This title is a sequel to 'Three-Inch Teeth' and features Game Warden Joe Pickett's long-time adversary Axel Soledad, along with Joe's fugitive friend and ally, master falconer Nate Romanowski. The characters and Rocky Mountain wilderness setting are familiar, although the storyline at times strains credulity, notably in its plot hinge, an under-secured mountain weekend hosting officials from the 'military-industrial complex', including the Secretary of Defense. Also more than a little over=the=top: the characterization of Soledad, who's a bit too deranged and unhinged to command the loyalty of his veteran guerrilla terrorist band. What's more, Nate's psychic/preternatural connection to his falcons is also somewhat of a leap, but not so much because of its unearned role in the plot so much as its lack of setup and reader preparation for its appearance.

Still the tale holds all the suspense of its scores of predecessors in Box's series, and this reviewer found the aspects of the story that touched on Ranger Pickett's family, as always,. the most compelling elements.

Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this eARC.

"Battle Mountain" by C.J. Box is an exhilarating addition to his repertoire of gripping thrillers, blending the rugged beauty of the American West with a fast-paced, suspenseful narrative that is hard to put down. Box, known for his keen sense of place and masterful storytelling, delivers a novel that is evocative and thrilling.

The story is set in the remote wilderness of Battle Mountain, where the protagonist, Joe Pickett, a game warden, is tasked with investigating a series of mysterious disappearances and deaths. As Joe delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a conspiracy that reaches far beyond the mountain's rugged landscape. Box's ability to create a sense of urgency and tension is evident throughout the novel, keeping readers on the edge of their seats.

Joe Pickett is a compelling protagonist, with a strong moral compass and an unyielding determination to seek justice. Box's portrayal of Joe is nuanced, highlighting his vulnerabilities and strengths, making him a relatable and sympathetic character. Joe's interactions with the diverse cast of characters add depth to the story, from the local residents to the enigmatic figures he encounters during his investigation.

Box's writing is vivid and descriptive, capturing the majesty and danger of the natural world. His descriptions of the mountain terrain, the wildlife, and the harsh weather conditions create an immersive reading experience. The setting is not just a backdrop but a character in itself, influencing the events and the characters' actions.

The plot of "Battle Mountain" is intricately woven, with twists and turns that keep readers guessing until the very end. Box's ability to craft a complex mystery while maintaining a steady pace is impressive. The suspense builds steadily, leading to a climax that is unexpected and satisfying.

This novel explores themes such as survival, justice, and the impact of human actions on the environment. Box's narrative delves into the ethical dilemmas faced by those who live and work in the wilderness, adding a layer of depth to the thrilling plot. The novel also addresses the tension between tradition and progress, as the characters navigate the challenges of modern life in a remote setting.

"Battle Mountain" by C.J. Box is a captivating and thought-provoking thriller that will appeal to fans of the genre and newcomers alike. With its well-drawn characters, atmospheric setting, and intricate plot, this novel is a testament to Box's talent as a storyteller. Whether you're a long-time fan of Joe Pickett or new to the series, "Battle Mountain" is a must-read that will leave you eagerly anticipating the next adventure.

Battle Mountain review

Nate Romanowski is on the warpath. After the explosive ending to Three Inch Teeth, CJ Box wastes no time getting to the action at the outset of his latest Joe Pickett adventure, and just as the name suggests, things get real western in Wyoming. As per usual, I will not give anything away here that could be considered spoilers for Battle Mountain, but if you’ve not read Three Inch Teeth, I’d advise you to stop reading now. The end of the previous novel sets up the entire events of this book, so to not reference it would be a disservice. Still reading? Let’s get into it then. When Axel Soledad and Dallas Cates murdered Liv Romanowski, Nate goes on the warpath, leaving Kestrel with Joe and Marybeth. Governor Rulon has asked Joe to help him locate a missing hunting guide and his son-in-law, who’ve disappeared on Battle Mountain while elk scouting. And is there a disappearance connected in any way to the arrival of a mysterious group of elites called the Centurions? This one is up there with my favorites in the series; it introduces a few new characters I hope we see again. An instant CJ Box classic as far as I’m concerned!

