Marked by P.C. Cast and Kristin Cast

pccast.net

Released: May 2007

Marked is the first novel in the House of Night series written by P.C. Cast and her daughter, Kristin Cast. As a years-long, die-hard fan of L.J. Smith's The Vampire Diaries, I typically tend to shy away from most other teen vampire series (because I'm just never satisfied!). But after having purchased the first several books in the House of Night series for a bargain, I decided to give it a whirl.

Vampyres live among us!

In an alternate reality created by the Cast duo, "vampyres" have always existed. Select teenagers become fledgling vampyres after being "Marked" with colorful tattoos on their faces by some mysterious higher being. After they become Marked, teens are removed from public school and sent to a boarding school known as the House of Night, where they're trained to embrace and understand the ways of vampyres.

Pork by Cris Freddi

Released: 1981

My copy of Pork, featured at the left, was released in 1983. The artwork is fun -- I purchased this novel from the sci-fi/fantasy section at my local bookstore. I hunted down Pork after looking up "humorous fantasy novels" on the Internet, and I think I found this title on a Goodreads list somewhere. Sci-fi and fantasy aren't usually my go-to genres, but when I do read fantasy, I tend to enjoy the goofy picks.

The Association by Bentley Little

goodreads.com

Released: September 2001

I usually devote the entire autumn season to horror, but this year, I've gotten an early start. Bentley Little is another horror novelist I can't stop obsessing about. His work is so creepy.

Check out the back cover synopsis for The Association. Isn't the summary irresistible?

Congratulations, Barry and Maureen: You've been approved by the Association and are encouraged to move into your exclusive gated community as soon as possible. Please be aware that we reserve the right to approve your decor, your landscaping, your friends, and your job. All relationships with neighbors should be avoided. Any interference from the outside will not be tolerated. Any attempt to leave will be stopped. Any infraction of the rules could result in severe fines, physical punishment, or death. Please send all other inquiries to the house on the hill. Preferably before dark. P.S. You're being watched.

Sincerely,
THE ASSOCIATION