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Paranormal Texas: Your Travel Guide to Haunted Places near Dallas & Fort Worth
If you like ghost stories about real haunted houses and the supernatural, check out Paranormal Texas.
Not only does Tui Snider share haunted history behind the ghost stories and paranormal activity in the Dallas - Fort Worth area, but she gives directions to haunted houses, businesses, and other supernatural hot spots you can visit in person, such as the:
*Serial Killer's Grave where EVP's & Anomalous Photos are Common
*Amusement Park where a Little Girl Haunts the Candy Store
*Country Graveyard with a Mysteriously Glowing Tombstone
*Hotel so Haunted that a University Teaches Parapsychology there
*Elevator that Opens By Itself when Pretty Women Walk By
*Historic Cemetery where People get EVP's & Orbs in Broad Daylight
*Ghost Town with an Operatic Apparition & a Haunted Restaurant
*B&B with a Gentlemanly Ghost who seems Protective of Women
*Theater that Kept its Resident Ghost in Mind when Remodeling
*Historic Town Squares where nearly Every Shop has a Ghost
198 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 19, 2014
26 people are currently reading
527 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
October 11, 2019
Paranormal Texas by Tui Snider is a 2019 publication.
This is a fantastic non-fictional travel guide to the various true hauntings the author discovered in and around the Dallas-Ft. Worth area. The book provides fascinating background information about the haunted places discussed in the book and includes many of the author’s personal ghost hunting experiences.
Since I live reasonably close to the DFW region, I am in driving distance to some of the towns and locations listed in the book. Yet, I was only familiar with a handful of these stories.
Granbury is a favorite spot for me, as they have a nice town square with specialty shops, antiques, and collectables, but it is also famous for the Granbury Opera House. This is a wonderful historic area but has long been rumored to be haunted. The Opera House has a truly fascinating ghost story I think most people would find quite interesting. I was aware of most of the stories centered in the area, though not all. But I loved reading about this section because it is so familiar to me. I’ve never seen a ghost or had a paranormal experience there, though.
I was also familiar with some of the stories listed in the town of Mineral Wells and have driven through this area several times. But I did not know much of the town’s history or the information about the minerals in the water, which is how the town got its name.
In fact, all the information provided in the book will be of interest to anyone who enjoys history, even if you aren’t from Texas, or never plan on mapping out your own ghost hunting tour.
A couple of things I feel must be stressed before you start reading this book:
1) This book does not mention urban legends or old folklore tales unless there has been some real evidence of a haunting. The author has only included locations that have some paranormal readings or first- hand accountings.
2) This second edition of the book includes photographs, the authors’ first- hand experiences, and real evidence of hauntings.
The travel guide to these spooky locations includes addresses and directions, as well as information about accessibility.
I loved reading these ghost stories and the interesting history behind them. My ghost hunting days are in the past, but this book would be very helpful for those planning a historical journey or a ghost hunting adventure through this area of Texas.
It would also be a great gift idea! I have a close relative who loves ghost hunting tours. In fact, just a few weeks ago they traveled with a group of friends down to the Galveston area where they took in a ghost tour and explored alleged hauntings, one in a Wal Mart store! LOL!
They also stayed at a haunted hotel where the lights in the bathroom began flickering on and off-and yes, they recorded it with their cell phones. It was super freaky. So, guess who will be getting a copy of this book for Christmas?
Overall, this is a fascinating book. It’s fun, informative, and more than a little spooky! I got goosebumps more than once! This book will really put you in the mood for Halloween, too!
This is a fantastic non-fictional travel guide to the various true hauntings the author discovered in and around the Dallas-Ft. Worth area. The book provides fascinating background information about the haunted places discussed in the book and includes many of the author’s personal ghost hunting experiences.
Since I live reasonably close to the DFW region, I am in driving distance to some of the towns and locations listed in the book. Yet, I was only familiar with a handful of these stories.
Granbury is a favorite spot for me, as they have a nice town square with specialty shops, antiques, and collectables, but it is also famous for the Granbury Opera House. This is a wonderful historic area but has long been rumored to be haunted. The Opera House has a truly fascinating ghost story I think most people would find quite interesting. I was aware of most of the stories centered in the area, though not all. But I loved reading about this section because it is so familiar to me. I’ve never seen a ghost or had a paranormal experience there, though.
I was also familiar with some of the stories listed in the town of Mineral Wells and have driven through this area several times. But I did not know much of the town’s history or the information about the minerals in the water, which is how the town got its name.
In fact, all the information provided in the book will be of interest to anyone who enjoys history, even if you aren’t from Texas, or never plan on mapping out your own ghost hunting tour.
A couple of things I feel must be stressed before you start reading this book:
1) This book does not mention urban legends or old folklore tales unless there has been some real evidence of a haunting. The author has only included locations that have some paranormal readings or first- hand accountings.
2) This second edition of the book includes photographs, the authors’ first- hand experiences, and real evidence of hauntings.
The travel guide to these spooky locations includes addresses and directions, as well as information about accessibility.
I loved reading these ghost stories and the interesting history behind them. My ghost hunting days are in the past, but this book would be very helpful for those planning a historical journey or a ghost hunting adventure through this area of Texas.
It would also be a great gift idea! I have a close relative who loves ghost hunting tours. In fact, just a few weeks ago they traveled with a group of friends down to the Galveston area where they took in a ghost tour and explored alleged hauntings, one in a Wal Mart store! LOL!
They also stayed at a haunted hotel where the lights in the bathroom began flickering on and off-and yes, they recorded it with their cell phones. It was super freaky. So, guess who will be getting a copy of this book for Christmas?
Overall, this is a fascinating book. It’s fun, informative, and more than a little spooky! I got goosebumps more than once! This book will really put you in the mood for Halloween, too!
October 10, 2019
This haunted handbook is the perfect eerie escort to usher in the Halloween spirit(s).
Thank you so much to Castle Azle Press, LSBBT, and the author for providing me with a final copy in exchange for an honest review.
What I love about an author like Snider is that she’s not only open, but also extremely receptive to feedback. Her willingness to listen to her readers is the reason this new-and-improved volume exists. Fans of the O.G. Paranormal Texas requested photos, additional venues, more personal encounters, and extra evidence next time around, and Snider took those suggestions and ran with it. Adding approximately 100 black-and-white images, new haunts, updated sightings, and (my personal favorite) an interactive online evidence database, Snider’s second edition provides the ideal travel tool for DFW’s spookiest spots.
Covering everything from Arlington to Weatherford, this ghostly guide is easy to navigate thanks to the city-divided index featured within the book’s first few pages. I’d be lying if I said I didn’t immediately scroll to my hometown to ensure a lack of haunted hideouts in my neighborhood. Thankfully none have yet to be reported, but I am now aware of a few phantasmal locales I have visited in the past. 😱
Broken up into specific supernatural sites, this spine-chilling guide provides brief blurbs that include a short history of the location, info on the whereabouts (addresses, as well as helpful hints on how to find it), glimpses into the previous reveals, and trigger items to bring along to spark some scary encounters. And while that could easily become a boring, rinse-wash-repeat infodump, Snider incorporates enough lore and punny humor to keep readers invested. Because let’s be real, it’s not often you read a guidebook cover-to-cover in one sitting, but Snider’s managed to make me do just that. Thanks to her seemingly effortless ability to blend the genres of an informative travel resource with an entertaining ghost story, Paranormal Texas is equally fun and functional. And, at times, truly terrifying. There were several passages that gave me the chills and left me pining for the day I’ll be brave enough to listen to the audio files from Snider’s visit at Olde Park Hotel or check out the “proof” photo from the Fort worth Museum of Science and History. (Read: if you’re braver than me feel free to check them out now in the evidence database link above.)
Whether you’re a thrill seeker ready to go on the hunt immediately, a scaredy-cat on the lookout for places to avoid (I’m looking at you Screaming bridge — Bridgeport), or someone that just wants to know some fun facts about the community around you (i.e. the DeGolyer Mansion library…HOW did I not know about this??), Snider’s guide is the book for you!
Thank you so much to Castle Azle Press, LSBBT, and the author for providing me with a final copy in exchange for an honest review.
What I love about an author like Snider is that she’s not only open, but also extremely receptive to feedback. Her willingness to listen to her readers is the reason this new-and-improved volume exists. Fans of the O.G. Paranormal Texas requested photos, additional venues, more personal encounters, and extra evidence next time around, and Snider took those suggestions and ran with it. Adding approximately 100 black-and-white images, new haunts, updated sightings, and (my personal favorite) an interactive online evidence database, Snider’s second edition provides the ideal travel tool for DFW’s spookiest spots.
