Saddle up and step into the rugged, pulse-pounding world of the Ben Stillman series, where the American West comes alive with grit, justice, and unrelenting adventure! Crafted by Peter Brandvold, this beloved Western saga follows Ben Stillman, a retired U.S. Marshal who can’t seem to escape the call of duty. From battling cattle rustlers to facing down vengeful outlaws, Stillman’s tales are a thrilling ride through the late 19th-century frontier, perfect for fans of Louis L’Amour and William W. Johnstone.
With nearly two decades of stories, the series captures the essence of the Wild West—corruption, vengeance, and the fight for what’s right. Whether you’re a seasoned Western reader or new to the genre, Ben Stillman’s relentless spirit and the vivid Montana backdrop will hook you from the first page.
How Ben Stillman Began
Peter Brandvold, a North Dakota native with a passion for the American West, launched the Ben Stillman series in 1998 with Once a Marshal. Inspired by classic Westerns and his love for action-packed storytelling, Brandvold created Stillman as a flawed yet principled hero—a man haunted by his past but driven to uphold justice. The series grew from Brandvold’s desire to keep the Western genre alive, blending gritty realism with mythic frontier allure. Now with over 100 novels under his belt, including works under his pseudonym Frank Leslie, Brandvold’s Stillman saga remains a cornerstone of his prolific career.
The Heart of Ben Stillman
The Ben Stillman series spans 14 books, each a high-octane adventure. Once a Marshal (1998) introduces Stillman, a retired lawman pulled back into action to solve cattle rustling and uncover a web of corruption in Montana’s Hi-Line. In Once More with a .44 (2000), Stillman restores order in Clantick, Montana, facing rowdy cowboys and personal demons. Hell on Wheels (2006) sees him protecting a judge from ex-Confederate outlaws, while Stillman’s War (2014) pits him against a vengeful family in a brutal mountain chase.
The series thrives on themes of justice, redemption, and resilience. Stillman, often reluctant, embodies the Western archetype of a lone hero, navigating moral dilemmas in a lawless land. Brandvold’s vivid prose paints the Montana frontier as both beautiful and brutal, with saloons, stagecoaches, and snowy peaks setting the stage. Fans praise the fast-paced plots, rich characters like deputy Leon McMannigle, and a touch of romance that adds heart to the gunfights.
Brandvold’s style is unapologetically action-driven, yet he weaves in emotional depth—Stillman’s loyalty to friends and family often sparks all-out war. The series’ blend of mystery, suspense, and surprising twists keeps readers turning pages, earning it comparisons to genre giants.
Why Ben Stillman Resonates
The Ben Stillman series has carved a niche in Western fiction, captivating readers with its authentic portrayal of frontier life and timeless themes. Fans on Goodreads and Amazon rave about Stillman’s relatability—not a superhuman gunslinger, but a courageous, principled man facing overwhelming odds. Brandvold’s ability to refresh traditional Western tropes, like revenge and redemption, keeps the series fresh, even for new readers. Its enduring appeal lies in its escapist thrill and moral clarity, offering a window into a mythical yet grounded West.
The series’ impact extends to inspiring a new generation of Western fans, proving the genre’s staying power. With high ratings (4.24–4.56 on Goodreads) and a loyal following, Ben Stillman remains a testament to Brandvold’s storytelling prowess.
- First Book: Once a Marshal (1998)
- Latest Book: Stillman’s Wrath (2019)
- Total Books: 14
- Author: Peter Brandvold
Ready to ride into the Wild West? Grab Once a Marshal and join Ben Stillman’s thrilling quest for justice in a world where danger lurks around every corner!