Walt Longmire Books in Order

This reading order guide provides the complete list of Walt Longmire books in order, from the very first to the latest, so you won’t miss anything!

About the Walt Longmire Series

If you’re someone who loves mystery novels with a strong sense of place and unforgettable characters, then Craig Johnson’s Walt Longmire series is something you’ll want to explore. This popular book series combines the heart of Western storytelling with the suspense of crime fiction. Set in the wide, rugged landscapes of Wyoming, these stories follow Sheriff Walt Longmire as he solves murders and navigates life in the small fictional county of Absaroka. Written by American author Craig Johnson, this series has grown to become one of the most beloved modern Western mystery collections out there — and for very good reason.

Craig Johnson, the creator of the series, brings a unique background to his writing. Born in Huntington, West Virginia in 1961, Johnson didn’t start out as an author. Before stepping into the world of books, he worked a variety of tough, hands-on jobs, including as a police officer and even a cowboy. He now lives in a small town in Wyoming called Ucross — a place so tiny it has just 25 residents! His real-life experiences help him write stories that feel authentic and down-to-earth, especially when it comes to crime-solving and rural life. That lived-in feel is part of what makes the Walt Longmire books so compelling.

The series kicked off in 2004 with The Cold Dish, where readers first meet Sheriff Longmire. He’s a thoughtful, no-nonsense man who’s seen a lot in his years of law enforcement, but he still has a big heart and a deep sense of justice. The first book begins with a murder that seems tied to an older crime involving a Native American girl. As Walt begins to investigate, the story quickly grows more complicated. It’s a slow burn, but it pulls you in with rich descriptions, emotional weight, and just enough suspense to keep you turning the pages.

After The Cold Dish, the second novel, Death Without Company, was published in 2006. It takes readers even deeper into the world of Absaroka County, where murder and mystery often come wrapped in personal stories and long-buried secrets. This time, Walt is called in when an elderly woman dies under suspicious circumstances in an assisted living home. What seems at first like a simple case quickly becomes a deep dive into the woman’s complex past. As always, Walt is joined by his smart and spirited deputy, Victoria “Vic” Moretti, and his longtime friend Henry Standing Bear — one of the most memorable side characters in modern crime fiction.

One of the biggest reasons people fall in love with this series is the way Johnson writes relationships. The bond between Walt and Henry, the tension and respect between Walt and Vic, and the way he connects with his community all bring depth to the stories. These aren’t just murder mysteries — they’re stories about people, about grief, loyalty, history, and doing the right thing, even when it’s hard.

Over the years, the Longmire series has earned critical acclaim. The Dark Horse was named one of the best books of the year by Publisher’s Weekly. Another Man’s Moccasins won the Spur Award and the Mountains & Plains Award. Johnson’s writing has also been recognized with the Tony Hillerman Award and praise from the Wyoming Historical Association. These honors only prove what readers already know — these are not just good stories, they are powerful, well-crafted books that stay with you.

In fact, the books were so well-loved that they inspired a hit television adaptation. Longmire, the series, first aired on A&E and was later picked up by Netflix, where it ran until its final season in 2017. With Australian actor Robert Taylor playing the role of Walt and Lou Diamond Phillips portraying Henry Standing Bear, the show brought the charm and intensity of the books to the screen — helping even more people discover this rich and rewarding series.

Whether you’re looking to read a gripping mystery, explore the American West, or simply get to know a memorable cast of characters, the Walt Longmire series is a great place to begin. With more than a dozen novels and novellas in the collection, there’s plenty to enjoy — and you’ll find yourself wanting more after each book. Craig Johnson’s writing is honest, atmospheric, and always packed with heart. So if you haven’t picked up a Longmire book yet, now’s the perfect time to dive in.