[Stone Barrington 06] • Stuart Woods 6 Stone Barrington Novels

**Our Review**

So, is Arrington Calder really a murderer? While we don't know the answer to that question until much later in the new Stuart Woods novel, *L.A. Dead,* we soon learn that Stone Barrington has never quite gotten over his infatuation with the gorgeous Arrington. And trying to prove her innocent is not exactly making lawyer Barrington's life any easier -- especially considering that he's soon to get married to another woman.

Once again Woods gives us some engaging peeks at Los Angeles film society that are over the top but still a lot of fun. You know, people born with silver spoons in their noses. The name of his hero, Stone Barrington, sort of sets the tone. He might well be a relative of John Forsythe of the *Dynasty* era. A Gucci tough-guy.

There is mystery. There are suspects. There are scenes of violence. There are scenes of love. There is dialogue. There is narrative. The pages are numbered.

What redeems it all from the routine is Woods's mastery of storytelling. The guy is a master. A true one. You just can't stop reading the damned thing. Has he written better novels? Sure. Is this worth the $24.95? Yes. Because it delivers just what a Stone Barrington novel promises to deliver -- sexy, quick-read fun rendered with sleek, sure skill.

As a beach book, I'd give it a B+. But I hope you forgive me for missing the Stuart Woods of [*Chiefs*](http://cart2.barnesandnoble.com/booksearch/isbninquiry.asp?isbn=0380703475), [*Under the Lake*](http://cart2.barnesandnoble.com/booksearch/isbninquiry.asp?isbn=0061014176), and [*L.A. Times*](http://cart2.barnesandnoble.com/booksearch/isbninquiry.asp?isbn=0061091561).

Maybe next time.

*\--Ed Gorman*