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The imPerfect Cathar #8
imPerfect Blades
Lost swords and last chances. Whatever happens, I’m liable to end up cut to the quick…
We’ve got our friend back, but we’re still facing a terrifying threat, one not afraid of exposing the Talented world to get what they want. And with Isaac still sick, time is running out.
But a clue sets us on the trail of a legendary sword. One wielded by the Father of Europe himself. Joyeuse. The sword of Charlemagne.
The road leads back to the Pyrenees. But that trail may turn to trial, to a testing and a proving of our worth.
And I’m not sure I’m worthy. Not anymore.
With the sands left in Isaac’s hourglass down to the last few grains, will we find an answer in the mountains? A cure? A clue as to the identity of our foe?
Or will the blade test our mettle to breaking point?
imPerfect Blades is the eighth book in the award-winning imPerfect Cathar series, a darkly funny urban fantasy series set in the south of France. If you can’t wisecrack while death is on the line? Well… perhaps you’re not dying right.
This book contains strong language, dark humour and graphic violence.
We’ve got our friend back, but we’re still facing a terrifying threat, one not afraid of exposing the Talented world to get what they want. And with Isaac still sick, time is running out.
But a clue sets us on the trail of a legendary sword. One wielded by the Father of Europe himself. Joyeuse. The sword of Charlemagne.
The road leads back to the Pyrenees. But that trail may turn to trial, to a testing and a proving of our worth.
And I’m not sure I’m worthy. Not anymore.
With the sands left in Isaac’s hourglass down to the last few grains, will we find an answer in the mountains? A cure? A clue as to the identity of our foe?
Or will the blade test our mettle to breaking point?
imPerfect Blades is the eighth book in the award-winning imPerfect Cathar series, a darkly funny urban fantasy series set in the south of France. If you can’t wisecrack while death is on the line? Well… perhaps you’re not dying right.
This book contains strong language, dark humour and graphic violence.
246 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 28, 2024
38 people are currently reading
48 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 31 reviews
May 13, 2024
Paul is back, and he’s still trying to cure Isaac. In his quest to do so, he finds out some interesting facts, and he is tested in more ways than one. This is a great follow-up to the last book, but I do admit that I still miss Aicha. However, this book has the snarky, sometimes Dad Joke, and witty humor that this series has had since the beginning. I love the adventure in this one, and I loved how the Trails turned out. Wonderful book in this fun and engaging series. Highly recommend. I was provided a complimentary copy which I voluntarily reviewed.
May 14, 2024
Paul Bonhomme, the imPerfect Cathar has been alive for over 800 years now. In those 8+ centuries, he’s battled the forces of evil, monsters most think are tales of story and myth and built up his abilities in the manipulation of Talent (magic) and its effects on the world.
For the last 70 or so years, Aicha Kandisha has been his ride-or-die, (admittedly, Paul tends to do the dying in that equation, but Aicha keeps on riding with him), his best friend, and his partner in the fight against those entities which would turn the world upside down.
For nearly all of his life, Issac (or ‘Zak) has been a mentor and father figure to Paul. One of the co-creators of the Kabalah with his brother Jacob (or ‘Jak) who now are the physical housings of two Bene-Elohim, Nithael and Nanael (Nith and Nan, because we like abbreviations here in the imPerfectverse). When Jak was lost, for several hundred years, Paul and Zak searched the world over, eventually finding him in the early events of the 1st story arc of the imPerfect Cathar (if you haven’t read it, you’re 7 books behind, get on it, dude!)
But Aicha and Jak are gone, portaled from this world at the climax of the Good-v-Evil showdown at the top of the Pyrenees, still alive (as far as anyone can tell) but unreachable. In Paul’s desperate search for them, he neglected to touch base with Zak and wasn’t made aware of the demon essence infection that was slowly consuming Zak and his angel roommate, drawing their energies away from maintaining the wardings of Toulouse, Paul’s city.
Now that Paul knows what’s doing with Zak, and has readjusted his goals to focus on things far more time sensitive, the hunt is on for something, anything, that will cure Zak and Nan and get them back in fighting shape. Their journey will take them back to the Pyrenees mountains, seeking the council of old friends of Zak’s, the jentilak, a wise, very old race of gigantic humanoids, rather reminiscent of the Yeti of the Himalayas or the Sasquatch of the North American Pacific Northwest. These Basque legends are credited with a deep connection with Talent, an insatiable thirst for knowledge, and having taught early man many of the skills that have led to the existence of modern man. With the help of Faust and Methy, Zak and Paul will see if they can find their way Home and find a cure for whatever it is that could sicken an angel-bearer.
“imPerfect Blades” is the 8th and penultimate book in the imPerfect Cathar series by C. N. Rowan, and the second book in its second story arc. It’s jam-packed with snark, grit, action, and emotion, evoking in the reader impressions of both Gaiman and Pratchett, Butcher and Adams, for a wild ride and pages (and audio-narrated by CN himself!) that simply cannot be put down/put away. With memorable one-liners that will keep the reader laughing for pages, and chapters like Ch. 21 that’ll live rent-free in my head for the rest of my life, it’s simply a must-read! The award-winning series just keeps bringing in the hits and isn’t about to stop, so get on the Cathar train… it’s time to find out just how immortal we all imPerfectly are!
I received a free copy of this e-book and this audiobook and am voluntarily leaving a review.
For the last 70 or so years, Aicha Kandisha has been his ride-or-die, (admittedly, Paul tends to do the dying in that equation, but Aicha keeps on riding with him), his best friend, and his partner in the fight against those entities which would turn the world upside down.
