Death in the River Valley

by Michael Pharis

Rookie cop Jake Bradford has a bigger problem than the Great Depression. He’s got a double homicide on his hands.

When his already suspicious investigation into a suicide collides with his discovery of a dead girl in a basement outside a political rally, his life gets a whole lot more complicated.

It’s election season in Arkansas. 1932. The Great Depression has been ongoing for three years. The Dust Bowl has been raging across the Midwest. People want answers. People want something to look forward to.

Jake Bradford only wants the truth.

His investigation pits him against conspiring politicians, masked vigilantes, and even some of his closest friends. But in a world where truth is secondary to survival, he may be the only one who cares if it ever sees the light of day.

Relationship status? It’s complicated.

Employment status? Even his Chief wants him to stop asking questions.

But Bradford won’t stop. He can't. The dead deserve justice - even if he’s next.

472 pages, Paperback

Published December 9, 2025

Reviews

[Cassie Sparks · Rating 5 out of 5]

This author’s debut novel was an easy ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ for me… and not just because I have a soft spot for the River Valley! The character development is rich, and the historical setting feels incredibly authentic. I honestly couldn’t put this book down. I needed to see every twist and turn unfold. Every loose end is tied up beautifully, yet the ending left me wanting more of Jake Bradford. I can’t wait to see where this character goes in future stories🤞. Add this to your TBR now! It would also make for a fantastic book club pick with plenty to discuss.

[Summer Hickman · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book exceeded my expectations. Every loose end was tied up with the perfect amount of suspense along the way. I look forward to reading about Jake Bradford’s next adventure!

[Rachel Wingerter · Rating 5 out of 5]

I couldn’t put this book down and it kept me up late in the night despite being a sleep deprived mom! Michael Pharis does an incredible job of bringing the River Valley to life with vivid descriptions and a palpable sense of tension. The characters feel authentic to the era, and the plot kept me guessing until the very end. If you’re a fan of Westerns with a dark, mysterious edge, this is a must-read. Highly recommended!

[Catherine Anderson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Death in the River Valley wastes no time pulling you into a bleak, dangerous Arkansas where secrets rot just beneath the surface. The parallel deaths of a seasoned U.S. Marshal clerk and a promising young student feel personal, not procedural, and Jake Bradford’s investigation unfolds with steady tension rather than cheap twists. The Great Depression setting isn’t just atmosphere, it sharpens every motive, every betrayal, and every risk Bradford takes. As the conspiracy widens, the story convincingly shows how power, fear, and silence can poison an entire state. It’s a restrained, gritty mystery that trusts the reader and rewards attention.

[Adam Kareus · Rating 5 out of 5]

For the sake of honesty and transparency, Michael Pharis is a friend and gave me an advance copy to read.

But if that were not true I would still give this book a high rating. I am not usually into this type of fiction but Pharis makes it easy to get into it. He writes in clear and compelling ways, building an alternative past of the River Valley in Arkansas which draws the reader in. So if you like crime novels and mystery novels or just period pieces- check it out.

[Kody Morris · Rating 5 out of 5]

Michael Pharis’s debut novel is a true home run. His ability to connect readers to his characters is on par with some of the greats, including David Baldacci, James Patterson, and Harlan Coben. This fast-paced page turner keeps you hooked from the very first chapter through the final page. Buckle up for the twist! I can’t wait to get my hands on the next Michael Pharis hit and see what adventure awaits Jake Bradford next.

[Jim H. Curlin III · Rating 5 out of 5]

Can’t put it down!!!

Being from Fort Smith, there was a deep enough connection to give this book a try. However, I had no way of knowing it was going to hook me like a trout! I haven’t had the chance to read many books, since College, Marriage, Kids, and running a business. And, I have NEVER read between 4-500 pages in 4 DAYS!! But, I did this week!!

[Justin McFerran · Rating 5 out of 5]

Read it and loved it! Even if you’re not from the river valley, or you don’t know a lot about it, this author helps to bring it to life on the pages for you. 5 star read in my book. You will feel like you’re riding along with Jake Bradford looking around each twist and turn for the next clue! A must read!

[Jennifer Cook · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great easy read! Kept me captivated and wanting to read the next chapter.

[Joshua · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a very enjoyable read . I enjoyed the plot and the characters. The history of Fort Smith was very nice to read about. I could tell that the Author did research for it. I look forward to there maybe being another book in this series

[Shelby and Eliza White · Rating 5 out of 5]

I couldn’t put it down!!! The twists!! The turns!! The drama!!!! I want more Jake Bradford!!