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The imPerfect Cathar #3
imPerfect Fae
Body-jacking a legendary assassin when I’m running on empty. No problem, right?
After the last few misadventures, I’m not so much broken as ruined, a shell of my former self. But I can’t stop. The trail of those who betrayed me is getting cold, and if I’m going to get any answers, I need to follow it, and now.
Except it leads to Faerie. And the way is barred to all but the Fae.
So I’m forced to go toe-to-toe with a mercenary assassin whose name has been spoken in terrified whispers throughout the ages. One who got the drop on me the only time our paths crossed.
The Jack of Plate. Half-Marred Jack himself. A man who may be more than a monster.
Survival isn’t just unsure. It’s highly unlikely.
imPerfect Fae is the third book in The imPerfect Cathar series, a darkly funny supernatural suspense mystery following a trio of immortal heretics in the south of France. Contains strong language and violence.
After the last few misadventures, I’m not so much broken as ruined, a shell of my former self. But I can’t stop. The trail of those who betrayed me is getting cold, and if I’m going to get any answers, I need to follow it, and now.
Except it leads to Faerie. And the way is barred to all but the Fae.
So I’m forced to go toe-to-toe with a mercenary assassin whose name has been spoken in terrified whispers throughout the ages. One who got the drop on me the only time our paths crossed.
The Jack of Plate. Half-Marred Jack himself. A man who may be more than a monster.
Survival isn’t just unsure. It’s highly unlikely.
imPerfect Fae is the third book in The imPerfect Cathar series, a darkly funny supernatural suspense mystery following a trio of immortal heretics in the south of France. Contains strong language and violence.
- GenresUrban FantasyFantasy
319 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 6, 2023
91 people are currently reading
717 people want to read
About the author
C.N. Rowan
28 books131 followersIt’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.
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.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
July 4, 2023
A comedy. A tragedy. An unforgettable and penetrating work of art. If C. N. Rowan had been a timely contemporary of Shakespeare, William would have been nervously envious of the competition. I'm not playin'.
I received ARCs of imPerfect Fae, both an eBook and (blessing of all blessings) an audio copy. I've said it 42 times before, but the audiobook renditions of C.N.'s imPerfect books are utter perfection. The words in print hook your attention, but the dramatic flair in the author's voice allows the stories to grab your soul. And hang on like a stinking badger. I finished listening over a week ago and I'm still hungover. I mean, seriously people. This book squashes your head and heart together in a vice. There's GOT to be magic involved. For every giggle, a tear.
Paul (my real reason for reading this series) has exchanged adventure partners in this tale. I was glad to get to know Isaac and Jakob better, but Aicha was sorely missed, and not just by me. Paul pouted at her absence several times, no matter his deflective techniques.
At least Lou Carcoilh - lovable, though not exactly huggable, snail that he is - reappeared for a brief time. LouC needs his own novella if you ask me.
A few new villains creep in - creeps to be sure! Two meet a satisfying end. I hesitate to add more. So much spoilery goodness I want to share, so I'll just end with a bit of heart-to-heart advice:
Have tissues handy. If the author cries during his audio recording, chances are, you'll cry too. There's no shame in this. Probably, you'll have to read the last few chapters in the master bath to keep from waking the love of your life, to weep and blow the sorrow from your head holes. Have a ready supply of hankies in there, too. A box in the kitchen wouldn't hurt either, for when you cry into your coffee mug the next morning; and under the shower head after that (not the best place for Kleenex, though). You might even need a nice cozy rom-com as a medicinal treatment and emotional support book once you can breathe through your nose, IDK. I mean it all worked for me, finally, so...
If you also require an understanding support group after indulging in any of the imPerfect books, C.N. Rowan’s imPerfect imPs meet on Facebook for comforting drinks, darkly funny memes, and voodoo doll crafts. We’d love for you to join us! Mind the lava flow.
I received ARCs of imPerfect Fae, both an eBook and (blessing of all blessings) an audio copy. I've said it 42 times before, but the audiobook renditions of C.N.'s imPerfect books are utter perfection. The words in print hook your attention, but the dramatic flair in the author's voice allows the stories to grab your soul. And hang on like a stinking badger. I finished listening over a week ago and I'm still hungover. I mean, seriously people. This book squashes your head and heart together in a vice. There's GOT to be magic involved. For every giggle, a tear.
Paul (my real reason for reading this series) has exchanged adventure partners in this tale. I was glad to get to know Isaac and Jakob better, but Aicha was sorely missed, and not just by me. Paul pouted at her absence several times, no matter his deflective techniques.
At least Lou Carcoilh - lovable, though not exactly huggable, snail that he is - reappeared for a brief time. LouC needs his own novella if you ask me.
A few new villains creep in - creeps to be sure! Two meet a satisfying end. I hesitate to add more. So much spoilery goodness I want to share, so I'll just end with a bit of heart-to-heart advice:
Have tissues handy. If the author cries during his audio recording, chances are, you'll cry too. There's no shame in this. Probably, you'll have to read the last few chapters in the master bath to keep from waking the love of your life, to weep and blow the sorrow from your head holes. Have a ready supply of hankies in there, too. A box in the kitchen wouldn't hurt either, for when you cry into your coffee mug the next morning; and under the shower head after that (not the best place for Kleenex, though). You might even need a nice cozy rom-com as a medicinal treatment and emotional support book once you can breathe through your nose, IDK. I mean it all worked for me, finally, so...
If you also require an understanding support group after indulging in any of the imPerfect books, C.N. Rowan’s imPerfect imPs meet on Facebook for comforting drinks, darkly funny memes, and voodoo doll crafts. We’d love for you to join us! Mind the lava flow.
April 15, 2025
4.5 - Stars
This was my favorite read of this series so far. I may finally be settling in with the author's narration as well.
Full review to follow.
This was my favorite read of this series so far. I may finally be settling in with the author's narration as well.
Full review to follow.
June 20, 2023
Book 3 is another brilliant read.
Our hero, Paul Bonhomme, is not have a good day, week, or eternity. He's lost his best friend and his long lost love (again) all in the same week.
His only chance to save one of them? Go to Faerie. There are some obstacles to overcome before then. Mainly he's human, and humans aren't allowed (unless they are playthings of the Fae). I don't want to give away anymore of the plot, but you can imagine there's a lot he must do to make it there, including dealing with another new "dragon" monster, in the shape of a turtle. Sort of. Luckily we get another interaction with Lou (the cthulu like dragon snail)!
