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Plot Twist: A Memoir of a Writing Life - From the Sunday Times bestselling author of Nobody's Fool
Part deeply personal memoir, part masterclass in storytelling, Plot Twist is a refreshingly honest look at the life of a writer whose stories have thrilled us for decades.
With 100 million books in print worldwide and over twenty blockbuster television and film adaptations of his work, Harlan Coben has much to teach us about the creative process.
Plumbing memories from his suburban childhood and his early years trying to break into publishing, Coben tells his own story for the first time. Filled with useful tips and techniques on the creative process, he does away with the traditional categories of writing - characters, plot, setting - and looks at the process holistically.
Plot Twist is a masterclass on the act of being a writer, and everything that comes with the self-doubt, the hubris, the contradictions, the passion and dedication. At the end of the day, his method is a simple “If it helps me produce pages, good. If it doesn’t, bad.”
This book will help every aspiring writer produce pages.
Honest, funny, insightful, and at times deeply moving, this is both a captivating memoir and an essential guide for anyone looking to master the art of storytelling from one of our most beloved authors.
With 100 million books in print worldwide and over twenty blockbuster television and film adaptations of his work, Harlan Coben has much to teach us about the creative process.
Plumbing memories from his suburban childhood and his early years trying to break into publishing, Coben tells his own story for the first time. Filled with useful tips and techniques on the creative process, he does away with the traditional categories of writing - characters, plot, setting - and looks at the process holistically.
Plot Twist is a masterclass on the act of being a writer, and everything that comes with the self-doubt, the hubris, the contradictions, the passion and dedication. At the end of the day, his method is a simple “If it helps me produce pages, good. If it doesn’t, bad.”
This book will help every aspiring writer produce pages.
Honest, funny, insightful, and at times deeply moving, this is both a captivating memoir and an essential guide for anyone looking to master the art of storytelling from one of our most beloved authors.
315 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 6, 2026
About the author
Harlan Coben
193 books48.2k followersHarlan Coben is a #1 New York Times bestselling author and one of the world's leading storytellers. His suspense novels are published in forty-five languages and have been number one bestsellers in more than a dozen countries with seventy-five million books in print worldwide.
His books have earned the Edgar, Shamus, and Anthony Awards, and many have been developed into Netflix Original Drama series, including his adaptations of The Stranger, The Innocent, Gone for Good and The Woods. His most recent adaptation for Netflix, Stay Close, premiered on December 31, 2021 and stars Cush Jumbo, James Nesbitt, and Richard Armitage.
His books have earned the Edgar, Shamus, and Anthony Awards, and many have been developed into Netflix Original Drama series, including his adaptations of The Stranger, The Innocent, Gone for Good and The Woods. His most recent adaptation for Netflix, Stay Close, premiered on December 31, 2021 and stars Cush Jumbo, James Nesbitt, and Richard Armitage.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 165 reviews
September 28, 2026
I have read several books on writing by authors that I enjoy reading, including Stephen King, Terry Brooks, Patricia Cornwell, and James Patterson. One thing I’ve noticed is that each have their own views and ways of reflecting on their writing careers, professional experiences, and sharing thoughts on their writing processes. On the other hand, they all used their own personal memories and experiences that influenced their writings, and each writer has his/her own proven insights and techniques that work for them.
When I found out that successful bestselling novelist, Harlan Coben, who’s books have been made into movies and Netflix miniseries, was publishing his book - “Plot Twist: Life, Craft, and the Messy First Draft: A Memoir on Writing” – I was excited to get my hands on it. The good news is that I just finished it this afternoon (I was immersed in finishing it as a distraction from my pro football melting down and giving their game away) and found it to be a worthy read in several ways.
First of all, Coben doesn’t present it as a book or guide. Rather, he treats it as a two-way conversation with you, as if you are sitting together in your living room and he’s sharing his lessons learned with one of his best friends. It comes across as intimate, honest, funny, and even soul baring. Coben also doesn’t hold back. He’s strong-willed and opinionated like a tenured college professor who is deeply passionate about the subject matter being lectured on. Coben’s passion is ever present, straight-forward, and delivered in a refreshing and compelling manner. Neither does he shirk from addressing the messy parts of trying to be a writer – lessons all writers need to confront and address.
For me, this book is a strong companion to Stephen King’s own “On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft”. It’s structured and written in a similar style. Like King, Coben takes a holistic approach about what worked for him and what didn’t, how his childhood and growing up provided inspirations for his writing and characters, his early years of trying to break into publishing, the creative process of being a writer, and all of the issues and challenges that come with being a writer.
As I read this book, I felt like a was getting a personalized master class in being a writer and what it really takes. I loved his very simple and often repeated mantra “If it helps me produce pages, good. If it doesn’t, bad.” He is a very practically focused novelist who emphasizes that learning primarily comes from writing, writing, and writing. Just like any profession or job, you must be disciplined and do the work – “Only writing is writing”. That may sound too simplistic, but it’s the truth. I appreciated his belief that what makes you a writer is inspiration, perspiration, and desperation. I’m buying into that.
I appreciated his lessons on the writing process, including characters, process, locations, and delivering on the endings; but even more so, I enjoyed the absolute need to constantly ask “What if?” over and over again to create the ideas and connections necessary to tell your story the way it should be told. I also noted his examples of how our personal experiences and beliefs find themselves into our writing and that can be an important element that can be used to strengthen your story.
For me, another one of the most enjoyable parts of Coben’s shared knowledge was his stories about other authors that he’s friends with or had interactions with, as well as his own experiences with publishers and television/streaming executives. Those behind-the-scenes moments were pure gold for me.
There wasn’t really anything negative that I would point out about this read, other than to say that Coben used some profanity that increased in volume at times throughout the book. I only mention that in case that is a concern to some readers. My guess is others will find it colorful and funny. To each his own.
Overall, I felt like this book was a personal gift from Coben. My own individual master class with a writer with whom I have enjoyed his novels and television shows. Each author is the king or queen of their own writing kingdom and it’s clear that Coben has proven to be master of his. Receiving his professional and personal insight felt special and golden. In my humble opinion, every aspiring writer who wants to learn how to grow and develop their talents and skills should read this book (as well as Stephen King’s “On Writing” too) to discover the practical advice and inspiration it provides.
For me, it wasn’t really about reading a book that was going to make me a better writer so that I could get published. It was about immersing myself in a memoir that reminded me how much I love reading and writing, how passionate I am about it, and more importantly, how much I need it in my life, because it makes me happy and defines who I am – which is what he aptly refers to as desperation. Oh baby, I got that…
Thank you, Harlan Coben. Thank you.
When I found out that successful bestselling novelist, Harlan Coben, who’s books have been made into movies and Netflix miniseries, was publishing his book - “Plot Twist: Life, Craft, and the Messy First Draft: A Memoir on Writing” – I was excited to get my hands on it. The good news is that I just finished it this afternoon (I was immersed in finishing it as a distraction from my pro football melting down and giving their game away) and found it to be a worthy read in several ways.
First of all, Coben doesn’t present it as a book or guide. Rather, he treats it as a two-way conversation with you, as if you are sitting together in your living room and he’s sharing his lessons learned with one of his best friends. It comes across as intimate, honest, funny, and even soul baring. Coben also doesn’t hold back. He’s strong-willed and opinionated like a tenured college professor who is deeply passionate about the subject matter being lectured on. Coben’s passion is ever present, straight-forward, and delivered in a refreshing and compelling manner. Neither does he shirk from addressing the messy parts of trying to be a writer – lessons all writers need to confront and address.
For me, this book is a strong companion to Stephen King’s own “On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft”. It’s structured and written in a similar style. Like King, Coben takes a holistic approach about what worked for him and what didn’t, how his childhood and growing up provided inspirations for his writing and characters, his early years of trying to break into publishing, the creative process of being a writer, and all of the issues and challenges that come with being a writer.
As I read this book, I felt like a was getting a personalized master class in being a writer and what it really takes. I loved his very simple and often repeated mantra “If it helps me produce pages, good. If it doesn’t, bad.” He is a very practically focused novelist who emphasizes that learning primarily comes from writing, writing, and writing. Just like any profession or job, you must be disciplined and do the work – “Only writing is writing”. That may sound too simplistic, but it’s the truth. I appreciated his belief that what makes you a writer is inspiration, perspiration, and desperation. I’m buying into that.
I appreciated his lessons on the writing process, including characters, process, locations, and delivering on the endings; but even more so, I enjoyed the absolute need to constantly ask “What if?” over and over again to create the ideas and connections necessary to tell your story the way it should be told. I also noted his examples of how our personal experiences and beliefs find themselves into our writing and that can be an important element that can be used to strengthen your story.
For me, another one of the most enjoyable parts of Coben’s shared knowledge was his stories about other authors that he’s friends with or had interactions with, as well as his own experiences with publishers and television/streaming executives. Those behind-the-scenes moments were pure gold for me.
There wasn’t really anything negative that I would point out about this read, other than to say that Coben used some profanity that increased in volume at times throughout the book. I only mention that in case that is a concern to some readers. My guess is others will find it colorful and funny. To each his own.
Overall, I felt like this book was a personal gift from Coben. My own individual master class with a writer with whom I have enjoyed his novels and television shows. Each author is the king or queen of their own writing kingdom and it’s clear that Coben has proven to be master of his. Receiving his professional and personal insight felt special and golden. In my humble opinion, every aspiring writer who wants to learn how to grow and develop their talents and skills should read this book (as well as Stephen King’s “On Writing” too) to discover the practical advice and inspiration it provides.
For me, it wasn’t really about reading a book that was going to make me a better writer so that I could get published. It was about immersing myself in a memoir that reminded me how much I love reading and writing, how passionate I am about it, and more importantly, how much I need it in my life, because it makes me happy and defines who I am – which is what he aptly refers to as desperation. Oh baby, I got that…
Thank you, Harlan Coben. Thank you.
August 31, 2026
Narrated by Harlan Coben himself, Plot Twist is a very personal, straight-talking look at the writers life. He talks about where he writes best, where his ideas come from, how they develop, and what happens when those brilliant ideas inevitably meet the messy reality of getting them onto the page.
I particularly enjoyed Coben’s candid delivery and self-deprecating humor. His insights into writing are mixed with personal stories, and anecdotes from his life, including the surprising story of his grandfather’s disappearance, making it feel more like a conversation with the author than a traditional writing guide.
