"[1] Smith wanted to write a stand-alone book about a mother being deprived of her adored child, then having to get help from one of his tough guys.

They didn't acknowledge us – rare among sailors – but I've never forgotten this guy, tall and very handsome, as hypnotic as a black mamba, just standing there.

I think the disturbing thing about Somalia is the fact this is a country where there are few economic opportunities, so the pirates are seen as glamorous, and often held in awe by young boys who aspire to their lifestyle.

[2]In a review, Christopher Bray from the Express described the plot as fairly predictable, with some clichéd descriptions but also defies anyone who has picked it up to put it down as the story is exciting.

[3] The reviewer of Publishers Weekly said that "the author's vast legions of fans should embrace the lurid action, the larger-than-life characters, and the heated prose with their usual enthusiasm.