The Christmas Train
The Christmas Train
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2002
Book Brief
260
Novel • Fiction
A cross-country train journey from Washington, D.C., to Los Angeles, United States, at Christmas.
2002
Adult
13-17 years
Super Short Summary
Disillusioned journalist Tom Langdon needs to reach Los Angeles from Washington by Christmas. Barred from flying after an airport-security incident, he boards a cross-country train and turns the inconvenience into a chance to write about rail travel. Along the way, memorable characters, mysterious events, comic mishaps, and holiday magic begin transforming his trip into a journey of self-discovery.
Heartwarming
Upbeat
Humorous
Romantic
Suspenseful
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Reviewers often praise the novel as warm, festive escapism, highlighting its cozy train atmosphere, colorful supporting cast, humor, romance, and brisk readability. Some also find the passenger-train details engaging. Criticism centers on predictability and plausibility: Kirkus calls the story obvious, while other reviewers find portions scattered and the ending improbable. One detailed critique says recurring information dumps make the narrative choppy, and faults the prose as simplistic. Overall, reactions suggest an easy holiday read whose charm may outweigh its contrivances for receptive readers.
Who Should Read The Christmas Train?
This is a good fit for readers seeking a warmhearted, light Christmas escape with old-fashioned romance, humor, and a touch of suspense. Train enthusiasts should especially enjoy the cross-country setting and abundant railway lore, while readers drawn to lively ensemble casts can expect unusual fellow travelers and memorable personalities. It may be less satisfying for those wanting an unpredictable thriller: the suspense is deliberately mild. Consider it a cozy seasonal choice centered on romance, good cheer, and holiday atmosphere.
Tom’s former love and fellow journalist, now a famous screenwriter traveling with film director Max Powers.
A legendary film director traveling with Eleanor while researching a possible train film; he learns that Tom is a writer.
A retired priest associated with Saint Thomas Aquinas who travels aboard the train with Tom and the other passengers.
Regina Jordan’s mother and the train’s chief of onboard services, distinguishing her from the journey’s ordinary passengers.
260
Novel • Fiction
A cross-country train journey from Washington, D.C., to Los Angeles, United States, at Christmas.
2002
Adult
13-17 years
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