What do you think?
Rate this book
Zero Knowledge: An International Crime Mystery
Just when you think you know all the answers...you don’t.Arnaud Pascolo’s latest award-winning 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!
*Literary Titan Silver Medal Winner, 2025
*Global Ebook Award Winner - Mystery, 2025
*Firebird Book Award First Place Winner - Mystery, 2Q2025
*PenCraft Award - Best Book-Fiction-Mystery-General, Summer 2025
*PenCraft Award - Runner-up-Fiction-Mystery-General, 2025
*Global Book Award - Bronze Medal for Thrillers-Murder, 2025
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.
"The storyline was fast-moving, and I found myself unable to turn the pages quickly enough, fearful that I would miss something important." -- Alma Boucher for Readers' Favorite ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Who is behind this unique murder, and what is the motive?
When crypto entrepreneur Luc Starck dies under suspicious circumstances in the heart of Switzerland’s crypto valley, the pressure on police to solve the case is intense. As the investigation shifts from untimely natural death to potential murder, senior investigator Bernt Berg partners with his rookie daughter to find answers that are more elusive than anyone imagines.
Luc’s friends in the cryptocurrency world aren’t making the search for answers easy. Duan Ripa, a fragile man mourning his deceased wife, works outside of the police to decode the private key to Luc’s crypto wallet and uncovers an unnerving revelation - Luc’s death was no accident. Faced with a life-and-death race against the clock, Duan must find the strength to unlock the final clue before it’s too late.
Zero Knowledge is a cleverly crafted, fast-paced thriller set in the Swiss city of Zug. As answers lead to more questions and the initial conclusions prove incorrect, will the intrepid young investigator be able to step into her father’s shoes to solve this crime, or is this something more than a brilliant murder?
"Deeply rooted in reality, the word-building of this narrative skillfully conveys the excitement of anonymity. Its capacity to defy genre boundaries is evident as it reads as literary fiction at first, then as a cyber thriller, and lastly as a revenge story." -- The Feathered Quill ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"Zero Knowledge is an exciting thriller by Arnaud Pascolo that skillfully weaves together a complicated and high-stakes story involving crime, technology, and personal drama. This book is a masterpiece of modern storytelling." -- Jessica Morgan for The Book Revue ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
*Literary Titan Silver Medal Winner, 2025
*Global Ebook Award Winner - Mystery, 2025
*Firebird Book Award First Place Winner - Mystery, 2Q2025
*PenCraft Award - Best Book-Fiction-Mystery-General, Summer 2025
*PenCraft Award - Runner-up-Fiction-Mystery-General, 2025
*Global Book Award - Bronze Medal for Thrillers-Murder, 2025
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.
"The storyline was fast-moving, and I found myself unable to turn the pages quickly enough, fearful that I would miss something important." -- Alma Boucher for Readers' Favorite ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Who is behind this unique murder, and what is the motive?
When crypto entrepreneur Luc Starck dies under suspicious circumstances in the heart of Switzerland’s crypto valley, the pressure on police to solve the case is intense. As the investigation shifts from untimely natural death to potential murder, senior investigator Bernt Berg partners with his rookie daughter to find answers that are more elusive than anyone imagines.
Luc’s friends in the cryptocurrency world aren’t making the search for answers easy. Duan Ripa, a fragile man mourning his deceased wife, works outside of the police to decode the private key to Luc’s crypto wallet and uncovers an unnerving revelation - Luc’s death was no accident. Faced with a life-and-death race against the clock, Duan must find the strength to unlock the final clue before it’s too late.
Zero Knowledge is a cleverly crafted, fast-paced thriller set in the Swiss city of Zug. As answers lead to more questions and the initial conclusions prove incorrect, will the intrepid young investigator be able to step into her father’s shoes to solve this crime, or is this something more than a brilliant murder?
"Deeply rooted in reality, the word-building of this narrative skillfully conveys the excitement of anonymity. Its capacity to defy genre boundaries is evident as it reads as literary fiction at first, then as a cyber thriller, and lastly as a revenge story." -- The Feathered Quill ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"Zero Knowledge is an exciting thriller by Arnaud Pascolo that skillfully weaves together a complicated and high-stakes story involving crime, technology, and personal drama. This book is a masterpiece of modern storytelling." -- Jessica Morgan for The Book Revue ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
305 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 6, 2025
3 people are currently reading
12 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
May 6, 2025
Arnaud Pascolo's grasping thriller Zero Knowledge rivets you from the first trembling scene and doesn't let go until the very last line, it was entertaining and grippingly suspenseful on every page! The novel unfolds a complicated mystery that goes far deeper than an ordinary murder investigation, all set against the frigid, menacing backdrop of Switzerland's mystical alpine, with every new clue that reveals something considerably more detailed and mysterious, the Author gives the story a razor-sharp psychological edge! A high-stakes search for the truth is sparked by the abrupt and horrific murder of Luc Starck, a cryptocurrency entrepreneur surrounded by questionable activities, every clue leads to additional questions, and every response struggles on the verge of disaster!
.
The pace is thoughtful yet solid, which transported me through a labyrinth of secrets with a poignant intensity that feels almost metaphorical, as if the characters are chasing ghosts through a digital maze, what I found most unsettling was how the plot continuously challenged your assumptions, putting you on edge and never quite knowing who or what to believe! Duan and Mina, two souls bonded by fragile optimism and growing anguish, are at the epicenter of the plot, in contrast to the investigation's icy sanity, Arnaud Pascolo's emotional weight on their complex relationship is devastating and electrifying, both Duan's bereaved attempt to regain his footing and Mina's courageous but unsettling composure in the face of her terminal diagnosis are presented with unnerving reality, this psychological element gives the story a powerful nuance where love and sadness argue with the dreadful facts of Luc's passing! The novel's deepest resonance comes from this duality, tenderness against an unforgiving background. The story is a biting meditation on death, hope, and deceit because of Arnaud Pascolo's analysis of human frailty in the face of catastrophe, which seems extremely particular yet universally meaningful!!!