For nearly all of his life, Issac (or ‘Zak) has been a mentor and father figure to Paul. One of the co-creators of the Kabalah with his brother Jacob (or ‘Jak) who now are the physical housings of two Bene-Elohim, Nithael and Nanael (Nith and Nan, because we like abbreviations here in the imPerfectverse). When Jak was lost, for several hundred years, Paul and Zak searched the world over, eventually finding him in the early events of the 1st story arc of the imPerfect Cathar (if you haven’t read it, you’re 7 books behind, get on it, dude!)
But Aicha and Jak are gone, portaled from this world at the climax of the Good-v-Evil showdown at the top of the Pyrenees, still alive (as far as anyone can tell) but unreachable. In Paul’s desperate search for them, he neglected to touch base with Zak and wasn’t made aware of the demon essence infection that was slowly consuming Zak and his angel roommate, drawing their energies away from maintaining the wardings of Toulouse, Paul’s city.
Now that Paul knows what’s doing with Zak, and has readjusted his goals to focus on things far more time sensitive, the hunt is on for something, anything, that will cure Zak and Nan and get them back in fighting shape. Their journey will take them back to the Pyrenees mountains, seeking the council of old friends of Zak’s, the jentilak, a wise, very old race of gigantic humanoids, rather reminiscent of the Yeti of the Himalayas or the Sasquatch of the North American Pacific Northwest. These Basque legends are credited with a deep connection with Talent, an insatiable thirst for knowledge, and having taught early man many of the skills that have led to the existence of modern man. With the help of Faust and Methy, Zak and Paul will see if they can find their way Home and find a cure for whatever it is that could sicken an angel-bearer.
“imPerfect Blades” is the 8th and penultimate book in the imPerfect Cathar series by C. N. Rowan, and the second book in its second story arc. It’s jam-packed with snark, grit, action, and emotion, evoking in the reader impressions of both Gaiman and Pratchett, Butcher and Adams, for a wild ride and pages (and audio-narrated by CN himself!) that simply cannot be put down/put away. With memorable one-liners that will keep the reader laughing for pages, and chapters like Ch. 21 that’ll live rent-free in my head for the rest of my life, it’s simply a must-read! The award-winning series just keeps bringing in the hits and isn’t about to stop, so get on the Cathar train… it’s time to find out just how immortal we all imPerfectly are!
I received a free copy of this e-book and this audiobook and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 13, 2024
imPerfect Blades sliced right through to my funny bone (Chapter 21 gets free rental space in my mind's chuckle appartment from here on in), and it penetrated my heart -both breaking it for these characters and opening it ever wider to the imPerfect Cathar series.
New badies are on the scene while Aicha is still achingly missing.
Le Karnabo is the horror heffalump of dark dreams, and he's knocking on the wards of Toulouse -Paul's city. It's enough to get your spine tingling. Be sure and avert your eyes. Even Medusa would look away. And Le Karnabo is in cahoots with an unknown demon who's hellbent on having demon-essence-touched Isaac join his destructive world dismantling.
Paul, Gil, Faust, and doberman demon-dog Mephy will do anything to keep that from happening, even if Isaac is willing to sacrifice himself for the greater good. Team Bonhomme does everything in their power to pommel their way through each trial, breaking some serious rules along the way. All with a little help from an interesting new friend.
imPerfect Blades is well balanced with sharp wit, edgy humour, strong plot points, and flexible, emotive characters. In addition, C.N. Rowan is his own spectacular narrator. To steal a few lines from his own book, listening to the audio... "I’m engrossed. There’s a musical tonality to the big creature’s voice, soft and lulling but perfect in his delivery. It’s a voice made for telling stories."
In short, the story and narrative is... HOME.
***I'm an imPerfect ARC reader, and these honest opinions are my own. I even buy the autographed hard copies - they're just that good.
New badies are on the scene while Aicha is still achingly missing.
Le Karnabo is the horror heffalump of dark dreams, and he's knocking on the wards of Toulouse -Paul's city. It's enough to get your spine tingling. Be sure and avert your eyes. Even Medusa would look away. And Le Karnabo is in cahoots with an unknown demon who's hellbent on having demon-essence-touched Isaac join his destructive world dismantling.
Paul, Gil, Faust, and doberman demon-dog Mephy will do anything to keep that from happening, even if Isaac is willing to sacrifice himself for the greater good. Team Bonhomme does everything in their power to pommel their way through each trial, breaking some serious rules along the way. All with a little help from an interesting new friend.
imPerfect Blades is well balanced with sharp wit, edgy humour, strong plot points, and flexible, emotive characters. In addition, C.N. Rowan is his own spectacular narrator. To steal a few lines from his own book, listening to the audio... "I’m engrossed. There’s a musical tonality to the big creature’s voice, soft and lulling but perfect in his delivery. It’s a voice made for telling stories."
In short, the story and narrative is... HOME.
***I'm an imPerfect ARC reader, and these honest opinions are my own. I even buy the autographed hard copies - they're just that good.
June 13, 2024
This was yet another amazing book in this series. This series is definitely one of my top faves - it has everything you need from an urban fantasy: great characters, character development, great settings, amazing plots, nail-biting tension, friendship & found family, full of action, but the love and humour are the best parts. I giggle to myself constantly when reading these books and then almost cry at other times! This series really does make you go through an emotional rollercoaster!
In this one, Paul and Isaac are still trying to find a way to save Isaac from being consumed by the demon essence, but it's not an easy task at all. When the wards of Toulouse are attacking by yet another weird creature in league with the demon, this gives Isaac an idea of what he might need. This time with the helps of Johannes Faust and Mephistopheles, his demon dog companion, they head off to the mountains to find what they need. As always it's never easy and the trials they have to go through to come out on the other side were amazing!
