Scaring someone in a horror book is all about creating a sense of suspense and the unknown. Following a basic pattern should keep scaring them throughout all of your books.

First, build suspense by slowly revealing information to the reader, using foreshadowing to hint at what’s to come, and keeping them guessing about what will happen next. This will keep them on the edge of their seat and make the scares even more effective.

Another way to create fear is to use the unknown. People are often scared of things that are mysterious or unknown, so consider using elements like strange creatures or unexplained events in your story. This will add an extra layer of fear and keep your reader guessing.

You can also try using the familiar in a new way. Take something that is familiar and use it in a new or unexpected way, like a common object that becomes malevolent or a familiar location that becomes threatening. This will add an element of surprise and make the scares even more effective.

Isolation is also a great way to create a sense of fear. Consider setting your story in a remote location where the characters are cut off from the outside world, or have them face their fears alone. This will make the scares even more intense.

The power of suggestion is another tool you can use to great effect in horror. By hinting at horrors that are off-page or just out of view, you can leave the reader’s imagination to fill in the gaps, creating a sense of fear that is even more intense.

Finally, make sure the stakes are high. The higher the stakes, the more intense the fear will be. Consider what the characters have to lose, and make sure that the consequences of failure are significant. This will make the scares even more effective.

Jump scares can be effective in small doses, but relying on them too heavily can become predictable and lose their impact. Use them sparingly and strategically to maximize their effectiveness.

By following these tips, you can create a horror story that will keep your reader on the edge of their seat and leave them scared long after they’ve finished reading.

find more at https://withinthefogbooks.com by Dr. Charles Welch

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