action packed underwater adventure novel based on the Island's shipwrecks.

"Thief of the Deep'', features high-tech diving, private eyes, drug smugglers, murderers and treasures plundered from ships wrecked on Bermuda's dangerous reefs.

And now local readers with a taste for adventure can read Mr. Coon's thriller.

It went on sale at book shops this week and is available at Bermuda Library.

Yesterday 48-year-old Mr. Coon, himself a diver, presented the book to Cultural Affairs Minister the Hon. Leonard Gibbons and Acting Head Librarian Ms Grace Rawlins.

The book's publishers are New York-based Aqua Quest Publications Inc.

President Mr. Anthony Bliss Jr. said the main character of the book explores a mystery involving historical shipwrecks, and drug smuggling freighters.

A revenge-driven Police Inspector and a stolen US Government prototype submarine are also mixed into the plot.

"`Thief of the Deep' also deals with several topics of international concern, most notably the controversy over shipwreck salvage between underwater archaeologists, treasure salvors and sport divers,'' said Mr. Bliss.

Mr. Coon is the Mid-Atlantic Regional Manager for the Professional Association of Diving Instructors -- the largest scuba certifying agency in the world.

A master scuba instructor for over 30 years, his diving territory covers Maryland through northern Florida and Bermuda.

He also works with hundreds of scuba instructors each year and has helped raise thousands of dollars for marine animals, conservation of coral reefs and beach clean-ups.

In his book marine life and environmental concerns are recurring themes.

Mr. Coon began writing the book while doing extensive travelling required by his job. He has drawn heavily on his varied experiences.

Mr. Coon will be signing copies of his novel at the Bookmart in Hamilton today from 11 a.m to 2 p.m.