This book builds to a suspense and intrigue, only to have it wrapped up too quickly in the final chapters, leaving some key plot threads and character developments unresolved It’s as though C.J. Box was eager to close the book, and in doing so, sacrificed the depth and impact that could have made the resolution more rewarding. The quick wrap-up feels out of sync with the slow-burn tension that precedes it, leaving readers with a sense of disappointment, as if the story had more to offer but was abruptly cut short. Expect a lot more from C. J. Box

Thanks to NetGalley for advance copy

Joe Picket is the game warden and he comes in part way through the book, but mainly it’s Nate and his friend Geronimo who are hunting for Axel Soledad. Axel is from a previous book and someone they thought was dead. The governor gets involved in this book adding a wrinkle to the problem. Highly recommend!

Another tour de force by C.J. Box, as he catches the reader up in the exciting lives of Montana Game Warden Joe Pickett and his good friend Nate Romanowski. This book is non-stop action, with our lead characters once again encountering enemies who are not only looking to destroy them but to damage law and order in Montana and throughout the U.S.

I received an ARC for free and gave my honest opinion voluntarily.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
Another amazing Joe Picket novel. I’ve loved this series and devoured it from the very first book. And years later it’s still one of my favorites.

Thank you to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for an ARC to this book in exchange for an honest review.

This is book 25 in the Joe Pickett series, and amazingly, I still find this to be one of the best series around. This was one of the more action-packed books in the series as it brings a fitting conclusion of Nate Romanowski's quest to avenge the murder of his wife. I am very interested to see how and if Nate will come back to society going forward as well as see the next adventures 0f the Pickett family. I am hoping we will see some of the other members of the family again as they have been largely absent from the past few books. Regardless, I thoroughly enjoyed this book and is fitting that this will probably be my last book read this year. 5-stars!

Review: This was filled with the many tropes that bludgeon thriller literature. Former spec. ops guys hunting Dr. Evil. One is black and moves like a cat. The other a falconer with a pony tail whom can see through the eyes of his pet perrigrine falcon. I am not kidding. Joe Pickett is the only one worth following but he is too good to be true along with his perfect wife and smart (x50) daughter. Yawn.

This story line was lacking a good foundation to justify hunting someone for killing reasons. It is vague, but somehow, someone died blah, blah and maybe I missed the whole story in prior works. Still, it is as limp a reason as Ivy league college students toting guns with murder on their minds.

Joe is hiking around and hears a gun go BOOM in a canyon, and immedately knows that it is a .454 Casull. Really? I have shot all my life, been in tournaments around the country and I could not tell you, without guessing, what caliber is being shot. This must be like seeing the terrain through a Falcon's eyes kinda voodoo. The other annoying mis-representation, are that chukar fly in erratic patterns and are thus, hard to hit with a shotgun. No. I have been hunting chukar for 50 years and they generally fly straight, with little deviation. Why some people in Wyoming call them devil birds, is because of their ground agility. They can move rapidly up or down steep slopes.

I think Mr. Box is trying to sell novels based on his self-representation as a western kinda guy whom took people fishing. The idea that someone can see through a falcon's eyes when in a trance, moves this novel into the Fantasy genre.

I received this ARC for an honest review.

2.1/5

In Book 25 of C.J. Box's Joe Pickett series, Battle Mountain (G.P. Putnam's Sons 2025, falconer Nate Romanowski continues to suffer from the vengeful murder of his wife and threats to his daughter. He left daughter Kestrel with Pickett and goes off grid while he sets his lethal sights on everyone involved in his wife's murder and the ongoing threat to his family. The book opens with only one remaining, the ringleader Axel Soledad who also burned down the house of fellow falconer, Geronimo Jones. Jones tucked his family safely away and teamed up with Nate to find and end Soledad's reign of terror. While they implement their plan, Joe Pickett is tapped by the Wyoming Governor--as he sometimes is--to find the Governor's missing son-in-law, last seen on a hunting trip. Joe's search quickly becomes much more complicated than simply tracking down a lost hiker, soon involves the FBI and threats to multiple highly-placed government officials. No devoted Pickett series reader will be surprised to know the Romanowski and Pickett plots run smack into each other. The surprise is how, and what happens next.

