Frank Schwartz recently shared his thoughts on Asystole and said, 

“One of the strengths of Asystole is how well O’Keefe writes internal conflict. Kilbride’s cold precision is contrasted with moments of vulnerability especially around his forgotten past. The DMT discussion, the trauma block, and his fear of what he might discover all add dimension to a character who could have been one-note. His marriage is another highlight: Imogen’s mixture of devotion and grief creates emotional stakes that run parallel to the scientific ones. A thought-provoking, atmospheric read.” 

I’m grateful Frank noticed the internal struggles I aimed to portray. Kilbride’s complexity was key to the story, balancing his clinical detachment with the emotional weight of his past and the unknown. The themes around DMT and trauma were carefully woven to deepen that conflict. Imogen’s character was important to bring a personal emotional thread alongside the science, and I’m glad that resonated. It is wonderful to hear the atmosphere and thoughtfulness of the book came through to readers.