
The epistolary novel
An epistolary novel is a story told through letters, journal entries, emails, or other personal documents written by the characters. This format allows readers to see events and characters' thoughts directly from their own perspectives, creating an intimate and authentic experience. It was popular in the 18th century but remains a useful storytelling device today. Essentially, the novel is built from the correspondence between characters, providing multiple viewpoints and a sense of immediacy, making the narrative feel personal and realistic.