Writer backing leading group, penning volume with twisted end (7)

I believe the answer is:

nabokov

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

'writer' is the definition.
(I know that Nabokov is a writer)

I can't explain the remainder of the clue.

(Other definitions for nabokov that I've seen before include "Russian author" , "Wrote Lolita and Pale Fire" , "'Russian-American author, famously of Lolita (7)'" , "Lolita writer" , "Vladimir --, author" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.

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.