Richard O’Connor’s Paranormal Black Country uncovers ghost stories from the West Midlands’ haunted industrial past, writes DAVID SAUNDERSON
Amberley Publishing seems to have become the go-to destination for authors delving into the Black Country’s rich, spooky folk history and dark tales.
I’ve collected several books on the subject now, and each new title adds another chilling layer to the region’s character.
When I recently reviewed Illustrated Tales of the Black Country by Helen Harwood, I wrote that the area was full of great stories. Richard O’Connor has now gone deeper still, uncovering some of the Black Country’s most unsettling ghost stories in Paranormal Black Country — and it doesn’t disappoint.
Regarded as the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution, the Black Country is steeped in grit, sweat and history — the perfect setting for ghostly encounters.
O’Connor takes readers from the blistering heat of old blast furnaces to the shadowy crypt of Dudley Castle, where exotic animals are not the only strange residents.
Places like Dudley, Sandwell, Walsall and Wolverhampton have no shortage of ghostly tales to tell, and Richard brings readers deep into these haunted locations — offering his own spin, experience and insights to give each encounter fresh perspective.
Along the way we meet Civil War soldiers, hooded riders, canal-side villains, ghostly monks and echoes of the Gunpowder Plot. There’s even a stop at the infamous Crooked House pub, for one last drink with the spirits.
What makes the book stand out is O’Connor’s background as a seasoned paranormal investigator. He doesn’t merely retell local legends — he explores the sites, the history and first-hand accounts, giving the tales both atmosphere and credibility.
Having interviewed Richard previously for our feature on his book, Paranormal Burton upon Trent, I know just how much passion and knowledge he brings to his work. That commitment is evident on every page.
The Black Country inspires fierce local pride, and this book shows exactly why. The collieries and foundries may be long gone, but the land still bears the scars of its past — and the whispers of those who haunt its shadows.
Paranormal Black Country is a worthy addition to Amberley’s Paranormal series and a must-read for anyone drawn to the strange and haunted heart of the West Midlands.
Paranormal Black Country by Richard O’Connor is now available from Amberley Publishing.
Have you experienced paranormal activity in the Black Country? Tell us your story in the comments section!
