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Zack Wilder #3
Deepfake
Seeing is believing.
That’s always been the case. Until now.
When FBI Special Agent Zack Wilder is shown a video of his brother, a US Senator, having sex with a congressman, he’s shocked. But the most shocking thing of all: it never happened. The video is a deepfake, but unlike any that have come before; it’s flawless, impossible to distinguish from the real thing.
The line between truth and lies isn’t blurring—it’s being erased.
Zack is an expert on deception. After all, his whole life is based on secrets and lies. Now he must delve into the deadly world of deepfakes and disinformation to discover who is behind the video of his brother, and why. And it soon becomes clear that the video is only a small piece in a vast conspiracy to destabilize the American government and force the world into devastating conflicts.
Time is running out. Can Zack find a way to distinguish truth from lies before the world is plunged into a nuclear catastrophe?
That’s always been the case. Until now.
When FBI Special Agent Zack Wilder is shown a video of his brother, a US Senator, having sex with a congressman, he’s shocked. But the most shocking thing of all: it never happened. The video is a deepfake, but unlike any that have come before; it’s flawless, impossible to distinguish from the real thing.
The line between truth and lies isn’t blurring—it’s being erased.
Zack is an expert on deception. After all, his whole life is based on secrets and lies. Now he must delve into the deadly world of deepfakes and disinformation to discover who is behind the video of his brother, and why. And it soon becomes clear that the video is only a small piece in a vast conspiracy to destabilize the American government and force the world into devastating conflicts.
Time is running out. Can Zack find a way to distinguish truth from lies before the world is plunged into a nuclear catastrophe?
- GenresMystery
356 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 20, 2022
About the author
N.J. Croft
11 books53 followersAfter a number of years wandering the world in search of adventure, N.J. Croft finally settled on a farm in the mountains and now lives off-grid, growing almonds, drinking cold beer, taking in stray dogs, and writing stories where the stakes are huge and absolutely anything can happen.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
April 3, 2022
First and foremost, a large thank you to N.J. Croft for providing me with a copy of this novel, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review.
Having discovered the novels of C.J. Croft during the COVID-19 pandemic, I could not get enough of them. When she approached me to become a Beta reader for a new series, I was eager to help, hoping to get an early glimpse at more captivating stories. This is certainly some of the best writing she’s done, and perhaps some of the strongest I have read in the genre for many years. When FBI Special Agent Zack Wilder is approached to assist a sitting US senator, he is shocked to learn that there is a scandalous sex tape that could bring a political career to an abrupt halt. Working alongside a select few, Wilder learns that this video is not unique, part of a collection of ‘deepfakes’ that appear highly authentic, presumably seeking to blackmail others and stir up the pot. When these videos surface, the consequences are dire, leaving many to riot on the streets and America to enter a nuclear standoff that could end in catastrophe. A stunning continuation of the series, showing that Croft is the real deal when it comes to such thrillers.
FBI Special Agent Zack Wilder has been harbouring a secret connection to the Fulcrum for years, an organisation seeking to enact change with strong ties throughout the world. Tied to that is his connection with US Senator Peter MacNally, who is also his brother. When MacNally approaches him to help with a delicate situation, Wilder is all ears. It would seem that someone has sent the senator a video that shows him in a compromising sex video. Problem is, MacNally purports that it is a fake. While Wilder can hardly stomach watching the video, he has to admit that it looks real, down to a birthmark on his brother’s body. Still, he trusts MacNally and vows to get answers.
Working alone for the time being, Wilder tries to piece the truth together, but surmises that he is out of his element. When he gets a little outside assistance, Wilder soon discovers that this is not the only video of its kind. Other ‘deepfakes’ have been surfacing, so realistic that they are fooling all the software available at present. As Wilder and his new connection, a tech guru, comb through the videos, an eerie pattern emerges. These are videos that can easily dupe others, making them feel that what they see is actually taking place. Wilder must protect his brother at all costs, without revealing their connection to the Fulcrum or one another.
As Wilder sees things snowballing, he brings his partner and superior into the mix, which opens up an official FBI investigation. All the while, more videos emerge, including news reports that North Korea is set to launch nuclear weapons at America. With both sides unsure what is truth and fiction, the streets fill with people ready to riot. All the while, someone is churning out more deepfakes and pulling the strings on what might soon be a catastrophic turn of events.
Using his connections to the Fulcrum, Wilder tries to make sense of what is going on, but is stymied by the realistic nature of the videos and lack of any opening to prove their fallibility. However, as with everything the Fulcrum does, there are powers they possess that might open a door to locating the creator and getting answers before things turn disastrous. Wilder will have to play it safe, while forging ahead once again to ensure tranquility. C.J. Croft amazes fans again with this piece, sure to keep the reader turning pages well into the night.
