I set out to write a book in which difficult situations evolve realistically, and where females are portrayed as intelligent, multifaceted women rather than as cardboard cutouts. If you think that the book has a fresh, feminine feel, then I have been successful in that regard at least. But beyond the obvious whiff of estrogen there is a deeper feline truth. If early reviews can be trusted, female readers seem to embrace Jean and Delsie as competent sisters, while men find them appealing, so The Black Squall seems to strike a balance between intellect, camaraderie and sex appeal. Much of the nautical and financial data in the novel were familiar ground, but a great deal of research was required to ensure accuracy.
Readers are intelligent, informed and discerning people.
Therefore, it is incumbent upon me to check every possible detail. That is why I do my utmost to visit every location, sample every foodstuff, drive every vehicle, fire every gun and interview every kind of professional before including those details in my books. I will undoubtedly make errors, as do all writers, but not through lack of effort or attention to detail. However, the model who posed for the cover is as much a mystery to me as you. But I have spent time crewing a sloop around the Caribbean.