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The Kure
"In vain thou shall use many medicines, but thou shalt not be kured. And even though you search for a virgin to lay upon her balm, there is no healing for you. You multiply your remedies in vain as your cries fill the earth, and you will stumble, one over the other, and both will fall down together." - The Book of Eternal Regret
John Tyler, a young man in his early twenties, awakens to find a ghastly affliction taking over his body. When the village doctor offers the conventional, and potentially disfiguring, treatment as the only cure, John tenaciously convinces the doctor to reveal an alternative remedy—a forbidden ritual contained within an ancient manuscript called the Kure.
Although initially rejecting the vile and sinister rite, John realizes, too late, that the ritual is more than a faded promise scrawled on a page of crumbling paper. And as cure quickly becomes curse, the demonic text unleashes a dark power that drives him to consider the unthinkable—a depraved and wicked act requiring the corruption of an innocent soul.
Ultimately, John must choose between his desperate need to arrest the plague that is destroying his body, and the virtue of the woman he loves, knowing the wrong decision could cost him his life.
Due to mature content, this book is best suited for a Mature YA/New-Adult or Adult reader.
John Tyler, a young man in his early twenties, awakens to find a ghastly affliction taking over his body. When the village doctor offers the conventional, and potentially disfiguring, treatment as the only cure, John tenaciously convinces the doctor to reveal an alternative remedy—a forbidden ritual contained within an ancient manuscript called the Kure.
Although initially rejecting the vile and sinister rite, John realizes, too late, that the ritual is more than a faded promise scrawled on a page of crumbling paper. And as cure quickly becomes curse, the demonic text unleashes a dark power that drives him to consider the unthinkable—a depraved and wicked act requiring the corruption of an innocent soul.
Ultimately, John must choose between his desperate need to arrest the plague that is destroying his body, and the virtue of the woman he loves, knowing the wrong decision could cost him his life.
Due to mature content, this book is best suited for a Mature YA/New-Adult or Adult reader.
332 pages, Paperback
First published September 16, 2011
4 people are currently reading
250 people want to read
About the author
Jaye Frances
10 books258 followersJaye Frances is the author of "The New Girl in Town" and the suspense thriller series, "World Without Love." The trilogy includes “Betrayed,” "Reunion," and "Redemption." Her other books include "The Beach," a psychological thriller about the possibilities—and horror—of wishful thinking, "The Kure," a romance novel set in with a paranormal twist set in post Civil War Kentucky, and "Love Travels Forever," a collection of seventeen poignant short stories.
For more information visit Jaye at:
http://.JayeFrances.com
http://JayeFrancesBooks.com
http://JayeFrances.Substack.com
http://JayeFrancesYouTube.com
http://.Linkedin.com/in/JayeFrances
http://Facebook.com/JayeFrancesAuthor
http://Amazon.com/author/www.JayeFran...
www.twitter.com/JayeFrancesNews
http://instagram.com/JayeFrancesWriter
For more information visit Jaye at:
http://.JayeFrances.com
http://JayeFrancesBooks.com
http://JayeFrances.Substack.com
http://JayeFrancesYouTube.com
http://.Linkedin.com/in/JayeFrances
http://Facebook.com/JayeFrancesAuthor
http://Amazon.com/author/www.JayeFran...
www.twitter.com/JayeFrancesNews
http://instagram.com/JayeFrancesWriter
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
November 3, 2011
Mysteriously Intriguing!
This story was a very interesting and intriguing story that holds a mysterious witchery and magical power that will keep you drawn to the end of the story. The story grabbed my attention within the first chapter due to a disease that John was afflicted with and an affliction upon his manhood that if not treated would fall off. It got even more interesting because the practicing doctor only wanted to cure John by using leeches to draw out the poison and the thought of putting leeches on his manhood drew my interest right away.
However, John was desperate to find another way as well and talked the doctor into telling him about the ancient healings. Against the doctor’s better judgment, the doctor pulls out the ancient book called “The Kure”, however what John doesn’t realize is that the cure is a curse that will eventually own him.
In this cure, a 18 year old virgin must take the affliction into her mouth until the burning pain disappears or the one inflicted must run naked in the rain under the shinning moon hand in hand with a female who is no younger than six years from the one to be kured and that doesn’t know about his affliction.
In this book the author takes you through the mental experiences John’s inner mind goes through and his search to find the 18 year old Sarah to complete the ritual for his cure, a cure he refuses to go through with after meeting Sarah. However, Sarah is more than he can believe and she does everything to help him to relieve him from his affliction.
The story really wasn’t a romance story between John and Sarah but the attraction between them is there. The story was a little slow for me in some parts as I was impatiently waiting to get to the climax to the story. There were some gross parts towards the end dealing with the boil infested affliction on John’s manhood because without bloodletting or the ritual being complete John’s manhood would fall off.
Lastly I would like to say this was a very interesting start to a new series and though I gave this a 3.5 star rating, I will definitely be anxiously awaiting for the next book “The Karetakers” to come out because it has intrigued my interest of finding out more about the mysteriously witchery powers of the book “The Kure” along with finding out what becomes of Sarah and John.
This story was a very interesting and intriguing story that holds a mysterious witchery and magical power that will keep you drawn to the end of the story. The story grabbed my attention within the first chapter due to a disease that John was afflicted with and an affliction upon his manhood that if not treated would fall off. It got even more interesting because the practicing doctor only wanted to cure John by using leeches to draw out the poison and the thought of putting leeches on his manhood drew my interest right away.
However, John was desperate to find another way as well and talked the doctor into telling him about the ancient healings. Against the doctor’s better judgment, the doctor pulls out the ancient book called “The Kure”, however what John doesn’t realize is that the cure is a curse that will eventually own him.
In this cure, a 18 year old virgin must take the affliction into her mouth until the burning pain disappears or the one inflicted must run naked in the rain under the shinning moon hand in hand with a female who is no younger than six years from the one to be kured and that doesn’t know about his affliction.
In this book the author takes you through the mental experiences John’s inner mind goes through and his search to find the 18 year old Sarah to complete the ritual for his cure, a cure he refuses to go through with after meeting Sarah. However, Sarah is more than he can believe and she does everything to help him to relieve him from his affliction.
The story really wasn’t a romance story between John and Sarah but the attraction between them is there. The story was a little slow for me in some parts as I was impatiently waiting to get to the climax to the story. There were some gross parts towards the end dealing with the boil infested affliction on John’s manhood because without bloodletting or the ritual being complete John’s manhood would fall off.
Lastly I would like to say this was a very interesting start to a new series and though I gave this a 3.5 star rating, I will definitely be anxiously awaiting for the next book “The Karetakers” to come out because it has intrigued my interest of finding out more about the mysteriously witchery powers of the book “The Kure” along with finding out what becomes of Sarah and John.
October 17, 2012
While lawyers were drafting the U.S. Constitution, physicians were trying to heal people by blood letting. When John Tyler, the protagonist of The Kure, develops a gruesome infection of his midsection and groin, Tyler has a choice between treatment by blood sucking leeches or by ancient pagan ritual. Set in Kentucky in 1865, The Kure is about Tyler's struggle to choose and the risks he faces with either choice. This novel is not for the queasy or for those offended by sexual or religious deviation. Still, Author Frances does a masterful job of writing the story without too much gross explicitness. It's truly a creative novel. The book moved a bit slow for me, but it did so to allow the exploration the relationships and emotions of the characters. Good job overall.
February 18, 2020
Due to mature content, this book is best suited for a Mature YA/New-Adult or Adult reader.
John looked at the sign, Lucius D Harwell.
