What do you think?
Rate this book
Teddy Fay #6
Obsession
Teddy Fay finds his skills put to the test in the latest thriller from #1 New York Times bestselling author Stuart Woods. While filming on location in scenic Santa Barbara, California, Peter Barrington and Ben Bacchetti look to expand Centurion Studios's business by making a deal with a young Croatian billionaire. But when the magnate's wife is kidnapped, Teddy Fay is brought in to assess the threat and recover the young woman. As Teddy unravels the threads of her disappearance, he quickly comes to find that darker forces are at play and an old vendetta has been revived that puts them all at risk. Meanwhile, danger lurks even nearer to home as an obsessive fan with perilous intentions weasels his way onto the film set, and only Teddy can stop him from getting too close for comfort.
329 pages, Library Binding
First published July 25, 2023
649 people are currently reading
636 people want to read
About the author
Stuart Woods
402 books3,201 followersStuart Woods was an American novelist best known for Chiefs and his long-running Stone Barrington series. A Georgia native, he initially pursued a career in advertising before relocating to England and Ireland, where he developed a passion for sailing. His love for the sport led him to write his first published work, Blue Water, Green Skipper, about his experiences in a transatlantic yacht race.
His debut novel, Chiefs, was inspired by a family story about his grandfather, a police chief. The book, a gripping crime saga spanning several decades, won the Edgar Award for Best First Novel and was later adapted into a television miniseries. It launched Woods' career as a novelist, leading to a prolific output of thrillers.
Woods' most famous creation, Stone Barrington, is a former NYPD detective turned high-profile lawyer who navigates elite circles while solving crimes. The series became a bestseller and remained a staple of his career, often featuring crossover characters from his other books, such as CIA operative Holly Barker and defense lawyer Ed Eagle.
Beyond writing, Woods was an experienced pilot and yachtsman. He maintained homes in Florida, Maine, and New Mexico, where he lived with his wife and their Labrador, Fred. His literary career spanned decades, with dozens of bestsellers to his name.
His debut novel, Chiefs, was inspired by a family story about his grandfather, a police chief. The book, a gripping crime saga spanning several decades, won the Edgar Award for Best First Novel and was later adapted into a television miniseries. It launched Woods' career as a novelist, leading to a prolific output of thrillers.
Woods' most famous creation, Stone Barrington, is a former NYPD detective turned high-profile lawyer who navigates elite circles while solving crimes. The series became a bestseller and remained a staple of his career, often featuring crossover characters from his other books, such as CIA operative Holly Barker and defense lawyer Ed Eagle.
Beyond writing, Woods was an experienced pilot and yachtsman. He maintained homes in Florida, Maine, and New Mexico, where he lived with his wife and their Labrador, Fred. His literary career spanned decades, with dozens of bestsellers to his name.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 244 reviews
January 11, 2024
Teddy Fay series is a spin-off of the Stone Barrington series with Teddy Fay, former CIA as a lead character.
Teddy works for Centurion Pictures in California for Peter Barrington and Ben Bacchetti, adult sons of attorney for the rich, Stone and NYC Police Chief Dino.
Obsession #6 is light and a quick read. It's an amusing mystery thriller with two storylines of kidnapping and a super fan while they film a new movie in Santa Barbara. I enjoy Teddy's many disguises as he uses his spycraft background to solve the cases.
One of the best spin-off series! Brett Battles did a terrific job taking over the series after the late Stuart Woods and Parnell Hall. Highly recommend checking it out on audio. Tony Roberts is superb as Teddy!
Teddy works for Centurion Pictures in California for Peter Barrington and Ben Bacchetti, adult sons of attorney for the rich, Stone and NYC Police Chief Dino.
Obsession #6 is light and a quick read. It's an amusing mystery thriller with two storylines of kidnapping and a super fan while they film a new movie in Santa Barbara. I enjoy Teddy's many disguises as he uses his spycraft background to solve the cases.
One of the best spin-off series! Brett Battles did a terrific job taking over the series after the late Stuart Woods and Parnell Hall. Highly recommend checking it out on audio. Tony Roberts is superb as Teddy!
March 24, 2024
How many times have I told myself, don’t read books out of order? Well, okay, a few. I admit it. But the other day when I went to pick up some library books that were on hold, I couldn’t help but browse. This one happened to be available, and because it was Stuart Woods, and, it has been a while since I read one of his books I said to myself, “why not?”
Well, this is why not! It is reading a series out of order. I can also hear my Goodreads friend Darla’s Librarian brain rebelling against reading books out of order, too. Forgive me, Darla! 🥹
And, it isn’t even really featuring Stone Barrington. Anyone who has followed the late Stuart Woods knows Stone Barrington, who is quite an interesting character. He was a Detective Lieutenant with the NYPD, injured, who then became an attorney, who also inherited a lot of money. Anyway, this story has Stone in it, but it is not his series.
This series features Teddy Fay. So, who is Teddy Fay?
Well, if I read books in order, I would know. So, Woods, does provide an explanation near the beginning of the book, as to who Teddy Fay is, but his explanation kind of confused me.
So, if I write here who I interpreted Teddy Fay is, maybe it might make sense to you?
Teddy Fay is 3 people. Yes, he is Teddy Fay, but only Stone knows that, because that person is long buried in the past, and has apparently died. Go figure. I think that probably came out as to why or how “Teddy Fay” died in a previous book. And that is another good reason why you should read books in order.
And then he is Mark Weldon an Academy Award-winning actor. Wow!😮
But he is also Billy Barnett a film producer. Amazing!🤩
Did you get all those characters that Teddy Fay is?
Because, as readers, we need to keep up with which hat he is wearing during each book scene. Let alone, how is it that he can change his face so easily when he is being either Mark or Billy.
Now Stone enters the story. Okay, someone familiar to me.
This billionaire needs help from Stone Barrington after his wife is kidnapped. This was especially unexpected, since Stone’s reason for meeting with the billionaire was all movie related – since Stone’s son, Peter has a movie studio, and he was there to help his son negotiate a contract with the billionaire to bring their businesses together. Did you get all that?
So where does Teddy fit in? Because this is Teddy’s series! Not Stone’s.
Does it have to do with him being an award-winning actor, or an amazing producer, or…
Is it possible that this past life of Teddy’s might be helpful? Because there is a damsel in real distress here with the billionaire’s wife being kidnapped?
And off we go.
Now in all fairness, the reason I picked up this novel, is because I use to read Stuart Woods because I loved his quick, short chapters and twisty mysteries.
And yes…he continued the method with this one. Which worked quite well. Even though I was a bit confused sometimes with Teddy’s different roles/hats, the pages still moved quickly.
But I will still say this. Don’t start here. Go back to the first Teddy Fay book. I understand the title is, “Smooth Operator.” I have just ordered it from my local library.
I like the character, of Teddy Fay. As Teddy Fay. I just felt a bit bombarded in this one because I didn’t fully understand all the nuances because this was the 6th book in the series. So, I think going back to Book 1 may help. But, if it doesn’t…well, no judgment now.
So, I am going to give this one 4 stars mostly because it was action packed and moved quickly as any mystery should. For those who follow the Teddy Fay series, any confusion is mine alone. For those who follow me, I think you know what you need to do. Don’t add this one if you haven’t started at Book 1.
Last note...this book is written by Brett Battles. Stuart Woods passed in 2022. Parnell Hall use to co-write with Stuart Woods before he passed in 2020.
Well, this is why not! It is reading a series out of order. I can also hear my Goodreads friend Darla’s Librarian brain rebelling against reading books out of order, too. Forgive me, Darla! 🥹
And, it isn’t even really featuring Stone Barrington. Anyone who has followed the late Stuart Woods knows Stone Barrington, who is quite an interesting character. He was a Detective Lieutenant with the NYPD, injured, who then became an attorney, who also inherited a lot of money. Anyway, this story has Stone in it, but it is not his series.
This series features Teddy Fay. So, who is Teddy Fay?
Well, if I read books in order, I would know. So, Woods, does provide an explanation near the beginning of the book, as to who Teddy Fay is, but his explanation kind of confused me.
So, if I write here who I interpreted Teddy Fay is, maybe it might make sense to you?
Teddy Fay is 3 people. Yes, he is Teddy Fay, but only Stone knows that, because that person is long buried in the past, and has apparently died. Go figure. I think that probably came out as to why or how “Teddy Fay” died in a previous book. And that is another good reason why you should read books in order.
And then he is Mark Weldon an Academy Award-winning actor. Wow!😮
But he is also Billy Barnett a film producer. Amazing!🤩
Did you get all those characters that Teddy Fay is?
Because, as readers, we need to keep up with which hat he is wearing during each book scene. Let alone, how is it that he can change his face so easily when he is being either Mark or Billy.
Now Stone enters the story. Okay, someone familiar to me.
This billionaire needs help from Stone Barrington after his wife is kidnapped. This was especially unexpected, since Stone’s reason for meeting with the billionaire was all movie related – since Stone’s son, Peter has a movie studio, and he was there to help his son negotiate a contract with the billionaire to bring their businesses together. Did you get all that?
So where does Teddy fit in? Because this is Teddy’s series! Not Stone’s.
Does it have to do with him being an award-winning actor, or an amazing producer, or…
Is it possible that this past life of Teddy’s might be helpful? Because there is a damsel in real distress here with the billionaire’s wife being kidnapped?
And off we go.
Now in all fairness, the reason I picked up this novel, is because I use to read Stuart Woods because I loved his quick, short chapters and twisty mysteries.
And yes…he continued the method with this one. Which worked quite well. Even though I was a bit confused sometimes with Teddy’s different roles/hats, the pages still moved quickly.
But I will still say this. Don’t start here. Go back to the first Teddy Fay book. I understand the title is, “Smooth Operator.” I have just ordered it from my local library.
I like the character, of Teddy Fay. As Teddy Fay. I just felt a bit bombarded in this one because I didn’t fully understand all the nuances because this was the 6th book in the series. So, I think going back to Book 1 may help. But, if it doesn’t…well, no judgment now.
So, I am going to give this one 4 stars mostly because it was action packed and moved quickly as any mystery should. For those who follow the Teddy Fay series, any confusion is mine alone. For those who follow me, I think you know what you need to do. Don’t add this one if you haven’t started at Book 1.
Last note...this book is written by Brett Battles. Stuart Woods passed in 2022. Parnell Hall use to co-write with Stuart Woods before he passed in 2020.
