A project of global proportions to change the book industry forever
Critically acclaimed author and editor Alison McBain took on the influence of AI in the book industryby meeting the technology head-on!!!
Artificial intelligence (AI), in its broadest sense, is a field of research in computer science that develops and studies methods and software that enable machines to perceive their environment and use learning to maximize their chances of achieving defined goals. Currently, there are a number of programs using AI software to augment or replace human creativity.
**Alison McBain’s mission is to prove that writing can be done quickly, efficiently, and better with human instinct, emotion, and passion**
The New Empire – the newest book from Alison
Fire. Blood. His brother’s hand smashing his face to the ground. These are Jiangxi’s final memories of Beijing from 1751. In the alternate history novel The New Empire, a bloody coup imprisons the emperor’s youngest son in the bowels of a cargo ship, headed to a much different America than we’ve read about in history books. When Jiangxi arrives in the distant city of Wacharon, a trading hub for a powerful tribal confederacy, he is sold upon his arrival. As he begins to learn about the influential man who bought him, he’s caught between the two worlds of his past and present, forced to choose between following the law of the land or striking out on his own to find a new and bold path to freedom. But Jiangxi’s journey of self-discovery has a steep price. The choices he makes will change not only the course of his own life, but also the future of the two most powerful nations in the world.
Alison McBain’s human-created novels are the recipients of over 13 awards, including the Foreword INDIES. Her latest novella Dual took home 3rd place in the 3-Day Novel Contest. When not writing for herself, she’s a ghostwriter who has penned over two dozen books for clients, as well as an award-winning editor who has worked with both celebrity and NY Times-bestselling authors. In 2024, she pursued a project called “Author Versus AI,” where she wrote a book a week, using NO AI at all (34 books total). When not writing, Ms. McBain is the associate editor for the magazine ScribesMICRO and draws all over the walls of her house with the enthusiastic help of her kids. She lives in Alberta, Canada.
Tell us a little bit about yourself. How did you get into writing?
I have been an entrepreneur since I was 19 years old, starting in software development and sales. I have reinvented my businesses over the last 30 years evolving in technology, from software to network integration, to Managed Services (MSP) to now an (MSSP) – www.ipservices.com
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What inspired you to write your book?
My teams and myself in the early 2000’s felt strongly about IT process documentation, things like configurations and changes to IT infrastructure and software systems. This led us on a journey to discover the IT Infrastructure Library (ITIL) and we developed a methodology we branded VisibleOps and wrote the original VisibleOps handbook and started the IT Process Institute – www.itpi.org / with he mission of providing IT science backed methods through research, benchmarking, and the creation of prescriptive guidance, thus the VisibleOps series of best practices guidance for IT Processes, Security, Operations, Private Cloud, and my latest VisibleOps Cybersecurity and soon to be released VisibleOps – AI focusing on AI governance with security and risk management in mind. So my passion fo technology and managing it with proven best practices and practical guidance is my inspiration. Manage by fact, not belief!
What theme or message do you hope readers will take away from your book?
Practical guidance on how to improve a companies cybersecurity posture, starting with leadership and then implementing layers as prescribed by the Zero Trust methodology. It starts with leadership, then recognizing IT Processes matter because no security breach happened without a change or a need for a change, a bit of a riddle. The reality is either a threat actor breaks into a network or system and changes something, or they convince someone with access for need for a change i.g. – phishing, smishing (social engineering), clicking on a link or a nefarious website.
What drew you into this particular genre?
Growing up I always enjoyed technology, even though it was not popular in the late 70’s early 80’s = this ultimately led me to open a technology business and from there the story evolves from being a technologist, techpreneurnuer, to researching best practices, and now cybersecurity and artificial intelligence.
What social media site has been the most helpful in developing your readership?
Linked-In has been the most helpful, I also have a large Instagram following.
What advice would you give to aspiring or just starting authors out there?
Start with something you are passionate about, then make sure you do your research an truly are a subject matter expert – from there think about the altruistic impact of what you are writing, how does it make the world a better place!
What does the future hold in store for you? Any new books/projects on the horizon?
