The Deepest Fake

Most people are concerned—and even fearful—about the rapid escalation of AI technology. In The Deepest Fake, Daniel Kalla spins a masterful thriller, shrouded in a “ticking tomb” mystery, while delving into the ethical and moral implications of this advancement.

Public anxiety is heightened by a chilling event in the novel: a “deepfake” video, generated using AI, sways the outcome of an electoral campaign.

Liam Hirsch is the CEO of the tech company TranScend. His team is working toward launching an even more advanced app called Their Story, which uses an algorithm to compile publicly available data into a realistic, “thinking” avatar of any individual. But as the launch nears, Liam faces two personal crises. Not only is his health rapidly deteriorating, but he also suspects his wife is cheating on him. When he consults a neurologist, he receives a dire diagnosis: ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis), a fast-progressing neurodegenerative disease that leads to muscle weakness, atrophy, and ultimately, the loss of the ability to walk, talk, swallow, and breathe. There is no cure.

Liam hires private investigator Angela DeWalt to confirm his suspicions about his wife, Celeste. At the same time, he uncovers evidence that someone on his staff is embezzling company funds.

Angela quickly provides proof of Celeste’s infidelity. With his world collapsing, Liam begins to consider MAID (Medical Assistance in Dying) to spare his children the pain of watching his prolonged decline. (MAID is legal in Canada and several U.S. states. It allows terminally ill, mentally competent adults with a prognosis of six months or less to receive physician-assisted end-of-life medication, which they self-administer.)

But then Liam begins to suspect that someone may have altered his medical records, manipulating his diagnosis. What if he doesn’t have ALS at all? What if he’s being poisoned? Desperate for answers, he turns once again to Angela to help uncover a deep-seated conspiracy.

Daniel Kalla proves himself a masterful storyteller, skillfully weaving multiple plotlines with twists, unexpected turns, and rising suspense. His background as an ER physician adds authenticity to the novel’s medical elements, grounding the high-stakes narrative in real-world plausibility. With compassion and objectivity, Kalla examines the moral and ethical dilemmas surrounding both AI technology and assisted suicide—two of the most controversial topics of our time.

Chapters alternate between the perspectives of Liam and Angela, creating a fast-paced, propulsive read. Shootouts and murder by self-driving car further intensify the novel’s exploration of our growing fears around technology’s dark side.

Thanks to Simon & Schuster for providing an Uncorrected Proof in exchange for an honest review. The Deepest Fake demands attention—and encourages a deeper dive into the impressive oeuvre of Daniel Kalla.