Bentley Little: The Association

I noticed something today.

In all my posts, not ever have I reviewed a book. And I'm not talking about Zen & the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance although there are those that would swear its the best book ever published (me not being one of them.)

I'm talking about horror novels. Novels by great authors such as Stephen King; Richard Laymon; Bentley Little. And if you want a comedic twist thrown in, then I highly suggest Christopher Moore (Bloodsucking Fiends was awesome but I will save that review for later.)

So today I want to review one of my favorite Bentley Little novels, The Association.

I probably need to preface this post with a little information about Mr. Little. For starters, his mind is definitely more warped than that of Stephen King (at least on paper) in that he likes to shock with a very intense gore factor. Now understand that Stephen King ranks as probably my favorite (I love his overly descriptive style) but he does not go overboard in entrails and dismemberment in the same manner as Bentley Little likes to do.

Secondly, Bentley Little likes to dabble in controversial subject matters which might make the reader question whether or not it's worth reading his books. I've had a couple occasion of this myself (mostly in cases of child molestation and incest) but ultimately he does rank as one of my favorites.

(It may also interest you to know that Bentley Little published his first novel The Revelation in 1990, and as a result won the Bram Stoker Award for "Best First Novel.")

Introduction to "The Association"

Anyone who has ever lived in a subdivision where a set of bylaws dictates how your home is to be maintained could probably relate to a chapter or more of this book. Yes, associations offer a clean and uniform community that can prove safer and cleaner and retain (if not improve) resale value, but does it stop there? And what of the people that make up this so called "association?" Are they looking out for your best interests, or theirs?

Brad & Maureen Welch thought they were leaving their crazy California lifestyle for a more peaceful and quiet one, but the problem with small towns is that your business soon becomes everyone else's and you never really know who you can trust.

Synopsis

It's always recommended that whenever you sign your name to any document, know what you are signing; read the fine print.

Unfortunately the Welch's missed that day in class as they soon discover that what they signed when moving into the peaceful gated community of Bonita Vista was not only an association agreement, but an agreement to abide by their rules at any cost (and I'm not just talking monetary repercussions!)

Paint your house the wrong color? Well, that might cost you a hand. Plant the wrong shrubs? Perhaps we'll take both hands for that crime. Want to dispute the association? No problem. Just know they will make your life a living hell that may not be worth living afterall....

Conclusion

As stated above, The Association is one of my favorite books. I highly recommend that if you do decide to read it, set aside the whole day as you won't want to put this book down.

Just know going in that it will be gory, it will be grotesque, and it will push the boundaries of the more "traditional" horror novel.

(Oh - and in case you are wondering, child molestation and incest are not traits of this novel so in case you have certain restrictions in your literature (as do I) know that those are not a consideration for this novel.)