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Mike Bowditch #16
Storm Tide
Game Warden Mike Bowditch investigates a series of brutal killings during a life-changing year in Storm Tide, the harrowing new thriller from Edgar Award-nominated author Paul Doiron.
When the magnificent home of entrepreneur Brian Malloy mysteriously goes up in flames, Maine game warden Mike Bowditch tries to pull Malloy’s burning body from the fire but is too late. Malloy was suspected of murdering his young, illegitimate son. Now it looks like someone else has delivered a verdict.
Miles away, on a lonely stretch of icy railroad track, the body of Axl Deming, once accused of a brutal rape, is found literally cut in half. Though the two murders seem unrelated, a cryptic text from an unknown number draws Bowditch to the scene—and hints at a chilling connection. He suspects someone is orchestrating the executions of criminals who escaped justice, and for reasons he can’t explain, his own name is on the list, but the state police aren’t convinced. His search for the truth takes him through frozen harbors, trackless forests, and remote islands, far from rescue.
Meanwhile, Bowditch is facing a disciplinary hearing that could end his career. His wife Stacey, just weeks from giving birth, is being stalked by a stranger in a white van. And when he realizes someone has also been watching their home, the case turns increasingly personal.
To protect his family, Bowditch must work alone to uncover who’s behind the killings—and stop them before he becomes their next victim.
When the magnificent home of entrepreneur Brian Malloy mysteriously goes up in flames, Maine game warden Mike Bowditch tries to pull Malloy’s burning body from the fire but is too late. Malloy was suspected of murdering his young, illegitimate son. Now it looks like someone else has delivered a verdict.
Miles away, on a lonely stretch of icy railroad track, the body of Axl Deming, once accused of a brutal rape, is found literally cut in half. Though the two murders seem unrelated, a cryptic text from an unknown number draws Bowditch to the scene—and hints at a chilling connection. He suspects someone is orchestrating the executions of criminals who escaped justice, and for reasons he can’t explain, his own name is on the list, but the state police aren’t convinced. His search for the truth takes him through frozen harbors, trackless forests, and remote islands, far from rescue.
Meanwhile, Bowditch is facing a disciplinary hearing that could end his career. His wife Stacey, just weeks from giving birth, is being stalked by a stranger in a white van. And when he realizes someone has also been watching their home, the case turns increasingly personal.
To protect his family, Bowditch must work alone to uncover who’s behind the killings—and stop them before he becomes their next victim.
343 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 30, 2026
About the author
Paul Doiron
45 books2,460 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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Displaying 1 - 30 of 330 reviews
July 14, 2026
Paul Doiron has written another great crime novel featuring Maine game warden Mike Bowditch. It is action packed and I could not put it down. Although I do not live in Maine I have worked on jobs in the state for years. I also am no stranger to the poverty and the attitudes, good and bad, displayed in this series. As far as I am concerned, this is the best one yet.
I began with the first book and almost didn't read another. I did not like the young, cocky self-absorbed Bowditch at all. He reminded me of cocky young police officers everywhere. The character was smug and knew everything. However, Doiron's descriptions of poachers and back woods criminals were spot on based on my own life experiences in northern New England. He is every bit as good at capturing a scene in his books as Stephen King does with horror.
This book involves the hunt for a serial killer, high tech, manipulation and backwoods crime by vigilantes set on righting wrongs where they believe that should have deserved greater justice. The usual cast of characters including Charles and Ora, Stacey and the Cronks, as well as Officer Cruz return for the adventure. And we meet another Bowditch.
You could read this as a standalone. It is that good. But to fully appreciate the nuances and the returning characters, I recommend reading the series from the beginning. If like me you don't like Bowditch in Book 1, read on. It only gets better as the character matures. This book (and series) is one I highly recommend.
I began with the first book and almost didn't read another. I did not like the young, cocky self-absorbed Bowditch at all. He reminded me of cocky young police officers everywhere. The character was smug and knew everything. However, Doiron's descriptions of poachers and back woods criminals were spot on based on my own life experiences in northern New England. He is every bit as good at capturing a scene in his books as Stephen King does with horror.
