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Kat and Lock #1
In the Blink of An Eye
In the UK, someone is reported missing every 90 seconds.
Just gone. Vanished. In the blink of an eye.
DCS Kat Frank knows all about loss. A widowed single mother, Kat is a cop who trusts her instincts. Picked to lead a pilot programme that has her paired with AIDE (Artificially Intelligent Detective Entity) Lock, Kat's instincts come up against Lock's logic. But when the two missing person's cold cases they are reviewing suddenly become active, Lock is the only one who can help Kat when the case gets personal.
AI versus human experience.
Logic versus instinct.
With lives on the line can the pair work together before someone else becomes another statistic?
In the Blink of an Eye is a dazzling debut from an exciting new voice and asks us what we think it means to be human.
Just gone. Vanished. In the blink of an eye.
DCS Kat Frank knows all about loss. A widowed single mother, Kat is a cop who trusts her instincts. Picked to lead a pilot programme that has her paired with AIDE (Artificially Intelligent Detective Entity) Lock, Kat's instincts come up against Lock's logic. But when the two missing person's cold cases they are reviewing suddenly become active, Lock is the only one who can help Kat when the case gets personal.
AI versus human experience.
Logic versus instinct.
With lives on the line can the pair work together before someone else becomes another statistic?
In the Blink of an Eye is a dazzling debut from an exciting new voice and asks us what we think it means to be human.
416 pages, Hardcover
First published January 9, 2023
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 953 reviews
February 5, 2024
‘Statistics are nothing more than the aggregation of thousands of individual cases,’ said Kat. ‘They highlight what is common to most, but at the expense of what is unique.’
4 1/2 stars.
Sometimes a book is so good that it's not at all surprising to get to the end, read the author's note, and discover it was a very personal story for the author. This may be a good ol' fast-paced thriller, but you can tell Callaghan poured her heart into it.
In the Blink of An Eye is a near-future sci-fi thriller in which the Warwickshire police experiment with the introduction of an AI detective. AIDE Lock has been developed to be the ultimate detective with super-fast data analysis that can vastly reduce police hours. Seasoned detective of twenty-five years, Kat Frank, is skeptical that Lock can compete with the instincts of an experienced human. The pair turn to missing person cold cases to find out.
‘That ending could have been avoided if Romeo had taken the time to assess the evidence rather than just assume Juliet was dead.’
Kat couldn’t help smiling. ‘That’s why it’s a tragedy.’
‘The tragedy is that humans seem incapable of learning and are forever at the mercy of their emotions.’
I enjoyed this so so much. I can see why it's becoming so popular because it does all of these things:
1) The pacing never slows down. During what should be the slower parts of the investigation, the author switches it up to interview format to keep the pages turning. I literally had problems putting this book down and returning to reality.
2) Callaghan introduces us to several memorable characters, all with distinct personalities. Some are funny, some are kinda assholes, and most are vulnerable on some level. I didn't like them all immediately, but I came to enjoy them as part of the team by the end. I also think this story creates genuine affection for an AI character.
3) This book is tense, moving and often very funny. Kat is witty and sarcastic, which, when paired with Lock's logical and literal approach, makes for some very entertaining exchanges.
4) The sci-fi spin is exciting but entirely believable. This future is likely just around the corner, so it was not difficult to suspend disbelief for.
In the Blink of An Eye is a stunning debut, but it's not perfect. I think the author occasionally overdoes Lock's confusion-- I'm pretty sure this level of AI would understand the phrase "in a nutshell" when ChatGPT already can --and there is one red herring that was never fully explained
But I am so excited that this is going to be a series. As the blurb promises, this is a book about AI versus human experience. Logic versus instinct. And it delivers.
I don't consider it a spoiler to share that the conclusion is that both are vital. The combination of DC Frank’s twenty-five years’ experience and instinct with Lock’s emotion-free data analysis makes them a formidable team. The implication being that humans and AI can, and should, work together.
I can't wait for the next book!
April 13, 2023
This was an outstanding book. The plot was unique and engaging. I loved the AI-angle and it was so well executed, shining light on dilemmas with AI in a easy to grasp way where you saw the pitfalls at the same time as the potential for AI. The main character was well-developed and the emotional impact of the story and relationships strong. It had suspense while also being well-written and interesting also when there wasn’t so much going on.
I can’t wait to read more by this author.
I can’t wait to read more by this author.
September 16, 2022
Thank you Simon & Schuster UK and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review. IYKYK, my reviews are always honest.
🚨POLICE PROCEDURAL BANGER ALERT🚨
SYNOPSIS
DCS Kat Frank is teamed up with AIDE Lock, an AI-powered detective, for a pilot program designed to expedite investigations. Tasked with reviewing cold cases, Frank, Lock, and the rest of the gang realize something more sinister is afoot. Will AIDE Lock prove to be a valuable resource, or is he gunning for Frank's job?
MY OPINION
Okkkuurrrttttt!!!! S/O to my friend Karlyfor bringing this book to my attention. Even though we both are averse to sci-fi, we absolutely love police procedurals and agreed that the sci-fi element in this book seemed more "realistic" and like a literary device, not just something concocted for pure entertainment purposes with no bearing on reality. Given everything, I had legit zero expectations reading this book, but I found myself gobbling this up like a Thanksgiving dinner. This is the second time I've found myself unexpectedly vibing with a sci-fi book... do I actually like sci-fi? Ok ok let me get back on track...
So yes the sci-fi element is purely a literary device. Outside of Lock's incredible abilities, there is no futuristic tech in this book. All the hallmarks on traditional police procedurals are very much in play: trawling CCTV, social media, and devices, as well as good ole face-to-face interviews. Lock is used to demonstrate the shortfalls of humans in general such as the fact we often make judgements based on emotions and personal experiences rather than evidence. And on the flip side, we see how algorithms lack empathy, discretion, and nuance. Callaghan's approach is fair and balanced, there's clear pro and cons to each, leaving the reader to make their own decision whether AI-powered detectives are helpful.
In my not so humble opinion, I don't think we're far off. We already have Alexa/Siri/Miss Google, self-driving cars, the braziest cybersecurity solutions you could ever imagine etc... who knows maybe Mark Zuckerberg has a whole fleet of AI detectives scouring the internet for anti-metaverse individuals LOL. But you can't deny that the speed at which AI can learn and spit out info is a huge value to humans, especially law enforcement. Instead of wasting HOURS manually trawling through text messages, why not toss Lock the files and get the break down in 20 seconds? I work in cybersecurity and the industry is all about leveraging automation to replace tedious human tasks... this is naturally the next step.
ANYWAYZ I also felt the characters were well-written and distinct. Callaghan did a great job of creating backstories that shaped each character's perception and behaviours. I did find Kat a bit stubborn, but that's just part of the genre. And she certainly wasn't DD Warren's inexplicable level of stubborn, so all gucci there. The relationship between Kat and her son Cam was heartfelt and realistic (coming from a childless person though sooo?? LOL)
Although I solved the case very early, I still found myself engrossed in the story and blazing through it like Usain Bolt at the 2008 Beijing Olympics. I really hope Callaghan is working on book #2 because I'm excited to see what Kat, Lock, and the rest of the gang get into next!!!
PROS AND CONS
Pros: A solid 5 stars for creativity, dimensional and diverse characters, insightfulness regarding AI replicating humans (or should humans be replicating AI??), and a well-executed plot with cheeky humour peppered throughout.
Cons: nada really, I was unbothered BUT I can see others not enjoying the (sparse) mentions of COVID and political ideologies
🚨POLICE PROCEDURAL BANGER ALERT🚨
SYNOPSIS
DCS Kat Frank is teamed up with AIDE Lock, an AI-powered detective, for a pilot program designed to expedite investigations. Tasked with reviewing cold cases, Frank, Lock, and the rest of the gang realize something more sinister is afoot. Will AIDE Lock prove to be a valuable resource, or is he gunning for Frank's job?
MY OPINION
Okkkuurrrttttt!!!! S/O to my friend Karlyfor bringing this book to my attention. Even though we both are averse to sci-fi, we absolutely love police procedurals and agreed that the sci-fi element in this book seemed more "realistic" and like a literary device, not just something concocted for pure entertainment purposes with no bearing on reality. Given everything, I had legit zero expectations reading this book, but I found myself gobbling this up like a Thanksgiving dinner. This is the second time I've found myself unexpectedly vibing with a sci-fi book... do I actually like sci-fi? Ok ok let me get back on track...
So yes the sci-fi element is purely a literary device. Outside of Lock's incredible abilities, there is no futuristic tech in this book. All the hallmarks on traditional police procedurals are very much in play: trawling CCTV, social media, and devices, as well as good ole face-to-face interviews. Lock is used to demonstrate the shortfalls of humans in general such as the fact we often make judgements based on emotions and personal experiences rather than evidence. And on the flip side, we see how algorithms lack empathy, discretion, and nuance. Callaghan's approach is fair and balanced, there's clear pro and cons to each, leaving the reader to make their own decision whether AI-powered detectives are helpful.
In my not so humble opinion, I don't think we're far off. We already have Alexa/Siri/Miss Google, self-driving cars, the braziest cybersecurity solutions you could ever imagine etc... who knows maybe Mark Zuckerberg has a whole fleet of AI detectives scouring the internet for anti-metaverse individuals LOL. But you can't deny that the speed at which AI can learn and spit out info is a huge value to humans, especially law enforcement. Instead of wasting HOURS manually trawling through text messages, why not toss Lock the files and get the break down in 20 seconds? I work in cybersecurity and the industry is all about leveraging automation to replace tedious human tasks... this is naturally the next step.
ANYWAYZ I also felt the characters were well-written and distinct. Callaghan did a great job of creating backstories that shaped each character's perception and behaviours. I did find Kat a bit stubborn, but that's just part of the genre. And she certainly wasn't DD Warren's inexplicable level of stubborn, so all gucci there. The relationship between Kat and her son Cam was heartfelt and realistic (coming from a childless person though sooo?? LOL)
Although I solved the case very early, I still found myself engrossed in the story and blazing through it like Usain Bolt at the 2008 Beijing Olympics. I really hope Callaghan is working on book #2 because I'm excited to see what Kat, Lock, and the rest of the gang get into next!!!
PROS AND CONS
Pros: A solid 5 stars for creativity, dimensional and diverse characters, insightfulness regarding AI replicating humans (or should humans be replicating AI??), and a well-executed plot with cheeky humour peppered throughout.
Cons: nada really, I was unbothered BUT I can see others not enjoying the (sparse) mentions of COVID and political ideologies
July 14, 2024
An Original Twist on the Police Procedural.
In the Blink of an Eye is a procedural/mystery centered on a missing persons unit that uses a unique AI program to solve cold cases. This collaboration not only enhances their investigative capabilities but also raises intriguing questions about the role of artificial intelligence in law enforcement. The result is an unconventional partnership that challenges traditional methods and explores the evolving relationship between technology and human intuition.
DCS Kat Frank, grieving the loss of her husband, returns to work with a new assignment. She is going to lead a pilot program involving an AI “Detective,” the program is called AIDE (Artificially Intelligent Detective Entity) Lock. Kat, who has her own biases towards AI, finds herself working with Lock, who infiltrates her life, violates her personal information, and offers some beyond human capabilities that are helpful to solve the missing person cases.
They find that it takes the human element combined with AI to be successful; one without another doesn’t work.
Kat is the narrator, and she is a well-developed, relatable character. The cases are compelling, but Kat’s partnership with Lock takes this book to another level.
I can’t believe this is Callaghan' debut. The plot is multi-layered and complex, and the characterization is strong. Callaghan's knowledge and expertise with AI shine through, bringing authenticity and originality to the plot. It looks like book #2 is on its way, and while I really do not need another series in my life, this one is too good to resist.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group.
In the Blink of an Eye is a procedural/mystery centered on a missing persons unit that uses a unique AI program to solve cold cases. This collaboration not only enhances their investigative capabilities but also raises intriguing questions about the role of artificial intelligence in law enforcement. The result is an unconventional partnership that challenges traditional methods and explores the evolving relationship between technology and human intuition.
DCS Kat Frank, grieving the loss of her husband, returns to work with a new assignment. She is going to lead a pilot program involving an AI “Detective,” the program is called AIDE (Artificially Intelligent Detective Entity) Lock. Kat, who has her own biases towards AI, finds herself working with Lock, who infiltrates her life, violates her personal information, and offers some beyond human capabilities that are helpful to solve the missing person cases.
They find that it takes the human element combined with AI to be successful; one without another doesn’t work.
Kat is the narrator, and she is a well-developed, relatable character. The cases are compelling, but Kat’s partnership with Lock takes this book to another level.
I can’t believe this is Callaghan' debut. The plot is multi-layered and complex, and the characterization is strong. Callaghan's knowledge and expertise with AI shine through, bringing authenticity and originality to the plot. It looks like book #2 is on its way, and while I really do not need another series in my life, this one is too good to resist.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group.
May 31, 2024
“In the UK, someone is reported missing every 90 seconds.
Just gone. Vanished. In the blink of an eye.” 👁️
DCS Kat Frank is a widowed single mother who trusts her instincts. So, she has her doubts when she is chosen to lead a pilot program that will pair her with an AIDE called Lock (Artificially Intelligent Detective Entity)
It (Lock) has been programmed with algorithms that are free from bias or prejudice of any kind-which will hopefully lead to more “evidence based” decision making during the investigation of a crime. It/He has been designed to be free from racism, misogyny, homophobia, transphobia or anything else which could influence the direction a case may take.
Unlike “Narrow AI” ( like Alexa or Siri) which is tasked based- AIDE is the rarer “General AI” which is designed with all the complex characteristics of human intelligence-allowing it to learn, AND it’s also able to manifest itself as a 3D digital hologram.
The pilot program will focus on cold cases, and when the team assembles to select their “test case” two missing persons meet the criteria-Will Robinson and Tyrone Walters-so it is decided that they will investigate both.
Kat's instincts come up against Lock's logic. He can process information that would take humans weeks to sort through in mere minutes. But he lacks “emotional intelligence” and a “filter” when speaking to the families of Victims.
Will it possible for him/it to learn these attributes?
When the two missing person's cold cases they are reviewing suddenly become ACTIVE-AIDE Lock may be the only one who can make the connections in time.
This DEBUT was engaging from the very first page and this unique Police Procedural NEVER lost my interest!
The author uses her personal experience as a recently widowed wife and mother to write honest, relatable characters along with a plausible investigation which may be closer to becoming reality than we think…
Although I don’t have an Alexa, or even use Siri on my IPhone, I am drawn to stories involving AI, and this is another one that did NOT disappoint!
I can’t wait to reunite with this investigative team in the sequel, “Leave No Trace” which is on its way to me from Blackwell’s-a gift from a book loving friend! 🎁
Just gone. Vanished. In the blink of an eye.” 👁️
DCS Kat Frank is a widowed single mother who trusts her instincts. So, she has her doubts when she is chosen to lead a pilot program that will pair her with an AIDE called Lock (Artificially Intelligent Detective Entity)
It (Lock) has been programmed with algorithms that are free from bias or prejudice of any kind-which will hopefully lead to more “evidence based” decision making during the investigation of a crime. It/He has been designed to be free from racism, misogyny, homophobia, transphobia or anything else which could influence the direction a case may take.
Unlike “Narrow AI” ( like Alexa or Siri) which is tasked based- AIDE is the rarer “General AI” which is designed with all the complex characteristics of human intelligence-allowing it to learn, AND it’s also able to manifest itself as a 3D digital hologram.
The pilot program will focus on cold cases, and when the team assembles to select their “test case” two missing persons meet the criteria-Will Robinson and Tyrone Walters-so it is decided that they will investigate both.
Kat's instincts come up against Lock's logic. He can process information that would take humans weeks to sort through in mere minutes. But he lacks “emotional intelligence” and a “filter” when speaking to the families of Victims.
Will it possible for him/it to learn these attributes?
When the two missing person's cold cases they are reviewing suddenly become ACTIVE-AIDE Lock may be the only one who can make the connections in time.
This DEBUT was engaging from the very first page and this unique Police Procedural NEVER lost my interest!
The author uses her personal experience as a recently widowed wife and mother to write honest, relatable characters along with a plausible investigation which may be closer to becoming reality than we think…
Although I don’t have an Alexa, or even use Siri on my IPhone, I am drawn to stories involving AI, and this is another one that did NOT disappoint!
I can’t wait to reunite with this investigative team in the sequel, “Leave No Trace” which is on its way to me from Blackwell’s-a gift from a book loving friend! 🎁
December 20, 2022
This is a thought provoking, thrilling blend of crime and speculative fiction set in the near future by Jo Callaghan. Detective Chief Superintendent Kat Frank of Warwickshire Police is returning to work after the harrowing loss of her husband, John, still grieving, she has poured her energies and love into supporting her teenage son, Cam, who has just completed his A level exams. Her boss, Chief Constable McLeish has her head up a pilot project working alongside an Artificial Intelligence Detecting Entity (AIDE) named Lock, who appears as a hologram, very much a character and personality in his own right, the brainchild of Warwick University's Professor Okonedo, a woman with her own agenda.
The purpose is to learn and evaluate the pros and cons of how AIDE's can support police work, with the worry that this might lead to cuts in police numbers. Kat's team includes DI Rayan Hassan, a confident, self assured officer who insists on constantly challenging Kat's decisions, and the more diffident and apologetic DS Debbie Browne, facing her own personal issues. After much discussion, the team take up two missing person cold cases, conscientious student Tyrone Walters and would be actor Will Robinson. Lock proves to be a god send when it comes to data, accessing publicly available information and analysing it at incredible speeds no human could compete with, whilst the police conduct interviews. Lock is programmed with the intention of implementing ongoing learning, there are issues that arise, such as creating a hologram of a missing son, and inappropriate information sharing and thinking, with his mother.
What took me by surprise was the superb development of the buddy relationship between Lock and Kat by the author, there are the natural ups and downs, but it really comes into its own when Kat's team and boss refuse to follow her lead when she finds herself in the most horrifying of positions as a mother. Kat finds the only one who believes in her turns out to be Lock, and he is instrumental in helping her solve the cold cases that have become active investigations. This is a wonderful read, and the speculative aspects do not feel so far fetched either when it comes to the use of AI and how useful it could be in the law enforcement field. I am not certain there will be a sequel, but I really hope there will be, I really loved the relationship dynamics between Lock and Kat. Highly recommended. Many thanks to the publisher for an ARC.
The purpose is to learn and evaluate the pros and cons of how AIDE's can support police work, with the worry that this might lead to cuts in police numbers. Kat's team includes DI Rayan Hassan, a confident, self assured officer who insists on constantly challenging Kat's decisions, and the more diffident and apologetic DS Debbie Browne, facing her own personal issues. After much discussion, the team take up two missing person cold cases, conscientious student Tyrone Walters and would be actor Will Robinson. Lock proves to be a god send when it comes to data, accessing publicly available information and analysing it at incredible speeds no human could compete with, whilst the police conduct interviews. Lock is programmed with the intention of implementing ongoing learning, there are issues that arise, such as creating a hologram of a missing son, and inappropriate information sharing and thinking, with his mother.
What took me by surprise was the superb development of the buddy relationship between Lock and Kat by the author, there are the natural ups and downs, but it really comes into its own when Kat's team and boss refuse to follow her lead when she finds herself in the most horrifying of positions as a mother. Kat finds the only one who believes in her turns out to be Lock, and he is instrumental in helping her solve the cold cases that have become active investigations. This is a wonderful read, and the speculative aspects do not feel so far fetched either when it comes to the use of AI and how useful it could be in the law enforcement field. I am not certain there will be a sequel, but I really hope there will be, I really loved the relationship dynamics between Lock and Kat. Highly recommended. Many thanks to the publisher for an ARC.
June 16, 2024
Big fan of police procedurals? Move this book to the top of your list!
After the loss of her husband months earlier, Detective Kat Frank is ready to return to policing. Her son appears to be grieving in a healthy way, so no sense just sitting around the house any longer. Back to work she goes.
On her return, her boss discloses a bold plan. He wants Kat to head up a pilot program with “AIDE.” (Artificially Intelligent Detective Entity) to determine the potential role of AI in detective work. Can AI work more effectively and safely than humans? Let’s find out!
This particular AIDE is named Lock. It can be brought to life, (so to speak) in a holographic form or simply a voice from the monitor she wears.
I actually grew fond of Lock as the storyline progressed. Kat on the other hand, made it known she was no fan of AI, and Lock was more trouble than it was worth. But can a successful AI identity win her over?
I absolutely loved Kat’s character. Newly widowed, and struggling with the realization she will be alone once her son leaves for university. She has her hands full, keeping her personal life together while taking on this project.
Her team of detectives, (the two of them) were distinctively different personalities, adding so much more flavor to the story. I adored them both and can’t wait to see where the author takes this team. This appears to be book one of a new series and I'm already searching for the next!
Make sure to read the author’s beautifully written acknowledgment. Thank you for sharing such a personal piece of your heart with your readers.💜
Thank you to NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group - Random House
After the loss of her husband months earlier, Detective Kat Frank is ready to return to policing. Her son appears to be grieving in a healthy way, so no sense just sitting around the house any longer. Back to work she goes.
On her return, her boss discloses a bold plan. He wants Kat to head up a pilot program with “AIDE.” (Artificially Intelligent Detective Entity) to determine the potential role of AI in detective work. Can AI work more effectively and safely than humans? Let’s find out!
This particular AIDE is named Lock. It can be brought to life, (so to speak) in a holographic form or simply a voice from the monitor she wears.
I actually grew fond of Lock as the storyline progressed. Kat on the other hand, made it known she was no fan of AI, and Lock was more trouble than it was worth. But can a successful AI identity win her over?
I absolutely loved Kat’s character. Newly widowed, and struggling with the realization she will be alone once her son leaves for university. She has her hands full, keeping her personal life together while taking on this project.
Her team of detectives, (the two of them) were distinctively different personalities, adding so much more flavor to the story. I adored them both and can’t wait to see where the author takes this team. This appears to be book one of a new series and I'm already searching for the next!
Make sure to read the author’s beautifully written acknowledgment. Thank you for sharing such a personal piece of your heart with your readers.💜
Thank you to NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group - Random House
January 22, 2023
4.5.
Following eighteen months on leave for personal family reasons, DCS Kat Frank is given a new team, and assigned to work cold cases. But, there’s a catch – she’s also to be partnered with AIDE Locke – an Artificially Intelligent Detecting Entity a.k.a a robot, as part of the Home Secretary’s latest pet project to improve and advance policing, and minimise bias and prejudice.
Such a gripping, exciting, tugged-at-my-heartstrings read. The author’s note at the end of the book brought tears to my eyes. The crime was clever, different, harrowing, and heart-pounding, especially towards the end. And best of all, I didn’t guess it. I came up with one outlandish theory, but I was way off. Kat and her team were all great characters with interesting and affecting backstories, and I loved Kat’s relationship with her son, Cam. Also, side note, Kat could actually cook! So sick of the stereotypic detective who exists on junk food and takeaways.
I estimate In the Blink of an Eye is set in roughly five years time, give or take, so aside from the presence of Locke there’s little futuristic technical advancements to get your head around, and everything relating to AIDE was dumbed down to my level of almost zero knowledge. So, if you love police procedural/crime/suspense/mystery/thriller, but sci-fi is not too your liking, never fear, it’s 90% the former.
I was equally fascinated and unsettled by Locke as a character. Because it looked like a human – and not only that, a handsome one – and add in the fact that it mirrored human body language, mannerisms, and facial expressions. Like Kat, I occasionally found myself imagining that it was human. And, then also like Kat I would be horrified that I could think such a thing. Thankfully, for the most part, Locke did act like a machine, although I have met some humans in my lifetime whose behaviour is eerily machine-like, so there’s that. Kudos to Jo Callaghan for not using Locke as a POV, since it’s not real. If AIDE is our future, and let’s face it, it more than likely is, because we’re well on the way there, then it’s a troubling thought. For decades we’ve had people who believe their favourite TV/movie/book/video game character is real, and fail to distinguish the actor from the character – how will these people react to AI when it looks and acts so lifelike? And to be honest, I think an AI friend/companion would be enough for some people – imagine a friend without all the drama and emotional baggage, and as my premise of the novel mentions, bias and prejudice? Sorry to go all philosophical on you guys, but good on the author for tackling such a controversial, moral, and ethical issue, and incorporating it into a police environment in the novel way that she did.
Is this going to be a series? Yes, please. Give me more. I’m even attached to Locke which is exactly my dilemma.
I’d like to thank Netgalley UK, Simon & Schuster UK, and Jo Callaghan for such a thought-provoking e-ARC.
Keep your eyes peeled for this unique take on a police procedural the first day of February, 2023.
Following eighteen months on leave for personal family reasons, DCS Kat Frank is given a new team, and assigned to work cold cases. But, there’s a catch – she’s also to be partnered with AIDE Locke – an Artificially Intelligent Detecting Entity a.k.a a robot, as part of the Home Secretary’s latest pet project to improve and advance policing, and minimise bias and prejudice.
Such a gripping, exciting, tugged-at-my-heartstrings read. The author’s note at the end of the book brought tears to my eyes. The crime was clever, different, harrowing, and heart-pounding, especially towards the end. And best of all, I didn’t guess it. I came up with one outlandish theory, but I was way off. Kat and her team were all great characters with interesting and affecting backstories, and I loved Kat’s relationship with her son, Cam. Also, side note, Kat could actually cook! So sick of the stereotypic detective who exists on junk food and takeaways.
I estimate In the Blink of an Eye is set in roughly five years time, give or take, so aside from the presence of Locke there’s little futuristic technical advancements to get your head around, and everything relating to AIDE was dumbed down to my level of almost zero knowledge. So, if you love police procedural/crime/suspense/mystery/thriller, but sci-fi is not too your liking, never fear, it’s 90% the former.
