The main characteristic of horror books is that they are written to generate tension and frighten the reader with their chilling stories. Therefore the plots and characters are always involved in dark episodes often combined with suspense, mystery, fantasy, and even love.
Supernatural or paranormal themes (of ghosts, vampires, zombies and monsters) are commonplace in this literary genre, as well as murder, disease and anything surrounding death. However, you can also find scary stories for children with a more tender or humorous approach.