Ghosts of the Big Sur Coast

by Randall A. Reinstedt

The scenic Big Sur of California is known around the world for its natural beauty and colorful history. Less well known are the many mysterious happenings and ghostly tales associated with the area. Who - or what - are the "dark watchers" of the Santa Lucia Mountains? What grisly secret explains the human remains in Massacre Cave? Did a phantom skipper steer a burning freighter to its watery grave off Point Sur? Complete with many rare and historically important photographs. Ghosts of the Big Sur Coast offers readers a fascinating glimpse into the haunting memories and unsolved mysteries of one of the world's most beautiful places.

Genres: Horror

85 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2002

Reviews

[J]

This was definitely one book that I had no idea what it would be about but in the end find that the title is more misleading than anything. Although ghost stories seemed to dominate the pages within the actual book there were some other paranormal events and strange events described so maybe the title should have been changed to Big Sur's Paranormal Coast or something that is a bit more inclusive.

Although I did enjoy the combination of paranormal stories that were provided and the history that is suppose to be twisted up there was too much implying at actual witnesses as if the author believes in the stories yet feels a need that there was an actual witness whom we cannot track down since they are dead or just won't to be a part of the book. In one example the person who was the witness was suppose to be 80 years old and a friend of the person involved in the event, which took place a century ago so there is time travel of 20 years.

My other bone to pick with this particular book and its telling is the fact that the author is using the book as a promo to his other writings. Fortunately it wasn't so blatant as other promo books but you would find the occasional get this book to find out more or other stories like it. Yes it is hard to sell books but I don't want to be advanced through a book that I am reading for entertainment purposes at the same time.

Otherwise the writing was easy and simple to follow. There were no actual chapters but each section was led by a bold introductory comment before getting into facts and the events of that occasion. Furthermore the reader was given a visual path as they were led down the coast on the winding Highway 1 even though if you tried to follow the map you would find that not all the places are located there.

All in all it was a decent read and one that could use a bit more working on. For those interested in the region it can be a great starter book to lead to other ghost stories whether by the same author or not. And it is not scary so this book can be shared with young teens and young adults although some of the backstory can be a bit rough.

[Jandro]

I am not really a believer in the afterlife, but darned if I don't love a good ghost story. While many authors set out to prove their stories are real, Mr. Reinstedt seeks only to tell a good story. And he spins several.

I think I might take this little book on a road trip.

[MKF]

This would of been a book I would of enjoyed more as a kid. The author included a lot of history, legends, and personal stories but managed to keep the book entertaining. It was fun to read and a few stories were even a bit interesting. It isn't just ghosts that make an appearance either the author included a few UFO stories, monsters, and even mentions little people.