The Blessing of the Dream: A Published Author

Piercing the Veils of Death: A Paranormal Exploration by Dane Ladwig

Just a few weeks ago, I published my first book titled, Piercing the Veils of Death. To my surprise, my book received a warm welcome and earned exceptional reviews. Debut weekend over 500 copies of the paperback and Kindle sold through Amazon.com. Barnes and Noble contacted me to ask permission to place Piercing the Veils of Death on its shelves and make it available on the electronic Nook version. I was elated!

Yesterday, Amazon listed Piercing the Veils of Death in the category of New Releases in the UK as the #1 in Supernatural/Paranormal. Today, in the USA, Piercing the Veils of Death is listed at the #10 position following Anne Rice’s National Bestseller (in the #9 position) The Wolf Gift.

As an Independent Author, a successful first release is a dream come true. I would have never dreamed of making the A-list with such prolific writers as Anne Rice, and never in a million years would I have dreamed it would be possible within two weeks of releasing a book.

What is my secret? Hard work, determination and a devotion to presenting a unique idea! I spent nearly a year on the manuscript. I did not want to offer a fiction. Nor did I want to marry myself to a nonfiction. The idea of compiling a collection of unified experiences while still having the ability to present both a fictionalized anecdote along with including a compendium of quasi-memoirs and investigative research materials; all dealing with the human condition, that is what I was after – what turned me on!

It’s not all been a waltz on cloud nine! As an Independent, I am required to market my work. This equates to approximately 20-30 additional hours weekly in addition to the 40-50 a week I devote to my next writing project, Dr. H. H. Holmes and the Whitechapel Ripper: An Historic Inquisition. Between marketing, mailing, radio, newspaper and media, and the occasional lecture and book signing/presentation, there is little time left for “me time”. Thus, scheduling wisely and remaining flexible is necessary.

I would like to present my book, Piercing the Veils of Death. I set out in Piercing the Veils of Death to journey through several realms of the hereafter. Have you ever wondered what it would be like to pass through this life and have cognitive recall? To know where you are and who is in the room with you? Why are the Native American Indians “connected” to the Spirit realm? Do you know the difference between The City of the Dead in Cairo, Egypt and the City of the Dead in New Orleans, LA? Do our pets go to heaven? Have you ever witnessed a pet grieve at a gravesite? Are pets and animals connected to the great beyond?

The fictional story in chapter one follows Stephen Allendale as he travels through the ever-frightening corridor of death. Clinging to his lifelong love, his wife Tracy, find out why Stephen and Tracy refuse to let go of one another’s love.

Piercing the Veils of Death interviews an established college professor whom chooses to act as a channel for the deceased. There are numerous other interviews, such as with Chicago’s premier ghost tour company owner. Interviews with paranormal investigators and psychic/mediums will keep your attention as you find out facts about what makes people tick in the paranormal community and keeps them chasing after the most elusive of all beings — the spirits of the deceased.

Much more than a book on the paranormal, Piercing the Veils of Death leaves the reader with a deeper understanding of the afterlife, the supernatural, superstitions and what may await in the great beyond.

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The reviews posted to Amazon have been encouraging (all 5 star reviews):

“Piercing the Veils of Death by Dane Ladwig is comprised of several stories as it pertains to the supernatural and metaphysical experiences that the author has encountered over the years. It is one thing to read about fictitious accounts of apparitional events, but entirely another to read true cases related to the hereafter.

I was utterly captivated by the stories presented in this book and I found it fascinating as well as I felt it gave me reassurance that there is more after this life. This is not a ghost story book nor a religious book, but about everyday lives, miracles, the transformation from this life to the next, the knowledge that there is hope and everlasting life.

I enjoyed this book immensely and thank you for sharing your stories.” (Amazon’s Top 10 True Crime Author RJ Parker)

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“Piercing the Veils of Death is by far one of the best books I have ever read about the supernatural and matters involving death and the implications death have on the living. I expected your run-of-the-mill paranormal fantasy spookster tale of haunted houses and famous landmarks we are so accustomed to reading about, it was refreshing to read true-life chronicles and get a peak inside the minds of many paranormal investigators and celebrities. I simply loved the way the author opened his book with his very own introduction to the gruesome account of his first “education” of the dead in a funeral home, and then moved on in chapter one to a fictional story of a husband and wife who were so in love in life they couldn’t/wouldn’t let go even in death. It is superb! I am looking forward to telling every one of my friends about this book, then reading it again!

