📚 Book

Bucket of Blood

History People

Lizzie's mother is dead, and left in the care of her prim older sister, the 15-year-old fears her carefree ways are over. But when tragedy strikes again, Lizzie discovers a sinister web of lies and deception, of murders past and present. Fierce resentments and racial tensions boil beneath the illusion of civilization. Soon, Lizzie finds herself ensnared in a secret that stretches from the opium dens of British Columbia and the alleys of San Francisco to the jungles of Panama and beyond -- and it's a secret that the murderer will do anything to protect.

Cumberland-based author Kim Bannerman invites readers into the shadows of the Comox Valley’s past in her gripping historical mystery, Bucket of Blood. This novel blends local history with a gothic atmosphere, taking us through the Victorian-era streets and wilderness of Vancouver Island.

What You’ll Discover

  • A Gritty Mystery: Follow protagonist Lizzie Saunders as she uncovers a web of deception and murder following a family tragedy.

  • Historical BC Setting: Vivid descriptions of the local area, the busy mines, and the early days of Cumberland.

  • Atmospheric Lore: A unique blend of coastal spirituality, Victorian science, and the racial tensions that defined the region’s early development.

  • Local Heritage: Though a work of fiction, the book is meticulously researched and rooted in the authentic history of our local communities.

Why This Book Matters

Kim Bannerman is a beloved member of the Cumberland community, and her “Lizzie Saunders” series (which begins with this book) has become a staple for fans of local historical fiction. By reimagining our local history through a “Cascadia Gothic” lens, Bannerman brings the spirits of the old valley to life in a way that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.

Available at local bookstores and online.