In a shocking revelation that has stirred discussions around the integrity of literary criticism, author and freelance journalist Alex Preston has acknowledged using artificial intelligence to assist in crafting a book review for the New York Times. The review, which focused on Jean-Baptiste Andrea’s novel Watching Over Her, was published in January 2026 and drew significant criticism after it was found to contain phrases and entire paragraphs lifted from another review in the Guardian, written by Christobel Kent.
The issue was brought to light by an astute reader who noticed the striking similarities between the two pieces, prompting the New York Times to act swiftly. In response to the controversy, the newspaper terminated its relationship with Preston, citing his “reliance on AI” and the use of content from another writer without proper attribution as a clear breach of their editorial standards.
Following this incident, Preston expressed his regret in an apology published by the Guardian, stating that he felt “hugely embarrassed” and recognized that he had committed a “huge mistake.” His acknowledgment of using AI in drafting the review has raised further questions about the ethical implications of such technology in the realm of literary critique. He mentioned, “I made a serious mistake in using an AI tool on a draft review I had written, and I failed to identify and remove overlapping language from another review that the AI dropped in.” This statement, however, suggests that had he simply edited out the borrowed phrases, the problem might have been avoided altogether.
The controversy surrounding Preston’s review reflects a broader conversation about the role of AI in creative fields. As technology advances, many professionals are grappling with the potential benefits and risks associated with incorporating AI into their workflows. While AI can enhance productivity and streamline processes, its use in creative writing raises ethical concerns—especially regarding originality and authorship. Critics argue that relying on AI might dilute the human touch that is essential for authentic literary criticism, which relies heavily on personal insights, emotional connections, and nuanced understanding of the text.
As the boundaries between human creativity and technological assistance continue to blur, this incident serves as a significant reminder of the importance of maintaining ethical standards in journalism and literature. In India, where literature is revered and the discourse around it is vibrant, this case could spark important discussions about the responsibilities of critics and the implications of using AI in their work. The incident emphasizes the need for transparency and accountability, ensuring that readers can trust the voices critiquing the very narratives that shape our culture.
