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Mike Bowditch #4.5, 8.5, 9.5, 10.5, 11.5, 12.5,
Skin and Bones: And Other Mike Bowditch Short Stories
For the first time in print, Skin and Bones features a collection of eight gripping original short stories in the bestselling Mike Bowditch series―including one brand new, never-before-published story―from Edgar-award nominated author Paul Doiron.
In THE BEAR TRAP, legendary Maine woodsman and bush pilot Charley Stevens tries to convince young Mike of the dangers awaiting rookie game wardens.
RABID draws Mike into the story of a gruesome case involving a bat with rabies from his Charley Steven’s past (2019 Edgar award nominee for Best Short Story).
When a visiting hunter goes missing in the middle of a snowstorm, a young Charley Stevens sets off to rescue him―but begins to suspect the man may not want to be found in BACKTRACK.
In THE IMPOSTER, Mike is confronted with a baffling case of stolen identity when he discovers a dead body whose driver’s license claims he is none other than Mike Bowditch himself.
Mike tracks down a sinister prowler who turns a couple's dream vacation home into a nightmare in THE CARETAKER.
An investigation into the killing of a bald eagle in SKIN AND BONES unearths an old case of a missing young man whose physically abusive brother might have murdered him.
In SNAKEBIT, Mike must hunt down a killer who uses the unlikeliest of murder weapons: rattlesnakes.
(Brand New!) Mike suspects there’s more to a grisly murder-suicide than meets the eye in SHEEP’S CLOTHING.
Critically acclaimed for his brilliant crime novels, Paul Doiron proves he is also the master of short story in Skin and Bones.
In THE BEAR TRAP, legendary Maine woodsman and bush pilot Charley Stevens tries to convince young Mike of the dangers awaiting rookie game wardens.
RABID draws Mike into the story of a gruesome case involving a bat with rabies from his Charley Steven’s past (2019 Edgar award nominee for Best Short Story).
When a visiting hunter goes missing in the middle of a snowstorm, a young Charley Stevens sets off to rescue him―but begins to suspect the man may not want to be found in BACKTRACK.
In THE IMPOSTER, Mike is confronted with a baffling case of stolen identity when he discovers a dead body whose driver’s license claims he is none other than Mike Bowditch himself.
Mike tracks down a sinister prowler who turns a couple's dream vacation home into a nightmare in THE CARETAKER.
An investigation into the killing of a bald eagle in SKIN AND BONES unearths an old case of a missing young man whose physically abusive brother might have murdered him.
In SNAKEBIT, Mike must hunt down a killer who uses the unlikeliest of murder weapons: rattlesnakes.
(Brand New!) Mike suspects there’s more to a grisly murder-suicide than meets the eye in SHEEP’S CLOTHING.
Critically acclaimed for his brilliant crime novels, Paul Doiron proves he is also the master of short story in Skin and Bones.
368 pages, Paperback
Published May 13, 2025
100 people are currently reading
10721 people want to read
About the author
Paul Doiron
39 books2,314 followersPaul Doiron is the best-selling author of the Mike Bowditch series of crime novels set in the Maine woods.
His first book, The Poacher’s Son, won the Barry Award and the Strand Critics Award and was nominated for an Edgar for Best First Novel. His second, Trespasser, won the 2012 Maine Literary Award. His novelette “Rabid” was a finalist for the 2019 Edgar in the Best Short Story category. Paul’s twelfth book, Dead by Dawn won the New England Society’s 2022 Book Award for Fiction, as well as his second Maine Literary Award. It was also a finalist for the Barry Award. His books have been translated into 11 languages.
Paul is the former chair of the Maine Humanities Council, Editor Emeritus of Down East: The Magazine of Maine, and a Registered Maine Guide specializing in fly fishing.
His first book, The Poacher’s Son, won the Barry Award and the Strand Critics Award and was nominated for an Edgar for Best First Novel. His second, Trespasser, won the 2012 Maine Literary Award. His novelette “Rabid” was a finalist for the 2019 Edgar in the Best Short Story category. Paul’s twelfth book, Dead by Dawn won the New England Society’s 2022 Book Award for Fiction, as well as his second Maine Literary Award. It was also a finalist for the Barry Award. His books have been translated into 11 languages.
Paul is the former chair of the Maine Humanities Council, Editor Emeritus of Down East: The Magazine of Maine, and a Registered Maine Guide specializing in fly fishing.
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May 4, 2025
Skin and Bones and Other Mike Bowditch Short Stories
by Paul Doiron is a great collection of eight stories in the Mike Bowditch universe set in rural Maine. Mike is a Maine Game Warden. He is a great tracker and is persistent. He’s also prone to over-explanation and his initiative isn’t always appreciated by his superiors. He’s a good listener, but can be baited somewhat easily. He listens to his intuition and is relentless in his pursuit of his investigations. I appreciated his independent thinking and his observation skills. Charley Stevens is Mike’s good friend and mentor. He’s crafty, a constant reader, a great woodsman, and enjoys playing with people’s assumptions. He can also be reckless at times.
In The Bear Trap , while trying to convince Mike of the dangers rookie game wardens can face, Charley tells him a great story from his own experience as a rookie and a local legend. While atmospheric and descriptive, it also had great pacing.
In Backtrack, Charlie is once again the main character and it’s still early in his career. The dispatcher contacts him to find a missing hunter. Does he want to be found? Is he injured or lost? Once again, weather in the form of a snowstorm plays a role in the story, but the emotions and heart in the story are the true winners.
In Rabid, Charley is once again relating a story to Mike. This time it involves a case where a man is bitten by a bat. Does it have rabies? This was an intense short story that kept me fully engaged throughout. Mike gets knowledge of the events from both Charley and Ora, Charley’s wife. This is a tragic and moving story.
In The Imposter, a body is found in a car in the bay. His wallet says he is Mike Bowditch, but Mike is observing the recovery efforts. As other events involving the imposter become known, Mike is wondering why the specific name was chosen and what actions had the imposter taken during the last few weeks. This was a well-plotted story right up to the end, which didn’t fully resolve the case for me.
The title story, Skin and Bones, starts with an eagle that was killed, and quickly evolves into a story involving Charley and Mike’s father Jack. This was the longest and most detailed story in the novel. It has several twists and turns and is somewhat dark, but it also proves to be a lesson to Mike as Charley relates the story that still haunts him today.
In The Caretaker, Mike and Charley respond to a couple’s request for help. They are being harassed by someone breaking into their new cabin. Nothing is stolen, but furniture is moved and most recently, a threatening item has been left inside. The couple believe they know who did it. As Mike and Charley investigate, all the loose ends are resolved, but it didn’t end satisfactorily for me.
In Snakebit, Mike gets a call from a woman who said she’s seen a timber rattlesnake on a hiking trail. Since they have been eradicated in Maine since the late 1800’s, Mike isn’t sure whether this is a misidentification, an escaped rattlesnake, a snake that was deliberately let loose, or snake that made its way to Maine from the population in New Hampshire. During this story, readers learn about a few invasive species in Maine, but the focus remains on the rattlesnake. Once again, this is a fantastic short story.
In Sheep’s Clothing, Mike is doing a welfare check when he finds grisly scene. In this story, Mike’s investigative skills are highlighted. This one has a few twists and turns that may surprise some readers.
While I enjoyed all of the stories, Backtrack and Sheep’s Clothing were my favorites. However, all eight build suspense in a way that pulls readers into the stories and the lives of the characters. Each story stands on its own and has great characterization. They cover a wide time-period in Mike’s career.
Overall, this is a briskly paced, intriguing, and entertaining collection that kept me fully engaged. I’m looking forward to reading the next novel in the Mike Bowditch series. Fans of crime thrillers, nature, and action-packed wilderness adventure novels will likely enjoy these books.
St. Martin’s Press – Minotaur Books and Paul Doiron provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date is currently set for May 13, 2025. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
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My 4 star review is coming soon.
In The Bear Trap , while trying to convince Mike of the dangers rookie game wardens can face, Charley tells him a great story from his own experience as a rookie and a local legend. While atmospheric and descriptive, it also had great pacing.
In Backtrack, Charlie is once again the main character and it’s still early in his career. The dispatcher contacts him to find a missing hunter. Does he want to be found? Is he injured or lost? Once again, weather in the form of a snowstorm plays a role in the story, but the emotions and heart in the story are the true winners.
In Rabid, Charley is once again relating a story to Mike. This time it involves a case where a man is bitten by a bat. Does it have rabies? This was an intense short story that kept me fully engaged throughout. Mike gets knowledge of the events from both Charley and Ora, Charley’s wife. This is a tragic and moving story.
In The Imposter, a body is found in a car in the bay. His wallet says he is Mike Bowditch, but Mike is observing the recovery efforts. As other events involving the imposter become known, Mike is wondering why the specific name was chosen and what actions had the imposter taken during the last few weeks. This was a well-plotted story right up to the end, which didn’t fully resolve the case for me.
The title story, Skin and Bones, starts with an eagle that was killed, and quickly evolves into a story involving Charley and Mike’s father Jack. This was the longest and most detailed story in the novel. It has several twists and turns and is somewhat dark, but it also proves to be a lesson to Mike as Charley relates the story that still haunts him today.
In The Caretaker, Mike and Charley respond to a couple’s request for help. They are being harassed by someone breaking into their new cabin. Nothing is stolen, but furniture is moved and most recently, a threatening item has been left inside. The couple believe they know who did it. As Mike and Charley investigate, all the loose ends are resolved, but it didn’t end satisfactorily for me.
In Snakebit, Mike gets a call from a woman who said she’s seen a timber rattlesnake on a hiking trail. Since they have been eradicated in Maine since the late 1800’s, Mike isn’t sure whether this is a misidentification, an escaped rattlesnake, a snake that was deliberately let loose, or snake that made its way to Maine from the population in New Hampshire. During this story, readers learn about a few invasive species in Maine, but the focus remains on the rattlesnake. Once again, this is a fantastic short story.
In Sheep’s Clothing, Mike is doing a welfare check when he finds grisly scene. In this story, Mike’s investigative skills are highlighted. This one has a few twists and turns that may surprise some readers.
While I enjoyed all of the stories, Backtrack and Sheep’s Clothing were my favorites. However, all eight build suspense in a way that pulls readers into the stories and the lives of the characters. Each story stands on its own and has great characterization. They cover a wide time-period in Mike’s career.
Overall, this is a briskly paced, intriguing, and entertaining collection that kept me fully engaged. I’m looking forward to reading the next novel in the Mike Bowditch series. Fans of crime thrillers, nature, and action-packed wilderness adventure novels will likely enjoy these books.
St. Martin’s Press – Minotaur Books and Paul Doiron provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date is currently set for May 13, 2025. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
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My 4 star review is coming soon.
June 20, 2025
Love me some Mike Bowditch and this did not disappoint. The short stories shed some light to his Father in law's time as a ranger as well. While I'm not well versed in the universe; i don't think you have to be to follow along with all the stories. My favorite was "Snake Bite", it tells the story of how strange snake bite incidents begin happening in an area where snakes have been uncommon for years and how two estranged sisters tie into it!
Solid 4 stars!!!!
Solid 4 stars!!!!
April 6, 2025
Special thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a free, electronic ARC of this novel received in exchange for an honest review.
Expected publication date: May 13, 2025
“Skin and Bones: And Other Mike Bowditch Short Stories” by Paul Doiron is a collection of eight short stories featuring Mike Bowditch, Maine game warden and the protagonist in Doiron’s “Mike Bowditch” series. Of varying lengths, the first three stories feature Mike’s mentor, father-in-law and retired warden, Charley Stevens and the final five centre on Mike. Fans of the Bowditch series will know all of the characters well, and Doiron ensures that each story is well-crafted and easy to jump right into.
“Rabid” and “Snakepit” are two of my favourite stories, but I can honestly say I enjoyed all of them. I am not a huge fan of short stories, preferring the collective flow of one seamless plot, but this collection was thoroughly engaging and dramatic. All of the stories have the same setting, the Maine woods and surrounding communities, and feature Mike and his colleagues in one investigation or another, so the general theme is the same throughout, which helps with consistency.
My first Mike Bowditch novel was “Dead Man's Wake”, which is fourteenth in the series, so I can honestly say that it is not necessary to read all of the books in order. Bowditch is a clever spin on the typical police investigator protagonist, being a game warden, which makes Doiron’s novels stand out among the rest in this genre.
Mike himself is not only a super sharp investigator, but he is sympathetic and genuine, even though he is often taken for granted and overlooked by others in his field. He is brave and kind and stands up for the good guys, which is reassuring and comforting in a main character.
Doiron’s “Skin and Bones: And Other Mike Bowditch Short Stories” stories take place after book four, and in between books eight through twelve, but they don’t provide too many important character details, so readers won’t feel lost or confused. “Skin” provides readers with suspenseful, engaging mysteries that are cleverly solved by Mike or Charley within their collection of pages.
Doiron’s collection of short stories fills in the gaps in between novels with action-packed drama and suspense, making me more eager for the newest Mike Bowditch full-length.
