Ghostly Encounters: Confessions of a Paranormal Investigator

by Jeff Scott Cole, Johnathon Robson (Primary Contributor)

Mumbled voices in an empty attic, heavy footsteps on the stairs when all in the house are asleep, darting shadows across a darkened room . . .

It should come as no surprise that with the dawn of the digital age, people have turned their new technology toward the mysterious stories they’ve heard or events they’ve personally experienced. Here, in the dusky gloom where traditional science has refused to enter, a new breed of investigator has introduced us to the strange sounds and weird images from these nocturnal adventures.

Like most people, Jeff Cole has always been intrigued by aspects of the paranormal—does the human spirit endure after the body dies, and are there such things as ghosts? Though the deeper questions are best left to priests and scholars, his investigations of well- and lesser-known historical sites indicate the existence of a truly inexplicable phenomenon.

Ghostly Encounters chronicles Cole’s journey into the world of ghost hunting, other ghost hunting groups he has met, and the team he ultimately joins. Ghostly Encounters also provides a first-person account of the haunted locations explored, historical background and context to these sites, and audio and video clips so the reader can experience some of the startling evidence captured during these investigations.

Genres: Nonfiction, Paranormal, Ghosts

256 pages, Hardcover

First published June 2, 2015

About the author

Jeff Scott Cole is a writer, former middle school teacher, and broken-down archaeologist. Born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio, Jeff holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Anthropology from Cleveland State University, where he was the first undergraduate in the university's history to successfully write and win competitive external grant funding from The Martha Holden Jennings Foundation, and The S. Livingston Mather Charitable Trust, for the production of a video documentary on Ohio prehistory for use in schools state-wide. Jeff continued his archaeology studies at the University of Cincinnati where he completed the course work for a Master of Arts degree. While in residence, he served as an Adjunct Instructor for UC's College of Evening and Continuing Education where he taught courses on North American Prehistory, and Ancient Mysteries. With the arrival of his son, Jeff retired his trowel and brushes and shifted his career to the world of corporate human resources. Then, when saddled with the role of single-parent, he gave up his corporate ambitions and returned to the classroom as a long-term substitute teacher, teaching Social Studies and English/Language Arts for Madison Local Schools; Lake County, Ohio. Jeff is a member of the Society of American Archaeology and the Ohio Archaeological Council. Recently transplanted from Ohio's "eerie" coast, Jeff currently resides in Atlanta, Georgia where he is a Human Resources Consultant.

Reviews

[Jaksen · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good basic 'primer' on what to do, what to bring, how to behave, what to say, (and everything else) while conducting a paranormal investigation. Written by a believer who's also a skeptic, a nice combo, IMO.

So if you want to know about the technology involved, how to get invited to a group, how to become a prominent member in said group, and how to work all the angles involved in this science (sport? adventure? hobby? Nah, hobby's too mild a word. I think passion is good though), this be the book for you. Filled with those little bar code/laser pictures which will take you to a website where you can see and hear what Mr. Cole did, it's a great addition to any paranormal enthusiast's library.

[Brian Parsons · Rating 5 out of 5]

As an investigator of anomalous phenomena for nearly 20 years it is refreshing to see someone write about the paranormal with not just theories and opinions, but with experiences and observations. I had my own journey into investigating and I have heard dozens of others tell their own tale, but Jeff’s journey is chronicled neatly with many of his own personal observations, tips, and popular understandings of ghost investigation. I love the quote “...all groups are not created equal” as this sums up the reality behind his and many other’s experiences with paranormal groups as even though they may seem cookie cutter on the outside they are usually vastly different behind the curtain. Wrapped around his journey of understanding of the field is a great collection of history behind some of the most popular places to investigate in Ohio and beyond. My journey began near Mentor and I too have investigated and researched many of these sites mentioned in the book and I appreciate the reality being told over the urban legends and folklore. While the technology takes the lead in this (and most paranormal books) it is again refreshing to see this author describe the reality and limitations behind the tools. As an author I appreciate the blend of the personal journey, education, and history carefully mixed together. A book like this can easily spill in one direction or another, but the author has done a great job of dispensing the right information when needed. It's also interesting to realize that while Jeff and I have been investigating in the same areas for years we have never met or crossed paths in any way until I read this book. This should serve to others to know that there are more people out there experiencing these things than we can imagine and we owe it to ourselves to learn from others regardless of our own time or experience in the field.

