The Cold-Hearted River, the sixth investigation by a crack duo

The Cold-Hearted River is a crime novel published by Gallmeister, combining intrigue, mystery and adventure, with elements of fishing and literature, notably around the iconic figure of Ernest Hemingway. Keith McCafferty once again introduces Sean Stranahan and Martha Ettinger, an investigative duo in wild Montana.

A passionate author

Keith McCafferty is an author and nature enthusiast whose experiences and passions are reflected in his writing. Born and raised in Appalachia, Keith McCafferty has always been fascinated by nature, especially snakes. However, it was fly fishing that led him to Montana, where he became editor of the outdoor magazine "Field & Stream".

Published in France from 2018, his series features Sean Stranahan and Martha Ettinger, an investigative duo in wild Montana. The stories blend police intrigue with a love of nature, reflecting the author's passions for fly-fishing and the great outdoors. The series is a growing success, captivating readers with its gripping tales and well-developed characters.

Keith McCafferty has received several prestigious awards, including the Robert Traver Award, the Spur Award and two Will Rogers Medallions, testifying to the quality and impact of his writing.

Keith McCafferty's writing is deeply influenced by his love of nature and his fly-fishing experiences, offering readers tales rich in landscape descriptions and outdoor adventures.

©Keith McCafferty
keith McCafferty

The story

The story begins with the macabre discovery of a woman's corpse in a bear's den. Sheriff Martha Ettinger and her deputy Sean Stranahan, who have a complex relationship, discover among the victim's belongings an old wallet containing a collection of trout flies. The wallet, marked with the initials "EH", immediately conjures up images of Ernest Hemingway, especially when it is revealed that an individual has recently attempted to sell equipment belonging to the writer.

As the investigation progresses, clues point to the possibility of a lost Hemingway manuscript, a priceless literary treasure. Sean embarks on a quest that takes him from Montana to Michigan, via Wyoming to Havana, in the footsteps of the great writer. Along the way, he makes an extraordinary encounter that could change the course of literary history.

The main plot revolves around the discovery of the body and the search for the lost manuscript, offering a mix of suspense and puzzle-solving. The evocation of Ernest Hemingway and the search for a lost manuscript add a historical and literary dimension to the story, appealing to fans of classic literature.

This novel promises a captivating plot, blending mystery, adventure and literature, while exploring themes of human relationships and personal quest. Fans of thrillers, fly-fishing and historical tales will find plenty to enjoy, with a touch of homage to one of the 20th century's greatest writers.

The cold-hearted river

  • Author : Keith McCafferty
  • Translated from the American by Marc Boulet
  • Novel - Fiction
  • Publication date: May 2, 2025
  • 480 pages
  • 25.90 euros
  • Gallmeister editions
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