Kudos to a literary masterpiece!” (Denise M. Pacini)

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“Having never purchased an E-book before, I’m glad this was my first, since I couldn’t seem to put it down. Sadly, I was late for a few things because I wouldn’t stop reading in time to go. Mr Ladwig has a fantastic way with words that draws you in, holds your attention and grips very tight. The descriptive & informative nature with which he tells a story, or shares knowledge is one of the best I’ve found. If you’re looking for a book that educates you, enthralls you, and at times, entertains you, THIS is that book. Thank You for a very good read!!” (DEstlock)

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“I really enjoyed this book, as it’s one of a kind its supernatural/paranormal genre. He’s a wonderful storyteller. I can’t wait to read more from this author!” (Samantha M. Jones)

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“Amazing story teller and fantastic stories. Had to finish it in one sitting, I can’t wait for his next book. He has such a wonderful feel for the subject.” (Silverhawk319)

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I hope you purchase a copy of my book and enjoy the journey. Currently Amazon.com and Barnes and Noble have Piercing the Veils of Death: A Paranormal Exploration on sale for $7.00 (paperback) and $3.99 (Kindle and Nook).

A portion of the proceeds of the sale are donated to Noonan’s Syndrome Research.

Piercing the Veils of Death: A Paranormal Exploration is available free of charge to all enlisted military personnel who have given freely to protect my rights as an American!

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Premier Weekend: New Indie Author’s Book Sales Skyrocket!

Over 500 copies sold opening weekend (1/25 – 1/27/2013).

I had not expected what was to come. I researched what I should envision as a first book by an Indie Author. The numbers ranged between 100 copies and typically 250 copies sold to friends and family — most claimed that is what I should expect in the first month!

My first published book, Piercing the Veils of Death:A Paranormal Exploration, now available in paperback and on Kindle eBook format on Amazon.com, has sailed past all sales predictions in its opening weekend. Is this attributed to the hard work and dedication of an authors relentless pursuit of success or is the reception a fluke? Perhaps the answer could be found in the reception and response of my peers.

“I started this book by Dane Ladwig last night and read until 5am. Fantastic book!!! So pleased to see that in just one day, my brother Dane has already notched two places in the Top 100 genres. This is going to be a bestseller. Grab a copy today.”  ~ True Crime Author RJ Parker

“Hi all, Check out a new book by Dane Ladwig called Piercing the Veils of Death. In Chapter 13 you will find an interview of TnT Paranormal. Can’t wait to get my copy to read it.” ~ Tracey Tanner of TnT Paranormal

“Can’t wait to get my hands on Piercing the Veils of Death, Dane Ladwig’s brand new book.” ~ Author Jeff Mudgett

“Rarely in all the years I have worked in the realms of death have I met someone so full of life while so closely attuned to the depths of darkness. I cannot wait to read it. You should get it right now.” ~ Ursula Bielski owner of Chicago’s #1 ghost tour company — Chicago Haunting’s Ghost Tours 

Piercing the Veils of Death: A Paranormal Exploration, is much more than I had ever imagined. It delves into the supernatural, the superstitious and the religious implications and quandaries, which we have struggled with for centuries. How do Native American Indians  relate to the Spirit world? Do pets go to heaven? What is the difference between an “angry sprit” and a demon? These and many more questions are answered.

There are three parts to Piercing the Veils of Death. The first is the Apologue, in this chapter follow Stephen Allendale as he takes us through a journey into the hereafter. Only his love for his life-long friend and wife Tracy can help Stephen accept the truth — his death.

The second portion are several true accounts of apparitional visits and psychic interventions as related by a Native American Indian, a clairvoyant, and research by the author in such historical places as Salem, MA. Lexington, MA. and New Orleans, LA. Do you know the difference between The City of the Dead in Cairo, Egypt and The City of the Dead in New Orleans, LA? The interesting answers are in Piercing the Veils of Death.

Want to read an excerpt or get a little more info on what the book is about, visit my website at http://www.daneladwig.com.

The paperback and the electronic eBook Kindle format can be purchased at Amazon by clicking the image below!

http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=Dane+Ladwig

Dane Ladwig’s website:http://www.daneladwig.com/

The Day Has Finally Arrived! My Book Has Been Released…

Nearly a year to the date from when I began research, my dream is realized. My book, Piercing the Veils of Death is now available in paperback and on Kindle eBook format on Amazon.

