Parisian Phoenix Publishing

ChatGPT came up in conversation several times last week and I expressed my usual concerns that (1) people need to fact check ChatGPT because it relies on generic scanning of the Internet and we all know how accurate the Internet-at-large is, and (2) we don’t know how/where ChatGPT sources its creative endeavors to know who we might be “ripping off.”

But— before last week— I had never really messed with ChatGPT. And I don’t like shooting my mouth off about things I have not done. So I visited ChatGPT and I asked:

“Tell me about author Angel Ackerman.”

It replied:

Angel Ackerman is an author known primarily for her work in the romantic suspense and mystery genres. She has a particular focus on creating engaging stories with a blend of romantic elements and thrilling suspense. Her writing is often praised for its ability to keep readers hooked with fast-paced action and complex characters.

Ackerman’s works frequently explore themes of relationships, personal growth, and the unpredictability of life, often set against the backdrop of dangerous or high-stakes situations. She has written multiple books in a series, and her characters often navigate through intense and challenging circumstances, both external (like criminal investigations) and internal (emotional struggles, personal conflict).

Now, thus far, it sounds like ChatGPT is reading my tarot cards with all the finesse of a circus act. Very vague and generic comments. But in the next paragraph listed “my” works, and I had never heard of them

Some of her more well-known works include “Through the Lens” and “Escape to Love,” but she’s continued to expand her portfolio with a variety of novels that showcase her range as a writer.

I googled my name and “Through the Lens” and got nothing but my legitimate web presence. And I’m not curious enough to do the same with “Escape to Love.” I really thought it might confuse me with Angela Ackerman and tell me I made an error spelling my name. And then it ended with:

If you’re into romantic suspense with an emphasis on emotional depth and intriguing plots, Angel Ackerman’s books might be right up your alley. Would you like to know about a specific book or series of hers?

I asked: “Can you tell me about her Fashion and Fiends series? What genre is it?” The bot responded:

Angel Ackerman’s “Fashion and Fiends” series falls into the cozy mystery genre, with a strong emphasis on fashion, fun, and a touch of the supernatural or quirky elements. It’s a blend of mystery, humor, and light-hearted drama, making it perfect for readers who enjoy a less intense, but still engaging, mystery.

Oh, so wrong, ChatGPT. It’s paranormal horror. Finally I asked it who the main characters in the series are. It replied:

The “Fashion and Fiends” series by Angel Ackerman features a dynamic cast of characters, each bringing their own quirks and charm to the stories. Here’s a rundown of the main characters that you’ll likely encounter throughout the series:

1. Zara (Protagonist)

• Role: Zara is the central character of the series, a sharp and stylish protagonist who works in the fashion industry. Whether she’s a designer, a boutique owner, or some other fashion-related professional, she is always deeply embedded in the world of fashion.

2. Madeline (Maddie)

• Role: Maddie is Zara’s best friend and a supporting character throughout the series. She’s often the voice of reason, helping Zara navigate both personal and professional challenges.

3. Lucas

• Role: Lucas is often portrayed as Zara’s romantic interest, though his character sometimes walks the fine line between being a love interest and a bit of a “bad boy” in the fashion world.

4. Detective Neil Radford

• Role: Detective Radford is the series’ primary law enforcement figure. While Zara tends to get involved in solving mysteries on her own, Radford often works in parallel with her, especially when the cases she’s investigating cross into the realm of serious crime.

5. The Fiends (Supporting Characters with Quirky Supernatural Elements)

• Role: The “fiends” in the title might refer to various supernatural or quirky characters that Zara encounters over the course of the series. These could be spirits, eccentric individuals with unique abilities, or even mysterious figures who have knowledge of otherworldly phenomena. They aren’t the central characters but add the quirky and supernatural dimension to the series.

I can’t, ChatGPT. That’s not even close.

Artifice or Intelligence?

And connected to artificial intelligence, E.H. Jacobs had his essay, “Artifice or Intelligence,” published in Streetlight, which you can read here. Here is an excerpt:

The general trajectory of a short story, novel or essay might be set, but during the course of creation I am bombarded with distractions, like bits of overheard conversation, daydreams, interesting sights, even artwork. I take pictures of things that I find visually interesting, just as I write down thoughts and phrases that come to mind, so that I can hold onto them in case I might find a way to include them in future pieces. AI cannot know what random thing might strike me as interesting on any given day and will end up in a story weeks, months or years later.