Book Review: From Sweetgrass Bridge

Reviewed by Melissa Suggitt

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 uncover the truth? 

Anthony Bidulka’s From Sweetgrass Bridge is an enthralling mystery with humor, heart, and an ingenious plot. Set in the small town of Livingsky, Saskatchewan, the novel captures the essence of prairie life while unraveling the mysterious disappearance of a local hero, 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.

At the heart of the story is Merry Bell, a private investigator who has been back in her 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. 

Merry’s investigation is anything but straightforward. As she delves deeper, she 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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