When there are elements of the supernatural or the macabre involved. Such as a love story between a human and a ghost or a vampire in a really dark and disturbing way. For instance, if the vampire is constantly preying on the human in a more sadistic than loving manner.
Well, it could be the psychological depth of the story. In a 'creepy' Batman graphic novel, they might explore the darker aspects of Batman's psyche. His inner demons, his struggle with vengeance and justice in a more disturbing way than usual. For example, they could show his nightmares or hallucinations in a very vivid and disturbing manner, which adds to the overall creepiness.
The lack of emotion in the stare can be very creepy. If it's just a cold, dead stare, without any hint of humanity or kindness. It gives the impression that whatever is doing the staring is not alive in the normal sense, or that it has no empathy. This makes the person on the receiving end feel very vulnerable and scared.
A creepy story often has elements like dark settings, mysterious characters, and unexpected twists.
Unusual settings can make a young adult novel creepy. For example, a desolate and fog - covered manor in the middle of nowhere like in some gothic - inspired novels. Strange characters also contribute, such as a character with no face or a figure that moves in an inhuman way.
Well, it could be the boy's expression in the photo. Maybe he has a really strange, vacant look that gives off an eerie vibe. Or perhaps there are some unnatural elements in the background that seem out of place and add to the creepiness.
The mystery. In a creepy fantasy novel, there are often many unanswered questions. For example, in 'The King in Yellow', the nature of the titular book and its power are left somewhat ambiguous. This mystery draws readers in as they try to figure things out. Also, the sense of the unknown. We get to explore strange new worlds or aspects of our world that are different and often a bit scary. It's like in 'American Gods' where the old gods have their own hidden realms and rules.
Strange noises are a big factor. For example, in a story where there are unexplained creaking sounds in an old house at night. It gives a sense of unease. Another aspect is the presence of unknown or shadowy figures. Like a dark silhouette lurking in the corner of a room in a story. Also, a sense of isolation can make it creepy. Such as a character being alone in a large, empty castle with no way out.
The unknown. When you leave things to the imagination, it gets really creepy. For example, in a story, instead of showing the monster clearly, just give hints like a strange sound or a shadow. That makes the reader's mind create their own terrifying image.
Unusual or distorted Christmas elements can make a story creepy. For example, if Santa Claus is depicted as a menacing figure instead of a jolly one. Also, a sense of isolation during the usually festive time, like being alone in a big, empty house on Christmas Eve while strange things happen.
It could be the dark and mysterious theme, or maybe the way the characters are drawn with sinister expressions.