What Readers Want in 2025: 10 Tips for Aspiring Authors

Rise2Write Publishing LLC
Aug 4, 2025
5 min read

Welcome to the August edition of the Rise2Write Monthly Newsletter!

In 2025, readers are more intentional than ever. With thousands of new books published daily and attention spans at an all-time low, simply writing well isn't enough. There is more required of you. You need to prioritize your readers in your writing.

You’re not just writing a book; you’re crafting an experience that readers will cherish. Each word and detail contributes to creating something truly unique and memorable.

Who is your ideal reader?

Let’s pump the brakes here to answer that question, and to make sure we are on the same page. I want to help you clearly understand who your ideal reader is. Before focusing on your readers, it's important to first identify them. This way, you can connect with the right audience in a meaningful way.

To identify your targeted reader, you must analyze or examine your work. Here are ways you can do that:

Consider the genre of your writing and the themes you explore. Who is your work suited for? What interests and hobbies align with your book's content?
Take a closer look at the characters in your book. They often reflect your ideal readers. Analyze your main characters to gain insights into the demographics and interests of those who would relate to them.
Who is your content aimed at? Different genres and themes attract specific audiences. For example, a young adult fantasy novel is likely targeted at teenagers who enjoy magic.

Okay, now that we have that out of the way, you can ask yourself: “What do readers truly want from authors today?"

What Readers Truly Want from Authors in 2025:

Let’s explore 10 Ways to Uncover What Readers Want.

1. A Clear, Unique Voice

Readers seek a genuine connection and value authenticity. They prefer hearing from a real person rather than a machine. Stay true to yourself, not the latest trends. This helps you build your brand with your reader and establish a solid, unique foundation.

2. Relatable, Real-Life Characters or Narratives

Whether it's fiction or nonfiction, readers seek to see themselves in the story. They want to connect with the characters or identify someone in their life who can relate. Ensure they feel seen and acknowledged.

3. Value Within the First Few Pages

Your introduction or first chapter is key to grabbing readers' attention. It must grab their attention immediately. In a world full of distractions and ADHD, where endless scrolling is common, you only have 1–2 pages to convince them of the value your story offers so they keep reading.

4. Shorter Chapters & Smart Structure

Contemporary readers often skim through texts. Avoid making chapters too lengthy. They don't need to be long and detailed to effectively convey your message. Instead, use short chapters with clear transitions, which can make your book more engaging and easier to follow.

5. Topics That Solve a Problem or Satisfy a Need

They aren't just reading for entertainment; they’re looking for healing, answers, empowerment, identity, or escape. What need does your book meet?

6. Beautiful Covers + Clear Titles

Your Book Cover and Title represent your BRAND! Whether consciously or not, people often judge books based on their covers. Readers are drawn to bold, clear designs and titles that effectively communicate what they are about.

7. Real Emotion, Not Perfection

Authenticity strongly resonates with readers. They can easily sense Fakeness. Readers want to experience your honest journey, including failures, doubts, breakthroughs, and everything in between. Showing vulnerability helps establish a genuine, relatable connection.

8. Representation That Reflects the World

Readers appreciate a diverse range of characters, cultures, and voices, reflecting the beautiful spectrum of humanity. Emphasizing inclusion is more important than ever, as it helps us feel connected and understood.

9. A Story That Stays With Them

Make your story truly memorable! Whether you’re sharing knowledge or telling a tale, your audience appreciates something special, a quote worth remembering and sharing. Strive to create an impact that stays with them long after they read. Remember, leaving a lasting impression is the key to engaging your listeners or readers.

10. Access to the Author

Readers love to connect! It’s important to create a space where your readers can connect with you. Whether they're following along via Substack, email lists, or social media, make sure they feel like they have access to genuinely connect and get to know the person behind the words.

Try This Writing Prompt:

What would I write if I knew it could change someone’s life this week?

Start there. The reader you’re writing for is already waiting.

“You’re not just writing to be read. You’re writing to be remembered.”

When you write with the reader’s heart in mind, your book becomes more than just words; it transforms into ministry, medicine, or motivation.

So before you write your next chapter, ask yourself:

Does this give the reader what they truly need right now?

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Rise2Write Publishing LLC is a full-service, Black-owned indie publishing company that empowers minorities to become published authors. We offer comprehensive book publishing services that guide clients through the entire journey from inception to publication. Specializing in nonfiction, fiction, children's books, and more, we ensure a seamless and high-quality publishing experience.