The 15 Best Software for Writing a Book and Author Platforms in 2023

Updated on January 1, 2023  |  Software Reviews 

Writing a book can be daunting, but with the right software and author platform, it’s easier than ever.

Google Docs Icon

Google Docs

Google Docs is a fantastic free online word processor that makes document sharing simple. A fantastic tool for teamwork that can be applied to many different activities.

Scrivener icon

Scrivener

Scrivener a great tool for creating novels. It has a configurable interface, an outliner, full-screen mode, and the ability to track word count.

Evernote icon

Evernote

Evernote is also excellent software since it offers a robust, adaptable note-taking tool that can be used for a variety of tasks.

Atticus icon

Atticus

Atticus is a fantastic self-publishing tool since it is simple to use, has a modern UI, and has a no-questions-asked 30-day money-back guarantee.

In this post, we’re going to list 15 of the best software for writing a book and author platforms in 2022. Whether you are struggling with what to write about or have an idea of a topic you want to cover, this article is for you.

We hope you find this post helpful!

The 15 Best Software for Writing a Book and Author Platforms in 2022

Google Docs Logo

Google Docs is a free online word processor that allows you to write and edit documents without spending money. You can also share your documents easily with other people, making collaboration easier. Additionally, Google Docs has iOS, Android, and Windows apps, so you can access your files from anywhere. Plus, you can export your documents as PDF, ePUB, or other formats if you want to keep them offline. However, note that Google Docs requires an internet connection unless files are saved for offline use.

Nick's Take

I think Google Docs is a great free online word processor that allows easy document sharing and has iOS, Android, and Windows apps. Google Docs is a great collaborative tool that can be used for a range of tasks. The main advantage of Google Docs is that it is free.

Features

  1. This program allows multiple people to work on the same document simultaneously, making it an excellent tool for team communication.
  2. Documents can be easily shared via email or a link and are accessible from any device.
  3. Performance may slow when tracking changes on documents of 80 or more pages, but this drawback can be minimized by using small changes frequently.
  4. Google Docs has built-in intelligence to help you write faster and with fewer errors.
  5. You can use voice typing and quick document translation to save time.
  6. You can easily connect to your other Google apps with Docs.
  7. You can search the web and Google Drive for relevant content and images directly from Docs.
Google Docs Features

Pros:

  • Google Docs is free to use: Google Docs is a free online word processor that allows you to write and edit documents without spending money.
  • Allows for easy document sharing: Google Docs lets you quickly share your documents with other team members, making collaboration easier.
  • You can easily share your work-in-progress: You can easily share your work-in-progress via email or a link.
  • Documents can be exported as PDF, ePUB, and other formats: You can also export your records as PDF, ePUB, or other formats if you want to keep them offline.

Cons:

  • Does not work with Apple Pages: Google Docs does not readily incorporate or work with Apple’s productivity suite, Apple Pages.
  • Cannot save to the main version of the File: Sometimes, it saves the File to an older version instead of the main version.
  • Alignment can be improved: The downloadable formats often seem to mess with users’ alignment preferences, which can be improved.
  • Requires an internet connection unless files are saved for offline use: Unless you keep the File for offline use (using File> Save As), it will require an internet connection to view the File.
  • Slow down when tracking changes on large documents.

Pricing

Google Docs is a free online word processor that allows users to write and edit documents without spending any money.

Scrivener Logo

Scrivener is a word processor and outlining tool designed specifically for authors. It allows writers to save images, short notes, and audio files, which can be accessed anytime. It makes writing more flexible and easier to manage by allowing for more than just linear writing. Scrivener allows for easy chapter navigation, the addition of footnotes and references, and word count tracking. It has a steep learning curve, but once users get used to it, they can work on projects anywhere with Mac OS, iOS, and Windows apps.

Nick's Take

I think Scrivener is an excellent tool for writing books, with features such as a flexible dashboard, an outliner, full-screen mode, and the ability to keep track of word count. It is also compatible with Mac OS, iOS devices, and Windows PCs.

Features

  1. This software was designed specifically with writers in mind, and it offers features that help you move chapters quickly, track word count, and more.
  2. Editor: One of the best things about Scrivener is its corkboard feature. This allows you to plan your book efficiently and keep track of your outline simultaneously. Using this outliner, you can easily access and manage complete chapter and book sections.
  3. Drag-and-drop: Another great feature of Scrivener is its lack of a drag-and-drop editor. However, this doesn’t take away from how helpful this writing software can be for any writer looking to get organized quickly and efficiently.
  4. Compatibility: With apps for iOS devices and Mac OS as well as Windows PC platforms available, there’s no need to worry about whether or not Scrivener will work on your device or computer system — you’ll be able to use it anywhere without issue!
  5. Cost: Although Scrivener may be a bit more expensive than other software options, it’s worth the investment if you’re looking for easy-to-use writing software to help you manage your book efficiently and without delays.
  6. Supports the addition of footnotes and references for nonfiction authors.
Scrivener Features

Pros:

  • It’s easy to use and visualizes your document well: An index card-like system that makes outputting the final document into various formats simple.
  • Keeps track of word count: Scrivener keeps track of your words, so you don’t have to worry about losing your progress.
  • The platform is affordable, and updates are reasonable: Platform pricing is good compared to other software options on the market.
  • It’s easy to use and visualizes your document well: An index card-like system that makes outputting the final document into various formats simple.

