Friday

Mistakes haunt orange-haired, bespectacled, white 18-year-old Friday Fitzhugh's return to her occult-steeped town for freshman year winter break in this eerie, suspenseful mystery evoking the 1970s. Six years ago, when she and her family moved to Kings Hill--whose ancient residents performed human sacrifices to gods, according to lore--Friday saved and befriended 11-year-old mystery-solving genius Lancelot "Lance" Jones, who has black hair and light skin. The night before she leaves for college, Friday acknowledges the romantic tension between her and Lance, leading to a sexual encounter both find awkward and unfulfilling. Though Friday expects to discuss the event with Lance, her return instead finds Lance knee-deep in an investigation, one that resurfaces a terrifying supernatural encounter that Friday mistook for a dream. Brubaker's (Cruel Summer) slow-burn pacing intensifies the story's mysteries while capably introducing the cast and town. Martin's (Barrier) French-esque, wiry line art resolves into sweeping, endless forests and all-encompassing, imposing spirits as colorist Muntsa Vicente creates striking nighttime scenes with bold, dramatic lighting. Told over three chapters, this atmospheric first installment sets up compelling sequels, with a sucker punch ending that demands follow-up. Ages 13--up. (Nov.)