross and confused. Why is a grown man doing this? Especially one who is a "tough" warrior.... are we in high school? Elementary? Just make it stop.
Stabbing her new teammate with a fork? Really??? (Again, read, psychopath). And then for that teammate to grovel asking for forgiveness? Did someone cut off his balls or something? Bc this is too much.
And none of that even begins to describe feeling like you've jumped into the middle of a conversation the entire time. There was so much dialogue about crap I didn't understand or couldn't connect right out of the gate that it was painful to read through.
My issues were this:
The heroine seems a little off kilter. Like... loves, loves, loves beheading. This screams pschopath to me. It wasn't in a funny, cute, way. It was in a... this girl needs good, professional, therapy sort of way.
The forced hand holding made me feel gross and confused. Why is a grown man doing this? Especially one who is a "tough" warrior.... are we in high school? Elementary? Just make it stop.
Stabbing her new teammate with a fork? Really??? (Again, read, psychopath). And then for that teammate to grovel asking for forgiveness? Did someone cut off his balls or something? Bc this is too much.
And none of that even begins to describe feeling like you've jumped into the middle of a conversation the entire time. There was so much dialogue about crap I didn't understand or couldn't connect right out of the gate that it was painful to read through.
February 15, 2022
3.5 stars... It was a very good book to get me started with reading again. There were a few funny moments and Vaughn did seem very delicious!
March 23, 2016
amazing series, i found a new favorite author, i read all 7 within days and now waiting for the next...... wish there was more now. the books ate amazingly writen and funny as hell, i dont know how it took me so long to find this author.... just read them all you wont regret it
April 28, 2018
Really enjoyed this, the only thing that could make it better is if there was an audio book!
August 1, 2018
4 stars
This was a fun PNR story, not too dark and with enough humour and action to keep me turning the pages. I can't believe this author isn't better know! If you're into PNR with a touch of humour, a fan of Shelly Laurenston, G.A. Aiken, or Thea Harrison, you need to read this.
Hadleigh is a reinforcer in her magical sanctuary world, and she's been match-made by her meddling aunt, to audition for a reality show about paranormal. I love the Sanctuary family dynamics (aka the teasing). Hadleigh is a kick-ass heroine, she's a little blood thirsty in a fun way, which reminds me a little of G.A Aiken's heroines, but mixed in with some insecurity about her height, despite apparently being quite a stunner.
Vaughan is a good hero, but he had a little less depth for me, and I find the over-possessive hero thing a little cliché in this genre. He says "mine", he even growls. He doesn't like the flirting or the looks. But while he doesn't like it, he isn't too controlling (from what I recall).
While this isn't the deepest most emotionally moving romance, it's just one that is just enjoyable and keeps you smiling. After polishing off this book, I quickly read the next few in the series in a row, and they were all enjoyable in their own way.
At A Glance
HEA
OW/OM drama
Cheating
Other safety concerns
This was a fun PNR story, not too dark and with enough humour and action to keep me turning the pages. I can't believe this author isn't better know! If you're into PNR with a touch of humour, a fan of Shelly Laurenston, G.A. Aiken, or Thea Harrison, you need to read this.
Hadleigh is a reinforcer in her magical sanctuary world, and she's been match-made by her meddling aunt, to audition for a reality show about paranormal. I love the Sanctuary family dynamics (aka the teasing). Hadleigh is a kick-ass heroine, she's a little blood thirsty in a fun way, which reminds me a little of G.A Aiken's heroines, but mixed in with some insecurity about her height, despite apparently being quite a stunner.
Vaughan is a good hero, but he had a little less depth for me, and I find the over-possessive hero thing a little cliché in this genre. He says "mine", he even growls. He doesn't like the flirting or the looks. But while he doesn't like it, he isn't too controlling (from what I recall).
While this isn't the deepest most emotionally moving romance, it's just one that is just enjoyable and keeps you smiling. After polishing off this book, I quickly read the next few in the series in a row, and they were all enjoyable in their own way.
At A Glance
HEA
OW/OM drama
Cheating
Other safety concerns
November 19, 2017
I really enjoyed this book. There was good humor and it is about the only time where the heroine is gorgeous and thinks she isn't that I really bought it (brothers can suck). FYI, the heroine is the warrior being wooed.
Hadleigh is a 6'6" warrior who has had awful luck with men and as such has no self esteem in that way. She gets tricked into auditioning for a paranormal searching show and meets the Maat brothers, who are all huge and gorgeous and it turns out somewhat supernatural as well.
Vaughn is taken with Hadleigh right away and soon realizes that she isn't teasing and doesn't believe anyone would want to date her. He handles her just the right way to give her the confidence.
The supporting characters are interesting and I'm really intrigued to find out who marked Darcy at some point.
Hadleigh is a 6'6" warrior who has had awful luck with men and as such has no self esteem in that way. She gets tricked into auditioning for a paranormal searching show and meets the Maat brothers, who are all huge and gorgeous and it turns out somewhat supernatural as well.
Vaughn is taken with Hadleigh right away and soon realizes that she isn't teasing and doesn't believe anyone would want to date her. He handles her just the right way to give her the confidence.
The supporting characters are interesting and I'm really intrigued to find out who marked Darcy at some point.
July 9, 2017
2 stars
Very poor world building, practically non-existent. It felt like several chapters were missing at the beginning of the book. The writing is choppy and in desperate need of editing (for example: annoying overuse of the word "whilst").
The only saving grace - the book is funny. That's why it's 2 stars, not just 1.
Very poor world building, practically non-existent. It felt like several chapters were missing at the beginning of the book. The writing is choppy and in desperate need of editing (for example: annoying overuse of the word "whilst").
The only saving grace - the book is funny. That's why it's 2 stars, not just 1.
April 18, 2017
Great book. Interesting premise with the whole Egyptian and Norse mythology settings. The only thing that decreased its enjoyment for me is that the heroine was a bit too self-conscious and has extremely low self-esteem. Also, the ending felt kind of rushed, whether it's the case with the two chaos demigods vanishing or with our MCs melding. While the setting up and the first couple of incidents took pages and pages to develop, the ending only had a couple of pages to wrap things up, leaving you with unanswered questions and kind of a bit unsatisfied. I guess it's a failed attempt at a cliffhanger ending. Other than that, it's a great book, and I'll continue with the series and see how it goes.
January 3, 2017
I binge read 4 of the 9 books of this series back-to-back. The premise is that there's a part of Australia where a bunch of magic users live and have powered up this grid using the libidos of the happily married. Only the young ones aren't getting hitched fast enough and the grid's in a precarious situation, so they recall Great Aunt Alma the famed matchmaker and all the younguns are running scared.
First book, Alma tricks Valhalla warrior Haleigh into working for the Maat Warriors on a hiding-in-plain-sight reality show about ghost hunting.
Second book, Nell the magical physician meets her bad-boy mate and gets sucked into a courtship dispute between magical creatures.
Third book, earth witch Serena and Haleigh's lawyer brother Locke are drawn together as she evades vampire assassins.
Forth book, Siren Charisse and world-class flirt Nate take on the big bad vamp and solve her personal problems with a rock.
All of them are funny, action packed, and heartwarming. Loved every second of them and will read all the rest.
First book, Alma tricks Valhalla warrior Haleigh into working for the Maat Warriors on a hiding-in-plain-sight reality show about ghost hunting.
Second book, Nell the magical physician meets her bad-boy mate and gets sucked into a courtship dispute between magical creatures.
Third book, earth witch Serena and Haleigh's lawyer brother Locke are drawn together as she evades vampire assassins.
Forth book, Siren Charisse and world-class flirt Nate take on the big bad vamp and solve her personal problems with a rock.
All of them are funny, action packed, and heartwarming. Loved every second of them and will read all the rest.
July 20, 2018
To Woo A Warrior is like a rough diamond, it has everything to make it a good read and yet it's execution is still not there yet where it can become a priceless gem.
