writing in public

​Writing in Public: Substack, Serialization, and Newsletter Fiction

Today’s readers aren’t just finding stories on bookshelves—they’re discovering them in inboxes, serial apps, and blog feeds. Welcome to the era of writing in public, where authors are building loyal fanbases by sharing their work chapter by chapter, post by post.
If you've ever thought about turning your writing into a serial experience, this guide will help you weigh the options—and decide what works best for your goals.

What Does “Writing in Public” Mean?

Writing in public means sharing your creative work as you go, often in serialized or episodic formats. Instead of publishing a complete, polished book all at once, you’re inviting readers into the process—chapter by chapter or scene by scene.
Think:

• Substack or Beehiiv newsletters
  
• Ream or Patreon posts
  
• Vella, Wattpad, or Radish serial platforms
  
• Serialized blog fiction
  

Why It Works for Some Authors

• Builds connection. Readers love feeling like they’re “on the journey” with you.
  
• Creates momentum. Publishing on a schedule keeps you accountable.
  
• Monetization opportunities. Premium subscriptions or tips can supplement book income.
  
• Feedback loop. Immediate reader reactions can help shape your next steps.
  

📌 Pro Tip: Serial writing works especially well for authors with strong hooks, cliffhangers, or character-driven arcs.

Choosing Your Platform

📰 Substack or BeehiivBest for: Authors who want to control their own audience and share both fiction and nonfiction
Pros: Email-based, flexible, great reader loyalty
Cons: Slower growth if you don’t already have a newsletter list
📖 Patreon or ReamBest for: Authors offering bonus content, early access, or serialized chapters
Pros: Tiered monetization, strong community tools
Cons: Requires frequent content and time investment
📱 Vella, Wattpad, RadishBest for: Genre fiction with cliffhanger-heavy plots
Pros: Built-in audience, algorithmic discovery
Cons: High competition, requires strategic tagging and updates
🖥️ Personal BlogBest for: Authors who want full control, SEO traffic, and long-term content
Pros: Great for showcasing series or shorts
Cons: Less engagement unless paired with email/social push

​Tips for Success

• Set a schedule—and stick to it. Weekly, biweekly, or monthly—consistency matters.
  
• Use cliffhangers wisely. Give readers a reason to come back.
  
• Offer value beyond the story. Add behind-the-scenes insights, Q&As, or writing notes.
  
• Collect emails as you go. No matter where you publish, always give readers a way to stay connected.
  

Is It Right for You?

Consider writing in public if:

• You enjoy reader interaction
  
• You’re building a platform before your first full release
  
• You have time to write and engage between updates
  
• You’re exploring new formats and building trust with future superfans
  

Writing in public isn’t for everyone—but for some authors, it’s a powerful blend of creation, connection, and community. Whether you're serializing a romcom or sharing fantasy lore through newsletters, the key is to make it sustainable—and fun.
Your story doesn’t have to be perfect to be powerful. Sometimes, letting readers in early makes the journey even richer.