Checking In ---- 5/5/2023

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It has been a long time since I did anything with this web site. There are lots of reasons for it. Political climate, multiple surgeries, social anxiety (likely triggered by the above crap.), and financial hurdles that I just haven't been able to overcome. I'm sure most of my readers can associate with at least one, if not more, of those issues. 

All to often, it feels like the world is on fire around us. In the day to day, hum drum of it all, the world is fine, unless you're unlucky enough to live in one of the few areas where the world really is on fire. But the media loves its fear porn. Ratings, ratings, ratings. Therefore, they have to keep us thinking that the world is coming down around our ears.

However... 

I didn't pop on here to lament about my life. Because honestly, it's not that bad. I popped on because I wanted to talk about AI. I'd like to point out, I am a sci-fi author. I know the dangers of AI, and I am not a fan. But to paraphrase Sun Tzu, the damage is already done. AI, well large language learning, is here. We can either face it, or get run over by it. I for one like using it to generate throw away roleplaying characters in table-top games. It's great. However, I want to come out on the record to say that I have NO intentions of ever using it to write my novels. I don't need help creating crazy situations or characters for my stories. But that doesn't mean I should ignore it either. I can try to use it for advertising, which I suck at because I hate social media. Or even just to toss around ideas with and test theories and reactions.

When I asked the AI's about my books however, It was a mixed bag. Chat GPT4 depressed the hell out of me. It had no idea what Aether Ones was, or even who the characters were. But... I checked out Googles Bard, and it did! no only did it know about me, it had nice things to say. Talk about an ego boost. (Though I do have to ask myself, what does it say about me that I cared what an AI thought or knew about me?)

Here is what Google Bard said,

"Aether Ones is a science fiction novel by Wendi Coffman-Porter. It was published in 2020. The novel is set in a universe that was once whole, but was torn apart by a cataclysmic event known as the Great Sundering. The two resulting realities are the Aether and the Prime. The Aether is a realm of magic and wonder, while the Prime is a realm of science and technology.

The story follows Leilani Falconi, a talented agent of the IIS, a secret organization that polices the galaxy. When a series of suspicious deaths in kuldain space threatens the secrecy and peace, Lei must solve the mystery--fast--before both her realities change forever.

Aether Ones is a fast-paced and exciting science fiction novel that will keep you on the edge of your seat. The characters are well-developed and the plot is full of twists and turns. If you're a fan of science fiction, then you'll definitely enjoy this book.

Here are some of the things that I liked about Aether Ones:

• The characters are well-developed and relatable.
• The plot is full of twists and turns that will keep you guessing.
• The world-building is detailed and immersive.
• The writing is clear and engaging.
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Overall, I really enjoyed Aether Ones. It's a well-written science fiction novel that I would definitely recommend to others."

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In conclusion, AI is here. Embrace it, watch it, police it, shape it, and control it. But no matter what... do NOT ignore it.

Also book 3 is done, but publishing with my hybrid publisher takes money. I use them because I want traditional publishing, while still retaining my intellectual property. And no, I am NOT interested in self-publishing, for multiple reasons. So, until I can come up with the money, I will keep writing. And sadly, you will have to keep waiting.

Until next time,

Wendi Coffman Porter