Use descriptive language about the setting. For example, describe the creaking floorboards, the cold drafts that seem to have a life of their own, and the dim, flickering candlelight. Also, the characters' reactions can add to the spooky feel. If they are constantly on edge, jumping at every little sound, it will make the reader feel the same.
By using dark and shadowy descriptions. For example, 'The corners of the room were filled with inky blackness.'
Haunted house novels often use descriptions of the setting. For example, they might describe dark corridors, creaking stairs, and cold drafts. Also, strange noises like unexplained moans or whispers can add to the spookiness.
They often use dark color palettes. For example, in 'Corpse Bride', the color scheme is dominated by dull blues and grays, which immediately gives a sense of gloom. Also, the character designs can be quite creepy. In 'The Nightmare Before Christmas', the various monsters and ghouls have distorted features.
The art style is a big factor. Dark, shadowy illustrations with jagged lines can make a house seem menacing. For example, in 'Locke & Key', the detailed drawings of the old, creaky house add to the spookiness. Also, the use of color, or lack thereof. Black and white or muted colors can create a sense of gloom. Sound effects in the form of onomatopoeia like 'creak' and 'screech' written on the page also contribute.
They often use detailed descriptions of the house itself. For example, in 'The Haunting of Hill House', the crooked hallways and the strange architecture are described in a way that makes the reader feel uneasy.
To create a spooky atmosphere, you can introduce elements like a thick fog that surrounds the abandoned shack. Inside, there could be old, dusty furniture and cobwebs everywhere. You might also add some strange markings on the walls or floors that seem to have a sinister meaning. Another way is to have an unexplained cold spot in the shack, which gives the characters a sense of unease.
Play with the characters' fears. In Fairy Tail, most characters have something they're afraid of. Maybe Gray is haunted by visions of Deliora in a more menacing and real - life - like way. You can also make the familiar settings seem strange and threatening. The usually bustling Magnolia town could become a desolate place with empty streets and a thick fog that muffles all sounds, creating an atmosphere of dread.
Use descriptions of gloomy settings like a fog - covered graveyard with crooked tombstones. The moonlight can be faint, casting long, eerie shadows. Sounds are also important. Add the howling of wolves in the distance or the creaking of old floorboards.
Use dark colors. For example, when drawing the setting, use lots of black, grey, and deep purple. These colors can immediately give a sense of gloom and mystery. Also, add elements like fog. Fog can obscure the view and make the viewer feel like there are hidden dangers lurking within. Another way is to draw long, dark shadows. Even in a simple scene, long shadows can make it seem more menacing.
Decorate the area with some spooky elements like fake cobwebs or a few plastic skulls. Just having these things around can make you feel like you're in a more horror - themed setting and enhance the experience of reading or listening to scary stories.