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Southern Sanctuary #11
To Fight A Fate
Ever had one of those days? Riya Tong, Fate Weaver and half-dragon, is having a doozy. First she wakes to find herself mysteriously seven months pregnant. Then she encounters Marcus, Maat Warrior. The man might be gorgeous but the judgmental know-it-all jerk seems to believe he has the right to stick his nose where it doesn’t belong. Compounding the insult by making it all too clear he thinks Riya’s magic borders on the lame. Thank heavens they never have to see one another again.
Problem is, Fate has other plans. Para-Exterminators, the reality TV show Maat’s Warriors use as cover to hide their supernatural mission is under threat. There is a monster loose and a bevy of assassins targeting Marcus, desperate to get their hands on the cursed chaos rubies.
Forced to work together, Riya and Marcus quickly discover that beneath all the dislike and antagonism, an irresistible mutual attraction burns, threatening to consume them both. Only question is, will they live long enough to discover that you can’t fight Fate?
Problem is, Fate has other plans. Para-Exterminators, the reality TV show Maat’s Warriors use as cover to hide their supernatural mission is under threat. There is a monster loose and a bevy of assassins targeting Marcus, desperate to get their hands on the cursed chaos rubies.
Forced to work together, Riya and Marcus quickly discover that beneath all the dislike and antagonism, an irresistible mutual attraction burns, threatening to consume them both. Only question is, will they live long enough to discover that you can’t fight Fate?
ebook
First published December 14, 2017
7 people are currently reading
80 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 - 22 of 22 reviews
December 16, 2017
Best Book Ever!
Jane Cousins just dropped the proverbial mic! Through sheer unmitigated brilliance, Jane has crafted an amazing love story with generous helpings of humour and action, liberally threaded with themes of family and fate. So in case you were wondering, I absolutely loved this book. This book has replaced "To Woo A Warrior" as my number 1 favorite book by Jane Cousins. This book, like it's author, is simply brilliant and funny. You need to buy this book!
Jane Cousins just dropped the proverbial mic! Through sheer unmitigated brilliance, Jane has crafted an amazing love story with generous helpings of humour and action, liberally threaded with themes of family and fate. So in case you were wondering, I absolutely loved this book. This book has replaced "To Woo A Warrior" as my number 1 favorite book by Jane Cousins. This book, like it's author, is simply brilliant and funny. You need to buy this book!
December 16, 2017
LOVED it - you know when you are reading something and you are laughing, swooning and trying to slow the hell down just so you can keep savouring the experience - that was this book. Hell, who am I kidding, that's every book written by this amazingly talented author.
It was just so clever - the characters, all the back-up characters, the main story, the threads of ongoing stories going on in the background - so many layers, and sweet moments, inter-laced with great humour. The birth scene had the best hilarious twist at the end - literally ROFL.
The main romance - Riya & Marcus. I don't know how the author manages all the witty dialogue, and still gives us a sizzling hot romance, that has a lot of sweet moments. Their relationship evolved wonderfully - loved all the dangers they faced - loved even more that Riya - despite not being your typical 'big' magic kind of gal - stepped up to save herself, and often Marcus.
Appreciated all the Hadleigh/Vaughn sub-story - even more impressed that it didn't impact the main storyline - only added to the whole wonderful reading experience.
And all the other characters that populated this book were just awesome - great to catch up with old faves, even better to meet new ones - seriously, I need a book featuring Riya's brothers and their stunt show.
There are authors out there who it is very clear love to write, love their characters and the world they have created - Ilona Andrews, Gini Koch, Shelly Laurenstone, Darynda Jones.... - Jane Cousins is definitely on that list. You can feel the joy literally leap off the screen.
A clever, smart, witty, sizzling hot and yet sweet read. I'm ready for the next book - NOW.
It was just so clever - the characters, all the back-up characters, the main story, the threads of ongoing stories going on in the background - so many layers, and sweet moments, inter-laced with great humour. The birth scene had the best hilarious twist at the end - literally ROFL.
The main romance - Riya & Marcus. I don't know how the author manages all the witty dialogue, and still gives us a sizzling hot romance, that has a lot of sweet moments. Their relationship evolved wonderfully - loved all the dangers they faced - loved even more that Riya - despite not being your typical 'big' magic kind of gal - stepped up to save herself, and often Marcus.
Appreciated all the Hadleigh/Vaughn sub-story - even more impressed that it didn't impact the main storyline - only added to the whole wonderful reading experience.
And all the other characters that populated this book were just awesome - great to catch up with old faves, even better to meet new ones - seriously, I need a book featuring Riya's brothers and their stunt show.
There are authors out there who it is very clear love to write, love their characters and the world they have created - Ilona Andrews, Gini Koch, Shelly Laurenstone, Darynda Jones.... - Jane Cousins is definitely on that list. You can feel the joy literally leap off the screen.
A clever, smart, witty, sizzling hot and yet sweet read. I'm ready for the next book - NOW.
August 2, 2019
"Are those cherubs mooning us?" Marcus enquired when he got his breath back.
"I believe so." Riya smiled, contemplating the nearest bed post. Hmm, she should probably say something right about now. As sexual encounters went, at least in her book, this had been pretty spectacular. Hot, a little rough, and very, very satisfying. She was forgetting something…oh, right, the fact that it didn't mean a damn thing. But, thanks for the sex sounded a little blunt. Damn, and now more than two minutes had passed since anyone had spoken and they were lying here naked, together…okay, the sex hadn't been awkward but the afterglow was proving to be a little nerve wracking.
Marcus wasn't sure what to say. Thanks for the hot sex sounded like he should also be handing over a wad of hundred dollar bills. And it was too late to enquire if Riya was okay. They'd gotten a little rough and out of control there for a moment, but she hadn't faked that orgasm or that million-watt dreamy smile on her face he glimpsed just before he collapsed beside her.
So Marcus was assuming Riya wasn't regretting the sex. He hoped not anyway, it had been…well, fantastic, but that was beside the point. She had been very clear, and he had agreed, they were short term, bang out all that sexual tension, one-night stand material, nothing more.
Still, he should say something. Something savvy and cool. Only Marcus was coming up completely blank…saved by the emergency beep from his comms. Shit, the team. He lunged to the side of the bed, picking up his vest from the pile of hastily discarded clothes.
It wasn't until he'd lifted the vest onto his lap that he registered what the blinking green light meant. "Shit the camera is back on."
Turning the vest away quickly, he rammed the earbud connected by a coiled wire to the vest into his ear, opening the channel. "Is everyone okay?"
"Yes, we're fine." Drum acknowledged.
"Are you naked?" Rafe queried over the line. "Why are you naked?"
"Is Riya naked, too?" Flynn interrupted.
"Have you two been making the beast with two backs while we've been running around stupid looking for you guys?" Dash enquired cheerfully.
Marcus glanced at Riya, who was clutching the velvet bedspread to her chest, a smile tugging at the corner of her lips, um, how was he supposed to respond to his brothers-in-arms.
This was really good, and I love this series. The Maat Warriors are some of my favorites and I really liked Marcus and Riya together. Unfortunately this took me so much longer than usual to read that I feel like I hardly remember what happened in the first half of the story. But that's all on me, I started a new job and it has seriously cut into my reading time. So I'm almost positive when I go back and re-read the series (after I get settled back into a regular routine, and again have a decent work/home life balance…like a normal adult) and get to this one, I'll probably be able to enjoy it much more.
Riya thumped Marcus on the shoulder. "You're an idiot. You could have died this morning. You were lucky to walk away with chemical burns, bruises and a concussion. I bet if you'd been human you'd be dead."
"But I'm not human, I wasn't seriously hurt." Marcus was weirdly enjoying Riya standing so close to him. Feeling her breath sweep across his skin as she leaned in to comb and cut his hair. It felt intimate. Just the two of them, alone in his apartment.
"You've started on the slippery slope though; I've seen it with my brothers. That combination of frustration and out of the box creativity. Always aiming for the bigger bang. The hottest ignition point."
"Your brothers are scientists?"
Riya chuffed a derisive laugh. "Entertainers."
"Aahhhh."
"Oh, I can practically feel the judgement oozing off of you, Charming. You have a problem with what my brothers do for a living?"
"No, not at all."
Riya combed out some more of his thick, glossy, midnight hair, snip, snip. "That's so unlike you not to have an opinion."
"You are holding a lethal weapon rather close to my eyes." Marcus pointed out.
Riya ducked to the side, leaning over, flashing him an evil smile. "Eyes? Don't be foolish, you'd protect those, I'd go through the ear. One quick stab."
"That's very reassuring." And weirdly hot.
"Come on Mr. Bigshot-Reality-TV star, you know you want to share your thoughts."
Marcus couldn't help but laugh. He'd momentarily forgotten about his own cover. "I suppose it would be hypocritical of me to sit in judgment."
"Yes it would. And the fact that you realise that means that there is some hope for you yet."
~
"I was disappointed that you didn't pull something out of one of those heavy suitcases you drag around and kill the Ice Demon. Or, at the very least distract it with a lovely ensemble you had recently whipped up, complimenting its white scales and bringing out the icicle shard rammed into the middle of its forehead."
"Hah… Hah." Riya managed, turning slightly, pressing herself harder against that wall of wonderful heat. What was exuding all that warmth? An electric blanket? No, too hard. "I had…to leave something for you to…fight. Warrior…ego and all…that."
Marcus chuffed a soft laugh, his warm breath playing over the silken strands of Riya's hair. "Thanks. My ego remains intact."
"Mhhhmm." Riya felt so tired. So cold. If she could just close her eyes for a minute or two, then she was sure everything would be okay.
"Riya?" When she didn't respond immediately Marcus began to gently shake her, not liking the way she had suddenly gone completely limp against him. "Riya?"
Damn, what to do? Shit. He tipped her head back and kissed her. He was a creature re-born in the sun more than a hundred years ago. He shared that heat with her. Willed her to live.
Riya's heart thumped hard suddenly in her chest. Heat. Glorious heat. She was engulfed by it. Drowning in it, and she never wanted to surface. Reaching out, she tried to wrap herself around the fire so that it wouldn't leave her to the cold, the pain. Her hands latched on to…naked flesh? Hard, muscular, naked flesh. And yet there was velvety softness too, Riya clutched frantically at that heat. Revelling in it. Every cell in her body suddenly sparking, feeling like kindling flaming to life.
Riya's eyes fluttered open, bewilderment and confusion swamping her. She was kissing Marcus? Just the thought sent another wave of welcoming warmth racing through her body. Breaking the kiss reluctantly, she stared at him, hypnotic ocean blue eyes only inches away. "You…we…why are we naked?"
They appeared to be lying under the covers in the middle of a large art deco bed with gold cherubs decorating the bedhead. Several more of their brethren cavorting on the gilded four posts that held up the velvet green canopy. Gilded cherubs mooning her and Marcus naked, wrapped around her, there were thousands of worse ways to wake up.
~
"I can't believe you are strong-arming me like this."
"Me?" Riya's eyes widened in surprise. "All I did was walk into your office."
"Flanked by Dash and Flynn. Pure intimidation tactics."
"You're intimidated by Dash and Flynn?" Riya looked dubious as she absently tightened her seatbelt as the plane took off.
"Well, no." Marcus looked vaguely amused. "But the intention was there nevertheless, can you deny it?"
"I can and I will, Charming. No court in the land will convict me. All I did was walk into your office and say - I have some tickets, grab your go bag, we'll be staying overnight, and you stood up, your tablet in one hand, your go bag in the other. You didn't look particularly afraid for your life."
"I was stunned by your sheer audacity, coupled with lack of sleep and blinded by the sight of you in that outfit."
"What's wrong with my outfit?" Riya looked down at her short faded denim skirt, dark green fitted t-shirt with a beer slogan across the chest and her navy ankle boots.
"You look like a grid girl for a NASCAR meet."
