Scrivener is a highly regarded writing tool, perfect for authors managing large projects.
With its corkboard view, it allows writers to visualize their story structure and organize notes effectively.
Scrivener homepage, August 2024
Pros
Excellent for organizing large projects.
Supports various formats like ePub and PDF.
Offers comprehensive project management features.
Cons
Steep learning curve for new users.
Collaboration can be cumbersome.
Key Features
Corkboard View: Helps visualize story structure.
Templates: Tailors to various genres for effective writing.
Multi-format Export: Supports multiple export formats for versatility.
Pricing
Scrivener is offered at a one-time purchase of $59.99, making it a solid investment for serious writers. There is no free version, but a trial is available.
2. Dabble
Best for scene organization and collaboration
Dabble focuses on helping writers structure their stories effectively.
With features like word count goals and cloud saves, it’s an excellent choice for collaborative writing.
Dabble homepage, August 2024
Pros
User-friendly interface for beginners.
Good collaboration tools for co-authors.
Cons
Subscription model can be costly long-term.
Key Features
Scene Organization: Allows easy arrangement of scenes and chapters.
Word Count Goals: Helps track writing progress.
Automatic Cloud Saves: Ensures work is never lost.
Pricing
Dabble offers flexible pricing starting from $9/month to $19/month, or a one-time payment of $699 for lifetime access. A 14-day free trial is available.
3. Google Docs
Best for real-time collaboration
Google Docs is a well-known free tool that excels in real-time collaboration. Writers can easily share documents and receive feedback instantly.
Google Docs homepage, August 2024
Pros
Excellent for collaborative feedback and editing.
Completely free to use.
Cons
Limited organizational features for extensive projects.
Key Features
Real-time Collaboration: Multiple users can edit simultaneously.
Google Docs is free, making it accessible for everyone.
4. Vellum
Best for high-quality book formatting
Vellum is a premium tool known for its exceptional formatting capabilities. Ideal for authors looking to publish polished eBooks and print books.
Vellum homepage, August 2024
Pros
High-quality formatting options.
User-friendly interface for quick formatting.
Cons
Mac-only software.
Higher price point compared to alternatives.
Key Features
Print and eBook Formatting: Tailored formats for different publishing needs.
Preview Feature: See how the book will look before publishing.
Pricing
Vellum is available for a one-time purchase of $240.
5. Atticus
Best for writing and formatting in one tool
Atticus combines writing and formatting, making it a versatile option for authors. Its cloud-based support enhances collaboration.
Atticus homepage, August 2024
Pros
Combines writing and formatting capabilities.
Cost-effective compared to other tools.
Cons
Newer software, may lack some advanced features.
Key Features
Multi-Platform Support: Access from anywhere.
Cloud-Based Collaboration: Write with others easily.
Pricing
Atticus is priced at $147 for a one-time purchase.
6. ProWritingAid
Best for grammar and style checking
ProWritingAid provides comprehensive grammar and style checks, helping writers improve their craft.
ProWritingAid homepage, August 2024
Pros
Detailed analytics on writing style.
Integrates with various writing platforms.
Cons
Requires internet for full features.
Key Features
Grammar Checks: Identifies common mistakes.
Style Suggestions: Helps refine writing style.
Pricing
ProWritingAid is available for $124/year.
7. Publisher Rocket
Best for book marketing insights
Publisher Rocket is essential for authors looking to market their books effectively by analyzing keywords and categories.
Publisher Rocket homepage, August 2024
Pros
Helps identify profitable niches.
Comprehensive market analysis tools.
Cons
Requires understanding of marketing approaches.
Key Features
Keyword Research: Find the best keywords for your book.
Market Analysis: Understand competition and reader interest.
Pricing
Publisher Rocket is offered at a one-time purchase of $97.
8. Freedom
Best for distraction-free writing
Freedom is a productivity app that helps writers maintain focus by blocking distracting websites and apps.
Freedom homepage, August 2024
Pros
Helps maintain writing focus.
Offers a free version.
Cons
Mobile sync can be complex.
Key Features
Distraction Blocking: Prevents access to distracting sites.
Scheduling: Set times to block distractions.
Pricing
Freedom has a free version and a Pro version at $29/year.
9. Book Creator
Best for multimedia book creation
Book Creator allows users to create visually appealing books with multimedia support, perfect for educators and beginners.
Book Creator homepage, August 2024
Pros
User-friendly for beginners.
Supports various multimedia formats.
Cons
Limited advanced features for seasoned authors.
Key Features
Easy Book Creation: Step-by-step interface.
Multimedia Support: Incorporate images, videos, and audio.
Pricing
Book Creator is available for $10/month with a free plan option.
10. Book Bolt
Best for self-publishing low-content books
Book Bolt is designed for authors interested in creating and publishing low-content books, such as journals and planners.
Book Bolt homepage, August 2024
Pros
Affordable and effective for niche publishing.
User-friendly design tools.
Cons
May not suit all types of books.
Key Features
Design Tools: Create covers and interiors easily.
Publishing Support: Guidance for self-publishing.
Pricing
Book Bolt offers plans starting at $9.99/month (Newbie) and $19.99/month (Pro) with a 3-day trial available.
How to Choose the Right Best Book Making Apps for Your Needs
Selecting the ideal book making app depends on your specific requirements. Consider these crucial factors:
Purpose: Determine if you need writing, formatting, or marketing tools.
Budget: Assess how much you are willing to spend on software.
Features: Prioritize essential features like collaboration, analytics, or formatting.
Ease of Use: Opt for tools that match your technical comfort level.
Emerging Trends in Best Book Making Apps
As technology evolves, book making apps are integrating AI-driven features to enhance writing and formatting processes.
The rise of cloud-based tools is also making collaboration easier, with many apps now offering seamless integration with other platforms and devices.
Expect to see more automation in editing and formatting tasks, allowing authors to focus more on their creative work.
Making the Right Choice
Choosing the right book making app is crucial for enhancing your writing process and achieving your publishing goals.
Evaluate your needs against the features and pricing of each tool to find the best fit for you.
Explore the top picks listed above and start your journey toward creating your next masterpiece today!
Frequently Asked Questions
Most common questions writers ask about book making software.
What is the best app to write a book?
The best app often depends on personal preferences, but Scrivener is widely regarded for its project management capabilities.
How much does Scrivener cost?
Scrivener costs $59.99 for a one-time purchase.
Is there a free book formatting tool?
Google Docs offers free text editing and some formatting capabilities, but for advanced formatting, tools like Vellum are recommended.
Which app is best for collaboration in writing?
Google Docs is excellent for real-time collaboration, allowing multiple users to edit and comment simultaneously.
What are the features of Atticus?
Atticus combines writing and formatting, supports multiple platforms, and offers cloud-based collaboration.
Tomas Laurinavicius
Hi! I'm Tomas, a writer, founder and growth marketer from Lithuania, living in Spain. I'm always involved in multiple projects driven by my curiosity. I'm a partner at Craftled, building calm micro software and digital media businesses.