.
Tension and multi-layered sophistication emerge in the investigation thread, which is spearheaded by the intelligent pair of Bernt Berg and his young daughter, their relationship feels broad and grounded, and how they plan to solve Luc's unexplained death is complicated by moral uncertainty and personal stakes! The many financial and cyber layers are clearly sliced through by Arnaud Pascolo's outstanding and sharp style, which transforms potentially confusing details into captivating plot devices! Every expectation is upended by the vibrant unpredictability brought about by the arrival of a bloodthirsty hacker who is filled with dark anger and a drive for vengeance, this not only drives the plot into more sinister corners, this enigmatic and darkness figure also requires a reexamination of Luc's actual personality by revealing a guy whose life was far from the limelight!
.
Every character in Zero Knowledge is flawed, shaded in subtle contradictions that make their motives and actions all the more fascinating and, at times, perplexing, Arnaud Pascolo carefully reworks familiar thriller elements, crafting a story that is as intellectually provocative as it is emotionally packed! Arnaud Pascolo's literary attention to tone and character development is what really proclaims Zero Knowledge beyond an ordinary thriller!!! His writing flows with a slow-burning intensity that mesmerizes, even as it lays bare the rawness of loss, retribution, and broken trust!!!
.
The pace is thoughtful yet solid, which transported me through a labyrinth of secrets with a poignant intensity that feels almost metaphorical, as if the characters are chasing ghosts through a digital maze, what I found most unsettling was how the plot continuously challenged your assumptions, putting you on edge and never quite knowing who or what to believe! Duan and Mina, two souls bonded by fragile optimism and growing anguish, are at the epicenter of the plot, in contrast to the investigation's icy sanity, Arnaud Pascolo's emotional weight on their complex relationship is devastating and electrifying, both Duan's bereaved attempt to regain his footing and Mina's courageous but unsettling composure in the face of her terminal diagnosis are presented with unnerving reality, this psychological element gives the story a powerful nuance where love and sadness argue with the dreadful facts of Luc's passing! The novel's deepest resonance comes from this duality, tenderness against an unforgiving background. The story is a biting meditation on death, hope, and deceit because of Arnaud Pascolo's analysis of human frailty in the face of catastrophe, which seems extremely particular yet universally meaningful!!!
.
Tension and multi-layered sophistication emerge in the investigation thread, which is spearheaded by the intelligent pair of Bernt Berg and his young daughter, their relationship feels broad and grounded, and how they plan to solve Luc's unexplained death is complicated by moral uncertainty and personal stakes! The many financial and cyber layers are clearly sliced through by Arnaud Pascolo's outstanding and sharp style, which transforms potentially confusing details into captivating plot devices! Every expectation is upended by the vibrant unpredictability brought about by the arrival of a bloodthirsty hacker who is filled with dark anger and a drive for vengeance, this not only drives the plot into more sinister corners, this enigmatic and darkness figure also requires a reexamination of Luc's actual personality by revealing a guy whose life was far from the limelight!
.
Every character in Zero Knowledge is flawed, shaded in subtle contradictions that make their motives and actions all the more fascinating and, at times, perplexing, Arnaud Pascolo carefully reworks familiar thriller elements, crafting a story that is as intellectually provocative as it is emotionally packed! Arnaud Pascolo's literary attention to tone and character development is what really proclaims Zero Knowledge beyond an ordinary thriller!!! His writing flows with a slow-burning intensity that mesmerizes, even as it lays bare the rawness of loss, retribution, and broken trust!!!
June 8, 2025
I'm no expert in the Bitcoin industry, but I do have little knowledge of how it works. I'm also no expert in cybersecurity or in code writing, but I know enough it's like learning a different language. So, I could follow along with the technical aspects of the storyline and even if I didn't have some technical knowledge, the information explained was easy enough to grasp.
We are first introduced to Mina, who discovers she has a terminal cancer. One thing I learned I was unaware of was what's called the EXIT organization. And organization that provides a humanely end-of-life option to terminal ill. She leaves behind her husband, Duan, who leans on Mina's best friend Gail. A couple of weeks later, Gail's husband, Luc, dies unexpectedly and suspiciously.
Enter nearly retired investigator, Bernt, who requests to partner with his daughter, who's fresh out of police academy, until his retirement in which his Captain agrees. We learn about the relationship between father and daughter and some family history along the way.
Now, one thing that bothered me was the authentic dialog between characters, especially between the investigators. Many of the interactions between characters were not completely organic. There were more telling facts layered in the dialogue that made the interactions a bit still and not as showing. Some conversations seemed robotic and therefore, genuine. It's clear the author is still finding his craft in writing. It's not a bad thing, but it's for that reason I had to remove a star.
However, I do have immense respect with how the author crafted a murder mystery that peels back layers of clues without giving away who did the dirty deed. Even when you think you know how it ends, guess again! Although, I do have to admit I did figure out the mastermind behind the scenes even though the author managed to plant self-doubt to misdirect. Something in the back of my mind just couldn't believe what I was reading and cheered with a big smile when I was proved right! Well done!
I highly recommend for fans of Dan Brown and anyone wanting to dive into a good mystery.
We are first introduced to Mina, who discovers she has a terminal cancer. One thing I learned I was unaware of was what's called the EXIT organization. And organization that provides a humanely end-of-life option to terminal ill. She leaves behind her husband, Duan, who leans on Mina's best friend Gail. A couple of weeks later, Gail's husband, Luc, dies unexpectedly and suspiciously.
