Blog Archives
Magic and Writing
Zero Knowledge is a complex tale involving murder, encrypted clues, financial betrayal, and a race to uncover a hidden truth about Bitcoin’s mysterious origins. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The idea for Zero Knowledge for me began while spending time in Zug, Switzerland—where the story is set—within a vibrant crypto environment. The combination of this idyllic location and cutting-edge developments in blockchain technology proved to be a powerful source of inspiration. In this setting, all the research I needed for the story was readily accessible.
Your book has some very interesting characters that have their character flaws, but are still likable. How do you go about creating characters for your story?
The characters in Zero Knowledge evolved as I wrote the story. Duan was shaped in part by some of my own personality traits, which help explain his flaws. For Mina, I “borrowed” several of my wife Marina’s strong characteristics—though unlike Mina, my wife is in perfect health.
I enjoyed how the relationship between Lisa-Lotte and her father, Bernt, deepen over time. Based on feedback from beta readers, I added a backstory to explain Lisa-Lotte’s decision to join the police force.
I’m particularly pleased that reviewers praised the characters; developing them was a major focus for me throughout the writing process.
I felt that there were a lot of great twists and turns throughout the novel. Did you plan this before writing the novel, or did the twists develop organically while writing?
I began the writing process by outlining the story and crafting detailed character descriptions to bring them to life for myself. The method of Luc’s murder was the starting point, although at that early stage, I hadn’t yet defined the motive. In addition to writing, I have a passion for magic, and I incorporated techniques of misdirection—commonly used in magic—to lead the reader astray and heighten the suspense.
Magic and writing share many similarities. In magic, you often begin with the effect you want to create, then develop a method and presentation to entertain and continually surprise your audience. This process comes naturally to me and proved tremendously helpful while writing Zero Knowledge.
Will there be a follow-up novel to this story? If so, what aspects of the story will the next book cover?
I feel that both Duan and Lisa-Lotte still have plenty of mileage left in them. I already have an initial idea for a unique opening to a potential next book. That said, the way everything came together in Zero Knowledge—leaving no loose ends—will be hard to top.
Author Links: GoodReads | X | Facebook | Instagram | Website
Arnaud Pascolo’s latest international crime thriller is more than an intense whodunit or police procedural – it’s a gripping mystery that begins with a shock and never lets you come up for air! You have to do more than put together the pieces and find the villain – you have to figure out the crime!
Crypto company BionTic is facing financial difficulties, but a strange text message gives Luc Stark hope for a brighter future. The meeting invitation results in his being handed an envelope labeled “Clue One,” which he is instructed to open after leaving. Moments later, the man answers a phone call, and Luc suddenly collapses and dies. When police detectives begin looking into the strange death, they learn that is only the beginning of the mystery.
It Started With a Drawing
D.O.L: Light Running, Part 1, which has recently been renamed Light Running in Parris Island, follows a fiery, sharp-tongued woman who becomes entangled in government secrets and paramilitary organizations while battling her own haunted past. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The entire saga started from a drawing I did in art school in 2005 and a horrible experience I had during a short story class I took in 2009. When I turned in my final assignment for that class I will admit I was full of myself. I thought my final draft was God’s gift to man. My classmates were less than enthused and humbled me with their criticism:
‘I didn’t like it.’
‘Writing isn’t your thing.’
‘I thought the plot was too generic.’
This devastated me, and I didn’t touch the story for another three years. Between 2012 and 2020 I tried to rework the narrative but never got very far into the storyline. Then Covid struck and, like many, I found myself with an abundance of free time. In seven months I completed the first book. After a two-year editing process I submitted my book for review. I’m proud to say that, so far, I have not received less than a five star review.
There was a lot of time spent crafting the character traits in this novel. What was the most important factor for you to get right in your characters?
