The Deepfake

by Joan Cohen

Sylvie considers herself a team player at her artificial intelligence (AI) company, but when she uncovers her colleagues’ illegal activities, pleasing everyone becomes impossible. Torn about what to do, she confides in her personal trainer, who’s dismayed not only by the choices she faces but also by her advocacy of AI, a technology he considers dangerous. Despite the barbs the two trade at the gym, they are drawn to each other. If only Sylvie weren’t continually summoned to the Miami estate of her mother and stepfather, where illness, death, a disputed will, and the rekindled ashes of an old flame swirl into a disaster that follows Sylvie back to Boston, bringing harm to her and those she cares about.

Genres: Science Fiction, Fiction

304 pages, Paperback

Published April 2, 2024

Reviews

[Jude Berman · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed The Deepfake. From the title, I was expecting a technology-heavy or even just a technology-oriented read, but that’s not the case here. This is a book about human relationships. The characters aren’t techies; they are corporate administrators and salespeople. Cohen’s extensive knowledge of the setting is evident, making the story feel realistic and believable. Her understanding of human nature is also on display. Last but far from least, the books is exceptionally well written, filled with gems like “The hairs on his arms were as sparse as the pinstripes on his trousers” and “Nowhere does nature abhor a vacuum so much as in our thoughts.” The Deepfake is well deserving as a Kirkus Best Indie Book of 2024.

[Candice Reads · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you to the publisher for my copy, all opinions are my own.

This is certainly a dramatic book - intense with a lot going on and a whole whack of twists and turns. Overall I would say this is a massive character drama, borderline soap opera that actually has very little to do with A.I. as it turns out.

The story doesn't ever stop entertaining, although some of the plot jumps were a bit abrupt and it felt like there were some pretty big dramatic swings chapter after chapter. It's definitely an action packed plot that serves up significant drama between characters.

Overall, a decent read and interesting.

[Riss 🫶🏻☕️ · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Deepfake is a psychological and tech thriller that explores the ethics of artificial intelligence. Sylvie, who works at the company, uncovers her colleagues’ illegal activities and is torn about what to do. This story takes you on a lot of twists and turns, with romance, suspense, and more that will keep you on your toes. I enjoyed the plot and the characters, it certainly kept me guessing! Sylvie is an interesting character and I think readers will really like her! This was a quick paced read for me and was easy to follow.

[Booksandchinooks (Laurie)]

Thank you Books Forward PR for my free review copy. This is my second book by this author and while I found it entertaining I did feel there were some plot issues. One example of this is that Sylvie works at an AI company but when a fake AI video of her is released she is shocked to find out this could happen. I found her to be naive as to what AI is capable of. There are a lot of different subplots happening in this book so it definitely kept the story moving.

[Books Forward · Rating 5 out of 5]

A captivating novel about the ethical dilemmas of artificial intelligence. Joan Cohen beautifully articulates Sylvie's (the main character) journey to unfold the truth of her colleagues' illegal activities while also navigating romantic and familial relationships. This is a definite TBR add if you enjoy suspenseful, psychological, and tech-y thrillers!!

[Simone · Rating 5 out of 5]

It seems like I've been talking a lot with friends about the role of AI in our lives lately, so I knew I had to check out "The Deepfake" by Joan Cohen. She's a masterful storyteller, and the way she charts Sylvie's evolution from a people-pleaser to a woman of conviction felt both relatable and empowering.

[Lynn Jacobson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just finished this page turner of a book. This novel has it all. The author writes of the difficulties in maintaining one’s integrity in a cutthroat business world. The book deals with mergers, acquisitions, AI and all its complexities and potential, romance, violence and family relationships. A very timely storyline.

[Jane Roper · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great read!! A high-stakes yet nuanced story of corporate and personal intrigue that delves into so many thought-provoking issues, including the ethics of AI, workplace politics, gender dynamics, and sexual consent. It was full of twists and turns, compelling characters, and a complex web of motives and desires that kept me turning pages.

[Jenn Vance · Rating 5 out of 5]

Riveting and thought-provoking. This book masterfully navigates the moral complexities of AI ethics (something that's such a prominent issue right now) amidst a backdrop of personal turmoil and intrigue. Compelling characters and a gripping plot — this novel leaves a lasting impression for sure!

[Alyssa · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you Books Forward for the advanced copy of this book. This was really thought provoking regarding the ethics around AI and its potential for good vs evil. I felt like there were a few too many plot points to follow but overall a quick read and well done.

[Jackie · Rating 5 out of 5]

We're all wading through the murky waters of AI these days, so I was drawn to this book which feels both timely and timeless. From the bustling offices of AI Future to the intimate moments of Sylvie's life, Joan Cohen masterfully intertwines themes of technology, relationships, and self-discovery.

[Corrine Pritchett · Rating 5 out of 5]

"The Deepfake" delves into the complexities of AI, corporate scandals, and personal dilemmas. Joan Cohen's storytelling prowess kept me hooked throughout the novel, and I found myself thinking about Sylvie's journey long after I finished the last chapter.

[Ellen Whitfield · Rating 5 out of 5]

"The Deepfake" is a must-read for anyone interested in the intersection of technology and ethics -- and oh yeah, there's a ton of drama! AI stories freak me out, and this one was SO twisty and turny, and the backdrop made things even more tense and thrilling. Highly recommended!

[Emily Malek · Rating 5 out of 5]

Full disclosure: I was given a free advance reader copy of this book by Books Forward in exchange for an honest review.

Content warning: this review discusses sexual assault.

No one can escape artificial intelligence (AI). It has started to affect how we create and perceive content. Many books about AI are usually either nonfiction or speculative fiction because it’s still new. People want to understand and connect with it, but they don’t really know how. But, what if someone wrote a fictional story involving AI? After all, fiction helps readers connect with topics on an emotional level. Author Joan Cohen does just that with her new book "The Deepfake."

To read more of this review, click on this link: https://chick-who-reads-everything.co...

[Angelle Barbazon · Rating 5 out of 5]

"The Deepfake" by Joan Cohen takes us on a journey through a tangled web of artificial intelligence and ethical dilemmas. While fiction, the story offers an interesting perspective on AI's growing presence in our everyday lives.