What to Include in Your Author Newsletter

An author newsletter is one of the best ways to stay connected with your readers. It lands directly in their inbox—no algorithms, no noise, no competition from other posts. But once someone signs up, what should you actually send?

The good news: your newsletter doesn’t need to be long, fancy, or filled with promotions. It just needs to be consistent, authentic, and interesting to the kind of readers you want to keep.

A Personal Greeting

Start with a warm, simple hello. Use your real voice, not a sales tone. This helps readers feel like they’re hearing from a real person—not a company or campaign.

You can reference something timely, like the season or your current writing status. Keep it short and conversational.

Example:

“Hi friends—hope you’re enjoying the start of fall. I’ve been deep in edits this month and trying not to eat all the Halloween candy early…”

Writing or Publishing Updates

Readers love to feel like insiders. Share updates on your work in progress, cover design sneak peeks, title reveals, or release dates.

Let them in on your process—even if you’re just outlining or brainstorming. People enjoy watching a project unfold over time.

Behind-the-Scenes Extras

Add a little something that readers can’t get anywhere else. This might be:

• A deleted scene or alternate ending
• A character sketch or inspiration photo
• A writing playlist or mood board
• A glimpse of your creative space

These small, exclusive touches make subscribers feel like part of your inner circle.

Book Recommendations or Media You’re Enjoying

Not every newsletter has to be all about you. Share a favorite book, podcast, or show—especially if it connects with your genre or audience.

It shows personality and builds trust. Readers who enjoy your taste are more likely to enjoy your writing, too.

A Direct Link to Your Book(s)

Even if the email isn’t about a launch, always include a simple link to your current book or author website at the bottom. New subscribers may not have seen it before.

Keep it subtle. No need for a big pitch—just a clean “Learn more about my books here” with a link is enough.

Optional: Freebie or Exclusive Offer

If you’re running a sale, offering a bonus chapter, or doing a giveaway, your newsletter is the best place to share it. Your subscribers should always get first access.

You can also invite them to leave a review, join your launch team, or respond with feedback if appropriate.

A Clear and Friendly Sign-Off

Close with a simple goodbye and your name. You can add a reminder about when they’ll hear from you again if you’re just getting started.

Example:

“Until next time, thanks for being part of this writing journey. I’ll be back next month with a first look at the new cover!”

Keep It Skimmable

Use short paragraphs, subheads, and white space to make your email easy to read. Avoid long blocks of text. If you have multiple items to include, bullet points or dividers help break it up.

Readers should be able to scan quickly—but still feel like they’ve connected with you.

Final Thoughts

Your newsletter is a conversation, not a campaign. When you focus on connection rather than constant promotion, you build loyalty that lasts far beyond a single book launch.

Keep it simple, keep it consistent, and speak from the heart. Your readers signed up because they want to hear from you—so show up as yourself, and they’ll keep coming back.