Piercing the Veils of Death: A Paranormal Exploration is much more than I had ever imagined. It delves into the supernatural, the superstitious and the religious implications and quandaries, which we have struggled with for centuries. How do Native American Indians  relate to the Spirit world? Do pets go to heaven? What is the difference between an “angry sprit” and a demon? These and many more questions are answered.

There are three parts to Piercing the Veils of Death. The first is the Apologue, in this chapter follow Stephen Allendale as he takes us through a journey into the hereafter. Only his love for his life-long friend and wife Tracy, can help Stephen accept the truth.

The second portion are several true accounts of apparitional visits and psychic interventions as related by a Native American Indian, a clairvoyant, and research by the author in such historical places as Salem, MA. Lexington, MA. and New Orleans, LA. Do you know the difference between The City of the Dead in Cairo, Egypt and The City of the Dead in New Orleans, LA? The answers are in Piercing the Veils of Death.

The paperback and the electronic eBook Kindle format can be purchased at Amazon (Click image below)

http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=Dane+Ladwig

Dane Ladwig’s website:http://www.daneladwig.com/

The Portage Theater ~ This Weekend 2012 Chicago Ghost Conference ~

Nostalgia, Memories and Friends!

As I approached the entrance of the historic Portage Theater on Chicago’s north side, it was as if I were walking back in time. Back in the early ’80’s, I owned an apartment building in the Portage Park neighborhood and I would frequent the theater quite a lot.

It has been many years since I have ventured back to the area and I was surprised to see the changes; new businesses replace the old “stores” I once shopped.

I recalled the first movie I had taken in at “The Portage” as area residents referred to it, Apocalypse Now (1979 – United Artist). My brother, Frank, and I went to The Portage on opening day of the Francis Ford Copolla film and it was the first, and only, time my brother and I had ever taken in a movie together.

This time walking into The Portage was much different. Back in 1979 it was elbows and wall to wall people scratching their way in the doors to get the perfect seating. Today, it was as if I had walked into a ghost town of the Wild West.

Rumor is The Portage is haunted, but I have a difficult time believing The Portage would be a place anyone would care to hang around in the afterlife and I personally have no knowledge of any ghost or spirits tied to The Portage.

Perhaps I am tainted by my prior knowledge of The Portage and the neighborhood, however The Portage as a time-capsule is intriguing and it sets the perfect tone for an annual ghost conference. The latent aroma of popcorn spews from the chipping paint off the walls of the concession area.

Entering the theater, the worn out carpet runners lining the isles leading to an out-dated stage directs your attention to the tattered and stained yellowed stucco walls. The rows of blue metal seats with thin padding, torn and badly stained, held impressions of once engaged moviegoers glued to the silver screen.

Back out in the theaters entrance area, I could hear the bustle of eager paranormal patriarchs preparing for their inquiring visitors. Placing stickers on posters, tables with doodads, pictures and pamphlets, jewelry and candles, books and paraphernalia, all laid out just perfectly to grab the attention of the person passing their table. My objective: take in all I could and record the weekend’s events – I am a writer.

My early arrival offered me the opportunity to greet some friends and meet new ones. Jeff Mudgett author of Bloodstains was there as was Chicago’s foremost ghost tour guide Ursula Bielski. Author, paranormal scientist and lecturer Dale Kaczmarek and I were excited to finally meet.

In addition, I spent a few moments with Pete Crapia who is heading some of the most recognized work at Bachelor’s Grove Cemetery. As they were setting up shop for the weekend, there was a host of others I talked with and met. I do have to admit, event coordinator, Mr. Willy Adkins, appears to be bringing together the A-Team of guest speakers and a monumental event lineup.

Personally, I am stoked about Saturday’s events; hearing Jeff Mudgett present evidence linking H. H. Holmes to Jack the Ripper at 5:30 pm, Ursula Bielski presenting The Ghost of Chicago at 6:50pm, and the Booth Brothers film The Haunted Boy (based on the secret diaries and the inspiration for the movie the Exorcist) Saturday at 8:00pm.

If you are looking for a weekend getaway, pop on by at 4050 North Milwaukee Avenue on Chicago’s north side and see what Chicago’s Ghost Conference holds for you. Or just stop by and say, “Hi!”

