Dear Friends,
When I first set out to write a novel, I was on a quest for the secret key, the magic bullet, the one elusive truth that would unlock the whole magical and mysterious craft of storytelling. I assumed that like in biology (I was a nurse), there were very black and white answers to the question of “How do I write a novel?”
Before you read any further looking for your fount of novel location let me give you a spoiler alert: There is not one.
I found this confirmed by none other than Somerset Maugham, who famously said, “There are three rules for writing a novel. Unfortunately, no one knows what they are.”
Still, I read the craft books and essays in literary journals like The Paris Review. I underline passages in novels I love and try to dissect how they capture me with their prose. I collect quotes about writing like I’m gathering remnants from the Dead Sea scrolls and then tape these bites of wisdom to my bulletin board. And on Friends & Fiction, we ask every author for a writing tip, and wouldn’t you know it? No two answers are ever the same.
Because here’s the infuriating paradox of writing: Learn the rules, then find your own way. Sit your butt in the chair, and also go take a walk and listen to nature and to the world. Write in community, but mostly alone. It’s all hard work, and somehow also magic.
So no, there’s no golden chalice, no secret elixir buried in a mossy glen. But there are conversations, classes, and gatherings that help us along the way. This fall, I’m thrilled to be teaching and speaking at three fabulous events where we’ll talk all things craft and story.
I’d love for you to join me—from Atlanta to Aspen to Hawaii—alongside some brilliant authors who still don’t have “the answer,” but sure know how to make the journey joyful, meaningful, and a whole lot of fun.
ATLANTA, GA—Sept 20-21
Join me Sept 20th – 21st in Decatur, GA for the 10th Annual Broadleaf Writers Conference! Attending a writing conference is an opportunity to invest in yourself as a writer, to learn from experts, and to become a part of a community of writers that inspire, uplift and support one another! Your registration grants you access to all sessions and you will be able to schedule a one-on-one with a literary agent or publisher rep! There are also opportunities to schedule one-on-one mentoring sessions with an author or agent of your choice. This is great chance to learn more about writing and the publishing industry without the pressure of a pitch! Join me at the Decatur Library at 215 Sycamore Street in Decatur, GA!
ASPEN, CO—Sept 26-28
Join me for the first-ever Aspen Literary Festival. 40 authors over three days including panels, parties, attractions, distractions. I’m thrilled to be a part of the incredible line-up of authors which includes Elin Hilderbrand, Jess Walter, Bonnie Garmus, Kevin Kwan, V.E. Schwab, Michael Lewis, and Nathan Hill among others.
KAUAI, HI—Nov 10-16
I’m thrilled to be participating once again this fall in the incredible Kauai Writer's Conference. Join me and an amazing line-up of authors (including Christina Baker Kline, Curtis Sittenfeld, Rebecca Makkai, Steven Rowley, Meg Wolitzer, and many others) Nov 10–16 in Lihue, Hawaii.
During the conference, I will be teaching a four-day master class with Ariel Lawhon. In “The Storytellers Craft” we’ll explore the foundational elements of compelling fiction touching on premise, creating a central question, character development, plot, pacing, themes and subtext, and helpful revision techniques.
I hope to see some of you at these events!
Friends & Fiction
This week on Friends & Fiction, Ron Block and I are hosting author Victoria Benton Frank to discuss The Violet Hour, her heartwarming and empowering new novel about thriving after tragedy. According to Ann Patchett, Victoria’s 2023 debut novel My Magnolia Summer cemented her as “the rightful heir to the crown of summertime storytellers.” Victoria joins us to discuss her second novel, out August 12th from Gallery Books, which I had the chance to blurb and praised as “enchanting, hilarious, and insightful.” Join us on F&F’s Facebook page & YouTube channel on Wed 8/13 at 7pm ET, or catch this interview on our podcast on Fri 8/15.
Also, be sure to check out the recent roundtable chat on F&F’s Substack featuring 12 first-time novelists all with new books out this year. What was their path to publication like? What was that day like when they first knew they were going to be a published author? Do they have another book in the works? Read about all of this—PLUS hear from each of them about the plot & setting of their debut novel. AND? We are giving you the chance to win all 12 of these incredible debut novels. This giveaway closes TONIGHT (Tues 8/12) at midnight Eastern, so be sure to enter to win! Make sure you’re following F&F on Instagram, too, so you’ll always hear about all the fun stuff we have going on.
That’s all for now as I get back to finishing up my next book!
With Love,
Patti
ABOUT PATTI CALLAHAN HENRY
New York Times Bestselling Author and Podcast Host
Patti Callahan Henry is a New York Times, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and Globe and Mail bestselling author of seventeen novels and a podcast host. Patti is the co-host and co-creator of the popular weekly web show, podcast, and online community, Friends & Fiction.
She lives in Mountain Brook, Alabama with her husband. Her newest novel, The Story She Left Behind was released on March 18th, 2025.
Be sure to follow Patti on social media and visit her website for the latest updates and announcements!
Patti, I do believe you have found the secret to writing. .. I just love your books so much!!! You have me glued to the page for all your stories. Thank you for giving me such wonderful books to read.
The first time I met you was during your Flora Lea tour, and you spoke of your decision to write! I’m so glad you did because I have loved your stories so! The next time I saw you was your most recent tour, and you spoke of your decision to write! I’m so glad you did because your story has given me the courage to write again…. Thank you for sharing your heart, soul, and mind in your books and on your tour! Once Upon a Wardrobe has become one of my all time favourite books!