Open Season

by Linda Howard, C. J. Box
Open Season cover
Good Books rating 3.94
Mystery
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Format • £9.49
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  • ID: 2375
  • Added: 2025-10-13
  • Updated: 2025-11-14
  • ISBN: 9781837931859
  • Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing
  • Published: 2022-12-22
  • Formats: 10
  • Reviews: 4

Open Season, the award-winning debut novel by C.J. Box, introduces readers to Joe Pickett, a game warden in the rugged landscapes of Wyoming. When Joe hears gunshots months before hunting season begins, his investigation uncovers a poacher's body in his backyard, plunging him into his first murder case. As he navigates the complexities of the case, Joe faces off against grudge-holding neighbors, corrupt officials, and determined activists, all while risking the safety of his family. This gripping thriller has won multiple awards, including the Anthony, Gumshoe, Barry, and Macavity Awards for Best First Novel, and has been adapted into a hit TV show. With its vivid setting and compelling protagonist, Open Season is a must-read for fans of crime fiction.

Reviews
Cozy with Books · 2023-01-12
great 4.50

This book is a great start to a new series, with engaging protagonists and a solid mystery thriller plot. The pacing and character development make it a compelling read.

The reviewer found this book to be a great introduction to a new series, praising the protagonists and the overall mystery thriller plot. They appreciated the pacing and character development, making it a compelling read. The reviewer enjoyed the setting and the way the author built tension throughout the story. Overall, it's a strong start to a series that keeps readers engaged.

Quick quotes

    Overall, this was a great book and a good start to a new series.

    When it comes to mystery thrillers, the protagonists, if they are part of the story, are what make or break the book.

    The pacing is excellent, and the character development is well-done.

Reddit - RomanceBooks · 2022-10-01
enjoyable 4.00

The dialogue is a bit dated but still engaging, and the female main character is a standout. The book offers a romantic suspense that isn't too dark, with a male lead who isn't overly domineering.

This book is a favorite for its romantic suspense that doesn't delve into the overly dark or gritty. The dialogue might feel a bit dated to some readers, but it's still engaging and adds to the charm of the story. The female main character is particularly well-developed and likable, making her easy to root for throughout the narrative. The male lead is also noteworthy for being less domineering than some other romance protagonists, which adds a refreshing dynamic to the relationship.

Quick quotes

    is a favorite

    Some of the dialogue is a bit dated but still really interesting

    I love the FMC

The Great Adventure · 2022-07-10
mixed 3.00

The author's writing is good, but the reviewer is unsure about continuing the series. The plot and characters are engaging, but some aspects fell short of expectations.

The reviewer appreciated the author's writing style and found the plot and characters engaging. However, they felt that some aspects of the book did not meet their expectations, making them uncertain about continuing with the series. The reviewer acknowledged the strengths of the novel but also noted areas where it could have been improved. Overall, it's a mixed but thoughtful review.

Quick quotes

    This book is the first of sixteen books on Joe Pickett, but I don't think I will continue the series.

    The author's writing was good, but not enough to keep me hooked.

    The plot and characters are engaging, but some aspects fell short of expectations.

Facebook - The Book Hangout Spot · 2020-10-11
charming 4.25

It's a favorite contemporary romance set in a small town, highly recommended for its engaging story and setting. The book offers a lighthearted and enjoyable reading experience.

This book is a favorite among contemporary romances, particularly for its charming small-town setting. The story is engaging and offers a lighthearted reading experience that is both enjoyable and satisfying. The characters are well-crafted, and their interactions are both humorous and heartwarming, making it a delightful read. The small-town setting adds a unique charm to the narrative, enhancing the overall reading experience and making it a highly recommended choice for romance lovers.

Quick quotes

    One of my favorite contemporary romances set within a small town

    I highly recommend it

    What are some of your favorite contemporary romances set within a small town?

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