Stuart Woods Books in Order: A Guide to His Novels Complete List 2024

I’m thrilled you’re here because, just like me, you’re a fan of Stuart Woods and his gripping novels.

If you’re anything like me, you probably want to dive into his books in the right sequence to get the most out of the intriguing plots and unforgettable characters.

I’ve put together a comprehensive guide to Stuart Woods’ books in order, so you can easily follow his captivating stories from start to finish.

Whether you’re a long-time reader or new to his work, this list will help you experience all of Woods’ thrilling adventures in the best possible way. Let’s get started!

Who is Stuart Woods?

Stuart Woods (1938-2022) was an American novelist renowned for his mystery and thriller novels, particularly the Stone Barrington series which I grew up with . Over his prolific career, he wrote more than 90 novels, blending suspense, crime, and glamour. His debut novel, “Chiefs” (1981), won the Edgar Award for Best First Novel. Woods’ engaging storytelling and memorable characters earned him a dedicated readership and a lasting legacy in fiction. I am sharing Stuart Woods books in order in the hopes the younger generation might enjoy his works just as I did growing up.

Stone Barrington Series

The Stone Barrington series is one of Stuart Woods’s most famous works. It follows the adventures of a suave lawyer and former NYPD detective, Stone Barrington, as he navigates the world of high society, legal drama, and political intrigue.

List of books in chronological order with brief descriptions.

New York Dead (1991)

4.4 4.4 out of 5 stars 6,910 ratings

The first book in the Stone Barrington series introduces us to our favorite Stone Barrington, the New York City cop-turned-lawyer who is investigating the mysterious fall of a TV journalist from a high-rise.

Dirt (1996)

4.4 4.4 out of 5 stars 5,373 ratings

Stone Barrington gets entangled in the world of tabloid journalism as he tries to uncover the source of vicious gossip columns attacking a high-society magazine publisher.

Dead in the Water (1997)

4.5 4.5 out of 5 stars 4,583 ratings

Stone is vacationing in St. Marks when he becomes involved in a case defending a young woman accused of murdering her millionaire husband.

Swimming to Catalina (1998)

4.5 4.5 out of 5 stars 4,909 ratings

Stone is hired to find a missing Hollywood actress, who disappears under mysterious circumstances, leading him to a dangerous conspiracy.

Worst Fears Realized (1999)

4.5 4.5 out of 5 stars 4,149 ratings

This is the first time I felt Stone’s human fears as his friends are being targeted by a serial killer, and he must use all his skills to protect those he loves while finding the murderer.

L.A. Dead (2000)

4.5 4.5 out of 5 stars 3,122 ratings

Stone heads to Los Angeles to support a friend accused of murdering her husband, a prominent movie producer, amidst Hollywood’s glamorous and treacherous world.

Cold Paradise (2001)

4.4 4.4 out of 5 stars 3,226 ratings

This novel reminds me of Stone as a cool guy as he heads to Palm Beach, where he becomes embroiled in a case involving an old flame, now the wife of a wealthy man who needs Stone’s protection.

The Short Forever (2002)

4.4 4.4 out of 5 stars 2,911 ratings

Stone Barrington takes on an international case involving espionage, treachery, and murder while trying to protect his client in London.

Dirty Work (2003)

4.4 4.4 out of 5 stars 3,223 ratings

Stone is hired by a wealthy woman to investigate her sister’s suspicious death, leading him into a world of danger and deceit.

Reckless Abandon (2004)

4.4 4.4 out of 5 stars 3,267 ratings

This is the novel where we meet another memorable character, Holly Barker, a Florida police chief partnering with Stone to track down a dangerous fugitive who has information on a major crime.

Two-Dollar Bill (2005)

4.5 4.5 out of 5 stars 2,631 ratings

A conman who brings trouble and violence to Stone’s doorstep, involving him in a deadly scheme that could be the ruin of our favorite hero.

Dark Harbor (2006)

4.4 4.4 out of 5 stars 2,842 ratings

After inheriting a house on an island off Maine’s coast, Stone discovers his cousin’s death was no accident, prompting him to uncover a deadly conspiracy.

Fresh Disasters (2007)

4.4 4.4 out of 5 stars 2,375 ratings

With multiple cases, including helping a client being harassed by the mob, Stone must surmount unexpected danger from almost everywhere.

