Maureen Johnson’s “The Vanishing Stair” is an intriguing and capable second book in the Ellingham trilogy. Following Stevie Bell in her return to Ellingham Academy, this book furthers both the current and twentieth century mysteries.
Once Stevie has returned to Ellingham, she becomes more and more intertwined in Albert Ellingham’s final riddle, as well as the clues left behind by former students. As her fixation on the secrets of Ellingham begins to consume her life, the mystery surrounding her and her housemates grows deadlier and deadlier.
I don’t get into the details in order to stay spoiler-free during this review, especially because this novel serves as the centerpiece of the trilogy. However, I would give this book 4.5 out of 5 stars for living up to the entertainment of the original while furthering the continuous plot line.