He approached the doctor’s door and knew he had to go in…now. Before anyone saw him,
“So”, the doctor said, “Are you ready?”
When he saw the bucket full of the slithering slime he remembered the woman he had brought in a while back. It hadn’t ended so well for her.
What would become of him? There had to be another way. He couldn’t bring himself to let the doctor begin. He had heard stories whispers, quickly hushed when someone approached. The doctor tried to talk him into beginning but he thought it couldn’t hurt to hypothetically discuss other options. The doctor tried to explain that it wasn’t like an elixir or ointment, couldn’t be found in a battle or jar – more like a potion, it was witchcraft. It went against church and state, but John couldn’t help himself.
Three conditions would let the doctor begin his recommended treatment, after he told him he would have to “cast away his good name and denounce all things holey and pure”. He would never speak of the books or what was contained in the pages. He agreed. The doctor retrieved the book and John watched him place it on the desk.
He saw only one word, KURE. The doctor gave him one more chance to change his mind, but he placed his hand on the cover of the book and felt an evil. As the book turned its pages on its own volition the doctor began reading.
How did Jaye Frances go there? It makes me wonder how her mind works.
Jaye France’s books have taken me on some wild journeys I never could have imagined, and I always breathe a sigh of relief, for leaving with my sanity, when the story is told.
See more at fundinmental
John looked at the sign, Lucius D Harwell.
He approached the doctor’s door and knew he had to go in…now. Before anyone saw him,
“So”, the doctor said, “Are you ready?”
When he saw the bucket full of the slithering slime he remembered the woman he had brought in a while back. It hadn’t ended so well for her.
What would become of him? There had to be another way. He couldn’t bring himself to let the doctor begin. He had heard stories whispers, quickly hushed when someone approached. The doctor tried to talk him into beginning but he thought it couldn’t hurt to hypothetically discuss other options. The doctor tried to explain that it wasn’t like an elixir or ointment, couldn’t be found in a battle or jar – more like a potion, it was witchcraft. It went against church and state, but John couldn’t help himself.
Three conditions would let the doctor begin his recommended treatment, after he told him he would have to “cast away his good name and denounce all things holey and pure”. He would never speak of the books or what was contained in the pages. He agreed. The doctor retrieved the book and John watched him place it on the desk.
He saw only one word, KURE. The doctor gave him one more chance to change his mind, but he placed his hand on the cover of the book and felt an evil. As the book turned its pages on its own volition the doctor began reading.
How did Jaye Frances go there? It makes me wonder how her mind works.
Jaye France’s books have taken me on some wild journeys I never could have imagined, and I always breathe a sigh of relief, for leaving with my sanity, when the story is told.
See more at fundinmental
November 2, 2011
John Tyler is twenty-three years old. His father died in 1865, and his mother died while giving birth to him. He has inherited the family farm, and the eligible ladies in town are waiting for him to take a wife. John hasn’t given much thought to starting a family, but all of that is about to change.
John is woken by a horrible twisting pain in his gut; a pain that he believes will eventually go away. Upon inspecting himself he finds that the skin below the belt is bruised and spreading. Barely able to take the pain any more, John makes his way into town to see the local doctor.
The doctor’s diagnosis is grim, but he believes that he can help John by performing a bloodletting. Yes ladies and gentlemen, the doctor would like to set leeches on John’s manhood to draw the poison from his body. John’s natural reaction is terror at the thought, and he has heard whisperings among the elders of other cures. Defiant against the thought of a bloodletting, after having witness people die from the procedure, John forces the doctor to reveal to him alternative remedies.
What the doctor shows him is a book of ancient spells, which are so immoral in ingredients, that it has been ban by law and the church. The spell and the requirement are thought to be so immoral that it could destroy the person’s soul that is being cured, and the people involved. But next to the bloodletting, John is willing to take the risk at first.
FROM THE BOOK:
He offered no final muster of resistance, no new wave of strength. He was finished. The cure had become a curse, and it owned him. It was as much a part of him as an arm or leg. In the end, he knew he could only puppet the dark master’s wish.
***
John set out to find the one ingredient that is essentially crucial to the ritual – a virgin on her eighteenth birthday. He struggles with the morality of the situation, for his soul, and the soul of the girl that he seeks.
I’m usually able to calculate how much I like a book by how long it takes me to read it, and in this case it only took me a day because I couldn’t but it down. Jaye Frances wrote a very compelling story that kept me glued to the pages. She laid a great foundation for a series as there will be a sequel call The Karetakers, and I am really looking forward to it.
John is woken by a horrible twisting pain in his gut; a pain that he believes will eventually go away. Upon inspecting himself he finds that the skin below the belt is bruised and spreading. Barely able to take the pain any more, John makes his way into town to see the local doctor.
The doctor’s diagnosis is grim, but he believes that he can help John by performing a bloodletting. Yes ladies and gentlemen, the doctor would like to set leeches on John’s manhood to draw the poison from his body. John’s natural reaction is terror at the thought, and he has heard whisperings among the elders of other cures. Defiant against the thought of a bloodletting, after having witness people die from the procedure, John forces the doctor to reveal to him alternative remedies.
What the doctor shows him is a book of ancient spells, which are so immoral in ingredients, that it has been ban by law and the church. The spell and the requirement are thought to be so immoral that it could destroy the person’s soul that is being cured, and the people involved. But next to the bloodletting, John is willing to take the risk at first.
FROM THE BOOK:
He offered no final muster of resistance, no new wave of strength. He was finished. The cure had become a curse, and it owned him. It was as much a part of him as an arm or leg. In the end, he knew he could only puppet the dark master’s wish.
***
John set out to find the one ingredient that is essentially crucial to the ritual – a virgin on her eighteenth birthday. He struggles with the morality of the situation, for his soul, and the soul of the girl that he seeks.
I’m usually able to calculate how much I like a book by how long it takes me to read it, and in this case it only took me a day because I couldn’t but it down. Jaye Frances wrote a very compelling story that kept me glued to the pages. She laid a great foundation for a series as there will be a sequel call The Karetakers, and I am really looking forward to it.
August 23, 2012
Out of the three books of Jaye’s that I have read so far this is more the type of book that I mainly read. It is an adult story with dark overtones. I would not recommend this book for anyone who is squeamish due to some descriptions contained within. I give the book 4 stars.
The story was interesting. I can't wait to hear more on this dark tale. I admit the details of the main characters affliction’s description was gross but you also needed to know about it to know how desperate of a situation he was in. The only problem I had in the story was the storyline kind of lost me with all the descriptions and build up for a few pages in the middle of the story. I found myself skimming that part and then had to make myself re-read it.
The characters are wonderfully written and I can’t really blame John for some of his decisions given how desperate he was. John set out looking for a way to be cured and ended up finding a woman he found himself falling in love with but with decisions made and The Kure to deal with we are unclear by the end of the book if they will be together and all will be forgiven or not. Sarah is a very strong character also and I admire how much she wanted to help even when most people would have ran the other way.
As I am no expert on this subject matter I can’t say for sure but the story felt that it was well researched and definitely well written by Jaye. I would like to read the next in the series to see what happens with John and Sarah and also what payment will be demanded for using The Kure.
The story was interesting. I can't wait to hear more on this dark tale. I admit the details of the main characters affliction’s description was gross but you also needed to know about it to know how desperate of a situation he was in. The only problem I had in the story was the storyline kind of lost me with all the descriptions and build up for a few pages in the middle of the story. I found myself skimming that part and then had to make myself re-read it.
The characters are wonderfully written and I can’t really blame John for some of his decisions given how desperate he was. John set out looking for a way to be cured and ended up finding a woman he found himself falling in love with but with decisions made and The Kure to deal with we are unclear by the end of the book if they will be together and all will be forgiven or not. Sarah is a very strong character also and I admire how much she wanted to help even when most people would have ran the other way.
