What do you think?
Rate this book
The Association
Things around Avalon Estates aren’t natural—in fact, they’re supernatural—but getting in is worth it. Some would even say the place is to die for.
Ivy Sylvan thought after losing her job, her apartment, and her boyfriend, that having no other option but to move in with her flunkee brother would be the cherry on top of her bad luck sundae, but after finding a dead body, she realized things can always get worse.
New to the long-established community of Avalon Estates, Ivy soon finds herself wrapped up in the petty squabbles of the homeowners’ association whose president just gave up the ghost, and it doesn’t look like his death is an accident. Unsurprisingly, the odd neighborhood isn’t as virtuous as it appears, full of hardened grudges and secret affairs, but Ivy is shocked when she learns her new neighbors aren’t just lying about their exploits—they’re lying about being human. Teaming up with the interim president, a witch who can conjure fire, Ivy attempts to unravel the mysterious circumstances surrounding the association president’s demise. Things only become more complicated when the suspect list includes a vampire, a werewolf, and perhaps the most dangerous creature of all: a really cute guy.
Can Ivy successfully divine the murderer while hiding her humanity from the beings that call Avalon Estates their sanctuary from those that are just like her? Or will the murderer out her first, turning her back into a failure with nowhere to live, or worse, into another victim?
Ivy Sylvan thought after losing her job, her apartment, and her boyfriend, that having no other option but to move in with her flunkee brother would be the cherry on top of her bad luck sundae, but after finding a dead body, she realized things can always get worse.
New to the long-established community of Avalon Estates, Ivy soon finds herself wrapped up in the petty squabbles of the homeowners’ association whose president just gave up the ghost, and it doesn’t look like his death is an accident. Unsurprisingly, the odd neighborhood isn’t as virtuous as it appears, full of hardened grudges and secret affairs, but Ivy is shocked when she learns her new neighbors aren’t just lying about their exploits—they’re lying about being human. Teaming up with the interim president, a witch who can conjure fire, Ivy attempts to unravel the mysterious circumstances surrounding the association president’s demise. Things only become more complicated when the suspect list includes a vampire, a werewolf, and perhaps the most dangerous creature of all: a really cute guy.
Can Ivy successfully divine the murderer while hiding her humanity from the beings that call Avalon Estates their sanctuary from those that are just like her? Or will the murderer out her first, turning her back into a failure with nowhere to live, or worse, into another victim?
275 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 30, 2020
About the author
A.K. Caggiano
13 books526 followersAshley is an indie author who likes to write silly little stories that hopefully bring readers joy. She likes cats, guacamole, feminism, and the internet.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
November 5, 2023
Cozy mystery where the HOA is run by vampires, lycans, witches, and more. The community is full of other paranormal beings, but our newest resident and FMC is human thrown into this world and first on scene to a murder.
It's cozy, so not graphic at all really, and her love interest is clumsy and cute. It is a really interesting world and I'd totally read more about this housing community haha.
It's cozy, so not graphic at all really, and her love interest is clumsy and cute. It is a really interesting world and I'd totally read more about this housing community haha.
September 28, 2021
I LOVED this. Disregard the horror book cover.
Ivy and her brother have landed on their feet. BUT have they really? This writer really draws you in and you will love the paranormal characters. It is not a horror story but an adventure which I chose only because I have previously loved other books by this author.
Ivy and her brother have landed on their feet. BUT have they really? This writer really draws you in and you will love the paranormal characters. It is not a horror story but an adventure which I chose only because I have previously loved other books by this author.
March 29, 2021
If I could give more than 5 stars this book would definitely be worth more. Any book with the lines "You've been poisoned", "Not Again" in it are a must read.
Ivy a human goes to live with her brother unknowing moving into a exclusive paranormal enclave. Then a murder is committed. Brilliant story full of intrigues, affairs and secrets with lots of wonderful characters. Superbly written with great humour and style. The Narration gives the book even more to enjoy. I cannot recommend this highly enough.
I received a complimentary copy via Storyorigin and am leaving a voluntary honest review
Ivy a human goes to live with her brother unknowing moving into a exclusive paranormal enclave. Then a murder is committed. Brilliant story full of intrigues, affairs and secrets with lots of wonderful characters. Superbly written with great humour and style. The Narration gives the book even more to enjoy. I cannot recommend this highly enough.
