C.J. Box, or Charles James Box, is a highly regarded American author renowned for his gripping and atmospheric novels in the mystery and thriller genres. He was born on November 9, 1958, in Casper, Wyoming. Box’s writing is strongly influenced by his Western roots. His stories are often set against the rugged and untamed landscapes of the American West.
One of Box’s most famous creations is the character Joe Pickett, a Wyoming game warden, who is the central figure in many of his novels. He grapples with complex moral dilemmas and explores the boundaries of environmental preservation. The books offer a thrilling narrative filled with suspense and captivating mysteries.
Over the years, C.J. Box has received numerous awards and accolades for his work, including the prestigious Edgar Award for Best Novel. His ability to craft intricate plots and develop vivid characters has made him a favorite among mystery and Western literature enthusiasts.
With a writing career spanning several decades and a vast collection of novels, C.J. Box continues to captivate readers with his exceptional storytelling skills. His works are a must-read for those who enjoy thrilling mysteries set against the backdrop of the untamed frontier. Let us have a look at some of his best books and Joe Pickett’s books order.
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Best books by C.J.Box
C.J.Box’s Joe Pickett Books have a strict fan following. People who love thrillers and wild plots fall for his enigmatic characters. Here are the top 10 best books by C.J.Box that you should start with.
Open Season (2001) – In the debut of Joe Pickett’s novel, Wyoming game warden Joe investigates the mysterious deaths of elk hunters. He uncovers a conspiracy that threatens the lives of his family and the wildlife he’s sworn to protect.
Blue Heaven (2008) – Two kids witness a murder in the Idaho wilderness. Their lives spiral into danger as they stumble upon a group of corrupt ex-cops involved in criminal activities.
The Highway (2013) – Cody Hoyt, in this book, hunts a terrifying serial killer targeting truckers along a remote highway. Simultaneously, he battles his demons and struggles to stop the murderer before he strikes again.
Endangered (2015) – Joe Pickett gets entangled in a dangerous web of illegal animal trafficking and murder when he investigates a powerful billionaire’s connection to the trade.
Badlands (2015) – Investigator Cassie Dewell chases a cunning serial killer who preys on unsuspecting victims through online dating. This leads to a thrilling cat-and-mouse game.
Off the Grid (2016) – Joe Pickett goes off the grid with his family when they become targets of a vengeful enemy. The book leads to their desperate struggle for survival in the wilderness.
Vicious Circle (2017) – Joe Pickett’s past returns with a vengeance when a dangerous old friend reemerges. This forces him to confront unresolved issues and protect his family from a relentless adversary.
The Disappeared (2018) – Joe Pickett embarks on a perilous journey to find a missing British woman and her stepson in the Wyoming wilderness. This unravels a complex mystery with high stakes.
Long Range (2020) – Joe Pickett’s close friend Nate Romanowski is targeted by a deadly sniper. Joe must navigate treacherous terrain and a deadly adversary to ensure justice is served.
Dark Sky (2021) – In the latest Joe Pickett installment, Joe is tasked with safeguarding a tech billionaire targeted by ruthless enemies. All this while he is dealing with personal challenges and life-threatening situations in the Wyoming wilderness.
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Joe Pickett Books In Order
C.J. Box’s Joe Pickett series is best enjoyed in chronological order to follow the development of the characters and their relationships. Here’s the recommended order in which you should read the Joe Pickett books:
C.J. Box’s Joe Pickett series must be enjoyed in chronological order. Otherwise, it would be hard to follow the development of characters and their relationships. According to us, this is the Joe Pickett Books order you should follow:
- “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)
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Summing Up
C.J. Box’s Joe Pickett books have a separate fan base of their own. It is for those readers who want to live their life on the edge. However, it is best to follow the Joe Pickett books’ order while reading them. If you miss any of them in between, you will lose the character development and the continuity of the storyline. So start your reading challenge today and let us know how you like these books.
Garima Bais, a content creator since 2015, delivers unmatched quality with a personal touch. She is an expert in niches like beauty, fashion, digital marketing, health, parenting, travel, and home improvement. An Extremely positive person, she wishes to extend a helping hand to people dealing with problems who have no one to share them with.
