Gene's
Inspiration
 |
Working for one of the oldest law firms in New
Jersey can lend quite a bit to the imagination. Rummaging though
the firm’s dusty archives one day, I came across an old deed.
The find was right after the turnover of the former British colony
of Hong Kong to China. An idea was born. What if there was a lost
deed to Hong Kong instead of a lease like everyone believed? Few places rival the diversity of Hong Kong, one of my favorite destinations in the world. Prior to Hong Kong’s turnover to the Chinese government, I spent some time in the then British colony. It was and is a fascinating place. Two very distinct cultures, languages and customs some how blend together to produce a unique way of life. When people see pictures of Hong Kong, most of the time they aren’t actually looking at the island of Hong Kong but the mainland peninsula of Kowloon. Most of the area’s exotic hotels, great restaurants and nightlife are found on Kowloon. There’s a tunnel that connects Hong Kong with the mainland, but a more common way for the natives to commute is by ferry, especially the Star Ferry Line. The hotels, restaurants, nightlife, and Star Ferry, play an important part in my first novel, The Deed. From the window of my law office, I have a great view of the Hudson River and New York City. The Hudson River is dotted with ferries scurrying back and forth from Jersey City to Manhattan. You don’t need a great imagination to see the similarity between Kowloon and the downtown skyline of New York. This setting and my interest in Hong Kong inspired me to take my original idea and expand on it. The Deed is a suspenseful tale of intrigue set against the backdrop of the Hong Kong turnover. |