Novlr screenshot

What is Novlr?

Novlr is a writing platform designed specifically for authors working on long-form projects like novels, memoirs, and scripts. The tool provides a dedicated space to write, organise, and track progress on book-length works, with features aimed at helping writers move from initial draft through to completion. Built by writers themselves and community-owned, Novlr focuses on the practical needs of authors rather than general writing tasks. The platform operates on a freemium model, making basic writing and organisation features available at no cost while offering premium features for writers who need more advanced tools.

Key Features

Project organisation

Structure your manuscript into chapters, sections, and scenes with a clear outline view

Writing analytics

Track word count progress, set daily or project-wide targets, and monitor your productivity over time

Manuscript management

Store multiple projects, manage different versions, and keep all your writing in one place

Distraction-free editor

Write in a focused environment with minimal interface elements

Community features

Connect with other writers, share progress, and get feedback from the Novlr writing community

Export options

Download your finished work in multiple formats for publishing or sharing

Pros & Cons

Advantages

  • Purpose-built for authors, so the interface and features are tailored to long-form writing rather than being a general writing tool
  • Community ownership means the platform is shaped by actual writers' needs and priorities
  • Free tier provides genuine utility for writers getting started or working on smaller projects
  • Integrated progress tracking helps maintain motivation and accountability

Limitations

  • As a specialised tool, it has a smaller user base and community compared to general writing platforms
  • Advanced collaboration features may be limited compared to some alternative writing software
  • The platform's specific strengths in novel writing mean it may not suit other types of writing projects equally well

Use Cases

Novelists drafting their first or subsequent books and wanting to track chapter-by-chapter progress

Memoir writers organising non-fiction narrative projects with multiple sections

Screenwriters developing scripts with structured scene management

Authors juggling multiple projects simultaneously and needing central storage

Writing groups looking for a community space to share work and encourage accountability