Apps similar to novelWriter include Zettlr, which is free and open source. Other options are Typora, Manuskript, ghostwriter and Scrivener. You're spoiled for choice with Novel Authoring Tools like novelWriter: we list more than 100 alternatives for Windows, Mac, the web, Linux and iPhone.
oStorybook is a free, open source novel-writing software for creative writers, novelists and authors which will help you to keep an overview of multiple plot-lines while writing texts.
Belgium
EU
The first open-source, privacy-first PWA novel editor with a Local RAG engine to ensure narrative consistency without leaving your browser.
SpainEU
CrabPad is a fast, free Markdown editor built with Rust. Local-first, keyboard-driven, with Zen Mode, Command Palette, live preview, and support for KaTeX math, Mermaid diagrams, and GFM. Available for macOS, Windows, and Linux.
PolandEU
End-to-encrypted, laser-focussed yet elegant editor. No registration, no login, no ads, no tracking, no hassle. Just write. In private or together with others.
Fortelling provides the tools you need to plot & write your book.
NetherlandsEU
Markdown editor that gets out of your way. Split-pane editing with live preview, 4 themes (Editorial, Midnight, Mono, Sepia), focus mode, tabbed editing, auto-save, version history, image paste support, and 10 built-in templates.
SceneWeaver is a writing and project organisation tool for novels, research, role-playing campaigns, scripts, and other large documents.
United Kingdom
Modern writing app for Windows with three-panel workflow, automatic version history, writing goals, and beautiful Gruvbox themes. Ulysses for Windows users.
FinlandEU
Skribisto is born from the ashes of Plume Creator , keeping the goals while adopting more recent ways to think an application.
FranceEU
An AI-powered visual novel generator and writing assistant that helps writers overcome block by turning visual prompts into stories.
A local-first writing app for people who think in Markdown. Your vault is a folder. Every note is a .md file.
SpainEU
A web-based novel writing studio with built-in character management, world-building, timeline, and an AI assistant that actually knows your story. No setup required. Free to start. No credit card needed.
