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

By Kathy | Last Updated on June 19, 2026

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Craig Johnson’s Longmire series is more than just a collection of detective novels; it is an expansive exploration of the American West, a gritty portrayal of life in a small town, and a vivid portrayal of complex characters struggling with their own demons. The series, which began with The Cold Dish in 2004, has captivated readers with its unique blend of suspense, humor, and richly detailed landscapes. At the heart of this series is Walt Longmire, the tough yet vulnerable sheriff of Absaroka County, Wyoming, whose investigations are as much about solving crimes as they are about confronting personal loss and navigating the complexities of human nature.

Over the years, The Longmire Series has not only garnered a dedicated following of readers but also led to a popular television adaptation, further solidifying its place in contemporary crime fiction. But for those new to the series, the question of how to approach Craig Johnson’s books might be a bit daunting. With numerous installments and a wealth of interwoven storylines, it’s important to understand the reading order and why it matters. Let’s delve into that.

List Of Craig Johnson Books In Order

The Cold Dish (2005)	Details
Death Without Company (2006)	Details
Kindness Goes Unpunished (2007)	Details
Another Man’s Moccasins (2008)	Details
The Dark Horse (2009)	Details
Junkyard Dogs (2010)	Details
The Cold Dish (Revisited Edition) (2011)	Details
As the Crow Flies (2011)	Details
A Serpent’s Tooth (2012)	Details
Any Other Name (2013)	Details
Bottle Creek (2014)	Details
The Western Star (2015)	Details
Depth of Winter (2016)	Details
The Shape of the Dead (2018)	Details
Land of Wolves (2020)	Details
Next to Last Stand (2021)	Details
A Killing in the Hills (2022)	Details
Badlands (2023)	Details

More On Craig Johnson Books In Chronological Order

1. The Cold Dish (2005)

Ah, the very first adventure with Sheriff Walt Longmire! Here we meet Walt, a no-nonsense sheriff in Wyoming who’s got a strong sense of justice and a soft spot for his friends and community. The story kicks off with a brutal murder that drags Walt into a complicated tangle of past grudges and present crimes. You really get to see Walt’s methodical, thoughtful approach to law enforcement, and it’s the perfect mix of suspense, wit, and small-town charm that hooks you immediately.

2. Death Without Company (2006)

In this one, Walt deals with a lonely old man found dead in his home-nothing too flashy, but as always, the story peels back layers of human relationships and hidden secrets. Craig Johnson really dives into the psychological side of crime, and Walt’s interactions with his quirky deputies and loyal friends bring a warmth and humor that balances the dark, twisty plot. It’s a slower burn than the first, but deeply satisfying if you love character-driven mysteries.

3. Kindness Goes Unpunished (2007)

This installment is where things get really fun because Walt faces not only crime but the consequences of kindness in a world that isn’t always fair. There’s a bank robbery, an old friend back in town, and plenty of witty banter with Henry and the rest of Walt’s crew. Johnson’s storytelling shines here, showing the Wyoming landscape almost as a character in itself, and you can’t help but be charmed by Walt’s blend of stoicism and empathy.

4. Another Man’s Moccasins (2008)

Now we’re really digging into Walt’s past and the lives of the people around him. A mysterious crime leads Walt to confront uncomfortable truths and long-buried secrets. This one’s full of twists and surprises, and you start to feel like you truly know Walt and his inner circle. It’s a mix of tense investigative work and heartfelt moments that make you laugh, gasp, and maybe even tear up a little.

5. The Dark Horse (2009)

Here’s a story where the stakes feel bigger but still very intimate. Walt investigates the murder of a man with no friends and few connections, which seems straightforward at first-but nothing is ever that simple in Absaroka County. Johnson’s talent for weaving humor, human drama, and suspense keeps you glued to the pages, and the relationships between characters like Cady and Walt really deepen here. Plus, the Wyoming setting is so vivid it almost smells like pine and sagebrush.

6. Junkyard Dogs (2010)

Walt gets wrapped up in a case involving a stolen dog, but as always, it’s not just about the crime-it’s about the people, loyalty, and quirky town politics. This one has a lot of warmth and humor, especially through Walt’s interactions with his deputies and friends. You also get some lovely reflections on aging, responsibility, and what it really means to protect your community. It’s like visiting old friends while solving a compelling mystery.

7. The Cold Dish (Revisited Edition) (2011)

This edition gives fans a chance to revisit Walt’s first case with extra notes and insights into his character. It’s a reminder of how far he’s come and why we fell in love with him in the first place. Johnson’s reflective style makes you appreciate the small details of Wyoming life and the depth of Walt’s moral compass.

8. As the Crow Flies (2011)

Walt faces another puzzling murder that pulls him into a web of old grudges and dangerous secrets. The story is gripping, but it’s the rich character interactions that really shine. Walt’s quiet strength, his contemplative nature, and his dry humor make each conversation memorable. The book keeps that signature Longmire balance of suspense and heartwarming camaraderie.

