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The imPerfect Cathar #6
imPerfect Gods
And so it comes to this. A showdown. An ending. But if we fail – if I end – then reality might follow along behind me.
We’ve been through so much. Torture. Murder. Trap after trap mainly sprung by me blundering head first into them and one of my friends saving my stupid behind.
But there’s no room for mistakes now.
We’ve got an inkling of what the scumbag we’re up against is after. Enough to know what his next target is. Enough to know it’s probably his last one. Enough to know it’s everything he needs to complete his nefarious plans.
If we don’t get there first, he wins. Simple. And I’m not sure … but my gut says if that happens, every living thing in the universe loses.
No pressure, right?
imPerfect Gods is the sixth book in The imPerfect Cathar series, and completes the first story arc. It is a darkly funny supernatural suspense mystery, containing dark humour and graphic violence.
We’ve been through so much. Torture. Murder. Trap after trap mainly sprung by me blundering head first into them and one of my friends saving my stupid behind.
But there’s no room for mistakes now.
We’ve got an inkling of what the scumbag we’re up against is after. Enough to know what his next target is. Enough to know it’s probably his last one. Enough to know it’s everything he needs to complete his nefarious plans.
If we don’t get there first, he wins. Simple. And I’m not sure … but my gut says if that happens, every living thing in the universe loses.
No pressure, right?
imPerfect Gods is the sixth book in The imPerfect Cathar series, and completes the first story arc. It is a darkly funny supernatural suspense mystery, containing dark humour and graphic violence.
- GenresUrban FantasyFantasy
261 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 2, 2023
50 people are currently reading
67 people want to read
About the author
C.N. Rowan
28 books132 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 48 reviews
July 18, 2024
imPerfect Gods by C.N. Rowan is the last book in the first arc, and a very good conclusion!
Don't let that fool you into thinking this is a satisfying ending though, oh no, it is the start to a whole new slew of problems...
This is definitely not an eve, just the break in between acts!
Things change quite a bit, and I did not see some of these twists coming at all.
Coming this with more of the typical Paul and crew snark, plenty of action, and a lot of the characters from previous books, and it makes for quite the story!l
Don't let that fool you into thinking this is a satisfying ending though, oh no, it is the start to a whole new slew of problems...
This is definitely not an eve, just the break in between acts!
Things change quite a bit, and I did not see some of these twists coming at all.
Coming this with more of the typical Paul and crew snark, plenty of action, and a lot of the characters from previous books, and it makes for quite the story!l
November 4, 2023
4.5 stars
What a ride!
This book ends the first major arc of Paul’s story, and what a rollercoaster of a trip it is! He and his friends finally confront de Montfort and find there are more villains and higher stakes than they ever imagined. Their fight does not come without cost and soul-deep revelations, making it at times a heartbreaking read.
This series has been a very welcome surprise, one of the freshest UF takes I’ve read in a long time. There still is much to address in Paul’s life in the upcoming books, and I can’t wait to read them!
What a ride!
This book ends the first major arc of Paul’s story, and what a rollercoaster of a trip it is! He and his friends finally confront de Montfort and find there are more villains and higher stakes than they ever imagined. Their fight does not come without cost and soul-deep revelations, making it at times a heartbreaking read.
This series has been a very welcome surprise, one of the freshest UF takes I’ve read in a long time. There still is much to address in Paul’s life in the upcoming books, and I can’t wait to read them!
September 18, 2023
Well, I just finished this book, and what a wild ride it was. Paul and Aicha are trying to finally, finally defeat their biggest enemy, but there are still some surprises that are revealed before the final showdown. This arc-ender, as there are still more stories to be told, was an action-filled adventure with a couple of surprises, like I said, that are parceled out. I love that this arc has ended, but there is going to be another arc to keep us entertained for a while yet. I am intrigued at how Paul is going to…well, I can’t say much as I don’t want to spoil anything, but more well-written adventure, action, and repartee is on the horizon. Loved this. Highly recommend. I was provided a complimentary copy which I voluntarily reviewed.
March 27, 2024
{4.25/5}
CW: violence, gore, depictions of drug use/addiction, some others
Read as part of the imPerfect Villains omnibus.
I feel like giving the reader hope and jumping up and down on their heart in the same book should be illegal.
After way too much heartache and pain, Paul and Aicha are finally closing in on De Montfort. Time’s running out, though, and there’s the creeping sensation that they’ve missed something. Something important.
After about three books in a series, I find it becomes incredibly difficult to write a review that doesn’t give anything away. Spoilers are a mortal sin in my book (oh look, a pun!), so anything about the actual plot is kind of off limits. Odds are good that I’ve already explained how I feel about the characters, so that’s not helpful, and this far in I’ve probably also discussed the world building or setting at great length. So…what more can I write about?
As it turns out, if the book is good enough, there’s still a fair bit to mention. For example, I could tell you that we get to see more than just one focal flashback in Paul’s life, which is fun. Instead of jumping between the ‘now’ and a singular ‘then,’ we get to see him at multiple points in a very long life. It’s a wonderful way to further humanize a character that already feels very much like an old friend, and it gives him even more depth than he already possessed.
I could also tell you about the pacing, which somehow felt both incredibly breakneck and also determinedly slow and steady. I think a lot of that is because of the flashbacks, which did a good job at breaking up what would have been almost too fast of a story. There was only one point where I felt the action got a little bogged down, but it fit well with what was going on, and it’s the first time I’ve seen that happen in the series.
