horror fiction history

Horror Fiction History: Exploring the Origins and Evolution of a Chilling Genre

From tales of haunted castles to nightmarish creatures lurking in the dark, horror fiction has captivated readers across generations. This article delves into the history of horror fiction, tracing its roots, highlighting notable authors, and providing recommendations for spine-tingling novels that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Origins of Horror Fiction:
The origins of horror fiction can be traced back to ancient folklore and mythology, with stories of malevolent spirits and supernatural beings frightening audiences. However, it was in the 18th and 19th centuries that horror as a distinct genre began to take shape. Gothic literature, with its eerie settings and brooding atmosphere, set the stage for what would later become synonymous with horror fiction.

Notable Authors:
1. Mary Shelley - Considered the pioneer of horror fiction, Shelley wrote the iconic novel "Frankenstein" in 1818. This tale of a scientist who creates a monstrous creature has become a classic that continues to captivate readers to this day.

2. Bram Stoker - Stoker's masterpiece, "Dracula," published in 1897, introduced one of the most famous villains in literary history. This blood-curdling tale of a vampire's reign of terror has inspired countless adaptations and remains a must-read for fans of the genre.

3. Edgar Allan Poe - Known for his mastery of the macabre, Poe's short stories, such as "The Tell-Tale Heart" and "The Fall of the House of Usher," have become synonymous with psychological horror. His ability to tap into the darkest recesses of the human mind continues to be a source of inspiration for horror writers today.

Recommended Novels:
1. "It" by Stephen King - King is a modern-day master of horror, and his novel "It" is a gripping tale that blends elements of psychological terror with a sinister clown antagonist. This epic novel explores the fears and traumas of a group of friends who confront a malevolent presence in their town.

2. "The Haunting of Hill House" by Shirley Jackson - Jackson's novel, published in 1959, centers around four characters who explore the paranormal phenomena occurring in the eponymous house. Renowned for its subtle yet chilling atmosphere, this book has influenced generations of horror writers.

3. "Bird Box" by Josh Malerman - This post-apocalyptic horror novel became an instant sensation upon its release, exploring the terrifying concept of creatures that drive people to madness upon sight. With its relentless tension and gripping storyline, "Bird Box" is sure to keep readers hooked until the very last page.

Online Resources:
1. Goodreads (www.goodreads.com) - This popular website offers a community of book lovers who share their recommendations, reviews, and discussions on horror fiction. Browse through lists, discover new titles, and connect with fellow enthusiasts.

2. Horror Writers Association (www.horror.org) - The official website of the Horror Writers Association provides valuable resources for both aspiring and established horror writers. Explore writing tips, join forums, and stay updated on the latest news and events in the world of horror fiction.

In conclusion, horror fiction has a rich and captivating history that has given birth to timeless tales and iconic authors. From its mythical origins to modern-day psychological thrillers, the genre continues to evolve and terrify readers worldwide. By exploring the recommended novels and online resources, you can embark on a chilling journey through the shadows of horror fiction.
Prince Charming Fiction
Prince Charming

Tang Sheng, a son of a government official, is reborn and goes back to his childhood, determined to make up for lost opportunities and restore his family's glory! How to be a low-key second-generation official? The most important thing is to ensure that my father, as a first-generation official, has a stable career and rises to the top. The girl I missed in my previous life, I will protect her for a lifetime in this life; the woman who rejected me in my previous life because I had no future and money, I will make her regret crossing paths with me in this life! "Son, your father is a secretary, you have to be low-key!" "Mom, I am already low-key." "Crashing someone's Mercedes, is that low-key?" "Um... that was an accident!" [Super Large Group: (This group is for VIP readers only, non-subscribers are not allowed)]

545.81 Million words | 2022-04-01 12:12Update

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International supplier Fiction
International supplier

Dark and filled with despair, Fang Yuanshan reached the age of twenty-six. Due to family circumstances, he found himself at a dead end and decided to go abroad to seek success. Meeting a peculiar incident while fulfilling a client's request to take photos in the Amazon jungle, he unexpectedly discovered a magical place. From that moment on, Fang embarked on the path of a global supplier, setting off on a remarkable and vibrant journey through life...

333.24 Million words | 2021-11-02 21:56Update

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Traveler of the Two-Dimensional World in the Multiverse Fiction
Traveler of the Two-Dimensional World in the Multiverse

Jiang Yuan, a time traveler, spent countless years in the world of Naruto. As he grew weary of a life filled with endless killing, he finally managed to bring peace to the chaos. With a newfound desire to wander and relax in other worlds, he opened the gate of time and embarked on his journey to different dimensions. (First stop: RE: Zero - Starting Life in Another World)

518.15 Million words | 2023-01-28 10:32Update

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Korean Entertainment Contract Fiction
Korean Entertainment Contract

Ladies, I have a lot of business, just give me money. Ladies, I am skilled in my business, just give me money. Ladies, my business is legitimate, just give me money. Ladies, I don't do business, want to date? One hand with a contract, one hand with money, after the contract is fulfilled, we will cut ties. Don't be afraid, ladies, I am incredibly good at what I do.

205.26 Million words | 2020-10-09 22:26Update

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[Quick Transmigration] Cannon Fodder Mission Fiction
[Quick Transmigration] Cannon Fodder Mission

Selected Bai Wei traveled through thousands of parallel worlds. She thought she was here to help the cannon fodder get revenge, but little did she know there was a hidden mission... —— Cannon fodder with a loyal supporting male lead boyfriend, cannon fodder whose life was switched, cannon fodder yearning for a Liang Zhu-like story, cannon fodder triggering a death by scandalous photos encounter with an immortal male supporting character... Seeking sponsorship for a new novel, where the protagonist gets immense satisfaction from tormenting scum!

306.00 Million words | 2021-04-17 20:58Update

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Super God System Fiction
Super God System

Take a glimpse at the sizzling girl, cultivate some mysterious martial arts, equip oneself with powerful weapons, and delve into future science. Make some money, grow some immortal herbs, refine some elixirs, and raise some divine beasts. Seek out misfortune in the islands, crush the might of the United States, and chase away extraterrestrial beings with eyes outside their eye sockets... Ever since obtaining the super god system, Mu You has been living a comfortable life. It's just that occasionally, the system presents him with some awkward tasks. For example, the Ten Night Goddesses. The rewards are abundant, and the process is alluring. However, Mu You is a respectable person! Book Club Group (Boundless Romance): Secret code: Super God System

264.02 Million words | 2021-09-05 00:43Update

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My Zombie Wife Fiction
My Zombie Wife

As those watery eyes drifted further away from me, the soft, smooth, sweet thing that was pressed against my lips also moved farther away. When my vision could finally fully capture that clear and pretty face, I discovered that there were water droplets on her lips. Regarding the shape of those droplets, I believe that if I were to press my lips against hers now, they should fit perfectly! "You have to take responsibility for me!" The female specter looked at me with resentment, speaking in a delicate voice. ...... (As the embodiment of justice, the conqueror of zombies, please give me some bookmarks and recommendations, there shouldn't be any problem, right?) If you, dear readers, think "My Zombie Wife" is pretty good, please don't forget to recommend it to your friends in your QQ groups and on Weibo!

403.38 Million words | 2021-03-22 07:34Update

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Fang Siqi's First Love Paradise Fiction
Fang Siqi's First Love Paradise

The novel tells the story of the beautiful literary girl Fang Siqi, who is sexually assaulted by her cram school teacher Li Guohua and eventually suffers a mental breakdown. Through Fang Siqi's efforts to "fall in love" with Li Guohua, the novel reveals the extent to which women are controlled by patriarchal cultural norms and the actual impact of their internalization. It highlights the various forms of male oppression against women in a patriarchal society, as well as the possible ways and limitations of female resistance, thus emphasizing the theme of individual harm and alienation by patriarchal societal norms. This is an astonishing and exceptional novel, written by an author who possesses both a highly sensitive perception and firsthand experience, preserving this entire incident like a "surviving specimen". The book repeatedly and closely examines the pain of having something precious taken away by someone who derives pleasure from this act from the perspective of the violated individual.

477.93 Million words | 2022-08-23 09:02Update

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King of Urban Mercenaries Fiction
King of Urban Mercenaries

Formerly a member of the Dragon Soul Junior Team, recognized as the king among international top mercenaries, he was dragged back to the city by his cheap father-in-law and married an icy goddess of a wife. Being despised by his wife didn't matter, as he had spicy policewomen, charming superiors, tsundere lolis, and sweet university students coming to him. Having many women may bring trouble, but that didn't matter either, as he had the strength to solve any problem. Lin Fei's life motto: When it comes to the nature of love in this world, it only makes one to take off their clothes!

247.80 Million words | 2022-11-16 05:52Update

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If I have never loved you. Fiction
If I have never loved you.

There has always been a dirty secret hidden in Mu Wan's heart, and she refused to tell anyone about it... Until this secret was exposed, what awaits her is death or redemption?

597.09 Million words | 2021-10-12 09:30Update

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From Marriage to Love Fiction
From Marriage to Love

The book is also known as "Secretly Married: CEO's Night Chat." At the engagement party, she caught her fiancé and her sister in an affair. Immediately, she publicly announced it as a "breakup party," becoming the laughingstock of the city. Two months later, holding a pregnancy test result, she quietly got married without anyone knowing who the groom was, only seeing a dazzling carat pink diamond on her finger... She knew he belonged to someone else, and this marriage was a calculated move for her own benefit. But her heart unexpectedly developed forbidden fantasies. Just as she decided to cut ties and bring out the divorce agreement, he threw it into the shredder and gripped her chin, sneering, "What is marriage to you? You want to be together, then together; you want to separate, then separate? I, Ning Jue Xi, am not that easy to dismiss in your eyes." New book: Pretending to be a Pig to Eat a Tiger, Conspiracy in the Noble Family, and The Ruthless CEO. Sisters who love these genres, please jump into the bowl (remember to click on the "follow" button in the upper right corner to save it)!

154.80 Million words | 2022-01-19 22:53Update

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Late Love in Military Marriage Fiction
Late Love in Military Marriage

A marriage of convenience, each taking what they need. After witnessing all the bustling, who will be each other's loyal companion for life?

112.57 Million words | 2020-07-13 10:31Update

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A otaku transforms into a pretty soldier to save the endless world. Fiction
A otaku transforms into a pretty soldier to save the endless world.

Otaku Version: There's no world an otaku can't save. And if there is, we'll just tackle two at once! Pretty Girl Version: I'm the strongest pretty girl around. Don't believe me? Come and fight me! Save the World Version: World, don't move a muscle. Yes, you—the one looking left and right—I'm coming to save you right now.

284.34 Million words | 2022-07-14 22:25Update

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Hot Superstar Fiction
Hot Superstar

My name is Yang Fan and I am the king on the field. This is my story. Scoring is my life, it makes my blood boil. Victory is also my life, I enjoy the feeling of winning. This is a story about dreams, about pursuing victory. A hardworking young man, a magical system, and a blazing path to conquer belonging to a superstar. ...

397.26 Million words | 2022-07-03 03:14Update

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Peach Luck Teacher Fiction
Peach Luck Teacher

A martial arts expert who wanders around campus, a Class 38 filled with girls, a shy virgin who loves girls more than money, and a determined young man who aspires to be a good teacher. All these stories converge on Liu Mang. Thus begins the peachy life of a virgin-turned-teacher, as he faces various temptations from beautiful women. What choices will he make? All the answers lie in The Peachy Teacher!

188.94 Million words | 2022-11-11 06:56Update

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Shaman's Hymn Fiction
Shaman's Hymn

Our story starts in a rural village in Northeast China, where a kind and honest man named Han Rufeng accidentally becomes a master of Eastern Necromancy. Introduced by someone, he finds himself in a place called the Northeast Hysteria Affairs Agency. Little did he know that his life would undergo a dramatic change after entering this agency. QQ: "Shaman's Notes" Reader Group, welcome all readers to join and interact together. Come and join if you love stories about Eastern Necromancy and horror! ...

433.97 Million words | 2021-12-01 08:49Update

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Reborn in Japan as a Supervisor Fiction
Reborn in Japan as a Supervisor

There is a kind of friendship called "One Piece", there is a kind of parody called "Gintama", there is a kind of persistence called "Naruto", there is a kind of redemption called "Puella Magi Madoka Magica", there is a kind of sacrifice called "Code Geass", there is a kind of family affection called "CLANNAD", there is a kind of principle called "Fullmetal Alchemist", there is a kind of sect called "Love Live"... "Who the hell came up with this disgusting stuff? I just wanted to be a supervisor driven by interest!" Takashi Kamiya, who had crossed over to a parallel world, rolled his eyes. He found that his computer from the previous world inexplicably ended up in his head, and he could even connect to the internet. In this world, the Japanese animation industry has developed imbalanced. The high pressure and restless social structure have turned the animation industry into a scarcity of quality works, dominated by garbage and niche fast-food culture. Driven by his interest, Takashi Kamiya embarked on the path of an animation supervisor.

24.16 Million words | 2021-05-15 11:45Update

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Official and businessman Fiction
Official and businessman

New Work: "Rebirth of Official Career and Business Path" New Work: "Rebirth of Official Career and Business Path" New Work: "Rebirth of Official Career and Business Path" New Work: "Rebirth of Official Career and Business Path" New Work: "Rebirth of Official Career and Business Path" New Work: "Rebirth of Official Career and Business Path" New Work: "Rebirth of Official Career and Business Path" Year, a powerhouse officialdom and business battle passion novel from Qidian

502.47 Million words | 2021-09-05 20:53Update

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White Olive Tree Fiction
White Olive Tree

"Azan, in my next life, I want to be a bird." "Then I'll be a towering tree." After experiencing the deepest darkness, the harshest evils, and the ugliest horrors, I am still grateful. I have seen the light, witnessed kindness, and beheld the most beautiful souls. I am still appreciative, for I have laid eyes on that white olive grove. I know it is a mirage at the junction of heaven and earth in the desert. And you have always been by my side, the most radiant light in the vast dark night.

516.40 Million words | 2021-04-03 00:23Update

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Guide to the Beloved Concubine of the System Fiction
Guide to the Beloved Concubine of the System

System of the Beloved Empress Guide, the Beloved Empress System says, a generation of beloved empresses need to be delicate and easily seduced, need to be stunningly beautiful with the power of words, need not fear any schemes, need to handle both skills and tasks, and also need to occupy the emperor's heart, even if it brings a cold and icy heart. Notice: This novel will enter the V-status with three updates on Thursday, the [specific date]. Please continue to support. Author: Yun Huaduoduo

248.31 Million words | 2020-08-01 04:45Update

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