Fiona Dodwell's Blog

As most of my blog readers are already aware, I gather much of my inspiration for my novels from my deep interest in the paranormal. I have been fascinated by the concept of life-after-death, spirits and hauntings for as long as I can remember.

I confess that although I always try to keep an open mind, and search for all possible answers to supposed paranormal phenomena, I do lean towards believing. I think this is because of a number of different reasons: mainly because I have had some unnatural/inexplicable occurrences myself, and also because I believe there is enough documentation/evidence/studies to prove that there is at least SOMETHING that exists beyond our natural understanding.

Sceptics will naturally ask where the proof lies. If you make such a big statement- that the paranormal exists (E.G, ghosts, hauntings etc) – then there should by now be enough evidence to show the world. My answer to this is quite simple – I feel that the clues are out there already, but much depends on ones interpretation and personal bias.

This is where the difficulty lies. I have come across accounts/photos/documentation of paranormal phenomena and when the evidence seems to suggest that it very well could be a result of something other-worldly, people are quick to find any other reason to discount the persons claims. Sometimes, it seems people will go to great lengths to come up with an alternative explanation – even if that sounds just as outlandish as the paranormal claim.

Can the paranormal really ever been proven? I took a look at one dictionary definition of ‘Proof’ and found this:

So is there evidence? Can anyone be right in trusting that ghosts or hauntings exist, or be justified in saying it is true? One thing that sticks in my mind is this: There have been hundreds of thousands of accounts of paranormal experiences from people the world over…If people of that amount were claiming witness to anything else, like a psychological issue or witnessing crimes, we would trust it. The sheer amount of people willing to attest to such things occurring would naturally convince us that there was indeed some truth to their claims. Yet because it is of a paranormal nature, we try to seek many ways to disprove, undermine or find alternate reasons to why people are seeing and hearing ghosts.

Can anything be used as evidence for the paranormal? Those who seek to study this subject seriously use a number of ways to gather proof. Anomalies caught on camera, EVP data which include full answers and speech from disembodied voices, electrical spikes/draining with no apparent cause, serious studies from both psychologists and parapsychologists using state of the art sound, visual and recording equipment, physicists, physical movements caught on devices using ‘trigger’ objects and let’s not forget the value of witness testimony from people the world over. Search through data of any well respected paranormal case or paranormal group, and you will find evidence of this kind in multitudes. In truth, though, some studying this would not find any of it convincing. One cannot tie a ghost down and interview it in a science lab.

I cannot convince anyone that spirits/hauntings are real. Neither is it my job to. I don’t have the answers myself. However, I would say that there is too much  available evidence to simply allow people to disregard those who have encountered the paranormal as simply “over-imaginative.”

Can the paranormal ever be ultimately proven? I hope so, one day.

Have you ever noticed that many TV shows and documentaries pertaining to the paranormal usually commence with the tag-line “For Entertainment Purposes Only?” I have noticed this sign displayed before shows – many of which were taking the task of exploring the paranormal extremely seriously, and with respect and education.

If you are a non-believer, or a sceptic, I can understand why the issue may not bother you. After all, if you don’t think such a thing as spirits or ghosts exist, then you probably assume most of these shows are for fun, for “entertainment only.”

For those who do fully believe in the existence of such things, though, this subject can cause a sting. There are many well researched, serious and respectful shows which study the paranormal and yet legally, they HAVE to tag onto their programme that the whole thing is for entertainment, thus already undermining the seriousness of the show before it even begins.

