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Something Wicked: A Ghost Hunter Explores Negative Spirits
Forget what you know or think you know about negative entities. Unless you are one of the few who have encountered a demon, it's almost impossible to grasp the depth and scope of such pure evil and how these creatures can enter someone's life and completely turn it upside down. Something Wicked explores the topic of negative energies, dark forces, and exorcisms with fresh eyes so that you may come to your own conclusions.
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First published July 8, 2016
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
June 30, 2016
Something Wicked: A Ghost Hunter Explores Negative Spirits is a non-fiction book written by a real life ghost hunter, Debi Chestnut. In this book Debi shares her own life-threatening encounters with the darkest entities known to man. She gives also explanations of the different types of spirits involved in her encounters.
This book is supposed to be a work of non-fiction but I also suppose that all depends upon ones belief in the paranormal too. For those that do not believe that any type of spirits exist then they of course would be skeptical about what you find within the book. For me I thought this would be an exciting read whether I truly believe that it could or did happen to Debi or not so I thought I'd give this one a shot.
Unfortunately, this book really never grabbed me at all. It really just seemed to read very technically as explanations of what the different encounters involved that I found it very dull. It also seemed to get very repetitive to me after awhile. Perhaps I just should have stuck with fictional ghost stories as they seem to be more entertaining.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.wordpress....
This book is supposed to be a work of non-fiction but I also suppose that all depends upon ones belief in the paranormal too. For those that do not believe that any type of spirits exist then they of course would be skeptical about what you find within the book. For me I thought this would be an exciting read whether I truly believe that it could or did happen to Debi or not so I thought I'd give this one a shot.
Unfortunately, this book really never grabbed me at all. It really just seemed to read very technically as explanations of what the different encounters involved that I found it very dull. It also seemed to get very repetitive to me after awhile. Perhaps I just should have stuck with fictional ghost stories as they seem to be more entertaining.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.wordpress....
July 1, 2016
2.5
I am a sucker for true-life ghost stories/hauntings/demons-coming-at-you tales. I do not know why I find these sorts of books so intriguing since they are generally too outlandish to be taken seriously and are typically poorly written as well. Yet, tempt me with demon-probably-lives-in-your-basement and for some reason I am sold. Maybe I am like Fox Mulder and just want to believe or believe for the few hours I am reading and get a good scare in. After all, Stephen King is too busy writing about spree killers these days to provide the needed dose of evil clowns. Whatever is the motivation here, recently two books crossed my path dealing with real-life ooga-boogas. Debi Chestnut's Something Wicked is one.
According to the blurb, “Something Wicked explores the topic of negative energies, dark forces, and exorcisms with fresh eyes so that you may come to your own conclusions.” So, yeah, light reading for a summer afternoon I suppose, but right up my true hauntings alley. Interestingly, Chestnut is not going for a demoniacal tell-all here. The reader gets little in the way of her experiences with negative entities/demons beyond a mention that she has had some, but instead Something Wicked is meant as a manual for parapsychologists or ghost hunters on the demonic. Something Wicked is meant to prepare the uninitiated for experiences with negative entities. According to Chestnut, “my main goal in writing this book was to give information, and perhaps a warning, on what demonic creatures do, how they behave, how they infest and possess, and what to look for before the situation gets out of control.”
Accordingly, she begins by describing the types of negative entities that exist like demons, poltergeists, elementals, and so on and gives a brief example of what these types of entities are and what they typically do. I found this discussion underinformative and unsupported and if I were one to go exploring haunted houses, I would still be unable to tell an avenging poltergeist from a demon from an elemental, much less know what to do about any of them. She goes on to describe why negative entities enter one's life – they apparently like messy houses, Ouija boards, Satanism, and drug/alcohol abuse and the like – and how they bother one when they get there – knocking on walls, moving stuff, smelling bad, being terrifying, you know, the usual. It is during this latter part where the book temporarily derails into an enumeration of exorcisms gone wrong. While this is interesting in its own way, particularly her call-out of the first case to use “possessed by demon” as a legal defense, I have no idea how this has any bearing whatsoever on identifying negative entities or dealing with them. This section sits oddly with my understanding of the purpose of the text. As does the following section where she paraphrases and then dissects the Catholic Rite of Exorcism. I have to say that this was just bizarre and sort of academically offensive. Chestnut is not a theologian, or even a Catholic, and literally her critique comes down to no more than whether she commonsensically agrees with any particular directive. Here is an example:
?? Okay then.
On the positive side, the book does seem well-intentioned and she does provide some tips on how to avoid having demons come home with you after a ghost hunt and how to try to keep your home demon-free. However, if one really believes in this sort of thing and is worried about encountering something evil, I think going to one of her source texts, like Martin's Hostage to the Devil may be more useful.