Enter nearly retired investigator, Bernt, who requests to partner with his daughter, who's fresh out of police academy, until his retirement in which his Captain agrees. We learn about the relationship between father and daughter and some family history along the way.
Now, one thing that bothered me was the authentic dialog between characters, especially between the investigators. Many of the interactions between characters were not completely organic. There were more telling facts layered in the dialogue that made the interactions a bit still and not as showing. Some conversations seemed robotic and therefore, genuine. It's clear the author is still finding his craft in writing. It's not a bad thing, but it's for that reason I had to remove a star.
However, I do have immense respect with how the author crafted a murder mystery that peels back layers of clues without giving away who did the dirty deed. Even when you think you know how it ends, guess again! Although, I do have to admit I did figure out the mastermind behind the scenes even though the author managed to plant self-doubt to misdirect. Something in the back of my mind just couldn't believe what I was reading and cheered with a big smile when I was proved right! Well done!
I highly recommend for fans of Dan Brown and anyone wanting to dive into a good mystery.
April 23, 2025
Arnaud Pascolo's pulse-pounding thriller Zero Knowledge follows two individuals brought together by similar glim situations. We get to see their behavior and development, as well as closely analyze their motivations, as they look for comfort in the most unexpected places as shocking information following a terrible recent occurrence comes to light.
A growing dark cloud of despair hangs over Duan and Mina's bedroom, after a biopsy indicated the latter had terminal blood cancer. While Duan is overcome with grief and concern about life without her, Mina surprisingly manages to stay calm and enthusiastic. She begins walking a lot which she views as "walking the cancer out of her body," following their joint decision for her to quit her job. But the pain becomes unbearable, and she ends up making a startling choice that makes Duan shudder.
We then meet Luc, Mina's friend and cryptocurrency entrepreneur, who gets a mysterious Bitcoin transfer and an invitation to a meeting at a Swiss hotel from someone who seems to be a significant player in the Bitcoin space a few weeks later. The meeting, however, ends tragically with Luc dead and his host nowhere to be found. As the inquiry progresses, it becomes clear that Luc was not just under the radar of the authorities for being complicit in deep illicit operations of his firm; his wife, Gail, had severally accused him of domestic abuse.
The author deftly introduces a new character--a blood-thirsty hacker who embodies everything from resentment to danger. His involvement completely alters the story’s course, as suggestions of a personal vendetta abound. While Gail is comforted by her husband's death, more detailed and intricate information about his connection to the hacker and the revelation of a sizable fortune that Luc had hidden away becomes crucial information that might alter Gail's perception of Luc.
In the next chapters, these examples swiftly give way to more heart-stopping details that elicit utterly surprising responses. In addition to a profound emotional weight and a sense of sorrow that grows with each new page, the plot becomes incredibly intricate, with themes of loss, love, betrayal, and retribution carefully woven throughout. Deeply rooted in reality, the word-building of this narrative skillfully conveys the excitement of anonymity. Its capacity to defy genre boundaries is evident as it reads as literary fiction at first, then as a cyber thriller, and lastly as a revenge story.
Pascolo has shown impressive control of the pacing and tone. Even while revealing very intimate scenes, his writing remains poetic. His character development is his strongest suit. He portrays the protagonist as self-reflective, imperfect, and incredibly real, with a past that reflects the central ideas of the book. Readers will love how he captures the emotional stakes of digital finance. They will also enjoy his book's slow-burning style and reworking of popular thriller elements.
Quill says: Zero Knowledge, which is emotionally stirring and slow-burning, exposes the consequences of greed and unspoken truths. It stands out in its respective genre thanks to its character-driven mystery and psychological drama. For those who enjoy a gripping thriller with technological details and cryptocurrency themes, it is well worth reading.
A growing dark cloud of despair hangs over Duan and Mina's bedroom, after a biopsy indicated the latter had terminal blood cancer. While Duan is overcome with grief and concern about life without her, Mina surprisingly manages to stay calm and enthusiastic. She begins walking a lot which she views as "walking the cancer out of her body," following their joint decision for her to quit her job. But the pain becomes unbearable, and she ends up making a startling choice that makes Duan shudder.
We then meet Luc, Mina's friend and cryptocurrency entrepreneur, who gets a mysterious Bitcoin transfer and an invitation to a meeting at a Swiss hotel from someone who seems to be a significant player in the Bitcoin space a few weeks later. The meeting, however, ends tragically with Luc dead and his host nowhere to be found. As the inquiry progresses, it becomes clear that Luc was not just under the radar of the authorities for being complicit in deep illicit operations of his firm; his wife, Gail, had severally accused him of domestic abuse.
The author deftly introduces a new character--a blood-thirsty hacker who embodies everything from resentment to danger. His involvement completely alters the story’s course, as suggestions of a personal vendetta abound. While Gail is comforted by her husband's death, more detailed and intricate information about his connection to the hacker and the revelation of a sizable fortune that Luc had hidden away becomes crucial information that might alter Gail's perception of Luc.
In the next chapters, these examples swiftly give way to more heart-stopping details that elicit utterly surprising responses. In addition to a profound emotional weight and a sense of sorrow that grows with each new page, the plot becomes incredibly intricate, with themes of loss, love, betrayal, and retribution carefully woven throughout. Deeply rooted in reality, the word-building of this narrative skillfully conveys the excitement of anonymity. Its capacity to defy genre boundaries is evident as it reads as literary fiction at first, then as a cyber thriller, and lastly as a revenge story.
Pascolo has shown impressive control of the pacing and tone. Even while revealing very intimate scenes, his writing remains poetic. His character development is his strongest suit. He portrays the protagonist as self-reflective, imperfect, and incredibly real, with a past that reflects the central ideas of the book. Readers will love how he captures the emotional stakes of digital finance. They will also enjoy his book's slow-burning style and reworking of popular thriller elements.
