"Strictly Business"

A lively tale set in the bustling harbor of Shorehaven, where the crew of the modest vessel “Jane Gladys” returns home to find their future suddenly in jeopardy. Captain Peter Putt and his eclectic mates—ranging from the nervous inspector to the quick‑witted cook Horace—confront an unexpected notice that their owner plans to sell every ship, throwing their modest livelihoods into turmoil. The story balances sharp, colloquial humor with the gritty reality of seafaring life, painting vivid scenes of cramped inns, bustling docks, and the nervous chatter of sailors fearing the worst.

Through witty banter and colorful characters, the narrative captures the camaraderie and anxiety that ripple through a tight‑knit community when business turns sour. As the crew scrambles to make sense of the ominous “It’s all over” proclamation, readers are drawn into a world where loyalty, luck, and a dash of mischief determine whether they can weather the storm. The opening promises a charming, fast‑paced adventure that celebrates both the hardships and the humor of life at sea.