[Stacey · Rating 2 out of 5]

OK

This was a somewhat interesting book, although I did find it quite boring at times. It was nothing like I expected it to be. This was basically a how-to book to be a paranormal investigator. There were many stories of the adventures had by the author, however when it came to the parts where the experiences should have been elaborated upon, the author would insert links to his website to hear and or see what they had recorded. That is all well and good, but I wanted to see and hear these things in words from the author, and learn of his reactions. The links should have been listed maybe at the end of the book. The links on my kindle app on my iPad did not work, so I would have to leave my reading then actually look up the website to try to access the recording. And living in the country with total sucky Internet, sometimes it would take me 10 minutes to access it.....if I was lucky. Much of the book was about the history of each place visited, which was fine. And much of the book was about the technical aspects of the equipment used, and how it compared to equipment used by the TV ghost hunters. Basically, this boiled down to a disappointing experience for me.

[Sarah - All The Book Blog Names Are Taken · Rating 4 out of 5]

Debating between 3 and 4 stars. Great info, pompous writer/investigator. Too common. Full review to come.

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Rating: 4 Stars

Disclaimer: I believe in ghosts. I've lived in an apartment that I believe was haunted (though we always referred to the spirit as Ghost Baby due to its toddler-like voice and actions, so haunting is not really the right word. Maybe the right phrase is 'other-worldly guest'). I've had experiences both at the Villisca Axe Murder House (real name) in Villisca, Iowa and The Stanley Hotel in Estes Park, Colorado that have led me to believe that ghosts do exist. This review will reflect that belief. If you have a different opinion, I am cool with that. What I am not cool with is belittling or rude comments because our beliefs are different.

I've debated for a long time between a three star or a four star rating. There are so many positives going for this book and it is easily one of the best books about paranormal investigations that I've read yet. The negative though is that the author at several times pointed out the flaws and problems with methods of other teams - both that he worked with, and teams as seen on television (think Ghost Adventures and Ghost Hunters). I view this as a problem in general with investigation books, not just this one alone. I get it, Ghost Adventures is especially ridiculous. No serious investigator watches these doofuses and thinks, "Wow, these guys are legit!" Mostly my issue is with Zak and how he thinks every ghost is cussing at him and wants to kill him, or follows him home and haunts him. But the main issue I have with this book and others of the genre is a lot of time, pointing out said flaws ends up coming across as being judgmental or even condescending in past instances I've read. I do understand the need to clear up misconceptions that reality shows might present, but too much of it comes across in a negative manner.

As I previously mentioned, so far this is one of the best books on paranormal investigations that I have read. The author included several pieces of possible evidence captured on different investigations - both photographs and video/audio evidence which can be easily accessed (I read this on my Kindle). My only complaint is that I would like to see the photos in color and as this was on my Kindle, they were in black and white. I also very much appreciated the author limited himself in sharing his personal experiences as they occurred at each site. He addressed this directly, stating that he did not want color experiences for anyone else or bias them in any way by offering explanation of his own tat had no video/audio/photo back-up. This is highly important to me, as whether we want to believe it or not, we are very impressionable in situations like this and it would be easy for a future explorer to go to one of these locations, think about the author's experience, and then ONLY look for those same types of experiences too.

One of the strongest aspects of this book involves the recounting of the history of each place that the author investigated. He not only covers the history of each in regards to reports of paranormal activity, but general history as well. Anyone who has read a few of my reviews knows how important contemporary resources are to me - diaries, newspaper accounts, eyewitness testimonies, etc. I feel they add credibility to any non-fiction text and this book is no different. Not only has the author helped to build up the credibility of paranormal investigation as a legitimate field, but he gives a lot of context to readers who may be unfamiliar with the sites he explores (I personally was pleased to read about numerous sites I was already familiar with - the Villisca house, Gettysburg, and the Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum, just to name a few). I especially loved the history of Trans-Allegheny, including a list of numerous reasons as to why someone could have been admitted to the asylum in its heyday. Most of the reasons are just so silly now, people were really committed for reasons that most certainly did not make them insane - laziness, NOVEL READING, or greed. There is a photo on my blog of the actual list of things that could lead to behavior that would get you admitted.

Another strength the book has going for it is the section dedicated to the technology necessary to conduct an investigation. Naturally there are pros and cons for each, which the author addresses. He indicates his own personal preferences, as well as cost-effectiveness - some of the pieces of equipment are pretty expensive, and are not necessarily proven to work the way their creators say they will.

