Beneath the Trees Where Nobody Sees Halloween Special — Patrick Horvath’s Campfire Tales of Samantha Strong

The legend of Samantha Strong grows darker in this Halloween special. IDW brings together a powerhouse lineup of horror creators, led by artist Patrick Horvath, to explore the myths, murders, and folklore surrounding Woodbrook’s most infamous resident.

The premise is deceptively simple and deeply effective: years have passed since Samantha left Woodbrook, but her absence hasn’t quieted the whispers. In fact, the cat is out of the bag, and the truth has only made the fear more potent. Some of the horrors tied to her are real, confirmed by her own hand, while others are twisted folklore, exaggerated by terrified townsfolk. It’s a delicious blend of confirmed history and supernatural rumor, perfect for a holiday special that thrives on ambiguity.

What makes this issue particularly compelling is the creative ensemble. Patrick Horvath, whose art on Something is Killing the Children defined a modern aesthetic of unsettling beauty, leads the charge. He’s joined by a roster that reads like a who’s-who of current horror fiction. James Tynion IV, Tony Fleecs, Che Grayson, Dave Wachter, Jared Cullum, Tyler Boss, and Matt Emmons all contribute. Each writer brings a distinct voice to the table, allowing the book to feel like a collection of campfire stories rather than a single narrative thread.

I love anthologies when they have a strong central anchor, and Samantha is that anchor. Seeing these different creators interpret the same character, some focusing on her actions and others on the town’s reaction, creates a rich tapestry of horror. It’s less about what happens in any single panel and more about the lingering dread of not knowing what’s fact and what’s fiction. If you’ve ever wondered how the citizens of Woodbrook really view their past, this is the place to find out.

For those who want to dive deeper, the companion main series by Tynion IV and Werther Dell’Edera is the essential foundation. But if you’re looking for something that stands alone, this special is a perfect entry point. It captures the specific, quiet terror of a small town holding its breath. Just be aware that the variant covers are moving quickly; Horvath’s work is a collector's favorite, and these tend to vanish from the rack before the holiday even arrives.