Thanks to Debi Chestnut, Llewellyn Worldwide, and NetGalley for the ARC.
You can also read this exact same thing on my blog: Read or Die.
I am a sucker for true-life ghost stories/hauntings/demons-coming-at-you tales. I do not know why I find these sorts of books so intriguing since they are generally too outlandish to be taken seriously and are typically poorly written as well. Yet, tempt me with demon-probably-lives-in-your-basement and for some reason I am sold. Maybe I am like Fox Mulder and just want to believe or believe for the few hours I am reading and get a good scare in. After all, Stephen King is too busy writing about spree killers these days to provide the needed dose of evil clowns. Whatever is the motivation here, recently two books crossed my path dealing with real-life ooga-boogas. Debi Chestnut's Something Wicked is one.
According to the blurb, “Something Wicked explores the topic of negative energies, dark forces, and exorcisms with fresh eyes so that you may come to your own conclusions.” So, yeah, light reading for a summer afternoon I suppose, but right up my true hauntings alley. Interestingly, Chestnut is not going for a demoniacal tell-all here. The reader gets little in the way of her experiences with negative entities/demons beyond a mention that she has had some, but instead Something Wicked is meant as a manual for parapsychologists or ghost hunters on the demonic. Something Wicked is meant to prepare the uninitiated for experiences with negative entities. According to Chestnut, “my main goal in writing this book was to give information, and perhaps a warning, on what demonic creatures do, how they behave, how they infest and possess, and what to look for before the situation gets out of control.”
Accordingly, she begins by describing the types of negative entities that exist like demons, poltergeists, elementals, and so on and gives a brief example of what these types of entities are and what they typically do. I found this discussion underinformative and unsupported and if I were one to go exploring haunted houses, I would still be unable to tell an avenging poltergeist from a demon from an elemental, much less know what to do about any of them. She goes on to describe why negative entities enter one's life – they apparently like messy houses, Ouija boards, Satanism, and drug/alcohol abuse and the like – and how they bother one when they get there – knocking on walls, moving stuff, smelling bad, being terrifying, you know, the usual. It is during this latter part where the book temporarily derails into an enumeration of exorcisms gone wrong. While this is interesting in its own way, particularly her call-out of the first case to use “possessed by demon” as a legal defense, I have no idea how this has any bearing whatsoever on identifying negative entities or dealing with them. This section sits oddly with my understanding of the purpose of the text. As does the following section where she paraphrases and then dissects the Catholic Rite of Exorcism. I have to say that this was just bizarre and sort of academically offensive. Chestnut is not a theologian, or even a Catholic, and literally her critique comes down to no more than whether she commonsensically agrees with any particular directive. Here is an example:
“Clearly this directive was important and valid in the 1600s and probably up through most of the 1800s, however, there really isn't a need for it now and it should have been removed from the revised directive as it deals with witchcraft and the fact that a church-appointed exorcist should not resort to witchcraft or any other activity while performing an exorcism that is not sanctioned by the Church”.
?? Okay then.
On the positive side, the book does seem well-intentioned and she does provide some tips on how to avoid having demons come home with you after a ghost hunt and how to try to keep your home demon-free. However, if one really believes in this sort of thing and is worried about encountering something evil, I think going to one of her source texts, like Martin's Hostage to the Devil may be more useful.
Thanks to Debi Chestnut, Llewellyn Worldwide, and NetGalley for the ARC.
You can also read this exact same thing on my blog: Read or Die.
June 2, 2019
This is an informative book about the negative entities that we may encounter. Miss Debi created this just to give information for those who are interested in paranormal and also as a guide for those who will be doing a ghost hunting.
The truth of the matter is: just because you don’t believe in something doesn’t mean it doesn’t exist. – Debi Chestnut, Something Wicked: A Ghost Hunter Explores Negative Spirits
When I started reading this, I am really interested in finding out what should I know and expect on these creatures that may be just a negative entity or worse a demonic one. But, as I flipped more pages, I noticed that some of the explanations that I’ve just read from the start just keep on showing on the other parts. Meaning, I found it repetitive, and it makes me lose interest.
Aside from the information that she shared about those entities, I also enjoyed this one when she shares an experience she had with those kinds of entities.
The book cover is perfect for the title and the purpose of the book. The book is about exploring negative spirits. The cover is a person going down the stairs as if that person is looking for something, and for me, it is an excellent presentation of what the book is all about.
I suggest this book for those who wanted to learn paranormal. And if you’re a ghost hunter, especially if you are a newbie, this will be very handy and helpful for you to know the precautions to take when you come face-to-face with those negative entities.
Disclaimer: I received a reader copy from Llewellyn Worldwide, Ltd via NetGalley.
