Horror Blog

a forest scene to represent horror story writing prompts

10 In-Depth Horror Story Writing Prompts

Sometimes the most challenging part of writing a short horror story isn’t the ending or the pacing, it’s getting started. That blank page can feel scarier than any monster. Horror story writing prompts are a powerful way to bypass hesitation, spark new ideas, and push your imagination into unexpected places. Why Horror Story Writing Prompts Spark Creativity Horror short story prompts work especially well because they give you just enough to ignite fear without boxing Read more

By Steph, ago
a spooky bridge to represent the best horror short story endings

The Best Horror Short Story Endings (and How to Write Them)

Horror is unlike other genres in many ways, including its endings. Romance is known for its happily-ever-afters, science fiction is known for defying the logic and boundaries of our current world, and tragedies are, of course, known for being sad. Horror is best known for, well, horrifying the audience. Even an ending that seems happy or looks to resolve things should leave that slight touch of dread and doubt that things aren’t all as they Read more

By Steph, ago
a spooky lake scene to represent how to build suspense in a short horror story

How to Build Suspense in a Short Horror Story

Regardless of where you are in your writing journey, knowing how to build suspense in a short horror story is essential to crafting the most powerful tales that you can. Suspense is important, but it’s not always easy to create. Some stories come across it more naturally than others; it never hurts to get a refresher, even if you feel confident in your abilities! Why Suspense Is the Heart of Horror Suspense is what keeps Read more

By Steph, ago
spooky candle to represent how to write a short horror story

How to Write a Short Horror Story in 7 Steps

From slashers to psychological horror, the genre is truly vast. One popular horror niche is the short horror story. Horror short stories are appealing because they are often a single-sitting venture, and they’re fun! If you love a good, quick, deeply unsettling story, shorts are the way to go. As a horror fan and a writer, learning how to write a short horror story has been one of my favourite adventures. After working on novels Read more

By Steph, ago
a dark house with a lit window to represent cozy horror

The Rise of Cozy Horror: Is It Still Scary If It’s Cute?

From haunted bookshops and witches with snarky cats to stories with more pumpkin spice than spilled blood, a new trend is creeping into the genre: cozy horror. Some people like being terrified. However, some people enjoy spooky themes and aesthetics but don’t appreciate the anxiety or adrenaline that comes with horror. Cozy horror may just be the perfect answer. If you’ve ever asked yourself, “Can a horror story be heartwarming?” or “What is cozy horror Read more

By Steph, ago
a spooky forest scene to represent a horror trope

Why We Love a Good Horror Trope (Even When it’s Overused)

Let’s be honest, horror fans: we roll our eyes when we see that one character walk into a dark basement alone… but we also keep watching. We might scoff when we hear a child’s laugh echo through a dark room… but a classic horror trope still sends goosebumps crawling across our skin. Deep down, we love a good horror trope. Even the most overused ones still work when handled right—and when they don’t, they’re at Read more

By Steph, ago
a dark and spooky forest to represent jump scares

Jump Scares in Horror: Why They Work (And When They Don’t)

Whether you love them, hate them, or pretend you’re too cool to flinch, jump scares are a staple of the horror experience. They’re those sharp, sudden jolts, usually paired with a loud sound or a quick visual, that make your heart leap into your throat. Done well, they take you by surprise even if you’re expecting them. But why do jump scares work so well? And just as importantly, why do some fall flat? Let’s Read more

By Steph, ago
slasher movies and their villains

Unmasking Slasher Movie Types and Their Iconic Villains

Slasher movies have fascinated horror-loving audiences for decades with their haunting villains and intricate stories. Picture this: a masked killer stalking a group of unsuspecting teenagers, gory scenes, and relentless suspense. While some might dismiss them as mere entertainment, the distinct characteristics of slasher films reveal deeper layers. Here, we will dissect the different types of slasher movies, explore their unique traits, and highlight standout examples that have defined the genre. The Classic Slasher The Read more

By Steph, ago
crafting atmosphere in psychological horror

How to Craft Atmosphere in Psychological Horror: Tips for Creators

When it comes to psychological horror, atmosphere is everything. From the creak of a floorboard to the weight of silence, building tension keeps readers and viewers glued to the page or screen, their hearts racing and senses on high alert. If you’re eager to evoke existential dread in your audience but unsure how to write psychological horror, keep reading. Whether you’re writing psychological horror for a short story, novel, or script, these tips will help you create Read more

By Steph, ago
the role of unreliable narrators in psychological horror

How Unreliable Narrators Frame the Terror in Psychological Horror

When you settle in for a chilling psychological horror story, you’re not just bracing for jump scares; you’re strapping in for a mind‑bending ride. Unreliable narrators have become a cornerstone of this subgenre, sneaking doubt into every scene and forcing us to question what’s real. Today, we’ll explore how these deceptive voices elevate horror movies, horror films, and horror books, keeping horror fans on the edge of their seats. What Is an Unreliable Narrator? An unreliable narrator Read more

By Steph, ago