Coming October 6, 2026
Avery's Story: A Next Novel (Rival High #1)

Welcome to your NEXT great read! NEXT is an exciting new line of books that feature short, irresistible stories that include both full-color and black-and-white art that's sure to keep you hooked. Once you've read one, you'll need to know what happens ... NEXT! When two high schools merge, four friends help each other navigate the ensuing drama in this brand-new series by Candace Buford with art by Jamie Green.

Avery Jones is ready for a fresh start, and what better time than the first day at a new school? That's where she meets Madison (the influencer), Teresa (the genius), and Corinne (the athlete). Each one is so unique and cool, all Avery wants to do is impress them.

So when she sees an opportunity to twist the truth a little, she takes it. After all, a little white lie never hurt anyone ... right?

But when Avery's new school merges with her old school, she finds herself in way over her head juggling two lives -- and her new friends are starting to get suspicious. Will Avery be able to fix things before her friends figure out the truth?