The Joe Pickett series is a collection of novels by bestselling author C.J. Box, centered around the character Joe Pickett, a game warden in the fictional town of Saddlestring, Wyoming. First introduced in the 2001 novel “Open Season,” Joe Pickett is characterized as an honest, diligent, and ethical man, often finding himself navigating the complex and morally ambiguous landscape of law enforcement in the rural American West.
Joe Pickett is portrayed as a family man with a strong moral compass, which frequently puts him at odds with both the criminals he encounters and the bureaucracy he works within. The series is well-regarded for its realistic portrayal of environmental and wildlife issues, set against the backdrop of the rugged Wyoming landscape, which serves as much more than just a setting – it’s an integral character in the stories.
Each novel in the series explores various criminal cases, environmental concerns, and political intrigue, presenting Joe with challenges that test his resolve, intelligence, and ethics. From poaching and environmental vandalism to larger, more sinister crimes, the series delves into a wide range of issues, all woven into the fabric of life in the Mountain West.
C.J. Box’s writing is known for its crisp, clear prose, strong sense of place, and well-developed characters. The author’s deep understanding of rural Wyoming life adds authenticity to the series, while the intricate plotting and fast-paced narrative keep readers engaged.
Over the years, the series has grown in both depth and complexity, with recurring characters and evolving story arcs that add layers to Joe Pickett’s character and the world he inhabits. Titles like “Winterkill,” “Breaking Point,” and “The Disappeared” not only offer thrilling standalone stories but also contribute to the broader narrative of Joe’s life and career.
The Joe Pickett series stands out in the crime fiction genre for its unique protagonist, compelling storytelling, and the exploration of contemporary issues in the American West. C.J. Box has created not just a memorable character in Joe Pickett but a lens through which readers can explore the complexities and beauty of a part of America that is often both rugged and unforgiving.
Publication Order of Joe Pickett Books
| Open Season | (2001) |
| Savage Run | (2002) |
| Winterkill | (2003) |
| Trophy Hunt | (2004) |
| Out of Range | (2005) |
| In Plain Sight | (2006) |
| Free Fire | (2007) |
| Blood Trail | (2008) |
| Below Zero | (2009) |
| Nowhere to Run | (2010) |
| Cold Wind | (2011) |
| Force of Nature | (2012) |
| Breaking Point | (2013) |
| Stone Cold | (2014) |
| Endangered | (2015) |
| Off the Grid | (2016) |
| Vicious Circle | (2017) |
| The Disappeared | (2018) |
| Wolf Pack | (2019) |
| Long Range | (2020) |
| Dark Sky | (2021) |
| Shadows Reel | (2022) |
| Storm Watch | (2023) |
| Three-Inch Teeth | (2024) |
Publication Order of Joe Pickett Short Stories/Novellas
| Dull Knife | (2005) |
| The Master Falconer | (2011) |
| Honor & … | (2017) |
| Precious Cargo | (2022) |