The Protector is Book 1 in A Mifflin County Mystery series. The story begins with the disappearance of Rosa Petersheim, the oldest daughter of Mahlon and Elsie Petersheim, when she fails to return from a date with her boyfriend.

The story pivots from Rosa’s disappearance to how her family members are impacted by her disappearance. Rosa’s brother, Ephriam seems to be the only family member intent on finding out what happened to his sister. Ephriam’s girlfriend, Salina Swarey is not happy about all the time he devotes to trying to find his missing sister, which leads to eventual tension between the pair.

Ephraim quickly becomes the focal point of this first book, , as he carries the weight on his shoulders of trying to find his sister, as well as being self-appointed person responsible for the emotional and physical well being of the rest of the family.

Other family dynamics are in play here – Rosa’s sister, Susan sees herself as Rosa’s ‘replacement’ as #1 daughter, and most favored by their mother. Rosa’s disappearance is causing a strain for each member of the family - in terms of their mental health, or in the case of Rosa’s mother, her physical health, as well.

Eventually, the family adjusts Rosa being missing. While some of them accept that she may never return, Norman explores other avenues which might lead to clues about his sister’s whereabouts.As far as cliffhangers go, Ms. Brunstetter has set the stage for the beginning of Book 2 in the series. Readers will be anxious see how the mystery unfolds.

Good story about a family whose daughter has disappeared. The oldest son, Norman, takes on the responsibilities of finding her. Other issues affect the family, and Norman tries to shoulder all the burdens which then affect his relationships. Excellent story, but it ends abruptly, so I have to hope there is a sequel that brings together the many loose ends that remain.

Suppose it was your sister who disappeared one night and never came home, what would you do ? Norman's mother had looked everywhere for her after her date with Ephraim last night and she was nowhere to be found.

Norman had spoken to Ephraim and Ada Rosas friend many times, and neither of them had heard from her or knew where she was.

Rosas' mother, Elsie was so worried that she called the police every other day, and she was so worried she was losing weight and sleep and her actions were affecting her other children and her relationship with Mahlon her husband who was a bishop in the Amish church.

You will identify with this family and their situation their heartache is the same as yours.