Well, not exactly. While the TV show uses a combination of jump scares, grotesque imagery, and intense acting to terrify viewers, a novel has a different approach. A 'American Horror Story' novel would likely focus more on psychological horror through its prose. It might not have the immediate 'in - your - face' horror of the show, but it could be deeply disturbing in a more cerebral way, like getting inside your head with its dark themes and complex characters.
The show is based on a concoction of horror motifs and the strange world of freak shows. It takes cues from history and imagination to create its unique narrative. Some aspects might be loosely based on real incidents, while others are purely fictional creations for dramatic effect.
American Horror Story Freak Show was based on a concoction of real and imagined elements. It drew inspiration from the strange and macabre aspects of the world of freak shows, adding its own twist and horror elements for dramatic effect.