I, along with millions of others, have experienced things we believe to be of a paranormal nature. Many people have witnessed unusual phenomena, spirit apparitions, disembodied voices, as well as an array of other anomalies and unusual encounters. My purpose in discussing this is not to convince you that these things are real, or that they exist, but that to many people, this is a very serious and real subject, and the fact that shows documenting this have to display an “Entertainment” sign is quite frustrating. It’s like saying, “We don’t take this seriously. Just watch and have a laugh.” This mentality does shows like Most Haunted, Ghost Adventures and similar documentaries a disservice. These shows are always filmed with an experienced crew, use high-tech equipment, sensibly debunk anything that isn’t paranormal, and even undertake historians and parapsychologists. I think these shows – whether you personally believe in ghosts or not – deserve more respect. The legal disclaimer that has to be put onto these brilliant shows might even deter people from coming forward about their own experiences. After all – why would you want to, if nobody is taking it seriously?

For many, this realm of the spiritual is a serious and heartfelt issue. It is as meaningful as many faiths or religions to some individuals. There is no proof of God, but you would not expect a “For Entertainment Purposes Only” before a religious study, or at the end of a filmed church service. Such a thing would cause outroar and offend many – yet those who believe in spirits or who are involved in spiritualism as a personal belief system have to just accept that their worldviews will be seen as something light-hearted, something not to be taken seriously.

I sincerely feel this legal requirement should be studied and justified and looked at by those who impose the rule. I greatly admire those in certain TV shows for their contribution to the paranormal field and I feel they deserve more respect as a result.

Written by Fiona Dodwell, author of The Banishing, The Shift, and Obsessed

I can’t explain why, but I’ve been fascinated by the paranormal since I was a child. Call it intuition, or faith, but I have always trusted that there was more to life than meets the eye. Over the years I have studied the paranormal in my own time, through courses, documentaries, books, web resources and, of course, TV shows. When Most Haunted first aired, I was oddly relieved: here at last was a show which not only explored a topic I was very passionate about, but a show which took the study of this subject seriously.

Through hundreds of episodes, Most Haunted travelled across the world to spend time in some of the most notorious paranormal hotspots. From hospitals to jails to pubs and houses – the show covered it all, using state of the art equipment, scientific experiments, parapsychology experts, historical studies and even psychic mediums. Hosted by presenter Yvette Fielding and her husband Karl Beattie, Most Haunted became a very quick success and gathered somewhat of a cult following. Those, like myself, that were interested the paranormal, had finally found a show that had it all – atmosphere and spookiness, along with serious documentation of spiritual phenomena.

Most Haunted was a show that pioneered in the genre. First aired in 2002, it was the first of many paranormal shows that would follow (such as Ghost Hunters and Ghost Adventures – shows which I also enjoy). It has started something that many other films, TV shows and You-tube film-makers have tried to replicate.

I have a great respect for Yvette Fielding and Karl Beattie. Their constant dedication to the show, along with their warm personalities and genuine keenness to present the paranormal to a wide audience is something I admire. They appear to be down-to-earth, genuine people who sincerely want to expose the paranormal – from all angles. They and their team are a credit to the show as a whole.

Though there has been an absence, Most Haunted is now set to return with a new series, on TV’s Really Channel. Starting on Thursday 21st August, and every Thursday thereafter, the fans are finally able to enjoy this much-awaited return of the show.

If this new series is anything like previous ones, then we are in for a treat. If you are staunch believer, you will enjoy this show highly. Even if you are a sceptic, it should be noted that the Most Haunted team appear to take what they do very seriously, and when something can be debunked, they admit this.

So, as someone totally immersed in the study of the paranormal, I for one am eagerly awaiting the new series. I want to wish Yvette and Karl all the very best of success with this new venture, and I hope the fans are going to be tuning in again. I have a feeling we all won’t be disappointed.

You can view Most Haunted’s return on REALLY Channel, starting this Thursday 21st August.

Anyone who is familiar with me, or my novels, knows I am passionate about the paranormal. Ever since I was a child, I have felt drawn to this fascinating subject. I think it’s because, on some level, I always possessed an instinct that there is more to life than meets the eye. Ask anyone about the subjects of ghosts or hauntings, and you will likely get one of two responses: One will either dismiss the subject with either humour and incredulity, or be met with a sincere acceptance from people with open minds – people who have often experienced the paranormal themselves. People who, once they know they will not be mocked, will likely open up about the odd occurrences they have witnessed in their lifetime.

