Use ChatGPT
Every step, prompt and lesson works in ChatGPT, from market research to a finished manuscript.
Where beginners become bestsellers.
New to writing? New to AI? You're in the right place.
Life-changing money is being made with AI-written fiction.
You could be the next bestseller.
No writing background. No tech skills. Just a clear plan, AI doing the heavy lifting, and me walking you through every click.
Instant Access with Free Updates Included.
Step by stepfrom first idea to live book
Video + Textchoose what works for you
Agent Khelp in each lesson
Freeupdates and new lessons
Your AI, your WAY
Love ChatGPT? Prefer Claude?
Either one works.
I teach both, so you can follow along in the one you already use or the one you want to try.
Use Claude
Every step, prompt and lesson works in Claude too, so you never need to switch tools.
Not sure which?
The Choose Your Poison lesson helps you pick, and you can change your mind later.
See exactly how it works before you decidE
Take a look inside Secret Authors
Hi, I’m Kate Riley
I Spent Years Writing Books the Hard Way.
Here's the shortcut I wish I'd had.
I’ve landed on the New York Times bestseller list twice and the USA Today list more than a dozen times, across multiple pen names. I’ve been publishing fiction since 2011, and I’ve written more than 200 novels pre-AI.
But here’s what matters more to you:
You don’t need years of writing experience to start writing fiction with AI.
You just need a system that knows what good fiction involves, and shows you how to get AI to help you create it.
I didn’t build a system that tells AI, “Write me a book.” I built one that gives you the same framework an experienced fiction author uses to create stories readers actually want to finish.
Even if you’ve never written fiction before.
E-Book Best Sellers
Combined Print & E-Book
How I make it easy
6 reasons most beginners never finish a book.
And the fix for each one.
Nobody gives up because they don’t want the royalties. They give up because they hit a roadblock they can’t get past. So I built the course that's designed to make sure you're never stuck.
Which genre?
You'll use AI to dig deep into the Amazon charts to uncover the top-selling genres and sub-genres that aren't saturated.
No book idea?
You don’t need one. AI generates concepts from your research, and you choose the one that excites you most.
Can’t write?
You follow my simple AI-writing system: give AI the plan, review what it writes, fix what’s off, move on. AI does the hard work.
Sounds like AI?
This will never be an issue because we'll create a voice skill that makes sure your story never sounds like a robot wrote it.
Losing the plot?
I teach you exactly how to keep track of all the important things without feeling overwhelmed. Your AI keeps it all straight for you.
How to publish?
I cover it all. From creating a standout cover, book blurb, keywords, categories, formatting, and everything else.
Secret Authors takes away the guesswork. My goal is to make things as easy as possible so you can have fun with this new career while making money from the day you hit publish.
START WRITING YOUR BOOK NOW
- Instant access to the Secret Authors hub
- Covers everything you need to publish
- A complete system that's easy to follow
Everything YOU NEED IN ONE SPOT
Open a lesson. Follow along.
Publish your book.
Secret Authors takes you from your first idea to a live book on Amazon.
Easy to follow
Watch the videos or follow the written lessons. Everything is ready to copy, making it as easy as possible.
At your own pace
The videos save your place, so you can build your future income in the gaps of your day and continue right where you left off.
Always up to date
AI tools change fast. When they do, I update the course, so you keep earning with what works now.
Imagine waking up to royalties from books you wrote.
Get paid by readers.
Not by a boss.
Let me guess. You’re trading your hours for a paycheck. The bills never quite stop. And somewhere in the back of your head, a voice keeps saying: “There HAS to be a better way.”
There is. Fiction is one of the few businesses where you publish once and the book can keep earning for years. Readers binge a whole series, so every new book helps sell the one before it.
I know because this has been my job since 2011 when I first published on Amazon. I never used to believe passive income was truly possible until they opened the doors to self-publishers. Then everything changed for me, and it’ll change for you too.
You’ll also never be stuck working in one genre. You can also maximize your income by covering multiple in-demand sub-genres! And if you don’t want to write romance, there are always mystery, thrillers, and dozens of other profitable markets.