Covering everything from Arlington to Weatherford, this ghostly guide is easy to navigate thanks to the city-divided index featured within the book’s first few pages. I’d be lying if I said I didn’t immediately scroll to my hometown to ensure a lack of haunted hideouts in my neighborhood. Thankfully none have yet to be reported, but I am now aware of a few phantasmal locales I have visited in the past. 😱
Broken up into specific supernatural sites, this spine-chilling guide provides brief blurbs that include a short history of the location, info on the whereabouts (addresses, as well as helpful hints on how to find it), glimpses into the previous reveals, and trigger items to bring along to spark some scary encounters. And while that could easily become a boring, rinse-wash-repeat infodump, Snider incorporates enough lore and punny humor to keep readers invested. Because let’s be real, it’s not often you read a guidebook cover-to-cover in one sitting, but Snider’s managed to make me do just that. Thanks to her seemingly effortless ability to blend the genres of an informative travel resource with an entertaining ghost story, Paranormal Texas is equally fun and functional. And, at times, truly terrifying. There were several passages that gave me the chills and left me pining for the day I’ll be brave enough to listen to the audio files from Snider’s visit at Olde Park Hotel or check out the “proof” photo from the Fort worth Museum of Science and History. (Read: if you’re braver than me feel free to check them out now in the evidence database link above.)
Whether you’re a thrill seeker ready to go on the hunt immediately, a scaredy-cat on the lookout for places to avoid (I’m looking at you Screaming bridge — Bridgeport), or someone that just wants to know some fun facts about the community around you (i.e. the DeGolyer Mansion library…HOW did I not know about this??), Snider’s guide is the book for you!
October 2, 2019
This is a book you will want to keep in your glovebox!
I am always looking for new and different things to do on the weekend and this book came along at the perfect time. While I haven't gone exploring my town yet, I have marked many pages to see what is around me.
Since I live in Arlington, I, of course, had to check out those spots first. The first location that caught my eye was the Lost Cemetary of Infants, only because it was in another book I read recently about the Home for the Redemption and Protection of Erring Girls that was in operation in the late 1800s. There are several other spots around town that are mentioned including Crystal Cavern, the Screaming Bridge, and the Arlington City Cemetary. With Halloween coming up, these will make a nice outing on a couple of days.
Once I made it past my town, I was amazed at the number of other locations around the DFW area. This is why it would be good in your glovebox...find yourself with a little time while visiting friends or family? See what is close by in Tui's book and head on over.
I also enjoyed the history and detail as to why these locations have paranormal backgrounds. The stories are short but fact-filled and intriguing. There is even a story about the performance hall at Texas Wesleyan University where I attended college. I had heard these stories while I was there but don't think I ever saw any signs of paranormal activity. Must have been an off day!
We have to give this book 5 paws up because it is a great source of activity for the whole family. Perhaps Tui will write a book about the rest of the state so we can continue to explore the paranormal across this state.
I am always looking for new and different things to do on the weekend and this book came along at the perfect time. While I haven't gone exploring my town yet, I have marked many pages to see what is around me.
Since I live in Arlington, I, of course, had to check out those spots first. The first location that caught my eye was the Lost Cemetary of Infants, only because it was in another book I read recently about the Home for the Redemption and Protection of Erring Girls that was in operation in the late 1800s. There are several other spots around town that are mentioned including Crystal Cavern, the Screaming Bridge, and the Arlington City Cemetary. With Halloween coming up, these will make a nice outing on a couple of days.
Once I made it past my town, I was amazed at the number of other locations around the DFW area. This is why it would be good in your glovebox...find yourself with a little time while visiting friends or family? See what is close by in Tui's book and head on over.
I also enjoyed the history and detail as to why these locations have paranormal backgrounds. The stories are short but fact-filled and intriguing. There is even a story about the performance hall at Texas Wesleyan University where I attended college. I had heard these stories while I was there but don't think I ever saw any signs of paranormal activity. Must have been an off day!
We have to give this book 5 paws up because it is a great source of activity for the whole family. Perhaps Tui will write a book about the rest of the state so we can continue to explore the paranormal across this state.
October 4, 2019
What a breath of fresh air it is to read Paranormal Texas: Your Travel Guide to HAUNTED PLACES near Dallas & Fort Worth, 2nd Edition. From the book’s subject matter to its author’s style of writing, Paranormal Texas is a fun and informative step outside the box from any travel guide I’ve read before.
“If there’s one thing I learned while researching places to include in Paranormal Texas, it’s that where there’s history, there will be hauntings!”
Author Tui Snider’s guide takes readers to twenty-five cities in and around Dallas-Fort Worth and shares the histories of the places within each town in order to set the stage for why any of them might be or are haunted. Snider even pulls in some urban myths popular to some areas to further entertain and amuse readers. The author has personal experiences in many of the places mentioned in the book, which again puts it into a different category of travel guide. Oh, and there are the ghost stories!
Snider’s writing style is informal and feels like reading a series of letters from a girlfriend. She’s not trying to convince anyone of anything; rather, Snider encourages readers to explore, experience, and draw their own conclusions. Readers can even take things to the next level by the opportunities for interaction on Snider’s Paranormal Texas Evidence Database (Bit.ly/ParaTex), a bare-bones work-in-progress for examples of paranormal evidence to be shared. (I went down that rabbit hole. FASCINATING!)
I was amazed at how much local history I learned despite having lived most of my fifty plus years in the DFW area. How had I missed the haunted bookstores and libraries? And the horrifying mass lynchings of 1862 in Gainesville? Had no idea. Of course, I have to let Tui know about another haunted location in Fort Worth that needs exploring -- the Fort Worth Club Hotel -- and I can connect her to a person with the first-hand experience. No FOAF (friend-of-a-friend) account here.
Whether you are a non-believer, a paranormal skeptic, or all-in, Paranormal Texas is a book that has much to offer anyone interested in seeing Texas from an off-beat angle. There is no doubt in my mind that if I were to visit every town and every place in the book, that even if I never experienced a single cold chill or saw a single floating orb, I’d have a blast because these places are what help define Texas, historical warts and all.
Thank you to Lone Star Book Blog Tours and the author for providing a handy print copy to take along on my adventures in exchange for my honest opinion – the only kind I give. This full review and more special features on Hall Ways Blog.
“If there’s one thing I learned while researching places to include in Paranormal Texas, it’s that where there’s history, there will be hauntings!”
Author Tui Snider’s guide takes readers to twenty-five cities in and around Dallas-Fort Worth and shares the histories of the places within each town in order to set the stage for why any of them might be or are haunted. Snider even pulls in some urban myths popular to some areas to further entertain and amuse readers. The author has personal experiences in many of the places mentioned in the book, which again puts it into a different category of travel guide. Oh, and there are the ghost stories!
Snider’s writing style is informal and feels like reading a series of letters from a girlfriend. She’s not trying to convince anyone of anything; rather, Snider encourages readers to explore, experience, and draw their own conclusions. Readers can even take things to the next level by the opportunities for interaction on Snider’s Paranormal Texas Evidence Database (Bit.ly/ParaTex), a bare-bones work-in-progress for examples of paranormal evidence to be shared. (I went down that rabbit hole. FASCINATING!)
I was amazed at how much local history I learned despite having lived most of my fifty plus years in the DFW area. How had I missed the haunted bookstores and libraries? And the horrifying mass lynchings of 1862 in Gainesville? Had no idea. Of course, I have to let Tui know about another haunted location in Fort Worth that needs exploring -- the Fort Worth Club Hotel -- and I can connect her to a person with the first-hand experience. No FOAF (friend-of-a-friend) account here.
Whether you are a non-believer, a paranormal skeptic, or all-in, Paranormal Texas is a book that has much to offer anyone interested in seeing Texas from an off-beat angle. There is no doubt in my mind that if I were to visit every town and every place in the book, that even if I never experienced a single cold chill or saw a single floating orb, I’d have a blast because these places are what help define Texas, historical warts and all.
Thank you to Lone Star Book Blog Tours and the author for providing a handy print copy to take along on my adventures in exchange for my honest opinion – the only kind I give. This full review and more special features on Hall Ways Blog.