Shoot Him If He Runs (2007)

4.4 4.4 out of 5 stars 2,375 ratings

Tracking down a former CIA agent who has gone rogue, leading to a high-stakes chase, takes Stone Barrington to the paradise Caribbean Island.

Hot Mahogany (2008)

4.3 4.3 out of 5 stars 3,671 ratings

Helping a former CIA agent who suffers from memory loss, uncovering secrets tied to valuable antique furniture, brings an unexpected trouble and adventure to Stone.

Loitering with Intent (2009)

4.3 4.3 out of 5 stars 3,671 ratings

Hired by an affluent man who suspects his wife of cheating, Stone must navigate the complexities of marriage as the case quickly turns deadly.

Kisser (2009)

4.3 4.3 out of 5 stars 2,722 ratings

Kisser combines glamour and espionage as Stone becomes involved with a beautiful actress, leading him into a web of Hollywood intrigue and danger.

Lucid Intervals (2010)

4.4 4.4 out of 5 stars 2,562 ratings

A former lover returns, and Stone’s life is complicated as a new love interest blossoms, and a case involving an elusive billionaire.

Strategic Moves (2011)

4.4 4.4 out of 5 stars 2,004 ratings

Our favorite detective must solve a complicated case involving international finance, politics, and assassination plots.

Bel-Air Dead (2011)

4.4 4.4 out of 5 stars 2,518 ratings

Stone is drawn into the high-stakes world of real estate in Bel-Air, dealing with ruthless developers and dangerous enemies.

Son of Stone (2011)

4.5 4.5 out of 5 stars 2,176 ratings

This is one of the most emotional Stone novel as Barrington discovers he has a teenage son, Peter, and navigates the challenges of fatherhood while managing his law practice and various intrigues.

D.C. Dead (2011)

4.3 4.3 out of 5 stars 2,295 ratings

Detective Barrington is summoned to Washington, D.C., to investigate the suspicious death of a prominent political figure, uncovering secrets and scandals in the capital.

Unnatural Acts (2012)

4.4 4.4 out of 5 stars 2,160 ratings

Herbie Fisher seeks assistant from Stone, as he deals with a series of legal and personal problems that escalate into a dangerous situation.

Severe Clear (2012)

4.4 4.4 out of 5 stars 2,442 ratings

At the grand opening of a luxury hotel, Stone finds himself in the middle of a terrorist plot which threatens the celebration, putting everyone in grave danger.

Collateral Damage (2013)

4.4 4.4 out of 5 stars 2,806 ratings

Detective Stone must race against time and stop an international conspiracy involving a deadly terrorist cell after a close call with a car bomb.

Unintended Consequences (2013)

4.5 4.5 out of 5 stars 2,894 ratings

Waking up in Paris with no memory of how he got there, Stone must piece together the events leading to a dangerous situation involving international espionage.

Doing Hard Time (2013)

4.4 4.4 out of 5 stars 3,272 ratings

Peter Barrington, Stone’s son, faces threats from Russian gangsters, and Stone steps in to protect him while dealing with a high-stakes criminal underworld.

Standup Guy (2014)

4.4 4.4 out of 5 stars 4,404 ratings

Stone helps a mysterious client who comes into a large sum of money under dubious circumstances, leading to a series of complications and threats.

Carnal Curiosity (2014)

4.3 4.3 out of 5 stars 4,101 ratings

Determined to investigate a series of high-end burglaries targeting his wealthy clients, Detective Stone uncovers a web of deceit and danger.

Cut and Thrust (2014)

4.2 4.2 out of 5 stars 3,722 ratings

Stone is involved in a high-stakes political convention in Los Angeles, navigating power plays, scandals, and assassination plots.

Paris Match (2014)

4.1 4.1 out of 5 stars 4,692 ratings

Detective Stone heads to Paris, where he deals with dangerous adversaries, international intrigue, and romantic entanglements.

Insatiable Appetites (2015)

4.2 4.2 out of 5 stars 4,832 ratings

Stone contends with a powerful politician’s machinations, a murder investigation, and complicated personal relationships.

Hot Pursuit (2015)

5.0 5.0 out of 5 stars 1 rating

Once again, Stone and his friends are targeted by a deadly adversary, leading to a high-speed chase and a battle for survival.

