Key Facts
- ✓ Estuary: A Ghost Story is a four-issue miniseries scheduled for release in April 2026.
- ✓ The series is published by Oni Press, a company known for its horror comic offerings.
- ✓ The story is set at the Mission at Arbués Point, a fictional 400-year-old Spanish mission on the Pacific coast.
- ✓ The creative team consists of writers Tim Daniel and David 'D.B.' Andry, and illustrator Maan House.
- ✓ The plot follows marine archaeologist Maris Cristobal as she excavates a shipwreck near the haunted mission.
- ✓ The series blends elements of gothic horror, historical fiction, and romance.
A New Gothic Horror Comic
Oni Press, a renowned outlet for comic fans seeking new horror series, continues its tradition with the upcoming debut of Estuary: A Ghost Story. This visually stunning new series is set to captivate readers when it launches in 2026.
The four-issue miniseries takes place on the Pacific coast, following a marine archaeologist who uncovers a terrifying secret hidden within an old shipwreck. The series promises a blend of mystery, history, and supernatural horror.
The Creative Team
The series is brought to life by a talented team of creators. Estuary: A Ghost Story is written by Tim Daniel and David “D.B.” Andry, known for their work on Crush Depth and Morning Star.
The artwork is illustrated by Maan House, whose previous work includes Mine is a Long Lonesome Grave. The first issue will feature covers by Maan House, Vanesa Del Rey, and Tim Daniel.
"This book captures the haunted vibes, the mystery, the romance and the sense of history of these areas."
— David “D.B.” Andry, Writer
The Story Unfolds
The narrative centers on the Mission at Arbués Point, a 400-year-old Spanish mission perched on a rocky cliff overlooking the Pacific Ocean. While it is known as one of California’s oldest and most haunted historical sites, its true secrets lie hidden beneath the surface.
A reclusive nun has spent decades within the Mission’s walls, honing her prayers in pursuit of a secret buried beneath the chapel and under the dark waves of the tidal estuary below. When marine archaeologist Maris Cristobal accepts the nun’s offer to excavate a fabled shipwreck, she discovers that the sins of the past are about to wash together into a harrowing surge of vengeance.
Creator Insights
David “D.B.” Andry explained the personal connection to the setting, noting that both he and Tim Daniel hail from Northern California. He stated,
“This book captures the haunted vibes, the mystery, the romance and the sense of history of these areas. Myself being raised Catholic, tying the other-worldly elements of Estuary to the very real past of the Missions I grew up making dioramas of, was both natural and cathartic.”
Tim Daniel described the project as a modern gothic tale set in Monterey Bay. He highlighted the collaboration with artist Maan House and colorist Steve Canon, whose work creates a dreadfully thick atmosphere. Daniel noted that the story features a touch of romance between the protagonists, Maris Cristobal and Hunt Willis, who uncover a deep, dark malevolence lurking beneath the old Mission.
Release Details
Readers can look forward to the release of Estuary: A Ghost Story #1 on April 8, 2026. The series is available for preorder at local comic shops.
The series is described as a modern gothic tale tailored for the smartphone age, blending spiritual and supernatural elements with a thick, atmospheric visual style.
Looking Ahead
Estuary: A Ghost Story represents a significant addition to the horror comic landscape for 2026, combining a unique coastal setting with deep historical roots. The collaboration between experienced writers and a distinct artistic voice promises a compelling narrative.
As the release date approaches, the series is poised to attract fans of gothic horror and supernatural thrillers, offering a fresh perspective on the genre's classic themes.
"Estuary: A Ghost Story is a modern gothic tale for the smartphone age."
— Tim Daniel, Writer
