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The intuitive book writing software designed for novelists to plot, write, and edit with ease.

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Reviews onG2Capterra
23 reviews tracked

The Bottom Line

Entry price

From $9/mo

Biggest pro

Writing software for novelists

Biggest con

Subscription-based pricing

TL;DR - Dabble

  • Dedicated book writing software for novelists.
  • Offers integrated tools for plotting, writing, and editing.
  • Provides a distraction-free, intuitive interface for creative flow.
Pricing: Paid only
Best for: Enterprises & pros
4.2/5 across review platforms

What is Dabble?

Editorial review
Dabble is a dedicated book writing software crafted specifically for novelists. It aims to simplify the complex process of writing a book by providing an intuitive, distraction-free environment. The platform helps writers organize their ideas, develop plots, and stay inspired from the initial concept to the final polish, without the clutter and overwhelming features often found in general text editors or overly complex writing tools. Dabble offers a comprehensive suite of features categorized into plotting, writing, and editing. For plotting, it includes tools like Plot Grid, Character Profiles, and Worldbuilding Bible to help users plan their story arcs, characters, and settings. The writing interface features a modern editor with focus mode, daily word count goals, and multi-device access. For editing, it provides sticky notes, comments, text highlighting, and advanced grammar/style checks. It also supports exporting to various formats and sharing for feedback, making it a complete solution for fiction writers looking to streamline their creative process.

Available on: Web, iOS, Android

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Writing software for novelists
  • Goal tracking and progress features
  • Organization for long-form writing
  • Distraction-free writing mode
  • Plot and character management

Cons

  • Subscription-based pricing
  • Focused on fiction writing only
  • Learning curve for features
  • May be excessive for short writing
  • Export options may be limited

Ratings Across the Web

4.2(23 reviews)

Ratings aggregated from independent review platforms. Learn more

Key Features

Novel writingGoal trackingPlot gridStory notesCollaborationExport options

Pricing Plans

Free Trial

Pricing checked Jun 9, 2026

Basic

$9/month

For writers

  • Unlimited manuscripts
  • Cloud backup & sync
  • Any device access
  • Goals & stats
  • Spell check
  • Dark mode

Standard

$19/month

Story development

  • All Basic features
  • Plot Grid
  • Story notes
  • Focus mode
  • Comments
  • Sticky notes

Premium

$29/month

Pro writers

  • All Standard features
  • Advanced grammar check
  • In-context thesaurus
  • Read-to-Me
  • Co-authoring
  • Premium courses

Lifetime

$699/lifetime

One-time payment

  • All Premium features
  • Forever access
  • All future updates

How Dabble's pricing compares

At $9/mo, Dabble is mid-range of its 3 direct competitors ($4.17 to $60/mo across the set).

$4.17
Dabble
$9

Entry paid plan, monthly. Pricing checked Jun 9, 2026.

Reviews

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4.2/5

Across 23 verified user reviews on G2, Capterra

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Dabble FAQ

How does Dabble assist with managing complex narratives involving multiple subplots or character arcs?

Dabble offers a Plot Grid feature designed to organize story elements such as plot lines, plot points, and labels. Additionally, it includes Character Profiles to track traits, backgrounds, and arcs, and a Worldbuilding Bible to develop settings and rules for fictional worlds.

Can I use Dabble to write multiple books within the same fictional universe?

Yes, Dabble supports planning and writing multiple books in one place through its Series & Shared Worlds feature. This allows users to keep all their notes and worldbuilding consistent across different titles.

What specific tools does Dabble provide for refining manuscript text beyond basic grammar checks?

Dabble integrates with advanced checking tools like ProWritingAid and Grammarly, alongside its built-in spelling, grammar, and style revisions. It also offers a 'Read to Me' function to help authors catch mistakes and refine phrasing by hearing their text aloud.

How does Dabble facilitate collaboration or sharing of manuscripts with others?

Dabble allows users to export their manuscripts to Web, Word, and GDocs formats for sharing. It also includes features for Writing Group Share and a Beta Reader Workflow to streamline feedback from collaborators and early readers.

What unique features are available for enhancing the visual presentation of a finished manuscript within Dabble?

Dabble provides options to upload custom Book Covers and Chapter Heading Images to enhance the visual appeal of a manuscript. It also offers various Font Themes and a Dark Theme for comfortable writing in different environments.

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