One characteristic is the use of scientific concepts to create horror. For example, in books like 'The Fly', the science - gone - wrong concept of a teleportation experiment that results in a grotesque human - fly hybrid is very disturbing. Another is the sense of isolation. Often, the settings are in remote places like a far - off planet or an abandoned research facility, as seen in 'Alien'. This isolation amps up the horror as help is far away.
Well, a big characteristic is the exploration of the dark side of human nature in the face of extreme situations. In books such as 'Lord of the Flies' set in a science - fiction - like post - apocalyptic situation, the boys' descent into savagery is a horror in itself. And in terms of the physical horror, there are often strange and deadly creatures. In 'Dune', the sandworms are not only huge and powerful but also have a certain mystery about them that adds to the overall sense of horror in the science - fiction world of the book.
Extreme science fiction is known for its radical take on scientific and technological concepts. It often delves into the extreme consequences of scientific advancements. For instance, it might explore what would happen if genetic engineering could create entirely new species or if humans could merge with machines on a fundamental level. It also tends to have complex and thought - provoking storylines that make readers question the very nature of reality, existence, and human values.
One characteristic is the use of science - fictional elements like advanced technology or alien species to create the horror. For example, in 'Predator', the high - tech alien hunter is a source of fear. Another is the exploration of unknown and often dangerous places, like the far reaches of space or a post - apocalyptic world.
Many of these books often blend futuristic or otherworldly concepts (typical of science fiction) with elements that evoke fear. For example, they might have advanced technology that goes wrong and creates a terrifying situation.
Latin science fiction horror books often blend cultural elements unique to Latin regions with the traditional tropes of science fiction and horror. For example, they may incorporate indigenous myths and legends into their plots. These books also tend to explore themes like the relationship between man and nature in a more spiritual way compared to Western counterparts. They can have a strong sense of place, with settings often being inspired by the diverse landscapes of Latin America.
The settings in horror military science fiction books can be very dark. It could be a post - apocalyptic war - torn world or a far - flung corner of the universe where there are all kinds of unknown and terrifying things waiting. The military characters in these books usually have to deal with not only the typical military challenges like strategy and survival but also the psychological horror of facing these threats. They might see their comrades die in really gruesome ways, which adds to the horror aspect.
I'd recommend 'The Thing'. It's a classic. The idea of an alien entity that can take on the form of any living being it assimilates creates a great sense of horror. You never know who or what might be the alien. Also, 'Event Horizon' is quite good. A spaceship that has been to a hellish dimension and now brings back unspeakable terrors to its crew. The visual and psychological horror in this book is intense.
The books in this list may also show the anxieties of the era. With the Cold War going on, there could be themes related to the fear of nuclear war or the power struggles between different superpowers. At the same time, they might be exploring new ideas in biology and medicine as science was advancing in those fields at that time. For instance, some books could be speculating about genetic engineering or new ways of treating diseases in a science - fiction context.
The works in this area may have a strong focus on female agency. In a world full of science - fictional horrors like mind - controlling technologies or alien abductions, the female characters are the ones making decisions and taking actions. The settings might also be used to critique patriarchal systems. For example, in a post - apocalyptic world created by male - led scientific disasters, the female characters are the ones rebuilding and reshaping society in a more equitable way. There could also be an exploration of female - centric body horror, where the female body is not objectified but rather a site of power and resistance.
They might have had a strong sense of atmosphere. In 1988, horror books often created a really spooky and oppressive mood, like dark, foggy settings or creaky old houses. This helped to draw the reader in and make them feel the horror.
The horror fiction books from 1986 probably had vivid descriptions to create a spooky atmosphere. They would use details like the creaking of old floorboards in a deserted house, or the howling of the wind on a desolate night. These descriptions were used to draw the reader into the terrifying world of the story.