Table of Contents
Introduction
Trains offer a unique kind of adventure, gliding through scenic landscapes and connecting us to distant places. But for many women, the real magic happens when the pages of a good book transport us to another world. Whether you’re commuting to work, embarking on a weekend getaway, or simply enjoying a leisurely ride, the right novel can make the journey unforgettable. To help you choose the perfect read, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 novels that cater to every mood and taste, ensuring your train trip is as captivating as the destination.
10. The Last Train to Key West by Chanel Cleeton
Genre: Historical Fiction/Romance
Year of Release: 2020
Rating: 4.3/5 on Goodreads
Price: Around $16.99 (varies by retailer)
Story: Set in 1935, “The Last Train to Key West” follows three women whose lives intersect during a deadly hurricane in the Florida Keys. The narrative weaves together their personal struggles and romances against the backdrop of a harrowing natural disaster. The novel beautifully explores themes of love, courage, and resilience as the characters confront their pasts and fight for their futures amidst the storm.
Characters:
- Elsa Martinelli: A glamorous but troubled woman running from her past, seeking a fresh start.
- Mirta Antonini: A Cuban immigrant who dreams of a new life, but faces challenges and family secrets.
- Joana Gallo: A determined nurse who must navigate both professional challenges and her personal desires.
Why It Is Best to Read on a Train: “The Last Train to Key West” is ideal for a train journey due to its immersive storytelling and dynamic setting. As you travel, the novel’s vivid descriptions of the Florida Keys and the dramatic hurricane will complement the changing landscapes outside your window. The intertwining lives of the characters and their personal growth provide a compelling narrative that will keep you engaged and entertained throughout your ride, making the journey itself a part of the reading experience.
9. The Girl Who Lived Twice by David Lagercrantz
Genre: Crime Fiction, Thriller
Year of Release: 2017
Rating: 3.8/5 (Goodreads)
Price: Approximately $15 (varies by retailer and format)
Story:
In “The Girl Who Lived Twice,” the gripping fifth installment in the Millennium series, renowned journalist Mikael Blomkvist and hacker Lisbeth Salander return for another thrilling adventure. The novel delves into Lisbeth’s past, uncovering secrets about her family and a sinister plot involving her own life. As Lisbeth and Mikael navigate a web of intrigue, danger, and deception, the stakes are higher than ever. The story’s blend of suspense, mystery, and intricate plot twists will keep you hooked throughout your journey.
Characters:
- Lisbeth Salander: The brilliant and enigmatic hacker with a troubled past, known for her fierce independence and extraordinary skills.
- Mikael Blomkvist: A dedicated journalist and Lisbeth’s loyal ally, whose investigative prowess complements Lisbeth’s technical expertise.
- The Villains: Various antagonists who are tied to Lisbeth’s past and present, adding layers of complexity and danger to the narrative.
Why It Is Best to Read on a Train:
“The Girl Who Lived Twice” is an ideal read for train journeys due to its fast-paced, immersive narrative that captivates your attention and makes time fly by. The novel’s suspenseful twists and cliffhangers are perfect for keeping you engaged as you watch the scenery change outside your window. Its intricate plot ensures that every moment of your travel is filled with anticipation and excitement, making your journey as thrilling as the story itself.
8. The Midnight Library by Matt Haig
Genre: Contemporary Fiction, Fantasy
Year of Release: 2020
Rating: 4.2/5 (Goodreads), 4.1/5 (Amazon)
Price: $12.99 (Paperback), $8.99 (E-book) — prices may vary
Story: “The Midnight Library” explores the life of Nora Seed, who finds herself in a magical library where she can explore the infinite possibilities of her life. Each book represents a different path she might have taken, allowing her to experience alternate realities and make decisions she never had the chance to in her real life. The novel blends fantasy with profound life questions, offering a journey through the choices and regrets that shape our existence.
Characters:
- Nora Seed: The protagonist, who struggles with feelings of regret and dissatisfaction with her life.
- Mrs. Elm: The librarian in the Midnight Library, who guides Nora through her exploration of alternate lives.
- Various Alternate Characters: Representations of the different lives Nora explores.
Why It Is Best to Read on a Train: “The Midnight Library” is an ideal train read due to its compelling yet manageable narrative. The book’s episodic structure, with each chapter exploring a different life path, makes it easy to pick up and put down between stops. Its blend of fantasy and introspection provides an engaging escape, transforming your journey into a reflective and imaginative experience. Plus, the novel’s exploration of life’s possibilities resonates well with the transitional nature of train travel, making it a fitting companion for your trip.
