
Lute is folk horror combining the mythology of the shining ones with a dash of Midsommar and Final Destination. The horror and tension surrounding The Day builds slowly as Lute prepares. The story is told through Nina's point of view alone, so everything about The Day is new and confusing as an outsider, wondering how an island could possibly make seven people die every seven years. Then, the terror hits, sneaking, taking it's time, making your wonder what is next, questioning every move you make and if it could somehow do you in. I was really interested in the source of The Day, a mysterious, supernatural power. Through Nina, some of the history of the island unfolds, but I really wish there could be a deeper dive. Intense, well-drawn characters create an even more interesting atmosphere. Nina's backstory unravels with the day as she finds her place amongst the town as a leader of Lute while Hugh descends into resentment of his position on Lute and what it means for his family. With all horror, the source of the worst parts aren't what you can't see, but what you can. A surprising ending left me wanting to know more about Lute and its future.