Overview of the Longmire Series
The Longmire series is set primarily in Absaroka County, Wyoming, a fictional county inspired by Johnson’s familiarity with the region. The protagonist, Walt Longmire, is a Wyoming sheriff who embodies the rugged, resilient spirit of the American West. Throughout the series, Johnson weaves themes of justice, community, family, and personal redemption, all set against the stunning backdrop of the Wyoming landscape.
The series began with the publication of "The Cold Dish" in 2004 and has since expanded to include numerous novels, short stories, and a popular television adaptation. The books are known for their authentic Western atmosphere, depth of characterization, and exploration of contemporary issues faced by rural communities.
Longmire Series in Chronological Order
To fully appreciate the development of Walt Longmire’s character and the overarching narrative, it’s best to read the series in the order of publication. Below is a comprehensive list of the novels and related works in the correct chronological sequence:
1. The Cold Dish (2004)
The series begins with Walt Longmire investigating a murder that has roots in local history and Native American issues. This installment introduces readers to Longmire’s world, his trusty deputy Vic Moretti, and his friend Henry Standing Bear. The novel establishes the tone of the series—gritty, thoughtful, and richly atmospheric.
2. The Dark Horse (2009)
Walt faces personal challenges when his daughter Cady is kidnapped, leading to a tense and emotional storyline. The novel explores Walt’s relationship with his daughter and delves into the complexities of family bonds amid criminal investigations.
3. The Western Star (2010)
In this installment, Walt encounters a mysterious new sheriff in town, and the narrative explores themes of change and tradition within the community. The novel also features a subplot involving Native American land disputes.
4. Junkyard Dogs (2011)
The plot centers around a series of murders linked to a local junkyard, with Walt confronting both the criminal underworld and his own past. This book deepens the series’ exploration of morality and justice.
5. Hell is Empty (2011)
Walt and his team investigate a cold case involving a missing girl, which leads them into a web of deception and long-buried secrets. The novel highlights Walt’s persistent pursuit of truth.
6. As the Crow Flies (2012)
This novel revisits Walt’s childhood and past, revealing more about his background and motivations. It also features a storyline involving a Native American young man’s plight.
7. A Serpent’s Tooth (2012)
Walt confronts a dangerous cult and faces personal peril during the investigation, emphasizing themes of faith and fanaticism.
8. The Highway (2013)
A story that involves a mysterious disappearance on the highway, blending suspense with character-driven storytelling.
9. Spirit of Steamboat (2013)
The novel explores Walt’s past while tackling a case involving a ghost town and supernatural elements, adding a touch of mystery and folklore.
10. Any Other Name (2014)
This installment focuses on Walt’s personal life and his relationship with his daughter, Cady, alongside a complex murder investigation.
11. The Pale Rider (2015)
Walt faces threats from a violent criminal while also dealing with personal grief, showcasing his resilience.
12. The Bobblet (2015)
A short story collection that offers additional background and side stories about Walt and other characters.
13. The Western Star (2016)
Revisiting the themes of change and tradition, this novel involves a mysterious death on the ranch.
14. Land of Wolves (2017)
The series delves into issues of wildlife conservation, native rights, and environmental challenges.
15. Depth of Winter (2018)
A standalone story that further explores Walt’s personal life and his commitment to justice.
16. The Thief (2019)
Focusing on a theft and its consequences, the novel examines moral ambiguity and loyalty.
17. Any Other Name (2014)
A pivotal novel that intertwines Walt’s personal struggles with complex criminal investigations.
18. The Longmire Mystery Series (Short Stories & Novellas)
Additional stories, including "The Man Who Died Twice," "The Highwayman," and others, expand on the series’ universe and characters.
Understanding the Series’ Development
The Longmire series has evolved significantly since its inception, both in scope and depth. Johnson’s writing matured over time, allowing for more complex characters and themes. The early novels establish Walt’s personality, his moral compass, and his relationships with key characters like Vic Moretti, Henry Standing Bear, and his deputy, Fales.
As the series progresses, Johnson explores deeper issues such as Native American rights, environmental concerns, and the complexities of justice in rural America. The novels also develop Walt’s backstory, revealing personal vulnerabilities and resilience, making him a richly human character.
The series’ chronological order also reveals Johnson’s narrative craftsmanship, as themes and character arcs are woven seamlessly across the books. For example, Walt’s struggles with grief, his sense of duty, and his relationships with his colleagues grow and change, providing a layered reading experience.
Television Adaptation and Its Impact
The popularity of the Longmire series in order was amplified by the successful television adaptation, "Longmire," which aired from 2012 to 2017. Starring Robert Taylor as Walt Longmire, the show captures the spirit of the novels while adding visual richness and new storylines.
While the series follows the core elements of Johnson’s books, it also introduces additional characters and plotlines, making it a valuable companion for fans. Watching the show after reading the books can deepen understanding and appreciation of the series’ universe.
Why Reading the Series in Order Matters
Reading the Longmire series in order enhances the storytelling experience in several ways:
- Character Development: Following the series chronologically allows readers to see Walt’s growth and the evolution of supporting characters.
- Thematic Progression: Themes such as justice, family, and Native American issues develop over time, creating a richer thematic tapestry.
- Plot Continuity: Certain plot points and mysteries are interconnected; reading in order preserves narrative continuity.
- Historical Context: Some novels reference past events and character backgrounds that are better understood sequentially.
Conclusion
The Longmire series in order offers a captivating journey through the American West’s landscapes, complexities, and stories. Craig Johnson’s masterful storytelling, combined with authentic settings and multidimensional characters, makes this series a standout in contemporary Western fiction. Whether you start with the first novel, "The Cold Dish," or explore the series through its chronological progression, you will find a compelling blend of mystery, drama, humor, and insight into modern rural life.
By understanding the series’ order, readers can fully appreciate the depth of Johnson’s universe, from Walt Longmire’s rugged determination to the cultural issues woven into each story. The series continues to grow, promising new stories and adventures for fans to discover. So, pick up the first book or follow the chronological guide, and immerse yourself in the compelling world of Walt Longmire and the Wyoming landscape he calls home.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the correct order to watch the Longmire series?
The recommended viewing order for the Longmire series is to start with the 'Longmire' TV series (seasons 1-6), followed by the Netflix film 'Longmire: The Final Season' if applicable, and then explore the novels by Craig Johnson that inspired the series for additional context.
Are the Longmire books in the same order as the TV series?
Not exactly. The TV series is loosely based on the books by Craig Johnson, but it takes some creative liberties. The books are best read in publication order, starting with 'The Cold Dish,' to follow the character development and storylines as intended by the author.
How many seasons of Longmire are there, and in what order should I watch them?
There are six seasons of Longmire. It’s best to watch them in chronological order from Season 1 through Season 6 to follow the story seamlessly.
Is there a specific order for the Longmire novels that relate to the series?
Yes, the novels are best read in publication order, starting with 'The Cold Dish' (2004), followed by 'Death Without Company,' 'Kindness Goes Unpunished,' and subsequent titles, to appreciate the character development and plot progression.
Are there any spin-offs or related series to Longmire?
Currently, there are no official spin-offs or related series, but fans often recommend reading the entire Craig Johnson book series for a deeper understanding of the characters and setting.
Is the Longmire series suitable for new viewers or readers?
Absolutely. The series is engaging for both new viewers and readers, offering a compelling mix of mystery, drama, and Western themes. Watching the series first can enhance appreciation of the characters before diving into the novels.
Where can I watch the entire Longmire series in order?
The complete Longmire series is available on Netflix, where you can watch all six seasons in order. The series was originally aired on A&E before moving to Netflix for the final season.
Are there any differences between the Longmire series and the novels?
Yes, while the series captures the spirit of Craig Johnson's novels, there are differences in characters, storylines, and settings. The show takes some creative liberties to adapt the books for television.
Will there be a continuation or new seasons of Longmire?
As of October 2023, there are no announced new seasons. However, the series concluded with Season 6 on Netflix, and fans continue to enjoy the existing episodes and the book series for more stories.