As usual, you won't find better UF then this! The first two books were incredible, and the author isn't slowing down. Paul and co keep finding bigger and badder messes to get into. And the characters have to become cleverer to get out of them. Even though Paul has been around for a long time, he's still growing and changing. When you start off saving the world, you'd think you'd be at the top of your game. It's nice to know that you'd be wrong.
This series is a hard recommend. Drop what you are reading and pick it up today. You'll thank me!
Our hero, Paul Bonhomme, is not have a good day, week, or eternity. He's lost his best friend and his long lost love (again) all in the same week.
His only chance to save one of them? Go to Faerie. There are some obstacles to overcome before then. Mainly he's human, and humans aren't allowed (unless they are playthings of the Fae). I don't want to give away anymore of the plot, but you can imagine there's a lot he must do to make it there, including dealing with another new "dragon" monster, in the shape of a turtle. Sort of. Luckily we get another interaction with Lou (the cthulu like dragon snail)!
As usual, you won't find better UF then this! The first two books were incredible, and the author isn't slowing down. Paul and co keep finding bigger and badder messes to get into. And the characters have to become cleverer to get out of them. Even though Paul has been around for a long time, he's still growing and changing. When you start off saving the world, you'd think you'd be at the top of your game. It's nice to know that you'd be wrong.
This series is a hard recommend. Drop what you are reading and pick it up today. You'll thank me!
September 17, 2023
Who doesn't love a rapid release schedule for a new series? And C.N. Rowan definitely delivers on that!
imPerfect Fae is the third book in the series, and instead of waiting for new books as I usually do, I actually need to keep up on these!
The third book felt more solid to me than the second, and it's back to a good 4,5 stars read to me, rounded up to the full 5.
I really loved seeing more of Isaac and his, let's call them roomies! I also enjoyed seeing Paul standing on his own two feet a bit more, and actually taking on more of the responsibility than he did in the last book, where he felt a bit like a leaf blown in the wind, rather than actively making decisions. His friends and team are still important, but each of them got to shine a bit more this time around, and I think they deserved to do so.
It's quite a bit darker than the first book again, so the tag line definitely is true, it is funny, but it doesn't shy away from some hard to swallow topics. Grief, loss, guilt, and more are handled, and I thought handled well.
I still adore how "woke" the series is, as in everyone is allowed to be who they are with Paul and his friends. Gender, sexual orientation and other such topics might be controversial in the world, but I like how that's just commented on as being bigoted and moved on from our crew. Same goes for having strong and weak characters, both female and male, instead of the good old heroes saving the poor damsels in distress.
I'm already eager to read book 4!
imPerfect Fae is the third book in the series, and instead of waiting for new books as I usually do, I actually need to keep up on these!
The third book felt more solid to me than the second, and it's back to a good 4,5 stars read to me, rounded up to the full 5.
I really loved seeing more of Isaac and his, let's call them roomies! I also enjoyed seeing Paul standing on his own two feet a bit more, and actually taking on more of the responsibility than he did in the last book, where he felt a bit like a leaf blown in the wind, rather than actively making decisions. His friends and team are still important, but each of them got to shine a bit more this time around, and I think they deserved to do so.
It's quite a bit darker than the first book again, so the tag line definitely is true, it is funny, but it doesn't shy away from some hard to swallow topics. Grief, loss, guilt, and more are handled, and I thought handled well.
I still adore how "woke" the series is, as in everyone is allowed to be who they are with Paul and his friends. Gender, sexual orientation and other such topics might be controversial in the world, but I like how that's just commented on as being bigoted and moved on from our crew. Same goes for having strong and weak characters, both female and male, instead of the good old heroes saving the poor damsels in distress.
I'm already eager to read book 4!
April 16, 2024
It's always interesting to see what Paul is up to. Another adventure by the ImPerfect Cathar that will keep you turning pages. Witty, exciting, hopeful, a little sad, dark. It's all in this book. Now off to Paul's next adventure.
June 17, 2023
My chortling began at the very beginning of this audiobook. C. N. Rowan does a marvelous job with narrating this book, as with his others. He makes it even funnier. Despite the humor, the frequently profound emotions the protagonist is experiencing are absolutely authentic. This was my favorite of all of the books so far, with slightly different adventures and setting. Again, his storyline covers present and distant past, twining history, religion, and legend into the book set (mostly) in modern day. Still have to toss in a gore warning, but the story and characters are marvelous!
June 29, 2023
I love the opening paragraph, and the first chapter, it describes Paul to perfection, events, others, circumstance has him involved in all sorts of things he'd rather not! So by the end of page 2, I immediately want to go console this poor tortured soul, very long lived tortured soul. And this is precisely how the author grips me in a vice, unable to move, unable to breath, heck, I can't even go pee until I've reached the end of the book! So even though my bursting bladder is screaming in agony, my soul is doing a happy jimmy, except, where the next book???? Ok, I'm not here to talk about me or my bodily functions, I'm here to highlight the sheer genius of this book and series, so here I go...
Paul is so noble, wacky as all heck but noble. He's always ready to protect anyone he deems to be in trouble, not really caring for himself but when you can come back each time you die, reckless works, other than the pain, which is a bummer, but now he's magicless, Aichaless, wifeless and sonless, not great, nope, not at all. He has Isaac though or should I say Isakob...but where they venture no man has gone before... oh wait, that's Star Trek! Anyhoo, they follow a trail to find a trail right into the Fae Realm. But to get there, hells bells is it challenging and once they do, well, hells bells even more! But before they can venture there, there's a small problem to sort out first, kidnapped kids are sort of a priority. But geez, how many times does poor Paul have to die? And the last chapter, OMG, the last chapter, had me shouting (quite literally!) YES!!!!
As with the previous books, I enjoyed the unique stamp Chris puts on his characters, you should meet Gwen, only don't impersonate Paul, you're likely to end up... lesser or missing some vital body part... The entire exchange in that scene had me giggling like a lunatic. It's witty, a dark sense of humour which is just up my street, awesome characters you feel for, vast incredible vivid world building. The insight into the past is really well explored as are the historical references, really cool. And the fantastical creatures the author conjures, well, that shows his incredible vivid imagination which honestly surpasses most authors I'm familiar with. The world he takes us to is so rich (and very nasty too) his characters beautifully fleshed out, his storytelling so captivating and yes, it's bizaare, it's gory but it's a cool bizaare and gory, that completely encases me, encapsulates me and makes me beg for more
Paul is so noble, wacky as all heck but noble. He's always ready to protect anyone he deems to be in trouble, not really caring for himself but when you can come back each time you die, reckless works, other than the pain, which is a bummer, but now he's magicless, Aichaless, wifeless and sonless, not great, nope, not at all. He has Isaac though or should I say Isakob...but where they venture no man has gone before... oh wait, that's Star Trek! Anyhoo, they follow a trail to find a trail right into the Fae Realm. But to get there, hells bells is it challenging and once they do, well, hells bells even more! But before they can venture there, there's a small problem to sort out first, kidnapped kids are sort of a priority. But geez, how many times does poor Paul have to die? And the last chapter, OMG, the last chapter, had me shouting (quite literally!) YES!!!!
