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Woods Cop #1
Ice Hunter
Meet Grady a former Marine, renowned tracker, Conservation Officer, and the
last person any errant hunter wants to cross. In Ice Hunter , the first of a series of
mysteries set in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, Service defends his turf with the tenacity of a
bear and the wisdom of an ancient. He shuns all creature comforts and consumerism and is
most at home stalking the Mosquito Tract, his self-designated wilderness and the land protected by his CO father before him. Times are not easy for Service. As this summer season
opens, he gets news that his nemesis, the despicable leader of an incestuous clan of poachers,
is about to be released from prison. But something even more sinister is afoot in the Mosquito
Wilderness--something that inspires greed far beyond the hunter going over his limit, something that involves giants of industry and politics (including the governor of the State of
Michigan)--something that too easily renders human life dispensable. Service must call
upon his every reserve to track, stalk, and hunt the “ice hunter.” Full of grit and wilderness
lore, Ice Hunter show off Heywood’s extraordinary talents. The first in a thrilling series
that has gained him cult status for his intricate plots and outrageously unforgettable characters, Ice Hunter pulls you in and won’t let you go.
last person any errant hunter wants to cross. In Ice Hunter , the first of a series of
mysteries set in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, Service defends his turf with the tenacity of a
bear and the wisdom of an ancient. He shuns all creature comforts and consumerism and is
most at home stalking the Mosquito Tract, his self-designated wilderness and the land protected by his CO father before him. Times are not easy for Service. As this summer season
opens, he gets news that his nemesis, the despicable leader of an incestuous clan of poachers,
is about to be released from prison. But something even more sinister is afoot in the Mosquito
Wilderness--something that inspires greed far beyond the hunter going over his limit, something that involves giants of industry and politics (including the governor of the State of
Michigan)--something that too easily renders human life dispensable. Service must call
upon his every reserve to track, stalk, and hunt the “ice hunter.” Full of grit and wilderness
lore, Ice Hunter show off Heywood’s extraordinary talents. The first in a thrilling series
that has gained him cult status for his intricate plots and outrageously unforgettable characters, Ice Hunter pulls you in and won’t let you go.
355 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2001
164 people are currently reading
1481 people want to read
About the author
Joseph Heywood
50 books188 followersSee also Joe T. Heywood
Joseph Heywood is the son of a career USAF officer. His dad was from Rhinecliff, New York on the Hudson River in Dutchess County, and his mother is from Mize, Mississippi in Sullivan County. His mother’s maiden name was Hegwood and she had only to change one letter to convert to her married name.
He is a 1961 graduate of Rudyard High School in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula (Chippewa County). Played football, basketball, baseball, and ran track.
1965 graduate of Michigan State University (BA-Journalism). Joseph played on the Michigan State Lacrosse Club for three years, crease attack, tri-captain in 1965. He was in the last class of mandatory ROTC for land grant universities and predictably chose the Air Force.
In 1965, he married Sandra V. Heywood (1943-2002) of East Lansing. Five children, one dog. Widower.
1965-1970, USAF Instructor Navigator, KC-135 tanker, honorably discharged as captain. Vietnam veteran. Air Medal with 6 Oak Leaf Clusters.
Graduate studies, Western Michigan University, 1974-75, completed course work for MA in English Literature; no degree.
Joseph worked for The Upjohn Company [now Pfizer], 1970-2000, retiring as vice president for worldwide public relations.
He walks every day in all weather conditions, and have hunted and fished Michigan since 1958, mostly alone.
Joseph Heywood's Woods Cop mysteries are based on the lives of Upper Peninsula conservation officers, and for going on seven years has spent about one month a year on patrol with officers, in all kinds of weather, all times of day and under sundry conditions. He worked in all 15 Upper Peninsula Counties as well as in another 15-16 counties BTB (Below the Bridge).
In preparation for work with COs, he often hikes alone at night (flashlight for emergencies) using only ambient light. He has spent nights alone in jungles and on mountains. Has canoe-camped in Michigan, Missouri and Arkansas, over the years he has had one close encounter with a wolf (six feet away in tag alders on the Iron River), and with a cow elk and her calf (in Idaho). Too many close meetings with black bears to count, no injuries.
He loves to take photographs while walking, hiking and fishing, and use some of the pix for his paintings.
Joseph always carry a ruck with emergency equipment, compass, etc. even for short sorties on foot in the U.P. It’s too easy to get under cedars and old growth in an overcast and get hopelessly turned around. He does not use a GPS. "When it comes to lost in the woods there seem to be two categories of people: Them that have been and them that will be. Iron ore deposits can make compass navigation interesting…."
The Upper Peninsula is not just a setting and base for Joseph Heywood but serves as a character in many of his novels. "When I write, I try to take readers to places and events in the U.P. they might not have occasion to visit or experience on their own. For me, the U.P. is a natural jewel and I am always surprised by how little people from BTB know about it."
"The day we arrived in the U.P. to report to Kinross Air Force Base (later renamed Kincheloe, and since decommissioned) my mother cried as we drove up the several-mile two-lane to the front gate; looking at all the woods passing by, I had a feeling I was coming home."
