Kansas City Noir: Exploring the Dark Underbelly of the City

Are you ready to immerse yourself in the gritty and captivating world of crime fiction? Look no further than Kansas City Noir, a collection of short stories that encapsulate the dark and mysterious side of the city. Curated by the renowned publisher Akashic Books, this anthology is a must-read for fans of noir fiction and those interested in the hidden depths of Kansas City.

Why Kansas City?

Kansas City has a rich history intertwined with crime and corruption. From its days as a notorious hub for bootleggers during Prohibition to its ties with organized crime, this city has plenty of stories to tell. Kansas City Noir takes readers on a journey through its shadowy past and present, offering a glimpse into the underbelly of this vibrant Midwestern metropolis.

The Akashic Noir Series

Akashic Books, the force behind the acclaimed Akashic Noir series, has been bringing readers into the dark corners of cities around the world for over a decade. Their unique approach to showcasing the noir genre focuses on specific cities, with each collection featuring stories written by local authors who truly understand the essence of their respective locations.

Kansas City Noir (Akashic Noir)

by J. Malcolm Garcia(Kindle Edition)

4.1 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	784 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	226 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

With their signature style of storytelling, Akashic Books captures the distinct culture, atmosphere, and history of each city, weaving together tales that highlight the underrepresented aspects of urban life. Whether it's the mean streets of Detroit, the criminal underbelly of Havana, or the seedy corners of Johannesburg, the Akashic Noir series offers readers a chance to explore the world through a darker lens.

Inside Kansas City Noir

Kansas City Noir delves deep into the heart of the city, painting a vivid picture of its diverse neighborhoods, forgotten landmarks, and enigmatic characters. From the decaying factories of the West Bottoms to the jazz-filled streets of the 18th and Vine District, each story takes readers on a unique journey through the city, unearthing secrets and immersing them in the noir atmosphere.

The anthology features a collection of gripping tales penned by a roster of talented authors, both well-established and emerging. With stories that span different eras and genres, Kansas City Noir offers a multi-dimensional portrayal of the city, showcasing its resilience, flaws, and distinct allure.

The Allure of Noir Fiction

Noir fiction has captivated readers for decades with its gritty realism, morally ambiguous characters, and immersive storytelling. It provides an escape into a world where danger swirls around every corner, offering a glimpse into the darker aspects of human nature.

Kansas City Noir continues this tradition, inviting readers to explore the complexities of the city through the eyes of flawed protagonists, corrupt officials, and desperate criminals. The stories expose the truth that lies beneath the surface, shedding light on the struggles, motivations, and conflicts that shape the lives of those living in the shadows.

Discover Kansas City in a New Light

If you're looking for a fresh perspective on Kansas City, away from the typical tourist attractions, Kansas City Noir is the perfect literary companion. With its vivid imagery and well-crafted storytelling, the anthology highlights the hidden gems and unsavory elements that make the city unique.

So, grab a copy of Kansas City Noir, find a cozy spot, and prepare to be transported into the captivating world of crime and mystery. Let the stories guide you through the underbelly of Kansas City, revealing its secrets and shedding light on the noir undercurrents that flow through its streets. Akashic Noir has done it again, delivering a collection that will keep you hooked until the very last page.

Kansas City Noir offers readers a chance to experience the city in a whole new way. Through its collection of gripping tales, we are taken on a journey through Kansas City's dark past and present, exploring its seedy underbelly and immersing ourselves in the rich tapestry of the noir genre.

From the intriguing characters to the evocative settings, Kansas City Noir delivers a satisfying reading experience that noir enthusiasts and fans of crime fiction will not want to miss. Dive into the shadows and discover the untold stories that lie beneath the surface of Kansas City's bright lights and skyscrapers.

Kansas City Noir (Akashic Noir)

by J. Malcolm Garcia(Kindle Edition)

4.1 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	784 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	226 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

Dark and gritty tales set in the “Paris of the Plains,” including Nancy Pickard’s “Lightbulb”—selected for The Best American Mystery Stories 2013.
 
Akashic Books’ groundbreaking, globetrotting noir anthology series sets all-new stories in a distinct neighborhood or location within the respective metropolitan area. Now “Kansas City, famous for its jazz, its barbecue, and its shady history, provides the venue for this solid addition” (Publishers Weekly).
 
This collection includes brand-new stories from J. Malcolm Garcia, Grace Suh, Daniel Woodrell, Kevin Prufer, Matthew Eck, Philip Stephens, Catherine Browder, John Lutz, Nancy Pickard, Linda Rodriguez, Andrés Rodríguez, Mitch Brian, Nadia Pflaum, and Phong Nguyen.
 
“Hard-used heroes and heroines seem to live a lifetime in the stories . . . Each one seems almost novelistic in scope. Half novels-in-waiting, half journalistic anecdotes that are equally likely to appeal to Kansas City boosters and strangers.”—Kirkus Reviews

“Travel has many unexpected benefits, so even if you’ve never had a reason to visit the city itself, you’ll find Kansas City Noir surprisingly well worth the price of the ticket.”—Bookgasm
 
“Picture steam rising from a sewer grate on a rain-slicked street. The sound of footsteps comes closer and closer behind you as you walk down a dark, downtown Kansas City alley. If this scenario entices you, then you just might enjoy Kansas City Noir.”—Kansas City Public Television