October 13, 2019
I have always been fascinated by the paranormal, especially when it comes to true encounters. I've watched all the shows - Ghost Adventures, Ghosthunters, Paranormal State, The Haunting Of, and who could forget the unfortunately short-lived The Lowe Files featuring the beautifully magnificent Rob Lowe and sons. I love hearing stories that other people have with something that seems to defy explanation, and in the spirit of the Halloween season, it seemed completely apropos to check out a travel guide about haunted places in North Texas!
This region specific guide focuses on haunted historical sites in the Dallas/Ft. Worth area and is arranged alphabetically by city, making it a quick reference if you find yourself in or headed to one of those locations. A short history is provided for each place along with examples of either firsthand accounts or the author's personal experience about the hauntings said to have occurred. The author also provides the address and other details that will aid in getting you to the right area: "It's my intention to send readers on a wild ghost chase, not a wild goose chase!" Though the majority of these hot spots are public places, I love that she also makes it a point to mention in her introduction that "[s]imply being a curious person does not exempt you from the law." As people who want to believe, we are but mere stewards of the paranormal and must act respectfully in our quest for knowledge, so that everyone can enjoy the possibility as well.
An addition made for this edition includes photographs for the majority of the places mentioned, a recommendation from the direct feedback of readers. I did receive both a digital and print copy of the book, and I must say the color photographs contained within the digital version really heighten the creep factor to some of the images. The black and white images in the print copy are still incredibly valuable, so it's really a personal preference for the reader as to which version you decide to acquire.
As a Central Texas resident, I don't find myself up in the DFW area often, but the next time we find ourselves in McKinney visiting good friends, I would love to check out the winery and prison. I graduated from the University of North Texas in Denton and wished I had known then about Recycled Books! I'm definitely adding that to my next visit.
Though this may seem like an overly specific and unusually niche guide for fans of ghosthunting, the author is a master at telling an entertaining and spooky tale that whets the palate just enough to get a road trip going. A great adventure awaits for skeptics and believers alike!
Many thanks to Lone Star Book Blog Tours and the author for providing me with a free copy of this book. This is my honest and thoughtful review.
October 9, 2019
Ghostbusters movies. Doctor Who. Harry Potter. Urban Fantasy books. I love them all. But truly, I’m a skeptic. Without proof, I can’t accept that ghosts and other objects that go bump in the night (or day!) exist. But as the saying goes, I Want to Believe. And Tui Snider’s second edition of Paranormal Texas is a great travel guide to help lead the reader find that proof her\himself.
This travel guide is well-organized. The sections are broken down by location, with the table of contents listing haunted sites to visit. For this reader, I think that the organization of the novel is key. If I’m headed to Aurora, I can consult the list of locations in this area that I might want to visit. Each site is listed with an address, directions, and a website if available. The introduction includes a list of jargon for the paranormal novice which was very helpful. (My ability to remember acronyms is not great. Having the bookmarked reference was my salvation.) The guide includes well-researched locations and a conversational writing style that’s enjoyable to read. In random facts, while reading Paranormal Texas, I learned that the lead cow in a herd is called “Molly”!
If you are worried the paranormal might be too scary for you, this book also covers benign and\or friendly paranormal entities. I enjoyed the story of “Otis” the elevator ghost from the Sammons Center in Dallas.
“If an attractive lady passes by, no matter the time of day or night, the elevator door frequently opens before she pushes the call button.”
How great is that? An elevator that is ready when you need it.
I didn’t have the opportunity to read the first edition of Paranormal Texas, but the improvements for the second edition really stand out for me. I love the addition of photos. I especially appreciate the addition of Ms. Snider’s personal experiences. Her experiences at the Old Park Hotel in Ballinger gave me chills while reading it. I also genuinely admire Ms. Snider’s husband, Larry. I identify with his skepticism and his belief in the multi-verse theory. I love his nickname of “Archie Debunker”!
In the end, I’m still skeptical about the existence of paranormal entities. But I do have a longer list of locations to visit in the Dallas area. I thoroughly enjoyed reading Paranormal Texas and would recommend it to anyone interested in travel guides, Texas, or the paranormal.
This travel guide is well-organized. The sections are broken down by location, with the table of contents listing haunted sites to visit. For this reader, I think that the organization of the novel is key. If I’m headed to Aurora, I can consult the list of locations in this area that I might want to visit. Each site is listed with an address, directions, and a website if available. The introduction includes a list of jargon for the paranormal novice which was very helpful. (My ability to remember acronyms is not great. Having the bookmarked reference was my salvation.) The guide includes well-researched locations and a conversational writing style that’s enjoyable to read. In random facts, while reading Paranormal Texas, I learned that the lead cow in a herd is called “Molly”!
If you are worried the paranormal might be too scary for you, this book also covers benign and\or friendly paranormal entities. I enjoyed the story of “Otis” the elevator ghost from the Sammons Center in Dallas.
“If an attractive lady passes by, no matter the time of day or night, the elevator door frequently opens before she pushes the call button.”
How great is that? An elevator that is ready when you need it.
I didn’t have the opportunity to read the first edition of Paranormal Texas, but the improvements for the second edition really stand out for me. I love the addition of photos. I especially appreciate the addition of Ms. Snider’s personal experiences. Her experiences at the Old Park Hotel in Ballinger gave me chills while reading it. I also genuinely admire Ms. Snider’s husband, Larry. I identify with his skepticism and his belief in the multi-verse theory. I love his nickname of “Archie Debunker”!
In the end, I’m still skeptical about the existence of paranormal entities. But I do have a longer list of locations to visit in the Dallas area. I thoroughly enjoyed reading Paranormal Texas and would recommend it to anyone interested in travel guides, Texas, or the paranormal.
October 5, 2019
So persuasive. Y’all will want to go to the haunted places mentioned in this book.
Full review is at maidamalby.com
Full review is at maidamalby.com
October 14, 2019
Featured on Lone Star Book Blog Tours Lone Star Blogger Team average rating: 4.8 Stars.
October 6, 2019
I don’t always choose to drop my name in the hat for each book review opportunity that pops up in our blogger group. But, seeing as how Halloween was coming up, and, quite frankly, seeing as how this book looked totes awesome, I nearly screamed my ever-loving lungs out whilst filling out the review request form. It’s a good thing that Google forms don’t record sound, ‘cause Kristine would prolly’ve called the Po-Po thinkin’ there’d been some bloody-murder occurrence.
At any rate, I squealed with glee when I received my autographed … YES, AUTOGRAPHED (y’all know I lurve it when the author signs the book) copy in the mail. I was so uppity about the signed copy that I didn’t even realize that the fabulous Tui Snider had also included a cute handwritten postcard (featuring herself and an alien-looking dude. Y’all know I lurve me some aliens!) until I carefully (‘cause y’all know I love my books to remain looking new) turned back the cover and –
Out popped the SWAG!
“Be still my beating heart!” I says to myself. “Herself must be a kindred spirit!” I also says to myself.
Gaze upon the splendor. Is it not Coolio?
Alas, I digress from my moment of fangirlitude.
I know…I know. Y’all came here for a book review. And so, I shall sally-forth and tally-ho, yo!
Y’all. This book … gosh … this book is just plain F to the U to the N – FUN! The other day, I saw a post on Facebook in which one of my friends was saying how she wishes she could do some traveling like she sees some other people on Facebook doing.
PARANORMAL TEXAS by Tui Snider is the kind of book that makes you feel as if you’ve just taken an enthralling, albeit spooky, road trip with your BFF.
I plan on messaging that FB friend and advising her to grab a copy of this book. Because, it really, truly does feel as if I’ve taken a drive across Texas to some places I’d like to visit – and to some places I actually have visited years ago – whilst doing some ghost (and alien) hunting.
Snider takes you for an informative ride to, and a guide through, some of the most haunted places near Dallas & Fort Worth, Texas. I totes geeked out over the history she weaves throughout each haunted visit. The backstory of each place was also enthralling. Y’all know I’m a history nerd – I minored in history at university, after all! And I really loved how she managed to clear the name of one poor dude who’d been accused all these years of having murdered his entire family, before hanging himself. Poor ole fella had been innocent all along (though the folks of his own time actually knew how he and his family died) No, I ain’t gonna tell ya! You’ve gotta read the book to find out this kinda stuff, yo!
