Bookshelf-style library
The interface is organized like a bookshelf, with labeled shelves you can sort by series, status, or pen name. Books can be dragged between shelves, and cover art can be added directly to titles.
NEO
NEO is a distraction-free novel-writing tool for authors. It runs locally, stores manuscripts as plain files on disk, and includes organization, planning, export, and backup features.
Overview
NEO is a novel-writing tool and distraction-free word processor for authors. The project is presented as a local-first writing app built by a novelist, with a focus on keeping manuscripts organized while avoiding the clutter of a general-purpose editor.
According to the README, NEO runs locally, stores work-in-progress files as plain files on disk, and does not require accounts or subscriptions. The workflow centers on drafting, organizing chapters, tracking goals, and exporting finished work into common publishing and document formats.
Key features
Distraction-reduced writing view
NEO is built for low-distraction drafting: a default white page or dark mode, controls that fade until hover, automatic chapter numbering, and inline typography cleanup for em dashes, ellipses, and curly quotes.
Darlings and placeholders
The app supports draft management tools such as Darlings, where you can move passages out of the manuscript without losing them, and Placeholders, which add sticky-note reminders and chapter markers.
Outline and section planning
An Outline tab lets you organize chapters and sections, while section notes appear in the manuscript as gray ghost paragraphs ready to be replaced.
Goals and progress tracking
NEO includes progress support such as daily word goals, word sprints, and a NaNoWriMo-style progress chart, with progress bars shown on book covers.
Import and export workflow
Built-in export and import options cover EPUB 3, Word .docx, PDF, HTML, markdown, plain text, plus importing .docx, .txt, and .md manuscripts with automatic chapter and scene-break detection.
Common use cases
Draft a novel in a focused editor
Use NEO when you want a writing environment that starts from the assumption you are drafting a book, with chapters, scene breaks, and manuscript formatting built into the interface.
Manage a backlist or series library
Use the bookshelf and shelf labels to organize multiple books, series, or pen names without relying on a generic file list.
Organize revisions and planning notes
Use Darlings, placeholders, and outlines when you need to move text aside, mark unresolved details, or map the structure of a chapter before polishing.
Prepare a manuscript for delivery
Use the export tools when you need to move a manuscript into EPUB, DOCX, PDF, HTML, markdown, or plain text for sharing or publishing.
Keep a local-first backup workflow
Use the local file structure and backups when you want work stored on disk, with daily zip backups and optional iCloud storage for extra safety.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Runs locally and stores work as plain files on disk.
- Includes multiple export formats, including EPUB 3 and Word .docx.
- Supports chapter planning, placeholders, and saved passages without losing material.
- Provides a distraction-reduced writing environment with automatic numbering and typography cleanup.
- Offers backups through continuous autosave and daily zip archives.
Cons
- The README presents NEO as opinionated and intentionally minimal, so it is not aimed at users who want a complex all-in-one writing suite.
- Importing existing manuscripts is described as still rough and may require manual cleanup.
- The README notes that some features, such as goals and momentum tracking, may need more testing.
FAQ
Is NEO free to use?
The source describes NEO as a free app with no accounts or subscriptions. GitHub’s pricing page confirms the project is hosted on GitHub, where a free plan exists for public and private repositories, but the product itself is presented as free.
Does NEO store manuscripts locally?
The README says NEO runs locally and stores work-in-progress files on your disk. It also says your library lives in a NEO Library folder, with one folder per book and readable HTML chapters.
What file formats can NEO export?
NEO can export manuscripts to EPUB 3, Word .docx, PDF, HTML, markdown, and plain text. It can also email a timestamped PDF snapshot with a SHA-256 fingerprint in the body.
How do you install NEO?
The README gives installation instructions for macOS and Windows only: download the appropriate installer from the Releases page, then open the .dmg on Mac or run the .exe or setup installer on Windows.
Who is NEO best suited for?
The README frames NEO as an opinionated, distraction-free writing tool for authors. It is meant for writers who want local, plain-file storage and a minimal workflow rather than a fuller-featured writing suite.
Quick Facts
- Category
- Novel-writing tool
- Platform
- macOS and Windows installers are documented
- Storage model
- Local files on disk; NEO Library folder
- Primary users
- Authors and novelists
- Source domain
- github.com
- Pricing
- Project presented as free; GitHub free plan available for repository hosting
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SpeakoFlow
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