Darla G. Denton | Author Platform Coach

Social media strategies for fiction authors can feel confusing, especially if you’re still writing your first book or just starting to figure out how to build your author platform. Maybe you’ve heard you need to be on Instagram, or that TikTok is the secret to selling books. But what do you actually post? Where do you even begin?

It’s easy to get stuck at the starting line, staring at a blinking cursor in your caption box, wondering if anyone will even care. That uncomfortable mix of “I want to do this right” and “I have no idea what I’m doing” is more common than you think.

Here’s the thing. Social media isn’t just a marketing tool, it’s another way to tell stories. It’s where readers discover you, get curious about your work, and decide they want to follow your journey. You don’t need to be polished or perfect. You just need to be present, consistent, and a little bit brave.

In this post, we’ll explore social media strategies for fiction authors that actually work. Whether you’re writing epic fantasy, spicy romance, or edge-of-your-seat thrillers, you’ll find simple, doable tips to help you grow your presence online even if you’re just starting out.

Here’s what you’ll learn:

• Which social media platforms are best for your genre
• What kinds of posts attract the right readers
• Common mistakes new fiction authors make (and how to avoid them)
• How to grow your platform without losing your writing time or your mind

So grab a cup of coffee or tea, take a deep breath, and let’s make social media feel a little less like a chore and a lot more like an extension of your creative voice.

How Does Social Media Fit into Your Fiction Author Platform?

If you’re writing your first book or just published your debut, chances are you’ve been told that you need to be on social media. And it’s true, social platforms are a key part of how readers discover new authors, especially in genres like fantasy, romance, and mystery. But knowing you need to be there is not the same as knowing how it fits into your bigger author platform.

So let’s get clear.

Social media is not your whole platform. It’s one piece of the puzzle.

It’s where you show up consistently, build trust, and invite people into your world. But your ultimate goal is to move those casual followers into something deeper, like your email list, your website, or your book sales page.

That’s why social media strategies for fiction authors need to be intentional. You are not just posting to post. You are posting to connect, to share your voice, and to attract readers who are going to love your stories.

When you treat social media as a relationship-building tool, instead of a numbers game, you give yourself more freedom to create content that feels natural and aligned with your writing.

Not sure how to connect your social presence with your long-term platform goals? Book a free consultation and I can help you create a strategy tailored to your genre and audience.

What Are the Best Social Media Platforms for Fiction Authors?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to choosing the best social media platforms for fiction authors. What works for a romance writer might not work for someone writing dark fantasy or a psychological thriller. The key is to match your genre and personal style with platforms where your readers are already spending their time.

Here’s a quick guide to the best social media platforms for fiction authors, based on genre trends and reader behavior:

Genre	Top Platforms	Why They Work
Fantasy	TikTok, Instagram	Great for visual content, immersive world-building, and highly engaged fandoms
Spicy Romance	TikTok, Instagram, Facebook Groups	Ideal for emotional and character-driven content, trope-based storytelling, and reader polls
Mystery/Thriller	TikTok, Threads/X, Reddit	Short-form suspense and teaser content perform well; readers love interactive twists

You can always expand later, but starting with one or two platforms is enough. What matters most is consistency, clarity, and showing up in a way that feels sustainable for you.

Up next, we’ll look at what kinds of content actually work for fiction authors, no matter what genre you write in.

Still debating which platform makes the most sense for your book and your energy? I offer platform strategy sessions to help fiction authors choose where to focus and how to grow. Reach out and let’s talk through it.

What Should Fiction Authors Post on Social Media?

This is one of the most common questions new fiction authors ask. Once you’ve picked your platform, the next challenge is figuring out what to say and how to say it in a way that feels natural and actually connects with readers.

The good news is, you already know how to tell stories and that’s exactly what works best on social media.

The most effective social media strategies for fiction authors focus on three key goals:

1. Build curiosity about your stories and characters
2. Create a personal connection with your ideal readers
3. Showing up consistently in a way that supports your author brand

Let’s break down a variety of post ideas that serve these goals, so you’re never stuck staring at a blank caption box again.

Story-Based Content

Readers follow authors because they want to feel connected to the person behind the books. That means your job is not to constantly promote, but to invite people into your world.

Try posting:

• Short excerpts or “first line” hooks from your current WIP (work in progress)
• Scenes told from a character’s point of view
• Tropes you’re using (“enemies to lovers,” “slow burn,” “chosen one”)
• Character profiles or “meet the cast” introductions
• Writing playlists or aesthetic moodboards that match your story’s vibe

These types of posts help your readers feel like they’re already part of the story, even before the book is published.

Behind-the-Scenes & Process Content

People love seeing how things are made and that includes books. Sharing your writing process builds transparency and trust.

Post ideas:

• Progress updates (“I hit 50k words today!”)
• Writing rituals or routines
• Day-in-the-life videos or snapshots
• Plotting sketches, whiteboards, or sticky note systems
• Draft vs. final version sneak peeks

These kinds of posts remind your followers that real humans write books and that can be a powerful connection.

Reader-Engagement Content

This is where you invite interaction. Engaging posts help you reach new readers through shares and comments, and also help you learn what your audience loves.

Try Posting:

• “Which character would you date?” or “Pick a trope” polls
• “Guess the plot twist” games
• This or That graphics for your characters or world
• Bookish memes with your own characters
• Ask-me-anything (AMA) sessions in Stories or comments

The more you invite readers into the conversation, the more invested they’ll feel in your work.

Genre-Specific Ideas

Let’s get even more specific. Different genres attract different types of content and reader engagement.

Fantasy

• Maps, lore, magical systems
• World-building Q&As
• Visual aesthetics (moodboards, art, reels)
• “Create a creature” or “name a kingdom” games

Spicy Romance

• Teasers from steamy scenes (text overlays work well)
• “Meet the love interest” videos
• Favorite trope breakdowns with examples from your story
• Reader polls: “Would you swipe right on this character?”

Mystery/Thriller

• Teaser clips or red herring quotes
• “Read the first line” suspense hooks
• Timelines or crime board visuals
• Reader polls: “Who’s lying?” or “What would you do?”

This genre-based approach helps you match your content to what your audience actually wants to see.

Keep It Real and Sustainable

You don’t need to create new content every single day. One good post can be reused across platforms with small tweaks. You can even build a personal content library by saving templates, captions, or photo ideas you can reuse when you’re short on time.

And remember, you don’t have to show your face or talk on camera if you’re not ready. You can build a strong platform using text-based visuals, images, and voiceover-style videos.

The most important part is to keep showing up in a way that reflects who you are and what your stories are about. That is what draws in your ideal readers and keeps them coming back.

If you’re stuck staring at a caption box, wondering what to post, I can help. I offer custom content plans for fiction authors based on your genre and writing style. Contact me to get started.

Common Social Media Mistakes New Fiction Authors Make

Social media can be a powerful part of your author platform, but it’s easy to get discouraged or burned out when things don’t work the way you expected. Most fiction authors make a few missteps early on and that’s okay. The key is to recognize what’s not working, adjust your strategy, and keep going.

Here are some of the most common mistakes fiction authors make when trying to grow on social media, along with how to fix them.

X Trying to Be Everywhere at Once

Starting accounts on every platform might feel like you’re being productive, but it usually leads to scattered energy and burnout. It’s better to pick one or two platforms where your readers are active and where you enjoy spending time.

Try this instead:
Choose one platform to start, post consistently for 4 to 6 weeks, and build a rhythm. Once that feels natural, you can consider expanding.

X Posting Only About Your Book

It’s tempting to focus entirely on your book especially when you’re excited about it or gearing up for a launch. But if every post says “Buy my book,” you’re missing the chance to build connection and interest.

Try this instead:
Balance your content. Use a mix of storytelling, behind-the-scenes, personal insights, and reader engagement posts. Think of it as inviting people into your world, not just your product.

X Ignoring Engagement

If someone comments on your post, responds to a story, or tags you in something, don’t leave them hanging. Readers want to feel seen and valued. Skipping replies or ghosting your followers can weaken trust.

Try this instead:
Set aside a few minutes a couple of times a week to reply to comments, answer questions, or like and share reader content. Even small replies can build long-term loyalty.

X Overthinking Every Post

You don’t need to write a masterpiece every time you post. Overthinking leads to perfectionism, which leads to silence and silence doesn’t help your platform grow.