This book involves the hunt for a serial killer, high tech, manipulation and backwoods crime by vigilantes set on righting wrongs where they believe that should have deserved greater justice. The usual cast of characters including Charles and Ora, Stacey and the Cronks, as well as Officer Cruz return for the adventure. And we meet another Bowditch.
You could read this as a standalone. It is that good. But to fully appreciate the nuances and the returning characters, I recommend reading the series from the beginning. If like me you don't like Bowditch in Book 1, read on. It only gets better as the character matures. This book (and series) is one I highly recommend.
July 5, 2026
This series is terrific. Seeing mid-coast Maine through the eyes of game warden, Mike Bowditch, is a wonderful experience. Gorgeous location, nature, wildlife, and always plenty of fun watching Mike get in trouble going after the bad guys and gals.
I’ve read every book in the series and always look forward to the next arrival.
5 out of 5 stars
Thanks to all for the copy.
I’ve read every book in the series and always look forward to the next arrival.
5 out of 5 stars
Thanks to all for the copy.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Storm tide has an intriguing premise and a dark, atmospheric setting. The story dives quickly into the investigation with plenty of mystery. While this one wasn't quite a right fit for my personal reading tastes. It plays in that I didn't realize this was a Series when I requested the title.
PUBLISH DATE: June 30, 2026
BOOK TITLE: Storm Tide
AUTHOR: Paul Doiron
PUBLISHER: St. Martin's Press | Minotaur Books
FORMAT: ebook & audiobook
PAGES: 352
I received a complimentary digital ARC [Advanced Readers Copy] of this book via NetGalley. Thank you to the Publisher and the Author for the opportunity to read and review this title prior to publication. As always, the opinions expressed in this review are my own.
PUBLISH DATE: June 30, 2026
BOOK TITLE: Storm Tide
AUTHOR: Paul Doiron
PUBLISHER: St. Martin's Press | Minotaur Books
FORMAT: ebook & audiobook
PAGES: 352
I received a complimentary digital ARC [Advanced Readers Copy] of this book via NetGalley. Thank you to the Publisher and the Author for the opportunity to read and review this title prior to publication. As always, the opinions expressed in this review are my own.
July 2, 2026
Storm Tide is the 16th book in Paul Doiron's "Mike Bowditch" series and it just keeps getting better.
This chilling and emotionally tense story about Maine Game Warden Mike Bowditch has him involved in a web of brutal killings that force him to confront his deepest fears in the Maine wilderness where danger lurks but where Mike is most comfortable.
It is always a pleasure re-visiting the side characters again and in this book Mike experiences a life changing event that adds emotional depth to the story.
A captivating and atmospheric installment to the series but can also be read as a standalone.
I thoroughly enjoy listening to Mike's adventures wonderfully narrated by Henry Leyva.
Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for an advanced copy of this audiobook in exchange for my honest review.
This chilling and emotionally tense story about Maine Game Warden Mike Bowditch has him involved in a web of brutal killings that force him to confront his deepest fears in the Maine wilderness where danger lurks but where Mike is most comfortable.
It is always a pleasure re-visiting the side characters again and in this book Mike experiences a life changing event that adds emotional depth to the story.
A captivating and atmospheric installment to the series but can also be read as a standalone.
I thoroughly enjoy listening to Mike's adventures wonderfully narrated by Henry Leyva.
Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for an advanced copy of this audiobook in exchange for my honest review.
December 21, 2025
Thank you to Minotaur Books for the ARC. *Storm Tide* is the first Mike Bowditch novel I’ve read, and it absolutely won’t be the last. Even without having read the earlier books in the series, the story was easy to follow and fully engaging—clearly written in a way that welcomes new readers while still rewarding longtime fans.
The characters are strong and memorable, the writing is sharp, and the setting is vividly described—I could picture every scene as it unfolded. The tension builds steadily, and once I hit the final stretch, I couldn’t put it down. I ended up reading the last 100 pages in one sitting because I *had* to know how it ended.
A well-written, atmospheric, and gripping read. I’ll definitely be going back to check out the previous books in the Mike Bowditch series. Highly recommend for fans of smart, character-driven mysteries.
The characters are strong and memorable, the writing is sharp, and the setting is vividly described—I could picture every scene as it unfolded. The tension builds steadily, and once I hit the final stretch, I couldn’t put it down. I ended up reading the last 100 pages in one sitting because I *had* to know how it ended.