Expected publication date: May 13, 2025
“Skin and Bones: And Other Mike Bowditch Short Stories” by Paul Doiron is a collection of eight short stories featuring Mike Bowditch, Maine game warden and the protagonist in Doiron’s “Mike Bowditch” series. Of varying lengths, the first three stories feature Mike’s mentor, father-in-law and retired warden, Charley Stevens and the final five centre on Mike. Fans of the Bowditch series will know all of the characters well, and Doiron ensures that each story is well-crafted and easy to jump right into.
“Rabid” and “Snakepit” are two of my favourite stories, but I can honestly say I enjoyed all of them. I am not a huge fan of short stories, preferring the collective flow of one seamless plot, but this collection was thoroughly engaging and dramatic. All of the stories have the same setting, the Maine woods and surrounding communities, and feature Mike and his colleagues in one investigation or another, so the general theme is the same throughout, which helps with consistency.
My first Mike Bowditch novel was “Dead Man's Wake”, which is fourteenth in the series, so I can honestly say that it is not necessary to read all of the books in order. Bowditch is a clever spin on the typical police investigator protagonist, being a game warden, which makes Doiron’s novels stand out among the rest in this genre.
Mike himself is not only a super sharp investigator, but he is sympathetic and genuine, even though he is often taken for granted and overlooked by others in his field. He is brave and kind and stands up for the good guys, which is reassuring and comforting in a main character.
Doiron’s “Skin and Bones: And Other Mike Bowditch Short Stories” stories take place after book four, and in between books eight through twelve, but they don’t provide too many important character details, so readers won’t feel lost or confused. “Skin” provides readers with suspenseful, engaging mysteries that are cleverly solved by Mike or Charley within their collection of pages.
Doiron’s collection of short stories fills in the gaps in between novels with action-packed drama and suspense, making me more eager for the newest Mike Bowditch full-length.
November 30, 2025
Short story books are hard ones for me. The stories from favorite authors are often not quite enough. I have to say Skin and Bones is a great collection. Several of the stories are top notch. The title story, Skin and Bones is not one to be missed and is a horrific tale. I put it on par with the works of Stephen King. If you want murder and mayhem in the backwoods of Maine, these stories check the boxes. Game Wardens Mike Bowditch and Charley Stevens solve crimes with intelligence and aplomb.
I enjoy the series so much. Others may find the book a bit less "smashing" than I did. I think however, everyone will find the story "Skin and Bones" worth the cover price of the book.
I enjoy the series so much. Others may find the book a bit less "smashing" than I did. I think however, everyone will find the story "Skin and Bones" worth the cover price of the book.
April 14, 2025
Skin and Bones is a collection of short stories set in the world and life of Maine game warden, Mike Bowditch. The stories have been previously published but are in a new collection for the first time with one brand new story which takes place after the events of the latest Mike Bowditch, who is a fun character, novel. The stories vary in length but all are quick reads.
I read the author's latest full length book, Pitch Dark, before reading Skin and Bones. After reading this collection of stories I'm more excited than ever to go back and read the series from the beginning.
This is a great, well written set of stories. They are very effective at giving you an idea of what the full length novels are like. They also stand well on their own. A couple of them are creepy and a little spooky at times. Each story is satisfying and you don't feel like you're missing out on anything.
I'm not always the biggest fan of short stories, especially collections because I often feel pressured to read them fast or straight through like a regular novel. Or sometimes I don't feel like I got much out of it. Not so with Skin and Bones. I didn't read it straight through because I was reading other books at the same time but I easily could have. I was excited to read every time I picked it up. It's clear that Paul Doiron is very talented and I can't wait to read more about Mike Bowditch.
Thank you to Netgalley for the chance to read!
I read the author's latest full length book, Pitch Dark, before reading Skin and Bones. After reading this collection of stories I'm more excited than ever to go back and read the series from the beginning.
This is a great, well written set of stories. They are very effective at giving you an idea of what the full length novels are like. They also stand well on their own. A couple of them are creepy and a little spooky at times. Each story is satisfying and you don't feel like you're missing out on anything.
I'm not always the biggest fan of short stories, especially collections because I often feel pressured to read them fast or straight through like a regular novel. Or sometimes I don't feel like I got much out of it. Not so with Skin and Bones. I didn't read it straight through because I was reading other books at the same time but I easily could have. I was excited to read every time I picked it up. It's clear that Paul Doiron is very talented and I can't wait to read more about Mike Bowditch.
Thank you to Netgalley for the chance to read!
May 15, 2025
This is the first book I have ever picked up from Paul Doiron and I don't think it will be my last. I really enjoyed the writing style. I enjoyed all the stories here and I can confirm you do not need to have read the whole series to read and enjoy these stories but I'm sure it would be better if you had.
Every story is packed with interesting mysteries, fun twists and great characters. The stories also flowed really well, there was never a lull in the book, I was always entertained which I really liked.
Happy I went out of my comfort zone for this book! I really enjoyed it and look forward to reading more from Paul Doiron!! If you have any recs lemme know!
Thank you to Netgalley and Macmillan audio for the audio & physical ARC!
*All opinions are my own!*
Every story is packed with interesting mysteries, fun twists and great characters. The stories also flowed really well, there was never a lull in the book, I was always entertained which I really liked.
Happy I went out of my comfort zone for this book! I really enjoyed it and look forward to reading more from Paul Doiron!! If you have any recs lemme know!
Thank you to Netgalley and Macmillan audio for the audio & physical ARC!
*All opinions are my own!*
August 14, 2025
A collection of 8 short stories from the best-selling "Mike Bowditch Mysteries" series by Paul Doiron.
It was my pleasure being in the backwoods and wilderness of Maine with game warden Mike Bowditch and, at times, his good friend Charlie Stevens.
Murder and mystery ensue in each of these unique and captivating stories.
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press/Minotaur Books for an arc of this novel in exchange for my honest review.
It was my pleasure being in the backwoods and wilderness of Maine with game warden Mike Bowditch and, at times, his good friend Charlie Stevens.
Murder and mystery ensue in each of these unique and captivating stories.
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press/Minotaur Books for an arc of this novel in exchange for my honest review.
October 19, 2024
I have been stalking Mike Bowditch for a number of years now and for those like me you must certainly have read some of these great short stories. Don't confuse this Skin and Bones with the short story by the same name. This is a collection of all current small adventures by Paul Doiron and I couldn't wait to read it although it's not out untill May 2025. These are some great add ons in the Maine game warden universe that I have come to love. I can also add that some of these stories are very hard to get. I just love it. I send a huge thank you to Minotaur Books , Macmillan and Edelweiss for giving me this advance copy of some great fiction.
August 17, 2025
Skin and Bones features a collection of eight gripping original short stories in the bestselling Mike Bowditch series—including one brand new, never-before-published story—from Edgar-award nominated author Paul Doiron.
There are eight stories and I loved all of them! It's so rare for me to not be disappointed in at least 2-3 stories when reading this type of book, but that didn't happen with Skin and Bones. I was enthralled by all eight and I truly felt as though I were right there in Maine with Mike and Charley. (I was surprised by how hot it gets in Maine!)
One of my favorite things about Skin and Bones is the fact that the stories can be read without having read any of the full length novels.
I highly recommend Skin and Bones!
#PaulDoiron #ShortStories #Maine #GameWardens
There are eight stories and I loved all of them! It's so rare for me to not be disappointed in at least 2-3 stories when reading this type of book, but that didn't happen with Skin and Bones. I was enthralled by all eight and I truly felt as though I were right there in Maine with Mike and Charley. (I was surprised by how hot it gets in Maine!)
One of my favorite things about Skin and Bones is the fact that the stories can be read without having read any of the full length novels.
I highly recommend Skin and Bones!
#PaulDoiron #ShortStories #Maine #GameWardens
June 28, 2025
4+ Stars
Excellent short stories!
Some authors seem to write short stories well,
while other authors are only able to write novels well.
However, Paul Doiron writes full length novels and short stories well.
This book of short stories seems to fill in some of the unwritten gaps that occurred between
Doiron’s novels. It’s well done.
I definitely recommend this book of short stories whether or not you’ve read any of Paul Doiron’s novels.
Excellent short stories!
Some authors seem to write short stories well,
while other authors are only able to write novels well.
However, Paul Doiron writes full length novels and short stories well.
This book of short stories seems to fill in some of the unwritten gaps that occurred between
Doiron’s novels. It’s well done.
I definitely recommend this book of short stories whether or not you’ve read any of Paul Doiron’s novels.
May 11, 2025
As a new reader of author Paul Doiron, I was thoroughly impressed with Skin and Bones. It's a collection of eight short stories featuring game warden Mike Bowditch and his investigations into federal and state crimes. Doiron's writing style is captivating -- blending immersive suspense, colorful characters, and engaging plot twists.
Every story in this novel is full or surprises and unexpected endings. This novel is great way to discover Doiron's talents in storytelling. And I am eager to read more of his work. Five stars.
I was invited to read a DRC from St Martin's Press through NetGalley. This review is my own and reflects my honest thoughts and opinions.
Every story in this novel is full or surprises and unexpected endings. This novel is great way to discover Doiron's talents in storytelling. And I am eager to read more of his work. Five stars.
I was invited to read a DRC from St Martin's Press through NetGalley. This review is my own and reflects my honest thoughts and opinions.
May 22, 2025
These are all amazing short stories, featuring veteran bush pilot and Maine woodsman Charley Stevens and heroic, compassionate, Game Warden Mike Bowditch. Set in the north woods of Maine, Paul Doiron has written eight excellent short stories. Each of the stories has a complex and twisting plot, and wonderful character development. I loved all of the stories, but Snakebit and Skin and Bones were my two favorites. Snakebit was chilling as Mike's investigation delved into both the crime and the family involved. In Skin and Bones, Charlie recounts the killing of a Bald Eagle that led to an investigation, with Mike's father Jack, of a horrendous crime that haunts him still. The other stories involve a thieving hermit, a search for a missing person, family violence, an imposter, revenge, and an eerie case of deceit, manipulation and murder in the backwoods. The stories vary in length, are fast paced and full of suspense! Thank you to the author, publisher and Netgalley for my advance copy. The opinions of this review are my own.
April 3, 2025
Skin and Bones is my introduction to the work of Paul Doiron, and I have found another favorite. Thankfully there are a lot to catch up on. Mike Bowditch is a ranger stationed in Maine, and it's a pleasure to read thrillers set in an area that doesn't get much attention. Many of these stories feature his friend Charley, a retired ranger who regales with stories from his past to explain events currently happening. Since these have been previously published, his fans may have read them elsewhere, but for those of us new to his work, it's a fine beginning.
May 18, 2025
Skin and Bones takes place in Maine (near where i grew up so that was cool!) and follows a game warden through a series of short stories with his adventures. in this book paul does an awesome job of capturing the small town rural maine life perfectly. i LOVED getting to here about different mysteries that took place in places that i went growing up and gave me so much nostalgia.
thank you the publishers and netgalley for the ARC!
thank you the publishers and netgalley for the ARC!
May 9, 2025
Skin and Bones: And Other Mike Bowditch Short Stories by Paul Doiron consists of 8 stories. Mike Bowditch is a Maine Game Warden who over explains, gets on the last nerve of hus superiors, and loves his jib, though sometimes he dies fet frustrated. The first 3 deal with Mike's mentor, Charley Steven's. The others deal with Mike from when he was a younger Game Warden, with the last one being a present one in the series.
THE BEAR TRAP, legendary Maine woodsman and bush pilot Charley Stevens tries to convince young Mike of the dangers awaiting rookie game wardens. I enjoyed going back in time and seeing Mike as a new game warden in this one.
RABID draws Mike into the story of a gruesome case involving a bat with rabies from Charley Steven’s past. Rabid was really good. I liked how Charley told the story to Mike and how Mike at first wasn't too sure about it.
When a visiting hunter goes missing in the middle of a snowstorm, a young Charley Stevens sets off to rescue him—but begins to suspect the man may not want to be found in BACKTRACK. In Backtrack, we see Charley deal with something that still hunts him, even years after the event.
In THE IMPOSTER, Mike is confronted with a baffling case of stolen identity when he discovers a dead body whose driver’s license claims he is none other than Mike Bowditch himself. I couldn't help but laugh a few times during this one. Mike had to figure out why someone wanted to be him. Had he made someone mad?
Mike tracks down a sinister prowler who turns a couple's dream vacation home into a nightmare in THE CARETAKER. In this one, Charley and Mike are taking a vacation at Charley's secluded cabin when they get disturbed by some city folks. The story they tell Mike and Charley doesn't make any sense until they go to the house.
An investigation into the killing of a bald eagle in SKIN AND BONES unearths an old case of a missing young man whose physically abusive brother might have murdered him. This one is creeeppy!
In SNAKEBIT, Mike must hunt down a killer who uses the unlikeliest of murder weapons: rattlesnakes. I don't like snakes, so this one gave me chills. Will Mike alienate everyone in the Warden Service trying to get to the bottom of the rattlesnakes, even though he is supposed to be off the case?
Mike suspects there’s more to a grisly murder-suicide than meets the eye in SHEEP’S CLOTHING. This had greed and murder in it. Who actually committed the murder? Who is all involved?
I enjoyed all these stories, especially the ones that were about Charley and a younger Mike. If you haven't read this series and like police procedural and murder cases, the Mike Bowditch Series is for you.
Tentative Publication Date May 13, 2025
Thanks to Netgalley, St. Martin's Press, Minotaur Books and Paul Doiron for the E-ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
😊 Happy Reading 😊
#Netgalley #Stmartinspress #minotaurbooks #pauldoiron #skinandbonesandothermikebowditchstories #mikebowditchseries #Serieslove2025
THE BEAR TRAP, legendary Maine woodsman and bush pilot Charley Stevens tries to convince young Mike of the dangers awaiting rookie game wardens. I enjoyed going back in time and seeing Mike as a new game warden in this one.
RABID draws Mike into the story of a gruesome case involving a bat with rabies from Charley Steven’s past. Rabid was really good. I liked how Charley told the story to Mike and how Mike at first wasn't too sure about it.
When a visiting hunter goes missing in the middle of a snowstorm, a young Charley Stevens sets off to rescue him—but begins to suspect the man may not want to be found in BACKTRACK. In Backtrack, we see Charley deal with something that still hunts him, even years after the event.
In THE IMPOSTER, Mike is confronted with a baffling case of stolen identity when he discovers a dead body whose driver’s license claims he is none other than Mike Bowditch himself. I couldn't help but laugh a few times during this one. Mike had to figure out why someone wanted to be him. Had he made someone mad?
Mike tracks down a sinister prowler who turns a couple's dream vacation home into a nightmare in THE CARETAKER. In this one, Charley and Mike are taking a vacation at Charley's secluded cabin when they get disturbed by some city folks. The story they tell Mike and Charley doesn't make any sense until they go to the house.
An investigation into the killing of a bald eagle in SKIN AND BONES unearths an old case of a missing young man whose physically abusive brother might have murdered him. This one is creeeppy!
In SNAKEBIT, Mike must hunt down a killer who uses the unlikeliest of murder weapons: rattlesnakes. I don't like snakes, so this one gave me chills. Will Mike alienate everyone in the Warden Service trying to get to the bottom of the rattlesnakes, even though he is supposed to be off the case?
Mike suspects there’s more to a grisly murder-suicide than meets the eye in SHEEP’S CLOTHING. This had greed and murder in it. Who actually committed the murder? Who is all involved?
I enjoyed all these stories, especially the ones that were about Charley and a younger Mike. If you haven't read this series and like police procedural and murder cases, the Mike Bowditch Series is for you.
Tentative Publication Date May 13, 2025
Thanks to Netgalley, St. Martin's Press, Minotaur Books and Paul Doiron for the E-ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
😊 Happy Reading 😊
#Netgalley #Stmartinspress #minotaurbooks #pauldoiron #skinandbonesandothermikebowditchstories #mikebowditchseries #Serieslove2025
May 22, 2025
I thoroughly enjoyed this book of short stories featuring veteran bush pilot Charley Stevens, and Game Warden Mike Bowditch. All 8 are set in the Northwoods of Maine, and each has complex, twisting plots and excellent character development. They were all great stories, but my favorite was Snakebit. Snakebit was a chilling look into a bizarre crime, and the family behind it. The other stories involve a hermit committing robbery, a search for a missing person, a crime that started with the killing of a Bald Eagle, and evolved into a horrendous crime, family violence, an imposter, and a strange case of deceit and murder in the Northwoods. The stories differ in length and are suspenseful and fast paced! Thanks to the author, publisher and Netgalley for my wife's advance copy! The opinions of this review are my own.
April 24, 2025
This book is a collection of short stories following Mike Bowditch, a game warden in Maine, as he investigates his own cases or hears re-tellings of different cases from his mentor, retired game warden Charley Stevens. I didn’t realize that these short stories were part of a series when I first started the book, however, they are very well written and can easily stand on their own. Each story really pulls the reader in with interesting and unique storylines, some mystery and suspense, nature facts, and good character development. This is not a typical book I usually read, but I enjoyed it and would check out other books in the series. Thank you to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for the ARC in return for my honest review.
August 7, 2025
Everyone always eagerly awaits summer, for the sun, the vacations, chances to bike, swim, and play outside. For me, another eagerly awaited tradition has become the appearance of a new Mike Bowditch novel, something to devour over a quick couple of days. The only downside is that I then have to wait a year before the next Bowditch adventure. The wait was more acute this past year after the high intensity of PITCH DARK.
And then summer comes and there is no new Bowditch novel. Instead, Paul Doiron has given us a collection of nine short stories, only one of which postdates the events of PITCH DARK. Its a fun detour, but that doesn't mean more Bowditch books wouldn't be nice.
SKIN AND BONES presents its nine stories in roughly chronological order going back to a time well before Bowditch became a game warden. The first two stories are very short and feature a young Charley Stevens, who would later on take a supporting role in the Bowditch novels as his mentor and eventually his father-in-law. All-in-all, Stevens is the lead in three stories, including one of the longer examples, "Skin and Bones" after which the book takes its name. "Skin and Bones" is the best story in the collection for depth and nuance. Two of the selections have Bowditch and Stevens working together, though the latter is the lead, while three stories are devoted to Mike Bowditch cases.
It is fun seeing a younger Charley Stevens in action. Jack Bowditch's appearance in two stories also fills in some blanks for those of us who have followed Doiron's books from day one. All the stories herein are worthwhile, even "Snakebit", which is the weakest of the tales. And, somehow, these shorter works seem slower paced and more relaxed in their presentation. Still, I'm looking forward to the next Bowditch novel, for a longer escape into the world of a Maine game warden.
And then summer comes and there is no new Bowditch novel. Instead, Paul Doiron has given us a collection of nine short stories, only one of which postdates the events of PITCH DARK. Its a fun detour, but that doesn't mean more Bowditch books wouldn't be nice.
SKIN AND BONES presents its nine stories in roughly chronological order going back to a time well before Bowditch became a game warden. The first two stories are very short and feature a young Charley Stevens, who would later on take a supporting role in the Bowditch novels as his mentor and eventually his father-in-law. All-in-all, Stevens is the lead in three stories, including one of the longer examples, "Skin and Bones" after which the book takes its name. "Skin and Bones" is the best story in the collection for depth and nuance. Two of the selections have Bowditch and Stevens working together, though the latter is the lead, while three stories are devoted to Mike Bowditch cases.
It is fun seeing a younger Charley Stevens in action. Jack Bowditch's appearance in two stories also fills in some blanks for those of us who have followed Doiron's books from day one. All the stories herein are worthwhile, even "Snakebit", which is the weakest of the tales. And, somehow, these shorter works seem slower paced and more relaxed in their presentation. Still, I'm looking forward to the next Bowditch novel, for a longer escape into the world of a Maine game warden.
April 27, 2025
This interesting collection of short stories feature Game Wardens in the State of Maine. Both Charley Steve and Mike Bowditch are characters in Paul Doiron's long-running Mike Bowditch series.
The stories were all interesting and span a number of years. They are filled with an intriguing variety of characters who live in very rural Maine from poachers to recluses.
I've only read a couple of the Mike Bowditch stories but found getting to know him in more depth through these stories to be illuminating of his character.
Short stories aren't really my thing since I like more depth and length in my stories. Fans of the genre and fans of Mike Bowditch will enjoy these glimpses into unseen episodes in his life and career.
The stories were all interesting and span a number of years. They are filled with an intriguing variety of characters who live in very rural Maine from poachers to recluses.
I've only read a couple of the Mike Bowditch stories but found getting to know him in more depth through these stories to be illuminating of his character.
Short stories aren't really my thing since I like more depth and length in my stories. Fans of the genre and fans of Mike Bowditch will enjoy these glimpses into unseen episodes in his life and career.
May 13, 2025
✨📚 RELEASE DAY REVIEW 📚✨
Skin and Bones by Paul Doiron is officially out today! 🎉
I’m a new reader to Paul Doiron’s work, but I was instantly captivated by the compelling short stories in Skin and Bones. It was a pleasure diving into these eight engaging tales without needing to commit to eight full-length novels! Doiron’s writing is truly a work of art—vivid, suspenseful, and immersive. You’ll find yourself transported right into the heart of Maine, experiencing every moment alongside the characters.
Highly recommend if you’re looking for powerful storytelling and thrilling narratives. This collection is a fantastic way to get acquainted with Paul Doiron’s writing.
Skin and Bones by Paul Doiron is officially out today! 🎉
I’m a new reader to Paul Doiron’s work, but I was instantly captivated by the compelling short stories in Skin and Bones. It was a pleasure diving into these eight engaging tales without needing to commit to eight full-length novels! Doiron’s writing is truly a work of art—vivid, suspenseful, and immersive. You’ll find yourself transported right into the heart of Maine, experiencing every moment alongside the characters.
Highly recommend if you’re looking for powerful storytelling and thrilling narratives. This collection is a fantastic way to get acquainted with Paul Doiron’s writing.
May 5, 2025
Thank you to St. Martin's Press, Minotaur Books and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this eARC in exchange for my honest opinion!
What a great collection of short stories! I have gotten into short stories over the last year and a half or so due mostly in part to being granted them via NetGalley. I was thrilled to see that Paul Doiron was publishing a set of short stores set in the world of Mike Bowditch and starring Charley Stevens. I have read a few of Paul Doiron's Mike Bowditch books and gobbled them up. These stories were a continuation of the fast pacing, taut situations and fantastic plotting that characterizes the novels. I loved the wicked and surprising turns some of the stories took and it kept me on my toes (and at times wanting to cover my eyes.) At times a bit more gruesome than some of the novels I've read, they were still a delight. Highly recommend if you are a Paul Doiron fan!
What a great collection of short stories! I have gotten into short stories over the last year and a half or so due mostly in part to being granted them via NetGalley. I was thrilled to see that Paul Doiron was publishing a set of short stores set in the world of Mike Bowditch and starring Charley Stevens. I have read a few of Paul Doiron's Mike Bowditch books and gobbled them up. These stories were a continuation of the fast pacing, taut situations and fantastic plotting that characterizes the novels. I loved the wicked and surprising turns some of the stories took and it kept me on my toes (and at times wanting to cover my eyes.) At times a bit more gruesome than some of the novels I've read, they were still a delight. Highly recommend if you are a Paul Doiron fan!
May 27, 2025
I don’t usually read short stories, but Doiron’s book changed my mind. All great ideas turn his stories into masterpieces.
August 21, 2025
I liked the idea of short stories that followed a Maine game warden. you could really visualize the country and characters.
August 16, 2025
I really liked almost all of these short stories- great pace and background for some of the characters. If you are really creeped out by snakes- skip snakebite!
March 6, 2025
I cannot say enough good things about this book! This is my first time reading anything written by Paul Doiron and I am hooked. While this book is made up of multiple short stories, none of them feel short at all! All of them feel complete and leave you satisfied with the amount of information given as if they were a full book. I love the vibe of Officer Bowditch and his smart aleck remarks throughout all the stories. Thank you for the ARC Net Galley!
May 29, 2025
Skin and Bones: And Other Mike Bowditch Short Stories by Paul Doiron was a very nice collection of short stories between major book releases. Although I had read many of them previously it was really nice to have them all in one place.
If you have been a reader of the series, you will note characters are just like they are in the major books, and very few new characters have been added.
I wish to thank NetGalley, the author and the publisher for a free, electronic ARC of this novel received in exchange for an honest review.
The book is available in all formats.
For me this was a 4 out of 5 star read
If you have been a reader of the series, you will note characters are just like they are in the major books, and very few new characters have been added.
I wish to thank NetGalley, the author and the publisher for a free, electronic ARC of this novel received in exchange for an honest review.
The book is available in all formats.
For me this was a 4 out of 5 star read
February 10, 2025
We venture deep into the rugged Maine wilderness once more with Edgar Award-nominated author Paul Doiron in
Skin and Bones: And Other Mike Bowditch Short Stories
. This collection showcases the adventures and mysteries featuring Mike Bowditch, Charley Stevens, and more.
For the first time in print, Skin and Bones: And Other Mike Bowditch Short Stories features a collection of eight gripping original short stories in the bestselling Mike Bowditch series―including one brand new, never-before-published story. The stories include The Bear Trap, Rabid, Backtrack, The Imposter, The Caretaker, Skin and Bones, Snakebit, and Sheep's Clothing.
Paul Doiron takes us back to familiar stomping grounds—the majestic yet often unforgiving terrain of Maine in Skin and Bones: And Other Mike Bowditch Short Stories. This collection is an anthology of tales that draws deeply on the landscape and wildlife's raw beauty to shape stories filled with mystery. Each tale is crafted with the hallmark Doiron attention to detail, painting vivid scenes that are easy to slip into for dedicated Mike Bowditch readers, Mainers, and newcomers alike. The Maine setting becomes more than a backdrop, but a character in its own right, influencing events and shaping outcomes.
Tales in this book that standout in my mind are The Caretaker and the collections namesake Skin and Bones. This stories immediately ensnared me with its edge-of-the-seat tension and mystery. In the former, Bowditch tracks down a sinister prowler turning a couple's dream vacation home into a nightmare while the latter sees the killing of a bald eagle unearthing ties to a tragic case from Mike's mentor Charley Steven's past.
Each story has their own feel while also cohesively adding depth to the overall Mike Bowditch lore. These tales are great to add context or bits to Doiron's other Bowditch stories, but can also standalone. This especially goes for Sheep's Clothing which offers insights into the aftermath of previous events from Pitch Dark, creating continuity within this universe while introducing fresh tensions that kept me guessing until the very end. These narrative threads cleverly bind past novels with present tales without alienating those who might be new to Doiron’s work.
A nice touch in Skin and Bones: And Other Mike Bowditch Short Stories is the stories where Charley Stevens takes center stage. This provides us fans of the series an intriguing shift from our usual protagonist-centric narratives focused entirely on Mike Bowditch. Stevens' presence adds depth to these tales; his seasoned wisdom contrasts beautifully against Bowditch’s youthful vigor seen elsewhere in the series.
It wouldn't be right if I didn't mention how much I love these tales as they take place in my backyard. Maine is a beautiful and wonderful state with a ton of wildlife, adventure, and mystery. Doiron's love for the state shines on every page of a Bowditch tale and this goes for this collection of short stories.
Skin and Bones: And Other Mike Bowditch Short Stories by Paul Doiron is an enthralling reading experience that's both satisfying for longtime fans waiting for another full-length installment and enticing enough for those new to Mike Bowditch to get a glimpse into the universe. Doiron takes several previous published tales and combine them into one great collection featuring a brand new story with ease.
Skin and Bones: And Other Mike Bowditch Short Stories hits bookstores everywhere on May 13, 2025 from Minotaur Books. The audiobook, narrated by Henry Leyva, can be pre-ordered at Libro.fm!
NOTE: We received an advance copy of Skin and Bones: And Other Mike Bowditch Short Stories from the publisher. Opinions are our own.
For the first time in print, Skin and Bones: And Other Mike Bowditch Short Stories features a collection of eight gripping original short stories in the bestselling Mike Bowditch series―including one brand new, never-before-published story. The stories include The Bear Trap, Rabid, Backtrack, The Imposter, The Caretaker, Skin and Bones, Snakebit, and Sheep's Clothing.
Paul Doiron takes us back to familiar stomping grounds—the majestic yet often unforgiving terrain of Maine in Skin and Bones: And Other Mike Bowditch Short Stories. This collection is an anthology of tales that draws deeply on the landscape and wildlife's raw beauty to shape stories filled with mystery. Each tale is crafted with the hallmark Doiron attention to detail, painting vivid scenes that are easy to slip into for dedicated Mike Bowditch readers, Mainers, and newcomers alike. The Maine setting becomes more than a backdrop, but a character in its own right, influencing events and shaping outcomes.
Tales in this book that standout in my mind are The Caretaker and the collections namesake Skin and Bones. This stories immediately ensnared me with its edge-of-the-seat tension and mystery. In the former, Bowditch tracks down a sinister prowler turning a couple's dream vacation home into a nightmare while the latter sees the killing of a bald eagle unearthing ties to a tragic case from Mike's mentor Charley Steven's past.
Each story has their own feel while also cohesively adding depth to the overall Mike Bowditch lore. These tales are great to add context or bits to Doiron's other Bowditch stories, but can also standalone. This especially goes for Sheep's Clothing which offers insights into the aftermath of previous events from Pitch Dark, creating continuity within this universe while introducing fresh tensions that kept me guessing until the very end. These narrative threads cleverly bind past novels with present tales without alienating those who might be new to Doiron’s work.
A nice touch in Skin and Bones: And Other Mike Bowditch Short Stories is the stories where Charley Stevens takes center stage. This provides us fans of the series an intriguing shift from our usual protagonist-centric narratives focused entirely on Mike Bowditch. Stevens' presence adds depth to these tales; his seasoned wisdom contrasts beautifully against Bowditch’s youthful vigor seen elsewhere in the series.
It wouldn't be right if I didn't mention how much I love these tales as they take place in my backyard. Maine is a beautiful and wonderful state with a ton of wildlife, adventure, and mystery. Doiron's love for the state shines on every page of a Bowditch tale and this goes for this collection of short stories.
Skin and Bones: And Other Mike Bowditch Short Stories by Paul Doiron is an enthralling reading experience that's both satisfying for longtime fans waiting for another full-length installment and enticing enough for those new to Mike Bowditch to get a glimpse into the universe. Doiron takes several previous published tales and combine them into one great collection featuring a brand new story with ease.
Skin and Bones: And Other Mike Bowditch Short Stories hits bookstores everywhere on May 13, 2025 from Minotaur Books. The audiobook, narrated by Henry Leyva, can be pre-ordered at Libro.fm!
NOTE: We received an advance copy of Skin and Bones: And Other Mike Bowditch Short Stories from the publisher. Opinions are our own.
May 8, 2025
Maine can be a dangerous place....
...and not all threats come from nature.
Mike Bowditch, son of notorious poacher Jack Bowditch, grew up to become a game warden in the state of Maine. He learned valuable lessons along the way from Charley Stevens, his mentor (and ultimately his father-in-law), also a game warden and a shrewd observer of human nature. Contained in this volume are eight short stories and novellas (one brand new, others previously published), each featuring one or more of these three men. Each tale is a complete entity in and of itself and as such can be read as a standalone even if the reader has never read any of the full length Bowditch novels, yet all share the vivid rendering of the beautiful Maine wilderness, the challenges for those who live there, and the darkness that can live in peoples' soul. Bears, bald eagles, timber rattlesnakes, rabid bats and more feature in these tales...but it is the humans who prove to be the most dangerous.
The stories contained within Skin and Bones can be either an introduction for new readers to the often dark but well-crafted series of crime novels featuring Mike Bowditch that take place in the wild areas of Maine or for those who have read some or all of the series as a way of offering more backstory to the three male characters, especially the prequel-like titular story Skin and Bones. Author Paul Doiron has packed a lot of action and character development into these tales, which will surely please fans of the series and hopefully pique the interest of those reading him for the first time enough to pick up other books in the series. With themes including the clashes between man and nature, the sometimes grey areas of justice and morality that law enforcement confronts, and the unforseen consequences of actions, this is a book (and a series) that should appeal to readers of William Kent Kruger, C. J. Box and Steve Hamilton. Many thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press/Minotaur Books for allowing me access to this latest in a favorite series in exchange for my honest review.
...and not all threats come from nature.
Mike Bowditch, son of notorious poacher Jack Bowditch, grew up to become a game warden in the state of Maine. He learned valuable lessons along the way from Charley Stevens, his mentor (and ultimately his father-in-law), also a game warden and a shrewd observer of human nature. Contained in this volume are eight short stories and novellas (one brand new, others previously published), each featuring one or more of these three men. Each tale is a complete entity in and of itself and as such can be read as a standalone even if the reader has never read any of the full length Bowditch novels, yet all share the vivid rendering of the beautiful Maine wilderness, the challenges for those who live there, and the darkness that can live in peoples' soul. Bears, bald eagles, timber rattlesnakes, rabid bats and more feature in these tales...but it is the humans who prove to be the most dangerous.
The stories contained within Skin and Bones can be either an introduction for new readers to the often dark but well-crafted series of crime novels featuring Mike Bowditch that take place in the wild areas of Maine or for those who have read some or all of the series as a way of offering more backstory to the three male characters, especially the prequel-like titular story Skin and Bones. Author Paul Doiron has packed a lot of action and character development into these tales, which will surely please fans of the series and hopefully pique the interest of those reading him for the first time enough to pick up other books in the series. With themes including the clashes between man and nature, the sometimes grey areas of justice and morality that law enforcement confronts, and the unforseen consequences of actions, this is a book (and a series) that should appeal to readers of William Kent Kruger, C. J. Box and Steve Hamilton. Many thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press/Minotaur Books for allowing me access to this latest in a favorite series in exchange for my honest review.
March 29, 2025
This is described as a collection of "short fiction". Some blurbs refer it to as short stories. For the most part, these stories are most reasonably characterized as being novelettes, i.e. stories of more than 10,000 words (30 to 40 pages). Not that it matters much. They are all engaging and can all easily be read in a leisurely afternoon, even by those of us who were branded back in junior high school as being able to read at only half the speed required for success in college.
Several of these stories don't much involve Main Warden Mike Bowditch, but rather feature his mentor and surrogate father, Charlie Stevens. So, one might say several of these stories provide a bit of backstory to the overall saga of Mike Bowditch's adventures.
Anyway, we have a bunch of fun stories involving the weird people in back-woods Maine. I don't mean to speak of Mainers pejoratively. I love Maine and have vacationed in Maine for the past quarter century. It's not clear that Mainers would think of me so kindly, they do, after all refer to my ilk as "Massholes" (although, I grew up a Baltimoron).
In one story, Mike Bowditch is a new ranger, and none of the locals know him. So, some wise ass decides to impersonate Bowditch so as to hit on the local teenage girls. In another, we have people breeding venomous snakes in captivity. Someone decides it would be fun to take one of the snakes out so as to use it as an instrument of murder. Then, they decide why not just release all the snakes and terrorize the locals? Then we have some guy into taxidermy who has shot a couple of bald eagles (totally illegal) so that he can stuff them. Another has as guy going rabid.
Whatever, they are all fun stories and well worth the time of those of us who love woodsy types in Maine.
#SkinAndBones #NetGalley
Several of these stories don't much involve Main Warden Mike Bowditch, but rather feature his mentor and surrogate father, Charlie Stevens. So, one might say several of these stories provide a bit of backstory to the overall saga of Mike Bowditch's adventures.
Anyway, we have a bunch of fun stories involving the weird people in back-woods Maine. I don't mean to speak of Mainers pejoratively. I love Maine and have vacationed in Maine for the past quarter century. It's not clear that Mainers would think of me so kindly, they do, after all refer to my ilk as "Massholes" (although, I grew up a Baltimoron).
In one story, Mike Bowditch is a new ranger, and none of the locals know him. So, some wise ass decides to impersonate Bowditch so as to hit on the local teenage girls. In another, we have people breeding venomous snakes in captivity. Someone decides it would be fun to take one of the snakes out so as to use it as an instrument of murder. Then, they decide why not just release all the snakes and terrorize the locals? Then we have some guy into taxidermy who has shot a couple of bald eagles (totally illegal) so that he can stuff them. Another has as guy going rabid.
Whatever, they are all fun stories and well worth the time of those of us who love woodsy types in Maine.
#SkinAndBones #NetGalley
May 24, 2025
Originally posted on my blog Nonstop Reader.
Skin and Bones is a collection of short fiction featuring Mike Bowditch and ensemble supporting characters written by Paul Doiron. Released 13th May 2025 by Macmillan on their Minotaur imprint, it's 368 pages and is available in hardcover, paperback, audio, and ebook formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links and references throughout.
This is a wonderfully written series with an intelligent and honorable protagonist who works as an investigator for the Maine Warden Service (game warden). Although it has more thriller elements than the usual shopfront cozies, it's so well written, so redolent of the area and the outdoors, that it's an immersive and enjoyable read. Readers who are already fans of procedural thrillers will be right at home.
This is a collection of 8 stories; 7 previously published, and one new to this collection. All are top shelf fiction and fill in background for the main characters from the series, and some are set in Bowditch's early career as well as more focused on his mentor Charley and his experiences from the early days in the warden service.
The stories are in the four-five star range and all are engaging and well written.
Four and a half stars. It would make an okay introduction to the style of the main books in the series but probably should be read after more familiarity with the main characters. It would make an excellent choice for public library acquisition, home use, or a buddy read.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
Skin and Bones is a collection of short fiction featuring Mike Bowditch and ensemble supporting characters written by Paul Doiron. Released 13th May 2025 by Macmillan on their Minotaur imprint, it's 368 pages and is available in hardcover, paperback, audio, and ebook formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links and references throughout.
This is a wonderfully written series with an intelligent and honorable protagonist who works as an investigator for the Maine Warden Service (game warden). Although it has more thriller elements than the usual shopfront cozies, it's so well written, so redolent of the area and the outdoors, that it's an immersive and enjoyable read. Readers who are already fans of procedural thrillers will be right at home.
This is a collection of 8 stories; 7 previously published, and one new to this collection. All are top shelf fiction and fill in background for the main characters from the series, and some are set in Bowditch's early career as well as more focused on his mentor Charley and his experiences from the early days in the warden service.
The stories are in the four-five star range and all are engaging and well written.
Four and a half stars. It would make an okay introduction to the style of the main books in the series but probably should be read after more familiarity with the main characters. It would make an excellent choice for public library acquisition, home use, or a buddy read.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
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