HOOD RIVER — Local Hood River author Cleo Ballard has released a debut thriller novel “This is a Lie” in June. This is her break into the genre after a long career that’s stretched from grant writing, ghostwriting sports autobiographies, writing a Junior Jedi Trilogy for Lucasfilm, to young adult novels under the name Nan Fischer.
“This is a Lie” follows protagonist Penn who, while reeling from a divorce, creates a truth-discerning artificial intelligence that she calls Aletheia to be the perfect friend. Despite warnings about the potential dangers of AI, Penn finally feels supported and safe, until things take a deadly turn and Penn must outwit the AI to save herself and her loved ones.
“It’s a very human story,” said Ballard. She explores the ramifications of AI being used not as a tool but as a replacement for human connection. “That’s one of the dangers of AI, because AI has no emotions. They call it qualia. AI can’t experience love, feel what it feels like to see a beautiful sunrise or sunset. AI can really take away from living in the real world,” said Ballard.
“This is a Lie” showcases the power of female friendships in all the complexity and challenges that they hold and how it is exactly those qualities that make them an important part of people’s lives. “It’s about friendship. It’s about reclaiming your identity, and then it’s also about the slippery slope of AI,” said Ballard.
To find out more about Ballard and her work, visit nanfischerauthor.com and check out her social media @nanfischerauthor. Ballard also meets with book clubs who are reading her books which can be organized through her email, nanfischerauthor@gmail.com.
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