"Aw, shucks, the way you shower a girl with compliments. Casual is mandatory where we're going. Please tell me you have jeans in your bag?"
"I do. I'll change before we get there, wherever there is…?"
Riya chuffed a small laugh. "Dallas. We're flying to Dallas. Where you are going to take the night off. No work. No problems. We're going to have some fun."
Marcus pressed a button, reclining his seat all the way back. "I don't know about that. I will concede to getting some sleep on the plane ride, but I have a very long list of things that need my attention-"
"Nope." Riya held up her hand to stop him, with her seat also now tilted back it was almost like they were in bed together. "Not only will you not do any work for the next twenty-four hours, you are not allowed to talk about how much work you have on your plate. This little excursion is for rest and recreation."
"I would protest that I'm being kidnapped but I'm too tired." Marcus covered his mouth to hide a yawn, it had been a very strenuous all night session with Riya.
"Kidnapped? You came along like a little lamb."
"Coercion then. No man in their right mind could resist when you wear a skirt like that. Those legs and that smile, you had me in the palm of your hand the moment you walked into my office." Marcus reached across, lifting a lock of glossy raven hair, caressing the silky texture.
Riya smiled his way smugly, even as she felt her eyelids grow heavy. "Good to know for the future, Charming. Deprive you of sleep and wear a short skirt if I want to get my own way. So noted."
Marcus smiled as Riya's eyelids fluttered shut and her breathing deepened, damn, the woman was beautiful.
Hmm, a future with Riya teasing, laughing and tricking him, trying to get her own way all the time. Why did that sound like fun? By the Sands, he must be more over-tired than he thought if he was considering such fanciful notions. Riya and him? A future together? Oh sure, she was smart, independent, funny, and sexy. But long term the woman would be a gigantic time suck. There would need to be dates, and outings. They couldn't just stay locked in a bedroom forever. No matter how much his stirring cock liked that idea.
Hmm, Marcus moved closer. Inhaling the scent of blood oranges, tiare flower and geraniums. Wrapping an arm around her, Marcus closed his eyes, wondering idly how the feel of Riya in his arms had so quickly come to feel so right?
~
"Why?"
"Why, what?"
"Why am I special?"
Marcus shook his head in confusion. "I've just spent the last ten minutes telling you why you're special."
"No. So far you've accused me of over-billing you. Labeled me as trouble. Called me stubborn. A destroyer of worlds. And lastly, a seducer of poor, innocent, Elite Warriors."
"You know what I mean." Marcus's dark blue eyes narrowed.
"Oh, is this like the demanding help but not asking for help thing? Because if so, no, that's not going to work for me." Riya wouldn't let him duck out of saying the words. She wouldn't go through life knowing but never hearing them. If she was to commit to Marcus, if they were going to make this work, then she had to be left with no doubts about how he felt.
"I love you." Marcus threw his hands up in exasperation. "There. I said it, you happy now?"
Riya stared at him, blinking slowly. No, she was not happy. Not happy in the slightest. She thought about storming off, making a hasty exit. But no. If she had learned nothing else about him it was that Marcus when faced with emotions, had trouble filtering them. She was going to have to be the one to teach him, be patient, show him how to express himself in a kind and gentle manner.
And there was no time like the present to start teaching him. Leaning forward, channeling her mother, Riya cuffed Marcus hard just behind the ear. "No, I'm not happy. Try it again, but this time unclench your teeth."
"I suppose you expect me to smile as well?"
"Yes, and bat those beautiful blue eyes whilst you're at it. Come on, not-so-Charming. It's just three little words. What are you so damn afraid of?"
"I believe so." Riya smiled, contemplating the nearest bed post. Hmm, she should probably say something right about now. As sexual encounters went, at least in her book, this had been pretty spectacular. Hot, a little rough, and very, very satisfying. She was forgetting something…oh, right, the fact that it didn't mean a damn thing. But, thanks for the sex sounded a little blunt. Damn, and now more than two minutes had passed since anyone had spoken and they were lying here naked, together…okay, the sex hadn't been awkward but the afterglow was proving to be a little nerve wracking.
Marcus wasn't sure what to say. Thanks for the hot sex sounded like he should also be handing over a wad of hundred dollar bills. And it was too late to enquire if Riya was okay. They'd gotten a little rough and out of control there for a moment, but she hadn't faked that orgasm or that million-watt dreamy smile on her face he glimpsed just before he collapsed beside her.
So Marcus was assuming Riya wasn't regretting the sex. He hoped not anyway, it had been…well, fantastic, but that was beside the point. She had been very clear, and he had agreed, they were short term, bang out all that sexual tension, one-night stand material, nothing more.
Still, he should say something. Something savvy and cool. Only Marcus was coming up completely blank…saved by the emergency beep from his comms. Shit, the team. He lunged to the side of the bed, picking up his vest from the pile of hastily discarded clothes.
It wasn't until he'd lifted the vest onto his lap that he registered what the blinking green light meant. "Shit the camera is back on."
Turning the vest away quickly, he rammed the earbud connected by a coiled wire to the vest into his ear, opening the channel. "Is everyone okay?"
"Yes, we're fine." Drum acknowledged.
"Are you naked?" Rafe queried over the line. "Why are you naked?"
"Is Riya naked, too?" Flynn interrupted.
"Have you two been making the beast with two backs while we've been running around stupid looking for you guys?" Dash enquired cheerfully.
Marcus glanced at Riya, who was clutching the velvet bedspread to her chest, a smile tugging at the corner of her lips, um, how was he supposed to respond to his brothers-in-arms.
This was really good, and I love this series. The Maat Warriors are some of my favorites and I really liked Marcus and Riya together. Unfortunately this took me so much longer than usual to read that I feel like I hardly remember what happened in the first half of the story. But that's all on me, I started a new job and it has seriously cut into my reading time. So I'm almost positive when I go back and re-read the series (after I get settled back into a regular routine, and again have a decent work/home life balance…like a normal adult) and get to this one, I'll probably be able to enjoy it much more.
