The Vanishing Comrade: A Mystery Story for Girls

"The Vanishing Comrade: A Mystery Story for Girls" by Ethel Cook Eliot is an early 20th-century mystery where Kate Marshall, a spirited young girl, anticipates a summer with her Great Aunt Katherine and cousin Elsie in Oakdale. The story begins with her vibrant farewell to school friends and her enthusiastic journey to her aunt’s home, but her excitement quickly turns to confusion when she meets Elsie, who greets her with unexpected distance. The novel explores themes of family ties, the challenges of friendship, and hidden secrets, especially those surrounding the mysterious orchard house, as Kate navigates the cool reception from her cousin and digs into the complexities of her family history, setting the stage for an adventurous summer filled with puzzling questions and challenging relationships.