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A Nightmare in Villisca: Investigating the Haunted Axe Murder House
*Silver Award Winner -- Paranormal Rewind Best Book of 2020* In the early morning hours of June 10, 1912, an intruder forced his way into the house of Josiah Moore and his wife, Sarah. During the nightmare that followed, everybody in the house — Mr. And Mrs. Moore, their four children, and two young girls who were visiting for the night — were murdered with an axe. The small town of Villisca, Iowa, would be scarred forever. Today, the infamous Villisca Axe Murder House has a fearsome reputation for being haunted. Each year, hundreds of fascinated people flock to the house, seeking an encounter with the paranormal. Some get more than they bargained for. Join Richard Estep of TV’s Haunted Hospitals and Paranormal 911 as he and a small team of investigators lock themselves inside the Villisca Axe Murder House and delve into its deepest, darkest mysteries.
281 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 5, 2020
178 people are currently reading
415 people want to read
About the author
Richard Estep
74 books198 followersI'm a 48-year-old child who has no plans to ever actually grow up.
I make my living as a paramedic, clinical educator, for a busy hospital system and work as a street medic in a 911 system.
In my free time, I serve as the director of the Boulder County Paranormal Research Society, and investigate claims of haunted properties, people, and objects on both sides of the Atlantic. I love to read, particularly SF/Fantasy, history and historical fiction, the paranormal, and basically anything that piques my interest. I appear on the TV shows Haunted Hospitals, Paranormal 911, Paranormal Night Shift, Haunted Case Files, and several others.
I am an avid video gamer, table-top gamer, and love to build Lego. My wife and I are the proud humans of five adopted rescue cats and one smelly but adorable dog.
I make my living as a paramedic, clinical educator, for a busy hospital system and work as a street medic in a 911 system.
In my free time, I serve as the director of the Boulder County Paranormal Research Society, and investigate claims of haunted properties, people, and objects on both sides of the Atlantic. I love to read, particularly SF/Fantasy, history and historical fiction, the paranormal, and basically anything that piques my interest. I appear on the TV shows Haunted Hospitals, Paranormal 911, Paranormal Night Shift, Haunted Case Files, and several others.
I am an avid video gamer, table-top gamer, and love to build Lego. My wife and I are the proud humans of five adopted rescue cats and one smelly but adorable dog.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
December 2, 2024
3 Stars
January 14, 2026
I’m sad to say that this book was mid at best.
The book focuses on the hauntings of the location rather than the case itself. The author also makes reference the Ghost Adventures episode that was filmed there and how over the top it was. Had to check for myself and wouldn’t you know it…
Like what were we thinking here…
The book focuses on the hauntings of the location rather than the case itself. The author also makes reference the Ghost Adventures episode that was filmed there and how over the top it was. Had to check for myself and wouldn’t you know it…
Like what were we thinking here…
March 27, 2021
This was a quick read. I knew most of the backstory as this house and case are one of the many that fascinate me. I loved seeing all the different theories of what or who could be haunting the place and I liked seeing the different methods that were used to contact the ghosts on each visit that Richard took to the house.
August 24, 2023
This book focuses more on the paranormal aspects of the Vallisca Axe Murder House and only touches on the actual murders. I'm more interested in the true crime background of the house, which is why I rated it lower, but if you are interested in the hauntings this book is worth a read.
Read
December 9, 2025DNF Not an exploration of possibilities.
December 15, 2022
A nightmare in Villisca
Love scary books and true stories my daughter would love this book I think the next time I head to Kansas City I will make a detour to go see this house
Love scary books and true stories my daughter would love this book I think the next time I head to Kansas City I will make a detour to go see this house
January 23, 2022
The book is about independent ghost hunting in the house so if you are looking for various ghost hunting techniques to ghost hunting, you will be able to review it here.
December 18, 2020
Richard Estep is a very engaging writer with a fascination for the paranormal and ghosts. In this book he makes several visits to Villisca, Iowa, to research and ghost hunt at Axe Murder House where eight people were murdered in 1912.
