The Vanishing Box

The Vanishing Box is a mystery novel set in Brighton, England during the winter of 1953. Detective Inspector Edgar Stephens investigates murders linked to a traveling magic show at the Hippodrome theater. Max Mephisto, a stage magician and Edgar's wartime friend, performs at the theater alongside his daughter Ruby. Their act features a classic illusion called the Vanishing Box, while elsewhere in Brighton, a killer creates murder scenes that mirror famous works of art. The investigation brings Edgar and Max into the world of variety theater performers, theatrical landladies, and postwar Brighton society. The case becomes more complex as connections emerge between the victims and the magic show. The novel explores themes of illusion versus reality, the fading era of variety theater, and how the past continues to influence the present. Through its postwar setting, it examines a society in transition and the masks people wear to hide their true nature.

Readers appreciate how the book weaves together multiple storylines while maintaining the 1950s Brighton atmosphere. Many note the strong character development, particularly the complex relationship between Max and Emma. Common praise focuses on: - The theater/magic show setting and period details - Fast pacing in the latter half - Integration of real Brighton history - Continuation of relationships from previous books Main criticisms: - Slow start with too many plotlines to track - Some found the ending rushed - Several readers mention predictable killer reveal - Character Ruby described as "annoying" by multiple reviewers Ratings across platforms: Goodreads: 4.0/5 (5,800+ ratings) Amazon: 4.4/5 (1,100+ ratings) LibraryThing: 4.1/5 (280+ ratings) One recurring comment from long-time series readers notes this book works better as part of the series rather than a standalone, with reviewer M. Johnson stating "newcomers may feel lost with the character relationships."

The Blood Card by Elly Griffiths A mystery set in 1950s Brighton follows two magicians who investigate murders connected to the entertainment world.

Death in the Stars by Frances Brody This mystery novel features a female detective in 1920s Yorkshire who solves a murder during an eclipse-watching event involving music hall performers.

Fatal Glamour by Iona Whishaw A former British intelligence officer investigates crimes in 1940s Canada with ties to vaudeville performers and stage magic.

Murder at the Savoy by Jim Eldridge The murder of a theater performer in 1940s London connects to secrets from the world of music halls and wartime espionage.

The Crossing Places by Elly Griffiths A forensic archaeologist works with police to solve crimes in Norfolk where ancient ritual sites intersect with modern murder cases.

🎭 "The Vanishing Box" is set in Brighton's theater world during 1950s holiday season, bringing to life the unique atmosphere of post-war British variety shows and magic acts. 📚 The book is the fourth installment in Elly Griffiths' Stephens and Mephisto Mystery series, which combines elements of stage magic, crime fiction, and historical detail. ✨ Author Elly Griffiths (real name Domenica de Rosa) was inspired to write about magicians after learning that her grandfather was a stage performer who specialized in mind-reading acts. 🎪 The story's backdrop draws from Brighton's rich entertainment history, particularly the Theatre Royal, which has been operating since 1807 and hosted many of the era's most famous variety performers. 🔍 The character of Max Mephisto was partially inspired by real-life magicians of the 1950s, including the Great Levante and Murray the Escapologist, who were famous for their theatrical illusions during British variety's golden age.