One key factor is the ability to create a sense of dread in the reader. It can do this through unexpected twists and turns. A good horror story can make you jump out of your skin with a sudden shock. Like in 'Psycho', the sudden murder in the shower scene was so unexpected and terrifying.
The sales volume of horror novels in the world varies by region and genre, but the following are some of the higher-selling horror novels:
1. Psychological horror novels: This type of novel produces horror effects by describing the fear and contradiction in the character's heart. It often involves topics such as psychology and personality disorder.
2. Supernatural horror novels: These novels involve supernatural elements such as magic, monsters, and spirits. They usually appear in mysterious and strange ways to make readers feel uneasy and afraid.
3. Black horror novels: These novels usually use society as the background to describe the dark, distorted, and cruel social reality, making the readers feel the ugliness and horror of human nature.
4. Science fiction horror novels: This type of novel combines science fiction elements with horror novels to create a terrifying atmosphere through fictional technological scenes.
5. Historical horror novels: These novels use historical events as the background to show the horror and strangeness of history through fictional stories and characters, making the readers feel the weight and horror of history.
The genre and style of horror novels varied in different regions and cultures. For example, the American horror cruise ship and the Japanese horror novel The Ring were both very famous horror novels that sold very well.
The latest horror novel recommended by World Singers was " Strange Things in Muye: A Collection of World Singers 'Famous Stories." This set of books had a total of 22 volumes and was known as the founder of tomb robbing novels. The series of novels created by him, Ghost Blows Out the Light, was popular in the Chinese world and received praise from Time Magazine.
One idea could be a haunted house where every night at midnight, the walls start to ooze a strange black liquid that whispers the names of the previous owners who died mysteriously in the house. The protagonist could be a young journalist looking for a big story and decides to stay in the house for a night to investigate.
One of the best is 'Silent Hill 2'. It has a deeply disturbing and psychological story. The main character, James, receives a letter from his dead wife and travels to the town of Silent Hill. The town is filled with grotesque monsters that seem to be manifestations of his inner demons and guilt. The atmosphere is thick with fog and dread, and as you progress, you uncover more about James' past and the true nature of the town.
'The Exorcist' is also a great one. The possession of a young girl by a demon is a classic horror trope. The movie adaptation especially was so well - done that it made audiences all over the world feel horrified. The way the girl's body contorts and the unholy things she says are really spine - chilling.
Open with a strange noise. A continuous scratching sound from inside the walls, getting louder and louder. The character tries to figure out what's making the noise but is too afraid to investigate further. This creates suspense and a sense of dread right from the start.
Scrivener, again. You can use it to create detailed character profiles and plot outlines for your horror story. The ability to split your screen and refer to different parts of your research or previous writing while you write can enhance the horror - writing experience.
One of the best horror story audio books is 'Dracula' by Bram Stoker. The audio version really brings out the spooky atmosphere of the classic vampire tale. The narrator's voice can add an extra layer of creepiness, making it feel like the vampires are lurking right around the corner as you listen.
Set the scene in a spooky, isolated place like an old, creaking mansion on a stormy night. For example, 'The wind howled outside the decaying mansion as the rain lashed against the broken windows, and I stepped inside, not knowing what horrors awaited me.'