In researching his novels, Joel Narlock has interviewed commercial and private pilots, U.S. Secret Service agents, and FAA officials about the ability of a small flying drone to freely penetrate Washington's no-fly zone and avoid aerial security defenses and radar. The conclusion was both fascinating and frightening. Extensive research into the inner workings of the DIA, DC's protected airspace, and UAV technology took Joel from the windings of the Potomac River to the U.S. Naval Academy to Andrews AFB and even the rooftop of Camden Yards.

He lives on the Fox River in Waterford, Wisconsin, where he owns his own business and is working on his next novel.