Epistolary fiction is a literary genre in which the story is told through a series of letters, diaries, or other documents. This allows the author to give multiple perspectives on the story's events and provide insight into the inner thoughts and feelings of the characters.
Epistolary fiction is a popular genre because it allows for a unique and intimate narrative style. The use of letters and other personal documents allows the reader to feel as though they are getting a behind-the-scenes look at the lives and thoughts of the characters. It also allows for more complex and layered storytelling, as the reader can see multiple perspectives on the same events.
Additionally, the use of letters and other documents in an epistolary novel can add an element of authenticity to the story. The fact that the characters themselves are recording the events can make the story feel more natural and grounded.
Overall, the combination of an intimate narrative style and the use of authentic-seeming documents make epistolary fiction a popular and enduring genre.
Here are five of the most popular epistolary novels:
1. Dracula by Bram Stoker - This gothic horror novel is told through a series of letters, diary entries, and newspaper articles. It follows the story of Count Dracula as he terrorizes England and the efforts of a group of people to stop him.
2. The Color Purple by Alice Walker - This Pulitzer Prize-winning novel tells the story of Celie, a young African American woman, through a series of letters she writes to God and to her sister Nettie. The letters chronicle Celie's journey from a life of abuse and oppression to one of self-discovery and independence.
3. Pamela: Or, Virtue Rewarded by Samuel Richardson - This novel, written in the 18th century, tells the story of Pamela, a maidservant who is attempting to remain chaste while working for a wealthy and persistent employer. The story is told through a series of letters written by Pamela to her parents.
4. The Notebook by Nicholas Sparks - This romantic novel follows the love story of Noah and Allie, told through a series of letters and diary entries. The novel explores themes of love, loss, and the power of memory.
5. 84, Charing Cross Road by Helene Hanff - This epistolary novel is a collection of letters between a New York writer and a London bookseller. The letters document the 20-year-long correspondence and friendship between the two and explore themes of literature, culture, and the importance of human connection.
Fiction Letters is epistolary fiction with a twist! Instead of reading the letters in a book, a series of eight letters is mailed to you from your fictitious friend. You’ll get one letter per week for eight weeks. There are four exciting series of letters to choose from.
As the letters unfold, your friend tells you an incredible story. Each letter contains unique characters, twists, turns, and adventures on every page!
The letters use a custom handwritten font we created, so it’s really like getting letters in the mail from an old friend.
Interested in Fiction Letters? Check out the available series below:
⚖️ Seeking Justice Series - Jen takes matters into her own hands after her neighbor is murdered. This action-packed series of 8 letters is filled with curious characters and twists and turns that will keep you on the edge of your seat as Jen tries to catch a killer. Learn more
🚨 Whistleblower Series - After discovering a dark secret at work, your friend Trevor's letters recount the harrowing extent his employer will go to keep him quiet. Trevor's 8 pulse-pounding letters will get your adrenaline pumping. Learn more
🚢 Phantom Cruise Series - Paul just took his first-ever cruise, but it was not the relaxing sun and fun-filled voyage he expected. His 8 letters to you recap the mysterious happenings on the high seas. Learn more
🧭 Scavenger Hunt Series - While competing in her company’s team-building scavenger hunt, Sarah finds a centuries-old map. Is it just a clue in the game or a life-changing treasure map? You'll be riveted as Sarah tells you her story through 8 fascinating letters. Learn more
P.S. A Fiction Letters series makes a really unique gift for the reader in your life!