I was equally fascinated and unsettled by Locke as a character. Because it looked like a human – and not only that, a handsome one – and add in the fact that it mirrored human body language, mannerisms, and facial expressions. Like Kat, I occasionally found myself imagining that it was human. And, then also like Kat I would be horrified that I could think such a thing. Thankfully, for the most part, Locke did act like a machine, although I have met some humans in my lifetime whose behaviour is eerily machine-like, so there’s that. Kudos to Jo Callaghan for not using Locke as a POV, since it’s not real. If AIDE is our future, and let’s face it, it more than likely is, because we’re well on the way there, then it’s a troubling thought. For decades we’ve had people who believe their favourite TV/movie/book/video game character is real, and fail to distinguish the actor from the character – how will these people react to AI when it looks and acts so lifelike? And to be honest, I think an AI friend/companion would be enough for some people – imagine a friend without all the drama and emotional baggage, and as my premise of the novel mentions, bias and prejudice? Sorry to go all philosophical on you guys, but good on the author for tackling such a controversial, moral, and ethical issue, and incorporating it into a police environment in the novel way that she did.
Is this going to be a series? Yes, please. Give me more. I’m even attached to Locke which is exactly my dilemma.
I’d like to thank Netgalley UK, Simon & Schuster UK, and Jo Callaghan for such a thought-provoking e-ARC.
Keep your eyes peeled for this unique take on a police procedural the first day of February, 2023.
January 22, 2023
You all know that I love a good police procedural. When I read the synopsis for In The Blink of An Eye I was certainly intrigued. And my goodness, did I love this book! This is a debut novel from Jo Callaghan, but it read like she had been writing these books for years. It was clever, unique and funny. There was a cast of characters that totally worked together, and I really really really hope that this will be the first in a series with a Kat and Lock 🤞🤞
Yes, this is a story of an AI helping the police. But it is in no way a science fiction novel. It is a crime fiction book all the way. DCS Kay Frank is ready to return to work after losing her husband. Her boss put her in charge of a pilot program, working with AIDE (Artificially Intelligent Detective Entity) She is skeptical and is determined that the pilot will fail. She builds a team with Lock and they start work on 2 cold case missing persons investigations. Kat uses her gut instinct in her work and Lock uses fact and logic. The 2 clash on many an occasion. But Kat can’t help but marvel at the speed at which Lock can sort through massive amounts of data and draw conclusions.
Is this the way the world is headed? It certainly will make you think, the pros and cons of a computer assisting in these cases. There is no emotion in a robot, no sense of helping people. But the machine can save weeks of work by multiple officers.
A very well put together and entertaining police drama. I highly recommend it. You will feel all the emotions.
Thanks to Simon and Schuster for sending this book my way. It was a lovely surprise and a very enjoyable read. Published on January 4th.
Yes, this is a story of an AI helping the police. But it is in no way a science fiction novel. It is a crime fiction book all the way. DCS Kay Frank is ready to return to work after losing her husband. Her boss put her in charge of a pilot program, working with AIDE (Artificially Intelligent Detective Entity) She is skeptical and is determined that the pilot will fail. She builds a team with Lock and they start work on 2 cold case missing persons investigations. Kat uses her gut instinct in her work and Lock uses fact and logic. The 2 clash on many an occasion. But Kat can’t help but marvel at the speed at which Lock can sort through massive amounts of data and draw conclusions.
Is this the way the world is headed? It certainly will make you think, the pros and cons of a computer assisting in these cases. There is no emotion in a robot, no sense of helping people. But the machine can save weeks of work by multiple officers.
A very well put together and entertaining police drama. I highly recommend it. You will feel all the emotions.
Thanks to Simon and Schuster for sending this book my way. It was a lovely surprise and a very enjoyable read. Published on January 4th.
May 2, 2024
Actual rating: 3,75
It started slow and it was hard for me to get into it, but somewhere after 1/3 of the book it became really interesting and really good.
Review to come this weekend (I promise).
It started slow and it was hard for me to get into it, but somewhere after 1/3 of the book it became really interesting and really good.
Review to come this weekend (I promise).
July 22, 2024
4+
Detective Chief Superintendent Kat Frank, captor of the Aston Strangler, is placed in charge of cold cases using an AIDE (Artificially Intelligent Detecting Entity) who will use algorithms to speed things up and help with evidence based decision making. This is an initiative driven by the Home Secretary and piloted in Warwickshire. Kat is not the choice of the developer, Professor Okonedo by any means. Kat, DI Ryan Hassan and DS Debbie Browne are introduced to their new team member AIDE Lock and the amount of calculations he makes per second beggars belief but sceptical Kat is ordered to play nice. She insists the misper cold cases and their families must come first. They choose their first case, let’s make that two for research purposes- Will Robinson and Tyrone Walters.
This is a really good, fresh, up to date approach for a police procedural which I thoroughly enjoy. I’m sure I’m not alone in thinking it probably won’t be long before AI help reduce the hours to analyse data within defined perimeters.
The characters are good, Kat feels authentic though she can be abrasive at times but has got a lot on her plate. The supporting characters in Hassan and Browne are good, with interesting and contrasting dynamics between them. Lock’s portrayal is excellent.
It’s a suspenseful read, engaging, fascinating and thought provoking in equal measure. It’s well plotted, told at a brisk pace with many layers to the storytelling.
This is an accomplished debut with the author a well deserved winner of the coveted Theakston Old Peculier Crime novel of the year, 2024.
Detective Chief Superintendent Kat Frank, captor of the Aston Strangler, is placed in charge of cold cases using an AIDE (Artificially Intelligent Detecting Entity) who will use algorithms to speed things up and help with evidence based decision making. This is an initiative driven by the Home Secretary and piloted in Warwickshire. Kat is not the choice of the developer, Professor Okonedo by any means. Kat, DI Ryan Hassan and DS Debbie Browne are introduced to their new team member AIDE Lock and the amount of calculations he makes per second beggars belief but sceptical Kat is ordered to play nice. She insists the misper cold cases and their families must come first. They choose their first case, let’s make that two for research purposes- Will Robinson and Tyrone Walters.
This is a really good, fresh, up to date approach for a police procedural which I thoroughly enjoy. I’m sure I’m not alone in thinking it probably won’t be long before AI help reduce the hours to analyse data within defined perimeters.
The characters are good, Kat feels authentic though she can be abrasive at times but has got a lot on her plate. The supporting characters in Hassan and Browne are good, with interesting and contrasting dynamics between them. Lock’s portrayal is excellent.
It’s a suspenseful read, engaging, fascinating and thought provoking in equal measure. It’s well plotted, told at a brisk pace with many layers to the storytelling.
This is an accomplished debut with the author a well deserved winner of the coveted Theakston Old Peculier Crime novel of the year, 2024.
July 4, 2023
Have just finished reading the acknowledgements, not something that I do very often in books and I’m in tears. What an absolutely wonderful book. 5 stars don’t seem to be enough.
First time I have read a crime novel that draws upon the expertise of AI in the form of a hologram that its creator, a young professor with an agenda of her own, calls Lock, an apparition, almost like a ghost, but very much present and very attentive. Lock’s features resemble those of Chad Botwick, I thought that was a cute tribute to the late actor. When I started reading, I was afraid it would be too sci-fi-ish for me, that I would lose interest, because AI would be used as a prop and mocked, but none of those things happened, instead it is bit like the Stephen King film from the beginning of the 2000s, A.I., I think it is simply called, I even started rooting for Lock and thought he was a perfect partner for the main character.
It is not what I would call a perfect or flawless crime novel, at times it is sentimental, sometimes it is funny, but overall it is written with a conviction that makes you forget the (very small) flaws.
First time I have read a crime novel that draws upon the expertise of AI in the form of a hologram that its creator, a young professor with an agenda of her own, calls Lock, an apparition, almost like a ghost, but very much present and very attentive. Lock’s features resemble those of Chad Botwick, I thought that was a cute tribute to the late actor. When I started reading, I was afraid it would be too sci-fi-ish for me, that I would lose interest, because AI would be used as a prop and mocked, but none of those things happened, instead it is bit like the Stephen King film from the beginning of the 2000s, A.I., I think it is simply called, I even started rooting for Lock and thought he was a perfect partner for the main character.
It is not what I would call a perfect or flawless crime novel, at times it is sentimental, sometimes it is funny, but overall it is written with a conviction that makes you forget the (very small) flaws.
August 8, 2024
Brilliant new crime-solving duo and support team. I am late to the party on this one, but I can see why so many of my Goodreads friends (I see you Angela, Nina, LitwithLeigh, Jayme, Paromjit, NZLisa, and more.) have raved about this book.
