A common element is the sense of dread. It makes the reader constantly on edge, waiting for the next terrifying vision. For example, there might be a recurring image of a shadowy figure that represents the dead, which keeps popping up in the most unexpected moments.
The characters in this kind of horror novel are crucial. They could be experiencing some sort of psychic connection to the dead, which leads to their terrifying visions. Their reactions to these visions, whether it's paranoia, extreme fear or a sense of helplessness, drive the story forward.
One common element is the tragic death of the bride, often suddenly and violently. Another is the appearance of her ghost, usually in her wedding attire. And there's often a sense of unfinished business, like the wedding that never happened.
One common element is the spooky location. It's often an abandoned or old skate park, or a place near something foreboding like a cemetery. Another is the appearance of the dead skateboarder's ghost, usually looking mangled or with signs of their fatal injury. Also, there's a sense of danger and unease that starts before the ghost actually shows up, like skateboards malfunctioning or strange noises in the area.
One common element is the use of dark and spooky settings. Old houses, especially those with a history of death or tragedy, are often used. Another is the presence of menacing characters, either human villains or supernatural entities. For example, in many horror novels, there are serial killers or vampires. Strange noises and unexplained events also play a big role. These create an atmosphere of mystery and fear.
Typically, a horror novel often starts with a normal or seemingly ordinary setting. This lulls the reader into a false sense of security. Then there is the introduction of an element of the unknown or the abnormal, like a strange noise or an unexplained event. Next comes the build - up of suspense, with the protagonist starting to notice more and more strange things. The climax usually involves a direct confrontation with the source of horror, be it a monster or a terrifying situation. And finally, there may be a resolution, which might not always be a happy one.
In Day of the Dead stories, altars are a very common element. These altars are carefully decorated with photos of the deceased, candles, and religious items. Also, the idea of celebration is common. Instead of mourning in a sad way, people celebrate the lives of the dead. Colors are also an element. The bright colors like orange from the marigolds and the colorful papel picado add to the festive yet spiritual atmosphere of the stories. And there's often a sense of communication between the living and the dead, whether it's through dreams or a feeling of a presence.
One common element is a sense of mystery. For example, in many 'dead secret stories', there are hidden places like locked rooms or buried boxes. Another element is the passage of time. Usually, a lot of time has passed since the secret was created, like decades or even centuries. Also, there is often a character who either holds the secret and takes it to their grave or tries to hide it forever.
Another common element is the use of the unknown or the supernatural. In many of these novels, there are things that go beyond human understanding. For instance, a blood - thirsty demon that can't be killed by normal means. The characters are often put in situations where they are powerless against these blood - related and supernatural threats, which makes the reader feel a great sense of horror.
One common element is the setting. It's often in spooky places like old houses, cemeteries, or dark forests. Another is the appearance of the dead girl. She might be pale, with long hair, and wearing a white dress, which gives that classic ghostly look. Also, there are often strange noises associated with her, like moaning or whispering, which add to the scare factor.