It's hard to get in the book itself, the start is wonky and the sentences didn't quite flow together. The whole introduction could use a lot of work, from the way it feels like I'm put smack dab in the middle of things that should be familiar or the lack of character building when it comes to Hadleigh in those first few chapters. I got the premise of this Sanctuary - crazy eccentric family members but the scenes were poor. Cousins popping left and right, their magical powers, Hadleigh's info.. all of it wasn't anything gradual and it's not given enough space before we are whisked to Vaughn and the rest of his crew.
The story gives the feel that it has a lot going with magic and supernatural hunting yet it's so shallow. We never really dive much into Hadleigh's magical stuff more than brief mentions and the supernatural hunting action is only explored once. There is a lot more focus on the after action parts than during action which is why the mystery behind Serena's disappearance/someone targeting Xander is not something I cared about when it keeps getting brushed aside for date scenes.
Hadleigh's insecurities plays the main role in creating conflict in the book. It's the only thing which keeps them apart as such there is a lot of repetitive mentions about looks. How she looks, how the previous boyfriends made fun of her looks, her brothers' teasing for her looks, the pinpointed differences when it comes to every other girl in the book against how Hadleigh looks. I mean even Vaughn mentions the "pre-pubescent girls" looks of today's woman. This was annoying and it's honestly judgemental. Turning your nose down on the other end of the spectrum to make yourself feel good? Nah.
It's hard to get in the book itself, the start is wonky and the sentences didn't quite flow together. The whole introduction could use a lot of work, from the way it feels like I'm put smack dab in the middle of things that should be familiar or the lack of character building when it comes to Hadleigh in those first few chapters. I got the premise of this Sanctuary - crazy eccentric family members but the scenes were poor. Cousins popping left and right, their magical powers, Hadleigh's info.. all of it wasn't anything gradual and it's not given enough space before we are whisked to Vaughn and the rest of his crew.
The story gives the feel that it has a lot going with magic and supernatural hunting yet it's so shallow. We never really dive much into Hadleigh's magical stuff more than brief mentions and the supernatural hunting action is only explored once. There is a lot more focus on the after action parts than during action which is why the mystery behind Serena's disappearance/someone targeting Xander is not something I cared about when it keeps getting brushed aside for date scenes.
Hadleigh's insecurities plays the main role in creating conflict in the book. It's the only thing which keeps them apart as such there is a lot of repetitive mentions about looks. How she looks, how the previous boyfriends made fun of her looks, her brothers' teasing for her looks, the pinpointed differences when it comes to every other girl in the book against how Hadleigh looks. I mean even Vaughn mentions the "pre-pubescent girls" looks of today's woman. This was annoying and it's honestly judgemental. Turning your nose down on the other end of the spectrum to make yourself feel good? Nah.
March 27, 2019
Well this was the first time reading something from this author. Her writing reminds me of Eva Langlais in that humor and sexy can be both good and entertaining. The humor is a bit less eccentric than what you would find in Langlais’ books, and not so over barring in other people’s books that you find yourself exhausted before the end of chapter 5. The story flowed and it exceeded my “Mr. Obvious” villain reveal.
On the down side, I would have rated this more of a 3.75. Though the woman was badass, she didn’t live up to the blood lust warrior I was expecting. Not that she didn’t have her moments, but there was too few of them to give the h credit for it. Also, I noticed several books later (around 9-11) there is another book that sounds identical to this one. Also, I’ve noticed the covers for the other books in this series and I got say, the men aren’t as attractive in the least. Some things wrong with them, or their faces. That’s sad, mainly because I believe one of the covers depicted is the same model Kresley Cole uses for her book “Pleasures of a Dark Prince” (the newest cover). There the guy is hot, not so much in this series.
Anyway, it was a nice distraction from my endless search for the next best book. Though with the price $4.99 I think I’ll look some more before I return to this series.
