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Stone Barrington #67
Stuart Woods' Deep Water
Not yet published
Expected 2 Jun 26In the latest action-packed adventure in the #1 New York Times bestselling series, Stone Barrington must avenge attacks on two of his dear friends.
When Stone Barrington meets one of his clients, Trenton Sidney, for a sunset drink on Trenton’s new yacht, the last thing he expects is to be a victim of a shipwreck. As one of the four survivors of the incident but with little memory of the sinking, Stone finds himself diving straight back into work. His first task? To reach out to the beneficiaries in Trenton’s will.
But when new evidence that points to foul play comes to light, Stone must probe the tragedy in more ways than one in order to uncover the identity of the perpetrator . . . before they find another lethal way to get themselves out of deep water.
When Stone Barrington meets one of his clients, Trenton Sidney, for a sunset drink on Trenton’s new yacht, the last thing he expects is to be a victim of a shipwreck. As one of the four survivors of the incident but with little memory of the sinking, Stone finds himself diving straight back into work. His first task? To reach out to the beneficiaries in Trenton’s will.
But when new evidence that points to foul play comes to light, Stone must probe the tragedy in more ways than one in order to uncover the identity of the perpetrator . . . before they find another lethal way to get themselves out of deep water.
Kindle Edition
Expected publication June 2, 2026
108 people want to read
About the author
Stuart Woods
414 books3,240 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.
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Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC. Another great Stone Barrington novel. This book was one that I had a hard time putting down, typical of a Stuart Woods book.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This book starts right off by throwing Stone right into deep water, he's on board a friend's yacht when it sinks. Then before he can catch his breath from that, the news that Dame Felicity was blown up in a car explosion is on TV. Stone and Dino are shocked as they watch the news accompanied by the supposed deceased. Our intrepid legal eagle is juggling trying to uncover the reason behind the shipwreck, assisting British Intelligence in discovering an assassin and mole and fending off a challenge to a will in a most fascinating way. Nothing is simple with Stone but it's always interesting, and strangely enough this time everything becomes interconnected in the most peculiar way. I appreciate the small touches, the way Stone and Dino bicker and I wish I could hire Joan for myself. This series continues to be fun, escapism; nothing serious but enjoyable, easy to read and exciting enough to hold your attention. I plan on reading this series until Stone's elected president and fires Lance.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you Netgalley for this opportunity. This was my first Brett Battles/Stuart Woods arc. As a dedicated follower of Stuart Woods' brilliant universe, and now an admirer of Brett Battles' skillful continuation, it's reassuring to see the series not only endure but truly flourish. Brett has seamlessly carried on the legacy of the Stone Barrington series.
This recent book will be released June 2 so add it to your TBR! It’s is a quintessential Stone Barrington experience, plunging the attorney investigator and his ever-reliable partner, NYPD Police Commisioner and best friend, Dino Bacchetti, into chaos.
I also love Joan with her uncanny knack for delivering the perfect zinger.
True to form, this novel delivers all the signature elements we've come to expect from Stone. From exotic locales, to boats, yachts, Cessnas and jets. Even though it is 67 in the series it can be read as a stand alone. I highly recommend this story! 5 stars!
For anyone who relishes a meticulously plotted adventure, a gripping thriller, or a sophisticated police procedural, I cannot recommend this book highly enough. It’s a compelling read that will keep you guessing until the very last page.
Warmly,
Kelly Faulconer
This recent book will be released June 2 so add it to your TBR! It’s is a quintessential Stone Barrington experience, plunging the attorney investigator and his ever-reliable partner, NYPD Police Commisioner and best friend, Dino Bacchetti, into chaos.
I also love Joan with her uncanny knack for delivering the perfect zinger.
True to form, this novel delivers all the signature elements we've come to expect from Stone. From exotic locales, to boats, yachts, Cessnas and jets. Even though it is 67 in the series it can be read as a stand alone. I highly recommend this story! 5 stars!
For anyone who relishes a meticulously plotted adventure, a gripping thriller, or a sophisticated police procedural, I cannot recommend this book highly enough. It’s a compelling read that will keep you guessing until the very last page.
Warmly,
Kelly Faulconer
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Another riveting Stone Barrington classic by Battles.
Stone is a guest on a friend's new yacht when it inexplicably sinks during the night, taking his friend with it to the bottom of the sound. Floating in a life jacket, Stone is rescued by the Coast Guard who were able to pick up a distress signal from a beacon on the jacket.
As he receivers from his ordeal at sea, an attempt is made on the life of the M16 Director and Stone's friend, Dame Felicity who comes to NY to hide out for a while in one of Stone's hones, while her would be assassins are hunted.
The two stories blend perfectly as Stone's yacht experience turns out to be murder and both crimes are investigated by several of Stone's friends and associates.
Exciting, non stop action and thrills abound, tempered, as usual, by the pursuits of the rich and famous who always live well in Barrington stories.
Battles does another fine job of continuing the Barrington series with all the familiar faces and touches that Woods first introduced us to.
Great read.
Bravo.
Stone is a guest on a friend's new yacht when it inexplicably sinks during the night, taking his friend with it to the bottom of the sound. Floating in a life jacket, Stone is rescued by the Coast Guard who were able to pick up a distress signal from a beacon on the jacket.
As he receivers from his ordeal at sea, an attempt is made on the life of the M16 Director and Stone's friend, Dame Felicity who comes to NY to hide out for a while in one of Stone's hones, while her would be assassins are hunted.
The two stories blend perfectly as Stone's yacht experience turns out to be murder and both crimes are investigated by several of Stone's friends and associates.
Exciting, non stop action and thrills abound, tempered, as usual, by the pursuits of the rich and famous who always live well in Barrington stories.
Battles does another fine job of continuing the Barrington series with all the familiar faces and touches that Woods first introduced us to.
Great read.
Bravo.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Deep Water is an entertaining read that delivers exactly what longtime Stuart Woods fans expect: fast pacing, sharp dialogue, and a main character who seems to land in trouble wherever he goes. The novel follows attorney Stone Barrington as he gets pulled into a complicated situation involving wealth, power, and a suspicious death that quickly turns into something far more dangerous. The plot contains some twists, but it is still fun to read. Fans of the series will appreciate another adventure with Stone Barrington, although this is not the Stone of old. I am able to see the progression of his character and the storyline as brought on by Brett Battles and am interested in seeing where this goes. Overall, Deep Water is an enjoyable mystery with enough suspense and charm to keep readers turning pages. It may not reinvent the genre, but it delivers a satisfying escape into the world of high-stakes crime and clever problem-solving. Thank you to NetGalley, the author and publisher for the opportunity to review this book.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Stone finds himself waking up to a nightmare. He doesn't remember much of what happened, but knows that he was lucky to be alive. The days that follow were kind of a blur to him. When he finally recovers enough, he gets on with business. It is clear to him that he needs to honor the wishes of his friend. Meanwhile, Dame Felicity is in her own nightmare. It appears someone is after her and is intent on killing her. She isn't sure who it is. Stone and Dino are left to try and figure out what is going on there also. Stone winds up flying with Dino quite a few times in this book. He also is stumbling and bumbling his way into danger at every turn. It does appear that Stone is being asked a lot by his friends. You will have to read the book to find out how he and Dino fare in this latest bump in the road for Stone. I will say that I did like this book. It fit in well with the other books in this series.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Stuart Woods “Deep Water” by Brett Battles is the latest installment in the beloved Stone Barrington series.
Stone is a guest on a friend’s new yacht when it sinks during the night. Stone, who was possibly drugged regains consciousness in time to grab his life jacket and escape overboard into the ocean. He is rescued by the coast guard with little memory. While recovering in the hospital, he learns of the attempt on the life of the M16 director who is his close friend and sometimes lover.
An action packed fun ride ensues as Stone and the gang pursue the mystery of both storylines.
Mr. Battles has executed another entertaining and enjoyable addition to the Barrington series.
Thank you NetGalley and Putnam for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Stone is a guest on a friend’s new yacht when it sinks during the night. Stone, who was possibly drugged regains consciousness in time to grab his life jacket and escape overboard into the ocean. He is rescued by the coast guard with little memory. While recovering in the hospital, he learns of the attempt on the life of the M16 director who is his close friend and sometimes lover.
An action packed fun ride ensues as Stone and the gang pursue the mystery of both storylines.
Mr. Battles has executed another entertaining and enjoyable addition to the Barrington series.
Thank you NetGalley and Putnam for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
November 25, 2025
Deep Water is another brilliant addition to Stuart Woods’ impressive collection of thrillers. The narrative is gripping and energetic, filled with suspense, intrigue, and the trademark smooth storytelling Woods is known for. The characters are written with depth and personality, making their decisions feel genuine and compelling. The pacing is tight, and the plot twists land perfectly, keeping you guessing right up to the end. The writing is elegant yet accessible, creating a reading experience that’s both fun and sophisticated. I thoroughly enjoyed every chapter. This is a five-star thriller that deserves all the praise.
November 25, 2025
An exhilarating read from beginning to end. Stuart Woods’ Deep Water delivers nonstop excitement, sophisticated characters, and a smartly layered plot. The writing is crisp and engaging, making it easy to completely lose yourself in the story. I appreciated how the twists felt surprising yet perfectly logical, keeping the momentum flowing. The action scenes are vivid and intense, and the pacing is absolutely ideal. Woods is a master at blending suspense with charm, and this book is no exception. If you’re a fan of polished thrillers with real style, this is a five-star must-read.
November 25, 2025
I absolutely loved Deep Water. Stuart Woods delivers a smart, gripping, and stylish thriller that’s impossible to put down. The pacing is perfect—quick enough to keep your heart racing, yet steady enough to build real suspense. The characters are well-crafted and full of personality, and the plot is layered with danger, mystery, and intrigue. The writing feels effortless, drawing you into the world with ease. The twists are executed flawlessly, keeping the story unpredictable and exciting. This is everything you want in a high-quality thriller. A strong five-star read from start to finish.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Always a fun and entertaining read. Brett is doing a good job but I miss Stuart! Stone is like a cat with nine lives...and I think he's singlehandedly supporting Patroon! Keep them coming.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I had no idea this was a book series but it was so good I am now uploading the beginning of this series.
This book is about Stone Barrington survives a yacht that is sinking. Trenton a billionaire that was purchasing the yacht does not. This story has a few different plots, but all ties in nicely. I enjoyed it.
This book is about Stone Barrington survives a yacht that is sinking. Trenton a billionaire that was purchasing the yacht does not. This story has a few different plots, but all ties in nicely. I enjoyed it.
Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews