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The Vanishing Station: A Novel
A lyrical and bold YA debut about an underground magic system in San Francisco—and the lengths one girl is willing to go to protect the ones she loves
Eighteen-year-old Filipino American Ruby Santos has been unmoored since her mother’s death. She can’t apply to art school like she’s always dreamed, and she and her father have had to move into the basement of their home and rent out the top floor while they work to pay back her mother’s hospital bills.
Then Ruby finds out her father has been living a secret life as a delivery person for a magical underworld—he “jumps” train lines to help deliver packages for a powerful family. Recently, he’s fallen behind on deliveries (and deeper into alcoholism), and if his debts aren’t satisfied, they’re going to take her mother’s house. In an effort to protect her father and save all that remains of her mother, Ruby volunteers to take over her dad’s station and start jumping train lines.
But this is no ordinary job. Ruby soon realizes that the trains are much more than doors to romance and they’re also doors to trafficking illicit goods and fierce rivalries. As she becomes more entangled with the magical underworld and the mysterious boy who’s helped her to learn magic, she realizes too late that she may be in over her head. Can she free her father and save her mother’s house? Or has she only managed to get herself pulled into the dangerous web her father was trapped in?
Eighteen-year-old Filipino American Ruby Santos has been unmoored since her mother’s death. She can’t apply to art school like she’s always dreamed, and she and her father have had to move into the basement of their home and rent out the top floor while they work to pay back her mother’s hospital bills.
Then Ruby finds out her father has been living a secret life as a delivery person for a magical underworld—he “jumps” train lines to help deliver packages for a powerful family. Recently, he’s fallen behind on deliveries (and deeper into alcoholism), and if his debts aren’t satisfied, they’re going to take her mother’s house. In an effort to protect her father and save all that remains of her mother, Ruby volunteers to take over her dad’s station and start jumping train lines.
But this is no ordinary job. Ruby soon realizes that the trains are much more than doors to romance and they’re also doors to trafficking illicit goods and fierce rivalries. As she becomes more entangled with the magical underworld and the mysterious boy who’s helped her to learn magic, she realizes too late that she may be in over her head. Can she free her father and save her mother’s house? Or has she only managed to get herself pulled into the dangerous web her father was trapped in?
368 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 30, 2024
47 people are currently reading
4750 people want to read
About the author
Ana Ellickson
1 book43 followersAna Ellickson writes about fierce girls, family curses, and everyday magic. The Vanishing Station is her debut novel, inspired by daydreams about jumping portals in the San Francisco subway. Roman the Renegade—her graphic novel script about street art and Filipino monsters—was awarded the 2021 New Visions Honor by Lee & Low Books. She lives in sunny Santa Barbara.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 113 reviews
May 9, 2024
Ruby Santos is a biracial Filipino American teen growing up in San Francisco. Following her mother's death, she lives with her secret-keeping alcoholic father. His secret life involves "jumping" train lines to deliver illicit packages for the BART crime family.
This wouldn't be YA if Ruby didn't fall for one of the crime family's sons, who wavers between familial duty and what is right. I found Ruby's indecisiveness and repetitiveness rather grating, and spent the majority of this book huffing at her terrible decisions. Like every other young protagonist, she thinks she is smarter than everyone she meets, when, in fact, she is not.
📖 Thank you to YALLWEST and Amulet Books
This wouldn't be YA if Ruby didn't fall for one of the crime family's sons, who wavers between familial duty and what is right. I found Ruby's indecisiveness and repetitiveness rather grating, and spent the majority of this book huffing at her terrible decisions. Like every other young protagonist, she thinks she is smarter than everyone she meets, when, in fact, she is not.
📖 Thank you to YALLWEST and Amulet Books
March 6, 2024
Loved this urban fantasy with portal magic via the subway! Both Ruby and Montgomery contend with complex family issues but are drawn to each other. And, Ruby's dad, Balboa, sacrifices his body and mental health to try and pay off his debt. When Ruby takes over, she learns all about the magic of the trains, but not without a cost. This was such a satisfying read as well as a satisfying ending. Yet, I would love more of this world.
I received an arc from the publisher but all opinions are my own.
I received an arc from the publisher but all opinions are my own.
May 14, 2024
The YA debut “The Vanishing Station” by Ana Ellickson follows the eighteen-year-old Filipino American Ruby Santos on her journey into an unfamiliar, magical underground that is connected by the train tracks across the world.
Ruby's life in San Francisco is not easy. She recently lost her mother and tries to help her father financially instead of focusing on her own passions. But as she finds out what her father is really doing day to day she is pulled into a new world of magic, crime families and has to fight for everything she has left-including her own life.
This book was amazing! I really liked the protagonist Ruby and her complex life. The way her passions and struggles were portrayed really resonated with me and engaged me in the story. The topics of grief, family and art were woven perfectly into the narrative and gave it more depth. I liked the side characters and dynamic between Ruby and her love interest and appreciate that the subtle love story never overpowered the plot.
My favorite part however was the fantastical aspect of the story. It is a fresh idea that transforms the mundane into something mysterious and exciting. Imagining hidden organizations behind the train systems made my own train rides while reading this much more exhilarating.
I had the pleasure to listen to this book as an audiobook narrated by Amielynn Abellera. Her performance was stellar and I like that the publisher chose a Filipino American woman to give Ruby a voice.
A big thanks to NetGalley and the publisher RB Media for giving me the opportunity to read an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
Ruby's life in San Francisco is not easy. She recently lost her mother and tries to help her father financially instead of focusing on her own passions. But as she finds out what her father is really doing day to day she is pulled into a new world of magic, crime families and has to fight for everything she has left-including her own life.
This book was amazing! I really liked the protagonist Ruby and her complex life. The way her passions and struggles were portrayed really resonated with me and engaged me in the story. The topics of grief, family and art were woven perfectly into the narrative and gave it more depth. I liked the side characters and dynamic between Ruby and her love interest and appreciate that the subtle love story never overpowered the plot.
My favorite part however was the fantastical aspect of the story. It is a fresh idea that transforms the mundane into something mysterious and exciting. Imagining hidden organizations behind the train systems made my own train rides while reading this much more exhilarating.
