Sep 03, 2024 My last journal entry was on Aug 9, 2024 , when I decided to stop the Candle Face Chronicles podcast. This decision wasn't easy, but I felt it was necessary. While I truly enjoyed my time with the Get Haunted Network, I began to realize that it wasn’t serious enough for such a grave topic. Candle Face Chronicles requires a focus beyond entertainment, and I need a platform that respects the seriousness of this mission—finding the lost souls' remains and identifying their killers. But what really shook me was a heartbreaking call from one of the lost soul’s family members. They begged me to stop discussing their loved one, as they couldn’t bear the pain of knowing that Candle Face was torturing them. The guilt was overwhelming, and I began to think that Candle Face is haunting me—driving me crazy—just as she does to her victims. Many of her victims commit suicide or at least go mad because she gets into their heads. Is this her way of getting into mine? A few nights ago, after nearly a month of silence, a lost soul visited me and told me that I must continue my mission of helping the lost souls and not give up, as they're relying on me. This pep talk helped me realize that I must press on. But how? How do I continue searching for their bodies and identifying their killers without publicly naming the lost souls and their killers? To move forward without causing more pain to their living relatives and friends, I’ve thought of a new strategy: I believe the key lies in partnering with supernatural readers, who bring curiosity, persistence, and a willingness to confront Candle Face. I’ve tried collaborating with paranormal investigators, psychics, and mediums in the past, but these efforts haven’t yielded the results I was hoping for. Many in the paranormal community prefer to focus on cases that are less complex or intense than Candle Face. They tend to work within their comfort zones, and while their contributions are valuable, Candle Face requires an investigation that goes beyond typical paranormal encounters. On the other hand, supernatural readers engage with their books and continue reading even when frightened. They may pull the covers up closer or snuggle up to their partner, but they continue reading, unlike the paranormal community who tend to run at the first unknown knock or thump. These readers have a unique advantage—they're used to solving puzzles and following complex threads in the paranormal world through stories. They persist, not out of obligation to podcast subscribers but out of curiosity and commitment to the story. By bringing them into the investigation, I can leverage their insights to help investigate the clues left by the lost souls. I’ll use a private Facebook group and a public Facebook page for these serious supernatural readers. The private Facebook group  will be for those who want to engage with more sensitive and confidential aspects of the investigation. Here, I can share specific details about the lost souls—working directly with families who have given consent—without publicly revealing their identities. Readers will have access to more detailed information, and their contributions will directly impact the progress of the investigation. The public Facebook page  will allow for more general collaboration. I’ll share clues, such as locations, objects, and cryptic messages, allowing readers to help solve the mystery without revealing specific names or details unless authorized by the lost souls’ relatives. This will protect the living relatives and friends from further grief while still involving the public in a meaningful way. To balance the need for closure with protecting the families, I’ll employ several tactics: Permission from Families: Before publicly naming any lost soul, I’ll always seek permission from the family. If they’re uncomfortable with the public disclosure, I’ll keep the investigation focused on anonymous details and still work privately to bring resolution. Pseudonyms for Public Cases: If permission isn’t granted, I’ll use pseudonyms or vague descriptions to refer to the lost souls (e.g., "A woman from Austin, Texas, who went missing in 2010"). This allows readers to stay engaged with the investigation while protecting the identity of the victims. Private Updates for Families: While the public may not get all the details, families will be kept informed of progress and milestones privately. They’ll receive the closure they need without the emotional burden of a public case. Separate Public and Private Information: Public posts will focus on general clues and updates. More specific, confidential information will be shared as needed for those engaging in the private group. This way, the investigation continues without crossing sensitive lines. Milestone Updates for Readers: Readers won’t need to know the personal identities of the lost souls to contribute. However, they’ll receive updates on important milestones—such as locating remains or solving a critical piece of the puzzle—giving them a sense of accomplishment and closure, knowing they played a role in helping the lost souls find peace. Work with Trusted Mediators: In some cases, I’ll rely on mediators between me and the families, ensuring that sensitive information is handled with care and that families are comfortable with what’s shared publicly. Delayed Disclosure: For particularly sensitive cases, I may wait until a case is fully resolved before releasing any information to the public. This allows the family time to process the findings before anything is made public, helping to prevent emotional distress. By balancing these approaches, I can ensure that the families are protected while continuing the investigation with the help of supernatural readers. Besides collaborating with supernatural readers, I’ll seek the help of spiritual leaders from various faiths. By bringing in diverse perspectives from different religious traditions, I can better understand the spiritual dimensions of Candle Face and the lost souls. Spiritual leaders can offer insights into rituals, prayers, and spiritual protections that might help in the investigation. Their involvement will diversify the investigation and guide how to proceed with respect for all spiritual beliefs. For example, a Catholic priest might offer blessings or exorcisms, a Rabbi could provide insights into protective rituals from Kabbalistic teachings, an Imam could suggest prayers or guidance from Islamic traditions, and a Buddhist monk might offer meditative practices to protect against evil spirits. By involving these leaders, the investigation will be enriched with a wide range of spiritual tools and practices that could help combat Candle Face and bring peace to the lost souls. I'll also consider seeking help from historians and folklorists who can provide context to Candle Face's origins. Understanding the historical and cultural background of the areas where Candle Face operates might reveal important clues about her identity and methods. Additionally, working with experts in psychology, particularly those who specialize in trauma and the paranormal, could help decode the experiences of the lost souls and offer new ways to support them. By involving these diverse collaborators—spiritual leaders, historians, folklorists, and psychologists—the investigation can benefit from a holistic approach that addresses the physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects of Candle Face’s terror. That said, I’ll still seek help from paranormal investigators, psychics, and mediums, especially from the Central Texas paranormal community, as Candle Face’s attacks seem to be concentrated there. Their input will remain valuable, but my primary focus will be on readers and collaborators who bring persistence, curiosity, and a fearless commitment to helping the lost souls and gaining an understanding of the origins of Candle Face. Together, we can bring the lost souls the closure they deserve while ensuring we respect and protect the living. Key To Understanding To ensure readers grasp the full context and significance of this journal entry, it’s crucial to be familiar with Arthur Mills’ award-winning memoir The Empty Lot Next Door ,  inspired by actual ghostly events in Austin, TX. The memoir provides essential background information, and without it, the nuances and depth of this journal entry might not be fully appreciated. Therefore, reading The Empty Lot Next Door  is highly recommended for a more enriched and coherent understanding of this journal entry's content and implications. To purchase The Empty Lot Next Door , please visit Amazon Paperback: https://amzn.to/46lCovb eBook for Kindle: https://amzn.to/44YFww4 To Purchase Candle Face Chronicles: The Lost Souls [Book One] , please visit Amazon Paperback:   https://amzn.to/4dz3m7d eBook: https://amzn.to/4bsM6ib Visit Us Online Website: https://www.candleface.com Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/candlefacechronicles Facebook Group (Dream Team Members Only): https://www.facebook.com/groups/candleface YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CandleFace666

August 9, 2024 I must announce the conclusion of the Candle Face Chronicles podcast after only six episodes. This decision hasn’t been easy, and it’s one that I’ve struggled with, but I believe it’s necessary. Candle Face Chronicles has been a deeply personal journey for me to bring peace to the lost souls Candle Face has killed or ordered her followers to kill. This mission has consumed my thoughts, driven my actions, often at the cost of my peace of mind, and drained me financially. The seriousness of this endeavor demands a platform and an audience that are deeply in tune with the seriousness of the paranormal, far beyond mere entertainment. Through the Get Haunted Network, I had the privilege of connecting with a community of incredible individuals—Rob, Sara, Courtney, Trevor, Stacey Tallitsch, Ernie and Denise Pack, Wade Kirby, Richard Breault, and many others who shared their passion and support along the way. The Get Haunted Network is a fantastic community, offering great shows that explore the paranormal with curiosity, enthusiasm, a sense of wonder, and, more often than not, a sense of humor. It’s a place for those who enjoy paranormal entertainment, and I highly recommend it. However, my work with Candle Face Chronicles has led me down a path that requires a different focus—one that investigates the lost souls’ stories and the serious nature of the paranormal. The lighthearted nature of the Get Haunted Network doesn’t seem like the right place for an entity that haunts and kills her prey. Recently, I had a profound and heartbreaking experience that made me rethink my approach. The friends and family of a victim featured on my podcast reached out, asking that I stop discussing their loved one. The sorrow in their voices was intense. Listening to their cries for understanding was gut-wrenching. I was overwhelmed with guilt as I realized the pain my words had unintentionally caused. It was as if my heart broke alongside theirs, knowing that my search for truth had reopened wounds that had barely begun to heal. I couldn’t sleep that night, haunted not by Candle Face, but by the voices of the living—those who are still here, still hurting. Their grief, their pleas for compassion, have made it clear that my approach must change. While the voices of the dead are important, the voices of the living must be heard above all. This experience has confirmed a fear I’ve had since the beginning—that the sensitive nature of Candle Face Chronicles might be too much for those who knew and loved the victims. I’ve mentioned this concern in several of my podcast episodes, but it took this heartbreaking call to truly understand its impact. As a result, I’ll no longer provide the names of those I believe to be victims of Candle Face. My focus will now shift toward locating their remains without publicly identifying them, in an effort to spare their loved ones further pain. I’m also deeply concerned about the possibility of mistakenly implicating innocent people as killers. The lost souls have been providing more detailed testimonies to me lately, including information about Candle Face’s followers who have killed in her name. However, there’s always the risk that these details could be inaccurate, leading to the wrongful identification of individuals as killers. Therefore, I’ll not publicly identify who the lost souls claim are responsible for their deaths. My focus will remain on helping the lost souls find peace without causing further harm to the living. As I move forward, I plan to shift my focus toward understanding Candle Face herself, investigating her origins and methods in greater depth. To achieve this, I’ll work closely with paranormal investigators, psychics, and mediums in the Austin area—the epicenter of Candle Face’s terror. Additionally, I intend to explore historical records, folklore, and ancient texts, searching for clues that may reveal Candle Face’s origins. Understanding where she comes from may provide us with the key to stopping her. Involving the broader community in this effort is also essential. While I plan to distance myself from the online paranormal community, which often focuses on entertainment, I’ll continue to crowdsource insights from those who have been following Candle Face Chronicles closely. Your theories, tips, and observations might offer valuable pieces to this puzzle, and together, we may be able to uncover new ways to weaken or even banish Candle Face. To broaden my perspective, I’ll also engage with religious leaders, seeking a more inclusive understanding of assisting the lost souls and ultimately stopping Candle Face. This journey will be about finding real solutions for those suffering from Candle Face. At this point in my mission, I’m filled with a mixture of regret and hope. Regret for any pain I have caused, and hope for a future where these lost souls can finally find peace. Though the podcast has come to an end, my work hasn’t. The search for answers and the mission to bring peace to the lost souls continues. I may periodically conduct live videos from the locations where the lost souls have guided me and conduct interviews, but these will focus on the journey and the process, not on identifying the victims or killers. This approach will allow me to continue the work respectfully and compassionately without causing further distress to the families of the lost souls or implicating possibly innocent people as responsible for their demise. To the Get Haunted Network and everyone who has supported me on this journey—thank you from the bottom of my heart. Your encouragement and belief in this mission have meant more than words can express. I hope you’ll continue to walk with me as I find new ways to pursue this important work, always with compassion and respect at the forefront. Key To Understanding To ensure readers grasp the full context and significance of this journal entry, it’s crucial to be familiar with Arthur Mills’ award-winning memoir The Empty Lot Next Door ,  inspired by actual ghostly events in Austin, TX. The memoir provides essential background information, and without it, the nuances and depth of this journal entry might not be fully appreciated. Therefore, reading The Empty Lot Next Door  is highly recommended for a more enriched and coherent understanding of this journal entry's content and implications. To purchase The Empty Lot Next Door , please visit Amazon Paperback: https://amzn.to/46lCovb eBook for Kindle: https://amzn.to/44YFww4 To Purchase Candle Face Chronicles: The Lost Souls [Book One] , please visit Amazon Paperback:   https://amzn.to/4dz3m7d eBook: https://amzn.to/4bsM6ib Visit Us Online Website: https://www.candleface.com Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/candlefacechronicles Facebook Group (Dream Team Members Only): https://www.facebook.com/groups/candleface YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CandleFace666

