Open Season

The first novel in the Joe Pickett series of crime thrillers set in Wyoming, by award-winning author C.J. Box.

The award-winning debut novel by New York Times bestseller C.J. Box, Open Season is the first in the hugely successful Joe Pickett series, now adapted into the hit Paramount TV show Joe Pickett, streaming on Paramount UK.

There’s nothing unusual about the sound of a gunshot in Twelve Sleep. In remotest Wyoming, where elk roam the pine forests and cougars prowl the mountains, everyone owns a gun. But when Joe Pickett hears two sharp cracks ring out months before hunting season, it’s his job to investigate.

As game warden, dad-of-two Joe is not only badly paid and poorly housed, he’s deeply unpopular. So when the source of the shots – a well-known poacher – gets off scot-free, the locals are delighted.

And then the poacher turns up dead in the Picketts’ back yard…

Investigating the first murder he’s ever encountered, Joe soon finds himself battling grudge-holding neighbours, corrupt officials, and determined activists. But will unravelling the mystery mean he risks the life and family he loves?

Open Season is the winner of the highly coveted Anthony, Gumshoe, Barry, and Macavity Awards for Best First Novel.

Reviews for Open Season

'A great crime novel.' Lee Child
'A muscular first novel.' New York Times
'A debut of riveting tensions.' Publishers Weekly
'Box remains square on target throughout this nearly word-perfect debut... Joe Pickett is a Gary Cooper for our time.' Booklist