This series developed from a great novella and has not looked back. C.J. Croft has used some stellar writing and wonderful plot lines to keep the reader enthralled and positively baffled as to where things will go. Research into a number of topics is evident throughout the narrative, while the reader is left stunned at the intricate nature of the discussion, without being bombarded throughout the reading journey.
Zack Wilder has a great deal on his plate, as can be seen by those who have followed the series to date. He’s a determined member of the FBI’s New York Field Office, while also juggling the secret connection to the Fulcrum. Pushed to help his brother and others in need of assistance, Wilder does all he can and finds himself in heaps of trouble throughout. With a partner who accepts no nonsense and a need to set things right, Wilder pushes forward at every opportunity. Finding time to romance the pretty lady who crosses his path, Wilder has developed a reputation for himself, which may endear him to some readers. He’s one protagonist I am eager to learn more about, as the series gets better with each new publication.
C.J. Croft knows her stuff and seems completely in tune with the sort of American crime thriller that will sell,. She’s got all the ingredients for a stellar series and has shown that heaps of research into subject matter can go a long way. I was pulled into the middle of the narrative early on and never lost interest, as Croft added layers that made the story even better. With an array of strong characters placed into the story at key moments, things gain momentum and keep building throughout. Plot twists are plentiful and there are times when the reader cannot help but push onwards, as the breadcrumbs are just too tantalising. This is a series that has the potential to rise to the top of the genre, with amazing writing keeping it there for years to come. Croft is a master and it is time others see it as well!
Kudos, Madam Croft, on yet another successful novel. Please, keep them coming and I will keep reading about the trials of Zack Wilder, with The Fulcrum in the shadows.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
Having discovered the novels of C.J. Croft during the COVID-19 pandemic, I could not get enough of them. When she approached me to become a Beta reader for a new series, I was eager to help, hoping to get an early glimpse at more captivating stories. This is certainly some of the best writing she’s done, and perhaps some of the strongest I have read in the genre for many years. When FBI Special Agent Zack Wilder is approached to assist a sitting US senator, he is shocked to learn that there is a scandalous sex tape that could bring a political career to an abrupt halt. Working alongside a select few, Wilder learns that this video is not unique, part of a collection of ‘deepfakes’ that appear highly authentic, presumably seeking to blackmail others and stir up the pot. When these videos surface, the consequences are dire, leaving many to riot on the streets and America to enter a nuclear standoff that could end in catastrophe. A stunning continuation of the series, showing that Croft is the real deal when it comes to such thrillers.
FBI Special Agent Zack Wilder has been harbouring a secret connection to the Fulcrum for years, an organisation seeking to enact change with strong ties throughout the world. Tied to that is his connection with US Senator Peter MacNally, who is also his brother. When MacNally approaches him to help with a delicate situation, Wilder is all ears. It would seem that someone has sent the senator a video that shows him in a compromising sex video. Problem is, MacNally purports that it is a fake. While Wilder can hardly stomach watching the video, he has to admit that it looks real, down to a birthmark on his brother’s body. Still, he trusts MacNally and vows to get answers.
Working alone for the time being, Wilder tries to piece the truth together, but surmises that he is out of his element. When he gets a little outside assistance, Wilder soon discovers that this is not the only video of its kind. Other ‘deepfakes’ have been surfacing, so realistic that they are fooling all the software available at present. As Wilder and his new connection, a tech guru, comb through the videos, an eerie pattern emerges. These are videos that can easily dupe others, making them feel that what they see is actually taking place. Wilder must protect his brother at all costs, without revealing their connection to the Fulcrum or one another.
As Wilder sees things snowballing, he brings his partner and superior into the mix, which opens up an official FBI investigation. All the while, more videos emerge, including news reports that North Korea is set to launch nuclear weapons at America. With both sides unsure what is truth and fiction, the streets fill with people ready to riot. All the while, someone is churning out more deepfakes and pulling the strings on what might soon be a catastrophic turn of events.
Using his connections to the Fulcrum, Wilder tries to make sense of what is going on, but is stymied by the realistic nature of the videos and lack of any opening to prove their fallibility. However, as with everything the Fulcrum does, there are powers they possess that might open a door to locating the creator and getting answers before things turn disastrous. Wilder will have to play it safe, while forging ahead once again to ensure tranquility. C.J. Croft amazes fans again with this piece, sure to keep the reader turning pages well into the night.
This series developed from a great novella and has not looked back. C.J. Croft has used some stellar writing and wonderful plot lines to keep the reader enthralled and positively baffled as to where things will go. Research into a number of topics is evident throughout the narrative, while the reader is left stunned at the intricate nature of the discussion, without being bombarded throughout the reading journey.
Zack Wilder has a great deal on his plate, as can be seen by those who have followed the series to date. He’s a determined member of the FBI’s New York Field Office, while also juggling the secret connection to the Fulcrum. Pushed to help his brother and others in need of assistance, Wilder does all he can and finds himself in heaps of trouble throughout. With a partner who accepts no nonsense and a need to set things right, Wilder pushes forward at every opportunity. Finding time to romance the pretty lady who crosses his path, Wilder has developed a reputation for himself, which may endear him to some readers. He’s one protagonist I am eager to learn more about, as the series gets better with each new publication.