I didn’t agree with everything he had to say, which he freely acknowledges is likely to happen. But when you’ve sold more than 100 million books, it’s probably safe to say you know a thing or two about the writing business!
Primarily aimed at aspiring writers, but as a reader I found plenty to enjoy too. I may have no intention of writing the next bestseller, but I’ll always be curious about what goes on behind the scenes.
I particularly enjoyed Coben’s candid delivery and self-deprecating humor. His insights into writing are mixed with personal stories, and anecdotes from his life, including the surprising story of his grandfather’s disappearance, making it feel more like a conversation with the author than a traditional writing guide.
I didn’t agree with everything he had to say, which he freely acknowledges is likely to happen. But when you’ve sold more than 100 million books, it’s probably safe to say you know a thing or two about the writing business!
Primarily aimed at aspiring writers, but as a reader I found plenty to enjoy too. I may have no intention of writing the next bestseller, but I’ll always be curious about what goes on behind the scenes.
May 27, 2026
Harlan Coben strikes again. One thing I find so interesting about him is his ability to keep me entertained regardless of the subject. His passion oozes through the pages and onto you as the reader. I can feel his love for his family, writing, and how they are intertwined with each other. The last chapter was heartbreaking and such a beautiful way to end the journey. I would be lying if I said Harlan Coben wasn’t my favorite author. This man impresses me with each new novel. Learning about his writing processes, his mother Corky, storylines that evolved from a simple conversation, and then tidbits of Coben’s career. This book has it all and is concise and has only created further appreciation and admiration. They say don’t meet your heroes, but I think meeting Harlan Coben would be worth the risk. 10/10.
September 30, 2026
If Harlan Coben writes it I am going to read it. I am not a writer, and to enjoy this book you don’t have to be.
Part memoir, part advice on writing, Harlan has given is an insight into his life and his writing. He is a very funny man and it was throughly entertaining. I listened to the audiobook that he narrates himself, and I could have listen to him talk for hours.
He talks about his family and his life experiences that contribute to his books. He has sold millions of books around the world and yet he is humble and honest about his ability and success. I loved hearing about the little things that inspired his many books, all of which I have read and loved. His thoughts on the adaptations of his books to screen were interesting as well. How the changes to his books to screen happen and what he thinks about them.
If you are a fan of Harlan Coben you need to get yourself a copy of this book to read. I highly recommend the audiobook.
Part memoir, part advice on writing, Harlan has given is an insight into his life and his writing. He is a very funny man and it was throughly entertaining. I listened to the audiobook that he narrates himself, and I could have listen to him talk for hours.
He talks about his family and his life experiences that contribute to his books. He has sold millions of books around the world and yet he is humble and honest about his ability and success. I loved hearing about the little things that inspired his many books, all of which I have read and loved. His thoughts on the adaptations of his books to screen were interesting as well. How the changes to his books to screen happen and what he thinks about them.
If you are a fan of Harlan Coben you need to get yourself a copy of this book to read. I highly recommend the audiobook.
August 25, 2026
Thank you Librofm for the free review copy.
Plot Twist by Harlan Coben is a nonfiction book that is both a memoir and discussion of the craft of writing novels.
I absolutely loved this one! I have always loved to read—and, I recently discovered, also love to hear authors talk about their writing process and their books. Usually I have to go to author events and deal with all the ticketing and the lines and the uncomfortable seating and the crowds for it. But this audiobook just piped that discussion straight into my headphones and it was so much more in-depth than any author event could be! I never wanted to pause it, I found it so interesting.
This audiobook is narrated by the author. Harlan Coben does a fantastic job with the narration! It gives it such a conversational feel and I just ate the whole thing up. The book has just enough self-deprecation and humor to be right up my alley—and his delivery of it just adds to it.
I highly recommend this book for both aspiring authors and any avid reader who loves to hear authors talk about their craft! Yes, it’s a “how-to” guide on writing novels, if you will. But it’s also an in-depth look at his process, ideas, and structure. With plenty of real life tidbits on the memoir vein of the book, there’s some humor and also some general life advice.
And I hate to say it, but I somehow have never read any of Harlan Coben’s books prior to this one. He is a suspense/thriller author and it sounds like his books are some I will likely enjoy. I definitely plan on reading some of his novels in the future!
Overall, this audiobook rocketed up to my list of favorites from this year so far! I highly recommend it, and the audiobook version read by the author really adds to the book itself.
Plot Twist by Harlan Coben is a nonfiction book that is both a memoir and discussion of the craft of writing novels.
I absolutely loved this one! I have always loved to read—and, I recently discovered, also love to hear authors talk about their writing process and their books. Usually I have to go to author events and deal with all the ticketing and the lines and the uncomfortable seating and the crowds for it. But this audiobook just piped that discussion straight into my headphones and it was so much more in-depth than any author event could be! I never wanted to pause it, I found it so interesting.
This audiobook is narrated by the author. Harlan Coben does a fantastic job with the narration! It gives it such a conversational feel and I just ate the whole thing up. The book has just enough self-deprecation and humor to be right up my alley—and his delivery of it just adds to it.