The short answer is ‘realism’. My characters are alive and real in my head. I can see them move about in the real world. Furthermore, I am able to hear the inflections in their voices and even accompany certain scenes with background music. It is my job – my purpose – to make sure that my characters live just as vibrantly in your mind.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
The primary theme of the book was Lilly’s first mission as an ARMOR agent. An unknown adversary has infiltrated Parris Island, forcing Lilly to rely on someone with less experience than herself. In the previous books most of the heavy lifting had been done by side characters like Joe or Andrew. This was Lilly’s maiden voyage and I wanted to keep the reader guessing as to whether she would sink or swim.
Supporting themes include: Sisterhood in the military; reunion and loss and unexpected betrayal.
Where does the story go in the next book, and where do you see it going in the future?
The next book is already out on Amazon, and it is called D.O.L: Light Running In Afghanistan. I’ll give you three guesses where Lilly is going, but you’ll only need one.
In this installment, Lilly must embark on her second mission with little-to-no recovery time from the first. Things escalate when her transport plane is shot down behind enemy lines. Light Running In Afghanistan gives an intriguing alternative story to the book/movie ‘Lone Survivor’. However, in this version, Lilly ends up being the lone survivor and she encounters a village that houses a centuries-old secret. The story will keep you guessing and your questions will be answered but, of course, more questions will arise.
I see this entire series seamlessly spanning a multitude of literary genres. The major themes for the entire saga are already completed in my head; it’s the fine points that need further development. With that in mind, I won’t reveal too much about where things are going. After all, the entire series is one gigantic mystery. And the title: D.O.L is classified. The name of the game is escalation and fun and I intend to deliver on both.
Whispers of the Forgotten – Chasing Shadows
Whispers of the Forgotten is a blend of mystery, adventure, and slow-burning suspense, wrapped in a heartfelt narrative about legacy, danger, and hidden truths. The story kicks off in a cozy bookstore and quickly spins into something much bigger: secret societies, ancient cities, and a mysterious artifact called the Heart of the Ancients. When Evelyn inherits the shop from her grandmother, she doesn’t expect to find a hidden letter that flips her world upside down. But she does. And from there, she’s pulled into a quest involving a forgotten city called Elara, a shadowy group called the Circle of the Serpent, and secrets buried deep in her family’s past.
I really loved how the book opened. The atmosphere of the bookstore, dusty, warm, and quiet, immediately hooked me. That first chapter was magic. It had this gentle sadness that lingered. The letter from Evelyn’s grandmother was deeply affecting, so intimate and emotionally charged that it sent a chill through me when she read the line, “You are the only one I trust…” In that moment, it became clear the story wasn’t merely about solving riddles or uncovering secrets; it was a poignant exploration of grief and the weight of inheritance. The scene with Demetri, the cat, silently observing from the shadows, added a subtle yet chilling layer of unease. It was an expertly executed moment that signaled something was wrong without resorting to melodrama.
Evelyn is compelling, smart, and emotionally grounded. Her reactions felt real. She’s not some fearless heroine out of the gate; she’s scared but curious, which I related to. Dr. Magnus, on the other hand, I had mixed feelings about. Dr. Magnus is a fascinating character; reserved, enigmatic, and intentionally complex. His composed demeanor and precise language create an air of mystery that adds tension and intrigue to every scene he’s in. When he offers Evelyn $2,000 to examine a set of documents, it’s a striking moment that underscores the urgency and significance of the quest ahead. The ambiguity surrounding his motives is skillfully crafted, inviting readers to remain engaged and curious about his true intentions. Michael and Julia, by contrast, bring warmth and groundedness to the narrative, and the introductions of Mei Ling and Mark hold great promise. Evelyn’s descriptions of them suggest they will add both emotional depth and essential skills to the team’s dynamic.
The pacing is excellent, with creepy notes, mysterious figures outside the window, and family secrets unfolding like a thriller, but it started to slow down a bit once the full team assembled. The detailed expedition briefings and in-depth discussions between characters enrich the story’s sense of realism and complexity. These moments provide valuable insight into the stakes, personalities, and motivations of the team, allowing the reader to fully grasp the magnitude of their mission. The thorough exposition ensures that every piece of the puzzle is thoughtfully laid out, building a strong foundation for the unfolding adventure. I appreciated the journal entries and letters from Lydia. Those gave the story so much heart and mystery. I especially liked the one that warned Evelyn not to trust anyone, not even allies. That moment was especially impactful. It introduced a sense of unease that lingered throughout the narrative, prompting continual questions about trust and motive. It deepened the suspense, encouraging the reader to remain alert to the possibility of hidden agendas and shifting loyalties.