The House has a reputation for being quite haunted, though the level and type of activity varies from day to day and person to person or group to group. Even Mr. Estep gets different results each time he visits, which says a lot about ghost hunting - it's never consistent.
To make the point obvious, though I doubt that was Mr. Estep's intent, he watches and discusses several different shows of other groups* who've visited the house through the years, each with unique results. I wondered if he was aware of the irony of that fact.
On the whole, this book is an interesting look into how history and the present interact in weird ways. The house itself is a sad place, a place that draws the morbidly curious and historian alike. Though there are theories and ideas about who the murderer was, most definitely a mass murderer (though not gone into much depth, there is discussion about a number similar crimes which were committed along railroad stops before and after Villisca), no one know who actually slipped into the house one night and took an axe to the two adults and six children who slept within or why.
On the whole, an interesting read.
💀💀💀💀
*The shows, all available on YouTube, are:
Ghost Adventures
Ghost Lab
The Dead Files
The Official Website for Villisca Ax Murder House
The House has a reputation for being quite haunted, though the level and type of activity varies from day to day and person to person or group to group. Even Mr. Estep gets different results each time he visits, which says a lot about ghost hunting - it's never consistent.
To make the point obvious, though I doubt that was Mr. Estep's intent, he watches and discusses several different shows of other groups* who've visited the house through the years, each with unique results. I wondered if he was aware of the irony of that fact.
On the whole, this book is an interesting look into how history and the present interact in weird ways. The house itself is a sad place, a place that draws the morbidly curious and historian alike. Though there are theories and ideas about who the murderer was, most definitely a mass murderer (though not gone into much depth, there is discussion about a number similar crimes which were committed along railroad stops before and after Villisca), no one know who actually slipped into the house one night and took an axe to the two adults and six children who slept within or why.
On the whole, an interesting read.
💀💀💀💀
*The shows, all available on YouTube, are:
Ghost Adventures
Ghost Lab
The Dead Files
The Official Website for Villisca Ax Murder House
May 16, 2024
This is about a placek known as The Murder House where, in 1912, eight people were murdered, six of them children, and they were murdered with an axe.
The murderer was never found.
One clue was in the fact that there were simliar murders which happened along a railroad track.
The things the investigators noted were doors opening, some EVPs, doors slamming shut and things from a 'spirit box.' There's also a very interesting thing in that the guy who owns the house has noted that negative things seem to follow him from the murder house to his house. This is the same type of thing that has happened on the series about Skinwalker Ranch where, at times, thing of such a nature follow the men working there back to their own homes.
The book goes into the details of the murders and how the killer masturbated while watching one of the young girls he killed. The book also goes into how the house has been opened to tourists, the various men that were suspects in the murders and some lessons for investigators such as don't be vulger when talking to possible spirits in the place you are investigating.
It notes that making out words from EVPs can be very, very hard to do and diminishes their reliability. It covers other techniques they used such as a 'human pendulum'.
It covers the visitor's logbook and the impressions people had when going through the house and a very fascinating idea. Could a house be haunting itself?
The book does a good job going into how the investigation was done, the techniques used and how the reliability of evidence was discussed.
I like the way the investigation was done and the open-mindedness of the investigators who do not automatically say because x has happened it automatically proves a haunting to be real.
The murderer was never found.
One clue was in the fact that there were simliar murders which happened along a railroad track.
The things the investigators noted were doors opening, some EVPs, doors slamming shut and things from a 'spirit box.' There's also a very interesting thing in that the guy who owns the house has noted that negative things seem to follow him from the murder house to his house. This is the same type of thing that has happened on the series about Skinwalker Ranch where, at times, thing of such a nature follow the men working there back to their own homes.
The book goes into the details of the murders and how the killer masturbated while watching one of the young girls he killed. The book also goes into how the house has been opened to tourists, the various men that were suspects in the murders and some lessons for investigators such as don't be vulger when talking to possible spirits in the place you are investigating.
It notes that making out words from EVPs can be very, very hard to do and diminishes their reliability. It covers other techniques they used such as a 'human pendulum'.
It covers the visitor's logbook and the impressions people had when going through the house and a very fascinating idea. Could a house be haunting itself?