The thought of an AI entity named Lock taking part in a police investigation may seem too futuristic. If you are like me, the concept of AI may seem overwhelming and send you running for your old school rotary phone. Fear not! Jo Callaghan has done a brilliant job of showing us the potential for AI as part of a police procedural without fully eliminating the human component.
Detective Kat Frank is given the opportunity of a lifetime when returning to active duty after time off to grieve her late husband. She will head up a unit pilot working on a cold case with the assistance of an AI entity named Lock. Her first instinct is to take the opportunity to show the scientists that this will never work. What she soon realizes is the ways law enforcement can capitalize on the strengths of AI. She will also see where the technology can cause friction with the public.
This was an enlightening and entertaining read. I enjoy lightweight sci-fi and police procedurals and this was a perfect mix of the two for me. Thrilled to see this as Kat and Lock #1. There was some fabulous character development within Kat Frank's team and they have more work to do. Looking forward to Book #2!
A big thank you to Random House Trade Paperbacks for an ARC for the paperback release in exchange for an honest review.
The thought of an AI entity named Lock taking part in a police investigation may seem too futuristic. If you are like me, the concept of AI may seem overwhelming and send you running for your old school rotary phone. Fear not! Jo Callaghan has done a brilliant job of showing us the potential for AI as part of a police procedural without fully eliminating the human component.
Detective Kat Frank is given the opportunity of a lifetime when returning to active duty after time off to grieve her late husband. She will head up a unit pilot working on a cold case with the assistance of an AI entity named Lock. Her first instinct is to take the opportunity to show the scientists that this will never work. What she soon realizes is the ways law enforcement can capitalize on the strengths of AI. She will also see where the technology can cause friction with the public.
This was an enlightening and entertaining read. I enjoy lightweight sci-fi and police procedurals and this was a perfect mix of the two for me. Thrilled to see this as Kat and Lock #1. There was some fabulous character development within Kat Frank's team and they have more work to do. Looking forward to Book #2!
A big thank you to Random House Trade Paperbacks for an ARC for the paperback release in exchange for an honest review.
March 16, 2023
In The Blink of An Eye by Jo Callaghan
Synopsis /
DCS Kat Frank knows all about loss. A widowed single mother, Kat is a cop who trusts her instincts. Picked to lead a pilot programme that has her paired with AIDE (Artificially Intelligent Detective Entity) Lock, Kat's instincts come up against Lock's logic. But when the two missing person's cold cases they are reviewing suddenly become active, Lock is the only one who can help Kat when the case gets personal.
AI versus human experience.
Logic versus instinct.
With lives on the line can the pair work together before someone else becomes another statistic?
My Thoughts /
The award for the most original and innovative plot thread this year goes to Jo Callaghan, for her debut novel, In The Blink of An Eye.
I thought I may have had some issues with this debut police procedural written by Jo Callaghan because it has a sci-fi element to it and typically, that's not anywhere close to a favourite genre of mine. But since one of my favourite shows on television at the moment is Quantum Leap - where, during a government experiment into time travel, a scientist finds himself "leaping" into the lives of different people, sorting out their problems and changing history in hopes of getting back home to the present - maybe I should revise the sci-fi standing.
In Callaghan's wonderfully impressive debut novel we are introduced to Detective Chief Superintendent Kat Frank. Reporting for duty after a period of absence on bereavement leave, DCS Frank returns to Leek Wootton Police Headquarters in Warwickshire to meet with her boss, Chief Constable McLeish - a colleague for whom she has enormous respect. He was her boss, her first ever mentor and is one of her oldest friends. During their meeting, McLeish informs her that he wants her to lead a pilot group working with AIDEs (Artificially Intelligent Detecting Entities) to solve cold cases. What now??
Reporting to DCS Frank are the following members of her new team: DI Rayan Hassan; DS Debbie Brown; and……AIDE Lock, together with AI inventor Professor Okonedo from the National Institute for AI Research. After twenty-five years on the force, Frank had thought she'd seen it all, but never in a million years did she think she'd be using a bunch of algorithms, which came from of a virtual presence, to solve crimes.
This reads like your typical police procedural, but kudos to Callaghan, her writing is really clever - because as you read further and further in, you (almost) come to think of Lock as 'real'. Kat and Lock's working partnership reads just like any other - both characters have their strengths, both characters are extremely likeable, they both bounce off each other and, at times, irritate the other. One is driven by human motivations and emotions and a gut instinct; while the other is driven only by logic and statistics. Yet Callaghan makes it work.
The plot was well-executed and travelled along at breakneck speed. And as for the actual case? I had no idea of the who or the why until the reveal at the end (but then again, I never do!).
This reads like it could be the beginning of a brand new series, and if so, I'm definitely up for it! Fingers crossed!
Synopsis /
DCS Kat Frank knows all about loss. A widowed single mother, Kat is a cop who trusts her instincts. Picked to lead a pilot programme that has her paired with AIDE (Artificially Intelligent Detective Entity) Lock, Kat's instincts come up against Lock's logic. But when the two missing person's cold cases they are reviewing suddenly become active, Lock is the only one who can help Kat when the case gets personal.
AI versus human experience.
Logic versus instinct.
With lives on the line can the pair work together before someone else becomes another statistic?
My Thoughts /
The award for the most original and innovative plot thread this year goes to Jo Callaghan, for her debut novel, In The Blink of An Eye.
I thought I may have had some issues with this debut police procedural written by Jo Callaghan because it has a sci-fi element to it and typically, that's not anywhere close to a favourite genre of mine. But since one of my favourite shows on television at the moment is Quantum Leap - where, during a government experiment into time travel, a scientist finds himself "leaping" into the lives of different people, sorting out their problems and changing history in hopes of getting back home to the present - maybe I should revise the sci-fi standing.
In Callaghan's wonderfully impressive debut novel we are introduced to Detective Chief Superintendent Kat Frank. Reporting for duty after a period of absence on bereavement leave, DCS Frank returns to Leek Wootton Police Headquarters in Warwickshire to meet with her boss, Chief Constable McLeish - a colleague for whom she has enormous respect. He was her boss, her first ever mentor and is one of her oldest friends. During their meeting, McLeish informs her that he wants her to lead a pilot group working with AIDEs (Artificially Intelligent Detecting Entities) to solve cold cases. What now??
Reporting to DCS Frank are the following members of her new team: DI Rayan Hassan; DS Debbie Brown; and……AIDE Lock, together with AI inventor Professor Okonedo from the National Institute for AI Research. After twenty-five years on the force, Frank had thought she'd seen it all, but never in a million years did she think she'd be using a bunch of algorithms, which came from of a virtual presence, to solve crimes.
This reads like your typical police procedural, but kudos to Callaghan, her writing is really clever - because as you read further and further in, you (almost) come to think of Lock as 'real'. Kat and Lock's working partnership reads just like any other - both characters have their strengths, both characters are extremely likeable, they both bounce off each other and, at times, irritate the other. One is driven by human motivations and emotions and a gut instinct; while the other is driven only by logic and statistics. Yet Callaghan makes it work.
The plot was well-executed and travelled along at breakneck speed. And as for the actual case? I had no idea of the who or the why until the reveal at the end (but then again, I never do!).
This reads like it could be the beginning of a brand new series, and if so, I'm definitely up for it! Fingers crossed!
July 31, 2024
In the Blink of An Eye this book dazzled me with it's unique, gripping, and thought provoking premise. A seasoned investigator, DCS Kat Frank is paired with Lock, an Artificially Intelligent Detective Entity. Lock's logic is paired with Kat's experience, instincts, and investigative skills. Kat and Lock will be investigating two cases where young men have gone missing without a trace!
Kat is an intelligent single mother and investigator who has suffered loss. She is back to work after the death of her husband and has strong feelings about working with an AI detective. As they begin their investigation, readers get to see the struggles they encounter as they approach the investigation.
The plot is gripping and tense. The search for the missing young men, paired with the struggles of paring human intuition with AI logic made for a riveting and intense read. I though Jo Callaghan did a great job of showing the struggles, the benefits, the differing approach to investigation, and the reactions of the human investigators, mainly Kat, in adjusting to working with an AIDE -Artificially Intelligent Detective Entity.
When the case gets personal, the tension and urgency leaped off the pages! Whew! I had no idea how much I would enjoy this book. I love how original this book was. What a unique concept and way to conduct investigations. What a thrilling mix of mystery, drama, science fiction and detective work. This book also had me wondering if investigations will turn to AI help/assistance in the future.
Well written, well thought out, unique, and thought provoking. I'm looking forward to the next book in the series!
*be sure to read the author's note at the end of the book.