What’s waiting inside
- Video and text-based lessons
- Resources, and tools to make things easy
- Side Missions upon completion
Students are already MAKING MONEY
They started right where you are.
Here's what happened next...
“Published my first book in 2 weeks.”
“Published my first book in 2 weeks. Zero writing experience. Already making money and people are loving it! Was afraid of bad reviews but Kate’s strategy made sure the content was top notch. Kate’s system works exactly like she says it does. She’s the real deal.”
“I wake up excited to write stories.”
“This is a fabulous course. I have learned an incredible amount of information and have written 9 books in about 45 days. I have a lot of Kate’s classes over the years and I keep saying that ‘this is the best yet’ but this truly is. I wake up excited to write stories. Thank you, Kate Riley!”
“I’m 67 and not tech savvy at all.”
“I’m 67 and not tech-savvy at all, so I wasn’t expecting much, but I was wrong. If I can do this, anyone can.
Multiple cozy mystery books published already and seeing sales!
Wish I’d found this course sooner.”
“Earned $782 in royalties in one month.”
“I usually overthink everything and never finish anything. Kate Riley’s step-by-step approach kept me focused and moving forward.
Three books completed when I expected to quit halfway through the first. And made $782 last month!”
“It’s like having a friend sit next to you.”
“This course is amazing. Kate covers everything and I really love her teaching style.
It’s like having a friend sit next to you, showing you the ropes.”
“…they actually sound like something I’d write.”
“This course helped me get serious about using AI.
Kate’s unique process taught me how to clean up AI drafts so they actually sound like something I’d write. If you’re tired of generic output, this course is worth it!”
Feedback shared by Secret Authors students. These are individual experiences, not a promise of the same income or publishing speed.
Where the money is
Fiction Readers spend billions on books.
Here's how you get your share.
Romance. Mystery. Thriller. Fantasy. Sci-fi. Horror. Historical. Regency. Paranormal. Cozy. Sweet and clean. And that’s only the start. Inside every one of those are dozens of very profitable subgenres where readers can’t get enough.
Readers buy fiction every single day, in dozens of genres. You don’t have to guess which ones, and you’re never stuck with just one. I’ll show you how to uncover what’s selling and write what readers are already begging for.
Fun fact: I recently found a weird little sub-genre that made thousands in book sales in its first month. I shared it with my students, but the best part is I found it the way I’ll teach you: follow the readers, not your gut.
Fiction · the market
Billions in book sales
Readers spend billions on fiction every year, and romance is one of the biggest genres of all, but you're not limited to just writing those.
Hot genres · the trend
New genres take off fast
New subgenres catch fire all the time, and readers who love them buy book after book. I show you how to spot them early.
Series · the profit
Series keep paying
A reader who loves book 1 comes back for book 2, book 3 and beyond. One series can keep earning long after you publish it.
Meet Agent K, the mini me inside your course
You're never doing this alone.
Meet Agent K.
Talking Agent K clip goes hereAgent K isn't a random chatbot. She's a mini me. It's like having me sitting next to you, ready the moment you have a question.
I spent a long time building her from the questions my students and community members ask me most. I pulled them from my helpdesk and my community, and I wrote the answers myself. So when you ask Agent K something, you get my answers, not generic AI advice.
Not sure what a step means? Stuck on a prompt? Ask her right there in the lesson. No searching through videos. No giving up.
She’s there any time you need her. If you need more, I’m around too, with a support team behind us.
Ask any time
Agent K is built into every lesson, so you can ask the moment you get stuck.
Instant answers
Ask Agent K and get an answer right away. If you need more help, our support team is here.
I’m around too
Need more help? You can reach me and the support team. You’re never on your own with this.
Your roadmap to your first royalties
Your step-by-step path from blank page to published book.
Follow the steps in order and watch your book come together.
Welcome
Your money roadmap, in 1 place
- Welcome to Secret AuthorsMeet the course and the approach you will use to build your book.
- Choose Your PoisonChoose ChatGPT or Claude and understand the two ways through the course.
- The BriefingSee the complete path from market research to your publishing plan.