Joseph Heywood is the son of a career USAF officer. His dad was from Rhinecliff, New York on the Hudson River in Dutchess County, and his mother is from Mize, Mississippi in Sullivan County. His mother’s maiden name was Hegwood and she had only to change one letter to convert to her married name.
He is a 1961 graduate of Rudyard High School in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula (Chippewa County). Played football, basketball, baseball, and ran track.
1965 graduate of Michigan State University (BA-Journalism). Joseph played on the Michigan State Lacrosse Club for three years, crease attack, tri-captain in 1965. He was in the last class of mandatory ROTC for land grant universities and predictably chose the Air Force.
In 1965, he married Sandra V. Heywood (1943-2002) of East Lansing. Five children, one dog. Widower.
1965-1970, USAF Instructor Navigator, KC-135 tanker, honorably discharged as captain. Vietnam veteran. Air Medal with 6 Oak Leaf Clusters.
Graduate studies, Western Michigan University, 1974-75, completed course work for MA in English Literature; no degree.
Joseph worked for The Upjohn Company [now Pfizer], 1970-2000, retiring as vice president for worldwide public relations.
He walks every day in all weather conditions, and have hunted and fished Michigan since 1958, mostly alone.
Joseph Heywood's Woods Cop mysteries are based on the lives of Upper Peninsula conservation officers, and for going on seven years has spent about one month a year on patrol with officers, in all kinds of weather, all times of day and under sundry conditions. He worked in all 15 Upper Peninsula Counties as well as in another 15-16 counties BTB (Below the Bridge).
In preparation for work with COs, he often hikes alone at night (flashlight for emergencies) using only ambient light. He has spent nights alone in jungles and on mountains. Has canoe-camped in Michigan, Missouri and Arkansas, over the years he has had one close encounter with a wolf (six feet away in tag alders on the Iron River), and with a cow elk and her calf (in Idaho). Too many close meetings with black bears to count, no injuries.
He loves to take photographs while walking, hiking and fishing, and use some of the pix for his paintings.
Joseph always carry a ruck with emergency equipment, compass, etc. even for short sorties on foot in the U.P. It’s too easy to get under cedars and old growth in an overcast and get hopelessly turned around. He does not use a GPS. "When it comes to lost in the woods there seem to be two categories of people: Them that have been and them that will be. Iron ore deposits can make compass navigation interesting…."
The Upper Peninsula is not just a setting and base for Joseph Heywood but serves as a character in many of his novels. "When I write, I try to take readers to places and events in the U.P. they might not have occasion to visit or experience on their own. For me, the U.P. is a natural jewel and I am always surprised by how little people from BTB know about it."
"The day we arrived in the U.P. to report to Kinross Air Force Base (later renamed Kincheloe, and since decommissioned) my mother cried as we drove up the several-mile two-lane to the front gate; looking at all the woods passing by, I had a feeling I was coming home."
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 150 reviews
June 22, 2016
Wilderness law enforcement is the topic in this adventure/mystery story. Grady Service is a conservation officer in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. One of very few pristine areas of wilderness left, Grady is rabid about preserving and defending this piece of heaven. When diamonds and two murder victims are found in the area the search for the killer and the race to preserve the wilderness is on.
Grady, although he is kind of the Dirty Harry of the Conservation Service, was likable and driven by his genuine love for the area. The cast of characters was interesting with lots of local flavor. And the day to day life of a conservation officer made for an interesting and educational read. Although this is definitely a testosterone driven adventure, I enjoyed the story very much.
Grady, although he is kind of the Dirty Harry of the Conservation Service, was likable and driven by his genuine love for the area. The cast of characters was interesting with lots of local flavor. And the day to day life of a conservation officer made for an interesting and educational read. Although this is definitely a testosterone driven adventure, I enjoyed the story very much.
January 10, 2023
This is the first in Joseph Heywood's "Woods Cop" series of mysteries. The setting is Michigan's remote Upper Peninsula. It is a harsh and demanding terrain of vast wilderness and the people who choose to live there have their own codes and rituals. They are not particularly welcoming to outsiders or to the conservation officers whose duty it is to police the area.
One of those conservation officers is Grady Service. He is the protagonist of these mysteries. He is a former marine who served in the Vietnam War. I don't recall that the time frame of the action in this book was specifically identified, but the book was originally published in 2001, so we can assume (I think) that it is the late twentieth century. Grady is divorced. His ex-wife had accused him of having a death wish and told him she had no desire to be a widow. Now he lives a solitary life.
Grady is following in the footsteps of his father who was also a conservation officer working in the UP before he was killed. The area that he patrols is known as the "Mosquito Tract." It is well-named because mosquitoes are thick in the air.
Grady's life rocks along placidly enough. Then diamonds are discovered in the Mosquito Tract. But that's not all. Strange things are happening in the Tract. Fires are being ignited by an arsonist in what seems to amount to controlled burns in the area. Moreover, there is a helicopter observed repeatedly quartering the area in what looks like a search pattern. What's up with all that?
Someone makes it very clear to Grady that he should butt completely out of this whole situation. He should not investigate. He should just continue with his usual daily routines. But, of course, we know that isn't going to happen!
