ImPerfect Curse

The imPerfect Cathar #2

by C.N. Rowan

𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙥𝙧𝙤𝙗𝙡𝙚𝙢 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝙖𝙣𝙘𝙞𝙚𝙣𝙩 𝙥𝙧𝙤𝙢𝙞𝙨𝙚𝙨? 𝙏𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚'𝙨 𝙖𝙡𝙬𝙖𝙮𝙨 𝙖 𝙥𝙧𝙞𝙘𝙚 𝙩𝙤 𝙥𝙖𝙮.

I’m exhausted. Done in. Needing a stiff drink and about a week’s sleep. But that’s not going to happen.

Because Franc is dying, struck by a curse placed on him by the Sistren Of Bordeaux, one of the most powerful groups of Talented in France. And because of our deal, it’s on me to find out what the hell is going on, and how Franc has offended the Sistren. Apart from by simply existing, of course.

Except a simple trip to Bordeaux turns into a living nightmare as the past comes back to not just haunt me but to kick me square in the nuts, and I'm sent to the one place no Talented ever wants to go. Where those with magic either vanish or get ruined, left as nothing but empty husks.

This time, it might not be the world at risk.

It might be my very soul.

𝗶𝗺𝗣𝗲𝗿𝗳𝗲𝗰𝘁 𝗖𝘂𝗿𝘀𝗲 𝗶𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘀𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗱 𝗯𝗼𝗼𝗸 𝗶𝗻 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗶𝗺𝗣𝗲𝗿𝗳𝗲𝗰𝘁 𝗖𝗮𝘁𝗵𝗮𝗿 𝘀𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘀, 𝗮 𝗱𝗮𝗿𝗸𝗹𝘆 𝗳𝘂𝗻𝗻𝘆 𝘀𝘂𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗻𝗮𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗮𝗹 𝘀𝘂𝘀𝗽𝗲𝗻𝘀𝗲 𝗺𝘆𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘆 𝗳𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗮 𝘁𝗿𝗶𝗼 𝗼𝗳 𝗶𝗺𝗺𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗮𝗹 𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲𝘁𝗶𝗰𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘀𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗵-𝘄𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗼𝗳 𝗙𝗿𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲. 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗻𝘀 𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗼𝗻𝗴 𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗴𝘂𝗮𝗴𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘃𝗶𝗼𝗹𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲

Genres: Urban Fantasy, Fantasy, Magic, Mystery

320 pages, Kindle Edition

First published June 6, 2023

About the author

It’s been a strange, unbelievable journey to arrive at the point where these books are going to be released into the wild, like rare, near-extinct animals being returned to their natural habitat, already wondering where they’re going to nick cigarettes from on the plains of Africa, the way they used to from the zookeeper’s overalls. C.N. Rowan (“Call me C.N., Mr. Rowan was my father”) came originally from Leicester, England. Somehow escaping its terrible, terrible clutches (only joking, he’s a proud Midlander really), he has wound up living in the South-West of France for his sins. Only, not for his sins. Otherwise, he’d have ended up living somewhere really dreadful. Like Leicester. (Again – joking, he really does love Leicester. He knows Leicester can take a joke. Unlike some of those other cities. Looking at you, Slough.)

With multiple weird strings to his bow, all of which are made of tooth-floss and liable to snap if you tried to use them to do anything as adventurous as shooting an arrow, he’s done all sorts of odd things, from running a hiphop record label (including featuring himself as rapper) to hustling disability living aids on the mean streets of Syston. He’s particularly proud of the work he’s done managing and recording several French hiphop acts, and is currently awaiting confirmation of wild rumours he might get a Gold Disc for a song he recorded and mixed.

Reviews

[Chad · Rating 4 out of 5]

I began my journey through the imPerfect Cathar series by C.N. Rowan last year with imPerfect Magic and had a lot of fun with it. It was a quick, easy and entertaining story. I've been wanting to continue the series and finally had the chance with imPerfect Curse in April. I admittedly finished both the first two books with the audiobooks available. However, I think I might enjoy this series more as a visual read going forward. More on this in a moment.

The pacing leans a bit toward the fast. I think this has more to do with the books being on the shorter side which I always need a couple of those each month to keep my sanity for the larger reads. I also do seem to like the author's writing style for the most part as well. As I mentioned a moment ago I've been listing to the audiobooks with the first two and I think the author does a good job in narrating his own books. However, he seemed very over the top with his narration in Curse. I'm not sure if I just picked up on it more this time around or not. In turn this left me a bit confused and lost at times. This is why I think for book three I'm going to try and squeeze it in as a visual read and see if I connect as well as I think I will with this world.