C.J. Croft knows her stuff and seems completely in tune with the sort of American crime thriller that will sell,. She’s got all the ingredients for a stellar series and has shown that heaps of research into subject matter can go a long way. I was pulled into the middle of the narrative early on and never lost interest, as Croft added layers that made the story even better. With an array of strong characters placed into the story at key moments, things gain momentum and keep building throughout. Plot twists are plentiful and there are times when the reader cannot help but push onwards, as the breadcrumbs are just too tantalising. This is a series that has the potential to rise to the top of the genre, with amazing writing keeping it there for years to come. Croft is a master and it is time others see it as well!
Kudos, Madam Croft, on yet another successful novel. Please, keep them coming and I will keep reading about the trials of Zack Wilder, with The Fulcrum in the shadows.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
April 4, 2022
The latest Zack Wilder book picks up from where it left off. In this story, Zack and Kelsey, are on a stakeout trying to capture the individual responsible for Carmen Perez, Zack,s partner who was killed during the beginning of "Water". The trap is sprung and Zack is successful and Byrne, the culpret, is taken into custody. The is a follow-up to the case involving Wayland Smith. Afteer Zack is home, he receives a call from Peter asking for a meeting. It appears that Peter has received a video depicting him performing a leud act. Peter swears to Zack that he did not do it and asks Zack to find out who sent the tape. Zack takes a copy of the video and promises to look into it.
While Zack begins his quest Jessica his boss, has asked Zack and Kelsy to lead the Wayland Smih investigation. Zack has Kelsey get it started while he begins his search. Zack winds up asking Kelsey's husband to give him a introduction to how Deepfakes are developed. After the meeting, Kevin provides him with a list of names of companies involved with the technology. He also contacts a person who might be able to ssist him with discovering who created the videos. Maddie, the suggested individual, agrees to help.
Eventually the discovery of more videos being used for blackmail surface and Zack opens a formal investigation. This is a result of a riot that was related to a news report about the test by North Korea. This later had Zack and Jessica meeting with POTUS and Zack's assignment to a task force. His assignment was due the request of Liliane, the CEO, of a business that Zack had met with to discuss the technology. As time went by, other videos surfaced and started theAmerica towards a nuclear war.
To learn why the videos were made, who was responsible, why was Zack arrested and how did this all play out in the end, then you need to read this book.
I received an ARC and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
While Zack begins his quest Jessica his boss, has asked Zack and Kelsy to lead the Wayland Smih investigation. Zack has Kelsey get it started while he begins his search. Zack winds up asking Kelsey's husband to give him a introduction to how Deepfakes are developed. After the meeting, Kevin provides him with a list of names of companies involved with the technology. He also contacts a person who might be able to ssist him with discovering who created the videos. Maddie, the suggested individual, agrees to help.
Eventually the discovery of more videos being used for blackmail surface and Zack opens a formal investigation. This is a result of a riot that was related to a news report about the test by North Korea. This later had Zack and Jessica meeting with POTUS and Zack's assignment to a task force. His assignment was due the request of Liliane, the CEO, of a business that Zack had met with to discuss the technology. As time went by, other videos surfaced and started theAmerica towards a nuclear war.
To learn why the videos were made, who was responsible, why was Zack arrested and how did this all play out in the end, then you need to read this book.
I received an ARC and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
April 27, 2022
If a video looks real but is unbelievable, it might be a deepfake - 5 stars
Someone has developed software that can show people doing things they never did for embarrassment, revenge, or as blackmail. When used against governments, a deep fake can disrupt the economy, or get people murdered by an angry crowd, or cause a war.
In this book, experts at the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) cannot tell that a suspect video was a fake. Zack Wilder, a Special Agent of the FBI gets a call from his brother who received such a video that would upend his plans to be a candidate for the office of President of the United States.
Before the story ends, there will be rioting in the streets and a threat of nuclear warfare without knowing where the deepfake videos came from. Because the videos look completely natural, news media and the general public are convinced that politicians have betrayed the public trust.
Zack and his partner, Kelsey Taylor, first have to convince themselves that a (deep) fake video is something that the FBI should investigate. It is not obvious if for no other reason than how difficult it is to prove that the images are false. The viewer's eyes are claiming that the videos are real.
Some technology wizards try to explain how artificial intelligence can create lifelike images from a single photograph. In the end, Zack's cleverness paired with his willingness to jump in harm's way and massive assistance from a secret organization make this thriller a compelling read.
In a couple of instances, I felt that some explanations were too brief. This fast-moving tale gives a good understanding of what could be done with a deepfake video and the difficulty in changing people's minds after seeing a deepfake.
Someone has developed software that can show people doing things they never did for embarrassment, revenge, or as blackmail. When used against governments, a deep fake can disrupt the economy, or get people murdered by an angry crowd, or cause a war.
In this book, experts at the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) cannot tell that a suspect video was a fake. Zack Wilder, a Special Agent of the FBI gets a call from his brother who received such a video that would upend his plans to be a candidate for the office of President of the United States.
Before the story ends, there will be rioting in the streets and a threat of nuclear warfare without knowing where the deepfake videos came from. Because the videos look completely natural, news media and the general public are convinced that politicians have betrayed the public trust.
Zack and his partner, Kelsey Taylor, first have to convince themselves that a (deep) fake video is something that the FBI should investigate. It is not obvious if for no other reason than how difficult it is to prove that the images are false. The viewer's eyes are claiming that the videos are real.
Some technology wizards try to explain how artificial intelligence can create lifelike images from a single photograph. In the end, Zack's cleverness paired with his willingness to jump in harm's way and massive assistance from a secret organization make this thriller a compelling read.
In a couple of instances, I felt that some explanations were too brief. This fast-moving tale gives a good understanding of what could be done with a deepfake video and the difficulty in changing people's minds after seeing a deepfake.
May 13, 2023
Don't always believe what you see
Deepfake: A Zach Wilder Thriller is a rollercoaster ride through the Space Mountain in Disney World, complete with the feeling of flying through the darkness in random directions with strobe lights going off continually.
Zach Wilder's back in the FBI with his partner, Kelsey and his boss Jessica. Still a stealthy member of the ancient order of the Fulcrum, Zach is determined to make a good name for himself.
Kelsey and Zach are still dancing around, getting to know each other while Jessica is pressuring them for results. Zach is contacted by Senator Peter McNally, a fellow member of the Fulcrum and Zach's brother.
Peter shows Zach a sexually incriminating video of himself and another politician and tells him it's a fake. Horrified, Zach agrees to try to find out who is behind the deception.
I can't and I won't spoil the plot of this book but I will say this, "Hold onto your hat!" Because the rest of the story goes so fast, you'll lose anything not tied on.
N. J. Croft can write a thriller, the question is, can you survive reading it? My heart rate is still elevated, my fingers are sore from being clenched and I've got a big grin on my face. Great series!
Deepfake: A Zach Wilder Thriller is a rollercoaster ride through the Space Mountain in Disney World, complete with the feeling of flying through the darkness in random directions with strobe lights going off continually.
Zach Wilder's back in the FBI with his partner, Kelsey and his boss Jessica. Still a stealthy member of the ancient order of the Fulcrum, Zach is determined to make a good name for himself.
Kelsey and Zach are still dancing around, getting to know each other while Jessica is pressuring them for results. Zach is contacted by Senator Peter McNally, a fellow member of the Fulcrum and Zach's brother.
Peter shows Zach a sexually incriminating video of himself and another politician and tells him it's a fake. Horrified, Zach agrees to try to find out who is behind the deception.
I can't and I won't spoil the plot of this book but I will say this, "Hold onto your hat!" Because the rest of the story goes so fast, you'll lose anything not tied on.
N. J. Croft can write a thriller, the question is, can you survive reading it? My heart rate is still elevated, my fingers are sore from being clenched and I've got a big grin on my face. Great series!
April 3, 2022
(Advance reader. ) A book to grab your attention & keep it! Read it straight through Ms. Croft s usual well written & organized writing. Scary ideas because they are entirely possible if not already there. Would love to meet Zack…….
Had no blazing grammatical errors to leap out……..compliments to her editors as usually errors leap out…….unless I was so immersed in the story that I did not recognize them. Looking forward to Zack s next adventure…….will he ever get to lead an ordinary life?
Had no blazing grammatical errors to leap out……..compliments to her editors as usually errors leap out…….unless I was so immersed in the story that I did not recognize them. Looking forward to Zack s next adventure…….will he ever get to lead an ordinary life?
April 10, 2022
High tech terrorism!
What if seeing isn’t believing? We’ve all seen those internet deepfake videos where they put the face of a celebrity or politician on some silly video clip for entertainment purposes. All good fun, right? Maybe not. This third book in the Zack Wilder series explores that very concept and extrapolates it to some potentially terrifying consequences. Zack is unceremoniously thrust into the deepfake culture when his brother becomes the subject of an unsettlingly realistic video that could easily destroy his career and annihilate his political aspirations. As Zack begins looking into deepfakes, he is repeatedly assured by the leading experts in the field that the video he is investigating is of too high a quality to be anything other than authentic. His investigation picks up speed when other troubling videos begin to surface. It turns out that people are easy to manipulate when their reputations, their careers, their families, and their lives are jeopardized. This story explores how technological advances in artificial intelligence could theoretically be exploited to manufacture deepfake videos with potentially devastating consequences to individuals, to families, to governments, and to the entire planet. The reader is shown how carefully cultivated, meticulously choreographed disinformation could, in the hands of nefarious individuals, be weaponized and used to influence politics on a global scale. N. J. Croft has a talent for choosing timely issues and deftly weaving them into a story brimming with political intrigue which never fails to hold my full attention from start to finish. The characters are well-developed, interesting people that I can become invested in. The relentless pace is perfect for a story of this type where the fate of the world is in the balance. I felt the technical issues are handled quite well; carefully detailed explanations are provided in a way that non-tech savvy individuals can easily understand. While this story is completely enjoyable, it does leave you with a lot to think about.
I was provided with an advance copy of this book, for which I thank the author, but I also chose to purchase a copy of the final version because it is that good and I am voluntarily sharing my honest and unbiased review.
What if seeing isn’t believing? We’ve all seen those internet deepfake videos where they put the face of a celebrity or politician on some silly video clip for entertainment purposes. All good fun, right? Maybe not. This third book in the Zack Wilder series explores that very concept and extrapolates it to some potentially terrifying consequences. Zack is unceremoniously thrust into the deepfake culture when his brother becomes the subject of an unsettlingly realistic video that could easily destroy his career and annihilate his political aspirations. As Zack begins looking into deepfakes, he is repeatedly assured by the leading experts in the field that the video he is investigating is of too high a quality to be anything other than authentic. His investigation picks up speed when other troubling videos begin to surface. It turns out that people are easy to manipulate when their reputations, their careers, their families, and their lives are jeopardized. This story explores how technological advances in artificial intelligence could theoretically be exploited to manufacture deepfake videos with potentially devastating consequences to individuals, to families, to governments, and to the entire planet. The reader is shown how carefully cultivated, meticulously choreographed disinformation could, in the hands of nefarious individuals, be weaponized and used to influence politics on a global scale. N. J. Croft has a talent for choosing timely issues and deftly weaving them into a story brimming with political intrigue which never fails to hold my full attention from start to finish. The characters are well-developed, interesting people that I can become invested in. The relentless pace is perfect for a story of this type where the fate of the world is in the balance. I felt the technical issues are handled quite well; carefully detailed explanations are provided in a way that non-tech savvy individuals can easily understand. While this story is completely enjoyable, it does leave you with a lot to think about.
I was provided with an advance copy of this book, for which I thank the author, but I also chose to purchase a copy of the final version because it is that good and I am voluntarily sharing my honest and unbiased review.
April 9, 2022
4.5 stars--DEEPFAKE is the third instalment in NJ Croft’s contemporary, adult ZACK WILDER suspense thriller focusing on thirty four year old, former US Army Ranger turn FBI Special Agent Zack Wilder. DEEPFAKE can be read as a stand alone but for backstory and cohesion, I recommend reading the series in order as there is a continuing premise throughout. Some of the events of DEEPFAKE are as of a direct result of the events in book two WATER.
What is DEEPFAKE? Deepfake is a form of artificial intelligence that has the capability to create fake images and videos by inserting the likeness of one individual into another video or digital image aka counterfeit / simulated videos.
Told from third person perspective DEEPFAKE follows in the wake of a potential political disaster in which a series of videos have surfaced skewering several high prominent political players and their families. Contacted by Senator Peter MacNally, Zack Wilder quickly suspects that the videos are fake, known as ‘deepfakes’ that are targeting the political elite. With the help of his partner FBI Agent Kelsey Taylor, and IT hacker Maddie Reese, Zack goes on the hunt for the truth, only to be pulled into a world he knows nothing about. As a number of deepfake victims comes to the forefront, a potential for nuclear war threatens the lives of everyone on Earth when videos surface about an imminent attack. Searching for information, Zack finds himself falling for a woman whose IT business is one of the leading companies in software development, a woman whose own secrets are dangerous and deep.
DEEPFAKE is an intense, complex and intriguing story of betrayal and vengeance, obsession and determination, power and control, murder and destruction. The fast paced premise is intense, tragic, suspenseful and haunting-somewhat rooted in speculative fiction; the characters are energetic, dramatic and forceful.
www.thereadingcafe.com
What is DEEPFAKE? Deepfake is a form of artificial intelligence that has the capability to create fake images and videos by inserting the likeness of one individual into another video or digital image aka counterfeit / simulated videos.
Told from third person perspective DEEPFAKE follows in the wake of a potential political disaster in which a series of videos have surfaced skewering several high prominent political players and their families. Contacted by Senator Peter MacNally, Zack Wilder quickly suspects that the videos are fake, known as ‘deepfakes’ that are targeting the political elite. With the help of his partner FBI Agent Kelsey Taylor, and IT hacker Maddie Reese, Zack goes on the hunt for the truth, only to be pulled into a world he knows nothing about. As a number of deepfake victims comes to the forefront, a potential for nuclear war threatens the lives of everyone on Earth when videos surface about an imminent attack. Searching for information, Zack finds himself falling for a woman whose IT business is one of the leading companies in software development, a woman whose own secrets are dangerous and deep.
