Jerry Falade, a debut novelist, saw a $2 million book deal for his crime novel "Call Me, I’ll Hide the Body" canceled amid suspicions that artificial intelligence was involved in the manuscript’s creation. The deal, secured with Minotaur, a Macmillan US imprint, was withdrawn by Falade’s own agents after questions arose about the authenticity of the writing process, according to statements from his representatives.

Falade’s agents initially accepted the author’s assurance that no AI tools were utilized in writing or editing the novel, which had received high praise from publishing professionals across the United States and the United Kingdom. However, they later stated they could no longer verify the manuscript’s development from inception to completion, leading to the cancellation. The agents emphasized their trust in Falade during the submission but noted that changes in his account during a July 29 meeting led them to end their representation.

The novel had drawn significant interest on both sides of the Atlantic and was scheduled for publication in 2028. The U.S. rights auction, managed by Europa Content’s Marc Gerald, reportedly involved 14 bidders, while UK agent Sandy Hodgman secured several six-figure offers. Gerald described the book as “stunningly good” and said it was “a book that appeals to absolutely everyone.” Despite early assurances from Falade, concerns about possible AI involvement arose after an editor flagged the issue. Europa Content refrained from using AI-detection software at the time, as Falade’s explanations were considered credible. The subsequent change in his story prompted the agency to sever ties.

Falade denied using AI to write his book and suggested that the controversy may reflect racial bias within the publishing industry. He pointed out that three Black authors who received major publishing deals this year also faced deal cancellations or disruptions linked to AI suspicions. While he did not specify those authors, media reports mentioned Black writers Mia Ballard and HM Wolfe as having encountered similar accusations. Falade criticized AI-detection tools as prone to false positives and highlighted that industry professionals, including multiple editors and acquisitions teams, reviewed his manuscript before his agents withdrew the offer.

Tisha Morris, an entertainment attorney specializing in publishing law, observed that the Falade case exemplifies the challenges publishers face as allegations of AI use are more easily made than definitively proven. The incident underscores growing tensions in the industry regarding the role of emerging technologies in creative processes and the standards used to verify original work.