Riya thumped Marcus on the shoulder. "You're an idiot. You could have died this morning. You were lucky to walk away with chemical burns, bruises and a concussion. I bet if you'd been human you'd be dead."
"But I'm not human, I wasn't seriously hurt." Marcus was weirdly enjoying Riya standing so close to him. Feeling her breath sweep across his skin as she leaned in to comb and cut his hair. It felt intimate. Just the two of them, alone in his apartment.
"You've started on the slippery slope though; I've seen it with my brothers. That combination of frustration and out of the box creativity. Always aiming for the bigger bang. The hottest ignition point."
"Your brothers are scientists?"
Riya chuffed a derisive laugh. "Entertainers."
"Aahhhh."
"Oh, I can practically feel the judgement oozing off of you, Charming. You have a problem with what my brothers do for a living?"
"No, not at all."
Riya combed out some more of his thick, glossy, midnight hair, snip, snip. "That's so unlike you not to have an opinion."
"You are holding a lethal weapon rather close to my eyes." Marcus pointed out.
Riya ducked to the side, leaning over, flashing him an evil smile. "Eyes? Don't be foolish, you'd protect those, I'd go through the ear. One quick stab."
"That's very reassuring." And weirdly hot.
"Come on Mr. Bigshot-Reality-TV star, you know you want to share your thoughts."
Marcus couldn't help but laugh. He'd momentarily forgotten about his own cover. "I suppose it would be hypocritical of me to sit in judgment."
"Yes it would. And the fact that you realise that means that there is some hope for you yet."
~
"I was disappointed that you didn't pull something out of one of those heavy suitcases you drag around and kill the Ice Demon. Or, at the very least distract it with a lovely ensemble you had recently whipped up, complimenting its white scales and bringing out the icicle shard rammed into the middle of its forehead."
"Hah… Hah." Riya managed, turning slightly, pressing herself harder against that wall of wonderful heat. What was exuding all that warmth? An electric blanket? No, too hard. "I had…to leave something for you to…fight. Warrior…ego and all…that."
Marcus chuffed a soft laugh, his warm breath playing over the silken strands of Riya's hair. "Thanks. My ego remains intact."
"Mhhhmm." Riya felt so tired. So cold. If she could just close her eyes for a minute or two, then she was sure everything would be okay.
"Riya?" When she didn't respond immediately Marcus began to gently shake her, not liking the way she had suddenly gone completely limp against him. "Riya?"
Damn, what to do? Shit. He tipped her head back and kissed her. He was a creature re-born in the sun more than a hundred years ago. He shared that heat with her. Willed her to live.
Riya's heart thumped hard suddenly in her chest. Heat. Glorious heat. She was engulfed by it. Drowning in it, and she never wanted to surface. Reaching out, she tried to wrap herself around the fire so that it wouldn't leave her to the cold, the pain. Her hands latched on to…naked flesh? Hard, muscular, naked flesh. And yet there was velvety softness too, Riya clutched frantically at that heat. Revelling in it. Every cell in her body suddenly sparking, feeling like kindling flaming to life.
Riya's eyes fluttered open, bewilderment and confusion swamping her. She was kissing Marcus? Just the thought sent another wave of welcoming warmth racing through her body. Breaking the kiss reluctantly, she stared at him, hypnotic ocean blue eyes only inches away. "You…we…why are we naked?"
They appeared to be lying under the covers in the middle of a large art deco bed with gold cherubs decorating the bedhead. Several more of their brethren cavorting on the gilded four posts that held up the velvet green canopy. Gilded cherubs mooning her and Marcus naked, wrapped around her, there were thousands of worse ways to wake up.
~
"I can't believe you are strong-arming me like this."
"Me?" Riya's eyes widened in surprise. "All I did was walk into your office."
"Flanked by Dash and Flynn. Pure intimidation tactics."
"You're intimidated by Dash and Flynn?" Riya looked dubious as she absently tightened her seatbelt as the plane took off.
"Well, no." Marcus looked vaguely amused. "But the intention was there nevertheless, can you deny it?"
"I can and I will, Charming. No court in the land will convict me. All I did was walk into your office and say - I have some tickets, grab your go bag, we'll be staying overnight, and you stood up, your tablet in one hand, your go bag in the other. You didn't look particularly afraid for your life."
"I was stunned by your sheer audacity, coupled with lack of sleep and blinded by the sight of you in that outfit."
"What's wrong with my outfit?" Riya looked down at her short faded denim skirt, dark green fitted t-shirt with a beer slogan across the chest and her navy ankle boots.
"You look like a grid girl for a NASCAR meet."
"Aw, shucks, the way you shower a girl with compliments. Casual is mandatory where we're going. Please tell me you have jeans in your bag?"
"I do. I'll change before we get there, wherever there is…?"
Riya chuffed a small laugh. "Dallas. We're flying to Dallas. Where you are going to take the night off. No work. No problems. We're going to have some fun."
Marcus pressed a button, reclining his seat all the way back. "I don't know about that. I will concede to getting some sleep on the plane ride, but I have a very long list of things that need my attention-"
"Nope." Riya held up her hand to stop him, with her seat also now tilted back it was almost like they were in bed together. "Not only will you not do any work for the next twenty-four hours, you are not allowed to talk about how much work you have on your plate. This little excursion is for rest and recreation."
"I would protest that I'm being kidnapped but I'm too tired." Marcus covered his mouth to hide a yawn, it had been a very strenuous all night session with Riya.
"Kidnapped? You came along like a little lamb."
"Coercion then. No man in their right mind could resist when you wear a skirt like that. Those legs and that smile, you had me in the palm of your hand the moment you walked into my office." Marcus reached across, lifting a lock of glossy raven hair, caressing the silky texture.
Riya smiled his way smugly, even as she felt her eyelids grow heavy. "Good to know for the future, Charming. Deprive you of sleep and wear a short skirt if I want to get my own way. So noted."
Marcus smiled as Riya's eyelids fluttered shut and her breathing deepened, damn, the woman was beautiful.
Hmm, a future with Riya teasing, laughing and tricking him, trying to get her own way all the time. Why did that sound like fun? By the Sands, he must be more over-tired than he thought if he was considering such fanciful notions. Riya and him? A future together? Oh sure, she was smart, independent, funny, and sexy. But long term the woman would be a gigantic time suck. There would need to be dates, and outings. They couldn't just stay locked in a bedroom forever. No matter how much his stirring cock liked that idea.
Hmm, Marcus moved closer. Inhaling the scent of blood oranges, tiare flower and geraniums. Wrapping an arm around her, Marcus closed his eyes, wondering idly how the feel of Riya in his arms had so quickly come to feel so right?
~
"Why?"
"Why, what?"
"Why am I special?"
Marcus shook his head in confusion. "I've just spent the last ten minutes telling you why you're special."
"No. So far you've accused me of over-billing you. Labeled me as trouble. Called me stubborn. A destroyer of worlds. And lastly, a seducer of poor, innocent, Elite Warriors."
"You know what I mean." Marcus's dark blue eyes narrowed.
"Oh, is this like the demanding help but not asking for help thing? Because if so, no, that's not going to work for me." Riya wouldn't let him duck out of saying the words. She wouldn't go through life knowing but never hearing them. If she was to commit to Marcus, if they were going to make this work, then she had to be left with no doubts about how he felt.
"I love you." Marcus threw his hands up in exasperation. "There. I said it, you happy now?"
Riya stared at him, blinking slowly. No, she was not happy. Not happy in the slightest. She thought about storming off, making a hasty exit. But no. If she had learned nothing else about him it was that Marcus when faced with emotions, had trouble filtering them. She was going to have to be the one to teach him, be patient, show him how to express himself in a kind and gentle manner.
And there was no time like the present to start teaching him. Leaning forward, channeling her mother, Riya cuffed Marcus hard just behind the ear. "No, I'm not happy. Try it again, but this time unclench your teeth."
"I suppose you expect me to smile as well?"
"Yes, and bat those beautiful blue eyes whilst you're at it. Come on, not-so-Charming. It's just three little words. What are you so damn afraid of?"
December 15, 2017
Can't stop smiling - there's just something about this series/author/world that makes me so darn happy. It's kind of disappointing to look up and realise the real world still exists.
Riya, was so much fun - I never know where this author is coming from but am so very grateful to be along for the ride. Fate weaver? The mystery pregnancy? Half-Dragon? Loved the set-up.
And our Maat warrior Marcus was suitably hot and arrogant.
These two clash and bicker - yet are obviously wildly attracted to one another - just one more 'mistake' after another for these two - sizzling.
Loved how Hadleigh and Vaughn featured in this novel (without stealing the limelight - just making it so much better) we get to see Hadleigh step up to woo Vaughn. And we finally get the resolution to Hadleigh/Gaia's pregnancies - so funny and kind of adorable at same time. Lots of the Maat Warriors - and a big glimpse into the Paranormal TV show - cool.
And that major twist in the ending? Won't spoil things but wow, didn't see that coming. What does it mean? Appreciated it wasn't a cliff hanger - just one more of those little teases this author likes to hint at for coming books.
Seriously - the characters, the plot, the setting, so many witty one-liners, so funny. Am going to have to re-read this again right now. Loved it.
Riya, was so much fun - I never know where this author is coming from but am so very grateful to be along for the ride. Fate weaver? The mystery pregnancy? Half-Dragon? Loved the set-up.
And our Maat warrior Marcus was suitably hot and arrogant.
These two clash and bicker - yet are obviously wildly attracted to one another - just one more 'mistake' after another for these two - sizzling.
Loved how Hadleigh and Vaughn featured in this novel (without stealing the limelight - just making it so much better) we get to see Hadleigh step up to woo Vaughn. And we finally get the resolution to Hadleigh/Gaia's pregnancies - so funny and kind of adorable at same time. Lots of the Maat Warriors - and a big glimpse into the Paranormal TV show - cool.
And that major twist in the ending? Won't spoil things but wow, didn't see that coming. What does it mean? Appreciated it wasn't a cliff hanger - just one more of those little teases this author likes to hint at for coming books.
Seriously - the characters, the plot, the setting, so many witty one-liners, so funny. Am going to have to re-read this again right now. Loved it.
April 13, 2025
"To Fight a Fate" by Jane Cousins is another excellent addition to the world of
Southern Sanctuary
. Riya, Fate Weaver extraordinaire, owns an exclusive boutique offering the perfect outfit for any significant occasion. Marcus, the information technology geek on Maat's team of Elite Warriors, is unimpressed by Riya's magic and underestimates her. That's the basic set-up for an adventure that reveals Riya's hidden talents.
SEXUAL CONTENT: Hot, but vanilla M/F, relationship-based sex. Includes some explicit description of sexual activity without being excessive or crude. No rape or abuse scenes.
VIOLENCE: The description of violent action includes some gory details, but is often so over the top that it's humorous. There is no rape or torture.
PROFANITY: About 165 instances of four different bad words occur in the story. However, it blends within the storyline, such that none of the characters seem crude.
HUMOR: I lost count of the number of times I laughed out loud. One scene was so hilarious that I laughed my way into a coughing fit.
ENDING: Satisfying HEA without a cliffhanger, while leaving room for more books in the series.
SEXUAL CONTENT: Hot, but vanilla M/F, relationship-based sex. Includes some explicit description of sexual activity without being excessive or crude. No rape or abuse scenes.
VIOLENCE: The description of violent action includes some gory details, but is often so over the top that it's humorous. There is no rape or torture.
PROFANITY: About 165 instances of four different bad words occur in the story. However, it blends within the storyline, such that none of the characters seem crude.
HUMOR: I lost count of the number of times I laughed out loud. One scene was so hilarious that I laughed my way into a coughing fit.
ENDING: Satisfying HEA without a cliffhanger, while leaving room for more books in the series.
October 6, 2019
Ever read a book that sheer joy practically leaps off the page? That was this book. Where the author obviously loves her characters and is having a heap of fun telling this fantastic tale.
So many laughs and amusing situations, I can't share too much as don't want to spoil it for anyone else. Seriously. Read this book. No, scratch that. Read the whole damn series.
Book 11 kicks off with a bang, Riya, our heroine, wakes one morning to find herself 7 months pregnant. Magic is in the mix and causing mayhem, loved it. She bumps into Marcus, yummy Elite Warrior, he gets a little judgey and both walk away hoping to never see each other again.
But fate has a different plan.
The Riya/Marcus romance was fun and hot. They took centre stage in the action but man, did JC go above and beyond and bring a lot more to this book. Interweaving a heap of past and new characters into the storyline seamlessly.
Gaia & Hadleigh finally give birth, LOL. We meet Riya's mother and she is just wonderful and brings a whole knew definition of tough love to the table. Riya's brothers are awesome, and the whole dragon heritage thing is a hoot.
This was one hell of a satisfying HEA. Found myself smiling as I read and more often than not laughing.
So many laughs and amusing situations, I can't share too much as don't want to spoil it for anyone else. Seriously. Read this book. No, scratch that. Read the whole damn series.
Book 11 kicks off with a bang, Riya, our heroine, wakes one morning to find herself 7 months pregnant. Magic is in the mix and causing mayhem, loved it. She bumps into Marcus, yummy Elite Warrior, he gets a little judgey and both walk away hoping to never see each other again.
But fate has a different plan.
The Riya/Marcus romance was fun and hot. They took centre stage in the action but man, did JC go above and beyond and bring a lot more to this book. Interweaving a heap of past and new characters into the storyline seamlessly.
Gaia & Hadleigh finally give birth, LOL. We meet Riya's mother and she is just wonderful and brings a whole knew definition of tough love to the table. Riya's brothers are awesome, and the whole dragon heritage thing is a hoot.
This was one hell of a satisfying HEA. Found myself smiling as I read and more often than not laughing.
August 1, 2020
What a fantastic read! Riya was an awesome heroine and Marcus complemented her perfectly. They’re so good together!
Darcy’s book can’t come soon enough!
Darcy’s book can’t come soon enough!
July 26, 2020
Riya, our heroine wakes up magically 7 months pregnant. Yep, you read that right. Worse, she as no idea how, when or who. Further complicating matters she has to go to a wedding, where she meets over-worked, stressed Marcus, Maat Warrior, who is distracted and a little judgey. Instantly slotting her Fateweaver magic - she makes the perfect clothes/outfit for people - into the lame category.
Fast forward time-wise and Marcus and his warrior pals are facing a monster that they have no idea how to deal with - a grumpy, way pregnant Hadleigh tells them to go get Riya, she's the only monster slayer she knows who can deal with this whole mess.
By this stage I was wiping tears of laughter away all but constantly.
Magic. Riya's mother was awesome. The Maat warriors. The supernatural assassins after Marcus (because he knows where the chaos rubies - from book 8 - are hidden). And not only do we have both Gaia and Hadleigh giving birth (so fricking awesome) but we have interfering Goddesses and finally are back with the paranormal reality show chasing creature features.
AND - we have Riya and Marcus circling each other - attracted, having fun snarky conversations, but each thinking there can be no future. Their hot romance building and building.
Oh - and I forgot one of the sentient bridesmaid dresses is back and all but steals the show.
There was just so much going on and I loved and laughed my way through every darn second of it. This was rollicking fun ride of action, romance and a complete snort-fest.
If you haven't gotten into this series yet, I guess you just don't like to laugh or love books - Yep, I totally threw down that challenge. What are you going to do about it?
Fast forward time-wise and Marcus and his warrior pals are facing a monster that they have no idea how to deal with - a grumpy, way pregnant Hadleigh tells them to go get Riya, she's the only monster slayer she knows who can deal with this whole mess.
By this stage I was wiping tears of laughter away all but constantly.
Magic. Riya's mother was awesome. The Maat warriors. The supernatural assassins after Marcus (because he knows where the chaos rubies - from book 8 - are hidden). And not only do we have both Gaia and Hadleigh giving birth (so fricking awesome) but we have interfering Goddesses and finally are back with the paranormal reality show chasing creature features.
AND - we have Riya and Marcus circling each other - attracted, having fun snarky conversations, but each thinking there can be no future. Their hot romance building and building.
Oh - and I forgot one of the sentient bridesmaid dresses is back and all but steals the show.
There was just so much going on and I loved and laughed my way through every darn second of it. This was rollicking fun ride of action, romance and a complete snort-fest.
If you haven't gotten into this series yet, I guess you just don't like to laugh or love books - Yep, I totally threw down that challenge. What are you going to do about it?
October 17, 2020
I can’t say this enough, Cousins, you need to get yourself an editor. This book was by far the worst in the series chalked up with editing issues. This is book 11 and should be better, not worse, than any other. I counted 6 errors, see notes and highlights. There’s probably more others have caught. I’m pretty certain this whole series was self published because there’s no way an editor wouldn’t have caught them... And there’s no way an editor would have over looked the repetition of descriptive words on one particular body feature... Over and over until that beat dead horse of a corpse is nothing but a bloody mushy lump of dung.
What brings me to lower the the star rating isn’t because the story is bad, in fact it’s a great story and entertaining series. But everyone of these books has inner monolog of the same damn thought as the last book’s main characters just on a loop or re-run recycled. Nothing changes very much from the “I don’t want to find a mate” or has that sudden realization when they claim the other as “theirs.” There are kick ass females WHO ACT THE SAME AS THE LAST. Hadleigh, Brody, and suspicious of the next book’s heroin Darcy act and sound all the same.
An editor would have clean this up.
