The 25:00 Magic Lantern Express

by Shim Eunjung, Hyunyu Choi, Gene Png (Translator)

When the memories of passengers aboard a train traveling between life and death are stolen, one soul must team up with a grim reaper to restore them - or risk being trapped in limbo for ever - in this heartfelt Korean fantasy adventure. Perfect for fans of The Dallergut Dream Department Store, The Moon Glow Bookshop and Marigold Mind Laundry.

When Suhan Cha wakes dazed and confused in an unfamiliar train carriage crossing a strange-looking river, a young woman is there to reveal the he is aboard the Magic Lantern Express, journeying through the afterlife to the Judgement Gates where he will be at peace. She is Wonjung Lee, a messenger tasked with guiding souls to their final resting place.

But before Suhan can relax with a cup of red spider lily tea, a demon attacks the train, stealing some of Suhan's precious memories. Without these, he learns, his soul will roam aimlessly for eternity.

Yet there is a way to find what is lost. If Suhan assists other affected passengers to retrieve their memories, then his will be restored to him. Alongside Messenger Wonjung, Suhan returns to the world of the living to begin his mission, but will he discover that some memories are better off forgotten?

Genres: Fantasy

Kindle Edition

Expected publication March 25, 2027

Reviews

[Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such an interesting concept! I loved the idea that the lost memories were the very things the characters most wanted to forget, and the message of accepting those memories before facing judgment was especially powerful. The male main character’s involvement in helping recover the memories was also a great touch, tying in perfectly with his previous line of work. Overall, this was such a unique and magical experience, and I really enjoyed it!

[Kiki · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an incredibly touching read. I wasn't sure what to expect going into it. Admittedly, the opening is a little rushed. But as soon as you get into the meat of the story, its captivating. I found each story unique yet relatable. No I've never experienced anything like these characters. Yet the desperation to love and the deep regret they all face at the judgement gate is universal. It really made me reflect on my own life. If your a fan of K-dramas you will love this. It plays out exactly like a drama. Including the well-meaning but arrogant cop and the wise chipper magical being. I do wish she gave him a few more swift kicks in the back but hey, you can't have everything. I finished it in two days I couldn't put it down.

[bette perry · Rating 3 out of 5]

thank you netgalley and Ace publishing for this arc.

now i don’t believe this was a bad book however it just wasn’t for me. normally i’m a fan of this genre, and i can see how others liked it, but personally couldn’t get emotionally invested. none of the stories particularly gripped me, especially the dog one that lady can go kick rocks, and i ended up feeling pretty meh by the end. overall it was a miss this time, but perhaps in the future i’ll try again with another of book of theirs.