7. The Train to Impossible Places by P.G. Bell
Genre: Fantasy, Adventure
Year of Release: 2018
Rating: 4.5/5 (Goodreads)
Price: Approximately $10-$15 (varies by format and retailer)
Story: The novel follows the adventurous tale of 11-year-old Suzy Smith, who finds herself aboard a magical train that travels to impossible places. The train, known as the Impossible Places Express, takes her on a journey through whimsical and fantastical worlds where she encounters quirky characters and faces thrilling challenges.
Characters:
- Suzy Smith: The brave and curious protagonist who discovers the train and its magical realms.
- The Conductor: A mysterious and charismatic guide of the Impossible Places Express.
- The Troll: A quirky character who adds humor and a touch of danger to the journey.
- The Princess: An enigmatic figure whose presence hints at larger mysteries within the magical world.
Why It Is Best to Read on a Train: “The Train to Impossible Places” is a perfect fit for train travel because it immerses readers in the magic of a journey that mirrors the experience of traveling. The book’s enchanting train adventures and whimsical settings parallel the unique ambiance of a train ride, making it an ideal read for those looking to escape into a world of fantasy while on the move. The story’s magical train and imaginative travels enhance the sense of adventure, making your real-life train journey even more enjoyable and immersive.
6. The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins
Genre: Psychological Thriller
Year of Release: 2015
Rating: 4.0/5 (Goodreads)
Price: Approximately $10-$15 (varies by format and retailer)
Story:
In “The Girl on the Train,” Rachel Watson, an alcoholic who rides the same train every day, becomes obsessed with a seemingly perfect couple she observes from the train window. When the woman she’s been watching goes missing, Rachel inserts herself into the investigation, unraveling dark secrets and finding herself entangled in a web of deceit and danger. The novel explores themes of identity, obsession, and the unreliable nature of perception.
Characters:
- Rachel Watson: The protagonist, struggling with alcoholism and a troubled past, whose observations from the train lead her into a disturbing mystery.
- Megan Hipwell: The missing woman, whose seemingly ideal life is a façade concealing deeper issues.
- Scott Hipwell: Megan’s husband, who becomes a key figure in the investigation.
- Anna Watson: Rachel’s ex-husband’s new wife, whose life intersects with Rachel’s in unexpected ways.
Why It Is Best to Read on a Train:
“The Girl on the Train” is the quintessential train read due to its gripping narrative and train-centric plot. The novel’s setting and theme resonate with the experience of train travel, adding an immersive layer to the reading experience. As you traverse through your own journey, Rachel’s train rides and psychological unraveling create a thrilling parallel that makes the book even more engaging. The novel’s suspenseful twists and turns are perfect for making time fly during your commute or while traveling.
5. The Great Railway Bazaar by Paul Theroux
- Genre: Travel Literature
- Year of Release: 1975
- Rating: Approximately 4.0/5 (varies by platform)
- Price: Around $15-$20 for a paperback edition (prices may vary)
Story:
Paul Theroux’s The Great Railway Bazaar chronicles his epic journey across Asia by train, from London to Tokyo and back. This travelogue details his adventures and misadventures, offering vivid descriptions of the landscapes, cultures, and people he encounters. Through his observations and interactions, Theroux captures the essence of travel and the myriad experiences that come with it.
Characters:
As a non-fiction account, the primary “characters” are the people Theroux meets along his journey, including fellow travelers, local residents, and train personnel. Theroux himself is a central figure, providing a personal and often humorous perspective on the diverse cultures and regions he explores.
Why It Is Best to Read on a Train:
The Great Railway Bazaar is the quintessential train travel book. Reading it while on a train enhances the immersive experience, allowing you to share in Theroux’s sense of adventure and discovery. The book’s detailed depictions of various train journeys and the unique experiences of traveling by rail resonate deeply when you are on your own train ride, making it a perfect companion for your journey.
4. Austerlitz by W.G. Sebald
Genre: Historical Fiction, Literary Fiction
Year of Release: 2001
Rating: 4.2/5 (Goodreads)
Price: Approximately $12.00 (paperback); varies by retailer
Story: “Austerlitz” follows the life of Jacques Austerlitz, a man who, after years of struggling with the mysteries of his past, begins to uncover the traumatic events of his childhood. Born in Prague, Austerlitz was sent to Britain as a child during World War II and adopted by a Welsh family. As an adult, he becomes obsessed with uncovering his origins and the impact of the Holocaust on his family and identity. The novel is renowned for its deep exploration of memory, history, and personal trauma.
Characters:
- Jacques Austerlitz: The protagonist, whose quest for his lost identity drives the narrative.
- Various minor characters: Include people Austerlitz encounters throughout his journey, adding depth to his story.
Why It Is Best to Read on a Train: “Austerlitz” is a deeply reflective and immersive novel, making it an ideal companion for a train journey where you can escape into its rich, evocative prose. The book’s contemplative nature and the slow reveal of Austerlitz’s past can mirror the gradual unfolding of landscapes outside your window, enhancing the experience of travel. The novel’s complex narrative structure also suits the interrupted but meditative rhythm of train travel, allowing readers to pause and ponder, picking up where they left off with ease.
3. Mr Norris Changes Trains by Christopher Isherwood
Genre: Fiction / Literary Fiction
Year of Release: 1935
Rating: 4.1/5 on Goodreads
Price: Varies by edition; typically around $15-$25 for new copies
Story:
Set in the tumultuous backdrop of pre-World War II Berlin, “Mr. Norris Changes Trains” follows the experiences of an Englishman, William Norris, who arrives in the city and becomes entangled with a mysterious and elusive character named Mr. Norris. The novel, infused with Isherwood’s characteristic wit and keen observational skills, delves into the political and social climate of the era through the eyes of its engaging protagonists. The story unfolds with a mix of suspense, intrigue, and sharp dialogue, offering readers a window into a world on the brink of upheaval.
Characters:
- William Norris: The novel’s protagonist, an English expatriate whose life in Berlin takes unexpected turns as he becomes involved with Mr. Norris.
- Mr. Norris: A charismatic and enigmatic figure whose actions and motives remain shrouded in mystery, influencing the course of the story and Norris’s experiences.
Why it is Best to Read on a Train:
“Mr. Norris Changes Trains” is an ideal train read due to its engaging narrative and episodic structure, which makes it easy to pick up and put down during breaks in your journey. The novel’s exploration of travel, both literal and metaphorical, mirrors the experience of train travel, offering readers a sense of adventure and discovery that complements the rhythm of a train ride. Additionally, Isherwood’s vivid descriptions of Berlin provide a fascinating backdrop that can enhance the sense of being transported to another world while on your own journey.
2. How Moon Fuentez Fell in Love with the Universe by Raquel Vasquez Gilliland
Year of Release: 2021
Rating: 4.2/5 on Goodreads
Price: $12.99 (Paperback) / $9.99 (eBook) / $17.99 (Hardcover)
Story: In How Moon Fuentez Fell in Love with the Universe, we follow the journey of Moon Fuentez, a teenage girl who feels like an outsider in her own life. Moon is struggling with her self-worth and her relationships, especially with her estranged twin sister, who has a different vision for their future. When Moon’s mother enrolls her in a summer program at a local observatory, Moon is thrown into a whirlwind of new experiences, including a blossoming romance, an exploration of her identity, and a deeper connection with the universe. As she navigates her way through these transformative experiences, Moon learns to embrace her uniqueness and find her place in the world.
Why It Is Better to Read on a Road Trip:
- Inspiring Growth: The novel’s themes of self-discovery and personal growth resonate with the journey of exploring new places and experiences on a road trip.
- Captivating Story: Moon’s engaging story will keep you entertained and emotionally invested as you drive through scenic landscapes.
- Relatable Characters: Moon’s struggles and triumphs make her a relatable protagonist, offering moments of reflection and connection during your travels.
- Beautiful Imagery: The book’s descriptions of the universe and celestial wonders can enhance the beauty of the landscapes you encounter on your road trip.
- Feel-Good Vibes: The uplifting message of finding love and acceptance will complement the sense of adventure and freedom you experience on the road.
1. The Midnight Express by Billy Hayes
Genre: Memoir/Autobiography
Year of Release: 1977
Rating: Generally rated 4.2/5 on platforms like Goodreads
Price: Approximately $10-$15, depending on the edition and retailer
Story:
“The Midnight Express” is a gripping memoir by Billy Hayes, detailing his harrowing experience as an American student arrested for drug smuggling in Turkey. The book recounts his dramatic escape from a Turkish prison, highlighting the intense physical and emotional struggles he endured. Hayes’ account is both a riveting adventure and a sobering look at the consequences of drug trafficking.
Characters:
- Billy Hayes: The protagonist, whose personal experiences drive the narrative.
- The Turkish Authorities: Representing the harsh and often corrupt prison system.
- Fellow Prisoners: Various individuals who Hayes encounters during his incarceration.
Why It Is Best to Read on a Train:
- Suspenseful Journey: The novel’s intense and suspenseful narrative mirrors the experience of a train journey, where each stop brings a new development in the story, much like a train ride offers changing vistas and unexpected delays.
- Escapism: As you travel, Hayes’ gripping tale of escape and survival provides a form of escapism, allowing you to get lost in a dramatic story that can make the time pass swiftly.
- Real-Life Adventure: Reading about Hayes’ real-life adventure can enhance the sense of adventure and exploration associated with travel, making your train ride feel even more exhilarating.
- Reflection: The memoir’s themes of freedom and confinement can provoke deep reflection, perfectly suited for a journey where you have the space and time to ponder the broader implications of Hayes’ experiences.