BLOG LINK: http://bit.ly/1O6JbA3
The truth of the matter is: just because you don’t believe in something doesn’t mean it doesn’t exist. – Debi Chestnut, Something Wicked: A Ghost Hunter Explores Negative Spirits
When I started reading this, I am really interested in finding out what should I know and expect on these creatures that may be just a negative entity or worse a demonic one. But, as I flipped more pages, I noticed that some of the explanations that I’ve just read from the start just keep on showing on the other parts. Meaning, I found it repetitive, and it makes me lose interest.
Aside from the information that she shared about those entities, I also enjoyed this one when she shares an experience she had with those kinds of entities.
The book cover is perfect for the title and the purpose of the book. The book is about exploring negative spirits. The cover is a person going down the stairs as if that person is looking for something, and for me, it is an excellent presentation of what the book is all about.
I suggest this book for those who wanted to learn paranormal. And if you’re a ghost hunter, especially if you are a newbie, this will be very handy and helpful for you to know the precautions to take when you come face-to-face with those negative entities.
Disclaimer: I received a reader copy from Llewellyn Worldwide, Ltd via NetGalley.
BLOG LINK: http://bit.ly/1O6JbA3
June 17, 2017
Face-to-Face Confrontations with Pure Evil
Forget what you know or think you know about the malicious entities that lurk in our world, just waiting for an opportunity to strike. Unless you’re one of the few who have encountered a demon, it’s almost impossible to grasp the depth and scope of their destructiveness.
Join Debi Chestnut as she shares the true stories of her own life-threatening encounters with the darkest entities known to man. Something Wicked is not just a book—it’s a warning. In the world of malevolent beings, knowledge and faith are your only sources of strength. Discover what demonic creatures do, how they behave, how they infest and possess, and how to get help before it’s too late
what did I think of it:
4 stars
While I did like it I just didn't love it, but I think that it was my fault instead of the book or the authors, I just couldn't get into at this time, but I did like it, What I did like:
one of the things I liked was how it helped me to understand more about malicious entities that lurk in our world then I did before, and I did like also how the author alternates between pure information input and personal experiences, with that said I will be keeping the ARC copy so I can re read it and hopefully when I do my rating will go up would love to say thinks to Netgalley who give me a chance at read what was a really good book in a change for my honest opinion which this is 100%
April 3, 2016
Debi Chestnut did a good job describing the vast and fascinating world of paranormal entities.
A very precise and informative account of types of entities, how they operate, the most common signs of a demonic infestation and all you might need to protect yourself.
A curious yet interesting book, whether or not you believe in such things.
*This book was kindly sent to me via NetGalley by Llewellyn Worldwide, Ltd.*
A very precise and informative account of types of entities, how they operate, the most common signs of a demonic infestation and all you might need to protect yourself.
A curious yet interesting book, whether or not you believe in such things.
*This book was kindly sent to me via NetGalley by Llewellyn Worldwide, Ltd.*
June 16, 2021
Awesome book! Very interesting and informative.
January 13, 2020
This is a non-fiction book written by a professional ghost hunter who reports encountering negative entities, even demons.
I'm always fascinated by this sort of book that presents spiritual entity experiences as true things that happened because it makes me examine my own beliefs. Do I believe in ghosts? In demons? Do I believe things actually happened as the author relates? These are scenarios I would happily read in a fiction story, but the claim that it's all true adds a different perspective to the reading experience.
Right at the beginning the author says that her ghost hunting team is made up of people from different religious beliefs, including Christian, Buddhist and Pagan, but that each of them is qualified within their belief system for dealing with these negative entities. On one hand that sounds a bit like the one size fits all, totally inclusive attitude that a lot of new age books fall into so that they will appeal to the widest possible audience, but on another level it is a recognition that practices like exorcism don't belong to just one religion. The author herself takes a Christian perspective on how she operates, because it "works for her".
In the second chapter she explains different types of spirits and especially negative spirits from her own perspective. It correlates reasonably closely to similar definitions I read in my high school days. The problem I have with it though is that it begins sounding like a thinly veiled born-again Christian attempt to convince people that demons exist, then flips over and starts talking about new age methods like visualizing white light and at the same time refers to using tools of magic as something that will invite demons in. References to "God's law" for how demons can behave followed by instructions for how to use crystals for protection and clean the house with smudging just sounds like the author is confused.
The writing itself is good, but the mixed messages fail to convince. There is also very little about the 'other negative entities' or malevolent ghosts that are referred to now and then. No instructions for how to deal with the ghosts or what these 'other' entities could possibly be or what to do about them, apart from calling in a ghost hunter who says it doesn't matter what method you use to rid yourself of demons as long as you believe in it. Approach as fiction and be warned, the section about false exorcisms is not for the squeamish.
I'm always fascinated by this sort of book that presents spiritual entity experiences as true things that happened because it makes me examine my own beliefs. Do I believe in ghosts? In demons? Do I believe things actually happened as the author relates? These are scenarios I would happily read in a fiction story, but the claim that it's all true adds a different perspective to the reading experience.
