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Axel Blaze #4
Mean Streets
Ain’t no mercy on the mean city streets.
Midnight in New York City. A car stops at an intersection. Three mean men inside. A scared girl in the back. Before the lights turn green, a motorcycle stops next to it. The rider sees the girl making a distress hand signal. Lucky for her, the man understands the signal. Unlucky for her captors – the man is Axel Blaze.
The chase that begins at a Manhattan intersection takes Blaze on a treacherous journey. A drugs and prostitution gang is wreaking havoc on the streets. Mean men, who will do whatever it takes. Trouble is, so will Blaze. It’s going to be mayhem on the mean streets of the city that never sleeps.
Page-turning thrillers in the lone ranger tradition of Jack Reacher, Mitch Rapp and The Gray Man novels. The fast-paced, brutal action in the Blaze series is attracting thriller readers worldwide.
_________________
Praise for the
“Blaze combines the force of Reacher, the unapologetic badassery of Dirty Harry, the savagery of Frank Castle, and the calculated precision of Bourne.”
"Blaze is a no-nonsense guy. Shoot second...after head butting the guy first. My kind of hero !"
“Blaze is a badass in the real sense of the word . He doesn’t stop until every bad guy is broken or dead.”
_________________
Readers are
★★★★★ “…non-stop action…”
★★★★★ “…fast and violent…”
★★★★★ “Blaze is the new badass in town!!”
★★★★★ “Must read! This series rocks!!”
Midnight in New York City. A car stops at an intersection. Three mean men inside. A scared girl in the back. Before the lights turn green, a motorcycle stops next to it. The rider sees the girl making a distress hand signal. Lucky for her, the man understands the signal. Unlucky for her captors – the man is Axel Blaze.
The chase that begins at a Manhattan intersection takes Blaze on a treacherous journey. A drugs and prostitution gang is wreaking havoc on the streets. Mean men, who will do whatever it takes. Trouble is, so will Blaze. It’s going to be mayhem on the mean streets of the city that never sleeps.
Page-turning thrillers in the lone ranger tradition of Jack Reacher, Mitch Rapp and The Gray Man novels. The fast-paced, brutal action in the Blaze series is attracting thriller readers worldwide.
_________________
Praise for the
“Blaze combines the force of Reacher, the unapologetic badassery of Dirty Harry, the savagery of Frank Castle, and the calculated precision of Bourne.”
"Blaze is a no-nonsense guy. Shoot second...after head butting the guy first. My kind of hero !"
“Blaze is a badass in the real sense of the word . He doesn’t stop until every bad guy is broken or dead.”
_________________
Readers are
★★★★★ “…non-stop action…”
★★★★★ “…fast and violent…”
★★★★★ “Blaze is the new badass in town!!”
★★★★★ “Must read! This series rocks!!”
- GenresThriller
324 pages, ebook
Published February 19, 2023
About the author
Bill Runner
77 books72 followersBill Runner worked as an investigative journalist before turning to writing novels. He grew up on a regular diet of western novels and movies about lone rangers, which influenced the shaping of Blaze. Bill is an experienced mountain climber and has been a lifelong student of martial arts. Working the crime beat and studying the art of fighting helped make him the author of thriller novels, which are known for well-executed action sequences.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
September 14, 2026
Blaze on the Mean Streets
A review of the Runner House Books eBook (September 1, 2024) a reissue of the original paperback/eBook (February 4, 2023).
Former Ranger/former U.S. Marshal Axel Blaze is on a personal trip to New York City when he sees a young woman giving a now more generally known secret hand signal.
Trivia and Links
Perhaps you are wondering why I'm reading such repetitive action thrillers. Without too much personal detail, I've had a few unfortunate experiences this year, including being the victim of a car theft and a natural disaster. Somehow, justice was hardly ever served in those cases and the bureaucracy of the police, the insurance, the autobody shops etc. was often infuriating and had the feeling of a conspiracy. Reading about fictional vigilante justice was a way of processing all that.
A few quotes in that vein:
A review of the Runner House Books eBook (September 1, 2024) a reissue of the original paperback/eBook (February 4, 2023).
A basic rule drilled into my mind through countless training sessions on close quarters combat was: Deliver lethal force with speed, precision, and violent action.
Former Ranger/former U.S. Marshal Axel Blaze is on a personal trip to New York City when he sees a young woman giving a now more generally known secret hand signal.
It isn’t very widely known yet. It was developed following the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, when many women stuck at home during lockdowns had begun suffering domestic violence. The signal was meant to let them seek help unobtrusively. The closing of the fingers over the thumb symbolically traps the thumb, signaling that the woman is trapped and in distress.Blaze is fast on the trail and ends up busting a gang of traffickers and drug dealers in his usual manner, enlisting a former comrade to help in the cleanup.