As with the previous books, I enjoyed the unique stamp Chris puts on his characters, you should meet Gwen, only don't impersonate Paul, you're likely to end up... lesser or missing some vital body part... The entire exchange in that scene had me giggling like a lunatic. It's witty, a dark sense of humour which is just up my street, awesome characters you feel for, vast incredible vivid world building. The insight into the past is really well explored as are the historical references, really cool. And the fantastical creatures the author conjures, well, that shows his incredible vivid imagination which honestly surpasses most authors I'm familiar with. The world he takes us to is so rich (and very nasty too) his characters beautifully fleshed out, his storytelling so captivating and yes, it's bizaare, it's gory but it's a cool bizaare and gory, that completely encases me, encapsulates me and makes me beg for more
July 14, 2023
I love this series and these characters - this one is fast becoming one of my favourite series!
Paul Bonhomme, our beloved imPerfect Cathar, is not in a good place, neither physically, mentally, emotionally nor spiritually and all due to the events of the previous book (Which if you haven't yet read best do so quick!) To be honest, you could probably pick up the events from the other two books easily from some of the background in this one, but why miss out on some great reads?! Now more human than he has been in a very very long time, Paul deals with his losses in the only way he knows how. Time to reach the bottom of a bottle! Luckily for Paul, he has a great friend in Isaac, who eventually makes Paul see sense.
And now he has a plan - not a particularly good one, but a plan nonetheless - to get some much needed answers. However, there is a huge problem here! He's needs to get to Faerie to find those answers and being human, he cannot simply walk through the gate (or portal really!), so he does what he does best and finds a body that will let him in!
Paul broke my heart in this book at the beginning - you could just see how devastated he was with everything that had happened. I just wanted to give him a huge hug and tell him everything would be all ok! But obviously Paul had to figure that out for himself, along with the help of Isaac/Jacob! It was great to see more of their friendship and history, but the absence of Aicha was a deep hole in this trio!
The ending was great - I almost cried at what happened in the cave and was very surprised about who the villain was this time. But the crux of it all was the saviour - it couldn't have been anyone better!
C.N. Rowan completely draws you in and swallows you whole with these books - the storytelling is fantastic, humorous, full of emotion and action and leaving you desperate for more with each chapter! The characters are very well developed and despite being hundreds of years old, they are all still growing, still learning, still dealing with all the new crises thrown at them from all and very direction! I love how each new character we come across adds even more to the characters' background story, yet still moves the main plot forwards.
This series is highly recommended and I cannot wait for the next book to come out next month!
I received an ARC of this book through BookSprout but this review is my own, honest one!
Paul Bonhomme, our beloved imPerfect Cathar, is not in a good place, neither physically, mentally, emotionally nor spiritually and all due to the events of the previous book (Which if you haven't yet read best do so quick!) To be honest, you could probably pick up the events from the other two books easily from some of the background in this one, but why miss out on some great reads?! Now more human than he has been in a very very long time, Paul deals with his losses in the only way he knows how. Time to reach the bottom of a bottle! Luckily for Paul, he has a great friend in Isaac, who eventually makes Paul see sense.
And now he has a plan - not a particularly good one, but a plan nonetheless - to get some much needed answers. However, there is a huge problem here! He's needs to get to Faerie to find those answers and being human, he cannot simply walk through the gate (or portal really!), so he does what he does best and finds a body that will let him in!
Paul broke my heart in this book at the beginning - you could just see how devastated he was with everything that had happened. I just wanted to give him a huge hug and tell him everything would be all ok! But obviously Paul had to figure that out for himself, along with the help of Isaac/Jacob! It was great to see more of their friendship and history, but the absence of Aicha was a deep hole in this trio!
The ending was great - I almost cried at what happened in the cave and was very surprised about who the villain was this time. But the crux of it all was the saviour - it couldn't have been anyone better!
C.N. Rowan completely draws you in and swallows you whole with these books - the storytelling is fantastic, humorous, full of emotion and action and leaving you desperate for more with each chapter! The characters are very well developed and despite being hundreds of years old, they are all still growing, still learning, still dealing with all the new crises thrown at them from all and very direction! I love how each new character we come across adds even more to the characters' background story, yet still moves the main plot forwards.
This series is highly recommended and I cannot wait for the next book to come out next month!
I received an ARC of this book through BookSprout but this review is my own, honest one!
July 5, 2023
The third book in C.N. Rowan's ImPerfect series is even better than the first two... I got to read the ARC and agreed to reviews.
We meet our protagonist Paul Bonhomme at a really low point in life, completely beaten down and basically without any magic... And really, really drunk. He has just lost a large part of himself and additionally was messed with due to the surprise of his not-so-late wife popping up.
Despite all the sarcastic now well known and loved humour, it's apparent that Paul is on the brink. There is desperation, a lot of it actually. He wants to do good deeds and sometimes fails, and yet he always gets back up.
In this book though it gets even worse for him. A good part of the book is spent on searching - first gis mother-in-law who isn't his biggest fan, then for a psychopathic immortal, to be able to search for his Fae wife. And a search for himself - who is Paul Bonhomme without magic?
The book is delightfully sprinkled with popcultural references that never fail to make me laugh - timey-wimey... Aaah the Tenth Doctor... ANYWAY...
It is so well used and fitting, and lights the otherwise dark book.
We meet Lou again (<3), but also another creature seemingly from a really dark part of Chris brain. Again a unique figure that defies classification.
Chris' idea of Fae is the darker version, though there isn't shown all of it. The real villains once revealed is a real surprise, though if you read again, you find hints in the flashbacks to 1514.
The ongoing story twists and turns, and it's hard to guess what will happen next which is a nice surprise and shows just how good an author we have here. Having read literally a few thousand books I am not often surprised anymore. To underline what I said in a previous review, he reminds me of Neil Gaiman with Pratchett's humour, but darker and more sarcastic. And with a lot more expletives.
What I love so much as well is that Paul is not simply running around winning the day easily. He is beaten down, and this time worse than ever. And he can't win on his own. His mental state is even worse than it was at the begin of the book...
I recommend this book, but be aware that you will have to read the previous books, ImPerfect Magic and ImPerfect Curse. The story arc isn't finished, so brace yourself for #4.
We meet our protagonist Paul Bonhomme at a really low point in life, completely beaten down and basically without any magic... And really, really drunk. He has just lost a large part of himself and additionally was messed with due to the surprise of his not-so-late wife popping up.
Despite all the sarcastic now well known and loved humour, it's apparent that Paul is on the brink. There is desperation, a lot of it actually. He wants to do good deeds and sometimes fails, and yet he always gets back up.
In this book though it gets even worse for him. A good part of the book is spent on searching - first gis mother-in-law who isn't his biggest fan, then for a psychopathic immortal, to be able to search for his Fae wife. And a search for himself - who is Paul Bonhomme without magic?
The book is delightfully sprinkled with popcultural references that never fail to make me laugh - timey-wimey... Aaah the Tenth Doctor... ANYWAY...
It is so well used and fitting, and lights the otherwise dark book.
We meet Lou again (<3), but also another creature seemingly from a really dark part of Chris brain. Again a unique figure that defies classification.
Chris' idea of Fae is the darker version, though there isn't shown all of it. The real villains once revealed is a real surprise, though if you read again, you find hints in the flashbacks to 1514.
The ongoing story twists and turns, and it's hard to guess what will happen next which is a nice surprise and shows just how good an author we have here. Having read literally a few thousand books I am not often surprised anymore. To underline what I said in a previous review, he reminds me of Neil Gaiman with Pratchett's humour, but darker and more sarcastic. And with a lot more expletives.
What I love so much as well is that Paul is not simply running around winning the day easily. He is beaten down, and this time worse than ever. And he can't win on his own. His mental state is even worse than it was at the begin of the book...
I recommend this book, but be aware that you will have to read the previous books, ImPerfect Magic and ImPerfect Curse. The story arc isn't finished, so brace yourself for #4.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 6, 2023
The breakneck pace set by the first two volumes of the imPerfect Cathar series continues in this third installment, “imPerfect Fae,” as the protagonist is ridden hard through trials and tribulations that would break a lesser man - and nearly do break him. C.N. Rowan skillfully guides the narrative between present and past, where we pick up information critical to understanding both current events and current psyches. Paul, the imPerfect Cathar, has lived some 800 years, and it seems few of them were good ones. He deals with his extensive trauma through humor - the kind military and first responders use to stay sane through the really horrible parts - as well as impressively creative profanity (be ready to add to your repertoire!).
Paul takes his darkest journey yet in “imPerfect Fae.” The battles he must fight and the villains he must face (effing Tarrasque!) give him more than ample opportunity to exercise that creative profanity. Avoiding any spoilers, it’s safe to say it’s a heart-wrenching emotional roller-coaster ride that will likely have you reaching for the tissues before it’s done.
When reviewing a book, it’s important to give an honest assessment of both strengths and weaknesses. The strengths of this work are easy to list - extremely well-written, well-plotted, well-developed characters, superior world-building… I could go on, but the author’s head is no doubt swollen enough already. Each installment of the imPerfect Cathar has been stronger than the last. With the first volume, I had actual criticism I could level at it. With this one… I really feel like I’m reaching, but the best I have to offer is that some of the pop culture references are lost on me. I don’t really feel that’s a fault of the work, per se; I’ve basically lived under a media rock for the last 20 years. If someone who’s bothered to pay for television in the last two decades has the same issue, it might be problem with the work.
I received a free ARC in return for providing an honest review.
Paul takes his darkest journey yet in “imPerfect Fae.” The battles he must fight and the villains he must face (effing Tarrasque!) give him more than ample opportunity to exercise that creative profanity. Avoiding any spoilers, it’s safe to say it’s a heart-wrenching emotional roller-coaster ride that will likely have you reaching for the tissues before it’s done.
When reviewing a book, it’s important to give an honest assessment of both strengths and weaknesses. The strengths of this work are easy to list - extremely well-written, well-plotted, well-developed characters, superior world-building… I could go on, but the author’s head is no doubt swollen enough already. Each installment of the imPerfect Cathar has been stronger than the last. With the first volume, I had actual criticism I could level at it. With this one… I really feel like I’m reaching, but the best I have to offer is that some of the pop culture references are lost on me. I don’t really feel that’s a fault of the work, per se; I’ve basically lived under a media rock for the last 20 years. If someone who’s bothered to pay for television in the last two decades has the same issue, it might be problem with the work.
I received a free ARC in return for providing an honest review.
February 1, 2024
Read as part of the imPerfect Beginnings omnibus.
CW: violence, gore, references to r@pe, self harm/suicide, some others
Seriously, the number of gloriously delivered literary references in this series should be illegal.
Paul Bonhomme is an idiot on one hell of a bender. After a disastrous affair with a child-eating monster, and the resultant falling out with his best friend, Paul has resolved to stay completely inebriated. Unfortunately for his plans, that’s not going to work, and off he goes on another problem-solving mission. But this time, there’s no Aicha to back him up.
How can a book be both faster and slower than its predecessors? More specifically, how can it be both *while still being a good book*? Because this one has managed to do just that. My theory is that the pacing works because, when there’s action, it’s really, really good. It’s engaging and fast and it keeps you at the edge of your seat. When there’s no action, there’s humor. Little moments of snark and commentary that keep you engaged and lighten an otherwise tense mood.
If you’ve read this far in the series, you’ll know by now whether or not you enjoy Rowan’s style. Personally, I adore it, but it definitely won’t be a fit for every reader. His settings are, as always, descriptive enough to keep you grounded without drowning in excessive visuals. Paul travels a lot more in this installment, but I didn’t have any difficulty keeping up with his whereabouts because a) enough information, as stated above, and b) location wasn’t really the point. This book was a lot more of Paul being in his own head about things, and while it occasionally got a little excessive, those moments were always perfectly cut by someone reminding him that he had things to do, and he could finish moping later.
As it stands, I’ve already decided that the next book in the series has risen on my bookish shopping list. I need to know what happens next, and I need to know soon. If snarky heroes, urban and historical fantasy blends, and ridiculous humor set over violent action is your sort of book, then this is the series for you. Go grab book 1 and catch up already!
CW: violence, gore, references to r@pe, self harm/suicide, some others
Seriously, the number of gloriously delivered literary references in this series should be illegal.
Paul Bonhomme is an idiot on one hell of a bender. After a disastrous affair with a child-eating monster, and the resultant falling out with his best friend, Paul has resolved to stay completely inebriated. Unfortunately for his plans, that’s not going to work, and off he goes on another problem-solving mission. But this time, there’s no Aicha to back him up.
How can a book be both faster and slower than its predecessors? More specifically, how can it be both *while still being a good book*? Because this one has managed to do just that. My theory is that the pacing works because, when there’s action, it’s really, really good. It’s engaging and fast and it keeps you at the edge of your seat. When there’s no action, there’s humor. Little moments of snark and commentary that keep you engaged and lighten an otherwise tense mood.
If you’ve read this far in the series, you’ll know by now whether or not you enjoy Rowan’s style. Personally, I adore it, but it definitely won’t be a fit for every reader. His settings are, as always, descriptive enough to keep you grounded without drowning in excessive visuals. Paul travels a lot more in this installment, but I didn’t have any difficulty keeping up with his whereabouts because a) enough information, as stated above, and b) location wasn’t really the point. This book was a lot more of Paul being in his own head about things, and while it occasionally got a little excessive, those moments were always perfectly cut by someone reminding him that he had things to do, and he could finish moping later.
As it stands, I’ve already decided that the next book in the series has risen on my bookish shopping list. I need to know what happens next, and I need to know soon. If snarky heroes, urban and historical fantasy blends, and ridiculous humor set over violent action is your sort of book, then this is the series for you. Go grab book 1 and catch up already!
June 26, 2023
How much pain can a person endure? How much torment can a man be put through? Where do we all draw our lines in the sand? And what if you add death into the mix? How long can the human soul survive its physical death, over and over and over again?
The saying goes "I get by with a little help from my friends" (The Beatles, 1967) and Paul Bonhomme is no different, in fact he gets by with a LOT of help from his friends. But what can he do when he loses one of the pillars of his sanity? Loses one of those friends that keeps him human and helps him when everything goes pear-shaped?
A unrepentant sell-sword and kidnapper stalks the streets of Lyon, home territory of one of the worst monsters in all of Talentdom and Paul's clock is ticking. When the Winter, Summer, and Wilds throw into the mix, how can he hope to survive, with his humanity intact?
The 3rd part of the first imPerfect Cathar storyline delivers more powerfully than any junior effort has any right to hope for, strengthening the the epic of the man who has been imPerfect for over 800 years. The reader is left raw, yanked through the emotional ringer of the hole of a needle, emerging forever changed with so much to consider about their own humanity, and the importance of family, both blood and made, in these trials we call life. There is no happy frolic through the woods for Paul Bonhomme, but a trek through the Wilds to save the woman he's loved for almost a millennia, with far less talent than his "Devil-may care" attitude would betray. Here's hoping old Paul can still get by, even without a little help from his friends.
A triumph, a continuation, a universe in progress. I wait for the next book with baited breath.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The saying goes "I get by with a little help from my friends" (The Beatles, 1967) and Paul Bonhomme is no different, in fact he gets by with a LOT of help from his friends. But what can he do when he loses one of the pillars of his sanity? Loses one of those friends that keeps him human and helps him when everything goes pear-shaped?
A unrepentant sell-sword and kidnapper stalks the streets of Lyon, home territory of one of the worst monsters in all of Talentdom and Paul's clock is ticking. When the Winter, Summer, and Wilds throw into the mix, how can he hope to survive, with his humanity intact?
The 3rd part of the first imPerfect Cathar storyline delivers more powerfully than any junior effort has any right to hope for, strengthening the the epic of the man who has been imPerfect for over 800 years. The reader is left raw, yanked through the emotional ringer of the hole of a needle, emerging forever changed with so much to consider about their own humanity, and the importance of family, both blood and made, in these trials we call life. There is no happy frolic through the woods for Paul Bonhomme, but a trek through the Wilds to save the woman he's loved for almost a millennia, with far less talent than his "Devil-may care" attitude would betray. Here's hoping old Paul can still get by, even without a little help from his friends.
A triumph, a continuation, a universe in progress. I wait for the next book with baited breath.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 21, 2023
How much suffering can a human soul endure? How much until it is no longer human?
This book marks something of a turn for the series. There are still very good moments of levity in the book, but it hits home that it is the coping mechanism of a narrator that has suffered about as much as one can imagine before succumbing to madness. Not the madness of a Lovecraftian incomprehensible universe. Oh no, that would be a treat.
The protagonist goes on an adventure that is far from any tired narrative trope. Through the mind and wretched workings of psychopathy, past the gaze of foul-appetited inhuman beings, and directly into the maw of despair.
In the end, the message is that through friends lie hope. But this potentially trite message is made fresh and raw in delivery, with a claustrophobic oppressiveness that I could only survive by dint of knowledge that I could close the book any time I wanted.
Don't get me wrong, this was the ride that I had wanted. I was one hundred percent there for it. But I am still processing the depth of feeling this book has left me with.
On the other side, I am confident that I will empathize with the sorrows of others more readily and not take my friends quite as lightly.
I am amazed and cannot wait for the next book.
This book marks something of a turn for the series. There are still very good moments of levity in the book, but it hits home that it is the coping mechanism of a narrator that has suffered about as much as one can imagine before succumbing to madness. Not the madness of a Lovecraftian incomprehensible universe. Oh no, that would be a treat.
The protagonist goes on an adventure that is far from any tired narrative trope. Through the mind and wretched workings of psychopathy, past the gaze of foul-appetited inhuman beings, and directly into the maw of despair.
In the end, the message is that through friends lie hope. But this potentially trite message is made fresh and raw in delivery, with a claustrophobic oppressiveness that I could only survive by dint of knowledge that I could close the book any time I wanted.
Don't get me wrong, this was the ride that I had wanted. I was one hundred percent there for it. But I am still processing the depth of feeling this book has left me with.
On the other side, I am confident that I will empathize with the sorrows of others more readily and not take my friends quite as lightly.
I am amazed and cannot wait for the next book.
July 13, 2023
Amazing Adventure . . .
Well, the claim that this book is “funny” is absolutely true. When I read the Descartes (mangled) quotation that started off Chapter 1, I couldn’t stop laughing, knowing that the irreverent humor just wasn’t going to stop until my ribs gave out from relentless merriment. My favorite quote, which changed minute-by-minute is this: “Magic and alcohol don’t mix, really. Not in the [way that] “I drink this, then sniff that, and next thing I know, I’ve got five new tattoos and I’m trying to chew a police officer’s leg off”. The imagery of that popped vividly into my head set me off once again. Maybe it’s just my strange humor, but approach this book cautiously.
