C.J. Box, born Charles James Box Jr. on November 9, 1958, in Casper, Wyoming, is a celebrated American author renowned for his gripping mystery and thriller novels. A native of Wyoming, Box has worn many hats throughout his career, including work as a ranch hand, surveyor, fishing guide, small-town newspaper reporter, and editor. He also owned an international tourism marketing firm with his wife, Laurie.
Career and Notable Works
Box’s literary career took off with the introduction of the Joe Pickett series, featuring a Wyoming game warden as the protagonist. The series has garnered critical acclaim and a dedicated readership, with several titles achieving bestseller status.
Joe Pickett series Books in Order:
- 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)
- Battle Mountain (2025)
In addition to the Joe Pickett series, Box has authored the Cody Hoyt / Cassie Dewell series, further showcasing his versatility and storytelling prowess. His works have been translated into 27 languages, with over ten million copies sold in the U.S. alone.
Cody Hoyt / Cassie Dewell series Books in Order:
- Back of Beyond (2011)
- The Highway (2013)
- Badlands (2015)
- Paradise Valley (2017)
- The Bitterroots (2019)
- Treasure State (2022)
Stand-alone novel:
Adaptations and Influence
Box’s novels have transcended the literary world, inspiring television adaptations that have expanded his audience. Notably, the Joe Pickett series was adapted into a television series for the Spectrum network and later Paramount+, featuring actor Michael Dorman as Joe Pickett.
Conclusion
C.J. Box’s profound connection to Wyoming and his multifaceted life experiences have enriched his storytelling, making him a significant figure in contemporary American literature. His ability to weave intricate plots with authentic settings continues to engage and thrill readers worldwide.