I was surprised to see Villisca in the book, it is a small town that not many have heard of (until the guys from Ghost Adventures went and made a mockery of it all, as usual). A friend and I had driven to Villisca a few years ago to visit the house where 8 people - 6 children - were murdered in the middle of the night with an ax in 1912. All 8 were found bludgeoned to death in the beds where they slept - Josiah and Sarah Moore, their four children Herman, Katherine, Boyd and Paul, and two of Katherine's friends who spent the night, Lea and Ina Stillinger. Even during the day, it was clear there is paranormal activity going on here. Like the author, I will not share specifics of my personal experiences here so as not to color anyone else's experience, but the attic and the landing where Josiah and Sarah slept (and you can still see the ax marks in the slanted ceiling) are places of interest.

As an aside, reading about the way some people behave at Gettysburg today is appalling. There is zero respect for the dead and many people seem to have forgotten the meaning or the fact that it is a CEMETERY where the bloodiest battle of the Civil War took place. But no, let's go for a round of frisbee golf and take our dogs to play. because, that makes sense. Morons.

After the text of the book, the first Appendix lists several locations around the country where paranormal activity has been reported. They are listed alphabetically, and give a brief backstory of each. I was happy to see the Stanley listed here. Estes Park, Colorado is one of the most beautiful places I have ever been and the Stanley did not disappoint when I was there a few years ago. This is another place I would definitely say is haunted - this is based both on my personal experiences that occurred there and photographs taken while exploring as well. But it felt very different from Villisca. Villisca felt sad, and deeply depressing - as it should anyway even if it did not have paranormal activity occurring. The Stanley, on the other hand, feels anything but. It was a peaceful (except for the loud footsteps on wooden floors at all hours of the night - strange, since all the floors are now carpeted and have not been made of wood for decades) and happy.

The second Appendix is another helpful resource, especially for those interested in joining the field of paranormal investigation. It includes, alphabetically by state, lists of different groups one could contact - I assume either with an investigation need or for possible membership.

Overall, there are far more positives than negatives with this one (though the negative is important to address - it is a fine line between pointing out the absurdity of some of the ghost adventuring reality shows and sounding condescending. Most books end up doing both and the latter will alienate people who might truly be interested in investigating, not just thrill-seeking). I found it to be well-written and well-researched and I feel like if more books about the paranormal were written in this vein, the field might one day be regarded more legitimately.

[Theresahpir · Rating 5 out of 5]

Whenever I get the chance to attend a paranormal conference or event, or even just visit another state, I always try to find a few new books for my paranormal library. This past weekend, I attended ScareFest in Lexington, Kentucky and happened across the booth of C-Bus Paranormal, an investigation team out of Columbus, Ohio. I was initially drawn in when some information on the team's volunteer and fundraising efforts for Prospect Place caught my eye. I had the opportunity to investigate Prospect Place way back in 2007 and have always had an affinity for the history, culture, and of course, the paranormal activity of the location!

Anyway, I was excited to see that two of the team members were selling a new book they had collaborated on, and I bought a copy.

I absolutely love books written by real investigators out in the field. It's entertaining and enlightening to see how other teams operate, the places they've been, the evidence they've collected, and why they got started doing this type of work in the first place. Unfortunately, most of the books that I've picked up on this topic, while interesting, aren't necessarily very impressive. That wasn't the case with Ghostly Encounters. I was extremely impressed, first with the quality of the book itself. This wasn't a print-to-order self published, unedited piece of work---this was a REAL book. For only $20 (less on Amazon), this professionally published, attractive, well-written work was an excellent value and an excellent addition to my personal library.

Secondly, the concept of this book really impressed me. For the most part, it reads like a normal book you'd expect from a paranormal investigator. It begins with Cole's personal journey into delving into the fascinating field of paranormal research and how he joined the C-Bus team. It's followed by some techie information, another chapter furthering his personal journey, more techie stuff, and then a large section featuring some actual investigations at various pay-to-play locations throughout the country. In addition, the appendix offers a listing of paranormal teams by state, as well as a list of alleged haunted places that offer investigation opportunities.

