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Stone Barrington #67
Stuart Woods' Deep Water
In 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.
312 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 2, 2026
About the author
Brett Battles
93 books1,089 followersBrett Battles is a NEW YORK TIMES bestselling and Barry Award-winning author of forty novels, including the Jonathan Quinn series and its Excoms spinoff, the Project Eden series, and the time bending Rewinder series. He’s also the coauthor, with Robert Gregory Browne, of the Alexandra Poe series. He is one of the founding members of Killer Year, and is a member of Mystery Writers of America and International Thriller Writers. He lives and writes in Ventura County, California.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
June 19, 2026
Biggest criticism is it's too short.
June 14, 2026
Great Stone Barrington story written by Brett Battles. This is a “clean” story. Stone’s normal friends are involved.
This book is fast paced and intense.
I enjoyed it and happily recommend it!
MORE:
The book opens with Stone on a client’s boat.
Stone wakes up in the ocean. Apparently, the boat had an explosion. What caused the explosion?
FUN (?) FACT:
Approximately 30 years ago, a well known housing developer’s new $10 million yacht, exploded & sank on the east coast of the USA. The developer along with some of his male relatives were on the yacht.
The humans survived, the new yacht did not.
I’m not sure if the reason for the explosion was ever confirmed or made public.
This book is fast paced and intense.
I enjoyed it and happily recommend it!
MORE:
The book opens with Stone on a client’s boat.
Stone wakes up in the ocean. Apparently, the boat had an explosion. What caused the explosion?
FUN (?) FACT:
Approximately 30 years ago, a well known housing developer’s new $10 million yacht, exploded & sank on the east coast of the USA. The developer along with some of his male relatives were on the yacht.
The humans survived, the new yacht did not.
I’m not sure if the reason for the explosion was ever confirmed or made public.
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
Danger, suspense, violence, and a will with a surprise beneficiary keep readers turning the pages in the sixty-seventh book in the Stone Barrington series. This series was started by Stuart Woods and is being continued by Brett Battles.
Stuart Woods’ Deep Water
starts with Stone on a client’s yacht. Trenton Sidney is taking the yacht on a cruise gout of Long Island Sound. The last thing Stone expects is to be a shipwreck victim with only three other survivors. However, it has little memory of the sinking. As the executor of Trenton’s will, he reaches out the beneficiaries in Trenton’s will. There are conditions and a surprise or two along the way. Meanwhile, the Coast Guard is investigating the yacht accident. While this novel is mainly set in New York City, there is a trip to London, and a large segment of the book is set in Islesboro, Maine.
By this time in the series, Stone’s character is well developed. He’s smart, depends on his executive assistant Joan to keep him organized, likes women, enjoys the finer things in life, and is a lawyer. There are always several new characters as well as some visits from characters from previous books giving the series even more continuity. Reconnecting with these old friends was effortless. This includes his best friend New York City Police Commissioner Dino Bacchetti, CIA Director Lance Cabot, and Dame Felicity Devonshire, the head of MI6. I enjoy the interactions and humor that is sprinkled throughout the novel. This author has done a great job of capturing the vision of Stuart Woods’ characters while continuing to add nuances that provide even more depth.
In this adventure and crime novel, it takes very little time to get things moving and immersing readers in the suspenseful events. Readers quickly learn the antagonists, but it’s the journey that Stone and his friends take that keeps readers flying through the pages from start to finish. The author does a great job of creating atmosphere and tension. The chemistry between the main characters creates a fun dynamic and makes the characters come alive. Connecting with them was effortless.
Travel is also an expected part of each novel and this one doesn’t disappoint. Trips to Stone’s country house in England, to London, and to Maine add to the adventure. While it’s a fast read, it’s also entertaining despite the somewhat expected outcome. Themes include friendship, greed, family, murder, and revenge.
Overall, this was a tense, clever, fast-paced, and entertaining novel with danger, action, well-developed characters, and some humor along the way. I am looking forward to finding out what happens next in the series. If you enjoy drama, adventure, and mysteries that are packed with suspense then I recommend that you check out this series. While the series is best read in order, the crimes within them are self-contained. However, readers would be missing a lot of background and character development.
Putnam – G.P. Putnam’s Sons and Brett Battles provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date is currently set for June 02, 2026.
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My 4.18 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon.
By this time in the series, Stone’s character is well developed. He’s smart, depends on his executive assistant Joan to keep him organized, likes women, enjoys the finer things in life, and is a lawyer. There are always several new characters as well as some visits from characters from previous books giving the series even more continuity. Reconnecting with these old friends was effortless. This includes his best friend New York City Police Commissioner Dino Bacchetti, CIA Director Lance Cabot, and Dame Felicity Devonshire, the head of MI6. I enjoy the interactions and humor that is sprinkled throughout the novel. This author has done a great job of capturing the vision of Stuart Woods’ characters while continuing to add nuances that provide even more depth.
In this adventure and crime novel, it takes very little time to get things moving and immersing readers in the suspenseful events. Readers quickly learn the antagonists, but it’s the journey that Stone and his friends take that keeps readers flying through the pages from start to finish. The author does a great job of creating atmosphere and tension. The chemistry between the main characters creates a fun dynamic and makes the characters come alive. Connecting with them was effortless.
Travel is also an expected part of each novel and this one doesn’t disappoint. Trips to Stone’s country house in England, to London, and to Maine add to the adventure. While it’s a fast read, it’s also entertaining despite the somewhat expected outcome. Themes include friendship, greed, family, murder, and revenge.
Overall, this was a tense, clever, fast-paced, and entertaining novel with danger, action, well-developed characters, and some humor along the way. I am looking forward to finding out what happens next in the series. If you enjoy drama, adventure, and mysteries that are packed with suspense then I recommend that you check out this series. While the series is best read in order, the crimes within them are self-contained. However, readers would be missing a lot of background and character development.
Putnam – G.P. Putnam’s Sons and Brett Battles provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date is currently set for June 02, 2026.
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My 4.18 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon.
June 11, 2026
It doesn’t take long at the beginning of the latest Stone Barrington novel for the main character to literally find himself in Deep Water when a friend’s yacht capsizes and sinks to the bottom of the ocean. Stone swims away from the immediate danger and later learns he is one of only four people to survive the mishap.
His friend, Sidney Trenton, the yacht’s owner is not so lucky, and the wheels in Stone’s mind start to turn. The yacht was brand new and Stone begins thinking about whether its sinking was an unfortunate accident or a malicious and intentional crime.
But who would want to murder Trenton by destroying his expensive boat, and with no concern about any collateral damage to the other people aboard? It doesn’t make any sense.
As per usual, Stone enlists his good friend, Dino Bachetti, Commissioner of the New York City Police Department, to help him determine what happened to Sidney Trenton, the yacht, and the other passengers. The U.S. Coast Guard is also involved in the investigation, at least once Stone gathers enough evidence to capture their interest.
Happening within a few days of the yacht sinking, Stone sees a news report of a car bombing in London that took the life of another dear friend, Dame Felicity Devonshire, the head of M16, England’s version of the CIA. Before the news of Felicity’s death hits home, though, she literally walks into his Maine home – very much alive.
How is this possible? And what is Felicity doing in Maine rather than in London assuring everyone she is alive and well?
Brett Battles, the writer who continues to move Stuart Woods’ Stone Barrington franchise forward, does another great job of filling the book with plenty of intrigue, action, twists, turns, travel, and many characters readers of the Barrington novels have come to love. And yes, not to worry, there are lovely women in the book to attract Stone’s interest.
The reader is entertained and challenged to follow both story lines, determine any similarities between them, and accompany Stone, Dino, CIA head Lance Cabot, and even good old Ed Rawls, the long-retired CIA operative, as they unwind the mysteries, put the pieces together, and – no surprise – solve both cases.
There is plenty of banter between Stone and Dino, as well as between Stone and his associate, Joan, who runs his home office and keeps everything running as smoothly as possible despite the incredible number of predicaments and strange occurrences that seemingly follow Stone wherever he goes. That typically means Mike Freeman and Strategic Services will be involved, and they certainly are in this latest book.
As is typical with the books in this long series, the chapters fly by and it does not take long to read Deep Water. The key, of course, is just how Stone manages to get out of danger while protecting others and bringing the bad guys to justice; one way or another.
For that, you are going to have to read the book.
All in all, a good read. Keep up the great work, Brett Battles! – DAJ
His friend, Sidney Trenton, the yacht’s owner is not so lucky, and the wheels in Stone’s mind start to turn. The yacht was brand new and Stone begins thinking about whether its sinking was an unfortunate accident or a malicious and intentional crime.
But who would want to murder Trenton by destroying his expensive boat, and with no concern about any collateral damage to the other people aboard? It doesn’t make any sense.
