Death in the River Valley

by Michael Pharis

Arkansas, 1932

Otis Mankin, a devoted clerk on the U.S. Marshals Service for over 40 years, had a visitor the night he died.

Margaret Wilkerson, high school senior and future valedictorian, was murdered in cold blood.

Rookie cop Jake Bradford believes both of their deaths might be linked.

Set against the backdrop of the Great Depression in 1930s Arkansas, Death in the River Valley follows a murder investigation steeped in mystery and intrigue. As Bradford uncovers more and more clues, he discovers a conspiracy that might just ruin his entire state - and get him killed.

Bradford won't stop until he finds the truth, or dies trying.

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.