Summary
A U.S. publisher cancelled the release of the horror novel "Shy Girl" by Mia Ballard due to concerns that artificial intelligence (AI) was used in its writing. The publisher has also stopped selling the novel in the UK, even though the author denies using AI herself, blaming an editor.
Key Facts
- The horror novel "Shy Girl" was scheduled for a U.S. release but was cancelled by the publisher, Hachette.
- The UK version of the book, which was released in November, will also be discontinued.
- Mia Ballard, the author, denies using AI to write the book and claims an acquaintance used AI for editing.
- Ballard sold nearly 2,000 copies of the book in the UK.
- Ballard is considering legal action over the situation, stating it has negatively impacted her life and mental health.
- The New York Times reported that this is the first known case of a major publisher pulling a book due to AI-related issues.
- Online reviewers have suggested the book shows signs of AI use, citing formatting and language issues.