October 15, 2023
Obsession is the 6th book in the Teddy Fay series. I have read all the Teddy Fay books as well as all the other books in the Stuart Woods series. The story takes place in Santa Barbara, CA. Teddy Fay is a man who worked for the CIA and left under unusual circumstances. He now works at Centurion Studio for Peter Barrington and Ben Bacchetti They were childhood friends whose father's are Stone Barrington, a lawyer and Dino Bacchetti commissioner of NYC police.
Teddy has two alias's Mark Weldon, actor and Billy Barrett, producer of the movie Storm's Eye. Peter, Ben and Stone and a few others are the only ones who know who he really is. He as Billy goes with Stone to ,meet Carl Novack, a billionaire who is interested in going into the movie business and is looking for someone to do business with. His lawyer, Richard Mori is also there. They are waiting for Carl's wife but she is a no show.
Rebecca Novack is out doing errands when she is kidnapped. by Zoran Janic who blames Carl Novack for his brother's death when they were young in Croatia. He sends his cousin Neno Bilic along with Sava Kotda and
Pavel Dodic who work for him to come to the U.S. to do his bidding. They send a video of Rebecca to Carl. He calls Billy Barrett and Stone back to review the video. He asks Billy if he knew someone who could help him get his wife back. Billy tells him that he knows someone but must talk to him first. This is where Teddy plays both people.
Matthew Wagner has a crush on a movie star, Tess Tweed Bacchetti, who is Ben's wife. He is obsessed with her and plans to make her love him. He makes plans on how he can meet her by setting off fake gun shots. He pretends to save two of her friends, Adriene, another actress and Logan, Billy's assistant. This opens a door for him to get on the movie set.
This is where the story takes on two different subjects. One is the kidnapping of Rebecca and her return and the other is Matthew's obsession of Tess. There is so much that this story is telling the reader that I am not able to put it all on paper. I will leave it to the reader to find out and enjoy to the unusual ending.
I love Teddy and all the twists and turns of his character.
Thank you NetGalleiy and G..P. Putnam's Sons for this ARC.
Teddy has two alias's Mark Weldon, actor and Billy Barrett, producer of the movie Storm's Eye. Peter, Ben and Stone and a few others are the only ones who know who he really is. He as Billy goes with Stone to ,meet Carl Novack, a billionaire who is interested in going into the movie business and is looking for someone to do business with. His lawyer, Richard Mori is also there. They are waiting for Carl's wife but she is a no show.
Rebecca Novack is out doing errands when she is kidnapped. by Zoran Janic who blames Carl Novack for his brother's death when they were young in Croatia. He sends his cousin Neno Bilic along with Sava Kotda and
Pavel Dodic who work for him to come to the U.S. to do his bidding. They send a video of Rebecca to Carl. He calls Billy Barrett and Stone back to review the video. He asks Billy if he knew someone who could help him get his wife back. Billy tells him that he knows someone but must talk to him first. This is where Teddy plays both people.
Matthew Wagner has a crush on a movie star, Tess Tweed Bacchetti, who is Ben's wife. He is obsessed with her and plans to make her love him. He makes plans on how he can meet her by setting off fake gun shots. He pretends to save two of her friends, Adriene, another actress and Logan, Billy's assistant. This opens a door for him to get on the movie set.
This is where the story takes on two different subjects. One is the kidnapping of Rebecca and her return and the other is Matthew's obsession of Tess. There is so much that this story is telling the reader that I am not able to put it all on paper. I will leave it to the reader to find out and enjoy to the unusual ending.
I love Teddy and all the twists and turns of his character.
Thank you NetGalleiy and G..P. Putnam's Sons for this ARC.
June 19, 2023
Great book. I would've given it 4 stars but it took me awhile to keep track of all the characters. It definitely kept me guessing and intrigued. This is the 6th book in the Teddy Faye series. If you're a Stuart Woods fan then this series is for you. If you're not a fan of good yet, you will be!! CIA, kidnapping, and stalking? I mean what more could you want if you're into suspenseful books?
Thank you to Netgalley and Obsession's publishers for the ARC.
Thank you to Netgalley and Obsession's publishers for the ARC.
September 23, 2023
Although I've never considered myself to be a big fan of ex-CIA operative Teddy Fay (at least not in comparison to the related Stone Barrington series), this one is in my mind the best of the lot so far (it's the sixth). Teddy, who by most accounts is considered to be dead, is trying hard not to be resurrected and takes on the persona of three different characters (yes, his ability to switch identities so quickly without anyone suspecting defies rational thought), so it's sometimes a little hard to keep them all straight. But somehow, it works.
The story takes place primarily in and around Santa Barbara, California, where Centurion Pictures and a Croatian billionaire are close to a deal on a joint venture. Centurion is owned by Ben Bachetti, and a film starring Mark Weldon - one of Teddy's alter egos - is being directed by Peter Barrington (both names will be familiar to readers of the Barrington series so I won't bother with details). Early on, the billionaire's wife is kidnapped, and Teddy agrees, under one of his other identities, that his "friend" (secretly the real Teddy) will try to rescue her. Meantime, another bad guy has the hots for Ben's dazzling model wife Tessa, and his quest to win her over turns from stalking to something way more threatening.
The rest of the story follows those two themes all the way to their conclusions, with plenty of action - and a lot of help from familiar friends including Stone - along the way. One hallmark of both series is that it's rare for any of the main characters to meet an untimely end - at worst, one might get roughed up a little - so I and other readers can stay on the edge of our seats without biting our nails to the quick. While situations certainly get serious and there are several casualties of war, so to speak, things tend to work out in the end, as they do here. All in all, it's another enjoyable romp and I thank the publisher, via NetGalley, for the opportunity to read and review a pre-release copy.
The story takes place primarily in and around Santa Barbara, California, where Centurion Pictures and a Croatian billionaire are close to a deal on a joint venture. Centurion is owned by Ben Bachetti, and a film starring Mark Weldon - one of Teddy's alter egos - is being directed by Peter Barrington (both names will be familiar to readers of the Barrington series so I won't bother with details). Early on, the billionaire's wife is kidnapped, and Teddy agrees, under one of his other identities, that his "friend" (secretly the real Teddy) will try to rescue her. Meantime, another bad guy has the hots for Ben's dazzling model wife Tessa, and his quest to win her over turns from stalking to something way more threatening.
The rest of the story follows those two themes all the way to their conclusions, with plenty of action - and a lot of help from familiar friends including Stone - along the way. One hallmark of both series is that it's rare for any of the main characters to meet an untimely end - at worst, one might get roughed up a little - so I and other readers can stay on the edge of our seats without biting our nails to the quick. While situations certainly get serious and there are several casualties of war, so to speak, things tend to work out in the end, as they do here. All in all, it's another enjoyable romp and I thank the publisher, via NetGalley, for the opportunity to read and review a pre-release copy.
October 10, 2023
I love the character Teddy Fay and this book was a great addition to this series. Always an exciting plot and fun characters keep the pages turning! Many thanks to the publisher and netgalley for this copy for review
November 14, 2023
One of the better Stuart Woods in a long time! Sadly, probably the last novel he completed before he passed.Good, compelling storytelling with two threads running simultaneously. One of kidnapping and revenge, the other of obsessive celebrity stalking.
Fast, pacy and well-written.
Fast, pacy and well-written.
March 4, 2023
This book has two plot lines that propel it along, a kidnapping and a stalking. It was a quick read but I have to admit I didn’t particularly enjoy it. The characters were just there, no real depth or backstory, so I really didn’t care about any of them. I guess maybe if I had read the previous books in the series this would alter my opinion, but I haven’t read them. I just didn’t feel the suspense and thrill of the book, it just wasn’t for me.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
January 15, 2024
Brett Battles did a great job of continuing the work of Stuart Woods.
I almost couldn't tell it was written by someone other than Woods.
I almost couldn't tell it was written by someone other than Woods.
December 26, 2023
Suart Woods & his estate continue his mind candy for the hoi polloi...Instead of "Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous" on the East Coast we're delivered the mind cand encompassing Hollywood...Teddy Fay is Woods' man with a "particular set of skills," who before morphing into a successful Hollywood producer and Academy Award winning character actor, worked for the CIA, and acted as a troubleshooter for the Barrington/Bacchetti families and Centurian Studios...Teddy must protect one of his movie's stars from a stalker and rescue a future investor for the studio in this one...All Good!
February 8, 2023
Brett Battles is doing a great job creating new stories for the Stuart Woods series featuring Stone Barrington.
It’s been a long time since I last read a Stone Barrington story, but he is a wealthy man, who finds himself in
peril often, and he always walks away whole.
This was a busy story of greed and, well, obsession, with men wanting more, coveting their competitors and
having to figure out how to get what they want. Add an obsessed fan, and the kidnapping of a billionaire’s
wife and you have a well written and exciting story. The only thing I did not care for is the abrupt ending,
but overall, it’s good. I’d recommend for fans of the Stuart Woods books.
My thanks to NetGalley and the Publisher for this downloaded copy in exchange for my honest review.
It’s been a long time since I last read a Stone Barrington story, but he is a wealthy man, who finds himself in
peril often, and he always walks away whole.
This was a busy story of greed and, well, obsession, with men wanting more, coveting their competitors and
having to figure out how to get what they want. Add an obsessed fan, and the kidnapping of a billionaire’s
wife and you have a well written and exciting story. The only thing I did not care for is the abrupt ending,
but overall, it’s good. I’d recommend for fans of the Stuart Woods books.
My thanks to NetGalley and the Publisher for this downloaded copy in exchange for my honest review.
September 3, 2024
This will be my first official DNF, ever, on G/R. I can’t imagine that even a skilled master of disguise could fool all his acquaintances and associates into thinking his alter egos, Teddy Fay, Billy Barnett and Oscar winning actor, Mark Weldon, are separate individuals! What a ludicrous idea. Can’t continue after 40 pages.
April 22, 2023
Initially when I read this book it was a bit challenging to keep up with all the characters. I mean one man had three identities alone 😂 and one of those identities had a close enough name to another character. This book gave me a headache in the beginning, so I shelved it for a while and returned later. However, once I was able to manage all the characters, I was able dive straight into the story.
It’s a nice little double agent /ex-CIA story. It has kidnapping, old vendettas, revenge and a cool and clever agent on the job. This was my first introduction to the Teddy Fay series, and I think fans of this series will love this new addition.
It’s a nice little double agent /ex-CIA story. It has kidnapping, old vendettas, revenge and a cool and clever agent on the job. This was my first introduction to the Teddy Fay series, and I think fans of this series will love this new addition.
October 11, 2024
After reading a few books that were challenging intellectually and/or emotionally, I needed a mindless one and found this in a Little Library box. Mindless it is, but well beyond that. Is the writing about 5th grade level? Seems like it. Is the premise of the main character well, well beyond belief? Absolutely. Thankfully it did its job now onto a book.
August 22, 2025
I enjoyed reading this book about the kidnapping of the wife of a Croatian billionaire. The storyline was easy to digest, and I was able to relate to Teddy, who attempted to rescue the lady before she would face dander. This book was well-written!
February 19, 2023
I was a little confused on the character Teddy Fay in the beginning as I didn’t realize this was a series involving the character, but once I realized who the character was I really enjoyed the book. I feel this book could be a stand alone, but it did take a couple chapters to understand Teddy Fay.
I enjoyed how there were essentially two storylines being told and how they intertwined in ways because the characters were involved in both.
It was a fast read and enjoyable!
I enjoyed how there were essentially two storylines being told and how they intertwined in ways because the characters were involved in both.
It was a fast read and enjoyable!
January 31, 2024
Had potential. Writing was juvenile.
June 29, 2024
It’s always a treat when Brett Battles writes for Stuart Woods ( my favorite author who passed away in 2022)
October 24, 2023
I've always enjoyed the Teddy Fay books, and this one did not disappoint. This one has Stuart Woods and Brett Battles names on it, and I wonder how much of it each man wrote, but it is good enough that I am hoping Mr. Battles continues to write these. This book is fast paced, outrageous, and fun!!
December 10, 2023
Good storyline in this one. It's much better than the last Teddy Fay book. In this book, Teddy has to find a kidnapped woman and also stop a deranged fan of Tessa Tweed Bachetti from killing her husband Ben Bachetti and kidnapping her. Enjoyable read.
December 25, 2024
This is the latest Teddy Fay novel from Stuart Woods, co-written with Brett Battles. Teddy Fay also parades around as two other people. In this adventure, Teddy is on a movie set when a top movie star is kidnapped. Teddy is asked to recover her safely. If you have read the previous Teddy Fay novels, this is a typical one of his books. With the passing of Stuart woods in 2022, I believe Brett Battles has been contracted to continue writing books based on Woods characters. I give this book 3.5 stars on good reads. It is very fast reading and is entertaining for a rainy afternoon. The book has a few cameo appearances by Stone Barrington,
Thanks to NetGalley for allowing me to obtain, read and review an advanced copy of this book.
Thanks to NetGalley for allowing me to obtain, read and review an advanced copy of this book.
February 24, 2023
This is the 6th book in the Teddy Fay series by Stuart Woods. Thank you to Netgalley for a copy of this digital book to read!
Some may disagree with me, but I would not consider this a stand alone book. You need to read the others in the series because Teddy also has two alias and with the large number of characters in this book, one could get lost if not familiar. But this is a Hollywood story at its finest. Greed, obsession, coveting what competitors have and men wanting more There are two story lines to follow in this book and they intertwine together.
Stuart Woods died in 2022 and Brett Battles co-wrote (maybe finished this book up) Will this be the last of Teddy Fay and Stone Barrington series? I hope not!
Some may disagree with me, but I would not consider this a stand alone book. You need to read the others in the series because Teddy also has two alias and with the large number of characters in this book, one could get lost if not familiar. But this is a Hollywood story at its finest. Greed, obsession, coveting what competitors have and men wanting more There are two story lines to follow in this book and they intertwine together.
Stuart Woods died in 2022 and Brett Battles co-wrote (maybe finished this book up) Will this be the last of Teddy Fay and Stone Barrington series? I hope not!
January 3, 2024
In the beginning Teddy Fay was a retired CIA operative and a character in a Stone Barrington book.
He was bald, old and crooked as hell.
In Obsession, at one point, he was with Stone as his undisguised self. They were being surveilled and the observer referred to the "older" person of the two and he was talking about Stone. :-)
Another time in the story Teddy was driving and enjoying the wind blowing through his hair.
Not a complaint, just an observation. (Don't get me started about Herby Fisher's transition. ;-} )
He was bald, old and crooked as hell.
In Obsession, at one point, he was with Stone as his undisguised self. They were being surveilled and the observer referred to the "older" person of the two and he was talking about Stone. :-)
Another time in the story Teddy was driving and enjoying the wind blowing through his hair.
Not a complaint, just an observation. (Don't get me started about Herby Fisher's transition. ;-} )
October 2, 2023
There are two decidedly different storylines in this 6th novel in the Teddy Fay series, a man of many aliases and disguises. In the first, Teddy (in his Mark Weldon alias) is starring in a movie produced and directed by Peter Barrington (Stone’s son) and Ben Bacchetti (Dino’s son) being filmed in Santa Barbara, California. Peter and Ben are looking to expand their studio’s business by getting financing from a Croatian billionaire, Carl Novack, when Novack’s wife is kidnapped by a fellow Croatian’s goons. Peter and Ben are two of a very few people who know the various Fay persona and they call on him to rescue her. At the same time, Matthew Wagner is obsessed with actress Tessa Tweed, Ben’s wife and star of his current movie, and is making plans to be with her for the rest of his life. Switching back and forth between his three identities, Teddy must use his amazing talents and important connections to thwart the bad guys.
I wavered in rating this book between 3 and 4 stars - and chose the latter to honor what might be the end of this series (and the Stone Barrington series) due to the passing of Stuart Woods in 2022. And this was actually one of the better Teddy Fay books I have read. As always, the book was a quick read with non-stop action. Many of Woods familiar characters have cameo roles in this book, and the typical Woods humor shines through. Battles has done a good job of completing the manuscript maintaining the pace and humor we have become accustomed to. My thanks to G. P. Putnam’s Sons and Edelweiss for the ARC of this novel in exchange for my review.
I wavered in rating this book between 3 and 4 stars - and chose the latter to honor what might be the end of this series (and the Stone Barrington series) due to the passing of Stuart Woods in 2022. And this was actually one of the better Teddy Fay books I have read. As always, the book was a quick read with non-stop action. Many of Woods familiar characters have cameo roles in this book, and the typical Woods humor shines through. Battles has done a good job of completing the manuscript maintaining the pace and humor we have become accustomed to. My thanks to G. P. Putnam’s Sons and Edelweiss for the ARC of this novel in exchange for my review.
October 17, 2023
Teddy Fay, retired CIA agent, Mark Weldon, an award winning actor, and Billy Barnett, a producer, have something in common. They are all the same person. Through the art of disguise learned as an agent, Teddy has remade his life and only a very few people know of the deception. While Teddy is supposedly dead, his friend Stone Barrington knows that he can call on his skills when a need arises. Weldon is currently filming an action movie when Stone contacts him. He and Ben Bacchetti own a studio that is in merger talks with Carl Novak when his wife Rebecca is kidnapped. As Barnett, he lets Novak know that his friend will help find his wife. As Teddy, he has contacts and resources to call on from his CIA days. She is being held by associates of a Croatian crime boss who blames Novak for the death of his brother and is obsessed with revenge.
On Weldon’s movie set his co-star is Stella, the wife of Ben Bacchetti. While their marriage is a happy one, there is a fan who is obsessed with having her to himself. Matthew Wagner will not let anyone stand in his way, including Ben. With time running down to save Rebecca, Teddy must also find a way to keep Stella and Ben safe. Stuart Woods and Brett Battles have performed a true juggling act with Obsession. It is a revolving door of disguises as Weldon ducks into his trailer and Barnett pops out, only to become Teddy before he even crosses town. The authors pull this off beautifully. Stuart Woods passed away last year and he is an author that I will sorely miss. I would like to thank NetGalley and Penguin Group/Putnam for providing this book for my review.
On Weldon’s movie set his co-star is Stella, the wife of Ben Bacchetti. While their marriage is a happy one, there is a fan who is obsessed with having her to himself. Matthew Wagner will not let anyone stand in his way, including Ben. With time running down to save Rebecca, Teddy must also find a way to keep Stella and Ben safe. Stuart Woods and Brett Battles have performed a true juggling act with Obsession. It is a revolving door of disguises as Weldon ducks into his trailer and Barnett pops out, only to become Teddy before he even crosses town. The authors pull this off beautifully. Stuart Woods passed away last year and he is an author that I will sorely miss. I would like to thank NetGalley and Penguin Group/Putnam for providing this book for my review.
November 6, 2023
SUBJECTIVE READER REVIEW WITH PLOT SPOILERS FOLLOWS:
I will admit that Stuart Woods hooked me early on with 'Chiefs' and I never left the trail, but the last few years have been brain candy, watching Stone Barrington become the poster child for ED treatments with his eternal bedding of hot, young, intelligent females. These have routinely been granted 3 stars in homage to what Woods once was. 'Obsession' marks the second collaboration with Brett Battles, and I think Battles might have hit a homer with the latest Teddy Fay book. There's no pretentious womanizing, just a crime thriller with its roots in the Balkans that gets badly entangled with the insane obsession of an imbalanced fan over Tessa Tweed Bachetti, Ben Bachetti's smoking hot actress wife.
It's been a while since a Stuart Woods book had a compelling storyline, much less a diagonal cross-plot like 'Obsession.' I found it quite an enjoyable read, more keyed into action packed thrillers than brain candy as time goes by. Evidence that I'm not alone in this judgement is the average Goodreads rating of 4.4, probably not seen by Woods in years, but I might be wrong. Woods' books are easy on the eyes in that they're short page-wise and word-wise, double or triple spaced on each page. Nonetheless, get 'Obsession' and read it and I think you'll agree that Teddy Fay outdid himself this time, relying on a dark web hacker for surveillance and a Balkan spy vet for keeping his real enemy paranoid until he had time to make the problem go away. I really think Brett Battles is the secret behind 'Obsession's' relative merits...who knows, maybe Stuart Woods' universe guy?
I will admit that Stuart Woods hooked me early on with 'Chiefs' and I never left the trail, but the last few years have been brain candy, watching Stone Barrington become the poster child for ED treatments with his eternal bedding of hot, young, intelligent females. These have routinely been granted 3 stars in homage to what Woods once was. 'Obsession' marks the second collaboration with Brett Battles, and I think Battles might have hit a homer with the latest Teddy Fay book. There's no pretentious womanizing, just a crime thriller with its roots in the Balkans that gets badly entangled with the insane obsession of an imbalanced fan over Tessa Tweed Bachetti, Ben Bachetti's smoking hot actress wife.
It's been a while since a Stuart Woods book had a compelling storyline, much less a diagonal cross-plot like 'Obsession.' I found it quite an enjoyable read, more keyed into action packed thrillers than brain candy as time goes by. Evidence that I'm not alone in this judgement is the average Goodreads rating of 4.4, probably not seen by Woods in years, but I might be wrong. Woods' books are easy on the eyes in that they're short page-wise and word-wise, double or triple spaced on each page. Nonetheless, get 'Obsession' and read it and I think you'll agree that Teddy Fay outdid himself this time, relying on a dark web hacker for surveillance and a Balkan spy vet for keeping his real enemy paranoid until he had time to make the problem go away. I really think Brett Battles is the secret behind 'Obsession's' relative merits...who knows, maybe Stuart Woods' universe guy?
November 22, 2023
A nothingburger...
Prior to Brett Battles becoming associated with the Stone Barrington and Teddy Fay series originated by Stuart Woods, I had never heard of Stuart Woods nor of his books. As a devout fan of Brett Battles’ writing I was hopeful that these two book series would be as entertaining as Brett’s fabulous other books. Not so much... When I read Near Miss I was greatly disappointed. What a let down! Obsession was my second read. While I was not as disappointed by this book, I still found it unsatisfying in many ways. First of all, the concept of one man continually changing his character with makeup, clothes, cars, etc. and not being recognized? That is almost as absurd as Clark Kent taking off his glasses and not being recognized. The ongoing character changes of Teddy Fay were very distracting. Second, the story itself was only minimally interesting…two storylines, neither of which grabbed me. Third, the hard copy of this book was 307 pages long, double spaced and with larger than average print. So, if anyone foolishly paid $29 retail price for this book, they were getting a novella, not a novel. I am grateful I had my local library where I was able to obtain the copy that I read. I still deeply appreciate and enjoy all of Brett’s other writings and I will continue reading his other books as they are published, but his new efforts of carrying on the writings of Stuart Woods will have to be enjoyed by others. I will not be reading any more of those books. Sorry, Brett.
Prior to Brett Battles becoming associated with the Stone Barrington and Teddy Fay series originated by Stuart Woods, I had never heard of Stuart Woods nor of his books. As a devout fan of Brett Battles’ writing I was hopeful that these two book series would be as entertaining as Brett’s fabulous other books. Not so much... When I read Near Miss I was greatly disappointed. What a let down! Obsession was my second read. While I was not as disappointed by this book, I still found it unsatisfying in many ways. First of all, the concept of one man continually changing his character with makeup, clothes, cars, etc. and not being recognized? That is almost as absurd as Clark Kent taking off his glasses and not being recognized. The ongoing character changes of Teddy Fay were very distracting. Second, the story itself was only minimally interesting…two storylines, neither of which grabbed me. Third, the hard copy of this book was 307 pages long, double spaced and with larger than average print. So, if anyone foolishly paid $29 retail price for this book, they were getting a novella, not a novel. I am grateful I had my local library where I was able to obtain the copy that I read. I still deeply appreciate and enjoy all of Brett’s other writings and I will continue reading his other books as they are published, but his new efforts of carrying on the writings of Stuart Woods will have to be enjoyed by others. I will not be reading any more of those books. Sorry, Brett.
April 21, 2024
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for this eARC.
"Obsession," the latest collaboration between Stuart Woods and Brett Battles, is a thrilling addition to the Teddy Fay series that will leave readers on the edge of their seats. The novel, which continues the legacy of the late Stuart Woods, showcases Battles' ability to maintain the series' signature pace and excitement.
Set against the glamorous backdrop of Hollywood, "Obsession" follows the enigmatic Teddy Fay as he navigates a web of intrigue on the set of Centurion Studios' newest project. When a tech billionaire's wife is kidnapped, Teddy's unique set of skills is put to the test. The plot thickens with the introduction of an obsessive fan who poses a threat to the film's star, adding another layer of suspense.
Battles' writing is sharp and engaging, effortlessly capturing the spirit of Woods' characters and setting. The narrative is fast-paced, with twists and turns that are both surprising and satisfying. The dual storyline of kidnapping and stalking converges in a climax that is both action-packed and cleverly resolved.
"Obsession" is a testament to the enduring appeal of the Teddy Fay series. It's a quick read, perfect for those who enjoy a mix of action, suspense, and the allure of Hollywood drama. Fans of the series will not be disappointed, and new readers will find it easy to get swept up in the excitement. Battles has done a commendable job of continuing Woods' legacy, and "Obsession" is a fitting tribute to his storytelling prowess.
"Obsession," the latest collaboration between Stuart Woods and Brett Battles, is a thrilling addition to the Teddy Fay series that will leave readers on the edge of their seats. The novel, which continues the legacy of the late Stuart Woods, showcases Battles' ability to maintain the series' signature pace and excitement.
Set against the glamorous backdrop of Hollywood, "Obsession" follows the enigmatic Teddy Fay as he navigates a web of intrigue on the set of Centurion Studios' newest project. When a tech billionaire's wife is kidnapped, Teddy's unique set of skills is put to the test. The plot thickens with the introduction of an obsessive fan who poses a threat to the film's star, adding another layer of suspense.
Battles' writing is sharp and engaging, effortlessly capturing the spirit of Woods' characters and setting. The narrative is fast-paced, with twists and turns that are both surprising and satisfying. The dual storyline of kidnapping and stalking converges in a climax that is both action-packed and cleverly resolved.
"Obsession" is a testament to the enduring appeal of the Teddy Fay series. It's a quick read, perfect for those who enjoy a mix of action, suspense, and the allure of Hollywood drama. Fans of the series will not be disappointed, and new readers will find it easy to get swept up in the excitement. Battles has done a commendable job of continuing Woods' legacy, and "Obsession" is a fitting tribute to his storytelling prowess.
October 9, 2023
Thank you to NetGalley for an advanced digital copy of this book.
There are TWO obsessions in play in this book. One, an obsession for revenge and another, an obsession over a movie star. And both need to be solved at the same time, but that is not too much to ask of the multi-talented Teddy Fay and his alter egos.
Teddy, as Academy Award winning movie star Mark Weldon, is filming a movie for his director friend Peter Barrington and his other persona, film producer Billy Barnett is the producer. Peter and his partner, Ben Bacchetti are looking for new backing for their studio from Carl and Rebecca Novak, but when Rebecca is kidnapped, they call on Teddy to help find her. While he simultaneously stars in the movie, produces the movie and looks for the kidnapped woman, another problem arises on the set. An actress and Billy's assistant are walking to their cars when gunshots ring out around them .and they are rescued by Matthew Wagner, who had been hanging around hoping to get a glimpse of his crush, Tessa Tweed. Turns out, Matthew is more than a fan of Tessa's and he finds the perfect opportunity to get closer to her as he is welcomed onto the set in gratitude for his heroics.
The two cases are not related, but Teddy is heavily involved in both of them and sometimes it is hard to remember which persona he is.
A good, fast read, and I don't think I am giving anything away to say the good guys come out on top.
There are TWO obsessions in play in this book. One, an obsession for revenge and another, an obsession over a movie star. And both need to be solved at the same time, but that is not too much to ask of the multi-talented Teddy Fay and his alter egos.
Teddy, as Academy Award winning movie star Mark Weldon, is filming a movie for his director friend Peter Barrington and his other persona, film producer Billy Barnett is the producer. Peter and his partner, Ben Bacchetti are looking for new backing for their studio from Carl and Rebecca Novak, but when Rebecca is kidnapped, they call on Teddy to help find her. While he simultaneously stars in the movie, produces the movie and looks for the kidnapped woman, another problem arises on the set. An actress and Billy's assistant are walking to their cars when gunshots ring out around them .and they are rescued by Matthew Wagner, who had been hanging around hoping to get a glimpse of his crush, Tessa Tweed. Turns out, Matthew is more than a fan of Tessa's and he finds the perfect opportunity to get closer to her as he is welcomed onto the set in gratitude for his heroics.
The two cases are not related, but Teddy is heavily involved in both of them and sometimes it is hard to remember which persona he is.
A good, fast read, and I don't think I am giving anything away to say the good guys come out on top.
October 27, 2023
Very sad to read here (Goodreads) that Stuart Woods died last year. Apparently another writer finished this story for him?!
Since I love this series (and the narrator) I’m really hoping that the series continues…but I guess time will tell. 🤞🏼🤞🏼
Obsession by Stuart Woods.
The crazy crew is at it again!!
If you have not read any of the others in this series, you may have a bit of a hard time keeping up with all the characters…but it is totally worth it!
For instance: Mark Weldon/Stone Barrington and Teddy Fay are all the same person in this book…each with his own purpose and career and every one of them a character!
The story revolves around a movie set and filming, as Peter is a director for Centurion Studios. As they are meeting with a potential client, they come to find that the man’s wife has been kidnapped…and he needs help, but cannot go to the police.
There is a second story going on as well, as one of the main stars of the movie being filmed has a dangerous stalker on her tail.
The whole crew works together very well, and they will have you rolling on the floor with the crazy antics!
Oh, and the main (3) characters have ties to the FBI and the police, as well as some sketchy characters too!! 😉
As I mentioned, I love all of these guys, so 5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ for me!
#Obsession by #StuartWoods.
Keep up with all my future reviews on Instagram! Follow me @ #BookReviews_with_emsr.
Thanks for reading with me! 📚📖
And, let me know your thoughts!
Since I love this series (and the narrator) I’m really hoping that the series continues…but I guess time will tell. 🤞🏼🤞🏼
Obsession by Stuart Woods.
The crazy crew is at it again!!
If you have not read any of the others in this series, you may have a bit of a hard time keeping up with all the characters…but it is totally worth it!
For instance: Mark Weldon/Stone Barrington and Teddy Fay are all the same person in this book…each with his own purpose and career and every one of them a character!
The story revolves around a movie set and filming, as Peter is a director for Centurion Studios. As they are meeting with a potential client, they come to find that the man’s wife has been kidnapped…and he needs help, but cannot go to the police.
There is a second story going on as well, as one of the main stars of the movie being filmed has a dangerous stalker on her tail.
The whole crew works together very well, and they will have you rolling on the floor with the crazy antics!
Oh, and the main (3) characters have ties to the FBI and the police, as well as some sketchy characters too!! 😉
As I mentioned, I love all of these guys, so 5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ for me!
#Obsession by #StuartWoods.
Keep up with all my future reviews on Instagram! Follow me @ #BookReviews_with_emsr.
Thanks for reading with me! 📚📖
And, let me know your thoughts!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 244 reviews