Right at the beginning the author says that her ghost hunting team is made up of people from different religious beliefs, including Christian, Buddhist and Pagan, but that each of them is qualified within their belief system for dealing with these negative entities. On one hand that sounds a bit like the one size fits all, totally inclusive attitude that a lot of new age books fall into so that they will appeal to the widest possible audience, but on another level it is a recognition that practices like exorcism don't belong to just one religion. The author herself takes a Christian perspective on how she operates, because it "works for her".
In the second chapter she explains different types of spirits and especially negative spirits from her own perspective. It correlates reasonably closely to similar definitions I read in my high school days. The problem I have with it though is that it begins sounding like a thinly veiled born-again Christian attempt to convince people that demons exist, then flips over and starts talking about new age methods like visualizing white light and at the same time refers to using tools of magic as something that will invite demons in. References to "God's law" for how demons can behave followed by instructions for how to use crystals for protection and clean the house with smudging just sounds like the author is confused.
The writing itself is good, but the mixed messages fail to convince. There is also very little about the 'other negative entities' or malevolent ghosts that are referred to now and then. No instructions for how to deal with the ghosts or what these 'other' entities could possibly be or what to do about them, apart from calling in a ghost hunter who says it doesn't matter what method you use to rid yourself of demons as long as you believe in it. Approach as fiction and be warned, the section about false exorcisms is not for the squeamish.
August 3, 2017
In Something Wicked, Debi Chestnut takes readers on a journey into the dark side of the paranormal. More specifically, into the demonic side.
This book is part paranormal investigation primer (with detailed explanations of useful terms), part warning about what’s out there and what could happen if you mess with things you’re not trained to deal with, and part illustrative stories of hauntings and demonic encounters (both real and possibly imagined).
The book deals a lot with demons: how demons get in (tip: clean your house), how to recognize the signs of the presence of a demon, details about the Catholic Church and the Rites of Exorcism, how to deal with the aftermath of a demon encounter, and the difference between demonic oppression, repression, and possession are just a few examples. The author also takes great pains to talk about what is not a demonic presence and illustrates with some heart-wrenching stories what can go wrong when novices take matters into their own hands (trigger warning for some kind-of gruesome descriptions of people being beaten and killed because someone suspected them of being possessed – including small children. I honestly teared up at some points.)
I found Something Wicked fascinating and I really came out the other side feeling like I learned something – one of my favorite feelings when I finish a book. I highly recommend this book to lovers of the paranormal and especially fans of ghost hunting and paranormal investigation shows, I almost guarantee it will leave you with a deeper understanding and a deeper appreciation of what you’re seeing out there.
*I received a copy of this book to review. You can find this review and others like it at BookAndCoffeeAddict.com, along with recommendations for a fantastic cup of coffee.
This book is part paranormal investigation primer (with detailed explanations of useful terms), part warning about what’s out there and what could happen if you mess with things you’re not trained to deal with, and part illustrative stories of hauntings and demonic encounters (both real and possibly imagined).
The book deals a lot with demons: how demons get in (tip: clean your house), how to recognize the signs of the presence of a demon, details about the Catholic Church and the Rites of Exorcism, how to deal with the aftermath of a demon encounter, and the difference between demonic oppression, repression, and possession are just a few examples. The author also takes great pains to talk about what is not a demonic presence and illustrates with some heart-wrenching stories what can go wrong when novices take matters into their own hands (trigger warning for some kind-of gruesome descriptions of people being beaten and killed because someone suspected them of being possessed – including small children. I honestly teared up at some points.)
I found Something Wicked fascinating and I really came out the other side feeling like I learned something – one of my favorite feelings when I finish a book. I highly recommend this book to lovers of the paranormal and especially fans of ghost hunting and paranormal investigation shows, I almost guarantee it will leave you with a deeper understanding and a deeper appreciation of what you’re seeing out there.
*I received a copy of this book to review. You can find this review and others like it at BookAndCoffeeAddict.com, along with recommendations for a fantastic cup of coffee.
November 30, 2018
I have some vague beliefs in this area, so I mostly reading it for kicks, to maybe learn a different perspective, and it is certainly that. However, the information on the actual negative entities was, I felt, superficial, and not much more that what I had picked up passively from other media. After brief intros on other types of spirits, it mostly focused on demons, including info on exorcisms. The writing style in this section especially was quite repetitive. Finally, it gave information on protecting yourself which was more New-Agey than I was looking for - smudging and crystals and such. I didn't care for how some of the information was presented more as fact, when it wasn't anything more than anecdotal. The one thing I did agree with, which the author did say numerous times, is that what matters is what you believe in - that's what is going to work for you.
September 15, 2019
Hands-down Debi Chestnut's best book on the market. It was very different from her other works which chronicle her experiences. While Something Wicked does touch on her encounters, this was more of an informational guide of demons, exorcism, and possession. Debi prefaces this book as she does all her books on her paranormal investigations...it's all about what you believe in. Debi mostly follows the Christian faith and their handling of demonic possessions but also touches on other faiths beliefs and rituals. If you don't believe in demons and hauntings, maybe don't pick this one up. It definitely spooked me and made for an uneasy before bed browse. It was a quick read and very informative. I'll definitely be using this as a reference guide when I write about hauntings. It was well-researched and complies a ton of great ideas in the field of the paranormal.
August 24, 2017
Okay so sadly I will end up paying a late due for this book. Seeing as it was due on 8\21 but I turned it in today which is 8\24. But whatever. Seeing as I didn't have any real time to read it, expect in the mornings and plus I skipped a little part and read some of it so I didn't have to re-read that part and could skip right to the last part of it.
Anyways though. The book it's self was rather informational. It tells you how to protect your self from Demons and other negative entries rather you believe in them or not. Would I buy this book to reference back to it? No. I don't consider this something I'd go out an spend 15.99 for. Even with a coupon I wouldn't do it. But I did find it helpful.
While I'm sure Mrs. Chestnut didn't mean for this to happen, seeing as the focus of this book is learning how to protect yourself, and when to do an exctoiset I can honestly see now why so many people attend church. While I do believe in a Higher Power, and have started preying more often after reading this book then before. I personally have only attended church once or twice in my 24 years of life. Does that make me a bad person? I don't think so, but that's my opinion seeing as I do believe and prey. The reason I put this in here, though is so that I can tell you all what I took away and not to preach to the chore.
Seeing as I KNOW y'all don't want to hear anyone preaching to the chore in a book review. And that is not what I set out to do seeing as I know very well that we all have different beliefs. But I still felt it was somewhat necessary to put it in here as well.
Seeing as later on in the book it gives you some preys that you can use to protect yourself.
But also, I have read many, many, many New Age books such as this one, before that explains and teaches you about Ghosts and Ghost Hunting. Seeing as I kind of want to Ghost Hunt someday with a group. But in all the books I've read about Ghosts and a couple stories about Demons here and there over the years, none of them have actually slightly scared me as this one did. But that again was not something she set out to do. But I only read it one night and while I didn't have nightmares or end up not being able to fall asleep, it was quit disturbing reading about Demons and other negative entities at about 10 pm at night.
So if you want to read this or get info on how to protect yourself, by all means check it out seeing as it was helpful. But I wouldn't recommend reading this at night when it's dark out and your the only one up. For me I would Highly recommend you read it in the mornings or early afternoons. If you get scared easily that is. But if you want to read it at night-- well that's your business. Consider yourself warned.
Anyways though. The book it's self was rather informational. It tells you how to protect your self from Demons and other negative entries rather you believe in them or not. Would I buy this book to reference back to it? No. I don't consider this something I'd go out an spend 15.99 for. Even with a coupon I wouldn't do it. But I did find it helpful.
While I'm sure Mrs. Chestnut didn't mean for this to happen, seeing as the focus of this book is learning how to protect yourself, and when to do an exctoiset I can honestly see now why so many people attend church. While I do believe in a Higher Power, and have started preying more often after reading this book then before. I personally have only attended church once or twice in my 24 years of life. Does that make me a bad person? I don't think so, but that's my opinion seeing as I do believe and prey. The reason I put this in here, though is so that I can tell you all what I took away and not to preach to the chore.
Seeing as I KNOW y'all don't want to hear anyone preaching to the chore in a book review. And that is not what I set out to do seeing as I know very well that we all have different beliefs. But I still felt it was somewhat necessary to put it in here as well.
Seeing as later on in the book it gives you some preys that you can use to protect yourself.
But also, I have read many, many, many New Age books such as this one, before that explains and teaches you about Ghosts and Ghost Hunting. Seeing as I kind of want to Ghost Hunt someday with a group. But in all the books I've read about Ghosts and a couple stories about Demons here and there over the years, none of them have actually slightly scared me as this one did. But that again was not something she set out to do. But I only read it one night and while I didn't have nightmares or end up not being able to fall asleep, it was quit disturbing reading about Demons and other negative entities at about 10 pm at night.
So if you want to read this or get info on how to protect yourself, by all means check it out seeing as it was helpful. But I wouldn't recommend reading this at night when it's dark out and your the only one up. For me I would Highly recommend you read it in the mornings or early afternoons. If you get scared easily that is. But if you want to read it at night-- well that's your business. Consider yourself warned.
July 6, 2016
Something Wicked: A Ghost Hunter Explores Negative Spirits Something Wicked is the latest work from noted paranormal researcher Debi Chestnut. It focuses on negative entities, but specifically on demons.
I like to refer to books like this as as basic introductions to the paranormal, as it goes fairly in depth into demonic entities, but the last chapter isn't really geared towards a beginner. Ms. Chestnut gives a good background information on the types of negative entities, including hauntings, poltergeists, negative entities who were never in human form, and demons.
There are chapters that explain how demons find victims, signs of infestation, repression, oppression, and finally possession of humans by demons. Each of these areas are overlapping, and some can be confused for each other by a paranormal researcher who isn't familiar with the workings of demons. I'm going to assume that the vast majority of paranormal investigators, commonly called Ghost Hunters, are not familiar with actual demons. It's far more common to come across a malevolent ghost or a poltergeist than a true demon.
There are a couple chapters dedicated to exorcisms as well, and the chapter that details false exorcisms is rather startling. There are some details into the murders of people who were claimed to be possessed that are graphic and disturbing. The part that goes over some of the items in the Catholic Rites of Exorcism was quite interesting as well. there were a number of changes in the 1999 release that some priests were unhappy with, including the printing of the rites in English, as opposed to Latin, which they had been published as previously. Some of the changes were very minor, but there are other changes that were a little baffling. (I'm not going to get into detail about them, they're not essential for the vast majority of people, as they only pertain to the priests chosen to perform exorcisms by the church.)
All in all, it was a pretty good introduction to negative entities, but demons in particular. And Ms Chestnut does make it pretty clear that if you believe you may have encountered a demon, that you shouldn't "play with it". You should contact an experienced investigator to evaluate the situation. There are some mental and physical illnesses that can be mistaken for possession/oppression, and treating those with an exorcism cam be harmful to the one suffering.
Format: Paperback
ISBN: 9780738742175 (0738742171)
ASIN: 0738742171
Publish date: 2016-07-08
Publisher: Llewellyn Publications
Pages no: 240
Edition language: English
I like to refer to books like this as as basic introductions to the paranormal, as it goes fairly in depth into demonic entities, but the last chapter isn't really geared towards a beginner. Ms. Chestnut gives a good background information on the types of negative entities, including hauntings, poltergeists, negative entities who were never in human form, and demons.
There are chapters that explain how demons find victims, signs of infestation, repression, oppression, and finally possession of humans by demons. Each of these areas are overlapping, and some can be confused for each other by a paranormal researcher who isn't familiar with the workings of demons. I'm going to assume that the vast majority of paranormal investigators, commonly called Ghost Hunters, are not familiar with actual demons. It's far more common to come across a malevolent ghost or a poltergeist than a true demon.
There are a couple chapters dedicated to exorcisms as well, and the chapter that details false exorcisms is rather startling. There are some details into the murders of people who were claimed to be possessed that are graphic and disturbing. The part that goes over some of the items in the Catholic Rites of Exorcism was quite interesting as well. there were a number of changes in the 1999 release that some priests were unhappy with, including the printing of the rites in English, as opposed to Latin, which they had been published as previously. Some of the changes were very minor, but there are other changes that were a little baffling. (I'm not going to get into detail about them, they're not essential for the vast majority of people, as they only pertain to the priests chosen to perform exorcisms by the church.)
All in all, it was a pretty good introduction to negative entities, but demons in particular. And Ms Chestnut does make it pretty clear that if you believe you may have encountered a demon, that you shouldn't "play with it". You should contact an experienced investigator to evaluate the situation. There are some mental and physical illnesses that can be mistaken for possession/oppression, and treating those with an exorcism cam be harmful to the one suffering.
Format: Paperback
ISBN: 9780738742175 (0738742171)
ASIN: 0738742171
Publish date: 2016-07-08
Publisher: Llewellyn Publications
Pages no: 240
Edition language: English
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January 10, 2017This book is not - as I first believed - a collection of scary stories about the experiences of a ghost hunter. While it does tell stories of some exorcisms, hauntings and such from Debi Chestnut's own career, it is mainly an introductory book on different types of negative spiritual entities, demonological theory and methodology.
If you are interested in the theory and practise of exorcisms, hauntings and banishments of evil spirits, the book is probably pretty good, as it delves deep into many aspects of these areas. It is, however, worth to note that it is written very much from an American, Christian perspective, and while Chestnut makes a recurring point of including stories from different religions and cultures, her phrasings lean heavily on her own social contexts. For example, she states in her introduction that she will use the Christian view and definition of demons, as it is "the social norm" - without clarifying that it is just the social norm of her culture. On another point she describes voodoo and hoodo as types of chaos magic, which is, as far as I've understood the terms, simply not accurate.