Quill says: Zero Knowledge, which is emotionally stirring and slow-burning, exposes the consequences of greed and unspoken truths. It stands out in its respective genre thanks to its character-driven mystery and psychological drama. For those who enjoy a gripping thriller with technological details and cryptocurrency themes, it is well worth reading.
May 24, 2025
Zero Knowledge by Arnaud Pascolo is an original amalgam of cyber thriller and psychological drama that becomes more sophisticated with each page. Like any great mystery, it drives you on a quest for the truth and it also invites us to question the very essence of knowledge. Just when you think you've put all the pieces together, the puzzle breaks, leaving you with more questions than answers. Pascolo sincerely shines here—his writing is cataclysmic and volcanic, with twists and turns that spiral into chaos with brutal elegance.
.
Zero Knowledge unravels the death of cryptocurrency entrepreneur Luc Stark, whose unexplained passing in Switzerland's "Crypto Valley" starts a series of events that probes the dark side of betrayal, secrets, and digital banking. The narrative's structure makes me think of a puzzle box: a collection of seemingly unconnected parts that, as the plot develops, come together in the most unexpected and impressive approach.
.
Grieving over his wife's death, Duan Ripa initiates his own investigation into Luc's passing and uncovers a complex network of hidden truths in the bitcoin industry. Duan's personal quest, which is as much about facing his own mental pain as it is about learning the truth about Luc's death, and the intensity of his grief are what make him so intriguing. What makes Zero Knowledge more than just a whodunit is its examination of the human condition in the context of high-stakes intrigue and digital banking.
.
Duan's wife Mina is a woman of contradictions: composed but erratic, logical yet occasionally intensely emotional. This nuance is what makes her path addictive. Duan must accept the unknown future that awaits him and his wife as he attempts to unravel the mystery surrounding Luc's death. Arnaud Pascolo does a remarkable job of expressing the silent desperation and hope that coexist in the face of such a deep loss, and the emotional stakes are extremely high!
.
The way Zero Knowledge straddles genres is what makes it exceptional, without ever losing its character-driven focus, it progresses from literary fiction to cyber thriller and finally to a vengeance story. Here, the story unfolds and emotional intensity gradually increases to a peak. Arnaud Pascolo's prose is frequently beautiful, even when reflecting the darkest, most sad events, and the plot's complexities are handled with the care of an accomplished author. The work is so enchanting because of his astonishing capacity to uncover the psychological foundations of his characters without ever sacrificing the plot's suspense.
.
Zero Knowledge unravels the death of cryptocurrency entrepreneur Luc Stark, whose unexplained passing in Switzerland's "Crypto Valley" starts a series of events that probes the dark side of betrayal, secrets, and digital banking. The narrative's structure makes me think of a puzzle box: a collection of seemingly unconnected parts that, as the plot develops, come together in the most unexpected and impressive approach.
.
Grieving over his wife's death, Duan Ripa initiates his own investigation into Luc's passing and uncovers a complex network of hidden truths in the bitcoin industry. Duan's personal quest, which is as much about facing his own mental pain as it is about learning the truth about Luc's death, and the intensity of his grief are what make him so intriguing. What makes Zero Knowledge more than just a whodunit is its examination of the human condition in the context of high-stakes intrigue and digital banking.
.
Duan's wife Mina is a woman of contradictions: composed but erratic, logical yet occasionally intensely emotional. This nuance is what makes her path addictive. Duan must accept the unknown future that awaits him and his wife as he attempts to unravel the mystery surrounding Luc's death. Arnaud Pascolo does a remarkable job of expressing the silent desperation and hope that coexist in the face of such a deep loss, and the emotional stakes are extremely high!
.
The way Zero Knowledge straddles genres is what makes it exceptional, without ever losing its character-driven focus, it progresses from literary fiction to cyber thriller and finally to a vengeance story. Here, the story unfolds and emotional intensity gradually increases to a peak. Arnaud Pascolo's prose is frequently beautiful, even when reflecting the darkest, most sad events, and the plot's complexities are handled with the care of an accomplished author. The work is so enchanting because of his astonishing capacity to uncover the psychological foundations of his characters without ever sacrificing the plot's suspense.
April 29, 2025
Zero Knowledge is a gripping novel that blends human drama with cyber intrigue in the heart of Switzerland's "Crypto Valley." It begins with a deeply emotional story about Duan Ripa losing his wife, Mina, to cancer, and shifts into a fast-paced mystery surrounding the sudden death of Luc Starck, a controversial crypto entrepreneur. As the novel unfolds, a diverse cast—from grieving widows to obsessed bloggers—gets entangled in a web of secrets, danger, and betrayal, all orbiting the high-stakes world of cryptocurrency. The backdrop of sleek Swiss towns and the raw emotions of loss, desperation, and ambition are ever-present, driving a story that feels both personal and wildly unpredictable.
Pascolo’s writing is clean and crisp, with a real knack for emotional depth. The way he painted Duan and Mina's final moments was heartbreakingly real. I found myself needing a break to gather my thoughts. On the flip side, the novel’s pivot into a more thriller-like, corporate conspiracy felt abrupt to me. While the second half is certainly exciting, it sometimes lost the intimacy that made the early chapters so powerful. Still, Pascolo’s portrayal of the fragile, flawed humanity in every character kept me hooked, even when the plot zigzagged faster than I expected.
What really stood out to me was how relatable Pascolo made grief, greed, and hope feel, despite all the high-tech talk of Bitcoin wallets and cyber heists. The dialogue never felt stuffy or overworked, and the characters, even minor ones, popped off the page with quirks and contradictions that felt so real. Pascolo clearly put a lot of thought into explaining the crypto concepts, and while it added depth and realism to the story, it sometimes made me slow down and really absorb the world he was building.
