Monica is struggling with whether she should take Sam up on her offer to find out what happened to her brother. Meanwhile, we get some flashbacks to show us how Sam became the serial killer she is today. It’s time to return to Woodbrook for the next installment of this horror saga.

Beneath the Trees Where Nobody Sees:

Rite of Spring #3

Written and Illustrated By Patrick Horvath

Letters By Hassan Otsmane-Elhaou

Edited By Jake Williams & Maggie Howell – Published By IDW Publishing

***Minor Spoilers Possible***

Returning to the Beginning

As Monica investigates the Woodbrook Murders of the past, she is also sizing up if she can trust Sam enough to take her up on her offer to help her find out what happened to her brother. At the same time, we get some flashbacks to how Sam started her serial killing hobby. Including her relationship with her parents, and the fate they met. Monica tries to get closer to the truth about Sam by talking with Lewis, who owes a great debt of gratitude to Sam as she has taken care of him since his parents were “killed” by Nigel. However, Sam is onto Monica and makes yet another attempt to convince her that she can help her with her investigation.

Helping Hand

This issue gives the reader a great backstory about Sam and really opens up how truly evil she is. Patrick Horvath does an awesome job of mixing in the bigger backstory of Sam, well moving Monica’s investigation forward. The cold-blooded nature of Sam really shines through, and shades even more light on her motivations. At the same time, the suspense of the cat and mouse game with Monica keeps the reader on the edge of their seat.

The art in this issue is great and continues to be what we’ve become accustomed to in this series. Patrick Horvath does a masterful job bringing Woodbrook to life through the lens of a children’s book illustration style. That signature art style is what really catches new readers’ eyes and makes them take a second look at this title. Hassan Otsmane-Elhaou gets creative with the lettering in this issue, which really makes for a more fun read.

Check Out My Review of Beneath the Trees: Rite of Spring #2

Final Thoughts

Beneath the Trees Where Nobody Sees: Rite of Spring #3 does a wonderful job of moving the story forward and keeping a good sense of suspense. As we learn more about Sam’s past and motivations, the character becomes more well rounded and evil. This book and series are living up to the high bar the original arc set last year. If you are looking for a horror/crime story this is the book and series for you. Head to your LCS grab a copy and add this title to your Pull List today!

Overall Grade: 9.2/10

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