NPR's Book of the Day In 'Romantic Friction,' 'The Fact Checker' the publishing world is fodder for fiction
May 9, 2025
Lori Gold, a talented author and former magazine editor, shares insights from her novel 'Romantic Friction,' where a fantasy romance writer navigates rivalry with an AI-driven competitor. She discusses the emotional highs and lows of publishing, the intricate relationship between AI and creativity, and the passionate romance reading community. Alongside Gold, Austin Kelley explores his novel 'The Fact Checker,' revealing the humorous trials of a fact checker seeking authenticity in journalism. Together, they dive into the quirky dynamics of the literary world.
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Episode notes
Balanced Perspective on AI in Publishing
- Lori Gold approaches AI in publishing by portraying both pros and cons to let readers decide.
- She personally feels anxious about AI's impact on authors' careers and teaching creative writing.
Genre Choice Reflects Fan Loyalty
- Fantasy romance is chosen because of its passionate and loyal fanbase.
- This genre's readers strongly support favorite authors, making it perfect for the story's stakes.
Instant Gratification Drives AI Usage
- The new author uses AI because they want more content like Sophie Wilde produces.
- This reflects society's expectation for instant entertainment and overflowing content.