Whispers of the Forgotten is a book that sneaks up on you. It starts small, gets personal, then blooms into a big adventure. It’s not just a mystery about an ancient artifact; it’s about inheritance, grief, and stepping into a destiny you didn’t ask for. It’s perfect for readers who like their adventure with a side of introspection, and who don’t mind a little shadowy weirdness creeping around the edges.
Pages: 300 | ASIN : B0F4NG3CX9
While The Jury Waits
While The Jury Waits is a legal thriller with a pulsing heart and a flair for drama. It follows the story of Gio Rossi, a self-absorbed but magnetic defense attorney who gets tangled in the most personal case of his career, the murder trial of his lover, Nicoletta Bianchi. What starts as courtroom theatrics soon spirals into a deep web of secrets, manipulation, and unexpected twists that push Gio to the edge of both love and justice. Part courtroom drama, part psychological thriller, the story delves into the performance of law and the cost of wearing too many masks for too long.
What grabbed me right away was the voice of Gio Rossi. He’s unapologetically cocky, a peacock in a suit, strutting through the courtroom like it’s a runway. Chapter 1 sets the stage with cinematic flair, with his luxury car, his ego, the scent of his cologne filling up the office like he’s spraying his own myth into the air. It’s ridiculous, but it works. The writing here shines by leaning into Gio’s vanity without flinching. The books on his shelf? “Decorations.” The cases he handles? Mere “performances.” I was torn between wanting to punch him and cheer for him, which, to me, is the mark of a well-drawn character.
But it’s when his lover Nicky is arrested for murder that the tone shifts hard. Suddenly, the peacock becomes a hawk. Gio gets stripped down emotionally, and the writing reflects that. His overconfidence gives way to anxiety, even desperation. I appreciated this change because it gave depth to a character who could’ve stayed a caricature. Watching him unravel, especially in scenes where he second-guesses his own instincts or sits slumped in his office drinking whiskey, made him feel human. Messy, but human.
And then there’s the trial. The back-and-forth between Gio and the prosecution is absolutely electric. The courtroom scenes are paced fast and tight, with just enough flair to stay entertaining without losing the stakes. The moment when Gio brings in Agnes McAllister as a surprise witness is pure drama. I literally exhaled when she said, “I’ll testify, Mr. Rossi, but I have one condition.” I was leaning in. The gamble pays off, and the jury’s verdict feels earned. But even then, the book doesn’t let you relax. There’s a shadow of something darker still to come. The vibe shifts into an almost noir detective territory, complete with ominous symbols, late-night investigations, and masked stalkers.
Sometimes the writing leans a little heavy on the melodrama. People don’t just feel things, they feel them ferociously. There are a lot of poetic metaphors and long monologues that feel like stage lines more than thoughts. But I didn’t mind because it added to the theatrical energy that Gio thrives in. Readers seeking strict realism may find aspects of the narrative exaggerated, but those who approach it as a high-stakes legal drama infused with strong emotional depth will find it thoroughly compelling.
While The Jury Waits is for readers who love character-driven drama, courtroom mind games, and stories where love, ambition, and justice crash into each other like runaway trains. If you’re into shows like The Good Wife, Suits, or even How to Get Away with Murder, this is your book. It’s bold, messy, stylish, and absolutely impossible to put down.
Pages: 213 | ASIN : B0F4RRXKBN
D.O.L Light Running Part 1
D.O.L: Light Running, Part 1 plunges the reader into a high-octane, emotionally-charged dystopian military drama that follows Lilly Lamberton—a fiery, sharp-tongued heroine entangled in government secrets, paramilitary organizations, and her own haunted past. The narrative starts in explosive fashion and rarely lets up, blending raw action with psychological depth. From secret missions and violent ambushes to quiet reflections on loss and identity, this book is both a survival story and a deeply personal coming-of-age saga, set in a world cracking at the seams.
