Matt Crawford speaks with author Thomas Bardenwerper about his novel, Mona Passage. This is a story of friendships and family and how those relationships can be complicated and messy. It is also about nuance and what people will do when they are fighting for their family. Coast Guard Lieutenant Pat McAllister and Cuban emigrant Galan Betances strike up a quick and deep friendship while neighbors in San Juan. When Galan learns his sister is to be committed to a mental health facility back in Cuba, he must find a way to save her. Pat happens to patrol the Mona Passage where she would have to make the journey. Decisions must be made, and friendships will be tested. This is a hard to put down read and a very emotional one, Bardenwerper weaves complex and relatable characters that draw you in and hold tight.