Isle of Man Author Mitzi Danielson-Kaslik Releases Fifth Novel

An emerging literary talent from the Isle of Man, Mitzi Danielson-Kaslik, is poised to release her fifth novel, titled Let’s Misbehave, at the end of September 2023. At just 21 years old, Danielson-Kaslik has already published a book each year since she was 17, showcasing her remarkable dedication to storytelling.

Set in a fictional 1920s village near Oxford, Let’s Misbehave is a gothic tale infused with magical realism. The narrative follows Adelaide, a newlywed grappling with the haunting memories of war and the dilapidated grandeur of Radley Manor. As Adelaide uncovers a mysterious Victorian diary, ghostly apparitions blur the lines between the past and present, leading her on a journey filled with family secrets, spectral visions, and a perilous descent into the underworld—an area where mortals are warned not to tread.

The themes of grief and societal transition after the war are central to the story, alongside an exploration of women’s roles during a time of shifting expectations and newfound freedoms.

“I first had the idea for Let’s Misbehave while I was writing a previous book,” Danielson-Kaslik explained. “I made pages of notes about characters, but at that stage, it was only sketches. It wasn’t until I finished my last book, La Connaissance, that the story began to feel fully real.”

A fan of The Great Gatsby, she expressed a long-held desire to write about the era. Her academic background in classical civilization influenced her storytelling, allowing her to incorporate Greek elements into her work.

“What inspired me was that moment of transition: the shadow of grief after the First World War alongside the optimism and danger of entering a new modern age. Within that backdrop, I wanted to explore how women in particular navigated change—balancing grief, societal expectations, and new freedoms—while also weaving in gothic elements like shell shock and ghostly presences,” she added.

It took Danielson-Kaslik approximately 11 months to complete her latest novel, a process she executed while managing a full-time job in the financial services sector. She began her writing journey at the age of 14 and soon recognized that writing was her true passion.

“I started my first novel, Palvine, during my school lunch breaks at 15, and it was published just after I turned 17,” she shared. “Writing has always been my way of exploring history, identity, and human experience. As I’ve matured, I’ve become more intentional in weaving in themes like women’s roles, grief, and trauma, always through the gothic and historical settings I love.”

When asked about advice for other young aspiring writers, Danielson-Kaslik emphasized the importance of perseverance. “Even if it feels messy or imperfect, the first draft gives you something to work with. Read widely, write consistently, and don’t shy away from big themes like grief or social change—stories that tackle those truths resonate deeply with readers. Most importantly, stay true to your own voice. That’s what makes your work stand out.”

Let’s Misbehave will be published by Hay House later this month, further establishing Danielson-Kaslik as a noteworthy voice in contemporary literature.