Bloody Bucket Bridge: Based on the Wauchula, Florida Legend

by Keith Rommel

Florida, middle 1800s. Mary, a freed midwife, has purchased her independence at a steep cost. Hoping to begin anew in Wauchula, she soon discovers that freedom does not guarantee dignity in a world still bound by prejudice and cruelty.

Caught between the demands of the wealthy families she serves and the authority of the man who control her livelihood. Mary must endure slights, betrayals, and the constant reminder that her place in society is never secure. Each birth she oversees becomes both a test of her skill and a measure of her resilience.

Drawn from a little-known Florida legend, Bloody Bucket Bridge is a powerful tale of endurance, injustice, and one woman's fight to claim her place in a world determined to silence her.

114 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 1, 2025

About the author

Keith Rommel is a multi-award-winning author and screenwriter that has penned over a dozen novels and co-written three movies. Three of the four stories from the Shade of the Reaper series have been adapted to film. Rommel’s stories have been called “intelligent fiction”.

Reviews

[Jummy · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the first few chapters, Bloody Bucket Bridge completely drew me in. The writing is rich and atmospheric, and Mary’s story feels so real — her courage, her pain, her determination. I haven’t finished reading it yet, but it’s already left a strong impression on me. Every page feels alive with emotion and quiet strength.

Keith Rommel captures the time and place so vividly that you can almost feel the weight of history pressing against every decision Mary makes. This book has heart, grit, and a haunting beauty that stays with you long after you close it. I can already tell it’s going to be one of those stories I remember for a long time

[Lynda Simpson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I haven’t finished reading Bloody Bucket Bridge yet, but I’m already completely drawn in. From the very first chapter, the story pulls you right into 1800s Florida a world filled with struggle, hope, and quiet strength. Mary’s courage and determination make her a character you can’t help but root for.

Even halfway through, the story has already left a deep impression. The writing is vivid, emotional, and full of life. I can’t wait to see how it ends this is one of those books that stays with you long after you put it down. Highly recommended

[Johnson]

From the very first page, Bloody Bucket Bridge draws you into Mary’s world a brave woman fighting for her place in a time filled with injustice and struggle. The writing is vivid and heartfelt, and every scene feels alive with tension, emotion, and meaning. Keith Rommel brings the legend to life in a way that feels both haunting and deeply human.

It’s the kind of story that stays with you long after you close the book rich in history, full of strength, and beautifully told. I haven’t finished reading it yet, but I’m completely hooked and can’t wait to see how it all unfolds.

[Ronny · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the very first page, Bloody Bucket Bridge pulls you into Mary’s world a place filled with struggle, courage, and quiet strength. The writing feels alive, and the emotions behind every scene are powerful and real.

I haven’t finished reading it yet, but so far it’s been absolutely captivating. Each chapter leaves me more invested in Mary’s journey and the haunting world Keith Rommel has created.

Even without reaching the end, I can already tell this story will stay with me. It’s moving, unforgettable, and one of those rare books that touches both your heart and your mind.

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

We just started Bloody Bucket Bridge, and it’s already pulling us in fast. The mix of history, mystery, and emotion makes it impossible to put down. Mary’s courage and quiet strength make her a character you instantly connect with.

Even though we haven’t finished it yet, the story already feels powerful and unforgettable. It’s one of those rare books that sticks with you and we can’t wait to see how it all ends