Thank you to Random House Publishing Group and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com 📖
Kat is an intelligent single mother and investigator who has suffered loss. She is back to work after the death of her husband and has strong feelings about working with an AI detective. As they begin their investigation, readers get to see the struggles they encounter as they approach the investigation.
The plot is gripping and tense. The search for the missing young men, paired with the struggles of paring human intuition with AI logic made for a riveting and intense read. I though Jo Callaghan did a great job of showing the struggles, the benefits, the differing approach to investigation, and the reactions of the human investigators, mainly Kat, in adjusting to working with an AIDE -Artificially Intelligent Detective Entity.
When the case gets personal, the tension and urgency leaped off the pages! Whew! I had no idea how much I would enjoy this book. I love how original this book was. What a unique concept and way to conduct investigations. What a thrilling mix of mystery, drama, science fiction and detective work. This book also had me wondering if investigations will turn to AI help/assistance in the future.
Well written, well thought out, unique, and thought provoking. I'm looking forward to the next book in the series!
*be sure to read the author's note at the end of the book.
Thank you to Random House Publishing Group and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com 📖
June 23, 2024
Una decepción.
Dice la sinopsis:
La superintendente Kat Frank, una policía que confía en sus instintos, es elegida para liderar un programa piloto que la empareja con una DAIA (Dispositivo Analítico de Inteligencia Artificial), que se proyecta como el holograma realista de un varón. Pero Kat, madre soltera y viuda, tiene suficientes problemas como para además trabajar con Lock, una máquina cuya lógica aplastante choca con sus instintos. Sin embargo, cuando los casos sin resolver de dos personas desaparecidas se activan de nuevo y el asunto se vuelve personal, Lock es el único que puede ayudarla.
Mis impresiones.
Compré este libro esperando un thriller de evasión entretenido, para esos momentos en los que se desean o necesitan ese tipo de libros. El batacazo que me he llevado ha sido monumental. La idea era buena y la trama prometía. Una superintendente de policía trabajando con una inteligencia artificial, eso de entrada pinta bien. En mi ánimo también pesó el recuerdo de la excelente novela de Asimov, "El sol desnudo", que recreaba este tema con una trama entretenida y ágil, justo lo opuesto al libro que reseño aquí.
La premisa inicial se pierde en un desarrollo que, por medio de la investigación del caso, insiste una y otra vez en exponer al lector por qué una IA no podrá sustituir nunca al cerebro humano. Ese redundar continuamente sobre lo mismo lastra el ritmo de la novela que hace pesada. Se salva el 20% final, el problema es llegar hasta ahí.
La investigación es floja. Los porqués muy predecibles y, a partir de un determinado momento, puede decirse lo mismo del quién.
Los personajes principales, Kat y Lock entre planos y clichés. Los secundarios, aunque también pecan de clichés conocidos, no están mal y dan juego.
El final, predecible pero correcto. Cierra la trama y nos avisa de que va a ser serie. No es para mí y no la seguiré.
En conclusión un thriller que lo mejor que tiene es la premisa. El desarrollo es flojo, la trama predecible y se me hizo pesado. No lo puedo recomendar.
Dice la sinopsis:
La superintendente Kat Frank, una policía que confía en sus instintos, es elegida para liderar un programa piloto que la empareja con una DAIA (Dispositivo Analítico de Inteligencia Artificial), que se proyecta como el holograma realista de un varón. Pero Kat, madre soltera y viuda, tiene suficientes problemas como para además trabajar con Lock, una máquina cuya lógica aplastante choca con sus instintos. Sin embargo, cuando los casos sin resolver de dos personas desaparecidas se activan de nuevo y el asunto se vuelve personal, Lock es el único que puede ayudarla.
Mis impresiones.
Compré este libro esperando un thriller de evasión entretenido, para esos momentos en los que se desean o necesitan ese tipo de libros. El batacazo que me he llevado ha sido monumental. La idea era buena y la trama prometía. Una superintendente de policía trabajando con una inteligencia artificial, eso de entrada pinta bien. En mi ánimo también pesó el recuerdo de la excelente novela de Asimov, "El sol desnudo", que recreaba este tema con una trama entretenida y ágil, justo lo opuesto al libro que reseño aquí.
La premisa inicial se pierde en un desarrollo que, por medio de la investigación del caso, insiste una y otra vez en exponer al lector por qué una IA no podrá sustituir nunca al cerebro humano. Ese redundar continuamente sobre lo mismo lastra el ritmo de la novela que hace pesada. Se salva el 20% final, el problema es llegar hasta ahí.
La investigación es floja. Los porqués muy predecibles y, a partir de un determinado momento, puede decirse lo mismo del quién.
Los personajes principales, Kat y Lock entre planos y clichés. Los secundarios, aunque también pecan de clichés conocidos, no están mal y dan juego.
El final, predecible pero correcto. Cierra la trama y nos avisa de que va a ser serie. No es para mí y no la seguiré.
En conclusión un thriller que lo mejor que tiene es la premisa. El desarrollo es flojo, la trama predecible y se me hizo pesado. No lo puedo recomendar.
July 19, 2024
Color me GOBSMACKED! In the Blink of an Eye has just been added to my list of the best books I've read in my life!
DCS Kat Frank is a cop who trusts her instincts. Picked to lead a pilot program that has her paired with AIDE (Artificially Intelligent Detective Entity) Lock, Kat’s gut instincts come up against Lock’s logic. AI versus human experience. Logic versus instinct. I wouldn't exactly describe Kat and Lock as the perfect partners!
In the Blink of an Eye is completely different and (did I mention?) utterly brilliant! Be sure to read the author's notes, too. Quite interesting. I can't wait to read the next book!!
HUGE thanks to both #RandomHouse and #NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review an early copy of #InTheBlinkOfAnEye! This book is #1 in the #KatAndLock series and is being released in paperback on Aug 06, 2024.
#JoCallaghan #AI
DCS Kat Frank is a cop who trusts her instincts. Picked to lead a pilot program that has her paired with AIDE (Artificially Intelligent Detective Entity) Lock, Kat’s gut instincts come up against Lock’s logic. AI versus human experience. Logic versus instinct. I wouldn't exactly describe Kat and Lock as the perfect partners!
In the Blink of an Eye is completely different and (did I mention?) utterly brilliant! Be sure to read the author's notes, too. Quite interesting. I can't wait to read the next book!!
HUGE thanks to both #RandomHouse and #NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review an early copy of #InTheBlinkOfAnEye! This book is #1 in the #KatAndLock series and is being released in paperback on Aug 06, 2024.
#JoCallaghan #AI
July 6, 2023
4,0 ✨✨✨
(Audiobook)
(Audiobook)
July 21, 2023
I thought I might struggle with this original AI concept but it did not seem implausible, and I wasn’t bamboozled by any major technical gobbledegook. I was surprised at how quickly I became invested in the AI’s personality, like I saw them as human.
Before reading this book I didn’t appreciate the excessive time it takes to convert successful research into real life help in combating certain medical conditions. Interesting read.
Before reading this book I didn’t appreciate the excessive time it takes to convert successful research into real life help in combating certain medical conditions. Interesting read.
July 7, 2023
How can I put it in a nice way, that this book is the fake woke equivalent for bored middle aged housewives who are into cozy police procedurals?
Probably can’t so I’ll get onto all the issues I had.
First of all, as a former computer engineering student and currently a developer our day to day includes AI. We’re aware of the limitations, the dilemmas and the opinions and frankly this book doesn’t present anything new or groundbreaking in any way shape or form.
On the contrary, I would have had a lot more appreciation for the author if he had kept the final conclusions out of the book and into the reader’s judgment. But he didn’t and some of his beliefs show through the face of his characters.
For a police procedural this was quite slow and repetitive.
Too many recaps, too many running in circles and at 60% there was not even a single lead to go on. I was bored. I wasn’t attached to any of the characters, everyone was annoying in a different way that made me not care at all for them.
The main character has this constant mentality of "don’t let them put you down" "you gotta show them who’s boss" "shut the fuck up cause I said so" which gets annoying very quickly because half the things she’s saying or thinks about are among those lines.
The disagreements during the debriefings sounded immature. The whole thought process was kinda immature but anyways…
We also get to learn the personal struggles of the characters and again, couldn’t care less about any of it and unless this turns into a series I can’t say I find them relevant at all.
So surprise surprise, another unpopular opinion. But seriously 2/5 I think it’s too generous for how lifeless and boring I found this book.
Probably can’t so I’ll get onto all the issues I had.
First of all, as a former computer engineering student and currently a developer our day to day includes AI. We’re aware of the limitations, the dilemmas and the opinions and frankly this book doesn’t present anything new or groundbreaking in any way shape or form.
