Henry Franks

A horror classic gets a facelift in this modern-day version of Frankenstein, Salomon's debut. It's been a year since an accident left Henry Franks amnesiac and covered in scars, suffering from nightmares, and losing feeling in his extremities. Now 16, Henry is obsessed with uncovering his lost past, but his father is evasive and none of the clues line up properly. Only his neighbor Justine seems willing to help. An awkward romance blossoms between the teens as they unravel Henry's disturbing origins, but the arrival of a serial killer may put an end to everything. The novel's mystery, romance, and horror elements tie together like Henry's scars: the seams show, but for the most part it works as a whole. Salomon nails the ominous atmosphere and increasing sense of dread, though the climax is muddled (the presence of both the serial killer and an impending hurricane amps up the story's tension, but also feels gratuitous). Nevertheless, it's a strong start for a promising author. Ages 13%E2%80%93up. Agent: Ammi-Joan Paquette, Erin Murphy Literary Agency. (Sept.)