This was such a great read, but I do still miss Aicha. I so hope she returns in the next book!
I received an ARC copy of this book from the author, but this review is my own honest one!
In this one, Paul and Isaac are still trying to find a way to save Isaac from being consumed by the demon essence, but it's not an easy task at all. When the wards of Toulouse are attacking by yet another weird creature in league with the demon, this gives Isaac an idea of what he might need. This time with the helps of Johannes Faust and Mephistopheles, his demon dog companion, they head off to the mountains to find what they need. As always it's never easy and the trials they have to go through to come out on the other side were amazing!
This was such a great read, but I do still miss Aicha. I so hope she returns in the next book!
I received an ARC copy of this book from the author, but this review is my own honest one!
July 27, 2024
imPerfect Blades by C.N. Rowan is the 8th book in this series, and the pure fact that I'm still reading will show you how much I enjoy them!
It's still a fun and action packed adventure, with plenty of humour, banter and wit. Not all yeh humour always pays off completely for me, but I do get some good chuckles along the way, and I have no idea how the author manages to come up with all those wisecracks along the way. I'm glad he does though!
The absolute strongest bits of these books are the friendships and found family though. I just love how close they are, and that each would willingly sacrifice themselves to save the rest of the team.
I can't wait to see where the rest is going, just one more novel to go, though I'll try and read the two novellas first, so I have the finale as a crowning finish!
It's still a fun and action packed adventure, with plenty of humour, banter and wit. Not all yeh humour always pays off completely for me, but I do get some good chuckles along the way, and I have no idea how the author manages to come up with all those wisecracks along the way. I'm glad he does though!
The absolute strongest bits of these books are the friendships and found family though. I just love how close they are, and that each would willingly sacrifice themselves to save the rest of the team.
I can't wait to see where the rest is going, just one more novel to go, though I'll try and read the two novellas first, so I have the finale as a crowning finish!
May 14, 2024
Imperfect Blades. By C. N. Rowan.
my review.
Lost swords and last chances, pretty much sums this the 8th book in the Imperfect Cathar series, this installment has a palpable tension, a feel that things are building to a cataclysmic end. There have been a few victories however Aicha and Jakob are still missing. But for now the focus must be on finding a cure for Issac as the demonic sickness is spreading at an alarming rate and even his Angelic other half is at risk. This leads Paul and his small gang of stalwart friends on a search for the legendary sword of Charlemange, Joyeuse and its healing powers. But what should be simple is of course complicated with the sword not being where it should be! The desperate companions head to the Pyrénées and new allies, but also a set of incredible and ancient tests.
The stakes really couldn't get much higher and this chapter of Paul's story leads us perfectly to the upcoming finale.
The plot as always is clever and fast paced, with fascinating use of French folk law. The action is hard and visceral and there is lots of it. Lots of very sharp humour and by now trademark pop culture references.
But of course the standout of these books are the characters, each and everyone seem to leap off the page, my personal favourite being Issac, whose attempts to fill the Aicha shaped void in Paul's life was as endearing as it was typical of the man. But a close follow up for laughs alone has to be the Demon dog Mephy, the combination of a self possessed and knowing demon combined with the wants of a dog is played perfectly.
Paul is manic, angry and desperate, with a real sense of loss hanging over him, but as always what keeps him getting up and carrying on with the fight is both an innate sense of right and the inability to let his friends down even if it means the death of him..... again.
This has been a fantastic rollacoaster of a read and I look forward to the last book in the series.
my review.
Lost swords and last chances, pretty much sums this the 8th book in the Imperfect Cathar series, this installment has a palpable tension, a feel that things are building to a cataclysmic end. There have been a few victories however Aicha and Jakob are still missing. But for now the focus must be on finding a cure for Issac as the demonic sickness is spreading at an alarming rate and even his Angelic other half is at risk. This leads Paul and his small gang of stalwart friends on a search for the legendary sword of Charlemange, Joyeuse and its healing powers. But what should be simple is of course complicated with the sword not being where it should be! The desperate companions head to the Pyrénées and new allies, but also a set of incredible and ancient tests.
The stakes really couldn't get much higher and this chapter of Paul's story leads us perfectly to the upcoming finale.
The plot as always is clever and fast paced, with fascinating use of French folk law. The action is hard and visceral and there is lots of it. Lots of very sharp humour and by now trademark pop culture references.
But of course the standout of these books are the characters, each and everyone seem to leap off the page, my personal favourite being Issac, whose attempts to fill the Aicha shaped void in Paul's life was as endearing as it was typical of the man. But a close follow up for laughs alone has to be the Demon dog Mephy, the combination of a self possessed and knowing demon combined with the wants of a dog is played perfectly.
Paul is manic, angry and desperate, with a real sense of loss hanging over him, but as always what keeps him getting up and carrying on with the fight is both an innate sense of right and the inability to let his friends down even if it means the death of him..... again.
This has been a fantastic rollacoaster of a read and I look forward to the last book in the series.
May 21, 2024
As Paul races against time to find a cure for the infection killing Isaac, he receives an ultimatum from the demon – one he cannot accept.
With help from Isaac, Faust and Mephy, Paul heads to the mountains for answers. As ever, Paul trips over his own feet and into trouble almost faster than he can stumble out of it again, but with the guidance and support of good friends, he will hopefully manage to survive. Because who knows whether he will reincarnate next time he dies – or not?
With a supporting cast of fascinating, and sometimes horrible, mythological beings, I highly recommend this book and can’t wait to read the final installment in this brilliant series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
With help from Isaac, Faust and Mephy, Paul heads to the mountains for answers. As ever, Paul trips over his own feet and into trouble almost faster than he can stumble out of it again, but with the guidance and support of good friends, he will hopefully manage to survive. Because who knows whether he will reincarnate next time he dies – or not?