On the down side, I would have rated this more of a 3.75. Though the woman was badass, she didn’t live up to the blood lust warrior I was expecting. Not that she didn’t have her moments, but there was too few of them to give the h credit for it. Also, I noticed several books later (around 9-11) there is another book that sounds identical to this one. Also, I’ve noticed the covers for the other books in this series and I got say, the men aren’t as attractive in the least. Some things wrong with them, or their faces. That’s sad, mainly because I believe one of the covers depicted is the same model Kresley Cole uses for her book “Pleasures of a Dark Prince” (the newest cover). There the guy is hot, not so much in this series.
Anyway, it was a nice distraction from my endless search for the next best book. Though with the price $4.99 I think I’ll look some more before I return to this series.
February 20, 2018
Hilarious. Couldn't agree more with the reviewer who stated Cousins is Australia's answer to Shelley Laurenston. The world building was light and breezy, and I felt right at home.
Loved the idea that the warrior needing to be wooed is the heroine - and how great was Hadleigh. mega tall and curvy, unable to flirt, attracted to Vaughn but having no idea what to do about it.
And Vaughn? Sigh, an alpha man in touch with his feelings. Want one.
The witty, snappy dialogue had me glued to my kindle and laughing out loud.
The secondary characters were awesome and there was all these little touches that added layers to this world and all the characters. Special mentions - The wily matchmaker. The dating rules were awesome. The marvellous warriors.
This was fresh, funny and kind of addictive. Can't wait to read the next in the series.
Loved the idea that the warrior needing to be wooed is the heroine - and how great was Hadleigh. mega tall and curvy, unable to flirt, attracted to Vaughn but having no idea what to do about it.
And Vaughn? Sigh, an alpha man in touch with his feelings. Want one.
The witty, snappy dialogue had me glued to my kindle and laughing out loud.
The secondary characters were awesome and there was all these little touches that added layers to this world and all the characters. Special mentions - The wily matchmaker. The dating rules were awesome. The marvellous warriors.
This was fresh, funny and kind of addictive. Can't wait to read the next in the series.
October 12, 2015
4.25**
Apart from some grammatical errors...I love it!
Vaughn is a Viking, warriors brought forth by the Goddess Maat to protect the human world from magical creatures/nasties...lava monkeys (Drexel), demon skeletons, paralyxis spiders. Hadleigh is an unconventional heroine, big and strong (6'6"?), a born warrior/enforcer whose socially awkward with absolutely no comprehension of her attractiveness. It's hilarious seeing Vaughn woo her thru manipulation...and introducing her to the rules of first, second, and third dates. My favorite combination; interesting characters, great sense of humor, possessive hero, AND it's action-packed.
Apart from some grammatical errors...I love it!
Vaughn is a Viking, warriors brought forth by the Goddess Maat to protect the human world from magical creatures/nasties...lava monkeys (Drexel), demon skeletons, paralyxis spiders. Hadleigh is an unconventional heroine, big and strong (6'6"?), a born warrior/enforcer whose socially awkward with absolutely no comprehension of her attractiveness. It's hilarious seeing Vaughn woo her thru manipulation...and introducing her to the rules of first, second, and third dates. My favorite combination; interesting characters, great sense of humor, possessive hero, AND it's action-packed.
October 29, 2018
Came across this author and book by chance today and am glad I did. It's a fun bit of escapism. I really liked the character of Hadleigh - a curveous warrorior who has a few self-esteem issues due to a couple of exes who turned out to be asses and brothers who need a kick to realise their 'teasing' isn't funny.
Vaughn is the perfect fit for her, recognising her for the amazing and fierce women she is from the get go. I also liked how he dealt with Hadleigh's brothers and his determination to woo her.
Vaughn is the perfect fit for her, recognising her for the amazing and fierce women she is from the get go. I also liked how he dealt with Hadleigh's brothers and his determination to woo her.
June 7, 2020
I almost loved this. Hadleigh almost became a favourite..
Almost, almost.
The first third is so funny, interesting, encouraging. Hadleigh is a strong, gorgeous, smart, snarky Goddess, with just enough flaws to bring her back down to earth with the rest of us. She's a Norse warrior, without shame, without needing to be a man, or have 'balls', in order to be so. She doesn't need to secretly love flowers and shiny in order to prove she's feminine. She's simply Hadleigh.
