Reviewed by Penny Paugh

Written by the award-winning freelance journalist, Mark Stephen Clifton, “The Mayor of O.B.,” taps the author’s personal experience as a surfer, martial arts instructor, and resident of San Diego. The novel gives the reader an in-depth look at the late 1960s surfing and drug culture in northern California and Ocean Beach.

Clifton brings his journalistic strengths to play and steeps us in the lingo, attitudes, and lifestyles of that time. We are immersed in the drug culture, following Paul and Angelina to San Francisco and back on LSD buying trips, and Captain Alfonso (Al) Marutas with his Mexican cocaine and “crank”. Along the way, we are introduced to cultural icons like Timothy Leary and the Hells Angels. We are also witness to the harm done by LSD.

The story turns ugly with the death of a surfer, Angela’s disappearance, treachery,  murder accusations, and arrests.

Can Al forgive his old friend Pops and find inner peace? And might Al intend Pops additional harm? Read Clifton's book to find out, and deeply experience the late 60s culture with its many repercussions.