Coming January 20, 2026

A Novel of Destiny and Delusion

Ex-Marine Matthew Obrodnick lives with two roommates in an apartment near campus in Oxford, Ohio. One is gentle and philosophical, the other aspires to be King of Peru. One is real, the other a figment of Matt’s imagination.

The arrangement can be challenging.

Walk with Matt as he navigates the complexities of living with a ruthless, power-hungry ghost, dealing with poisoned tap water, and managing the relationship with his chain-smoking roommate, all while grappling with his inner demons, attending class, and exploring a new romantic interest.

Life was definitely easier in the Marine Corps.

"Lovers of novels with a touch of history, mystery, dark humor, drama, and psychological thrills will find King of Peru by Mark E. Scott an enthralling read..." —Readers' Favorite

"King of Peru is a darkly witty, slow-burn campus novel with a supernatural edge. The hero is Matt, a Marine veteran turned Miami University student who can’t shake the feeling that the world—or at least the water in Oxford, Ohio—is trying to kill him. ...the line between research and haunting blurs, and a sardonic ghostly voice starts whispering in his ear, nudging him toward...something. Whether that “something” is madness, destiny, or both..." —Chere Di Boscio of Sacred Valley Expats