Santa Cruz Noir, published by Brooklyn-based Akashic Books, contains several compelling short stories selected and edited by local celebrity, Susie Bright.
Nothing too bright about most of them, but the darkest of tales is titled “Wheels of Justice,” by Jon Bailiff. This is first story in Part II of the collection, subtitled “The Lineup.” This particular vignette centers around the legendary point break of Steamer Lane.
Cover photo taken by Shmuel Thaler perfectly illustrates the narrative, and the cover design by Aaron Petrovich adds to the sinister thrust of this noirish parable.