stone barrington books in order
stone barrington books in order

Stone Barrington Books in Order

If you’re a lover of contemporary mystery and thriller novels, then the Stone Barrington series by Stuart Woods is one you simply can’t miss. Over the years, these books have become a staple for fans who crave fast-paced adventures, legal drama, and a touch of high-society glamour. Whether you’re new to the series or looking to revisit it in the correct order, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Stone Barrington, his world, and the best way to experience his stories.

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Who is Stone Barrington?

Stone Barrington is the quintessential rebel-turned-hero, crafted by the talented Stuart Woods. Born to parents who were disinherited from wealthy families for their refusal to conform, Stone inherited their independent streak. He attended public school and eventually earned a law degree from New York University. However, instead of heading straight into a prestigious law firm, Stone chose a different path and joined the New York City Police Department. Despite being told he was too smart for police work, a ride-along in a patrol car convinced him otherwise, and he quickly became hooked on the adrenaline and challenge of the job.

After fourteen years of dedicated service, Stone’s outspoken nature led to his dismissal from the NYPD. He started the series broke and in debt, but thanks to an inheritance from his great aunt—a Turtle Bay townhouse—he managed to keep a roof over his head. Stone then passed the bar exam and became “of counsel” at the elite Manhattan law firm Woodman & Weld. This career shift opened new doors, allowing him to handle sensitive cases that the firm didn’t want to make public, and soon Stone found himself wealthy, well-connected, and living a life filled with luxury, travel, and romance.

Why Read the Stone Barrington Series in Order?

While each Stone Barrington novel presents a standalone mystery, reading the books in order offers a much richer experience. The series is filled with recurring characters, evolving relationships, and long-running story arcs that span multiple novels. By following the publication order, you’ll witness Stone’s personal growth, the deepening of his friendships, and the progression of his career from a struggling ex-cop to a high-powered attorney and investigator. You’ll also catch subtle references, inside jokes, and callbacks to earlier books that make the journey even more rewarding.

The World and Themes of Stone Barrington

The Stone Barrington novels are a blend of legal thrillers, detective fiction, and high-society drama. Each book throws Stone into a new challenge—whether it’s unraveling a murder, protecting a client from scandal, or facing off against international criminals. The stories are set primarily in New York City, but Stone’s adventures often take him to glamorous and exotic locations like Los Angeles, London, the Caribbean, and even Europe.

Key themes in the series include crime and justice, power and corruption, romance and relationships, and high-stakes adventure. Stone’s world is one where danger lurks behind every corner, but so does opportunity, luxury, and intrigue. His active love life, expensive tastes, and sharp wit make him a character readers love to root for.

Stone Barrington Books in Order

With over 60 novels and counting, keeping track of the Stone Barrington books can be a challenge. Here’s a comprehensive look at the series in publication order, which is the best way to experience Stone’s journey from the very beginning.

#TitleYear
1New York Dead1991
2Dirt1996
3Dead in the Water1997
4Swimming to Catalina1998
5Worst Fears Realized1999
6L.A. Dead2000
7Cold Paradise2001
8The Short Forever2002
9Dirty Work2003
10Reckless Abandon2004
11Two Dollar Bill2005
12Dark Harbor2006
13Fresh Disasters2007
14Shoot Him If He Runs2007
15Hot Mahogany2008
16Loitering with Intent2009
17Kisser2010
18Lucid Intervals2010
19Strategic Moves2011
20Bel-Air Dead2011
21Son of Stone2011
22D.C. Dead2011
23Unnatural Acts2012
24Severe Clear2012
25Collateral Damage2013
26Unintended Consequences2013
27Doing Hard Time2013
28Standup Guy2014
29Carnal Curiosity2014
30Cut and Thrust2014
31Paris Match2014
32Insatiable Appetites2015
33Hot Pursuit2015
34Naked Greed2015
35Foreign Affairs2015
36Scandalous Behavior2016
37Family Jewels2016
38Dishonorable Intentions2016
39Sex, Lies & Serious Money2016
40Below the Belt2017
41Fast and Loose2017
42Indecent Exposure2017
43Quick & Dirty2017
44Unbound2018
45Shoot First2018
46Turbulence2018
47Desperate Measures2018
48A Delicate Touch2018
49Wild Card2019
50Contraband2019
51Stealth2019
52Treason2020
53Hit List2020
54Choppy Water2020
55Shakeup2020
56Hush-Hush2020
57Double Jeopardy2021
58Class Act2021
59Foul Play2021
60Criminal Mischief2022
61A Safe House2022
62Black Dog2022
63Distant Thunder2022
64Near Miss2023
65Smolder2024

Should You Read Stone Barrington Books in Order?

While each Stone Barrington novel can be enjoyed as a standalone, reading them in order is highly recommended for the best experience. The character arcs, ongoing relationships, and subtle references to past events create a richer, more immersive narrative when followed sequentially. However, if a particular plot or setting catches your eye, feel free to jump in anywhere—the books are designed to be accessible to new readers as well.

Where to Start for New Readers

If you’re just starting out, “New York Dead” is the perfect entry point. It sets the stage for Stone’s world and introduces many of the series’ key characters. Alternatively, you can begin with a major milestone book like “Shoot Him If He Runs” or “Hot Mahogany” to get a feel for the series’ style and pacing.

Stuart Woods also wrote the Ed Eagle series, set in New Mexico, and several other thrillers that occasionally cross over with the Stone Barrington universe. Characters like Holly Barker and Teddy Fay appear in multiple series, creating a shared world that fans love to explore.

About the Author: Stuart Woods

Stuart Woods was a prolific and beloved American author, best known for his sharp dialogue, brisk pacing, and memorable characters. With a background in advertising and a passion for sailing, Woods brought a unique blend of sophistication and adventure to his writing. The Stone Barrington series remains his most famous legacy, beloved by fans worldwide. Even after Woods’ passing in 2022, the series continues with new co-authors, ensuring that Stone’s adventures live on.

The Evolution and Style of the Series

Woods’ writing is characterized by fast-paced plots, witty banter, and glamorous settings. From Manhattan penthouses to European villas, the series oozes both luxury and danger. The evolving cast of characters and the introduction of new storylines keep the series fresh and exciting, even after dozens of installments. The addition of co-authors in later books has helped the series maintain its signature style while introducing new perspectives and challenges for Stone.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How Many Stone Barrington Books Are There?

As of 2024, there are 65 main novels in the Stone Barrington series, with the latest being “Smolder.” The series may continue with additional installments in the future.

2. Are There Any Movie or TV Adaptations?

While there has been interest in adapting the series for film or television, no official adaptations have been released yet.

3. What’s Next for the Series?

After Stuart Woods’ passing, the series has continued with co-authors. Fans can expect more adventures featuring Stone and his friends, as the legacy of the series endures.

Conclusion

The Stone Barrington series is a thrilling ride through the worlds of crime, law, and high society. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer, reading the books in order will immerse you in the ongoing drama, relationships, and adventures that have made Stone Barrington a household name in modern fiction. With its blend of suspense, glamour, and unforgettable characters, this series promises hours of entertainment and intrigue. So grab the first book, settle in, and get ready for an exhilarating journey through the life and times of Stone Barrington.

Additional Resources

For those looking to dive in, Stone Barrington books are widely available at major retailers like Amazon and Barnes & Noble, as well as at local bookstores and libraries. Audiobook versions are also available on platforms like Audible and Speechify, perfect for enjoying the series on the go. For the latest news and releases, check out the official Stuart Woods website or the publisher’s page at Penguin Random House.

Ready to start your Stone Barrington adventure? Whether you’re drawn in by the mysteries, the characters, or the high-octane action, this series is sure to keep you turning pages late into the night.

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