[Ken Holt 12] • The Mystery of the Vanishing Magician

"This exciting case begins with the Allen clan attending a fund raiser at Brentwood High School. When Magnus the Magician performs his repertoire for the audience, Bert is positive he recognizes him as Chris Bell. Five years ago he saved Bert's life in Vermont, but was never properly thanked. When Sandy's brother volunteers to help out in a trick, he reveals himself and Magnus is startled and disappears later, during the show. When the Allen's make inquiries, they are stunned to find that Chris Bell is wanted for robbing a jewelry store in Hilldale, PA. When he crashes his car and is seriously injured, the Allen's vow to clear Chris' name. Ken and Sandy begin their quest at the scene of the crime, Hilldale, PA. Aside from a first -hand view of the area, nothing concrete is gained. However the the two sleuths do uncover evidence that points to Jim Turney and Harry Land as possible accomplices to Chet Rogers and Pete Wright in the robbery. This knowledge does not prevent Sandy and Ken from being imprisoned in a mine within a mountain. How the two barely escape a smoky death makes for one of the most exciting scenes in their storied careers. Fortunately, escape they do, and the guilty are brought to justice, while Chris Bell is exonerated. Bert couldn't be happier with this ending!"--newportvintagebooks.com.