While I used to be a big fan of Stuart Woods and own many of his books, the later ones don't seem to grab me in the same way. I found myself going backwards to see what I had missed when the characters (and their stories) often got confusing. I admit that I haven't read any of the Teddy Fay series, so I'm pretty sure that if I had, my interest would have been more piqued.

I really savored this novel since it’s the end of an era because Stuart Woods passed away several months ago. This book centers around one of his most interesting characters, the ex-CIA operative, Teddy Fay. I always enjoy reading about “The Barrington Gang,” but this is a really exciting novel which includes kidnapping, stalking and computer hacking.

Many of the characters make cameo appearances, but it is Teddy in his multiple roles who is the centerpiece.

Of course, I’m wondering if the Barrington novels will be taken over by another author. It certainly worked with Parker and his characters. So, I hope this isn’t a farewell to the series.

Thank you NETGALLEY for allowing me to enjoy and recommend this adventure.

It’s always fun to read a mystery by Stuart Woods (or in this case someone commissioned to write in his name, since Woods died). This is Teddy Fay mystery #6. The main character is a former CIA operative who is a master of disguise and misdirection. At one and the same time an Oscar-winning actor Mark Weldon and a well-heeled producer Billy Barnett. Of course Stone and Peter Barrington are both in this one too, though with smaller roles.

The action in Obsession is primarily in Santa Barbara. Teddy/Weldon is shooting a movie. Shortly after the beginning, the wife of an executive (who is considering merging his studio with Centurion) is kidnapped. A all is placed to Billy Barnett who says he can access an operative with experience in handling threatening situations. The operative, of course, is ex-CIA agent Teddy Fay,, aka Billy Barnett, aka Mark Weldon, actor.

You can almost guess the rest. The bad guys are from a Balkan country. They have a grudge against Mr. Novak, who is from that country. Their leader believes Novak is responsible for his brother’s death and going to kill Novak’s wife, though he is trying to make it look like a hostage-for-ransom situation.

There are a bunch of subplots. An actress from the movie Billy is producing and Mark is acting in is being stalked. A mole within the Novak household is cooperating with the bad guys because his family in the Balkan country has been taken hostage. And Fay has to use his old CIA contacts to arrange an extraction.

I'm going to stop there because I've already put into too many details that could be spoilers for some. Let me just say that this is a fast-moving Woods-type plot. It's fun, but it won't take you long to read. Enjoy it for what it is.

I don't remember Teddy as being a CIA operative in the past, more of a goofy, sleezebag running from the law type in the past, a pesky gambler client of Stone. I suppose all his persona was a surprise in his book.
This one just isn't up to par with two separate plots going and there just isn't the interwoven story we are accustomed to in a Woods' book. There is not that instant liability in any characters or the story and it drags on in places. There id a lot of dialogue and action in places,just a little disjointed. I tried to like it, but it just didn't work for me. I was provided an advanced reader copy of the book and was under no obligation to write a review. The opinions expressed are my own. Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.

Teddy Fay is a former CIA operative, turned bad guy, turned good guy and now an actor/producer and friend of the Barrington crew. His friends and co-workers, Peter Barrington and Ben Bacchetti are considering making a film deal with a Croatian couple when the wife is kidnapped. Teddy's skills are needed not only to save the wife, but also for the danger presented by an obsessive fan who seeks to make Tessa Tweed Bacchetti his very own. If anyone gets in the way of the kidnappers or of the stalker, their safety is in jeopardy. Since Teddy handles threats in a permanent way, Obsession is filled with action and intelligence as Teddy takes care of business.

Another thrilling installment in the series, Obsession continues to show the evolution of the character of Teddy Fay. Brett Battles is a perfect choice to continue this series for the late Stuart Woods. Great Job!

Thanks to Penguin Group Putnam, Brett Battles/Stuart Woods, NetGalley for this ARC.

When one reads a novel by Stuart Woods, one has to suspend disbelief a bit, and by doing so one can usually enjoy the book. Doing so allowed me to immensely enjoy the latest Teddy Fay novel, Obsession, co-written by Brett Battles.
Teddy, once a CIA super spy, who had gone bad has settled in to a new identity in previous novels and continues in that role here. He is a movie producer who also switches identities to become an actor has his work cut out for him already while on location working on a film where both of his identities are needed.
With the kidnapping of a financier’s wife and a an individual stalking an actress starring in the film, Teddy takes on his crime fighting identity as well. All of this action provides a fast moving and satisfying read.
Though author Woods recently died, my hope is that his series of novels will continue. In Obsession, it is clear to this reader that co-author Brett Battles has what it takes to keep the enjoyable Teddy Fay novels coming!

In their riveting collaboration, "Obsession," Stuart Woods and Brett Battles take readers on a thrilling ride through the world of film production and danger. As the latest installment in the Teddy Fay series, this suspenseful novel explores the lengths one man will go to protect those he cares about and unravel the sinister secrets that threaten to shatter their lives.

The story unfolds against the picturesque backdrop of Santa Barbara, California, where Peter Barrington and Ben Bacchetti of Centurion Pictures aim to forge a lucrative deal with a wealthy Croatian billionaire. However, their plans take a chilling turn when the billionaire's wife is abducted, throwing the film production into chaos. Enter Teddy Fay, a man of extraordinary skills, who is tasked with assessing the situation and rescuing the kidnapped woman before it's too late.

As Teddy delves into the heart of the mystery, he discovers that the disappearance is merely the tip of the iceberg. Darker forces are at play, and an old vendetta resurfaces, endangering not only the abducted woman but everyone involved. Teddy races against time to untangle the complex web of deceit and treachery, determined to bring justice to those responsible.

Woods and Battles skillfully weave multiple layers of intrigue, from international conspiracies to personal vendettas, creating a suspenseful narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. The authors excel in building tension and suspense, allowing the story's intensity to mount with every page.

Meanwhile, danger lurks closer than ever as an obsessive fan with sinister intentions infiltrates the film set. Teddy's uncanny ability to discern threats and his determination to safeguard those around him become crucial in thwarting this perilous adversary.

"Obsession" is a pulse-pounding thriller that showcases the talents of two masterful storytellers. The collaboration between Stuart Woods and Brett Battles results in a gripping narrative that seamlessly blends action, intrigue, and suspense. The characters are well-crafted and multidimensional, each with their own motivations and secrets that add depth to the story.

As Teddy Fay navigates a world of high-stakes deals, hidden agendas, and dangerous obsessions, readers are treated to a rollercoaster of emotions and heart-pounding moments. "Obsession" is a must-read for fans of gripping thrillers, offering an enthralling journey through the realms of suspense and intrigue.

I honestly have to say that I am starting to like the Teddy Fay books more than the Stone Barrington ones. Teddy is ex CIA and any job he is hired to do his skills are used. You want Teddy as friend not foe. A great beach read.

Teddy Fay was once again at his best! Stuart Woods never fails to amaze me and I absolutely cannot wait for the next installment. The plot captivated me with its high action, murder, and creativeness. Kidnapping, plotting, and saving the day, oh my!

I am really going to miss Stuart Woods and his memorable characters. Teddy Fay is another great Woods character. Peter Barrington and Ben Bacchetti look to expand Centurion Studios's business by making a deal with a young Croatian billionaire. But when the magnate’s wife is kidnapped, Teddy Fay is brought in to recover the young woman. Teddy, through his contacts and disguises, works to unravel what happened and that there is more going on than a kidnapping. Teddy is also tasked with dealing with an obsessive fan who is after Ben's wife. Obsession is a great book.

Once again, Stuart woods delivers! Another Teddy Fay book That kept me reading long into the night. Filled with great characters, edge of your seat suspense and it’s always a great ending. Mr. Woods never fails to disappoint. Thank you so much for my advance. Copy I will be looking forward to his forthcoming books.

Teddy Fay finds himself wearing many hats and disguises in this one. He is the actor, Mark, and producer, Billy on the film they are currently shooting. He also finds himself having to done more disguises when he is asked to help locate a kidnapped woman, Rebecca Novak. He begins to try and figure out who took her and where she is. Stone helps play a small role too. Teddy also stumbles upon a threat that none of them really knew about until it was almost too late. I will say that the book was entertaining and in line with the other books in this series. Teddy always lands on his feet. I did like how he didn't try to do everything on his own. He did enlist help when he needed it and that was a nice change. I don't want to give away what happens, but I will say that if you liked the other books in this series, you will like this one. I received an ARC from NetGalley for my honest review.

i love books by Stuart Woods, and this one is no exception! Teddy Fey is a great character

Thanks to the publisher and netgalley for the review copy.

I've always enjoyed the Teddy Fey character. He's not beholding to anyone and solves problems in the most efficient manner, he removes obstacles permanently. These stories have been my guilty pleasure and when I found that Stuart Woods had passed I was sad like I had actually lost some great friends that I'd known for over 20 years. Teddy is always the right man at the right place at the right time so it's fitting that one of the final books would be a Teddy Fey novel. Since these ancillary books have had other writers besides Woods the difference isn't as obvious as it was in the Stone Barrington book. I'm hopeful that this series will continue, I'm too old now to look for a new guilty pleasure. If they continue to be as good as this novel I'll be happy to keep reading as they come out.

I have read all if Stuart Woods’ books, over the course of his lengthy and esteemed career…RIP, Mr. Woods. I originally began with the “Lee” stories, then the “Barrington” series, and crossed over with the Teddy Fay character as his storyline branched off. I can confidentially report, I find that I actually PREFER the Fay stories now!
Solid entry to the series; fast paced and enjoyable. Well done, Team :)
Thank you!
3.75/5 stars!

I’m a Georgia girl that’s been a longtime admirer and huge fan of Stuart Woods since first reading his standalone sailing novel, “White Cargo,” eons ago. Since then, I’ve read many of his books, including lots in the Stone Barrington series, and now this one with Teddy. However, reading this novel, “Obsession,” a kidnapping story based on revenge, is just not my favorite Woods’ novel. It’s a little all over the place—reminiscent of the old Abbot and Costello joke: “Who’s on first; What’s on second; and I don’t know is on third.” This is because former CIA operative Teddy—a master of disguise and name change —is one minute a movie star, a movie producer, a detective or himself. It’s sadly farcical rather that fantastic, definitely not a thriller nor much of a suspense mystery.

The BookMaven graciously thanks NetGalley, Authors Stuart Woods and Brett Battles, and Publisher PENGUIN GROUP / G.P. Putnam’s Sons for this Advanced Reader's Copy (ARC).

Once again Stuart Woods delivers!!!! Filled with suspense, intrigue, seediness, and glitz, Woods takes you on a wild ride that is delicious!!!

Great book. I would've given it 4 stars but it took me awhile to keep track of all the characters. It definitely kept me guessing and intrigued. This is the 6th book in the Teddy Faye series. If you're a Stuart Woods fan then this series is for you. If you're not a fan of good yet, you will be!! CIA, kidnapping, and stalking? I mean what more could you want if you're into suspenseful books?

Thank you to Netgalley and Obsession's publishers for the ARC.

This book was not for me. Two story lines that just were boring. hope I'm not just in a slump.
Thanks to NetGalley for advance copy.

Another great Stuart Woods book, filled with thrills, chills and the lifestyles of the rich and famous. Thoroughly entertaining and a quick read. I enjoy his writing and always look forward to his new books.