With a supporting cast of fascinating, and sometimes horrible, mythological beings, I highly recommend this book and can’t wait to read the final installment in this brilliant series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 16, 2024
This was an amazing read. I love the dark, edgy humour, the imperfect yet very loyal characters, the pace, and action. Reading an Imperfect book feels like a happy place, a gift–it's a true testament of C.N. Rowan’s talent. Each book feels new and exciting, even on the eighth installment; I can’t wait for the next book in the 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.
May 26, 2024
Poor Paul, he just can't get a break! He's obviously one of Murphy's favourite, where Murphy takes his Law and throws it all Paul's way, constantly! Paul does his best to dodge it, heck, he tries to dodge so many things but they keep hitting him squarely in the... well, you know, in the man bits... 😜 But if there was a more resilient fictional person, I'd be hard pressed to find one! See, this author, this immensely talented author, knows exactly how captivate his audience, how to get them to feel all the pain, all the suffering, all the dilemma's of the characters he so lovingly presents. It's rare to have so many likeable characters in one book, in one series and we get to discover more with each book.
Pain? Yep, not only physical, which Paul takes on the chin, but also the emotional pain, which is so stark in this book. Not only is Paul desperate to find Aicha, his sister, his best friend, his constant, his everything. So too is his mentor and father figure in grave danger from demon takeover and Paul will stop at nothing to find Aicha and help Isaac, sending him on another adventure fraught with every imaginable challenge, even landing him in a trial, a trial no one has completed...successfully. But Paul, being Paul, will face anything to find a cure for Isaac, a very time sensitive task. Needless to say, with every victory comes more poop And where does this take Paul? Well ...a new challenge, where Paul has to work hard to shovel the poop he finds himself surrounded by. So he wades through, as best he can, to find a solution. A solution that brings up only more questions and dangers. A solution that has opens up yet another mystery, yet another quest, this time to locate and retrieve a legendary sword. Easy right? Ummm....no....
I love this band of misfits, who, with Paul rally together, leading to some really awesome action in this fast paced read. One thing is certain when I read a CN Rowan book, I can NEVER be complacent, I can never predict WHAT is going to happen because, well, Chris pulls the rug out from under me time and time again, landing me on my tuchas! This magical carpet ride follows the well planned path the author crafted, with my hanging on for dear life, eagerly soaking in the brilliant world and genius prose. Prose that is humourous, prose that is clever, prose that I dare not deviate from lest I miss something vital! There is so much more I could say about the brilliance of this book, so much I want to say, but, most importantly, my resounding shout is READ THIS BOOK AND SERIES!
Pain? Yep, not only physical, which Paul takes on the chin, but also the emotional pain, which is so stark in this book. Not only is Paul desperate to find Aicha, his sister, his best friend, his constant, his everything. So too is his mentor and father figure in grave danger from demon takeover and Paul will stop at nothing to find Aicha and help Isaac, sending him on another adventure fraught with every imaginable challenge, even landing him in a trial, a trial no one has completed...successfully. But Paul, being Paul, will face anything to find a cure for Isaac, a very time sensitive task. Needless to say, with every victory comes more poop And where does this take Paul? Well ...a new challenge, where Paul has to work hard to shovel the poop he finds himself surrounded by. So he wades through, as best he can, to find a solution. A solution that brings up only more questions and dangers. A solution that has opens up yet another mystery, yet another quest, this time to locate and retrieve a legendary sword. Easy right? Ummm....no....
I love this band of misfits, who, with Paul rally together, leading to some really awesome action in this fast paced read. One thing is certain when I read a CN Rowan book, I can NEVER be complacent, I can never predict WHAT is going to happen because, well, Chris pulls the rug out from under me time and time again, landing me on my tuchas! This magical carpet ride follows the well planned path the author crafted, with my hanging on for dear life, eagerly soaking in the brilliant world and genius prose. Prose that is humourous, prose that is clever, prose that I dare not deviate from lest I miss something vital! There is so much more I could say about the brilliance of this book, so much I want to say, but, most importantly, my resounding shout is READ THIS BOOK AND SERIES!
May 20, 2024
Paul Bonhomme, the imPerfect Cathar has been alive for over 800 years now. In those 8+ centuries, he’s battled the forces of evil, monsters most think are tales of story and myth and built up his abilities in the manipulation of Talent (magic) and its effects on the world.
For the last 70 or so years, Aicha Kandisha has been his ride-or-die, (admittedly, Paul tends to do the dying in that equation, but Aicha keeps on riding with him), his best friend, and his partner in the fight against those entities which would turn the world upside down.
For nearly all of his life, Issac (or ‘Zak) has been a mentor and father figure to Paul. One of the co-creators of the Kabalah with his brother Jacob (or ‘Jak) who now are the physical housings of two Bene-Elohim, Nithael and Nanael (Nith and Nan, because we like abbreviations here in the imPerfectverse). When Jak was lost, for several hundred years, Paul and Zak searched the world over, eventually finding him in the early events of the 1st story arc of the imPerfect Cathar (if you haven’t read it, you’re 7 books behind, get on it, dude!)
But Aicha and Jak are gone, portaled from this world at the climax of the Good-v-Evil showdown at the top of the Pyrenees, still alive (as far as anyone can tell) but unreachable. In Paul’s desperate search for them, he neglected to touch base with Zak and wasn’t made aware of the demon essence infection that was slowly consuming Zak and his angel roommate, drawing their energies away from maintaining the wardings of Toulouse, Paul’s city.