It’s a popular subject, the paranormal. In years gone by, the subject was seen as sinister, something to be avoided. Religions labelled anything to do with the study of the after-life as occultism, leading to many people avoiding discussion or study of this amazing subject.

Today we have paranormal shows, like Ghost Adventures (USA series) and Most Haunted (UK TV series) that take the paranormal seriously and aim to educate people on the reality of spirits, hauntings and the after-life.

I think, gradually, over time, people are becoming more considerate of the possibility that the paranormal is a reality. Whereas once it was easy to mock or dismiss, countless studies have been documented, witness accounts collected, science itself has even become involved. Take, for example, Ghost Adventures. Using state of the art gadgets, the team are able to record visual anomalies – as well as record spirit voices. The paranormal is no longer an out of date parlour trick of candle-lit séances, but is instead something serious, methodical, detailed and even scientific.

Coupling the serious study along with the basic human instinct that there is just simply something more to us, to life, than we currently know, I think there is an amazing and interesting time ahead for those interested in the paranormal.

An interesting survey, which took place of March last year, published by Fiona Macrae of the Daily Mail, suggested that people today are more likely to believe in ghosts than in God. This is an eye opening indication that more and more people are not only interested in the paranormal – but actively believe it. Perhaps it is today’s religion? A new study of us: our souls, the after-life, our existence.

So, whilst we continue to learn more and more, we have books, documentaries, and TV series which aim to educate those who are interested. A personal favourite of mine – Ghost Adventures, seems to deal with the subject in a serious and respectful way. I will always have a great deal of time for shows like this, because they not only entertain, but keep working hard, time and time again, to show people that this is real. Spirits are a reality. There is no shock, drama or silliness, but instead a straight forward experience where evidence is collected and presented for the audience to draw their own conclusions. I feel shows like this, and the wonderful Most Haunted, are worth so much because of the strength of evidence they are often able to come up with.

I know from personal experience that spirits exists. I’ve had several experiences which lead me to believe in life-after-death. I am just thankful that today we live in a world where we don’t have to feel demeaned or ridiculed because we believe. And ghosts are no longer a matter of faith alone – the evidence is stacking up, hard and fast.

I’m excited to see where the future takes us.

Thanks for reading.
If you have any spooky experiences you want to share, please feel free to email to me and I will add them to my website:
fionadodwell1982@hotmail.co.uk

Much to my own surprise, it’s been almost three years since the release of my first horror novel, The Banishing. I have no idea where that time went. Since that first release, I have written and published two more horrors (The Shift, and Obsessed) and been working on a selection of poems and short stories.

Anyway, onto topic, I wanted to celebrate this small anniversary by giving away 3 eBooks of The Banishing.

To win a copy, email your name and email address to:

fionadodwell1982@hotmail.co.uk

Good Luck!

Fellow author Su Halfwerk has read and reviewed The Shift, giving it a rating of 5/5.

Here is what she had to say on the novel:

“The art of painting eerily dark atmosphere in a book is one of Ms. Dodwell’s fortes…. I loved the book’s haunted ambiance and the discovery of intriguing secrets. For the story’s mysterious events and Michael’s fear, confusion, and elaborate second-guesses, I think this length was perfect. Another winner from Ms. Dodwell.”

To read the full review, and to check out Su Halfwerk’s own novels, click here:

http://suhalfwerk.blogspot.co.uk/2013/05/book-review-shift.html

For those of you who were waiting for The Shift to be released in paperback format, you can now purchase it in the UK and USA.

Here is the link which can lead you to both versions on sale:

http://www.double-dragon-ebooks.com/single.php?ISBN=1-77115-095-5

I will also be offering two copies of The Shift (Ebook version) soon – so keep your eyes peeled!

