Atticus
PaidAll-in-one book formatting and writing tool that exports print-ready PDFs and eBooks for Kindle, Apple Books, and other retailers with drag-and-drop chapter management.
What does this tool do?
Atticus is a specialized book writing and formatting platform designed specifically for authors publishing to multiple channels. It combines a distraction-free writing editor with professional book formatting capabilities, eliminating the need for separate software. The tool handles the entire publishing workflow: writing chapters with drag-and-drop management, applying professional templates (17+ base templates with 1,200+ combinations), and exporting print-ready PDFs and eBooks compatible with Kindle, Apple Books, and other retailers. Built as a Progressive Web App, it works across Windows, Mac, Linux, and Chromebooks both online and offline. Unlike competitors like Vellum (Mac-only at $249), Atticus offers cross-platform compatibility at $147 with superior font support (1,500+ vs. 26) and features like custom chapter theme builders, callout boxes, and footnote support.
AI analysis from Feb 23, 2026
Key Features
- Drag-and-drop chapter management with integrated book goal tracker and writing habit monitoring
- Custom theme builder enabling unique visual design beyond pre-made templates with 1,500+ font options
- Multi-format export: EPUB, PDF, and DOCX with print-ready PDF generation for physical book production
- Comprehensive device preview across iPhone, iPad, Kindle (Paperwhite, Oasis, Fire), Kobo, and Nook with full bleed image support
- Advanced formatting elements including footnotes, H2-H6 headers, large print editions, volumes, parts, and callout boxes
- Cloud storage with automatic backups and offline-first architecture allowing work without internet connection
- Seamless import of existing DOCX files to convert manuscripts from other platforms
Use Cases
- 1Self-publishing authors preparing manuscripts for simultaneous distribution across Kindle, Apple Books, and print-on-demand services
- 2Fiction writers managing multi-chapter books with complex formatting requirements and consistent styling across volumes
- 3Non-fiction authors integrating footnotes, callout boxes, and large print editions while maintaining a single document source
- 4Authors migrating from Word or Google Docs who need professional formatting without learning complex design software
- 5Indie publishers managing multiple book projects simultaneously with version control and cloud backup protection
Pros & Cons
Advantages
- Cross-platform accessibility as a Progressive Web App eliminates the Mac-only limitation of competitors, working on Windows, Linux, and Chromebooks
- Significantly lower price point ($147) than direct competitor Vellum ($249) while offering more fonts (1,500+) and advanced features like custom theme builders and callout boxes
- Integrated writing environment eliminates software fragmentation—authors write and format in one tool rather than juggling Word/Google Docs with separate formatting software
- Comprehensive device preview system shows exactly how books render on iPhone, iPad, various Kindle models, and Kobo readers before publication
- Robust offline functionality and automatic cloud backups provide security for irreplaceable manuscript work
Limitations
- No MOBI export option (offered by competitor Vellum) limits direct Kindle compatibility, requiring EPUB conversion or workarounds
- Version control listed as 'Coming Soon' is a significant gap for authors managing multiple drafts or collaboration workflows
- Limited to desktop and tablet devices—no mobile writing capability despite being a PWA, restricting flexibility for some authors
- Only 17+ base templates compared to Vellum's 26, potentially limiting design variety for certain book genres
- Website content appears partially cut off at the bottom, suggesting incomplete information about subscription model or additional features
Pricing Details
One-time purchase of $147 for eBook and Print formatting capabilities. No subscription model—authors own the software permanently. Competitor Vellum charges $249 for equivalent features. 30-day money-back guarantee offered with no questions asked.
Who is this for?
Self-publishing and independent authors across fiction and non-fiction who need professional book formatting without design expertise. Best suited for serious indie publishers managing multiple releases, authors migrating from Word or Google Docs, and writers on non-Mac platforms. Ideal for authors targeting simultaneous multi-channel distribution (Kindle, Apple Books, print). Less suitable for those requiring advanced version control collaboration or who exclusively use Mac systems (where Vellum's optimized experience might be preferable).