As I am no expert on this subject matter I can’t say for sure but the story felt that it was well researched and definitely well written by Jaye. I would like to read the next in the series to see what happens with John and Sarah and also what payment will be demanded for using The Kure.
August 8, 2012
Paranormal-occult romance. ---WOW. That's one word to describe this book. It was so hard to put down, the story was very intriguing, unique but not as dark or demonic as I expected when I first read the sypnosis. My imagination was running wild as the story progresses. The images of Sarah or any girl for that matter, trying to fulfill the directions of the Kure was just disturbing. How the author Jaye Frances described the condition of John Tyler's condition was gruesome and it's insane how devotion could overlook such a heinous thing. I did expect the leeching to happen and it doesn't work so they follow the kure anyway, but it didn't happen.. It was fine though because something better happened and it certainly was more creative than what I had imagined.
This was a short read but the story was not compromised it didn't feel unfinished but there is a sense of mystery at the end that makes you want to get out of the house and track down the next book. I have no complaint for this book. The writing was excellent, the setting, the plot was amazing, the characters were beautifully constructed. Seriously, I did not expect myself to have this kind of reaction for this book. The next book to this is the Karetakers, a continuation of Sarah and John's story. 5 ++ stars.
-I received this book as a review copy from the author but this fact did not affect my opinion/review on the book-
This was a short read but the story was not compromised it didn't feel unfinished but there is a sense of mystery at the end that makes you want to get out of the house and track down the next book. I have no complaint for this book. The writing was excellent, the setting, the plot was amazing, the characters were beautifully constructed. Seriously, I did not expect myself to have this kind of reaction for this book. The next book to this is the Karetakers, a continuation of Sarah and John's story. 5 ++ stars.
-I received this book as a review copy from the author but this fact did not affect my opinion/review on the book-
December 15, 2011
When I first started this book, I wasn’t exactly sure what I was getting into, but as I found myself turning the pages, there was no way I could tear myself away from this story. This was one of the most unique and unusual storylines I’ve ever read, and perhaps that is why I was drawn so completely into the dilemma and conflicts faced by the main characters, John Tyler and Sarah Sheridan.
The author does a wonderful job of pacing the action, presenting the reader with surprising twists and unexpected turns. The romance between John and Sarah is a nail-biting drama, and I was completely invested in the outcome, wanting them to connect, but realizing what they were going through was so overwhelming that only time (and apparently, the next book in the series) will tell the complete tale.
While "The Kure" is definitely adult fiction, I think mature YA readers looking for something with more substance will find it captivating. Yes, there are some graphic descriptions of John’s malady, as well as Sarah’s frighteningly horrific episode in which she forces herself to carry out the ancient instructions of the Kure—all of which made the story that much more believable.
If "The Kure" is any indication of what to expect from the next two books in the series, I can’t wait to read them. I literally could not put this one down.
The author does a wonderful job of pacing the action, presenting the reader with surprising twists and unexpected turns. The romance between John and Sarah is a nail-biting drama, and I was completely invested in the outcome, wanting them to connect, but realizing what they were going through was so overwhelming that only time (and apparently, the next book in the series) will tell the complete tale.
While "The Kure" is definitely adult fiction, I think mature YA readers looking for something with more substance will find it captivating. Yes, there are some graphic descriptions of John’s malady, as well as Sarah’s frighteningly horrific episode in which she forces herself to carry out the ancient instructions of the Kure—all of which made the story that much more believable.
If "The Kure" is any indication of what to expect from the next two books in the series, I can’t wait to read them. I literally could not put this one down.
December 5, 2011
Wow! I'm not sure how to review this book - lol
It was very .. Deep, Very disturbing and very heart wrenching all at the same time. I hated it. but I loved it - I was so disgusted by it, and yet I couldn't put it down.
Jaye Frances did an Awesome job with this book -
February 21, 2016
Book Synopsis
Forbidden by law and denounced as an abomination by the church, the Kure has been hidden for centuries...
John Tyler has never met Sarah Sheridan, but he knows he must find her, and somehow convince her that she is the key to unlocking the power of an ancient ritual that will rid his body of a rare and ravaging disease.
But as cure quickly becomes curse, John realizes the ritual is more than a faded promise scrawled on a page of crumbling paper, and he discovers, too late, that the unholy text has unleashed a dark power that is driving him to consider the unthinkable.
Ultimately, John must choose between his desperate need to arrest the plague that is destroying his body, and the virtue of the woman he loves, knowing the wrong decision could cost him his life.
My Thoughts
When the author contacted me about possibly reading this book I researched reviews from fellow bloggers and my interest was caught firmly by the mixed reactions that I found. Some people obviously could not get past their initial revulsion of the affliction that the character of John Tyler describes when he wakes up one morning in pain to find a horrible sight from his abdomen to his groin.
I admit that the old saying "Curiosity killed the cat" came to mind, however in this case curiosity allowed me to find a story that while it does have parts that turn your stomach it also reads easily, has characters that are very relatable to and turned out to be well constructed from start to finish by the author.
The characters that the author created in John Tyler and Sarah Sheridan are likable people. John is a twenty three-year-old man who is making his way alone after his father passes away, he works hard, is kind to his fellow man and thus far has kept himself rather aloof from the eligible young women in his area.
Sarah Sheridan is the daughter of a wealthy man, her family is also all gone except for her father. She and John have not seen each other in many years even though they live fairly close to one another.
It was quite interesting to watch how the conflicting emotions that both John and Sarah felt came into play, each of them had to make hard decisions during the course of the story that lead to some tense moments that keep the reader turning the page to see what happens next.
I thoroughly enjoyed the interactions between John and Sarah, this story kept my interest from the first page and it never wavered even during the parts where the affliction was described in vivid gory detail.
This story does have an appeal both to adult readers over the age of 18 and younger readers who enjoy a bit of graphic horror, however would not recommend to anyone who expects a torrid romance because that is not the case within this plot. The paranormal element was not developed as fully as I thought it would be but what was hinted at in book 1 should be carried over and explained even more fully in book 2. There is romantic attraction between John and Sarah, a very strong one that hopefully will also get a chance to develop further within book 2 when The Karetaker picks up where The Kure left off.
My only advice is be sure you go into reading this with an open mind, also if you cannot stand to read graphically described scenes beware that there are a few that will turn you green and if not make you sick will certainly make you gag.
The author has created a uniquely unusual story that delves into superstition, dark magicks and the resilience of the human mind to accept things that are too horrible to contemplate under normal circumstances, a story that will haunt you with it's ugliness and also it's beauty!
[Kindle ecopy of book provided by author in exchange for an honest review.]
August 31, 2012
The Kure
by Jaye Frances (Goodreads Author)
Synopsis from Goodreads
"In vain thou shall use many medicines, but thou shalt not be kured. And even though you search for a virgin to lay upon her balm, there is no healing for you. You multiply your remedies in vain as your cries fill the earth, and you will stumble, one over the other, and both will fall down together." - The Book of Eternal Regret
John Tyler, a young man in his early twenties, awakens to find a ghastly affliction taking over his body. When the village doctor offers the conventional, and potentially disfiguring, treatment as the only cure, John tenaciously convinces the doctor to reveal an alternative remedy—a forbidden ritual contained within an ancient manuscript called the Kure.
Although initially rejecting the vile and sinister rite, John realizes, too late, that the ritual is more than a faded promise scrawled on a page of crumbling paper. And as cure quickly becomes curse, the demonic text unleashes a dark power that drives him to consider the unthinkable—a depraved and wicked act requiring the corruption of an innocent soul.