Cons:

  • Complexity: It can be challenging to figure out how to maximize the benefits of Scrivener without spending some time going through the tutorials.
  • No web app: No built-in web app feature makes collaborating with colleagues on projects easy.
  • No native collaboration features: Scrivener does not have native collaboration features, making working with others difficult.
  • Navigation is uncomfortable: The navigation in Scrivener is not very comfortable because the project is accessed through a flat list of documents.

Pricing

It is very affordable, with licenses starting at only $19.99 per year.

Evernote Logo

Evernote is a note-taking and organizing app that can share work with others. Evernote makes it easy to take, store, and share notes with others. You can attach files from your computer, insert entire web pages into notes, and tag notes for easy organization and searching. Premium features include increasing the upload limit to 10GB monthly and allowing for larger note sizes of up to 200MB. Evernote is available on both desktop and mobile devices, has offline access, and increased customer support options through email and live chat.

Nick's Take

I think Evernote is also great software since it’s a versatile, powerful note-taking application that can be used for various purposes. Evernote is great for taking notes while writing or researching a project.

Features

  1. Evernote is an app to take and store notes. It is excellent for novelists as it allows you to create multiple notebooks for each project.
  2. Evernote is easy-to-use, feature-rich, and ideal for taking notes on the go.
  3. Evernote allows you to tag notes for easy organization and to search.
  4. You can also include links and content from other websites and insert entire web pages into notes.
  5. Evernote is available on both desktop and mobile devices, has offline access, and increased customer support options through email and live chat.
  6. Evernote is an app designed to help you keep everything organized and in one place. It’s simple to use and can be accessed on multiple devices, making it perfect for keeping your ideas fresh while you write.
  7. You can easily keep multiple notes in a single notebook with Evernote. This is ideal for novelists as you can create various notebooks for projects. You can also create a separate notebook for each novel you are working on.
Evernote Features

Pros:

  • Evernote is useful for taking notes and organizing your class work: Evernote provides good templates and space to write with different devices.
  • Evernote is reliable and efficient: It keeps all your information safe and organized so you can access it easily when needed.
  • Evernote is powerful and has many features: It allows you to write notes in multiple languages, organize them by type, tag them, export them, and more.
  • Easy to use: The interface is simple but feature-rich, allowing you to take notes with a pencil and organize them later.
  • It’s reliable and supports multiple platforms: Evernote is compatible with different media, such as Android and iOS devices.

Cons:

  • Limited number of notes: You are limited to 1,000 notes in a single notebook.
  • Limited customer support: If you have issues with your account or notes, you will have limited access to customer support through email and live chat.
  • Can’t run on an Ubuntu server: Although the Evernote app can be loaded onto an Ubuntu server, it requires a complicated config to function correctly.
  • Limited device log-in: Free users are limited to two devices with the Evernote app.
  • The app is frequently updated: The Evernote app is updated almost every alternate day, which can be frustrating.

Pricing

Evernote is free with limited features, or $45 per year for a Premium subscription that offers more storage space and other benefits.

Atticus Logo

Atticus is a new self-publishing platform that allows users to quickly select formatting styles and export their novels to a ready-to-go ebook format. The Atticus word processor is basic but may be robust due to its promise to develop everything it promises. Dave Chesson, the creator of Atticus, is an experienced self-publishing marketer. Atticus is an excellent platform for writing because of its features, such as dedicated spaces for front and back matter, goal setting, and cross-platform compatibility.

Nick's Take

I think Atticus is a great self-publishing platform since it is easy to use, has a sleek interface, and offers a no-quibble 30-day money-back guarantee. Atticus is a highly user-friendly program with great potential for writers looking to publish their novels online quickly.

Features

  1. Some great features of Atticus include its dedicated spaces for front and back matter, goal setting, and cross-platform compatibility.
  2. The interface is easy to use and looks stylish.
  3. This program allows authors to format their novels for self-publishing easily and even includes dedicated spaces for front and back matter.
  4. You can choose various formatting styles, making it easy to get your book exactly how you want it.
  5. It works in a browser or on apps for Windows and Mac, making it one of the most cross-platform options available.
  6. Recommendation — If you’re looking for a simple way to quickly build an online version of your book, Atticus is worth checking out.
Atticus Features

Pros:

  • Affordable: Far more affordable than the leading alternatives.
  • Available on all conceivable platforms: You can use Atticus on your desktop, laptop, phone, or tablet.
  • Easy to use: The user interface is easy to learn and navigate.
  • It contains significant features: a dynamic theme builder, formatting software, and a word processor.