A well-written, atmospheric, and gripping read. I’ll definitely be going back to check out the previous books in the Mike Bowditch series. Highly recommend for fans of smart, character-driven mysteries.
July 1, 2026
After the events of the last book, Mike Bowditch is facing a disciplinary hearing and has been demoted back to patrolling for the Game Warden’s office in rural Maine until a decision is made.
Meanwhile, there’s two suspicious deaths that point to a vigilante on the loose. Mike’s tipped off by someone who knows a little too much about his personal life, both past and present.
Also, Mike’s wife, Stacy, is weeks away from giving birth to their first child and notices a white van has been tailing her.
Mike is unsettled to find someone personally obsessed, especially since he has so much to lose, with a wife and baby on the way. As usual, Mike runs headlong into danger, and there were a few times I wanted to shake some sense into him. Especially when he landed in situations I wasn’t sure he’d survive. Still, his determination to find the stalker before the stalker finds him or his family made sense.
One of the things I love about this series is that Doiron brings the rough and beautiful landscape of Maine to life without slowing the plot!
I alternately read and listened to an audio version with Henry Leyva narrating. I love his performance! At this point, he is Mike Bowditch to me! Doiron’s wry humor comes through loud and clear through his performance and I enjoy his Maine accents.
Storm Tide is book sixteen in a series, but I jumped in late (book twelve) and have enjoyed every installment since!
I voluntarily read/listened to a copy courtesy of the publishers. These are my honest opinions.
Meanwhile, there’s two suspicious deaths that point to a vigilante on the loose. Mike’s tipped off by someone who knows a little too much about his personal life, both past and present.
Also, Mike’s wife, Stacy, is weeks away from giving birth to their first child and notices a white van has been tailing her.
Mike is unsettled to find someone personally obsessed, especially since he has so much to lose, with a wife and baby on the way. As usual, Mike runs headlong into danger, and there were a few times I wanted to shake some sense into him. Especially when he landed in situations I wasn’t sure he’d survive. Still, his determination to find the stalker before the stalker finds him or his family made sense.
One of the things I love about this series is that Doiron brings the rough and beautiful landscape of Maine to life without slowing the plot!
I alternately read and listened to an audio version with Henry Leyva narrating. I love his performance! At this point, he is Mike Bowditch to me! Doiron’s wry humor comes through loud and clear through his performance and I enjoy his Maine accents.
Storm Tide is book sixteen in a series, but I jumped in late (book twelve) and have enjoyed every installment since!
I voluntarily read/listened to a copy courtesy of the publishers. These are my honest opinions.
July 15, 2026
5⭐️
2.5🔪
Storm Tide by Paul Doiron was a full blown BANGER. 5 stars, easy. I read this alongside the audiobook, and the narrator absolutely brought the story to life. The pacing, the characters, the mystery, the twists, all of it worked.
Nothing too dark here, it’s more slow-burn mystery than graphic, but the atmosphere and sense of place are outstanding. There is mention of abuse that warrants checking the trigger warnings.
This is #16 in the series and I never felt lost or like I’d missed anything, you could honestly start here if you wanted. Absolutely fantastic.
2.5🔪
Storm Tide by Paul Doiron was a full blown BANGER. 5 stars, easy. I read this alongside the audiobook, and the narrator absolutely brought the story to life. The pacing, the characters, the mystery, the twists, all of it worked.
Nothing too dark here, it’s more slow-burn mystery than graphic, but the atmosphere and sense of place are outstanding. There is mention of abuse that warrants checking the trigger warnings.
This is #16 in the series and I never felt lost or like I’d missed anything, you could honestly start here if you wanted. Absolutely fantastic.
Did Not Finish
May 25, 2026Profanity
December 19, 2025
Storm Tide by Paul Doiron is a chilling, emotionally intense thriller about Maine game warden Mike Bowditch unraveling a web of brutal killings that force him to confront justice, vengeance, and his deepest fears while the world around him feels unbearably cold and stark.
In this sixteenth volume of Doiron’s Mike Bowditch mysteries, the landscape itself becomes part of the story: frigid harbors, lonely railroad tracks, and remote, ice-kissed islands blur the line between safety and danger, mirroring Bowditch’s internal struggle to protect his family and hold onto his sense of right and wrong.
