In this episode, author and medieval literature scholar Taylor Grothe joins host KJ Brantley to discuss Hollow and Lethal Kiss, two horror novels exploring identity, belonging, and the danger of hiding who you really are. From a forest community offering a vulnerable teenager acceptance to a university steeped in misogyny, deadly secrets, and monstrous desire, Taylor’s stories ask what it costs to fit in and what happens when you stop trying.

Taylor and KJ discuss the autistic experience behind Hollow, including masking, sensory overload, and learning to navigate a world that mistakes outward capability for an absence of struggle. Taylor shares how their own teenage attempts to change their appearance and behavior to be liked informed Cassie’s story, and why seeing an autistic character on the page can make a difference. They also explore how cults exploit the desire for belonging, turning promises of care into transactions and control.

Their conversation turns to Lethal Kiss, a dark academia horror romance pairing an autistic academic with a monstrous professor. Taylor reflects on the misogyny and power structures within academia, the satisfaction of writing ruthless characters, and the influences behind their monsters. Along the way, they make a case for why Grendel’s mother deserved a name, a story, and a chance to be understood.

Finally, they reflect on horror’s political and social dimensions, the importance of scholarship, and why readers should venture beyond familiar genres and perspectives. Taylor also shares a glimpse of an upcoming project and discusses the importance of supporting marginalized authors.

Taylor Grothe’s Uncanny Women Podcast Author Picks:

Andrew Joseph White
K. M. Enright

Taylor recommends exploring both authors’ work; no specific titles were selected during this portion of the conversation.

Books Written by Taylor Grothe Mentioned in This Episode:

Hollow
Lethal Kiss

Other Literary Works Discussed in This Episode:

Beowulf by an anonymous poet
Grendel by John Gardner
Grettir’s Saga

Connect with Taylor Grothe:

Instagram: @taylorlgrothe
Threads: @taylorlgrothe
Website: TaylorGrothe.com

About the Host, KJ Brantley:

KJ Brantley is an Indigenous-mixed, autistic horror and dark fiction author whose work explores motherhood, feminism, identity, neurodivergence, trauma, and psychological horror. Drawn to the intersection of entertainment and social commentary, she crafts stories that are both unsettling and emotionally resonant. She is the host of Uncanny Women Podcast and founder and organizer of the SoCo Women in Horror Fest. She is currently the Chair of the Women in Horror Arts and Media Association and co-owner of Broom Book & Candle Horror and Dark Literature Bookstore, Cafe, and Bar in Denver. KJ lives in Colorado with her husband, two toddlers, and an ever-growing stack of spooky books.

Follow KJ and the Women in Horror Arts & Media Association on IG and Threads at @uncannywomenpodcast | @authorkjbrantley | @womeninhorrorassociation

Learn more at WomenInHorrorAssociation.org and BroomBookCandle.com.