Cons:

  • No character or location management: Atticus doesn’t offer any features for managing characters or locations.
  • Limited features: Some features, such as dark mode and analytics dashboard, are still being developed and may not be available when the full version is released.
  • Atticus doesn’t have a native way to sell your book or build an author website.
  • Atticus is a more expensive option, costing $147 per year.

Pricing

Atticus is free to download and use, but there are some limitations on the number of projects you can have open at once. The price is $147 per year, but it is a one-time cost.

5. Microsoft Word

Microsoft Word Logo

Microsoft Word is an excellent app for writers because it is easy to use and has many beneficial features for writing a book. For example, Word offers spell and grammar checks, revision tracking, and the ability to format text quickly. Additionally, you can purchase Microsoft Word outright or subscribe to Microsoft 365 for a monthly fee.

Nick's Take

I think Microsoft Word is an excellent app for writers because it offers many features perfect for editing manuscripts, such as spell check, grammar check, revision history, track changes, and the ability to export PDFs. The focus mode is perfect for writers who need to concentrate while they work on their projects.

Features

Microsoft Word is a versatile word processor used on computers, laptops, Android, iOS, and the web. You can find free and premium book templates and outlines online. Third-party integration is not an issue with Microsoft Word. It is easy to organize your book’s chapters, sections, and parts with Microsoft Word.

  1. Microsoft Word is a word processor that is incredibly user-friendly, easy to use, and perfect for editing your book manuscript.
  2. It’s one of the most popular word processors in the world, so you’re likely to have no trouble finding others who know how to use it.
  3. One of the great features of Microsoft Word is its focus mode – a distraction-free environment that makes it easier for you to focus on your book writing.
  4. With its sleek design and simple user interface, Microsoft Word is perfect for anyone looking to edit or write a novel or book.
  5. You can find free and premium templates and outlines online that will help you get started quickly with your manuscript writing.
  6. As long as you have internet access, you can work on your manuscript from anywhere in the world!
Microsoft Word Features

Pros:

  • Microsoft Word is versatile and practical: Its features make it a powerful research analyst tool, such as an automatic spell checker and grammar correction.
  • Microsoft Word is compatible with other Microsoft products: You can easily embed other documents into your documents, making them more powerful and versatile.
  • It’s easy to save files in one click: You can easily keep them using the “save as” option.
  • Microsoft Word is a powerful tool for document editing: It allows you to keep track of version edits, store documents in One drive, and use intelligent suggestions.
  • The migration to One drive was one of the best upgrades: Improved storage and autosaving capabilities.

Cons:

  • The subscription model is expensive: You must pay for a Microsoft Office 365 subscription to use Word. There are cheaper alternatives, such as Google Docs.
  • It can be challenging to track edits: Keeping track of version edits can be difficult if you use Microsoft Word often.
  • Limited features: While Microsoft Word offers a variety of tools to improve the documentation process, it does not provide all the features available in other word processors.
  • No special features or enhancements: At this point, Microsoft Word does not offer any particular features or enhancements.

Pricing

There is a one-time fee to purchase Microsoft Word outright, or you can subscribe to Microsoft 365 for $6.99/month.

6. ProWritingAid

ProWritingAid Logo

ProWritingAid is a grammar-checking and writing support application that offers professional-level editing features at an affordable price. The program has 25 different reports that analyze your writing from diverse perspectives, making identifying and fixing errors easy. The Chrome extension is also free to use, making it an excellent option for writers who want to ensure their work is error-free.

Nick's Take

I think ProWritingAid is an excellent document editor that offers better suggestions than other editors, including spell and grammar checks. The free version provides many features, such as spell and grammar checks, in-depth reports, style checks, brevity checks, etc. It’s relatively cheaper than the other editing applications out there.

Features

  1. This program has professionally trained editors who can help strip away flaws, inconsistencies, and poor readability from your manuscript without hiring an editor.
  2. With ProWritingAid, you can get incredible writing support that analyzes your writing through 25 different reports, each analyzing your writing from a different perspective.
  3. The Chrome extension that checks for grammar errors on emails, social media, instant messaging, and more is also free to use with this application.
  4. Use it along with your writing app of choice to ensure your manuscripts are as polished as possible before submission.
  5. Try ProWritingAid with a 14-day money-back guarantee to see if it’s right for you!
ProWritingAid Features

Pros:

  • ProWritingAid is an excellent editor: ProWritingAid has better suggestions than other editors, including spell and grammar
  • ProWritingAid is an editor in your pocket: ProWritingAid helps you fix sentence structure, find excessive adjectives and adverbs, etc.
  • The product is updated regularly: The product is constantly being improved with new features and improvements.
  • It quickly flags issues that are easy to miss: With its many features and tools, it’s easy to catch any errors or mistakes in your work.

