By Anthony Bidulka
Genre: Mystery, Thriller & Suspense / LGBTQ
Reviewed by Melissa Suggitt – May 2024
When the prairie’s peace is shattered, one PI digs for truth.
A beloved local hero vanishes, sending shockwaves through the community. But can Merry Bell
Saskatchewan Roughriders quarterback Dustin Thomson. The disappearance of
Dustin, a beloved figure and role model for Indigenous youth, is a devastating reality
for their community.
hometown for six months with little to show for it. Her business is floundering, her
finances are strained, and she’s grappling with a sense of isolation. Just when Merry’s
hope is nearly extinguished, Dustin’s cousin walks into her office, seeking her help to
find the missing quarterback. If something bad happened to him out at the secluded
Sweetgrass Bridge, she knows he didn’t do it to himself.
uncovers startling truths that add layers of complexity to the case. With her quirky
office neighbors, Brenda and Roger Brown, by her side, Merry faces mounting
challenges and escalating dangers. From Sweetgrass Bridge proves to be a
multifaceted mystery that adeptly balances its tension, humor, and emotionally
charged moments.
Merry’s experience as a trans woman is depicted with care, insight, and understanding
—an enrichment to the mystery. The novel is filled with touching scenes that many
will relate to, appreciate, and maybe even learn from, like when Merry interviews
members of the cheerleading squad & football team:
“Immediately Merry saw a too-familiar look drift across the woman’s face. Whereas
Trent saw Merry as nothing more than a tall girl, Cassie saw a tall girl with bits and
pieces coloured outside the lines that needed some kind of explanation… Cassie
doubted her membership in the girl’s club but, even worse, made Merry doubt it
too.”
The setting of Livingsky, with its close-knit community and prairie backdrop, adds a
nostalgic charm to the story. As a prairie girl myself, I found the depiction of the
landscape and community life to be authentic and heartwarming. Bidulka’s pacing is
impeccable, keeping readers on the edge of their seats while allowing the characters’
emotional journeys to unfold naturally.
From Sweetgrass Bridge is a compelling mystery that will resonate with all kinds of
readers but especially those familiar with prairie life. Anthony Bidulka’s story is
unique, queer positive, and universally appealing—a must-read for mystery
enthusiasts and fans of character-driven stories. This book not only entertains but
enlightens, providing a deeper understanding of diverse experiences through the lens
of a satisfying mystery.
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