Ultimately, John must choose between his desperate need to arrest the plague that is destroying his body, and the virtue of the woman he loves, knowing the wrong decision could cost him his life. "
This book is best suited for a Mature YA/New-Adult or Adult reader.
I was very intrigued by the synopsis of this book, which is a very good description of the storyline, and when it was offered for read to review, I jumped at the opportunity to read it. Now this is not a read for the squeamish or someone looking for the lighter side of magic lore. There were parts of the story that were very graphic and disturbing for me, as well as times when I wanted slap John and tell him to man-up and grow some backbone (I had thought to use a different cliché here, but humor is not appropriate for this book). As I was reading The Kure my mind was in overdrive on how to review this story. I even discussed it with others and used an analogy of driving by a car wreck and not being able to not look with my need to finish the book. Interestingly, there is an afterward from the author and in it she uses a similar analogy, which completely vindicated my feelings and let me know I was on the right track in experiencing what the author had in mind for the reader. That being said, The Kure was beautifully written. It was one of those books that even though I was uncomfortable with the subject matter of the story I wanted to keep reading for the marvelous writing. I also feel the afterward from the author is as much a part of the story as the tale itself. It was also beautifully written and clarified so much of what I had read and why it was written and should definitely not be passed over in reading this book. Any writing that makes you think and feel such strong emotions, as well as prompts discussion, is definitely worth looking into. I really dislike the star system for rating a book; I am having a hard time deciding what I would rate The Kure and with that being said there parts I just did not like (personal comfort zone here) and other parts that sent me over the moon, which is going to balance this out to a four start book for me, me being the magic word. I look forward to reading further work by this author and would definitely recommend reading her work, although I personally do not agree with a YA rating, the new adult or mature reader rating is more appropriate in my view.
I requested this book from the author to read and review and it was provided to me with a request for my honest opinion without any compensation whatsoever, other than the joy of reading a new book.
by Jaye Frances (Goodreads Author)
Synopsis from Goodreads
"In vain thou shall use many medicines, but thou shalt not be kured. And even though you search for a virgin to lay upon her balm, there is no healing for you. You multiply your remedies in vain as your cries fill the earth, and you will stumble, one over the other, and both will fall down together." - The Book of Eternal Regret
John Tyler, a young man in his early twenties, awakens to find a ghastly affliction taking over his body. When the village doctor offers the conventional, and potentially disfiguring, treatment as the only cure, John tenaciously convinces the doctor to reveal an alternative remedy—a forbidden ritual contained within an ancient manuscript called the Kure.
Although initially rejecting the vile and sinister rite, John realizes, too late, that the ritual is more than a faded promise scrawled on a page of crumbling paper. And as cure quickly becomes curse, the demonic text unleashes a dark power that drives him to consider the unthinkable—a depraved and wicked act requiring the corruption of an innocent soul.
Ultimately, John must choose between his desperate need to arrest the plague that is destroying his body, and the virtue of the woman he loves, knowing the wrong decision could cost him his life. "
This book is best suited for a Mature YA/New-Adult or Adult reader.
I was very intrigued by the synopsis of this book, which is a very good description of the storyline, and when it was offered for read to review, I jumped at the opportunity to read it. Now this is not a read for the squeamish or someone looking for the lighter side of magic lore. There were parts of the story that were very graphic and disturbing for me, as well as times when I wanted slap John and tell him to man-up and grow some backbone (I had thought to use a different cliché here, but humor is not appropriate for this book). As I was reading The Kure my mind was in overdrive on how to review this story. I even discussed it with others and used an analogy of driving by a car wreck and not being able to not look with my need to finish the book. Interestingly, there is an afterward from the author and in it she uses a similar analogy, which completely vindicated my feelings and let me know I was on the right track in experiencing what the author had in mind for the reader. That being said, The Kure was beautifully written. It was one of those books that even though I was uncomfortable with the subject matter of the story I wanted to keep reading for the marvelous writing. I also feel the afterward from the author is as much a part of the story as the tale itself. It was also beautifully written and clarified so much of what I had read and why it was written and should definitely not be passed over in reading this book. Any writing that makes you think and feel such strong emotions, as well as prompts discussion, is definitely worth looking into. I really dislike the star system for rating a book; I am having a hard time deciding what I would rate The Kure and with that being said there parts I just did not like (personal comfort zone here) and other parts that sent me over the moon, which is going to balance this out to a four start book for me, me being the magic word. I look forward to reading further work by this author and would definitely recommend reading her work, although I personally do not agree with a YA rating, the new adult or mature reader rating is more appropriate in my view.
I requested this book from the author to read and review and it was provided to me with a request for my honest opinion without any compensation whatsoever, other than the joy of reading a new book.
September 6, 2012
Well, I just finished this book and all I can say is wow!!! I'm a bit shell shocked by the thought of the grotesque,diseased "manhood" in the book, but once I get over that I should be fine!!LOL
Yikes, I don't know where to begin on this one!! I actually really did enjoy this story and I look forward to the next one. The end leaves you hanging so I am going to be sitting here waiting "Impatiently" for the next installment!
For starters I have to say that Jaye Frances writes a very descriptive story. I like that when I read a book as I have no problem picturing the scene I am reading about. Her descriptions of her scenes are so accurate and clear that I felt like I was right there in the story. This was great for describing the town and houses; very hard to swallow when it came to the diseased "member" and some of the treatments which was going to included leeches...Blech! I am positive I will never think of leeches without thinking of this book! It is forever etched into my mind; which in my opinion is the sign of a great author. I can honestly say I won't ever forget this book!
I really liked John, the hero of the book and his heroine Sara was a sweetheart too. Even though John was suffering from this ailment that he aquired, he tried so hard to keep with his honor and integrity. He became extremly protective over Sarah even though he had initially seeked her out with dubious intent. His doctor had shown him the Black Magic book and the remedy that was so morally wrong,and during a weak moment of severe pain John thought he would be able to go through with using "a virgin sacrifice" to try and cure his rare disease. ONce he meets Sarah, and sees what kind of girl she is, he just can't in good conscience go through with it.
What amazes me through out this story is when Sarah finally does come into the picture (a bit later in the book) she is so determined to help John that she literally stops at nothing to achieve this. She obviously loves him and so badly wants a future with him.
I would classify this book as a gothic horror story with a little suspence thrown in. It was a little slow at getting started but once it did I couldn't put it down. I had to find out what was going to happen and how far Sarah was willing to go. I wished the ending doesn't leave me hanging; but it is for sure good strategy for the author to use as I will be waiting for the second installment and I will standing in line waiting to get it!
All in all, I thought it was a great book, but not for the faint of heart!
I was given this book by the author in exchange for an honest review..and I am greatful that I had the opportunity to read it..
Yikes, I don't know where to begin on this one!! I actually really did enjoy this story and I look forward to the next one. The end leaves you hanging so I am going to be sitting here waiting "Impatiently" for the next installment!
For starters I have to say that Jaye Frances writes a very descriptive story. I like that when I read a book as I have no problem picturing the scene I am reading about. Her descriptions of her scenes are so accurate and clear that I felt like I was right there in the story. This was great for describing the town and houses; very hard to swallow when it came to the diseased "member" and some of the treatments which was going to included leeches...Blech! I am positive I will never think of leeches without thinking of this book! It is forever etched into my mind; which in my opinion is the sign of a great author. I can honestly say I won't ever forget this book!
I really liked John, the hero of the book and his heroine Sara was a sweetheart too. Even though John was suffering from this ailment that he aquired, he tried so hard to keep with his honor and integrity. He became extremly protective over Sarah even though he had initially seeked her out with dubious intent. His doctor had shown him the Black Magic book and the remedy that was so morally wrong,and during a weak moment of severe pain John thought he would be able to go through with using "a virgin sacrifice" to try and cure his rare disease. ONce he meets Sarah, and sees what kind of girl she is, he just can't in good conscience go through with it.
What amazes me through out this story is when Sarah finally does come into the picture (a bit later in the book) she is so determined to help John that she literally stops at nothing to achieve this. She obviously loves him and so badly wants a future with him.
I would classify this book as a gothic horror story with a little suspence thrown in. It was a little slow at getting started but once it did I couldn't put it down. I had to find out what was going to happen and how far Sarah was willing to go. I wished the ending doesn't leave me hanging; but it is for sure good strategy for the author to use as I will be waiting for the second installment and I will standing in line waiting to get it!
All in all, I thought it was a great book, but not for the faint of heart!
I was given this book by the author in exchange for an honest review..and I am greatful that I had the opportunity to read it..
December 11, 2011
John Tyler is a simple, God-fearing farmer. Sarah Sheridan is a simple, God-fearing woman. Both are caught up in a tale of disease, cures and ancient rituals that will test their faith and notions of respectability in The Kure by Jaye Frances.
John wakes one morning to find that he has lesions on and around his genitalia. As the lesions worsen and the pain grows, he goes into town to see the doctor. To his deep regret, the only treatment the doctor prescribes is the use of leeches, huge apparently mutant leeches. John is quite reticent to use this treatment and presses the doctor for alternatives, any alternative treatment. After much discussion the doctor pulls out an old book titled KURE and relates a treatment that is morally offensive, as it involves having a virginal girl on her 18th birthday take the offending member into her mouth. As wild as this "kure" seems, John briefly considers it and even postpones his treatment with leeches.
Finding a virginal girl close to her eighteenth birthday is apparently not as hard as one presumes, even in a small town in the mid-1800s. Using local registry records, John finds two girls that are possible candidates, and one is Sarah Sheridan.
Sarah Sheridan lives on a small farm with her father. Not thinking clearly, John heads out to the farm and tries to invent a reason for his visit. He quickly comes to his senses and realizes that he can't ask a respectable woman, especially an innocent, to participate in the kure ritual. Sarah presumes that John has come calling and simply became too flustered to follow through and invents an excuse to go into town together. Will John reveal the true nature of his visit? Will Sarah assist him in his search for a cure?
I had a lot of problems with this story. First, the doctor states that the only people that normally suffer this disease are sailors or people in tropical climates and neither of these descriptions fit John. Second how can a relatively benign ritual involving a form of fellatio cure some type of infectious disease? I can suspend belief with the best of them but I couldn't with the basic premises of this story as it was simply too farfetched to be believable for me. Finally, Sarah is supposed to have lived such a sheltered and protected life but she is quite bold in her thoughts of helping John, who is basically a stranger to her. As I read, all I could think was where in the world was the story going and once it got to the end I could hardly figure out how it got there. The Kure is one story that simply didn't work for me on any level.
John wakes one morning to find that he has lesions on and around his genitalia. As the lesions worsen and the pain grows, he goes into town to see the doctor. To his deep regret, the only treatment the doctor prescribes is the use of leeches, huge apparently mutant leeches. John is quite reticent to use this treatment and presses the doctor for alternatives, any alternative treatment. After much discussion the doctor pulls out an old book titled KURE and relates a treatment that is morally offensive, as it involves having a virginal girl on her 18th birthday take the offending member into her mouth. As wild as this "kure" seems, John briefly considers it and even postpones his treatment with leeches.
Finding a virginal girl close to her eighteenth birthday is apparently not as hard as one presumes, even in a small town in the mid-1800s. Using local registry records, John finds two girls that are possible candidates, and one is Sarah Sheridan.
Sarah Sheridan lives on a small farm with her father. Not thinking clearly, John heads out to the farm and tries to invent a reason for his visit. He quickly comes to his senses and realizes that he can't ask a respectable woman, especially an innocent, to participate in the kure ritual. Sarah presumes that John has come calling and simply became too flustered to follow through and invents an excuse to go into town together. Will John reveal the true nature of his visit? Will Sarah assist him in his search for a cure?
I had a lot of problems with this story. First, the doctor states that the only people that normally suffer this disease are sailors or people in tropical climates and neither of these descriptions fit John. Second how can a relatively benign ritual involving a form of fellatio cure some type of infectious disease? I can suspend belief with the best of them but I couldn't with the basic premises of this story as it was simply too farfetched to be believable for me. Finally, Sarah is supposed to have lived such a sheltered and protected life but she is quite bold in her thoughts of helping John, who is basically a stranger to her. As I read, all I could think was where in the world was the story going and once it got to the end I could hardly figure out how it got there. The Kure is one story that simply didn't work for me on any level.
July 30, 2012
Before I get to the story, I'd like to comment on the cover art. I really liked how it set the ambiance for the story that came after it. This is a darker story that has an urban fantasy feel to it though the time period is historic.
The backdrop of the farming community and village have an Old Salem feel to them where practicing witch craft for everyday life needs seems believable.
In this story, John Tyler a simple farmer is faced with a devastating, fast-working disease that leaves him with two horrific choices for treatment. The tale begins when he learns this and progresses through him agonizing both physically and with his conscious over what he will ultimately chose as his cure.
The plot is strong and I truly enjoyed following John as he struggled to make good and sometimes selfless choices in the face of his own agony, future disfigurement and possible death. The addition of Sarah Sheridan and their budding romance was also a good plot thread.
The pace was sometimes slow particularly in the beginning, but picked up just fine once John was 'on the clock' so to speak in figuring out what he was going to do to combat his disease.
A word of caution for the faint of heart (or stomach in this case) with the long details about those icky leeches (still brings a big 'ew' out of me just thinking about them) from the doctor or later when the details regarding the progress of the disease in John's body was described. I readily admit that others might not be bothered about this, but just putting it out there in case it is the sort of thing that's too much for you.
As to the characters, I was heartily impressed with John. I love it when the hero is ordinary, but his situation is what comes along and shows what his character is really made of. The heroine is introduced later in the book and she is more of a secondary character much of the time, but I enjoyed what I saw of her.
The romance between John and Sarah is barely beyond the attraction phase and something happens near the end of the story that will test what has just begun between them.
Though not a typical fantasy, this story will have appeal for those who enjoy the old gothic-style reads that gave one those delicious shivers up and down the spine.
The backdrop of the farming community and village have an Old Salem feel to them where practicing witch craft for everyday life needs seems believable.
In this story, John Tyler a simple farmer is faced with a devastating, fast-working disease that leaves him with two horrific choices for treatment. The tale begins when he learns this and progresses through him agonizing both physically and with his conscious over what he will ultimately chose as his cure.
The plot is strong and I truly enjoyed following John as he struggled to make good and sometimes selfless choices in the face of his own agony, future disfigurement and possible death. The addition of Sarah Sheridan and their budding romance was also a good plot thread.
The pace was sometimes slow particularly in the beginning, but picked up just fine once John was 'on the clock' so to speak in figuring out what he was going to do to combat his disease.
A word of caution for the faint of heart (or stomach in this case) with the long details about those icky leeches (still brings a big 'ew' out of me just thinking about them) from the doctor or later when the details regarding the progress of the disease in John's body was described. I readily admit that others might not be bothered about this, but just putting it out there in case it is the sort of thing that's too much for you.
As to the characters, I was heartily impressed with John. I love it when the hero is ordinary, but his situation is what comes along and shows what his character is really made of. The heroine is introduced later in the book and she is more of a secondary character much of the time, but I enjoyed what I saw of her.