The side characters are well detailed, and the world is interesting, with future possibilities. A little shallow in places, but we have just started.
Vaughn, the male lead is so sexy, strong, and smart. He's a little too perfect at times, but otherwise a true PR Alpha hero. Another warrior, in service to the Egyptian Goddess of Justice, Maat.
His comrades in arms are fun, sexy, and smart, all filling the prescribed roles for backups, and future story options.
This is where the issues begin for me. It's all a little too predictable, a little too obvious.
From the selection of character types, to the villain, who is so obvious' its a little cringe. We might not know why, but we know who.
But the humour is great, and while predictable, the story is fun, with enough unknown still, to make it worth reading and finding out.
Then the last kicker, which knocked those stars down so low.
Love that Hadleigh is real enough to have insecurities. Her issues are even believable, and relatable from certain perspectives. The problem is they go too far. For a strong confident woman, she sure can whine and pity herself! She goes on and on, despite everyone saying otherwise.
You know the type, no matter what anyone says, she knows better, and gets pissed if you insist. Which is just fucking annoying after awhile. After all, insn't her issue how others see her, and they are telling her how they see her?
Also, she complains about petite small women, is jealous of them .. because? She loves being strong, loves being treated as an equal by the guys, being just as capable, and respected by them.
Sure, be jealous of those who are treated weak, helpless, child like, with no respect..? Sure you want the same, NOT! What the?
For such a smart woman, she say's some really stupid things.
Insecure, nervous, uncertain, totally get! Whiny, sulky, stupidly stubborn, aggressively arrogant towards anything positive, that's getting too much! Yes no, yes no. She was such a tease, and just too high need. If I was her guy, I would have said right-o, you can only try for so long before it becomes degrading, I'm outta here.
I want the conflict, the uncertainty, the struggle to find and see herself in truth. To discover her true worth, all of it!
I just want it done with some intelligence. For there to be a limit to how much a person can deny the obvious. A limit to how often someone can be rejected and pushed away before they say to hell with it. More than the same conversation written again and again, just in different settings. Instead of shallow repetition, fill it with real conversation, more detailed story and character development.
That last 1/3, that was so hard to read through.
Though I'am glad I did. The end was a surprise, and lots of fun.
Of course the author had to add one last romantic angst-obstacle, which was so not needed! It would have read so much better without.
Chop out that one third of whine, cringe, sulk, endless back and forward bullshit, and this was an awesome 4 star story. Just need to create a few more original characters like Hadleigh ( minus the ad nauseam), rather than the cliche list expected (the flirty good-looking tease, the silly gamer tomboy, the silent but deadly, control freak quiet serious..)
Though Nate showed a flash of something... Perhaps the author is waiting for their story?
Still, I would like to see more in all stories, rather than what is most expedient.
Almost, almost.
The first third is so funny, interesting, encouraging. Hadleigh is a strong, gorgeous, smart, snarky Goddess, with just enough flaws to bring her back down to earth with the rest of us. She's a Norse warrior, without shame, without needing to be a man, or have 'balls', in order to be so. She doesn't need to secretly love flowers and shiny in order to prove she's feminine. She's simply Hadleigh.
The side characters are well detailed, and the world is interesting, with future possibilities. A little shallow in places, but we have just started.
Vaughn, the male lead is so sexy, strong, and smart. He's a little too perfect at times, but otherwise a true PR Alpha hero. Another warrior, in service to the Egyptian Goddess of Justice, Maat.
His comrades in arms are fun, sexy, and smart, all filling the prescribed roles for backups, and future story options.
This is where the issues begin for me. It's all a little too predictable, a little too obvious.
From the selection of character types, to the villain, who is so obvious' its a little cringe. We might not know why, but we know who.
But the humour is great, and while predictable, the story is fun, with enough unknown still, to make it worth reading and finding out.
Then the last kicker, which knocked those stars down so low.