On the contrary, I would have had a lot more appreciation for the author if he had kept the final conclusions out of the book and into the reader’s judgment. But he didn’t and some of his beliefs show through the face of his characters.
For a police procedural this was quite slow and repetitive.
Too many recaps, too many running in circles and at 60% there was not even a single lead to go on. I was bored. I wasn’t attached to any of the characters, everyone was annoying in a different way that made me not care at all for them.
The main character has this constant mentality of "don’t let them put you down" "you gotta show them who’s boss" "shut the fuck up cause I said so" which gets annoying very quickly because half the things she’s saying or thinks about are among those lines.
The disagreements during the debriefings sounded immature. The whole thought process was kinda immature but anyways…
We also get to learn the personal struggles of the characters and again, couldn’t care less about any of it and unless this turns into a series I can’t say I find them relevant at all.
So surprise surprise, another unpopular opinion. But seriously 2/5 I think it’s too generous for how lifeless and boring I found this book.
February 16, 2023
This is quite the contemporary police procedural story! When Kat Frank deicides to return to the police force after being carer for her terminally ill husband, she's not sure she is ready to get back to her senior role in homicide. However, her boss and friend asks her to pilot a program testing AI as a means of cutting the cost of man hours and speeding up research through the use of cold cases.
Rather than be too scientific and geeky, the AI is introduced in the book in quite a humourous way, with a holographic officer called 'Locke' that is linked to a form of smart watch that Kat is asked to wear. Kat puts together a small team and with the assistance of Locke (who has no filters on his thoughts - LOL) they start to look into cold cases.
In looking into the disappearance of two young men, Kat, Locke and the team stumble through awkwardness and frustration, each trying to assert their own perspective on the case. However, for Kat it becomes personal as she starts to see parallels between the missing young men and her own son Cam.
The plot was so intriguing and the characters are very interesting, I do hope there is more to come with Kat.
Thank you Netgalley and Simon &Schuster publishers for the opportunity to read this digital ARC.
Rather than be too scientific and geeky, the AI is introduced in the book in quite a humourous way, with a holographic officer called 'Locke' that is linked to a form of smart watch that Kat is asked to wear. Kat puts together a small team and with the assistance of Locke (who has no filters on his thoughts - LOL) they start to look into cold cases.
In looking into the disappearance of two young men, Kat, Locke and the team stumble through awkwardness and frustration, each trying to assert their own perspective on the case. However, for Kat it becomes personal as she starts to see parallels between the missing young men and her own son Cam.
The plot was so intriguing and the characters are very interesting, I do hope there is more to come with Kat.
Thank you Netgalley and Simon &Schuster publishers for the opportunity to read this digital ARC.
February 1, 2024
4.5 / 5
I have to admit Sci-fi books have been very hit or miss for me, so to mix it with standard police procedure I was quite hesitant. At first the premise of the book is very unique, this is a first I’ve seen incorporating AI with standard police producers so I made sure through reading this book how the plot develops, how the AI was portrayed and how the characters gel and to be fair I have to admit it’s a great book. It has the right amount of sci-fi that it’s not a fully nerdy thing but alot of standard police procedure to make it feel like a bog standard crime detective solving book. Overall, this is a good read that I would recommend, I’ve found it unpredictable and gripping throughout.
The plot follows DCS Kat Frank who is in charge of running a pilot scheme testing out AI as means to help solve cases at a quicker pace. She is paired up with AIDE Lock, who is essentially a AI detective that yes has visual function edits to any character (even a life size pokemon Detective Pickchu). Frank is in charge of investing cold missing persons cases with the help of AI to help assess and lead to the discovery of said missing people. But as Frank begins to explore more and delve deeper, events that occur start hitting home.
I think what makes this book great is the emotional side of it, we see this hard rigid DSC at the start and at the end of it a more rounded human being with flaws and experiences makes her more genuine and relatable. I found the book well written and the quality of writing consistent throughout. Overall it’s a good book that you won’t be disappointed.
I have to admit Sci-fi books have been very hit or miss for me, so to mix it with standard police procedure I was quite hesitant. At first the premise of the book is very unique, this is a first I’ve seen incorporating AI with standard police producers so I made sure through reading this book how the plot develops, how the AI was portrayed and how the characters gel and to be fair I have to admit it’s a great book. It has the right amount of sci-fi that it’s not a fully nerdy thing but alot of standard police procedure to make it feel like a bog standard crime detective solving book. Overall, this is a good read that I would recommend, I’ve found it unpredictable and gripping throughout.
The plot follows DCS Kat Frank who is in charge of running a pilot scheme testing out AI as means to help solve cases at a quicker pace. She is paired up with AIDE Lock, who is essentially a AI detective that yes has visual function edits to any character (even a life size pokemon Detective Pickchu). Frank is in charge of investing cold missing persons cases with the help of AI to help assess and lead to the discovery of said missing people. But as Frank begins to explore more and delve deeper, events that occur start hitting home.
I think what makes this book great is the emotional side of it, we see this hard rigid DSC at the start and at the end of it a more rounded human being with flaws and experiences makes her more genuine and relatable. I found the book well written and the quality of writing consistent throughout. Overall it’s a good book that you won’t be disappointed.
August 1, 2024
Jo Calaghan is a new author for me. This is the first book in the new Kat and Lock series.
Description:
Kat Frank knows all about loss. A widowed single mother, Kat is a cop who trusts her intuition, honed through years of on-the-beat police work. Picked to lead a pilot program that has her paired with Lock, an AIDE (Artificially Intelligent Detective Entity)—a hologram that is activated by a device on Kat’s wrist—Kat’s gut reactions about people and motives come up against Lock’s statistical calculations and data analysis that can be devised in seconds.
But as the two missing person’s cold cases they are reviewing suddenly become active, Lock is the only one who can help when the case begins to target Kat personally. AI versus human experience. Logic versus instinct. With lives on the line, can the pair work together to solve the mystery in time?
My Thoughts:
Embedding an AI entity in a police investigation was new and interesting. It was fun to see how the AI guy messes up with lack of tact and kindness in his dealings with victims and team members. Kat's natural resistance to accepting AI was easy to understand with AI being somewhat responsible for the death of her husband. The investigation of the missing was complex and I enjoyed following the leads. Kat Frank is an interesting character and I liked her. I look forward to the next book in this series and would recommend it to anyone who likes a good police procedural or who is interested in applications for AI.
Thanks to Random House Publishing Group through Netgalley for an advance copy.
Description:
Kat Frank knows all about loss. A widowed single mother, Kat is a cop who trusts her intuition, honed through years of on-the-beat police work. Picked to lead a pilot program that has her paired with Lock, an AIDE (Artificially Intelligent Detective Entity)—a hologram that is activated by a device on Kat’s wrist—Kat’s gut reactions about people and motives come up against Lock’s statistical calculations and data analysis that can be devised in seconds.
But as the two missing person’s cold cases they are reviewing suddenly become active, Lock is the only one who can help when the case begins to target Kat personally. AI versus human experience. Logic versus instinct. With lives on the line, can the pair work together to solve the mystery in time?
My Thoughts:
Embedding an AI entity in a police investigation was new and interesting. It was fun to see how the AI guy messes up with lack of tact and kindness in his dealings with victims and team members. Kat's natural resistance to accepting AI was easy to understand with AI being somewhat responsible for the death of her husband. The investigation of the missing was complex and I enjoyed following the leads. Kat Frank is an interesting character and I liked her. I look forward to the next book in this series and would recommend it to anyone who likes a good police procedural or who is interested in applications for AI.
Thanks to Random House Publishing Group through Netgalley for an advance copy.
February 19, 2024
This has such an amazing premise whilst also being Waterstones thriller of the month back in January, I just couldn't resist.
The story is predominantly a police procedural but with added technology as DCS Kat Frank is picked to lead a pilot program with AIDE (Artificially Intelligent Detective Entity) Lock.
Much of the narrative has the typical police intuition compared to the logic of Lock.
There's arguments put forward in both counts, as a trial run concerning cold cases still means that people are still affected by a missing relative. Kat includes the point that hope plays such an important role in these scenarios.
Whilst computers should limit the number of mistakes made?
Set only a couple of years into our further. It does feel like a typically modern crime novel with a little Sci-Fi thrown in.
This allows for some touching moments, such as how can you tell a parent that there's a 90% chance that your child might not be alive.
The author also touches on mental health and illness.
Thought provoking, strikingly different and totally gripping - I hope that plans for this to continue as a series comes to fruition.
The story is predominantly a police procedural but with added technology as DCS Kat Frank is picked to lead a pilot program with AIDE (Artificially Intelligent Detective Entity) Lock.
Much of the narrative has the typical police intuition compared to the logic of Lock.
