Anthony Bidulka is an award-winning Canadian author known for his mystery novels. He created the engaging Russell Quant series, including titles like Amuse Bouche and Flight of Aquavit, featuring humor, diverse characters, and clever storytelling.
If you enjoy reading books by Anthony Bidulka then you might also like the following authors:
Michael Nava creates detective stories that combine intriguing mysteries with meaningful portrayals of LGBTQ themes and richly crafted characters. His writing often explores identity and social justice in an accessible style.
In his notable book, Goldenboy, lawyer Henry Rios investigates a murder case that reveals hidden inequalities and prejudice, highlighting Nava's thoughtful approach to crime fiction.
Joseph Hansen's writing brings a realistic and emotionally honest approach to detective fiction. He is best known for clearly depicting LGBTQ characters and themes at a time when such portrayals were uncommon in mysteries.
In the book Fadeout, Hansen introduces Dave Brandstetter, a gay insurance investigator whose steady confidence and compassionate outlook guide readers through a serious and absorbing murder investigation.
R.D. Zimmerman writes mysteries that skillfully blend suspense and storytelling, seamlessly incorporating queer characters into his narratives.
His Todd Mills series showcases complex characters and engaging plots, as seen in the novel Closet, where journalist Todd Mills navigates conspiracy and personal challenges within a tense and well-paced murder investigation.
John Morgan Wilson offers a tough, edgy voice in his mysteries set within the gritty landscapes of Los Angeles. His protagonist, journalist Benjamin Justice, is a sharply drawn character dealing with difficult personal struggles alongside crime and corruption.
In Simple Justice, Wilson crafts a well-written, intense tale exploring complex relationships and underlying tensions, making for an emotional and thought-provoking read.
Greg Herren writes mysteries that combine humor, atmospheric settings, and engaging LGBTQ protagonists. Herren's novels are fast-paced, witty, and deeply entertaining, as shown in the novel Murder in the Rue Dauphine.
Set in New Orleans and featuring private investigator Chanse MacLeod, the story balances suspense, wit, and vivid local color, appealing to readers who enjoy character-driven cozies with an edge.
If you enjoy Anthony Bidulka's mix of mystery, humor, and LGBTQ+ characters, you'll likely appreciate Josh Lanyon. Lanyon writes fast-paced, witty mysteries that prominently feature gay characters.
Lanyon's style combines suspense and romance, creating stories that are entertaining and emotionally engaging.
A notable work is Fatal Shadows, the first installment in the Adrien English mystery series, blending murder, clever dialogue, and an appealingly smart protagonist you'll root for.
Neil S. Plakcy writes mysteries filled with intriguing characters, smart humor, and LGBTQ+ themes, similar to Anthony Bidulka's work. Plakcy's novels often center on likable detectives tackling mysteries in vivid, relatable settings.
His book Mahu introduces readers to Kimo Kanapa'aka, an openly gay detective in Honolulu who explores deeply personal and societal issues within absorbing crime plots.
Fans of Anthony Bidulka will enjoy Ellen Hart's approachable writing, memorable characters, and strong sense of place. She writes mysteries that center on complex LGBTQ+ relationships and social issues, balanced skillfully with engaging criminal investigations.
Among her standout books is Hallowed Murder, the first in her Jane Lawless series, offering readers thoughtful storytelling, satisfying suspense, and warm character interactions.
Katherine V. Forrest's mysteries provide the same compelling blend of crime-solving and powerful LGBTQ+ representation that draws readers to Anthony Bidulka. Forrest emphasizes intricate character development and authentic relationships within suspenseful plots.
A great example is Amateur City, the first in the Kate Delafield series, introducing a charismatic detective balancing personal struggles and professional challenges in a convincing and engaging way.
If you're drawn to Anthony Bidulka's combination of mystery and deep character exploration, Val McDermid is a natural next step. She writes dark, suspenseful crime novels that explore psychological twists and in-depth characters, often including LGBTQ+ themes.
Her novel The Mermaids Singing, the first in her acclaimed Tony Hill and Carol Jordan series, is disturbing and powerful, showcasing McDermid's talent for tension, realistic dialogue, and sharply drawn characters.
Louise Penny writes thoughtful and atmospheric mysteries set in the small Quebec village of Three Pines, featuring the insightful Chief Inspector Armand Gamache. Her novels blend picturesque settings with deep insights into human behavior and community life.
A good book to start with is Still Life, the first in the Gamache series, which introduces readers to Penny's gentle yet profound storytelling style.
Ann Cleeves crafts atmospheric mysteries with rich characters and vivid settings, particularly in rural communities where secrets run deep. She creates engaging detectives who get involved in solving puzzles that highlight hidden tensions and complex relationships.
Her novel Raven Black, set in Scotland's Shetland Islands, offers readers a compelling beginning to her narrative style and memorable characters.
Martin Walker creates enjoyable mysteries centered around Bruno Courrèges, a warm-hearted police chief in the picturesque French village of St. Denis. Walker combines leisurely storytelling, engaging village life, and delicious descriptions of local cuisine and culture.
Start with Bruno, Chief of Police, which introduces readers to Bruno's charm and Walker's inviting storytelling.
Catriona McPherson writes clever and witty historical mysteries that combine intricate plotting, humor, and quirky characters.
Set primarily in Scotland during the 1920s and 1930s, her novels feature amateur sleuth Dandy Gilver, whose investigations unravel surprising layers of society.
Try reading After the Armistice Ball for an entertaining introduction to McPherson's style and to the delightful Dandy herself.
Rhys Bowen writes lively historical mysteries featuring engaging characters and absorbing storytelling. She often focuses on women navigating challenging societal situations while solving intriguing cases.
In her popular Royal Spyness series beginning with Her Royal Spyness, Bowen introduces Lady Georgiana, a spirited British aristocrat whose humor and daring adventures make her mysteries both entertaining and warmly appealing.