I'm new to GUI-based layout. I came from a background of TeX (vi, cvs, GNUplot, shell scripts) and scientific writing, so this system is a huge change. I picked Quark 9 over its competition because of its elegance and power, and have been using it for three months.

The interface is quite mac-like -- I loathe clutter and bloated, needlessly complicated applications.

It has a very steep learning curve and it's too expensive at $800. On the other hand, I use it in combination with Bean, SketchBook and AutoCad LT and have successfully produced simple, (hopefully) elegant e-books.

Its tools are minimal but very flexible. Its conditional styles are a godsend, and it handles lists very neatly. I have even made use of the 'shaping' tool -- its nods to analytic geometry (sine curves? really?) are cheeky but appreciated.

I guess I'm lucky that I don't have any baggage with the program or the company. It's been very smooth sailing for me. I can't recommend the program enough, despite the price.