Picture a storyteller who spun a world of vampyres, goddesses, and coming-of-age magic—meet P.C. Cast! Born Phyllis Christine Cast, this American romance and fantasy author has enchanted readers with her spellbinding novels, most notably the House of Night series, co-authored with her daughter, Kristin Cast. With a knack for blending mythology, teen drama, and supernatural flair, Cast has carved a unique niche in young adult and fantasy genres, earning her a spot on the New York Times bestseller list.
From her Midwest roots to her award-winning career, Cast’s journey is as captivating as her stories. Whether you’re a fan of vampyre academies or divine adventures, her books offer a thrilling escape. Let’s dive into the life, works, and legacy of this literary trailblazer!
The Making of P.C. Cast
Born on April 30, 1960, in Watseka, Illinois, P.C. Cast grew up shuttling between Illinois and Oklahoma, where she developed a love for Quarter Horses and mythology. These passions would later shape her vivid storytelling. After high school, she joined the U.S. Air Force, honing her public speaking and writing skills. Cast then spent 15 years as an English teacher in Tulsa, Oklahoma, before retiring to pursue writing full-time. Her transition from classroom to bestseller began with a spark of inspiration and a deep connection to myth and fantasy.
P.C. Cast’s Unforgettable Stories
P.C. Cast’s literary career kicked off with Goddess by Mistake (2001), a romantic fantasy novel that won the Prism, Holt Medallion, and Laurel Wreath awards. This book, later re-titled Divine by Mistake, introduced her Partholon series, following Shannon Parker, a teacher transported to a mythical world as a goddess. The series blends humor, romance, and Celtic mythology, showcasing Cast’s playful yet poignant style.
In 2005, Cast teamed up with her daughter, Kristin, to create the House of Night series, a young adult saga set in a vampyre boarding school in Tulsa. The series follows Zoey Redbird, a teen “marked” as a fledgling vampyre by the goddess Nyx. With titles like Marked (2007), Betrayed, and Hunted, the series tackles teen angst, friendship, and supernatural battles, grounded in a unique biological premise involving junk DNA. The books have sold over 20 million copies worldwide and spent 152 weeks on the New York Times bestseller list.
Cast’s Goddess Summoning series, including Goddess of the Sea and Goddess of Spring, reimagines mythological tales with modern heroines, weaving romance and magic. Her writing is known for strong female protagonists, matriarchal societies, and a touch of humor, making her stories accessible yet richly layered.
Why P.C. Cast Matters
P.C. Cast’s impact on young adult and fantasy genres is undeniable. The House of Night series, with its diverse cast and relatable teen struggles, has inspired readers globally, sparking tourism in Tulsa, much like Twilight did for Forks, Washington. Her collaboration with Kristin Cast brought a fresh, intergenerational perspective to YA fiction, blending maternal wisdom with youthful energy. Cast’s awards, including the Oklahoma Book Award and Romantic Times Reviewers’ Choice Award, reflect her ability to resonate with readers and critics alike.
Beyond her books, Cast’s journey from teacher to bestselling author inspires aspiring writers. Her openness about personal challenges, like her three marriages and divorces, adds authenticity to her public persona, making her a relatable figure in the literary world.
About P.C. Cast
- Birth Date: April 30, 1960
- Key Works: House of Night series, Partholon series, Goddess Summoning series
- Awards: Prism, Holt Medallion, Laurel Wreath, Oklahoma Book Award
- Fun Fact: She lives in Oregon with her daughter, dogs, and a passion for horses!
Snag Marked or Goddess by Mistake and dive into P.C. Cast’s magical worlds of vampyres and goddesses today!