Naked Greed (2015)

4.2 4.2 out of 5 stars 4,866 ratings

In this unique thrilling, Stone helps a friend deal with a biker gang’s threats, which leads to a series of violent confrontations and legal battles.

Foreign Affairs (2015)

4.1 4.1 out of 5 stars 5,031 ratings

Stone travels to Rome, where he is drawn into a complex case involving a beautiful woman, high society, and international intrigue.

Scandalous Behavior (2016)

4.2 4.2 out of 5 stars 5,282 ratings

Our hero buys an English estate, only to find himself involved in a scandalous and dangerous situation with local aristocrats and criminals.

Family Jewels (2016)

4.2 4.2 out of 5 stars 5,772 ratings

Hired to protect a wealthy woman’s inheritance, Stone is being led to deadly confrontations with those seeking to steal her fortune.

Dishonorable Intentions (2016)

4.3 4.3 out of 5 stars 5,898 ratings

Stone’s romantic getaway is disrupted by a dangerous adversary, leading to a deadly game of cat and mouse.

Sex, Lies & Serious Money (2016)

4.1 4.1 out of 5 stars 5,386 ratings

Stone helps a lottery winner navigate his newfound wealth while dealing with threats from those who want to take advantage of him.

Below the Belt (2017)

4.0 4.0 out of 5 stars 6,223 ratings

Barrington navigates political intrigue and personal threats when a powerful adversary targets him, forcing him to use all his resources to stay ahead.

Fast & Loose (2017)

4.3 4.3 out of 5 stars 6,763 ratings

Caught in a web of deceit and danger when he investigating a case involving a missing heiress and her troubled family, Stone uses his wits and resources to unravel the truth.

Indecent Exposure (2017)

4.3 4.3 out of 5 stars 4,801 ratings

Our dashing debonair finds himself entangled in a scandal involving a wealthy socialite and a powerful political figure, leading to dangerous consequences.

Quick & Dirty (2017)

4.2 4.2 out of 5 stars 5,266 ratings

Hired by a wealthy widow to investigate her husband’s mysterious death, Stone must uncover a tangled web of deception and betrayal.

Unbound (2018)

4.3 4.3 out of 5 stars 5,369 ratings

Stone teams up with an old friend to track down a dangerous criminal who has escaped from prison, leading to a high-stakes chase.

Shoot First (2018)

4.4 4.4 out of 5 stars 5,516 ratings

Detective Barrington investigates a series of deadly attacks on his friends and allies, uncovering a conspiracy that threatens everything he holds dear.

Turbulence (2018)

4.3 4.3 out of 5 stars 4,896 ratings

Stone’s flight to Europe is interrupted by a hijacking attempt, leading to a dangerous confrontation at 30,000 feet.

Desperate Measures (2018)

4.3 4.3 out of 5 stars 5,187 ratings

Stone’s investigation into a missing woman leads him into a dangerous world of organized crime and corruption.

Wild Card (2019)

4.4 4.4 out of 5 stars 3,326 ratings

Stone finds himself targeted by a vengeful adversary, leading to a deadly game of cat and mouse.

Contraband (2019)

4.4 4.4 out of 5 stars 3,998 ratings

Stone’s vacation in the Caribbean is interrupted by a deadly smuggling operation, leading to a series of dangerous encounters.

Stealth (2019)

4.4 4.4 out of 5 stars 3,914 ratings

Stone investigates a series of mysterious disappearances in Florida, uncovering a deadly conspiracy involving a powerful criminal organization.

Treason (2020)

4.4 4.4 out of 5 stars 4,166 ratings

Stone is drawn into a dangerous political conspiracy involving espionage, betrayal, and murder.

Hit List (2020)

4.4 4.4 out of 5 stars 4,406 ratings

Stone is targeted by a dangerous adversary, leading to a deadly game of cat and mouse.

Choppy Water (2020)

4.4 4.4 out of 5 stars 8,372 ratings

Stone’s investigation into a series of mysterious deaths leads him into a dangerous world of corruption and deceit.

Hush-Hush (2020)

4.4 4.4 out of 5 stars 4,859 ratings

Stone is hired to investigate a series of mysterious accidents at a wealthy family’s estate, uncovering a deadly conspiracy.

