Horror fiction is a genre of literature designed to evoke feelings of fear, dread, and suspense in readers. It often features supernatural elements, such as ghosts, monsters, or vampires, and explores themes of the unknown, the macabre, and the psychological. The goal is to create an unsettling atmosphere that keeps readers on edge. Common settings in horror fiction include haunted houses, dark forests, or isolated locations, which enhance the sense of danger. Notable authors in this genre include Stephen King, H.P. Lovecraft, and Shirley Jackson, whose works have significantly influenced the way horror stories are told and experienced.