Stuart Wood’s Smolder is the latest novel in the long running Stone Barrington adventures. This is good news to the reader-fan of the series, as the author, Brett Battles, presents a satisfying and entertaining entry into the series.

Former police detective, now lawyer and wealthy businessman there is a lot to enjoy in the novels and Battles does a fantastic job at bringing in the various points into this one book. A mystery, romance, politics, Hollywood, and the art world all contribute to making this well rounded story an enjoyable one.

The basic mystery surrounds a group of people who steal art by making it appear that the pieces they take are destroyed. Add a character who wants revenge on the protagonist by finding art pieces he desires and destroying them is at the heart of the story.

For those familiar with these novels, it is enough to say that the usual support characters are in this tale. The writer does an excellent job at copying the plotting and writing style of the late Stuart Woods, making this story a seamless continuation to the canon.

With so many Stone Barrington books in the series, one might be hesitant to pick up this latest as their first, but that reader will not be disappointed. Any backstory, including relationships are adequately explained so the reader easily knows who is who.

Reading this series is a guilty pleasure for me, and Stuart Wood’s Smolder gives me hope that the Stone Barrington novels will continue to provide reading enjoyment and satisfaction!

Stone Barrington is back, in a fast-paced, light page-turner with an original premise. Stone's nemesis wants to get back at him by stealing his mother's paintings. Stone's entourage is well equipped to handle this challenge. With a lively cast of characters including the familiar. and the novel, this book can be read by diehard series fans or as a stand-alone. A fun, satisfying read.

Stuart Woods has been a staple in my reading and I was uneasy about someone else writing the Stone Barrington books. But there was no need for that. In fact, I had to check to be sure that this wasn't just a book that had been mostly done by Woods. The writing style and the story style are all reminiscent of Stuart Woods.

All of that being said, Stone Barrington and Dino Baccheti are two characters who are bigger than life and almost caricatures of wealthy powerful men. Much of what happens seems implausible - but I think that's what keeps me reading the Stone Barrington books. I don't have to think. I don't have to figure anything out. I just have to read and escape and enjoy.

In this story, Stone has just won another lawsuit against a wealthy and seemingly powerful man - a vindictive man who is determined to best Stone in some way and make him miserable. What better way to do that than to torture Stone with the destruction of his mother's paintings that Stone has been anxious to add to his collection. And that's when the fun begins. Paintings are being stolen and the thief tries to pull one over on the buyer (Petry). The thief are a bit of bumbling idiots. Retribution seems to eat at Petry and cloud his vengeful judgement. Oh, and Stone is a man seemingly driven by his bedroom acrobatics.

This is not a serious novel but it is a book that will hold your interest and keep you reading. It is definitely escape reading and enjoyable. I recommend reading this for that alone.

I received this ARC from NetGalley and the Publisher in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.

Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this eARC.

Stuart Woods' Smolder by Brett Battles is a thrilling addition to the Stone Barrington series, marking the 65th novel with a gripping narrative that seamlessly blends suspense, art, and high-stakes drama.

Set against the vibrant backdrop of Santa Fe, the novel opens with Stone Barrington enjoying a rare moment of tranquility. His respite is short-lived, however, as an art exhibit attendance with a close friend leads him into the path of an enigmatic woman on the hunt for art thieves. Stone, ever the gentleman, offers his assistance, and thus begins a journey that stretches from the artistic enclaves of Santa Fe to the bustling streets of Los Angeles.

Battles' writing is sharp and paced, with a knack for creating tension that hooks readers from the first page. The plot is a labyrinth of twists and turns, each chapter peeling back layers of a complex mystery involving rare artworks, particularly those of Matilda Stone, Barrington's mother. The personal connection to the protagonist adds a layer of depth to the narrative, making the stakes feel higher and the antagonists more menacing.

The author's portrayal of Stone Barrington is consistent with the character's legacy—charming, resourceful, and unyielding in the face of danger. Yet, there's a sense of evolution in Barrington's character as he navigates through old grudges and vindictive threats that test his limits.

"Smolder" stands out for its exploration of the art world—a setting that provides a rich tapestry for the narrative. The inclusion of art theft adds an intriguing dimension to the series, offering a fresh angle that will delight long-time fans and newcomers alike.

Brett Battles has done a commendable job of continuing Stuart Woods' legacy while infusing his own flair into the series. The novel is a testament to Battles' skill as a storyteller and his ability to maintain the essence of the beloved series while propelling it forward with new energy.

In summary, Stuart Woods' Smolder is a must-read for those who enjoy a well-crafted thriller with a protagonist who is as suave as he is smart. Battles delivers a story that is both a homage to the past and a bold stride into the future of the Stone Barrington novels.

I definitely enjoyed this Stone Barrington book. As always, Mr. Barrington is quite the ladies' man. Mr. Battles has done a phenomenal job in carrying on the Stone/Dino series.

I began this novel with some hesitation, I've been reading these books since New York Dead and my greatest fear was that since Stuart Woods had passed, my guilty pleasure wouldn't be the same. I am so pleased to be wrong! The banter between Stone and Dino was, as always like two brothers who enjoy screwing with one another. And the exchanges with Joan are my favorite, if she were real I'd do my utmost to hire her away from Stone. I can see from this amazing story that Stone and company will be in good hands moving forward. Stone has an amazing penchant for pissing off bad guys, while at the same time romancing beautiful women, including the president. Dealing with the problems of the rich and famous is a great escape and being able to continue to enjoy their suffering is a blessing. I'm thankful that Stuart's passing didn't mean the end of his most prolific creation. I am happy to remain a fan and look forward to reading much more like this.

“Stuart Woods’ Smolder” by Brett Battles is a fun easy read. It is the first book written by Mr. Battles on his own and the transition is smooth and can be read as a stand alone if you are not familiar with the series. In this fast paced story Stone is the target of a man who lost in court to the famous attorney. He is trying to harm Stone by destroying the one thing he holds most dear, the artwork of his famous deceased mother. It is fun to have the whole crew back from past books and the uncomplicated plot is very engaging, 3.5 stars rounded up to 4.

Thank you NetGalley & PENGUIN GROUP Putnam for the ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.

Stones books can always be counted on to have plenty of action with the bad guy always getting what he deserves. Since Woods death the author who has taken over the series has done a good job holding true to the characters and plots. This series can always be counted on to be entertaining. Thank you to net galley for an advanced readers copy.

Visiting Santa Fe, Stone goes to an art gallery where he meets a woman who is investigating a rash of art robberies. Stone offers assistance when the leads go to Los Angeles and he was planning to go there next for business. There Stone, joined by the investigator Monica and his friend Dino uncover clues that lead to someone trying to make Stone suffer for what the man feels was done to him by Stone even tho it was his own doing. Fires, robberies and murder follow.

The book starts with Stone winning against an old nemesis in court. He and Herbie are celebrating their win. Stone doesn't know that this has provoked a new wave of revenge plots against him. When it is suggested that Stone go some place to relax after things get a bit complicated at home, he finds himself in Santa Fe. He is the guest of Will and Kate Lee and is expecting someone else for the weekend. Stone has to adapt to an unexpected change of plans. Not to worry though, his dance card fills up again with Monica. She is on the tail of what she believes are thefts of expensive artwork that is covered up by a fire. She has lost her job because her boss got her fired. It appears that she was too close to figuring out what was going on. Her ex boss and she run into each other and it doesn't exactly go well. She explains to Stone her theory and he listens with an open mind. Things heat up with her investigation and Stone really begins to think she really is onto something. When things take them to L.A., he takes Monica with him so she can continue her pursuit of the truth. Dino and Viv join Stone in L.A. and they seek Teddy's assistance in bringing a conclusion to their current predictament. Stone is deeply interested in finding his mother's paintings that seem to be at the center of what is going on. I don't want to give away what happens, but I will say that the book was entertaining.

It was nice to see the whole crew in this one and it felt like Stuart Woods actually wrote this one. I want to thank NetGalley and Penguin Random House for the advanced copy to review.

Three men steal an Andrew Wyeth painting from Gordon Zurn’s vacation estate home. Where is the painting, and why has it been stolen? I am hooked right away and read on to get answers. It turns out that the opening incident is just a warm up for the great mystery that follows. For much of the novel the story involving art alternates with the story of Stone’s current life (including interesting characters such as his city police commissioner friend, Dino, and his current lover, Monica). This novel is number 65 in the Stone Barrington series but can easily be read as a standalone.

Stone is a great character, and the plot is interesting and well-paced. I get to the point where I can't put to the book aside. I have to finish it. I am inspired to continue reading Stone Barrington novels. It is great to know there are so many books written by Stuart Woods for me to read, and I am glad Brett Battles is continuing the series. Thank you, PENQUIN GROUP Putnam and NetGalley, for the chance to read and review an advance reader copy.

These books are still great strat this around 9 today and finished it by 5 still love them . They hav3 not mised a beat since Woods died

Always action-packed, fast-paced and full of adventure, Stuart Woods’ books - even when written by Brett Battles - are entertaining and fun to read. Not a dull moment in the streets, between the sheets, or jetting across the country!

Thanks to NetGalley and Penguin Group Putnam for the opportunity to read this ARC.

This is another great book in this long running series with a great core group
of characters. It is also the first book written by Brett Battles, who takes over
from the original, wonderful story teller, Stuart Woods.
Stone Barrington is (again) being targeted by some low life thugs who
wish to take advantage of,Stone and his circle of long time friends,
professional colleagues, and of course a newcomer who is involved
professionally and becomes a new love interest. There is still the
red-hot and long standing relationship with the President of the
United States, but it’s always been kept very, very quiet.
Everyone in the family, circle and the crooks, find themselves
in danger until those charged with investigating the sudden
interest in a couple<f the very expensive paintings done by
Stone’s mom.
The writing style is very reminiscent of Stuart Woods, and the
reader transition was seamless. The structure and progress
are easy to follow and the storyline is captivating.
I thoroughly recommend this book, and long time
fans will be delighted.
My thanks to Penguin Random House via NetGalley
for,the,download of,this book for,review,purposes.

Entertaining with many of the Woods touches but just a little too pat.
Stone is off on a chase to find out who is stealing paintings him famous mother had done.
Among those stolen were his personal favorites. Dino is on the scene to help him along, as
per the usual scenario and a new flame as well, who happens to be an insurance investigator, whose specialty
is art forgeries and stolen art.
The characters are the same as usual and the very quick repartee amongst them is the usual sharp and
pointed as in past novels but just missed the mark a few times, in my opinion.
A little of the magic was off.
Not that I will not be watching for the next one - because I surely will.
Stone is nowhere near the end of the line fo rme.

Stone Barrington needs some downtime in Santa Fe where he momentarily crosses paths with old friends: the Lees, Teddy Fay, Ed Eagle and Holly Barker. Unbeknown to him, the last case he won in New York has given another person reason to seek serious revenge against Stone. An elaborate plan involves stealing paintings done by Stone's mother, Matilda Stone, and then destroying them as Stone watches. Insurance fraud and an art theft ring are central to the twists and turns of another addition to this series. Brett Battles hasn't missed a beat as he continues putting Stone in hazardous situations. Battles provides opportunities for the character to jet to his luxurious homes, have dinners with Dino and find lovely ladies to squire around town...all while solving his dilemma. Another enjoyable adventure - I will be recommending.

Thanks to Penguin Group Putnam, Brett Battles and NetGalley for this ARC.

Brett Battles has brought Stone Barrington and his crew back to life. Though I was hopeful that the adventures would be revitalized, it hasn’t happened in this book. This absolutely cannot be read as a stand-alone. The author pulls in characters and settings from multiple past novels. Once again, Stone is confronted by a villainous enemy who longs to make him suffer. That’s the biggest weakness, his plot of revenge is silly. In fact, it hardly seemed worth the death and destruction it caused. I also find the cavalier treatment of killing bad guys a little over the top.

Of course, diehards will enjoy this visit with old friends. I was hoping for a greater injection of new life. Thank you Netgalley for a visit to Stone’s old gang.

Brett Battles has officially taken over the reins of the Stone Barrington series from the late Stuart Woods. The two co-authored a few books before this, but Smolder is Battles first time taking on the series alone. One thing I noticed almost right away was that, as someone who has read almost every book in the series, I could not tell that Smolder was written by someone other than Mr. Woods. The dialogue, in particular, is done in the same truncated style that Woods’ used.

This time around, Barrington and company (the usual suspects – Dino, Viv, Herb, Teddy, the Lee’s, and any good-looking, available woman), start out by traveling to Santa Fe, before ending up in Los Angeles. Stone has been targeted by a man who lost in court to Woodman & Weld a few times, and holds Stone personally responsible for the trouble, and money, this has cost him. He decides to take his revenge in a way that he believes will not trace back to him, and will be as harmful to Stone as possible; by finding and destroying as much of Matilda Stone’s artwork as possible.

The story moves quickly, and while descriptive details are slim, the story is engaging in the way readers of the series have become accustomed to. Stone and his friends are always caught up in some sort of nefarious plot, Stone finds a new woman to roll around with (who may or may not return, albeit briefly, in a future storyline), his friendship with Dino is a highlight, and things turn out alright in the end. Overall, Smolder is a good addition to this long-running series, and will satisfy its readers.

Thank you to NetGalley, PENGUIN GROUP Putnam, and G.P. Putnam’s Sons for an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.

This book follows the life of Stone and his friends as they follow along to some of his various homes. He meets a new woman and his mother art is involved. This book focuses more on Stone and the main characters while mentioning offhandedly the rest of the characters that usually show up in these books. A fun, great read!