July 12, 2024,   Tired from all the Hurricane Beryl cleanup, I decided to turn in early. Hours of wasted time browsing Facebook and YouTube videos would have to wait for tomorrow night. I turned off the living room light but kept the kitchen light on, creating a shadow in the far corner of the living room—ready for any lost soul that might want to visit me. The shadow pulsated just as I laid my head on the pillow. I wasn’t in the mood for this, not tonight, but I have a job to do. With a sigh, I sat up and prepared myself for a meeting. An old man in his late 60s wearing a cowboy hat approached me. He began his story. I’m the typical grumpy old man. I hate everybody and everything. My “wife” [using air quotes] nags all day long. She talks about how I’m not fulfilling her dreams and how everything wrong in her life is my fault. I don this big o’ cowboy hat to shield my face from people’s probing stares when the nagging gets too strong. Then, I jump in my van and drive aimlessly. Boy, I wish I could disappear. And I did—I disappeared. But not the way I wanted to. One day, when the nagging was unbearable, I got in my van and headed to a gas station. I planned to head south on I-35 to leave the nagging behind forever. I pumped my gas and went inside to grab some coffee and snacks. As I returned to my van, I saw several black helicopters circling it slowly. I could see people inside, wearing military-type uniforms, lowering ropes above my van. I knew what this was about. I knew they were coming for me. I’m no stranger to the law—I’ve been in and out of jail for decades for the crimes I was caught doing. The man paused for around 30 seconds, seemingly lost in his own thoughts. He had a satisfying smile on his face. I cleared my throat to covertly nudge him to continue. He took the hint and continued. “I figured my run was over, and I would spend the rest of my life in prison.” “Why? What did you do? Why would they want you?” I asked. He looked at me with wide eyes, then quickly glanced at the shadow from where he had entered my house. The shadow in the corner of my living room grew larger, and the lights in the kitchen began to flicker. “Quick, turn on the living room lights,” the old man said. I hesitated. “Now,” he demanded. Understanding he wanted to make the shadow disappear, I jumped up and turned on the light. The living room lit up with the occasional flicker. I sat back down as the old man sat next to me. I knew what we had just done would lead to something terrible now or later, but I didn’t care—I had a mission. “I used to kill for Candle Face. But that was back in the 70s and 80s. Of course, we didn’t call her that back then.” “Why did you stop killing for her?” I asked. “I lost my appetite for killing. Candle Face was so good to me when I first started killing for her in the 70s. But as time went by, she stopped praising me for my work. The favors she used to grant me dried up… I was becoming just another killer. I wanted to be special, so I killed more and more but got no response from her. Many years later, my wife told me Candle Face would likely come for me one day, but I didn’t care. So, I stopped killing. The last killing I did was in the summer of 1987.” “Who did you kill?” “I don’t remember her name, but she was an Asian lady. Those Asian names are hard to remember.” “Tell me about her. What happened?” “A fellow Candle Face follower with his own kill list asked me to go with him to take care of a disbeliever near Killeen. Having already completed my list, I decided to tag along with him. This man was a pro. He sure knew how not just to kill but to work over the disbelievers. We got in a car he stole and headed for the Killeen area. We got lucky; we saw her walking around her neighborhood, so we jumped out of the car and pulled her in. We took her past Copperas Cove, killed her, buried her, and placed large rocks over her body. She was never found.” He paused again, with the same satisfying look from earlier. As he paused, we both looked up towards the ceiling and heard soft but noticeable footsteps upstairs as the lights flickered again. “It’s just my son upstairs,” I assured him. “Anyway, we headed back to Austin. Even though it was a satisfying kill, I just didn’t want to do it anymore. The act was great, but I don’t kill for free. I killed for Candle Face’s attention, and she didn’t provide it to me anymore. So, the Asian lady was my last.” “How were you killed?” I asked, tapping his right arm to see if he had flesh. He did. “I got so tired of my wife nagging one day that I got in my van and headed off. I got gas—” “Oh, is this when you saw the black helicopters?” “Yes, that’s it. When I saw the black helicopters, I called my wife to tell her that my past had finally caught up to me. The helicopters circled lower, their rotors thundering. I could barely hear my wife’s frantic voice on the phone. Suddenly, the side doors of the helicopters slid open, and men in tactical gear began rappelling down, their movements swift and precise. They hit the ground running, surrounding me in seconds. One of them threw a rope around my neck, and before I knew it, I was being hoisted off my feet, the noose tightening. I dangled there, choking, as they lifted me up and away.” “They hung you? I don’t think the police would do that,” I said with a smirk. “That’s how I remember it. I know now that it was Candle Face who did it.” “So, how did you really disappear? The police didn’t do that.” “I don’t know how it really happened. All I know is what I saw and felt. That rope sure felt real. I was hoping you could figure it out for me.” “Why should I help you? You were a mass murderer,” I asked with a loud and robust tone. “I wish I had an answer for you. I don’t know why. I didn’t expect you to ask me that. By the way, why are you now asking questions?” “I figured, why not? The lost souls are already being tortured by Candle Face’s shadows whether I ask questions or not, so I might as well ask questions. Besides, it was suggested to me by a paranormal investigator to go ahead and ask questions.” “Ray, maybe you shouldn’t help me, maybe I deserve this. But I can help you help other lost souls.” “How can you help me help the lost souls?” “Ray, I just did!” the old man said with a grin and a soft laugh. “Now turn off the light and let me return to my torture. It’s where I belong, I guess.” I stood up and turned off the living room light. The old man walked towards the shadow that reappeared in the far corner. As he stepped closer, the shadow seemed to grow, pulsating as if alive. He turned around and said in a rushed voice, “Ray, the arms that are about to pull me in belong to the man who was with me when we killed that Asian woman.” As he finished speaking, he tipped his cowboy hat, and two long, muscly arms, almost skeletal, emerged from the shadow. They were inky black and seemed to absorb any light that touched them. The arms grabbed the old man with an iron grip around his neck, their touch causing him to shudder visibly. He tried to resist, but it was futile. The arms pulled him slowly and inescapably into the darkness. His eyes widened and bulged out of their sockets as he was dragged backward, his fingers clawing at the edge of the shadow in a desperate, final attempt to stay in the light. The shadow’s grip tightened, and the old man was pulled completely into the darkness with a final, powerful yank. His screams echoed briefly before being swallowed by the void. The lights in the room flickered one last time before stabilizing, leaving me alone in the suddenly too-quiet house. The living room fell into a deafening silence, the only sound of my own heavy breathing. The shadow in the corner seemed to shrink back to its normal size as if it had satisfied its hunger for now. I stood there momentarily, staring at where the old man had disappeared, feeling a mix of fear, confusion, and a strange, unsettling resolve. Key To Understanding To ensure readers grasp the full context and significance of this journal entry, it’s crucial to be familiar with Arthur Mills’ award-winning memoir The Empty Lot Next Door ,  inspired by actual ghostly events in Austin, TX. The memoir provides essential background information, and without it, the nuances and depth of this journal entry might not be fully appreciated. Therefore, reading The Empty Lot Next Door  is highly recommended for a more enriched and coherent understanding of this journal entry's content and implications. To purchase The Empty Lot Next Door , please visit Amazon Paperback: https://amzn.to/46lCovb eBook for Kindle: https://amzn.to/44YFww4 To Purchase Candle Face Chronicles: The Lost Souls [Book One] , please visit Amazon Paperback:   https://amzn.to/4dz3m7d eBook: https://amzn.to/4bsM6ib Visit Us Online Website: https://www.candleface.com Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/candlefacechronicles Facebook Group (Dream Team Members Only): https://www.facebook.com/groups/candleface YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CandleFace666

June 30, 2024 It’s been three weeks since the last lost soul visited me. This isn’t the first time there’s been a long pause, so I knew they’d eventually return. Last night, they did. I was preparing the couch as my makeshift bed when the lights began to flicker, and the shadows in the corner of the living room materialized into a familiar portal.   Out stepped a man who walked straight towards me like he owned the place. During a podcast two days ago with Stacey Tallitsch , the renowned remote viewer, he suggested I pay close attention to the details of the spirits who visit me. Although I had attempted this with minimal success before, I had better luck this time. I looked him over, hoping to gather details about his appearance. He was a white male in his mid-twenties with long, unkempt, dirty blond hair, wearing a dark T-shirt with a single word above an indistinct image. Despite my attempts, I couldn’t make out what it said, and I felt awkward staring at his T-shirt, much like trying to read a woman’s T-shirt without looking like a creep. He sat beside me, his body facing the portal, but his head turned towards me. I nodded, and he began his testimony. Ray, my name is Dave, and I’m here to tell you my story. In October 2000, I went to a concert where I met a few friends. They were metalheads like me, into bands like Metallica, Slayer, and Pantera. We started hanging out and dreaming of starting our own heavy metal band. One day, our drummer mentioned writing a song that would brainwash fans into becoming fiercely loyal, even to the point of carrying out Candle Face’s wishes. He explained how we could embed subliminal messages within the aggressive beats, using layered vocals and reversed audio tracks. These messages would influence listeners to buy our CDs and follow Candle Face’s orders. The focus of our lyrics would be on Candle Face, enticing others who shared our musical taste to become her instruments. The drummer was deeply involved in the occult and believed in Candle Face, the ghost that haunts and kills those who don’t believe in her. He saw our music as a conduit for her influence, convincing followers to spread her power. Each song would contain hidden messages, encouraging loyalty and promoting her evil agenda. It wasn’t just about the music; it was a twisted form of worship designed to enthrall our listeners and spread her influence. At first, I was all in. We wrote our first song about an evil spirit demanding loyalty from its followers. The first few lines went something like this: “In darkness, we kneel, our goddess reigns, heed her call, forsake your chains!” We created a second song that was even more disturbing, demanding our fans to destroy and kill in her name. Both songs were to have reversed tracks that would list out names of followers to kill, and the drummer would provide the names. As we perfected our new songs, I started to hear voices in my head. These voices demanded my genuine participation, claiming the subliminal messages would be hidden in my guitar playing. I participated, but my heart wasn’t in it. The voices grew louder and more intense, accusing me of being a traitor to Candle Face and my bandmates. Desperate to repel the voices, I branded a cross on my left arm, thinking it would protect me. I initially considered branding it on my forehead, but that would draw too much attention. One day, my bandmates came to my house with the CD of our two songs. The drummer suggested we go to the woods to play undisturbed music from his loud car stereo. We all jumped into his car and drove south on 183 way outside Austin. We came to a mostly dirt road and parked. We all exited the car, and the drummer turned on the first song at full blast. We all sang along and air-played our instruments as if we were in a major rock concert at the Frank Erwin Center. When the songs were over, the drummer asked me what I thought. I told him they were our best yet. Then he played the second song in reverse, and the hidden message said: “In the name of Candle Face, spill the blood. Nonbelievers must now fall, heed her call, one and all.” He played more of the second song in reverse, revealing a list of names for their followers to kill. On the list was the name “Dave.” As the reversed track played, revealing my name, I laughed nervously, hoping it was just a sick joke. But my bandmates turned on me, showing they knew I wasn’t a true believer in Candle Face’s power. They beat me, leaving me barely conscious. They took me to a nearby abandoned house where Candle Face awaited. Confused and desperate, I asked why this was happening to me—I was a band member. Furious, Candle Face explained that true dedication was required, and I failed by not genuinely believing in the music’s power. In a final twist, Candle Face mocked me for believing a cross on my arm could repel her. She said, “You think that cross could protect you? I’ll place you under the floorboards with others who thought they could beat me.” Beneath the floorboards lay the souls of those who had also faltered in their loyalty, their screams echoing through the house: “Half-hearted devotion leads to eternal derision. When he was done, he stood up and said, “Ray, it’s better to believe, just in case.” He briskly walked back to the portal and stepped in. This is the second time I have heard this phrase. Personal Note to My Readers I believe the house mentioned by the lost soul, Dave, may be the same one referenced by Victims # 24 and # 27 . In all three cases, Candle Face places her victims under the floorboards. Could this be the same house in Luling, TX? Dave mentioned that he and his bandmates drove south on 183 and stopped on a mostly dirt road, likely Salt Flat Road. Could this be the same road and house? As I write this, I feel a strong pull toward the house, like I’m hypnotized. It’s as if invisible forces are compelling me to go, the urge becoming almost irresistible. Deafening screams fill my head, echoing with urgency and commanding me to get there now. The compulsion is so intense that it drowns out all rational thought. It’s 3:30 in the morning, and I can make it to Luling in about two hours. The idea of confronting whatever lies there both terrifies and fascinates me. I headed out the door and began my journey. Update   About an hour from Luling, I called my friend Michael, "Mark" in my memoir The Empty Lot Next Door . He’s a night owl like me, so I knew he would be awake. I thought that if he left now, we could both reach the house at the same time. However, Michael frantically begged me not to go, warning me about the dangers of confronting whatever presence might be there. He reminded me of the threatening stories surrounding Candle Face and that house, insisting that going alone—or even with him—is dangerous. He urged me to turn around and go back home. I heeded Michael's words and turned around. After talking to him, the eagerness dissipated. I can't help but wonder if this was a trap. Was it Candle Face's way of luring me in, finally ending my investigation and my life once and for all? Am I digging too deep into Candle Face? What would have happened if I had actually reached the house? Would I have