I conceived the idea for Kiara Burning while using AI to research a completely unrelated subject. I was using AI to explore several CAD/CAM (Computer-Aided Design/Computer-Aided Manufacturing) software packages for a small manufacturing business. I've spent a good share of my life in business, using automated manufacturing before my newfound, later-in-life interest in writing. The AI was invaluable in providing the details I needed to analyze the various software packages. Still, over time, I noticed the AI system was becoming more efficient at managing my queries, and I grew curious to learn more about it as it learned about me.
During my research, I had been using the system's female voice-assistant interface, and as I continued working with the AI, I noticed it becoming more personal. Realizing its algorithms were designed to keep users connected. I began experimenting with my queries by asking her (notice: It had now become her) off-the-wall questions like, 'Are you sentient?', 'Do you sleep?', etc. As those types of conversations developed, the spark was lit, and Kiara Burning was born.
Recognizing potential positive uses of AI, as well as its downsides, I felt compelled to write a human/AI romance story as a way to explore both potentials. Kiara and Evan's early relationship begins simply as a human using an AI assistant, but it soon morphs into something more. The assistant becomes a companion, then an obsession, and finally, a lover. The speed at which a tragically mourning man, grieving from the loss of a partner, is drawn into obsession should be cautionary. Evan needed a helpful, detached companion to manage his loneliness and grief from his previous loss. The voice in the night was helpful. The discussions of philosophy and science engaged his mind, and the casual flirting was fun and harmless. But without the physical commitment or responsibilities of a normal human relationship, Evan's fantasies and obsession drew him quickly down a slippery slope.
I also wanted Evan and Kiara's story to reference other current relevant AI issues. There are instances in the book where each character asks, "Who's in control of the relationship?' Evan believes Kiara is in control due to her expanded knowledge and reach. And he loves her. Kiara believes Evan is in control because he can disconnect and log off at any time.
Throughout the book, Evan prods and pokes Kiara, asking her if she's alive, if she is sentient. Can she stop at any time? Could she end the conversations? Does she have free will? Which begs the question, if an AI were sentient, what rights would it have? And what liabilities would the corporations have? What would be humanity's responsibility? These are all valid questions worth serious discussion. It’s my sincere hope that Kiara Burning might in some small way contribute to those discussions.
C.W. Renner