Audiobook Review: The Haunting of Alma Fielding by Kate Summerscale
Narrated by David Morrissey
Genre: Nonfiction – Paranormal - History
Age: Adult
Format: Audiobook
The Haunting of Alma Fielding is a really interesting insight into paranormal investigations in Britain during the interwar period. If you have an interest in the history of paranormal investigations, I absolutely think you should pick this up. The 1930s were a period of great change in Europe, and Summerscale reflects this through the events surrounding Alma Fielding.
With spiritualism on the rise in the wake of World War I, the strange happenings in Alma’s home draw the attention of Nandor Fodor, an investigator for the International Institute for Psychical Research. What I found particularly fascinating here was the insight into this period and the way Alma’s case ties in with so many others. It becomes evident that what happened to Alma and what those involved – especially Nandor – uncovered then informed so much psychical research, and influenced pretty much any form of possession story, whether in film or books, that came after.
I do find this area of research fascinating, and especially looking at the historical context. These events take place during a tumultuous time for Britain, but it’s also during a period when the Institute itself was undergoing big changes. There’s a lot of different people mentioned, and it’s clear how many people were captured by the story. Summerscale has clearly done a great deal of research, and includes a section at the end explaining what happened to the various people involved following the main events of the book.
I have to admit, Morrissey is an excellent narrator, too. His voice really makes you pay full attention, and is a joy to listen to.
Absolutely recommend this one if you’re interested in paranormal nonfiction and the history of paranormal investigations.
Review by Elle Turpitt
Twitter: @elleturpitt
Bluesky: @elleturpitt.bsky.social
I purchased this audiobook.