There's arguments put forward in both counts, as a trial run concerning cold cases still means that people are still affected by a missing relative. Kat includes the point that hope plays such an important role in these scenarios.
Whilst computers should limit the number of mistakes made?
Set only a couple of years into our further. It does feel like a typically modern crime novel with a little Sci-Fi thrown in.
This allows for some touching moments, such as how can you tell a parent that there's a 90% chance that your child might not be alive.
The author also touches on mental health and illness.
Thought provoking, strikingly different and totally gripping - I hope that plans for this to continue as a series comes to fruition.
January 30, 2023
I met Jo at Capital Crime in London in September 2022 and was lucky enough to get a proof of her new book In The Blink of An Eye which has had some absolutely RAVE reviews and the word on the street is that this book is going to be HUGE....!
Now I don't normally listen to the hype but the premise of the book sounded very intriguing; an Artificially Intelligent Detective Entity teaming up with a seasoned DCS to review cold cases sounds like science fiction but I've been to see ABBA Voyage 3 times in the past few months and seen how technology is evolving so in my mind "anything is possible".
Firstly, this is a brilliant debut and I absolutely loved Jo's writing. The main character is DCS Kat Frank, a newly widowed single mother who is returning to work after her husband's death. She is tasked with running a new pilot programme which pairs AI's with humans to solve cold cases of missing people. Kat has a major issue with anything technical and isn't particularly happy about having to team up with AI Lock. She believes in gut instinct, experience and being able to read people's emotions which is everything the AI Lock can't do and is only programmed to work on logic and facts.
When two of their cold cases appear to be connected, it's down to Lock and Kat to try to solve the case and find the missing boys.
This book is so wonderfully written. Kat's grief for her husband and her guilt for her teenage son were raw and emotional and it was so clear that Jo was writing this story from her heart. I absolutely loved her relationship with Lock which grew throughout the pages. The humour and dialogue was fabulous and you really need to believe the hype - because it's so fresh and original that I wasn't able to put it down.
This is the beginning of a brilliant series and I personally can't wait to read more from Jo.. and hopefully when I meet her again, she will sign my book and spell my name correctly this time.
Now I don't normally listen to the hype but the premise of the book sounded very intriguing; an Artificially Intelligent Detective Entity teaming up with a seasoned DCS to review cold cases sounds like science fiction but I've been to see ABBA Voyage 3 times in the past few months and seen how technology is evolving so in my mind "anything is possible".
Firstly, this is a brilliant debut and I absolutely loved Jo's writing. The main character is DCS Kat Frank, a newly widowed single mother who is returning to work after her husband's death. She is tasked with running a new pilot programme which pairs AI's with humans to solve cold cases of missing people. Kat has a major issue with anything technical and isn't particularly happy about having to team up with AI Lock. She believes in gut instinct, experience and being able to read people's emotions which is everything the AI Lock can't do and is only programmed to work on logic and facts.
When two of their cold cases appear to be connected, it's down to Lock and Kat to try to solve the case and find the missing boys.
This book is so wonderfully written. Kat's grief for her husband and her guilt for her teenage son were raw and emotional and it was so clear that Jo was writing this story from her heart. I absolutely loved her relationship with Lock which grew throughout the pages. The humour and dialogue was fabulous and you really need to believe the hype - because it's so fresh and original that I wasn't able to put it down.
This is the beginning of a brilliant series and I personally can't wait to read more from Jo.. and hopefully when I meet her again, she will sign my book and spell my name correctly this time.
April 25, 2024
*Human Verses AI*
What an imaginative and clever story! It is so hard to believe that this is Jo Callaghan’s crime debut. Imagine a scenario where police officers work alongside AI, that is what happens.
We meet DCS Kat Frank, she has had time off due to a personal loss that sees her now as a single mother. She is strong and has good instincts. She feels ready to come back to work and her boss has a project in mind for her.
There is a pilot programme the Police are going to introduce and she would be the perfect one to head it up. Kat is not impressed as she cannot see where in the world there would be a place for AI in the Police Force. The professor who created it has her own reasons and this AI creation has a name - AIDE aka Artificially Intelligent Detective Entity.
Kat reluctantly takes it on with a small handpicked team. Her partner will be AIDE. We then witness what happens in the real world when AI meets human interactions. Is there a possibility that AI can take the place of the Police? Can Kat prove that AI is a no go area? Can the creator of AIDE flag up inefficiencies within the Police Force? I won’t say anymore because they take on cold cases that become close to home……
This was a thrilling ride and I notice there is another book in the series called ‘Leave no Trace’
What an imaginative and clever story! It is so hard to believe that this is Jo Callaghan’s crime debut. Imagine a scenario where police officers work alongside AI, that is what happens.
We meet DCS Kat Frank, she has had time off due to a personal loss that sees her now as a single mother. She is strong and has good instincts. She feels ready to come back to work and her boss has a project in mind for her.
There is a pilot programme the Police are going to introduce and she would be the perfect one to head it up. Kat is not impressed as she cannot see where in the world there would be a place for AI in the Police Force. The professor who created it has her own reasons and this AI creation has a name - AIDE aka Artificially Intelligent Detective Entity.
Kat reluctantly takes it on with a small handpicked team. Her partner will be AIDE. We then witness what happens in the real world when AI meets human interactions. Is there a possibility that AI can take the place of the Police? Can Kat prove that AI is a no go area? Can the creator of AIDE flag up inefficiencies within the Police Force? I won’t say anymore because they take on cold cases that become close to home……
This was a thrilling ride and I notice there is another book in the series called ‘Leave no Trace’
February 8, 2023
After an extended break DCS Kat Frank returns to work. She is heading up a new team, she’s working alongside Locke – an AI robot. The home secretary’s project to enhance police processes, analysing data faster and reducing prejudice among the force.
Locke was a little annoying at first, literally a machine that can analyse data within a fraction of the time, give stats, probability outcomes for scenarios based on data collated and analysed. But of course it’s a machine, there is no empathy or “reading the room” there were some LOL moments!
Fantastic character development, If you love a good police procedural, mystery with a bit of a twist in the dynamic of characters I really enjoyed this one. Really interesting insight to the future of policing, I’m not adverse to it, the time it would save and speed up the process in apprehending people for their crimes!
I had theories on where this one was going, but I was so wrong. I’m not giving anything away. It’s a great read.
Thank you to Simon & Schuster Australia and Jo Callaghan for my ARC of this book.
Locke was a little annoying at first, literally a machine that can analyse data within a fraction of the time, give stats, probability outcomes for scenarios based on data collated and analysed. But of course it’s a machine, there is no empathy or “reading the room” there were some LOL moments!
Fantastic character development, If you love a good police procedural, mystery with a bit of a twist in the dynamic of characters I really enjoyed this one. Really interesting insight to the future of policing, I’m not adverse to it, the time it would save and speed up the process in apprehending people for their crimes!
I had theories on where this one was going, but I was so wrong. I’m not giving anything away. It’s a great read.
Thank you to Simon & Schuster Australia and Jo Callaghan for my ARC of this book.
October 21, 2022
An intriguing premise fir this speculative psychological thriller from Jo Callaghan - themes that instantly draw you in and compelling enough to keep you immersed throughout.
The mystery element is cleverly managed and the characters are hugely engaging. It has an unpredictable feel to it and overall this is an excellent read. Something a bit different which is always welcome. Feels like it could be the start of a series and I hope it is, I'd definitely be interested in more.
Recommended
The mystery element is cleverly managed and the characters are hugely engaging. It has an unpredictable feel to it and overall this is an excellent read. Something a bit different which is always welcome. Feels like it could be the start of a series and I hope it is, I'd definitely be interested in more.
Recommended
February 2, 2023
Thank you to Simon and Schuster for sending me a copy of this book for review.
This book is about a futuristic police unit. Something that could very well be possible in our future. It contains 2 of my favourite tropes - missing people and cold cases. The combination of human police officer who solves cases with their emotions and a machine who solves cases logically. This was extremely well done . Congratulations to you on a book that was impossible to put down.
This book is about a futuristic police unit. Something that could very well be possible in our future. It contains 2 of my favourite tropes - missing people and cold cases. The combination of human police officer who solves cases with their emotions and a machine who solves cases logically. This was extremely well done . Congratulations to you on a book that was impossible to put down.
January 14, 2023
I adored this story. A detective mystery with an AI element added to it, I wasn't sure how I felt about LOCK at the beginning, but I really loved the human vs AI interaction in the cases.
On another note, DCS Kat Frank's personal and professional life was really well written, and I could connect so well to her, as well as the other characters in the book and their own stories.
Full review to come soon!
On another note, DCS Kat Frank's personal and professional life was really well written, and I could connect so well to her, as well as the other characters in the book and their own stories.
Full review to come soon!
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