been under the floorboards, just another victim added to her collection? What if I had arrived alone, or worse, taken Michael with me? The danger we might have faced is unimaginable. It leaves me questioning how far I'm willing to go in this pursuit and whether some mysteries are better left unsolved. Where do I go from here? Is it really up to me? These questions linger in my mind, pulling me in different directions. Should I continue to investigate Candle Face, or is it wiser to walk away while I still can? The choices weigh heavily, each path fraught with uncertainty and potential danger. But I must still help the lost souls. Then again, why would Candle Face insist that I help them and lay a trap for me at the same time? I just don't get it. What games is she playing? Key To Understanding To ensure readers grasp the full context and significance of this journal entry, it’s crucial to be familiar with Arthur Mills’ award-winning memoir The Empty Lot Next Door ,  inspired by actual ghostly events in Austin, TX. The memoir provides essential background information, and without it, the nuances and depth of this journal entry might not be fully appreciated. Therefore, reading The Empty Lot Next Door  is highly recommended for a more enriched and coherent understanding of this journal entry's content and implications. To purchase The Empty Lot Next Door , please visit Amazon Paperback: https://amzn.to/46lCovb eBook for Kindle: https://amzn.to/44YFww4 To Purchase Candle Face Chronicles: The Lost Souls [Book One] , please visit Amazon Paperback:   https://amzn.to/4dz3m7d eBook: https://amzn.to/4bsM6ib Visit Us Online Website: https://www.candleface.com Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/candlefacechronicles Facebook Group (Dream Team Members Only): https://www.facebook.com/groups/candleface YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CandleFace666

October 12, 2023 My return to Texas initiated an investigation into the origins of Candle Face, an 11-year-old ghost girl from The Empty Lot Next Door . Her haunting presence became a regular occurrence in my childhood dreams and waking hours, marked by her disfigured, melted appearance. Although I wasn't her only victim, accounts of terror stemming from Candle Face haunted Austin locals for years. Years ago, their correspondences to me were destined for research and were sidelined—until now. Back in Texas, my investigative journey commenced, though fraught with dark mysteries. Two of the three original witnesses I reconnected with have vanished without a trace, refusing to return my calls or emails. One withdrew in fear after a threatening dream warning from Candle Face herself. Despite his prior boldness towards talking to me, her menacing presence was enough to silence him. Now, their stories hang in a suspended, unnerving silence. Should they resurface, a desperate dash to Austin awaits to capture and share their stories with my readers. In the meantime, my research languishes in a haunted pause as I scour for new leads and tiptoe further into Candle Face's origins. Key To Understanding To ensure readers grasp the full context and significance of this journal entry, it’s crucial to be familiar with Arthur Mills’ award-winning memoir The Empty Lot Next Door ,  inspired by actual ghostly events in Austin, TX. The memoir provides essential background information, and without it, the nuances and depth of this journal entry might not be fully appreciated. Therefore, reading The Empty Lot Next Door  is highly recommended for a more enriched and coherent understanding of this journal entry's content and implications. To purchase The Empty Lot Next Door , please visit Amazon Paperback: https://amzn.to/46lCovb eBook for Kindle: https://amzn.to/44YFww4 To Purchase Candle Face Chronicles: The Lost Souls [Book One] , please visit Amazon Paperback:   https://amzn.to/4dz3m7d eBook: https://amzn.to/4bsM6ib Visit Us Online Website: https://www.candleface.com Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/candlefacechronicles Facebook Group (Dream Team Members Only): https://www.facebook.com/groups/candleface YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CandleFace666

SPOILER ALERT : This journal entry contains themes and insights from The Empty Lot Next Door . If you’re trying to avoid spoilers, it’s advisable not to read further until you’ve finished the book. Reading this journal entry may reveal important plot details you’d rather discover alone. October 13, 2023 Imagine this: a terrifying scene with Candle Face, the villain from my memoir The Empty Lot Next Door , and me surrounded by a disorderly array of toys on my bed, including a fake Hot Wheels car and a GI Joe figurine. Unbeknownst to me, a little wooden doll was about to make a surprise entry! In Chapter 8, Candle Face quietly crept into my room in the dead of night, seized a fake Hot Wheels car and a GI Joe figurine from the floor, and smashed them together to create a loud crash. Candle Face symbolically reenacted a friend’s death that occurred just the day before. My illustrator, a highly skilled artist from India, presented a unique challenge – he wasn’t familiar with GI Joe figurines, which were critical to my original scene. Consequently, his first drawing featured a wooden doll, which, although adorable, wasn’t what I had described in my manuscript. This misalignment highlighted intriguing challenges and opportunities that can arise when two cultures merge in a creative endeavor. To resolve this issue, I sent photos of GI Joe figurines; thinking visuals might help my illustrator mimic them. However, understanding and reproducing a cultural icon without having a cultural context or personal memories is difficult. Despite his best attempts, the GI Joe figures in his drawings didn’t quite match what I had in mind. Interestingly, the wooden doll appeared in every new sketch, as if quietly insisting to be included. Confronted with strictly adhering to the actual scene or adapting to the developing situation, I rewrote the scene, creating a spot where the wooden doll could rightfully exist alongside Candle Face and me. An unexpectedly beautiful thing occurred: this unplanned wooden doll, initially a symbol of miscommunication and annoyance, seamlessly found its place in the frightful disarray on the bed, adding an unanticipated yet fitting twist to the story. Now, my story has gained an unexpected layer, prompting readers to recognize and value the sometimes unpredictable journey of creative projects. Candle Face, myself, and our new wooden companion are captured in a moment of creepy connection, a scene shaped by the hands of an artist from afar. In the end, even though the wooden doll wasn’t a part of my childhood memories, it has found its place in my story, imparting a valuable lesson. Sometimes, embracing unpredictability and allowing stories to unfold their own way can create a rich, complex story that is even better than the original plan. Thus, the wooden doll stayed in the second edition, serving as a reminder to all that wonderful outcomes can emerge when we allow different cultures and unforeseen events to sculpt and enrich our stories. Key To Understanding To ensure readers grasp the full context and significance of this journal entry, it’s crucial to be familiar with Arthur Mills’ award-winning memoir The Empty Lot Next Door ,  inspired by actual ghostly events in Austin, TX. The memoir provides essential background information, and without it, the nuances and depth of this journal entry might not be fully appreciated. Therefore, reading The Empty Lot Next Door  is highly recommended for a more enriched and coherent understanding of this journal entry's content and implications. To purchase The Empty Lot Next Door , please visit Amazon Paperback: https://amzn.to/46lCovb eBook for Kindle: https://amzn.to/44YFww4 To Purchase Candle Face Chronicles: The Lost Souls [Book One] , please visit Amazon Paperback:   https://amzn.to/4dz3m7d eBook: https://amzn.to/4bsM6ib Visit Us Online Website: https://www.candleface.com Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/candlefacechronicles Facebook Group (Dream Team Members Only): https://www.facebook.com/groups/candleface YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CandleFace666

