Interview With Author Chris Kauzlarich
Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I am an indie author who has written for my entire life, but I have really focused on pursuing my craft over the last several years. As many writers will attest, you feel a bit lost when you aren’t writing, and that describes me to the letter. I have written two books, with my second titled “Menagerie in the Dark,” debuting on August 26, 2025. Besides writing, I am a huge reader and have been for as long as I can remember. No matter where I went, whether in the car or at a friend’s house, I always had a book packed that I could escape to in a moment of need.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book, “Menagerie in the Dark,” is a collection of fourteen short stories, each inspired by experiences from my life or observations that ignited my creativity. Over the course of twelve years, I wrote a multitude of stories, and these fourteen emerged as my favorites. Initially, I hadn’t intended to create a collection, but about a year ago, while reviewing my work, I began to wonder what it would be like to compile them. As I unconsciously grouped the stories into similar themes, a cohesive arc started to take shape. The collection follows a thematic journey that begins with “Dusk,” where the tales grow darker through the depths of night, before concluding with “Dawn,” which offers a brighter, more hopeful tone.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I wish I did, something superstitious and quirky, but unfortunately, I don’t. I feel my writing habits are pretty tame and routine.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
For me, Stephen King is my most influential writer. I’m sure he is named-dropped quite a bit, but his genre and style really speak to me – I even joke that he’s my writing spirit animal. Like King, I’m drawn to stories with horror, suspense, and fantastical elements. It’s just how I’m wired. I’m also inspired by writers like Chuck Palahniuk and Robert Jordan, although I haven’t quite matched the depth of Jordan’s descriptions. I hope to write a massive fantasy series one day, so we’ll see if I can make that happen!
What are you working on now?
Right now, I’m working on a suspense novel. I’ve finished the first draft, and I’m set to complete the structural edits with my editor by the end of July 2025. My goal is to wrap up the drafts and revisions by late spring 2026. From there, we’ll decide whether I should continue with indie publishing or query agents. I’ve also outlined two more novels that I plan to start writing later this year!
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I am still learning, so I don’t have the best method yet. The goal is to try to secure author interviews on podcasts, organize giveaways, perhaps host read-alongs or book clubs, and run ARC campaigns. Marketing a book is truly a hit-or-miss endeavor, and my first attempt with my last book didn’t pan out the way I had hoped. Wish me luck this time around!
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Put yourself out there, even if you are introverted, and don’t let rejection defeat you. Being an author is a challenging career; it’s not just about writing books. We need to promote ourselves, build audiences, and handle criticism regularly. I mean, how scary is it to share your work, something you’ve poured your heart and soul into, with the world where someone will inevitably tear it to pieces? Pretty freaking scary. That said, don’t let criticism hold you back. Read between the lines and try to identify the learning opportunities in every review, conversation with a fan, or marketing campaign to see what you can improve for the next time.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
To read and write every day. It is probably the most overused piece of advice for aspiring writers, but no matter how tired I am of hearing it, it remains the most important thing I can do to hone my craft further. Reading often helps you learn grammar, style, and prose, while writing every day ensures you not only get your creative juices flowing but also practice creating your own worlds and stories. I once read that a writer’s first 100,000 words are garbage, but after that point, you will start to get somewhere. That may not be true for everyone, but I know it held true for me. Looking back on my earliest works was an embarrassing exercise, but I feel proud ofme. So develop t how far I’ve cohat discipline: write every day and make sure to pick up a book to see what your peers are doinge all need to es and get lost in their worlds. Wcape sometimes.
What are you reading now?
I am currently reading “The Dead Husband Cookbook” by Danielle Valentine and “The Director” by Daniel Kehlmann. I often find that it is a regular habit of mine to read more than one book at a time, even when I am engrossed in one that I adore.
What’s next for you as a writer?
I have several new story ideas I want to exploreing a massive fantasy saga that has been floating around in my head for the last 13 years. Back when I first started devising it, I didn’t think I had the skill writing, includs finally that t to pull it off;ime to give it a I believe now i try!
If you were going to be stranded on a desert island and allowed to take 3 or 4 books with you what books would you bring?
“Eye of the World” by Robert Jordan, “The Stand” and “On Writing” by Stephen King, and “The Grace of Kings” by Ken Liu.
Author Websites and Profiles
Chris Kauzlarich Amazon Profile
Chris Kauzlarich’s Social Media Links
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