So, this book sets the stage for the series to follow and there is quite a bit of exposition and explanation of Grady's life and circumstances. He is a very likable character, one who is easy to identify with and to pull for. The reader wants him to succeed and be happy. He actually reminded me quite a bit of C.J. Box's Joe Pickett, a thoroughly decent man doing his best to uphold the law in an area where obedience to the law is not necessarily the common practice.
This was an easy and quick read. The storyline pulled me in and kept me turning the pages. I think I would like to get to know Grady better so I will be seeking other books in the series.
One of those conservation officers is Grady Service. He is the protagonist of these mysteries. He is a former marine who served in the Vietnam War. I don't recall that the time frame of the action in this book was specifically identified, but the book was originally published in 2001, so we can assume (I think) that it is the late twentieth century. Grady is divorced. His ex-wife had accused him of having a death wish and told him she had no desire to be a widow. Now he lives a solitary life.
Grady is following in the footsteps of his father who was also a conservation officer working in the UP before he was killed. The area that he patrols is known as the "Mosquito Tract." It is well-named because mosquitoes are thick in the air.
Grady's life rocks along placidly enough. Then diamonds are discovered in the Mosquito Tract. But that's not all. Strange things are happening in the Tract. Fires are being ignited by an arsonist in what seems to amount to controlled burns in the area. Moreover, there is a helicopter observed repeatedly quartering the area in what looks like a search pattern. What's up with all that?
Someone makes it very clear to Grady that he should butt completely out of this whole situation. He should not investigate. He should just continue with his usual daily routines. But, of course, we know that isn't going to happen!
So, this book sets the stage for the series to follow and there is quite a bit of exposition and explanation of Grady's life and circumstances. He is a very likable character, one who is easy to identify with and to pull for. The reader wants him to succeed and be happy. He actually reminded me quite a bit of C.J. Box's Joe Pickett, a thoroughly decent man doing his best to uphold the law in an area where obedience to the law is not necessarily the common practice.
This was an easy and quick read. The storyline pulled me in and kept me turning the pages. I think I would like to get to know Grady better so I will be seeking other books in the series.
March 10, 2017
I'm giving this a 3 star read- and I'm adding one full star for " I'm hoping that this series will be as good as I think it can be!" Silly way to rate a book- but hey- what can I tell ya. I loved the idea of the story line.
Grady Service is a game warden solving both a murder and mystery surrounding diamonds found in the Tract wilderness of the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. The book had a lot of quirky characters which I liked -- BUT - their names ! OMG... terrible!!! xx making me CrAzY.
The other thing that I didn't like about the book - was the very long backstory- having said all that- I did enjoy the rest of it- and looking forward to reading the rest of the series !!
Grady Service is a game warden solving both a murder and mystery surrounding diamonds found in the Tract wilderness of the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. The book had a lot of quirky characters which I liked -- BUT - their names ! OMG... terrible!!! xx making me CrAzY.
The other thing that I didn't like about the book - was the very long backstory- having said all that- I did enjoy the rest of it- and looking forward to reading the rest of the series !!
May 9, 2013
Entertaining, with a great sense of the area and the people. Good characterizations, if somewhat on the side of male wish-fulfillment as far as the girlfriends go. The supporting characters are well developed and individual as well as the main characters.
Interesting plotline, with a strong connection to conservation and wilderness preservation, natural with the main character a Conservation Officer in the UP area of Michigan, which presents an interesting look at rural/wilderness law enforcement.
Primarily, much of the attraction of this book for me was the excellent presentation of the daily workload and political issues of law enforcement in an area which is remote. The conflict between the established residents who prefer things as they are and those that are more recent residents, who often wish to 'modernize' things is presented with a very good sense of reality.
I will definitely be looking for more books in this series.
Interesting plotline, with a strong connection to conservation and wilderness preservation, natural with the main character a Conservation Officer in the UP area of Michigan, which presents an interesting look at rural/wilderness law enforcement.
Primarily, much of the attraction of this book for me was the excellent presentation of the daily workload and political issues of law enforcement in an area which is remote. The conflict between the established residents who prefer things as they are and those that are more recent residents, who often wish to 'modernize' things is presented with a very good sense of reality.
I will definitely be looking for more books in this series.
June 28, 2020
Ice Hunter: A Woods Cop Mystery by Joseph Heywood begins a series built around Grady Service. A former marine who served in Vietnam, these days he is a conservation officer working in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Specifically, an area known as the “Mosquito Tract” that his father also patrolled before he was killed. Like his father before him, the land and the creatures are everything to him, and he does not play well with others who do not have a moral code to live by. A complicated childhood has led to a complicated life in many ways.
In addition to the usual events a conservation officer has to deal with as he protects the land and all living things, he has to deal with strange things that are going on in the woods. Fires are being ignited by an arsonist who seems very careful to do so in some sort of controlled burn. The burns seem to be orchestrated to clear some small areas for an unknown reason. Then there is the unknown helicopter occasionally seen doing something in what seems to be some sort of grid like search pattern. Not to mention the fact somebody wants him to butt out of something and is making that point very violently. He has an idea what might have stirred things up, but with so much going on it is hard to tell.
