Crafting Suspense in the Heart of Milan
Jack Erickson’s thrillers blend meticulous research with rich storytelling to create gripping narratives
Jack Erickson’s Milan Thriller Series combines meticulous research, authentic Italian settings, and compelling characters, drawing inspiration from his diverse background and relationships
Jack Erickson is a literary polymath whose work spans international thrillers, mysteries, true crime, noir, and romantic suspense. Currently engrossed in his Milan Thriller Series, Erickson brings to life the intense world of Italy’s anti-terrorism police, DIGOS, through meticulously researched and authentically crafted narratives. His debut in the series, Thirteen Days in Milan, set the stage for the gripping sequels No One Sleeps, Vesuvius Nights, and the latest, The Lonely Assassin.
Erickson’s Milan thrillers draw inspiration from celebrated authors like Donna Leon, Andrea Camilleri, and Michael Dibdin, whose works have achieved critical acclaim and popular success on both the page and the screen. This foundation, combined with Erickson’s unique access to high-level officials in Milan’s DIGOS, imbues his novels with a level of detail and realism that resonates with readers and critics alike.
Beyond his literary pursuits, Erickson’s diverse background as a former Air Force intelligence officer, U.S. Senate speechwriter, and publisher enriches his storytelling with a depth of experience and authenticity. His frequent travels to Italy for research, coupled with his immersion in Italian culture and language, ensure that his thrillers not only entertain but also provide a vivid and immersive experience of contemporary Italy.
Jack Erickson masterfully blends authenticity and suspense, creating captivating thrillers that transport readers into the heart of Italian intrigue.
In an exclusive interview, Erickson delves into the inspiration behind his Milan Thriller Series, his meticulous research process, and the development of his compelling characters. He shares how a serendipitous visit to Milan sparked the idea for his first book, Thirteen Days in Milan. While traveling through Italy with his wife, Erickson experienced a “lightning bolt” moment at the Stazione Centrale in Milan, which led him to explore the world of anti-terrorism and political intrigue.
Erickson’s research process is as intricate as his plots. He has cultivated valuable relationships with DIGOS agents at Milan’s Questura, who provide him with insights into surveillance and suspect tracking. His annual trips to Italy, except during the pandemic, have allowed him to build a network of Italian and American friends who assist in his research. These connections offer him a deep understanding of Italian characters, their careers, and lifestyles, enriching the authenticity of his narratives.
The protagonist of the series, Sylvia de Matteo, is a testament to Erickson’s skill in character development. Her resilience and depth are shaped by Erickson’s conversations with his Milanese friends and researchers, who provide real-life stories of individuals facing life-threatening situations. This collaborative approach ensures that Sylvia’s trials and triumphs resonate with readers.
Erickson masterfully balances the exploration of Italian society and culture with the pacing and suspense of his thrillers. By weaving historical events, such as the kidnapping and assassination of Aldo Moro by the Red Brigades, into his narratives, he creates a rich tapestry that reflects both past and present Italian political and social issues. This historical context, combined with contemporary themes, allows Erickson to craft fiction that feels authentically Italian.
Comparisons to authors like Donna Leon and Andrea Camilleri are a testament to Erickson’s ability to capture the essence of Italy in his thrillers. While he draws inspiration from these authors, Erickson’s unique focus on Milan—a city known for its dynamic blend of finance, media, fashion, and art—sets his work apart and contributes to its growing popularity.
Erickson’s past experiences as an intelligence officer and speechwriter have significantly influenced his approach to crafting intricate narratives and engaging dialogue. His ability to research, interview, and write with precision and clarity is evident in his novels, which have captivated readers with their authenticity and suspense.
Jack Erickson’s Milan Thriller Series is a testament to his literary prowess and his deep connection to Italy. Through his compelling storytelling and meticulous research, Erickson offers readers an immersive journey into the heart of Italian intrigue and suspense.