Yes, I am now researching and writing a new book my VisibleOps Series – Titled: VisibleOps AI – AI Governance with Best Practices
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About the Author
Scott Alldridge holds an M.B.A. in Cybersecurity and is a Certified Chief Information Security Officer (CCISO), ITIL Certified expert, and Harvard Certified in Technology and Privacy, and is a nationally renowned expert. Scott is a distinguished leader with over 30 years of experience in IT management and cybersecurity, specializing in protecting critical IT systems that businesses rely on today. As the CEO of IP Services, Scott has played a pivotal role in delivering advanced managed IT and cybersecurity solutions across various industries. His strategic use of the TotalControl™ framework aligns technology investments with business goals, ensuring enhanced security, operational excellence, and resilience.
In his role as President of the IT Process Institute (ITPI), Scott co-authored the renowned VisibleOps series, with over 400,000 copies sold globally. His expertise spans IT management, cybersecurity, risk management, regulatory compliance, and cloud computing. Scott is also a recognized thought leader in modern cybersecurity strategies, including Zero Trust and Integrity Management, which are critical to safeguarding today’s complex IT environments.
Through his leadership, Scott has guided organizations in strengthening their security postures and navigating the complexities of today’s threat landscape. His contributions, including white papers, keynote addresses, and innovative frameworks, continue to shape the cybersecurity industry and influence best practices for protecting essential IT systems.
Please check out my podcasts, articles, blogs, and more on my author website:
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
Author Scott Alldridge shares the methods for integrating unique cybersecurity programs with business goals in the book “The Visible Ops Cybersecurity.”
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The Synopsis
Scott Alldridge, holds an M.B.A. in Cybersecurity and is a Certified Chief Information Security Officer (CCISO), ITIL Certified expert, and Harvard Certified in Technology and Privacy and is a nationally renowned expert. Scott is a distinguished leader with over 30 years of experience in IT management and cybersecurity, specializing in protecting critical IT systems that businesses rely on today. As the CEO of IP Services, Scott has played a pivotal role in delivering advanced managed IT and cybersecurity solutions across various industries. His strategic use of the TotalControl™ framework aligns technology investments with business goals, ensuring enhanced security, operational excellence, and resilience.
“Cyber-defense is not a thing you buy, or something you learn. It’s an information-driven machine you must design and operate in order to create and manage visibility, changes, and improvement. In VisibleOps Cybersecurity, these foundational elements are brought together with cyberdefense techniques to allow organizations to manage the complexity of cyber risks by building a resilient, effective program of improvement – one that you will need no matter the attacker or threat.”
Tony Sager / Center for Internet Security (CIS)
Senior Vice President and Chief Evangelist
The Review
Instantly, this book distinguishes itself from typical cybersecurity books by being more business-driven than anything else. The author’s clear, direct, and informative writing style immediately delves into how this technology benefits businesses, particularly for small and aspiring entrepreneurs starting a new business in a technological age. Yet the author writes in a way that also cuts through the technical speak, instead worded in a way that companies and owners, from CEOs and board members to small online shops, can understand the technology fueling their businesses.
The world is moving at a rapid pace, and online business has accelerated this speed, making it even quicker. Therefore, developing a business with security in place to protect it is vital. The author clearly outlines the steps that business owners need to take, from the importance of automation to installing compliance frameworks that can improve IT departments’ operations and more. The emphasis it places on business owners is remarkable, and it even outlines what business owners need to ask their IT providers and develop plans and responses to incidents that occur, so that those unfamiliar with the tech scene can understand.
The Verdict
Thought-provoking, engaging, and insightful, author Scott Alldridge’s “The Visible Ops Cybersecurity” is a must-read nonfiction book on business and technology. The information and the fast-paced nature of the book serve as more than a guide, but a call to action for business owners to take control of their business from a cybersecurity perspective and understand the needs of their IT department, making things run much more smoothly. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
Scott Alldridge holds an M.B.A. in Cybersecurity and is a Certified Chief Information Security Officer (CCISO), ITIL Certified expert, and Harvard Certified in Technology and Privacy, and is a nationally renowned expert. Scott is a distinguished leader with over 30 years of experience in IT management and cybersecurity, specializing in protecting critical IT systems that businesses rely on today. As the CEO of IP Services, Scott has played a pivotal role in delivering advanced managed IT and cybersecurity solutions across various industries. His strategic use of the TotalControl™ framework aligns technology investments with business goals, ensuring enhanced security, operational excellence, and resilience.
