The Big Boys' Detective Agency

Jesse Ashworth Mystery #3

by Stephen E. Stanley

When retired teacher Jesse Ashworth and former police chief Tim Mallory buy the Bigg- Boyce Security Company in Bath Maine, interesting cases begin to cross their desks. Known locally as the "Big Boys' Detective Agency" Tim and Jesse begin new careers as private detectives.

The Turner Art Museum in Portland Maine seems to be the epicenter of some strange happenings. When the Big Boys' Detective Agency is contacted to investigate a haunting in the museum, Tim and Jesse embark on an adventure that turns up not only a missing person but also more than one body.

Genres: Mystery, Suspense, Gay

216 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 21, 2010

About the author

Stephen E. Stanley has been an educator for over thirty years, first as a high school English instructor and then as a full-time teacher mentor for secondary education in a large New Hampshire school district. He grew up in Bath, Maine and currently resides in New Hampshire.

Reviews

[Ottilee B. · Rating 4 out of 5]

This mystery was neither sweet nor nonsweet: it was a story. It was third in the series but my first as it was about an art theft in a museum. (I'm a sucker for art-related.) Also the name of the detective agency- former owner's were Biggs and Boyce so it's known locally as The Big Boys, which I love!

It used simple language- no cussing- and no sex (although one mc groped the other in the dark museum). In this day and age it's nice to read a story and not be bogged down by the emotional shenanigans this genre is known for and much prefer.

If you're looking for a straight-up art mystery, this is it. Recommended.

[Russell j. VanAllen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have enjoyed every book I have read by Stephen Stanley. His characters are interesting everyday people (a little on the quirky) side) who I can relate to. No deep thinking necessary but plenty of fun. Down home living with a little intrigue mixed in. This, I call them installments, included another profound statement saying that if it were not for the Ladies of the Church, Church in the USA would not have grown as it has as they organize the events and take care of the food, keeping the people coming back. * This is my memory of how the statement went!

If you are a dog lover, partake in simple neighborhood social events and like a little mystery, then pick up this or any Stephen Stanley book - only about $2.99!

The books do not have to be read in order as they contain some competitive statements. I rely on this as I am retired!

[Neet · Rating 4 out of 5]

Now that Jesse & Tim (newly retired as chief of police) have their new detective agency they worry if they have enough cases to keep them in business. I guess as they say be careful what you wish for is true becuase one case in particular hits close to home for Jesse. I love this book and the diverse friendships of the couple. As long as Mr Stanley keeps writing these mysteries I'll keep reading them.I just like Jesse & Tim because they act their age and don't bed-hop.

[Angel Pedroza · Rating 3 out of 5]

It was hard to lose yourself in the story because it was told in first person dialog. The sentences were short and choppy.

[Angel Pedroza · Rating 3 out of 5]

The writing was awkward which in turn caused me to be unable to loose myself in the story.

[Wyrn · Rating 3 out of 5]

Really nice and easy read. Lots of characters with real personalities, the types of people you could actually imagine in real life. Love the quiet pace of life in Maine with older characters.