Cons:

  • Spelling and grammar checkers are not perfect: The spelling and grammar checkers on ProWritingAid are not perfect and can be buggy.
  • Steep learning curve: Using PWA is a steep learning curve, which has frustrated some people in the past.
  • Pricey: ProWritingAid is expensive for what you get, although it does offer features that other writing tools do not have.
  • Configuring the suggestions can be tedious: It can be cumbersome to configure ProWritingAid to provide optimal recommendations.

Pricing

ProWritingAid offers a variety of pricing options to fit your needs. The monthly option costs $20 per month, while the yearly option costs $6.58. The Lifetime option costs the same as five whole years.

7. Publisher Rocket

Publisher Rocket Logo

Publisher Rocket software will help you understand what readers want and how to connect with them to maximize your profits. With Publisher Rocket, you’ll be able to research what phrases Amazon buyers are searching for and determine which books are selling well and why. This information can help you decide what to write in your book description and choose the keywords for your Amazon listing.

Nick's Take

I think Publisher Rocket is a software that helps you market your books on Amazon. You can use Amazon Ads features To create profitable Amazon ads.

Features

  1. Publisher Rocket also has time-saving features, including a learning curve that’s relatively easy to navigate, along with data that’s rich enough for serious book marketers.
  2. This software will help you understand what readers want and how to connect with them to maximize your profits.
  3. With Publisher Rocket, you’ll be able to research what phrases Amazon buyers are searching for and determine which books are selling well and why. This information can help you decide what to write in your book description and choose the right keywords for your Amazon listing.
  4. Users of Publisher Rocket have reported seeing their books shoot up the bestseller lists on Amazon (even those without any marketing), so it’s worth giving this tool a try if you’re looking for ways to improve your Amazon publishing efforts.
  5. Try Publisher Rocket today with a 30-day money-back guarantee – there’s no reason not to see how useful this software can increase your profits from published works!
Publisher Rocket Features

Pros:

  • Publisher Rocket helps you position your book in front of your potential readers: Publisher Rocket uses Amazon to help you find and analyze data about what books people are reading, what they’re buying, and where they’re buying them.
  • Save time and money with your book research: By using Publisher Rocket’s analytics, you can save hours of research by knowing the most popular topics people are researching before buying a book.
  • Get published quickly: With Publisher Rocket’s simple steps and user-friendly interface, getting published is easier.
  • Maximize profits by tapping into Amazon’s audience: With Publisher Rocket, you can quickly sell ebooks or physical books on Amazon without additional effort or investment!

Cons:

  • Not suitable for all writers: If you do not intend to sell ebooks or physical books on Amazon, Publisher Rocket may not be your best option.
  • Limited information: Publisher Rocket does not provide much information about its features besides what is mentioned in the passage.
  • The competition suggestions are not innovative: The software does not list relevant keywords that Kindle authors should choose.
  • The competition suggestions are unrelated: Unrelated terms may appear in your search results, which might be confusing and frustrating.
  • Value is not evident in the price: Although the price seems reasonable, it is more expensive than other similar tools available on the market.

Pricing

The cost of Publisher Rocket is $99 for a single-user license. A family pack is also available for $149, which includes two licenses. There is no free trial offered.

8. Hemingway Editor

Hemingway Editor Logo

Hemingway Editor is a software that provides a readability score to help authors write for specific audiences. It also has grammar and spells checking, as well as style checks. Hemingway Editor is primarily an editor, not a writing software, and offers automated advice. It can be used online or purchased as a desktop app.

Nick's Take

I think Hemingway Editor is an excellent software since it’s a free online editor that can help with sentence structure and common writing problems. It assigns a grade level to your writing based on how simple and direct it is, which can be helpful if you struggle with overwriting.

Features

  1. Hemingway Editor is an online editor that provides a free readability score to help authors write for specific audiences.
  2. It also offers grammar and spell checking, as well as style checks. Hemingway Editor is a helpful alternative to traditional editors.
  3. This complimentary and alternative writing assistant can help you copy + paste your prose into their online editor or purchase the premium version as a desktop app.
  4. Hemingway Editor is primarily an editor and not writing software, but it offers excellent automated advice.
  5. Style, mood, and tone can be revised quickly with this platform’s helpful features.
  6. The price for Hemingway Editor/Hemingway App is free!
Hemingway Editor Features

Pros:

  • Hemingway Editor is free: Hemingway Editor is available for free.
  • You can easily spell, and grammar checks your writing: Hemingway Editor includes a spell & grammar checker, ensuring your content is error-free.
  • The platform provides excellent advice: All of the tips and advice in Hemingway Editor are automated, so you don’t have to worry about revising them.
  • Writing tone, mood and style can be revised quickly: You can easily change the tone, mood, and style of your writing using Hemingway Editor/Hemingway App.

