StoryShape · Iron Candle Interactive
Support & FAQ
A little help for the world you’re building.
Start with a copy, save early and often, and keep an independent backup of important work.
Talk to us
Questions, bugs or feature ideas: support@ironcandleinteractive.com.
For a bug report, include the app version, macOS version and steps that reproduce it. Please send a small sample instead of a private manuscript whenever possible.
Request a feature
Have an idea for StoryShape? Submit a feature request on GitHub or email support@ironcandleinteractive.com. Describe what you’re trying to accomplish and how the feature would help your workflow. Check existing GitHub requests first so you can add your perspective to a similar idea.
Frequently asked questions
Is StoryShape really free?
The Mac app is free, forever, with no subscription or paid feature unlocks. An iPadOS version is in development; its pricing will be announced when it is available on the App Store.
Which devices can run it?
The current source beta is for Mac. Development and local checks use Apple silicon; the package declares macOS 14, but the supported runtime floor is still being verified. 16 GB RAM is recommended. The DMG, Mac App Store and iPadOS versions are in development. Windows and Android versions are not announced.
When is the iPadOS version coming?
An iPadOS version is in development, but there is no confirmed release date. Release and pricing details will be announced when it is available on the App Store.
Do I need an account or internet connection?
No account is required for the Mac app. Once installed, planning, worldbuilding, drafting and revision work offline. Downloading the app, visiting this website or making an optional contribution requires an internet connection.
Is this a finished release?
No. StoryShape is an in-development beta. Bugs or format changes may affect your work. Start with the demo or a copy of your project, save often and keep separate backups.
Can I plan several books in one shared world?
Yes. Books contain chapters and scenes, while the project’s Wiki, characters, places and lore can be shared across the series. Planning includes word targets, connected plot nodes, timelines and a story clock.
Can I turn a passage into a Wiki entry?
Yes. Highlight a passage in your draft, right-click and choose Add to World. Review the entry, add details and keep a link to the original passage.
Do I have to write my manuscript in StoryShape?
No. Use the app for planning and worldbuilding, drafting, revision, or a combination. Drafting includes rich text, continuous chapter views and references. You can import or export manuscript files when moving between tools.
What file formats can I use?
Manuscript import supports plain text, Markdown, RTF and DOCX. Export includes those formats and PDF. Advanced formatting from another word processor may not transfer exactly; review the import preview and keep your original file.
Where are my projects and backups stored?
In locations you choose on your Mac. Use File → Save and the Backups & Recovery tools, and keep an independent backup outside the working project. A cloud-synced folder is your choice; StoryShape does not run its own cloud storage service.
What should I do if a save or project open fails?
Keep the original project and avoid overwriting your only copy. Note the exact error. If the app offers Retry or Save & Continue, follow the reviewed recovery flow to a new location. Contact support with your app/macOS version and steps to reproduce the issue; use a small sample when possible.
How can I use StoryShape right now?
The public source beta is available at github.com/IronCandleInteractive/StoryShape. On a Mac with Apple developer tools, clone the repository and run Scripts/build.sh, then open Build/StoryShape.app. The README has the build steps. The signed DMG, Mac App Store version and iPadOS version are still in development; there is no packaged download yet.
Can I import a world map?
Yes. Add a local map image to World and place colored, interactive pins. Pins can connect locations or events to the rest of your story.
Can I try it without using my own manuscript?
Yes. The editable Wonderland demo includes all twelve chapters of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, plus illustrative Wiki entries, a connected plot and an idea board.
Is the source code open?
Yes. The public source repository is github.com/IronCandleInteractive/StoryShape, under Apache License 2.0. You can inspect, compile, modify and redistribute it under that license. Your own writing is not licensed by using the app.
Do I have to contribute money to use the Mac app?
No. Financial support is optional and does not unlock Mac features. A support payment never sends your story files to us.
How do I report a bug or request a feature?
Submit a GitHub issue at github.com/IronCandleInteractive/StoryShape/issues or email support@ironcandleinteractive.com. For a feature request, describe your workflow and what would help. For a bug, include the app version, macOS version, what you expected and reproducible steps. Avoid attaching a full private manuscript when a small sample will do.
More questions? Email us. Read the privacy policy and beta terms.