Now, y’all know I don’t give any spoilers, and I wish y’all would stop asking. No, I won’t give away any in this review, either. But what I will give you are these deets:
This book is organized alphabetically by the town names, and then by HAUNTED sites within each town. This is very handy for those who’d love to plan an actual road trip (unlike the armchair one I took.) Each section includes enough information, without droning on and on. Short, fun, and to the point.
I simply loved the Introduction. I got a really good feel for the author’s sense of humor and writing style, before digging into the meat of the book.
One of my absolute geekiologiest (I just made that word up) moments in reading PARANORMAL TEXAS was in the Introduction. The author has actually created the Paranormal Texas Evidence Database where readers can go check out some EVPs and other stuff to scare the doowocky out of themselves in the dark of the night (‘cause that’s when I do my best reading – and writing – in the dark of the night. Hence the perpetual dark circles under my eyes.) She also gives readers the option to submit their own spooky stories to her via email to be added to the database.
Should I submit my story about those freaky, disembodied legs I experienced just up the road from here?
Hmm …. I may just do that.
Okay, okay, I might give y’all one teeny tiny itsy-bitsy spoiler: there’s a Texas cemetery that I’ve long wished to visit. I’m not going to tell you the name of it, but I will tell you that it’s known to contain the grave of an extraterrestrial that died in a fiery UFO crash in the 1800s. Yes. You can imagine my level of midnight geekitudology (I just made up this word, too) whilst reading that section. Or…maybe you can’t. Prolly not.
Oh! Before I forget …
One of my fave things of this book is that Snider has included photos she took, herself, of many of the places she visited whilst writing PARANORMAL TEXAS. The photos are in black and white. Normally, I would scoff at the fact that they weren’t in color. But, truthfully, the black and white photos lend that extra je ne sais quoi of spookiness to the pages of chilling ghost stories and hauntings in Snider’s PARANMORAL TEXAS.
I fear I may have droned on for too long here. Suffice it to say that I truly enjoyed PARANORMAL TEXAS by Tui Snider. It’s a great book to read for any time of year, but especially for the month of October … when spirits find that opening in the fabric betwixt this world and the next and slip through to scare the doowockie out of the unsuspecting living.
Grab a copy for yourself and and one for your BFF! Plan a spooky October road trip, even if it’s an armchair one! And come back here and let me know which was your favorite stop along the way of haunted places near Dallas & Fort Worth!
The bottom line of this here review of PARANORMAL TEXAS by Tui Snider is this:
Snider’s writing is witty, engaging, and intelligent … just plain fun!
And that’s why I hereby grant
PARANORMAL TEXAS by Tui Snider
5 Gleaming Scary As All Get Out Brooms!
At any rate, I squealed with glee when I received my autographed … YES, AUTOGRAPHED (y’all know I lurve it when the author signs the book) copy in the mail. I was so uppity about the signed copy that I didn’t even realize that the fabulous Tui Snider had also included a cute handwritten postcard (featuring herself and an alien-looking dude. Y’all know I lurve me some aliens!) until I carefully (‘cause y’all know I love my books to remain looking new) turned back the cover and –
Out popped the SWAG!
“Be still my beating heart!” I says to myself. “Herself must be a kindred spirit!” I also says to myself.
Gaze upon the splendor. Is it not Coolio?
Alas, I digress from my moment of fangirlitude.
I know…I know. Y’all came here for a book review. And so, I shall sally-forth and tally-ho, yo!
Y’all. This book … gosh … this book is just plain F to the U to the N – FUN! The other day, I saw a post on Facebook in which one of my friends was saying how she wishes she could do some traveling like she sees some other people on Facebook doing.
PARANORMAL TEXAS by Tui Snider is the kind of book that makes you feel as if you’ve just taken an enthralling, albeit spooky, road trip with your BFF.
I plan on messaging that FB friend and advising her to grab a copy of this book. Because, it really, truly does feel as if I’ve taken a drive across Texas to some places I’d like to visit – and to some places I actually have visited years ago – whilst doing some ghost (and alien) hunting.
Snider takes you for an informative ride to, and a guide through, some of the most haunted places near Dallas & Fort Worth, Texas. I totes geeked out over the history she weaves throughout each haunted visit. The backstory of each place was also enthralling. Y’all know I’m a history nerd – I minored in history at university, after all! And I really loved how she managed to clear the name of one poor dude who’d been accused all these years of having murdered his entire family, before hanging himself. Poor ole fella had been innocent all along (though the folks of his own time actually knew how he and his family died) No, I ain’t gonna tell ya! You’ve gotta read the book to find out this kinda stuff, yo!
Now, y’all know I don’t give any spoilers, and I wish y’all would stop asking. No, I won’t give away any in this review, either. But what I will give you are these deets:
This book is organized alphabetically by the town names, and then by HAUNTED sites within each town. This is very handy for those who’d love to plan an actual road trip (unlike the armchair one I took.) Each section includes enough information, without droning on and on. Short, fun, and to the point.
I simply loved the Introduction. I got a really good feel for the author’s sense of humor and writing style, before digging into the meat of the book.
One of my absolute geekiologiest (I just made that word up) moments in reading PARANORMAL TEXAS was in the Introduction. The author has actually created the Paranormal Texas Evidence Database where readers can go check out some EVPs and other stuff to scare the doowocky out of themselves in the dark of the night (‘cause that’s when I do my best reading – and writing – in the dark of the night. Hence the perpetual dark circles under my eyes.) She also gives readers the option to submit their own spooky stories to her via email to be added to the database.
Should I submit my story about those freaky, disembodied legs I experienced just up the road from here?
Hmm …. I may just do that.
Okay, okay, I might give y’all one teeny tiny itsy-bitsy spoiler: there’s a Texas cemetery that I’ve long wished to visit. I’m not going to tell you the name of it, but I will tell you that it’s known to contain the grave of an extraterrestrial that died in a fiery UFO crash in the 1800s. Yes. You can imagine my level of midnight geekitudology (I just made up this word, too) whilst reading that section. Or…maybe you can’t. Prolly not.
Oh! Before I forget …
One of my fave things of this book is that Snider has included photos she took, herself, of many of the places she visited whilst writing PARANORMAL TEXAS. The photos are in black and white. Normally, I would scoff at the fact that they weren’t in color. But, truthfully, the black and white photos lend that extra je ne sais quoi of spookiness to the pages of chilling ghost stories and hauntings in Snider’s PARANMORAL TEXAS.
I fear I may have droned on for too long here. Suffice it to say that I truly enjoyed PARANORMAL TEXAS by Tui Snider. It’s a great book to read for any time of year, but especially for the month of October … when spirits find that opening in the fabric betwixt this world and the next and slip through to scare the doowockie out of the unsuspecting living.
Grab a copy for yourself and and one for your BFF! Plan a spooky October road trip, even if it’s an armchair one! And come back here and let me know which was your favorite stop along the way of haunted places near Dallas & Fort Worth!
The bottom line of this here review of PARANORMAL TEXAS by Tui Snider is this:
Snider’s writing is witty, engaging, and intelligent … just plain fun!
And that’s why I hereby grant
PARANORMAL TEXAS by Tui Snider
5 Gleaming Scary As All Get Out Brooms!
September 26, 2019
(This review will be on my blog All the Ups and Downs soon.)
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Those who know me know that I love the paranormal, mainly ghosts. When a chance came up to read Paranormal Texas by Tui Snider came about, I couldn't say no. As a Texas girl myself and a fan of all places ghostly, this seemed like the perfect book for me. I wasn't wrong!
Paranormal Texas by Tui Snider is a fantastic guidebook for those looking to chase ghosts in the great state of Texas, more specifically, towns and cities near Dallas and Fort Worth. I don't live near Dallas or Fort Worth, but I've been on vacation in and around there, and I will be taking future vacations in and around that area. In fact, I've been to two of the haunted locations featured in this book! I never even knew they were supposedly haunted at the time.
Tui Snider does a fantastic job of keeping readers interested in Paranormal Texas. She gives information about each place as well as local lore and/or personal encounters with each place. Tui also has a few urban legends in her book which are great for approaching locals with as long as they're into that sort of thing. Sometimes she gives the history behind each place which was my favorite thing. Personally, I would have liked to read more history about each place, but I was still happy nonetheless. What I really enjoyed was each place Tui mentioned wasn't a wall of text. It was concise and to the point. She also included photos of each place. These aren't photos of evidence though. The photos are just of the actual place itself which was a tad bit disappointing. I would have liked to see some photos of alleged evidence. However, Tui does have a website where you can look at paranormal photos, EVPs (electronic voice phenomenon), and more. (I'll go into detail about her website a little later.) All the photos are in black and white in my copy of Paranormal Texas. Mine is an ARC, so maybe the actual copies will have some colored photos.
