LEONARD GRAY

PHOTO: SHEILA TURNAGE enjoys a book-signing of her new “Haunted Inns of the Southeast” at Barnes & Noble in Metairie. (Staff Photo by Leonard Gray) LAPLACE – There’s something in the eyes of someone whose experiences have touched the supernatural. Take for example, those of Sheila Turnage, author of the newly-released “Haunt-ed Inns of the Southeast.” During a book signing held recently at Barnes and Noble, customers approach-ed, almostly shyly, and asked for signed copies. Some had small children. All were intrigued by the lady with such bright eyes. She readily admits in her book that she has had a few encounters as well. “I’m a believer,” Turnage said of ghosts. “Always have been, to some extent. But after talking to people who live with ghosts, I am convinced there are things going on in these inns.” The John F. Blair Publish-ing book includes a host of ghosts, houses in inns and bed-and-breakfast places from Louisiana to North Carolina. Others are de-tailed in Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, Alabama, Tennessee, Virginia and Mississippi. Louisiana’s contribution begins with The Myrtles, with the reputation as being one of the most-haunted places in America. The state’s section also includes several New Orleans sites, Lafayette, Cheneyville, St. Martinville, Sunset and Oak Alley Plantation in Vacherie. “It’s pretty comprehensive, but I’m sure I overlooked a few places,” Turn-age continued. One of the most chilling photos of the book is that of “Chloe” at The Myrtles, wearing a turban to disguise where one ear was cut off by her master for eavesdropping. However, as Turnage noted, not every inn is eager to tell all about their “unpaying guests,” and many innkeepers are telling their stories in print for the first time. Turnage added, “I expected to hear a lot of scary stories. I did hear some chilling ones, but a lot were of comforting, nurturing spirits.” Indeed, most of the ghosts tend to be former owners or residents, concerned about the property and the present residents. Most are wary of being seen and some are simply playful. She is considering a companion book about haunted inns in the Northeast United States, “but I love the South. The problem isn’t finding the stories, but focusing on the material in a way helpful to the readers.” The sites listed include the owners’ names, addresses and telephone numbers. Some even list websites and a handy guide to overnight prices is also available. For the Southern ghost-hunter, “Haunted Inns of the Southeast” is cleanly prepared, professional and non-judgmental. It’s an entertaining read, even if the reader never finds himself visiting any of these places. However, if one does find himself in such a place, don’t be too surprised by that odd noise or by the spectral hands tucking you in at night. “Haunted Inns of the Southeast” is a must-read for the haunted traveler in all of us.