Double Jeopardy (2021)

4.5 4.5 out of 5 stars 5,703 ratings

Stone is caught in a web of deceit and danger when he investigates a case involving a missing heiress and her troubled family.

Class Act (2021)

4.4 4.4 out of 5 stars 5,680 ratings

Stone is drawn into a dangerous conspiracy involving a powerful political figure, leading to deadly consequences.

Foul Play (2021)

4.3 4.3 out of 5 stars 6,079 ratings

Stone investigates a series of deadly attacks on his friends and allies, uncovering a conspiracy that threatens everything he holds dear.

Criminal Mischief (2021)

4.5 4.5 out of 5 stars 6,118 ratings

Stone’s flight to Europe is interrupted by a hijacking attempt, leading to a dangerous confrontation at 30,000 feet.

A Safe House (2022)

4.2 4.2 out of 5 stars 6,293 ratings

Stone’s investigation into a missing woman leads him into a dangerous world of organized crime and corruption.

Black Dog (2022)

4.1 4.1 out of 5 stars 6,479 ratings

Stone finds himself targeted by a vengeful adversary, leading to a deadly game of cat and mouse.

Distant Thunder (2022)

4.2 4.2 out of 5 stars 6,181 ratings

Stone’s vacation in the Caribbean is interrupted by a deadly smuggling operation, leading to a series of dangerous encounters.

Near Miss (2023)

4.2 4.2 out of 5 stars 5,744 ratings

Stone investigates a series of mysterious disappearances in Florida, uncovering a deadly conspiracy involving a powerful criminal organization.

Obsession (2023)

4.4 4.4 out of 5 stars 5,282 ratings

Stone is drawn into a dangerous political conspiracy involving espionage, betrayal, and murder.

An Extravagant Life (2023)

4.5 4.5 out of 5 stars 2,886 ratings

The #1 New York Times bestselling author of the Stone Barrington series tells the story of his own life from childhood to the present, and chronicles the journey that made him the writer he is today.

Over the last forty years, Stuart Woods has written more than ninety novels of suspense and intrigue, beginning with the award-winning Chiefs. Featuring iconic crime-fighting and jet-setting leads, the plots are masterfully conceived and wonderfully escapist.

Other Series to read: Mitch Rapp Series

Holly Barker Series

Orchid Beach (1998

4.3 4.3 out of 5 stars 199 ratings

Holly Barker becomes the new police chief of Orchid Beach and must navigate the small town’s politics and crime while investigating a murder that hits close to home.

Orchid Blues (2001)

4.4 4.4 out of 5 stars 2,468 ratings

 Holly investigates a series of crimes, including the murder of a prominent citizen and the disappearance of a wealthy woman, uncovering a web of corruption and betrayal.

Blood Orchid (2002)

4.4 4.4 out of 5 stars 2,468 ratings

Holly travels to the jungles of Florida to investigate the disappearance of a young girl, leading to a dangerous confrontation with a powerful drug lord.

Iron Orchid (2005)

4.5 4.5 out of 5 stars 1,994 ratings

Holly is drawn into a deadly conspiracy involving a corrupt senator, a wealthy businessman, and a ruthless assassin, putting her life on the line to uncover the truth.

Hothouse Orchid (2009)

4.4 4.4 out of 5 stars 1,858 ratings

Holly investigates a series of murders in Palm Beach, uncovering a conspiracy involving high society, politics, and international intrigue.

Will Lee Series

Chiefs (1981)

4.5 4.5 out of 5 stars 1,655 ratings

The first book in the series follows the lives of three police chiefs in a small Georgia town spanning several decades, with one of them being Will Lee’s father. It intertwines their stories with a series of murders.

Run Before the Wind (1983)

4.6 4.6 out of 5 stars 5,097 ratings

This book follows Will Lee’s journey to the Caribbean, where he finds love and uncovers political intrigue while facing personal and professional challenges.

Deep Lie (1986)

4.4 4.4 out of 5 stars 2,289 ratings

Will Lee, now a senator, gets involved in an international conspiracy involving espionage and murder while investigating the mysterious death of a close friend.

Grass Roots (1989)

4.5 4.5 out of 5 stars 2,314 ratings

Will Lee runs for Congress in his home state of Georgia, facing off against a ruthless opponent and dealing with personal and political challenges along the way.

The Run (2000)

4.5 4.5 out of 5 stars 2,256 ratings

Will Lee becomes President of the United States and faces the challenges of leading the country while dealing with personal tragedies and political adversaries.

Capital Crimes (2004)

4.5 4.5 out of 5 stars 1,725 ratings

President Will Lee navigates the treacherous waters of Washington, D.C., as he tackles political scandals, international crises, and personal betrayals.

Mounting Fears (2009)

4.5 4.5 out of 5 stars 1,811 ratings

Will Lee faces new challenges as President, including a domestic terrorist threat and political opponents who will stop at nothing to undermine his administration.

Read other Series: Colleen Hoover Books in Order

Teddy Fay Series

Smooth Operator (2016)

4.4 4.4 out of 5 stars 1,768 ratings

Teddy Fay, now living a quiet life in Santa Fe under an assumed name, is drawn back into the world of espionage and danger when he uncovers a plot against the United States government.

The Money Shot (2018)

4.4 4.4 out of 5 stars 5,590 ratings

Teddy Fay finds himself embroiled in a dangerous conspiracy involving Hollywood moguls, corrupt politicians, and international intrigue while trying to protect his newfound love interest.

Skin Game (2019)

4.4 4.4 out of 5 stars 2,299 ratings

Teddy Fay infiltrates a powerful and dangerous criminal organization while working as a stuntman in Hollywood, seeking revenge and justice for those who have wronged him.

Bombshell (2020)

4.5 4.5 out of 5 stars 4,909 ratings

Teddy Fay is tasked with protecting a young woman targeted by a deadly assassin, leading to a thrilling chase across the globe as he confronts his past and fights to save her life.

Standalone Novels

Blue Water, Green Skipper (1977)

4.1 4.1 out of 5 stars 182 ratings

A memoir detailing Stuart Woods’ experiences as a sailor, including his adventures in the Caribbean and his participation in the Observer Single-Handed Transatlantic Race.

Run Before the Wind (1983)

4.4 4.4 out of 5 stars 2,289 ratings

The second book in the Will Lee series, following Will’s journey to the Caribbean, where he finds love and uncovers political intrigue while facing personal and professional challenges.

Under the Lake (1987)

4.3 4.3 out of 5 stars 2,906 ratings

A suspenseful thriller set in Georgia where a man discovers a lake inhabited by an ancient evil entity, leading to a battle for survival against supernatural forces.

White Cargo (1988)

4.4 4.4 out of 5 stars 3,154 ratings

A historical adventure novel set in the 18th century, following the journey of a young Englishman who becomes embroiled in piracy, love, and betrayal in the Caribbean.

Palindrome (1991)

4.5 4.5 out of 5 stars 2,156 ratings

A psychological thriller revolving around a successful architect whose life is turned upside down when he becomes the prime suspect in a series of gruesome murders.

Santa Fe Rules (1992)

4.4 4.4 out of 5 stars 2,375 ratings

A suspenseful mystery set in New Mexico, following the investigation of a wealthy art dealer’s murder, which leads to dark secrets and dangerous revelations.

L.A. Times (1993)

4.2 4.2 out of 5 stars 1,041 ratings

A crime thriller set in Los Angeles, where a journalist investigates the murder of a Hollywood actress, uncovering a web of deception and corruption in the process.

Dead Eyes (1994)

4.3 4.3 out of 5 stars 2,037 ratings

A mystery novel featuring a former cop who investigates the murder of his ex-partner, uncovering a conspiracy that goes deeper than he could have imagined.

Choke (1995)

4.4 4.4 out of 5 stars 1,946 ratings

 A suspenseful thriller about a successful businessman who becomes the target of a dangerous stalker, leading to a deadly game of cat and mouse.

Imperfect Strangers (1995)

4.4 4.4 out of 5 stars 1,914 ratings

 A gripping thriller about a woman who becomes entangled in a deadly conspiracy when she discovers a suitcase full of cash and decides to keep it.

Heat (1994)

4.5 4.5 out of 5 stars 2,468 ratings

A romantic suspense novel set in the world of horse racing, where a jockey and a horse trainer navigate love, danger, and betrayal amidst the backdrop of the Kentucky Derby.

