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.
| # | Title | Year |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | New York Dead | 1991 |
| 2 | Dirt | 1996 |
| 3 | Dead in the Water | 1997 |
| 4 | Swimming to Catalina | 1998 |
| 5 | Worst Fears Realized | 1999 |
| 6 | L.A. Dead | 2000 |
| 7 | Cold Paradise | 2001 |
| 8 | The Short Forever | 2002 |
| 9 | Dirty Work | 2003 |
| 10 | Reckless Abandon | 2004 |
| 11 | Two Dollar Bill | 2005 |
| 12 | Dark Harbor | 2006 |
| 13 | Fresh Disasters | 2007 |
| 14 | Shoot Him If He Runs | 2007 |
| 15 | Hot Mahogany | 2008 |
| 16 | Loitering with Intent | 2009 |
| 17 | Kisser | 2010 |
| 18 | Lucid Intervals | 2010 |
| 19 | Strategic Moves | 2011 |
| 20 | Bel-Air Dead | 2011 |
| 21 | Son of Stone | 2011 |
| 22 | D.C. Dead | 2011 |
| 23 | Unnatural Acts | 2012 |
| 24 | Severe Clear | 2012 |
| 25 | Collateral Damage | 2013 |
| 26 | Unintended Consequences | 2013 |
| 27 | Doing Hard Time | 2013 |
| 28 | Standup Guy | 2014 |
| 29 | Carnal Curiosity | 2014 |
| 30 | Cut and Thrust | 2014 |
| 31 | Paris Match | 2014 |
| 32 | Insatiable Appetites | 2015 |
| 33 | Hot Pursuit | 2015 |
| 34 | Naked Greed | 2015 |
| 35 | Foreign Affairs | 2015 |
| 36 | Scandalous Behavior | 2016 |
| 37 | Family Jewels | 2016 |
| 38 | Dishonorable Intentions | 2016 |
| 39 | Sex, Lies & Serious Money | 2016 |
| 40 | Below the Belt | 2017 |
| 41 | Fast and Loose | 2017 |
| 42 | Indecent Exposure | 2017 |
| 43 | Quick & Dirty | 2017 |
| 44 | Unbound | 2018 |
| 45 | Shoot First | 2018 |
| 46 | Turbulence | 2018 |
| 47 | Desperate Measures | 2018 |
| 48 | A Delicate Touch | 2018 |
| 49 | Wild Card | 2019 |
| 50 | Contraband | 2019 |
| 51 | Stealth | 2019 |
| 52 | Treason | 2020 |
| 53 | Hit List | 2020 |
| 54 | Choppy Water | 2020 |
| 55 | Shakeup | 2020 |
| 56 | Hush-Hush | 2020 |
| 57 | Double Jeopardy | 2021 |
| 58 | Class Act | 2021 |
| 59 | Foul Play | 2021 |
| 60 | Criminal Mischief | 2022 |
| 61 | A Safe House | 2022 |
| 62 | Black Dog | 2022 |
| 63 | Distant Thunder | 2022 |
| 64 | Near Miss | 2023 |
| 65 | Smolder | 2024 |
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.
Related Series and Spin-offs
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.