October 29, 2023 In an unexpected twist, the elderly gentleman who once eluded my interview has made a dramatic reversal. Shrouded in mystery, the stage is now set for an eagerly awaited face-to-face interview scheduled for Monday, October 29th. At 82, this mysterious figure holds secrets from a forgotten time. He professes an intimate connection to Candle Face's early days. Before I awakened her and dubbed her Candle Face, he was there, silently witnessing her story’s genesis. His initial silence to share his insights has transformed into a firm resolve. An intense tension hangs in the air as he readies himself to reveal a story long hidden in the shadows. The risks are substantial; the danger is real. He confronts the potential for life-threatening consequences with unwavering courage. What hidden knowledge does he possess? How did his path intersect with Candle Face before the inferno that scarred her features, giving her the appearance of a scorched candle? As we draw nearer to the interview, the atmosphere brims with suspense. This is more than just a revelation; it’s a descent into a story that has remained untold until this moment. Stay alert as we prepare to uncover the mystery of Candle Face through the recollections of the man who knew her before the world took notice. Key To Understanding To ensure readers grasp the full context and significance of this journal entry, it’s crucial to be familiar with Arthur Mills’ award-winning memoir The Empty Lot Next Door ,  inspired by actual ghostly events in Austin, TX. The memoir provides essential background information, and without it, the nuances and depth of this journal entry might not be fully appreciated. Therefore, reading The Empty Lot Next Door  is highly recommended for a more enriched and coherent understanding of this journal entry's content and implications. To purchase The Empty Lot Next Door , please visit Amazon Paperback: https://amzn.to/46lCovb eBook for Kindle: https://amzn.to/44YFww4 To Purchase Candle Face Chronicles: The Lost Souls [Book One] , please visit Amazon Paperback:   https://amzn.to/4dz3m7d eBook: https://amzn.to/4bsM6ib Visit Us Online Website: https://www.candleface.com Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/candlefacechronicles Facebook Group (Dream Team Members Only): https://www.facebook.com/groups/candleface YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CandleFace666

October 31, 2023 In paranormal research and storytelling, stories have a frightening, inexplicable quality that echoes through generations. As the author of The Empty Lot Next Door , I’ve always been drawn to stories in the gray area between reality and legend. My current pursuit, the haunting of Candle Face, has pushed me deeper into this twilight world than ever before. To uncover the mysteries behind Candle Face, I sought out an 82-year-old gentleman who knew about the tragic fire on Ben Howell Drive in Austin, TX. For reasons of his own safety and privacy, he chose the pseudonym Mr. John Doe. He agreed to this interview on one condition: absolute anonymity. What follows is a transcript of our interview. I had ten minutes to unravel years of history with Mr. Doe, a constraint that lent urgency to every question. The interview explores the fire’s genesis and encounters with the ghost known as Candle Face. Interview date: October 30, 2023 Location: Austin, Texas Arthur: Mr. Doe, did you live near Ben Howell Drive in the 1960s or 1970s? John Doe: Indeed, my family and I lived a stone’s throw from Ben Howell Drive. Our time there has spanned from the mid-1960s to the mid-1980s. Once my children had all wed, we bid farewell to the neighborhood. Arthur: There was a devastating fire on Ben Howell in the late 1960s. Do you recall it, and if so, what do you remember? John Doe: The father was cleaning a car carburetor with gasoline in the kitchen. One of his sons knocked over the gas can, spilling its contents while the mother cooked. It was an accident waiting to happen. The gasoline or its fumes ignited rapidly, engulfing the house in flames. I believe there were several children in the home; all escaped with severe burns. But the father couldn’t locate his youngest son, a mere two-year-old. Assuming the boy had returned to the house, he, his wife, and his mother rushed back into the inferno. The flames forced them to retreat. However, the father, driven by paternal instinct, tried to re-enter, but a crowd of onlookers held him back. Firefighters eventually entered the blazing structure, but initially, no body was found, leading everyone to believe the boy was lost in the neighborhood. A frantic search ensued, with over two hundred people calling his name, I think it was Paul, though I’m not sure. Tragically, they later discovered his body in the kitchen. I vividly recall the boy’s mother, inconsolable on the curb across the street from her house, surrounded by comforting neighbors. Strangely, the father was arrested that night, reportedly for a parole violation unrelated to the fire. It was a cruel twist of fate; the police should have shown leniency, allowing him to tend to his injured family and grieve his lost child. Arthur: You said the child’s name was Paul? Do you know if one of the other children was named Griffin? John Doe: I believe the two-year-old was Paul, not Griffin. I’ve never heard of the name Griffin. Arthur: As you’re aware, I moved to the house adjacent to the empty lot where that house once stood. According to rumors... John Doe: (Interrupting) What rumors have you heard? Speak up. Arthur: When we settled into the house in 1976, I was only four. The local children spun a tale of a little boy causing the fire by playing with matches near the water heater, resulting in the entire family’s demise, purportedly buried in the backyard due to financial constraints... John Doe: (Laughing heartily for a couple of minutes) Children have a fondness for fabricating tales. It’s a part of growing up. No, there were no backyard burials, and only the little boy perished in the fire, not the whole family. Your book mentioned this, and I remember finding it amusing. Arthur: As detailed in my book, The Empty Lot Next Door, I began experiencing dreams about a little girl emerging from the hole in the back of the lot... John Doe: (Chuckling again) A hole, yes, but why would there be a hole there? Arthur: Perhaps an old, collapsed septic tank? John Doe: Unlikely, as the houses in that area [South Austin] aren’t equipped with septic tanks. It might just be a hole. Don’t fret over it (still chuckling). Arthur: Mr. Doe, I recall standing around that hole with my friends. Randy, one of the oldest kids, dared anyone to jump in, warning that the ghost of a little girl would haunt the jumper. One evening, I took the plunge. Soon after, a little girl with charred features began haunting my dreams and even left handprints on my windows, proving her existence. John Doe: But there’s no certainty she was buried there. Why did you jump in the first place? Arthur: I was often overlooked as the smallest kid. I sought something to distinguish myself from my brother Ricky’s shadow, to be recognized for my own deed. John Doe: Whatever your motivations, you might have awakened Candle Face. I doubt she was buried there; perhaps the hole was a portal. But what do I know, you’re the investigator (spoken condescendingly). Arthur: If it’s a portal, should I attempt to close it to stop Candle Face? John Doe: You’re the investigator. Now you’re starting to sound like a movie (sounding irritated). Arthur: Mr. Doe, you believe in Candle Face, I presume. John Doe: It’s better to believe, just in case. It’s akin to an insurance policy. If you believe, you’re safe. If not, you might end up with a visit. Arthur: Now you sound like a movie (I remarked, to which John Doe didn’t react). But