Ice Hunter: A Woods Cop Mystery by Joseph Heywood is a good read though it takes quite a bit to get going. Originally published in 2001, it does not follow the current fad of starting with an action scene before doing a sort of informative flashback as seems to be required in every book published now. There is a lot of setting the stage as this read begins and the character as well as those in his life are slowly revealed.
The bigger issue for this reader, was the fact it read a bit different than most due to the lack of scene or transition breaks. Everything just runs into each other without any identifying characteristics of scene or transition breaks which results in the read being the equivalent of being tossed into the raging river just upstream from class five rapids.
In the end, Ice Hunter: A Woods Cop Mystery by Joseph Heywood is worth sticking with it as the multiple storylines coalesce into a high powered and intense finish. Convoluted and chaotic, the reader is shot through the rapids to find oneself slowly floating gently in calmer waters downstream in the wide bend of the river very much shaken and stirred as well as appreciative of the fact that was one heck of a ride.
Because of Aubrey Hamilton’s review from last March, I got this from the library just before they closed their doors back in mid-March. While they have most of the rest of the series, they do not have book two. I have put in an order for that and hope to hear something, one way or another, soon.
Kevin R. Tipple ©2020
In addition to the usual events a conservation officer has to deal with as he protects the land and all living things, he has to deal with strange things that are going on in the woods. Fires are being ignited by an arsonist who seems very careful to do so in some sort of controlled burn. The burns seem to be orchestrated to clear some small areas for an unknown reason. Then there is the unknown helicopter occasionally seen doing something in what seems to be some sort of grid like search pattern. Not to mention the fact somebody wants him to butt out of something and is making that point very violently. He has an idea what might have stirred things up, but with so much going on it is hard to tell.
Ice Hunter: A Woods Cop Mystery by Joseph Heywood is a good read though it takes quite a bit to get going. Originally published in 2001, it does not follow the current fad of starting with an action scene before doing a sort of informative flashback as seems to be required in every book published now. There is a lot of setting the stage as this read begins and the character as well as those in his life are slowly revealed.
The bigger issue for this reader, was the fact it read a bit different than most due to the lack of scene or transition breaks. Everything just runs into each other without any identifying characteristics of scene or transition breaks which results in the read being the equivalent of being tossed into the raging river just upstream from class five rapids.
In the end, Ice Hunter: A Woods Cop Mystery by Joseph Heywood is worth sticking with it as the multiple storylines coalesce into a high powered and intense finish. Convoluted and chaotic, the reader is shot through the rapids to find oneself slowly floating gently in calmer waters downstream in the wide bend of the river very much shaken and stirred as well as appreciative of the fact that was one heck of a ride.
Because of Aubrey Hamilton’s review from last March, I got this from the library just before they closed their doors back in mid-March. While they have most of the rest of the series, they do not have book two. I have put in an order for that and hope to hear something, one way or another, soon.
Kevin R. Tipple ©2020
May 21, 2018
Another new author for me and I quite enjoyed the read. It was hardly a perfect book but there was a lot that I learned about COs (read the book t0 find 0ut that what acronym is for), their duties and problems they face on a day to day basis. That alone earned it the 4th star I've given in my rating.
I felt that the Governor as portrayed in this book was quite prophetic considering the political climate in our nation (the U.S.) today and that this book is copyrighted in 2001.
Let me nitpick a moment; Grady Service, our intrepid hero, leads a fantastical life that is somewhat beyond belief. He goes head to head against a corrupt governor, a superior officer that he answers directly to (somewhat) and gets by with hanging up on him, he finds a secret treasure and is successful in hiding that treasure to save his precious Mosquito Tract.
But as I say, that is nitpicking and doesn't detract (as least that much) from the overall story and the adventures of Service.
I found this book interesting, the plot somewhat convoluted but not so much as to make the book hard to read or follow. If you have a love of nature you should find this book interesting.
I felt that the Governor as portrayed in this book was quite prophetic considering the political climate in our nation (the U.S.) today and that this book is copyrighted in 2001.
Let me nitpick a moment; Grady Service, our intrepid hero, leads a fantastical life that is somewhat beyond belief. He goes head to head against a corrupt governor, a superior officer that he answers directly to (somewhat) and gets by with hanging up on him, he finds a secret treasure and is successful in hiding that treasure to save his precious Mosquito Tract.
But as I say, that is nitpicking and doesn't detract (as least that much) from the overall story and the adventures of Service.
I found this book interesting, the plot somewhat convoluted but not so much as to make the book hard to read or follow. If you have a love of nature you should find this book interesting.
February 23, 2023
Okay so Joseph Heywood isn’t from the UP and it shows. He has a really good idea of our geography and landscape, but the people just made me roll my eyes. None of them seemed real to me, who grew up surrounded by yoopers.
It’s a good story, lots of action and a satisfying conclusion, but if you’re looking for an accurate depiction of life in the Upper Peninsula, you’d do better to visit (no one, not even gangsters from downstate keeps a fountain going all year long. I don’t care how much money you’ve got and neither does Old Man Winter). Also I could not understand where he got the names from, Maridly, Onty, like it made no sense.