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If you enjoy View From My Loft join Author Dane Ladwig on View From My Loft radio live at

Blog Talk Radio:

http://www.blogtalkradio.com/welcome-to-view-from-my-loft

Dane Ladwig also hosts Chicago Bears Radio Live — The 50 Yard Line every Monday at 1:00 pm cst: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/the-50-yard-line

Visit Dane Ladwig’s blog’s:

The Infamous Diabolic Dr. H. H. Holmes:                                                                                   http://holmesmurdercastle.wordpress.com/

The Realm of the Supernatural and the Paranormal:                                                                 http://supernaturalandparanormal.wordpress.com/

Visit and “Like” Dane Ladwig’s Facebook fan page:                                                                                           https://www.facebook.com/AuthorDaneAllenLadwig

As always, Dane Ladwig is just an email away: authordaneallenladwig@gmail.com

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How Can I Believe? How Can You…

As some of you may be aware, I am writing a book on the paranormal.  The other day, while commenting with friends about my manuscript, someone commented on my Facebook page in a personal message, “How can you believe such crap. It’s all a bunch of lies fabricated to target less intelligent people into fearing what they are too stupid to realize doesn’t exist, and for what? Just so they spend more money and further the cause of so-called paranormal bullshit.”

What could I say?  Normally when confronted with a controversial argument I would avoid bantering with, let’s just say people I considered less informed and closed-minded.  But this time the attack was directed at something I was passionate about, my book.  I said, “Okay, do you mind if I ask you a few questions?”  The response was a quick, “Sure. Why not?”

“Just to clarify, you are contending that paranormal phenomenon is, in your words “bullshit”, does that mean you do not believe it exists?”

“That’s right. Not only doesn’t it exist, prove it does!”

“Do you believe Homeland Security exist?”

“I guess, but they do a shitty job.”

“Do you know anyone working for Homeland Security?”

“No. Not personally, but that doesn’t prove they don’t exist.”

“You’re right. Just bear with me for a moment.”

“Do you believe Hitler existed?”

“Everyone knows Hitler existed, so what.”

“Did you ever shake Hitler’s hand?”

“No, but that doesn’t prove a damn thing.”

“Do you believe the planets Mercury, Venus, and Mars exist?”

“Duh, everyone knows they exist.”

“Does your faith lead you to believe in the God of the Bible?”

“Yeah, so what. Get to the point”

“So you believe in Homeland Security even though you have never known anyone from Homeland Security.  You know Adolph Hitler existed, but you never shook his hand.  You believe the planets Mercury, Venus, and Mars exist, but you have never set foot on them.  You believe in God because your faith tells you to and because you read about Him in a book, but you also know, beyond the shadow of all doubts that paranormal phenomenon is purely a hoax.  Am I understanding this correctly?

“Whatever dude.  Get a fuckin’ life.”

“Yeah. That’s kinda what I expected.”

Needless to say, I probably lost a friend from my all too precious friends list.  Truth be told, I don’t think I ever talked to the individual before this conversation.  The idea of the “friends list” perturbs me to no end, like the “preferred customer”, I thought all customers should be considered “preferred”, but that’s another article.

Here it is in a nutshell.  I don’t care what you believe, but make it a sound argument.  I don’t believe I will live to be as old as Methuselah, and frankly, 969 years-old doesn’t sound too appealing.  Why don’t I believe it; longevity today states life expectancy of Baby Boomer males is 75.4 years-old, that gives me approximately 22.2 years left, hence a sound argument!

To say, I don’t believe because I have never seen, experienced, or known, is not a sound argument. To infer God does not exist, I challenge you to prove it.  Likewise, I challenge you to prove He does, and vice versa, prove He does not exist – it’s an impossible task.  To prove paranormal phenomenon does not exist is another un-provable paradox.  We have settled – the proverbial Occam’s razor; accept the most likely hypothesis based on the simplest solution, or the one that offers the least resistance.

Belief is a personal thing.  People base beliefs on social influences; cultural influences, upbringing, education, personal bias, religious beliefs, peer pressure, media influence, and so many more exterior agencies, the problem: once they have been programmed, they seldom stop to consider ALL the possibilities.

Life is not black and white.  There is so much more to consider in the gray areas than we would like to admit.  Why?  Because if we concede or accept a thing to be finite, that is – subject to limitations and confines, then we can control it and no longer fear its unknown powers.  As reasoning individuals, we should face everything with one question in mind, “What if?”  What if, would leave the doors open to a great deal of possibilities, perhaps, what if, would lead us to the next important question in the equation, “Why?”

This has been a… View From My Loft