Reader magnet ideas for fiction and nonfiction authors

The best reader magnet is not always a whole novel. It is whatever readers of your genre would happily trade an email address for. Here are ideas that work, split by fiction and nonfiction.

Fiction reader magnets

• A prequel or origin story that sets up your series.
• A short story featuring a favourite side character.
• A deleted or bonus scene readers cannot get anywhere else.
• The first book in a series, given free to hook new readers.
• A themed collection of flash fiction or shorts.

Nonfiction reader magnets

• A practical checklist or template readers can use immediately.
• A short guide that solves one specific problem.
• A resource list of tools, links or further reading.
• A sample chapter from your main book.
• A mini email course delivered as a downloadable workbook.

How to choose

Pick something that attracts the right readers, not just the most readers. A free thriller novella will pull in people who buy thrillers; a generic freebie pulls in freebie-hunters who never open your emails. Aim your magnet at the audience for the books you actually sell.

Whatever you choose, it should be easy to sign up for and easy to read. Create a free account and turn your idea into a live signup page in minutes.