how do you know this? How are you certain that Candle Face preys on skeptics? John Doe: I’ve heard stories for years. Rumor has it she targets skeptics who lead degenerate lives, though not exclusively. Some of her victims are upstanding citizens. So, belief is prudent, just in case. Besides, I’ve encountered her firsthand. Arthur: You’ve seen her? John Doe: Yes, around 1990, while walking my dog near the creek you mentioned in your book, at the intersection of Wilson and El Paso Streets. I saw a young girl with long dark hair, seemingly bathing in the water. We locked eyes. I kept trying to see better. I thought I heard a voice asking, “Do you believe?” Perhaps it was the wind, but I whispered “yes,” just in case. She continued her actions. I never saw her again, but I heard stories, not specifically about Candle Face, but of a little girl ghost. But I knew it was her. In a sick way, I hoped it was her. If so, I knew I wouldn’t be next. Arthur: Mr. Doe, do you think Candle Face is still out there? John Doe: I do. I’m a believer. Interestingly, after you contacted me in July, I dreamt of Candle Face warning me against talking to you. But recently, she reappeared in my dream, encouraging me to reveal everything. Any idea why she might’ve had a change of heart? Arthur: No, I don’t. But as you said, I’m the investigator; I aim to find out. Sir, you mentioned in a phone call in July that you had information about Candle Face before I awakened her. What can you tell me? John Doe: Well, all I know is I saw her with my own two eyes in 1990, well before you wrote your book. I didn’t know you or your story back then. That’s what I was referring to. Arthur: Do you think others in the community may have encountered Candle Face or know of her existence? Your sighting of Candle Face raises the possibility of additional witnesses or sources who might shed more light on her history and nature. You said you have heard stories of a little girl ghost. Can you provide me with the names of other people who may have additional information? John Doe: I know a few people, mostly my age, some younger around your age. They may not talk since they’re not believers like me. Arthur: If there’re nonbelievers, they have nothing to worry about… John Doe: (interrupting) You can still be scared if you don’t believe. And you should be afraid. But I’m not going to ask them, do your own investigation. Arthur: Fair enough. Sir, is there anything else you would like to add? John Doe: Yes, be cautious in your quest. You might find what you’re looking for. When you do, remember that belief is an insurance policy. Arthur: Thank you for your time, Mr. Doe. The interview with Mr. John Doe adds a new layer to Candle Face’s haunting, providing invaluable insights and reinforcing the necessity of belief. As I investigate this mystery, I'm reminded of Shakespeare’s words, “There are more things in heaven and earth, Horatio, than are dreamt of in your philosophy.” The pursuit of understanding Candle Face and her world continues, bearing testament to the mysteries beyond our understanding. Key To Understanding To ensure readers grasp the full context and significance of this journal entry, it’s crucial to be familiar with Arthur Mills’ award-winning memoir The Empty Lot Next Door ,  inspired by actual ghostly events in Austin, TX. The memoir provides essential background information, and without it, the nuances and depth of this journal entry might not be fully appreciated. Therefore, reading The Empty Lot Next Door  is highly recommended for a more enriched and coherent understanding of this journal entry's content and implications. To purchase The Empty Lot Next Door , please visit Amazon Paperback: https://amzn.to/46lCovb eBook for Kindle: https://amzn.to/44YFww4 To Purchase Candle Face Chronicles: The Lost Souls [Book One] , please visit Amazon Paperback:   https://amzn.to/4dz3m7d eBook: https://amzn.to/4bsM6ib Visit Us Online Website: https://www.candleface.com Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/candlefacechronicles Facebook Group (Dream Team Members Only): https://www.facebook.com/groups/candleface YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CandleFace666

November 4, 2023 Every night, as the world sleeps, my reality unravels, thread by vivid thread. It’s been four days since these strange psychedelic states began, each one strikingly like the last, like a terrifying déjà vu I can't escape. The sleep journey has become a treacherous path, where the ordinary act of closing my eyes is the prelude to a haunting sight. It started innocently enough—on the night following Mr. Doe’s interview. Our conversation was rooted in a grim reality: the tragic story of a house fire in 1969. He recounted the details with an unsettling mixture of detachment and relish. As Mr. Doe described the little boy who perished in the flames, I remember feeling hot despite the chill of the room. He spoke of the aftermath, not just the charred remains of a once happy home but of the stories in the streets of Austin about Candle Face, the ghost that emerged from a hole in the back of the empty lot that once held the doomed house. According to Mr. Doe, Candle Face was destined to roam in search of non-believers, her story igniting a mix of fear and skepticism in the community. The night after our meeting, my ordeal began to morph into something out of a psychedelic nightmare. As I lay in bed, the darkness behind my closed eyelids erupted into an array of colors, forming patterns that swirled and pulsed with a life of their own. This wasn’t merely the abstract art of the subconscious; it felt directed, intentional, as if I were being shown something—or warned. With the vibrant visuals came a sensation that tethered me to wakefulness and sleep but somewhere in between. I felt my body grow lighter as if I could float away at any moment. Then the voices began—a discord of angry and urgent screams and shout. They seemed to be yelling at me, perhaps at each other, but the words were muffled, lost in the storm of sounds surrounding me. Nearly every night, this experience repeated itself with alarming precision. I would wake up, my heart racing, only to find the yelling resumed when I attempted to return to sleep. In those waking moments, I tried to rationalize what was happening, telling myself it was stress or an overactive imagination. But the truth was, I couldn’t shake the feeling that this was something more, something connected to the interview with Mr. Doe. By the time the fourth night arrived, exhaustion was my constant companion. During the day, I poured over websites and online forums, seeking anyone who might have experienced something similar. That’s when I stumbled upon the concept of hypnagogic hallucinations—vivid experiences that occur at the threshold between wakefulness and sleep. Yet, while the descriptions seemed to match, they didn’t account for the specificity of my dreams, the recurring themes that tied back to Mr. Doe’s haunting story. The little boy, the fire, and Candle Face all played roles in this nightly drama that unfolded in my mind. I couldn’t help but think back to the interview and the stories Mr. Doe had shared so nonchalantly. He had spoken of Candle Face with a believer’s conviction, painting her as a vengeful spirit preying on those who dared to doubt her existence. Had his stories somehow infiltrated my subconscious, manifesting as these nightly episodes? Desperate for sleep and answers, I contacted Mr. Doe once more. Our previous meeting had been difficult to arrange, and reconnecting with him proved to be just as challenging. When I finally managed to speak to him over the phone, his reaction was unsettling. “Perhaps she’s trying to tell you something.” His words weren't the reassurance I sought. Instead, they were an indirect warning, a confirmation of my deepest fears—that these experiences weren't just random hallucinations, but a connection to something beyond my understanding. I once awakened Candle Face by jumping into her lair. What have I done now? As I