Which Stone Barrington Book Should I Start With To Follow The Chronology?

Getting into the Stuart Woods novels, but the reading order for his Stone Barrington series is confusing. Should I dive in at book 1 or skip to the latest?
2026-08-13 17:20:52
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3 Answers

TessBoone
TessBoone
Twist Chaser Driver
If you care about the development of Stone’s son, Peter, and his eventual role, then chronology is non-negotiable. That’s a slow-burn subplot that pays off over many, many books. Starting anywhere after Peter is introduced will leave you wondering why this kid keeps showing up and why Stone acts a certain way.
2026-08-16 23:08:39
3
BrianRowe
BrianRowe
Longtime Reader Receptionist
The first book, 'New York Dead', is essential for understanding Stone's motivation for leaving the NYPD and becoming a lawyer. That career shift defines everything that comes after. Without it, he's just a rich lawyer who's oddly good with a gun. With it, you get the grit and trauma that underpins the later gloss. It's a short read, too—worth it for the foundation.
2026-08-17 16:47:56
4
PageDesk
PageDesk
Expert Veterinarian
I tried 'New York Dead' and found it okay but not amazing. What hooked me was 'Short Straw', which is much later. The pacing was snappier, and the villain was more interesting to me. Sometimes a writer just hits their stride later, and that's the best place to start. You can always appreciate the growth if you go back.
2026-08-19 01:14:57
4
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