The most important elements are atmosphere and suspense. The atmosphere should be thick with fear, so describe things like the howling wind outside a dilapidated cottage. Suspense is built by making the reader wonder what will happen next. You can do this by leaving clues that something bad is about to occur, but not revealing it all at once. Additionally, having a relatable protagonist who is in over their head in a terrifying situation helps draw the reader in.
The key elements include a sense of dread. This can be created by foreshadowing bad things to come. For example, if a character notices a strange mark on the wall at the start, and later it turns out to be related to the horror. Also, isolation is important. A character alone in a scary place is more vulnerable. Another is the unexpected. Throw in things that the reader doesn't anticipate, like a friendly - looking person turning out to be the source of horror.
One key element is the mystery behind the messages. If the sender is unknown or has a hidden agenda, it creates suspense. For example, a series of messages with no clear origin that seem to be leading the character astray. Another is the content of the messages. Threatening or disturbing words can quickly set a horror tone. Also, the timing of the messages matters. Messages that come at unexpected times, like in the middle of the night, can be more effective in scaring the reader.
In descriptive horror stories, sound descriptions can be very effective. A low, moaning wind outside a lonely cabin, or the scratching of something against a window. Also, the use of the senses other than sight is crucial. Describing the cold touch of an unseen hand, or the putrid smell that fills a room. The element of isolation is often used as well. A character alone in a big, old mansion, cut off from the outside world, with no one to turn to when the horror starts to unfold.
Fear is a key element. It can be created through things like strange noises, like creaking floors or howling winds. Another element is the unknown. For example, a shadowy figure that you can't quite make out. Also, a sense of isolation, like being in an old, empty mansion far from any help.
Atmosphere is crucial. You have to create a spooky, unsettling atmosphere. This can be done through descriptions of the setting, like a desolate graveyard on a foggy night. Another key element is the antagonist. It could be a vampire, a serial killer or a malevolent spirit. And the element of surprise. You don't want the reader to predict everything. For example, when the character thinks they are safe, that's when the real horror strikes.
Suspense is crucial. Build it up gradually, like a slow - creeping fog. For instance, start with a normal day for your character and then introduce small, odd things. Another key element is a disturbing setting, such as a cemetery at midnight. And don't forget the element of surprise. Just when the reader thinks they know what's going on, hit them with something unexpected, like a character they thought was dead suddenly showing up right in front of the protagonist.
You need a good buildup of tension and suspense. Also, creating creepy and realistic characters helps. And don't forget a terrifying setting.
Characters are crucial. They are the ones who drive the story. You need to make them believable and interesting. Their actions, words, and thoughts should be consistent with their personalities. Another key element is the plot. It should have a clear beginning, middle, and end. There should be a problem or conflict that the characters have to deal with. Setting also matters. It sets the mood and context of the story. For example, a dark alley at night creates a different mood than a sunny beach. And don't forget the theme. It's the underlying message of the story, like love conquers all or the importance of friendship.
The most important thing in publishing horror stories is the horror factor itself. It could be a psychological horror, like a character slowly losing their mind. Or it could be more of a physical horror, such as gory and violent scenes. Also, the cover design matters a great deal. A really creepy cover can draw readers in. And don't forget about marketing. You need to reach out to the right audience, those who love horror, through various channels.
In these eight horror stories, one important element is the setting. A spooky old mansion or a desolate forest can create an immediate sense of dread. The presence of supernatural beings such as ghosts or demons is another. Their otherworldly abilities and motives add to the horror. And the concept of death and danger is always lurking. Whether it's a character in immediate peril or the threat of a slow, creeping doom.