prepare for bed tonight, I feel uneasy. I am at a crossroads between the desire to uncover the truth behind these visions and the desperate need for restful, uninterrupted sleep. The prospect of encountering Candle Face or the echoes of the past in my dreams is frightening. I’ve taken to leaving a light on, [again] a small beacon in the hope that it might keep the darkness at bay—both the literal darkness of night and the metaphorical darkness that seems intent on seeping into my sleep [again]. Only time will tell whether this is the key to a peaceful night or merely a futile gesture. For now, I hope that understanding these nightly visitations will lead to some measure of control or even an end to them. Until then, I walk the strange line between waking and dreaming, searching for the light amidst the shadows. Personal Note to My Readers I find myself struggling with a deep yearning for uninterrupted sleep. These relentless sleepless nights, filled with psychedelic states, are encroaching on my daylight hours, disrupting my work, and straining my relationships. It’s as if by investigating Candle Face, I’ve unwittingly invited her back into my life, reigniting her attention and unsettling presence. Unlike many “paranormal investigators” who would flee at the slightest hint of the supernatural, my military background has instilled a different response: run towards the enemy, engage rather than retreat. This ingrained instinct tells me to confront Candle Face and seek answers rather than turn away in fear. It’s daunting, but I refuse to be intimidated or driven away from this challenge. I understand that facing this may be a long and difficult journey, potentially fraught with more sleepless nights and strange encounters. But I’m committed to this path. I hope that by confronting whatever truth lies behind these visions, I might finally reclaim the peace and normalcy of a good night’s sleep. I’m prepared to see through this fight, this investigation into the unknown, to the end. Key To Understanding To ensure readers grasp the full context and significance of this journal entry, it’s crucial to be familiar with Arthur Mills’ award-winning memoir The Empty Lot Next Door ,  inspired by actual ghostly events in Austin, TX. The memoir provides essential background information, and without it, the nuances and depth of this journal entry might not be fully appreciated. Therefore, reading The Empty Lot Next Door  is highly recommended for a more enriched and coherent understanding of this journal entry's content and implications. To purchase The Empty Lot Next Door , please visit Amazon Paperback: https://amzn.to/46lCovb eBook for Kindle: https://amzn.to/44YFww4 To Purchase Candle Face Chronicles: The Lost Souls [Book One] , please visit Amazon Paperback:   https://amzn.to/4dz3m7d eBook: https://amzn.to/4bsM6ib Visit Us Online Website: https://www.candleface.com Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/candlefacechronicles Facebook Group (Dream Team Members Only): https://www.facebook.com/groups/candleface YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CandleFace666

SPOILER ALERT : This journal entry contains insights about Candle Face and her role in The Empty Lot Next Door . If you're trying to avoid spoilers, it's advisable not to read further until you've finished the book. Reading this journal entry may reveal important plot details that you'd rather discover on your own. November 7, 2023 Candle Face, a ghost from my award-winning memoir, The Empty Lot Next Door , is a complex and mysterious character. Initially, Candle Face appears as an observer, watching activities from a distance, evoking a sense of jealousy or resentment. This hidden observation suggests a character who is both curious and detached, hinting at a deeper, possibly unresolved emotional state. The character's ability to enter Ray's house (my childhood name) through unconventional means, like mirrors and shadows, further highlights this complexity, demonstrating a supernatural quality that blurs the line between reality and the supernatural. Candle Face's existence raises questions for Ray, leading to reflections on the nature of ghosts and the supernatural. These reflections stem from Candle Face's seemingly real impacts on Ray's life despite doubts about her existence. Such ambiguity challenges the reader to consider the boundaries between the physical and the metaphysical, as well as the reliability of perception and memory. Candle Face also exhibits a disturbing ability to invade personal spaces, creating a constant sense of vulnerability and fear. This intrusion is physical and psychological, as she appears to be able to read or influence thoughts. This aspect of Candle Face's character speaks to the theme of the unseen and unknown fears that can dominate our lives, particularly fears rooted in childhood experiences. Moreover, Candle Face is linked to past events and memories, suggesting a connection between personal history and present fears. This connection is exemplified when Ray learns that Candle Face might have died in the house he grew up in rather than in the fire next door, tying her directly to his personal history. This revelation adds a layer of personal tragedy to her character, perhaps explaining some of her haunting behaviors. Candle Face's interactions aren't limited to Ray but extend to other characters, such as Ricky and Andre, indicating her influence over a broader range of people and events. Her involvement in these characters' lives suggests a manipulative and evil nature, as she uses her supernatural abilities to influence or control others. Candle Face's actions aren't without consequence, as they lead to a confrontation where Ray gains the upper hand, symbolizing a personal victory over his fears and the ghostly figure that has tormented him. This confrontation underscores the central theme of overcoming fear and the power of facing one's demons. Candle Face's presence evokes a range of emotions in Ray, from frustration and anger to fear and confusion. This emotional response reflects humans' complex relationship with fear and the unknown. Candle Face's actions force Ray to confront his fears and take protective measures, illustrating the human instinct to seek safety and control in the face of uncertainty. Candle Face's ability to silence and immobilize Ray during their interactions points to the paralyzing effect of fear and the struggle to find one's voice in the face of terror. Her actions, such as mimicking Ray's words and inflicting physical harm, demonstrate a cruel and sadistic nature. Candle Face is a very complex character embodying themes of fear, the supernatural, and the impact of past traumas on the present. Her interactions with Ray and other characters in The Empty Lot Next Door  serve as a vehicle for exploring these themes, looking at the human psyche and the power of unseen forces in shaping our experiences and perceptions. Key To Understanding To ensure readers grasp the full context and significance of this journal entry, it’s crucial to be familiar with Arthur Mills’ award-winning memoir The Empty Lot Next Door ,  inspired by actual ghostly events in Austin, TX. The memoir provides essential background information, and without it, the nuances and depth of this journal entry might not be fully appreciated. Therefore, reading The Empty Lot Next Door  is highly recommended for a more enriched and coherent understanding of this journal entry's content and implications. To purchase The Empty Lot Next Door , please visit Amazon Paperback: https://amzn.to/46lCovb eBook for Kindle: https://amzn.to/44YFww4 To Purchase Candle Face Chronicles: The Lost Souls [Book One] , please visit Amazon Paperback:   https://amzn.to/4dz3m7d eBook: https://amzn.to/4bsM6ib Visit Us Online Website: https://www.candleface.com Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/candlefacechronicles Facebook Group (Dream Team Members Only): https://www.facebook.com/groups/candleface YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CandleFace666