Try this instead:
Keep things simple. Focus on progress over perfection. Authentic posts that reflect your voice and genre will connect more than something overly polished.

X Giving Up Too Soon

Social media growth can feel slow at first. But one of the most overlooked social media strategies for fiction authors is simply staying consistent. That’s how you build momentum and earn trust over time.

Try this instead:
Commit to a plan you can realistically follow for 30 to 60 days. Track your wins, even the small ones, and adjust as you learn what works best for you and your audience.

Mistakes are part of the process. What matters most is learning, adjusting, and showing up in a way that supports your goals and your creativity.

Want to skip the missteps and fast-track your growth? My coaching helps authors avoid burnout and build strategies that actually work. Schedule your free consultation to learn more.

How to Build Your Author Platform Without Burning Out

Let’s be honest, between writing your book, juggling real life, and figuring out how to show up online, “building your platform” can start to feel like a second job. And if you’re already feeling stretched thin, it’s tempting to avoid social media altogether.

But here’s the thing: You don’t have to do everything. You just need a plan that works with your energy, your goals, and your creative flow.

In my post on Author Platform Goals for 2025, I talk about setting clear, seasonal goals for your platform. This approach lets you focus on what matters most, whether that’s visibility, engagement, or conversion, without trying to tackle it all at once.

And when it comes to managing the day-to-day? You can absolutely grow your platform without burning out. Here’s how to do it in a way that feels manageable and sustainable.

Set a Schedule That Supports Your Writing Life

You don’t need to post every day to be successful. What matters more is consistency and clarity. Start with 2–3 posts per week and focus on content that reflects your current platform goals.

Example weekly rhythm:

• One post about your current work-in-progress (writing updates, sneak peeks)
• One post that connects personally (writing struggles, bookish thoughts)
• One post designed for engagement (polls, questions, memes, reels)

Batch Your Content and Use Smart Tools

Batch Your Content and Use Smart Tools

Trying to post on the fly leads to burnout. Instead, block out time weekly or monthly to create content in batches. That way, you’re not scrambling last minute and you can stay ahead of your content calendar without cutting into your writing time.

Here are some smart, author-friendly tools I recommend (and use myself) to make batching and scheduling easier:

• Kit – Organize your favorite author tools and templates in one place so you can access them fast when planning your content.
• MailerLite – Perfect for scheduling and automating your newsletter content (including repurposed social posts and blog updates).
• WordPress with Jetpack – If you’re blogging as part of your content strategy, Jetpack makes publishing and post scheduling smooth and secure.
• Trello (or Notion) – For mapping out your content calendar, tracking blog-to-social conversions, and organizing future post ideas.
• Hemingway Editor – When you’re batching captions or blog content, Hemingway helps make sure everything reads clearly and easily before publishing.

Batching doesn’t just save time, it gives your creative brain room to breathe. Use tools that work with your style and schedule, and you’ll find it much easier to stay consistent without losing momentum.

Disclosure: Some of the links in this section are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you, if you decide to make a purchase.

Reuse What You’ve Already Created

You don’t need to start from scratch every time you post. In fact, one strong piece of content can often be stretched into multiple posts across different platforms, without feeling repetitive.

Think of it like this:

• A single blog post can become a short carousel, a quick tip thread, and a story-based caption.
• A TikTok video you made for fun? It can be lightly edited into an Instagram Reel or trimmed down for a teaser in your newsletter.
• A character moodboard you designed for Instagram? Use it again as a visual prompt in a “write with me” thread or turn it into a reader poll in your Facebook group.

When you reuse your best content in new formats, you save time and stay visible, without constantly reinventing the wheel. It’s not about doing more; it’s about making what you’ve already created work harder for you.

Protect Your Energy With Boundaries

Yes, your readers are online around the clock, but that doesn’t mean you have to be. Give yourself permission to unplug.

Try this:

• Set time blocks for creating and engaging (like 30 minutes, 3x a week)
• Mute notifications during writing hours
• Avoid checking analytics every day
• Stick to 1–2 platforms that align with your genre and audience

You are the core of your platform, not the algorithm.

Track What’s Working and Let Go of the Rest

Most platforms offer built-in insights, and they’re your best friend when you want to spend less time guessing.

Look for:

• Which posts get saved or shared the most
• What kind of content gets comments or DMs
• What you actually enjoy creating (because that matters too)

Revisit your quarterly or seasonal platform goals regularly and adjust as needed. Flexibility is part of a healthy strategy.

The most effective social media strategies for fiction authors aren’t about chasing trends. They’re about building something that supports your creative goals and grows with you over time.

So take a breath, simplify where you can, and trust that small, consistent steps will take you further than perfection ever could.

A sustainable workflow is everything. If you’re ready for a plan that honors your writing time and still grows your presence, check out my services or book a free consultation to talk through your options.

Example Weekly Workflow for Fiction Authors

Here’s how a simple weekly content routine might look, using the tools I recommend:

Monday: Plan & Organize (30–45 minutes)

• Review your content calendar in Trello
• Choose 1–2 key messages or themes to focus on this week (e.g., a writing update, character intro, book trope)
• Jot down ideas for 2–3 social media posts

Tuesday: Create & Design (1–2 hours)

• Open Canva Pro and design graphics or reels for your post ideas
• Use templates to speed things up and keep your branding consistent
• Write captions that match the tone of your genre (fantasy, romance, thriller, etc.)

Wednesday: Schedule & Prep (30 minutes)

• Upload your content into Buffer or Publer
• Schedule posts across Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn, or wherever you’re active
• Add links to your lead magnet or author newsletter when it fits

Thursday–Saturday: Engage & Connect (15–20 minutes per day)

• Reply to comments, answer questions, and interact with readers
• Share one behind-the-scenes Story or repost a reader’s message if applicable
• Join in a trend or post something casual like a writing meme or poll

Sunday: Rest & Reflect (15 minutes)

• Check your analytics in Buffer or Publer
• See which post did best and why
• Note what felt easy, what felt draining, and what you want to adjust next week

Tip: If weekly batching isn’t your thing, try a monthly version of this workflow with a slightly longer planning and content day. You can still stay consistent without showing up every day.

Need a content workflow tailored to your own author goals and writing routine? Reach out and I’d be happy to help you design a strategy that is personalized to you.

Example Scenarios of Fiction Authors Doing Social Media Right

Sometimes the best way to understand how social media strategies for fiction authors work is to walk through specific, relatable scenarios. These aren’t real authors, but they represent the kind of choices that lead to meaningful growth and genuine reader connection.

Let’s take a look at three example authors in different genres and how they use social media to build an engaged platform without burning out.

Scenario 1: Aria, a Debut Fantasy Author on Instagram and TikTok

Platform Focus: Instagram and TikTok
Genre: Fantasy (young adult, portal fantasy)

What she does:
Aria shares aesthetic moodboards, reels of magical creatures, and snippets of her work-in-progress that hint at her world’s unique magic system. On TikTok, she uses trending sounds to introduce her characters, post “morally gray villain” reels, and share trope-based content like “found family” or “reluctant hero.”

Why it works:
Everything she posts reflects the immersive, otherworldly tone of her writing. She focuses on visual storytelling and leans into the kinds of content fantasy readers already enjoy, which makes it easy for them to feel at home on her page.

Real-life examples:

• Rachel Rener – An urban fantasy author who shares visually engaging content, including moodboards and snippets from her books, creating an immersive experience for her readers.
• Miranda Joy – A fantasy romance author known for her aesthetic visuals and content that delves into morally gray characters and found family tropes.
• Hannah Nicole Mae – On TikTok, she explores fantasy tropes like morally gray characters, engaging her audience with relatable and thematic content.
• Amber V. Nicole – Creates TikTok content focusing on morally gray characters in fantasy romance novels, resonating with fans of complex character dynamics.
• Melissa Kroehrich – Shares TikTok videos that delve into themes of betrayal and morally gray characters, aligning with popular fantasy tropes.

Scenario 2: Mia, a Spicy Romance Writer Growing on TikTok and Facebook Groups

Platform Focus: TikTok and Facebook
Genre: Spicy Romance (adult, contemporary)

What she does:
Mia uses TikTok to post short, steamy quotes over trending audio, introduce characters with “meet the book boyfriend” videos, and react to common romance tropes. Meanwhile, her Facebook group is a cozy hub for behind-the-scenes Q&As, character polls, early chapter drops, and teaser contests.