I would wholeheartedly recommend Zero Knowledge to readers who enjoy a mix of emotional storytelling and smart, high-stakes mysteries. If you like novels where love and loss crash headfirst into dark secrets and tech intrigue, this one's for you. It’s a wild ride, sometimes heartbreaking, sometimes thrilling, but always full of heart. Just make sure you’re ready to have your emotions pulled all over the place.
Pascolo’s writing is clean and crisp, with a real knack for emotional depth. The way he painted Duan and Mina's final moments was heartbreakingly real. I found myself needing a break to gather my thoughts. On the flip side, the novel’s pivot into a more thriller-like, corporate conspiracy felt abrupt to me. While the second half is certainly exciting, it sometimes lost the intimacy that made the early chapters so powerful. Still, Pascolo’s portrayal of the fragile, flawed humanity in every character kept me hooked, even when the plot zigzagged faster than I expected.
What really stood out to me was how relatable Pascolo made grief, greed, and hope feel, despite all the high-tech talk of Bitcoin wallets and cyber heists. The dialogue never felt stuffy or overworked, and the characters, even minor ones, popped off the page with quirks and contradictions that felt so real. Pascolo clearly put a lot of thought into explaining the crypto concepts, and while it added depth and realism to the story, it sometimes made me slow down and really absorb the world he was building.
I would wholeheartedly recommend Zero Knowledge to readers who enjoy a mix of emotional storytelling and smart, high-stakes mysteries. If you like novels where love and loss crash headfirst into dark secrets and tech intrigue, this one's for you. It’s a wild ride, sometimes heartbreaking, sometimes thrilling, but always full of heart. Just make sure you’re ready to have your emotions pulled all over the place.
May 24, 2025
ZERO KNOWLEDGE by Arnaud Pascolo is a perfectly-plotted international crime mystery that hooked me from the opening scene, a really gripping story with clever switch-back twists that kept me off-balance (checking over my shoulder!) the whole nail-biting way! It is a constructed, hugely entertaining and well-thought thriller!
.
Consuming ZERO kNOWLEDGE I was guided to a dark zone where all the details pounded with a dangerous, thrilling dynamism. Arnaud Pascolo transports you to a world of deep secrets and suspense, where the lines separating truth from lying fuse into a stunningly unsettling wholeness. Even if the plot twisted in an unpredictable way, the narrative's poignant intensity held me tightly. The way Arnaud Pascolo writes his characters—flawed, unvarnished, and painfully real—with their own baggage and details like aged blazing heat is what most intrigued me.
.
Every information is met with emotional power because of the backdrop's chronic psychological tension and constant undercurrent of danger and sorrow. The stakes feel extremely high in this hauntingly atmospheric ballet of light and shadow. I felt a deep pain along with respect for Duan and Mina's bravery as I saw their world fall apart under the weight of loss and terminal illness. Arnaud Pascolo's depiction of their relationship is a multi-layered examination of love in its darkest moment, encompassing tenderness and brutality.
.
Arnaud Pascolo's lyrical control over tone and mood remains the most remarkable aspect of Zero Knowledge for me. His style is precise and outstanding fitting the cruel, high-stakes world of cryptocurrency with his characters' raw, shattered humanity. The novel is a complex, textured investigation of trust that is broken and rebuilt, revenge that cuts deep, and secrets that linger long after they are revealed. Arnaud Pascolo has created a darkly atmospheric materpiece that entertains and inspires thought and reflection. This book challenged my perceptions while also capturing my heart with its haunting magnificence and intense suspense!
.
Consuming ZERO kNOWLEDGE I was guided to a dark zone where all the details pounded with a dangerous, thrilling dynamism. Arnaud Pascolo transports you to a world of deep secrets and suspense, where the lines separating truth from lying fuse into a stunningly unsettling wholeness. Even if the plot twisted in an unpredictable way, the narrative's poignant intensity held me tightly. The way Arnaud Pascolo writes his characters—flawed, unvarnished, and painfully real—with their own baggage and details like aged blazing heat is what most intrigued me.
.
Every information is met with emotional power because of the backdrop's chronic psychological tension and constant undercurrent of danger and sorrow. The stakes feel extremely high in this hauntingly atmospheric ballet of light and shadow. I felt a deep pain along with respect for Duan and Mina's bravery as I saw their world fall apart under the weight of loss and terminal illness. Arnaud Pascolo's depiction of their relationship is a multi-layered examination of love in its darkest moment, encompassing tenderness and brutality.
.
Arnaud Pascolo's lyrical control over tone and mood remains the most remarkable aspect of Zero Knowledge for me. His style is precise and outstanding fitting the cruel, high-stakes world of cryptocurrency with his characters' raw, shattered humanity. The novel is a complex, textured investigation of trust that is broken and rebuilt, revenge that cuts deep, and secrets that linger long after they are revealed. Arnaud Pascolo has created a darkly atmospheric materpiece that entertains and inspires thought and reflection. This book challenged my perceptions while also capturing my heart with its haunting magnificence and intense suspense!
May 24, 2025
I can't even begin to explain how absolutely mind-blowing this book is. Arnaud Pascolo has seriously created a story that you can't put down for even a second because every single page is like a whole new twist, and you're just on the edge of your seat the entire time!
.
This really fascinating crypto man, Luc Stark, begins like any other character in a thriller, however, everything changes when he passes away in the most inexplicable way, and that's when the drama and mayhem really start. I thought, "Wow, just wow." You feel like you're right there with the cops as they try to find out what happened, and the entire investigation is like a race against time. The plot is so detailed that it's not just about identifying the person responsible; it's also about determining what actually happened.
.