The story is non-stop, never pausing for a rest or to let the reader catch a breath. Because I didn’t start at the beginning of the series, I had to meet Paul here. I don’t believe I will ever forget him… nor recover from the experience. May I quote the expert again? “Survival isn’t just unsure. It’s highly unlikely.” Is that referring to his revenge? Or reading the book? Will Faerie ever be the same if he finds a way to enter? Grab this witty and amazing book. It’s an experience…
Well, the claim that this book is “funny” is absolutely true. When I read the Descartes (mangled) quotation that started off Chapter 1, I couldn’t stop laughing, knowing that the irreverent humor just wasn’t going to stop until my ribs gave out from relentless merriment. My favorite quote, which changed minute-by-minute is this: “Magic and alcohol don’t mix, really. Not in the [way that] “I drink this, then sniff that, and next thing I know, I’ve got five new tattoos and I’m trying to chew a police officer’s leg off”. The imagery of that popped vividly into my head set me off once again. Maybe it’s just my strange humor, but approach this book cautiously.
The story is non-stop, never pausing for a rest or to let the reader catch a breath. Because I didn’t start at the beginning of the series, I had to meet Paul here. I don’t believe I will ever forget him… nor recover from the experience. May I quote the expert again? “Survival isn’t just unsure. It’s highly unlikely.” Is that referring to his revenge? Or reading the book? Will Faerie ever be the same if he finds a way to enter? Grab this witty and amazing book. It’s an experience…
July 14, 2023
Be prepared to handle some dark stuff when Paul Bonhomme's strangely compelling adventures continue in the third book. He's a former Cathar who has been dying repeatedly for 800 years after an accident with the Holy Grail. The thing about continuous reincarnations is, your old mistakes and sorrows tend to follow you around and you overcompensate for all the torture by wisecracking bad jokes. This time, Paul has had a falling out with Aicha the warrior princess and seeks out a fae villain as well as his own family , accompanied by Isaac and the other three who reside in Isaac's body. Paul has had his magic eaten so he has some adjusting to do. There's somebody who says he's the son Paul thought long dead but it's not a warm family reunion. I didn't see the twist coming.
I would recommend reading this series in order since it is a continuous plotline and some things probably won't be terribly clear if you don't know what happened in the previous books. This is not my usual genre but once I started reading it I've just got to know what happens next.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I would recommend reading this series in order since it is a continuous plotline and some things probably won't be terribly clear if you don't know what happened in the previous books. This is not my usual genre but once I started reading it I've just got to know what happens next.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 4, 2023
Whenever I'm in the mood to be really traumatised by a book one minute and then laughing my socks off the next, I reach for something by C. N. Rowan. What can I say? I've learned to love the misery and emotional turmoil.
This is the third book in the imPerfect Cathar series and we open the story on Paul having a good old wallow in self pity. Or whisky. One of those two. Anyway, he does have a few good reasons (number one is a sadistic author intent on punishing him but I digress). Do not expect to enter on a real downer however because the laughs start on page one. What follows is a fast paced (I literally got through it in one sitting and I was listening to the audiobook) dark fantasy adventure filled with memorable characters, villain's both loathsome and terrifying, and plenty of snark. Oh, and friendship. Because under all the piss taking, that's what makes these stories go. Paul goes on a real internal journey in this one too as he is forced to go toe to toe with various accumulated enemies - tbh if you're going to live 800 yrs then you're probably going to amass a few - and all without magic because his talent got eaten by a primordial being. Fun times. This was a lot of fun and I was tempted to return all my library books unread so I could justify getting to the next book sooner.
This is the third book in the imPerfect Cathar series and we open the story on Paul having a good old wallow in self pity. Or whisky. One of those two. Anyway, he does have a few good reasons (number one is a sadistic author intent on punishing him but I digress). Do not expect to enter on a real downer however because the laughs start on page one. What follows is a fast paced (I literally got through it in one sitting and I was listening to the audiobook) dark fantasy adventure filled with memorable characters, villain's both loathsome and terrifying, and plenty of snark. Oh, and friendship. Because under all the piss taking, that's what makes these stories go. Paul goes on a real internal journey in this one too as he is forced to go toe to toe with various accumulated enemies - tbh if you're going to live 800 yrs then you're probably going to amass a few - and all without magic because his talent got eaten by a primordial being. Fun times. This was a lot of fun and I was tempted to return all my library books unread so I could justify getting to the next book sooner.
November 1, 2023
The Imperfect Fae : My review.
Body-jacking a legendary assassin when I’m running on empty. No problem, right?
And thus begins book three of the Imperfect Cathar series.
These books keep getting funnier and darker by turns.
And hits with several gut punches. Paul (and the reader) is lamenting the split from Aicha. Just when he could use some quick witted and bladed back up. As Paul needs to get to Faerie, but it's not as simple as that, as all the ways are locked and blocked to all but the Fae and it doesn't matter how talented or not you are.
So Paul is on the hunt for the legendary mercenary assassin Jack of Plate, more monster than man.
While Aicha is missed it was great to see Paul team up with Issac and his body sharing brother Jacob and of course the two heavenly bodies and to understand a little more of their relationship.
This is a fast paced read, exploring a plethora of human emotions and it grabs you and forces you to come along for the ride. The action is once again split between the ages, but the pace never suffers and moves along smoothly. There are the usual on point cultural references and it was fun reading Issac's confusion (especially in the park, cottaging indeed) it was very nice to briefly meet up again with the gigantic snail like being Lou Carcoilh, if nice is the right word. Whilst reading this was fun, the audio is where it's at... And the pain and joy the narrator/author pours into the performance more than sells the listen it will make you weep if you have a heart or a soul. All in all a fantastic read, easily worth five stars.
Body-jacking a legendary assassin when I’m running on empty. No problem, right?
And thus begins book three of the Imperfect Cathar series.
These books keep getting funnier and darker by turns.
And hits with several gut punches. Paul (and the reader) is lamenting the split from Aicha. Just when he could use some quick witted and bladed back up. As Paul needs to get to Faerie, but it's not as simple as that, as all the ways are locked and blocked to all but the Fae and it doesn't matter how talented or not you are.
So Paul is on the hunt for the legendary mercenary assassin Jack of Plate, more monster than man.
While Aicha is missed it was great to see Paul team up with Issac and his body sharing brother Jacob and of course the two heavenly bodies and to understand a little more of their relationship.
This is a fast paced read, exploring a plethora of human emotions and it grabs you and forces you to come along for the ride. The action is once again split between the ages, but the pace never suffers and moves along smoothly. There are the usual on point cultural references and it was fun reading Issac's confusion (especially in the park, cottaging indeed) it was very nice to briefly meet up again with the gigantic snail like being Lou Carcoilh, if nice is the right word. Whilst reading this was fun, the audio is where it's at... And the pain and joy the narrator/author pours into the performance more than sells the listen it will make you weep if you have a heart or a soul. All in all a fantastic read, easily worth five stars.
