Prologue

Our move to Crystal Lake, New Jersey was a cliche in and of itself. A mother and daughter moving from a big city to a small remote town following a messy divorce seems like an all too common scenario, but I wasn't too bothered by the drastic change of pace. I was much more focused on the history and lore surrounding the place. Whereas my mother was enamored by the natural beauty as well as the crazy cheap housing prices.

This town, like many others, inspired various instances of horror media under the blanket title of Friday the 13th, but unlike other popular films this series went the way of Texas Chainsaw Massacre by producing increasingly convoluted sequels as the cult following grew larger. Despite this, I found myself amused by the movies, books, and comics alike. There's nothing like taking a local legend and spinning it into a family-friendly slash fest. My amusement only increased when a few months after our move we started getting pamphlets for the "Newly Opened Camp Silver Waters" in the mail.

"Come one or all to Camp Silver waters! Recently purchased and renovated by local handyman Johnathan Wright, your kids will have a summer packed full of fun activities with luxury facilities to rival even the best cabin rentals in the area!

Now accepting applications for counselors, cooks, janitors, and more!

Apply today at www dot campsilverwaters dot com/nowhiring"

I couldn't help but chuckle once I'd finished reading, because I couldn't tell if this was an attempt to depart from the stigma caused by the series or a way to capitalize on it. Maybe it was a bit of both. Either way it sounded like it could be fun, and it would be a good way for me to establish a work history here. So I let my mom know and sent in my application, which was hastily accepted. The response email arrived days later.

My name is Adalade Kasner, and this begins the account of my experiences at Camp Crystal Lake.