Every lesson included
The Writing Machine
Set up the tools that do the work for you
- Mission ControlChoose your AI setup and the plan you need for the workflow.
- Home BaseConnect Google Drive and organize where your book documents live.
- Eyes on the GroundSet up browser-assisted research so your AI can investigate real sources.
Every lesson included
The Profit Map
Find the genres that pay before you write a word
- Follow the MoneyResearch your fiction lane and collect relevant comparison titles.
- The Blind SpotFind reader requests and gaps your book could serve.
- Trigger PhrasesCollect reader language and bring your findings into a Market Brief.
Every lesson included
The Bestseller Code
Turn research into a book readers want to buy
- The Winning FormulaStudy genre expectations and develop book concepts around your research.
- The Premise LockSharpen your chosen concept before committing to the draft.
- Story StructureUnderstand the framework that will hold your story together.
Every lesson included
The Author Identity
Build a pen name readers trust and buy from
- Your Alter EgoChoose and research a pen name that fits your intended readership.
- Trust SignalsBuild your author biography and a consistent brand presentation.
Every lesson included
The Story Architecture
Plan the whole book so AI writes it right
- The Safe HouseCreate the project and documents that become your book’s home.
- The Long GameConsider the series and where future books can lead.
And more lessons in this module
- The Inside StoryDevelop your characters, world and story bible.
- The Chapter MapTurn the structure into a chapter-by-chapter outline.
- The LogbookKeep useful records so the story stays consistent.
- House RulesSet standing instructions for how your AI should work on the book.
The Voice Blueprint
Make AI sound like you, not a robot
- The VoiceprintBuild a voice guide from writing samples or a guided process.
- Your BlacklistSet boundaries for overused words, names and AI writing habits.
- Field TestTry your voice in practice and refine what does not sound right.
Every lesson included
The Drafting Engine
Turn your plan into a finished book, fast
- The Chapter LoopDraft a chapter, review it and move the story forward.
- Marching OrdersGive each chapter a clear job and the direction it needs.
- The Paper TrailTrack facts, open threads and what the reader knows.
And more lessons in this module
- Pressure PointsStrengthen emotion and the moments that need more impact.
- The InterrogationCheck dialogue and give characters their own voices.
The Editorial Pass
Polish it so readers keep turning pages
- The Editorial LetterAssess the manuscript and prioritize story-level changes.
- The Red PenWork through line editing, copy editing and unwanted AI habits.
- The Final SweepProofread and prepare the manuscript for the next stage.
And more lessons in this module
- The Listening PostListen to the book to catch problems your eyes may skip.
The Publishing Powerhouse
Get your book live where readers can buy it
- The Thumbnail TestCheck whether the cover communicates your genre at a small size.
- Design Your Book CoversDevelop your cover artwork and presentation.
- The Fine PrintPrepare the front and back matter around your story.
And more lessons in this module
- The Print ShopPrepare your ebook and print formatting workflow.
- The Full WrapPlan the paperback front, spine and back cover.
- 7 Boxes of GoldDevelop your blurb, keyword phrases and categories.
- Go LiveWork through the KDP upload and publication steps.
The Series Strategy
Turn one book into a catalog that keeps earning
- The Read-ThroughPlan a series release rhythm that helps readers keep going.
- T-30Understand the role of preorders in your release plan.
- Double FeatureExplore when and how to create a box set.
And more lessons in this module
- Big Print EnergyConsider hardcover and large-print editions.
- Voices in the DarkCompare the available routes for AI-narrated audiobooks.
- The Recording BoothPrepare and produce an audiobook with ElevenLabs.
- World DominationExplore distribution options for your audiobook.
- The Next MissionCarry your series foundation into the next book.
Your Finish Line
Finish the course and the extras open up.
- Certificate of completionPrint it or save it as a PDF when you finish.
- A finisher surpriseWaiting for you on the celebration page.
- Side MissionsYour next moves for making more money from your books.
Everything unlocks when you finish.
You get all of this
- Every module and lesson, plus new ones
- A certificate when you finish
- Side Missions and a finisher surprise
Where the money compounds
Millions of readers are searching for their next binge-read.
