Joe Pickett is a Wyoming game warden who embodies integrity, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to doing what’s right. Created by C.J. Box, he’s appeared in 24+ novels that chronicle his career protecting wildlife while repeatedly stumbling into major criminal investigations that test his principles and endanger his family.
Unlike typical mystery protagonists, Joe didn’t set out to be a detective. He’s a game warden whose job involves enforcing hunting and fishing regulations, protecting endangered species, and managing human-wildlife conflicts. But his commitment to his job and his inability to ignore wrongdoing repeatedly thrust him into investigations involving murder, conspiracy, and powerful interests that would prefer he look the other way.
Joe is neither particularly brilliant nor especially tough. He’s a regular guy trying to do his job well while supporting his family on a game warden’s modest salary. What makes him effective is his integrity, his knowledge of the wilderness and local culture, and his refusal to be intimidated by wealth or political power. These qualities repeatedly put him at odds with ranchers, energy companies, federal agencies, and criminals who underestimate him.
His family grounds the series emotionally. Wife Marybeth, initially a librarian and later a successful businesswoman, is his equal partner and often provides crucial insights. Their three daughters—Sheridan, April, and Lucy—have grown from young children in the first book to adults actively involved in investigations by the latest novels. This family development across 20+ years is rare in crime fiction and adds remarkable depth to the series.
Reading Order
See the complete Joe Pickett reading order for all books in the series.