Restless Waters has plenty of action and characterization to keep it entertaining and not too overwhelming. The setting of Hawaii definitely adds to the excitement, but any port that exotic animals travel through could have worked. The mystery of the reptile ring is not at all overboard. The characterization of Rachel is great and makes the reader get intertwined with her. Some of the minor characters definitely add to the action and have unique voices that are different from Rachel's. It shows the depth of Ms. Speart's writing as an author. Restless Waters is just a great read.