One thing I really enjoyed about Paranormal Texas is that Tui Snider lists the address of each place, so you don't have to bother searching for it yourself. If it's a harder place to get to, Tui gives you directions of how best to get there. I thought this was a fantastic touch because when you want to look for ghosts, the last thing you want to do is waste time trying to find an address.
Another thing I am grateful for is how the book has each city listed alphabetically at the beginning and then each haunted location is listed for that city. This makes it a lot easier to find what city you're interested in to do some ghost exploring!
However, Paranormal Texas isn't just about haunted places in Texas. Tui Snider also writes about the techinal terms that come with ghost hunting which is great for those that are new to ghost hunting as well as how to be a respectful thrill seeker which has great information for even seasoned ghost hunters. I would advise not skipping the beginning of the book that has all this great advice simply because it will help enrich your reading experience with Paranormal Texas or any paranormal non-fiction book. Heck, it will probably even enrich your experience with even paranormal and supernatural fiction books!
Be sure to check out Tui Snider's online evidence database for Paranormal Texas which she mentions in her book. Like Paranormal Texas, she has each city listed alphabetically for you to listen and see supposed paranormal happenings. This is such a fantastic accompaniment to the book. It really makes the book come alive. It's like you're there! Definitely check out her online database. It will give you the chills. It's still a work in progress as Tui encourages readers to send in their own paranormal evidence as well, but still, it is great nonetheless.
Paranormal Texas is such a great guide for old and new ghost hunters alike. There is such a plethora of information within the pages. Trust me, not only are you learning about new ghost locations, but you are also being schooled on so much more. It's like a bonus lesson in history and ghost hunting, but one that is a lot of fun. I'd recommend leaving the lights on for this book. I'd definitely recommend Paranormal Texas by Tui Snider to those aged 16+ who love ghost stories, Texas, or those who just love to be spooked. You won't be disappointed!
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(A special thank you to Tui Snider for providing me with a paperback ARC of Paranormal Texas in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.)
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Those who know me know that I love the paranormal, mainly ghosts. When a chance came up to read Paranormal Texas by Tui Snider came about, I couldn't say no. As a Texas girl myself and a fan of all places ghostly, this seemed like the perfect book for me. I wasn't wrong!
Paranormal Texas by Tui Snider is a fantastic guidebook for those looking to chase ghosts in the great state of Texas, more specifically, towns and cities near Dallas and Fort Worth. I don't live near Dallas or Fort Worth, but I've been on vacation in and around there, and I will be taking future vacations in and around that area. In fact, I've been to two of the haunted locations featured in this book! I never even knew they were supposedly haunted at the time.
Tui Snider does a fantastic job of keeping readers interested in Paranormal Texas. She gives information about each place as well as local lore and/or personal encounters with each place. Tui also has a few urban legends in her book which are great for approaching locals with as long as they're into that sort of thing. Sometimes she gives the history behind each place which was my favorite thing. Personally, I would have liked to read more history about each place, but I was still happy nonetheless. What I really enjoyed was each place Tui mentioned wasn't a wall of text. It was concise and to the point. She also included photos of each place. These aren't photos of evidence though. The photos are just of the actual place itself which was a tad bit disappointing. I would have liked to see some photos of alleged evidence. However, Tui does have a website where you can look at paranormal photos, EVPs (electronic voice phenomenon), and more. (I'll go into detail about her website a little later.) All the photos are in black and white in my copy of Paranormal Texas. Mine is an ARC, so maybe the actual copies will have some colored photos.
One thing I really enjoyed about Paranormal Texas is that Tui Snider lists the address of each place, so you don't have to bother searching for it yourself. If it's a harder place to get to, Tui gives you directions of how best to get there. I thought this was a fantastic touch because when you want to look for ghosts, the last thing you want to do is waste time trying to find an address.
Another thing I am grateful for is how the book has each city listed alphabetically at the beginning and then each haunted location is listed for that city. This makes it a lot easier to find what city you're interested in to do some ghost exploring!
However, Paranormal Texas isn't just about haunted places in Texas. Tui Snider also writes about the techinal terms that come with ghost hunting which is great for those that are new to ghost hunting as well as how to be a respectful thrill seeker which has great information for even seasoned ghost hunters. I would advise not skipping the beginning of the book that has all this great advice simply because it will help enrich your reading experience with Paranormal Texas or any paranormal non-fiction book. Heck, it will probably even enrich your experience with even paranormal and supernatural fiction books!
Be sure to check out Tui Snider's online evidence database for Paranormal Texas which she mentions in her book. Like Paranormal Texas, she has each city listed alphabetically for you to listen and see supposed paranormal happenings. This is such a fantastic accompaniment to the book. It really makes the book come alive. It's like you're there! Definitely check out her online database. It will give you the chills. It's still a work in progress as Tui encourages readers to send in their own paranormal evidence as well, but still, it is great nonetheless.
Paranormal Texas is such a great guide for old and new ghost hunters alike. There is such a plethora of information within the pages. Trust me, not only are you learning about new ghost locations, but you are also being schooled on so much more. It's like a bonus lesson in history and ghost hunting, but one that is a lot of fun. I'd recommend leaving the lights on for this book. I'd definitely recommend Paranormal Texas by Tui Snider to those aged 16+ who love ghost stories, Texas, or those who just love to be spooked. You won't be disappointed!
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(A special thank you to Tui Snider for providing me with a paperback ARC of Paranormal Texas in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.)
October 1, 2019
Paranormal Texas by Tui Snider is a must read for anyone interested in exploring haunted sites across North Texas. While many of the ghosts highlighted in each chapter come across as somewhat friendly and harmless, the creepy factor is still pretty high. This collection is chock full of enough ghostly sightings and paranormal activity to keep any ghost hunter busy for a long time.
It stands to reason that haunted sites and paranormal activity are steeped in either historical facts or local lore, or both. Of course, some historical backstory is necessary to set the scene and introduce the spectral characters; however, Tui Snider's book is not bogged down with lengthy descriptions but is instead filled with quick snapshots (and some actual black/white snapshots) of only the pertinent information about each location and its resident ghosts. Tui Snider evidently possesses the enviable ability to present paranormal stories succinctly and with panache.
The author details haunted sites and offers physical and sometimes electronic addresses that serve as a jumping off point for readers to continue investigating on their own. If one (or more) of the stories captures your imagination, you can simply peruse the website or take a road trip and experience such paranormal activity for yourself. If you're not afraid, that is.
Tui Snider is obviously not afraid to explore and often stay at haunted hot spots to get that ever-elusive first-hand experience of ghostly encounters. While many entries in Paranormal Texas are based on Snider's research and interviews with the living, she often includes anecdotes of her own participation in discovering and experiencing some paranormal activity.
An interesting recurring theme in many of Snider's entries (and probably in many other ghost stories/urban legends as well) is the Lady in White. This lady has captured my imagination because I inevitably think of a bride, which makes me think of one of my favorite characters (who isn't actually a ghost...or is she?) in classic literature: Miss Havisham in Great Expectations by Charles Dickens. While the Lady in White is no doubt a different spirit across several of the entries in Paranormal Texas, it is fun to speculate on why so many ghostly figures are roaming around in a long white dress.
All of the entries in Paranormal Texas are well researched and beautifully presented, and several have piqued my interest for further investigation, which means a road trip may be in my foreseeable future. Some of my favorites include the Lost Cemetery of Infants (with the Industrial Home for the Redemption and Protection of Erring Girls) in Arlington, Texas (the name is haunting enough); Hill House Manor in Gainesville, Texas, which is touted as "one of the the creepiest houses in America" (I mostly like this one because the name reminds of Shirley Jackson's The Haunting of Hill House, so I need to check it out); and Mineola, Texas, because it is still a railroad town, and I am obsessed with trains and would love an excuse to hop on Amtrak again and take a slow adventure north to see (or hear) a few apparitions. Check out the full list in Paranormal Texas and build your own haunted itinerary.
With its brief historical snippets filled with colorful and often creepy ghostly encounters, Paranormal Texas will entertain just about any reader, including people who believe in ghosts, the firm skeptics who are convinced it is all a hoax, and those who are on the fence but still love a good ghost story. Which one are you?
It stands to reason that haunted sites and paranormal activity are steeped in either historical facts or local lore, or both. Of course, some historical backstory is necessary to set the scene and introduce the spectral characters; however, Tui Snider's book is not bogged down with lengthy descriptions but is instead filled with quick snapshots (and some actual black/white snapshots) of only the pertinent information about each location and its resident ghosts. Tui Snider evidently possesses the enviable ability to present paranormal stories succinctly and with panache.
The author details haunted sites and offers physical and sometimes electronic addresses that serve as a jumping off point for readers to continue investigating on their own. If one (or more) of the stories captures your imagination, you can simply peruse the website or take a road trip and experience such paranormal activity for yourself. If you're not afraid, that is.
Tui Snider is obviously not afraid to explore and often stay at haunted hot spots to get that ever-elusive first-hand experience of ghostly encounters. While many entries in Paranormal Texas are based on Snider's research and interviews with the living, she often includes anecdotes of her own participation in discovering and experiencing some paranormal activity.
An interesting recurring theme in many of Snider's entries (and probably in many other ghost stories/urban legends as well) is the Lady in White. This lady has captured my imagination because I inevitably think of a bride, which makes me think of one of my favorite characters (who isn't actually a ghost...or is she?) in classic literature: Miss Havisham in Great Expectations by Charles Dickens. While the Lady in White is no doubt a different spirit across several of the entries in Paranormal Texas, it is fun to speculate on why so many ghostly figures are roaming around in a long white dress.
All of the entries in Paranormal Texas are well researched and beautifully presented, and several have piqued my interest for further investigation, which means a road trip may be in my foreseeable future. Some of my favorites include the Lost Cemetery of Infants (with the Industrial Home for the Redemption and Protection of Erring Girls) in Arlington, Texas (the name is haunting enough); Hill House Manor in Gainesville, Texas, which is touted as "one of the the creepiest houses in America" (I mostly like this one because the name reminds of Shirley Jackson's The Haunting of Hill House, so I need to check it out); and Mineola, Texas, because it is still a railroad town, and I am obsessed with trains and would love an excuse to hop on Amtrak again and take a slow adventure north to see (or hear) a few apparitions. Check out the full list in Paranormal Texas and build your own haunted itinerary.
With its brief historical snippets filled with colorful and often creepy ghostly encounters, Paranormal Texas will entertain just about any reader, including people who believe in ghosts, the firm skeptics who are convinced it is all a hoax, and those who are on the fence but still love a good ghost story. Which one are you?
October 8, 2019
“Before venturing upstairs, the research team left a few items behind, including a folder full of newspaper clippings and a flashlight. Upon entering the upstairs billiards room, investigators were shocked to discover those two items sitting on a table, as if Scotty from “Star Trek” had beamed them up when they weren’t looking.”
I love ghost stories. I love real ghost stories even more. Paranormal Texas makes the ghosts truly authentic.
Are you a disbeliever? Are ghosts real? In Paranormal Texas you get introduced to an elevator ghost, along with a purported alien landing and dying in Aurora, Texas and haunted cemetery encounters. You will most likely not be a disbeliever for long after reading this book. If these things deeply interest you then Paranormal Texas is a book to add to your glovebox if you travel.
What was so chilling about reading this 2nd Edition for me? I’ll honestly state here I knew when I visited Dallas Heritage Village at Old City Park back in 2006 that something was off. I was uneasy the entire time I was there. Now thanks to Paranormal Texas I know why I had that uneasy feeling during a work-related research trip. I never knew it could be haunted since the buildings had been moved to the location. I have visited the Granbury Opera House that has an interesting historical tie to one of our Presidents. Plus, I’ve shopped at Artefactz and have Haunted Granbury by Brandy Herr.
Paranormal Texas is a book that kept my interest energized with every page because of my own encounters with a few unexplained incidences that left me uneasy. Broken down by north Texas towns, the book gives readers the perfect amount of information that will further pique your interest on each haunted location. Author, Tui Snider also includes the physical addresses of the actual locations, as well as websites when they are available.
This 2nd Edition now includes photographs of the paranormal locations. You can tell Snider has done her research either before or after visiting some of the locations. You catch snippets of Tui’s deep research throughout the book on the locations where ghosts and paranormal activity have been spotted or experienced. For example, a while back I discovered the Find a Grave website complements online newspaper archives quite well.
Snider offers a fresh trustworthiness to her paranormal investigations. Sprits most certainly will not wait until you get investigation equipment set up. According to Snider, the moment you enter a building or a place is when your observing needs to begin.
One very sad point that Snider reminds readers of is that many people died nameless long ago. Back in the early days, there were no ID cards to help identify who you were unless you carried a calling card.
Now, after reading this book I must decide which sites should I visit first from Paranormal Texas. I must say I need to get my friend June to visit the Haunted Hill House in Mineral Wells, as well as the Oakwood Cemetery in Fort Worth.
Check out Tui’s 2nd Edition of Paranormal Texas if you are a ghost lover or seeker. It has originality, just enough novelty, and lots of spark to keep your interest. It is simply a little amazing book to travel with to do some explorations of your own.
Thank you, Tui for the opportunity to review your book.
I love ghost stories. I love real ghost stories even more. Paranormal Texas makes the ghosts truly authentic.
Are you a disbeliever? Are ghosts real? In Paranormal Texas you get introduced to an elevator ghost, along with a purported alien landing and dying in Aurora, Texas and haunted cemetery encounters. You will most likely not be a disbeliever for long after reading this book. If these things deeply interest you then Paranormal Texas is a book to add to your glovebox if you travel.
What was so chilling about reading this 2nd Edition for me? I’ll honestly state here I knew when I visited Dallas Heritage Village at Old City Park back in 2006 that something was off. I was uneasy the entire time I was there. Now thanks to Paranormal Texas I know why I had that uneasy feeling during a work-related research trip. I never knew it could be haunted since the buildings had been moved to the location. I have visited the Granbury Opera House that has an interesting historical tie to one of our Presidents. Plus, I’ve shopped at Artefactz and have Haunted Granbury by Brandy Herr.
Paranormal Texas is a book that kept my interest energized with every page because of my own encounters with a few unexplained incidences that left me uneasy. Broken down by north Texas towns, the book gives readers the perfect amount of information that will further pique your interest on each haunted location. Author, Tui Snider also includes the physical addresses of the actual locations, as well as websites when they are available.
This 2nd Edition now includes photographs of the paranormal locations. You can tell Snider has done her research either before or after visiting some of the locations. You catch snippets of Tui’s deep research throughout the book on the locations where ghosts and paranormal activity have been spotted or experienced. For example, a while back I discovered the Find a Grave website complements online newspaper archives quite well.
Snider offers a fresh trustworthiness to her paranormal investigations. Sprits most certainly will not wait until you get investigation equipment set up. According to Snider, the moment you enter a building or a place is when your observing needs to begin.
One very sad point that Snider reminds readers of is that many people died nameless long ago. Back in the early days, there were no ID cards to help identify who you were unless you carried a calling card.
Now, after reading this book I must decide which sites should I visit first from Paranormal Texas. I must say I need to get my friend June to visit the Haunted Hill House in Mineral Wells, as well as the Oakwood Cemetery in Fort Worth.
Check out Tui’s 2nd Edition of Paranormal Texas if you are a ghost lover or seeker. It has originality, just enough novelty, and lots of spark to keep your interest. It is simply a little amazing book to travel with to do some explorations of your own.
Thank you, Tui for the opportunity to review your book.
October 9, 2019
With Halloween just around the corner, Paranormal Texas was a very timely read. In a strange and spooky coincidence, the last book I reviewed was about angel statues in cemeteries, and this book features the creepy image of one on its cover! While we’re on the subject of the cover, let me just say that I like the layout – it looks like a guidebook – but I found the font difficult to read (especially since it’s in white). I also appreciate that it informs you of the updates from the first edition: photos, evidence, ghost hunting, and experiences!
The thing I love most about this guidebook is Snider’s voice. I could tell immediately that I would enjoy her storytelling and hope to hear it in person one day. The introduction gives us the lowdown on what is in this second edition and how it came to fruition. I felt a little giddy hearing how an author actually listened to her readers and gave them what they wanted! I am also extremely pleased that she shares her Paranormal Texas Evidence Database with us. She could have easily kept that jewel to herself to be used for future editions, but she is so generous to share these experiences with fellow paranormal fans.
There were a few formatting issues and typos in the book, but nothing too distracting from the interesting subject matter. And while I appreciate that she gives us a key to ghost hunting jargon, it would have been good to have it from the very beginning before she actually used any of them. But for the most part, Snider does a fantastic job of explaining things in a way that even a non-ghost hunter like myself can be kept entertained and intrigued. Some might be put off by the black and white photos, but I thought that the lack of color contributed to the eeriness of the images.
I have read a fair amount of guidebooks and I think it is so cool how Snider can maintain the guidebook tone while covering quirky/spooky locales and experiences. Although I found a few of the backstory/history sections to be a bit on the long side, I found the majority of them to be interesting enough that I plan to research some of them in my spare time. But don’t count on me actually visiting these places – I’m a huge chicken. Strange, considering that I’ve never had a paranormal experience to traumatize me or anything.
For future editions, I would like to see Snider include symbols that indicate how “hot” a spot is (like 4/5 ghosts) and maybe how expensive ($$) a tour or stay at a hotel is. Speaking of hotels, why are there so many haunted hotels and libraries? I would like to hear the author’s thoughts on that question as well. Also, I would like to hear about a hostile ghost encounter since she only talks about friendly ghosts in this book.
I will close this review out with my favorite quote, “… where there’s history, there will be hauntings!” So if you’re into either, definitely pick up a copy of Paranormal Texas.
The thing I love most about this guidebook is Snider’s voice. I could tell immediately that I would enjoy her storytelling and hope to hear it in person one day. The introduction gives us the lowdown on what is in this second edition and how it came to fruition. I felt a little giddy hearing how an author actually listened to her readers and gave them what they wanted! I am also extremely pleased that she shares her Paranormal Texas Evidence Database with us. She could have easily kept that jewel to herself to be used for future editions, but she is so generous to share these experiences with fellow paranormal fans.
There were a few formatting issues and typos in the book, but nothing too distracting from the interesting subject matter. And while I appreciate that she gives us a key to ghost hunting jargon, it would have been good to have it from the very beginning before she actually used any of them. But for the most part, Snider does a fantastic job of explaining things in a way that even a non-ghost hunter like myself can be kept entertained and intrigued. Some might be put off by the black and white photos, but I thought that the lack of color contributed to the eeriness of the images.
I have read a fair amount of guidebooks and I think it is so cool how Snider can maintain the guidebook tone while covering quirky/spooky locales and experiences. Although I found a few of the backstory/history sections to be a bit on the long side, I found the majority of them to be interesting enough that I plan to research some of them in my spare time. But don’t count on me actually visiting these places – I’m a huge chicken. Strange, considering that I’ve never had a paranormal experience to traumatize me or anything.
For future editions, I would like to see Snider include symbols that indicate how “hot” a spot is (like 4/5 ghosts) and maybe how expensive ($$) a tour or stay at a hotel is. Speaking of hotels, why are there so many haunted hotels and libraries? I would like to hear the author’s thoughts on that question as well. Also, I would like to hear about a hostile ghost encounter since she only talks about friendly ghosts in this book.
I will close this review out with my favorite quote, “… where there’s history, there will be hauntings!” So if you’re into either, definitely pick up a copy of Paranormal Texas.
October 8, 2019
I’ve had my experience with the unexplained and unusual occurrence. However, this book will open up a whole new world. A mesh of history meets lore. Spooky and out-worldly events that even a skeptic can appreciate. (Sorry, I had to put spooky in there at least once.)
I’ll start with why this book interested me and my own paranormal but funny history. To this day, my mother (and family) talk about their old house in Galveston which just so happened to be haunted. The house was originally built by a ship captain who put parts of his ship in the construction and had amazing glass etched of his ship and wife. When my mother and her family lived there, it became pretty clear that the strange sounds, odd awakenings in the night, even eyes seen in the darkness were shared among them all. Flash forward, I took a trip to this house with the pretext of it being a history project and interest in a picture of the glass etchings. As my mother shared happy memories of her childhood, the woman who lived there couldn’t help but ask if she noticed anything interesting or odd about the house. We may have made a hasty retreat after that.
I suppose I couldn’t help but share a quick story after reading Snider’s book. It often felt like I was sitting by a campfire, sharing ghost stories with the Author. In fact, I actually did read this book entirely at night. Did I do this on purpose? No…but it was a happy coincidence.
It was easy to feel the excitement while reading. The ooh’s and ahh’s as page per page revealed interesting facts about Texas I never knew and the ties that bind it to the paranormal. So what makes this book different? I’m sure everyone has seen at least one episode of ghost hunters, been on a ghost tour, maybe even read a book. However, Paranormal Texas is filled with an energy in the writing. The excitement and respect towards this subject leaps across each page. The locations unknown were now open for discovery and places known could be seen again with new eyes.
Tui Snider did an excellent job at writing the cusp of an experience and a welcome invitation to go on your own. Consider this your challenge to visit a paranormal location and don’t forget your copy of Paranormal Texas: Your Travel Guide to Haunted Places Near Dallas & Fort Worth!
I’ll start with why this book interested me and my own paranormal but funny history. To this day, my mother (and family) talk about their old house in Galveston which just so happened to be haunted. The house was originally built by a ship captain who put parts of his ship in the construction and had amazing glass etched of his ship and wife. When my mother and her family lived there, it became pretty clear that the strange sounds, odd awakenings in the night, even eyes seen in the darkness were shared among them all. Flash forward, I took a trip to this house with the pretext of it being a history project and interest in a picture of the glass etchings. As my mother shared happy memories of her childhood, the woman who lived there couldn’t help but ask if she noticed anything interesting or odd about the house. We may have made a hasty retreat after that.
I suppose I couldn’t help but share a quick story after reading Snider’s book. It often felt like I was sitting by a campfire, sharing ghost stories with the Author. In fact, I actually did read this book entirely at night. Did I do this on purpose? No…but it was a happy coincidence.
It was easy to feel the excitement while reading. The ooh’s and ahh’s as page per page revealed interesting facts about Texas I never knew and the ties that bind it to the paranormal. So what makes this book different? I’m sure everyone has seen at least one episode of ghost hunters, been on a ghost tour, maybe even read a book. However, Paranormal Texas is filled with an energy in the writing. The excitement and respect towards this subject leaps across each page. The locations unknown were now open for discovery and places known could be seen again with new eyes.
Tui Snider did an excellent job at writing the cusp of an experience and a welcome invitation to go on your own. Consider this your challenge to visit a paranormal location and don’t forget your copy of Paranormal Texas: Your Travel Guide to Haunted Places Near Dallas & Fort Worth!
October 2, 2019
I first encountered Tui Snider’s work when I read and reviewed Understanding Cemetery Symbols two years ago. What I found then was a woman who was part storyteller, part adventurer, and part believer in the things the rest of us prefer not to notice – the unexplained, the ineffable, the shouldn’t-be-possible.
While I did not read the first edition of this book, Paranormal Texas: Your Travel Guide to Haunted Places Near Dallas & Fort Worth, I can tell you that this edition, the second, had me urging my husband to plan some local and local-ish road trips, and the only thing that has kept us from doing so is that we were out-of-state when the book arrived at my house, and that I’m two weeks away from having (another) knee surgery.
Still, even just reading this book is like going on an adventure with Tui (I hope she doesn’t mind me using her first name) as your guide. Her language is friendly and accessible, as if she’s relating her experiences to a friend over coffee, and the information is presented in a logical manner: alphabetically by city.
It’s not just perfunctory information, either. Rather, Tui provides anecdotes that leave you steeped in local flavor, making this book almost as much a collection of spooky Texas folktales as it is a DFW travel guide.
Paranormal Texas is, of course, the perfect book for October (here’s hoping the weather cools down some so we can all explore these spirited sites in relative comfort), but it would be the perfect book for a lazy weekend in March or May, or (for the brave) August, as well.
Go forth and explore.
(Stay hydrated.)
Tui will guide you.
And if the hairs on your arms stand up when you’re looking at a gravesite or standing near an old bridge, well, that’s just a bonus feature.
Goes well with apple cider (hard or not) and bratwurst with mustard.
While I did not read the first edition of this book, Paranormal Texas: Your Travel Guide to Haunted Places Near Dallas & Fort Worth, I can tell you that this edition, the second, had me urging my husband to plan some local and local-ish road trips, and the only thing that has kept us from doing so is that we were out-of-state when the book arrived at my house, and that I’m two weeks away from having (another) knee surgery.
Still, even just reading this book is like going on an adventure with Tui (I hope she doesn’t mind me using her first name) as your guide. Her language is friendly and accessible, as if she’s relating her experiences to a friend over coffee, and the information is presented in a logical manner: alphabetically by city.
It’s not just perfunctory information, either. Rather, Tui provides anecdotes that leave you steeped in local flavor, making this book almost as much a collection of spooky Texas folktales as it is a DFW travel guide.
Paranormal Texas is, of course, the perfect book for October (here’s hoping the weather cools down some so we can all explore these spirited sites in relative comfort), but it would be the perfect book for a lazy weekend in March or May, or (for the brave) August, as well.
Go forth and explore.
(Stay hydrated.)
Tui will guide you.
And if the hairs on your arms stand up when you’re looking at a gravesite or standing near an old bridge, well, that’s just a bonus feature.
Goes well with apple cider (hard or not) and bratwurst with mustard.
June 9, 2018
Live in N TX and have heard occasional ghost stories all my life from the area. Although I am very skeptical, Tui's book is a great overview of "haunted places". Made me curious enough to check a few out and visit some of the small towns in the book. Especially if you live in the N TX area, it is definitely worth a read.
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December 2, 2017
Overall a decent, region-specific travel guide if you are coming to North Texas and are looking especially for haunted, historical sights.
Some more specific information on the hauntings would be nice though. Several entries alluded to orbs, voices, etc. but nothing further. More historical facts about these places, even a few extra tidbits, would help flesh out some entries and make them more appealing to a traveler.
That said if you have a very specific thought in mind for your Texas visit, this proves an unusually niche and targeted guide for Southern folklore fans and ghost hunters.
Some more specific information on the hauntings would be nice though. Several entries alluded to orbs, voices, etc. but nothing further. More historical facts about these places, even a few extra tidbits, would help flesh out some entries and make them more appealing to a traveler.
That said if you have a very specific thought in mind for your Texas visit, this proves an unusually niche and targeted guide for Southern folklore fans and ghost hunters.
June 13, 2018
If you love haunted places and you're going to be in North Texas or other parts of Texas for that matter, my good friend Tui has created a guide to some great places to investigate. Some are businesses, restaurants, B&Bs and more. Enjoy the read and plan your haunting experience in Texas.
February 27, 2017
Getting ready to head to this area, and now I have a long list of places to check out. You can tell the Author really loves the Paranormal experience as well as we do. Some great and amazing detail in this book down to how to gain access to many of the haunted places. Bravo to this author!
Peace and love,
Rob @ http://authorstalkaboutit.com
Peace and love,
Rob @ http://authorstalkaboutit.com
October 16, 2014
I absolutely loved this book, which was a quick and entertaining read for the Halloween season, but one I'll enjoy throughout the year!
For anyone that is familiar with my reviews on here, you know I am a paranormal investigator and I really enjoy collecting, reading, and reviewing a variety of books on various paranormal topics...but a favorite of mine has always been regional ghost stories.
Tui Snider is a master at telling an entertaining and spooky story with just the right amount of historical fact thrown in. Legends and tales are told at face value, and supported with historical research where necessary and applicable, but not to the point where the gist of the tale is lost.
I also really appreciate that the places mentioned in the book are, for the most part, all open and accessible to the general public. Further, many are also open to paranormal investigation teams. I don't foresee myself investigating in the Texas area soon, but if I ever make it out west, this book will be an invaluable resource! For anyone looking for places in the area to investigate, or just looking to curl up on a rainy October evening with a good spooky collection of stories, I highly recommend this book! The only thing I would suggest is the addition of photographs for the places discussed, as my Kindle copy contained no images.
For anyone that is familiar with my reviews on here, you know I am a paranormal investigator and I really enjoy collecting, reading, and reviewing a variety of books on various paranormal topics...but a favorite of mine has always been regional ghost stories.
Tui Snider is a master at telling an entertaining and spooky story with just the right amount of historical fact thrown in. Legends and tales are told at face value, and supported with historical research where necessary and applicable, but not to the point where the gist of the tale is lost.
I also really appreciate that the places mentioned in the book are, for the most part, all open and accessible to the general public. Further, many are also open to paranormal investigation teams. I don't foresee myself investigating in the Texas area soon, but if I ever make it out west, this book will be an invaluable resource! For anyone looking for places in the area to investigate, or just looking to curl up on a rainy October evening with a good spooky collection of stories, I highly recommend this book! The only thing I would suggest is the addition of photographs for the places discussed, as my Kindle copy contained no images.
April 15, 2016
As both a native to the DFW area and an author of ghost stories, I knew that Paranormal Texas was a book I simply had to read. I was surprised to find out I've actually visited several of the sites listed in this enlightening and haunting book. I wish I had known to keep an eye out for ghosts!
I'm a believer. I always have been. My mother loves Halloween and the supernatural, so from the time I was little, she had me engrossed in books and television programs about the paranormal. My sister and I have both had encounters with things that simply can't be explained. I love ghost stories. I love the idea that there is more to life - and the afterlife - than we will likely ever know.
After reading Ms. Snider's book, I am itching, not only to get to work on the fourth book in my own paranormal series, but to go out and visit these haunted locations for myself. I highly recommend Paranormal Texas, not only for the local believer, but for believers and skeptics around the world. After all, what could possibly be more intriguing that a real ghost adventure?
I'm a believer. I always have been. My mother loves Halloween and the supernatural, so from the time I was little, she had me engrossed in books and television programs about the paranormal. My sister and I have both had encounters with things that simply can't be explained. I love ghost stories. I love the idea that there is more to life - and the afterlife - than we will likely ever know.
After reading Ms. Snider's book, I am itching, not only to get to work on the fourth book in my own paranormal series, but to go out and visit these haunted locations for myself. I highly recommend Paranormal Texas, not only for the local believer, but for believers and skeptics around the world. After all, what could possibly be more intriguing that a real ghost adventure?
November 24, 2014
Paranormal Texas is perfect for its intention, which is as a travel guide to haunted places in Texas. The book is arranged by area and destination, and includes addresses and websites. For each destination, the author offers a bit of history and the type of paranormal experiences its known for. If you're interested in ghost hunting and live in or can travel to Texas, I highly recommend getting a copy of this book to help you plan your trip.
As a reading experience, this book doesn't offer quite as much content as I'd have liked. As I read, I kept thinking that photos of some of the more interesting places would have been a nice benefit. Also, the information on each destination is short. I'd have liked a little more detail, perhaps some anecdotes from the author's personal experience or more in-depth research on other people's experiences.
That being said, this book is a fun read and should entice a lot of ghost hunters to travel out to Texas.
As a reading experience, this book doesn't offer quite as much content as I'd have liked. As I read, I kept thinking that photos of some of the more interesting places would have been a nice benefit. Also, the information on each destination is short. I'd have liked a little more detail, perhaps some anecdotes from the author's personal experience or more in-depth research on other people's experiences.
That being said, this book is a fun read and should entice a lot of ghost hunters to travel out to Texas.
October 21, 2015
I bought this book because it was cheap and I love hearing new ghost stories, especially local ones. I was hoping to see some stories about more of the suburbs, but was satisfied overall with the cities covered.
I have to admit that I now have several day/weekend trips planned because of what I read. I love old cemeteries and ghost towns. This book appeared to give some good directions to some local history.
I'd like to read more books by this author.
I have to admit that I now have several day/weekend trips planned because of what I read. I love old cemeteries and ghost towns. This book appeared to give some good directions to some local history.
I'd like to read more books by this author.
October 7, 2014
Thank you tui for sending me this book as a Goodreads giveaway. I found it very informative with entertaining facts.
It certainly made me want to visit a lot of places in Texas. Also has some great camp fire stories.
It certainly made me want to visit a lot of places in Texas. Also has some great camp fire stories.
October 18, 2014
Good Read
This book was very informative about Haunted Sites in the DFW area, I would love to have this author do another book including haunted place in the whole state. I definitely plan on checking out some of the sites mentioned!
This book was very informative about Haunted Sites in the DFW area, I would love to have this author do another book including haunted place in the whole state. I definitely plan on checking out some of the sites mentioned!
April 10, 2015
Tui takes you to some great places in Texas were you could find some ghosts and hauntings. My only wish is that she had gone more in depth. It's great if you live in the area, but if you live far away, having the tales go in depth more would have been wonderful.
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