Side by side
Novellum vs ShyEditor
Both stand on ai book writing software. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Choose Novellum if you want a web writing workspace that combines manuscript structure with tracking for story elements and reports on your writing. Its free beta plan includes all features, while the listed post-beta standard plan is $15/month or $162/year. Look elsewhere if you need a guaranteed uptime commitment or do not meet the age requirement.
Visit NovellumChoose ShyEditor if you want a writing workspace that combines story planning, drafting, continuity tools, critique, and book export. Basic is a free way to start, while Pro adds more monthly AI credits and additional export formats; look elsewhere if you need real-time collaboration.
Visit ShyEditorThe facts
| Novellum | ShyEditor | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Web | Web |
| Lowest paid plan | Standard plan (after beta): $15 a month | Pro: $10 a month |
| Plans published | 2 | 2 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | getnovellum.com | shyeditor.com |
| On ai book writing software | #18 of 27 | #22 of 27 |
Novellum: what it does well
- Tracks characters, places, items, factions, and concepts in the Nexus.
- Organizes books into acts, chapters, and scenes with a planning grid.
- Insights report progress, scene lengths, POV balance, and Nexus coverage without AI.
- Imports DOCX, Markdown, and plain text; exports DOCX and EPUB.
- Optional AI connections let users choose a provider and bring an API key.
What to know first
- The service is in beta.
- AI use requires your own provider key and direct provider payment.
- Terms require users to be at least 18.
- The service does not guarantee 100% uptime.
ShyEditor: what it does well
- Story Engine drafts a synopsis and chapter plan from a premise.
- Knowledge base tracks characters, places, and events.
- Offers chapter critique and full-book feedback.
- Imports DOCX, TXT, and Markdown drafts.
- Writing is stored locally and syncs after reconnection.
What to know first
- AI features require an internet connection.
- Basic exports TXT only.
- Chapter sharing is read-only.
- Real-time collaboration is not available.
Alternatives to Novellum Alternatives to ShyEditor The whole list