Quebec author abandons effort to document novel’s origins amid AI allegations

Quebec author Thélyson Orélien has abandoned efforts to compile evidence supporting his denial that artificial intelligence was used to write his novel, his publisher has confirmed. Éditions du Boréal says it supported Orélien in the process to compile evidence, which it had publicly disclosed in September, but that the author ultimately decided to end it. The publisher says it respects his decision, although it would have preferred to provide definitive answers to the allegations surrounding his novel, "C'était ça ou mourir." Boréal also confirms that sales of the novel have slowed since the controversy began, but declined to provide specific figures. The novel remains available in bookstores, but Boréal says it is currently out of stock at the publishing house, with a new printing expected next week. The novel was removed from the running for France's prestigious Prix Goncourt earlier this month amid allegations of AI use and separate plagiarism allegations involving Orélien's earlier writings, which he has since acknowledged. This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 17, 2026. By Charlotte Glorieux | Copyright 2026, The Canadian Press. All rights reserved.