As per usual, Stone enlists his good friend, Dino Bachetti, Commissioner of the New York City Police Department, to help him determine what happened to Sidney Trenton, the yacht, and the other passengers. The U.S. Coast Guard is also involved in the investigation, at least once Stone gathers enough evidence to capture their interest.
Happening within a few days of the yacht sinking, Stone sees a news report of a car bombing in London that took the life of another dear friend, Dame Felicity Devonshire, the head of M16, England’s version of the CIA. Before the news of Felicity’s death hits home, though, she literally walks into his Maine home – very much alive.
How is this possible? And what is Felicity doing in Maine rather than in London assuring everyone she is alive and well?
Brett Battles, the writer who continues to move Stuart Woods’ Stone Barrington franchise forward, does another great job of filling the book with plenty of intrigue, action, twists, turns, travel, and many characters readers of the Barrington novels have come to love. And yes, not to worry, there are lovely women in the book to attract Stone’s interest.
The reader is entertained and challenged to follow both story lines, determine any similarities between them, and accompany Stone, Dino, CIA head Lance Cabot, and even good old Ed Rawls, the long-retired CIA operative, as they unwind the mysteries, put the pieces together, and – no surprise – solve both cases.
There is plenty of banter between Stone and Dino, as well as between Stone and his associate, Joan, who runs his home office and keeps everything running as smoothly as possible despite the incredible number of predicaments and strange occurrences that seemingly follow Stone wherever he goes. That typically means Mike Freeman and Strategic Services will be involved, and they certainly are in this latest book.
As is typical with the books in this long series, the chapters fly by and it does not take long to read Deep Water. The key, of course, is just how Stone manages to get out of danger while protecting others and bringing the bad guys to justice; one way or another.
For that, you are going to have to read the book.
All in all, a good read. Keep up the great work, Brett Battles! – DAJ
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to NetGalley for an advanced digital copy of this book.
Stone Barrington is enjoying a quick cruise on a friend's new yacht when he heads off to bed. He wakes up hours later and realizes the boat is capsizing and he needs to warn the other occupants. But when he goes up on deck, the boat lurches and he is thrown clear into to the water. Realizes sinking is imminent, he swims away so as not to be pulled under and soon loses consciousness. He wakes up days later in a hospital in New York, surrounded by friends. He is one of only four survivors, and his friend, the boat's owner, Sidney Trenton, is one of the deceased. Why did this brand-new boat sink? Was it an accident or a crime? Was there something wrong that had not been previously detected? Stone thinks something is not right, but the Coast Guard is not too interested in investigating, as the boat is far down at the bottom of the ocean.
A few days later, Stone is at his island home in Maine when a headline pops up on the TV, saying a car bomb has gone off in central London and killed another friend, Dame Felicity Devonshire, the chief of MI6. But as he and Milo are watching the news, Dame Felicity walks in!
Are these two crimes connected? Stone, with the help of his extensive circle of friends, soon gets to the bottom of BOTH crimes and, in his own way, takes care of the people responsible.
This is a quick read, with short chapters and so much action it is hard to put down!!
Stone Barrington is enjoying a quick cruise on a friend's new yacht when he heads off to bed. He wakes up hours later and realizes the boat is capsizing and he needs to warn the other occupants. But when he goes up on deck, the boat lurches and he is thrown clear into to the water. Realizes sinking is imminent, he swims away so as not to be pulled under and soon loses consciousness. He wakes up days later in a hospital in New York, surrounded by friends. He is one of only four survivors, and his friend, the boat's owner, Sidney Trenton, is one of the deceased. Why did this brand-new boat sink? Was it an accident or a crime? Was there something wrong that had not been previously detected? Stone thinks something is not right, but the Coast Guard is not too interested in investigating, as the boat is far down at the bottom of the ocean.
A few days later, Stone is at his island home in Maine when a headline pops up on the TV, saying a car bomb has gone off in central London and killed another friend, Dame Felicity Devonshire, the chief of MI6. But as he and Milo are watching the news, Dame Felicity walks in!
Are these two crimes connected? Stone, with the help of his extensive circle of friends, soon gets to the bottom of BOTH crimes and, in his own way, takes care of the people responsible.
This is a quick read, with short chapters and so much action it is hard to put down!!
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
June 4, 2026
Deep Water feels like reconnecting with a friend where Stone Barrington takes you on an adventure. As someone who always looks forward to Stuart Woods’ books, this one delivers exactly what longtime fans crave: sharp pacing, high‑stakes glamour, and that effortless blend of charm and danger that defines Stone’s world.
Brett Battles continues Woods’ legacy with respect. Stone is still Stone, but there’s a fresh energy in the storytelling that keeps the series vibrant. It’s clear Battles understands what makes these books special: the escapism, the wit, the jet‑set tension, and the sense that you’re tagging along on an exclusive, slightly outrageous adventure.
Following Stone through Deep Water is pure fun. The plot moves like a sleek yacht cutting through waves, and the icy intrigue at the center of the story keeps the pages turning. You’re not just reading; you’re right there beside him, navigating danger with a raised eyebrow and a perfectly tailored suit.
For fans who treat each new Woods novel like catching up with an old companion, Deep Water is a satisfying, seamless continuation—proof that the series is in capable hands and still knows how to thrill.
Brett Battles continues Woods’ legacy with respect. Stone is still Stone, but there’s a fresh energy in the storytelling that keeps the series vibrant. It’s clear Battles understands what makes these books special: the escapism, the wit, the jet‑set tension, and the sense that you’re tagging along on an exclusive, slightly outrageous adventure.
Following Stone through Deep Water is pure fun. The plot moves like a sleek yacht cutting through waves, and the icy intrigue at the center of the story keeps the pages turning. You’re not just reading; you’re right there beside him, navigating danger with a raised eyebrow and a perfectly tailored suit.
For fans who treat each new Woods novel like catching up with an old companion, Deep Water is a satisfying, seamless continuation—proof that the series is in capable hands and still knows how to thrill.
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
Stuart Woods’ Deep Water, written by Brett Battles, grabs the reader with a slam-bang opening that never quite lets up as the plot unfolds in this latest Stone Barrington novel.
The tragic death of a friend sets in motion a complicated legal process involving two sons, a previously unknown half-sister, and a university executive—all named as beneficiaries. As expected, greed from a couple of these figures adds tension and momentum to the unfolding storyline.
A secondary plotline finds another of Barrington’s friends faking their own death after a double is killed by an unknown and nefarious entity. Stone is drawn into the mission, working with a team to uncover who is behind the attack and why.
Deep Water delivers what readers have come to expect from a Stone Barrington novel: a blend of legal thriller, mystery, and espionage. Battles balances these elements well, resulting in a fast-paced and satisfying adventure.
Disclaimer: I received an advance reader’s copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
The tragic death of a friend sets in motion a complicated legal process involving two sons, a previously unknown half-sister, and a university executive—all named as beneficiaries. As expected, greed from a couple of these figures adds tension and momentum to the unfolding storyline.
A secondary plotline finds another of Barrington’s friends faking their own death after a double is killed by an unknown and nefarious entity. Stone is drawn into the mission, working with a team to uncover who is behind the attack and why.
Deep Water delivers what readers have come to expect from a Stone Barrington novel: a blend of legal thriller, mystery, and espionage. Battles balances these elements well, resulting in a fast-paced and satisfying adventure.
Disclaimer: I received an advance reader’s copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
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
In the next book in the Stone Barrington series, DEEP WATER by Brett Battles and (Stuart Woods, deceased), Stone Barrington is an attorney. Stone and his friend, Trenton Sidney are on Trenton’s yacht for its maiden voyage. After Stone and Trenton have drinks, Stone is overcome with illness and goes to his room. After that, I am in for the ride.
This book is quite a ride. I am consumed by the story from the very beginning, and I’m in for the adventure. Stone Barrington is a great character, and I care about what happens to him. This book can be read as a standalone. I like reading about Stone’s everyday life and especially like the dialogue between him and Dino. There are times when it is hard to keep track of all the people. This book has a light tone despite its heavy plot. I look forward to reading more books in this series. Thank you, Putnam and NetGalley, for the chance to read and review an advance reader copy of DEEP WATER.
This book is quite a ride. I am consumed by the story from the very beginning, and I’m in for the adventure. Stone Barrington is a great character, and I care about what happens to him. This book can be read as a standalone. I like reading about Stone’s everyday life and especially like the dialogue between him and Dino. There are times when it is hard to keep track of all the people. This book has a light tone despite its heavy plot. I look forward to reading more books in this series. Thank you, Putnam and NetGalley, for the chance to read and review an advance reader copy of DEEP WATER.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
***I received an ARC from Net Galley in exchange for my honest review
Stone Barrington joins one of his clients, Trenton Sidney, on their new yacht. They are having drinks on the deck when Stone begins to feel woozy. He is helped back to his cabin to sleep it off.... and awakes to find the yacht sinking, and no one in sight. He manages to grab a life vest and put it on before he is thrown overboard. He snags a lounge chair cushion and holds on for dear life until he is airlifted out of the ocean and brought to the hospital. Not one to sit around, he immediately gets back to work, and the first order of business is contacting the heirs to the Sidney fortune. But not long after the will has been read, evidence is uncovered that reveals the tragedy was due to foul play, and Stone & Dino must uncover the perpetrator. Meanwhile, Dame Felicitiy stages her death to uncover corruption within her ranks and recruits Stone to help. This was a quick read with lots of action & a good storyline.
