by C. J. Box
Part of Joe Pickett, book 2
First published 2003
A thunderous explosion tears through the wilderness of Twelve Sleep County, Wyoming. Game warden Joe Pickett arrives at the blast site to find the remains of an environmental activist scattered across the forest floor. The official investigation closes fast. Authorities label it a publicity stunt that backfired fatally. Joe studies the evidence and feels something wrong in his gut. The pieces don't fit together cleanly. He digs deeper into the case against orders from his superiors. What he uncovers points to something far more sinister than a botched demonstration. A conspiracy emerges that threatens not just his career but his life. Joe must choose between following orders and pursuing the truth. His decision will push his wilderness skills to their limits and force him to risk everything for justice.
Genres: adventure, mystery, crime, thriller, action
Vibes: fast-paced, suspenseful, thought-provoking
Tropes: investigative-journalism, whistleblower
Setting: Twelve Sleep County, Wyoming
304 pages · Mass Market Paperback · G.P. Putnam's Sons