The Complete Guide to Stuart Woods Books in Order

Stuart Woods, a prolific and bestselling American author, has been thrilling readers for decades with his gripping novels, ranging from mystery and suspense to crime fiction. With over 80 novels to his name, it can be a challenge to navigate through his expansive body of work.

In this blog post, we will provide a comprehensive guide to Stuart Woods’ books in chronological order, making it easier for both new and seasoned fans to explore and appreciate his literary achievements. Get ready to dive into the captivating world of Stuart Woods and his unforgettable characters!

Stuart Woods Books in Order of Publication

Stuart Woods began his writing career in 1981 with his first novel, “Chiefs,” which won the Edgar Award for Best First Novel. Since then, he has written over 80 novels, with many becoming bestsellers. His most famous series features the character Stone Barrington, a former NYPD detective turned lawyer.

However, he has also written several other series and standalone novels. To provide a comprehensive list of his books in order of publication would be extensive, but we will cover a few key series and novels below.

Who is Stuart Woods?

Stuart Woods is an American novelist known for his suspenseful and action-packed crime fiction novels. Born in Manchester, Georgia, in 1938, he worked as an advertising copywriter and later started his own advertising agency before pursuing a full-time career as a writer.

He has been a prolific author since the early 1980s, producing numerous bestsellers and garnering a loyal fan base.

What other series has Stuart Woods written beside the “Barrington series”?

In addition to the Stone Barrington series, Stuart Woods has written several other series, including:

• Will Lee Series: This series revolves around Will Lee, a Southern politician, and his rise through the ranks. The first book in this series is “Chiefs” (1981).
• Holly Barker Series: This series features Holly Barker, a former military officer turned small-town police chief. The first book in this series is “Orchid Beach” (1998).
• Ed Eagle Series: This series follows Ed Eagle, a Santa Fe attorney, and the legal challenges he faces. The first book in this series is “Santa Fe Rules” (1992).
• Teddy Fay Series (co-written with Parnell Hall): This series focuses on Teddy Fay, a former CIA operative turned freelance troubleshooter. The first book in this series is “Smooth Operator” (2016).

What type of “fiction” does Stuart Woods primarily write?

Stuart Woods primarily writes crime fiction, suspense, and mystery novels. His stories are known for their fast pace, engaging plots, and memorable characters. He often intertwines characters and plotlines from his various series, creating a rich and interconnected literary universe.

What is the latest Stone Barrington novel by Stuart Woods?

As of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, the latest Stone Barrington novel by Stuart Woods is “Foul Play” (2021), which is the 53rd book in the series. However, Stuart Woods continues to write and publish new novels, so it is essential to check for any recent releases since then.

What Stuart Woods books have been made into movies?

Two of Stuart Woods’ novels have been adapted into television movies:

• “Chiefs” (1981) – This novel was made into a television miniseries in 1983, starring Charlton Heston, Keith Carradine, and Billy Dee Williams.
• “Grass Roots” (1989) – This novel was adapted into a television movie in 1992, starring Corbin Bernsen and Mel Harris.
• “Palindrome” (1991) – While not a movie, this standalone novel by Stuart Woods served as the basis for the television series “New York Undercover,” which aired from 1994 to 1998.

In addition to these adaptations, several other Stuart Woods novels have been optioned for film or television, but have not yet been produced. However, with the popularity of his books and the growing interest in adapting novels for the screen, there is potential for more of his works to be adapted in the future.

Summary Of The First 25 Stuart Woods Books In Order

Chiefs (1981)

In this first book of the Will Lee series, three police chiefs in Delano, Georgia, investigate a series of murders spanning over four decades. The novel follows the lives and careers of these men as they uncover a dark secret that has haunted their small town since its founding.

Run Before the Wind (1983)

In this second Will Lee novel, attorney Will Lee is in Ireland, escaping his troubles in America. When he encounters a dangerous conspiracy and a murder, he must use his skills to unravel the mystery and stay one step ahead of his enemies.

Deep Lie (1986)

A suspenseful espionage thriller, “Deep Lie” follows the CIA’s attempts to uncover a Soviet submarine base on the coast of Sweden. As the agents race against time, they must rely on their cunning and resourcefulness to save the world from disaster.

Grass Roots (1989)

In this third Will Lee novel, Will returns to Georgia to help his father with his senatorial campaign. As he becomes entangled in a web of lies, betrayal, and murder, Will must navigate treacherous political waters to save his family’s legacy and his own life.

Palindrome (1991)

Set in New York City, “Palindrome” follows a wealthy man and his beautiful, identical twin daughters. When one daughter’s husband is found brutally murdered, the other’s lover, a detective, must unravel the family’s dark secrets before the killer strikes again.

New York Dead (1991)

The first Stone Barrington novel, “New York Dead” introduces the former NYPD detective turned lawyer, Stone Barrington. He investigates the disappearance of a TV news anchor, which leads him into a dangerous world of power, corruption, and deadly secrets.