This film isn’t a new release (September 2012) but it is new to me. I watched this for the first time several nights ago, and I am not ashamed to admit I can’t get the story out of my head.

As somebody who absolutely adores the horror genre, I find it hard to find new horror movies or books that unsettle me, or scare me. I have watched and read so many that it is simply hard to find anything that really gets under my skin. The Devil’s Business, however, succeeded in doing this.

I don’t believe in spoiling a story (what’s the point?) but to give you an idea, the film revolves around two men who are hired to kill somebody in an isolated home. Their time waiting in hiding in this home is where the film captures the creepy atmosphere so chillingly. Over the course of the evening, we see these two male characters explore their experiences, history, fears and hopes, all the while battling against an impending sense of evil and doom. Is there something evil lurking in shadows of the house? Are they being watched? Is there more to this dodgy job than first meets the eye?

This film captures everything I love about horror – you don’t need gore, or heavy special effects: you need good story, and good acting, and The Devil’s Business oozes this. The dark suggestion that something evil is watching them, the idea that they are really the hunted, not the hunter, really brings about some amazing turns and unexpected moments through the movie.

It is very character driven, dark, creepy and suggestive. I found it absolutely enthralling, and will gladly be watching it again with friends and family.

If I had to say one negative (I’m always told a fair review searches for the pros and cons) I’d have to say this: there isn’t one. It’s solid, and I can’t do anything but recommend this fabulous movie.

5 out of 5: Go watch!

Whilst I will always continue updating and using this blog, I have recently decided to create a website dedicated soley to my books. Whilst this blog will always have updates on my novels, it also contains reviews, articles and interviews. My official author webpage will be solely about my projects and information regarding them. You can take a peek here:

www.http://fionadodwell1982.wix.com/

Also, I’m glad to say The Shift has received another top review. Giving it a 5 out of 5 rating, The Shift is described as “Creepy, scary and original,” by The Diary of a Book Addict.

To read it in full, punch the following link:

http://thediaryofabookaddict.wordpress.com/2013/05/22/review-the-shift-by-fiona-dodwell/

So, The Shift was released several days ago. I’m pleased to say it has received its first review on Amazon.com. Giving the novel a four star rating, the review describes The Shift as “fast paced and creepy”. Here is the full review:

I’ve been a fan of Dodwell’s for a while now, ever since I was able to read a copy of her first book The Banishing. Which, I might add, is a creepy little read that I wholly recommend. There’s this wonderful creepiness about her work that reminds me of some of the better pulp horror novels I’d read as a teen.

As you can tell from the opening paragraph, I really enjoyed this novella. A good portion of the book is set within the posh care home and I’ll admit that I have a soft spot for any place that involves creepy and remote settings. It has this instant atmosphere and helps enhance any spook activity- and there is spook activity in this book.

What also intrigued me is that so far I’ve noticed that there’s this theme in Dodwell’s books that surrounds an unhealthy/obsessive love of some sort. That is present in this book, although I can’t entirely elaborate on it because it’s ultimately the whole gist of the book. I was actually a little hesitant to reveal even that much, as it gives away quite a bit, but then again if you’ve read any of her other works then you’ll probably have expected this from Shift like I did. This is ultimately what made the ending that much cooler, as love is a theme that almost all of us can identify with in some form or fashion. We might not all be the type that creates hair dolls or carves someone’s name into our chest (neither of which happens in this book, just listing those as examples), but the concept of someone doing something out of a twisted sense of affection is one that can unsettle just about any reader.

To read the full review, click here:

http://www.amazon.com/review/RDY8EZECZO6SK/ref=cm_cr_dp_title?ie=UTF8&ASIN=B00CQ59LKM&channel=detail-glance&nodeID=133140011&store=digital-text

I am also a guest today, on author Tim Marquitz website, talking about my new horror adventure!

http://tmarquitz.com/blog/