The hottest Fiction Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Culture Topics
The Common Reader β€’ 921 implied HN points β€’ 19 Jun 25
  1. Goldsmith wanted to impress everyone at the table but kept getting interrupted, which made him feel frustrated. It's relatable to feel that way in a group setting.
  2. The writing captures strong emotions and social dynamics, making it feel more like a story than just a recounting of events. This shows how powerful storytelling can be in non-fiction.
  3. A small moment from history can offer deep insights into people's feelings and behaviors. It’s interesting how this can resemble the style of modern writers like Lydia Davis.
The Common Reader β€’ 4040 implied HN points β€’ 17 Jun 25
  1. Some new books are getting lots of attention, but not all deserve it. It’s important to read critically and think for yourself.
  2. Certain novels well capture the complexity of life and character growth. Books like 'Flesh' show how transformative experiences can shape a person.
  3. Biographies can be engaging, especially when they thoughtfully connect a writer's life to their work. Good biographies help readers appreciate the author more.
Justin E. H. Smith's Hinternet β€’ 518 implied HN points β€’ 21 Jun 25
  1. Autofiction, or writing based on personal experiences, has always existed and shapes how we understand ourselves. We create our memories and identities based on our interpretations, which makes our stories a mix of truth and imagination.
  2. The rise of social media has changed how we think about writing. Now it’s not just about reading but also about everyone having the chance to share their thoughts, which can blur the lines between genuine self-expression and simply following trends.
  3. We live in a universe where each person's story and perspective matter. Our ability to explore different versions of ourselves through storytelling can lead to a deeper understanding of who we are and how we connect with reality.
The Sub Club Newsletter β€’ 594 implied HN points β€’ 31 Oct 24
  1. There are many job opportunities available for writers, including full-time positions, internships, and volunteer roles. This can help you start or develop your career in writing and publishing.
  2. The newsletter aims to provide solid job listings, focusing on roles beyond just freelance writing to support career building in the writing field.
  3. If you already work in writing, your personal stories about breaking into the field can be valuable and are welcome to be shared, helping others learn from your experience.
Unmapped Storylands with Elif Shafak β€’ 5396 implied HN points β€’ 27 Oct 24
  1. There's no clear line between 'solid' and 'liquid' countries. Everyone faces challenges and changes, regardless of where they live.
  2. Literature should include diverse voices from around the world. We shouldn't reduce cultures to simple categories like 'literate' or 'pre-literate.'
  3. All societies struggle with their own issues. Literature helps us understand these struggles and find a better path forward.
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PASSAGES β€’ 1139 implied HN points β€’ 30 Oct 24
  1. Koa feels anxious about leaving her home in the Valley. She is not ready to leave the only place she has known as home.
  2. Koa discovers surprising and upsetting news about her family, which makes her feel lost and confused. She is starting to question who she really is.
  3. She experiences something new and exciting when taken to a diner, showing her curiosity about the world outside the Valley. The meal brings her joy but also adds to her feelings of uncertainty.
Papyrus Rampant β€’ 119 implied HN points β€’ 02 Nov 24
  1. When writing about a lost heir, it's important to show why others want to follow them. A strong character, like Bonnie Prince Charlie, can inspire loyalty in others, making the story more engaging.
  2. Authors need to create believable circumstances that allow the heir to gather support without being quickly defeated. Historical events can provide inspiration for how to craft these situations.
  3. A lost heir's eventual reign should hint at their ability to lead. Even if they don't win, showing how they would govern helps readers connect with the character and understand the challenges they face.
The Lifeboat β€’ 172 implied HN points β€’ 19 Jun 25
  1. Words can have a powerful effect on people. Just saying something can change how others feel or act.
  2. Over time, people can become desensitized to scary or shocking words. What once frightened them can become a joke.
  3. Humans need to connect with real feelings and not just repeat words like parrots. True emotions matter more than just saying what sounds good.
Between a Rock and a Card Place β€’ 5801 implied HN points β€’ 22 Oct 24
  1. Many people have books they find embarrassing to read or display. These can be titles that they enjoy but feel ashamed of for various reasons.
  2. The emotional reaction to certain books, like embarrassment, can reveal deeper feelings and interests of a person. It’s okay to enjoy books that might seem cheesy or awkward.
  3. Starting a book club focused on these 'embarrassing' reads can create a safe space for discussing and sharing those hidden interests, allowing people to connect over their unique reading experiences.