Reading Storm Tide pulled me into a world where every scene felt wrapped in winter fog and moral ambiguity, where Bowditch is not just chasing a killer, but wrestling with the idea of justice itself. The facts of the plot touched me with their raw immediacy: a fire, a haunting body found isolated on cold rails, and a cryptic message that ties together cases Bowditch never expected to face, all while his pregnant wife Stacey is threatened by someone watching from the shadows.
What resonated with me most was the way Doiron balances pulse-pounding suspense with quietly wrought emotion, allowing Bowditch’s love for his family to anchor the relentless pace and to make every danger feel deeply personal. The prose is immersive, the setting so vivid I could feel the chill on my skin, and Bowditch’s resilience and vulnerability lingered with me long after I closed the book.
Based on its taut plotting and emotional depth, I would rate this book 4 out of 5, reserving just a slight pause because a few threads felt poised for more exploration, yet overall I found this installment gripping, thoughtful, and deeply affecting.
In this sixteenth volume of Doiron’s Mike Bowditch mysteries, the landscape itself becomes part of the story: frigid harbors, lonely railroad tracks, and remote, ice-kissed islands blur the line between safety and danger, mirroring Bowditch’s internal struggle to protect his family and hold onto his sense of right and wrong.
Reading Storm Tide pulled me into a world where every scene felt wrapped in winter fog and moral ambiguity, where Bowditch is not just chasing a killer, but wrestling with the idea of justice itself. The facts of the plot touched me with their raw immediacy: a fire, a haunting body found isolated on cold rails, and a cryptic message that ties together cases Bowditch never expected to face, all while his pregnant wife Stacey is threatened by someone watching from the shadows.
What resonated with me most was the way Doiron balances pulse-pounding suspense with quietly wrought emotion, allowing Bowditch’s love for his family to anchor the relentless pace and to make every danger feel deeply personal. The prose is immersive, the setting so vivid I could feel the chill on my skin, and Bowditch’s resilience and vulnerability lingered with me long after I closed the book.
Based on its taut plotting and emotional depth, I would rate this book 4 out of 5, reserving just a slight pause because a few threads felt poised for more exploration, yet overall I found this installment gripping, thoughtful, and deeply affecting.
January 26, 2026
I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway, and was excited to read this ARC before the book comes out this summer. Sadly, I was disappointed. This is the first book of Doiron’s that I’ve read, and because there have been many featuring Mike Bowditch previously, maybe I would have liked it better if I had a better frame of reference for this character and his history. Doiron regularly referenced things that happened to him in the past, but didn’t go into many details, so they didn’t land with me. Thus, I didn’t really get a feel for him as a character other than being extremely infuriated that he put himself in unnecessary danger again and again and MISSED THE BIRTH OF HIS FIRST CHILD as well as left his pregnant/postpartam wife several times to go on these dangerous investigations, despite being on leave and having no business being anywhere near them! The only place a wife would be ok with that is in this story, apparently, since his wife Stacey was always supportive of this nonsense. And the way this story was woven together was tenuous in general and fell flat for me.
March 28, 2026
Book 16 in a series and I just jumped right in with zero issues.
Apparently I really like game warden mysteries?? Because the wilderness setting, the survival vibes, and learning random things along the way had me locked in.
The mystery builds slowly and then everything starts coming together, which I always enjoy. Also the side characters?? They really made this one for me, especially Shadow (we love a dangerous pet moment)
Henry Leyva did a great job narrating too. Lots of characters, tense scenes, emotional moments, and he handled it all really well. His voice for old man Charlie was definitely a standout.
Overall just a really solid, outdoorsy mystery and I’d definitely pick up another in this series.
Apparently I really like game warden mysteries?? Because the wilderness setting, the survival vibes, and learning random things along the way had me locked in.
The mystery builds slowly and then everything starts coming together, which I always enjoy. Also the side characters?? They really made this one for me, especially Shadow (we love a dangerous pet moment)
Henry Leyva did a great job narrating too. Lots of characters, tense scenes, emotional moments, and he handled it all really well. His voice for old man Charlie was definitely a standout.
Overall just a really solid, outdoorsy mystery and I’d definitely pick up another in this series.
May 15, 2026
Mike Bowditch didn’t come out unscathed from the previous book and in this installment he is paying for what he did. He was demoted and on patrol and came across a house fire and death. During his investigation, he keeps coming across tidbits of information that leads him to multiple deaths, and he believes that these deaths are connected. Being Bowditch, he’s on a mission to find out what’s going on.
I really liked that we got to see a bit more of Shadow, the wolf dog, plays a role in this book. Turns out Bowditch has a stalker, and I was addicted to this dangerous game of cat vs mouse. Bowditch quickly realizes that his stalker is dangerous and he's on a mission to stop him before this stalker can hurt anyone that Bowditch loves.
The narrator, Henry Leyva does a great job portraying Bowwditch and several of the other characters. The tones and inflections used are spot on. The array of emotions he uses elevated the story for me.
Will Bowditch and his loved ones come out unscathed?
A very special thanks to Macmillan Audio for the gifted ALC + Minotaur Books for the gifted physical arc.
I really liked that we got to see a bit more of Shadow, the wolf dog, plays a role in this book. Turns out Bowditch has a stalker, and I was addicted to this dangerous game of cat vs mouse. Bowditch quickly realizes that his stalker is dangerous and he's on a mission to stop him before this stalker can hurt anyone that Bowditch loves.
The narrator, Henry Leyva does a great job portraying Bowwditch and several of the other characters. The tones and inflections used are spot on. The array of emotions he uses elevated the story for me.
Will Bowditch and his loved ones come out unscathed?
A very special thanks to Macmillan Audio for the gifted ALC + Minotaur Books for the gifted physical arc.
April 9, 2026
Paul Doiron artfully intertwines game warden Mike Bowditch's moving personal life with his challenging and dangerous career. In his latest, Bowditch looks to see if a string of dead bodies are somehow connected. As usual, the mystery and his hunt for the killer take him into the Maine wilderness where danger lurks, but where Mike is most at home. On a personal front, Mike experiences another heartwarming life change. Another stellar effort from Doiron. For fans of William Kent Krueger and Nevada Barr.
Many thanks to Netgalley, Edelweiss, Minotaur Books and Paul Doiron for my complimentary e-book ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Many thanks to Netgalley, Edelweiss, Minotaur Books and Paul Doiron for my complimentary e-book ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
August 13, 2026
It's been awhile since I settled into one of the Bowditch novels. I wish my library had them all. I liked this one. The journey of following the clues was fun to follow along with. I think that is the part that I enjoy the most about this series. Everything makes sense as it all comes together. Plus add in all the action and it's a great combination.
I also enjoy the core characters. They progress...even when they can't seem to help themselves. It is more relatable than I'd like to admit. Overall, 4 star worthy.
I also enjoy the core characters. They progress...even when they can't seem to help themselves. It is more relatable than I'd like to admit. Overall, 4 star worthy.
August 24, 2026
Paul Doiron does it again. Once again I will have to try and wait patiently for the next in the series. Wish I was Mike's age instead of 71.
July 1, 2026
I found this book to be an utter delight. The main character is a Maine game warden investigator who has a history of stepping outside conventional practices to solve complicated crimes. This story is no exception. Though he is suspended for his crime-solving style and beleaguered by bureaucrats, he perseveres to a satisfying solution, despite terrifying threats to his wife and new child, his home, and his pet wolf dog.
Throughout the book, scenes of Maine's magnificent coasts and forests abound and are beautifully described. I particularly liked that the sounds and activities of birds and wildlife were accurately portrayed. As an avid outdoorsperson I felt as if I was there, admiring the power of waves on the rocky shoreline or being scolded by a noisy chipmunk.
From the opening scene of a horrific crime to the satisfying ending the pace is fast and the story engaging. I was hooked from the first page and read it in two nights, staying up late to finish the story.
The very next thing I am going to do is look for another book from this new-to-me author
Throughout the book, scenes of Maine's magnificent coasts and forests abound and are beautifully described. I particularly liked that the sounds and activities of birds and wildlife were accurately portrayed. As an avid outdoorsperson I felt as if I was there, admiring the power of waves on the rocky shoreline or being scolded by a noisy chipmunk.
From the opening scene of a horrific crime to the satisfying ending the pace is fast and the story engaging. I was hooked from the first page and read it in two nights, staying up late to finish the story.
The very next thing I am going to do is look for another book from this new-to-me author
August 4, 2026
I really like the Mike Bowditch books!! The mystery is always well-crafted and engaging with lots of twists and turns. I read the entire book in one day!
I also enjoy that when I read the first book 5 or 6 years ago, Mike was a kind of a young, impulsive hothead. It’s been fun to see his evolution as a character through the books as he matures and ages into his 30s. This gives me a chance to reflect on how I have (hopefully) matured as I get older too.
5/5 stars
I also enjoy that when I read the first book 5 or 6 years ago, Mike was a kind of a young, impulsive hothead. It’s been fun to see his evolution as a character through the books as he matures and ages into his 30s. This gives me a chance to reflect on how I have (hopefully) matured as I get older too.
5/5 stars
Read
June 7, 2026Paul Doiron is a master at creating fast-paced, action-packed, and riveting thrillers and Storm Tide is no exception. This is a well-plotted tale of vigilante justice and consequences and it kept my attention right through until the satisfying ending. The characters are well-drawn as is the Maine setting. Despite this being the 16th entry in the Mike Bowditch Mysteries series, there is, I believe, enough background given, that it can be read as a standalone. However, I have no doubt, if this is your first introduction to MikeBowditch, you’ll be definitely adding the previous book to the top of your tbr list.
As with past books in the series, I found Storm Tide unputdownable and I recommend it highly to those who have been following the series or anyone who enjoys well-written and adrenaline fueled thrillers. I read an eARC of this book from Netgalley and St. Martin’s Press while listening to an audiobook from Macmillan Audio narrated by Henry Leyva who does an exceptional job.
As with past books in the series, I found Storm Tide unputdownable and I recommend it highly to those who have been following the series or anyone who enjoys well-written and adrenaline fueled thrillers. I read an eARC of this book from Netgalley and St. Martin’s Press while listening to an audiobook from Macmillan Audio narrated by Henry Leyva who does an exceptional job.
July 17, 2026
Another book in the Mike Bowditch series. Mike Bowditch is a Maine game warden, demoted from his position as an investigator while awaiting a disciplinary hearing for actions in pursuing a criminal in the last book. This book can be read as a standalone, but is better if you are familiar with the characters from the previous books. Mike and his wife Stacy are awaiting the birth of their first baby. Mike responds to a call when a house is on fire, he tries to pull a male from the fire but he is too late. It turns out the man is thought to have killed his young illegitimate son. When another body is found run over on train tracks and that man was also thought to have committed a horrible crime, Mike starts looking at how they may be connected. Is there a vigilante on the loose, trying to make people pay for crimes the justice system couldn’t convict them on? As Mike looks into details and tries to find answers, he realizes he may be a target also - but he doesn’t know why. Someone is stalking him and his family. Mike is determined as always to get to the bottom of things and keep his family safe. He is still taking risks and putting himself in harm’s way, but does seem to be maturing and is more aware of his responsibility as a new dad. The plot was interesting and I enjoyed the interactions with Mike and Stacy, as well as some returning characters - Charley and Ora, and the Cronk family. The ending left me wanting a little more but overall I still loved the book, probably because I enjoy those characters so much. I give the book 4.5 stars out of 5.
Thank you to the publisher and to NetGalley for this digital ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Thank you to the publisher and to NetGalley for this digital ARC in exchange for my honest review.
June 30, 2026
An isolated house burns down, trapping a couple inside and leaving their infant daughter the only survivor. Game Warden Mike Bowditch is first on the scene. Weeks later, a man is crushed to death by an oncoming train. This time Mike gets a cryptic warning alerting him to the about to happen accident. Then he notices that both he and his pregnant wife Stacey are being followed by an unusually large person driving a white van. What is going on? The police are investigating what they think are unrelated crimes but Mike has realized that they are linked by a vigilante who is targeting those he believes were not punished for their crimes. And Mike is on his list.
Paul Doiron’s Mike Bowditch series just keeps getting better. Storm Tide is full of familiar characters and has a multi-layered, complicated plot. The rural Maine location is so well-described, you can smell the pine trees. 5 stars.
Thank you to NetGalley, St. Martin's Press and Paul Doiron for this ARC.
Paul Doiron’s Mike Bowditch series just keeps getting better. Storm Tide is full of familiar characters and has a multi-layered, complicated plot. The rural Maine location is so well-described, you can smell the pine trees. 5 stars.
Thank you to NetGalley, St. Martin's Press and Paul Doiron for this ARC.
August 25, 2026
I started reading this book and halfway through,
I had to force myself to PUT IT DOWN.
This was as bad as eating potato chips, until they’re gone!
Usually I enjoy this series, but as I continue on, Bowditch is a bit of a jerk. Pompous, depressing, and not much fun. Well I found myself enjoying this one more and more. There is a better feel towards relationships and maybe not to be such a hard ass and give someone a break now and then. Mike is almost the polar opposite of Longmire. And I do enjoy those stories. The whole feel of the Longmire series is relaxed and open.
This is Doiron’s best so far.
I had to force myself to PUT IT DOWN.
This was as bad as eating potato chips, until they’re gone!
Usually I enjoy this series, but as I continue on, Bowditch is a bit of a jerk. Pompous, depressing, and not much fun. Well I found myself enjoying this one more and more. There is a better feel towards relationships and maybe not to be such a hard ass and give someone a break now and then. Mike is almost the polar opposite of Longmire. And I do enjoy those stories. The whole feel of the Longmire series is relaxed and open.
This is Doiron’s best so far.
July 29, 2026
Engagement/Enjoyment: 5/5
Plot/Structure: 5/5
Character Dev: 5/5
Writing Style: 4.5/5
Originality: 4.5/5
Pace: 5/5
Recommend: 5/5
Now that's how a mystery/suspense novel should be written! This kept me locked in from page 1 - a quick read for me due to the pace, characters and the plot. Highly recommend, especially if already a fan of this Mike Bowditch series - after 15 books in the series its still running strong! Enjoy!
Plot/Structure: 5/5
Character Dev: 5/5
Writing Style: 4.5/5
Originality: 4.5/5
Pace: 5/5
Recommend: 5/5
Now that's how a mystery/suspense novel should be written! This kept me locked in from page 1 - a quick read for me due to the pace, characters and the plot. Highly recommend, especially if already a fan of this Mike Bowditch series - after 15 books in the series its still running strong! Enjoy!
July 22, 2026
Many life changing events for Mike in this thriller. Does Mike even have a career? Lots hanging over his head as he deals with consequences. OBTW there's a psychopathic vigilante stalking him. Just a gripping, fantastic read. One of those books you have to set aside for a minute before attacking the next chapter. Intense.
July 17, 2026
This book was worth the wait! I was on the edge of my seat the whole time! Mike Bowditch is at it again, with all my favorites right there with him. There were times I wasn’t sure I could finish it because I was afraid of what may happen, but I had to know! This is absolutely a must read! As are all the others. Read it. You won’t be disappointed!
August 12, 2026
Pack has outdone himself once again. I always look forward to the next installment in his Mike Bowditch series. This one was especially enjoyable with the new character development of Mike!
August 20, 2026
I think how some series slowly die and as the years creep up, but this one just keeps getting stronger. Please keep writing, Mr. Doiron.
August 24, 2026
Great thriller packed with action…. I blew through this book in 2 days and have found a new author I like. Added bonus is he lives in Maine and his books are about a Maine game warden.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
3.5 stars
In this 16th book in the 'Mike Bowditch' series, the Maine game warden is in the sights of a vengeful killer. The book can be read as a standalone.
*****
Mike Bowditch has been a Maine game warden for ten years, and he's been in trouble for breaking the rules many times.
You'd think Mike would learn from his mistakes, but he's too determined to get the perpetrator.
As 'Storm Tide' opens, Mike has been busted from warden investigator back to patrol for chasing a fugitive across the border into Canada. Mike is on routine night patrol when he sees a house fire, and hurries over to help.
A woman named Karen Kershaw is outside the burning house holding a baby, and she says the father gave her the child and ran back to rescue his wife. The home's residents, Brian and Angela Malloy, perish in the blaze, and Mike learns the couple is notorious for (allegedly) kidnapping and killing a child Brian had with a drug addict.
Mike suspects the Malloy fire was arson, and though it isn't his purview, Mike goes to interview Karen Kershaw. Karen is clearly uneasy and runs away, then makes a false report about Mike threatening her with his wolf-dog Shadow.
This gets Mike into into hot water with Detective Sergeant Delphine Cruz from the Major Crimes Unit of the Maine State Police. Delphine doesn't believe Karen's story, but she tells Mike IN NO UNCERTAIN TERMS to leave the homicide investigating to her. Of course, Mike pays no attention, but he and Delphine form a kind of under the radar partnership as the story moves forward.
The next day, Mike gets an anonymous phone call from a man who says: "Mike Bowditch, after all these years! It really is a small world....You were such an infamous presence around Machias. I couldn't help but take an interest in you....You've been in the news so much - so many shootings....One of the things I remember is that, when you weren't on duty, you used to drive that cool Jeep Wrangler with the expedition roof rack and Mammoth wheels." The caller then reports seeing lights near the site of the Malloy house fire, and hangs up. When Mike hits redial, he gets 'Pleasure Chest Adult Superstore' and knows the caller spoofed the number.
This is the beginning of a nightmare period for Mike and his wife Stacey Stevens, an emergency medical technician who's expecting their first child. While Mike keeps poking into the Malloys' deaths, Stacey leaves work one day and is followed home by a white van.
A couple of months later, Mike and his father-in-law Charley Stevens, a legendary retired game warden, are in Mike's truck when the police scanner calls all units to a fatality on the train tracks near Vanceboro.
Mike and Charley hurry over and see a crushed body on the tracks, who turns out to be Axl Deming. Axl and his brother Shayn were suspected of raping and murdering a teenage girl, but their mother gave them an alibi. The police deem Axl's death a homicide, and Mike suspects vigilantes killed the Malloys and Axl to get 'justice' for their crimes.
As the weeks pass, Mike gets additional spoofed phone calls and is lured into life-threatening situations. Mike determines the vigilantes are after him as well, and it's a cat and mouse game as Mike and the perps try to outsmart one another.
Mike is especially reckless in this novel since Stacey is pregnant, then gives birth. You'd think Mike would avoid danger, so he'd be around for his wife and baby, but Mike can't seem to avoid murderous people. (You just know a man wrote this book. LOL)
Recurring characters that appear in the novel include:
Billy Cronk - a registered Maine guide and outdoorsman who looks like a viking; Billy goes along when Mike tries to catch a vigilante.
Kathy Frost - Mike's former supervisor, who's a skilled woodswoman and tracker; Kathy helps in a pinch.
Ora Stevens - Stacey's mother (Mike's mother-in-law) who's on hand to help with Stacey and Mike's baby.
The Mike Bowditch novels are action-adventure all the way, and there are plenty of edge of your seat moments in the story. I enjoyed the book, but wish Mike would be more careful in perilous situations.
I had the digital book and the audiobook, narrated by Henry Leyva. Leyva is a good narrator, but some of his female voices are hinky.
Thanks to Netgalley, Paul Doiron, Macmillan Audio and Minotaur for ARCs of the book.
You can follow my reviews at http://reviewsbybarbsaffer.blogspot.com
July 7, 2026
This is quite a fast-paced, thrilling book! At the beginning, Mike attempts to save the owner of a nearby mansion from a roaring fire at his home. Mike is pulled into the investigation as he awaits the results of his previous disciplinary action. As his investigation continues, he realizes that this fire may be tied to other incidents and is part of a pattern of possible crimes of revenge. His investigation reveals the past of several characters, whom he discovers may be part of these crimes. Mike faces various challenges as the plot twists in most unexpected ways. At the same time, Mike and his wife are expecting their first child. The author expertly combines the excitement of the investigation and the challenges of the wild Maine coastal winters, with the real-life family drama of Mike, his wife and his family. These have become familiar characters that I enjoy reading about with each new book. The book has a pulse pounding excitement, plenty of suspense and memorable characters. I thoroughly enjoyed it! My wife did receive an advance copy of this book, and I am glad she did! Thank you to the author, publisher and Netgalley for this advance copy. The opinions of this review are my own.
August 1, 2026
Fantastic read and author
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