`Surface Tension' by Christine Kling; Ballantine.(South Florida Sun-Sentinel)

Tugboat captain Seychelle Sullivan expertly navigates the waterways that have given Fort Lauderdale its nickname of "the Venice of America."

The owner of a towing and salvage business, Seychelle is well aware of the keen competition when a yacht is in distress and the reluctance of some owners to hire a woman. But in ``Surface Tension,'' her latest job goes beyond business as it plunges Seychelle into the murky waters of greed, abuse and Fort Lauderdale's seamy side.

Seychelle's tugboat Gordo is the first to respond to the "mayday cries" of those aboard the private luxury yacht Top Ten _ a craft whose salvage would net her a much-needed windfall. She also …