Some common themes include the supernatural elements deeply rooted in African folklore, like ancestral spirits. Also, the dark history of the apartheid era can be a theme, with stories of haunted places related to the injustices of that time.
One more author to consider is Henrietta Rose - Innes. Her writing can be quite atmospheric and spooky. She often delves into the darker aspects of South African life, whether it's the isolation of certain areas or the secrets that lie within old buildings. Her stories can make you feel a sense of unease as you read about the characters' encounters with the unknown in the South African context.
One South African horror story could be about an old, abandoned mental asylum on the outskirts of a small town. People say that at night, strange noises come from the building. Lights flicker in the empty wards, and shadows move where there should be no one. It is said that the spirits of the patients who suffered there long ago still roam the halls, unable to find peace.
Since I don't know the details of '8 a south african horror story', it's difficult to give a proper summary. But South African horror stories often draw on the country's diverse cultures. There could be a story about a vengeful spirit from one of the many ethnic groups, perhaps a Xhosa or Zulu spirit. The story might also involve the fear of the unknown in the vast African bush, where strange noises and unseen creatures lurk in the darkness.
One possible theme could be the fear of the wild. South Africa has vast and often unforgiving landscapes. In a horror story, the wilderness can be a source of great danger, like wild animals turning into menacing threats or getting lost in the bushveld becoming a terrifying experience.
I haven't read the specific 'A South African Horror Story' yet, so I can't summarize it directly. But generally, a horror story from South Africa might involve elements like the unique local superstitions, the wilderness or veldt areas, and perhaps the complex history and social issues that could add a terrifying backdrop to the story.
South African horror novels often incorporate elements of the country's unique history, culture, and landscapes. For example, the vast and sometimes desolate African plains can create a sense of isolation and danger. They may also deal with social issues specific to South Africa, like the aftermath of apartheid, which can add a layer of underlying horror. The use of local folklore and superstitions is also common, with creatures from African mythology making appearances to terrify readers.
As I haven't read it, it could be the unknown. Maybe there are strange creatures specific to South Africa that are really terrifying. Like the Tokoloshe, a mischievous and often malevolent spirit in South African folklore.
Given the title, the plot could be quite complex. It might be that there are eight signs or omens that are being watched in the story. In South Africa, there could be cultural or traditional beliefs associated with these signs. As the story unfolds, the characters realize that these signs are precursors to a great horror. They could be facing a malevolent force that is related to South African history or mythology. The characters then have to figure out how to break the cycle or escape the impending doom that the eight signs are foretelling.