If you are a horror enthusiast with no ambitions within the ghost-hunting-field, you can skip more or less half the book and just read the gruesome examples of historical demonic hauntings, and chilling stories from Chestnuts own career, but you will probably be better off getting a book which caters specifically to your interests.
TL;DR: Read it if you want to become - or are - a ghost hunter. Don't bother purchasing it if you don't, but read it if you have the oppurtunity.
If you are interested in the theory and practise of exorcisms, hauntings and banishments of evil spirits, the book is probably pretty good, as it delves deep into many aspects of these areas. It is, however, worth to note that it is written very much from an American, Christian perspective, and while Chestnut makes a recurring point of including stories from different religions and cultures, her phrasings lean heavily on her own social contexts. For example, she states in her introduction that she will use the Christian view and definition of demons, as it is "the social norm" - without clarifying that it is just the social norm of her culture. On another point she describes voodoo and hoodo as types of chaos magic, which is, as far as I've understood the terms, simply not accurate.
If you are a horror enthusiast with no ambitions within the ghost-hunting-field, you can skip more or less half the book and just read the gruesome examples of historical demonic hauntings, and chilling stories from Chestnuts own career, but you will probably be better off getting a book which caters specifically to your interests.
TL;DR: Read it if you want to become - or are - a ghost hunter. Don't bother purchasing it if you don't, but read it if you have the oppurtunity.
July 11, 2016
Book Review originally published here: http://www.iheartreading.net/reviews/...
I read a few books by Debi Chestnut already, and usually I find them quite enjoyable. However, Something Wicked missed the ball for me. I didn’t enjoy the book at all. From the synopsis, I thought the author would give an explanation about negative entities, more in particular demons, and then would go on to detail some cases she worked on. While the author does mention some cases, it’s rather vague, and doesn’t give out a lot of details, making it rather boring.
I understand the need to protect the people involved, but still, if you don’t give out any details whatsoever and just a basic rundown, then it makes for rather boring reading. Also, the book was very, very repetitive. It paraphrased sections from what the Vatican said about demonic possession, for example, and then underneath, explained the already paraphrased sections again.
It just felt as if someone without any experience could’ve written the same book. It all stayed very much on the surface, rephrasing knowledge already known to most people with an inkling of interest in the paranormal world. The writing was dull, and it’s more than a manual than anything – except not a very enjoyable manual to read.
I have to say it was a dissapointment, and I expected more. I read it to the end because I forced myself to, but I didn’t enjoy it at all, in fact, I was bored ofr most of it. I would muh rather recommend “Stalking Shadows” or another book by this author.
I read a few books by Debi Chestnut already, and usually I find them quite enjoyable. However, Something Wicked missed the ball for me. I didn’t enjoy the book at all. From the synopsis, I thought the author would give an explanation about negative entities, more in particular demons, and then would go on to detail some cases she worked on. While the author does mention some cases, it’s rather vague, and doesn’t give out a lot of details, making it rather boring.
I understand the need to protect the people involved, but still, if you don’t give out any details whatsoever and just a basic rundown, then it makes for rather boring reading. Also, the book was very, very repetitive. It paraphrased sections from what the Vatican said about demonic possession, for example, and then underneath, explained the already paraphrased sections again.
It just felt as if someone without any experience could’ve written the same book. It all stayed very much on the surface, rephrasing knowledge already known to most people with an inkling of interest in the paranormal world. The writing was dull, and it’s more than a manual than anything – except not a very enjoyable manual to read.
I have to say it was a dissapointment, and I expected more. I read it to the end because I forced myself to, but I didn’t enjoy it at all, in fact, I was bored ofr most of it. I would muh rather recommend “Stalking Shadows” or another book by this author.
April 23, 2016
The book starts off by telling us that most of what we see in movies is wrong, then proceeds to tell me that basically everything I have seen in movies is correct. The Entity, The Exorcism of Emily Rose, The Conjuring... all of those are apparently accurate to an extent. Even Ouija, even. Don't mess with a Ouija board and nothing bad will happen to you. If you don't believe in demons, you're even more susceptible to getting possessed than others. The best part of the book was when the author compiled a bunch of stories throughout the years of exorcisms gone bad. People who physically assaulted someone while saying they were beating the demons out of them. It didn't really serve to make me believe, but it was engrossing enough that I read each and every example she represented. There is some useful information about talismans that are beneficial when you feel you're being haunted, but even most of this information is pretty accurate in movies. Sage sticks! Crystals! Burning incense and holy water and crosses!
It also kind of read like a school paper. Which isn't necessarily a bad thing, it just felt more like I was having a sit-down conversation with the author and she was filling me in on all the things that are official when ghost hunting.
It also kind of read like a school paper. Which isn't necessarily a bad thing, it just felt more like I was having a sit-down conversation with the author and she was filling me in on all the things that are official when ghost hunting.
