The Christmas Train by David Baldacci

From the Amazon product description: Tom Langdon, a weary and cash-strapped journalist, is banned from flying when a particularly thorough airport security search causes him to lose his cool. Now, he must take the train if he has any chance of arriving in Los Angeles in time for Christmas with his girlfriend. To finance the trip, he sells a story about a train ride taken during the Christmas season. Thereupon begins one of the most hilarious-and heartwarming-journeys ever told. Along the way, Tom encounters a ridiculous cast of characters, unexpected romance, and an avalanche that changes everyone's Christmas plans. As the mighty Southwest Chief chugs along, Tom learns what really makes the holiday special in a remarkable novel that will charm all who read it.

You know I love David Baldacci, I've said that here and here! But this one was kind of a stinker. He broke out of his crime/suspense mode and made this more light-hearted Christmas story. It did not "charm" me as the description above promises. It was slow and not very interesting. There was a little bit of a mystery but not much, a little suspense but not much. There was a twist at the end but I was beyond really caring at that point, I just wanted it over. The characters were very caricature - the lead African-American character was portrayed in such a stereotyped way that I am hesitant to pass this on to my office mate for fear she will be offended. The one way this book succeeded was that it really made me want to get on a train and go. I've ridden a train a few times and it is a great way to travel.

This book is on my list for the Holiday Reading Challenge. Click on the button to see my progress.