The world building continues to be intriguing. This is a very magic deep world on the darker side of things. The Urban Fantasy genre continues to grow on me with series like this and the Dresden files just to name a couple. I've been enjoying the depth of what I'll call factions in this series and that continues with book two. As far as the geography of the world itself, there is only so much to say about that as it's in our world. What that means for me is it takes more story and character to really draw me into the fantasy of it all. C.N. Rowan does a nice job in painting the picture environmentally for me to imagine the world this story is taking place in. This style is a nice balance though as I don't feel like the descriptions are just going on and on trying to be poetic or over the top. That kind of style has its place but I tend to lean more toward less is more when done right.

The character development was interesting in imPerfect Curse. We continue to learn more about Paul in the second book which has a nice overall story arc. I think the characters Franc and Aicha and their relationships with Paul is what really make book two though. There are plenty of twists and turns in this series and it continues with the second installment here. The ending of book two was a hard one though. I honestly didn't see that coming whether it's for the best or not. I'm sure we will learn more as the series continues.

Overall, I'm still enjoying this world which does remind me a lot on some of the early Dresden reads with it's own twists of course. I feel the banter and overall theme in Cathar is a bit darker than what I've read from Dresden. They both give me that urban fantasy magic user investigating mysteries type of vibe though and I'm all for it. I also feel the author does a nice job with inclusion of LGBTQ characters without it being in the readers face constantly which is always a plus for me. I love diverse characters but I also like some balance as well.

[Julia Sarene · Rating 4 out of 5]

imPerfect Curse by C.N. Rowan is the second instalment in the series! In some bits it's an improvement on the first book, some other niggles are new in here though.

Overall I really enjoyed the story again, and still adore the friendships and accepting people for who they are! I need more books were people just have strong bonds, especially those outside of romance.

There is a hint of romance in this book, but it's really just a hint, and I'm sure it'll be important in future stories. As I so often complain about paranormal romance being categorized as urban fantasy, I'm happy to say this is still firmly on the UF side!

After quite some at least slightly misogynistic urban fantasy it was so nice to have strong female characters in this one!
Though at times I must confess the way the MC talks about women is sometimes a bit overdone the other direction. Women know things so much better and Aicha is the most badass fighter to ever be alive, which is just fine, if it didn't feel like *every* woman. I mean I prefer this over the sexy lamp post women in so many other series by about 1000%, I just wish - and I never thought I'd say that! - for some more mediocre women to balance it out a bit more. Or just to not make this strong a point about it at every corner.

I still barely understand Franc, the monster, and had to guess at what he's talking about from the reactions of others.

Aside from that it's another good adventure that has a lot of humour, but also goes rather dark in places! I personally don't mind it, but it might not be for the very faint of heart.

I enjoyed it a hell of a lot, and am already looking forward to book 3!

[Beba Andric · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dark? Yes. Humourous? Yes. Magnificent? Absolutely!The first thing that's obvious is how well written the book is and how massively clever the prose is, combining an intensely emotional book which is both humourous and horrific at times, like really cringe worthy horrific. CN Rowan is a master weaver of hugely entertaining text and characters who come to life, yeah, ok, they DO literally come to life! Time after time after time... I'd be exhausted after a few decades of experiencing death, rebirth, death, rebirth so how can I not feel that utmost of sympathy for Paul? On top of his constant reanimation, he has the unenviable task of saving the world from, well, all sorts of things! And as you will see, his name is appropriately apt, Paul Bonhomme, he actually IS a bon homme.

I enjoyed going back in time with Paul, it opened my mind up to feel and see everything from Paul's perception, a lot of it not so great but it's a sliver into Paul's psyche, what shaped him, what he endured and the very interesting timelines. The historical events were so well researched and as a history buff, it touched all the spots for me. Paul's travels with Isaac are compellingly enlightening, the culture, the religious beliefs and biases are illuminating and I confess, I heaved a sigh of relief that I am living in the present day, even with all the challenges, so real were the descriptive events.

Chris has the unique ability to take a strand of prose and twist it into something completely different and other, never once losing sight of the telling, he just manipulate it to perfection! Leaving me agog at times. The writing is unapologetically raw, it doesn't tug at your emotions, it yanks them out viciously, tramples all over them and then smears them every which way. Oops, I'm sounding a bit like Paul now.... undeniably weird! But I like Paul, I really really do, I feel for him much as a mother hen would cluck around her chicks, although the fabulously stoic, unemotionally emotional Aicha was there to support him, Aicha style support of course. When Susane appears, or should I say reappears, my heart forgot to beat! And Paul has to deal with stolen magic, with a curse, with the awful Franc, with renewed heartache, with his past, with betrayal. Yeah, now you get the "poor Paul" reference.

Remember I mentioned clever prose? How beautifully poignant is this sentence! "And now the fury gives up centre stage allowing terrible tender pain to take a bow". Completing this book gutted me but was inordinately satisfying whilst at the same time I was salivating for more.The humour is much more subtle this time round, the emotional content on the other hand, well, off the charts! This book has serious adult content, no, not sex, but there's violence, and gore, although in a far lesser quantity than previously, and drugs. So all that's left to say, join me and the many who have travelled this path, you'll want to walk this path, how could you not?

[Aighmi* · Rating 4 out of 5]

In this novel, Mr. Rowan has created another fascinating blending of myth, legend, history, current pop culture, and religion. He does a masterful job of narrating the audiobook, which I enjoyed thoroughly. The characters continued to grow, often because of the conjunction of past and present, the plot comes with plenty of surprises and twists, and the surroundings are very well evoked. I usually throw out a gore warning, but this one seemed to have more emotional damage to the characters than physical. Though, I mean, there is still gore!

[Barbara Harrison · Rating 5 out of 5]

Set aside two days for this dark adult wide-time-range supernatural thriller set in France where Cathar Paul Bonhomme, former Perfect, now Good Man, the Undyer, struggles to do the right thing. I had an ARC via Booksprout and this is my voluntary review.

[Christina Yu · Rating 4 out of 5]

This one gets a bit slow in the exposition, but was a fun ride.

[Carolyn Evans · Rating 5 out of 5]

Strange, darkly funny and enthralling are the words that best describe this new book. The combination of history and mythology with the unique characters set this urban fantasy in a league of its own and make it well worth reading.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

I also have it preordered because it was simply that good.

[Cath · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is book two of The ImPerfect Cathar series and the main characters are Paul Bonhomme, a Cathar, Franc, a water dwelling creature and Paul’s best friend Aicha Kandicha, a Druze Queen and undying warrior. She has gotten him out of many dangerous situations and is fed up having to help him clear things up. This time, Paul has been summoned by Franc, who needs a favour from him after finding himself cursed by the Sistren Coven of Bordeaux, who sent it through the waters of Garonne. Unfortunately, because Paul made a deal with Franc hundreds of years ago and needs to ensure he survives this. At the moment it looks like he is dying and if he does, then all of his pretty boys and girls, who have sold their souls to him, will also die and that isn’t something Paul wants on his soul. Because of their deal, Paul is going to have to visit the coven to find out what Franc has done to offend them, as they have sure used a lot of power to curse him and affect him in this manner, as Franc is a very powerful being! He drags his best friend Aicha with him, leaving behind friend Isaac who now shares his body with his angel, but now also Jakob and his angel, since the actions of his former best friend Ben, who turned into his worst enemy after being reborn multiple times.

The trip to Bordeaux brings some life changing shocks to Paul, which Aicha is at his side to avenge on his behalf. The Mother of the Sistren Coven has a story to tell him, that affects him personally, bringing sense to painful events of his past even if he can’t really cope with what he is being told! Franc told him that he feeds on the misery of his pretty lads and lasses, when they made their deal all those years ago, but that may not be completely true. Paul is to get back the magic which was stolen, eaten by Franc, but that may not be quite as easy as he hoped. Can he just let all these young people die, by doing nothing? Instead, he has to open his big mouth and ask another question of the almost unintelligible and verbose Franc, who I have to say is not my favourite parts of the story. I find myself having to just skim them over and ignore the majority of it, unlike other reviewers, as it just annoys me too much. It nearly had me giving up on the book altogether, as I came across the first section of this style of speech. Finding it again when they get back to Toulose, from Bordeaux, is too much. His only option now is to go to the one place he may not make it back from, especially all in one piece! I loved Aicha’s character, her fierce warrior style and the knowledge of a very long life to do as she wishes now. Once I ignore Franc’s speech and pages and pages of his talking only to mean very little, parts of the rest of the story can draw you in. Just not enough to fully enjoy the experience for me though. I received an ARC copy of this book from BookSprout and I Have freely given my own opinion of the book above.

[Simon Howard · Rating 5 out of 5]

"I’m exhausted. Done in. Needing a stiff drink and about a week’s sleep. But that’s not going to happen"


Thus starts the Imperfect Curse the second book in The Imperfect Cathar series. 

Following on fresh from the events in the last book, there is no rest for Paul the last Cathar, as it turns out Franc the loathsome River monster and user of the disenfranchised has been cursed and he holds Paul to oaths made. 

This series in my opinion is up there with the greats of Urban Fantasy and is fast paced, action packed, brutal and really quite dark, but above all its clever in several different ways, firstly you need a degree in ancient languages and the patience of a saint to try and understand Franc's way of speech, it truly gave me a headache. Secondly the research that must have been needed for this and indeed the first book is the kind of research that you would find in a historical fiction book. Thirdly the prose is clever, the interaction between the main characters is quickfire, snappy and on point. I love the lack of misogyny, the two main characters have not only a great relationship but a believable one also. I think Aicha is an absolutely cracking character (although I could go without hearing how badass she is every other page - I already know!) I would have her watching my back anytime. I love the complexity of Issac and would be quite happy to do research with him at anytime. I speak as if they are real, because that's the great job the author has done in making them real. This book takes a dark turn with Drug use, abuse and cannibalism all rearing their ugly heads and so is not for the faint hearted. But there is plenty of light to be seen also from the pop culture references to Paul's struggle to be a 'Good' man. 

Easily a five star review this series is more than worth the rabbit hole of effort needed to enjoy it. 

[Bianca Marschke-Kunz · Rating 5 out of 5]

The second book in the series of the misadventures of Paul Bonhomme, the last Cathar, already having lived for 800 years.

C.N. Rowan takes us on a dark, dark journey partly into Paul's past with a major surprise there and into his soul. Our beloved Cathar should be offered a blanket and a safe space from the author...

Anyway. Yet again, the author surprises with the story, and his writing is simply brillant. He knows how to evoke emotion and boy, the heart clenches for Paul whose whole life and truths come crumbling down.

C.N. Rowan has a very unique style. It is still funny- those pop culture references are top notch. Aicha humming the Imperial March? Awesome!
St the same time it is much darker, especially considering with many of the topics. This isn't a "let's save the world" thing. This is a book about how a character gets beaten down despite good intentions time and again. So. Much. Heartbreak. And as a character piece this is bloody brillant.

I also want to emphasize just how well the historical background has been researched. You had me at Charlemagne, C.N.! History and present are interwoven to further the story and explain Paul better - and really, the poor guy has to have one of the wirst cases of PTSD ever. I also loved how the siege of Montsegur was presented.

Having read now two books and a short story of C.N. Rowan, I predict him to become a major household name in the world of fantasy, and even maybe not quite there, he climbs up to the brilliance of Terry Pratchett and Neil Gaiman. It's simply so unique and stands out, so well written with wit. Highly recommended!

[Vannessa · Rating 5 out of 5]

This second book in this series was even better than the first and I loved that one! It's a fantastic urban fantasy full of dark twists, creepy characters, back stabbing, loyalty, twisted humour and an awesome plot. The world building is great as well and you can truly picture the various scenes within this book.

The main characters are fantastic - Paul and Aicha are great faves of mine - I love their relationship and camaraderie. I loved Franc's speech so much more this time - think I just got used to understanding the way he spoke more this time round and just found it so amusing to hear him taking 25 words to say something when 5 would have sufficed!

I really enjoyed the flashbacks to centuries before showing how Paul had got to where and who he is in relation to another character that appears (I won't say more as it is a huge spoiler!), but I loved reading about his journey!

There is so much emotion and passion in this book - the character development is detailed and essential for who they really are, even if some of what happened was utterly surprising and heart breaking at times. The quotes from various TV shows and movies were great as well, especially the Red Dwarf one with me being a huge Red Dwarf fan, I loved it!

I can't wait to read the next book in this series after the shocking revelation near the end. I have no idea what Paul Bonhomme is going to do now, but I know for a fact that whatever he does will be full of anger, rage, turmoil and desperation. But the question is, will he still do it alone?

I received an ARC copy of this book through Booksprout, but this review is my own, honest one.

[Willa Blackmore]

A Horror Fantasy Mashup With Heart

What a fantastic follow up to what is turning out to be a must read for anyone who's a fan of truly adventurous urban fantasy. All of the elements that made the first book such a compelling thrill ride are evident all over the pages - history, adventure, dark humor, high stakes action, with Paul and Aicha running the show.

For the most part, the supporting characters in this book have been artfully painted in varying shades of gray. Which is a tricky business, and only a very good storyteller can pull that off. At times, I actually felt myself commiserating with Franc, for instance, a being who unquestionably deserves most any kind of trouble that might come his way. This is because we see him through Paul's eyes, who, for better or worse, is a man who ultimately cannot escape his own innate compassion. A definite plus, in my opinion, and a welcome departure from the one dimensional, cookie cutter characters often found in modern fantasy.

I've never been much of a fan of stories that deal with the Fae, but then again, I'd never had the pleasure of having such a tale served up ‘Rowan’ style. I found everything about Susanne and Paul's story and shared history completely gripping (though at times also heartbreaking - so have some tissues at hand!)

There's plenty of humor that serves to lighten up the nail biting suspense. A lot of it comes to us via Aicha, one of the best sidekicks I've ever had the pleasure to read. My favorite sentence in the entire book is a throwaway line from Aicha: "Right now, I'm feeling a bit stabby."

So. Much. Fun.

[Katja · Rating 5 out of 5]

The second book of the series continues the saga of Paul Bonhomme and his strange posse of intrepid adventurers. Paul used to be a Cathar, a member of a religious sect committed to perfection. Things went awry and he's been stuck reincarnating for centuries. Together with a Berber Xena warrior princess and Kabbalist scholar twins inhabiting one body with two angels (long story, don't ask), he is bound to revisit some of his darkest moments as he comes face to face with someone he thought long dead. It turns out that there's always a price to pay and the price for some of his former mistakes is pretty steep. Franc, a river monster that he made a deal with years ago, is dying and the quest takes him to face an oddly familiar fae. The Lady of Lourdes is not what you think!

The writing is an engaging blend of snarky, dark humor, tragical or macabre scenes, and a little off-the-cuff philosophising. Irreverent pop culture references are mixed up with urban fantasy and historical research. I had no idea many of these things existed for real. The characters are likeable and the concept of immortality and its consequences is fascinating to me: What if you could be haunted by something that happened to you 800 years ago? What if you were still expected to pay the price for all the mistakes you made way back when? It requires some reader concentration as there are time jumps and occasionally you need to remember earlier events to make sense of what's happening.

Steam level: Nah, but there's some gore.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[M Lowe · Rating 5 out of 5]

OK. Wow. I can stop holding my breath now; however, by the end of imPerfect Curse I needed a stiff drink and a dark corner. Unpredictable, thy name is Rowan.

This is only the second book written by CN Rowan but his writing is next level. As are his research skills. Each storyline is established and resolved over a few days, with steps back into Paul's past to continue foundation building while providing flavour and direction to the narrative. I very much enjoy this style of story-telling. In fact, I was so enthralled that I never once skipped to the end to cheat - and I am a consistent cheater when it comes to endings.

ImPerfect Curse is an emotionally charged and gripping novel. I think everyone's hearts will be breaking for Paul. Even his own stoicism is tested here. He initially describes this adventure as "Standard Thursday for me, really." but eventually succumbs to blow after blow, physical, psychological and emotional, and declares that "...adulthood is just a series of appalling options...".

Aicha plays more of a supporting role this time. That is actually all she is doing - supporting Paul in his choices, supporting Paul in his attempts to drag as much good from this bleak situation as possible and eventually, supporting Paul by saving him from doing the necessary thing. Aicha is an incredible character and worthy of every word ascribed to her.

I absolutely recommend this book. In fact, everyone should read it now because I want to start shouting about it!

I received a free copy of this book as part of an ARC campaign.

[Taliesin Govannon · Rating 5 out of 5]

A genuine find!


I read a lot of book #1's. I can never turn down a free ebook, and a lot of authors offer the first book in a series for free to try to get you hooked and read more.

Some are successful. most, however, are not. There are a million reasons why, even when I loved book one in a series, why I don't go that much farther. Most often, a series will lose me when subsequent entries in it don't really add that much to the original story. No matter how much I enjoy the characters, if too much of those entries suffer from the "rinse, repeat" syndrome common in under-developed, rushed-to-market series dotting the contemporary independent publishing scene, then I soon move on.

Which is why I was thrilled to read "Imperfect Curse", book two in the Imperfect Cathar series by C. N. Rowan. Far from being rushed to market, every page tells of a series crafted with care and attention to detail seldom seen outside of the best by Neil Gaiman or Andre Norton.

I won't go over the plot here... Plenty of other reviewers will do that (besides, isn't that what the book blurb is for?). I want to get across how this isn't a sequel grasping for plot or direction, but rather one that was in the mind of the author as the first book was written. It feels like the second chapter in a grand saga, while also containing a story that is both satisfying and fascinating on its own.

Skill: C. N. Rowan has it!

[Leigh · Rating 5 out of 5]

The imPerfect Cathar roared out of the gate in imPerfect Magic and flies down the first stretch with imPerfect Curse. The author has already done the heavy lifting of world-building in the first book so there is little to slow the momentum of Fate pounding the snot out of our protagonist, Paul, in the second. Hard-hitting action and drama keep this second installment moving along at Warp 9.
And there is hard-hitting, lots of it, with fists, feet, knives, and emotions. To read this work is to take an incredible roller coaster ride through darkness and monster-infested waters. Luckily there’s a steller comedian sitting next to you so you can laugh in the face of death.
imPerfect Curse more than continues the promise of its predecessor: it’s a stronger book overall, albeit somewhat darker. Not merely worth reading: worth reading twice. The first read you’ll be hanging on for the breathless action and the heart-rending drama; the second you’ll be pondering more detail and considering more serious and philosophical matters (if that’s your thing). I myself read it four times before tendering this review.
And Oi! Rowan! I need see what you do to this poor slob next! Where’s the next one?

I received an Advance Review Copy of this work through Booksprout.

[Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Many years ago (Like, my mortal many years, not Paul's and Aicha's many years), I read several of Spider Robinson's Callahan books. While the story was basically the same in each of them, they were riddled with delightful and hideous puns. Those puns have stayed with me for nearly three decades. I feel that C.N. has woven his own punny neural pathways through my brain, and by the time I am done reading the series, I will have a Paul-path of poorly executed puns and an Aicha-path of brilliance. (Not that I'm partial to one of those two or anything.)

Frank, Frank, Frank. You've done it this time. Will you meet your demise or will you find a way to slime your way out of our dear friends' wrath once again?

C.N. Rowan has given us a gem of a story. Team Bonhomme is once again prepped to save the day. Or slay the day. Or drink the day away. Whatev. It's going to take the entire group and I'm 100% down for it. But they can't do it alone. They are going to have to pull in reinforcements and you'll never believe who shows up.

While considerably lower on the horror scale, imPerfect Curse gives us a wonderfully woven story that's heavier on interpersonal relationships than it is in action. It's a good palate cleanser for the mayhem I imagine is on the way.

[Greg Neyman · Rating 5 out of 5]

There is always a price to pay. And I don't just mean the $4.99
We all know that power does not come cheap. But more importantly, machinations now usually mean regrets later.
A bit less action than the first title, but the action at the end more than makes up for it. This book focuses a great deal on world-building and elaborates more on the protagonist's back story, while leaving plenty to explore in further entries. His elaborate travails earn him a great deal of pathos.
I really loved the nerdy, referential humor. I found it crisp and engaging. Exactly the sort of banter I came to love in the first book, but tinged with the earnestness that shows the characters care for each other. And the wry asides bring a unique perspective on the fantasy world, conveying a deep cynicism about the world that still emanates from a believably ethical protagonist, which is a curious cocktail, but one that goes down with the right amount of zing.
With the multiple layers of heartbreak at the end, I'm left with one enduring realization. If I live to be 800, it's important not to make any enemies along the way. Because there is always a price to pay.

[PAR · Rating 5 out of 5]

imPerfect Curse is the second book in The imPerfect Cathar series, a darkly funny supernatural suspense mystery strong language and violence. This is a unique enticing story that will captivate you from the very first page. We are following a trio of immortal heretics in the south-west of France. One of our immortals Franc is dying, struck by a curse of death placed on him by the Sistren Of Bordeaux. They are one of the most powerful groups of Talented in France. But Franc has absolutely no idea what he has done to be punished in such a way. Paul most investigate and find out what is really going on. His quest a trop to Bordeaux, a simple trip that turns into a nightmare.
I cannot tell you what a wonderfully crafted this book is. The writing is precise and intricately woven. The characters are strong and well developed. The plot line right on. You will be drawn into this novel from the very first page and it will hold on to you until the last word of the last page. I highly recommend this series, I received this novel from BookFunnel. This is my true and honest review.
The problem with ancient promises? There's always a price to pay.

[Tyler Marshall · Rating 5 out of 5]

These books just keep getting better and better!

Im back again with book two in this urban fantasy series! Rowan has once again hit me with a comedic fantasy masterpiece. like who knew you could mix these two genres together and have such a seamless story.

Were back again with Paul except this time were going back in time and getting to see why he is the way he is. The way this author so effortlessly makes these characters feel so realistic is crazy to me. I like how we get to really build on the charters we already met in book one as well as meet some new faces. I felt connected to Paul in book one but after the peak into his past we see in this book I feel even more attached to him.

The same with book one you get a plot that will keep you on the edge of your seat. while this book is a bit darker than the first there's still lots of amazing humour and pop culture references to keep this light and entertaining. I enjoyed this read even more than the previous, C.N. takes his time and does his research, I loved the many historical references you see during this novel and the attention to detail with scenery and description's out of this world.

[Jilleen · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's now a fact—book one was not a fluke. This series is utterly amazing, and I had to add it to my "favorites" file.

I'm standing by my "most intelligent" UF stance I wrote about the first book. This series is going to stand up there with the UF greats. How can I tell? Because both books 1 and 2 blew me away. There is a lot of good UF out there from indies and trads a like. But rarely does something stick with me for a long time. These are sticking.

Is it violent? Yes. Humorus? Heck yes. Grotesque? Sometimes. But it is also gut-wrenching in it's emotional depth, and heart breaking at times as well.

Like the first, we get a background into the history of the Cathars (something I never knew about). A unique new magic system, new creatures (or new forms of existing ones). A wonderful new take on the Fae and of course France in a new light.

I'm not giving any story hints in this review. I will say just go read it. You won't be disappointed. Paul is in deep this time. Let's hope he can get himself out in the next books!

[Bevin · Rating 4 out of 5]

CW: gore, violence, attempted r@pe, some others

The number of Princess Bride references in the first half of this book alone earned it an excessive amount of praise in my opinion.

After the debacle that came from solving the problem of the mysterious Phone Dick, Paul Bonhomme really needs a nap. Or maybe just to go into hibernation. But when one of Franc’s people lands bloody and broken on his doorstep, Paul knows things are about to get a whole lot more complicated.

Holy plot twists, Batman! What the second installment of the imPerfect Cathar series lacked in breakneck pacing it more than made up for with ‘hold up, whaaaaat?!’ moments. I’m still reeling. The author’s delivered yet another heaping helping of sarcastic humor and foul-mouthed fun, and it was glorious. Paul and Aicha’s relationship? Amazing found-family goals. The storyline itself? Entertaining; I’m already chomping at the bit to get into book 3. The scenery, the writing, and the overall vibes? Immaculate.

This is now the third work I’ve read in the Cathar series and it’s all been so consistently humorous and engaging that I’m 100% confident I would enjoy anything else this man writes. If you’ve got a weak stomach or you don’t enjoy reading books with potty-mouthed characters, this isn’t going to be your jam. But If those things don’t bother you, and you want a series that’s equal parts historical fantasy, urban fantasy, and dark fantasy? Congratulations, you’ve found it. Go start with book 1 immediately.

[Anne Tracy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thought the prequel and book #1 were terrific. This one tops both of them! The story is superb, with the present and past woven seamlessly together, in a story that effortlessly blends history and mythology, joy, dark humor, pop culture references, and heartache. Poor Paul! His past keeps coming back to haunt him in new and ever more dangerous and heart-breaking ways. And just when he thinks he (more or less. Ok, mostly less) has a handle on matters, something else happens. The author writes beautifully. He paints pictures, sometimes graphically, but always lyrically, of Paul's world. And of both ancient and modern Southwestern France. Makes me want to see all the places described in the book.

If you haven't read the ImPerfect books yet, you're missing a real treat. I cannot wait for the next one!

[Sarah Rice gallego · Rating 5 out of 5]

ImPerfect curse is the second book in Rowan's dark urban fantasy series and I loved it as much as the first. Paul Bonhomme is back and finds himself trying to help Franc who has had a deathly curse on him.

The book is fast paced and gripping right from the start, with tons of plot twists to keep you gasping with surprise. I love the bond between Aicha and Paul and really liked how Aicha played a bigger part in this book. There's a great mix of the past and present that really helps you understand Paul and why he acts the way he does.

This book is more gritty and dark than the first and after how it ends I can't wait to see how Paul's story continues. My only complaint is the lack of Lou, the giant magical snail who was my favourite character from the first book!

This is a great urban fantasy series.

[Piper James · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was given an ARC copy of this book. This review is all my personal opinions

Paul just wants a break, but one does not seem forthcoming. Franc, that grubby little monster has gone and gotten himself cursed by the Sistren and requires Paul and Aicha to go solve his problems. Paul is greeted by a face from his past and things to down hill from there.

I love the way this story goes between current times and our Cathar's past. It is one of the smoothest time differentials I've ever read. He gives us just enough of the story in the past to keep us invested in the future. I believe it also shows how much our history with a person affects how we see them in present.

I'm not going to lie, this book hurt me in all the bestbways

[Dahlia Drake · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book two of the ImPerfect Cathar series and every bit as brilliant as the first book. I wondered if it was possible, but of course, Rowan is just going to get better and better. The way he weaves character complexity and backstory with the plot is masterful and I honestly wonder if he's a secret genius or something.

Anyway, the story! Paul has to deal with Franc's curse. Seems simple right? Well the plot spirals into several layers, keeping you guessing and surprised all the way through. And that's all I'm going to say about that!

I'm team Aicha here, for a few reasons, not the least of which she has some pretty sick burns I wanted to frame and put up on the wall!

Again, don't bother hesitating. Just pre-order all the books asap.

[Penny · Rating 5 out of 5]

One thing I can say about this series is that the author is really good at turns of phrase. His words are almost like poetry at some points, and even though I am not a fan of poetry, I love the way he used the words to paint a picture. This latest has poor Paul on a hunt to cure Franc of a curse even if Franc probably doesn’t deserve it. There was a huge surprise in this one, which I sort of saw coming, but the results of that curveball are NOT what I expected. And, at the end, I was thrown again. I am not happy with Paul’s actions, but I can understand why he did it. I’m happily on my way to read the next book in this well-written, amusing, gore-filled, non-stop action-filled great series. Highly recommend.

[FionaH · Rating 5 out of 5]

Whoa! The Imperfect Cathar series really found its feet with this second instalment. Once again, C.N. Rowan skilfully weaves two parallel stories – one in the present, one in the distant past – both of which see Paul facing powerful forces, difficult choices, and devastating losses arising from events outside of his control. Paul truly is a “good man”, always trying to do the right thing, who maintains his humanity despite everything life throws in his way. This story is full of humour, friendship and real emotion.

The book tells a complete story, but also lays the foundation for the next “episode”, which I’m off to read now!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[The Laughing Librarian · Rating 5 out of 5]

C.N. Rowan takes us on another wild ride with Cathar Paul Bonhomme.

imPerfect Curse is the second of The imPerfect Cathar series in a journey of surprises. The author takes the reader on a first person adventure through time and circumstance, along with his longtime friend, utilizing pop culture references and humor along the way.

The author did a wonderful job weaving mythology, fantasy, history, as his characters continued to grow through the second book. Paul's first person view allows us to catch some well-crafted insight into the passion of the writing, his sense of urgency directing the reader's perception with ease.

I look forward to the next in the series. Thanks for another fantastic adventure, C.N. Rowan.

[Yael · Rating 5 out of 5]

What unbelievable talent for weaving an addicting world. Sitting here finished reading the last page of the story and swiping the page needing more!! In this installment we learn about Paul's past while solving another problem with the gang. It’s a tale full of twists and turns you can’t even imagine (unless you are C.N. Rowan, and my word he has the ability to conjure them for us), and whereas the first book had plenty of physical gore, this one takes your emotion on a roller coaster ride. Start reading, you won’t regret it!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.