Cons:

  • Not specifically related to book writing: The Hemingway editor’s Readability Score is not mainly related to book writing.
  • Free but limited: Although the Hemingway editor is free to use, it doesn’t have many features compared to other writing platforms.
  • One is that it is primarily an editor, not a writing software, and offers helpful advice, which is all automated.
  • This might be a tool you like if you struggle with overwriting.

Pricing

Hemingway Editor is a free online editor that offers some help with sentence structure and common writing problems.

9. Freedom

Freedom Logo

Freedom is a tool that can help authors to focus on their writing. It has a range of features that allow you to block out distractions and focus on your work. These include the Focus mode, which lets you block other applications and websites, and the syncing features, which allow you to keep your work backed up and accessible from any device. Freedom also has browser extensions and ambient sound options to help you focus on your writing.

Nick's Take

I think Freedom is a great author platform because it allows writers to work without distractions. Freedom helps you focus on what matters by syncing blocks across your devices.

Features

  1. With its Focus mode, you can keep all your applications segregated and work quietly without interruption.
  2. You can easily block distractions with Freedom by creating a list of applications you don’t want to be disturbed.
  3. The Focus mode lets you isolate yourself from social media, the Internet, or any other distracting websites or apps for however long you want.
  4. Freedom also offers syncing of files, extensions for browsers, and ambient sound for an enhanced writing experience.
  5. Overall, Freedom can give you the freedom to focus on your task without distraction – whether taking a break from social media or getting some serious writing done!
Freedom Features

Pros:

  • It is easy to sync files between devices and browsers: Files are easily synced between devices and browsers.
  • Allows ambient sound for a good writing session: Allows soundscape or ambient sounds during your writing session for a better creativity flow.
  • Freedom is easy to use and provides helpful productivity features: Freedom is easy to use with a mobile app and desktop download.
  • You can control distractions with “Locked Mode” on Freedom: You can control distractions by using “Locked Mode.”

Cons:

  • Difficult to use on smartphones: The Freedom app is challenging to use on smartphones because it requires a more computer-like interface.
  • Not necessary: The Focus mode is just an automated habit builder, and you will not need it once you are over wasting your time on social media.
  • Missing feature: There is a feature in the Android app that would allow multiple blocklists to be created.
  • Difficult to manage: It’s challenging to manage your blocklist as you have to re-up each year.

Pricing

Freedom costs range from $6.99 per month to a $ 129 lifetime fee, but it’s worth it if you value your time and productivity.

10. Ulysses

Ulysses Logo

Ulysses is a tool that can help you write a novel by breaking it down into fragments and then putting it back together into a complete story. Some of the features include a distraction-free writing mode and a clean interface. Ulysses is keyboard-based and allows you to access your content from any device, making it an excellent author platform. You can organize your book into sections and subsections and set writing goals. Ulysses supports multiple file formats, including PDF and ePub. It integrates with iCloud, iPhone, iPad, and Dropbox, making it easy to share your work across devices.

Nick's Take

I think Ulysses is a great author platform because it has a feature that inserts words automatically, which is great for programmers. Plus, Ulysses offers a 14-day trial, so you can try it out before you buy it.

Features

  1. This powerful writing tool allows you to work on your novel without distractions, making it easier for you to focus on your story.
  2. Ulysses’s clean and tidy interface makes it easy for you to focus on your work, while the distraction-free writing mode helps you write quickly and easily.
  3. You can use Ulysses completely via your keyboard without needing to touch the mouse or keypad.
  4. With its library feature, Ulysses lets you keep all of your content organized in one place so that it’s easy for you to access when needed.
  5. You can subdivide your book into sections and subsections with hierarchic groups, setting specific goals for each chapter or section.
  6. It supports multiple file formats, including PDF and ePub, making it easy for you to share your book with others should you choose to do so.
  7. Ulysses integrates with iCloud, iPhone, iPad, and Dropbox to make your book accessible across all devices!
Ulysses Features

Pros:

  • Good use of iPad screen: Ulysses is designed for the iPad and makes excellent use of the screen.
  • Good use of working windows when shopping between chapters: You can work on different parts of your manuscript in other windows, which is helpful when shopping between chapters.
  • Total word count feature: Ulysses has an excellent real word count feature that helps you keep track of how much writing you have left to do.
  • Interesting grammar and spell checker: Ulysses’s grammar and spell checker are exciting and useful.
  • On the whole, it’s a great piece of software at a manageable price: Ulysses offers excellent value for its price point, with features like writing goals, an easy-to-organize library, and a simple but effective user interface.

