This is the 15th in the Mike Bowditch series. I have only read one other so far. This one will work as a standalone.

Mike is a Maine Game Warden Investigator engaged to Stacey, an EMT. Mike’s assistance is requested when he is notified a questionable stranger has gone missing while searching for the reclusive and secretive man who lives deep in the woods while building a log cabin for an acquaintance of Mike’s wife and father in law. When he learns the recluse lives with his young daughter who is never seen in town and doesn’t attend school, his interest in the man deepens. What is he hiding? And, thus he is off on a menacing, dangerous and thrilling hunt in the north Maine woods and neighboring Canada.

I like this unique take on a police procedural featuring a game warden investigator. It is fast paced and engrossing with lots of action. An atmospheric read, Doiron conveys a good sense of place and danger. Bowditch is a great character. Persistent, he tries to respect the rules, can often be brash and annoying to others, displays a good sense of humor. Some of the situations and actions are a bit over the top, but that does make for a good thriller.

I have added this series to my list of must reads.

Thanks to #netgalley and @stmartinspress #minotaurbooks for the DRC. ( )