Vachss was hesitant about using creative property that belonged to someone else but recognized the opportunity to reach a new audience. He started writing the novel, on speculation, and DC Comics eventually agreed to the project, allowing Vachss to take some creative liberties.
Vachss was hesitant about using another person's creative work but believed it could help him connect with a wider audience. He started writing the novel as a speculative endeavor, and DC Comics ultimately approved the idea, giving Vachss the freedom to be more creative in his approach.