Trivia and Links
Perhaps you are wondering why I'm reading such repetitive action thrillers. Without too much personal detail, I've had a few unfortunate experiences this year, including being the victim of a car theft and a natural disaster. Somehow, justice was hardly ever served in those cases and the bureaucracy of the police, the insurance, the autobody shops etc. was often infuriating and had the feeling of a conspiracy. Reading about fictional vigilante justice was a way of processing all that.
A few quotes in that vein:
The white moonlight was cold and clear, like the justice we dream of but don't find. - Raymond Chandler The High Window (1942).
The law's not about justice. It's a system we've put in place because we can't have justice. - William McIlvanney / Ian Rankin The Dark Remains (2021).
November 28, 2023
Did you ever wish that there was someone that would just stand up and intervene when evil men wreak havoc on good people? Blaze gets the job done. Not a typical vigilante – he is an expert at hand-to-hand combat, and has sources in all the right places to help take care of things quickly and quietly.
In Mean Streets, the 4th in the series, Blaze happens to be in the right place when he sees a young girl in distress. A few broken bones later and she is safe – or is she. This is just the beginning of a whirlwind discovery of prostitution and drugs.
Runner is an excellent writer. He has done his research and writes direct and to the point. There is little time in these fast-paced novels to write about the fluff of the world. Wish there were a few men like this in the real world – willing to right the wrong in the world.
Thanks to BookSirens for a copy of this book.
In Mean Streets, the 4th in the series, Blaze happens to be in the right place when he sees a young girl in distress. A few broken bones later and she is safe – or is she. This is just the beginning of a whirlwind discovery of prostitution and drugs.
Runner is an excellent writer. He has done his research and writes direct and to the point. There is little time in these fast-paced novels to write about the fluff of the world. Wish there were a few men like this in the real world – willing to right the wrong in the world.
Thanks to BookSirens for a copy of this book.
February 19, 2023
New York streets can be dangerous. Good thing there’s Blaze around.
I was eagerly looking forward to this fourth novel in the series. The wait was worth it. Blaze sees a scared girl in the back of a car filled with bad characters. Once Blaze sets his sights on them, they don’t have a chance of escaping with bones intact. But then the chase begins – racing from Manhattan to Harlem to the Bronx to Central Park. The pace is relentless. Solid supporting characters. I fell in love with Buffy and Doyle. Five stars from me for this thrill ride. I’m now waiting for the next one – Unchained Fury. The name says it all.
I was eagerly looking forward to this fourth novel in the series. The wait was worth it. Blaze sees a scared girl in the back of a car filled with bad characters. Once Blaze sets his sights on them, they don’t have a chance of escaping with bones intact. But then the chase begins – racing from Manhattan to Harlem to the Bronx to Central Park. The pace is relentless. Solid supporting characters. I fell in love with Buffy and Doyle. Five stars from me for this thrill ride. I’m now waiting for the next one – Unchained Fury. The name says it all.
February 20, 2023
Mean Streets is a fantastic thriller that will leave you breathless. The story is set in the mean streets of New York City and follows Axel Blaze, a motorcycle-riding hero who will stop at nothing to protect the innocent. The novel is filled with intense action, suspense, and drama, and the characters are well-developed and believable. Bill Runner has once again delivered a masterful thriller that will keep you hooked from beginning to end. If you're a fan of the genre, then Mean Streets is a must-read.
March 9, 2023
This is exactly the kind of book I want to read when the genre is Acion/Adventure. This is non-stop action from beginning to end. Blaze is the hero and he is aptly named.
While most stories are full of death, blood and gore, this one is more of hurting the bad guys, but leaving them alive. Near as I can tell only two people died, and one of them was necessary to make the plot work.
I was captivated by this book and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a gritty, action packed storI received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
While most stories are full of death, blood and gore, this one is more of hurting the bad guys, but leaving them alive. Near as I can tell only two people died, and one of them was necessary to make the plot work.
I was captivated by this book and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a gritty, action packed storI received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 17, 2023
I am new to Axel Blaze. Wow! What a character. He takes all these bad guys out without a gun. Seems a baton is his weapon of choice. He takes people down, but does not kill unless necessary. His attacks are well thought out, even in the spur of the moment. His morals and integrity are spot on.
Action packed. I was hooked at the opening scene. A teenage girl in the back seat of a car is flashing a distress signal. What could he do? He went into full out rescue mode. Such a good book.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book from Hidden Gems.
Action packed. I was hooked at the opening scene. A teenage girl in the back seat of a car is flashing a distress signal. What could he do? He went into full out rescue mode. Such a good book.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book from Hidden Gems.
January 17, 2024
Good Thriller.
A good thriller and storyline that starts off with Blaze rescuing a scared teenager from a group of gangsters intending to murder her because she and her sister witnessed the murder of an undercover detective. This rescue brings Blaze into direct conflict with the gangsters and discovers that corrupt police officers are also involved. With the help of a former colleague from his military unit and friends he sets about taking down the drug dealing gang and solving the Detectives murder as the only way to secure the sister’s safety.
A good thriller and storyline that starts off with Blaze rescuing a scared teenager from a group of gangsters intending to murder her because she and her sister witnessed the murder of an undercover detective. This rescue brings Blaze into direct conflict with the gangsters and discovers that corrupt police officers are also involved. With the help of a former colleague from his military unit and friends he sets about taking down the drug dealing gang and solving the Detectives murder as the only way to secure the sister’s safety.
Read
February 16, 2023New York city is a crazy place. some pleas for help are often ignored- others....
Axel Blaze is ex special forces and a retired US Marshall, and is definitely someone you might want to have your back
this action packed suspense thriller is filled with Blaze doing his best for his ideas of justice.
emotional and bone breaking more than lethal action justice seeking police gone dirty and done right and righteous procedural
Axel Blaze is ex special forces and a retired US Marshall, and is definitely someone you might want to have your back
this action packed suspense thriller is filled with Blaze doing his best for his ideas of justice.
emotional and bone breaking more than lethal action justice seeking police gone dirty and done right and righteous procedural
February 18, 2023
A thrilling addition to the Axel Blaze series. Bill Runner once again delivers a fast-paced and action-packed adventure that will keep you on the edge of your seat. The story is set in the gritty and dangerous streets of New York City and follows Axel Blaze as he takes on a drugs and prostitution gang. The characters are well-developed, and the action is intense and relentless. The novel is a must-read for anyone who loves a good thriller.
February 23, 2023
I'm a huge fan of Bill Runner and his Axel Blazes series and this book is as good as the others with non stop action that keeps you turning pages and totally entrenched in the story. I especially love how Axel incapacitates rather than kills those that are trying to kill him.
Great story line and interesting characters.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
Great story line and interesting characters.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
March 4, 2023
Mean streets not mean enough for Blaze. I was drawn in from the first line drew and the relentless action never stopped. Blaze sees a scared girl in the back of a car. He’s not one to look away. From Manhattan to Bronx to Central Park to Hell’s Kitchen, it’s breathless non-stop action. With a dose of romance thrown in – Abby the waitress/off Broadway actress with a smile and dimples to die for. Love this series.
January 6, 2024
Blaze is at a stop signal in New York City when he glances over to the cab next to him and sees hand singles from the girl which indicates that she is in trouble. He goes into action and from there, the book does not let up. An excellent story full of action and suspense to keep us the readers hooked to the pages. Wonderful characters and a very good story, very much worth the read. I received this book from Netgalley.com
November 17, 2024
A well thought out story
It's an ok book, not going to set the world.on fire but good enough to keep the pages turning
One good aspect about the whole thing, is that not everyone has to be killed, ok a few are, but for the most part it's knocking people out, which does seem simpler than in real life
Overall, worth the time and effort and very much worth continuing with the series
It's an ok book, not going to set the world.on fire but good enough to keep the pages turning
One good aspect about the whole thing, is that not everyone has to be killed, ok a few are, but for the most part it's knocking people out, which does seem simpler than in real life
Overall, worth the time and effort and very much worth continuing with the series
May 5, 2025
Big Apple is A.Blaze
From an interesting first paragraph to the last, this book will hold your interest. Blake's need for justice is motivating action against multiple suspects. New characters introduced are strong and also dedicated to seeing the bad guys go down. Veterans working together seamlessly, cops determined to find justice for the fallen. It's got it all. Alex Blaze topples empires with the help of a few friends. It's a great series.
From an interesting first paragraph to the last, this book will hold your interest. Blake's need for justice is motivating action against multiple suspects. New characters introduced are strong and also dedicated to seeing the bad guys go down. Veterans working together seamlessly, cops determined to find justice for the fallen. It's got it all. Alex Blaze topples empires with the help of a few friends. It's a great series.
November 25, 2024
Book 4
Book 4 was a fun read and a bit predictable. The MC is interesting and has repetitive information. If you read the books independently, then it makes sense, but some of the books need to be read in sequence. The plot was well done and had a few oddities throughout. I look forward to the next book.
Book 4 was a fun read and a bit predictable. The MC is interesting and has repetitive information. If you read the books independently, then it makes sense, but some of the books need to be read in sequence. The plot was well done and had a few oddities throughout. I look forward to the next book.
January 6, 2025
Blazing Fast Read
Blaze is Jack Reacher in cowboy boots. This was a well done story and very fast paced. Only put it down once before finishing. Runner does a good job bringing in new characters each story so it’s not like reading the same book over and over. Blaze saves the day so you sort know how it will end but it was a lively read!
Blaze is Jack Reacher in cowboy boots. This was a well done story and very fast paced. Only put it down once before finishing. Runner does a good job bringing in new characters each story so it’s not like reading the same book over and over. Blaze saves the day so you sort know how it will end but it was a lively read!
September 20, 2025
Mean Streets
I LOVED, LOVED, LOVED this book!!! Bill Runner is a brilliant author with a fantastic imagination and an uncanny ability for story telling. It was full of suspense, action, adventure and a lot of rooting for Axel Blaze and all of his friends and cohorts!!! I would highly recommend this series and can't wait to start the next book!!! Happy Reading!!!!
I LOVED, LOVED, LOVED this book!!! Bill Runner is a brilliant author with a fantastic imagination and an uncanny ability for story telling. It was full of suspense, action, adventure and a lot of rooting for Axel Blaze and all of his friends and cohorts!!! I would highly recommend this series and can't wait to start the next book!!! Happy Reading!!!!
March 17, 2023
Love the Axel rose books. From the first page to the last it's non stop action. With you guessing who will go down next. It's a great read that keeps you totally involved and turning the pages.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 24, 2023
Did not disappoint!
I’m enjoying the series-love the characters. There are some areas where the writing is a little simplistic and unnecessary, but over all, the stories are captivating and the storyline is good.
I’m enjoying the series-love the characters. There are some areas where the writing is a little simplistic and unnecessary, but over all, the stories are captivating and the storyline is good.
October 23, 2023
Great read
Axel is an animal who has made me think we need more real men like him in this country, to help get rid of the bullies and scam that prey on the weak like the bully who spent 4 years in the white house we needed an axel then
Axel is an animal who has made me think we need more real men like him in this country, to help get rid of the bullies and scam that prey on the weak like the bully who spent 4 years in the white house we needed an axel then
May 16, 2024
No criminals killed in the making of this book!
Excessive blunt force trauma to the cranium, resulting in many knockouts.
Good characters
Good plot
Good protagonist
Nobody hits that many people in the head without someone dieing. Just sayin.
Excessive blunt force trauma to the cranium, resulting in many knockouts.
Good characters
Good plot
Good protagonist
Nobody hits that many people in the head without someone dieing. Just sayin.
December 26, 2025
Albanian interlude
This New York story starts with an interesting twist. The topography of NYC is accurate as our hero becomes Don Quixote. However, I thought the ending felt a bit forced and predictable. 3.5 stars as a result
This New York story starts with an interesting twist. The topography of NYC is accurate as our hero becomes Don Quixote. However, I thought the ending felt a bit forced and predictable. 3.5 stars as a result
May 23, 2026
Mean Streets
5th book in the Axel Blaze series and they just keep getting better and better. Axel is like the vigilante you wished you knew who always gets his man no matter the odds. Great read.
5th book in the Axel Blaze series and they just keep getting better and better. Axel is like the vigilante you wished you knew who always gets his man no matter the odds. Great read.
February 22, 2023
Stunning and electric read all of the books asap
When is the next book coming out just love Axel Blaze and the stories. Great action and plenty of kick ass
When is the next book coming out just love Axel Blaze and the stories. Great action and plenty of kick ass
February 23, 2023
I love Axel !
This was a very good action book I lit how he takes the bad guys down! If you like foot action books you will love these!
This was a very good action book I lit how he takes the bad guys down! If you like foot action books you will love these!
March 13, 2023
good read and series
March 31, 2023
This guy!
Axel Blaze is the man that you want when the rough & tough needs to get done and done quickly.
Axel Blaze is the man that you want when the rough & tough needs to get done and done quickly.
April 19, 2023
Non stop action from Axel
From beginning to end, non stop action, with some human interest along the way. I love reading about Axel and his exploits
From beginning to end, non stop action, with some human interest along the way. I love reading about Axel and his exploits
May 16, 2023
Reacher look out
Bill you have a new fan. I love this character and look forward to many more Blaze encounters. Thank you for a fantastic ride through this whole series
Bill you have a new fan. I love this character and look forward to many more Blaze encounters. Thank you for a fantastic ride through this whole series
November 29, 2023
Great reading. Like the local stories
as well as the over seas adventures.
as well as the over seas adventures.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews