Read Craig Johnson Longmire Books In Order : Every Fan MUST Know!

The world of literature is vast and teeming with countless series that span genres and offer readers everything from thrilling suspense to deep emotional connections. Among these, Craig Johnson’s Longmire series stands out as a compelling blend of mystery, crime, and contemporary Western fiction. Set in the rugged and picturesque landscapes of Wyoming, this series delves into the life of Sheriff Walt Longmire, a man whose quiet, contemplative demeanor hides a sharp mind and a relentless sense of justice. The books have captivated a wide audience, from those drawn to classic detective stories to those fascinated by the deep-rooted culture of the American West.

What makes the Longmire series so engaging is not only the mysteries that Walt Longmire uncovers but also the richly drawn characters, the small-town setting, and the profound themes of loyalty, justice, and personal redemption. Fans of the series often rave about the realistic portrayal of both the modern-day West and the complex characters that inhabit it. However, as with any series of books, knowing where to start and how to enjoy them in the most enriching way can make all the difference. This article will guide you through the essentials of the Longmire books, explain the reading order, and offer insight into why this series is so beloved by its readers.

List Of Craig Johnson Longmire Books In Order

The Cold Dish (2004)	Details
Death Without Company (2005)	Details
Kindness Goes Unpunished (2006)	Details
Another Man’s Moccasins (2007)	Details
The Dark Horse (2008)	Details
Junkyard Dogs (2009)	Details
Hell is Empty (2010)	Details
As the Crow Flies (2011)	Details
The Cold Dish: A Longmire Mystery (Graphic Novel) (2011)	Details
Robert B. Parker’s The Devil Wins (2012)	Details
Any Other Name (2012)	Details
Dry Bones (2013)	Details
The Revelator (2014)	Details
Depth of Winter (2015)	Details
The Western Star (2016)	Details
Jingle Bell Rock (2017)	Details
An Obvious Fact (2018)	Details
Land of Wolves (2019)	Details
Next to Last Stand (2021)	Details
Land of Shadows (2023)	Details

More On Craig Johnson Longmire Books In Chronological Order

1. The Cold Dish (2004)

This is the very first book where we meet Walt Longmire, the sheriff of Absaroka County, Wyoming, and let me tell you, he’s the kind of guy you want on your side when things go south. The story kicks off with a shocking murder that pulls Walt into a tangle of small-town secrets and simmering grudges. You really start to get a sense of Walt’s dry humor, his unwavering moral compass, and the wild, rugged beauty of Wyoming that almost becomes a character itself. It’s a slow burn, full of wit, grit, and a real feeling that this sheriff has seen it all and then some.

2. Death Without Company (2005)

Here Walt is back, and the stakes are just as high, though the tone has this almost cozy mystery vibe at first-until things go south, naturally. In this one, a man dies under mysterious circumstances, and Walt starts to peel back the layers of a case that involves a pretty eclectic mix of town locals. What I love is the way Johnson mixes humor with heartbreak, and you get to see Walt’s relationships-especially with his deputies and his daughter-start to deepen. You can practically feel the snow crunching underfoot as you read along.

3. Kindness Goes Unpunished (2006)

This book really flexes Walt’s investigative muscles. A strange death in the wilderness has Walt digging into secrets that folks in Absaroka County would rather keep buried. I love how Johnson lets you linger in the little quirks of the community and Walt’s dry observations. You feel like you’re riding along in his pickup, listening to him reflect on life and justice, and every character has that subtle, authentic edge that makes the story pop.

4. Another Man’s Moccasins (2007)

In this installment, Walt is tackling a murder tied to local politics and some seriously tangled family histories. The charm of this one is seeing Walt deal with the interplay of old grudges and the unpredictable nature of small-town life. There’s humor, sure, but also a somber, reflective side as Walt weighs the right thing to do versus what’s easiest. It’s a book that makes you think while keeping you turning pages because you just *have* to know what happens next.

5. The Dark Horse (2008)

Oh, this one is a wild ride. Walt’s investigation leads him into a web of corruption, murder, and people who aren’t quite who they seem. Johnson really ramps up the tension here, and you can feel Walt’s exhaustion and stubbornness in every decision he makes. There’s a layer of complexity with the villains and the moral dilemmas, and it’s all set against the beautiful, unforgiving Wyoming backdrop that Johnson paints so vividly. You’ll feel the chill in the air while page-turning like crazy.

6. Junkyard Dogs (2009)

This one’s a bit of a departure in tone-it’s got Walt diving into a murder with a circus of quirky characters and some very, very unusual motives. What’s fun here is that Johnson lets Walt’s personality shine in unexpected ways; his sarcasm and steadfastness are on full display. Plus, the story has a cleverness to it that makes you appreciate the layers of plotting and character work. It’s not just about the mystery-it’s about how Walt interacts with the world and the oddball people in it.

7. Hell is Empty (2010)

This one kicks things up a notch with some real stakes: Walt finds himself entangled in a case that’s both personal and deadly. The tension is palpable, and Johnson does a fantastic job making you feel like the cold, vast Wyoming landscape itself is conspiring with the plot. You also get to see Walt wrestle with his own internal dilemmas, which adds this introspective layer that makes the mystery even richer. By now, you really know the sheriff, and you’re invested in every tough call he makes.

8. As the Crow Flies (2011)

In this one, Walt deals with a murder that seems simple on the surface but spirals into something much deeper and more dangerous. Johnson sprinkles in all the charm, dry humor, and nuanced observations about people and Wyoming life that fans adore. You also start to notice how Walt’s relationships, especially with Henry Standing Bear, grow even richer. The pacing keeps you hooked, and the blend of suspense and character moments is just perfect.

9. The Cold Dish: A Longmire Mystery (Graphic Novel) (2011)

Not your traditional novel, this is a graphic novel adaptation of the first book. It’s fun because it visually brings Walt, Henry, and the Wyoming landscape to life. If you’re curious to see how the story translates into illustrated form, this one’s a neat side experience. The dialogue pops in a different way, and the action feels immediate, making it a nice complement to the original novel.

10. Robert B. Parker’s The Devil Wins (2012)

Technically a crossover influence; Johnson’s series isn’t directly involved, but for hardcore readers, this book is a neat reference point for style and structure. Walt-style procedural meets the Parker edge, and if you notice the echoes of Johnson’s narrative rhythm, it’s interesting to compare. More of a trivia nugget than part of the main series, but worth noting for completionists.

11. Any Other Name (2012)

Walt gets drawn into a messy, layered case involving old feuds and new complications. What I love is that the story isn’t just about solving the crime-it’s about Walt navigating the moral grey areas, his loyalty to friends, and the human cost of justice. Johnson’s conversational tone really shines here, making you feel like Walt is quietly explaining the world to you as he unravels the mystery.

12. Dry Bones (2013)

This one has Walt investigating a case that’s tied to the past in ways that are both intriguing and haunting. Johnson excels at weaving the backstory with the present, making you care deeply about the victims and the town. Walt’s thoughtful nature, along with his steady commitment to justice, gives the story heart, while the twists keep your brain busy trying to figure out whodunit. Classic Longmire style: smart, engaging, and full of character.

13. The Revelator (2014)

Things get darker here. Walt investigates crimes with spiritual undertones, and Johnson leans into the mystery with a brooding, suspenseful feel. There’s a real cinematic quality to the storytelling, and you can almost hear the Wyoming wind howling around the page. Walt’s reflections on morality and the human condition make this one particularly memorable, and the tension keeps ratcheting up until the final pages.

14. Depth of Winter (2015)

Walt faces a high-stakes situation where survival, both physical and moral, is on the line. Johnson’s narrative here is taut and atmospheric-you feel the cold biting at your fingertips as you read. The plot is layered with small-town politics, old grudges, and a mystery that won’t let go. And of course, Walt’s steadfast personality and dry humor cut through the tension in just the right way.

15. The Western Star (2016)

Here’s a fun twist: Walt is on a treasure hunt of sorts, which leads to a mix of crime-solving and historical mystery. Johnson infuses this one with his signature wit, quirky characters, and sharp dialogue. You get that sense of wandering through Wyoming’s wide-open spaces, all while piecing together clues and enjoying Walt’s occasionally sardonic commentary. It’s adventurous and clever, and a little different from some of the darker installments.

16. Jingle Bell Rock (2017)

A holiday-themed Longmire story that’s both cozy and suspenseful. Walt has to solve a case with Christmas in the air, which means you get the contrast of the festive season with the darker undertones of crime. Johnson’s knack for balancing humor, heart, and intrigue shines, and the short format makes it a fun, fast read. It’s charming and reminds you why Walt is such a relatable, grounded protagonist.

17. An Obvious Fact (2018)

Walt investigates a murder that seems almost too straightforward-but, of course, nothing in Absaroka County ever is. Johnson really digs into human motivations here, showing how secrets, pride, and fear twist people into unexpected directions. Walt’s insights, combined with his steady moral compass, make this one engaging and thoughtful. It’s the kind of book that makes you pause and reflect while also racing through the plot.

18. Land of Wolves (2019)

In this one, Walt’s case involves both a literal and figurative wolf-danger lurking on multiple levels. Johnson balances suspense with character-driven storytelling beautifully, and you can feel Walt’s patience and experience as he unravels the mystery. The sense of place is strong; you almost feel the wind whipping across Wyoming plains and the tension in every conversation. It’s thrilling, smart, and emotionally satisfying.

19. Next to Last Stand (2021)

This book is classic Longmire: Walt facing a seemingly straightforward case that quickly becomes layered with complications, rivalries, and past histories. Johnson’s conversational tone makes you feel like you’re right alongside Walt in his truck, chewing over the evidence. There’s tension, humor, and a lot of heart as Walt navigates the tangled lives of those around him, and it’s a great showcase of how the series has matured over time.

20. Land of Shadows (2023)

Walt tackles one of his most intricate cases yet, dealing with long-buried secrets and the dark side of human nature. Johnson has this incredible way of weaving suspense with introspection, so you’re not just following a mystery-you’re contemplating the choices people make and the consequences that ripple out. The book is atmospheric, gripping, and full of the subtle wit that makes Longmire so enjoyable. It’s a satisfying addition that shows Walt’s world is still rich, complex, and captivating.

