C.R. Fabis Captivates Readers With His Bold Fusion of History, Morality, and Creativity
Brings Unique Creativity To Novels, Merging Culinary Arts, Humor, And Complex Moral Themes
C.R. Fabis transitions from dessert chef to novelist, blending historical fiction, science fiction, and moral dilemmas with compelling characters in his imaginative, genre-defying works.
C.R. Fabis’s unique storytelling journey from culinary artistry to the world of literature has captured the attention of readers and critics alike. With his thought-provoking narratives and compelling characters, Fabis is a rising star whose works promise to continue challenging the boundaries of genre and creativity. The Angel and the Amazing Life of Maggie Love is a testament to his ability to explore complex moral dilemmas, while Rome Never Fell introduces a thrilling fusion of historical fiction and science fiction. It’s clear that Fabis is an author to watch as he continues to create unforgettable stories.
C.R. Fabis seamlessly combines culinary artistry and storytelling, crafting unforgettable narratives that push creative boundaries and captivate readers’ imaginations.
Blending Fact, Fiction, and Imagination
Award-winning author C.R. Fabis is a rare talent who skillfully bridges the worlds of culinary arts and literature. From crafting exquisite desserts to weaving captivating narratives, Fabis proves that creativity knows no boundaries. Known for his debut novel Rome Never Fell, a captivating fusion of historical fiction and science fiction, and The Angel and the Amazing Life of Maggie Love, a dark exploration of revenge and morality, Fabis is quickly making his mark in the literary world. His versatility extends beyond the written word, as he also entertains his audience through his humorous and imaginative cartoons on Instagram.
But it is in his novels that Fabis truly shines, revealing his profound ability to craft intricate characters and plotlines that challenge and inspire. In this exclusive interview, Fabis opens up about his creative journey, his transition from dessert chef to novelist, and the thematic undercurrents that shape his exceptional works.
From Dessert Chef to Novelist: A Natural Transition
After spending 25 years as a dessert chef, Fabis found the perfect moment to retire. “I’ve always had stories in my head,” he says. “Each dessert I created had its own story. When my children were young, I made up bedtime stories for them, and later, I decided to write them down as a novel. The transition to writing felt quite natural.”
A Culinary Influence on Character Development
Fabis credits his culinary experiences with influencing the personalities of his characters. “Most chefs I’ve known over the years have strange and quirky personalities,” he shares. “Some were warm and helpful, while others could be mean and self-centered. These contrasting personalities make for great material in my books. I find the darker personalities the most intriguing and fun to write about.”
The Challenge of Blending Genres
In Rome Never Fell, Fabis merges historical fiction with time-traveling science fiction. He describes the research required to authentically portray figures like Julius Caesar, Mark Antony, and Cleopatra. “The challenge was ensuring that my interpretation of these historical figures and events was as accurate and realistic as possible. The research allowed me to create a world that felt real and believable, even when time travel was involved.”
Exploring Moral Ambiguity in The Angel and the Amazing Life of Maggie Love
Fabis’s second novel, The Angel and the Amazing Life of Maggie Love, delves into themes of revenge and the moral complexities of murder. “It’s hard to justify murder, but it’s easier for readers to accept if there’s a revenge factor involved,” Fabis explains. “Maggie is a character driven by a desire for vengeance. An angel, along with the reader, must decide if revenge is enough justification for saving her soul.”
A Cartoonist’s Influence on Writing
In addition to his novels, Fabis’s work as a cartoonist on Instagram showcases his flair for visual storytelling. “Before I create a cartoon, I need to have a clear visual story in my head,” he says. “This approach carries over into my novels as well. Whether it’s a cartoon or a novel, the story has to be visual to make it feel real to both me and the reader.”
The Creative Process: Spontaneity and Surprises
Fabis describes his writing process as spontaneous. “I don’t use outlines. I may have a vague idea of how a story will end, but plot twists often come to me while I’m writing. Sometimes an idea will hit me when I’m out for a walk or just before I go to sleep. It’s a 24/7 process, and a little bit of magic can happen at any time.”
Advice for Aspiring Authors
Fabis encourages aspiring authors to embrace their own unique creative experiences. “Don’t try to emulate other authors. Use your own creative spark to develop something different. Whether it’s through your plot development or characters, make the story feel real in your own head. If it feels real to you, it will feel real to your readers.”
Maggie Love: A Compelling Character
In The Angel and the Amazing Life of Maggie Love, Fabis introduces a morally complex character who has committed numerous murders in the pursuit of revenge. “Maggie’s backstory—a tragic murder-suicide involving her parents—gives her a kind of justification for her actions. She uses her intelligence, beauty, and multiple aliases to carry out her mission. It’s her determination, along with her sense of humor, that makes her such a compelling character.”
C.R. Fabis continues to push the boundaries of storytelling with his genre-defying narratives, blending the everyday with the extraordinary. His journey from chef to novelist is an inspiring testament to the power of creativity and the endless possibilities it holds.
Originally published in Reader’s House Magazine.