If I could begin to get a grip on how I felt at the end of the book, I’d do my best to explain to you the breadth of the emotions I experienced reading the darn thing. Since that’s a nearly impossible task, I’ll have to settle for telling you to brace yourself for anxiety, shock, depression, humor, impatience, resignation, and hope. All of it. Prep for all of it.
As it turns out, this wasn’t a difficult review to write, and that’s entirely due to how amazing the book was. Really, the whole series. It’s been one of the most consistently entertaining series that I’ve read in ages, and I can guarantee right now that I’ll recommend it to anyone who likes foul-mouthed sarcasm, dark humor, and action wrapped up in a stellar fantasy bow. They’re stories that are easy to read, both because of the writing style itself and because of how entertaining they are. It’s not a series that everyone will enjoy, but those who will are going to love it.
CW: violence, gore, depictions of drug use/addiction, some others
Read as part of the imPerfect Villains omnibus.
I feel like giving the reader hope and jumping up and down on their heart in the same book should be illegal.
After way too much heartache and pain, Paul and Aicha are finally closing in on De Montfort. Time’s running out, though, and there’s the creeping sensation that they’ve missed something. Something important.
After about three books in a series, I find it becomes incredibly difficult to write a review that doesn’t give anything away. Spoilers are a mortal sin in my book (oh look, a pun!), so anything about the actual plot is kind of off limits. Odds are good that I’ve already explained how I feel about the characters, so that’s not helpful, and this far in I’ve probably also discussed the world building or setting at great length. So…what more can I write about?
As it turns out, if the book is good enough, there’s still a fair bit to mention. For example, I could tell you that we get to see more than just one focal flashback in Paul’s life, which is fun. Instead of jumping between the ‘now’ and a singular ‘then,’ we get to see him at multiple points in a very long life. It’s a wonderful way to further humanize a character that already feels very much like an old friend, and it gives him even more depth than he already possessed.
I could also tell you about the pacing, which somehow felt both incredibly breakneck and also determinedly slow and steady. I think a lot of that is because of the flashbacks, which did a good job at breaking up what would have been almost too fast of a story. There was only one point where I felt the action got a little bogged down, but it fit well with what was going on, and it’s the first time I’ve seen that happen in the series.
If I could begin to get a grip on how I felt at the end of the book, I’d do my best to explain to you the breadth of the emotions I experienced reading the darn thing. Since that’s a nearly impossible task, I’ll have to settle for telling you to brace yourself for anxiety, shock, depression, humor, impatience, resignation, and hope. All of it. Prep for all of it.
As it turns out, this wasn’t a difficult review to write, and that’s entirely due to how amazing the book was. Really, the whole series. It’s been one of the most consistently entertaining series that I’ve read in ages, and I can guarantee right now that I’ll recommend it to anyone who likes foul-mouthed sarcasm, dark humor, and action wrapped up in a stellar fantasy bow. They’re stories that are easy to read, both because of the writing style itself and because of how entertaining they are. It’s not a series that everyone will enjoy, but those who will are going to love it.
September 26, 2023
Clever, is what I've assigned to the author, he's brilliantly clever in how he brings a story to evoke every fibre to want more. How profoundly true is this opening sentence? "There's always a price to pay for the choices we make, the paths we walk " And that is how the author captures me, each and every time, his prose. His words so rich yet easily consumed, so delectable and juicy, I salivate right from the start to consume the banquet he has laid out.
I always get an extra thrilling shiver running down my spine when Aicha is featured prominently. Don't get me wrong, I adore Paul, I sympathise with Paul, I cry for Paul, I cheer for Paul but there's something special about Aicha. Is it her fearless attitude? Is it her snark? Is it her badassed fighting skills? Is it her utter dedication to Paul? It's all of this and so much more. In fact, there's so much more of everything in this book, assaulting my senses spectacularly.
The visual delights are just that, delights. Almost impossibly vivid and so imaginative, my own imagination was going into overdrive, like battering ram, exposing my vista beyond, well, beyond my imagination! I love the references to movies, igniting the visuals in my head and superimposing these on Paul's current situation. Which is usually a rather dire one as he goes from one calamity to the next, all the while trying to stay intact in his current form and try to save the populace from evil doers. He's in a good position to do so, what with Isaac and Jacob and Nithial and Aicha at his side but the foe is sly, the foe is heartless, the foe has no remorse at throwing lives away to achieve their goal. New foes, old foes, persistent foes throw themselves at Paul, heck it seems the entire universe is out to get Paul!
And so end a very cleverly written book, with cleverly designed characters, in a cleverly crafted world that leaves every sense tingling at full alert. The emotional bits melted my heart, the gory bits had me suitably grossed out, the humourous bits had me laughing out loud, the tension had me clenching my hands, the battles made me want to jump in and join! The historical elements a delight to encounter and this series a delight to discover and read. Is this the end of Paul and Aicha? I hope not. Will we get more of Paul and Aicha? I certainly hope so! What I do know is this, whatever CN Rowan deigns to write next, will have me laughing and crying and cringing all at once. I know I'm weird but I cannot wait for more of the weird, the wonderful and the whacky!
