In Search of Demons

Richard Estep (Colorado) cofounded Boulder County Paranormal Research Society (BCPRS) with his wife, Laura, in 1999. He's the author of more than a dozen books detailing his most harrowing investigations, including The Horrors of Fox Hollow Farm. Visit him at RichardEstep.net. M. Belanger is an occult expert, educator, media personality, and author of over thirty books on paranormal and occult topics. Founder and lead clergy of the magickal group House Kheperu, Belanger is most widely recognized for work as a psychic on A&E's Paranormal State and Osbourne Media's Portals to Hell. Consulted for numerous documentaries, books, and courses, Belanger has lectured on paranormal and occult topics at colleges and universities across North America and was a National Merit Scholar. A prolific and versatile creator, Belanger has also contributed work to projects as wide-ranging as Marvel AR, HBO's True Blood, CNN Headline News, CSI, Nox Arcana, and multiple RPGs. To learn more about Belanger's work, start by exploring www.MichelleBelanger.com, where you'll find classes, books, music, and events at the retreat center, Inspiration House. Follow Belanger on Twitter, YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram under the handle sethanikeem.

"It's hard to find someone who can keep their head in a level space as they research such a controversial and debated topic, but Richard Estep succeeds at this masterfully. Richard examines horrific stories and lore from a place of curiosity and skepticism, something much needed when it comes to a subject heavily influenced by fearmongering and pop culture. Not to mention it's very kind of Richard to so willingly delve into some of the darkest paranormal encounters ever claimed—so you and I can read from the safety of our own homes."—Amy Bruni, executive producer and host of Travel Channel's Kindred Spirits TV series"Richard Estep doesn't take sides and he doesn't pull punches. If you want an honest look at demonic phenomena, this book is a must."—Brad and Barry Klinge, hosts of Discovery Channel's Ghost Lab TV series"Richard tackles this topic with his unbiased enthusiasm, scientific mindset, healthy skepticism, and openness to the unexplained through interviews with regular people like you and me, seasoned professionals and experts in the paranormal, and members of the Catholic Church's exorcism team....It is completely engrossing, thought provoking, and engaging."—Heather Blumberg, star of We Bought a Funeral Home TV series"Whether you are deeply religious or drawn towards the occult, Richard serves as a knowledgeable guide and interpreter to the realm of demons. With a methodical and considerate approach, he deciphers their tropes and treats claims of demonic encounters and expertise with fairness."—Tobin Long, producer of Haunted Hospitals, Paranormal 911, and Paranormal Night Shift TV series"Richard Estep takes you on a diabolical road trip to investigate the reality behind a subject that has piqued the public's interest and aroused their fears: demonic possession....He thoroughly examines alternating viewpoints, all while maintaining objectivity. Every page leads you on an open-minded journey to answer the controversial questions about exorcisms and signs of demonic possession. Terror and intrigue await at every turn when In Search of Demons."—Heather Taddy, paranormal investigator on Paranormal State, Portals to Hell, Alien Highway, and Travel the Dead TV series"A spine-chilling journey into the most eerie manifestations of demonic influence. Juxtaposing skepticism with the unexplainable, Richard urges readers to question what lies beyond the surface."—Jessica Knapik, co-host of What's Up Weirdo? podcast"In Search of Demons lifts a torch upon our passion for the ultimate evil. Citing work from renowned investigators, well-documented cases of hauntings, and discussing the need for the Devil himself, Richard Estep invites us to examine not just the existence of darker entities, but also that nature which lurks within each of us."—Dustin Pari, paranormal investigator on Ghost Hunters, Ghost Hunters International, and other TV series"Richard is both a seasoned writer and paranormal investigator, and he provides insights into his experiences and investigations involving purported encounters with demons....Richard has carefully balanced personal experiences with detailed research and critical analysis. His balanced perspective offers readers a captivating journey into the world of demonic paranormal investigation. A must-read book."—Paul Stevenson, editor of Haunted Magazine"A comprehensive look at the fascinating topic of demons....In Search of Demons is Richard Estep at his very best."—Reverend Tim Shaw

• ContentsForeword by M. Belanger xiIntroduction 1One: Demonized 7Two: Sympathy for the Devil 19Three: Burned 29Four: Infestation 41Five: "I am the demon!" 55Six: The Ghost Hunter 63Seven: An Exorcist's Perspective 75Eight: Hell in Earling 87Nine: The Devil in Mind 119Ten: Illusion, Delusion, and Possession 129Eleven: Demons and Diaries 139Twelve: Demons on the Screen 177Thirteen: A Twenty-First Century Demon 189Fourteen: Board Meeting 205Fifteen: Parapsychologically Speaking 213Sixteen: Here Be Dragons 227Seventeen: The Demon House 233Eighteen: Practical Magic 243Nineteen: Hey Jude 255Conclusion 265Acknowledgments 269Bibliography 271