There is nothing more fun than a new Craig Johnson book. As always, the author delivers with bells on. This novella fills in more of the early exploits of Walt Longmire, adding flesh to the legendary aspects of this beloved character and his friend of the heart, spirit and arm, Henry Standing Bear. The inclusion of Lucian Connelly, the crusty old sheriff who is mentor and tormentor is also welcome. This book would be a perfect gift as an introduction to Johnson’s books for those poor folk who have not yet read one. It would also be a perfect gift for someone who has read all of his books.

Recently released from the service of Uncle Sam in Viet Nam, Walt and Henry are found in Alaska on a remote oil rig in polar bear country. An uneasy dance between the commercial and environmental aspects of the region results in Walt’s being assigned as security to an expedition onto the ice in search of scientific information. The boffin in this case is a character called “Wormy” since his field is ice worms and it is these creatures he is seeking, in aid of legislation aimed at limiting the unfettered drilling for oil sought by the outfit Walt works for. Walt is there to help protect him from the bears and the ice both, with the help of a sharpshooter called Blackjack who will keep watch from an elevated platform armed with a high-powered rifle. Henry, who is a mere visitor, tags along to watch Walt’s back and enlarge his experience as well as add his wisdom and outdoor savvy to a highly risky endeavor.

What results is classic Craig Johnson: peril, violence and spectral happenings served with a heaping portion of trademark humor. To be able to laugh out loud while in the throes of severe suspense is one of the benefits of reading this author’s work. He has an uncanny facility for finding subtle intelligent amusement in the direst of situations. The interactions between Walt and Henry are, as always, very funny with a strong taste of brotherly sniping and deep affection. Walt’s own acerbic tongue is much in evidence, a trait not always fully appreciated by those who are its target, but it is a great benefit to the reader. Do not fail to find your way to this one. It’s a keeper.