Altered Carbon, written by Richard K. Morgan, is a gritty cyberpunk novel set in a future where consciousness can be transferred to different bodies, known as sleeves. The story follows Takeshi Kovacs, a former soldier turned private investigator, as he is hired to solve the murder of a wealthy man. With its noir atmosphere, complex characters, and exploration of themes like immortality, identity, and the commodification of human bodies, Altered Carbon is a thrilling mind-transfer adventure that delves into the dark side of technology.