In his role as President of the IT Process Institute (ITPI), Scott co-authored the renowned VisibleOps series, with over 400,000 copies sold globally. His expertise spans IT management, cybersecurity, risk management, regulatory compliance, and cloud computing. Scott is also a recognized thought leader in modern cybersecurity strategies, including Zero Trust and Integrity Management, which are critical to safeguarding today’s complex IT environments.
Through his leadership, Scott has guided organizations in strengthening their security postures and navigating the complexities of today’s threat landscape. His contributions, including white papers, keynote addresses, and innovative frameworks, continue to shape the cybersecurity industry and influence best practices for protecting essential IT systems.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
Author Marlon Buchanan shares how technology can be used to help manage the everyday tasks that consume our lives so that we can pursue the things that we are passionate about in the book “Life by Design: Automate to Master Time, Health, Money, and Unlock Personal Success.”
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The Synopsis
Imagine a life where you spend less time managing tasks and more time pursuing your passions.
In Life By Design, you’ll discover how to leverage technology to automate the everyday tasks that consume your time—so you can focus on what truly matters to you. Whether you want to spend more time with family, improve your health, or get ahead at work, this book provides the tools to help you streamline your life.
Inside, you’ll learn how to:
Automate your daily tasks, from finances to household chores, and free up your time for the things you love
Master time management by automating your schedule and staying on top of important tasks effortlessly
Optimize your health and fitness routines with smart tech to track and improve your well-being
Simplify your work life with automation tools that increase productivity and reduce stress
Improve your financial management by setting up automatic savings, investing, and bill payments
Enhance your travel experiences by automating bookings, reminders, and packing lists
Stop letting life’s demands overwhelm you. Life By Design will help you take control, create more time, and focus on what truly matters.
Start designing the life you want today—buy your copy now and unlock your potential!
The Review
This was an insightful and engaging read. The fast-paced nature of the book and the inspirational messaging of its core theme were truly empowering. The author effectively delved into a multitude of different topics, from broader social issues like FOMO and the myth of multitasking to more technical aspects, such as utilizing the climate control function for your house’s AC and freezing meals for later in the week to save time on preparation.
The balance the author was able to find between the technical and social aspects of the book was outstanding to see. The author’s background in computer science and engineering helps showcase the importance of sales and properly utilizing technology to benefit one’s home life, without succumbing to excessive screen time that detracts from critical social moments in life. The fast pace of work life and its dominance often overshadow our connections to family and friends, and maintaining a healthy balance is crucial to a more balanced overall life. This is something the author’s book does an excellent job of addressing.
The Verdict
Honest, memorable, and engaging, author Marlon Buchanan’s “Life By Design” is a must-read nonfiction guide to time management and social skills. The technical skills and daily life improvements were both empowering and thoughtful, and this is a book readers can return to time and again for both reference and improvement in their daily lives. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
Marlon Buchanan, bestselling author and IT Director, holds a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science and Engineering from MIT and master’s degrees in Business Administration and Software Engineering from Seattle University. With over 25 years of experience in IT, software development, and smart home automation, he helps busy professionals harness technology to create more time, reduce stress, and design lives they love.
He has been automating things around his house since he was a kid. Now, his wife and kids get to enjoy the fruits of his automation and efficiency exploits. He is best known for his smart home, home networking, and cybersecurity articles on his blog HomeTechHacker and his bestselling books The Personal Cybersecurity Manual, The Home Network Manual, and The Smart Home Manual.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
Author Kunal Gupta shares a speculative look into the future of AI and its impact on humanity in the book “2034: How AI Changed Forever”.
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The Synopsis
“This book is a wake-up call for those who want to shape the future rather than be shaped by it.”
In an AI-driven future, are you truly ready for the disruptive changes ahead?
2034 is a speculative nonfiction that offers bold predictions about how AI might influence our world, inspiring you to embrace curiosity, challenge assumptions, and prepare for the future with a blend of caution and excitement.
This book is not about technology—it’s about humanity. Written from the future, 2034 prompts you to think more openly about how AI will change society and what it means to thrive in this new reality.
