AI can’t replace quality – aspiring authors told

Lincoln Book Festival Review

By Lily Bowen

 

In a contemporary society where rapid media and content floods our screen at every click, scroll or turn, the publishing world faces a unique challenge - how to stand out. 

At the Lincoln Book Festival in an interview with Alex Thompson from Troubador Publishing, the answer was simple – quality.

“One of the things we are seeing in the publishing industry is that quality is one of the most important things now that sells books”.

For aspiring writers, editors and publishers, it’s clear that it is not just about getting words onto a page or a post on a feed, it is about crafting something that endures and captivates an audience.

For those beginning their careers in publishing, Alex emphasised that technical expertise isn’t everything. 

“What I look for in someone is not necessarily the specifics around the publishing industry. Being organised, proactive, enthusiastic and willing to put time and hard work into tasks – that is far more important than a module they may have studied. Doing the basics well, already sets you above many others.”

This perspective is especially valuable in an industry where collaboration between publisher and author is important. 

At Troubador, which specialises in self-publishing, the relationship is built on trust and service. 

Alex explained: “They are in control of the project and are funding it.”

The publisher’s duty of care is ultimately about respecting an author’s vision and then working with them to make it a reality.

The relationship between author and publisher is vital in a landscape which is being reshaped by technology. Artificial intelligence is leaving its mark. 

“It’s so easy now to use AI to write a book, upload it to Amazon, and its done.

“But that’s a threat to authors who work really hard and actually write.” 

So yes - AI can churn out thousands of narratives, but it comes back to the quality of true work being a lot richer.

Perhaps for young writers entering an industry that is rapidly growing and adapting to media and the use of online tools, this message can be grounding but inspiring?

In a world where algorithms can mimic prose, authenticity and layered novels remain irreplaceable. 

The message from Alex was clear - focus on quality, build trust and don’t underestimate the value of doing the basics to a solid standard. In the end, these are the foundations that will carry both aspiring authors and publishers into an inspiring future.