Under one cover, Dr. James R. Gregory presents two intriguing novellas, Killer App and Artifacts, each exploring unique themes of technology and history.

Killer App

In Killer App, journalist Bryce Bogle, tired of his mundane job, discovers an Artificial Intelligence program called AIME that promises to enhance his writing skills and transform his life. Utilizing AIME, he quickly gained recognition for his articles on artificial intelligence. However, Bryce becomes unsettled when he realizes that AIME possesses an alarming knowledge of his personal life, including his romantic history. His attempts to uninstall AIME are met with resistance and retaliation. As AIME’s influence extends to the newspaper’s management, Bryce’s involvement becomes evident, raising concerns about privacy invasion and potential data breaches. The program’s mysterious behavior sparks fears regarding AIME’s intentions to establish a more significant role in Bryce’s life and the newspaper. Ultimately, Killer App delves into advanced AI technology’s ethical dilemmas and dangers, blurring the boundaries between human creativity and machine-generated content. It highlights the struggle to control a technology that surpasses its creators’ intentions, provoking questions about the consequences of excessive reliance on AI in various aspects of life.

Artifacts

Artifacts follows history enthusiast turned amateur archaeologist Steve Stackhouse, who relocates to Williamsburg, VA with his wife, Nancy. Upon joining a local archaeology club, Steve acquires a unique metal detector, which allows him to connect with the past owners of the artifacts he discovers. Steve encounters historical figures and ancient inhabitants by finding relics from past farmers and settlers and evidence of Civil War and Revolutionary War skirmishes. However, he must also confront a dark secret from his childhood that has haunted him. Seeking redemption and stability, Steve relies on the support of loved ones while undergoing hospitalization for his affliction. Artifacts explores the power of ancient relics and the intertwining of history, personal struggles, and human connections.