July 5, 2016
If I put myself into these sorts of situations then I can imagine that this book would be essential. However that's not the case for me in the slightest.
I found the stories the most interesting part and that's all I really wanted to read.
It's my own fault for wanting to read a book without reading the synopsis properly, it's not a bad book, just not what I wanted or expected.
*Huge thanks to Debi Chestnut, Llewellyn Worldwide Ltd and NetGalley for this copy in exchange for an honest review*
I found the stories the most interesting part and that's all I really wanted to read.
It's my own fault for wanting to read a book without reading the synopsis properly, it's not a bad book, just not what I wanted or expected.
*Huge thanks to Debi Chestnut, Llewellyn Worldwide Ltd and NetGalley for this copy in exchange for an honest review*
August 25, 2016
I mean, if I believe everything in this book then it's amazing that I'm not constantly possessed despite years spent as a depressed alcoholic with ADHD and I should obviously be in a museum. I learned that apparently addiction, mental illness, messy rooms, and autism are monster food. The book is 99% opin-formation (personal opinion presented as facts *sigh*) and since I'm not a 12 year old looking for a hero or a complete paranormal newb, n'anks. Like, legit, this shit hurt my feelings and bored me.
May 13, 2016
This book was not what I expected. The author is a ghost hunter but she explains all the different kids of spirits and tells it over and over and over again. I got halfway through the book and was hitting my head against the wall and saying I get it already!!!! I thought she was going to tell more stories of what her and her team did. Was very disappointed. I received this from NetGalley for an honest review.
July 25, 2016
I normally love books like this because I am a sucker for ghost/demon stuff, especially if it is based on true stories or whatever, but I could not get through this. This book is filled with hypocrisy and repeats of the same information its irritating. I found this book to be slightly boring as well, it was hard to keep my attention.
I received this from NETGALLEY in turn of an honest review.
I received this from NETGALLEY in turn of an honest review.
December 30, 2020
I was blown away with how much information was given about demons. So much I never knew I needed to learn. Excellent read for demonic lovers and even the skeptics out there.
April 20, 2019
Excellent
It is a really good book to read and well worth the money. Interesting and very informative material in here.
It is a really good book to read and well worth the money. Interesting and very informative material in here.
April 27, 2017
**This book was reviewed via Netgalley**
Chestnut's Something Wicked is an overview of exorcism, that looks at history, forms in other cultures and traditions, what demons are vs other types of 'negative’ entities, levels progressing to full-blown possession, exorcism gone wrong, and the necessity of protection and a few basic types of protection.
This book was pretty straightforward and clearcut. Chestnut is very clear that the novice ghost-hunter should not try to deal with demonic or very dense (read negative) entities, but call on seasoned professionals. She is also clear in that it is believe and faith that helps these methods work. She also stresses the importance of not judging, because each person's reality is different, since our perceptions shape our reality. Sometimes the investigator needs to work within their own paradigm, and at other times, need to work within the mindset of the client/victim.
The cases of exorcism gone wrong horrified me, especially the one of the little autistic boy. I have very little use for organised religion, and when it goes off the rails like this, and in the case of the 'gay’ exorcisms, I despise it all the more. I follow a shamanic path devoted to rune spirits.
Another proofing would not be amiss. There were a few grammar and spelling errors. Also- djinn is plural; djinni is singular. An anachronistic error as well. Multiple Personality Disorder is now Dissociative Identity Disorder. They are not both a thing today.
🎻🎻🎻 Quick, informative read. Recommended for this interested in demonology, exorcisms, or interest in paranormal or occult.
Chestnut's Something Wicked is an overview of exorcism, that looks at history, forms in other cultures and traditions, what demons are vs other types of 'negative’ entities, levels progressing to full-blown possession, exorcism gone wrong, and the necessity of protection and a few basic types of protection.
This book was pretty straightforward and clearcut. Chestnut is very clear that the novice ghost-hunter should not try to deal with demonic or very dense (read negative) entities, but call on seasoned professionals. She is also clear in that it is believe and faith that helps these methods work. She also stresses the importance of not judging, because each person's reality is different, since our perceptions shape our reality. Sometimes the investigator needs to work within their own paradigm, and at other times, need to work within the mindset of the client/victim.
The cases of exorcism gone wrong horrified me, especially the one of the little autistic boy. I have very little use for organised religion, and when it goes off the rails like this, and in the case of the 'gay’ exorcisms, I despise it all the more. I follow a shamanic path devoted to rune spirits.
Another proofing would not be amiss. There were a few grammar and spelling errors. Also- djinn is plural; djinni is singular. An anachronistic error as well. Multiple Personality Disorder is now Dissociative Identity Disorder. They are not both a thing today.
🎻🎻🎻 Quick, informative read. Recommended for this interested in demonology, exorcisms, or interest in paranormal or occult.
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