Why it works:
She understands that her ideal readers want to feel connected to her characters and to each other. Her content is emotionally charged but fun, and her group gives readers a reason to stay engaged between book releases.

Real-life examples:

• Ana Huang – A bestselling romance author known for her “Twisted” series, Ana effectively uses TikTok to share steamy snippets, character introductions, and engage with popular romance tropes. Her content resonates with fans seeking emotionally charged and spicy narratives.
• Montana Fyre – An indie author specializing in dark and spicy romance, Montana has cultivated a dedicated fanbase through her Facebook group, “Montana’s Fyreflies,” where she offers exclusive content, behind-the-scenes insights, and fosters a strong community among her readers.
• Kelsie Rae – Known for her steamy romance novels, Kelsie utilizes TikTok to share engaging content, including spicy book recommendations and romantic story teasers, effectively connecting with her audience and promoting her work.
• Alyssa Martin– A romance author who leverages TikTok to introduce readers to new “book boyfriends” and share fluffy, spicy content that aligns with popular romance tropes, enhancing reader engagement and interest.

Scenario 3: Jax, a Thriller Author Building Suspense on Threads and Instagram Stories

Platform Focus: Threads and Instagram
Genre: Mystery/Thriller (domestic thriller, crime fiction)

What he does:
Jax posts short, suspense-filled lines from his current draft on Threads, sometimes asking readers to guess what happens next. On Instagram Stories, he shares redacted notes, digital “crime board” visuals, and behind-the-scenes peeks at his outlining process.

Why it works:
His content invites interaction, builds curiosity, and plays into the natural behavior of thriller readers who love to solve puzzles. He’s not trying to reach everyone, just the readers who enjoy piecing things together.

Real-life examples:

• Sara DiVello – A true crime thriller author who shares behind-the-scenes content, including her writing process and suspense-building techniques, engaging her audience with immersive storytelling.
• Riley Sager – A bestselling thriller author who shares engaging content about his books and writing process, fostering a strong connection with his readers through suspenseful storytelling and glimpses into his real life.
• Sophie Thomas – Sophie, a thriller writer, discusses her upcoming thriller releases on Threads, providing followers with a glimpse into her publishing timeline and writing milestones.
• Alafair Burke – A prolific crime writer, Alafair shares content that includes insights into her writing process and thematic elements of her novels, engaging her audience with suspenseful and thought-provoking posts. Most recently she shares behind the scenes content to the Amazon Prime adaptation to her book The Better Sister.

Each of these authors leans into their strengths, plays to their genre’s reader expectations, and uses social media in a way that feels manageable. You don’t have to do what they’re doing, you just need to find your version of it.

What matters most is consistency, clarity, and content that invites your readers to stay connected and invested.

If you’re inspired by these examples but need help bringing your own version to life, I can help. Let’s build a personalized strategy that fits your goals and genre. Book a free consultation and let’s get started.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve made it this far, you already know that social media strategies for fiction authors don’t have to be complicated or overwhelming. The most effective approach is one that fits your genre, your writing style, and your real life.

Whether you’re building magical kingdoms, writing slow-burn romance, or crafting spine-tingling mysteries, there’s a place for you, and your voice ,on social media.

So pick one platform to focus on this month. Choose one type of post to try. See how it feels. Then build from there.

Small, consistent steps will get you further than waiting until everything feels perfect. Your readers are out there. Let’s help them find you.

Ready to Build a Social Media Strategy That Actually Works?

Whether you’re starting from scratch or looking to refresh your online presence, I’ve created two signature coaching packages designed to help fiction authors grow their platforms without burning out.

Platform Jumpstart Package: Perfect for new fiction authors

Launch your author platform with clarity and confidence.

• Identify your ideal reader and where they hang out online
• Choose the right social platforms for your genre
• Create a simple, sustainable content strategy that fits your writing life
• Walk away with templates, a custom posting plan, and personalized coaching support

Platform Revamp Package: Ideal for authors ready to grow

Already have a platform but feel stuck or scattered? Let’s refresh and realign.

• Audit what’s working (and what’s not) on your current platforms
• Refocus your content around your brand and reader expectations
• Learn how to repurpose content effectively so you can do less and get better results
• Get a personalized strategy to help you grow with less guesswork

Not sure which is right for you?

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