Book Review: Return to Sender: Walt Longmire Mysteries, Book 21
When I first picked up Return to Sender: Walt Longmire Mysteries, Book 21 by Craig Johnson, I was immediately drawn to the notion of the untamed Wyoming wilderness serving as a backdrop for a mystery that promised not only thrills but also the exploration of deeper themes like morality and loyalty. As a long-time fan of the Longmire series, I was eager to dive into this latest installment, wondering how Johnson would weave his signature blend of humor, history, and heartfelt moments into the tale of a missing mail carrier.
From the moment I embarked on Walt Longmire’s latest escapade, I felt immersed in the rugged expanse of Wyoming’s Red Desert. The stakes are high when Blair McGowan, the longest-serving mail carrier in the nation, mysteriously vanishes during her route. Walt, with his trademark grit and determination, finds himself stepping outside his jurisdiction—not only to honor a personal connection but also to uncover the unsettling truths that lie beneath the surface of this seemingly isolated case.
The plot unfolds with a deliciously intricate web of twists, leading Walt into a confrontation with an otherworldly cult. Johnson’s ability to infuse genuine emotion into moments of tension is commendable. As Walt investigates, we see him grappling with ethical dilemmas and the question of what it truly means to "do the right thing." His inner conflicts resonate deeply, nudging us to reflect on our own moral compass.
Johnson’s writing remains as sharp and engaging as ever, seamlessly combining wit with a sense of urgency that keeps you flipping pages late into the night. One reviewer succinctly put it: "Walt’s dialog with the good and bad people in his life is always entertaining." This sentiment perfectly encapsulates the richness of Johnson’s character development. Whether it’s Walt quoting scripture with an adversary or sharing humorous exchanges with his loyal companions, the dialogue adds layers to the narrative, enhancing both the suspense and the camaraderie that readers have come to cherish.
That said, while the pacing is generally brisk, some moments may feel a tad drawn out, reflecting a bit of mixed feedback from readers. However, I found the exploration of Wyoming’s quirky history and the vibrant communities enriching enough to keep the story engaging throughout. My favorite aspect? The sheer unpredictability of its characters. Walt’s undercover operations as a letter-carrier might sound improbable, but therein lies the charm of the story—how it takes a mundane job and transforms it into a thrilling investigation.
Return to Sender is a triumph not just because of its plot twists and thrilling sequences, but because it reaffirms why we’ve all fallen for Walt Longmire over the years: he’s an everyman with depth, a lawman weaving through a tapestry of morality, friendship, and small-town intrigue.
Whether you’re a dedicated Longmire enthusiast or a newcomer to the series, this book has something for everyone. It dances brilliantly between humor and heartbreak, inviting readers to journey through the complexities of human relationships against the backdrop of vast, untamed landscapes. For anyone looking to escape into the rugged beauty of Wyoming while unearthing a compelling mystery, I wholeheartedly recommend Return to Sender. Prepare for late nights and the compelling urge to say, "Just one more chapter!" You won’t regret it.
You can find Return to Sender: Walt Longmire Mysteries, Book 21 here >>