The romance between John and Sarah is barely beyond the attraction phase and something happens near the end of the story that will test what has just begun between them.
Though not a typical fantasy, this story will have appeal for those who enjoy the old gothic-style reads that gave one those delicious shivers up and down the spine.
December 16, 2011
Wow. I have no idea what to say about this book. It meets all of the technical criteria that I look for in a good novel and I read it all in one shot, but it’s so unbelievably weird – it just left me feeling kind of dirty. I had an issue with John Tyler’s [the main character’s] strange affliction. I’m sorry, but having a necrotic, blood and pus-oozing penis is anything but attractive and the entire premise of the ritual he must perform to cure his infected manhood is disgusting and disturbing. To think any woman would be so inclined to put that thing in her mouth is beyond nauseating. Sure, the author didn���t make the whole ordeal sound like a walk in the park, but COME ON! Even more implausible is the fact that John needs a 18-year-old virgin to do this and finds the only one in town from a birth date registry…how personal. Not only would I never put someone’s necrotic junk in my mouth, but I’d probably cut the thing off prematurely if some random guy asked me to.
Admittedly, there’s a lot more substance to this story than the brief description I’m giving you, but that’s really what it boils down to – that’s what I’ll be thinking about when I remember The Kure. I’m not going to recall the wonderful description of the setting or how flawless the writing was; I’m going to be thinking about that zombie penis.
I’m writing this last sentence because I don’t want my review to end with “zombie penis”.
Doh!
Reviewed by Brittany for Book Sake.
Admittedly, there’s a lot more substance to this story than the brief description I’m giving you, but that’s really what it boils down to – that’s what I’ll be thinking about when I remember The Kure. I’m not going to recall the wonderful description of the setting or how flawless the writing was; I’m going to be thinking about that zombie penis.
I’m writing this last sentence because I don’t want my review to end with “zombie penis”.
Doh!
Reviewed by Brittany for Book Sake.
February 16, 2012
Suspenseful and mysterious, The Kure has one of my favorite qualities in a book - anticipation. It isn't dumbed down and you're so busy being lost in the story you don't have everything figured out by the midway point. The premise is unique and different and I will definitely be picking it up again, to revisit the prose and a well written story, as well as to see if I missed anything, because I have a feeling Ms. Frances is a sneaky one. ;)
The two main characters, John and Sarah, also fall into an interesting category - they seem to not match up in the traditional sense, and yet it totally works. I found the interactions and development of their relationship to be realistic and organic. The romantic aspect is there, but it's not what makes the story go 'round - Sarah doesn't even show up till about 50 or so pages in. Conflict with John's illness arises and there is sacrifice, and all I can say is it's true love...But I'm dangerously close to spoiler territory, so I better stop there.
I would like to warn the faint of heart: Without giving too much away, this book may not be for you if graphically described pain/medical/sexual weirdness type things bother you. I personally love it (as long as its not me), and it reminded me of old school gothic horror stories, but I would be remiss if I didn't mention it.
This book is intense, darkly engaging and I was very excited to see there will be a second book in John and Sarah's story, The Karetakers.
The two main characters, John and Sarah, also fall into an interesting category - they seem to not match up in the traditional sense, and yet it totally works. I found the interactions and development of their relationship to be realistic and organic. The romantic aspect is there, but it's not what makes the story go 'round - Sarah doesn't even show up till about 50 or so pages in. Conflict with John's illness arises and there is sacrifice, and all I can say is it's true love...But I'm dangerously close to spoiler territory, so I better stop there.
I would like to warn the faint of heart: Without giving too much away, this book may not be for you if graphically described pain/medical/sexual weirdness type things bother you. I personally love it (as long as its not me), and it reminded me of old school gothic horror stories, but I would be remiss if I didn't mention it.
This book is intense, darkly engaging and I was very excited to see there will be a second book in John and Sarah's story, The Karetakers.
December 16, 2011
The Kure is a riveting tale that put me into a reading frenzy. I was quickly drawn into John and Sarah’s world, enthusiastically cheering for Sarah while trying to hold back tears for John. The author has crafted some of the most authentic characters I’ve met in a long time. Even the secondary characters are well-defined, adding interest and credibility to the storyline. The novel’s setting and descriptions are solid and even with the constant surprise of new plot developments and situations, the logic of the characters’ actions is flawless. And did I mention the outstanding quality of the writing? Yet the best part of the book was simply the story. I had to keep reading, just to see what happens.
The romantic element was far from typical and yet it was strong enough to have me aching for that moment when John could finally take Sarah in his arms and proclaim his love – (tiny spoiler alert) – which he does, in the middle of a raging thunderstorm.
This is one of the most interesting and intriguing novels I’ve picked up in quite awhile. There is no empty baggage here—everything works. John Tyler and Sarah Sheridan stole my heart, and I can’t wait to read the next book in the series. Brilliant!
The romantic element was far from typical and yet it was strong enough to have me aching for that moment when John could finally take Sarah in his arms and proclaim his love – (tiny spoiler alert) – which he does, in the middle of a raging thunderstorm.
This is one of the most interesting and intriguing novels I’ve picked up in quite awhile. There is no empty baggage here—everything works. John Tyler and Sarah Sheridan stole my heart, and I can’t wait to read the next book in the series. Brilliant!
August 17, 2012
Let me just start by saying I actually gave this book 3.5 stars, but I wasn't able to actually do a half star. The writing itself I would give a 5. I had no problem with the flow of most of the story or the dialogue of the characters. There were many good things about this book, such as the time period and the descriptions about everything, the surroundings, the people and the clothing, etc. It put me in the frame of mind that I'm sure the author intended her readers to be in. My #1 issue was the main plotline, which I don't want to give away necessarily, but for me it was just built up a lot and then when I found out what it was I was sort of let down. I mean yes it is gross, but when it was revealed I wasn't that shocked. I think this is just a personal thing for me. I have read many horror and/or paranormal novels and seen many disgusting horror movies (lots of Rob Zombie) so I think I'm just really jaded. I think it may have been better as a short story for me, and maybe with a more disgusting outcome. Again though, that's only because I have a twisted mentality on this kind of stuff. I will read the second one though, because I like the characters and I want to know what happens to them.
Thank you so much Jaye for letting me read your book!
Thank you so much Jaye for letting me read your book!
August 17, 2012
WHOA!!!I feel like I've stepped off a rollercoaster ride and my stomach has tied itself into knots!
Jaye Frances is a magical storyteller who binds her reader into a believable world of mysticism and black magic, whilst keeping their feet firmly planted in the world of 19th Century farming, medicine, duty and romance.
John's story begins with his body being ravaged by a rare infection which the town's doctor wants to cure with a bloodletting by leeches. John, frightened by the idea, pleads with the doctor, asking if there is any other cure . . .and this opens the book of the Kure.
Initially I was not entirely convinced by John's character, thinking he was motivated by selfishness and fear, but as the story progresses and he meets Sarah he is allowed to reveal more of himself and is redeemed.
Sarah's character is by far the most likeable though. She is strong, smart and beautiful and breaks the rules that bound women in that age.
The Kure was a unique story which took me from anticipation to fear to revulsion to an unexpected climax and I would recommend to all fans of paranormal/horror.
I look forward to reading more of Jaye Frances' work and particularly the sequel.
Jaye Frances is a magical storyteller who binds her reader into a believable world of mysticism and black magic, whilst keeping their feet firmly planted in the world of 19th Century farming, medicine, duty and romance.
John's story begins with his body being ravaged by a rare infection which the town's doctor wants to cure with a bloodletting by leeches. John, frightened by the idea, pleads with the doctor, asking if there is any other cure . . .and this opens the book of the Kure.
Initially I was not entirely convinced by John's character, thinking he was motivated by selfishness and fear, but as the story progresses and he meets Sarah he is allowed to reveal more of himself and is redeemed.
Sarah's character is by far the most likeable though. She is strong, smart and beautiful and breaks the rules that bound women in that age.
The Kure was a unique story which took me from anticipation to fear to revulsion to an unexpected climax and I would recommend to all fans of paranormal/horror.
I look forward to reading more of Jaye Frances' work and particularly the sequel.
July 19, 2012
First off thank you Jen for recommending this book. I don't think I would have picked it up otherwise. Secondly after reading the blurb I was a bit hesitant to read the book. You see, I'm not a fan of scary books but with some reassurance I found out it wasn't the case.
I really enjoyed John. He is a great man who had a horrible affliction. His journey to save his future took him to places he didn't think he would ever travel. He thought he could expose innocence to his disease but soon found that he would just have to go through the doctors original plan with the leeches.
Sarah thought the one suitor all the girls talked about was in her home to begin courting her. Little did she know what John's real plans are. But amazingly enough she was the stronger of the two. She is such a strong girl that sees more to the situation and wants to solve it with any means.
The Kure was a great read 4.5 stars!!
I really enjoyed John. He is a great man who had a horrible affliction. His journey to save his future took him to places he didn't think he would ever travel. He thought he could expose innocence to his disease but soon found that he would just have to go through the doctors original plan with the leeches.
Sarah thought the one suitor all the girls talked about was in her home to begin courting her. Little did she know what John's real plans are. But amazingly enough she was the stronger of the two. She is such a strong girl that sees more to the situation and wants to solve it with any means.
The Kure was a great read 4.5 stars!!
November 7, 2012
Just found out I won this as a First Reads. SO EXCITED! Working to finish a couple of read-and-reviews, then on to this one. Yippee!!!
10/21/2012 update: Finally started reading this one. About 25% of the way in - so far, so good. Slowly building sense of creepiness in the book, not just hitting you upside of the head with creepy monsters or slashy stuff. Well done so far!
11/6/2012 - finished while working at the polls today, in the brief lunch break I got. Overall, I liked the book and the story, did NOT like the ending. It just....stopped. Of course, in a note from the author at the end of the Kindle version, she stated she is working on the next installment, so that helped. The story does move pretty slowly, but steadily towards it's climax. It is very creepy throughout. If you are contemplating reading it, I strongly suggest you read the author's notes on her website about the subject matter of the book FIRST.
10/21/2012 update: Finally started reading this one. About 25% of the way in - so far, so good. Slowly building sense of creepiness in the book, not just hitting you upside of the head with creepy monsters or slashy stuff. Well done so far!
11/6/2012 - finished while working at the polls today, in the brief lunch break I got. Overall, I liked the book and the story, did NOT like the ending. It just....stopped. Of course, in a note from the author at the end of the Kindle version, she stated she is working on the next installment, so that helped. The story does move pretty slowly, but steadily towards it's climax. It is very creepy throughout. If you are contemplating reading it, I strongly suggest you read the author's notes on her website about the subject matter of the book FIRST.
April 16, 2012
The KURE is definitely one of the more original books I've read in a while. John is struggling with a disease that could disfigure him for life and even kill him if he doesn't find a treatment or cure quickly. The doctor in town wants to set leeches upon the infected area to bleed him, but John does not want that kind of treatment at all. He pushes the doctor for another avenue and reluctantly the doctor tells him of a ritual found in a forbidden book - The KURE. But will John be able to live with the consequence of the actions the ritual requires?
The KURE is a creepy story with a great plot and characters which has you gripped from the first few pages. An unusual and original story, The KURE stands out from the rest. Chock full of suspense, mystery, romance, and horror, I am greatly anticipating the sequel to this captivating story.
The KURE Series: The KURE (1), The KARETAKERS (2)
The KURE is a creepy story with a great plot and characters which has you gripped from the first few pages. An unusual and original story, The KURE stands out from the rest. Chock full of suspense, mystery, romance, and horror, I am greatly anticipating the sequel to this captivating story.
The KURE Series: The KURE (1), The KARETAKERS (2)
September 11, 2012
The Kure is different. It is about a young farmer/rancher who contracts a disease which cannot be cured in Kentucky in 1865. It can be treated by using leeches, but often the outcome of bleeding is death. He pressures his doctor who produces a hidden, forbidden book, ancient and mysterious, in which a "kure" is described, a medieval method: a virgin must engage in a sexual practice on her 18th birthday. Some readers might find the graphic descriptions offensive; however, occult fiction is so often filled with disgusting details, skull-crunching and blood-splattering, what's a little fellatio? The book was so easy and enjoyable to read, the author displays such exceptional talent, I will surely read the Karetaker (part two). I loved John and Sarah, the main characters, they were very real. A five-star experience!
March 8, 2013
If you want to read this book because you are looking for something spooky or for something about witchcraft, you might want to look elsewhere.That being said, I still enjoyed the story which I viewed as more of a comic romance whose subject matter is very tongue-in-cheek. Although the author acknowledges that she based her Kure on the medieval practice of the virgin cure, I still found humor in some of the situations that the main love interests found themselves in. Admittedly, I was a bit revolted by some of the detailed descriptions of the leading male's affliction, but I suppose that was the point. I felt the story was well written and it was free of any glaring grammatical and spelling issues. I will also mention that the book was formatted wonderfully; something many e-books these days are lacking (unless they've been issued by a major publisher).
March 8, 2013
Although this book isn't spooky or even really about witchcraft, I still enjoyed its tongue-in-cheek subject matter as well as the humor of some of the situations the characters find themselves in. The Kure is based on a medieval practice called The Virgin Cure and, admittedly, detailed descriptions of the leading male character's affliction are enough to make any woman run screaming the other way. However, being a romantic comedy more than anything else, I guess that's the point; it's supposed to be a little ridiculous. The story is well written, free of grammatical issues and well formatted. I got my copy when it was offered for free and would say that it was well worth the price compared to some other e-books. If you're a forgiving reader, give it a chance - and keep an open mind!
October 29, 2012
Interesting concept- an archaic and rather perverted cure for an embarrassing and potentially deadly disease. Is it worth attempting to use the Kure rather than a leaching?
The characters developed quite well during the story. I'm waiting for Jaye to write a companion novel.
Surprisingly enjoying. I can't blame the character- if I had a chance to cure my Crohn's disease by some sort of strange ceremony, I'd do it in a heart beat!
The characters developed quite well during the story. I'm waiting for Jaye to write a companion novel.
Surprisingly enjoying. I can't blame the character- if I had a chance to cure my Crohn's disease by some sort of strange ceremony, I'd do it in a heart beat!
September 8, 2012
It seemed weird at first, but it drew me in. It was darkly intriguing, and I grew attached to the characters.
November 25, 2012
Grotesque, surreal, disturbing.... a great read!
May 5, 2021
Rituals
This book starts out good but as you go along it gets descriptive and seems to repeat. If you keep reading it will get better. It's about a young man who gets a disease that only leeches can be used in order to cure him until be finds out about a ritual and finding a innocent young woman for a cure. Sarah is beautiful, young, innocent and becomes a determined young lady to help with the cure.
I would recommend book if you like rituals and a bit of suspense.
This book starts out good but as you go along it gets descriptive and seems to repeat. If you keep reading it will get better. It's about a young man who gets a disease that only leeches can be used in order to cure him until be finds out about a ritual and finding a innocent young woman for a cure. Sarah is beautiful, young, innocent and becomes a determined young lady to help with the cure.
I would recommend book if you like rituals and a bit of suspense.
August 15, 2012
Okay now this one is a tough one for me to review. I received this book from the Author Jaye Frances for my honest review. So I will do my best to do just that.
This book begins with John who wakes up to find that his member is infected with blisters. He goes into town to the doctor who basically wants to do a leaching to get the poisons out of his penis. John asks for different options and the only other option that the Doctor has is one for the book labelled KURE. Now this book is old and according to the doctor it is evil. We'll leave that for the moment. This book tells John that he must find a virgin who is willing to hold his infected member in her mouth until the infection is gone. So he goes to the town registars and looks at all the births in his small town and finds two options. One is ruled out because she is no longer a virgin. So we meet Sarah, she is the only surviving daughter of a wealthy rancher. She discovers why John has come to her house and demands to see the book and he shows her where she finds a second way to cure John's illness. The story continues as they try to cure John by following this second way by running in the rain naked with someone who doesn't know about his illness. In the end Sarah winds up using her mouth on John to transfer moonlight raindrops to his member.
My problems with this book aren't about the story itself, it was well written and easily understandable. My problems lie in the area where they consider the book and the rituals it contains as something demonic. Based upon the story and the hints of when the time is supposed to have been we can be assured that Paganism was already a hidden thing, and that the rituals that they once lived by were now considered satanic. This we can also see in the Notes from the Author at the end of the book. Where she said that the cure is based on "the virgin cure" a medieval concept of having sexually based contact with a virgin to cure all manners of diseases. She goes on to mention that it was based on demonic possession. The problem I have is that Pagans do not believe in the devil or satan, and that the fact is that the Christians introduced that term and considered any rituals they didn't approve of to be Demonic or Satanic in origin. The Virgin Cure that she refers to was in fact practiced no because of a demonic influence but because a virgin is the closest thing to the gods and leaving something of you behind is the greatest gift you could give the gods, your very life which was what men tried to do by the sexual relations of the virgin cure.
Other than this issue, I believe the book was slow moving and steady. The book kept you in suspense of would the cure work. And the way the book ends leaves you with the very real possibility of future books along the same line. The Author did a successful job of keeping the time period straight with issues of the time. And the characters in the books were strong and successfully written. John is a male who has very strong values but who is willing to go against them in the beginning and then thinks twice when he meets the beautiful Sarah. Sarah is an intelligent and strong female who knows her own mind and isn't afraid to use it. I give this book 3.5 stars because while I found discrepancies most people would not know that any existed and therefore would enjoy the basic story.
This book begins with John who wakes up to find that his member is infected with blisters. He goes into town to the doctor who basically wants to do a leaching to get the poisons out of his penis. John asks for different options and the only other option that the Doctor has is one for the book labelled KURE. Now this book is old and according to the doctor it is evil. We'll leave that for the moment. This book tells John that he must find a virgin who is willing to hold his infected member in her mouth until the infection is gone. So he goes to the town registars and looks at all the births in his small town and finds two options. One is ruled out because she is no longer a virgin. So we meet Sarah, she is the only surviving daughter of a wealthy rancher. She discovers why John has come to her house and demands to see the book and he shows her where she finds a second way to cure John's illness. The story continues as they try to cure John by following this second way by running in the rain naked with someone who doesn't know about his illness. In the end Sarah winds up using her mouth on John to transfer moonlight raindrops to his member.
My problems with this book aren't about the story itself, it was well written and easily understandable. My problems lie in the area where they consider the book and the rituals it contains as something demonic. Based upon the story and the hints of when the time is supposed to have been we can be assured that Paganism was already a hidden thing, and that the rituals that they once lived by were now considered satanic. This we can also see in the Notes from the Author at the end of the book. Where she said that the cure is based on "the virgin cure" a medieval concept of having sexually based contact with a virgin to cure all manners of diseases. She goes on to mention that it was based on demonic possession. The problem I have is that Pagans do not believe in the devil or satan, and that the fact is that the Christians introduced that term and considered any rituals they didn't approve of to be Demonic or Satanic in origin. The Virgin Cure that she refers to was in fact practiced no because of a demonic influence but because a virgin is the closest thing to the gods and leaving something of you behind is the greatest gift you could give the gods, your very life which was what men tried to do by the sexual relations of the virgin cure.
Other than this issue, I believe the book was slow moving and steady. The book kept you in suspense of would the cure work. And the way the book ends leaves you with the very real possibility of future books along the same line. The Author did a successful job of keeping the time period straight with issues of the time. And the characters in the books were strong and successfully written. John is a male who has very strong values but who is willing to go against them in the beginning and then thinks twice when he meets the beautiful Sarah. Sarah is an intelligent and strong female who knows her own mind and isn't afraid to use it. I give this book 3.5 stars because while I found discrepancies most people would not know that any existed and therefore would enjoy the basic story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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May 12, 2016This is a horror story with a romantic element by Jaye Francis. This tale introduces us to the main character, John Tyler. It is set in 1865. Poor John has a dilemma of the medical nature. He has to make a choice out of two possible solutions, and neither are savory. We must remember at this time in history, medicine was still very primitive. The doctor tells him that he must use leeches to cure the lesions on his manhood, or it will fall off. Horrified, he begs the doctor for another solution. The doctor tells him about an ancient solution in a book but it was dangerous and he could possibly lose his soul. He is adamant to try it, so reluctantly the doctor shares with him The Kure. This involves finding a virgin, who, on her 18th birthday, will put the member in her mouth until the burning goes away, or to run naked through the rain with a female no more than 6 years his junior, that has no idea of his affliction. This is where Sarah Sullivan comes in. He finds her on a birthday registry and goes to her home to see how he can approach her about this. Will she help him or be horrified? He is running out of time.
Ok, I don’t want to tell any more of the plot to you. For the outcome, you must read the book.
Now, for my thoughts. If you are on Goodreads, you may have noticed that I finished this book some time ago. I noted then that I was conflicted, and that is the reason for my delay in this review. There was some great suspense and wonderful description, and the grammar and typos were not an issue at all. I like horror, mind you, but I have to admit that this subject matter did gross me out. That is an aside however. My main problem with the book was one of plausibility. I don’t believe, even in a spell book, that this would be an option. In that time, it would be virtually impossible to find a willing participant, especially under the conditions it required. I have this in my Kindle, and I could only read a few paragraphs at a time before I had to put it aside. This is not a good sign. I just couldn’t like or recommend this book. Maybe you will like it. Definitely not for the squeamish or faint of heart.
In full disclosure, I was provided a free copy by the author for this review.
I give this book this many smiles: :) :)
This review was first published on my blog: rebeccavance.com
Ok, I don’t want to tell any more of the plot to you. For the outcome, you must read the book.
Now, for my thoughts. If you are on Goodreads, you may have noticed that I finished this book some time ago. I noted then that I was conflicted, and that is the reason for my delay in this review. There was some great suspense and wonderful description, and the grammar and typos were not an issue at all. I like horror, mind you, but I have to admit that this subject matter did gross me out. That is an aside however. My main problem with the book was one of plausibility. I don’t believe, even in a spell book, that this would be an option. In that time, it would be virtually impossible to find a willing participant, especially under the conditions it required. I have this in my Kindle, and I could only read a few paragraphs at a time before I had to put it aside. This is not a good sign. I just couldn’t like or recommend this book. Maybe you will like it. Definitely not for the squeamish or faint of heart.
In full disclosure, I was provided a free copy by the author for this review.
I give this book this many smiles: :) :)
This review was first published on my blog: rebeccavance.com
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