Scrivener
Long-form writing software built around a binder, corkboard, and research folders. Steep learning curve, but still the default for complex novels and research-heavy non-fiction. Export to Word/ebook formats is capable bu…
Indie author tools, compared honestly
IndieShelf is a niche directory of writing, formatting, covers, distribution, email, ads research, audiobook, and UK sole-trader tools — with plain-English blurbs and no fabricated feature lists.
Start here
Whether you draft in Scrivener, format in Atticus (a strong PressReady / Atticus-alternative conversation for Windows authors), or deliver magnets with BookFunnel — pick the category that matches your bottleneck.
Writing apps
Drafting, outlining, and manuscript organisation tools for novels and long-form work.
9 tools
Formatting & layout
Ebook and print interior formatters — from free browser tools to Mac-only premium apps.
7 tools
Covers & design
Cover design, mockups, and marketing graphics for launches and ads.
5 tools
Editing & proofreading
Self-editing software and marketplaces to hire human editors and proofreaders.
6 tools
Distribution & aggregators
KDP, wide aggregators, and print networks that get your book into stores and libraries.
4 tools
Email & reader magnets
Deliver free books, ARCs, and grow a reader list without fighting broken download links.
4 tools
Ads & keyword research
Amazon keyword, category, and ads research tools used by working indie authors.
2 tools
ISBNs, identifiers & legal
ISBN agencies, identifiers, and related publishing setup for UK and global authors.
2 tools
Audiobook
Narration marketplaces and wide audiobook distribution.
2 tools
Author websites
Simple landing pages and fuller author sites for books and mailing lists.
2 tools
Accounting (UK sole traders)
Bookkeeping suited to UK indie authors trading as sole traders, including MTD-ready options.
2 tools
AI writing aids
AI assistants for brainstorming and drafting — with honest caveats about craft, rights, and retailer policies.
4 tools
Sample of the shelf
Atticus
Cross-platform writing-plus-formatting app (browser/PWA) aimed at indie authors who want Vellum-like output without needing a Mac. Strong for fiction interiors and print/ebook export; writing features are lighter than Sc…
Vellum
Mac-only book formatter prized for polished fiction interiors, styles, and device previews. You import a manuscript, style chapters, and generate retail ebooks plus print PDF. Not available on Windows — many Windows auth…
Reedsy Studio
Free browser writing and formatting tool (formerly Reedsy Book Editor) with EPUB and print-ready PDF export, collaboration, and clean themes. Less customisation than Atticus or Vellum, but an excellent zero-cost starting…
Reedsy Marketplace
Vetted marketplace of editors, designers, and other publishing freelancers. Strong for authors who want traditional-publishing credentials rather than open bidding. Browse portfolios, request quotes, and manage milestone…
Plottr
Visual outlining and series-bible software: drag-and-drop scene cards, structure templates, character and world notes. Popular with plotters who want timelines before drafting in Scrivener or Word.
Dabble
Cloud novel-writing app with a Plot Grid, goals, and co-authoring. Positions itself as simpler than Scrivener and has emphasised an AI-free writing environment. Works in browser and as an installable web app.
Campfire
Modular worldbuilding and writing suite (maps, timelines, characters, manuscript). Especially useful for speculative fiction authors who need interconnected lore alongside drafting.
Novelcrafter
Fiction writing platform with a Codex story bible and scene-driven drafting. AI features typically use your own model keys rather than a closed proprietary stack — still treat AI prose as a draft aid, not a finished book…
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