Leonard has a habit of reworking old characters. Donnell Lewis, Woody's houseman in Freaky Deaky, recalls Cornell Lewis, also a black servant, in Stick (1983). In addition to similarities of name, race, and occupation, both are handsome and witty fellows who function as social commentators. Leonard's focus upon Chris Mankowski's — a police detective whose private life may impinge upon his job performance — personal problems recalls Ed McBain's treatment of policemen in the 87th Precinct novels (please see separate entries).