How fitting is it that we get some new Steve Niles horror on Halloween Day? Even better is that this debut issue of Lot 13 is up to the standards we’ve come to expect from the writer. Lot 13 #1 doesn’t go for the gruesome scares; instead it stalks along quietly, building atmosphere throughout the pages using simple storytelling tricks that build toward a last page reveal that is truly spooky. This isn’t slasher horror, but the more methodical under-your-skin kind that is a thousand times more rewarding.
The story is pretty basic, at least in this debut issue. The book opens on a very disturbing trial in 1670 which ultimately has no bearing on the story within this installment, but will almost certainly be pivotal in the events to come. From there, we get an endearing introduction to the young family that will be serving as our protagonists. All of the characters are extremely likable, even if some of their dialog is a bit overly informative with things like ages and other small bits of exposition. Their chemistry all works well – particularly the husband and wife – and since the dynamic of the book is essentially dependent on our affection for this characters, that’s a very good thing.