Love that Hadleigh is real enough to have insecurities. Her issues are even believable, and relatable from certain perspectives. The problem is they go too far. For a strong confident woman, she sure can whine and pity herself! She goes on and on, despite everyone saying otherwise.
You know the type, no matter what anyone says, she knows better, and gets pissed if you insist. Which is just fucking annoying after awhile. After all, insn't her issue how others see her, and they are telling her how they see her?
Also, she complains about petite small women, is jealous of them .. because? She loves being strong, loves being treated as an equal by the guys, being just as capable, and respected by them.
Sure, be jealous of those who are treated weak, helpless, child like, with no respect..? Sure you want the same, NOT! What the?
For such a smart woman, she say's some really stupid things.
Insecure, nervous, uncertain, totally get! Whiny, sulky, stupidly stubborn, aggressively arrogant towards anything positive, that's getting too much! Yes no, yes no. She was such a tease, and just too high need. If I was her guy, I would have said right-o, you can only try for so long before it becomes degrading, I'm outta here.
I want the conflict, the uncertainty, the struggle to find and see herself in truth. To discover her true worth, all of it!
I just want it done with some intelligence. For there to be a limit to how much a person can deny the obvious. A limit to how often someone can be rejected and pushed away before they say to hell with it. More than the same conversation written again and again, just in different settings. Instead of shallow repetition, fill it with real conversation, more detailed story and character development.
That last 1/3, that was so hard to read through.
Though I'am glad I did. The end was a surprise, and lots of fun.
Of course the author had to add one last romantic angst-obstacle, which was so not needed! It would have read so much better without.
Chop out that one third of whine, cringe, sulk, endless back and forward bullshit, and this was an awesome 4 star story. Just need to create a few more original characters like Hadleigh ( minus the ad nauseam), rather than the cliche list expected (the flirty good-looking tease, the silly gamer tomboy, the silent but deadly, control freak quiet serious..)
Though Nate showed a flash of something... Perhaps the author is waiting for their story?
Still, I would like to see more in all stories, rather than what is most expedient.
June 7, 2020
https://openbooksociety.com/article/t...
To Woo a Warrior
Southern Sanctuary, Book #1
By Jane Cousins
Brought to you by OBS reviewer Heidi
Hadleigh Valhalla has not had good experiences with men. She’s taller and curvier than most of her kind and she’d rather be fighting than worrying about her appearance. Not to mention, her honesty and inexperience can combine and be quite brutal at times. In fact, she has sworn off men altogether.
However, Hadleigh’s Aunt Alma has taken over as the family’s matchmaker. Without strong meld matches the family will die out and it’s Alma’s job to make the family stronger once again. Although, Hadleigh is sure that Alma wouldn’t start with her of all people! Instead, Alma has a favor to insist on. One of the characters on her favorite reality TV show, Paranormal Exterminators, has quit and she wants Hadleigh to audition to take her place for the last four weeks of the season. Hadleigh would rather gouge her eyes out, but if the alternative is being matched with random men she’ll gladly take the job!
Vaughn was instantly attracted to Hadleigh the moment he saw her, but so was the rest of his team! However, Hadleigh is not like most women. She doesn’t like compliments and will cause bodily harm if you try to flirt with her. She is a warrior and he must find a way to woo her on her terms!
“What happened?” He directed the question her way.
Hadleigh shrugged, it seemed obvious to her. “I think I broke the pretty one.”
Meanwhile there have been two recent attacks while they were on the case. Only someone strong in magic would be able to set these events in motion. They must find out who before someone gets seriously hurt!
I really did not think I would like this book. It sounded really corny. However, I decided to give it a chance and I was really surprised that I ended up actually enjoying it. I loved Vaughn and his sweet way of wooing Hadleigh with his dates! He seemed like a nice guy. Hadleigh was fun too especially when wreaking havoc on the rest of the team when they didn’t heed her warnings!
I found Hadleigh’s people to be interesting and I’m looking forward to learning about their ways and their meld matching!
