Nigerian author based in Dallas accused of using AI to write novel in $2 million deal claims scrutiny is racist

A publishing deal for a crime novel has been pulled after the author’s agents said they could no longer verify how the manuscript was created, and concerns over the use of artificial intelligence. 

Nigerian-born author Jerry Falade’s Call Me, I’ll Hide the Body was withdrawn from sale after reportedly attracting an offer worth more than $2 million from Minotaur, owned by Macmillan US, following a 14-way bidding auction. The novel had been scheduled for publication in 2028. Falade, who is based in Dallas, has denied using AI to write the book, but his agents said they decided to withdraw the manuscript after concerns emerged during the submission process.

In an email, Falade’s agents wrote: “Jerry Falade produced an incredible manuscript that dazzled us and the top publishing professionals around the world. Unfortunately, we are no longer able to authenticate how the manuscript fully evolved from origin to completion.”

The email continued: “During the submission process we vetted the manuscript with Jerry for AI and felt trusting in his reassurance that it was written without utilising AI as a resource in the writing or editorial process. We can no longer substantiate that, and we are withdrawing the book.”

Agent Marc Gerald of Europa Content told The Bookseller that he initially believed the manuscript was exceptional, saying it was “stunningly good, everyone fell in love with it. It’s a book that appeals to absolutely everyone.” Gerald said concerns about possible AI use were raised halfway through the submissions process. He said they did not use AI detection software because Falade’s explanation appeared “clear and credible.”

After a July 29 meeting where Gerald said “aspects of [Falade’s] story changed,” the agency decided to end its relationship with the author. “We feel terrible for putting this into the universe and the firestorm it has caused,” Gerald said. “The book itself is genius – however it came to be drafted, it’s amazing.”

Falade rejected allegations that he used AI and suggested there was a racial motivation to it. “Three Black authors received major publishing deals this year, and all three later had deals cancelled or disrupted following suspicions about AI,” Falade said. “There seems to be a troubling assumption that when a Black writer produces work that attracts significant attention, the work could not possibly be their own.”

“In my case, rumours began circulating and, within six hours, I had been dropped by my agency, deals were paused, and press releases were being issued,” he said.