9. A Serpent’s Tooth (2012)

This one’s intense! Walt is dealing with a suspicious death that connects to a violent past, and you really feel the tension rising. But true to form, Johnson mixes the suspense with humor and the kind of friendships that make you wish you lived in Absaroka County. The plot twists keep you guessing, but it’s the human moments-loyalty, grief, and small acts of kindness-that make it unforgettable.

10. Any Other Name (2013)

Walt investigates a case involving a murder linked to Native American heritage, and the story delves into history, identity, and legacy. The mystery itself is compelling, but what makes this book stand out is the depth of emotion and thoughtfulness in Walt’s reflections. Johnson’s storytelling blends culture, crime, and humor beautifully, creating a novel that’s both suspenseful and deeply moving.

11. Bottle Creek (2014)

In Bottle Creek, Walt tackles a case involving stolen artifacts and a murder, and the plot winds through rich historical references and complex character interactions. You can’t help but enjoy the vivid Wyoming setting and the way Walt’s calm, steady presence contrasts with the chaos of the investigation. Johnson sprinkles humor and warmth throughout, making it feel like a chat with an old friend as you unravel the mystery.

12. The Western Star (2015)

This one takes Walt to a high-profile murder linked to a rodeo accident and a lot of local politics. The stakes are higher, and Walt’s steady, principled approach to law enforcement really comes to the fore. The story is filled with colorful characters, humorous interactions, and that distinctive Longmire voice that makes you feel like you’re right there in the snow and dust of Wyoming.

13. Depth of Winter (2016)

Winter is harsh, but Walt’s resolve is even harsher. He investigates a brutal murder amid icy conditions, which adds suspense and atmosphere. Johnson’s dialogue sparkles with dry humor, and Walt’s quiet reflection and moral integrity shine even more in challenging circumstances. You’re fully immersed in a landscape that’s as unforgiving as the criminals he’s pursuing.

14. The Shape of the Dead (2018)

Here’s a tale with a really intriguing premise: a mysterious death on a private plane, tied to secrets from Walt’s past. The suspense is intense, but what really shines is Walt’s steadfast character and the camaraderie with his deputies and friends. Johnson manages to balance complex mysteries with the everyday humor and heart that make the series so beloved.

15. Land of Wolves (2020)

Walt investigates a case involving a missing boy, which escalates into a dangerous pursuit that tests both his detective skills and his moral compass. The tension is palpable, the setting is richly painted, and Johnson’s mix of humor and emotional depth keeps the pages turning. You really get a sense of Walt’s unwavering commitment to justice.

16. Next to Last Stand (2021)

This installment plunges Walt into a complex case involving revenge and old enemies, and you feel the weight of history and consequences on his shoulders. Johnson’s conversational storytelling makes you laugh and gasp, and the characters feel so real you almost expect to run into them on a Wyoming street. It’s classic Longmire with high stakes and emotional resonance.

17. A Killing in the Hills (2022)

Walt is back investigating a murder that shakes the quiet community, and the tension is offset by his usual witty banter and strong bonds with friends and deputies. Johnson masterfully combines suspense, humor, and heartfelt moments, keeping readers invested in both the mystery and the lives of the characters they’ve grown to love.

18. Badlands (2023)

In the most recent story, Walt navigates a case involving political corruption, personal grudges, and dangerous terrain. The plot is tight and thrilling, but Johnson’s true magic lies in the character moments-the loyalty, the grief, and the humor that never feels forced. You feel like you’re right there with Walt, solving the mystery and sipping coffee in the chilly Wyoming air.

Background On Craig Johnson Books

Craig Johnson is a writer whose novels are steeped in the traditions of Westerns and mystery fiction. Born in 1961 in the heart of the American West, Johnson draws upon his personal experiences and knowledge of Wyoming’s rugged terrain, local folklore, and unique characters to breathe life into the Longmire series. The series’ protagonist, Walt Longmire, embodies many characteristics of a classic Western hero-stoic, resilient, and morally grounded-yet Johnson infuses him with modern sensibilities and personal struggles that make him an exceptionally relatable and compelling figure.

The first novel in the series, The Cold Dish, sets the stage for the entire saga. Walt is an aging sheriff who, after the brutal murder of a young Native American man, must confront old wounds from his past and a town that is unwilling to acknowledge its darkest secrets. Each subsequent book in the series builds on this foundation, deepening our understanding of Longmire, his friends, his enemies, and the intricacies of the community he serves. The series also includes several short stories and novellas, expanding the world even further.

In addition to the Longmire novels, Craig Johnson has published standalone works and collaborated with other authors. However, it is the Longmire books that have garnered the most attention and have contributed to Johnson’s lasting impact on the genre. The series has been critically acclaimed, earning nominations for prestigious awards and winning several of them along the way. As of 2023, the Longmire series includes 19 novels, and the books continue to find new readers, cementing Johnson’s place as one of the leading voices in contemporary crime fiction.

Reading Order Explained

The Longmire series consists of novels that should ideally be read in order to follow the development of the characters, especially Walt Longmire’s journey. The books are primarily mystery thrillers, but they are also deeply character-driven, and reading them in order ensures that you can trace the evolution of both the personal and professional lives of the characters involved.

Here’s a breakdown of the series, in order of publication:

1. The Cold Dish (2004)

   The first book in the series introduces Walt Longmire, the sheriff of Absaroka County. The story revolves around the cold case of a murder involving a Native American teenager and the complicated history of racism and justice.

2. Death Without Company (2006)

   The second book follows Walt as he investigates the death of an elderly woman at the local retirement home, uncovering more than just a murder.

3. Kindness Goes Unpunished (2007)

   In this third installment, Longmire is drawn into a case in Philadelphia, where his investigation reveals long-buried secrets.

4. Another Man’s Moccasins (2008)

   The fourth novel takes Longmire back in time to the Vietnam War, and he must unravel the mystery of a murder that involves an old war buddy.

5. The Dark Horse (2009)

   The fifth book in the series sees Longmire investigating the death of a young woman who was involved in a mysterious family feud.

6. Junkyard Dogs (2010)

   In this sixth installment, Walt searches for a missing dog that leads him into a web of crime and corruption.

7. Hell Is Empty (2011)

   This book has Longmire facing off against a deadly group of criminals in the remote, treacherous terrain of the Wyoming wilderness.

8. As the Crow Flies (2012)

   Longmire investigates a cold case while also facing challenges with his personal life, including the dynamics of his relationship with his daughter.

9. The Spirit of Steamboat (2013)

   A holiday novella that centers on Walt and his deputy, Vic Moretti, as they investigate a 30-year-old case tied to a local legend.

10. Any Other Name (2014)

    A gripping tale that dives deep into Walt’s past and the loss of his wife, as he uncovers a sinister conspiracy.

11. Dry Bones (2015)

    One of the more intricate mysteries, Dry Bones involves a dispute over an ancient dinosaur fossil and Walt’s unrelenting pursuit of justice.

12. The Highwayman (2017)

    A thrilling chapter that pits Walt against criminals who have ties to the shadowy world of human trafficking.

13. Depth of Winter (2018)

    This novel takes Longmire to the Mexican border as he confronts a dangerous cartel and faces significant challenges.

14. The Eagle & The Vulture (2019)

    Another installment that delves into the darker corners of justice and law enforcement.

15. Next to Last Stand (2020)

    Longmire investigates the theft of a famous painting, and his search uncovers deep ties to Wyoming’s past.

16. Daughter of the Morning Star (2021)

    A powerful addition to the series that deals with the disappearance of a young woman and tackles important issues surrounding Native American rights.

17. The Longmire Mysteries (2022)

    A collection of short stories and novellas that fill in gaps in the series and offer new insights into the characters and setting.

18. Not a Grave (2023)

    The latest entry in the series, Not a Grave brings a fresh mystery to Walt Longmire’s doorstep, filled with rich dialogue, intrigue, and emotional depth.

Each book builds on the last, with recurring characters such as Vic Moretti (Walt’s deputy) and Henry Standing Bear (Walt’s best friend) playing crucial roles in the ongoing narrative. Johnson’s rich characterization ensures that readers are invested not only in solving the crimes but also in the characters’ personal arcs.

What I Like About The Series?

Several qualities make the Longmire series stand out. The first is the setting. Wyoming, with its vast, untamed wilderness and wide-open spaces, plays a critical role in creating an atmosphere that is as much a character in the books as any of the human ones. The bleak yet beautiful landscape mirrors the internal conflicts of the characters, particularly Walt Longmire.

Walt, as the protagonist, is also a compelling reason to read the series. He’s deeply flawed-wrestling with the loss of his wife, the burdens of his job, and the quiet toll of age-but his integrity, loyalty, and quiet wisdom make him an admirable figure. His relationship with his daughter, his best friend Henry, and his quirky deputy, Vic, adds depth to the series, blending moments of humor with the harsh realities of their world.

What I also appreciate about the series is the blending of genres. While each book can be considered a mystery, the overarching themes are deeply rooted in the Western genre, with its focus on personal codes of justice, honor, and the struggles of living in a rural, often unforgiving landscape. But Johnson also weaves in social issues, particularly regarding Native American rights and cultural preservation, without ever feeling preachy or forced.

Should You Read Craig Johnson Books In Order?

Absolutely. The Longmire series is one where each book builds upon the last. While it’s possible to pick up one of the later novels as a standalone, you’ll miss a lot of the emotional weight and character development that happens when reading them in order. Johnson masterfully uses the books to develop his characters, and reading them sequentially allows you to experience their growth and changes over time.

Additionally, many of the mysteries are connected to events from past books. Themes and character arcs evolve, with long-standing questions about Walt’s personal life and the fate of his wife being gradually explored across several installments. If you read them in order, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the motivations behind certain actions and decisions, which might not be as apparent if you jump around.