Stone Barrington joins one of his clients, Trenton Sidney, on their new yacht. They are having drinks on the deck when Stone begins to feel woozy. He is helped back to his cabin to sleep it off.... and awakes to find the yacht sinking, and no one in sight. He manages to grab a life vest and put it on before he is thrown overboard. He snags a lounge chair cushion and holds on for dear life until he is airlifted out of the ocean and brought to the hospital. Not one to sit around, he immediately gets back to work, and the first order of business is contacting the heirs to the Sidney fortune. But not long after the will has been read, evidence is uncovered that reveals the tragedy was due to foul play, and Stone & Dino must uncover the perpetrator. Meanwhile, Dame Felicitiy stages her death to uncover corruption within her ranks and recruits Stone to help. This was a quick read with lots of action & a good storyline.
June 2, 2026
Stuart Woods' Deep Water stars Stone Barrington, millionaire lawyer and playboy. However, in this installment, he is much less arrogant than in previous books. He is still richer and smarter, in his mind at least, than everyone else in the room. But he doesn’t shove it down everyone’s throats in this entry in the long running series. Which is an enjoyable change.
This time Stone is protecting the head of England’s MI6 and executing a will with argumentative family members while also investigating a yacht explosion of which he is one of the survivors. While the way the stories come together may require a bit of suspension of disbelief, the plot moves at a briskly compelling pace.
Stuart Woods' Deep Water is a fun way to spend a weekend, while not being too tasking to the brain. 4 stars for this escapist read.
Thanks to NetGalley and G.P. Putnam’s Sons for providing me with an advanced review copy.
This time Stone is protecting the head of England’s MI6 and executing a will with argumentative family members while also investigating a yacht explosion of which he is one of the survivors. While the way the stories come together may require a bit of suspension of disbelief, the plot moves at a briskly compelling pace.
Stuart Woods' Deep Water is a fun way to spend a weekend, while not being too tasking to the brain. 4 stars for this escapist read.
Thanks to NetGalley and G.P. Putnam’s Sons for providing me with an advanced review copy.
June 4, 2026
4 Stars
Deep Water is Book #60 in the Stone Barrington Series by Stuart Woods (Brett Battles). I came by this author and series via my mother, who recommended them to me a few years ago. It is a long-running, fast-paced mystery/legal drama with plenty of high-society intrigue.
Mr. Woods crafts a MC who is equal parts as charming as he is resourceful, and unflappable - the former NYPD detective turned lawyer and occasional private investigator, Stone Barrington, navigates a world where danger and luxury often collide.
Each book in the series delivers a familiar yet satisfying rhythm: a glamorous setting, an intriguing cast of recurring characters, and a central mystery or threat that Stone must then untangle and outwit.
So, if you enjoy sleek, character-driven mysteries with a touch of glamour and a recurring hero who always seems to land on his feet, then the Stone Barrington series is definitely an entertaining choice.
Happy Reading…
Deep Water is Book #60 in the Stone Barrington Series by Stuart Woods (Brett Battles). I came by this author and series via my mother, who recommended them to me a few years ago. It is a long-running, fast-paced mystery/legal drama with plenty of high-society intrigue.
Mr. Woods crafts a MC who is equal parts as charming as he is resourceful, and unflappable - the former NYPD detective turned lawyer and occasional private investigator, Stone Barrington, navigates a world where danger and luxury often collide.
Each book in the series delivers a familiar yet satisfying rhythm: a glamorous setting, an intriguing cast of recurring characters, and a central mystery or threat that Stone must then untangle and outwit.
So, if you enjoy sleek, character-driven mysteries with a touch of glamour and a recurring hero who always seems to land on his feet, then the Stone Barrington series is definitely an entertaining choice.
Happy Reading…
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Book #67 in the Stone Barrington series. The series began in 1991, written by Stuart Woods until his death in 2022, with this edition written by Brett Battles. An excellent author of several of his own series, including the Jonathan Quinn series, Battles maintains the Barrington thrillers in the fan favorite style built by Woods. For a series to keep fans happy for 30+ years, you know it has to have many things going for it.
Stone Barrington is in a shipwreck. I do not remember him being a shipwreck before. As one of only 4 survivors, Stone sets out to insure the victims' families are taken care of. When Stone learns the wreck was no accident, he switches into find and punish mode. If you're familiar with the series, you know there will be enough "thriller" to keep even hardcore fans happy.
Stone Barrington is in a shipwreck. I do not remember him being a shipwreck before. As one of only 4 survivors, Stone sets out to insure the victims' families are taken care of. When Stone learns the wreck was no accident, he switches into find and punish mode. If you're familiar with the series, you know there will be enough "thriller" to keep even hardcore fans happy.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Another great Stone Barrington story...this time Stone is on a yacht that his friend, Trenton Sidney, just took possession of for it's maiden voyage. One minute everything is fine, and the next Stone is fighting to stay afloat in the ocean. When rescued, Stone learns that his friend didn't make it. As Trenton's lawyer, Stone contacts the ones named in the will. One of the victim's sons is not at all happy and lets everyone know. And, it becomes clear from events that the sinking was no accident. And Stone and his close friend, Police Commissioner Dino Bacchetti, are determined to find out who is responsible. And that is not the only issue Stone must deal with; someone is trying to kill a close friend of his and he will not let that happen...
(Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an advance copy)
(Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an advance copy)
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.
June 25, 2026
Stone is on the maiden cruise of a new mega-yacht owned by friend and client Trenton Sidney. After dinner/drinks, Stone heads to bed only to wake to the yacht sinking. He barely gets off, is rescued and then finds himself investigating the sinking. Was it deliberate?
Also, friend Dame Felicity (head of MI6) arrives at his Maine home just after having been pronounced dead. Someone (an old enemy) is out to kill her and she's hiding out.
The two mysteries keep Stone traveling from NY to Maine/England, spying at a funeral, dodging bullets& dealing with nasty beneficiaries of Trenton's will.
This is also one of the first non-raunchy books in the series and it's a welcome change from his bedding of at least two women per book.
Also, friend Dame Felicity (head of MI6) arrives at his Maine home just after having been pronounced dead. Someone (an old enemy) is out to kill her and she's hiding out.
The two mysteries keep Stone traveling from NY to Maine/England, spying at a funeral, dodging bullets& dealing with nasty beneficiaries of Trenton's will.
This is also one of the first non-raunchy books in the series and it's a welcome change from his bedding of at least two women per book.
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.
June 17, 2026
A fun, quick read. A Stone Barrington novel that continue’s his evolution into a mature adult. This story had thrills and involved threats from mother nature and of course, relies on Stone and his friend Dino to solve the case. Of note, it was wonderful to see Stone evolve and avoid the quick meaningless hookup that in past novels consumed large portions of-the story. It was a shame that Herb disappeared from this story but introducing Ash as a new associate opens a world of opportunities for future novels. A good summer read.
June 22, 2026
Number 67 in the Stone Barrington series is another fast-read thriller in the pattern set by the late Stuart Woods. The snarky dialogue among old friends amuses while making the book zip by. The setting, "messing about in boats," conveniently fit into my needs for a summer reading challenge. This is a fun but forgettable, lightweight beach read.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Always fun, always fast, always full of action! Enjoyed Brett Battles’ Stuart Woods’ Deep Water and the multiple plots running through the story. An entertaining read!
Thanks to NetGalley and Putnam for the opportunity to read this ARC.
Thanks to NetGalley and Putnam for the opportunity to read this ARC.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Having read all the Stone Barrington books ... it is like rejoining an old friend on a mission. The pace of the storyline could be slightly quicker but the action at the end always wraps up these stories that makes you want the next to be coming out soon.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Brett has done a good job continuing the series. The characters are consistent with the previous books. There is plenty of suspense to keep you interested and some clever dialogue. I look forward to ward to future books in this series, Thank you to net galley for an advanced readers copy.
June 4, 2026
Brett’s Best of Series!
Appreciated the action and interactions plus lack of sex scenes that were never necessary. Look forward to Choic working for Dino and Ryan again crossing paths with Stone.
Appreciated the action and interactions plus lack of sex scenes that were never necessary. Look forward to Choic working for Dino and Ryan again crossing paths with Stone.
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