Picture a Minnesota storyteller who conjures ghosts and gothic chills with a queer, maternal twist—meet Katrina Monroe! A private investigator by day, she spins supernatural suspense novels that delve into generational trauma, identity, and the haunting power of family ties. Her atmospheric tales, like They Drown Our Daughters, have captivated readers with their eerie blend of heart and horror.
Monroe’s unique voice, shaped by her Florida roots and Minnesota life, weaves stories that feel both deeply personal and universally haunting. Ready to dive into her world of lighthouses, spectral women, and unbreakable bonds? Let’s explore the life and works of this rising star in supernatural fiction.
The Making of Katrina Monroe
Born and raised in Florida’s Tampa Bay area, Katrina Monroe grew up surrounded by the ocean’s pull, a recurring motif in her work. She moved to Minnesota in 2012 to marry her wife, as same-sex marriage wasn’t legal in Florida at the time. A mother of two, Monroe balances her writing with a day job as a private investigator, digging into corporate secrets rather than chasing cheating spouses. Her investigative knack for uncovering hidden truths mirrors the unraveling mysteries in her novels.
Monroe’s writing journey began early, penning tales of leprechaun friends in elementary school and angsty poetry in high school. By 19, already a mother, she started reimagining stories she read, crafting vignettes that evolved into full novels. Her love for gothic horror and supernatural elements, inspired by the likes of Mike Flanagan’s Haunting of Hill House, set the stage for her distinctive storytelling.
Katrina Monroe’s Unforgettable Stories
Monroe’s debut novel, They Drown Our Daughters (2022), is a gothic ghost story set at Cape Disappointment, where a haunted lighthouse and dark family secrets collide. The novel follows Meredith Strand as she unravels a cycle of lies and neglect across generations, blending queer identity and maternal bonds with spine-chilling suspense. Its heavy atmosphere and emotional depth make it a standout.
Graveyard of Lost Children (2023) explores lesbian motherhood and mental illness through Olivia, a new mother haunted by visions of a black-haired woman and fears her baby isn’t hers. With nimble pacing and genuine scares, it’s a haunting meditation on selfhood and generational trauma. Through the Midnight Door (2024) takes a different tack, following three sisters confronting unspeakable horrors in a house with endless doors, earning praise for its creepy, poignant exploration of sisterhood.
Monroe’s style is a masterclass in atmosphere, blending vivid, evocative prose with psychological depth. Her queer narratives and focus on women—mothers, daughters, sisters—bring fresh perspectives to supernatural fiction. Whether it’s a haunted well or a spectral figure, her stories linger, tugging at both heartstrings and nerves.
Why Katrina Monroe Matters
Katrina Monroe is carving a niche in supernatural suspense by centering queer voices and complex female characters. Her exploration of motherhood, trauma, and identity resonates with readers seeking horror that’s as emotional as it is eerie. By tackling heavy themes with a light touch, she invites us to confront our fears while celebrating resilience and love.
In a genre often dominated by traditional narratives, Monroe’s work stands out for its inclusivity and heart. Her growing fanbase eagerly awaits her next chilling tale, cementing her as a voice to watch in modern horror.
- Residence: Minneapolis, Minnesota
- Key Works: They Drown Our Daughters, Graveyard of Lost Children, Through the Midnight Door
- Fun Fact: She lives with her wife, two children, and Eddie, a ghost who haunts their bedroom closets!
Snag They Drown Our Daughters and dive into Katrina Monroe’s haunting world of gothic suspense! Whether you’re a horror buff or a fan of heartfelt stories, her books promise chills and thrills galore.