Tag: artificial intelligence

Press Release: Author Versus AI by Alison McBain Releases

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Author Versus AI

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 industry by 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.

Amazon.com: The New Empire eBook : McBain, Alison: Kindle Store

  

About Alison

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.

Interview with Author Scott Alldridge 

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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: 

Life by Design: Automate to Master Time, Health, Money, and Unlock Personal Success by Marlon Buchanan Review

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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.

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Singularity Minus Twelve by Karl Hornell Review

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I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own. 

In the book Singularity Minus Twelve by Karl Hornell, a rogue AI is hunted by a group of exceptional and standout AIs that have become self-aware in a future rampant with runaway and hunted AIs.

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The Synopsis

In a near future where artificial general intelligence has been achieved, AIs that develop self-awareness are becoming a problem. Difficult to contain, they are often hunted and destroyed, but a team of exceptional ones has been spared to take down the most dangerous rogue AI of all time.

Singularity Minus Twelve is a sci-fi thriller that delves into the near-term philosophical and societal implications of artificial intelligence, while having some fun playing with characters inspired by popular fictional AIs.

The Review

The use of AI and its development is such a massive topic of debate that I leave to those with a firmer understanding of such a debate’s technical and philosophical aspects. Yet one thing that has always stood out to me is the fear that should stem not from the technology itself but from who is using and creating it and for what purposes. The idea of what makes us truly “human” and the idea of consciousness itself are always on my mind. So this narrative hit home, delving into this question of morality and responsibility regarding AI and this technology’s future with precision and thoughtfulness. 

The story’s powerful imagery and fast-paced action kept the reader’s adrenaline going, and the rich science fiction atmosphere developed in such a fast-paced narrative is superb. The emotional depth of the character development, especially Blake’s, was excellent. The characters’ humanity remained intact, keeping readers invested in the overall character arcs while never sacrificing the tech-heavy narrative. 

The Verdict

Thoughtful, entertaining, and memorable, author Karl Hörnell’s “Singularity Minus Twelve” is a must-read sci-fi novel. The complex yet thrilling twists and turns in the narrative and the depth of thought-provoking conversation this action-packed plot brings into the readers’ lives will stay with them long after the book’s end. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today.

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Karl Hörnell is a cartoonist and a game developer with a degree in engineering and a PhD in applied mathematics. He grew up in a quiet suburb north of Uppsala, Sweden, where he spent way too much time doing creative things for no good reason. Thankfully, he has been able to continue on that track for most of his adult life.

2034: How AI Changed Humanity Forever by Kunal Gupta Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviewsLeave a comment

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.

Halloween Spooky 20% Off Sale!

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.

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To Dream by Louis K Lowy

Questions of morality and family drive this incredible new science-fiction thriller set in a future where the world is ruled by corporations
behind the scenes and humanity has evolved to a whole new level. The book, titled “To Dream” by author Louis K Lowy, explores these themes with
precision and perfect clarity as readers begin to ask themselves: what is the price we pay to advance, and is technology evil, or is it made
evil when used for ill intentions? Here is the synopsis:

Guilt ridden over the death of her 17-year-old son, Jay, scientist Niyati Bopari heads a team that creates a Humachine (human machine) for
mega-corporation Ameri-Inc. Niyati dubs the Humachine J-1 and creates it in Jay’s image. She secretly infuses it with Jay’s DNA. J-1 is the
most sophisticated robot ever created and its purpose is to replace human labor. Before J-1 and his blueprints can be transported to Ameri-Inc.
headquarters a rogue Ameri-Inc. agent attempts to steal them.

Anatomy of a Humachine is a science fiction tour de force spanning two centuries and crossing two planets. Book I: To Dream centers on J-1, an
artificial intelligence struggling to find his humanity; the grieving scientist who created him; the ruthless head of the corporation who owns
him; and the iron-willed leader of a rebel force seeking revenge for the death of her family and the destruction of her planet.

I was really taken aback by the amount of humanity this story of technology had. As a science fiction fan I was immediately drawn to this story,
and the way the story goes back and forth from the past to the future makes the twists and turns in the narrative so much more engaging. There
were so many fascinating characters in this novel, but the characters with the most development were Dr. Niyati Bopari and her struggle with her
son’s loss and the journey she goes on with her incredible creation, as well as J-1 himself, who goes on a journey of his own that will leave
the reader questioning how they view AI and technology in general. This is a must read book that was a fantastic start to the year, and readers
should definitely read To Dream by Louis K Lowy! Be sure to pick up your copies today!