“I’ve never read half a book in one sitting, but this time I did. Garvin skillfully draws together the many plot threads while also shining a compassionate light on PTSD sufferers bearing the scars of war.” Publishers Weekly “Two knotty cases preoccupy fair-minded, conscientious sheriff’s detective Sebastian Creek, a former Marine MP recovering from PTSD, in this intriguing series launch from Garvin…The action builds to a suitably thrilling conclusion. “When a man who’s recently been released from prison is found hanged in a well, North Carolina detective Seb Creek must figure out if it was an accident or murder-and what about those missing Stinger missiles?…Investigating the two mysteries will take Seb all over the county, giving debut author Garvin a chance to display a true ear for dialogue and a talent for character portrayal…This polished, beautifully written novel makes one hope Garvin keeps exploring Swann County for a long time.” Kirkus Reviews (starred review) “The prose is gin-clear and occasionally striking.” Booklist Garvin!” John Hart, two-time Edgar Award–winning author of The Hush

Sharp and insightful, this story of a former Marine MP turned small-city cop is a welcome addition to the canon of southern mysteries, and sets the stage for great things to come. “Tim Garvin delivers the goods with his first Seb Creek novel, A Dredging in Swann. “The narrative passages and direct character actions give the rest of us better understanding of what US servicepeople experience, how they suffer, and a possible path to return.” New York Journal of Books Creek’s subtle interrogations make this novel a signal launch.” Kris Lackey, USA Today bestselling author of Nail’s Crossing and Greasy Bend

His wily and disarmingly sentimental detective Seb Creek dredges the past of tidewater Swann County to settle them.

“Tim Garvin’s shrewd debut novel churns with unsettled scores.

Dredging small creeks