Michael J. Varhola

This is an interesting look at the various haunting sites that are scattered throughout Maryland. The author usually gives a brief history of the site and the background of the area and then goes into what the details of the haunting are. The writing isn’t boring or stiff as some of these books can be and often the history of the site is more interesting than the actual haunting. It is important to note that all the places, at the time of writing, were open to the public so anyone that wants to do a little ghost hunting on their own should be able to do so. This is also a good book if you looking to learn a little more about the history of Maryland.… (altro)

So, I'm normally a bit more lenient in my ratings than I'm being right now. I can normally appreciate a book for the intention behind it, the decent facts contained within, or the rich inspiration a good story can inspire. I had hoped to learn a fair bit from this book when it comes to local Maryland folklore, and perhaps even have a few sites to visit that would prove rich in a) local history and b) local folk beliefs. Maybe a few ghost tours would stick out...

I wish I had been so lucky.

Unfortunately this book proved a chore to get through, and didn't contain nearly enough information to satisfy me. This was no idle collection of folkloric legends, nor was it a travel guide, or a wealth of historical fact. his book tried to be all of the above (even going so far as to recommend certain restaurants, pubs, and dishes on occasion) and thus became nothing in particular. It felt more like reading unfinished blog entries or yelp reviews than a proper book. This book had a lot of potential, and it truly disappointed me that it never quite lived up to it.

The most irritating part of the book for me was how many times the author admitted to not having visited a site at the right time to be given a tour, go inside, or truly experience it. The author did not live terribly far away from any of the sites mentioned, and that sort of oversight seems unforgivable. Why wouldn't they visit multiple times, or at least call in advance to ensure they were able to do what it was they wished to? That, combined with typos, mentions of paranormal activity that never was fully described, and the lack of photos the author mentioned taking being included in the book made for a maddening experience.

I wish this book was better than it was. I truly do.

I just don't know what the editor was thinking.… (altro)