Dirty Work is the ninth novel in the series by Stuart Woods featuring Stone Barrington. For those who don't know, Stone is an ex-policeman, now of counsel to a prestigious law firm. He gets the "dirty" work, those cases with which the law firm does not want to be closely associated.

In this book, he is asked to help prove a husband's infidelity. Hiring a photographer, Stone figures this will be a quick and simple job. But that's never really the case with Stone. In this case, the photographer causes a major problem, the cheating husband turns up dead, and the woman he was dallying with runs off.

Suddenly appearing in town is "Carpenter", a British agent Stone got close to in a previous novel. Carpenter is in town on some important business - trying to take down a very clever woman assassin who's on a personal mission, with a long list of potential victims.

Before long it becomes clear that the two cases are related. Now Stone's in the middle of a huge mess, with Carpenter's life, and his own, in extreme danger.

I have to say, this was not a very exciting book. We the readers know exactly what's going on almost every step of the way, so it's not like there's a mystery for us to solve. We simply watch as the events unfold.

The book is also filled with "interesting" characters. The assassin is about as cold and ruthless as they come. We're supposed to hate her, and we do. On the other hand, she is unbelievably clever, and in a way, it's almost "fun" to watch her operate. Even though she drips pure evil, and cares not at all about the innocent lives she takes, on the way to fulfilling her mission.

As for Carpenter, we're supposed to like her, but I really didn't. She comes off as cold and impersonal. Of course, Stone is in total love/lust with her, but I just don't see it the appeal.

Herbie, the photographer who caused all the fuss in the first place was a complete and total jerk. I have no patience for people as stupid, and selfish, as Herbie is.

The only character I really enjoyed was Stone's friend Dino. He's quirky, funny, and a joy to read about.

This is an "ok" book that really didn't excite me. I much prefer stories to have a bit of mystery, and a few surprises. This book has neither. Other Stone Barrington books are better. I think Mr. Woods just got a bit lazy in this one, took the easy way out. I wouldn't recommend it, unless you're reading the entire Stone Barrington series. If not, you should skip this one.



Imperfect Strangers

Palindrome

Worst Fears Realized

Recommended: No