The Midnight Train by Matt Haig

*minor spoilers ahead*

The Midnight Train by Matt Haig revolves around the question ‘When your life flashes before your eyes, what will matter most?’ For Wilbur, it was his time with Maggie, the love of his life, specifically their honeymoon in Venice, before he threw it all away. Years later, on the brink of his own death, a train arrives which can take Wilbur back in time to relive his most important moments. Soon he realises just how much he would have changed.

This is not a sequel to The Midnight Library but from the same universe, which I absolutely love. The Midnight Library is one of my all-time favourite books, and I really enjoyed the similarities between the two. For example, with The Midnight Library, it’s not always a library for everyone; it was the case for Nora, but for others it may be a record store. In this book, it’s not always a train, but a mode of transport. This book is full of railway metaphors, very fitting for the theme of this book and its message.

I adored reading about Wilbur and Maggie, as their love story was authentic and beautiful. I also really enjoyed the short chapters throughout the book, especially as this accurately depicts the quick snapshots in time, as well as the use of chapter titles, which made the story more personal. The themes in Haig’s books are always profound, as he doesn’t take away from the raw emotions surrounding death but makes the concept of the immediate afterlife enthralling and intriguing.

I found the concept of this book so interesting, as the thought of being able to reflect back on your life, or have an insight into your future, is so fascinating yet terrifying. I really liked the message of slowing down in life and appreciating what you have. Whilst it’s a deep and reflective book, I found it relaxing to read. I liked the simplicity in the plot as it made the book a perfect pace.

Back in May, I attended the London event of Haig’s The Midnight Tour, which was so fun! Haig was interviewed by Sue Perkins, and it was so lovely to hear about the behind-the-scenes process of how Haig writes books and more about the Midnight universe. I feel very grateful that I’ve been able to meet one of my favourite authors and have my books signed.

This is a book about reading, bookshops and booksellers, which makes it even more beautiful as an avid reader. My only wish is that the book was longer, but I loved the references to Nora from The Midnight Library, and I appreciated the slower, gentler pace. I am a big fan of Haig’s books and can’t wait to read more of his other books.

5/5 stars