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On the Street Where You Die
Stanley Bentworth is not all that tough. Previously a homicide cop, he drank his way out of a job and now runs a one-man private eye agency finding people who don’t want to be found. He doesn’t accept tough-guy assignments, calling himself a “soft-boiled detective,” but a recession is on, and business is off, so when a wealthy financier, formerly a mob enforcer, needs an anonymous blackmailer found in a life and death situation, Stanley seizes the chance to earn a fee.
If he fails, the blackmailer outs his client to the wise guys, in which case the client gets a one-way ticket to the landfill, and Stanley risks becoming an unwilling passenger on that ride.
He knows he must not fail, no small feat given that Stanley Bentworth is not all that tough.
If he fails, the blackmailer outs his client to the wise guys, in which case the client gets a one-way ticket to the landfill, and Stanley risks becoming an unwilling passenger on that ride.
He knows he must not fail, no small feat given that Stanley Bentworth is not all that tough.
183 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 24, 2011
475 people are currently reading
1086 people want to read
About the author
Al Stevens
71 books13 followersRetired author of computer programming books and articles. Jazz musician. Now writing fiction.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 107 reviews
May 17, 2012
Enjoyed this one a lot. It's not a very long novel (devoured it in two straight evenings) and it's not exactly a complex plot, but in spite of that there's still a lot crammed into this little gem.
The first person narrative is what drew me in to this. I'm not usually a fan of the first person, so it's got to be good for me to get past the first paragraph. The voice in this was great though - shrewd, funny and able to deliver a fast, wise-cracking story with verve. There were several laugh out loud moments in this for me, in between the dead bodies, dubious clients and alibis. The dialogue especially is classic.
It's a real page turner and the narrative flows really nicely. One criticism I could make is that this same smooth pace runs on right to the end, making the solving of the case(s) seem a little too easy. The twists and turns are small ones, but I suppose that's in keeping with the size of the novel.
It's a fun read though, and I can recommend this. I'll certainly be reading the next in the series for more of Stanley's wry observations of the predicaments he finds himself in.
The first person narrative is what drew me in to this. I'm not usually a fan of the first person, so it's got to be good for me to get past the first paragraph. The voice in this was great though - shrewd, funny and able to deliver a fast, wise-cracking story with verve. There were several laugh out loud moments in this for me, in between the dead bodies, dubious clients and alibis. The dialogue especially is classic.
It's a real page turner and the narrative flows really nicely. One criticism I could make is that this same smooth pace runs on right to the end, making the solving of the case(s) seem a little too easy. The twists and turns are small ones, but I suppose that's in keeping with the size of the novel.
It's a fun read though, and I can recommend this. I'll certainly be reading the next in the series for more of Stanley's wry observations of the predicaments he finds himself in.
February 12, 2026
On the Street Where You Die is a fast-paced crime story with a lot going on.
The main character, Stanley Bentworth, used to be a homicide cop but got fired. Now he’s trying to make a living as a private investigator. A wealthy and secretive man named Buford hires him to track down someone who’s blackmailing him and threatening his reputation. There’s a lot of money involved, so Stan takes the case.
As he digs deeper, things start to spiral. People connected to the case begin dying under mysterious circumstances, and at one point, Stan himself becomes a suspect. That adds a lot of tension-you’re constantly wondering if he’s going to end up in jail while trying to prove himself innocent.
On top of the investigation, Stan has serious personal problems. A mentally unstable, retired army veteran is stalking his sister and even threatens her and her son at gunpoint. Those scenes raise the stakes even more and make everything feel urgent.
Then there’s his relationship with Bunny. She’s charming and knows exactly how to pull him in, but she also plays with his emotions. She breaks up with him, then wants him back, and Stan keeps falling for it. It adds a messy, human side to his character.
Overall, it’s a solid read if you enjoy crime and mystery with plenty of action and drama mixed in.
The main character, Stanley Bentworth, used to be a homicide cop but got fired. Now he’s trying to make a living as a private investigator. A wealthy and secretive man named Buford hires him to track down someone who’s blackmailing him and threatening his reputation. There’s a lot of money involved, so Stan takes the case.
As he digs deeper, things start to spiral. People connected to the case begin dying under mysterious circumstances, and at one point, Stan himself becomes a suspect. That adds a lot of tension-you’re constantly wondering if he’s going to end up in jail while trying to prove himself innocent.
On top of the investigation, Stan has serious personal problems. A mentally unstable, retired army veteran is stalking his sister and even threatens her and her son at gunpoint. Those scenes raise the stakes even more and make everything feel urgent.
