Novel is one well-known to each of us (3,6,6)

I believe the answer is:

our mutual friend

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'novel' is the definition.
(I've seen this before)

I can't explain the rest of the clue.

(Other definitions for our mutual friend that I've seen before include "you and I know and like" , "Novel" , "someone we both know" , "John Harmon" , "China we share" .)

I've seen this clue in The Telegraph.

Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.