Our Writing Tools & Setup
The exact tools, software, and equipment we use to run a multi-pen-name author business.
Old school and proud of it. Word handles everything — drafting, revision tracking, formatting for editors. It's reliable, it's everywhere, and it does exactly what it needs to do.
AI-assisted editing, outlining, and brainstorming. Used for developing plot logic, working through structural problems, and thinking out loud when the outline needs rethinking.
Agentic AI editing partner. Handles everything from line edits and consistency checks to structural rewrites and continuity analysis across full manuscripts.
The gold standard for book formatting. The output is beautiful out of the box — it handles ebook and print simultaneously, and the chapter styling options are genuinely gorgeous.
For social graphics, promotional images, newsletter headers, and ARC covers. The brand kit feature is essential when you're running four separate pen name aesthetics simultaneously.
Our primary publishing platform. The dashboard has improved significantly — royalty reporting, pricing tools, and the KENP reads tracker give us everything we need to manage KU titles.
ARC distribution, reader magnet delivery, and group promotions. The integration with email platforms means every ARC reader is automatically added to the right list. Non-negotiable for list building.
Long-form newsletters, serialized fiction, and community building. The platform for readers who want deeper behind-the-scenes access — and one of the best free discovery tools available for indie authors right now.
My primary writing and work machine. The screen real estate and power mean I can have Antigravity, Word, and reference docs all open at once without slowdown.
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Kept specifically for Vellum — it's Mac-only and this machine runs it flawlessly. The M5 chip makes formatting even the longest manuscripts instant.
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Non-negotiable. A lit candle signals to my brain that it's time to write. This one smells amazing and makes a perfect gift for any writer in your life.
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Yes, a gaming mouse for writing. The scroll wheel is buttery smooth for long documents, the wireless is rock solid, and I never have to think about it.
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A massive upgrade for the workspace. Having a full-desk mat protects the surface, gives the mouse infinite runway, and just makes the entire desk feel more cohesive and premium.
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My absolute go-to headset and mic combo for teaching classes and long writing sprints. The audio quality is fantastic, the noise cancellation helps me focus, and let's be honest—the light-up cat ears are a total vibe.
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