AN ONLINE version of specialist software for novelists has been launched by an Otley businesswoman.

The Novel Factory, developed and marketed by Katja Kaine, went on sale globally in 2012 and has proven to be particularly popular in the US.

The software is a user-friendly tool designed to help authors and was initially released in a downloadable, desktop format for use with Windows.

Katja, who is composing her own debut novel, says the new online version will allow writers to work on the move as it can be accessed from any connected device.

She said: "The Novel Factory is suitable for anyone writing a novel but I think it’s particularly beneficial for new writers because it gives them a structure to work within.

"We have worked closely with writers to develop the programme, taking their feedback on board, and I think that really shows in the finished product.

"The desktop and online versions are currently separate but, in the future, we hope to make it possible for customers to access their work in both formats."

Both forms of The Novel Factory guide users through the writing process, posing relevant questions along the way, and include character development and planning tools.

The online version also features a subplot manager which allows writers to cross-reference notes between scenes, subplots and characters.

Paul Teague, author of The Secret Bunker Trilogy, The Grid Trilogy and several non-fiction titles, is a fan of the product.

He said: "After writing my first book directly into Google Drive, I quickly realised that I needed to find a much better way of planning and managing my writing.

"I can't even remember how I discovered The Novel Factory but I didn't even wait for the seven-day trial to end.

"The minute I opened it up I knew it was for me and paid for my licence immediately.

"I have now plotted out eight novels using the software and, every time I deploy it, I find new features that I can use."

A free trial is available from the www.novel-software.com website, which also has a variety of free resources for authors.