Frank Machianno is a late-middle-aged ex-surf bum who runs a bait shack over the San Diego waterfront. An affable Italian having a love of people and life, he’s a stand-up businessman, dedicated father, and a much loved fixture locally.

He’s also a hitman, a retired hitman. Back in the day when he was probably one of the most feared associates of the Western Coastline Mafia, he was referred to as Frankie Machine. Frank consigned his Mob ties to the past years back and desires them to stay there. But a favor being known as in today by the neighborhood boss can be one Frank can’t refuse, and shortly he’s sucked back into the treacherous currents of his former life. Somebody from days gone by wants him deceased. He has to figure out who and why, and he has to get it done fast.