"The Wailing Octopus" is a gripping adventure novel written by Harold L. Goodwin. The story follows Dr. Terry Kent, a marine biologist who travels to a small island in the Pacific to investigate reports of a terrifying and deadly creature wreaking havoc on the island's inhabitants.

As Dr. Kent delves deeper into his investigation, he discovers that the creature is not actually an octopus as originally believed, but a giant squid with a unique and terrifying ability to emit a high-pitched wail that paralyzes its prey. Dr. Kent must use his expertise and cunning to stop the creature before it claims any more victims.

Goodwin's writing is both suspenseful and descriptive, painting a vivid picture of the island and the dangers that lurk beneath its waters. As Dr. Kent battles the squid, he also faces other threats, including greedy treasure hunters and corrupt government officials who seek to exploit the island's resources for their own gain.

At its core, "The Wailing Octopus" is a cautionary tale about the dangers of human greed and the importance of protecting our natural environment. Goodwin, himself a marine biologist, weaves his knowledge of oceanography and marine life into the story, adding a layer of authenticity and depth to the narrative.

The characters in the novel are well-drawn and complex, each with their own motivations and agendas. Dr. Kent is a capable and determined protagonist, but he is not without his flaws and vulnerabilities. The supporting cast is equally memorable, from the island's residents to the treasure hunters and government officials who become embroiled in the drama.

Overall, "The Wailing Octopus" is a thrilling and thought-provoking novel that will appeal to fans of adventure fiction and environmental literature. Goodwin's writing is engaging and entertaining, while also shedding light on important issues facing our planet. As an added bonus, readers interested in marine biology will find plenty of fascinating information about the oceanic environment and its inhabitants.