Stuart Woods (1938–2022)

I read the first book in the series, New York Dead, when I was 16 -- a whopping 22 years ago! -- and I still remember it fondly. Having recently noticed that the 44th Stone Barrington book is on the New York Times bestseller list, I thought I'd pick up the second and see what the fuss is all about. While I didn't think the writing was top notch, and I had some pretty serious issues with both the plot and the characterization, the novel was immensely... readable. It was fun, pure and simple.

Stone might as well be James Bond lite -- smooth, good looking, able to bed any woman he comes across. He's smart, rich, suave, and has impeccable taste in everything from clothes to those aforementioned women. While this book (or the series, I imagine) won't win any literary awards, it's a fun ride, and I was more than happy to keep turning pages late into the night to see how the story would end. I will be continuing with the series, because I'm curious to see what kind of trouble Stone will get himself into next.… (mere)

This is a rare re-read for me. I read this book originally when I was 16 or so, and I remember enjoying it immensely. One scene in paricular was rather morbid and grotesque, and it stuck with me all these years. Upon re-reading, the scene wasn't nearly as fascinating as I remembered. In fact, the entire book was somewhat of a dissapointment. The writing style left a lot to be desired, but it's a fast, easy read and I enjoyed getting reacquainted with the main character, Stone Barrington. I plan on reading more books in this series. (B-)… (mere)

Synopsis: 'Stone Barrington is settling in for a stretch om New York when he receives news that demands immediate action. An old family matter has unexpectedly resurfaced, and Stone must decamp to the craggy shores of Maine to address the issue head-on.
There Stone finds that a dual-pronged threat is hiding in plain sight among the stately houses and exclusive coastal clubs, and the incursion isn't easily rebuffed. The enemies have friends in high places, funds to spare, and a score to settle with Stone . . . and only the cleverest plot will draw them out into the open. From luxuriously renovated homes to the choppy ocean waters, the pursuit an only lead to an explosive end.' From the book jacket

Review: Everything about this book is good until the ending, and then it falls flat. There needed to be at least one more chapter to actually wrap up the story.… (mere)

Title: Obsession
Author: Stuart Woods & Brett Battles
Publisher: PENGUIN GROUP Putnam, G.P. Putnam's Sons
Series: Teddy Fay Book 6
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"Obsession" by Stuart Woods & Brett Battles
My Sentiments:

Wow, what a wonderful read as we see Teddy Fay is back at it again as an actor, Mark, and producer [Teddy/Mark/Billy]. We will see Teddy will also have to deal with an obsessive fan who was after a man's wife and there will be more...

It is good to see how well these authors bring it out to the reader as we see how this entertaining, filled with suspense, intrigue, twists, turns, and glitz read will be put so well in this series. 'Obsession' is one of those reads that it will be hard to put down until the end. For the story will be quite an enjoyable CIA/Double Agent type of story that will keep one turning the pages to see how these two plots are brought out in the end.

Thank you to Netgallery and the publisher for the review copy of your read.… (mere)