Altered Carbon is a science fiction novel written by Richard K. Morgan. 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. Kovacs is hired to solve the murder of a wealthy man, but his investigation uncovers a conspiracy that challenges the very nature of identity and humanity. Altered Carbon combines elements of cyberpunk and noir detective fiction with transhumanist themes.