I highly recommend this book for both aspiring authors and any avid reader who loves to hear authors talk about their craft! Yes, it’s a “how-to” guide on writing novels, if you will. But it’s also an in-depth look at his process, ideas, and structure. With plenty of real life tidbits on the memoir vein of the book, there’s some humor and also some general life advice.
And I hate to say it, but I somehow have never read any of Harlan Coben’s books prior to this one. He is a suspense/thriller author and it sounds like his books are some I will likely enjoy. I definitely plan on reading some of his novels in the future!
Overall, this audiobook rocketed up to my list of favorites from this year so far! I highly recommend it, and the audiobook version read by the author really adds to the book itself.
September 20, 2026
I love Harlan Coben’s books, and when I heard he was coming out with a book on writing, I knew I had to get a copy. Not only is Coben a great thriller writer, he’s also very, very funny, and his humor is on full display throughout the book. Since this is part memoir, part writing book, Coben delves into his formative years and the experiences that made him who he is, and all of it is super interesting. Not every anecdote is sunshine and roses, but that just makes Coben more relatable.
There are lots of great tips in here, and you’ll come away with at least *something* you hadn’t previously considered. The book is not just for writers—anyone can enjoy it. If you are a writer, though, it will doubtless be of more interest to you than to someone who is not as fascinated with the writing processes of various authors. Still, I think anyone who enjoys thriller novels (or any of the numerous TV miniseries adaptations of Coben’s novels) will be entertained by the behind-the-scenes information.
In short, I highly recommend “Plot Twist”, for writers and non-writers alike. Pick up a copy and find out more about one of the world’s most successful authors!
4 stars.
Thank you to NetGalley and Grand Central Publishing for an advance copy. My feedback is entirely voluntary.
There are lots of great tips in here, and you’ll come away with at least *something* you hadn’t previously considered. The book is not just for writers—anyone can enjoy it. If you are a writer, though, it will doubtless be of more interest to you than to someone who is not as fascinated with the writing processes of various authors. Still, I think anyone who enjoys thriller novels (or any of the numerous TV miniseries adaptations of Coben’s novels) will be entertained by the behind-the-scenes information.
In short, I highly recommend “Plot Twist”, for writers and non-writers alike. Pick up a copy and find out more about one of the world’s most successful authors!
4 stars.
Thank you to NetGalley and Grand Central Publishing for an advance copy. My feedback is entirely voluntary.
October 10, 2026
Awesome
Thank you for writing this. It was pure gold. I laughed. I learned. I highlighted a dozen passages I will add to my own “Notes” file.
Thank you for writing this. It was pure gold. I laughed. I learned. I highlighted a dozen passages I will add to my own “Notes” file.
August 18, 2026
This is not the typical Harlan book. rather this book would be excellent in a high school or college writing class. Coben explains his writing process which is very interesting. Great book for people who want to learn more about the writing process. Not meant for people who want a thriller!
August 3, 2026
Having enjoyed several streaming adaptations of Coben’s novels in recent years, I was certainly intrigued when learning that he’d written a memoir about his writing life. I’ve rarely read such books, but given the title and the many plot twists I’d witnessed in the adaptations I’ve watched, I decided I should read it. I was immediately struck by the conversational ease of the text. The book read easily and with a flow that often made me think of simply sitting down with the author in a cafe, listening to him describe his writing process. Furthermore, those descriptions were delivered with an authentic voice that held my attention from start to finish with humor, heartbreak, and humanity. If his fiction is as entertaining as this memoir, I can only imagine how enjoyable it is to read. Many thanks to Grand Central Publishing and NetGalley for making this title available.
Review of advance copy received from Goodreads Giveaways
I received this book free from Goodreads in exchange for an honest review. Thank you.
Great book. I loved the inside info on how Mr. Coben plot and plans his stories. The book if full of how he gets his ideas and how they play out. I believe anyone interested in writing (my self included) will find this of interest.
I also loved the writers back story and growing up, his family, friends.
Thank you Mr. Coben
PS. I plan to visit some of the books I have not read such as The Woods. He mentions it and I have not read as yet.
Great book. I loved the inside info on how Mr. Coben plot and plans his stories. The book if full of how he gets his ideas and how they play out. I believe anyone interested in writing (my self included) will find this of interest.
I also loved the writers back story and growing up, his family, friends.
Thank you Mr. Coben
PS. I plan to visit some of the books I have not read such as The Woods. He mentions it and I have not read as yet.
September 22, 2026
Harlan Coben, one of our most accomplished spinners of suspense yarns, makes no promises that Plot Twist, his hybrid writing manual and memoir, will make you a bestselling novelist. He isn't selling a formula. Sure, he lays out plenty of rules but then advises you to break them. Successful novelists, he argues, develop habits that work for them and learn which commandments to ignore. Writing isn't one-size-fits-all.
Coben has written nearly forty novels of crime fiction, seventeen of them No. 1 New York Times bestsellers, and his books have spawned roughly twenty television series. With that résumé, he's earned the right to offer advice to both the novice and the experienced writer.
He addresses the query every writer is asked and most are annoyed by: Where do you get your ideas?
Coben cites several sources. First, he asks himself the question that has launched a thousand plots: What if...?
He recalls wondering: “What if late one night, a camp counselor who was too young for the job sneaked into those woods with his summer girlfriend instead of watching his campers? And what if something went very wrong?”
That became The Woods (2007), a thriller that drew on Coben's own experience as a summer-camp counselor.
Coben also mines his memories. Experiences buried in childhood—hopes, dreams, fears—can find their way into fiction. Then there are real crimes, the fodder of daily journalism, that often ignites novels.
His general advice is simple: “Everything you see, everything you do, is material. Life is just a series of writing prompts.”
Dorothy Parker famously said, “I don't like writing. I like having written.” Coben offers a different take: “I feel better when I write.”
I've long thought the urge to write, the need to write, is akin to a virus. The “Writer” with a capital “W” is uneasy, unsettled, feverish when not writing. The cure is to write, which is the only way to reach the sweet spot of having written. The fever subsides...until the next day.
Coben understands the disease. Harlan, please don't get well.
*****
This is an excerpt from my full published review, which you can find at https://www.noozhawk.com/paul-levine-...
Paul Levine
Early Grave
Coben has written nearly forty novels of crime fiction, seventeen of them No. 1 New York Times bestsellers, and his books have spawned roughly twenty television series. With that résumé, he's earned the right to offer advice to both the novice and the experienced writer.
He addresses the query every writer is asked and most are annoyed by: Where do you get your ideas?
Coben cites several sources. First, he asks himself the question that has launched a thousand plots: What if...?
He recalls wondering: “What if late one night, a camp counselor who was too young for the job sneaked into those woods with his summer girlfriend instead of watching his campers? And what if something went very wrong?”
That became The Woods (2007), a thriller that drew on Coben's own experience as a summer-camp counselor.
Coben also mines his memories. Experiences buried in childhood—hopes, dreams, fears—can find their way into fiction. Then there are real crimes, the fodder of daily journalism, that often ignites novels.
His general advice is simple: “Everything you see, everything you do, is material. Life is just a series of writing prompts.”
Dorothy Parker famously said, “I don't like writing. I like having written.” Coben offers a different take: “I feel better when I write.”
I've long thought the urge to write, the need to write, is akin to a virus. The “Writer” with a capital “W” is uneasy, unsettled, feverish when not writing. The cure is to write, which is the only way to reach the sweet spot of having written. The fever subsides...until the next day.
Coben understands the disease. Harlan, please don't get well.
*****
This is an excerpt from my full published review, which you can find at https://www.noozhawk.com/paul-levine-...
Paul Levine
Early Grave
September 29, 2026
I hate not finishing books. But as the old line goes, "I'm getting too old for this sh*t." (I'm also probably too old to censor a cuss word, but —)
I'd never heard of Coben and didn't recognize the titles of any book he's written (all 40 of them) or any TV show he's created. This fact, plus the existence of TV on his resume should have probably been a clear red flag. I figured, "Any book about writing is bound to have a sliver or two of good advice", so I was open to giving it a try. And this may have had one, but I couldn't get over the fact that this guy is EXACTLY what I expect 'genre authors' to be like. (ie. a dipshit. Uncensored = Growth!)
He thinks stories that are 'character first' (with plot as a byproduct) are clearly pompous tomes for the highfalutin. He "doesn't think much of new ideas such as mindfulness", and he name-drops constantly — everyone from David Foster Wallace to George Costanza. Oh, and he thinks hiking and the outdoors suck.
Pair that with the fact that he endlessly quotes himself and his own books (which I ended up just skipping over because the prose and stories are so cringe) and I couldn't make it more than halfway through this.
Now, he's clearly a solid writer — this book was extremely easy to read. The problem was the content and voice, not the grammar and sentence construction. So, while he's miles ahead of where I'll probably ever be in terms of pure writing skills, he's not someone I'd ever take writing advice from. So, maybe I learned what I don't want to be? I guess that's something.
I'd never heard of Coben and didn't recognize the titles of any book he's written (all 40 of them) or any TV show he's created. This fact, plus the existence of TV on his resume should have probably been a clear red flag. I figured, "Any book about writing is bound to have a sliver or two of good advice", so I was open to giving it a try. And this may have had one, but I couldn't get over the fact that this guy is EXACTLY what I expect 'genre authors' to be like. (ie. a dipshit. Uncensored = Growth!)
He thinks stories that are 'character first' (with plot as a byproduct) are clearly pompous tomes for the highfalutin. He "doesn't think much of new ideas such as mindfulness", and he name-drops constantly — everyone from David Foster Wallace to George Costanza. Oh, and he thinks hiking and the outdoors suck.
Pair that with the fact that he endlessly quotes himself and his own books (which I ended up just skipping over because the prose and stories are so cringe) and I couldn't make it more than halfway through this.
Now, he's clearly a solid writer — this book was extremely easy to read. The problem was the content and voice, not the grammar and sentence construction. So, while he's miles ahead of where I'll probably ever be in terms of pure writing skills, he's not someone I'd ever take writing advice from. So, maybe I learned what I don't want to be? I guess that's something.
September 5, 2026
Thanks to NetGalley and Grand Central Publishing for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
I’ve always been fascinated by writers and the art of writing. In fact, I would’ve loved to be a writer myself, but a lack of talent and discipline got in my way. But that doesn’t stop me from reading writing handbooks and guides as if I were ever going to put their teachings to the test. So when I found out that one of my favorite mystery/suspense authors was coming out with a memoir on writing, it was music to my ears.