I received a complimentary copy via Storyorigin and am leaving a voluntary honest review
March 25, 2023
Synopsis: Ivy Sylvan is not the kind of girl who typically rolls with the punches. And when she looses her job, her apartment and her boyfriend all at once, she’s stuck moving in with her brother, who miraculously got his life together just as hers fell apart. He warned her that his HOA was weird, but she didn’t think he meant “don’t leave the house under the full moon” weird. The residents of Avalon Estates are not exactly what they seem, and there is a reason for their overly-selective charter. So when the HOA president is found dead, the suspect list includes vampires, werewolves, and other things that Ivy was sure were just make-believe.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Review:
This book is an urban fantasy, murder-mystery, romantic comedy. I don’t even know how it can be all of those things but it is! I was totally sucked into the mystery, and I was kept guessing the entire time. The mystery kind of reminded me of Knives Out, I feel like everyone was a suspect at some point 🤣. But Caggiano writes with so much humor, that I was laughing out loud at points! Chapter 18 had me literally cackling. Ivy’s perfectionist/trying-my-best attitude is relatable, and the romance subplot is so sweet! Hunter is awkward and endearing (he kinda gives off Nick Miller vibes and I mean that in the absolute best way possible). I loved every page.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Review:
This book is an urban fantasy, murder-mystery, romantic comedy. I don’t even know how it can be all of those things but it is! I was totally sucked into the mystery, and I was kept guessing the entire time. The mystery kind of reminded me of Knives Out, I feel like everyone was a suspect at some point 🤣. But Caggiano writes with so much humor, that I was laughing out loud at points! Chapter 18 had me literally cackling. Ivy’s perfectionist/trying-my-best attitude is relatable, and the romance subplot is so sweet! Hunter is awkward and endearing (he kinda gives off Nick Miller vibes and I mean that in the absolute best way possible). I loved every page.
April 28, 2021
I'm not sure if Fantasy / murder mystery / humor is a recognized sub-genre or not. Regardless, the author is a master of it, or rather a mistress. The day Ivy shows up to start living with her poorly motivated brother Oakley, the leader of the community a werewolf named Rufus is murdered. She and a witch Safiya work together to solve the murder.
September 2, 2023
CAWPILE SCORE
C-5
A-5
W-5
P-7
I-6
L-7
E-6
TOTAL-5.86/10
Not her debut novel as far as I can tell, but you can definitely feel that A.K. Caggiano is starting out. A decent book, but having read her Villains and Virtues series that series is much better.
I will be talking about it on Libromancy https://libromancy.podbean.com/ on 09/10/2023
C-5
A-5
W-5
P-7
I-6
L-7
E-6
TOTAL-5.86/10
Not her debut novel as far as I can tell, but you can definitely feel that A.K. Caggiano is starting out. A decent book, but having read her Villains and Virtues series that series is much better.
I will be talking about it on Libromancy https://libromancy.podbean.com/ on 09/10/2023
November 1, 2020
How do you hide where the monsters are normal, and you are the only one who is not?
„The Association“ by A.K. Caggiano, a full-length novel that successfully blends paranormal tropes and a murder mystery into a very enjoyable story walking the difficult line between serious murder mystery, paranormal romance and humorous narrative.
Ivy Sylvan is at the end of her rope, job gone and apartment gone, moving with her brother seems like rock bottom, until the dead body proves otherwise. Ivy suspected foul play, but as newcomer to Avalon States, her chances to solve the mystery are scarce, and everything gets even complicated due to a very unusual list of suspects, everyone of them deadlier as the others: vampire, werewolf or the charming guy. Ivy races to solve the mystery, before the murder claims her as the next victim, as human in the mist of ‘monsters’ not an easy feat.
The book is a fun and enjoyable read, fast-paced and enjoyable, with good descriptions, interesting characters, with a fine dose of humor on top.
„The Association“ by A.K. Caggiano, a full-length novel that successfully blends paranormal tropes and a murder mystery into a very enjoyable story walking the difficult line between serious murder mystery, paranormal romance and humorous narrative.
Ivy Sylvan is at the end of her rope, job gone and apartment gone, moving with her brother seems like rock bottom, until the dead body proves otherwise. Ivy suspected foul play, but as newcomer to Avalon States, her chances to solve the mystery are scarce, and everything gets even complicated due to a very unusual list of suspects, everyone of them deadlier as the others: vampire, werewolf or the charming guy. Ivy races to solve the mystery, before the murder claims her as the next victim, as human in the mist of ‘monsters’ not an easy feat.
The book is a fun and enjoyable read, fast-paced and enjoyable, with good descriptions, interesting characters, with a fine dose of humor on top.
