In the Nineteen Thirties, the relationship between the United States and Cuba was very excellent. In the city of Asbury Park, New Jersey, there was a tavern called The Habana House, owned by Cubans, and in America there was a steamship called the Morro Castle that sailed into the harbors of Cuba. The book relates the relationship between the owner of The Habana House, who is sometimes very dramatic, with Cuba. The hero of the book is investigating the murder of the brother of the female singer at The Habana House, and it takes them to Cuba. Sailing on the cruise ship Morro Castle, they go throughout Cuba, to restaurants, beaches, churches, and fancy hotels. After staying awhile in Cuba, they leave, and out in the ocean the Morro Castle catches fire. The ship finally stops along the New Jersey coast. Over two thousand lives were lost. After being rescued from the Atlantic Ocean, the hero returns to Asbury Park and continues investigating the death of the singer's brother. The owner of The Habana House nightclub, who lost his wife in the Morro Castle tragedy, turns his attentions to the vocalist in the nightclub. One night he rapes her and admits that he had her brother killed.The hero follows the owner, thereby bringing a very exciting conclusion to a powerful struggle of good over evil.