Normally, these types of books that feature investigations will mention potential video evidence, and refer to possible EVP data, but given the print format, all they can do is give a link and hope the reader will go check it out if interested. The authors of Ghostly Encounters really take a technological jump forward. Instead of just a mere link or a mention of their evidence, they've included QR codes directly within the text so that as you read about the evidence, you can use your phone or tablet and go directly to that evidence and see/hear it for yourself. And, if you don't feel like reading with your phone attached to you, the link is available so you can go back and check it out at your leisure.

A well-written book with a cool, modern twist featuring my favorite subject is pretty awesome in any case, but I really enjoyed this book on a personal level. I seem to have a very similar philosophy and approach to investigation as the C-Bus team, with the main difference being that HPIR doesn't do a ton of pay-to-play locations. It's always nice to see others who share similar goals and ideas, and how they are applying those ideas to the furthering this field. Ghostly Encounters was a great, quick read and I think that anyone with an interest in paranormal investigation, no matter if they are just starting out, or are a seasoned investigator, can enjoy this book. It's a great compilation of investigation experience and evidence, technical advice, and personal experience. I gave it a 5/5 stars!

Originally posted on Theresa's Haunted History of the Tri-State

[Ralph Halse · Rating 5 out of 5]

rom the first page to the last, I was transfixed by the real-life adventures of these modern day investigators situating themselves between the great unknown and the difficult task of producing factual evidence for dissemination.

True-life adventure such as depicted in this book is a rare read, considering the challenges already conquered throughout this modern age. Upon reflection, the most interesting aspects of this book was not only the quest for the truth, but the methodology applied setting out the findings in a logical way for an audience to make up their own minds.

Clearly, these investigators put truth and honesty ahead of sensationalism. This book could have been dressed up into much more than what it is, but at what cost? Not the investigator’s integrity, or reputations or dedication to seeking the truth. These guys produced this book knowing their motives, methodologies and approaches would come under close scrutiny by sceptics, and rightfully so.

However, what has been put into words is a genuine search for truth set about with an open mind, using scientific approaches to understand the unknown, unexplored in a way that offers not only the reader, but the investigators tangible evidence for further debate about a subject we know so little about.

Impressed, I read the book again, slowly, taking in the minutia I previously missed. This time, I sought to understand what many of us fear, death, the unknown, what comes next and what we’ve left behind. I was awestruck with the bravery displayed collecting evidence in circumstances many of us would have fled in terror. Producing an authentic set of recordings and observations, through which we can make our own determinations has been achieved in my view.

In all, a thoroughly good read.

[Katie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Stories were definitely interesting. I appreciated the author's candor on his approach to paranormal investigations - some of the ethics involved, how he prefers investigations to run, and his decision to approach more as a skeptic and make sure he's not putting stories out there without evidence to support them. Still, while the clips that were provided with the book could be interesting, for the most part, they fell into the my category of 'hearing what you want to hear.' I have heard EVPs that are pretty convincing, and some of these were, but some of these subtitled clips I feel like they are reaching quite a bit.

The locations the author covered were interesting as well, and he does his homework on the history (distinguishing between rumors and verifiable history) of each. Still, they began to feel a little repetitive, especially the descriptions of each investigation conducted.

Overall, interesting, but not captivating.

[Harvey Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting book that shows the thinking process and systems that "ghost hunters" use. Jeff Cole wrote this book from the viewpoint of a skeptic, and delved into the paranormal investigations by contacting existing organizations near where he lived. He then joined some groups on actual investigations into the paranormal.

He did find some interesting things, and the book includes codes to scan that sends the reader to U-Tube, where ghostly sounds can actually be heard and experienced.

He also lists out all the equipment that ghost hunters use, and makes comments on what's good and what's not so good to use, should you want to pursue this activity on your own.

Quick read.

[Sallee · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is unusual in that it offers an interaction that allows you to hear and see what thego author experienced in his paranormal adventures. For people who are interested in the study of the paranormal, ghost hunters, if you will, this is a precise book of how to do it correctly, what equipment is needed for investigations and is a great primer on how to investigate properly. It is also chilling if you are frightened of things that go "boom" in the night. I'd rather read about it than experience it.

[Tolly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very interesting to read about the investigations of a ghost hunter. I found the subject matter spooky and interesting. And the backstories on the haunted places were fascinating. Good building from less to more scary too! Would like more stories, so hopefully there is a sequel.

[Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really great read! It's engaging, and perfect for anyone who is interested in ghost hunter shows.

