The Tribal Sea, a novel

Beth sees Kirk and his boat as her only chance to sail around the world. Convinced that she's prepared for the challenges, they leave California for Mexico's Baja peninsula. While exploring the tropical waters of the Sea of Cortez, Beth crosses paths with Paul, a Texas drifter/fugitive hiding out in Mexico, whose life is far from under control. As their friendship evolves, Beth slowly loses her grip of the world ? Paul begins to gain control of his. Like Rodion in Crime and Punishment, Paul mixes fear and guilt with far-reaching rationalizations as he battles his personal demons. Although Beth cares deeply for Kirk, she allows Paul to pull her into his world, which jeopardizes her future, and Kirk's.