Write it for them.
Readers who love book 1 come back for book 2. I show you how to plan for that from day one.
One book powers an entire series that continues to sell day after day.
We also cover box sets, large print, hardcover, and audiobooks, so you can sell the same stories more than one way.Let's build a series they can't put down.
SECRET AUTHORS
Is Secret Authors right for you?
Let's find out!
This is for you if
- You want to generate passive income from books
- You want to become a successful author
- You’re willing to follow the steps.
- You’re open to working with AI.
- You want a roadmap, not random tips.
This is not for you if
- You want income with zero effort.
- You want to write every word yourself.
- You only want to write a single book.
- You are anti-AI (definitely not for you!)
- You want to write nonfiction.
More than a course
Become a member of the
Secret Authors community
There's no fake countdown timer on this page. No “only 3 spots left.” (It’s a course. There are plenty of spots.) Just the real reason: Secret Authors keeps growing, with new lessons and updates added for free.
As it grows, the price will too. Get in now and you get every update that comes after, at no extra cost.
I look forward to welcoming you!
Why start now
- Join before the price increases
- Free updates and new lessons as the tools change
- You'll be one step closer to a published book!
A QUICK LAST-MINUTE OVERVIEW
Here's exactly what you get.
Your complete AI fiction course
$397one-time payment · free updates
- Guided lessons from first idea to live book
- Video walkthroughs + text lessons
- Genre research that shows what readers buy
- Ready-to-copy prompts and lesson resources
- AI drafting and editing steps for ChatGPT or Claude
- Cover, formatting and Amazon KDP setup
- Series, box set, print and audiobook guidance
- Agent K help inside your lessons
- Course hub that saves your video progress
- Free course updates and new lessons
Still wondering? Here's what everyone asks.
Questions? Straight answers.
What if I’ve never written anything?
Then you’re exactly who this course is for. We begin with the setup. Then I walk you through the research, story ideas, AI writing and publishing.
Do I need a book idea before I join?
No. You’ll learn how to research genres and get AI generating story ideas based on what readers want. The starting point is built into the lessons.
Do I need to be good with computers or AI?
No. Every step shows you what to click and what to paste. Agent K is there if you get stuck.
Will my book sound like AI?
Not if you follow the voice and cleanup steps. That’s what the Voice Blueprint module is for.
Will you show me covers and Amazon publishing too?
Yes. Covers, blurbs, formatting, keywords, categories and the KDP upload are all part of the course.
Can I watch videos or read the lessons?
Both. You get video walkthroughs and text lessons, plus the prompts and resources. Your videos save your place, so you can come back and continue.
What if I need help?
Ask Agent K inside any lesson. Questions can also go to our support team. I’m never too far.
Do you offer refunds?
I don’t give refunds on digital products or courses. But we’re here to help you every step of the way.
Do I get future updates?
Yes. Updates and new lessons are free. I keep the course current as the tools change.
How much will I earn, and how fast?
I can’t tell you, and anyone who does is guessing. Many of us earn royalties every month. Others are just publishing their first books.
The course gives you everything you need to succeed in this business. The rest is up to you.
Will the price go up?
As Secret Authors grows, the price will too. No fake countdown timer. The course isn’t going anywhere, and everything new that gets added is free for members.
How do I get access?
After your purchase is confirmed, you’ll receive an email with instructions to access the private training hub.
Yes, I want to publish my book!
Option 1: keep wondering if you could do this.
Option 2: publish your first book.
You keep thinking about writing a book. You keep saving posts, watching videos, collecting ideas, and telling yourself you’ll figure it out someday. And six months from now, you could still be in exactly the same place.
Option 2 moves you forward. You follow a proven system, use AI as your writing partner, and finally turn that idea in your head into a finished book you can actually publish.
You don’t need years of writing experience. You don’t need to figure out plotting, pacing, prompts, editing, publishing, and marketing by yourself. You just need to start.
P.S. Joining now gets you every update that comes after, at no extra cost. But the bigger cost isn’t joining. It’s spending another year thinking about the book you could have already published.