Santa Fe Rules (1992)

In this first Ed Eagle novel, Santa Fe attorney Ed Eagle is drawn into a web of intrigue when his wife disappears and he’s accused of murder. As he fights to clear his name, he uncovers a chilling conspiracy that threatens his life.

L.A. Times (1993)

In “L.A. Times,” a wealthy businessman and his socialite wife are caught in a deadly web of deception and murder. As they struggle to survive, they must confront their own dark secrets and navigate the treacherous world of Los Angeles high society.

Dead in the Water (1993)

In the third Stone Barrington novel, Stone finds himself defending a wealthy widow accused of murdering her husband on their yacht. As he investigates, he uncovers a dangerous world of intrigue, betrayal, and international espionage.

White Cargo (1994)

A thrilling tale of revenge and redemption, “White Cargo” follows a young woman’s quest to find her father’s killer. As she becomes embroiled in a deadly game of cat and mouse, she must navigate the dangerous world of international crime and drug smuggling.

Dirt (1996)

In this second Stone Barrington novel, Stone is hired to protect gossip columnist Amanda Dart from a stalker. The case quickly escalates as the stalker reveals a far-reaching conspiracy that puts both Stone and Amanda in grave danger.

Dead Eyes (1997)

In “Dead Eyes,” a former Hollywood actress is targeted by a sadistic killer who leaves no trace of his crimes. With the help of a retired detective, she must uncover the killer’s identity before it’s too late.

Choke (1997)

A former tennis star turned gigolo, is accused of murdering a wealthy socialite. As he fights to clear his name, he uncovers a world of deception and betrayal, putting his own life at risk.

Orchid Beach (1998)

The first Holly Barker novel introduces the character as a former military officer turned small-town police chief. She investigates the murder of her father, which leads her into a dangerous conspiracy involving corrupt officials and deadly criminals.

Swimming to Catalina (1998)

In the fourth Stone Barrington novel, Stone’s ex-lover, Arrington Calder, is kidnapped, forcing Stone to dive into the world of Hollywood intrigue and mystery. As he navigates a web of deception, he must find Arrington before it’s too late.

The Short Forever (1999)

In this eighth Stone Barrington novel, Stone is drawn into a dangerous case involving international intrigue, corporate espionage, and murder. As he races to uncover the truth, he finds himself pitted against ruthless enemies and deadly secrets.

Worst Fears Realized (1999)

In this fifth Stone Barrington novel, Stone is on the hunt for a serial killer targeting his close friends. As he races against time to stop the killer, he uncovers a dangerous conspiracy that puts his own life at risk.

L.A. Dead (2000)

The sixth Stone Barrington novel sees Stone caught in a love triangle with his ex-lover, Arrington Calder, and her fiancé, a powerful Hollywood mogul. As the stakes rise, Stone must navigate a deadly game of passion, jealousy, and murder.

Cold Paradise (2001)

In the seventh Stone Barrington novel, Stone is hired to find a missing woman whose disappearance is linked to a dangerous criminal organization. As he uncovers a web of lies and deception, he must confront his own past to save her.

The Run (2000)

In this fourth Will Lee novel, Will Lee is now the U.S. Senate Majority Leader, but his past comes back to haunt him. As he faces a ruthless opponent in a heated presidential campaign, he must confront dark secrets, betrayal, and murder.

Orchid Blues (2001)

In this second Holly Barker novel, Holly investigates a series of daring heists that have left a trail of dead bodies. As she uncovers the truth behind the crimes, she must navigate a deadly world of corruption and violence.

Blood Orchid (2002)

The third Holly Barker novel sees Holly uncovering a dangerous conspiracy involving a mysterious military contractor, a corrupt police force, and a deadly assassin. As she races to expose the truth, she must confront her own demons and fight for her life.

Reckless Abandon (2004)

In the tenth Stone Barrington novel, Stone joins forces with Holly Barker to track down a dangerous fugitive. As they follow a twisted trail of murder and deception, they must confront their own fears and desires to bring the killer to justice.

Dirty Work (2003)

The ninth Stone Barrington novel finds Stone entangled in a deadly web of international intrigue and assassination. As he races to stop a dangerous plot that threatens global stability, he must confront his own limits and the darkness within himself.

Capital Crimes (2003)

In this seventh Will Lee novel, the President’s wife is murdered, and Will Lee finds himself caught in a web of conspiracy and intrigue that reaches the highest levels of power. As he races to uncover the truth, he must confront his own past and the dark forces that seek to destroy him.

Two Dollar Bill (2004)

In the eleventh Stone Barrington novel, Stone is hired to defend a con man accused of high-stakes art fraud. As he delves into the case, he uncovers a dangerous world of forgeries, deception, and powerful enemies.

Orchid Beach (2004)

In the fourth Holly Barker novel, Holly becomes entangled in a case involving a missing child, a corrupt law enforcement official, and a twisted conspiracy. As she races to uncover the truth, she must confront her own demons and the darkness that threatens her town.

Iron Orchid (2005)

The fifth Holly Barker novel sees Holly joining the CIA and being assigned to a dangerous mission in Europe. As she navigates the treacherous world of international espionage, she must rely on her instincts and training to survive and succeed.

Dark Harbor (2006)

In the twelfth Stone Barrington novel, Stone is drawn into a mysterious case involving a secluded island, a missing heiress, and a deadly family secret. As he uncovers the truth, he must confront the darkness within himself and the people he loves.

Fresh Disasters (2007)

The thirteenth Stone Barrington novel finds Stone hired to protect a high-profile client from a deadly stalker. As he races against time to stop the killer, he uncovers a dangerous conspiracy that threatens his life and the lives of those he cares about.

Shoot Him If He Runs (2007)

In the Fourteenth Stone Barrington novel, Stone teams up with Holly Barker to track down a dangerous fugitive in the Caribbean. As they navigate a world of danger and deception, they must confront their own pasts and the darkness that threatens to consume them.

Santa Fe Dead (2008)

In the third Ed Eagle novel, Ed’s life is thrown into chaos when his estranged wife resurfaces, leading him into a dangerous world of theft, murder, and betrayal. As he fights to protect those he loves, he must confront the darkness within himself.

Hot Mahogany (2008)

In the fifteenth Stone Barrington novel, Stone is hired to protect a valuable collection of rare mahogany. As he delves into the case, he uncovers a dangerous world of art theft, deception, and powerful enemies who will stop at nothing to get what they want.

Santa Fe Edge (2010)

In the fourth Ed Eagle novel, Ed is drawn into a dangerous case involving a missing person, a deadly conspiracy, and a twisted game of power and revenge. As he races to uncover the truth, he must confront his own demons and the darkness that threatens his life.

Kisser (2010)

In the sixteenth Stone Barrington novel, Stone becomes entangled in a dangerous game of seduction, betrayal, and murder. As he navigates a world of powerful enemies and dark secrets, he must confront his own desires and the darkness within himself.

Please note that these summaries may not be perfectly accurate as some details might be mixed up due to the high number of books. However, they should give you a general idea of the content and themes in each novel.

Other series by Stuart Woods beside the Stone Barrington series:

• Will Lee series: This series follows the life of Will Lee, a lawyer who becomes involved in politics, eventually becoming the President of the United States. The series starts with the novel “Chiefs” (1981).
• Holly Barker series: The series follows Holly Barker, a former military officer who becomes a small-town police chief and later joins the CIA. The first book in this series is “Orchid Beach” (1998).
• Ed Eagle series: This series revolves around Ed Eagle, an attorney based in Santa Fe, New Mexico, who deals with various criminal cases and personal challenges. The series begins with “Santa Fe Rules” (1992).
• Teddy Fay series: Co-written with Parnell Hall, this series features Teddy Fay, a former CIA operative turned vigilante. The first book in the series is “Smooth Operator” (2016).
• Stuart Woods primarily writes fiction in the thriller, mystery, and suspense genres. His novels often involve elements of crime, politics, espionage, and law enforcement.

Stuart Woods’s books that have been made into movies or TV series:

• “Chiefs” (1981) was adapted into a TV miniseries in 1983, starring Charlton Heston and Keith Carradine.
• “Grass Roots” (1989) was made into a TV movie in 1992, starring Corbin Bernsen and Mel Harris.

While not a direct adaptation, the standalone novel “Palindrome” (1991) served as the basis for the television series “New York Undercover,” which aired from 1994 to 1998.

What inspired Stuart Woods to become a writer?

Stuart Woods was inspired to become a writer after reading a book by Graham Greene, “A Burnt-Out Case,” while working as an advertising copywriter in London. The novel sparked his interest in writing, and he began working on his first book, “Blue Water, Green Skipper,” a non-fiction account of his participation in a transatlantic yacht race.

How has Stuart Woods maintained such a prolific writing career?

Stuart Woods attributes his prolific writing career to a disciplined approach to writing. He maintains a strict writing schedule, aiming to write every day, and focuses on creating engaging page-turning stories. Woods’ ability to produce multiple novels per year is a testament to his dedication to his craft and his passion for storytelling.

What is the primary appeal of Stuart Woods’ novels?

The primary appeal of Stuart Woods’ novels lies in their thrilling and suspenseful storylines, complex characters, and engaging writing style. His books often involve elements of crime, politics, espionage, and law enforcement, making them exciting reads for fans of mystery and thriller genres.

The recurring characters and interconnected series also provide readers with a sense of familiarity and continuity, further increasing their appeal.

In conclusion, Stuart Woods is a prolific and talented writer with a wide array of gripping novels spanning multiple series and genres. His disciplined approach to writing and dedication to storytelling has resulted in an extensive body of work that continues to captivate readers worldwide.

Whether you are a longtime fan or new to his novels, Stuart Woods’ thrilling stories, intriguing characters, and engaging writing style make his books a must-read for fans of mystery and suspense.