Since the entire event takes place in Switzerland's crypto valley, I thought the setting was quite vivid and sophisticated. Then there is Duan, a heartbroken man who is coping with his wife's illness and is drawn into cracking this bizarre case. You just feel sorry for him because of how his sadness fits into the investigation in such a genuine and emotional way. It was quite intense that he was attempting to crack this code while handling all of this personal things. And let me just add that his entire experience was... terrific!
.
Furthermore, everything is made more suspenseful by the hacker, who is a frightening and deadly character. You're left wondering who is nice, who is bad, and who is only interested in themselves; it's as if you can't trust anyone. You're kept guessing throughout this novel. What truly struck me, though, was how the book delves deeply into the story's emotional aspects. It's a fast-paced thriller; it's also about love, betrayal, retribution, and grief, and it makes you feel things on a deep level. Along with a great deal of sorrow and suffering, there is also a great deal of toughness and optimism. I thought it was brilliant how Arnaud Pascolo tied up all the loose ends, and I enjoyed how everything came together in the end.
.
This really fascinating crypto man, Luc Stark, begins like any other character in a thriller, however, everything changes when he passes away in the most inexplicable way, and that's when the drama and mayhem really start. I thought, "Wow, just wow." You feel like you're right there with the cops as they try to find out what happened, and the entire investigation is like a race against time. The plot is so detailed that it's not just about identifying the person responsible; it's also about determining what actually happened.
.
Since the entire event takes place in Switzerland's crypto valley, I thought the setting was quite vivid and sophisticated. Then there is Duan, a heartbroken man who is coping with his wife's illness and is drawn into cracking this bizarre case. You just feel sorry for him because of how his sadness fits into the investigation in such a genuine and emotional way. It was quite intense that he was attempting to crack this code while handling all of this personal things. And let me just add that his entire experience was... terrific!
.
Furthermore, everything is made more suspenseful by the hacker, who is a frightening and deadly character. You're left wondering who is nice, who is bad, and who is only interested in themselves; it's as if you can't trust anyone. You're kept guessing throughout this novel. What truly struck me, though, was how the book delves deeply into the story's emotional aspects. It's a fast-paced thriller; it's also about love, betrayal, retribution, and grief, and it makes you feel things on a deep level. Along with a great deal of sorrow and suffering, there is also a great deal of toughness and optimism. I thought it was brilliant how Arnaud Pascolo tied up all the loose ends, and I enjoyed how everything came together in the end.
May 6, 2025
Zero Knowledge by Arnaud Pascolo is a tour de force of international crime mystery, this truly was crime mystery at its finest, flawless pacing, richly drawn characters, and a lot that never quits! This is an intense psychological thriller that starts off fast and never lets up.
.
The story begins with a death that seems like a gunshot in the night, as Luc Stark, a man with secrets darker than any winter storm, falls to the earth, leaving a path of riddles and wreckage in his wake. The scene is set against the icy, sparkling backdrop of Switzerland's mountain valley. From that point on, Arnaud Pascolo reveals a story that unfolds with the inevitable flow of a building storm, with each page tense and each revelation darker than the one before it.
.
Duan Ripa is a character so real and unvarnished that you can feel his pain in your bones as he mourns the love of his life and seeks for facts that could ruin him. His grief serves as more than simply a setting; it is the central theme of the narrative and serves as a reminder that, despite the digital era, our own brokenness remains the most critical hurdle we must conquer.
.
This is a complex deconstruction of lives entangled by fraud, desires, and hunger, it also is a matter of pursuing clues to apprehend a criminal. Because I couldn't predict where the story will go next, I was kept on edge. However, the story's emotional impact remains constant throughout. A wonderfully composed thriller, Zero Knowledge expertly brings together technical mastery with great emotional understanding. It's a story that sticks in your head, a complicated puzzle with an unexpected yet inevitable finale. This is a must-read book for anyone looking for a compulsion mystery that explores deeply into human nature and technology, I have never read something more original, detailed crime mystery that knows to put every detail in well-thought twists that blew my mind.
.
The story begins with a death that seems like a gunshot in the night, as Luc Stark, a man with secrets darker than any winter storm, falls to the earth, leaving a path of riddles and wreckage in his wake. The scene is set against the icy, sparkling backdrop of Switzerland's mountain valley. From that point on, Arnaud Pascolo reveals a story that unfolds with the inevitable flow of a building storm, with each page tense and each revelation darker than the one before it.
.
Duan Ripa is a character so real and unvarnished that you can feel his pain in your bones as he mourns the love of his life and seeks for facts that could ruin him. His grief serves as more than simply a setting; it is the central theme of the narrative and serves as a reminder that, despite the digital era, our own brokenness remains the most critical hurdle we must conquer.
.
This is a complex deconstruction of lives entangled by fraud, desires, and hunger, it also is a matter of pursuing clues to apprehend a criminal. Because I couldn't predict where the story will go next, I was kept on edge. However, the story's emotional impact remains constant throughout. A wonderfully composed thriller, Zero Knowledge expertly brings together technical mastery with great emotional understanding. It's a story that sticks in your head, a complicated puzzle with an unexpected yet inevitable finale. This is a must-read book for anyone looking for a compulsion mystery that explores deeply into human nature and technology, I have never read something more original, detailed crime mystery that knows to put every detail in well-thought twists that blew my mind.
June 4, 2025
Arnaud Pascolo’s Zero Knowledge is a fascinating thriller that plunges you into the shadowy corners of crypto crime and personal tragedy. The narrative is layered with multiple storylines—murder, deception, and digital mysteries—that slowly unravel with each chapter. Pascolo’s clear, exquisite prose makes technical details about blockchain, hacking, and cryptocurrency easy to understand, even for those with no prior knowledge. The characters are authentic; Mina’s peaceful acceptance of her terminal cancer contrasts sharply with Gail’s frantic desperation, while Duan’s analytical mind races to decode cryptic clues. The plot’s complexity is delivered smoothly, with suspense building as secrets emerge from the shadows. The author’s mastery lies in seamlessly blending emotional depth with a high-tech thriller’s pace, keeping readers on the edge. Zero Knowledge is not just a crime novel but a reflection on trust, identity, and the dangerous power of secrets. It’s a modern story that challenges perceptions of truth and highlights how the digital age can hide more than it reveals—a must-read for fans of suspense and technology-driven mysteries. I kept turning the pages of this fascinating thriller.
