Show Notes
Bestselling thriller author Harlan Coben reveals his writing process, how to beat writer's block, and the heartbreaking story behind his father's last words.
With more than 100 million books sold and hit Netflix series like Fool Me Once, Harlan Coben is one of the world's most popular mystery writers. Donny Deutsch talks with his longtime friend about his new memoir, Plot Twist: Life, Craft, and the Messy First Draft, which is part memoir and part writing guide.
Harlan explains why he always knows the ending before he starts (his "GPS theory"), why rewriting matters more than writing, and why he believes "plot is character." He talks about imposter syndrome and creative self-doubt, why boredom is good for creativity, and why he needs to leave the house to write. He also shares how losing both parents young led him to write about missing people, and tells the story of a hotel key found in his father's pocket.
There are lighter moments too: his childhood Nerf basketball league, the "scary" children's book Are You My Mother?, being named a Jewish All-American at Amherst, his view on AI and books, and "The Boys," the friend group that includes Michael J. Fox and George Stephanopoulos.
If you're an aspiring writer, a Harlan Coben fan, or love stories about creativity, friendship, and grief, this conversation is for you.
📖 Plot Twist: Life, Craft, and the Messy First Draft by Harlan Coben is available now wherever books are sold.
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