Some links on this page are affiliate links. If you buy through them, iWrity may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. We only list tools we think indie authors can use, and we write down the downsides too. How we review tools.
| Tool | Best for |
|---|---|
| Scrivener | Best for long, complex books |
| Dabble | Best for writing on every device |
| Atticus | Best write-and-format combo |
| Plottr | Best for plotting a series |
Scrivener
Drag scenes around, keep research beside the draft, pay once.
- ✓One payment per platform
- ✓Handles very long and complex manuscripts
- ✓Generous 30-day trial
- ✗Steep learning curve
- ✗Separate licenses for Mac, Windows and iOS
Dabble
Clean editor that syncs between laptop, tablet and phone.
- ✓Very easy to learn
- ✓Works on phones and tablets
- ✓Trial needs no credit card
- ✗Monthly cost for most users
- ✗Lifetime plan costs $699
Atticus
Draft in it, then export a finished ebook and paperback.
- ✓Runs on Windows, Mac, Linux and Chromebook
- ✓Cheaper than Vellum and includes print
- ✓Lets you write and format in the same place
- ✗No free trial
- ✗Fewer ready-made styles than Vellum
Plottr
Visual timelines and a story bible to plan before you write.
- ✓Clear view of a whole series
- ✓Lifetime option
- ✓30-day trial
- ✗Browser and cloud features need Pro
- ✗No prorated refunds on renewals
How we picked
We checked every price on the vendor's own site on the date at the bottom of this page.
We looked at what a self-published author needs from this kind of tool, not at feature counts.
We list the downsides of every pick, including the ones we earn a commission on.
Frequently asked questions
Is Scrivener better than Word for writing a novel?
For long books, yes. Scrivener lets you split and rearrange scenes, which gets painful in one long Word file.
Which writing app has no subscription?
Scrivener, Atticus and Plottr all sell one-time licenses. Dabble is mainly a subscription.
Related guides on iWrity
Prices and features checked on 2026-10-09. Vendors change plans often, so confirm on their site before you buy.
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