John Grisham, the renowned author, is back with a twist in his latest novel, and it's stirring up intrigue! A lawyer protagonist, but not a typical one.
The Minnesota Star Tribune brings you an exclusive interview with Grisham on October 23, 2025, at the Talking Volumes event. Grisham, a former small-town Mississippi lawyer, draws from his legal past for his bestselling novels, and his latest, 'The Widow,' is no exception.
In 'The Widow,' lawyer Simon Latch encounters a potential windfall or a career-ending dilemma. An elderly client claims vast wealth, but is she trustworthy? And will her family uncover her secret fortune? Grisham, now 70, reflects on his real-life legal experiences, admitting he often wondered what would happen if a client with no connections needed his help.
But here's where it gets controversial—Latch considers unethical actions, and when the widow dies, he's accused of hastening her demise. Grisham masterfully weaves a tale of suspense, leaving readers guessing Simon's fate.
In this candid interview, Grisham discusses his legal career, his struggles with 'The Widow's' ending, and the genre of legal thrillers. He reveals his friendship with fellow attorney-turned-author Scott Turow, whose success inspired Grisham to finish his debut novel, 'A Time to Kill.'
Grisham also shares his thoughts on why lawyers often struggle as fiction writers, despite being great storytellers. He believes they get bogged down with legal details, trying to impress readers with their knowledge. But Grisham's writing rules are clear: always know the ending before you begin.
And this is the part most people miss—Grisham rewrote the ending of 'The Widow,' a rare occurrence for him. He even hints at a possible whodunit twist, a genre he's always loved but never attempted before.
The excerpt provided gives a tantalizing glimpse into the novel, leaving readers eager for more. Will Simon uncover the truth behind the widow's wealth? And will he be able to clear his name?
Don't miss John Grisham at the Fitzgerald Theater, St. Paul, for an evening of captivating conversation and literary insight. The event promises to be a must-attend for fans and aspiring writers alike. And the big question remains: Is Simon innocent, or is there more to his story?
What do you think about lawyers turning to fiction writing? Do you agree with Grisham's take on the challenges they face? Share your thoughts below!