Then there’s his relationship with Bunny. She’s charming and knows exactly how to pull him in, but she also plays with his emotions. She breaks up with him, then wants him back, and Stan keeps falling for it. It adds a messy, human side to his character.
Overall, it’s a solid read if you enjoy crime and mystery with plenty of action and drama mixed in.
December 9, 2020
This is fun read, worthy of the five stars I gave it.
This story is written in the first person, which I enjoy. It is interspersed with the author's sense of humour, and I found myself laughing out loud several times.
We have the drunk, out of money private eye, with a shabby office and a 'motherly' secretary to whom he owes money, along with several others. Then we have the on-again off-again girlfriend who works in his favourite restaurant, his sister, and his 'far-out' nephew.
Enter the bad guy - or is he the good guy? - with his array of slightly 'different' family and employees. This guy offers our detective a lot of money to find out who is blackmailing him. Stanley, the detective, also has a personal family matter to deal with, which may or may not involve the US Army.
What follows is a thoroughly enjoyable book, well worth the read.
I will be looking for Stanley Bentworth #2, if it is available on Kindle Unlimited.
This story is written in the first person, which I enjoy. It is interspersed with the author's sense of humour, and I found myself laughing out loud several times.
We have the drunk, out of money private eye, with a shabby office and a 'motherly' secretary to whom he owes money, along with several others. Then we have the on-again off-again girlfriend who works in his favourite restaurant, his sister, and his 'far-out' nephew.
Enter the bad guy - or is he the good guy? - with his array of slightly 'different' family and employees. This guy offers our detective a lot of money to find out who is blackmailing him. Stanley, the detective, also has a personal family matter to deal with, which may or may not involve the US Army.
What follows is a thoroughly enjoyable book, well worth the read.
I will be looking for Stanley Bentworth #2, if it is available on Kindle Unlimited.
September 9, 2017
Private investigator Stanley Bentworth accepts a job from a dubious client who wants to know who’s blackmailing him. Meanwhile Stan’s sister is being harassed by a nutcase lover she doesn’t want to see anymore, and his on-again-off-again girlfriend is back in Stan’s life.
On the Street Where You Die is a nicely written traditional PI mystery that pays homage to the Raymond Chandler era, where PI’s were divorced, down-and-out drinkers with a dark sense of humor. This book adds a timely twist by way of a secondary character, his nephew Rodney, who has serious computer hacking skills.
Although Stan, his girlfriend, and the client seem stereotypical, I sensed that this was deliberate, and it certainly didn’t deter from my enjoyment. The story moves at a face pace, which created a couple of logistical issues for me, but otherwise it was a fun read.
On the Street Where You Die is a nicely written traditional PI mystery that pays homage to the Raymond Chandler era, where PI’s were divorced, down-and-out drinkers with a dark sense of humor. This book adds a timely twist by way of a secondary character, his nephew Rodney, who has serious computer hacking skills.
Although Stan, his girlfriend, and the client seem stereotypical, I sensed that this was deliberate, and it certainly didn’t deter from my enjoyment. The story moves at a face pace, which created a couple of logistical issues for me, but otherwise it was a fun read.
October 25, 2019
This is a private detective mystery that is full of flippant wise cracks. It also has plenty of routine private detective storylines such as girlfriend problems and drinking problems. This private detective, Stanley Bentworth, gets into and out of plenty of danger and tight spots. However, some of his solutions to those dangerous dilemmas stretch credulity. Computer hacks are executed quickly and without any difficulty even into FBI files. In addition, police procedure, when they are involved, is sloppy and doesn’t measure up to standard operating procedures. But Stanley is such a likable character as are his friends and supporting cast, that as the reader you cut a lot of slack to the credulity issues. Plus, the plot line and problems the character encounters, that you keep reading just to see how it all comes together.
March 14, 2026
I’m sorry, I really wanted to like this book. A disgraced homicide cop-turned self-employed private investigator helping a former mob boss figure out who is blackmailing him? Sounds great, sign me up. As much as it sounded right up my alley and I wanted to like it, I just couldn’t do it. It was a quick read, I think I finished it in about a day, but the writing just really wasn’t for me. I found Stan (and honestly the rest of the characters) very unlikable and off-putting. I felt like the author was trying a little too hard to make Stan’s internal monologue seem funny/quirky and relatable, but his sarcastic internal quips every other line just didn’t land for me personally, and it took me out of the story. This book had a lot of potential and I really liked the premise, but it was not for me.
June 22, 2019
A great read! No cliffhangers
Five stars for this amazing book!
I really enjoyed reading "On The Street Where You Die."
Stanley Bentworth, the P. I., is quirky and a little funny! He drinks too much and is hungover a lot of the time but seems to be able to work anyway!
I didn't think I would like this book because of the drinking P.I. but it works for some reason!
Secondary characters were awesome and very well fleshed out. I felt like knew them personally! The story line was intriguing and different in a good way. I loved the twists and turns and how the killer was discovered! Boy was that a shocker! Didn't see it coming! I highly recommend that lovers of mystery stories read this book! You won't be disappointed!!
Five stars for this amazing book!
I really enjoyed reading "On The Street Where You Die."
Stanley Bentworth, the P. I., is quirky and a little funny! He drinks too much and is hungover a lot of the time but seems to be able to work anyway!
I didn't think I would like this book because of the drinking P.I. but it works for some reason!
Secondary characters were awesome and very well fleshed out. I felt like knew them personally! The story line was intriguing and different in a good way. I loved the twists and turns and how the killer was discovered! Boy was that a shocker! Didn't see it coming! I highly recommend that lovers of mystery stories read this book! You won't be disappointed!!
March 4, 2026
Private eye closes his case
This book was a lot of fun to read. The prose was in the style of the 1930's narrative (think Humphrey Bogart), but takes place in present day. The story had lots of twists and turns, with the characters intertwined with each other. The author has a lot of subtle humor interjected, which helps the story move faster. This is a new author to me, and this book is the first of a series of books based on the title character. I will gladly read the next book in this series when I need something quick and easy.
This book was a lot of fun to read. The prose was in the style of the 1930's narrative (think Humphrey Bogart), but takes place in present day. The story had lots of twists and turns, with the characters intertwined with each other. The author has a lot of subtle humor interjected, which helps the story move faster. This is a new author to me, and this book is the first of a series of books based on the title character. I will gladly read the next book in this series when I need something quick and easy.
March 9, 2022
Somewhat like a Stephanie Plum book and not much like the heavy hitting Jack Reacher type stuff that I often read, this was a fun light quick murder mystery. Well written, no magic used to get from point A to point B that I find in many books, I finished this in a day. I did not miss those scenes that go on for too many pages and tie my stomach in knots anticipating evil deeds. Nope, this was a pretty straight forward multiple murder mystery with light banter throughout. A good read.
March 13, 2026
Remember Mickey Spillane or Elmore Leonard? Al Stevens is just as entertaining in this day and age. Stanley Bentworth is a former cop turned private investigator, specializing in finding people. With ex-wives and a on again/off again girlfriend, plus a former mobster who is now in witness protection, Stan has his hands full. some nice twists, and believable characters, make this a story worth the read.
September 17, 2019
A riotous stand-up comedy routine.
This could easily pass as a screenplay, or an entire season of a weekly NETFLIX detective show. The story line was always rolling, all the peripheral conflicts resolved convincingly, and the editing was GREAT.
Mr. Stevens' story-telling expertise, and his character's witty narrative, makes this every reader's enjoyable experience.
This could easily pass as a screenplay, or an entire season of a weekly NETFLIX detective show. The story line was always rolling, all the peripheral conflicts resolved convincingly, and the editing was GREAT.
Mr. Stevens' story-telling expertise, and his character's witty narrative, makes this every reader's enjoyable experience.
July 13, 2021
Excellent read
On the Street Where You Die is a page turner you won't want to put down! Stanley is a funny guy who seems to bumble his way through life and still comes out on top. There are alot of twists and turns to the story that kept me guessing! Who IS guilty? A must read for all mystery lovers!
On the Street Where You Die is a page turner you won't want to put down! Stanley is a funny guy who seems to bumble his way through life and still comes out on top. There are alot of twists and turns to the story that kept me guessing! Who IS guilty? A must read for all mystery lovers!
August 29, 2017
Great read. Couldn't put it down.
I read a lot and enjoy a good, fast moving story. This one was well written, fast moving and stayed on subject. So many of the books I get on Amazon are not written well so I loose interest.
I read a lot and enjoy a good, fast moving story. This one was well written, fast moving and stayed on subject. So many of the books I get on Amazon are not written well so I loose interest.
July 3, 2018
I'd Read Another
Pretty good characters, but I wish Stanley had a bit more gumption. The story kept me up late, and that makes it a 4 star. Give Stan some more fortitude, it would get the fifth star.
Pretty good characters, but I wish Stanley had a bit more gumption. The story kept me up late, and that makes it a 4 star. Give Stan some more fortitude, it would get the fifth star.
August 26, 2018
Not what you would expect
From the first page you will not want to put this down. Stan is funny and smart and likes bourbon. So what's not to like about the guy? This is a page turned with a good plot that will keep you guessing throughout the entire book
From the first page you will not want to put this down. Stan is funny and smart and likes bourbon. So what's not to like about the guy? This is a page turned with a good plot that will keep you guessing throughout the entire book
October 9, 2019
Not your typical Private Investigator
If you like books that are not too complicated you may like this book. The main character is far from a tough guy and doesn't have a way with the ladies. What he does have is a drinking problem and a hard time paying bills.
If you like books that are not too complicated you may like this book. The main character is far from a tough guy and doesn't have a way with the ladies. What he does have is a drinking problem and a hard time paying bills.
January 5, 2020
High action
Murder, mayhem, mystery. Stanley has his hands full with clearing a witness protection person, protecting a sister from a bully, and putting a techie nephew through rigorous scenarios. A great read, a surprise or three, and then there's Bunny...
Murder, mayhem, mystery. Stanley has his hands full with clearing a witness protection person, protecting a sister from a bully, and putting a techie nephew through rigorous scenarios. A great read, a surprise or three, and then there's Bunny...
August 8, 2020
Happily surprised!
I did not expect that much from a free Kindle e-book from Amazon, but this was a very good book. The plot was fantastic and the book just flowed like the Charlie Rich song. This book has a lot of great one-liners as well. Good job Al.
I did not expect that much from a free Kindle e-book from Amazon, but this was a very good book. The plot was fantastic and the book just flowed like the Charlie Rich song. This book has a lot of great one-liners as well. Good job Al.
December 1, 2020
Great short escape and initial book to a series. Good plots (yes, that's plural) and decent characters. The main character is mildly amusing. I look forward to the future episodes where I hope the characters are further fleshed out..
February 5, 2021
Stanley is not a very tough private investigator who finds people trying to stay lost. In order to pay the bills, he takes a job with a previous mob accountant. I liked the unique way he has of solving problems. Fast read. I rate this a 4.4
August 14, 2021
"Didn't catch fire"
After three or four chapters the writing style and the humour started to wear thin. I grew up on Mickey Spillane and others, and don't recall the language being as foul as used here at times. Another so-so series I won't be following.
After three or four chapters the writing style and the humour started to wear thin. I grew up on Mickey Spillane and others, and don't recall the language being as foul as used here at times. Another so-so series I won't be following.
October 5, 2021
Nice PI story to pass the time.
Quick read. Easy flowing private eye plot ; even when the end seems obvious there is still a final twist. Entertaining ! Good book to take on short trip or while away an afternoon.
Quick read. Easy flowing private eye plot ; even when the end seems obvious there is still a final twist. Entertaining ! Good book to take on short trip or while away an afternoon.
October 14, 2021
I really enjoyed this one, both story and writing. A refreshing change to have a hero who is not the standard muscle man. Stanly is an original and worth the read. Looking forward to the next in the series.
September 17, 2022
Could not put it down
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I read it in 1 day. The main character As well as the supporting characters were all I could focus on. Looking forward to reading another book from this author.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I read it in 1 day. The main character As well as the supporting characters were all I could focus on. Looking forward to reading another book from this author.
December 14, 2024
Great read
This book was a really good read. The plot was inventive, the characters well defined and interesting, and the humor was dry and witty. I'm looing forward to reading more Stanlet Bentworth stories.
This book was a really good read. The plot was inventive, the characters well defined and interesting, and the humor was dry and witty. I'm looing forward to reading more Stanlet Bentworth stories.
October 24, 2017
Surprisingly entertaining
Funny in the right places. Acceptably suspenseful. It kept me entertained and interested. I plan to read the next one in the series.
Funny in the right places. Acceptably suspenseful. It kept me entertained and interested. I plan to read the next one in the series.
January 14, 2018
Good
I like Stanley. There were a couple spots where I got confused but I finally got it. I'll be reading more of the series.
I like Stanley. There were a couple spots where I got confused but I finally got it. I'll be reading more of the series.
February 14, 2018
Good book
You people should just read this book yourselves and write your own review on this novel yourself and I really enjoyed reading this book very much so. Shelley MA
You people should just read this book yourselves and write your own review on this novel yourself and I really enjoyed reading this book very much so. Shelley MA
December 7, 2018
Very enjoyable.
December 13, 2018
Great book
Love the smart as s attitude....great combo of mixing the two cases , fast paced, quick witted, easy going enjoyable read.thanks suzanne
Love the smart as s attitude....great combo of mixing the two cases , fast paced, quick witted, easy going enjoyable read.thanks suzanne
Displaying 1 - 30 of 107 reviews