A review by theavidreaderandbibliophile
The Vanishing Type by Ellery Adams

4.0

The Vanishing Type by Ellery Adams takes us back to Miracle Springs, North Carolina. Nora Pennington along with her friends June and Estella are helping Deputy Andrews prepare a special proposal for Hester. While they are working out the details, Sheldon brings something to Nora’s attention. Someone has mutilated their copies of The Scarlet Letter by taking a knife to Hester’s name. Nora is worried that someone is intent on harming Hester or exposing Hester’s secret. Few people are aware that Hester gave up a baby many years ago and the terrible way her family treated her. Hester has yet to tell her beau, Deputy Jasper Andrews. A man is found dead on a hiking trail just outside Miracle Springs with no identification, but he does have a rare book in the pocket of his bright orange coat. The members of the Secret, Book, and Scone Society soon discover that the victim is connected to Hester’s past. Is someone after Hester or are they trying to expose her secret? The Vanishing Type is the fifth A Secret, Book, and Scone Society Novel. I believe this series is best read in order. While you could read The Vanishing Type on its own, you will be missing the background on the characters and the town. The Vanishing Type is well-written with developed characters. I like that they are flawed characters which makes them realistic, relatable, and interesting. I enjoy visiting Miracle Springs with its friendly residents and quaint shops. My first stop would be the bakery for some of the tasty treats and then I would head to Miracle Books. I would definitely order the hot chocolate drink with the colored marshmallows, whipped cream, and sprinkles (it sounded so good). I like that the author has included a character with fibromyalgia. Many people do not understand the disease nor believe the pain it causes. Sheldon is such a delightful person, and I am glad that he does not let the condition keep him down for long. He is a lively individual with a heart a gold. I had to laugh at what happened at story time with the book involving snakes. The romance between Nor and Sheriff McCabe is progressing nicely. I am glad that it is moving at a slower pace. Fans of the series will love the proposal scene. It is definitely special and unique. I love all the book references throughout the story. There are some great titles mentioned. Like Hester, Little Women is my favorite book. The mystery was wonderful. It is complex with great clues and red herrings. The secondary storyline was just as intriguing. I like how everything tied together to give readers a wonderful reading experience. I was sorry for my visit to Miracle Springs to end. The Vanishing Type has friendship, mystery, and, of course, books. The Vanishing Type is a beguiling tale with a remarkable movie theater opening, damaged books, a nameless victim, story time mayhem, beautiful book covers, a special proposal, firm friends, and a bevy of books.