The book does a good job going into how the investigation was done, the techniques used and how the reliability of evidence was discussed.
I like the way the investigation was done and the open-mindedness of the investigators who do not automatically say because x has happened it automatically proves a haunting to be real.
September 11, 2022
Fair warning, this may include spoilers
I am assuming that if you are thinking of buying this book, you have some knowledge of the tragedy, so going forth know that some of my questions in this review may be spoilers or something to think about while reading the book. First I will give my review followed by the questions.
I really enjoyed the book and thought the way that Mr. Estep went about retelling his many visits and experiences interesting. I spent a few sleepless nights because not only was I scared but my mind would not shut off. Well written and very thought provoking for sure. I like a book that you continue to think about after reading chapters or even the whole book.
Now to the question(s). The theory of one person killing 8 people has always baffled me. There were/are axe marks in one or two ceilings. How did no one wake up? That had to have made quite a noise. How could one person take out two adults? I would have to agree that the murderer had to kill both parents but again, if the murderer killed Mr. Moore first, how did he keep Mrs. Moore quiet? They shared the same bed! How did none of the children wake up while their parents were being “slaughtered”? I guess my last question is whether there be one or multiple murderers how did no one hear these people walking through the house? I have no answers for the questions unless some how the family was targeted and then drugged? I don’t know. Maybe the house itself IS possessed.
I am assuming that if you are thinking of buying this book, you have some knowledge of the tragedy, so going forth know that some of my questions in this review may be spoilers or something to think about while reading the book. First I will give my review followed by the questions.
I really enjoyed the book and thought the way that Mr. Estep went about retelling his many visits and experiences interesting. I spent a few sleepless nights because not only was I scared but my mind would not shut off. Well written and very thought provoking for sure. I like a book that you continue to think about after reading chapters or even the whole book.
Now to the question(s). The theory of one person killing 8 people has always baffled me. There were/are axe marks in one or two ceilings. How did no one wake up? That had to have made quite a noise. How could one person take out two adults? I would have to agree that the murderer had to kill both parents but again, if the murderer killed Mr. Moore first, how did he keep Mrs. Moore quiet? They shared the same bed! How did none of the children wake up while their parents were being “slaughtered”? I guess my last question is whether there be one or multiple murderers how did no one hear these people walking through the house? I have no answers for the questions unless some how the family was targeted and then drugged? I don’t know. Maybe the house itself IS possessed.
November 24, 2020
A very good study of the haunting.
Right before I read this, I watched Johnny Houser’s series of episodes he filmed at the house. It gave me an excellent idea how how the house is laid out, and of the personality of a man who is mentioned quite often in this book. I highly recommend watching that series as well as this book, they went very well together.
I’m a big fan of Mr. Estep’s haunted location books, as he covers the history, as well as the paranormal activity of each place. You end up feeling as if you are along for each trip and overnight visit. This one is no exception. The atmosphere of the house seems stifling and oppressive even on the page. The sad and horrific murders that took place there are never far from mind as the author and his colleagues investigate.
The tone is respectful and I highly recommend this for those who are interested in true crime mysteries as well as hauntings.
Right before I read this, I watched Johnny Houser’s series of episodes he filmed at the house. It gave me an excellent idea how how the house is laid out, and of the personality of a man who is mentioned quite often in this book. I highly recommend watching that series as well as this book, they went very well together.
I’m a big fan of Mr. Estep’s haunted location books, as he covers the history, as well as the paranormal activity of each place. You end up feeling as if you are along for each trip and overnight visit. This one is no exception. The atmosphere of the house seems stifling and oppressive even on the page. The sad and horrific murders that took place there are never far from mind as the author and his colleagues investigate.
The tone is respectful and I highly recommend this for those who are interested in true crime mysteries as well as hauntings.
October 1, 2020
I just love Mr. Estep's books about true hauntings!
Every book I've read by this author grabs
my attention right from the beginning and
continues through to the end. I love the
historical parts of his narrative and the
ghostly story, also. These books are extremely
interesting and will definitely keep you up
way past your bedtime if you start reading
them at night. They're also thought provoking
and really make you think about paranormal
happenings. I'm absolutely addicted to Richard
Estep's books!!!!
Every book I've read by this author grabs
my attention right from the beginning and
continues through to the end. I love the
historical parts of his narrative and the
ghostly story, also. These books are extremely
interesting and will definitely keep you up
way past your bedtime if you start reading
them at night. They're also thought provoking
and really make you think about paranormal
happenings. I'm absolutely addicted to Richard
Estep's books!!!!
April 26, 2021
I thoroughly enjoy all of the books written by this Author. Being heavily involved in paranormal research myself for the last decade, I appreciate how thorough his research is and he does a great job keeping the story fun and engaging when we all know just how boring and mundane an all night investigation can be! I love hearing similarities from investigations compared to my own experiences at some of these locations. Overall, a great writer! Even if you’re a newb to PR, these are great reads. If you like this one, read Malvern Manor next!
July 26, 2022
Great read!
An avid reader of the paranormal and a history buff, the cover and synopsis intrigued me. This was my first time reading any of Mr. Estep’s work and I was very impressed. He not only tells his own stories, but includes similar works by other authors. I already have one of the books he recommended and plan to read more, as well as more of his own work. His writing is simple, straightforward, and he gives his best effort to point out his own biases in comparison with what is happening at the time.
An avid reader of the paranormal and a history buff, the cover and synopsis intrigued me. This was my first time reading any of Mr. Estep’s work and I was very impressed. He not only tells his own stories, but includes similar works by other authors. I already have one of the books he recommended and plan to read more, as well as more of his own work. His writing is simple, straightforward, and he gives his best effort to point out his own biases in comparison with what is happening at the time.
August 20, 2023
The murder of the Moore family and two of their young friends has shocked people for decades. The senseless murder, the gruesome crime scene, and the lack of anyone being held accountable has led to many believing that the house itself is haunted.
Richard Estep goes inside the house and discusses his investigations there, as well as some others that have been done inside the home. This was an interesting look at the case, the paranormal instances that have occurred.
Interesting read overall!
Richard Estep goes inside the house and discusses his investigations there, as well as some others that have been done inside the home. This was an interesting look at the case, the paranormal instances that have occurred.
Interesting read overall!
February 17, 2024
Short...
This book is a short read highlighting the more popular theories (and people behind the theories) in regards to what haunts the Vi!!isca House. This book is more of a broad summary, to include a short history of the people and event itself. This would be a great resource for someone just getting introduced to this topic. Readers would need to follow up with one of the many other books or tv shows about the Villisca House (mentioned in the book) if wanting a more comprehensive read on either the hauntings or investigation itself.
This book is a short read highlighting the more popular theories (and people behind the theories) in regards to what haunts the Vi!!isca House. This book is more of a broad summary, to include a short history of the people and event itself. This would be a great resource for someone just getting introduced to this topic. Readers would need to follow up with one of the many other books or tv shows about the Villisca House (mentioned in the book) if wanting a more comprehensive read on either the hauntings or investigation itself.
November 27, 2020
A Comprehensive Villisca Analysis
Finally, a complete, well- researched and seemingly unbiased report about The Infamous Home where an entire family perished at the hands of an axe killer a century ago. Many have insisted, but few give as well rounded and logical a reporting as Mr. Estep.... I'm very impressed. I'm a skeptic and a believer, YET I want my evidence to be completely reviewed and not assumed. Read this book!
Finally, a complete, well- researched and seemingly unbiased report about The Infamous Home where an entire family perished at the hands of an axe killer a century ago. Many have insisted, but few give as well rounded and logical a reporting as Mr. Estep.... I'm very impressed. I'm a skeptic and a believer, YET I want my evidence to be completely reviewed and not assumed. Read this book!
January 6, 2026
Great true crime book
Very well written, easy reading book! Wonderfully draws you into the paranormal aspect of the horrendous murders committed in the house in Vallisca. That paranormal activity has been, and indeed still is occurring should practically be a given, in a location that experienced the horror of six children and two adults massacred with an axe. Brilliantly written to draw you into this sad true story!