DEEPFAKE is an intense, complex and intriguing story of betrayal and vengeance, obsession and determination, power and control, murder and destruction. The fast paced premise is intense, tragic, suspenseful and haunting-somewhat rooted in speculative fiction; the characters are energetic, dramatic and forceful.
www.thereadingcafe.com
April 21, 2022
Having read the previous two Zac Wilder rollercoasters this again did not disappoint! NJ Croft has a knack of putting into words issues that are facing the world right now and playing them out into some amazing story telling. This book sees our "reluctant" hero battling an unseen and very clever adversary using advanced technology to achieve their ultimate goal.
The book picks up from where the previous left off. In this story, Zack and Kelsey, are on a stakeout trying to capture the individual responsible for the death of Carmen Perez, Zack's partner who was killed during the beginning of "Water". The stakeout is successful and Byrne is taken into custody. This is a follow-up to the case involving Wayland Smith. Later whilst Zack is at home, he receives a call from Peter (his brother) asking for a meeting. It appears that Peter has received a video showing him performing a sex act with a prominent congressman. Peter swears to Zack that he did not do it and asks Zack to find out who sent the tape. Zack takes a copy of the video and promises to look into it.
A great story that brings to light the frightening possibilities for the near future
The book picks up from where the previous left off. In this story, Zack and Kelsey, are on a stakeout trying to capture the individual responsible for the death of Carmen Perez, Zack's partner who was killed during the beginning of "Water". The stakeout is successful and Byrne is taken into custody. This is a follow-up to the case involving Wayland Smith. Later whilst Zack is at home, he receives a call from Peter (his brother) asking for a meeting. It appears that Peter has received a video showing him performing a sex act with a prominent congressman. Peter swears to Zack that he did not do it and asks Zack to find out who sent the tape. Zack takes a copy of the video and promises to look into it.
A great story that brings to light the frightening possibilities for the near future
May 9, 2022
Disclaimer: I was given a free copy of the book for a review.
WOW!!! This is a great hard to put down book. This is my first Zach Wilder book and now I am going to have to read the rest of them. The story line here is totally scary and could be so true especially with all the fake news we are now getting hit with. This one is well written and moves fast - you do not even realize you are done until you are done. It is hard to know true from fiction these days and the book will push it even more. To have videos that seem so real and hard to show that they are fake is scary and I hope is not something that can be done today. We live in a time where everything seen or heard needs to be taken with a grain of salt and the "facts" are not facts but manipulation. Reading Deepfake is a terrifying look at where we may be headed or have perhaps arrived.
I highly recommend this book. NJ Croft has done a stellar job in writing that and makin g is so believable. As I had stated it is hard to put down you want to know where it is going.
WOW!!! This is a great hard to put down book. This is my first Zach Wilder book and now I am going to have to read the rest of them. The story line here is totally scary and could be so true especially with all the fake news we are now getting hit with. This one is well written and moves fast - you do not even realize you are done until you are done. It is hard to know true from fiction these days and the book will push it even more. To have videos that seem so real and hard to show that they are fake is scary and I hope is not something that can be done today. We live in a time where everything seen or heard needs to be taken with a grain of salt and the "facts" are not facts but manipulation. Reading Deepfake is a terrifying look at where we may be headed or have perhaps arrived.
I highly recommend this book. NJ Croft has done a stellar job in writing that and makin g is so believable. As I had stated it is hard to put down you want to know where it is going.
June 27, 2022
The more I read the more I became intrigued by the possibilities of deepfakes. Could they be becoming so real that nobody could tell they are fakes? I have seen them on Instagram and they are difficult to distinguish from the real thing. What if this story is coming true? The author has a way of weaving a tale to get the reader drawn in.
Zack Wilder is a real character. Totally genuine. Caring, courageous, brave, steadfast, trustworthy, yet not above bending the rules...or outright breaking them. Anything to get the job done. His partner, Kelsey, is invaluable to his success! She questions him when need be, yet backs him up as she risks her life along with his.
The Fulcrum plays an important role in the story at pivotal times. Never quite sure if they are the good guys, depending on their motivation, but normally very supportive. They definitely provided necessary resources for Zack to get the job done!
What a story! I loved every chapter, paragraph and story line! Kudos to N.J.!
Zack Wilder is a real character. Totally genuine. Caring, courageous, brave, steadfast, trustworthy, yet not above bending the rules...or outright breaking them. Anything to get the job done. His partner, Kelsey, is invaluable to his success! She questions him when need be, yet backs him up as she risks her life along with his.
The Fulcrum plays an important role in the story at pivotal times. Never quite sure if they are the good guys, depending on their motivation, but normally very supportive. They definitely provided necessary resources for Zack to get the job done!
What a story! I loved every chapter, paragraph and story line! Kudos to N.J.!
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January 21, 2023Vast improvement, best of this series.
Deepfake, #3 - Finally, finished with this series. Some improvement in story lines, writing style, and characters but the silly dialog still appears here and there. Plenty of hollywood influence with everything working out at the last second. Again, an interesting topic and the author did improve compared to the first two books of this series. 4*
The Fulcrum, #1 - Disappointing. Silly dialog. Could care less about the characters. Author not knowledgeable about subject matters although topic was interesting and with the right author would have made an interesting read. Bad hollywood movies influences. Not realistic. 1*
Water, #2 - This book is not an improvement from the first book. It is comparable to watching a really bad, low budget hollywood. Silly dialog and poor characters. Interesting topic and with the right author would have made an interesting read. 1*
The Lost Spear - Not bad. Interesting characters and story lines. 4*
Deepfake, #3 - Finally, finished with this series. Some improvement in story lines, writing style, and characters but the silly dialog still appears here and there. Plenty of hollywood influence with everything working out at the last second. Again, an interesting topic and the author did improve compared to the first two books of this series. 4*
The Fulcrum, #1 - Disappointing. Silly dialog. Could care less about the characters. Author not knowledgeable about subject matters although topic was interesting and with the right author would have made an interesting read. Bad hollywood movies influences. Not realistic. 1*
Water, #2 - This book is not an improvement from the first book. It is comparable to watching a really bad, low budget hollywood. Silly dialog and poor characters. Interesting topic and with the right author would have made an interesting read. 1*
The Lost Spear - Not bad. Interesting characters and story lines. 4*
May 2, 2022
I was brought up in the age where news on the tv or radio was the truth and even when it was slanted to a certain viewpoint the facts were still the true facts. Now we live in a time where everything seen or heard needs to be taken with a grain of salt and the "facts" are not facts but manipulation. Reading Deepfake was a huge education for me. A terrifying look at where we may be headed or have perhaps arrived. Talking about the book to a twentysomething I asked what he knew about deepfake and he actually knew a lot although he assured me that it's not as advanced as in the book or if it is no one's saying! It reminds me of what a friend told me a few years ago - always question "is it possible" "is it plausible" and I continue to do just that. I enjoyed following FBI special agent Zack Wilder as he chased down the facts to find the culprit responsible, the mystery, danger, his relentless pursuit and his belief in doing the right thing.
April 23, 2022
This is Book 3 in the Zach Wilder/Fulcrum series & I can hardly wait for the next one! Deep Fake picks up where the last one finished (while it may not be imperative to read the series in order, I'd recommend it). Zack's brother, US Senator Peter MacNally, asks Zach for help with a "delicate" matter. There's a video purporting that Peter is doing some pretty nasty things. But wait there's more ... it's not just Peter being the subject of these fake videos but political leaders across the globe. Zach & his partner are still trying to get to the bottom of his previous partner's (Carmen) death & Jessica (the boss) asks them to lead the investigation into Wayland Smith. We get to meet Kelsey's husband & we also get more insight into the Fulcrum. Full of action. This is a page turner that's hard to put down once you start. NJ Croft has another 5 Star winner in Deep Fake.
September 5, 2024
another home run!
fast paced, so seemingly plausible as to be scary, and precursor to Transhuman by the same author, who by the way, is a fulltime almond grower, but apparently needs something to provide a little more excitement in his life that he can pass on to those of us who can't keep plastic plants alive, much less almond trees. the ending is tight, breath and death defying, and crams tons into three pages. this, too, would make a goid movie, as long as Cruise was left off the candidacy. maybe Clive Owen? or Segal maybe. Girard butler. it's a spectacularly written novel, even if it never makes the big screen. so was Transhuman. I wonder what book three has to offer? only one way to find out...
fast paced, so seemingly plausible as to be scary, and precursor to Transhuman by the same author, who by the way, is a fulltime almond grower, but apparently needs something to provide a little more excitement in his life that he can pass on to those of us who can't keep plastic plants alive, much less almond trees. the ending is tight, breath and death defying, and crams tons into three pages. this, too, would make a goid movie, as long as Cruise was left off the candidacy. maybe Clive Owen? or Segal maybe. Girard butler. it's a spectacularly written novel, even if it never makes the big screen. so was Transhuman. I wonder what book three has to offer? only one way to find out...
June 8, 2022
Deepfake: A Zack Wilder Thriller (The Fulcrum Book 3), my first read from author N.J. Croft. Reminiscent of Dan Alatorre's writing, a thriller in every sense of the word. I don't restrict myself to a particular genre. I'm a sucker for anything with memorable characters and a story that keeps me guessing and a plot that keeps me turning the page & this book did! "I received a free Kindle copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review." The gifting of this book did not affect my opinion of it. I look forward to reading The Fulcrum: Zack Wilder Thriller #1, which I got back in January & lost track of. (RIP Marley January 20, 2014 - July 24, 2018).
April 17, 2022
This book has FBI Special Agent Zack Wilder chasing leads to find the reality and truth behind social media lies. Who is publishing fake videos so realistic that only the most advanced software and powerful computers can separate fact from fabrication.
And when the targets of the fake videos are compromising high level politicians, and shaky world politics, it’s a race to discover the truth before all-out war erupts.
A fantastic novel of what could happen, even today, to manipulate the masses, and sway the fate of nations, with lies.
Has it happened already?
And when the targets of the fake videos are compromising high level politicians, and shaky world politics, it’s a race to discover the truth before all-out war erupts.
A fantastic novel of what could happen, even today, to manipulate the masses, and sway the fate of nations, with lies.
Has it happened already?
November 24, 2022
I received a free copy of this book from the author and promised an honest review.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and highly recommend it. It was hard to put down. The storyline is gripping and fast paced. The huge amount of research required to write this story is very evident as the book evolves.
The main character, Zack Wilder is believable, caring & dedicated.
All in all, a great read.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and highly recommend it. It was hard to put down. The storyline is gripping and fast paced. The huge amount of research required to write this story is very evident as the book evolves.
The main character, Zack Wilder is believable, caring & dedicated.
All in all, a great read.
May 31, 2023
Deepfakes
We laugh at these made up videos, but they are already hurting people.
Some of them look very real. Add dishonest reporting and WW3 is here.
Book shows how such things can manipulate people, hurt, humiliate and bring us to war. Hoping story from this book doesn't come true
We laugh at these made up videos, but they are already hurting people.
Some of them look very real. Add dishonest reporting and WW3 is here.
Book shows how such things can manipulate people, hurt, humiliate and bring us to war. Hoping story from this book doesn't come true
April 19, 2022
Once again Croft has blown reality into The Outer Limits. This is one pulse pounding thriller that will scare you because the reality of AI is coming way too fast for any government to control. This along with the previous book “Water” both desperately need to be made into movies.
May 4, 2022
This book grabbed me and wouldn’t let go!
I could not stop reading. The story was amazing and the characters are complex and human. I was entertained and I go to escape for a while. What I love about books!
I could not stop reading. The story was amazing and the characters are complex and human. I was entertained and I go to escape for a while. What I love about books!
May 13, 2022
A frightening scenario
A truly scary possibility. It gives a horrifying and quite possible look into the future of technology. This story grips you from first page til last. I am an arc reader and highly recommend this book.
A truly scary possibility. It gives a horrifying and quite possible look into the future of technology. This story grips you from first page til last. I am an arc reader and highly recommend this book.
July 7, 2022
Fun story line, very believable
First time reading a Croft novel, was very intense. Went through the story very quickly, wanted to catch the killers. I would recommend this author and his stories. Am looking forward to reading more of his work.
First time reading a Croft novel, was very intense. Went through the story very quickly, wanted to catch the killers. I would recommend this author and his stories. Am looking forward to reading more of his work.
September 19, 2022
Another good suspense
I like that this is a continuation of a series. The main character and his partner are a well balanced and great team. The plot is mostly believable. This one left me suspecting future trouble from the Fulcrum. I’m eager to see what’s next for Zach!
I like that this is a continuation of a series. The main character and his partner are a well balanced and great team. The plot is mostly believable. This one left me suspecting future trouble from the Fulcrum. I’m eager to see what’s next for Zach!
April 11, 2022
Wow what a ride, intrigue from the beginning to the end. Lots of action and so many twists. The best one yet. Absolutely loving this series.
April 20, 2022
Once again an outstanding and full of action story. Zack and Kelsey are once again trying to find answers. Danger everywhere that will keep you gripped. Continues along from the last book.
April 25, 2022
Thank you for the free Arc
Love this series
Cannot wait for more
Love this series
Cannot wait for more
May 11, 2022
too close to the truth
Fast paced, well written but too close to current reality not to take the plot seriously. Will be reading more from this series.
Fast paced, well written but too close to current reality not to take the plot seriously. Will be reading more from this series.
May 15, 2022
Great writing, AGAIN. This one kept me reading long after I should have been asleep. Seeing what could be a prediction of our future, in writing, is a bit unsettling. Oh, but I will keep reading N.J. Croft's writing. Very well written.
May 17, 2022
I loved this book!
Had me paying attention. I usually listen and work on something else, but it was so good that I just sat and listened. Sometimes reading it at the same time.
Had me paying attention. I usually listen and work on something else, but it was so good that I just sat and listened. Sometimes reading it at the same time.
June 23, 2022
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SO FAR, SO GOOD….page #18….
I quit at page #23 and dumped the book.
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SO FAR, SO GOOD….page #18….
I quit at page #23 and dumped the book.
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