In recent years, TikTok has become a haven for indie authors, publishers, editors, and readers. With its engaging short-form video content, #BookTok blossomed into a thriving community where writers shared their journeys, editors offered tips, and readers discovered their next favorite read. However, as whispers of a potential TikTok ban in the U.S. grow louder, many in the indie author community are wondering:
What’s next?
At Editority, we understand the vital role TikTok has played in connecting creatives. While the app’s future remains uncertain, the indie publishing world is resilient, and there are alternative platforms where we can keep the magic alive. Here are some fantastic, non-Meta-owned options to consider:
1. Discord
Best for: Building tight-knit communities and collaboration.
Discord offers private servers where authors, editors, and readers can engage in meaningful discussions, share resources, and host live events. Many #BookTokers have already started creating Discord channels to keep their groups intact. You can set up categories for manuscript critiques, writing sprints, and even virtual book clubs.
Why we love it: It’s versatile, ad-free, and designed for collaboration.
2. YouTube
Best for: Long-form content and tutorials.
YouTube isn’t just for beauty influencers and gamers—it’s a powerful platform for writers and publishers. Indie authors can create channels for vlogs, “Write With Me” sessions, book trailers, and deep dives into writing tips. Readers love detailed book reviews and hauls, making it an excellent space for engagement.
Why we love it: It rewards creators for detailed, high-quality content.
3. Substack
Best for: Sharing newsletters, essays, and serialized writing.
Substack is perfect for writers who want to directly engage their audience through newsletters. You can serialize novels, share behind-the-scenes content, or write long-form posts about your writing journey. Substack also has a comment section for community interaction.
Why we love it: You own your audience and can monetize through subscriptions.
4. Tumblr
Best for: Creative expression and fandom engagement.
Tumblr is making a comeback as a haven for creatives. With its blog-style format, authors can share writing snippets, host Q&A sessions, and promote their books. It’s also a fantastic platform for building a niche audience through hashtags and reblogs.
Why we love it: Its culture of creativity aligns beautifully with the indie author spirit.
5. Hive Social
Best for: A TikTok-like alternative with a mix of visual and text content.
Hive Social offers a clean, creator-focused environment where authors can post updates, share writing excerpts, and connect with readers. It’s user-friendly and combines features of Instagram and Twitter, making it a strong contender for creatives.
Why we love it: It prioritizes creators and fosters meaningful engagement.
6. Goodreads Groups
Best for: Book discussions and reader engagement.
While Goodreads has long been known as a book cataloging site, its Groups feature can be an excellent place for community building. Authors can connect with fans, create reading challenges, and collaborate on book recommendations.
Why we love it: It’s where readers already go to discover books.
7. Mastodon
Best for: Microblogging and niche communities.
Mastodon is a decentralized alternative to Twitter, with smaller servers tailored to specific interests. You can join writing-specific servers to discuss your craft, share publishing tips, and network with other creatives.
Why we love it: It’s ad-free, open-source, and community-focused.
8. Ko-fi
Best for: Monetizing creative work and building fan relationships.
Ko-fi allows creators to share content, crowdfund projects, and build a following. Authors can sell books, offer exclusive perks like signed copies, and fund their writing goals while staying connected to their audience.
Why we love it: It’s straightforward, supportive, and great for direct fan engagement.
Adapting Together
While the uncertainty around TikTok is unsettling, it’s also an opportunity to diversify how we connect as a community. At Editority, we’re here to support indie creators through every twist and turn. Let’s explore these platforms together and continue fostering a space where creativity thrives.
Are there platforms you love that we missed? Drop your suggestions in the comments! Let’s keep the indie author community thriving—no matter where we gather.
Stay inspired, stay connected, and keep creating!
-Team Editority