Things to Avoid When Writing a Horror Story
Writing a horror story is like walking a tightrope—one misstep and your readers might fall out of fear and into boredom.
Whether you’re a seasoned horror writer or just dipping your toes into the genre, here are ten things you should avoid to keep your audience on the edge of their seats.
1. Clichéd Characters
Nothing kills the suspense faster than predictable, one-dimensional characters. Avoid the classic stereotypes like the damsel in distress, the jock, or the nerd who always saves the day. Instead, create complex, relatable characters with unique backgrounds and motivations. Readers should care about their fates, making the horror all the more impactful.
2. Overuse of Gore
While blood and guts can add to the fear factor, overusing gore can desensitize your readers. Horror should engage the imagination and build tension. Use gore sparingly and focus more on psychological horror, atmosphere, and suspense to keep readers genuinely scared.
3. Predictable Plot Twists
Plot twists should surprise, not be seen from a mile away. Avoid obvious twists like “it was all a dream” or “the killer was actually the best friend.” Think outside the box and challenge your readers’ expectations. Craft twists that are shocking yet believable within your story’s context.
4. Lack of Atmosphere
A horror story without atmosphere is like a cake without icing—bland and forgettable. Set the scene with vivid descriptions, eerie settings, and a palpable sense of dread. Use sensory details to immerse readers in your world, making the horror feel real and immediate.
5. Unrealistic Reactions
Characters should react to terrifying situations in ways that feel authentic. Avoid making them too brave or too stupid. If a character hears a strange noise in a haunted house, their reaction should reflect their personality and the situation’s severity. Realistic reactions make the horror more relatable and believable.
6. Overcomplicated Backstories
While it’s important to give your characters depth, avoid bogging down the story with overly complex backstories. Focus on what’s relevant to the plot and the horror elements. Introduce background details gradually and only as needed to enhance the story, not distract from it.
7. Rushed Pacing
Horror thrives on slow builds and escalating tension. Avoid rushing through scenes just to get to the “good parts.” Take your time to develop the plot, build suspense, and let the fear simmer. Proper pacing ensures that when the horror hits, it hits hard.
8. Ignoring the Setting
The setting is a crucial component of a horror story. Avoid generic or underdeveloped settings. Instead, choose locations that enhance the horror—abandoned buildings, isolated cabins, or eerie woods. The setting should be almost like a character itself, contributing to the overall sense of unease.
9. Forgetting the Payoff
Building up tension and fear is important, but so is delivering a satisfying payoff. Avoid ambiguous endings or unresolved plotlines that leave readers feeling cheated. Provide a resolution that ties up loose ends and leaves a lasting impact, whether it’s a shocking twist, a tragic conclusion, or a glimmer of hope.
10. Lack of Originality
Finally, avoid rehashing the same old horror tropes and stories. Bring something new to the table—fresh ideas, unique monsters, or innovative storytelling techniques. Originality will set your horror story apart and keep readers coming back for more.
Conclusion
Crafting a compelling horror story is no easy feat, but by avoiding these common pitfalls, you’ll be well on your way to creating a tale that haunts your readers long after they’ve turned the last page. Remember, the best horror stories tap into deep-seated fears and challenge the imagination. So, get creative, be bold, and most importantly, keep your readers scared!
Feel free to share your thoughts or your own horror writing experiences in the comments below. What are your biggest horror story pet peeves? Happy writing and may your tales be ever terrifying!
© Colin Lawson Books