I did figure out the big twist in this book right before it was revealed, but I still enjoyed it anyway! I’m quickly going to add the rest of the series to me to read list!
And I’ll leave you with Meant to be by Bebe Rexha and Florida Georgia Line because I think it’s a perfect song to go with this book!
To Woo a Warrior
Southern Sanctuary, Book #1
By Jane Cousins
Brought to you by OBS reviewer Heidi
Hadleigh Valhalla has not had good experiences with men. She’s taller and curvier than most of her kind and she’d rather be fighting than worrying about her appearance. Not to mention, her honesty and inexperience can combine and be quite brutal at times. In fact, she has sworn off men altogether.
However, Hadleigh’s Aunt Alma has taken over as the family’s matchmaker. Without strong meld matches the family will die out and it’s Alma’s job to make the family stronger once again. Although, Hadleigh is sure that Alma wouldn’t start with her of all people! Instead, Alma has a favor to insist on. One of the characters on her favorite reality TV show, Paranormal Exterminators, has quit and she wants Hadleigh to audition to take her place for the last four weeks of the season. Hadleigh would rather gouge her eyes out, but if the alternative is being matched with random men she’ll gladly take the job!
Vaughn was instantly attracted to Hadleigh the moment he saw her, but so was the rest of his team! However, Hadleigh is not like most women. She doesn’t like compliments and will cause bodily harm if you try to flirt with her. She is a warrior and he must find a way to woo her on her terms!
“What happened?” He directed the question her way.
Hadleigh shrugged, it seemed obvious to her. “I think I broke the pretty one.”
Meanwhile there have been two recent attacks while they were on the case. Only someone strong in magic would be able to set these events in motion. They must find out who before someone gets seriously hurt!
I really did not think I would like this book. It sounded really corny. However, I decided to give it a chance and I was really surprised that I ended up actually enjoying it. I loved Vaughn and his sweet way of wooing Hadleigh with his dates! He seemed like a nice guy. Hadleigh was fun too especially when wreaking havoc on the rest of the team when they didn’t heed her warnings!
I found Hadleigh’s people to be interesting and I’m looking forward to learning about their ways and their meld matching!
I did figure out the big twist in this book right before it was revealed, but I still enjoyed it anyway! I’m quickly going to add the rest of the series to me to read list!
And I’ll leave you with Meant to be by Bebe Rexha and Florida Georgia Line because I think it’s a perfect song to go with this book!
March 30, 2022
Rating: 3.5 Stars
This is the first book I’ve read by this author, and I genuinely enjoyed it. Cousins took full advantage of the third person narration, using it to deliver her humorous prose—the opening wedding/bridesmaids shenanigans were hilarious. Great-Aunt Alma’s matchmaking schemes promise to create a lively series, if Hadleigh and Vaughn’s story is anything to go on.
That being said, the romance greatly overshadowed the action/mystery/suspense; I wanted more team investigations, but we only ever got the one.
Also, Cousins uses the not like other girls trope, which I personally consider to be a lazy plot device. Still, I’m willing to grant her some leeway for two reasons: 1) this was published in 2013, and 2) there isn’t any outright girl hating. Said leeway doesn’t extend to the MMC’s stereotyping of modern day women—
“…their preoccupation with their looks, and they were all so skinny and still obsessed with how much they weighed…most women wouldn’t eat after five in the afternoon and then they were out of bed before six, power-walking to the gym.”
Overall, this was a fun read and I can see myself continuing with the series in the future.
Title: To Woo A Warrior
(Southern Sanctuary #1)
by Jane Cousins
POV(s): Third Person Omniscient
Interconnected Series: Yes
Standalone: Yes
Cliffhanger: No
HEA:
Relationship: M/F
Genre(s): Paranormal Romance, Humor
Triggers: N/A
Tags/Tropes:
❖ Insecure-FMC
❖ Insta-Lust
❖ Meddling-Family
❖ MMC-Pursues-FMC
❖ Mythology
❖ Paranormal-Investigators
❖ Tall-Curvy-FMC
❖ Warrior-FMC
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