Ghastly. This word can be used to describe a really horrible appearance or situation. For instance, a ghastly face emerging from the darkness. 'Shudder - inducing' is another one. It means that it makes you shudder, like a shudder - inducing scream in a horror story. It directly shows the physical reaction the horror element causes.
Consider 'bleak'. It gives a feeling of desolation and hopelessness, like a desolate landscape in a horror - stricken world. Another word is 'malefic'. It emphasizes a harmful and evil nature. Also, 'uncanny' is useful as it implies something so strange that it makes you feel uneasy.
Well, there are 'haunting' which gives the idea that the story stays with the reader long after it's been read. 'Gripping' is another one, just like 'enthralling', it makes the reader hold on tight to the story. Also, 'riveting' which means extremely interesting and holding one's attention firmly. The story might be about a mystery or an adventure, and these words would be very suitable to describe how it draws the reader in. It's not just about the plot, but also how the characters are developed and the setting is described that can make a story 'riveting'. For example, a story set in a post - apocalyptic world with complex characters fighting for survival can be 'riveting' as it combines elements of danger, hope, and human nature.
You could use 'phantasmagoric', which means having a fantastic or dream - like appearance, often in a disturbing way. 'Spectral' is another good word, referring to something like a specter or ghost - like. And 'crepuscular' can be used to describe things related to twilight, a time often associated with mystery and the transition between day and night in gothic literature.
There are words like 'diabolical'. This implies something devilish, something that is extremely evil and cunning in a very scary way. 'Horrific' is another strong word for scary stories. It describes something that is so bad and terrifying that it can leave a long - lasting impression on the reader or listener. 'Hideous' can also be used, especially when describing a really grotesque or ugly and scary character or situation in a story. These words can add more depth and intensity to the horror in a scary story.
Yes, 'narrative' in Old English could also refer to a story.
How about Dr. Lysander? It's not a typical doctor name and can give the character an air of mystery. Dr. Ophelia is also a great choice if you want a more literary - inspired name for a female doctor. And Dr. Thaddeus, which has an old - fashioned charm but is not very common.
Caleb. It's not as overused as some names but still has a warm and fatherly sound. It can be for a father who is hardworking and family - oriented. Another one is Ethan. It gives an impression of a modern and caring father. And there's Owen, which is a name that can be used for a father who is creative and has a bit of an adventurous spirit.
One could also use 'primordial novel'. It gives the idea that the novel is like the origin or the first of its kind in the author's body of work. It has a more sophisticated and perhaps a bit more abstract feel compared to just saying 'first novel'.
There's Atticus. It has a literary feel to it, like it belongs to a wise and moral character. And then there's Orion. It's not as common but is great for a character who is adventurous or has a connection to the stars. These names can make your boy characters stand out more in a story.
One interesting trope is the 'Time - Travel' trope in a fantasy context. It allows for complex plots and different eras to be explored. The 'Elemental Magic' trope, such as characters having control over fire, water, air, or earth. And the 'Mythical Creature as a Companion' trope, like having a dragon as a friend and ally in the story.