The Complete Longmire Book Checklist: Every Craig Johnson Novel and Novella Mapped Out
By Alexander Ross
Q1: Can I read the Longmire novels out of order?
A1: While each book features an independent central mystery, the overarching character relationships, trauma, and political consequences build continuously. Reading them out of order spoils major narrative twists, romantic relationships, and sudden character departures.
Q2: Is the A&E/Netflix TV series an exact adaptation of the books?
A2: No. The screen adaptation takes substantial liberties with character backstories, personalities, and major plot lines. In the books, Walt is older and more contemplative, while Vic Moretti’s background and family dynamic differ substantially from their television counterparts.
Q3: Where should a complete beginner start?
A3: Always begin with The Cold Dish (2004). It establishes the unique voice, the complicated relationship between county residents and the Northern Cheyenne community, and the dry wit that defines the entire saga.
Q4: Do the novellas contain major spoilers for the main novels?
A4: Yes. For example, novellas like The Highwayman and Tooth and Claw make offhand references to Walt’s physical condition and family status that reflect events from the preceding full-length books.
Alexander Ross has covered the video game industry for a decade, writing deep dives on game design, esports tournaments, VR developments, and gaming culture.
