C.J. Box has released a compelling new thriller, titled Battle Mountain, which continues the adventures of his popular character, Joe Pickett. This latest novel, published by Bloomsbury for $32.99, builds upon the author’s established reputation in the realm of contemporary crime fiction. Box’s stories are characterized by their straightforward prose and vividly drawn characters, making them a staple for fans of the genre.
Box, who has authored 25 novels featuring Joe Pickett, stands out in the literary landscape alongside writers like Lee Child. Child, acclaimed for his 30 Jack Reacher novels, has openly praised Box as “one of today’s solid gold, A-list, must-read writers.” While Child may dominate the recognition in some markets, particularly in Australia, Box’s work is steadily gathering its own following.
The narrative in Battle Mountain is set against the backdrop of Wyoming, where Joe Pickett, now aged 51, navigates the complexities of being a family man and a game warden. As the series progresses, readers witness Joe’s evolution since his introduction in 2002 with Open Season. His wife, Marybeth, plays an integral role in the story, showcasing her research skills as the director of the Twelve Sleep County Library, which assists in Joe’s investigations.
Box’s novels, while able to stand alone, benefit from being read in chronological order. They reflect the changing dynamics of rural America, as well as the ongoing struggles within society. Unlike the solitary figure of Jack Reacher, Joe Pickett is depicted as a man grounded by familial obligations, grappling with the realities of everyday life, including financial pressures and bureaucratic challenges.
In Battle Mountain, Joe’s character faces unique conflicts that resonate with contemporary issues in the United States. The plot thickens as Joe and his close ally, Nate Romanowski, confront the fallout from significant domestic terrorist events, including the January 6 riots. This aspect of the story highlights Box’s critical examination of societal chaos and the impact of corruption within public institutions.
The book introduces Nate as a central figure, who embarks on a quest for revenge against Axel Soledad, a former special forces soldier turned rogue. The narrative unfolds in a rugged terrain filled with small towns and isolated locations, including the B-Lazy-U Ranch, a tourist destination for affluent visitors. The stakes in this story are not merely personal but are described as threats that could “possibly alter the trajectory of the nation itself.”
Box deftly weaves together multiple plot lines, ensuring that the reader remains engaged from start to finish. His portrayal of the American landscape, combined with relatable characters and pressing societal themes, contributes to the compelling nature of Battle Mountain. This novel, like its predecessors, affirms Box’s position as a notable author within the thriller genre, delivering a narrative that is both thrilling and thought-provoking.
