Steve Kirkpatrick

I could not decide if I loved this book or hated it. I finished it (audiobook). I loved this epic-ness of this story, but I hated all the tragedy. Of course, every good story needs struggle and this may have been realistic, but it was too much for my enjoyment.

On a related note, two years after finishing this, I started the 2nd book in the series and decided to quit for similar reasons to why I did not love this book.

I listened to the audiobook version of this through Overdrive/my local library. It was a good story and will get you in a Christmasy mood. It is set in the present, but the train travel gives it a nostalgic feel (something recognized directly in the writing, that there's just something nostalgic about train travel). There's romance, drama, and some humor. I'd call it a relaxing book that's great to read (or listen to) around the holidays. There was a twist at the very end that I didn't care for (minus 1 star from my rating). It made a portion of the events orchestrated by a particular character when I would've preferred things were just coincidental. I think it is meant to show the orchestrator cared, but it left me feeling a little cheated. Others may find it makes it more realistic. All in all, it was a good listen around the holidays and I'd recommend it.

I enjoyed it. I listened to the audiobook read by Chris O'Dowd and between his enthusiasm and the sound effects, it was an interesting and enjoyable listen. But I was expecting it to be a little more interesting. At least it was a short story. I expect a bit less from them because they take less of my time.