No Substitute for Milestones — Carolyn J. Rose

When her colleagues take to the picket line, substitute teacher Barbara Reed joins the march. But solidarity gives way to suspicion when a school board member disappears.

Did one of her friends kidnap the most vocal opponent of a pay hike? Evidence points that way. But Barb doesn't believe it.

She and her entitled mutt Cheese Puff set out to find the missing woman and identify the kidnapper. Nothing can stand in their way. Not the lack of clues. Not Barb's promise to refrain from launching unofficial investigations. Not her bombastic sister. Not locked doors. And certainly not a gigantic yellow snake.