Cons:

  • Laggy/buggy goal-tracking: The goal-tracking functionality is sometimes laggy and buggy.
  • Incompatibility with iCloud: The app is not compatible with iCloud, which makes it difficult to access your book on different devices.
  • Not easy to use: Ulysses app is not easy to use and requires a lot of effort to get started.
  • The trouble with copying text from other applications: Copying text from other applications can often mess up line breaks or other special characters, which can be challenging to correct.
  • Problems with backup and migration: Sometimes the backup feature fails, or migrating your account to a new laptop can be difficult

Pricing

The price for Ulysses is $49.99/year. You can try it out for free with the 14-day trial.

11. Zoho Writer

Zoho Writer Logo

Zoho Writer is a free online word processor that can be used to write books. It has many features similar to those of MS Word, making it a good choice for book writing. Additionally, Zoho Writer is user-friendly and can be accessed from any device. It is also versatile and can be used for other purposes besides book writing.

Nick's Take

I think Zoho Writer is an excellent platform for writers because it is user-friendly, versatile, and available on all devices. The different templates make it easy to write a book without having to learn new software. Zoho Writer is also a cloud-based software so that you can access it anywhere and at any time.

Features

Zoho Writer is a free online word processor with different templates perfect for different types of writing. It is easy to access from any device, and it is user-friendly. You can write offline and have your work synced to your account. The software is versatile and can be used for various purposes, such as writing books or articles.

  1. Writer by Zoho is an online word processor that you can use from anywhere and at any time.
  2. It has different templates, depending on what you need to write.
  3. You can write offline without internet access, and your work will be synced to your account when you reconnect online.
Zoho Writer Features

Pros:

  • Can be used on all devices: Can be used on your phone, Tablet, and PC.
  • Free: Zoho Writer is free to use.
  • Almost all the features of Google Docs: Comes with nearly all the features of Google Docs, making it a good choice for professional writing and document creation needs.
  • You can quickly write better SEO content with AI: The platform provided SERP analysis and guided AI writing capabilities.
  • It has features for group editing, group management, online collaboration, safe sharing, and mobile access.

Cons:

  • Limited templates: Zoho Writer only comes with a limited number of templates, which may not be suitable for all types of writing.
  • Can’t write offline: Although Zoho Writer is an online word processor, you cannot write your work offline and have it synced to your account later.
  • Poor user experience: The user interface of Zoho Writer is poorly designed and difficult to use.
  • Lag: Sometimes, I experience lag when using Zoho.
  • Payment options are difficult to understand: Payment options are not easily understood by most people.

Pricing

Zoho Writer is a free online word processor that you can use to write your book.

12. Pages

Pages Logo

Pages is a word processing program for Apple devices that is better than MS Word and helps you create attractive document formats. Pages is only available on Mac, iPad, and iPhone and cost $28 per year. Page is a basic word-processing app that allows users to export documents in various formats. Manuscripts can be typed, handwritten, and exported in PDF, Word, and other structures. Pages is available for free on Macs and iOS devices.

Nick's Take

I think Pages is a tremendous word-processing program for Apple devices. It has unique features that make it better than MS Word, such as the ability to create beautiful formats and export in various formats. It’s also helpful for manuscript creation and eBook creation.

Features

  • Type, handwrite, and export in PDF, Word, and other structures
  • Available for free on Macs and iOS devices
  • Pages puts all the right tools in all the right places, so it’s easy to customize fonts, personalize text styles, and add beautiful graphics.
  • Helpful for manuscript creation and eBook creation
  • Everyone collaborating on a document has access to the same powerful features.
  • There are over 90 templates to choose from, and you can customize them to your own liking.
Pages Features

Pros:

  • Pages is better than MS Word: Reviewers say that Pages is better than MS Word.
  • Useful for editing your documents: It comes with helpful features for editing your documents, such as turning handwritten text into a typed format and exporting them in various formats.
  • Export your document in multiple formats: You can export your document in Word, PDF, and more.
  • Work on your documents from anywhere: You can work on your documents from a PC via iCloud if you have an Apple device and are signed into the same iCloud account.

Cons:

  • Limited to Mac and iOS devices: Pages is only available on Mac and iOS devices.
  • Challenging to export as a Word document: When exporting a Page’s document as a Word document, it can sometimes result in formatting issues.
  • Difficult to add images: Adding images can be complicated and outdated.
  • Struggles with sharing: Pages often have trouble formatting files correctly for sharing, which can lead to problems.

Pricing

Pages is a word processing program available on Apple devices, costing $28 per year.

13. LibreOffice

LibreOffice Logo

LibreOffice is a free office suite that can be used to write books. LibreOffice has helpful features for authors, such as robust word processing and similarity to Microsoft Word. LibreOffice is a word processor that authors of all levels can use. LibreOffice includes autocorrecting and spellchecker tools to help catch mistakes. LibreOffice also includes templates that are well-formatted and easy to use.

LibreOffice is available for use on Windows, Mac, and Linux. There are no online collaborative tools or mobile apps available for Libreoffice.

Nick's Take

I think LibreOffice is a good choice for authors because it is free and has many features similar to Microsoft Word. It also includes autocorrect and spellcheck tools and templates tailored to the author’s needs. The software is easy to use and provides helpful tools for formatting your text correctly.

Features

  1. This software is compatible with a wide range of document formats, making it easy to work with whatever you need it for. Plus, its free nature makes it an ideal choice for beginner authors.
  2. As a free word processor, LibreWriter is effective and efficient at what it does. Its autocorrect and spell checker tools help you catch grammar and spelling mistakes on the fly, while its valuable templates make writing quick and easy.
  3. Because LibreOffice is open source, you can rest assured that there are frequent updates and revisions to this program – ensuring that it remains up-to-date with the latest trends in book writing software.
  4. In addition to being a great word processing tool, LibreOffice is also available as a suite of programs, including a spreadsheet program called Calc and a charting program called Graphviz.
  5. Whether you’re looking for all-in-one book writing software or just some supplemental programs to support your workflow, LibreOffice has everything you need!
LibreOffice Features

Pros:

  • LibreOffice is a robust, effective word-processing tool that anyone can use.
  • It has helpful features for authors, including autocorrect and spellchecker tools.
  • LibreOffice provides valuable templates for you to use when writing your book.
  • You can save time with templates: You can use ready-made templates to save time, which is handy for clean, crisp formatting.
  • The software is compatible with more document formats: LibreWriter functions much like Word but is compatible with more document formats, making it easier to work with your documents.

Cons:

  • Not as user-friendly as Microsoft Word: While it’s a robust word processor, it may not be suitable for beginners new to using it.
  • No online collaborative tools: LibreOffice does not have any online collaboration features.
  • No mobile apps: There are no available mobile apps for LibreOffice.
  • Limited file formats support: LibreOffice only supports a few file formats, which may be limiting for some users.

Pricing

LibreOffice is free to download and use, but the developers ask for donations.

14. Vellum

Vellum Logo

Vellum is a Mac app that helps authors create beautiful printed or electronic books. With Vellum, you can browse through available book styles to find the right look for yours, then generate print and paper editions in a single step. Kindle, Kobo, and iBook formats are supported.

Vellum offers a variety of features for authors, including the ability to produce advanced copies, connect to social media, and publish ebooks and paperbacks. Vellum is easy to use with its intuitive user interface and quick exporting capabilities.

Nick's Take

I think Vellum is an excellent software for book writing because of its intuitive design and beautiful eBook templates. The only downside is that it has limited style suggestions.

Features

Vellum allows authors to generate and sell their eBooks and paperback books. The website offers an opinion on a topic based on personal experience or research.

  1. This Mac app was designed to create electronic or print editions easily, and it’s significantly cheaper than some of the other options on the market.
  2. You can browse through a range of available book styles to find the perfect look for your project, then generate print and paper editions in just a single step.
  3. Kindle, Kobo, and iBook formats are all supported by Vellum, making it ideal for publishing your work online.
  4. Use Vellum for free before paying $199.99 for the ability to publish ebooks or $249.99 for both ebook and paperback formats.
  5. Vellum’s easy-to-understand features and quick export process make it a practical book-creation tool.
  6. Vellum is a must-have software option for those serious about producing beautiful books.
Vellum Features

Pros:

  • Vellum is helpful for the end of the book writing process: Vellum will help you to create a beautiful printed or electronic book.
  • You can browse through available book styles: Vellum offers you to browse through available book styles to find the right look for yours.
  • You can connect to social media to promote your books: With Vellum, you can connect to social media platforms to promote your books easily.
  • Beautiful eBook templates: Vellum has beautiful eBook templates that make it easy to create high-quality books.

Cons:

  • Limited styles: The app offers only a few pre-made book styles, so you may not find the right look for your book.
  • Requires an external file import: First, import your finished Word document into Vellum before using its features.
  • No word processor: Vellum is not a word processor.
  • No proofreading or revision features: Vellum has no proofreading or revision features.

Pricing

Vellum offers a free trial and three pricing tiers: $24.99/month for Vellum Solo, $49.99/month for Vellum Team, and $99.99/month for Vellum Business.

15. Novel Factory

Novel Factory Logo

Novel Factory is a software that helps authors write better novels. The software provides detailed character development questionnaires, world-building guides, and plot templates. The software autosaves your manuscript and keeps track of your progress toward writing targets. The Novel Factory has a color-coded graph to show your progress toward writing goals. The Novel Factory software is perfect for new writers who want to learn their craft and write their first novel.

Nick's Take

I think Novel Factory is an excellent software since they provide a step-by-step tutorial for writing your first novel, taking you through scenes, characters, themes, etc. I haven’t tested the software extensively, but it seems like it could be helpful for fiction writers who want to learn how to write a novel.

Features

The Novel Factory is an excellent choice for writers who want to learn how to write a novel.

  1. Its intuitive design and extensive range of tools will help you achieve your goals as a fiction writer.
  2. The Novel Factory offers a step-by-step tutorial for writing your first novel, taking you through scenes, characters, themes, and more. It also includes detailed character development questionnaires, world-building guides, and plot templates based on popular genres.
  3. The software has a section for setting your writing targets and automatically updates color-coded graphs so you can track your progress. It autosaves your manuscript and has version history so you can easily access previous drafts of your writing.
  4. As the data is centrally stored, it’s easy for writers to collaborate on a single novel – always able to access the latest changes no matter where they are writing it.
  5. If there are any weaknesses we’ve noticed with this software (and there aren’t many), then perhaps its price tag might put some people off – though promotional discounts do
Novel Factory Features

Pros:

  • The Novel Factory is a great way to learn how to write a novel: The Novel Factory offers a step-by-step tutorial to guide you through writing your first novel.
  • The Novel Factory is perfect for new writers: The Novel Factory is a great place to start if you’re new to writing.
  • It’s excellent for planners: The Novel Factory offers structures and guidelines that make your story skeleton bulletproof, as well as developing complex characters with desires, flaws, and internal conflicts.
  • It’s the right fit for visual learners: The Novel Factory features many images that make it easy to see how different aspects of the novel link together and who like everything clearly categorized and aesthetically appealing.
  • You can save time and money with the novel factory: Use one platform to reduce the need for multiple tools for SEO writing and keyword research.

Cons:

  • Not as experienced or popular as other options: Novel Factory is not as experienced or popular as other options and may not have all the features users want.
  • Limited features: The Novel Factory has a limited set of features compared to other software options.
  • Not centralized: The data is not centrally stored, which makes it difficult for writers to collaborate on a single novel.
  • More complicated than desired: Some users find the Novel Factory to be more complex than they wanted, as it has a lot of sections and categories.
  • Not very user-friendly: Novel Factory 3.0 is not very user-friendly, and it isn’t easy to find what you are looking for.

Pricing

The Novel Factory is a software that helps authors write better novels. It offers a free trial for 30 days, after which it costs $7.50 per month.

Why authors need software for writing a book

Why authors need software for writing a book

Novel writing is a complex process, and it can be challenging to keep track of all the elements that go into a novel. Suitable software for writing a book can help authors keep track of their characters, plot, and setting. It can also help authors stay organized and on their way while they are writing their novels.

What Writing a Book Entails

What Writing a Book Entails

Writing a book can be long and complex, requiring planning, brainstorming, research, and writing. The revision stage begins once the first draft is complete. After the initial writing stage, there are many stages, including maintaining momentum, avoiding distractions, and staying on schedule.

The first stage is polishing the manuscript, which involves improving its wording and clarifying it. Editing consists in working with a professional editor who evaluates the effectiveness of the writing and suggests specific changes.

Writing a book entails developing a unique perspective and testing and evaluating writing software tools. Writing a book also requires market research and selling the book as well as writing it.

FAQs

Q: What’s the best writing software for Mac?

IAWriterScrivenerUlysses, and ByWord are all great options.

Q: How do you write a book?

You need to research and plan your book, write the first draft, then revise it until you’re happy with it.

Q: Can you make money writing a book?

Yes! It’s possible to earn $1 per month in royalties for each copy sold of your book. If you sell 10,000 copies, you’ll make $10,000.

Q: How long does it take to write a book?

It depends on how much time you spend writing each day. Some write a book in three months; others take nine months or more.

Q: What are the best software options for writing a book?

There are many software options available for writing a book. Some of the best include ScrivenerPublisher Rocket, and Atticus. All of these options offer a free trial period, so you can try them before you commit to purchase.

Q: What is the best free writing software?

Some popular free writing software options include Google DocsUlyssesProWritingAid, and The Novel Factory. These have different features that may benefit you depending on your needs. Try out a few options before deciding which one works best for you.

Conclusion

There are many factors to consider when choosing the best software for writing a book. However, the most important thing is to find a program that fits your needs and budget. With so many options available, you should have no trouble finding the perfect software for your next project.

About the Author

Nick Patrocky writes SaaS and Business Software reviews. He's also the head of design at a rapidly growing fintech company. Nick's worked with hundreds of software companies and startups over the last 10 years. Reach out if you have any questions or if you'd like to collab.

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