If you’ve ever dreamed of unraveling mysteries amid the rugged beauty of Maine’s forests and coastlines, Paul Doiron’s gripping thrillers are calling your name. As a former editor of Down East magazine and a passionate outdoorsman, Doiron weaves authentic tales of wildlife, wilderness, and human drama that keep readers on the edge of their seats. His protagonist, game warden Mike Bowditch, is a complex hero navigating personal demons and deadly crimes in the Pine Tree State. Whether you’re new to the series or a longtime fan eager to catch up, understanding the Paul Doiron books in order is key to fully immersing yourself in this award-winning world.
Doiron’s debut, The Poacher’s Son, launched the Mike Bowditch series in 2010 and quickly became a bestseller, earning praise from outlets like The New York Times. With environmental themes, pulse-pounding action, and vivid descriptions of Maine’s untamed landscapes, his novels appeal to fans of authors like C.J. Box and Nevada Barr. But with short stories, novellas, and upcoming releases, keeping track can be tricky. That’s why we’ve compiled this complete, up-to-date list of Paul Doiron books in order—focusing on his flagship series, plus notes on other works. Let’s dive in!
The Mike Bowditch Series: Complete Reading Order
The heart of Paul Doiron’s bibliography is the Mike Bowditch series, a collection of interconnected mysteries following the titular warden as he tackles poaching, murders, and corruption. While most entries are full novels, a few are short stories or novellas that add depth to the timeline. We recommend reading them in publication order for the best experience, as the series builds on character arcs and ongoing plot threads.
Here’s the full list in a handy table format:
| # | Title | Publication Year | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | The Poacher’s Son | 2010 | Debut novel |
| 2 | Trespasser | 2011 | |
| 3 | Bad Little Falls | 2012 | |
| 4 | Massacre Pond | 2013 | |
| 5 | The Bone Orchard | 2014 | |
| 5.5 | The Bear Trap | 2014 | Short story (fits between #4 and #5) |
| 6 | The Precipice | 2015 | |
| 7 | Widowmaker | 2016 | |
| 8 | Knife Creek | 2017 | |
| 8.5 | Rabid | 2018 | Short story |
| 9 | Stay Hidden | 2018 | |
| 9.5 | Backtrack | 2019 | Short story |
| 10 | Almost Midnight | 2019 | Novella collection |
| 11 | The Imposter’s Trail | 2020 | (Note: Sometimes listed as The Imposter) |
| 12 | One Last Lie | 2020 | |
| 13 | The Caretaker’s Son | 2021 | (Note: Sometimes listed as The Caretaker) |
| 13.5 | Dead by Dawn | 2021 | Short story |
| 14 | Skin and Bones | 2022 | |
| 15 | Hatchet Island | 2022 | |
| 16 | Snakebit | 2023 | |
| 17 | Dead Man’s Wake | 2023 | |
| 18 | Pitch Dark | 2024 | |
| 19 | Sheep’s Clothing | 2025 | Recently released |
| 20 | Storm Tide | 2026 | Upcoming |
This series currently spans 20 entries (as of September 2025), blending high-stakes investigations with Bowditch’s personal growth—from a rookie warden to a seasoned protector of Maine’s wilds. Short stories like The Bear Trap and Rabid are often available in anthologies or as e-book exclusives, offering quick thrills between main releases. If you’re binging, grab a cozy spot by the fire; these books transport you straight to the Maine woods!
Other Books by Paul Doiron
Beyond the Mike Bowditch saga, Doiron has penned one notable non-fiction work: Eating Between the Lines (1998), a culinary memoir exploring Maine’s food scene with wit and local flavor. It’s a lighter read for fans wanting insight into the author’s inspirations. No true standalone fiction novels exist yet, but keep an eye out—Doiron’s storytelling prowess could expand horizons soon.
5 FAQs About Paul Doiron Books
1. In what order should I read the Paul Doiron books?
Stick to publication order for the Mike Bowditch series to follow the chronological events and character development. Start with The Poacher’s Son—it’s the perfect entry point!
2. Are all Paul Doiron books part of the Mike Bowditch series?
Most are, but short stories and novellas like Almost Midnight tie into it. His only non-series book is the non-fiction Eating Between the Lines.
3. Where can I find Paul Doiron’s short stories?
Stories such as The Bear Trap and Rabid are often bundled in e-book collections or anthologies like Almost Midnight. Check platforms like Amazon or your local library for digital editions.
4. Has the Mike Bowditch series been adapted for TV or film?
Not yet, but with its cinematic Maine settings and suspenseful plots, it’s ripe for adaptation. Fans often speculate about a Netflix series—stay tuned!
5. What’s next for Paul Doiron after Sheep’s Clothing?
The upcoming Storm Tide (2026) promises more Bowditch action. Doiron continues to draw from real Maine events, so expect timely, thrilling releases.
Conclusion: Dive into the Wild with Paul Doiron
Paul Doiron’s books aren’t just mysteries—they’re a love letter to Maine’s natural wonders and the guardians who protect them. Whether you’re solving crimes alongside Mike Bowditch or savoring the author’s early non-fiction insights, his works offer escapism with heart and grit. If you haven’t started yet, pick up The Poacher’s Son today and join the ranks of devoted readers. What’s your favorite Doiron thriller? Drop a comment below—we’d love to hear! For more author guides, explore our blog for the latest in crime fiction. Happy reading!