I had the pleasure to listen to this book as an audiobook narrated by Amielynn Abellera. Her performance was stellar and I like that the publisher chose a Filipino American woman to give Ruby a voice.
A big thanks to NetGalley and the publisher RB Media for giving me the opportunity to read an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
April 8, 2024
Calling on fans of V.E. Schwab (me), it would be silly not to check this out! A beautifully written, captivating story that my mind will return to over and over!
Ruby Santos, Balboa, learns early on into our glimpse of her world about her father’s second life as a train jumper. A magic that gives those with its power the ability to jump to and from train stations across the world…and perhaps further. She is quickly pulled into an underground crime ring far beyond her depth. Ruby's magnetic connection with the eldest son of the crime empire, known to her only as Montgomery, puts her in far deeper trouble than she can even begin to imagine.
Ana Ellickson has written a stunning debut that has left me wanting MORE! More of the magic system, the banter and charm, and more of the ideas from this author's head on paper!
Ruby Santos, Balboa, learns early on into our glimpse of her world about her father’s second life as a train jumper. A magic that gives those with its power the ability to jump to and from train stations across the world…and perhaps further. She is quickly pulled into an underground crime ring far beyond her depth. Ruby's magnetic connection with the eldest son of the crime empire, known to her only as Montgomery, puts her in far deeper trouble than she can even begin to imagine.
Ana Ellickson has written a stunning debut that has left me wanting MORE! More of the magic system, the banter and charm, and more of the ideas from this author's head on paper!
March 18, 2024
4.5 stars. So there's going to be a sequel right? Because I need more.
Things I liked:
- Magical trains!
- Messy families that feel realistic
- The story wraps up very nicely without any big dangling threads and has a satisfying ending, but leaves a lot more room for the world to grow.
- Cute romance that didn't feel overly forced.
Things I didn't like:
- The love interest was too perfect and has no flaws. Like obviously I love him but maybe being a little less perfect would've made things more interesting. There are hints of him being ~morally grey~ but like, everything is hard choices and it all makes sense.
- Ruby is of course Special and Talented with a sad backstory
ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Things I liked:
- Magical trains!
- Messy families that feel realistic
- The story wraps up very nicely without any big dangling threads and has a satisfying ending, but leaves a lot more room for the world to grow.
- Cute romance that didn't feel overly forced.
Things I didn't like:
- The love interest was too perfect and has no flaws. Like obviously I love him but maybe being a little less perfect would've made things more interesting. There are hints of him being ~morally grey~ but like, everything is hard choices and it all makes sense.
- Ruby is of course Special and Talented with a sad backstory
ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
May 2, 2024
This was honestly such a fun and entertaining audiobook that I couldn’t stop listening to it. I also adored the narrator’s voice because it made it so easy to distinguish all the characters from one another.
It’s an YA urban fantasy debut novel about an underground magic train system in San Francisco. Ruby Santos, eighteen year old Filipino American, is dealing with a lot - her mother’s recent death that left a lot of unpaid hospital bills, her dad’s debts and alcohol consuming problems, them struggling to get by and having to move out to their house’s basement to be able to rent the top, and the fact that she has to forget all about her dreams to be an artist. On top of that, she discovers that her dad has led a secret life as a delivery person for a magical train station underworld “jumping” train lines to deliver packages for a really powerful family. Ruby ends up taking over her dads job to repay his debt and keep their house, but soon realizes that this is no ordinary job. She gets entangled with this dangerous magical underworld and illegal trading more than she expected and ends up falling for the one boy she shouldn’t be falling for. After all, he is the son of her cruel boss, bound to train her for the job and learn train magic.
This plot was so refreshing and unique, and I ended up liking both Ruby and Montgomery as well as side characters. I just absolutely loved the concept of being able to travel around the world through a train portal magic. We also got to see and discover a lot of new places, which was really fun.
Also, the poetry elements that were introduced and intertwined with the magic were so neatly done!
The only thing that stopped me from rating it higher is that I wanted a bit more of fantasy elements and explanation about Montgomery’s family business and train system itself. It was pretty vague, but still very enjoyable.
This book was more than just a fantasy story – it deals with a lot of important topics, such as navigating your grief, finding and accepting yourself, fighting for what you love and the lengths you are willing to go to protect what is dear to you. It also focuses a lot on the poverty and alcoholism problems, which I think was greatly executed.
The ending felt a bit too smooth and perfectly wrapped up, but still left a door for a probable continuation of the story. I would highly recommend this to anyone who enjoys a character driven story with a slow burn romance and a small portion of magic.
Thank you, Netgalley, the author and RB Media publisher for the copy!
It’s an YA urban fantasy debut novel about an underground magic train system in San Francisco. Ruby Santos, eighteen year old Filipino American, is dealing with a lot - her mother’s recent death that left a lot of unpaid hospital bills, her dad’s debts and alcohol consuming problems, them struggling to get by and having to move out to their house’s basement to be able to rent the top, and the fact that she has to forget all about her dreams to be an artist. On top of that, she discovers that her dad has led a secret life as a delivery person for a magical train station underworld “jumping” train lines to deliver packages for a really powerful family. Ruby ends up taking over her dads job to repay his debt and keep their house, but soon realizes that this is no ordinary job. She gets entangled with this dangerous magical underworld and illegal trading more than she expected and ends up falling for the one boy she shouldn’t be falling for. After all, he is the son of her cruel boss, bound to train her for the job and learn train magic.
This plot was so refreshing and unique, and I ended up liking both Ruby and Montgomery as well as side characters. I just absolutely loved the concept of being able to travel around the world through a train portal magic. We also got to see and discover a lot of new places, which was really fun.
Also, the poetry elements that were introduced and intertwined with the magic were so neatly done!
The only thing that stopped me from rating it higher is that I wanted a bit more of fantasy elements and explanation about Montgomery’s family business and train system itself. It was pretty vague, but still very enjoyable.
This book was more than just a fantasy story – it deals with a lot of important topics, such as navigating your grief, finding and accepting yourself, fighting for what you love and the lengths you are willing to go to protect what is dear to you. It also focuses a lot on the poverty and alcoholism problems, which I think was greatly executed.
The ending felt a bit too smooth and perfectly wrapped up, but still left a door for a probable continuation of the story. I would highly recommend this to anyone who enjoys a character driven story with a slow burn romance and a small portion of magic.
Thank you, Netgalley, the author and RB Media publisher for the copy!
July 3, 2024
I overall loved this book! It gave me that cozy feeling I’ve been craving from a book for a long time. Most of this cozy was from the romance, which I thought was set up very nicely and intertwined well with the story. I’m a fan of slow burns, anyways.
A few things I thought were done well include:
- the magic system set in San Francisco was unique and fun to experience with the characters, especially being in an urban setting.
- the romance was not all-consuming at all; I was so excited to learn more about the story blossoming between the two MCs and didn’t feel like the book became only about the romance.
A few things I felt could use improvement or change:
- Writing was easy to follow and no overwhelming world building, which in turn left me wondering how the train system came to be. Although sometimes worlds are better left to our imagination, I would have liked to know more about the origin of the train lords.
- Ruby was obviously a “not like other girls” which is increasingly common in YA. I powered through her bad decisions and seemingly perfect artistry and talent on the canvas and trains. She complained a lot about how her decisions impact her life and family but I just thought, you made those decisions??? Only pass I give is that she is a teenager lol. Typical.
- Would have liked to learn more about Montgomery’s backstory as he is also seemingly perfect at everything he does. He and Ruby both had Tragic Backstories but what made them so attracted to each other? Because she isn’t like “other girls” and is “quirky” and “clumsy,” and he is a statuesque angel with perfect body, face, everything? Lol if only I could find a man like that.
A few things I thought were done well include:
- the magic system set in San Francisco was unique and fun to experience with the characters, especially being in an urban setting.
- the romance was not all-consuming at all; I was so excited to learn more about the story blossoming between the two MCs and didn’t feel like the book became only about the romance.
A few things I felt could use improvement or change:
- Writing was easy to follow and no overwhelming world building, which in turn left me wondering how the train system came to be. Although sometimes worlds are better left to our imagination, I would have liked to know more about the origin of the train lords.
- Ruby was obviously a “not like other girls” which is increasingly common in YA. I powered through her bad decisions and seemingly perfect artistry and talent on the canvas and trains. She complained a lot about how her decisions impact her life and family but I just thought, you made those decisions??? Only pass I give is that she is a teenager lol. Typical.
- Would have liked to learn more about Montgomery’s backstory as he is also seemingly perfect at everything he does. He and Ruby both had Tragic Backstories but what made them so attracted to each other? Because she isn’t like “other girls” and is “quirky” and “clumsy,” and he is a statuesque angel with perfect body, face, everything? Lol if only I could find a man like that.
March 19, 2024
What an incredible story. Ana Ellickson's debut YA novel is a story of family, love, and fighting for what you want. Ruby Santos takes it upon herself to complete her father's debt to a powerful family that rules the BART system of San Francisco. In doing so, she enters the dangerous, underground world of jumping train lines and smuggling.
While Ruby Santos and her love interest proved to be more central to the plot than I initially anticipated, I am in no way complaining. Ruby's romance had me kicking my feet and blushing.
The Vanishing Station is beautifully crafted. As a San Francisco native, I was curious how the city would be represented. Ellickson did a wonderful job portraying San Francisco as it truly is, the city I know and love.
Over all, this was a thrilling story that had me on the edge of my seat, tensing in fear, and blushing with joy.
While Ruby Santos and her love interest proved to be more central to the plot than I initially anticipated, I am in no way complaining. Ruby's romance had me kicking my feet and blushing.
The Vanishing Station is beautifully crafted. As a San Francisco native, I was curious how the city would be represented. Ellickson did a wonderful job portraying San Francisco as it truly is, the city I know and love.
Over all, this was a thrilling story that had me on the edge of my seat, tensing in fear, and blushing with joy.
May 9, 2024
"The Vanishing Station" is a teen/YA debut by Ana Ellickson. It's a sci-fi fantasy story in which certain talented people have the ability to use subway trains to jump portals across many miles and even oceans.
The main character is Ruby Santos, an 18 year old recent high school graduate. She has to take care of her alcoholic dad and try to make enough income to support them both. She is a likable character.
This story has grief, financial struggle, difficult choices, romance, and good vs. evil, plus magic and travel. I enjoyed the time in Amsterdam in particular.
The narrator, Amielynn Abellara, did a great job with the voices and acting.
Characters - 5/5
Writing - 4/5
Plot - 5/5
Pacing - 4/5
Unputdownability - 5/5
Enjoyment - 4/5
Narration - 5/5
Cover - 3/5
Overall - 4.4/5
I recommend this book to anyone who likes sci-fi fantasy with a teenage coming-of-age story and romance.
Thank you to Netgalley, RB Media, and Ana Ellickson for providing this audiobook in exchange for my honest review.
The main character is Ruby Santos, an 18 year old recent high school graduate. She has to take care of her alcoholic dad and try to make enough income to support them both. She is a likable character.
This story has grief, financial struggle, difficult choices, romance, and good vs. evil, plus magic and travel. I enjoyed the time in Amsterdam in particular.
The narrator, Amielynn Abellara, did a great job with the voices and acting.
Characters - 5/5
Writing - 4/5
Plot - 5/5
Pacing - 4/5
Unputdownability - 5/5
Enjoyment - 4/5
Narration - 5/5
Cover - 3/5
Overall - 4.4/5
I recommend this book to anyone who likes sci-fi fantasy with a teenage coming-of-age story and romance.
Thank you to Netgalley, RB Media, and Ana Ellickson for providing this audiobook in exchange for my honest review.
December 8, 2023
I won this book as an arc from a giveaway and didn't know what it was actually about until I received it. It's an interesting spin on magic that I'd never seen before and the story kept me rooted, wanting to know more and what would happen next. While the book involves magic in it's own way, it's also very much rooted in reality, we have a protagonist who feels stuck and as though she can't follow her dreams, but maybe through the things she's discovering, she can find a way to make her dreams come true.
August 27, 2025
oh what a sweet story and man did I relate to the majority of this book. mom with breast cancer, drunken father who kept secrets, and the FMC who yearns for so much more out of life. And to top it all off, she’s filipino based in San Francisco?! ugh my heart.
I haven’t read a YA book in forever, and I’m so happy I read this one. I love how BART had a fun magical twist to it! Also loved how Chase really looked out for Ruby and tried to protect her from his own family. I knocked down a star because the ending felt a little rushed, but nonetheless it has such a nice ending
I haven’t read a YA book in forever, and I’m so happy I read this one. I love how BART had a fun magical twist to it! Also loved how Chase really looked out for Ruby and tried to protect her from his own family. I knocked down a star because the ending felt a little rushed, but nonetheless it has such a nice ending
January 10, 2024
The Vanishing Station is a book that will keep you reading to find out how the story is going to end! I love when a magical world overlaps the real world. Hold on tight because this one is going to take you in a wild ride!
May 7, 2025
Wasn't a fan
Read
March 26, 2024Ruby’s mother has passed and her dad is an alcoholic. Together, they are barely scraping by as they try to satisfy their debts. After finding out about her dad’s secret life in a magical underworld, she takes on the debt he owes to protect her dad and save what remains of her mother.
Ruby had no idea she’d be thrust into a world of trafficking illicit goods and fighting for her life against rival train jumpers. She soon comes to find out that the magical underworld she has discovered isn’t fun and games; it’s cutthroat and brimming with criminal activities. The magic system was simple, but I like the concept. Being able to jump train lines as if they’re portals is cool.
I like the portrayal of young people taking on heavy burdens of their family at the expense of their dreams and happiness. In spite of everything, Ruby was dedicated to her family. I appreciated her level of fight and commitment. There’s a romance subplot that I didn’t love, but it was ok. Overall, an imaginative story with high stakes.
Thank you to NetGalley and Amulet Books for the advanced eARC.
Ruby had no idea she’d be thrust into a world of trafficking illicit goods and fighting for her life against rival train jumpers. She soon comes to find out that the magical underworld she has discovered isn’t fun and games; it’s cutthroat and brimming with criminal activities. The magic system was simple, but I like the concept. Being able to jump train lines as if they’re portals is cool.
I like the portrayal of young people taking on heavy burdens of their family at the expense of their dreams and happiness. In spite of everything, Ruby was dedicated to her family. I appreciated her level of fight and commitment. There’s a romance subplot that I didn’t love, but it was ok. Overall, an imaginative story with high stakes.
Thank you to NetGalley and Amulet Books for the advanced eARC.
May 23, 2024
I loved this book. The Vanishing Station stole my heart.
Ruby. She is the best. I love that she is a painter-- I would love for that to be me. She has to struggle so much in life that it is only fair that she gets a happy ending at an elephant preserve in Thailand.
Montgomery/Chase has so many sides. It is hard to say which one I am writing about right now. The sweet one with more instruments than one can count or the serious one that works for the train.
I love the fact that they don't pretend to be the good guys. There are so many books where everyone is either good or bad and there are no grey characters. This was not one of them. The train cutthroats are bad and don't pretend to be good. There is no sugarcoating.
The only thing-- the ending was too happy. I know that sounds weird, but that is what I think. Sometimes the ending needs to be kind of grey.
Ruby. She is the best. I love that she is a painter-- I would love for that to be me. She has to struggle so much in life that it is only fair that she gets a happy ending at an elephant preserve in Thailand.
Montgomery/Chase has so many sides. It is hard to say which one I am writing about right now. The sweet one with more instruments than one can count or the serious one that works for the train.
I love the fact that they don't pretend to be the good guys. There are so many books where everyone is either good or bad and there are no grey characters. This was not one of them. The train cutthroats are bad and don't pretend to be good. There is no sugarcoating.
The only thing-- the ending was too happy. I know that sounds weird, but that is what I think. Sometimes the ending needs to be kind of grey.
January 13, 2024
Ambitious, lyrical, badass, and romantic in equal measure! I *adored* every second of Ana Ellickson's fantastical thrill-ride of a YA debut.
Train portals? Hell yeah. Heartfelt, tough-cookie heroine? Hell yeah. Magical crime families (complete with magical crime family drama)? Hell yeah. It's hit after hit for me, and I cannot wait for this story to reach readers in 2024.
Train portals? Hell yeah. Heartfelt, tough-cookie heroine? Hell yeah. Magical crime families (complete with magical crime family drama)? Hell yeah. It's hit after hit for me, and I cannot wait for this story to reach readers in 2024.
June 25, 2024
3.5 stars. Reminded me of Gabrielle Zevins's Anya Balanchine books. 18 YO Filipino American Ruby takes on her father's job as a subway jumper--a messenger for a mafia that uses magic to make illicit deliveries worldwide--to save her home and what's left of her family. An attraction with the scion of the mafia's ruthless matriarch ups the stakes. Will look for more from this author.
May 26, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley, RB Media, Recorded Books, Amulet Books, Ana Ellickson, and Amielynn Abellera (audio narrator) for the opportunity to read and listen to the audiobook of The Vanishing Station in exchange for an honest review.
This book is a phenomenally enjoyable debut novel. Seemingly stand-alone, there is certainly room in this world and through the way the book ends to offer more adventures for Ruby and Montgomery (Chase).
In an underground magic system, there are people who can call upon and use trains to jump to different stations around the world. They use this for transporting goods, but depending on the line section's manager, those goods may generally fall under the "illegal" category.
When Ruby's father cannot fulfill his duty as Balboa, she is called to continue the work he is contracted for. Work involving the train jumping and delivery of goods. Ruby trains with Montgomery, a rail jumper that she soon starts to have feelings for. In a world with more to it than just calling upon the magic, Ruby soon learns that Montgomery is one of the few people she can trust.
Ruby soon learns the trains can be called through the power of words, and they tend to really like poetry, such as "The Red Wheelbarrow" or lines from good old Romeo & Juliet. Ruby proves to be a powerful jumper, and others are taking notice. Hopefully her enemies don't push her through the Vanishing Station...
The whole time I was reading this, I kept thinking of that scene in the first episode of Digimon Frontier where the Digidestined take the Railmon to the digital world. I kept thinking of the trains more like the Railmon: alive and thinking, though that is certainly not the case. Just an intriguing idea.
A really fun read with a nice blend of urban fantasy in its more contemporary magic system, and a lovely dash of action, adventure, and romance, as well as family dynamics. A thoroughly enjoyable novel that fans of light urban fantasy will love.
This book is a phenomenally enjoyable debut novel. Seemingly stand-alone, there is certainly room in this world and through the way the book ends to offer more adventures for Ruby and Montgomery (Chase).
In an underground magic system, there are people who can call upon and use trains to jump to different stations around the world. They use this for transporting goods, but depending on the line section's manager, those goods may generally fall under the "illegal" category.
When Ruby's father cannot fulfill his duty as Balboa, she is called to continue the work he is contracted for. Work involving the train jumping and delivery of goods. Ruby trains with Montgomery, a rail jumper that she soon starts to have feelings for. In a world with more to it than just calling upon the magic, Ruby soon learns that Montgomery is one of the few people she can trust.
Ruby soon learns the trains can be called through the power of words, and they tend to really like poetry, such as "The Red Wheelbarrow" or lines from good old Romeo & Juliet. Ruby proves to be a powerful jumper, and others are taking notice. Hopefully her enemies don't push her through the Vanishing Station...
The whole time I was reading this, I kept thinking of that scene in the first episode of Digimon Frontier where the Digidestined take the Railmon to the digital world. I kept thinking of the trains more like the Railmon: alive and thinking, though that is certainly not the case. Just an intriguing idea.
A really fun read with a nice blend of urban fantasy in its more contemporary magic system, and a lovely dash of action, adventure, and romance, as well as family dynamics. A thoroughly enjoyable novel that fans of light urban fantasy will love.
April 6, 2025
The Vanishing Station had such a cool premise. The idea of each city’s subway lines being manned by literal underground mob families? Epic. Magic portals between train cars that let you travel across countries? So creative. Like, this has got to be someone’s D&D campaign. Unfortunately, the author’s writing and plot didn’t hold up to that level of imagination.
It’s set in the San Francisco Bay Area where the BART is run by the Bartholomew family (this made me chuckle). I know a writer writes what they know, but for a book centered on subway systems, the fact that they never even made it to New York City felt like a missed opportunity.
I didn’t know this book was YA until I finished it. I think the juvenile perspective took away from the more serious, emotional themes of the book. I wish the book leaned more into adventure than constant drama. It followed a rigid pattern: one cool thing would happen, then a terrible consequence immediately followed. There was no breathing room for joy. I just felt sad, always. Another issue: the writing style tried so hard to be poetic, but it came off as cheesy. The audiobook narrator delivered much of it in a spoken word poetry style, and it only amplified the immaturity of the characters.
The romance felt forced and overly dramatic, which made more sense once I realized it was YA. Instead of growing through shared experience like traveling or training together, we were just expected to believe in it. I would have loved to see it more drawn out.
Still, the book gets points for its diverse cast, woven in naturally. I also loved all the places they did travel to! But overall, I wanted more magic, more action, and less teen angst. And seriously though, how do you write a whole book about magical subways and skip New York City?
Thank you to RB Media for access to this audiobook.
It’s set in the San Francisco Bay Area where the BART is run by the Bartholomew family (this made me chuckle). I know a writer writes what they know, but for a book centered on subway systems, the fact that they never even made it to New York City felt like a missed opportunity.
I didn’t know this book was YA until I finished it. I think the juvenile perspective took away from the more serious, emotional themes of the book. I wish the book leaned more into adventure than constant drama. It followed a rigid pattern: one cool thing would happen, then a terrible consequence immediately followed. There was no breathing room for joy. I just felt sad, always. Another issue: the writing style tried so hard to be poetic, but it came off as cheesy. The audiobook narrator delivered much of it in a spoken word poetry style, and it only amplified the immaturity of the characters.
The romance felt forced and overly dramatic, which made more sense once I realized it was YA. Instead of growing through shared experience like traveling or training together, we were just expected to believe in it. I would have loved to see it more drawn out.
Still, the book gets points for its diverse cast, woven in naturally. I also loved all the places they did travel to! But overall, I wanted more magic, more action, and less teen angst. And seriously though, how do you write a whole book about magical subways and skip New York City?
Thank you to RB Media for access to this audiobook.
April 12, 2025
I really enjoyed that! Wow train jumping and magic! So cool! A great way to have magic represented! I haven’t heard of something like this before. I enjoyed the way we got Rubys side of the story through and saw it through her eyes and we were not jumping from character to character.
I like the idea of the underground having an underground. Will there be a second book?! I like that Ruby let go of her house in the end.
Bits and pieces reminded me of twilight? Very mini bits.
I like the idea of the underground having an underground. Will there be a second book?! I like that Ruby let go of her house in the end.
Bits and pieces reminded me of twilight? Very mini bits.
September 19, 2024
A fun, fast-paced, fantastical YA novel. Set in SF and uses place really well. The romance is romantic without being overly spicy. Would recommend!
May 22, 2024
Series Info/Source: This is a stand alone book. I got a review copy of this on audiobook from NetGalley.
Thoughts: I ended up getting to about 45% of the way through this on audiobook and then setting this aside. I just didn't like this book and found it incredibly boring. It has a lot of typical YA elements...for example, a family of swoon-worthy emotionally damaged brothers, one of which our protagonist (Ruby) both dislikes and yearns for.
The story follows Ruby Santos, a young woman who is struggling to make ends meet as a painter. Her dad is an alcoholic and is constantly making poor decisions that she has to clean up after. One day she follows him to his work, only to find out that he is involved in something dark and magical and beyond her comprehension.
I liked the idea around portal hopping and trains, but so little happens in the first half of the book that it was disappointing.
I also strongly disliked the relationship Ruby has with her father. Unfortunately, this relationship is a big part of the story. Her father is a drunk and beyond being neglectful, he constantly puts his daughter into dangerous situations and then gets mad at her for it. This is not okay. Ruby and her father (and everyone else in the story) make excuses about how he is really a good man and he is always trying. I had no patience for this and it put a sour taste in my mouth. Ruby should not be subjected to this abuse from her father, and it definitely shouldn't be supported by everyone around her.
Ruby also has a strange obsession with her mother's house. She is willing to sacrifice both her own and her father's well-being for a house. She is given options to escape from having to work for this mob-like magical underworld but she refuses to take them because of a house. I thought her obsession with this house was weird. She would rather die than loose her mother's house. I get it, the house reminds her of her dead mom, but it is just a material item. You should be able to let go of material things if your life and safety depend on doing that.
The slow pace and the strong dislike I have for these characters made me decide to stop reading this and move on to something else. I do find the concept intriguing. However, that wasn't enough for me to get past the constant gooey yearning for a boy the protagonist dislikes, her constant excuses for her abusive father, or her weird house obsession.
I listened to this on audiobook and the narration was decently done. I had no issues with the narration.
My Summary (2/5): Overall this book was not for me. I liked the idea of a family representing magical portal trains. However, the way the main character makes constant excuses for her abusive father, constantly puts herself in danger, and can't get over a house really bothered me. Those things coupled with the sluggish pace made this nearly unbearable to listen to. When I get to the point that I want to throw things at the screen in my car while I listen to the audiobook in the car...that means it is time to move on to something else. I was really that frustrated with this book. So for the safety of my car and those driving around me, I had to stop.
Thoughts: I ended up getting to about 45% of the way through this on audiobook and then setting this aside. I just didn't like this book and found it incredibly boring. It has a lot of typical YA elements...for example, a family of swoon-worthy emotionally damaged brothers, one of which our protagonist (Ruby) both dislikes and yearns for.
The story follows Ruby Santos, a young woman who is struggling to make ends meet as a painter. Her dad is an alcoholic and is constantly making poor decisions that she has to clean up after. One day she follows him to his work, only to find out that he is involved in something dark and magical and beyond her comprehension.
I liked the idea around portal hopping and trains, but so little happens in the first half of the book that it was disappointing.
I also strongly disliked the relationship Ruby has with her father. Unfortunately, this relationship is a big part of the story. Her father is a drunk and beyond being neglectful, he constantly puts his daughter into dangerous situations and then gets mad at her for it. This is not okay. Ruby and her father (and everyone else in the story) make excuses about how he is really a good man and he is always trying. I had no patience for this and it put a sour taste in my mouth. Ruby should not be subjected to this abuse from her father, and it definitely shouldn't be supported by everyone around her.
Ruby also has a strange obsession with her mother's house. She is willing to sacrifice both her own and her father's well-being for a house. She is given options to escape from having to work for this mob-like magical underworld but she refuses to take them because of a house. I thought her obsession with this house was weird. She would rather die than loose her mother's house. I get it, the house reminds her of her dead mom, but it is just a material item. You should be able to let go of material things if your life and safety depend on doing that.
The slow pace and the strong dislike I have for these characters made me decide to stop reading this and move on to something else. I do find the concept intriguing. However, that wasn't enough for me to get past the constant gooey yearning for a boy the protagonist dislikes, her constant excuses for her abusive father, or her weird house obsession.
I listened to this on audiobook and the narration was decently done. I had no issues with the narration.
My Summary (2/5): Overall this book was not for me. I liked the idea of a family representing magical portal trains. However, the way the main character makes constant excuses for her abusive father, constantly puts herself in danger, and can't get over a house really bothered me. Those things coupled with the sluggish pace made this nearly unbearable to listen to. When I get to the point that I want to throw things at the screen in my car while I listen to the audiobook in the car...that means it is time to move on to something else. I was really that frustrated with this book. So for the safety of my car and those driving around me, I had to stop.
June 21, 2025
I don't know where this author is from... if she's originally from San Francisco and just forgot a bunch of stuff, or if she just visited and decided it would be a good place to set her story. I admit I had the thought that some details might have been embellished, or changed to be more relatable to people who aren't from the city, or perhaps it was some kind of AU San Francisco where buildings are taller and BART conductors care if you get on the train or not. Sometimes she sounds just like a native, like knowing about the fog in Golden Gate Park or the particular feel of the wind as a BART train shrieks out of the tunnel. But as a native San Franciscan, there were several glaring errors and inaccuracies that made it really difficult for me to immerse myself in the story at times. I won't get all nitpicky (though I did take notes), but the one I just can't let go of is... the tallest building in San Francisco is only 61 floors. The building that Ruby goes to, where Em has her tower? It really exists, but it's only 30 floors. Building that high in the city would never happen... zoning laws and public pushback and airspace, etc. Especially in the Embarcadero, which is all built on mudflats and landfill... it'd probably collapse in the next sizeable quake.
I better liked the descriptions of Filipino culture (the way her dad talked and acted was just like some of my relatives) and the experience of a Filipino American who's not that in touch with her culture. I'm second generation Filipino American, I don't speak the language, I don't like most of the food. So I can relate to her there.
But I'm glad I'm not the only one who likes pb&j on sourdough muffins.
But despite all my issues with the details... I did enjoy this book. The magic system is totally unique, and it's quite well written. Train magic! Very creative, and well presented. It neither threw you in the deep end with no explanation, nor overexplained how everything worked. You learned the rules right along with Ruby. The ending was a little weak, but maybe it's paving the way for a sequel. I'd love to see more of Ruby and Montgomery, maybe learn more about the Santos family.
I better liked the descriptions of Filipino culture (the way her dad talked and acted was just like some of my relatives) and the experience of a Filipino American who's not that in touch with her culture. I'm second generation Filipino American, I don't speak the language, I don't like most of the food. So I can relate to her there.
But I'm glad I'm not the only one who likes pb&j on sourdough muffins.
But despite all my issues with the details... I did enjoy this book. The magic system is totally unique, and it's quite well written. Train magic! Very creative, and well presented. It neither threw you in the deep end with no explanation, nor overexplained how everything worked. You learned the rules right along with Ruby. The ending was a little weak, but maybe it's paving the way for a sequel. I'd love to see more of Ruby and Montgomery, maybe learn more about the Santos family.
May 18, 2024
I love the concept of this book. If you are familiar with San Francisco, it adds a level of charm. Great YA with one implied sex scene but nothing descriptive. I fell into this book right away and the ending left me wanting more. I am hoping there is a sequel.
May 26, 2024
Did not finish … only because apparently audio books are not my thing
I’ll try again when the actual copy is released
I’ll try again when the actual copy is released
June 20, 2024
The Vanishing Debut is a dashing example of a debut novel, with a concept I can say I have never seen. The idea of using trains as a magic source is such an interesting way to bring fantasy elements into your story.
The magic, however, is a little confusing for a good while of the book which can make it less enjoyable to read. I also think that this book suffers from being a debut novel, as the writing does have some signs showing that it is a first novel. Another thing I found annoying was the ending. It felt like it ended too soon, almost like a cliffhanger waiting for a sequel.
I did still enjoy the writing though, and I think that the author was able to turn things that bug me in other books into something enjoyable. For example, I personally take annoyance usually when a main character is like "a bad bitch" and doesn't back down, but Ruby has an enjoyable personality with good lore. Another example is the "too handsome boy", which is usually a thing in dark romances where the boy is a creep, but Montgomery is an enjoyable, sweet character.
I think that this book is a great showing as a first book and would recommend to see a new style of magic. 3.5 stars
The magic, however, is a little confusing for a good while of the book which can make it less enjoyable to read. I also think that this book suffers from being a debut novel, as the writing does have some signs showing that it is a first novel. Another thing I found annoying was the ending. It felt like it ended too soon, almost like a cliffhanger waiting for a sequel.
I did still enjoy the writing though, and I think that the author was able to turn things that bug me in other books into something enjoyable. For example, I personally take annoyance usually when a main character is like "a bad bitch" and doesn't back down, but Ruby has an enjoyable personality with good lore. Another example is the "too handsome boy", which is usually a thing in dark romances where the boy is a creep, but Montgomery is an enjoyable, sweet character.
I think that this book is a great showing as a first book and would recommend to see a new style of magic. 3.5 stars
May 5, 2024
I read.
A lot.
So, I'm always intrigued by stories that are different from what tends to crowd the traditional reading "spaces"...this book is so very different, so unique...
First of all, the Filipino culture sprinkled throughout the story is beautiful. The characters are beautiful. The FMC, Ruby is a force to be reckoned with.
Her arc is amazing.
I love Ruby!
The setting is very important to this story since the characters are able to "jump train stations". This author does such a wonderful job of putting the reader in it.
There's action.
There's clean romance.
There's found family.
So much character development and growth in multiple characters.
Pacing is very good.
Reading Ruby's struggle after losing her mother and fearing the loss of her father (he struggles with alcoholism) puts me in my feels. As the daughter of an addict, this part of the story really resonated with me.
I'm so very grateful to #piquebeyond for sending me this Arc. I somehow won it at #yallfest.
It was meant to be!
Stunning Debut!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A lot.
So, I'm always intrigued by stories that are different from what tends to crowd the traditional reading "spaces"...this book is so very different, so unique...
First of all, the Filipino culture sprinkled throughout the story is beautiful. The characters are beautiful. The FMC, Ruby is a force to be reckoned with.
Her arc is amazing.
I love Ruby!
The setting is very important to this story since the characters are able to "jump train stations". This author does such a wonderful job of putting the reader in it.
There's action.
There's clean romance.
There's found family.
So much character development and growth in multiple characters.
Pacing is very good.
Reading Ruby's struggle after losing her mother and fearing the loss of her father (he struggles with alcoholism) puts me in my feels. As the daughter of an addict, this part of the story really resonated with me.
I'm so very grateful to #piquebeyond for sending me this Arc. I somehow won it at #yallfest.
It was meant to be!
Stunning Debut!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
May 7, 2024
**Thank you to the publisher for giving me an ARC of the audiobook to review. All opinions are my own.**
The concept of this book is really cool and the portal magic in this book is super intriguing! I thought Ruby was a fairly good narrator/main character, but there were moments when her stubbornness was irritating. I didn't understand how Ruby was simultaneously falling for Montgomery but mistrustful of him in the first place. I thought he showed himself trustworthy every time he stuck his neck out for her, and then she spit in his face and did something stupid (for lack of a better word, but also what Ruby said). I can't give this book more than 3.5 stars because of SLOW pacing. It's only an 11.5/12-hour audiobook, and it feels like it's taken me ages to finish it. If I'm honest, I got bored, and the namesake of the book, The Vanishing Station, isn't mentioned until 60% of the story is told. I forgot about it until they mentioned it.
Overall, I liked the concept of this book, but I don't think it was for me. I'd recommend trying it because portal magic with trains is cool!
The concept of this book is really cool and the portal magic in this book is super intriguing! I thought Ruby was a fairly good narrator/main character, but there were moments when her stubbornness was irritating. I didn't understand how Ruby was simultaneously falling for Montgomery but mistrustful of him in the first place. I thought he showed himself trustworthy every time he stuck his neck out for her, and then she spit in his face and did something stupid (for lack of a better word, but also what Ruby said). I can't give this book more than 3.5 stars because of SLOW pacing. It's only an 11.5/12-hour audiobook, and it feels like it's taken me ages to finish it. If I'm honest, I got bored, and the namesake of the book, The Vanishing Station, isn't mentioned until 60% of the story is told. I forgot about it until they mentioned it.
Overall, I liked the concept of this book, but I don't think it was for me. I'd recommend trying it because portal magic with trains is cool!
April 11, 2024
Meet Ruby Santos, our fearless Filipino American protagonist who's juggling more drama than a soap opera. Between her dad's secret life as a magical delivery person and the looming threat of losing her childhood home, Ruby's got her hands full. When she agrees to take over her dad’s deliveries for the next four years, she has no idea what she's signed up for.
Ruby has several relationships in her life—all male.
There’s her best friend, Diego, an artist who launches his first art show at the opening of the book. Diego supports and encourages Ruby to pursue an art career and even helps her with her college essays. Like Diego and Ruby’s dead mother, Ruby is also an artist who wants to pursue her art and practically worships her mother’s murals that adorn the walls of their house. However, Ruby and her father now live in the basement and have sublet the upstairs of their home to make ends meet under the mountain of debt from her mother’s medical bills.
There's her dad, who's drowning his sorrows in alcohol faster than Ruby can say "family intervention." You've got your classic mix of love, resentment, and a dash of enabling thrown in for good measure. Watching Ruby navigate her dad's secret magical delivery gig while also dealing with his penchant for drowning his sorrows in booze is like witnessing a train wreck in slow motion. There's love there, sure, but it's buried beneath layers of pain and misunderstanding. But hey, family drama is compelling stuff.
Then there's Montgomery—a boy who's equal parts mysterious and magical. Ah, young love, or whatever you want to call it. Their chemistry is undeniable, but not cringey. Sparks fly, tensions rise, and let's just say it's a rollercoaster of emotions that'll leave you dizzy. I mean, who wouldn't fall for the guy who introduces you to a world of illicit magic and danger? Talk about relationship goals.
But it's not all romance and magical adventures. Speaking of which, let's not forget the magical underground train system of San Francisco. It's not just a mode of transportation; it's a metaphor for life's journey, or some deep stuff like that. Plus, it's the perfect setting for Ruby's coming-of-age tale filled with danger, deception, and a sprinkle of romance. It's a gritty, vibrant backdrop that adds depth and flavor to Ruby's already chaotic life. From illicit goods to fierce rivalries, Ruby soon finds herself knee-deep in the seedy underbelly of San Francisco's magical world. Ultimately, Ruby has to decide what’s more important—saving her father or saving the memory of her mother and her legacy painted on the walls of their home.
So why not five stars? Well, let's just say Ruby's penchant for jumping headfirst into danger had me rolling my eyes more times than I can count. There were a few moments where I wanted to shake some sense into Ruby. Seriously, girl, maybe think before you leap next time? And I really wanted to know more about the train magic and the vanishing place and the rivalries on other trains.
Overall, the story is like a magical cocktail—equal parts thrilling and intoxicating, with just the right amount of heart. I enjoyed the sprinkling of Tagalog throughout the story and mentions of Ruby’s Filipino heritage. I also enjoyed the idea of poetry and music as a means of “talking” to the trains. In the end, The Vanishing Station hits all the right notes—it's got magic, mystery, and enough drama to keep you glued to the pages.
Ruby has several relationships in her life—all male.
There’s her best friend, Diego, an artist who launches his first art show at the opening of the book. Diego supports and encourages Ruby to pursue an art career and even helps her with her college essays. Like Diego and Ruby’s dead mother, Ruby is also an artist who wants to pursue her art and practically worships her mother’s murals that adorn the walls of their house. However, Ruby and her father now live in the basement and have sublet the upstairs of their home to make ends meet under the mountain of debt from her mother’s medical bills.
There's her dad, who's drowning his sorrows in alcohol faster than Ruby can say "family intervention." You've got your classic mix of love, resentment, and a dash of enabling thrown in for good measure. Watching Ruby navigate her dad's secret magical delivery gig while also dealing with his penchant for drowning his sorrows in booze is like witnessing a train wreck in slow motion. There's love there, sure, but it's buried beneath layers of pain and misunderstanding. But hey, family drama is compelling stuff.
Then there's Montgomery—a boy who's equal parts mysterious and magical. Ah, young love, or whatever you want to call it. Their chemistry is undeniable, but not cringey. Sparks fly, tensions rise, and let's just say it's a rollercoaster of emotions that'll leave you dizzy. I mean, who wouldn't fall for the guy who introduces you to a world of illicit magic and danger? Talk about relationship goals.
But it's not all romance and magical adventures. Speaking of which, let's not forget the magical underground train system of San Francisco. It's not just a mode of transportation; it's a metaphor for life's journey, or some deep stuff like that. Plus, it's the perfect setting for Ruby's coming-of-age tale filled with danger, deception, and a sprinkle of romance. It's a gritty, vibrant backdrop that adds depth and flavor to Ruby's already chaotic life. From illicit goods to fierce rivalries, Ruby soon finds herself knee-deep in the seedy underbelly of San Francisco's magical world. Ultimately, Ruby has to decide what’s more important—saving her father or saving the memory of her mother and her legacy painted on the walls of their home.
So why not five stars? Well, let's just say Ruby's penchant for jumping headfirst into danger had me rolling my eyes more times than I can count. There were a few moments where I wanted to shake some sense into Ruby. Seriously, girl, maybe think before you leap next time? And I really wanted to know more about the train magic and the vanishing place and the rivalries on other trains.
Overall, the story is like a magical cocktail—equal parts thrilling and intoxicating, with just the right amount of heart. I enjoyed the sprinkling of Tagalog throughout the story and mentions of Ruby’s Filipino heritage. I also enjoyed the idea of poetry and music as a means of “talking” to the trains. In the end, The Vanishing Station hits all the right notes—it's got magic, mystery, and enough drama to keep you glued to the pages.
April 2, 2024
I feel like all you need to know about this book is that the magic system involves using underground train systems to jump across the world, and the people who have the talent and power to ‘ride’ the trains. (!!!) How incredible and fresh is that?! The author absolutely NAILS the mechanics and world building of this concept. I loved immersing myself Ellickson's modern-day San Francisco and all the twisting train lines that connect to it.
The premise is fire, but what’s truly special about this book is the depth of characterization, from main character Ruby to her father to the terrifying villain. The fantasy take on gang dynamics feels dangerous and exhilarating, and heightens the stakes of every scene. The tender portrayal of the fraught father-daughter relationship, as well as Ruby’s struggle with her own ferociously guarded heart, makes for an emotional and unputdownable read.
I love my YA with a dash (or let's be real, a swamping heap) of romance, so I’m happy to report that the budding romantic subplot in THE VANISHING STATION is utterly entrancing - sweet and swoony and everything I could ask for in a YA. So few authors can make me lightheaded with only a sentence, and Ellickson is now on that very short list. Please RUN don’t walk to pick up this read!
I can’t wait to see what this author writes next!!
The premise is fire, but what’s truly special about this book is the depth of characterization, from main character Ruby to her father to the terrifying villain. The fantasy take on gang dynamics feels dangerous and exhilarating, and heightens the stakes of every scene. The tender portrayal of the fraught father-daughter relationship, as well as Ruby’s struggle with her own ferociously guarded heart, makes for an emotional and unputdownable read.
I love my YA with a dash (or let's be real, a swamping heap) of romance, so I’m happy to report that the budding romantic subplot in THE VANISHING STATION is utterly entrancing - sweet and swoony and everything I could ask for in a YA. So few authors can make me lightheaded with only a sentence, and Ellickson is now on that very short list. Please RUN don’t walk to pick up this read!
I can’t wait to see what this author writes next!!
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