Whether you’re a builder, creator or simply curious about what’s next, 2034 will ignite your imagination and help you navigate the future.
The Review
AI has become a central focus for many people worldwide, including in the writing world. While I am against using AI to write our books and articles, the one thing that I’ve always said is that artificial intelligence is not some evil bogeyman to fear, but instead, a tool or partner in which to evolve day-to-day life. The dark aspects of AI rest not in the technology but in those who abuse it, and getting a book like this that explores the positive possibilities for this technology is great to see come to life.
The author touches upon one certainty in this speculative nonfiction book: the future will be closely connected to AI. Whether that future is brighter or darker is up to personal opinion, but AI is here to stay. The ability to find ways of utilizing the technology not as a replacement for mankind but instead as a companion to help through some of life’s biggest hurdles, from medical care to housing, is an uplifting message of hope the author manages to bring to life through their short yet powerful chapters.
The Verdict
Author Kunal Gupta’s “2034: How AI Changed Humanity Forever” is a must-read speculative nonfiction book that takes a thought-provoking look into the future and the possibilities of AI. The book’s focus on the impactful and insightful nature of AI and how it could affect society, the ethics of our world, and how people form relationships as a whole makes it engaging. It should open readers up to new ways of approaching this fast-moving technology. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
International best selling author Kunal Gupta is an entrepreneur and investor.
Kunal founded and successfully scaled an advertising technology company, serving as Chief Everything Officer for 15 years. Based in New York at the time, he worked with teams and clients across 30+ countries.
Born, raised, and educated in Canada, Kunal studied software engineering from the University of Waterloo and artificial intelligence at the University of Oxford.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
A complex web of mysteries unravel in a world dominated by the emergence of A.I. in author Brian Kacica’s novel “Ryan’s Robot”.
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The Synopsis
Ryan is a young thrill seeker; a clever, yet depressed illusionist, who turns his dark thoughts into fuel that drives his desire to entertain. His stunts are death defying, and attract large crowds. But when his mother is pulled into a riptide and swallowed up by the ocean, the world becomes too dark for fancy tricks.
The loss of his mother crushes him, forcing him to step out of the limelight.
Ryan vanishes. He’s assumed dead, while Victor, his father, the world’s leading expert in artificial intelligence, forges on. After building an army of human-like robots for Wardlow Technologies, he creates an artificial son in the exact likeness of Ryan.
RyN2 is a secret to the world. Creating replicas of humans is a no-no.
But Victor has big plans for RyN2. Things look promising, until he’s struck by a van during an attempted kidnapping, leaving him in a coma.
Meanwhile, Ryan exorcises his demons and returns. It doesn’t take the magician long to discover he’s been replaced by the android. The weight of the situation forces him to prove his self worth and enter the stage once again. Ryan proclaims he will pull off the biggest event in magic history…
But in order for him to complete the act, he needs to reach far beyond the realm of magic. Ryan needs to make his doppelgänger disappear forever.
The Review
A well written, complex and sophisticated plot plays out throughout the entirety of this novel. A slow buildup over a lengthy novel, the story showcases the nature of grief, loss and family in the midst of a powerful sci-fi plot with robots becoming part of human society and A.I. growing more in depth and complexity.
The author does a great job of creating a vast cast of characters that each inhabit their own space within the context of the novel’s plot, choosing to focus on an ensemble character development rather than just a singular point of view. While readers may notice the vast amount of plot points and changing character views at first, the novel begins to piece together these plot points and create a cohesive world that speaks to the author’s mythology and world building talents.
The Verdict
This is a must read sci-fi epic. A true testament to the author’s powerful voice in this genre, the story expertly crafts personal and emotional relationships into the fabric of a action packed, sci-fi heavy story that will keep readers invested throughout the lengthy novel’s entirety. Be sure to grab your copy of Ryan’s Robot by Brian Kacica today!
Rating: 8/10
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About the Author
Brian Kacica lives in the perilous hills of San Diego, fending off coyotes, tarantulas, bobcats and rattle snakes with his beautiful, valiant wife, three courageous children and chubby chocolate Lab, whose plump legs are routinely a chew toy for her spunky Boxer sidekick. JDA is his debut novel.
