The Vanishing Guest: When Old Sins Come Home

By Ben Rock

The Vanishing Guest (Maplewood Mysteries Book 1)

In the quiet town of Maplewood, Vermont, autumn brings golden leaves, crisp mornings... and a mystery no one expected. When a controversial developer suddenly disappears, retired nurse Carolyne Bennett and her loyal poodle Rosie find themselves drawn into a case that shakes their peaceful community to its core.

What begins as an ordinary Monday quickly unravels into a web of secrets, old grudges, and hidden motives. From tense town-hall meetings to whispered threats and suspicious injuries, Maplewood's charming streets hide more than anyone wants to admit. And Carolyne's instincts - sharpened by decades in the clinic - tell her that this disappearance is no accident.

As the police search for answers, Carolyne follows her own trail of clues, uncovering long-buried connections, unexpected suspects, and a truth someone is desperate to keep hidden. With Rosie at her side and the town watching closely, she must piece together what really happened before the danger reaches her doorstep.

Perfect for readers who love:

Cozy mysteries with heart, warmth, and gentle suspense

Small-town secrets and character-driven storytelling

Strong, relatable heroines starting a new chapter in life

Loyal pets who add charm and personality

Clean mysteries with no gore, no profanity, and no graphic violence

The Vanishing Guest is the gripping first book in the Maplewood Mysteries series - a heartwarming blend of community, intrigue, and emotional depth. Step into Maplewood and discover a mystery that will keep you turning pages late into the night.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: B0GN999RJQ
• ISBN13: 9798248173167
• Release Date: February 2026
• Publisher: Independently Published
• Length: 142 Pages
• Weight: 0.44 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.3" x 6.0" x 9.0"