Caroline Kepnes on Writing Complex Characters and Finding Your Voice

How do you write a character that readers can’t stop thinking about, even when they shouldn’t like them? In this live, in-class conversation, novelist Caroline Kepnes shares how she developed the voice behind You, and why character begins with perspective, not plot. Caroline talks about her path from journalism to television writing to novels, how each medium shaped her craft, and why writing often requires unlearning what you’ve been taught. We also explore the role of short stories in developing voice, the importance of rewriting, and how small, specific moments create emotional impact. This episode is especially valuable for fiction writers and anyone trying to create characters that feel real, complex, and unforgettable.