Background On Craig Johnson Longmire Books

The Longmire series began in 2004 with the publication of The Cold Dish. Craig Johnson, a former English teacher, craftsman, and a man with a deep love for the American West, found inspiration for the series in his own experiences and observations of rural Wyoming. The series follows Sheriff Walt Longmire, who serves as the sheriff of the fictional Absaroka County in Wyoming. Walt is a man of principle, bound by a code of honor, and he often finds himself facing the darker aspects of human nature as he investigates various crimes in a region where tradition meets modern-day challenges.

What distinguishes the Longmire series from other mystery or crime fiction is its deep cultural roots. The narrative is woven with the complexities of Native American culture, the nuances of rural life, and the stark contrasts between past and present. While the crimes themselves form the backbone of each novel, it is the exploration of character relationships-particularly between Walt and his friends, family, and colleagues-that adds depth and texture to the storytelling.

The series also shines through its broader themes, often exploring loss, justice, and the weight of history. Walt Longmire is not only a detective but also a man dealing with personal grief, the death of his wife, and the struggles of maintaining a sense of purpose in an ever-changing world. These layers of complexity make the books not just thrillers, but deeply reflective explorations of human nature.

Reading Order Explained

As with any series, the Longmire books are best enjoyed in their proper reading order. While each novel can technically be read as a standalone story, following the chronological order allows readers to fully appreciate the growth of the characters and the ongoing story arcs that span the series.

The Longmire books are as follows:

1. The Cold Dish (2004)
2. Death Without Company (2006)
3. Kindness Goes Unpunished (2007)
4. Another Man’s Moccasins (2008)
5. The Dark Horse (2009)
6. Junkyard Dogs (2010)
7. Hell Is Empty (2011)
8. As the Crow Flies (2012)
9. The Spirit of Steamboat (2013)
10. Any Other Name (2014)
11. Dry Bones (2015)
12. An Obvious Fact (2016)
13. The Western Star (2017)
14. Depth of Winter (2018)
15. Land of Wolves (2019)
16. Next to Last Stand (2020)
17. Hell and Back (2021)

The reading order begins with The Cold Dish, the introduction to Walt Longmire and his world, and progresses through each book as the plotlines become more intricate. The characters, particularly Walt, develop over time, and the relationships he builds with his friends and colleagues continue to evolve, making the journey from one book to the next feel like a natural and rewarding progression.

For those who wish to take a deeper dive, it’s important to also note that there is a novella, The Spirit of Steamboat, which fits neatly into the timeline between As the Crow Flies and Any Other Name, serving as a holiday special with a mixture of mystery and nostalgia.

What I Like About The Series?

The Longmire books offer something for nearly every kind of reader. For fans of crime and mystery fiction, there is a steady stream of well-crafted cases that Walt must solve, each with its unique twists and emotional stakes. But what truly sets these novels apart is how Craig Johnson balances the intrigue of the cases with the personal struggles and growth of his characters.

One of the standout features of the Longmire series is the depth of its protagonist, Sheriff Walt Longmire. Walt is not a typical hard-nosed detective; instead, he is a complex, multi-layered character. His grief over his wife’s death and his struggles with accepting the changes in his life bring a level of emotional depth to the story that is rare in mystery fiction. Walt’s internal battles resonate with readers on a personal level, and his journey of healing and self-acceptance is just as captivating as the cases he solves.

Another aspect I appreciate is the vibrant supporting cast. Characters like Henry Standing Bear, Walt’s best friend and a member of the Cheyenne Nation, and Vic Moretti, a tough, no-nonsense deputy, bring their own depth and intrigue to the series. These relationships are essential to the storytelling, making the books feel more like a family saga than simply crime thrillers. Each character is distinct, with their own motivations and struggles, and they add layers to the world that Johnson has carefully built.

Additionally, Johnson’s writing style stands out. His prose is rich and evocative, with vivid descriptions of the Wyoming landscape, creating an atmosphere that is both haunting and beautiful. The setting becomes a character in its own right, with the mountains, the wide-open plains, and the small-town community providing a backdrop that feels both timeless and immediate. The Western sensibility is deeply woven into the fabric of the series, but Johnson manages to modernize it, making it accessible to contemporary readers.

Should You Read Craig Johnson Longmire Books In Order?

Yes, reading the Longmire books in order is highly recommended. While the individual mysteries in each book can be enjoyed on their own, the overarching character development, the personal arcs of Walt Longmire and his companions, and the evolving plotlines are best appreciated when experienced in sequence.

The first few books establish the core characters, the setting, and the tone of the series. As you continue through the series, you’ll witness significant growth in the characters, especially Walt, as he confronts new challenges in both his personal life and his career as sheriff. Starting from the beginning allows you to see these changes unfold naturally, making the emotional highs and lows that much more impactful.

Moreover, certain plot points in later books reference earlier events, and there are recurring themes and characters that gain significance over time. Missing these would mean losing out on a key aspect of the storytelling, as Johnson skillfully weaves past events into the present narrative.