It’s a good story, lots of action and a satisfying conclusion, but if you’re looking for an accurate depiction of life in the Upper Peninsula, you’d do better to visit (no one, not even gangsters from downstate keeps a fountain going all year long. I don’t care how much money you’ve got and neither does Old Man Winter). Also I could not understand where he got the names from, Maridly, Onty, like it made no sense.
August 5, 2025
It's a smidge more than 3, but not enough to round up to 4. Goodreads needs quarter and half point options. I read this book while in Michigan on vacation, though we did not go to the Upper Peninsula where this story is set. We did spend 5 nights in Traverse City, a city mentioned in this story as a place where a meeting was held (IIRC). The conservation officer cop is a good character with that lone wolf who attracts the ladies vibe. He's an ex-Marine and former college hockey star fwiw. I'm not sure I'll read any of the others in the series, but it was fun to read about Michigan while visiting. I used to read Elmore Leonard books set in Detroit on this vacation destination, but I finished all of them. I guess I could go back to some of the best...
September 23, 2023
Conservation Officer Grady patrols the UP of Michigan to ensure land is protected. I found this a great read and enjoyed knowing places and areas the author wrote about. I’m looking forward to the next book in the series.
October 10, 2024
A new series to me. Really got into it and look forward to continuing the series.
October 19, 2018
Very good mystery and great writing. Can't wait to read other 'Woods Cop' books, searching right now!
December 9, 2019
I started this book thinking it would be similar to Paul Doiron's Mike Bowditch series, and was sorely disappointed. Heywood's skill as a writer doesn't even come close to Dorion's. The main character, Grady Service, was a walking alpha male stereotype, and wasn't particularly likeable. And his macho, loner personality honestly would have made him a horrible game warden, though to Heywood's credit, that is acknowledged in the book. The main character in Paul Doiron's series also walks this line, but Doiron's character suffers consequences for it, while Service bascially ends up being rewarded for going rogue time and time again.
Another thing that I found odd was how Service has a full conversation with his dead father towards the end of the book. At no other point do we see Service have an inner dialogue with his father, so it seemed very out of place and pointless honestly.
My inner environmentalist also wanted to scream when Service allowed his pet cat to kill a chipmunk, claiming it was "nature's design" and when Service used the term "tree huggers" to make fun of people who would be upset over his pollution of a stream with shampoo. So the guy who is supposed to be all concerned about preserving the natural state of his beloved "Mosquito" proves that he only really cares it when it is convenient to him, or when other people are the ones causing problems.
But possibly the worst flaw of this book is how poorly all the female characters were written. It is very apparent from how the female characters are portrayed that the author is male and seems to have no idea how to accurately write three-dimensional women. The female characters all just behave very bizarrely, and I'm not sure that there was a single one of them that wasn't naked or almost naked in front of Service at some point. I definitely will not be reading any more of this series.
If you find the concept of this book interesting and want to read about a game warden solving mysteries, do yourself a favor and put this book down and go pick up Paul Doiron's "The Poacher's Son" instead.
Another thing that I found odd was how Service has a full conversation with his dead father towards the end of the book. At no other point do we see Service have an inner dialogue with his father, so it seemed very out of place and pointless honestly.
My inner environmentalist also wanted to scream when Service allowed his pet cat to kill a chipmunk, claiming it was "nature's design" and when Service used the term "tree huggers" to make fun of people who would be upset over his pollution of a stream with shampoo. So the guy who is supposed to be all concerned about preserving the natural state of his beloved "Mosquito" proves that he only really cares it when it is convenient to him, or when other people are the ones causing problems.
But possibly the worst flaw of this book is how poorly all the female characters were written. It is very apparent from how the female characters are portrayed that the author is male and seems to have no idea how to accurately write three-dimensional women. The female characters all just behave very bizarrely, and I'm not sure that there was a single one of them that wasn't naked or almost naked in front of Service at some point. I definitely will not be reading any more of this series.
If you find the concept of this book interesting and want to read about a game warden solving mysteries, do yourself a favor and put this book down and go pick up Paul Doiron's "The Poacher's Son" instead.
August 6, 2012
I enjoyed the unusual setting of Michigan's Upper Peninsula in this fine initial entry to the Wood Cops series.
Woods Cop series - Meet Grady Service: a former Marine, renowned tracker, Conservation Officer, and the last person any errant hunter wants to cross. In Michigan's Upper Peninsula, Service defends his turf. He is most at home stalking the Mosquito Tract, the land protected by his C.O. father before him. He gets news that his nemesis, the leader of an incestuous clan of poachers, is about to be released from prison. But something more sinister is afoot in the Mosquito Tract - something that inspires greed far beyond the hunter going over his limit, something that renders human life dispensable.
Woods Cop series - Meet Grady Service: a former Marine, renowned tracker, Conservation Officer, and the last person any errant hunter wants to cross. In Michigan's Upper Peninsula, Service defends his turf. He is most at home stalking the Mosquito Tract, the land protected by his C.O. father before him. He gets news that his nemesis, the leader of an incestuous clan of poachers, is about to be released from prison. But something more sinister is afoot in the Mosquito Tract - something that inspires greed far beyond the hunter going over his limit, something that renders human life dispensable.