I always get an extra thrilling shiver running down my spine when Aicha is featured prominently. Don't get me wrong, I adore Paul, I sympathise with Paul, I cry for Paul, I cheer for Paul but there's something special about Aicha. Is it her fearless attitude? Is it her snark? Is it her badassed fighting skills? Is it her utter dedication to Paul? It's all of this and so much more. In fact, there's so much more of everything in this book, assaulting my senses spectacularly.
The visual delights are just that, delights. Almost impossibly vivid and so imaginative, my own imagination was going into overdrive, like battering ram, exposing my vista beyond, well, beyond my imagination! I love the references to movies, igniting the visuals in my head and superimposing these on Paul's current situation. Which is usually a rather dire one as he goes from one calamity to the next, all the while trying to stay intact in his current form and try to save the populace from evil doers. He's in a good position to do so, what with Isaac and Jacob and Nithial and Aicha at his side but the foe is sly, the foe is heartless, the foe has no remorse at throwing lives away to achieve their goal. New foes, old foes, persistent foes throw themselves at Paul, heck it seems the entire universe is out to get Paul!
And so end a very cleverly written book, with cleverly designed characters, in a cleverly crafted world that leaves every sense tingling at full alert. The emotional bits melted my heart, the gory bits had me suitably grossed out, the humourous bits had me laughing out loud, the tension had me clenching my hands, the battles made me want to jump in and join! The historical elements a delight to encounter and this series a delight to discover and read. Is this the end of Paul and Aicha? I hope not. Will we get more of Paul and Aicha? I certainly hope so! What I do know is this, whatever CN Rowan deigns to write next, will have me laughing and crying and cringing all at once. I know I'm weird but I cannot wait for more of the weird, the wonderful and the whacky!
January 24, 2024
And so it comes to this. A showdown. An ending. But if we fail – if I end – then reality might follow along behind me.
Imperfect Gods is the sixth and final book of this arc, having read and loved the previous five books It was with some trepidation that I immediately moved from book five Imperfect Hunt to this, I was torn, I wanted it to last out but at the same time I had to know. So as with the others I read and listened to this.. What can I say? I don't wish to spoil the book for anyone, so plot wise this is the culmination of the hunt for De Montford and a desperate attempt to stop his possible reality ending plan. All the main characters are there, Isaac, Jacob and their respective Angels, of course Aicha and Paul still in his current form and desperate to keep it. The stakes are as high as they can get and as always the deck is stacked against our heroes. Realising that his usual jump right in magic blaring and sword swinging won't be enough this time Paul sends our the clarion call for help and some serious powers gather, but as always the enemy is most cunning and has been planning for many life times. All the books have been fast paced and filled with heart stopping action, irreverent humour and high stakes, but this book takes it all and ramps it up a thousand fold. I have come to care for these characters more than I have for any others for quite a while and it was wonderful and terrifying to see them here at the end holding nothing back, the extended action scenes made me breathless, but it was the emotional, soul rending prose and the eternal stakes that had me in tears and having to put the book down and walk away for a moment. Aicha might just be the single best character I've read in the last ten years and I can think of nothing more to say about Paul other than I would've matched alongside into dooms gap, or at the very least had a Guinness with the man. Do yourself a treat go full immersive and get the audio book, the author/narrator does an absolutely incredible job of bringing each of the characters to life .. but however you do it you must read this series.
Imperfect Gods is the sixth and final book of this arc, having read and loved the previous five books It was with some trepidation that I immediately moved from book five Imperfect Hunt to this, I was torn, I wanted it to last out but at the same time I had to know. So as with the others I read and listened to this.. What can I say? I don't wish to spoil the book for anyone, so plot wise this is the culmination of the hunt for De Montford and a desperate attempt to stop his possible reality ending plan. All the main characters are there, Isaac, Jacob and their respective Angels, of course Aicha and Paul still in his current form and desperate to keep it. The stakes are as high as they can get and as always the deck is stacked against our heroes. Realising that his usual jump right in magic blaring and sword swinging won't be enough this time Paul sends our the clarion call for help and some serious powers gather, but as always the enemy is most cunning and has been planning for many life times. All the books have been fast paced and filled with heart stopping action, irreverent humour and high stakes, but this book takes it all and ramps it up a thousand fold. I have come to care for these characters more than I have for any others for quite a while and it was wonderful and terrifying to see them here at the end holding nothing back, the extended action scenes made me breathless, but it was the emotional, soul rending prose and the eternal stakes that had me in tears and having to put the book down and walk away for a moment. Aicha might just be the single best character I've read in the last ten years and I can think of nothing more to say about Paul other than I would've matched alongside into dooms gap, or at the very least had a Guinness with the man. Do yourself a treat go full immersive and get the audio book, the author/narrator does an absolutely incredible job of bringing each of the characters to life .. but however you do it you must read this series.
October 4, 2023
What an ending to this story arc in this series! This series has fast become one of my favourite series of the year and this one was such a fantastic way to bring everything with Demon Fart to a conclusion. It was by no means an easy defeat and at one point (or several really) I wasn't sure what the outcome would really be. All I could do was keep my fingers crossed and hope for the best for Paul, Aicha, Isaac, Jacob, Nan & Nith and while it was a great ending, it wasn't a totally 100% happy ending!
I won't spoil it for you, but this battle was the hardest they had all faced and a hard one to read as well. Their enemies always seemed to be one step ahead and nothing Paul and co came up with got them ahead in the game at all. It was heart breaking to read, at times, especially the emotional turmoil Paul, in particular, was going through!
I love these characters and the relationships between them all, but that between Paul and Aicha the most. They have such a strong friendship, both complementing each other perfectly, always knowing what each other is thinking without ever needing to say it.
I loved the flashbacks in this one as well, especially those where we once again meet characters from the previous books, giving us even more insight to Paul's character, his relationships with these other characters and his life's journey to get to where he is now. It's not easy being 800 years old, having to deal with everything that he has gone through before and still come out on the other side, that's for sure!
If you haven't started this series yet, why not?! It's a great read, no it's an amazing read, with strong characters, great action, fantastically evil villains, hilarious banter and heaps of emotional moments where you never really can guess what is going to happen next. The author just pulls you straight in and never lets you go until that very last word! The writing is brilliant - I love the details, the plots are amazing and nothing is ever what you expect it to be!
I received an ARC copy of this book, but this review is my own, honest one!
I won't spoil it for you, but this battle was the hardest they had all faced and a hard one to read as well. Their enemies always seemed to be one step ahead and nothing Paul and co came up with got them ahead in the game at all. It was heart breaking to read, at times, especially the emotional turmoil Paul, in particular, was going through!
I love these characters and the relationships between them all, but that between Paul and Aicha the most. They have such a strong friendship, both complementing each other perfectly, always knowing what each other is thinking without ever needing to say it.
I loved the flashbacks in this one as well, especially those where we once again meet characters from the previous books, giving us even more insight to Paul's character, his relationships with these other characters and his life's journey to get to where he is now. It's not easy being 800 years old, having to deal with everything that he has gone through before and still come out on the other side, that's for sure!
If you haven't started this series yet, why not?! It's a great read, no it's an amazing read, with strong characters, great action, fantastically evil villains, hilarious banter and heaps of emotional moments where you never really can guess what is going to happen next. The author just pulls you straight in and never lets you go until that very last word! The writing is brilliant - I love the details, the plots are amazing and nothing is ever what you expect it to be!
I received an ARC copy of this book, but this review is my own, honest one!
September 21, 2023
I recommend this series for binge reading. Take a week off, or however long it's gonna take you to finish six books, and do nothing else.
First, because it's so good and if you start you're not going to want to stop. The author's way with words resonates with me. It's always clever, funny, snarky, and at times very poignant, beautiful and heartfelt. There is rich fantasy folklore combined with real locations, historical details and vivid imagery. If you're an urban fantasy fan you will love everything about it. Which I am not, but I could be converted if this author wrote all the books in the genre.
Second, because the intelligently constructed plot has so many layers building up upon layers. The thing about immortality is, there is a lot of time for your old enemies, bad decisions and ancient ghosts to come back to haunt you. And the thing about Paul Bonhomme is, they always will. The author respects your intelligence and assumes that you remember what happened before, never over-explaining when previously encountered characters and artifacts crop up again. But honestly, occasionally I could have used some more recaps and reminders, dumbing it down a bit for me. So if you binge read and the earlier books are in fresh memory you will be better able to appreciate the clever way the plot threads knot themselves in the end.
In the sixth book, Paul and his posse of friends get ready for the ultimate boss battle, so to speak. It is shaping up to be a major showdown, and what with Paul's luck, it could mean the ultimate sacrifice of dying for the last time, losing his friends, and the end of everything. No pressure, just a day ending in Y. (No spoilers here, but there will be a seventh book.) He ponders upon the meaning of life, death and whether anything was ever worth the price he paid, or somebody else had to pay for him. I love the strong friendships of the characters and I have highlighted the heck out of all the fun quips.
I received a free copy and this is a voluntary review.
First, because it's so good and if you start you're not going to want to stop. The author's way with words resonates with me. It's always clever, funny, snarky, and at times very poignant, beautiful and heartfelt. There is rich fantasy folklore combined with real locations, historical details and vivid imagery. If you're an urban fantasy fan you will love everything about it. Which I am not, but I could be converted if this author wrote all the books in the genre.
Second, because the intelligently constructed plot has so many layers building up upon layers. The thing about immortality is, there is a lot of time for your old enemies, bad decisions and ancient ghosts to come back to haunt you. And the thing about Paul Bonhomme is, they always will. The author respects your intelligence and assumes that you remember what happened before, never over-explaining when previously encountered characters and artifacts crop up again. But honestly, occasionally I could have used some more recaps and reminders, dumbing it down a bit for me. So if you binge read and the earlier books are in fresh memory you will be better able to appreciate the clever way the plot threads knot themselves in the end.
In the sixth book, Paul and his posse of friends get ready for the ultimate boss battle, so to speak. It is shaping up to be a major showdown, and what with Paul's luck, it could mean the ultimate sacrifice of dying for the last time, losing his friends, and the end of everything. No pressure, just a day ending in Y. (No spoilers here, but there will be a seventh book.) He ponders upon the meaning of life, death and whether anything was ever worth the price he paid, or somebody else had to pay for him. I love the strong friendships of the characters and I have highlighted the heck out of all the fun quips.
I received a free copy and this is a voluntary review.
September 29, 2023
FIVE STARS. ALWAYS.
I have no words for how much I fricking love every fracking book of the Cathar Series, imPerfect Gods included. I also freaking platonically love and admire the cuntbungling wankbugle of an author that wrote them (his words, not mine).