Plot Twist is exactly what it promises. Half writing handbook, half memoir, it guides us through Harlan Coben’s writing methods and techniques, using loads of examples from his own books. From where he gets his ideas, through plot and setting construction, to messy first drafts, choosing a narrator, and character development, this is a complete guide to writing a book, with some tips that are applicable to any type of artistic creation. I love getting inside authors’ minds and discovering their creative processes, and this doesn’t disappoint.
Mixed in with all of this, we also get a bit of a personal memoir, taking us from his childhood to the time when he wrote his first book while working in Spain, as well as some personal tragedies—mainly the loss of his parents at a young age—and how, in one form or another, they also end up becoming part of his work.
Both parts are equally engaging, so whether you’re interested in the writing aspect or the personal one, it works either way.
I’ve always been fascinated by writers and the art of writing. In fact, I would’ve loved to be a writer myself, but a lack of talent and discipline got in my way. But that doesn’t stop me from reading writing handbooks and guides as if I were ever going to put their teachings to the test. So when I found out that one of my favorite mystery/suspense authors was coming out with a memoir on writing, it was music to my ears.
Plot Twist is exactly what it promises. Half writing handbook, half memoir, it guides us through Harlan Coben’s writing methods and techniques, using loads of examples from his own books. From where he gets his ideas, through plot and setting construction, to messy first drafts, choosing a narrator, and character development, this is a complete guide to writing a book, with some tips that are applicable to any type of artistic creation. I love getting inside authors’ minds and discovering their creative processes, and this doesn’t disappoint.
Mixed in with all of this, we also get a bit of a personal memoir, taking us from his childhood to the time when he wrote his first book while working in Spain, as well as some personal tragedies—mainly the loss of his parents at a young age—and how, in one form or another, they also end up becoming part of his work.
Both parts are equally engaging, so whether you’re interested in the writing aspect or the personal one, it works either way.
September 18, 2026
I love that Harlan narrated this book himself, telling readers about his process in an inspiring and approachable way. A lot of his suggestions for writers are valid and inspired me to keep writing and stay ambitious with my career goals as an author. In fact, I purchased a new notebook with a multi-colored pug on it and new fancy pens for the times I’ll be on the road and killing time this school year. I also enjoyed the little anecdotes about where certain characters and ideas came from. This book is a joy for writers and readers who are curious about how one of the masters does it. Thank you, @librofm, @grandcentralpub, and @harlancoben for the gifted ALC!
October 3, 2026
I haven't read any Coben novels, but this made me want to. Simple, sound advice for writing from someone who's done a lot of it.
September 27, 2026
A witty, big-hearted presentation of a master storyteller’s inspiration, process, habits, and observations on writing.
September 18, 2026
4.5 stars
I have been a fan of Harlan Coben ever since reading The Boy From the Woods, and have slowly been making my way through both his current releases and his backlist ever since. So getting a look behind the curtain at how he actually writes felt like a real treat.
This is part memoir and part masterclass on writing, and Coben blends the two seamlessly. He talks about his life, how he got started, and where his ideas actually come from, offering real insight into a career that has spanned decades and dozens of bestsellers. There was something genuinely relatable about reading his reflections on certain books, recognizing titles I had already read and getting the backstory behind them added a whole other layer to the experience.
He does away with the idea that there is one correct way to write a book. He rejects the traditional categories some writers try to follow - characters first, then plot, then setting, and instead shows that the process can be messy, nonlinear and different for everyone.
It was such an enjoyable read from start to finish, full of ideas, honest reflection, and a genuine sense of what it takes to build a writing life. This is a book I can absolutely see myself purchasing and reading again.
Whether you are an aspiring writer or simply a longtime fan of Coben's novels, this memoir is entertaining.
My thanks to Grand Central Publishing for a digital arc (via Netgalley) in exchange for a honest review.
I have been a fan of Harlan Coben ever since reading The Boy From the Woods, and have slowly been making my way through both his current releases and his backlist ever since. So getting a look behind the curtain at how he actually writes felt like a real treat.
This is part memoir and part masterclass on writing, and Coben blends the two seamlessly. He talks about his life, how he got started, and where his ideas actually come from, offering real insight into a career that has spanned decades and dozens of bestsellers. There was something genuinely relatable about reading his reflections on certain books, recognizing titles I had already read and getting the backstory behind them added a whole other layer to the experience.
He does away with the idea that there is one correct way to write a book. He rejects the traditional categories some writers try to follow - characters first, then plot, then setting, and instead shows that the process can be messy, nonlinear and different for everyone.
It was such an enjoyable read from start to finish, full of ideas, honest reflection, and a genuine sense of what it takes to build a writing life. This is a book I can absolutely see myself purchasing and reading again.
Whether you are an aspiring writer or simply a longtime fan of Coben's novels, this memoir is entertaining.
My thanks to Grand Central Publishing for a digital arc (via Netgalley) in exchange for a honest review.
September 14, 2026
A new book by Harlan Coben is always a treat. But, Plot Twist, this one is a writing guide and self-help guide to living your best life too.
