Well, they can be termed as 'gothic fiction' or 'thriller novels' too. It depends on the specific elements and style of the story.
Scary fiction books are often called horror books.
Some of the best scary fiction books include 'It' by Stephen King. This novel features a shape - shifting entity that preys on children in a small town. It's a long and detailed story filled with scares. 'Rosemary's Baby' by Ira Levin is really good too. It's about a woman who suspects that her unborn baby is part of a satanic plot. And then there's 'The Silence of the Lambs' by Thomas Harris. The character of Hannibal Lecter is truly terrifying.
One characteristic is the exploration of spiritual battles. These books often depict the fight between good and evil, with angels and demons. For example, in 'This Present Darkness', the readers can see the behind - the - scenes spiritual warfare. Another characteristic is the use of religious themes to create a sense of dread. The idea of sin and its consequences, or the coming of the end times as in 'Left Behind' series, can be really scary. Also, they might use elements of mystery and the unknown within a Christian context to build up the scariness.
Non-fiction books are often referred to as 'informational books' or 'documentary literature'.
One of the best is 'The Andromeda Strain' by Michael Crichton. It's terrifying as it explores a deadly extraterrestrial microbe that threatens all life on Earth. The scientific details and the sense of impending doom make it a classic in the genre.
Some scary realistic fiction books are 'Room' by Emma Donoghue. It's a harrowing story of a woman and her son held captive in a small room, and the psychological trauma they endure is both terrifying and moving. Then there's 'The Silence of the Lambs' by Thomas Harris. The character of Hannibal Lecter is one of the most chilling in literature, and the cat - and - mouse game between Clarice Starling and him is full of suspense and horror. And 'We Need to Talk About Kevin' by Lionel Shriver is a disturbing exploration of a mother's relationship with her son who has committed a heinous act.
Some scary historical fiction books are worth checking out. 'The Witch of Blackbird Pond' is a bit on the scarier side as it delves into the witch trials in colonial America. The superstition and the fear of the unknown during that time create a spooky atmosphere. Then there's 'The Graveyard Book' which, while having a young protagonist, is set in a graveyard and has elements of historical horror, especially when it comes to the ghosts and the darker parts of the cemetery's past.
Good fiction children scary books often have engaging plots. For example, they might have a mystery to solve, like finding out who the ghost is in a haunted house. The characters are also important. They should be relatable to kids so that the children can put themselves in the character's shoes when the scary things happen.
Some scary new fiction books worth checking out include 'The Only Good Indians' by Stephen Graham Jones. It's a horror story that delves into Native American folklore and modern - day horror. Then there's 'Such Sharp Teeth' by Rachel Harrison, a werewolf - themed horror that's both scary and has elements of dark humor. Also, 'The Hollow Places' by T. Kingfisher is a creepy read that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Scary fiction books are typically referred to as horror. This genre is known for creating feelings of fear and suspense for the readers.
Non-fiction books are often referred to as 'informational books' or 'knowledge-based books'.