August 13, 2018
Just discovered this series and loved this first book. I read the C.J. Box "Joe Picket" series and the Paul Doiron "Mike Bowditch" series, which are very similar. While I have only read the first of this series, I think I like it better than the other two (still love them though :-) Main character, Grady Service, is a very likable, competent game warden (called something else up there in the UP). The writing is excellent and pulled me along the storyline. I am so psyched to have found a new series to devour. Highly recommended, especially if you like the books by Box and Doiron.
May 26, 2020
The writing was choppy and dialogue stilted. I quit at 75% because not much was happening. Also, the lead character was supposed to be a strong and silent man of great character but he just seemed like a jerk to me.
June 30, 2017
The story was too busy, too many non story core taking place which just left me wondering what was the actual topic of the story. Did not enjoy it.
November 9, 2023
[Ice Hunter] - Joseph Heywood - (Michigan U.P.)
Woods Cop Mystery Series Book#2
Genera: Mystery
3★
I live in Michigan although not in the U.P. Our U.P. is unbelievably beautiful but believe me it is an entire "country" unto itself...or at least it would like to be:) I had the honor of meeting this author and his lovely wife last night when he was a guest speaker at my library. I read his first book [The Snowfly] because I had never read anything by him and didn't want to go into the discussion session not knowing anything about him or his books. I couldn't get into that story at all but thought maybe it was just me and I should really try another. After two books I have come to the conclusion that his books are well written, and the characters are a bit unusual but still interesting, but they are not my "cuppa" tea. I'm not a sexist but I believe that this series might be more male oriented...not that there are not women that enjoy hunting, fishing, and camping. My mother loved doing all of this... but all of these activities are firmly ingrained into this mystery series as well as the Wildlife Officer Grady. I can't relate to this very well, so I have concluded that I'm really not into this series. As I said however, that even with all that against it, what I read was well done. The characters were different and totally selfless. There are a lot of abbreviations in this story that I was unfamiliar with. There should be a page somewhere that explains what they mean. In spite of not caring for the story, I certainly did enjoy meeting the author. I have nothing but the highest admiration for anyone that can actually write an entire book, much less an entire series, but I think I will remember what a delightful and gifted man he is and let others enjoy his books. On a sidenote: If you have never visited the Upper Peninsula of Michigan where these books are set...if you take the trip across the 5-mile-long Mackinac Bridge that connects Lake Michigan and Lake Huron, you will be in for a breathtaking treat. As you can see, I love my adopted state.
December 2, 2019
Grady Service is a CO - Conservation Officer - in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. His duties are far-ranging and he takes them seriously. He has been happily on the job for over 20 years.
Thus when he sees a man with a small hammer, acting oddly, he is curious. Especially because this man is in the Mosquito Wilderness, an area he considers his own to patrol. When he asks the man what he is doing he gets vague answers.
Then some odd things happen. Fire breaks out in the Mosquito Wilderness, near where the man was. It's arson. Grady begins investigations into ownership of the range, based on a strange tip. He hears rumors and investigates those.
When a second fire breaks out and a dead man is found in it, Grady knows this is serious business and he needs to know what is happening.
Beset by a pro-business governor who would as soon sell out the wilderness as sneeze, and cautioned by his superiors, Grady needs to act quickly.
I enjoyed the realness of the tale. Heywood takes us with Grady as he cautions campers, challenges hunters, and does any number of everyday ranger duties. He brings us into the wilderness and its beauty, and at the same time shows us Grady's meager housing, a choice that reveals much of the man.
On the other hand, I didn't get a really close sense of who Grady is. Casual comments now and then, an understanding of his persistence, and little else. When he is with a woman it can be difficult to understand the attraction. I would have loved a little more fill-in on the personal front.
Thus when he sees a man with a small hammer, acting oddly, he is curious. Especially because this man is in the Mosquito Wilderness, an area he considers his own to patrol. When he asks the man what he is doing he gets vague answers.
Then some odd things happen. Fire breaks out in the Mosquito Wilderness, near where the man was. It's arson. Grady begins investigations into ownership of the range, based on a strange tip. He hears rumors and investigates those.
When a second fire breaks out and a dead man is found in it, Grady knows this is serious business and he needs to know what is happening.
Beset by a pro-business governor who would as soon sell out the wilderness as sneeze, and cautioned by his superiors, Grady needs to act quickly.
I enjoyed the realness of the tale. Heywood takes us with Grady as he cautions campers, challenges hunters, and does any number of everyday ranger duties. He brings us into the wilderness and its beauty, and at the same time shows us Grady's meager housing, a choice that reveals much of the man.
On the other hand, I didn't get a really close sense of who Grady is. Casual comments now and then, an understanding of his persistence, and little else. When he is with a woman it can be difficult to understand the attraction. I would have loved a little more fill-in on the personal front.
June 9, 2022
A book that makes no bones about what it is. This is a story of conservation officer in the U.P. of Michigan. It is "fan-service" to Michiganders and lovers of the great outdoors (of which I am both.) Heywood notes in the back of the book he has gone on ride-alongs with the DNR for the last twenty years and it shows as he captures every aspect of the job of a "CO," sometimes to the detriment of the pacing of the story. I appreciated the detail for the most part, though, as it helped to understand the protagonist's, Grady Service, headspace and to make him more grounded.
Grady Service is a protagonist in line with Harry Dresden and Jack Reacher: a man aware he's out of step with current society and almost always at a great advantage to those around him, except when he's artificially not. Service's particular set of ideals didn't impact my enjoyment of the book, but I can't say that will be true for everyone as he can be "problematic" at times.
Overall, a decent, light-weight read for the beach, cabin, or the back porch combining elements of noir, nature, and nuance (at least regarding conservation and the use of our natural resources.) As the start of a series, it's good enough to entice me to see what kind of trouble Service can get into in later books, but not enough to jump them to the top of the TBR. The writing was stilted at times and there were a few missed edits which have a tendency to pull me out of the story.
Side note which I didn't factor into my rating at all: I hate the name Service, it caused confusion too many times throughout the book lol.
Grady Service is a protagonist in line with Harry Dresden and Jack Reacher: a man aware he's out of step with current society and almost always at a great advantage to those around him, except when he's artificially not. Service's particular set of ideals didn't impact my enjoyment of the book, but I can't say that will be true for everyone as he can be "problematic" at times.
Overall, a decent, light-weight read for the beach, cabin, or the back porch combining elements of noir, nature, and nuance (at least regarding conservation and the use of our natural resources.) As the start of a series, it's good enough to entice me to see what kind of trouble Service can get into in later books, but not enough to jump them to the top of the TBR. The writing was stilted at times and there were a few missed edits which have a tendency to pull me out of the story.
Side note which I didn't factor into my rating at all: I hate the name Service, it caused confusion too many times throughout the book lol.
May 28, 2020
Meet Grady Service: a former Marine, renowned tracker, Conservation Officer, and the
last person any errant hunter wants to cross. In Ice Hunter, the first of a series of
mysteries set in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, Service defends his turf with the tenacity of a
bear and the wisdom of an ancient. He shuns all creature comforts and consumerism and is
most at home stalking the Mosquito Tract, his self-designated wilderness and the land protected by his CO father before him. Times are not easy for Service. As this summer season
opens, he gets news that his nemesis, the despicable leader of an incestuous clan of poachers,
is about to be released from prison. But something even more sinister is afoot in the Mosquito
Wilderness--something that inspires greed far beyond the hunter going over his limit, something that involves giants of industry and politics (including the governor of the State of
Michigan)--something that too easily renders human life dispensable. Service must call
upon his ever
last person any errant hunter wants to cross. In Ice Hunter, the first of a series of
mysteries set in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, Service defends his turf with the tenacity of a
bear and the wisdom of an ancient. He shuns all creature comforts and consumerism and is
most at home stalking the Mosquito Tract, his self-designated wilderness and the land protected by his CO father before him. Times are not easy for Service. As this summer season
opens, he gets news that his nemesis, the despicable leader of an incestuous clan of poachers,
is about to be released from prison. But something even more sinister is afoot in the Mosquito
Wilderness--something that inspires greed far beyond the hunter going over his limit, something that involves giants of industry and politics (including the governor of the State of
Michigan)--something that too easily renders human life dispensable. Service must call
upon his ever
December 15, 2020
I'm not one who typically reads mystery novels but this one did keep my attention. As a Michigander, it was nice to read about remote areas of the Upper Peninsula. The author did a good job of describing the uniqueness of the area. He also made a point of trying to bring the "yooper" personalist to the book.
The book is about the work-related adventures of Grady Service, a Conservation Officer, in the Upper Peninsula. He comes across as an arrogant man that is interested in protecting the UP at all costs. Because of that he bends the rules and doesn't show any real emotions. Letting him appear more connected to others would have made this more realistic.
The author does a good job of layering the mystery to keep the reader's attention. He also does a good job of describing the people and places. This book is easy to read and kept my attention. For that, I would recommend it especially for someone from Michigan. I only wish the characters were more complete.
The book is about the work-related adventures of Grady Service, a Conservation Officer, in the Upper Peninsula. He comes across as an arrogant man that is interested in protecting the UP at all costs. Because of that he bends the rules and doesn't show any real emotions. Letting him appear more connected to others would have made this more realistic.
The author does a good job of layering the mystery to keep the reader's attention. He also does a good job of describing the people and places. This book is easy to read and kept my attention. For that, I would recommend it especially for someone from Michigan. I only wish the characters were more complete.
November 4, 2022
Grady Service shuns all creature comforts and consumerism and is
most at home stalking the Mosquito Tract, his self-designated wilderness and the land protected by his CO father before him. Times are not easy for Service. As this summer season
opens, he gets news that his nemesis, the despicable leader of an incestuous clan of poachers,
is about to be released from prison. But something even more sinister is afoot in the Mosquito
Wilderness--something that inspires greed far beyond the hunter going over his limit, something that involves giants of industry and politics (including the governor of the State of
Michigan)--something that too easily renders human life dispensable. Service must call
upon his every reserve to track, stalk, and hunt the “ice hunter.”
most at home stalking the Mosquito Tract, his self-designated wilderness and the land protected by his CO father before him. Times are not easy for Service. As this summer season
opens, he gets news that his nemesis, the despicable leader of an incestuous clan of poachers,
is about to be released from prison. But something even more sinister is afoot in the Mosquito
Wilderness--something that inspires greed far beyond the hunter going over his limit, something that involves giants of industry and politics (including the governor of the State of
Michigan)--something that too easily renders human life dispensable. Service must call
upon his every reserve to track, stalk, and hunt the “ice hunter.”
February 2, 2023
I struggled through this. It felt sloppy and all over the place. There were too many characters, and a lot of them pointless. It felt like a new person was introduced on every other page, and every time it came with a brief description of what they looked like and who they were and what they did, then you never saw them again. Same for places; a new place with some kind of description on a constant basis. It was hard to tell where this story was going, and then by the end it was all thrown together carelessly and hastily, and was anticlimactic to boot. I don’t understand why this book has so many good ratings…
January 7, 2024
It was okay. Kind of predictable. Lots of swearing. Apparently, all the women in Michigan have no shame and can’t seem to keep their clothes on. Not going to read any of the other books. Grady seemed to be superhuman and constantly getting hurt, but doesn’t care about it much. What really irritated me was his relationship with his girlfriend and then they broke up, he seemed to hardly care about it and immediately got into a relationship with someone else he barely knew, but somehow was much better. Irritating. The women in the book were very one dimensional. Actually, everyone except Grady and Limpy were one dimensional.
July 16, 2025
This was my first Heywood novel and I absolutely loved it! I can't believe I've never heard about this author before. I visited the U.P. earlier this summer and searched for any fiction that took place there and discovered the Woods Cop series. I'm already hooked. I'm curious why this isn't as popular as CJ Box's Joe Pickett series (which I haven't read yet) that premiered the same year. If I didn't already have such a long TBR, I'm sure I'd binge this series like I did with Harry Bosch years ago. Highly recommended, especially if you already have an affinity for the Game Warden profession, mysteries, the wilderness, and northern Michigan ;-)
February 19, 2019
So not my normal cup of tea, but I really enjoyed reading this book. Set it the upper peninsula, the many Michigan references probably pushes it up to 4. :) I liked the main character and could picture him clearly in my mind. A movie version would be fun to see, all the amazing beauty of the UP with all the crazy people. I'm not planning to continue with the series, but I fully enjoyed the first book.
"There was too damn little wilderness left in America and when it was all gone, America would no longer be America. Something had to be done."
"There was too damn little wilderness left in America and when it was all gone, America would no longer be America. Something had to be done."
October 31, 2019
That Grandy Service is the main character since he is the one that is the person’s perspective you see. But for the most part, he is the only character that is in the whole book since the stuff he does is mainly solo. He doesn’t like to work with other people too often since he likes to be stealthy. Him being in the Marines makes him a threat since he can apply all of what he learned. In the Marines making that much more useful since he can read people and know who he has to shoot and who not to shoot. For the safety of his life, the biggest thing about the book is that he is looking for people who are working for the poacher so he can follow them and take out the pinhead of all the poaching so then peace can be restored in the upper part of Michigan so there isn’t as much havoc.
September 25, 2021
LOVED IT, as a yupper, he has it right. so many IDs of local origin, so I believe his credentials.
and it is also a good story.
In a brilliant debut to a thrilling series, Grady Service gets news that his nemesis, the head of an incestuous clan of poachers, is to be released from prison. But something even more sinister is afoot in the Mosquito Wilderness. Service must call upon his every reserve to track, stalk, and capture the “ice hunter.”
For more on Joseph Heywood and the Woods Cop Mysteries, visit the author's website
and it is also a good story.
In a brilliant debut to a thrilling series, Grady Service gets news that his nemesis, the head of an incestuous clan of poachers, is to be released from prison. But something even more sinister is afoot in the Mosquito Wilderness. Service must call upon his every reserve to track, stalk, and capture the “ice hunter.”
For more on Joseph Heywood and the Woods Cop Mysteries, visit the author's website
July 31, 2017
A whodunit for a Yooper. Author uses real towns, Yooper mentality, and the motel just south edge of Houghton we've stayed at. Would rate it a 5 but because of language and some situations, can't recommend it. A Conservation Officer so concerned with the forest, streams, fish, wild life, and 2 murders to solve he works 24/7 to keep law and order. Uses discernment, well sometimes, but exceeds his inforcement power. Interesting to read of so many places in the UP we've been to.
November 10, 2019
I picked up "Ice Hunter" at the suggestion of a good friend that also happens to live in Michigan. Joseph Heywood has really put together a good tale in "Ice Hunter". I have read it in fits and starts, but not because of a lack of interest. I do find it a bit hard to believe that one Conservation Officer could really be that dedicated and push that hard - but, I have accepted that Anna Pigeon fits that bill, so why not Grady Service? I have ordered book #2 and look forward to reading it.
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