Jason Logan Maxwell writes like he’s trying to outpace a storm—fast, punchy, and relentless. The dialogue is witty, often hilarious, and refreshingly grounded. Characters feel alive because they’re flawed, they fight dirty, and they bleed. The pacing is intense, almost breathless at times, and while that energy keeps the story charging forward, it does leave some emotional moments a bit rushed. Still, when the book slows down, it doesn’t lose power—it hits harder. The flashbacks, the trauma, the tenderness buried under tough exteriors—they all ring painfully true. There’s something raw and human beneath the sci-fi military veneer, and it pulled me in more than I expected.
The book doesn’t shy away from the gritty or the grotesque. Some of the backstory, especially the POW sequences, are harrowing, borderline horrific. But it wasn’t gore for gore’s sake. It served a purpose. It gave weight to the trauma these characters carry. And Lilly—god, Lilly. She’s tough, smart, impulsive, and deeply broken. Watching her navigate betrayals, boot camp, and blackmail was riveting. She’s someone I rooted for fiercely, even when she messed up. She doesn’t ask for your sympathy—she earns it. The book also isn’t afraid to call out military systems, toxic leadership, and blind patriotism. It’s bold in the best way.
Light Running isn’t just an action novel, it’s a gut-punch of a character study dressed in tactical gear. It’s perfect for readers who like their stories gritty, their characters layered, and their themes heavy. If you enjoy works like The Hunger Games or Codename Villanelle but crave a sharper edge and darker truths, this book is for you. Be warned: it’s a wild ride with sharp turns. But if you can hang on, it’s worth every second.
Pages: 194 | ASIN : B0DN85DM2K
Zero Knowledge
Zero Knowledge is a gripping techno-thriller that blends the raw emotion of a terminal illness with a cryptic, high-stakes mystery rooted in the world of cryptocurrency. The story begins with a tragedy—Mina, diagnosed with terminal cancer, decides to end her life on her birthday, leaving her husband Duan devastated. But just when you think you’re reading a love story about grief and letting go, the book shifts gears. Luc, Mina’s friend’s husband and a key figure in the crypto world, dies mysteriously. What unfolds is a complex tale involving murder, encrypted clues, financial betrayal, and a race to uncover a hidden truth tied to Bitcoin’s mysterious origins.
From the first page, Pascolo’s writing grabbed me. He opens with a personal gut-punch and gradually builds a suspenseful narrative that snowballs into a larger, more intricate conspiracy. The emotional weight of Mina’s euthanasia is handled with striking intimacy. I felt the grief. I felt the love. But it’s not just sadness; it’s how Pascolo turns the knife slowly and then tosses the reader into the frigid waters of a cyber-thriller. His prose is crisp. His dialogue feels real, sometimes painfully so. There’s no padding here—just raw feeling and tight plotting. And the alternating storylines work beautifully, weaving personal pain and techno-intrigue together in a way that never feels forced.
There were moments when the tone veered just a bit too dramatic for me, like soap opera meets crypto noir. Still, I couldn’t put the book down. The mystery surrounding Luc’s death, the eerie envelope clues, and the idea that someone might be using virgin Bitcoins from the earliest mining days, maybe even Satoshi Nakamoto’s stash, kept me flipping pages late into the night. Pascolo has a knack for balancing tension with curiosity. It’s part grief memoir, part whodunit, part cyberpunk, and somehow, it all clicks.
I’d recommend Zero Knowledge to anyone who loves a thriller with heart. If you’re into tech, crypto, or just enjoy a twisty, emotional ride with a mystery at its core, this is your kind of book. It doesn’t matter if you’ve never heard of blockchain or think Bitcoin is wizard money, the human drama pulls you in, and the cryptographic suspense keeps you there.
Pages: 335 | ASIN : B0F4PPGMZV
No Superheroes, Just Ordinary People
The Vulnerable follows a renowned climate activist who moves to Florida after being targeted by extremist groups, and his dreams of a quiet life are destroyed when his family faces one crisis after another. What inspired the setup of your story?
Great opening question. First, it was important for readers to know that Dick DeCosta was determined to do his part to protect the environment but not at the cost of jeopardizing the safety and welfare of his family. Next, I intentionally thrust the flawed characters into vulnerable and suspenseful situations, dealing with crimes, betrayal, family wounds, and secrets, against a backdrop of worldwide crises.
Unlike most thrillers, there are no macho superheroes or hideous villains; just ordinary people and their families confronted with emotionally crushing setbacks, leaving them vulnerable. How each one reacts to their situation is why there are multiple storylines and the latitude to touch on many social issues, including the existential crisis of our time, climate change.
My objective was to develop relatable characters that readers could sympathize with and keep reading to learn about their outcomes, while exploring social issues without belaboring them. I’m pleased that the Literary Titan and other editorial praise consistently echoed that, as did the following Amazon reader’s summation. “Customers find this book to be a compelling read with complex characters. They appreciate the storytelling, with one customer noting how it weaves family drama with broader societal issues.”
What are some things that you find interesting about the human condition that you think make for great fiction?
Capitalizing on the gamut of human emotions, introspection, or philosophical perspectives is essential to producing entertaining fiction and creative nonfiction. We’re human, not infallible. We make mistakes, we have regrets, and most of us learn from them or make more bad choices.
I’ve discovered that creating interesting stories with relatable people will evoke emotions and inner thoughts about your characters, so you can trust where they will grow and lead you next. Intricate plotting and foreshadowing are necessary and fun, too, but you have to feel for your characters or your readers will be disenchanted quickly. It may be old school and requires substantially longer stories, but I prefer writing from an omniscient third-person point of view over the typical first-person drama. I want the readers to know and feel what the characters are going through, but not know what lies around the bend.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
As noted by your Literary Titan’s book reviewer, I did not shy away from tough topics: domestic abuse, opioids, political extremism, and corporate corruption. But I focused more on the vulnerable characters who endured: betrayal, loneliness, love, loss, grieving, and family loyalty. It was also essential to recognize the health issues that seniors often face, and how the vulnerable were affected by the pandemic, and how everyone is affected by climate change.
What is the next book that you’re working on and when can your fans expect it out?
I’ve been compiling a short story collection for a memoir, Simpler Times in The Spindle City. It’s set in my hometown during the sixties and early seventies, which ranges from the wonder years to the Vietnam War and the counter-culture. I planned to publish it by the end of the year, but book signings, tours, and marketing commitments for The Vulnerable may delay that and the start of a follow-up thriller.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website | Trailer | LinedIn | X | Bluesky
In a world teetering on the brink, where climate change fuels devastating wildfires and a pandemic erupts, The Vulnerable plunges into the heart of interconnected lives, revealing a tapestry of crime, secrets, and suspense.
Dan DeCosta’s life implodes after he falls for Robin O’Rourke, the fiery redhead stalked by her violent ex, thrusting Dan into a terrifying ordeal with the law, financial ruin, and fighting for his life. Dan’s father, Dick DeCosta, a renowned climate activist targeted by extremist groups, had relocated to Florida to escape their wrath. But Dick is forced to return to Boston, embarking on a frantic race against time to rescue his son and find Robin. Meanwhile Dick’s wife becomes ill, and his daughter flees wildfires. Long-held family secrets threaten to erupt, testing the limits of loyalty and love.
The Vulnerable explores themes of love, loss, and betrayal against a backdrop of escalating worldwide crisis. From the blizzards of Massachusetts and the burning California landscapes to the sun-drenched shores of Florida, a relentless pursuit of justice and survival unfolds.
Will these vulnerable souls find strength in each other and withstand the perils thrust upon them? The answers lie within the pages of this gripping and unforgettable thriller.”
LITERARY TITAN 