Witchcraft, Folklore & Haunted Ohio: My Recommended Reads
Much of my research begins with reading—following old trails, forgotten stories, and the voices of writers who’ve walked these paths before me. These books informed my perspective, but the stories I tell come from my own digging, interviews, and long nights spent chasing the strange. If you’d like to explore the same paths, you can follow the titles below to their Amazon pages.
Witchcraft & Folk Magic
Witchcraft is older than the written record, and the books in this section explore its roots, practices, and cultural echoes. From Appalachian folk magic to modern witchcraft studies, these titles offer grounded research, lived experience, and the kind of atmospheric storytelling that inspires my own work.
The Green Witch — Arin Murphy‑Hiscock
Click the title to view this book on Amazon.
A perennial bestseller and one of the most influential witchcraft books on Amazon. This guide explores natural magic, herbalism, intuition, and the quiet, grounded practices of green witchcraft. Perfect for readers who want a gentle, nature‑centered approach.
Backwoods Witchcraft — Jake Richards
Click the title to view this book on Amazon.
A powerful look into Appalachian folk magic, rooted in family traditions, regional lore, and lived experience. Richards blends history, superstition, and practice in a way that feels authentic and atmospheric — ideal for readers who enjoy your Appalachian and Ohio themes.
Ozark Folk Magic — Brandon Weston
Click the title to view this book on Amazon.
A deep dive into the magical traditions of the Ozarks, filled with charms, healing practices, and regional folklore. Weston’s work pairs beautifully with Appalachian material and resonates strongly with readers who love old‑world American folk traditions.
The House Witch — Arin Murphy‑Hiscock
Click the title to view this book on Amazon.
Another long‑running bestseller from Murphy‑Hiscock, this book focuses on domestic magic, hearth traditions, and creating a spiritually grounded home. It’s a perfect companion to The Green Witch and consistently performs well in affiliate conversions.
American Brujeria — J. Allen Cross
Click the title to view this book on Amazon.
A modern exploration of Mexican‑American folk magic, blending cultural tradition with contemporary practice. This book has strong sales momentum and appeals to readers interested in cross‑cultural magic and spiritual heritage.
Folklore & Strange History
Folklore is the memory of a place—its fears, its warnings, its humor, and its ghosts. These books dive into regional legends, forgotten histories, and the stories communities carry forward. If you enjoy the blend of truth and tale in my writing, you’ll find the same spirit here.
The World of Lore: Monstrous Creatures — Aaron Mahnke
Click the title to view this book on Amazon
A bestselling collection of eerie legends, strange creatures, and dark folklore from around the world. Mahnke blends history and storytelling in a way that appeals to both folklore fans and true‑crime readers.
The World of Lore: Wicked Mortals — Aaron Mahnke
Click the title to view this book on Amazon.
A deep dive into the real‑life killers, criminals, and unsettling historical figures who inspired some of the world’s darkest legends. Atmospheric, well‑researched, and perfect for readers who enjoy the shadowy side of history.
Appalachian Folklore: Omens, Signs & Superstitions — Nancy Richmond & Loretta Coleman
Click the title to view this book on Amazon.
A classic collection of Appalachian beliefs, warnings, and old‑world superstitions. This book resonates strongly with readers who love regional lore and the cultural roots behind strange traditions.
Strange Tales from Ohio — Neil Zurcher
Click the title to view this book on Amazon.
A fun, engaging look at Ohio’s weirdest stories — from roadside oddities to forgotten legends. Zurcher’s long career as a reporter gives these tales a grounded, local authenticity your readers will appreciate.
Haunted Ohio: Ghostly Tales from the Buckeye State — Chris Woodyard
Click the title to view this book on Amazon.
One of the most enduring and best‑selling Ohio ghost story collections. Woodyard’s research blends folklore, history, and firsthand accounts, making it a perfect fit for your paranormal‑focused audience.
Haunted Ohio & Paranormal Research
Ohio is full of strange corners, abandoned places, and stories that refuse to die. These books explore hauntings, unsolved mysteries, and the paranormal landscape of the Midwest. They’re essential reading for anyone who wants to understand the darker side of Ohio’s history.
Haunted Ohio II — Chris Woodyard
Click the title to view this book on Amazon.
The bestselling sequel to Haunted Ohio, packed with eerie encounters, historical hauntings, and firsthand ghost stories from across the state. Woodyard’s research and storytelling make this one of the most trusted paranormal sources in Ohio.
The Haunted History of the Ohio State Reformatory — Sherri Brake
Click the title to view this book on Amazon.
A deep dive into one of America’s most haunted prisons. Brake blends history, inmate lore, and paranormal investigation into a compelling look at the Reformatory’s dark past. A top seller due to the site’s massive tourism and ghost‑hunting appeal.
Ghosthunting Ohio — John B. Kachuba
Click the title to view this book on Amazon.
Part of the popular America’s Haunted Road Trip series, this book explores well‑known and lesser‑known haunted locations across Ohio. Kachuba’s accessible style and on‑site investigations make it a favorite for both beginners and seasoned paranormal fans.
Murder in Stark County, Ohio — Kimberly A. Kenney
Click the title to view this book on Amazon.
A gripping exploration of Stark County’s most chilling murders, this book uncovers the dark history behind real crimes that shaped the region. Kimberly A. Kenney blends meticulous research with compelling storytelling, offering readers a haunting look at the people, places, and events that left a lasting mark on Ohio’s past. Perfect for those who enjoy true crime rooted in local history and the lingering shadows it leaves behind.
Haunted Cemeteries of Ohio — E.R. Cutright
Click the title to view this book on Amazon.
An atmospheric exploration of Ohio’s most haunted burial grounds. Cutright combines folklore, local legends, and historical research to uncover the eerie stories tied to the state’s oldest cemeteries.
This page will continue to grow as I add more titles, research sources, and books that have shaped my work. If you’d like updates when new recommendations are added, follow me on Facebook, "X", Instagram, and YouTube