February 4, 2024
This one starts right where imPerfect Curse leaves off. This is even darker than the previous with the mystery of Paul's now no longer unalive son explained, and (SPOILERS) Aicha saves Paul yet again.
Paul and Jacob/Isaac meets Paul's mother in law for answers but they have to travel to the lands of the Fae, AND, angels cannot go there, so Paul is on his own.
The journey takes him into more danger than he ever faced, especially since he is sans talent, Aicha and Isaac/Jacob.
The past and present timelines exist here too, offering more insights into Paul's life and relationships.
The ending gutted me, to be honest, and I even felt sad (momentarily) for the villain. But nope, I want him dead.
I can't wait to continue the series, because boy, that ending!
Now that Paul and Aicha are back to being friends again, and she's at Paul's side, I can't wait for them to start kicking butts and taking names.
If you love fantasy, urban fantasy, alternate history, and magic, you will love this book! It’s a bit on the dark side, but the prose makes it a lot lighter. The characters are memorable and even the bad guys are intriguing enough.
Go get it. You won’t regret it!
Paul and Jacob/Isaac meets Paul's mother in law for answers but they have to travel to the lands of the Fae, AND, angels cannot go there, so Paul is on his own.
The journey takes him into more danger than he ever faced, especially since he is sans talent, Aicha and Isaac/Jacob.
The past and present timelines exist here too, offering more insights into Paul's life and relationships.
The ending gutted me, to be honest, and I even felt sad (momentarily) for the villain. But nope, I want him dead.
I can't wait to continue the series, because boy, that ending!
Now that Paul and Aicha are back to being friends again, and she's at Paul's side, I can't wait for them to start kicking butts and taking names.
If you love fantasy, urban fantasy, alternate history, and magic, you will love this book! It’s a bit on the dark side, but the prose makes it a lot lighter. The characters are memorable and even the bad guys are intriguing enough.
Go get it. You won’t regret it!
June 30, 2023
Going into the third book in a series, you feel like you know what to expect. You have your favourite aspects to look forward to, and you have characters to spend time with that almost feels like visiting friends. You think you have some idea of how the author weaves story.
I went into this book like this and on one hand, I was right. Characters didn't disappoint, prose laid out before me like a poetic carpet, dark and gritty comings and goings, seamless worldbuilding, Paul's history revealing more and more of his story. On the other hand though, Rowan always has something more up his sleeve; namely darker challenges, better twists and deeper character development.
These are meaty books to savour and, like a good deep late night chat at the pub, after I've read an Imperfect Cathar book, I need to chew on it and reflect on how it's added to my life. Its not going to be pretty for Paul and I'm worried for him but bring on book four. I can take it. I can. In just a minute.
I went into this book like this and on one hand, I was right. Characters didn't disappoint, prose laid out before me like a poetic carpet, dark and gritty comings and goings, seamless worldbuilding, Paul's history revealing more and more of his story. On the other hand though, Rowan always has something more up his sleeve; namely darker challenges, better twists and deeper character development.
These are meaty books to savour and, like a good deep late night chat at the pub, after I've read an Imperfect Cathar book, I need to chew on it and reflect on how it's added to my life. Its not going to be pretty for Paul and I'm worried for him but bring on book four. I can take it. I can. In just a minute.
July 9, 2023
Let me start by saying ImPerfect Fae is extraordinary. I absolutely loved this book. Better than the previous books and setting the bar very high for the books to come! An easy read? No, not always, but lyrical, gorgeously written and completely enthralling.
Our Good Man, has hit a new low. Virtually magicless, without his best friend (who was sorely missed by him and this reader!) and searching for a way to get to his not-dead-after-all wife. We meet Gwen, the MIL who isn't from hell, although.... we learn more about Isaac and Jacob and more about the lore, history and architecture of South-Western France.
CN Rowan continues to delight. His storytelling is effortless, transporting us into Paul's world and showing us just what it means to be a Good, if flawed, Man. I had tears in my eyes towards the end of the book and can't wait for the next one. I also want to hug my best friend and tell them how much they mean to me.
Our Good Man, has hit a new low. Virtually magicless, without his best friend (who was sorely missed by him and this reader!) and searching for a way to get to his not-dead-after-all wife. We meet Gwen, the MIL who isn't from hell, although.... we learn more about Isaac and Jacob and more about the lore, history and architecture of South-Western France.
CN Rowan continues to delight. His storytelling is effortless, transporting us into Paul's world and showing us just what it means to be a Good, if flawed, Man. I had tears in my eyes towards the end of the book and can't wait for the next one. I also want to hug my best friend and tell them how much they mean to me.
January 9, 2024
Poor Paul! He goes on a week-long bender after losing three very important people in the space of a couple of hours. But the bottle can only help him hide from reality for so long before his responsibilities come back to haunt him.
Somehow he has to find a way into the Fae Realms. So, of course, he first must hunt down a legendary assassin who is in league with Maeve, the Winter Queen. As if that’s not bad enough, he is under time pressure to succeed or pay an unbearable price to the Power that holds Lyon.
As ever, Paul’s self-deprecation, wittiness, depth of character and love for his friends and humanity shine through as the story unfolds in parallel with another tale from the past – one which echoes through to the present. Another perfectly crafted story filled with despair, humour, horror, love, friendship and hope.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Somehow he has to find a way into the Fae Realms. So, of course, he first must hunt down a legendary assassin who is in league with Maeve, the Winter Queen. As if that’s not bad enough, he is under time pressure to succeed or pay an unbearable price to the Power that holds Lyon.
As ever, Paul’s self-deprecation, wittiness, depth of character and love for his friends and humanity shine through as the story unfolds in parallel with another tale from the past – one which echoes through to the present. Another perfectly crafted story filled with despair, humour, horror, love, friendship and hope.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 2, 2023
Our story continues with book 3 in a well written series. I was so mad when I finished book 2, I had a hard time waiting for the 3rd to arrive. The storyline is not another formula predictable urban fantasy trope. Nor is it filled with look-at-me-I'm-so-different! made up terms that bog down the story. Nope. This is a fast paced, interesting, well written, deeply captivating, and utterly Satisfying book. The characters are well fleshed and relatable, so much so that the reader wants to protect them fiercely from the author, who delights in dropping them into impossible to survive situations. Thankfully the author has also imbued them with immortality, of a sort. The main character dies. A lot. Doesn't keep him down for long, or his head out of his behind. If you've come this far, keep going, it's definitely worth the ride!
July 30, 2023
Paul, Oh, Paul, day-drinking isn't always answer. Our imPerfect hero(ish) has found himself in quite the pickle (while pickled) and just can't seem to find his way (ever)clear.
If G.R.R.M. taught us anything, it's that no characters are safe, and this stays in the back of my mind each and every time Paul finds himself in a predicament that I can't see him getting out of. So far, so good, but can he get out of this one, 'cause it's a doozy.
While imPerfect Fae dips its toes back into the horror pool, it is fully loaded with rounding out Paul and Isaac's relationship. I love the mentor/mentee-father/son-brother's bond they share. I wish more authors weren't afraid to show men in platonic love. (I'll forgive you for so little Aicha in this book, but the bad-ass bitch better be back soon.)
If G.R.R.M. taught us anything, it's that no characters are safe, and this stays in the back of my mind each and every time Paul finds himself in a predicament that I can't see him getting out of. So far, so good, but can he get out of this one, 'cause it's a doozy.
While imPerfect Fae dips its toes back into the horror pool, it is fully loaded with rounding out Paul and Isaac's relationship. I love the mentor/mentee-father/son-brother's bond they share. I wish more authors weren't afraid to show men in platonic love. (I'll forgive you for so little Aicha in this book, but the bad-ass bitch better be back soon.)
August 22, 2023
The pace hurtles forward in the third of the imPerfect series. Paul is straight into the action, set against a devious and cold-hearted killer in the wonderful setting of Lyon, France. Details such as the town’s secret passageways had me intrigued and googling,
One of the main series characters, Aicha, only makes a brief appearance in this novel, yet her absence reveals the deep relationship between Paul and his mentor figure, Isaac. This was a highlight for me. And as in the previous books, Rowan does bizarre monsters superbly.
In addition to Paul’s colossal personal problems, the stakes are super high throughout, and the completely unexpected ending was a dazzler—heart wrenching on many levels.
imPerfect Fae is definitely my favourite of the series so far. Bring on the next!
I received an ARC copy. My review is freely given and my own opinion.
One of the main series characters, Aicha, only makes a brief appearance in this novel, yet her absence reveals the deep relationship between Paul and his mentor figure, Isaac. This was a highlight for me. And as in the previous books, Rowan does bizarre monsters superbly.
In addition to Paul’s colossal personal problems, the stakes are super high throughout, and the completely unexpected ending was a dazzler—heart wrenching on many levels.
imPerfect Fae is definitely my favourite of the series so far. Bring on the next!
I received an ARC copy. My review is freely given and my own opinion.
July 3, 2023
imPerfect Fae is the third book in a series that is not for faint-of-heart folks who want to maintain impenetrable walls around their cotton-candy existence. Starting from imPerfect Magic, carried through imPerfect Curse, and now into imPerfect Fae, this story is gritty. Gory. Hard-hitting. Magical in both beautiful and horrific manifestations. At times, laugh-out-loud funny; at other times, heart-wrenching. This is a story of love deeply held, but it is not a romance. The main character is Paul Bonhomme, a man who cares so much for the good of humanity, he sacrificed his eternal soul for them. I am amazed at C.N. Rowan’s superb writing skills as he intertwines historical sequences masterfully amid current story events. To his credit, I learned much about some aspects of real world history, and gained more curiosity about them. C.N. Rowan promises a wild ride to the end of the series. Just three books in, I believe him. I can hardly wait.
June 29, 2023
The third book in the ImPerfect Cathar, ImPerfect Fae, is one roller-coaster ride you don't want to miss! You get it all, dark humor, a race to stop a villain only to have to confront an even bigger Villain (with a capital V), and twists and turns you just can't see coming. Through it all, you learn more about Paul, his past, his relationship with Isaac, how far he can strain his sanity before it snaps and what it takes to save him. C.N Rowan delivers a book so vivid and unique with a mastery second to none!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 14, 2023
I just finished the third book in this series, and I am both excited and unhappy. I’ll get to the unhappy part later. Paul is on the hunt for his family, and he must take down an assassin first before he can go to Faerie where they are. It was fun watching him and the angels run around Lion trying to set a trap and how they had to negotiate. Now about the unhappy part. Poor Paul: that was just so ugly. The thought of what happened to him just gives me the creeps. I can’t say more, so you’ll have to read this latest to find out what I’m talking about. *shudders* Highly recommend. I was provided a complimentary copy which I voluntarily reviewed.
March 21, 2024
Good but difficult
These books are an absolutely amazing story, spanning literal centuries of time and bringing the past back to life as easily as the present is being described. They have flashes of belly aching laughter, but the hard parts? Oh gosh. The hard parts are enough to take your breath away. I usually read a book a day. Because I have to keep stopping to process what's happening, and then build up the courage to start reading again, they're taking about a week. I'm not mad about it, I'm just surprised. Its been a while since I've had a series make feel this way. I'd definitely recommend them.
These books are an absolutely amazing story, spanning literal centuries of time and bringing the past back to life as easily as the present is being described. They have flashes of belly aching laughter, but the hard parts? Oh gosh. The hard parts are enough to take your breath away. I usually read a book a day. Because I have to keep stopping to process what's happening, and then build up the courage to start reading again, they're taking about a week. I'm not mad about it, I'm just surprised. Its been a while since I've had a series make feel this way. I'd definitely recommend them.
July 6, 2023
~This is book 3 in the series~
With Paul and Aicha on the outs, our cathar must turn to Isakob, his mentor/father figure, to help him find his traitorous dead not dead wife and fop of a dead/alive son.
This books takes us through the history of Lyon, a touch of the Spanish inquisition (which nobody expects), persecution of the Cagets, and into faerie herself.
Can Paul fix this? Can he do this without his best friend? Things go...imperfectly.
I loved this book a ton. It might he my favorite in the series yet.
With Paul and Aicha on the outs, our cathar must turn to Isakob, his mentor/father figure, to help him find his traitorous dead not dead wife and fop of a dead/alive son.
This books takes us through the history of Lyon, a touch of the Spanish inquisition (which nobody expects), persecution of the Cagets, and into faerie herself.
Can Paul fix this? Can he do this without his best friend? Things go...imperfectly.
I loved this book a ton. It might he my favorite in the series yet.
July 15, 2023
Maybe I’m just missing something because while I like this series and it is dark, I just don’t find it terribly funny. Not a bad thing except when that’s what it’s advertised as. Still it’s a great fantasy story and there are lots of quotes and references to other fantasy and science fiction tales that keep you on your toes trying to identify all of them.
I definitely think that the story is improving with each book and will be following on with it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I definitely think that the story is improving with each book and will be following on with it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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