Postcards From Barsoom β€’ 2399 implied HN points β€’ 26 Oct 24
  1. The collapse of complex civilizations leads to interesting discussions on future societies and human roles. People often use storytelling and archetypes to explore these ideas.
  2. There is a growing conversation around the influence of gender dynamics in spaces like academia, focusing on how male engagement is changing.
  3. Podcast discussions often dive into topics like male flight from traditional roles and the significance of reality as a structured story, prompting listeners to reflect on their own roles.
The Sub Club Newsletter β€’ 277 implied HN points β€’ 30 Oct 24
  1. When you get feedback from agents, remember not all feedback is good or useful. Some comments might just reflect personal taste, so don't take it too personally.
  2. It can help to look for patterns in the feedback you're getting from different agents. If many agents suggest the same changes, it might be worth considering those edits.
  3. Don't rush to change your work just because an agent suggested it. Take your time to think about the feedback and decide what's best for your book.
PASSAGES β€’ 1478 implied HN points β€’ 23 Oct 24
  1. Kent is investigating a case involving a woman named Mary Anderson, who had a stillborn baby twenty years ago. He is trying to confirm if she had a specific procedure after the delivery.
  2. Kent speaks with Dr. Samuel Ito, the doctor who delivered Mary's baby, to get answers. However, Dr. Ito is very cautious because of patient confidentiality rules.
  3. While waiting to hear back from the doctor, Kent reflects on his day and thinks about Koa, showing that he has personal feelings connected to his investigation.
The Take (by Jon Miltimore) β€’ 198 implied HN points β€’ 30 Oct 24
  1. "The Raft" is a short story by Stephen King that tells about four friends who go swimming and end up trapped on a raft with a dangerous creature below them.
  2. The characters have typical young adult problems like love and jealousy, making their doom even more relatable and scary.
  3. The story is not just about the creature, but it's also about the darker sides of human nature lurking beneath the surface.
Wondering Freely β€’ 991 implied HN points β€’ 24 Oct 24
  1. Many students today struggle to read long novels and often rely on summaries instead. This shift shows how reading habits have changed in recent years.
  2. Reading literary fiction can be a journey that helps us grow as people. It lets us explore complex characters and their lives, which can lead to self-reflection.
  3. We often feel pressured to be constantly productive, which makes it hard to enjoy reading. It's important to slow down and allow ourselves to simply enjoy a good book.
The Sub Club Newsletter β€’ 773 implied HN points β€’ 23 Oct 24
  1. Querying agents can be a long process, often taking many months and requiring lots of patience. It's normal to feel ups and downs as you wait for responses.
  2. It's important to tailor your query letter to highlight your book's qualities and how it fits within its genre. Good comps can help agents understand what readers might enjoy about your story.
  3. Don't get discouraged by rejections or silence. Keep querying different agents, and remember that perseverance is key to eventually finding the right match!
Singal-Minded β€’ 185 implied HN points β€’ 19 Jun 25
  1. The novel 'Stop All the Clocks' blends interesting themes like artificial intelligence and poetry into a mystery. It sounds really engaging and original.
  2. The author is encouraging readers to join a giveaway for five copies of the book, making it accessible for new readers and those who support the newsletter.
  3. Supporting first-time authors, especially by buying their books, can create a big difference in their success within the challenging world of publishing.
PASSAGES β€’ 1278 implied HN points β€’ 16 Oct 24
  1. Jud and his family are traveling down a narrow and steep road into Waimalia Valley. It's a bit scary, but they are excited to see the wild horses.
  2. The journey brings a sense of responsibility for Jud as he drives with his family in the truck. He wants to keep them safe while they explore.
  3. On the way, Jud meets a local driver, which shows the community feel of the area. It’s nice to see locals enjoying the valley just like his family.
gender:hacked by Eliza Mondegreen β€’ 277 implied HN points β€’ 26 Oct 24
  1. The week features a selection of interesting articles to read. It's a great way to catch up on new ideas and perspectives.
  2. There's an option for a 7-day free trial to access more content. This lets people explore more without any initial cost.
  3. You can easily share the top reads with friends. Sharing is a good way to discuss things you find valuable or thought-provoking.
Poems, Short stories and other things.. β€’ 14 implied HN points β€’ 30 Jun 25
  1. It's important to set your own expectations for yourself but not to impose expectations on others. This can help avoid conflicts in personal relationships.
  2. Adults should be allowed to make their own choices, and interfering can lead to resentment and push them away.
  3. Many expectations come from societal norms or upbringing, and it's helpful to reflect on which ones really matter and what happens if they're not met.
The Sub Club Newsletter β€’ 257 implied HN points β€’ 24 Oct 24
  1. Popular magazines can give good exposure, but they're very competitive. It might help to find magazines that are well-known but not too hard to get into.
  2. Many of the best magazine options offer fast response times and pay their writers. This can keep writers motivated and eager to try submitting their work.
  3. When looking for magazines, consider different styles and genres. The vibe of a magazine can be just as important as its readership.
Justin E. H. Smith's Hinternet β€’ 760 implied HN points β€’ 06 Jun 25
  1. The way we view Earth has changed, seeing it mostly as a source of raw materials. This mindset started with the industrial revolution and impacted how humans interact with nature.
  2. There have been many battles over resources long before humans existed. For instance, plants and elements have shaped the Earth's environment and learned to take advantage of each other.
  3. Humans are now at a point where they can manipulate nature and create artificial systems that act like living beings. This shows a significant shift in how we understand and interact with the natural world.
PASSAGES β€’ 1418 implied HN points β€’ 09 Oct 24
  1. Kent is getting to know Koa better, and he's impressed by her excitement for everyday things like food and driving.
  2. He's trying to learn more about Koa's background but is hitting dead ends, which raises questions about her family.
  3. Kent feels the weight of their serious situation and knows he must be cautious in how he interacts with Koa.
Blackbird Spyplane β€’ 1538 implied HN points β€’ 08 Oct 24
  1. Rachel Kushner's new novel, 'Creation Lake', is about a morally ambiguous spy who is unlikable, but the story remains engaging. It explores deep themes like identity and the history of humanity.
  2. The author highlights the importance of hands-on skills in today's digital age. There's value in physical creation, and those who connect with tangible things often experience richness in life.
  3. Through her writing and experiences, Kushner illustrates complex social issues, including the struggles of marginalized communities. She emphasizes the need to focus on people, not just abstract politics.
Quid Amo β€’ 937 implied HN points β€’ 14 Oct 24
  1. Reading stories can help us understand other people's lives and feelings. It allows us to see the world from different perspectives.
  2. Tenderness in storytelling is important. Authors can show characters' struggles while still portraying their humanity and capacity for love.
  3. Finding a sense of belonging is essential. We all want to feel loved and accepted, and good books can reflect that longing and offer hope.
Jeff Giesea β€’ 2814 implied HN points β€’ 22 Sep 24
  1. Fiction seems to be more associated with women, which might keep men from engaging in reading and writing it. It's important for men to feel welcome in this space too.
  2. Statistics show that many more women read fiction compared to men, creating a gap that might negatively impact how stories are told and understood in society.
  3. The publishing world tends to favor female voices now, which can push male writers away and lead to fewer stories that explore male perspectives, hurting cultural conversations.
PASSAGES β€’ 1638 implied HN points β€’ 02 Oct 24
  1. Koa experiences a new way of exploring the world while riding in a truck, feeling like she's on a boat. This shows her that movement can change how she sees things around her without needing to slow down.
  2. As they drive, Koa reflects on her home in the Valley and feels both comforted by it and overwhelmed by the outside world. She realizes she knows her home well, but is also curious about what lies beyond.
  3. Koa struggles with her emotions about leaving the Valley, wishing she could stay forever but trying to embrace the new experiences. It's a mix of fear and excitement when facing the unknown.
The Sub Club Newsletter β€’ 812 implied HN points β€’ 09 Oct 24
  1. Choosing the right genre and comparative titles for your book is really important when querying agents. Make sure your comps support the genre you want to pitch.
  2. Upmarket fiction is a blend of literary and commercial styles, focusing on good writing while still being accessible to a wide audience. It's crucial to know where your book fits in this spectrum.
  3. Don't stress too much about pitching your book perfectly. The right agent will understand the essence of your work, even if your initial genre label isn't spot on.
Silentium β€’ 299 implied HN points β€’ 19 Oct 24
  1. Poetry can be a way to find peace and quiet in a noisy world. It encourages us to slow down and reflect on our thoughts.
  2. Engaging with poetry allows for deeper contemplation and understanding of our feelings. It can help us connect with ourselves in a meaningful way.
  3. Taking time for poetry can improve our mental well-being. It offers a gentle escape and can be a source of comfort and inspiration.
gender:hacked by Eliza Mondegreen β€’ 297 implied HN points β€’ 19 Oct 24
  1. You can find a list of popular articles to read each week. It's a great way to discover new topics and ideas.
  2. There’s an option to subscribe for a free trial to access more articles. This allows you to see if you like the content before committing.
  3. The site has a focus on specific interests, making it easier to find related information you care about. It's like having a personalized reading list.
Tumbleweed Words β€’ 35 implied HN points β€’ 23 Feb 25
  1. The poem reflects on memories and experiences from childhood, using vivid imagery to convey emotions. It touches on themes of nostalgia and the bittersweet nature of growing up.
  2. It hints at the complexities of relationships and secrets, suggesting that not everything is as it seems. There are layers to every story and hidden truths among the surface.
  3. Nature and the environment play a significant role in the poem, illustrating how they shape our lives and memories. From the sound of waves to the warmth of knitted clothes, these elements evoke a strong sense of place.
Counter Craft β€’ 880 implied HN points β€’ 28 May 25
  1. Adverbs can be useful tools in writing, despite the common advice to avoid them. They can add depth and nuance to sentences when used thoughtfully.
  2. Many writers misuse adverbs by using them to repeat information that is already clear. It's better to choose words that enhance the meaning rather than say the same thing twice.
  3. Context is key when using adverbs. Sometimes they can provide clarity, but other times, they may slow down the pace. Think carefully about how they affect your writing.
Justin E. H. Smith's Hinternet β€’ 293 implied HN points β€’ 05 Jun 25
  1. The author found a lost notebook that had a note asking to be returned to its owner, which sparked a journey to reconnect it with that person.
  2. The contents of the notebook revealed dreams written by someone, which were personal and at times eerie, showcasing the complexities of human emotions.
  3. There was a moral dilemma about returning the notebook, as the author reflected on the past experiences with its owner while trying to do the right thing.
Tumbleweed Words β€’ 31 implied HN points β€’ 22 Feb 25
  1. It's okay to acknowledge our family's past struggles, even if they involve violence. These experiences shape who we are today.
  2. Emotions and memories can be heavy, making us feel empty or lost at times. It's normal to feel this way.
  3. Finding joy or comfort in physical connections is important, even when dealing with painful memories. We can seek pleasure despite our past.
The Lifeboat β€’ 172 implied HN points β€’ 06 Jun 25
  1. Nadezhda Teffi was a popular writer known for her humor and insight, especially in her critiques of society. She gained fame in early 20th century Russia and compared to Chekhov.
  2. The term 'midwit' describes someone who thinks they are smart but lacks true wisdom. They often overanalyze things while missing the bigger picture.
  3. Teffi's writings can help us understand social issues that are still relevant today. Her unique perspective brings humor to serious topics, making them timeless.
The Sub Club Newsletter β€’ 376 implied HN points β€’ 10 Oct 24
  1. New literary magazines are popping up all the time, and they can be a great opportunity for fresh voices. Writers shouldn't ignore these newcomers, even if they don't have a long history.
  2. Magazines that opened in 2023 and 2024 are often more accessible to submit to than well-known ones. Many are actively seeking submissions and have a vision that stands out.
  3. Keeping an eye on new and unique magazines is exciting, as they may become important in the literary scene. Plus, some magazines are currently open for submissions to their first issues, which can be a fun gamble for writers.
Story Club with George Saunders β€’ 253 implied HN points β€’ 14 Feb 25
  1. Keeping politics out of discussions is important, but sometimes it's necessary to address serious issues affecting governance and society.
  2. It's essential to remember the values of kindness and support for the less fortunate, especially during challenging times.
  3. Staying engaged and critical while maintaining a sense of humor can help us deal with difficult situations and keep hope alive for a better future.
Astral Codex Ten β€’ 12526 implied HN points β€’ 12 Dec 24
  1. Time is the only true enemy of those who are innocent and beautiful. It can take away love and youth.
  2. Embracing simplicity and purity brings happiness, even if it seems fragile. Pure intentions often face challenges.
  3. Beauty and innocence should be cherished, as they stand out in a complex world. They may be vulnerable, but they are worth protecting.