One characteristic is their ability to create a sense of unease and fear. For example, they often have well - developed and menacing antagonists. In 'Carrion Comfort', the characters with special powers who use them for evil create a constant threat.
The best Bram Stoker award - winning novels usually have strong narrative arcs. They build up tension gradually and then release it in a satisfying way. Their settings are often very vivid. In 'The Silence of the Lambs', the various locations like the prison cell of Hannibal Lecter are described in such a way that it feels like you're there. Also, they're not afraid to explore dark and taboo topics, which makes them stand out and often gives the reader a lot to think about.
'American Psycho' by Bret Easton Ellis is also among them. It offers a disturbing look into the mind of a serial killer. The novel uses a first - person narrative which gives readers an uncomfortably close look at the protagonist's thoughts and actions. It was controversial but also a significant work in the horror genre and thus won the award.
One of the well - known best Bram Stoker award - winning novels is 'The Silence of the Lambs' by Thomas Harris. It's a gripping psychological thriller that delves into the mind of a brilliant and terrifying serial killer. Another is 'American Psycho' by Bret Easton Ellis, which offers a disturbing and satirical look at the excesses of the 1980s consumer culture through the eyes of a psychotic killer. 'Carrion Comfort' by Dan Simmons is also great. It combines elements of horror, science fiction, and the supernatural in a complex and engaging story.
The Bram Stoker Award for Best First Novel is highly significant. It's an award that recognizes outstanding new talent in the horror genre. Winning it can launch an author's career, giving them more visibility and credibility in the field. It also helps to bring attention to new and exciting voices in horror writing.
Well, another good Bram Stoker novel is The Jewel of Seven Stars. It combines elements of the supernatural and mystery. The story builds suspense as it revolves around an ancient Egyptian mummy and the secrets it holds.
The Bram Stoker Award for Best Long Fiction is an important award in the horror genre. It honors the best long works of horror, typically novels. It's a recognition of the creativity and impact of these works in scaring and engaging readers with elements like supernatural terrors, psychological horror, etc.
The Bram Stoker Award for Novel is a significant accolade within the horror genre. It serves as a benchmark for excellence in horror novels. This award not only commemorates Bram Stoker's contribution to horror literature through his famous work 'Dracula' but also encourages new and established authors to explore the darker aspects of human nature and the unknown in their writing. It has a long - standing history of highlighting novels that are able to send shivers down readers' spines, whether through complex characters, spine - chilling plots, or unique horror concepts.
'The Jewel of Seven Stars' is also among the best. It involves a mummy and ancient Egyptian magic. Stoker weaves a complex tale of mystery and horror as the characters grapple with the awakened forces from the past, with a great deal of suspense and spooky atmosphere.
Some might consider 'The Walking Dead' as well. It has a post - apocalyptic setting filled with zombies. The graphic novel series has been highly successful in exploring human nature in extreme situations. It shows how people adapt, form communities, and deal with the constant threat of the undead. The art style also adds to the overall atmosphere of the story.