If you are reading this review, I can virtually guarantee that you are a reader, but I also suspect that you may be a closet writer too. You know the type, you have hundreds of great book ideas written in your notebook, your phone, or just in your head—but haven’t written even the first page of your first story yet. Okay, I may just be describing myself. Anyway, if you have ever wondered how authors develop their stories, this book is a fascinating look into Mr. Coben’s process.
But it is more than just that. It is a heartfelt memoir of a life too. Plus, there are gems of quotes throughout.
“If you write just one page a day, you’ll have a finished novel in about a year.”
“Ambition without action turns into anxiety.“
I am somewhat disappointed to discover that Mr. Coben puts an easy to guess twist in his book along with at least one more that he expects to stump us. Wow, and here I was thinking I was such a brilliant armchair detective! I will just have to try harder next time.
Plot Twist is an excellent book not just for writers or other creatives but also just for other humans interested in improving their life. Plus, it is just fun to see how another human thinks. 5 stars and a favorite!
Thanks to NetGalley and Grand Central Publishing for providing me with an advanced review copy.
If you are reading this review, I can virtually guarantee that you are a reader, but I also suspect that you may be a closet writer too. You know the type, you have hundreds of great book ideas written in your notebook, your phone, or just in your head—but haven’t written even the first page of your first story yet. Okay, I may just be describing myself. Anyway, if you have ever wondered how authors develop their stories, this book is a fascinating look into Mr. Coben’s process.
But it is more than just that. It is a heartfelt memoir of a life too. Plus, there are gems of quotes throughout.
“If you write just one page a day, you’ll have a finished novel in about a year.”
“Ambition without action turns into anxiety.“
I am somewhat disappointed to discover that Mr. Coben puts an easy to guess twist in his book along with at least one more that he expects to stump us. Wow, and here I was thinking I was such a brilliant armchair detective! I will just have to try harder next time.
Plot Twist is an excellent book not just for writers or other creatives but also just for other humans interested in improving their life. Plus, it is just fun to see how another human thinks. 5 stars and a favorite!
Thanks to NetGalley and Grand Central Publishing for providing me with an advanced review copy.
October 19, 2026
Listening to this audiobook felt like I was sitting at a coffee shop chatting with the author as he reflected back to his happy childhood, offering up memories of his early storytelling. From a very young age, he was crafting scenarios through play whether it be from entertaining his little brother, or turning his baseball cards into a full blown game on his bedroom floor. Harlan Coben’s mind is always at work and thankfully so! I enjoyed learning about how he forms stories and that he genuinely loves to write. This book offers amazing advice on not only writing but for living life fully and taking notice of what’s around us. I loved how he used sports analogies throughout and talked about his dogs and love that he made me laugh out loud! I love his work both in print, and on the screen and I hope to meet him one day!
September 15, 2026
I am a huge Harlan Coben fan, and I always enjoy listening to my favorite authors describe how they write and come up with their stories, so I loved Plot Twist. I found this book so fascinating and his humor really comes through in the audio book.
He talks about the 4 big ways he comes up with his stories -- 1) What If thoughts, 2) Memoir/Personal Life, 3) News/True Crime, and 4) a combination. I've read almost all of his books, so I could remember the plots, and I loved hearing where they came from.
You do not need to be an aspiring writer to enjoy this book, but it helps if you read a lot of Coben's books. It gives a unique behind the scenes view of his writing career and his TV show adaptations.
He talks about the 4 big ways he comes up with his stories -- 1) What If thoughts, 2) Memoir/Personal Life, 3) News/True Crime, and 4) a combination. I've read almost all of his books, so I could remember the plots, and I loved hearing where they came from.
You do not need to be an aspiring writer to enjoy this book, but it helps if you read a lot of Coben's books. It gives a unique behind the scenes view of his writing career and his TV show adaptations.
September 29, 2026
Like many reviewers here, I'm a huge fan of Harlan Coben, having read more than two dozen of his books.
This memoir/instruction manual was just OK for me as a read. Mr. Coben is his usual incredibly charming, self-effacing self in these pages in describing how he writes and his gentle suggestions as to what he does and doesn't recommend.
Perhaps because I've heard him interviewed (and am not a writer myself), this seemed a bit repetitive to me. The memoir portions tend to be sweet, especially the loving tribute to his father at the end.
This memoir/instruction manual was just OK for me as a read. Mr. Coben is his usual incredibly charming, self-effacing self in these pages in describing how he writes and his gentle suggestions as to what he does and doesn't recommend.
Perhaps because I've heard him interviewed (and am not a writer myself), this seemed a bit repetitive to me. The memoir portions tend to be sweet, especially the loving tribute to his father at the end.
October 15, 2026
No esperaba encontrarme con un libro sobre escribir que me golpeara así a nivel emocional. Coben es un narrador muy ameno, con un tono burlón que funciona muy bien, convirtiendo el libro en una charla informal sobre escribir y sobre la vida. Me he visto reflejado en espacios y experiencias comunes, en formas de ver las cosas y entenderlas. Leí un par de novelas suyas hace muchos años, y he visto algunas de las series y películas basadas en sus libros. Pero desde luego me ha dejado con ganas de leer más.
A nivel personal, el casi final ha sido duro. Por lo cercano y reciente de todo. No me esperaba llorar en un libro sobre la escritura... Eso sí que ha sido un plot twist para mí.
A nivel personal, el casi final ha sido duro. Por lo cercano y reciente de todo. No me esperaba llorar en un libro sobre la escritura... Eso sí que ha sido un plot twist para mí.
September 14, 2026
Plot Twist: Life, Craft, and the Messy First Draft: A Memoir on Writing by Harlan Coben
This was a surprisingly delightful book not just about writing, but the way Coben explains his advice drew me in. There is a lot of promotion for his own books, but it made me want to read them. He follows along in each chapter with advice on writing, always just write as his first advice, but provides examples by using his own novels. It made his examples take on a real life feel to them. This is a great read for both writers and readers.
Thank you to the publishers for the advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest review.
This was a surprisingly delightful book not just about writing, but the way Coben explains his advice drew me in. There is a lot of promotion for his own books, but it made me want to read them. He follows along in each chapter with advice on writing, always just write as his first advice, but provides examples by using his own novels. It made his examples take on a real life feel to them. This is a great read for both writers and readers.
Thank you to the publishers for the advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest review.
October 8, 2026
If you need a book to help give you a kick in the pants to write your book, this is it! Read it. It's quick, direct, helpful, sincere, fun and enjoyable. If you want something super academic and boring, don't read this book. You'll be disappointed.
This book invites you to find your way. It tells you what rules to follow and what rules to break. It's a great insight into the methods of a successful author and I thank him for the kick in pants I received when I read this book.
This book invites you to find your way. It tells you what rules to follow and what rules to break. It's a great insight into the methods of a successful author and I thank him for the kick in pants I received when I read this book.
September 18, 2026
As usual, Harlan delivers a superb book! Plot Twist is direct, helpful, blunt, wise, reflective and more! It is perfect for anyone who wants to create anything, or the kid who doesn’t know what career he wants or really anyone! It would be hard to not find lots of great takeaways from one of the nicest people in publishing!
September 12, 2026
I doubt I will ever be a writer but that did not dim my enjoyment of this book. I highly recommend the audio since he reads it himself and Harlan Coben is an engaging reader. There are many life lessons you can take from this book that can be applied to any creative venture or life situation and it is not limited to writing although much of the book is of course specific to writing. It did make me want to go back and reread some of his books, especially the Myron Bolitar series, since I don't think I ever got into those as much as his standalones. I thought this would be a 4 star or maybe 4.5 book, but that last part of the book really got me so I bumped it up to 5.
October 11, 2026
wow I feel so powerful with these quarter ratings!! this book was a hidden gem. had no expectations going in, but it surprised me at every step. it reminded me how much authors put themselves in every book they write and how special that is. this book made me want to start writing again:)
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you NetGalley and Grand Central Publishing for this advance ARC in return for an honest review.
Plot Twist, by Harlan Coben, is part tutorial on writing, part memoir, and part advertisement for the 40 or so novels previously written by Coben. Having read over half of them, or perhaps 3/4 ( never read the Mickey Bolitar YA novels ) his narrative style translates through the pages of this his first non-fiction book.
In showing how the sausage is made, Coben uses this medium to show how little things that happen in his life can be re-imagined by the phrase "what if..." and become the beginning of one of his best selling Bolitar series or numerous stand alone thrillers. He also explains how he is fixated on the missing person as the engine that fuels most of his thrillers.
Punctuating his instruction manual on writing with excerpts from his Novels as illustrations of his points about plot, character, setting, dialogue etc Coben provides a road map for those interested in one day writing a novel. And for those of us, who only joke about it, perhaps inspiration to give it a shot.
Told in his "voice" with his usual humor and humanity sprinkled in, Plot Twist, can be enjoyed by one and all, not just the aspiring writer.
#NetGalley #PlotTwist #HarlanCoben
Plot Twist, by Harlan Coben, is part tutorial on writing, part memoir, and part advertisement for the 40 or so novels previously written by Coben. Having read over half of them, or perhaps 3/4 ( never read the Mickey Bolitar YA novels ) his narrative style translates through the pages of this his first non-fiction book.
In showing how the sausage is made, Coben uses this medium to show how little things that happen in his life can be re-imagined by the phrase "what if..." and become the beginning of one of his best selling Bolitar series or numerous stand alone thrillers. He also explains how he is fixated on the missing person as the engine that fuels most of his thrillers.
Punctuating his instruction manual on writing with excerpts from his Novels as illustrations of his points about plot, character, setting, dialogue etc Coben provides a road map for those interested in one day writing a novel. And for those of us, who only joke about it, perhaps inspiration to give it a shot.
Told in his "voice" with his usual humor and humanity sprinkled in, Plot Twist, can be enjoyed by one and all, not just the aspiring writer.
#NetGalley #PlotTwist #HarlanCoben
September 13, 2026
I've been reading Harlan Coben from the beginning and I'm so pleased that he genuinely seems to be a decent and interesting person. This is about writing but it's also about him, and some parts were really personal. Every bit of it was interesting.
I loved how he talked about his heritage and getting story ideas. This isn't a thriller but it's as good as any of his other books. Thanks to Netgalley for letting me read this
I loved how he talked about his heritage and getting story ideas. This isn't a thriller but it's as good as any of his other books. Thanks to Netgalley for letting me read this
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