Like his previous novel, Big Trouble, its events take place over only 1-2 days, in and around Miami, Florida.

The Extravaganza of the Seas is a gambling ship headed into a tropical storm, with more immediate trouble in the form of gamblers, crime bosses, gangsters and other shady characters fighting over money and drugs.

Wally, a clueless rock guitarist, and Fay, a clever CGIS agent posing as a cocktail waitress, serve as the romantic leads.

[1] Kirkus Reviews said that the book's low humor would appeal to "all those guys who keep America moving slightly off-course and to the women who love them.

"[2] Publishers Weekly wrote that Barry showed his "penchant" for potty humor and slapstick, but was able to craft "some captivating characters and keep a reader's attention" throughout.