Top 10: Free Ebook Editing software

2023. Sigil now allows to edit Checkpoint descriptions



Free open-source EPUB editor Sigil has released a new version. In this release a variety of bug fixes and new features have been introduced. The update includes the ability for users to edit Checkpoint descriptions for clarity via the Checkpoint menu, and to show the Checkpoint Change Log via the same menu. The release also includes an update to Hunspell 1.7.2 for improved spellchecking, and the latest version of zlib-1.2.13 for enhanced security. Additionally, Sigil has moved away from using the OS system tmp folder for storing Sigil work-in-progress files and instead created a new “workspace” folder inside the Sigil Preferences folder. Finally, the update also includes the new feature of being able to preview and print contents of Sigil's Preview window. Sigil for Linux users are notified that MathJax 3.2.2+ is now required to render MathML in Sigil’s Preview Window.


2023. Manuskript now allows to track writing goals



Free open-source writing tool Manuskript has released a new version 0.15 with several new features. Users can now set a writing target for their current session to monitor progress. Additionally, users can drag and drop elements from the outline view in the editor to quickly open the selected item in one writing panel, making it easier to work with multiple panels. The update includes improved translations for the UI, with more languages added to the list of supported ones, and progress tracking available on the Github repository page. The translations are now more consistent, bugs have been fixed, and all translatable strings are included. Moreover, keyboard shortcuts now work independently of the user's language settings, addressing a previous issue caused by improper UI default settings. Manuskript is available for Windows, Mac and Linux.

2022. FocusWriter - distraction-free open-source writing software



FocusWriter is a writing environment designed to minimize distractions and provide a simple, intuitive interface for writers to immerse themselves in their work. By hiding its interface and only revealing it when the user moves their mouse to the edges of the screen, FocusWriter allows users to maintain a sense of familiarity while minimizing interruptions. The software is compatible with Linux and Windows and offers support for various file formats, including TXT, basic RTF, and basic ODT. Additional features such as timers, alarms, customizable themes, typewriter sound effects, live statistics, spell-checking, multi-document support, and daily goals make it a versatile tool for writers. FocusWriter is also available in over 20 different languages, with an optional portable mode for added convenience.


2021. yWriter - free software for novel writers



yWriter is a useful program designed specifically for novel writers. It provides a comprehensive and easy-to-use platform for organizing and writing your novel in chapters and scenes. The program's interface is user-friendly and customizable, with features such as word count, character and location descriptions, and scene summaries that make it easy to keep track of your progress. The program also includes a feature that allows you to set writing goals for each session, helping you stay focused and motivated. One of the best things about yWriter is its compatibility with Dropbox, which allows users to save and load their database from the cloud. This means that writers can easily work on their novel from different devices without worrying about losing their progress. The newly launched Android app adds an extra layer of convenience, allowing users to work on their novel from their tablet or phone on the go. Overall, yWriter is an excellent tool for novel writers who want to organize their ideas and keep track of their progress in a user-friendly and efficient way. yWriter is free to download and use, but you're encouraged to register your copy if you find it useful.


2019. Sigil 1.0 now automatically restructures EPUBs



Sigil-1.0 marks a significant milestone in the history of Sigil. The requirement that all epubs be restructured to conform to Sigil's long-standing standards has finally been lifted. Upon initial loading, the existing epub structure will be loaded and preserved in its current state, without any renaming or moving. While the BookBrowser will still display the Text, Images, Styles, Fonts, Audio, Video, and Misc "folders," these are now considered "virtual folders" that merely organize the existing resources by type, but do not impose any restrictions on their actual location within the epub. A new Appearance Preference has been added to the Preferences settings that will determine whether the book folder's relative path or its shorter unique name (filename) will be displayed in the BookBrowser. Regardless of the setting, the tooltips in the BookBrowser will always show the file's actual book folder relative path. To distinguish between duplicate file names in different subfolders, the longer path will always be displayed, irrespective of the new Appearance Preference.


2016. Reedsy launched Google Docs for books



Reedsy, renowned as a marketplace for editors, cover illustrators, and more, has recently introduced a collaborative book editor that facilitates seamless interaction with editors, ultimately leading to the creation of a polished final book. While Reedsy's book editor may not possess the same level of power as Scrivener or Ulysses, its strength lies in its emphasis on collaboration. Think of it as a Google Docs specifically designed for books. With this editor, you can commence your writing process in Scrivener, and then seamlessly transition to Reedsy for the subsequent stages. Operating within your browser, Reedsy's book editor enables writing and editing in real time while automatically saving your progress. Multiple individuals can simultaneously edit the same document, leave comments, and track changes, eliminating the cumbersome back-and-forth process involving Word documents and convoluted file names.