Writing a novel is hard—but AI tools can make it easier. From brainstorming plots to generating chapters, improving dialogue, and managing consistency, today’s best AI novel writing software is like having a co-author, editor, and productivity coach all in one.
In this in-depth guide, you’ll discover the best AI tools for novel writing in 2025—based on creative control, writing quality, character building, pricing, and ease of use.
🥇 Quick Picks: Top 3 AI Novel Writing Tools
1. Sudowrite – Best for Creative Fiction Writers
✅ Superb storytelling assistance
✅ Tools for plot, tone, and character development
✅ Works inside Google Docs
🔗 Try Sudowrite
2. Claude by Anthropic (via Poe or Notion) – Best for Long-Form Control
✅ Handles entire chapters at once
✅ More nuanced and less repetitive than ChatGPT
✅ Ideal for coherent, multi-page outputs
🔗 Use Claude on Poe
3. ChatGPT Plus – Best All-Purpose Novel Assistant
✅ GPT-4 Turbo with memory and custom instructions
✅ Good for worldbuilding, editing, and dialogue
✅ Web, desktop, and iOS apps
🔗 Get ChatGPT
🧠 What is AI Novel Writing Software?
AI novel writing software uses natural language processing (NLP) and large language models (LLMs) to help authors write faster, improve their prose, and stay creatively inspired. These tools can assist with:
- Brainstorming ideas
- Writing scenes or entire chapters
- Developing characters
- Fixing plot holes
- Rewriting awkward sentences
- Staying consistent in voice and style
They don’t write your book for you—but they help make the process smoother, faster, and sometimes even more fun.
👤 Who Should Use AI Novel Writing Software?
Writer Type | Why It Helps |
---|---|
First-time novelists | Get help with structure, pacing, and dialogue |
Experienced authors | Speed up editing and revision |
NaNoWriMo participants | Hit daily word goals faster |
Worldbuilders | Flesh out lore, magic systems, timelines |
Screenwriters & game writers | Prototype story arcs and branching narratives |
✅ What to Look for in a Novel-Writing AI Tool
Feature | Why It Matters |
---|---|
Long-form memory | Keeps track of characters, events, and tone |
Genre adaptability | Adjusts style for fantasy, sci-fi, romance, etc. |
Creative control | Offers suggestions without hijacking your voice |
Scene/outline support | Helps you stay organized and coherent |
No plagiarism risk | Generates original, non-copied content |
Export & backup options | Important for version control and editing |
🏆 Best AI Tools for Novel Writing (Detailed Reviews)
1. Sudowrite
Best For: Fiction authors who want help with creativity, not just grammar
Strengths:
- “Describe” tool for sensory detail
- “Twist” and “Brainstorm” for unexpected ideas
- “Character Generator” and “Plot Rollercoaster” features
Limitations: - Doesn’t remember large story arcs across chapters
- Not great for very long-form coherence
Pricing: Starts at $10/month (billed yearly)
🔗 Try Sudowrite
2. Claude by Anthropic (via Poe, Notion, or API)
Best For: Writers needing deep context and chapter-wide reasoning
Strengths:
- 100K+ token context window = entire chapters at once
- Gentle, thoughtful tone; strong for emotional writing
Limitations: - Interface depends on where you use it (Poe, Notion, etc.)
- No built-in writer’s tools or outline features
Pricing: Free on Poe with limits, or Notion AI with subscription
🔗 Use Claude on Poe
3. ChatGPT Plus (GPT-4 Turbo)
Best For: Versatile writing support across genres and formats
Strengths:
- Memory and custom instructions
- Works well for outlining, editing, and dialogue coaching
- Plugins and voice mode available
Limitations: - Chapter-length memory still imperfect without fine-tuning
- Requires prompt skill for best results
Pricing: $20/month
🔗 Get ChatGPT
4. NovelAI
Best For: Sci-fi, fantasy, and NSFW niche fiction
Strengths:
- Custom lorebooks and character memory
- Anime-style writing and visual generation
Limitations: - Less intuitive interface
- Some features are gated behind higher tiers
Pricing: Starts at $10/month
🔗 Explore NovelAI
5. GrammarlyGO (AI version)
Best For: Rewriting and polishing prose
Strengths:
- Rephrasing, tone control, clarity suggestions
- Integrates with Word and browser
Limitations: - Not made for storytelling
- Doesn’t help generate creative ideas
Pricing: Included in Grammarly Premium ($12/month+)
🔗 Try Grammarly
6. Writer.com
Best For: Internal writing and style consistency
Strengths:
- Custom voice + company style training
- Good for ghostwriters or brand novelists
Limitations: - Not creative—business-focused
Pricing: Team pricing starts at $18/user/month
🔗 Visit Writer
📊 Feature Comparison Table
Tool | Long-Form Support | Style Help | Creativity Tools | Memory/Recall | Price |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Sudowrite | ✅ | ✅ | ✅✅✅ | ❌ | $10+/mo |
Claude | ✅✅✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅✅✅ | Free–$20/mo |
ChatGPT | ✅✅ | ✅✅ | ✅✅ | ✅ | $20/mo |
NovelAI | ✅ | ✅ | ✅✅ | ✅ | $10+/mo |
GrammarlyGO | ❌ | ✅✅✅ | ❌ | ❌ | $12+/mo |
Writer.com | ❌ | ✅✅ | ❌ | ✅ | $18+/mo |
🧰 How to Use AI to Write a Novel (Step-by-Step)
- Brainstorm Your Concept
Use ChatGPT or Sudowrite’s “First Draft” feature to explore your premise. - Outline Your Story
Claude or Notion AI can help structure acts, beats, and chapters. - Write Chapter by Chapter
Feed Claude or ChatGPT your outline and prior text to continue writing in your voice. - Enhance Dialogue and Description
Use Sudowrite’s “Describe” or ChatGPT’s rewrite tools for richer scenes. - Revise and Edit
GrammarlyGO or ChatGPT can polish grammar, tone, and flow. - Track Characters and Lore
NovelAI or a dedicated tool like Obsidian helps with worldbuilding continuity. - Backup Everything
Always copy your work to Google Docs, Notion, or local files as you go.
💡 Pro Tips for AI-Assisted Novel Writing
✅ Use multiple tools—each has strengths
✅ Save every draft—you’ll want comparisons later
✅ Give AI feedback to refine its tone and style
✅ Don’t blindly accept suggestions—tweak them to fit your vision
✅ Watch for repetition or bland phrasing, especially in long texts
🧠 Final Thoughts
AI won’t write your novel for you—but it can make you faster, more consistent, and more confident. The key is choosing the right tool based on your process.
- For creativity and scene help → Sudowrite
- For long-form memory → Claude
- For versatility and editing → ChatGPT
- For niche fiction and deep lore → NovelAI
Try a few. See what fits your workflow. And most importantly—keep writing.
This article was created with the help of AI to offer an accurate, practical guide to today’s best AI writing tools for novelists. Always review each tool’s terms of use and backup your creative work regularly.