Very well written, easy reading book! Wonderfully draws you into the paranormal aspect of the horrendous murders committed in the house in Vallisca. That paranormal activity has been, and indeed still is occurring should practically be a given, in a location that experienced the horror of six children and two adults massacred with an axe. Brilliantly written to draw you into this sad true story!
April 29, 2021
Wow
This book I found to be a little different from the other books but it was amazing. Though the author didn't get much from his investigations his writing about other paranormal experts experiences was chilling. I really got spooked with this book. Can't wait to see was in-store for me in the next book.
This book I found to be a little different from the other books but it was amazing. Though the author didn't get much from his investigations his writing about other paranormal experts experiences was chilling. I really got spooked with this book. Can't wait to see was in-store for me in the next book.
March 13, 2022
A great one to read
I grew up near Villisca from 1961 to when I left in 1979. I've been in the house when I help in the early 80s to wallpaper the parlor. And the next day came back to see a big red blood spot on the new wallpaper for no reason. You grow up learning of it all..and now I read this awesome book and it makes me question..is the house doing the haunting..
I grew up near Villisca from 1961 to when I left in 1979. I've been in the house when I help in the early 80s to wallpaper the parlor. And the next day came back to see a big red blood spot on the new wallpaper for no reason. You grow up learning of it all..and now I read this awesome book and it makes me question..is the house doing the haunting..
April 8, 2022
a must read
All of Richard Estep’s books have been amazing! If you like true crime history and hauntings then this is a must read! I also love reading his books then finding any ghost related shows that have been to the location then watch them. Guess you could say I like to go down the rabbit hole lol!
All of Richard Estep’s books have been amazing! If you like true crime history and hauntings then this is a must read! I also love reading his books then finding any ghost related shows that have been to the location then watch them. Guess you could say I like to go down the rabbit hole lol!
September 25, 2020
A Nightmare in Villisca
Another excellent book from Richard. Well researched and as always, well written. I read this book in one sitting, and found it to be a fascinating read. Looking forward to the next one!
Another excellent book from Richard. Well researched and as always, well written. I read this book in one sitting, and found it to be a fascinating read. Looking forward to the next one!
October 6, 2020
Great Read
This book is an interesting mix of first hand experience with the haunting itself as well as a retelling of others experiences . It drew me in from the beginning and I plan on reading the other books on Villisca the author suggested.
This book is an interesting mix of first hand experience with the haunting itself as well as a retelling of others experiences . It drew me in from the beginning and I plan on reading the other books on Villisca the author suggested.
October 25, 2021
Focus is on paranormal not facts
Author spends his time recounting other people's paranormal experiences instead of focusing on the story and the facts. I have lived in Villisca all my life so this was disappointing.
Author spends his time recounting other people's paranormal experiences instead of focusing on the story and the facts. I have lived in Villisca all my life so this was disappointing.
September 27, 2023
The Author
I’ve read many books by Richard Estep, all very credible especially with his attitude of debunking all happenings if possible. He never declares that he is able to feel a presence. When he does feel something, he is the first to question. Keep writing for us Richard!
I’ve read many books by Richard Estep, all very credible especially with his attitude of debunking all happenings if possible. He never declares that he is able to feel a presence. When he does feel something, he is the first to question. Keep writing for us Richard!
November 12, 2020
Good account
Well written and thoughtful account of a gruesome and vicious murder. Not all savages are brought to light and justice.
Well written and thoughtful account of a gruesome and vicious murder. Not all savages are brought to light and justice.
February 13, 2021
I really like his books
July 6, 2021
Spine chilling but informative
Summarises most of the shows and books on the matter, making it an enjoyable read. Looking forward to reading more books from this author
Summarises most of the shows and books on the matter, making it an enjoyable read. Looking forward to reading more books from this author
July 16, 2021
Awesomeness
Loved it! Great read.I am intrigued by all stories like this one. Love horror that truly happened but sad that this happened.
Loved it! Great read.I am intrigued by all stories like this one. Love horror that truly happened but sad that this happened.
November 1, 2022
Once again this author hits it out of the park. True crime and paranormal hand in hand in a compassionate and thought provoking way.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews