In the Valley: Stories and a Novella Based on SERENA

Dive into the darkly captivating world of Ron Rash's *In the Valley: Stories and a Novella Based on SERENA*, a spellbinding collection that reaffirms Rash's position as a literary giant. This hardcover first edition, published in 2020 by Doubleday, offers a potent blend of ten searing short stories and a long-awaited novella featuring the unforgettable villainess Serena Pemberton, who haunted readers in Rash's acclaimed novel *Serena*. Ron Rash, celebrated as "one of the great American authors at work today" by *The New York Times*, masterfully explores the rugged landscapes of the American South, weaving tales of hardship, resilience, and the enduring struggle between humanity and nature. *In the Valley* doesn't shy away from the harsh realities of contemporary life, tackling themes of unchecked capitalism, environmental degradation, the opioid crisis, and the moral compromises people make in their pursuit of the American Dream. But amidst the darkness, Rash shines a light on the extraordinary acts of kindness, courage, and unwavering decency that persist even in the most challenging circumstances. The collection showcases Rash's signature lyrical prose and his uncanny ability to capture the essence of Appalachia, its people, and its complex history. Two stories within the collection, "Baptism" (selected by Roxane Gay for *The Best American Short Stories 2018*) and "Neighbors" (chosen by Jonathan Lethem for *The Best American Mystery Stories 2019*), have already garnered significant praise, highlighting the exceptional quality and diverse range of Rash's storytelling. The novella, a continuation of the *Serena* saga, provides a thrilling climax to the collection. Serena Pemberton, driven by insatiable greed and a ruthless ambition, returns to the North Carolina wilderness, scarred by her previous exploits. This time, she seeks to eliminate the one remaining threat to her dominion: the child who stands between her and absolute power. Her return promises a final reckoning, a descent into the darkest corners of her soul, and a test of the enduring power of the land she sought to conquer. *In the Valley* is more than just a collection of stories; it's a powerful meditation on the human condition, a testament to the enduring spirit of Appalachia, and a thrilling exploration of the complexities of good and evil. Readers familiar with Rash's work will find themselves captivated by his masterful storytelling and unflinching portrayal of the South. Newcomers will discover a literary voice that is both timeless and urgently relevant. This book has already been celebrated as a "Best Book of the Year" by Garden & Gun and the Atlanta Journal Constitution and winner of the 2020 Thomas Robinson Prize for Southern Literature. Weighing in at 417 grams and spanning 240 pages, it's a substantial and deeply rewarding read. Get your copy today and experience the literary brilliance of Ron Rash.