[Pet · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is an incredibly interesting read.
The writer doesn’t talk down or fill the book with technical babble, instead it’s like reading the journey of a future investigator from the slightly curious through the in-the-making and on to becoming a professional.
The narrative is exciting, astounding, enlightening, scary as hell and really makes the reader sit up and think (not to mention keeping this reader looking over her shoulder for the next few nights) while thoroughly enjoying the fascinating trip Jeff and John takes them on.

Do I now believe in ghost? Hmmmm...though I am more intrigued than I was.

What I can say for definite is that Ghostly Encounters will stay in my memory long after I closed the book on the last page. It’s got that kind of feel to it, and I highly recommend it to everyone.

[Vibeke Hiatt · Rating 4 out of 5]

This wasn't quite what I expected, but I still enjoyed it. The author has a very relatable voice and I agree with his investigative methods. At times, he went a little deeper into the history than necessary (especially with Gettysburg), but I didn't mind it too much because of his style.

Paranormal experiences made up only a fraction of the book, but I liked the interactive nature of it, with QR codes taking the reader to audio files of EVPs. I understand Cole's reluctance to share apparition sightings without supporting video evidence. Still, I would have liked to hear some of the stories. Cole's tone and voice came across as trustworthy and I wouldn't need video to believe him.

If you want to understand the life of a paranormal investigator from investigations to equipment to mundane everyday habits, this book is a great window into that world.

[Diana Lester · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good for Jeff, writing the unvarnished story of how underwhelming ghost hunting can be. I liked that he pointed out the shortcomings of some ghost-hunting tools. His descriptions of going to the locations seemed positively mundane, and not what I expected based on what one sees on TV shows. If you're hoping to be blown away by the evidence he found at the sites he visited, it's underwhelming. To be honest, the Haunted Directly Appendix at the end was far scarier than the book itself. If you're a ghost hunter, Appendix 1 also a great reference for places you might like to investigate.

[Christine Jeffords · Rating 2 out of 5]

The major defect of this book is that you need to have a smartphone to fully appreciate it. This is because Cole has included many QR codes that you scan to listen to the recordings he made in assorted "haunted" houses. Without the sound, you come away with the conviction that he believes there was, or is, *something* in all the places he has visited, but you don't know what it is. So, fair warning: if you don't have a smart, borrow a friend's.

[Matt Partain · Rating 5 out of 5]

Need More Paranormal Books Like This

I really appreciated Jeff's approach in this book, giving historic info, scientific info, and the experiences with the C-Bid team. I wish I'd find more books like this, as opposed to just ghost story paranormal books. This book fed the fire I have with paranormal experiences. I highly recommend this book if you're interested in accurate and immersive paranormal experiences.

[Elizabeth · Rating 2 out of 5]

Meh

[ette · Rating 1 out of 5]

It’s ok
Not super well written

[Channing · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book falls somewhere between 2 and a 2.5. While I found the locations and the history interesting, the writing left much to be desired.

The constant reference to the author being an investigator got to be a bit much and the numerous times he brought up a specific ghost hunting tv show (rhymes with shmost shmadventures) and then criticized it made for a less objective narration than I would have liked. He was also quite critical of other paranormal groups that he didn't feel were being operated the way HE felt they should have been. Tack on a rant about people, their dogs and children's behavior at Gettysburg and he just comes across as a curmudgeon with a bone to pick with anyone who isn't just like him.

The investigation photos are too grainy and too low of resolution to really be useful. Color photos would have been a nice touch.

I'm not trying to nitpick this book to pieces, it was different than what I had expected. The high points were the history of the locations, and a background of the tech equipment. I did like that there were QR codes, although it became tedious at times to scan and wait to hear the EVP's.

[Monica · Rating 3 out of 5]

Full of technical info and discussion of protocol, method, and gear. Many QR codes to link to audiovisual which I found jarring but which makes sense in the context of each investigation.

[Cheryl Leslie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an interesting look at how ghost-hunters work, the types of equipment they use and the problems they face when they do an investigation. The book includes links to evidence that was caught during the investigations made by the author. I felt a little closer to the author and to C-Bus paranormal group because I lived in Ohio for a few years and know the state.
This is a bit of a short book. I liked the photos and the links.
If you are into ghosts or ghost hunting, I recommend this book.

[Stacy · Rating 3 out of 5]

The links and EVPs are a nice touch, but the writing isn't as lyrical as I like.