Okay, so I do have words. But they still aren’t enough. My vocabulary and imagination just don’t measure up to the god-level (little g) standard of perfection that is the works of C.N. Rowan. As a matter of fact, Rowan has used up a significant amount of the magnificent phrases and wordplay in the world, so that I had no choice but to steal his writing and repackage it just to put forth this most difficult frecking review!
So, here it is. Plagiarism.
Because the Dckhd hogged all the good stuff, used it to empty out my emotional stores and scrape my noggin clear of all logical thought as I curl up in the fetal position whimpering and simpering like a preschooler with broken crayons. Now that he has picked my creative carcass clean, all I have are leftovers - rubbery, cold, and a week old.
But I'm so glad I didn't chuck myself out before the grand finale.
imPerfect Gods was ugly - at least it caused me to ugly cry - and imPerfect Gods was gritty. Humor dotted its pages, but it was also dashed through with dark and angsty situations, all harsh and hard and hurtful.
But there was such beauty too: Chosen family, glowing with dedication and loyalty like skies afire; alliances forming for the advancement of a greater good and a future of potential and promise. Whiskey and pop culture. The deepest friendships. Love.
And loss, of course. Pain and suffering. Prices paid. Weary, aching hearts and bones. But there had to be. There must always be these things throughout the process. What else would give weight to the existence of this series?
Light and shade. Hope and hurt.
A start and an end.
And the beginning of more.
More community.
More comradery.
More twattery.
Sorry for the plagiarism, Super CN. You left me no choice.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review, hard as it was to see through my tears.
I have no words for how much I fricking love every fracking book of the Cathar Series, imPerfect Gods included. I also freaking platonically love and admire the cuntbungling wankbugle of an author that wrote them (his words, not mine).
Okay, so I do have words. But they still aren’t enough. My vocabulary and imagination just don’t measure up to the god-level (little g) standard of perfection that is the works of C.N. Rowan. As a matter of fact, Rowan has used up a significant amount of the magnificent phrases and wordplay in the world, so that I had no choice but to steal his writing and repackage it just to put forth this most difficult frecking review!
So, here it is. Plagiarism.
Because the Dckhd hogged all the good stuff, used it to empty out my emotional stores and scrape my noggin clear of all logical thought as I curl up in the fetal position whimpering and simpering like a preschooler with broken crayons. Now that he has picked my creative carcass clean, all I have are leftovers - rubbery, cold, and a week old.
But I'm so glad I didn't chuck myself out before the grand finale.
imPerfect Gods was ugly - at least it caused me to ugly cry - and imPerfect Gods was gritty. Humor dotted its pages, but it was also dashed through with dark and angsty situations, all harsh and hard and hurtful.
But there was such beauty too: Chosen family, glowing with dedication and loyalty like skies afire; alliances forming for the advancement of a greater good and a future of potential and promise. Whiskey and pop culture. The deepest friendships. Love.
And loss, of course. Pain and suffering. Prices paid. Weary, aching hearts and bones. But there had to be. There must always be these things throughout the process. What else would give weight to the existence of this series?
Light and shade. Hope and hurt.
A start and an end.
And the beginning of more.
More community.
More comradery.
More twattery.
Sorry for the plagiarism, Super CN. You left me no choice.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review, hard as it was to see through my tears.
March 16, 2024
The sixth and last book of the first arc of the imPerfect Cathar series, this one was an absolute banger.
We open the book where we left it off in the last book. Demon Fart has stolen the rib cage which means the only bone left is the skull in Isakob's custody. Isakob has managed to create a robot made of titanium and put the skull, with Jakob and his angel-inside. No offence, but I keep forgetting whose angel is which, like I know they're called Nith and Nan, but I can't keep straight who is bonded to Nith and who to Nan.
They're attacked while there by a group of people whose minds have been taken over by Demon Fart. Since they're innocent, Nith and Nan lets them in through the wards, but when they try to break the mind control, they realise that a bomb is implanted in them which detonates if the mind control is lifted. One of the attackers is Otto, and Paul tries to save him which makes Demon Fart activate all the bombs and kill all of the attackers.
They also realise that all the bones belonged to Almeira, whose latest iteration is as another zealot who's flying to Bordeaux. They go to the Mother but their quarry is abducted straight from under their nose. They form alliances with all others, since they believe that whatever Demon Fart is going for can affect the whole universe.
In a twist, as soon as they reach Toulouse, a dark magic ward springs up, neutralising their own wards and ensuring their allies can't reach them. So, Paul, Aicha, Isaac and Jakob in his new robot body make their way to Bogarach which is where Demon Fart is.
The final battle was thrilling, but I had a feeling it dragged on too much. Like I was ready to yell and tear my hair because LET THE GOOD GUYS CATCH A BREAK! PLEASE!
If you love books that keep you on the edge of the seat, urban fantasy, dark humour, friendship and found family feels, this is the book for you!
We open the book where we left it off in the last book. Demon Fart has stolen the rib cage which means the only bone left is the skull in Isakob's custody. Isakob has managed to create a robot made of titanium and put the skull, with Jakob and his angel-inside. No offence, but I keep forgetting whose angel is which, like I know they're called Nith and Nan, but I can't keep straight who is bonded to Nith and who to Nan.
They're attacked while there by a group of people whose minds have been taken over by Demon Fart. Since they're innocent, Nith and Nan lets them in through the wards, but when they try to break the mind control, they realise that a bomb is implanted in them which detonates if the mind control is lifted. One of the attackers is Otto, and Paul tries to save him which makes Demon Fart activate all the bombs and kill all of the attackers.
They also realise that all the bones belonged to Almeira, whose latest iteration is as another zealot who's flying to Bordeaux. They go to the Mother but their quarry is abducted straight from under their nose. They form alliances with all others, since they believe that whatever Demon Fart is going for can affect the whole universe.
In a twist, as soon as they reach Toulouse, a dark magic ward springs up, neutralising their own wards and ensuring their allies can't reach them. So, Paul, Aicha, Isaac and Jakob in his new robot body make their way to Bogarach which is where Demon Fart is.
The final battle was thrilling, but I had a feeling it dragged on too much. Like I was ready to yell and tear my hair because LET THE GOOD GUYS CATCH A BREAK! PLEASE!
If you love books that keep you on the edge of the seat, urban fantasy, dark humour, friendship and found family feels, this is the book for you!
October 2, 2023
With the skill of a master conductor, C.N. Rowan has waved his baton, brought all his instruments together, and made this finale sound out an overwhelming crescendo that still has me shivering after my second reading. All the pieces, all the characters, all the backstory - he has woven it all together in a brilliant and seamless tapestry. Sometimes the closing chapter of a series is a let-down: “imPerfect Gods” is at once a worthy conclusion to its predecessors and a jewel in its crown.
Rowan delivers his usual emotional roller-coaster ride - it seemed there were more laugh-out-loud moments in this volume than in previous ones - and the reader is advised to have tissue handy. Perhaps a spare box would be prudent. Team Bonhomme are really up against it and there is a great deal of edge-of-your-seat fighting as they struggle to prevail against insurmountable foes. While vast amounts of magical power are thrown about, plenty of down-and-dirty sharps work keeps Aicha and Paul on their toes as well.
imPerfect Gods concludes the first story arc of the imPerfect Cathar series - and I’m glad it’s the FIRST story arc, because I seriously need MORE imPERFECT CATHAR. Mr. Rowan wrought the denouement with precision, skill, and, dare I say it, beauty - but there’s a definite “not finished yet” component here.
I received a free ARC of this work.
Rowan delivers his usual emotional roller-coaster ride - it seemed there were more laugh-out-loud moments in this volume than in previous ones - and the reader is advised to have tissue handy. Perhaps a spare box would be prudent. Team Bonhomme are really up against it and there is a great deal of edge-of-your-seat fighting as they struggle to prevail against insurmountable foes. While vast amounts of magical power are thrown about, plenty of down-and-dirty sharps work keeps Aicha and Paul on their toes as well.
imPerfect Gods concludes the first story arc of the imPerfect Cathar series - and I’m glad it’s the FIRST story arc, because I seriously need MORE imPERFECT CATHAR. Mr. Rowan wrought the denouement with precision, skill, and, dare I say it, beauty - but there’s a definite “not finished yet” component here.
I received a free ARC of this work.
October 2, 2023
It’s been a wild ride through C.N. Rowan’s first story arc of the imPerfect Cathar series. For those of you out there with a sensitive nature, note, the ride has been violent and sweary, but it’s also been one of friendship and found family—deep bonds between those who mean the most.
What really grabbed me about the series is that C.N. Rowan took the usual urban fantasy setup and did something a little different—not different enough to shout, ‘What the hell is this?’ and throw the kindle across the room, but just distinct enough to feel refreshed and rejuvenated. Thanks to Rowan, I’ve been to another country: France. I’ve explored a different topic: the heretic spirituality of the Cathars and their downfall. And I’ve experienced so many amazing ingenious urban fantasy creatures.
Back to this particular book, imPerfect Gods. Paul and the team are massively on the defensive, and tension rises as they react again and again to Demon Fart’s schemes. A massive battle ensues, as might be expected at the end of a series, but this one really was gargantuan—the fight to end all fights—and I loved how it ended. Obviously, I can’t say more, but it really was hugely satisfying. I can’t wait for whatever antics the crew gets up to next.
Long may Paul and his friends fight evil and defend Toulouse!
What really grabbed me about the series is that C.N. Rowan took the usual urban fantasy setup and did something a little different—not different enough to shout, ‘What the hell is this?’ and throw the kindle across the room, but just distinct enough to feel refreshed and rejuvenated. Thanks to Rowan, I’ve been to another country: France. I’ve explored a different topic: the heretic spirituality of the Cathars and their downfall. And I’ve experienced so many amazing ingenious urban fantasy creatures.
Back to this particular book, imPerfect Gods. Paul and the team are massively on the defensive, and tension rises as they react again and again to Demon Fart’s schemes. A massive battle ensues, as might be expected at the end of a series, but this one really was gargantuan—the fight to end all fights—and I loved how it ended. Obviously, I can’t say more, but it really was hugely satisfying. I can’t wait for whatever antics the crew gets up to next.
Long may Paul and his friends fight evil and defend Toulouse!
September 27, 2023
This series is one of the best in UF. I should just mic drop and move on with that statement. As usual, the story comes at you from every direction. You don't know if you should laugh, cry, scream, or cheer, or do all at once.
In this final installment in this story arc, the final showdown occurs. Surprises abound, and it's shocking to all involved including the reader, yet it's perfect (hold on to your guts they're about to be ripped out.)
I'm not going to talk anymore about the story. Anything I say will give spoilers. I do want to say that the author's brilliance at bringing the story back to the beginning in circular fashion was utterly brilliant. Bravo, CN Rowan, I'm constantly impressed.
I hated this one to end. I can't wait for the next adventures to begin! It'll be epic.
If you haven't read this, you are indeed missing out. Cure that FOMO, and fix it today. You won't be disappointed.
In this final installment in this story arc, the final showdown occurs. Surprises abound, and it's shocking to all involved including the reader, yet it's perfect (hold on to your guts they're about to be ripped out.)
I'm not going to talk anymore about the story. Anything I say will give spoilers. I do want to say that the author's brilliance at bringing the story back to the beginning in circular fashion was utterly brilliant. Bravo, CN Rowan, I'm constantly impressed.
I hated this one to end. I can't wait for the next adventures to begin! It'll be epic.
If you haven't read this, you are indeed missing out. Cure that FOMO, and fix it today. You won't be disappointed.
October 7, 2023
What a fantastically perfect way to end this first arc, and leave readers desperate for the next one to start. We get our much awaited showdown with DeMontfort. There are twists and turns and shocks and joys enough to satisfy the most critical of readers.
As usual, the writing is exceptional. Lyrical, beautiful and horrific and gruesome. I cried at a couple of points along the way, because the story and descriptions are just that good.
I'm in awe of the world-building, the characters, and the clever way the past and present blends to complete this part of the story. CN Rowan deserves every accolade he's going to receive for this series.
If you haven't read the books yet, my advice is, get them all, hunker down and binge them. You won't be disappointed.
I can't wait to see what happens next.
As usual, the writing is exceptional. Lyrical, beautiful and horrific and gruesome. I cried at a couple of points along the way, because the story and descriptions are just that good.
I'm in awe of the world-building, the characters, and the clever way the past and present blends to complete this part of the story. CN Rowan deserves every accolade he's going to receive for this series.
If you haven't read the books yet, my advice is, get them all, hunker down and binge them. You won't be disappointed.
I can't wait to see what happens next.
October 9, 2023
imPerfect Gods is the sixth book in The imPerfect Cathar series, and completes the first story arc. I think it is important that you read the books in order or you may lose the gist of the fable. In this issue we reach the final confrontation. In the past they have fallen into each and every trap, thinking they were all so smart, and then wham, they're hit and just barely getting out by their skin of their teeth! But this time there is room for no mistakes. They think they know what the bad guy is after, and they need to get their first, and this time if they don't get it right, it might just be the end of every living thing in the universe. I received this novel from BookFunnel. This is my true and honest opinion.
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.
September 18, 2023
The first story arc of the imPerfect Cathar has come to the fore and Team Paul is in for it. DeMontfort plans have come to fruition, it could, quite literally be the end of the world as they know it. But with Jak back in action, Zak ready to roll, and the Aicha, the queen of mean, herself ready to rumble, the big bad's going to have a hard time in the old town tonight. Genuinely funny, and absolutely heartbreaking, with flashbacks into Paul's past that humanize monsters and build friendships, C. N. Rowan is at it again, making readers wonder what it'd be like to meet their gods. Watch out for the long drop... it's always followed by a sudden stop.
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.
April 27, 2024
Wow!
These books are just so well put together. I have genuinely loved reading this story arc. It's hard going at times. The way Paul runs from terrible thing/disaster/emotion to the next is enough to give you whiplash, but it's always grounded with humour and explanations that feel right. I very much identify with Paul, I mean, I'm mot over 800 years old, and I don't have magic, never been to The Fae Wilds, Don't hang around with magical people, and I suspect I won't come back from the dead, but other than that? Twins! Lol. No, but seriously, I get it, I get his attitude, I understand the gallows humour, the quiet rage, the sarcasm, the absolute bone deep appreciation of life. I get it because I live it. I really truly recommend these books to everyone.
These books are just so well put together. I have genuinely loved reading this story arc. It's hard going at times. The way Paul runs from terrible thing/disaster/emotion to the next is enough to give you whiplash, but it's always grounded with humour and explanations that feel right. I very much identify with Paul, I mean, I'm mot over 800 years old, and I don't have magic, never been to The Fae Wilds, Don't hang around with magical people, and I suspect I won't come back from the dead, but other than that? Twins! Lol. No, but seriously, I get it, I get his attitude, I understand the gallows humour, the quiet rage, the sarcasm, the absolute bone deep appreciation of life. I get it because I live it. I really truly recommend these books to everyone.
October 4, 2023
I am lost for words on how to describe this book (and the journey travelled together thus far with Paul and company). This entire book felt like the climatic end for the past 6 books and reading the last chapter was bitter sweet. Great storytelling and world building (plus it made me look into some of the history behind the tale). Amazingly wonderful yet very flawed characters that I fell in love with (and at times want to strangle) and lots of pop culture referencing. A must read…especially if you’re as invested in this story as I am from the very start!.
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.
October 14, 2023
Expertly written by the amazingly talented C.N. Rowan, imPerfect Gods is the 6th book in the imPerfect Cathar series. This book completes the first story arc for Paul Bonhomme and his team. And, boy, oh boy, is it a doozy. If you thought you had it all figured out, you’re in for many a surprise. This story is gritty, violent, heart gripping, and heart-rending. It had me furious, anxious, and weeping, interspersed with a good dose of laughter and, ultimately, joy. Completion of this story arc doesn’t mean we’ve seen the last of Paul and his team, nor their trials, triumphs, snarky comments, and deeply dedicated camaraderie. Oh, no. We’re definitely in for more. Buckle up!
September 23, 2023
This book closes this first part of the imPerfect series. It is very satisfying and ends the overarching story from the previous books wonderfully. All of the bits we have come to look forward to, the genuine emotion, the well-detailed story, the strangely relatable characters, the gore...it is all there, written and narrated beautifully by the author. I hate spoilers so I am just going to say that the ending will absolutely satisfy fans of the imPerfect books...and also give us something to look forward to! Well done!
September 27, 2023
C.N. Rowan delivers a whirlwind of action and emotions, in his signature style, in this conclusion to the first arc of Paul, Aicha, Isaac and Jakob’s story. Rowan’s unique voice, supreme storytelling talent, outstanding world building, and enthralling characters make this book, and for that matter the whole series and himself, stand out from other books and authors out there. I can’t wait to read the next arc in this world.
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.
October 8, 2023
This series has been dark, humorous and so incredible, the world building has been descriptive and amazing, the characters, incredible, snarky and absolute bad asses and the storyline has been thrilling, dark, magical with mythology and so emotional. It made me howl with laughter and it made me bawl like a baby as we come to the showdown we were expecting. Pain, suffering, angst, we’ve been through it all and have been unable to turn away from it. It’s an incredible end to this first story arc and I cannot wait for what comes next from this author.
October 1, 2023
Everything has been leading to this book and it delivers an amazing story that had be reading to the end to see how it would all end. Paul and friends are back and have put most of the clues together but I had to see if they were right and how it would play as always there are surprises along the way. Lots of action, danger, mystery, intrigue and surprises to keep me entertained. Loved it as always as I laughed and shook my head at Paul.
October 8, 2023
This book is the end of this series but apparently we’re only halfway through the whole tale by C.N. Rowan. I find it hard to describe this story except that it’s an epic earth based fantasy which follows Paul back and forth in history as he has various adventures that center around a fight between good and evil. Featuring other very interesting characters, creative swear words, magical stuff and lots of things that aren’t what they seem to be. It sounds like a mess but Rowan never looses sight of the story or his audience.
I confess that I have a terrible memory and I read a lot so I often have trouble keeping series and characters straight in my head but I have never had any problems with this series because it is so memorable. I don’t know if that will encourage you to read this series (please start at the beginning) but I hope that this review will help convince you because I think they are a great group of books that are well written and well worth reading.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I confess that I have a terrible memory and I read a lot so I often have trouble keeping series and characters straight in my head but I have never had any problems with this series because it is so memorable. I don’t know if that will encourage you to read this series (please start at the beginning) but I hope that this review will help convince you because I think they are a great group of books that are well written and well worth reading.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 10, 2023
C.N. Rowan has taken us on an amazing, immersive and creative journey over the course of the last six books and this ending ranks at the top of all of them. An exhilarating plot and action filled with introspective thought-provoking prose. Our heroes are everything you would imagine they would be and more, and they grow throughout the series. A wonderful story backed up with wonderful writing.
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.
October 29, 2023
WOW! Thank you
The language warning at the beginning is to be ignored. To say this book, the last half, will stay with me is an understatement. It is such a deeply amazing summation of what must be the core thought path of every soul. I cannot do justice to what is written. I cannot say I would have ever seen this story arcs end coming. It is worthy of dissection. A masterclass in what is at the heart of all art. If you read nothing else in life, read this book.
The language warning at the beginning is to be ignored. To say this book, the last half, will stay with me is an understatement. It is such a deeply amazing summation of what must be the core thought path of every soul. I cannot do justice to what is written. I cannot say I would have ever seen this story arcs end coming. It is worthy of dissection. A masterclass in what is at the heart of all art. If you read nothing else in life, read this book.
December 22, 2023
So it's come down to this, the last book in this leg of Paul's journey. This is an incredibly tense book, there is just so much at stake for all our main heroes. I will just say, have tissues nearby, you're going to need them.
I have loved being along for the ride and have genuinely grown to love these characters. So as 2023 comes to a close I look forward to more adventures with Paul Bonhomme, see you in 2024 buddy.
I have loved being along for the ride and have genuinely grown to love these characters. So as 2023 comes to a close I look forward to more adventures with Paul Bonhomme, see you in 2024 buddy.
September 24, 2023
Another incredible journey with Rowan's characters.Unbelievable twists and turns that almost make your neck tired! So creative and well thought out! Creatures who are legends (which probably were never real to begin with) come to life right before your eyes. This book was a fast, page-turning adventure. My favorite so far!
September 29, 2023
Such a fantastic book that I devoured it. It answers so many questions but, much like life itself, so many new ones developed. I adore the blends of myth, magic and history. The characters are excellent and the snark level is exquisite.
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.
October 8, 2023
It’s showdown! Paul , Aicha etc are out to defeat or be defeated in this ultimate battle. With bumps and surprises along the way. This is epic , edge of your seat stuff that is anything but straightforward…this is imperfect after all. Well written conclusion , or is it…. I to a good entertaining series.
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.
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