Now that Paul knows what’s doing with Zak, and has readjusted his goals to focus on things far more time sensitive, the hunt is on for something, anything, that will cure Zak and Nan and get them back in fighting shape. Their journey will take them back to the Pyrenees mountains, seeking the council of old friends of Zak’s, the jentilak, a wise, very old race of gigantic humanoids, rather reminiscent of the Yeti of the Himalayas or the Sasquatch of the North American Pacific Northwest. These Basque legends are credited with a deep connection with Talent, an insatiable thirst for knowledge, and having taught early man many of the skills that have led to the existence of modern man. With the help of Faust and Methy, Zak and Paul will see if they can find their way Home and find a cure for whatever it is that could sicken an angel-bearer.
“imPerfect Blades” is the 8th and penultimate book in the imPerfect Cathar series by C. N. Rowan, and the second book in its second story arc. It’s jam-packed with snark, grit, action, and emotion, evoking in the reader impressions of both Gaiman and Pratchett, Butcher and Adams, for a wild ride and pages (and audio-narrated by CN himself!) that simply cannot be put down/put away. With memorable one-liners that will keep the reader laughing for pages, and chapters like Ch. 21 that’ll live rent-free in my head for the rest of my life, it’s simply a must-read! The award-winning series just keeps bringing in the hits and isn’t about to stop, so get on the Cathar train… it’s time to find out just how immortal we all imPerfectly are!
I received a free copy of this e-book and this audiobook and am voluntarily leaving a review.
For the last 70 or so years, Aicha Kandisha has been his ride-or-die, (admittedly, Paul tends to do the dying in that equation, but Aicha keeps on riding with him), his best friend, and his partner in the fight against those entities which would turn the world upside down.
For nearly all of his life, Issac (or ‘Zak) has been a mentor and father figure to Paul. One of the co-creators of the Kabalah with his brother Jacob (or ‘Jak) who now are the physical housings of two Bene-Elohim, Nithael and Nanael (Nith and Nan, because we like abbreviations here in the imPerfectverse). When Jak was lost, for several hundred years, Paul and Zak searched the world over, eventually finding him in the early events of the 1st story arc of the imPerfect Cathar (if you haven’t read it, you’re 7 books behind, get on it, dude!)
But Aicha and Jak are gone, portaled from this world at the climax of the Good-v-Evil showdown at the top of the Pyrenees, still alive (as far as anyone can tell) but unreachable. In Paul’s desperate search for them, he neglected to touch base with Zak and wasn’t made aware of the demon essence infection that was slowly consuming Zak and his angel roommate, drawing their energies away from maintaining the wardings of Toulouse, Paul’s city.
Now that Paul knows what’s doing with Zak, and has readjusted his goals to focus on things far more time sensitive, the hunt is on for something, anything, that will cure Zak and Nan and get them back in fighting shape. Their journey will take them back to the Pyrenees mountains, seeking the council of old friends of Zak’s, the jentilak, a wise, very old race of gigantic humanoids, rather reminiscent of the Yeti of the Himalayas or the Sasquatch of the North American Pacific Northwest. These Basque legends are credited with a deep connection with Talent, an insatiable thirst for knowledge, and having taught early man many of the skills that have led to the existence of modern man. With the help of Faust and Methy, Zak and Paul will see if they can find their way Home and find a cure for whatever it is that could sicken an angel-bearer.
“imPerfect Blades” is the 8th and penultimate book in the imPerfect Cathar series by C. N. Rowan, and the second book in its second story arc. It’s jam-packed with snark, grit, action, and emotion, evoking in the reader impressions of both Gaiman and Pratchett, Butcher and Adams, for a wild ride and pages (and audio-narrated by CN himself!) that simply cannot be put down/put away. With memorable one-liners that will keep the reader laughing for pages, and chapters like Ch. 21 that’ll live rent-free in my head for the rest of my life, it’s simply a must-read! The award-winning series just keeps bringing in the hits and isn’t about to stop, so get on the Cathar train… it’s time to find out just how immortal we all imPerfectly are!
I received a free copy of this e-book and this audiobook and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 24, 2024
{4.25/5}
CW: violence, gore, reference to a variety of traumas, PTSD, some others
Thank you to the author for allowing me to be a part of the ARC team! “imPerfect Blades” releases May 28, 2024!
Well folks, it’s another wonderful installment in the imPerfect Cathar series! This is book 8, and you really need to catch up already.
Isaac and Nithael are dying, poisoned by the demonic essence they can’t seem to shake. Aicha’s still missing. Poor Gil’s been put through the wringer, and Paul? Paul’s bound and determined to save them all if it’s the last thing he does.
Listen, we’re 8 books and 2 novellas in at this point; y’all already know I loved it. This one feels a little shorter than some of its predecessors, but that didn’t stop it from being phenomenal. The action is non-stop, the snark is lethally sharp, and the emotional trauma is very real. This is another one I had no issue sitting and binge-reading; I didn’t want to put it down, and there was absolutely 0 downtime where it felt like things were calm enough to walk away for something as trivial as sleep.
My favorite thing about these books is how easy they are to read. The plot is always engaging, the characters are always entertaining, and the writing is a straightforward, down-to-earth style that lets those components truly shine. Every time I pick up one of the Cathar books, I know it’s going to be a good time.
If dry cynicism is your thing, if you like a hero who really, really desperately needs a magical therapist but deals with his issues using humor and a big sword, or if you just like a fast-paced and action-filled storyline, then this is the book for you. While you don’t need books 1-6 to read this installment, you’ll probably want to at least read book 7 first. Personally, I’d suggest starting from the first novella, “An imPerfect Trap,” and reading straight through so you get the full effect. However you choose to do it, you need to read these books asap.
CW: violence, gore, reference to a variety of traumas, PTSD, some others
Thank you to the author for allowing me to be a part of the ARC team! “imPerfect Blades” releases May 28, 2024!
Well folks, it’s another wonderful installment in the imPerfect Cathar series! This is book 8, and you really need to catch up already.
Isaac and Nithael are dying, poisoned by the demonic essence they can’t seem to shake. Aicha’s still missing. Poor Gil’s been put through the wringer, and Paul? Paul’s bound and determined to save them all if it’s the last thing he does.
Listen, we’re 8 books and 2 novellas in at this point; y’all already know I loved it. This one feels a little shorter than some of its predecessors, but that didn’t stop it from being phenomenal. The action is non-stop, the snark is lethally sharp, and the emotional trauma is very real. This is another one I had no issue sitting and binge-reading; I didn’t want to put it down, and there was absolutely 0 downtime where it felt like things were calm enough to walk away for something as trivial as sleep.
My favorite thing about these books is how easy they are to read. The plot is always engaging, the characters are always entertaining, and the writing is a straightforward, down-to-earth style that lets those components truly shine. Every time I pick up one of the Cathar books, I know it’s going to be a good time.
If dry cynicism is your thing, if you like a hero who really, really desperately needs a magical therapist but deals with his issues using humor and a big sword, or if you just like a fast-paced and action-filled storyline, then this is the book for you. While you don’t need books 1-6 to read this installment, you’ll probably want to at least read book 7 first. Personally, I’d suggest starting from the first novella, “An imPerfect Trap,” and reading straight through so you get the full effect. However you choose to do it, you need to read these books asap.
May 22, 2024
By the Good God, how much more can Paul take?! They have saved Gil from the demon, only to lose their only hope for Issac and his demon arm. And to top it off, a nightmare version of a heffalump comes pounding at the ward to give them an ultimatum. They have 3 days to turn over Issac to the demon or they will cause humanity to go to war. With the arrival of Faust and Mephy, they determine the need a sword of legends that is guarded by French sasquatch (what could go wrong there?!) So they have to face Trials no one has ever passed.
Usually, Paul is faced with torture and maiming of the physical kind, but this book he is faced with psychological torture around every turn. Whether it's solving riddles meant for each of them or just being locked in a dark, enclosed space, Paul is put to the cheese grater (or wire if you will). Will they manage to make it through all the trials and come out alive and without tattoos? Will they be able to get the sword and save Isaac? And who will it break in the process?
Another emotional ride with Paul, Gil, Isaac, Faust and Mephy. I adore all of the characters and still miss Aicha! Isaac, genius Isaac who can't see what is in front of him at times and Mephy who travels with a spare leg or 2. They are all in it until the end for Paul and you couldn't ask for a better family. Which is good, since this very well could be the end for not only them, but humanity.
I had the ebook and the audiobook and it was so wonderful to get in my car and pick up where I left off! And it is not a boring listen either! The author is a wonderful narrator since he knows exactly which emotions to put into the words!
Usually, Paul is faced with torture and maiming of the physical kind, but this book he is faced with psychological torture around every turn. Whether it's solving riddles meant for each of them or just being locked in a dark, enclosed space, Paul is put to the cheese grater (or wire if you will). Will they manage to make it through all the trials and come out alive and without tattoos? Will they be able to get the sword and save Isaac? And who will it break in the process?
Another emotional ride with Paul, Gil, Isaac, Faust and Mephy. I adore all of the characters and still miss Aicha! Isaac, genius Isaac who can't see what is in front of him at times and Mephy who travels with a spare leg or 2. They are all in it until the end for Paul and you couldn't ask for a better family. Which is good, since this very well could be the end for not only them, but humanity.
I had the ebook and the audiobook and it was so wonderful to get in my car and pick up where I left off! And it is not a boring listen either! The author is a wonderful narrator since he knows exactly which emotions to put into the words!
May 20, 2024
C.N. Rowan has given us another of his signature gritty, emotional and, at times, dark stories in ImPerfect Blades. The series is only one novel away from completion but don't think that means the author will be too busy tying up story arcs to miss an opportunity to torture his characters!
I was enthralled by the process of this book. There were mysteries and puzzles to solve (to torment new and old characters....just wait till you get to chapter 21!!) and plenty of that dry humour readers look forward to. And twists. Wow. C.N. Rowan comes up with twists in his narrative in a way almost unparalleled in urban fantasy. Beware the reader who gets complacent while traversing the ImPerfect Cathar universe.
While two of our MC's are still absent, others have stepped up into featured roles and it is a delight to spend time with them.
Once again, C.N. Rowan has narrated the audio version and it is superb. His comedic delivery is always perfectly timed and presented. The roller coaster of emotions will take your breath away - I really don't know how he is able to continue coherently through some scenes, when I know I would be a blubbering mess.
As always I highly recommend this author and his stories.
I was enthralled by the process of this book. There were mysteries and puzzles to solve (to torment new and old characters....just wait till you get to chapter 21!!) and plenty of that dry humour readers look forward to. And twists. Wow. C.N. Rowan comes up with twists in his narrative in a way almost unparalleled in urban fantasy. Beware the reader who gets complacent while traversing the ImPerfect Cathar universe.
While two of our MC's are still absent, others have stepped up into featured roles and it is a delight to spend time with them.
Once again, C.N. Rowan has narrated the audio version and it is superb. His comedic delivery is always perfectly timed and presented. The roller coaster of emotions will take your breath away - I really don't know how he is able to continue coherently through some scenes, when I know I would be a blubbering mess.
As always I highly recommend this author and his stories.
May 8, 2024
The 8th book in the imPerfect Cathar series had me laughing and also touched my heart. Once again C.N. Rowan introduces us to new and wondrous creatures from French mythology – some helpful to Team Bonhomme and others completely the opposite.
Aïcha and Jakob are still missing, but for now, the team has had to follow another path – find Joyeuse, the legendary sword of Charlemagne, which might be able to heal Isaac. The sword isn’t on display in the Louvre in Paris, as most people think, so our band of misfit heroes find themselves deep in the mysterious Pyrénées mountains, facing the almost impossible task of passing ancient Trials to reach their goal and win the sword. Luckily, the brilliant Faust and his demon-dog, Mephy, are there to help Paul and Isaac.
Mephy is seriously funny and gives us a very different take on demons – and dogs! Paul finds himself facing nightmares from his past, but don’t worry, he still manages to be a smart-ass when the occasion presents itself! The last chapter sets the scene for the final adventure in the Cathar series – and it promises to be explosive!
Aïcha and Jakob are still missing, but for now, the team has had to follow another path – find Joyeuse, the legendary sword of Charlemagne, which might be able to heal Isaac. The sword isn’t on display in the Louvre in Paris, as most people think, so our band of misfit heroes find themselves deep in the mysterious Pyrénées mountains, facing the almost impossible task of passing ancient Trials to reach their goal and win the sword. Luckily, the brilliant Faust and his demon-dog, Mephy, are there to help Paul and Isaac.
Mephy is seriously funny and gives us a very different take on demons – and dogs! Paul finds himself facing nightmares from his past, but don’t worry, he still manages to be a smart-ass when the occasion presents itself! The last chapter sets the scene for the final adventure in the Cathar series – and it promises to be explosive!
May 24, 2024
As the series heads towards an inevitable final conflict, this entry is lighter on the action. But it takes the pause, the calm before the storm, as an opportunity to do some deep soul-searching.
Paul, the protagonist, is that one friend. you know, he means well, but things just somehow never seem to work out for him. But the book makes the reader confront, in a clever way: is our misfortune due to how we chose to perceive the world? Could a different attitude, a different approach, wrest fate from the capricious forces that laugh at our sorrows, and back into our hands? For all the friends you just want to shake by the lapels and scream into their faces that they are the architects of most of their misery, this new take on Paul puts the rest of the story that precedes in sharp contrast. And this, in turn, makes the reader question what in their own lives could have been different, with just a twist of perspective.
Not many action/comedy packed beach novels can pull off that magic trick.
Paul, the protagonist, is that one friend. you know, he means well, but things just somehow never seem to work out for him. But the book makes the reader confront, in a clever way: is our misfortune due to how we chose to perceive the world? Could a different attitude, a different approach, wrest fate from the capricious forces that laugh at our sorrows, and back into our hands? For all the friends you just want to shake by the lapels and scream into their faces that they are the architects of most of their misery, this new take on Paul puts the rest of the story that precedes in sharp contrast. And this, in turn, makes the reader question what in their own lives could have been different, with just a twist of perspective.
Not many action/comedy packed beach novels can pull off that magic trick.
May 15, 2024
Another brilliant story in the imPerfectverse!
Paul has to take care of his father figure, Issac, who is still suffering from the effects of the demon essence that is slowly poisoning him and his angel.
Paul has a possible lead, it is a magic sword with the ability to heal, wielded by Charlemagne the Great. There's only a few problems with it. Mainly, it's been missing for a very long time.
We have a quest, new monsters, some very monstrous, some not so much. Plus, a demon—a very naughty one. If you make it to the end, you finally get his identity too!
Also, we have Gil, Faust, and Mephy along for this ride which takes you to a very interesting place and an extremely interesting test to solve the problem.
As usual, you will be subjected to laughs, blood, violence, horror, and the love of found family. You can't beat this series with all the best that UF has to offer!
Can't wait for the final installment!
Paul has to take care of his father figure, Issac, who is still suffering from the effects of the demon essence that is slowly poisoning him and his angel.
Paul has a possible lead, it is a magic sword with the ability to heal, wielded by Charlemagne the Great. There's only a few problems with it. Mainly, it's been missing for a very long time.
We have a quest, new monsters, some very monstrous, some not so much. Plus, a demon—a very naughty one. If you make it to the end, you finally get his identity too!
Also, we have Gil, Faust, and Mephy along for this ride which takes you to a very interesting place and an extremely interesting test to solve the problem.
As usual, you will be subjected to laughs, blood, violence, horror, and the love of found family. You can't beat this series with all the best that UF has to offer!
Can't wait for the final installment!
May 13, 2024
Paul is back. He and his friends are in trouble. If you've read the previous books in the series none of that will surprise you. It'd be a shocker if he wasn't in trouble. If you haven't read the series go to book 1 first. Really, you need to travel from the beginning.
Jacob and Aicha are still missing, Isaac and Gil still troubled by demons. The solution may lie in the Pyrenees with the sword of Charlemagne. Magic, demons, angels and now enchanted sword. This is urban fantasy at it's best. Characters with depth, rounded. Not just heroes that win every fight. Paul may have magic and be 800 years old but he's human with all that brings.
Jacob and Aicha are still missing, Isaac and Gil still troubled by demons. The solution may lie in the Pyrenees with the sword of Charlemagne. Magic, demons, angels and now enchanted sword. This is urban fantasy at it's best. Characters with depth, rounded. Not just heroes that win every fight. Paul may have magic and be 800 years old but he's human with all that brings.
May 28, 2024
Poor Paul. Life never lets up for him. No weekends lounging at the shore for Paul Bonhomme. There is a fabulous series of challenges for Paul and his lunatic band of brilliant anachronisms and impossible beings, ending in a laugh-out-loud seeming-denouement. But that is definitely not the end of this adventure! More pathos, intensity, gore, and rage to follow. We cover all of the bases emotionally; and in narrating his own books, Mr. Rowan is a master at conveying them all. Gore and language warning, and what a ride!!
June 2, 2024
I have spent a great deal of time clutching my sides on my journey through the penultimate book in the Imperfect Cathar series. This is an author who can bring humour into what could otherwise be a dark tale. That isn't to say the tale does not have weight, infact it has that in spades.
Great worldbuilding with an exciting plot and characters that will stay with me long after the final chapter. A fantastic series from a clearly talented author. I will be sad when our time with Paul and Co comes to an end.
Great worldbuilding with an exciting plot and characters that will stay with me long after the final chapter. A fantastic series from a clearly talented author. I will be sad when our time with Paul and Co comes to an end.
June 4, 2024
Now eight books into this series, author C.N. Rowan reminds us that what we think we know about our world is just the tip of the proverbial iceberg. The story of Paul and co. continues to take them deeper into danger and yet inevitably closer to the ultimate confrontation to come. This series continues to amaze and keeps you reading late into the night. Highly recommended but start from book one! You don't want to miss any of the build-up to the ending!.
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.
June 15, 2024
This series has been one incredible book after another and this one is no exception. I can't believe how easily this book grabbed me and yanked me inside. I was so caught up in it that I was actually upset when I had to put it down. Life needs to pause while I am reading these books. Wouldn't that be fabulous?! If you've started the series, you'll love this book. If you haven't started this series, get started soon as you don't want to miss out on this. Totally incredible book and series!
July 7, 2024
The action never lets up!
Paul & co are at it again, & I thought it would feel a little flat without Aicha along, but Paul seems to have her in spirit to jog him along sometimes. It works beautifully even though her absence is glaring! My favorite part is the end of the trials. I got a good chuckle out of that!
I am desperate to read the next book, but I'm also not ready for it to end. This is a series that I will be reading over & over for years to come, provided I live a few more decades!
Paul & co are at it again, & I thought it would feel a little flat without Aicha along, but Paul seems to have her in spirit to jog him along sometimes. It works beautifully even though her absence is glaring! My favorite part is the end of the trials. I got a good chuckle out of that!
I am desperate to read the next book, but I'm also not ready for it to end. This is a series that I will be reading over & over for years to come, provided I live a few more decades!
May 29, 2024
Lots is going on in this book as trouble abounds and Paul and friends are hunting ways to solve their problems. A bit of a quest feel that kept me biting my nails to the end to see how it all works out. And to see what mayhem and trouble will pop up as Paul never seems to get a break. Will their search prove fruitful to save the day and have something go right this time? Just a fun action and crazy story that kept em laughing and reading to the end.
June 5, 2024
This book was shorter than the usual in this series. But still adventure packed, lots of face-palming, what-the-actual-f*ckery and still missing Aicha! I’m glad Isaac is cured, that Faust & Memphy have a larger role to play…and I finally know the answer about the fox, chicken, sack of rice in a boat crossing the river.
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.
June 4, 2024
This is the 8th book of the imPerfect Cathar series, and Paul is still running here and there, trying to find a way to cure Isaac for good and bringing Aicha back.
I don't want to spoil anything, but this one had me so anxious for the characters I had to stop reading at places just to bring my heart back to normal
Go read it!
I don't want to spoil anything, but this one had me so anxious for the characters I had to stop reading at places just to bring my heart back to normal
Go read it!
June 6, 2024
ANOTHER HIT FROM C.N. ROWAN!
Like all his stories, Imperfect Blades kept me on edge the entire time I was reading. I resented having to sleep, eat…anything that took me away from it! I am on tenterhooks waiting for the next book in the series…dying to see how Paul and his team get through another nightmare situation. I can’t wait!
Like all his stories, Imperfect Blades kept me on edge the entire time I was reading. I resented having to sleep, eat…anything that took me away from it! I am on tenterhooks waiting for the next book in the series…dying to see how Paul and his team get through another nightmare situation. I can’t wait!
July 2, 2024
Book 8 and we continue to follow Paul on his journey. Once again the author has me enthralled as we head to the Pyrenees to face more trials as Issac’s time is running out and hoping they can save him in time and get answers to their questions. It’s thrilling, it’s exciting, it’s dark and I do love the twisted humour and I will keep coming back for more.
June 4, 2024
Set aside a day for this contemporary action-packed adult paranormal supernatural urban fantasy satire roaming France at the end of October.
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.
June 2, 2024
Allegedly there were errors but I was too busy enjoying the ride to notice! Love this series
June 18, 2024
Paul isn't sure if he'll come back if he is killed. The powers that be didn't tell him. So he has to be careful. Which is not good since they may have just days before Isaac, his mentor, may pass. To add to his woes, Aicha’s missing. So now he, Isaac and Gil are on their way back to Toulouse. They have a clue, a symbol, which spells Karolus which is Latin for Charles or Charlemagne. Then Gil remembers something from when a demon took over his body. It sent the apes to get something, Joyeuse which in Le Louvre. Until he talks to a friend who says the one they've claimed as is still there. The real one is missing. Now the demon is demanding Isaac. Not on his watch. They may have an idea on how to save Isaac. But there are so many problems still on their plate that it is downright gruesome. Will they manage to do all they need to do before D-day? Will they all survive?
Another fantastic story in this series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Another fantastic story in this series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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