This was a fun murder/crime mystery. I like that it involved a different agency, game wardens in Maine rather than the police department, FBI or CIA. I also enjoyed the outdoorsy theme with all the references to birds and outdoorsmanship, and that the women in this novel were just about as capable of outdoor skills as the men. Many books I've encountered that involve outdoor skills treat female characters as if it is impossible for women to enjoy camping and fishing and spending time outdoors in wild places, but while it was not the focus, I got the impression that the female wardens were just as capable and interested as the main character, Mike, in this area. Thus, it was easier to relate to the story. The clues that lead to the culpret are presented gradually, in a way that allows the reader to figure out what is going on at around the same time as Mike works it out. I did find the resolution a bit too abrupt, with too little foreshadowing, and it was a bit hard to believe that Mike did work out what was going on when he did, as if the author gave his character some extra nudging to point him in the reight direction occasionally 'off-camera', but the result is still plausible and entertaining. ( )

Mike is no longer a game warden but his old Sargent is in a coma because of a sniper attack ( )

It goes without saying but I’ll say it again anyway: Each Mike Bowditch book is better than the last. If you’ve been with the series from the beginning you’ll find each new story comfortably familiar, but with a brand-new compelling storyline, and experiences and events that continue to shape the man Mike Bowditch is. He’s at something of a crossroads in The Bone Orchard. Still floundering after the death of his mother, he is afraid he’s pushed the boundaries and crossed the lines one too many times in the Warden Service and that maybe he’s just not suited, maybe he should resign before he is fired. He’s still tethered to the woods, though, and doesn’t go far. Working as a fishing guide is undemanding. He’s personable, polite, and knowledgeable. The job is not nearly as dangerous as being a game warden. Sadly, not nearly as satisfying either. He’s having a hard time staying within those lines, too, because he wants to investigate and fix things, not just go with the flow or observe and be unable to take what he thinks is needed action.

He really begins to question his decision when his mentor and previous boss Sgt. Kathy Frost is forced to kill a troubled war veteran he knew years ago. After the shooting he goes to check up on Kathy and arrives minutes after she has been shot. Mike doesn’t know if the shooter is still there, if Kathy will survive or how to even begin to find out who did this. This is Kathy; he can’t not act. His instincts and reasoning are just as sharp as ever, which of course puts him in serious danger yet again.

And what about Stacey Stevens? He notes to himself at one point, “I’m not a particularly joyful person myself.” For all his inability to keep his nose out of where it doesn’t belong, to stop himself from acting recklessly, he is a good, conscientious man who has had a lot thrown at him in his young life. He’s earnest and caring and loyal, and it would be so nice to see him joyful. Is Stacey the answer to that? Following the evolution of that relationship, if it in fact is going to become a relationship, is fascinating and fulfilling. It feels like they are meant to be together – and he’s already decided that she just doesn’t yet realize it – but how many bumps will there be?

Solid writing, smooth flowing plot, breathtaking description of the North Woods, detailed data about a day in the life of a warden and always an intriguing mystery to try and figure out. Be sure to start at the beginning because the journey is well worth it. I leave this review voluntarily; all opinions are my own. ( )

Great book! Mike out of the Warden service. Mom died. Kathy Frost gets shot -fortunately survives! Mike solves the crime and becomes a Warden again. Real page turner! ( )

This book shows growth in Mike. His friendships grow and his ability to do the job he loves does in turn. This is a great series to live vicariously through. ( )