But what finally dragged me to only 2 stars is the realization that Cousins is charging $5.99 for this unedited work that should come with “Some Assembly Required” label attached to it. It’s UNACCEPTABLE and she should apologize for producing this unedited book at that price. Shame on her. Have some pride for your work and get it edited or lower you price because you certainly don’t deserve that money for a shoddy editing job. I feel robbed of my money. I expect more from you especially if you are going to charge people to buy this ... 🤬
What brings me to lower the the star rating isn’t because the story is bad, in fact it’s a great story and entertaining series. But everyone of these books has inner monolog of the same damn thought as the last book’s main characters just on a loop or re-run recycled. Nothing changes very much from the “I don’t want to find a mate” or has that sudden realization when they claim the other as “theirs.” There are kick ass females WHO ACT THE SAME AS THE LAST. Hadleigh, Brody, and suspicious of the next book’s heroin Darcy act and sound all the same.
An editor would have clean this up.
But what finally dragged me to only 2 stars is the realization that Cousins is charging $5.99 for this unedited work that should come with “Some Assembly Required” label attached to it. It’s UNACCEPTABLE and she should apologize for producing this unedited book at that price. Shame on her. Have some pride for your work and get it edited or lower you price because you certainly don’t deserve that money for a shoddy editing job. I feel robbed of my money. I expect more from you especially if you are going to charge people to buy this ... 🤬
April 24, 2018
Ok
I like the time traveling baby concept. I enjoyed learning more about the clothes and finally the babies arrived. Riya was ok. But Marcus is an arse. He is a hero who puts down his supposed love and all is forgiven because he’s a warrior who was scared. I call BS. Some people don’t mind this type of hero but I can’t stand them.
I like the time traveling baby concept. I enjoyed learning more about the clothes and finally the babies arrived. Riya was ok. But Marcus is an arse. He is a hero who puts down his supposed love and all is forgiven because he’s a warrior who was scared. I call BS. Some people don’t mind this type of hero but I can’t stand them.
July 16, 2018
Disappointed
The story lacked chemistry and fire of the first one. Cheesy clichéd sayings and a rushed plot. Not reading anymore of these.
The story lacked chemistry and fire of the first one. Cheesy clichéd sayings and a rushed plot. Not reading anymore of these.
March 1, 2018
OMG, YES! Loved it. First of all the romance - seriously wonderful. Riya, pregnant? Was delighted and just happy to jump on JC's creative train when it came to this set-up. And she meets Marcus, who clearly is more comfortable with machines than people. They spark off one another. Lighting the fuse for their coming romance.
Loved how the Warriors need Riya and her supposedly 'lame' magic to save the day. And she steps up, never takes disrespect, and never shies from using her own unique skill set to tackle a situation. Before long Marcus and Riya can't deny their sizzling attraction but it takes a while for the two opposites to admit their feelings.
There was an abundance of laughs, sharp/witty dialogue, and clever set ups. There was a large dose of secondary characters, but they never overshadowed the main romance. Heaps of Hadleigh. The resolution of the Gaia/Hadleigh race to give birth - ROTFL. And love this author, even though she wraps up this captivating background thread, she just opens the door hinting at even more future fun.
So much goes on in each book, the main romance, but this talented author is always giving us tantalising hints about future matches, and all these fabulous extra details about the townsfolk/family and their wacky magic. Not to mention the ability to have past main characters turn up but not be stilted and stealing the spotlight.
The only negative? Damn, this is book 11 and I'm all caught up. But I understand the next book coming is Darcy's - literally can not wait. Fave series. Fave author. This series is going straight on to my re-read list.
Loved how the Warriors need Riya and her supposedly 'lame' magic to save the day. And she steps up, never takes disrespect, and never shies from using her own unique skill set to tackle a situation. Before long Marcus and Riya can't deny their sizzling attraction but it takes a while for the two opposites to admit their feelings.
There was an abundance of laughs, sharp/witty dialogue, and clever set ups. There was a large dose of secondary characters, but they never overshadowed the main romance. Heaps of Hadleigh. The resolution of the Gaia/Hadleigh race to give birth - ROTFL. And love this author, even though she wraps up this captivating background thread, she just opens the door hinting at even more future fun.
So much goes on in each book, the main romance, but this talented author is always giving us tantalising hints about future matches, and all these fabulous extra details about the townsfolk/family and their wacky magic. Not to mention the ability to have past main characters turn up but not be stilted and stealing the spotlight.
The only negative? Damn, this is book 11 and I'm all caught up. But I understand the next book coming is Darcy's - literally can not wait. Fave series. Fave author. This series is going straight on to my re-read list.
December 15, 2017
Riya and Marcus - our leads, strike sparks from the moment they meet. She thinks he's rude, arrogant and a know-it-all. He thinks she's gorgeous, 'pregnant', trouble and stuck with some really lame magic.
Circumstances throw these two together - loved the monster that only Riya with her skill set could defeat - and they snap/snarl, and swap lots of witty one liners - before eventually succumbing to their attraction - committing mistake after mistake.
So many extras in this novel to love - all the Hadleigh/Vaughn time. The birth of Hadleigh & Gaia's babies (Hilarious). Riya's brothers. Typical with this author she has a lot of secondary threads playing along in the background that just make this world seem fully developed and helps the reader to really connect, thanks to all the creative, funny touches.
Loved this shift to the Maat Warriors TV show/headquarters. Loved these characters - everyone from the leads to all the secondaries has depth, dimension and delivers in the humour stakes.
As per usual a load of teasing hints were dropped about future instalments - how clever is Jane Cousins?
Funny, smart - delivers a great romance and a wonderful glimpse into this marvellous world. Can't wait for the next in the series.
Circumstances throw these two together - loved the monster that only Riya with her skill set could defeat - and they snap/snarl, and swap lots of witty one liners - before eventually succumbing to their attraction - committing mistake after mistake.
So many extras in this novel to love - all the Hadleigh/Vaughn time. The birth of Hadleigh & Gaia's babies (Hilarious). Riya's brothers. Typical with this author she has a lot of secondary threads playing along in the background that just make this world seem fully developed and helps the reader to really connect, thanks to all the creative, funny touches.
Loved this shift to the Maat Warriors TV show/headquarters. Loved these characters - everyone from the leads to all the secondaries has depth, dimension and delivers in the humour stakes.
As per usual a load of teasing hints were dropped about future instalments - how clever is Jane Cousins?
Funny, smart - delivers a great romance and a wonderful glimpse into this marvellous world. Can't wait for the next in the series.
December 17, 2017
This was without doubt one of those feel-good reads that has you smiling goofily, and often laughing out loud as you read.
The romance with Riya and Marcus was hot, fun - full of sparks and intelligent, witty exchanges. Their adventure along the way to falling in love was entertaining and loads of fun. It was obvious these two were a perfect match but had fun along the way to the HEA.
Loved Riya's mother - she was hilarious. And all the extra characters were marvellous - lots of quality time with Hadleigh and Vaughn - and finally the babies have been born. Loved how the competition still isn't over.
Insanely clever how Jane Cousins uses elements, threads from previous stories and weaves them into the narrative of her latest book - so that it's like catching up with your best girlfriend, and you have all this insider knowledge, and shared history/jokes.
The romance with Riya and Marcus was hot, fun - full of sparks and intelligent, witty exchanges. Their adventure along the way to falling in love was entertaining and loads of fun. It was obvious these two were a perfect match but had fun along the way to the HEA.
Loved Riya's mother - she was hilarious. And all the extra characters were marvellous - lots of quality time with Hadleigh and Vaughn - and finally the babies have been born. Loved how the competition still isn't over.
Insanely clever how Jane Cousins uses elements, threads from previous stories and weaves them into the narrative of her latest book - so that it's like catching up with your best girlfriend, and you have all this insider knowledge, and shared history/jokes.
February 22, 2018
I have state loud and proud all over goodreads how much I love Jane Cousins h's. They rule! Riya is my new idol.
I really hate disrespecting asshat H's in a story, it's my pet peeve because for one, men like that do not deserve the time it takes to teach them otherwise, and two because most romance books seem to think that kind of behavior can be excused by either a bad past, a declaration of love, or ooooh he's hot so who cares how he treats the h.
Jane Cousins does not do any of that, and no matter how bad the H's behavior he pays for it and her h's make sure of it, while I was sort of pushing for Riya to go find someone more worthy of her awesomeness, I enjoyed watching her knock some respect into him with so much style, class and just perfect pizazz I started to like Marcus despite his attitude.
I really hate disrespecting asshat H's in a story, it's my pet peeve because for one, men like that do not deserve the time it takes to teach them otherwise, and two because most romance books seem to think that kind of behavior can be excused by either a bad past, a declaration of love, or ooooh he's hot so who cares how he treats the h.
Jane Cousins does not do any of that, and no matter how bad the H's behavior he pays for it and her h's make sure of it, while I was sort of pushing for Riya to go find someone more worthy of her awesomeness, I enjoyed watching her knock some respect into him with so much style, class and just perfect pizazz I started to like Marcus despite his attitude.
July 19, 2019
This would have to be the most creative meet-cute ever. Marcus bumps into Riya. Neither are at their best. He's distracted. She's just woken up that morning to find herself 7 months pregnant. Cue the fun.
Jane Cousins always delivers on all fronts - great Heroes and Heroines, who are flawed, funny and I can't help but fall in love with. A great plot line that has action, and clever/funny situations, and a heaping of witty dialogue. Plus visits from previous main/secondary characters to round out the world. Even better in this offering both Gaia & Hadleigh have their babies - loved the set up.
Really liked the idea of Riya being a Fate Weaver, creating clothes for just the right situation. The bridesmaid dress makes another welcome appearance.
This Aussie author writes one hell of a satisfying feel-good story.
Jane Cousins always delivers on all fronts - great Heroes and Heroines, who are flawed, funny and I can't help but fall in love with. A great plot line that has action, and clever/funny situations, and a heaping of witty dialogue. Plus visits from previous main/secondary characters to round out the world. Even better in this offering both Gaia & Hadleigh have their babies - loved the set up.
Really liked the idea of Riya being a Fate Weaver, creating clothes for just the right situation. The bridesmaid dress makes another welcome appearance.
This Aussie author writes one hell of a satisfying feel-good story.
March 15, 2021
Riya and Marcus need fate to intervene for them to stop their workaholic ways
What I enjoyed:
* The beginning was very creative with
* It was interesting how Marcus always underestimated Riya
* The whole recruiting Riya to take on the "monster" was fun
* Surprised by some knowledge dropped at the end
What could have been better:
* The book dragged a bit in the middle
What I enjoyed:
* The beginning was very creative with
* It was interesting how Marcus always underestimated Riya
* The whole recruiting Riya to take on the "monster" was fun
* Surprised by some knowledge dropped at the end
What could have been better:
* The book dragged a bit in the middle
September 23, 2021
Great heroine
I liked this book overall but never came around on Marcus, who was a complete jerk. I thought it was really interesting to bring up how (competent adult) women are infantalized and treated as incompetent simply because they’re pregnant. That was a really good storyline and I would have liked to see it developed more. Instead Hadleigh decided to date her husband and he started recognizing it on his own and Riya had to prove herself over and over and over and over for Marcus to take her seriously. It was still a fun book and I really liked Riya
I liked this book overall but never came around on Marcus, who was a complete jerk. I thought it was really interesting to bring up how (competent adult) women are infantalized and treated as incompetent simply because they’re pregnant. That was a really good storyline and I would have liked to see it developed more. Instead Hadleigh decided to date her husband and he started recognizing it on his own and Riya had to prove herself over and over and over and over for Marcus to take her seriously. It was still a fun book and I really liked Riya
January 21, 2018
A quick, light read. Entertaining enough if you know the series characters already. This one is about the fate-weaving half-dragon clothing designer, her time-traveling-baby-to-be, and her future baby-daddy, one of the Maat warriors.
February 20, 2021
For some reason this one felt softer than the previous ones to me, but then it also had more grammatical errors. (I wonder if she changed editor?). Anyways it's a good story, though a bit annoying with the stereotyping of the gender roles. Otherwise good stuff as usual.
December 20, 2023
This book is very long but very surprising and good
Read
January 24, 2024he was such a nasty condescending asshole.
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