April 24, 2025
Thank you to Booksprout and Arnaud Pascolo for allowing me to be an Advanced Reader of this book!
This story was written beautifully and the details were compelling, Every time I thought I had things figured out, the storyline twisted in an unexpected (but good) way. I enjoyed being surprised because, too often, 'what happens next' is usually too obvious.
I have to admit, the beginning was a little slow that I had to drop a 2 stars. But, despite that, the author does weave everything together and creates a fast-paced and satisfying ending with a twist. It is worth it to read to the end. The characters start off having very stereotypical traits and attitudes, but as the story progresses they begin to take on a life of their own. I enjoyed that no one character was completely good or completely bad.
This story was written beautifully and the details were compelling, Every time I thought I had things figured out, the storyline twisted in an unexpected (but good) way. I enjoyed being surprised because, too often, 'what happens next' is usually too obvious.
I have to admit, the beginning was a little slow that I had to drop a 2 stars. But, despite that, the author does weave everything together and creates a fast-paced and satisfying ending with a twist. It is worth it to read to the end. The characters start off having very stereotypical traits and attitudes, but as the story progresses they begin to take on a life of their own. I enjoyed that no one character was completely good or completely bad.
April 30, 2025
I received a free copy of this book via Warrington Publishing and am voluntarily leaving a review. Arnaud Pascolo has written a thriller that I refused to put down until it was over. Zero Knowledge takes place over a period of days, and the events are shown from multiple points of view. I fell in love with Lisa-Lotte as a detective because you could feel how much she wanted to prove herself as a second generation police officer. One of my favourite quotes of hers from the book is "...I may be a blonde policewoman, but I follow you. Please continue."
A combination of murder mystery, blossoming romance, and financial escapades - Pascolo takes the readers on a tremendous ride of action and suspense. Just when you think you've got everything neatly put away into their correct bubbles.... the last twist gets nailed into place!
A combination of murder mystery, blossoming romance, and financial escapades - Pascolo takes the readers on a tremendous ride of action and suspense. Just when you think you've got everything neatly put away into their correct bubbles.... the last twist gets nailed into place!
October 5, 2025
Zero Knowledge” by Arnaud Pascolo is a gripping international crime mystery that kept me hooked from the very first page. What I loved most is how the story constantly challenges your assumptions, just when you think you’ve figured it out, the author throws in another twist that keeps you guessing.
Pascolo’s writing blends the intensity of a classic whodunit with the sophistication of a modern thriller. The plot moves at a relentless pace, but it never sacrifices depth every clue, every character interaction matters. The awards this book has received are well-deserved, as it balances sharp storytelling with smart, intricate plotting.
If you enjoy mysteries that are both thought-provoking and pulse-pounding, this is a must-read. I highly recommend “Zero Knowledge” to anyone who loves crime fiction that surprises you at every turn.
Pascolo’s writing blends the intensity of a classic whodunit with the sophistication of a modern thriller. The plot moves at a relentless pace, but it never sacrifices depth every clue, every character interaction matters. The awards this book has received are well-deserved, as it balances sharp storytelling with smart, intricate plotting.
If you enjoy mysteries that are both thought-provoking and pulse-pounding, this is a must-read. I highly recommend “Zero Knowledge” to anyone who loves crime fiction that surprises you at every turn.
December 18, 2025
Zero Knowledge: An International Crime Mystery is a smart, tightly paced thriller that refuses to follow the usual rules of crime fiction. From its opening shock, the story pulls you in and keeps the tension high, constantly challenging your assumptions about what’s really happening.
What sets this novel apart is how it makes the reader work. This isn’t just about identifying a killer or following a standard investigation, you’re forced to question the crime itself, how it was committed, and whether the truth is even what it seems. The international scope adds depth and momentum, giving the story a global, high stakes feel.
Sharp, cerebral, and relentlessly engaging, Zero Knowledge is perfect for readers who enjoy crime mysteries that think outside the box and reward close attention.
What sets this novel apart is how it makes the reader work. This isn’t just about identifying a killer or following a standard investigation, you’re forced to question the crime itself, how it was committed, and whether the truth is even what it seems. The international scope adds depth and momentum, giving the story a global, high stakes feel.
Sharp, cerebral, and relentlessly engaging, Zero Knowledge is perfect for readers who enjoy crime mysteries that think outside the box and reward close attention.
June 4, 2025
Zero Knowledge by Arnaud Pascolo is a gripping and thought-provoking novel that examines the dark side of the digital world and human frailty. The characters are vividly portrayed, including Mina, who struggles with terminal illness. Gail fights for independence, and Duan races to uncover hidden truths. Each of these characters fascinated me by their flawed nature. The story’s pace is steady but intense, with clues and revelations that keep you turning pages. This novel is a tale of murder and intrigue, and it keeps you guessing until the very end. It kept me up the whole night.
June 4, 2025
"The ingredients of a good thriller are more or less the same from one book to another: love, hate, betrayal, greed, etc. But it is the way the author blends these together and depicts the action that makes the difference between a good book and a page-turner.
And this one is the latter.
Arnaud Pascolo chose as the backdrop crypto, a somewhat mysterious world, but guides the reader very cleverly through the plot, right up to the conclusion of the story.