An excellent read, maybe one of the best in the series. What it lacks in Joe's down home cleverness, it makes up for in Nate's ruthless focus on Western justice.

Joe Pickett and Nate Romanowski end up working together again in this latest Pickett series submission by C.J. Box. Governor Rulon is back in office, and, true to form, he once again recruits Joe for a 'quiet investigation' out of his own territory. The Governor's son-in-law, encouraged by Rulon to get out of his computer chair and go into the world, and his hunting partner are missing. And Rulon wants them found, and found fast-- before his wife and daughter learn they're unaccounted for. As usual, Joe faces the twin challenges of fulfilling his duty and being loyal to the governor. And, as usual, it all goes public and puts Joe in yet another tenuous position..

At the same time, Nate Romanowski and his fellow falconer Geronimo are on the hunt for Axel Soledad, who killed Nate's wife and burned down Geronimo's house. Their paths cross and Nate, Geronimo, and Joe are all working to not only find Rulon's son-in-law, but to prevent a major massacre of military-industrial leaders of the country.

Fans of the series will race through this one, eager to get to the ending, but then realize it will be a wait for the next adventure.

One of the best CJ Box books I have ever read! Even though Joe played a secondary role, the non-stop action had my heart in my stomach through most of the book. Sheridan is a total badass and now needs a story of her own. More please!!!

AMAZING! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️Battle Mountain is the best C.J. Box book yet and that’s saying lots since the Joe Pickett series is always full of non-stop action. This latest addition is a heart-stopping thriller with continual tension from page 1 to the exciting end.

Thanks to NetGalley and Penguin Group Putnam for the opportunity to read this awesome ARC.

If you're into thrillers with a gritty, outdoorsy vibe, *Battle Mountain* by C.J. Box delivers big time. Game warden Joe Pickett is thrown into another high-stakes case, facing not just dangerous criminals but also the unforgiving wilderness and the tangled web of small-town secrets. The tension is palpable, and you’re constantly on edge as Joe methodically uncovers the truth.

Joe Pickett is the kind of protagonist who sticks with you. He’s tough yet grounded, the moral compass of the story, and someone who’ll do the right thing no matter the cost. Box’s writing shines as he blends Joe’s personal struggles with suspenseful twists and turns. The small-town setting isn’t just a backdrop—it’s alive with grudges, drama, and authenticity.

Bottom line? *Battle Mountain* is a page-turner packed with mystery, action, and a vividly described, rugged setting. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the series, this one’s worth picking up.

I have this series from the beginning and never been disappointed. This book meets all expectations. The plot is interesting and shifts the main character. I enjoy how the characters have developed throughout the series. Great book and I highly recommend it.

Joe and Nate are back after the heartbreak of "Three-Inch Teeth" and the latest installment , "Battle Mountain" takes us on a great adventure. What a book!

Do I love the writings of CJ Box? Yes. Do I love the character Joe Pickett (in the book, not the show) and will I continue to read the series? Yes. Do I even love the supporting cast of characters: Nate, Marybeth, Sheridan, and even Geronimo? Of course. Do I think that Battle Mountain was up to par with the rest of the series? Not completely. The plot was rushed. How did Mark get free? Sheridan was just able to nab a sheriff with questionable morals and he just moves when set free? It felt like parts were missing and there were none of the tense parts that mark the readability and addictiveness of earlier Pickett books. Also, Marybeth's "voice" was different. Besides these holes and others, Battle Mountain was ok.

C.J. at his best! This book had everything I love in a Box story. Writing was engaging and the characters were sharp in my mind. Well done!

It is always a pleasure to receive an ARC of a Joe Pickett novel and I immediately dive in with anticipatory glee. I have never read one I didn’t like and this one does not disappoint. Filled with the beauty of the West and characters that meld so well together, I found myself wanting to belong to this band of friends and join their posse in the fight against evil and injustice.

Does this one have a dramatic ending? Add it to your reading list for next year and you will have your answer. Don’t miss it!