Harlan Coben on The Blurry Line Between Memoir and Fiction

September 18, 2026

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Episode Description

Harlan Coben sits down with Zibby Owens to discuss his new book Plot Twist, a memoir that blends personal narrative and writing advice, acknowledging that both are inevitably connected.


Harlan talks about the importance of critical thinking in fiction, incremental ambition, accepting adaptations as a different perspective, and how insecurity makes good writers. 


He also shares personal experiences, from loving and losing his parents, his time at Amherst College, navigating the blurry line between memoir and fiction, and the magic behind creating from a blank page.


Learn more about Harlan here https://www.harlancoben.com and follow Harlan on Instagram @harlancoben


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