Don't deny your pleasure. " Zero Knowledge " is worth the detour."
And this one is the latter.
Arnaud Pascolo chose as the backdrop crypto, a somewhat mysterious world, but guides the reader very cleverly through the plot, right up to the conclusion of the story.
Don't deny your pleasure. " Zero Knowledge " is worth the detour."
April 29, 2025
I love international crime. The police are struggling to solve a murder. When Berg has to partner with the rookie ( his daughter ) it just isn't as easy as it should be.
Intrigue, murder, cryptocurrency, fast paced in a well written book.
I received a free copy of this book via Warrington Publishing and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Warrington Publishing and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Intrigue, murder, cryptocurrency, fast paced in a well written book.
I received a free copy of this book via Warrington Publishing and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Warrington Publishing and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 2, 2025
Not going to lie...did NOT see that coming. At all. That totally blew me away. Parts of this were a little slow for me, mostly because I don't get the whole Bitcoin stuff and all that goes with it. I never did. But the rest..I'm still blown away by the ending. I'm just in shock. That was good. So good. The ending made everything....just better for me.
I received a free copy of this book via Warrington Publishing and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Warrington Publishing and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 21, 2025
This is an amazing read, couldn’t put it down. Page turner for sure! This is the first time I’ve read this Author and they are on my must read list now.
I received a free copy of this book via Warrington Publishing and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Warrington Publishing and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 6, 2026
wild and weird mystery with a wild and weird plot to it. i think the big twist worked but it won't be everyone's cup of tea. 4 stars. tysm for the arc.
May 24, 2025
Zero Knowledge by Arnaud Pascolo is an honed blade that cuts through the illusions of knowledge, trust, and human fragility. The plot erupts like an outburst from the moment Luc Stark collapses, clutching an envelope labeled Clue One.
.
This was a masterpiece and mind-blowing mystery book of story scope, character development, and pacing. This book challenges you to consider the nature of knowledge in general, the boundaries of our understanding, and the cost of the truth. It's a mystery as well as a study on love, grief, and revenge. Arnaud Pascolo's work is essential reading for everyone who appreciates thrillers that test the reader's heart as much as their mind. This also involves facing the realities we are afraid to face. Anyone who dares to follow the novel's many turns will be left with an addiction to the author’s merciless genius.
.
Arnaud Pascolo writes with the finesse of a skilled strategist and the zest of a poet on fire. His story roars, shattering norms as it rushes across cyber thriller, mourning memoir, revenge saga—all melding with horrifying certainty. Every page explodes with betrayal, sorrow, and the ruthless sought of truth. Authenticity seeps into the characters. Mina's bravery is a silent earthquake, whereas Duan's anguish is a living, breathing entity. Even the crypto underworld in the city feels like it could collapse at any time. According to Arnaud Pascolo, digital banking is a battleground where survival, love, and loyalty are up for auction as opposed to a playground.
.
Zero Knowledge by Arnaud Pascolo has a hypnotic prose, well-drawn characters and twists and turns that will drag you through a labyrinth of shock and revelation! I can't rate this five stars, no rating could ever capture its magnitude, I couldn't breathe normally after finishing the last chapters!
.
This was a masterpiece and mind-blowing mystery book of story scope, character development, and pacing. This book challenges you to consider the nature of knowledge in general, the boundaries of our understanding, and the cost of the truth. It's a mystery as well as a study on love, grief, and revenge. Arnaud Pascolo's work is essential reading for everyone who appreciates thrillers that test the reader's heart as much as their mind. This also involves facing the realities we are afraid to face. Anyone who dares to follow the novel's many turns will be left with an addiction to the author’s merciless genius.
.
Arnaud Pascolo writes with the finesse of a skilled strategist and the zest of a poet on fire. His story roars, shattering norms as it rushes across cyber thriller, mourning memoir, revenge saga—all melding with horrifying certainty. Every page explodes with betrayal, sorrow, and the ruthless sought of truth. Authenticity seeps into the characters. Mina's bravery is a silent earthquake, whereas Duan's anguish is a living, breathing entity. Even the crypto underworld in the city feels like it could collapse at any time. According to Arnaud Pascolo, digital banking is a battleground where survival, love, and loyalty are up for auction as opposed to a playground.
.
Zero Knowledge by Arnaud Pascolo has a hypnotic prose, well-drawn characters and twists and turns that will drag you through a labyrinth of shock and revelation! I can't rate this five stars, no rating could ever capture its magnitude, I couldn't breathe normally after finishing the last chapters!
September 13, 2025
I was honestly eager to start this book after knowing this book has a crypto industry background.
From the second chapter onwards this books has managed to keep me on the edge , and till the last page.
The twists and turns in this one is spectacular!
Characters are portrayed so beautifully that I even felt frustration towards certain characters.
The plot!!! The plot is naturally the most interesting one, but it is so unusual! I have read a lot of thriller books for sure, but this one is nothing like most of the modern day thrillers. An amazing book with fresh perspective.
I received a free copy of this book via Warrington Publishing and am voluntarily leaving a review.
From the second chapter onwards this books has managed to keep me on the edge , and till the last page.
The twists and turns in this one is spectacular!
Characters are portrayed so beautifully that I even felt frustration towards certain characters.
The plot!!! The plot is naturally the most interesting one, but it is so unusual! I have read a lot of thriller books for sure, but this one is nothing like most of the modern day thrillers. An amazing book with fresh perspective.
I received a free copy of this book via Warrington Publishing and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 4, 2025
I enjoyed this read!! It definitely kept my attention minus the talk about bitcoins because I don’t know too much about it! But that didn’t really affect the story at all for me! I thought it was a good plot, well written and loved the suspense and the mystery that was being solved! I found it to be a very fast paced read which I always enjoy! First book by the author and would definitely read more.
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews