Delilah S. Dawson Discusses New Horror Novel 'Monstera'

In her latest novel, Monstera, Delilah S. Dawson explores an unsettling twist on the idea of home and personal growth through plants.

Dawson, a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author as well as a Stoker Award winner, has written over 40 books in various genres, along with numerous comics and short stories. Monstera delves into themes of botanical and body horror, highlighting the complexities of desire and the dark potential that can arise in the pursuit of new beginnings.

The story centers on Lucy McClintock, a 24-year-old who escapes her controlling grandfather to start anew in a charming Victorian house in Savannah. There, she becomes intrigued by her enigmatic neighbor, Saskia, whose apartment is a lush jungle of plants and art. As their relationship deepens, Lucy discovers that both women share unexpected connections, leading to the revelation that something malevolent lurks beneath the surface of their blossoming romance.

To mark the release of Monstera, Dawson spoke with CinemaChords about the unique blend of sapphic romance with horror, the inversion of typical coming-of-age themes, and the inherent eeriness of plants that thrive independently of human influence.