The Prince of Beverly Hills (2004)

4.5 4.5 out of 5 stars 1,343 ratings

A standalone novel set in the glamorous world of Hollywood, following the story of a young attorney who becomes entangled in a dangerous conspiracy involving a movie star and the mob.

Fresh Disasters (2007)

4.4 4.4 out of 5 stars 2,843 ratings

The first book in the Stone Barrington series, following the adventures of the suave New York City cop-turned-lawyer as he navigates the dangerous world of high society and international intrigue.

Beverly Hills Dead (2008)

4.5 4.5 out of 5 stars 491 ratings

A standalone novel set in the world of Hollywood, following the story of a successful movie producer who becomes embroiled in a deadly conspiracy involving blackmail and murder.

Mounting Fears (2009)

4.4 4.4 out of 5 stars 1,770 ratings

The seventh book in the Will Lee series, following Will’s journey as President of the United States as he navigates the treacherous waters of Washington, D.C., facing political scandals, international crises, and personal betrayals.

Read Other Book Series: Kurt Vonnegut Books

Co-Authored Books

Barely Legal (2017) with Parnell Hall

4.3 4.3 out of 5 stars 2,733 ratings

A thriller featuring Herbie Fisher, a recurring character in Stuart Woods’ Stone Barrington series, as he gets entangled in a dangerous conspiracy involving a beautiful young woman and a powerful politician.

The Money Shot (2018) with Parnell Hall

4.4 4.4 out of 5 stars 2,299 ratings

The second book in the Teddy Fay series, following the adventures of the former CIA operative turned vigilante as he investigates a deadly conspiracy involving Hollywood moguls, corrupt politicians, and international intrigue.

Skin Game (2019) with Parnell Hall

4.5 4.5 out of 5 stars 3,084 ratings

Teddy Fay infiltrates a powerful and dangerous criminal organization while working as a stuntman in Hollywood, seeking revenge and justice for those who have wronged him.

Bombshell (2020) with Parnell Hall

4.5 4.5 out of 5 stars 4,914 ratings

Teddy Fay is tasked with protecting a young woman targeted by a deadly assassin, leading to a thrilling chase across the globe as he confronts his past and fights to save her life.

Jackpot (2021) with Bryon Quertermous

3.9 3.9 out of 5 stars 4,139 ratings

A thriller featuring Teddy Fay as he investigates a series of murders in Las Vegas, uncovering a dangerous conspiracy that threatens to unravel everything he holds dear.

Class Act (2021) with Bryon Quertermous

4.3 4.3 out of 5 stars 6,081 ratings

Teddy Fay teams up with Stone Barrington to investigate a series of high-profile crimes, leading to a thrilling showdown with a ruthless adversary.

Foul Play (2021) with Bryon Quertermous

4.5 4.5 out of 5 stars 6,121 ratings

Teddy Fay is drawn into a dangerous conspiracy involving a powerful political figure, leading to deadly consequences and a race against time to uncover the truth.

Criminal Mischief (2021) with Bryon Quertermous

4.2 4.2 out of 5 stars 6,298 ratings

Teddy Fay faces off against a ruthless adversary who will stop at nothing to destroy him, leading to a high-stakes game of cat and mouse that puts everything on the line.

A Safe House (2022) with Bryon Quertermous

4.1 4.1 out of 5 stars 6,481 ratings

Teddy Fay must protect a valuable asset from a deadly threat while navigating a web of deception and betrayal in a remote safe house.

Black Dog (2022) with Bryon Quertermous

4.2 4.2 out of 5 stars 6,185 ratings

Teddy Fay investigates a series of murders in a small town, uncovering dark secrets and dangerous enemies as he races to stop a killer on the loose.

Stuart Woods’ contributions to literature

Stuart Woods has left an indelible mark on literature with his gripping series and standalone novels spanning suspense, mystery, and thriller genres.

From the suave Stone Barrington to the determined Holly Barker, his characters navigate worlds filled with danger and intrigue, captivating readers with every twist and turn.

Love the list? Suggest a series for the best-selling author, and I would love to create it for you.

Hope this article is helpful. Feel free to leave comments! Thank you.