January 13, 2024
This was just great! Judging by the cover, I thought it would be more of a horror. But, it is actually a good blend of mystery and romance with paranormal aspects that won't scare readers who don't like horror. Down on her luck Ivy gets in over her head with a murder mystery some neighbors who may or may not be human [and instead, might be witches, vampires, and more]. I almost gave this book a 4.5. That was only because the very end came together in a way that felt too convenient. However, when I thought back on it, I had to admit: the whole time, I couldn't put the book down. I was hooked because of the pacing and the characters, and so a little plot convenience wasn't nearly enough to make me take off a star, or even half of one! This was simply way too much fun and I really enjoyed myself as I followed Ivy's journey. And of course, the romance!
April 13, 2021
Ivy didn’t know moving in with her younger brother would be quite the adventure... starting with the discovery of a dead body. She’s drawn into a whole new supernatural world, only, she’s not supernatural. Will she be able to help discover the true circumstances surrounding the death, or will she be discovered before it’s too late?
This was the first book by A.K. Caggiano that I’ve had the pleasure to experience, and I loved it. Great characters and a clever storyline... I really enjoyed how it all unfolded.
Ellen Quay’s performance was quite enjoyable. She brought the characters to life and portrayed the situations perfectly.
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and I have voluntarily left this review.
This was the first book by A.K. Caggiano that I’ve had the pleasure to experience, and I loved it. Great characters and a clever storyline... I really enjoyed how it all unfolded.
Ellen Quay’s performance was quite enjoyable. She brought the characters to life and portrayed the situations perfectly.
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and I have voluntarily left this review.
February 16, 2024
Since I've discovered A.K. Caggiano's books and realized I love her writing style. I've been trying to read all her books. This particular one wouldn't necessarily be my favorite, but it was still a super fun read with that very distinct vibe that the author has in all her books. This one is a supernatural murder mystery in which the main character, Ivy, is a human who ends up moving in with her brother after being a bit down on her luck. What Ivy doesn't realize is that the town her brother lives in happens to be inhabited by supernatural beings that have a very strict homeowners association that serves to protect the town from outsiders. When the president of the association ends up dead, Ivy gets pulled in to help investigate the murder. There are a lot of twists and turns throughout the book, and it is just plain fun. I also appreciated the little dash of romance in the book because personally, I just prefer my books with romance. I do have to say that I think the ending kind felt like it was cut short and I would have like a little bit more to it or perhaps an epilogue but all in all, still really enjoyed it and I'm definitely going to try to read all of A.K. Caggiano's books because they are so much fun.
March 18, 2021
Not your usual neighborhood, or is it?
There are so many things I loved about this book. It’s funny, exciting and scary at times. It has a little bit of learning to be an adult, about love and perseverance. It’s also about finding strengths in yourself, in moments of fear and hardship. That said, what I loved the most, was that a group different races put their racist biases behind them when it really mattered, all taking place in a supernatural setting. I really loved the book and can warmly recommend it to others.
The narrated version are even better than the ebook version, since the narrator really brings the book to life and it lefts you take it in, at a slower pace.
There are so many things I loved about this book. It’s funny, exciting and scary at times. It has a little bit of learning to be an adult, about love and perseverance. It’s also about finding strengths in yourself, in moments of fear and hardship. That said, what I loved the most, was that a group different races put their racist biases behind them when it really mattered, all taking place in a supernatural setting. I really loved the book and can warmly recommend it to others.
The narrated version are even better than the ebook version, since the narrator really brings the book to life and it lefts you take it in, at a slower pace.
February 21, 2024
I love this book to pieces
Let me tell you, this book had everything. There were shenanigans. And a murder mystery. And a cockatrice. (I read a paranormal prison break romance with a cockatrice FMC once and that book was bananas.) This book was cackle out loud funny. I almost lost it when Oakley totally pulled a Ted Logan near the end there. And don't get me started on the 🐓s. And all the twisty turny awesome sauce. I feel like the story could definitely be continued and I hope there are more books to come. The world needs an entire series based on the chicanery of a magical HOA and the machinations of its supernatural suburban community.
Let me tell you, this book had everything. There were shenanigans. And a murder mystery. And a cockatrice. (I read a paranormal prison break romance with a cockatrice FMC once and that book was bananas.) This book was cackle out loud funny. I almost lost it when Oakley totally pulled a Ted Logan near the end there. And don't get me started on the 🐓s. And all the twisty turny awesome sauce. I feel like the story could definitely be continued and I hope there are more books to come. The world needs an entire series based on the chicanery of a magical HOA and the machinations of its supernatural suburban community.
June 2, 2021
This is my first book by A.K. Caggiano and I found this story really enjoyable. We meet Ivy, who is human and she finds herself in the middle of a supernatural neighborhood. The murder mystery kept me listening and intrigued with the storyline. I enjoyed meeting several of the supernaturals. I enjoyed the love interest as well!!
The narrator, Ellen Quay certainly breathed air to the book. She brought the characters alive and it was very easy to follow along and determine who was speaking.
If you enjoy supernatural murder mystery books then this book may be right up your alley.
The narrator, Ellen Quay certainly breathed air to the book. She brought the characters alive and it was very easy to follow along and determine who was speaking.
If you enjoy supernatural murder mystery books then this book may be right up your alley.
October 25, 2021
Don't let the cover fool you, this book is a lot more fun than horror. Although there is a murder mystery, it is not gruesome in anyway but really enjoyable.
Ivy moves in with her brother and pretty soon discovers that they have been mistaken for mystical creatures. I really liked this take on Urban Fantasy.
I listened to the audiobook and it was enjoyable.
I received a copy and am leaving a review voluntarily
Ivy moves in with her brother and pretty soon discovers that they have been mistaken for mystical creatures. I really liked this take on Urban Fantasy.
I listened to the audiobook and it was enjoyable.
I received a copy and am leaving a review voluntarily
November 14, 2020
This is the 1st book I've read written by A.K. Caggiano; she has done a great job at writing a good book; I can’t wait to read more of her books.
The story line caught my attention at the very beginning and kept me interested throughout the entire book.
I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and I’m voluntarily leaving a review.
The story line caught my attention at the very beginning and kept me interested throughout the entire book.
I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and I’m voluntarily leaving a review.
June 21, 2021
Ivy went to live with her very unsettled brother. The leader of the community a werewolf named Rufus is murdered. The story has all kinds of characters. Vampires & Witches along with many more. There is also a giant tarantula. Ivy is trying to find out who killed Rufus. It is full of humor, magic & friendship. A new favorite author for me and a must read for you.
July 5, 2021
I absolutely LOVED this story!!
This was so much fun and my new goal is to move to Avalon Estates!
The author is new to me, but the cover (which I LOVE) and the blurb had me diving in! I was not dissapointed!!
Great writing, fun storyline and characters. Ivy's brother had me cracking up.
Excellent narration on the audio.
Looking forward to reading more!!
This was so much fun and my new goal is to move to Avalon Estates!
The author is new to me, but the cover (which I LOVE) and the blurb had me diving in! I was not dissapointed!!
Great writing, fun storyline and characters. Ivy's brother had me cracking up.
Excellent narration on the audio.
Looking forward to reading more!!
November 14, 2020
This is my first book by A.K. Caggiano and I enjoyed it!!! Avalon Estates is anything but normal!!! Witches and ghosts oh my!!! Love supernatural stories!!! Read and enjoy!!!
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 31, 2021
While I often wished Ivy were quicker on the uptake, I really enjoyed this supernatural cozy mystery. It was fast paced, the world was interesting, and there were enough things just touched upon to leave me hoping for more books set in this community.
June 6, 2021
This is a 1st for me by this author. She is extremely talented. This audiobook had all the Paranormal goodies I adore but it also had twists, turns, intrigue along with humor.
2 thumbs up! I highly recommend!
2 thumbs up! I highly recommend!
November 10, 2021
The author and narrator have done a great job in bringing this story to life and made it a joy to listen to. The character work and story line were well written and kept me entertained
I received a copy of this audiobook and am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
I received a copy of this audiobook and am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
April 5, 2023
A new kind of mystery. When you think nothing else could go wrong in your life a dead body happens. Finding out the little cozy estate that her brother lives in isn't what it seems to be. Trying to solve the murder and finding out more than one should keep you intrigued throughout the whole book.
August 15, 2022
Lots of fun
The cover does not fit this book at all! It was a lot of fun, very cute story mixed in with a big dose of mystery and action.
The cover does not fit this book at all! It was a lot of fun, very cute story mixed in with a big dose of mystery and action.
November 15, 2022
I just don't know I could not get into it. I don't know what it was but could not get into it. Don't know if it was just not for me or what it was.
March 9, 2024
40% DNF. Uninterested...
read time: 1 day
rating: 1/5
read time: 1 day
rating: 1/5
May 30, 2021
Ivy Sylvan is having a bad day, week actually. How awesome is it that her brother Oakley comes to the rescue, telling her to come live with him? There is just one thing... his new house is set on the fenced Avalon Estates.
Ivy, being happy she has a roof over her head, doesn't mind the rules which apply in the estate (not that she ever read them). So, when she kind of stumbles on a dead body slowly but surely, she finds out what Oakley's neighbours are...
Loved this book. Second, I read by this author :-)
Ivy, being happy she has a roof over her head, doesn't mind the rules which apply in the estate (not that she ever read them). So, when she kind of stumbles on a dead body slowly but surely, she finds out what Oakley's neighbours are...
Loved this book. Second, I read by this author :-)
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews