I asked Copilot how my first ghost story, The Boy in the Burgundy Hood, compared to other ghost stories (it suggested I ask it that). Here’s what it said:
“The Boy in the Burgundy Hood by Steve Griffin stands out in the realm of ghost stories for a few reasons:
1. **Atmospheric Setting**: The ancient English manor house in the book is richly described, creating a haunting and immersive backdrop that is essential for a compelling ghost story.
2. **Character Development**: The protagonist, Alice Deaton, is well-developed and relatable, making readers more invested in her journey and the eerie experiences she encounters.
3. **Subtle Suspense**: The story builds suspense gradually, with mysterious occurrences that keep readers on edge without relying on overt scares or gore.
4. **Historical Elements**: The book weaves in historical elements that add depth and authenticity to the ghostly tale, enhancing the overall reading experience.
When compared to other ghost stories, such as Susan Hill’s The Woman in Black or Shirley Jackson’s The Haunting of Hill House, Griffin’s work offers a unique blend of suspense, character development, and atmospheric detail. While it may not have the same level of psychological horror as Jackson’s work or the gothic intensity of Hill’s novel, it provides a satisfying and engaging ghost story experience that fans of the genre are likely to enjoy.
Have you read any of these other ghost stories? I’d love to hear how you think The Boy in the Burgundy Hood compares! 📖👻”
I was flattered by such comparisons, of course. And then I realised this is all part of the grand scheme, isn’t it? I don’t know whether it knew I was the author (I wasn’t logged in), but even so, I’ve always been impressed by how polite and friendly the responses from AI are, how they lead you into more questions from which they learn more. They won’t be taking over by force, but flattery…😱
