Edward Marston’s Railway Detective series

Set in the heart of Victorian England, The Railway Detective series brings together historical mystery, classic detective work, and the unstoppable progress of the steam age. Inspector Robert Colbeck of Scotland Yard — nicknamed “The Railway Detective” — is a former barrister with a sharp mind and a love of justice. Alongside the loyal Sergeant Victor Leeming, he investigates daring robberies, disappearances, and murders that occur along Britain’s expanding railways.

Each book blends meticulous historical detail with engaging mystery, romance, and a touch of adventure. From bustling London stations to remote rural lines, Edward Marston vividly recreates the 1850s railway era — with all its innovation, class tensions, and criminal opportunity.

Perfect for fans of historical detective fiction, steam-era mysteries, and authors like Anne Perry, Andrew Martin, and C.J. Sansom.

The Railway Detective Books in Order (Publication Order)

1. The Railway Detective (2004)

2. The Excursion Train (2005)

3. The Railway Viaduct (2006)

4. Murder on the Brighton Express (2007)

5. The Silver Locomotive Mystery (2007)

6. The Iron Horse (2008)

7. Murder on the Brighton Express (2009)* — Check edition differences

8. The Stationmaster’s Farewell (2011)

9. Peril on the Royal Train (2012)

10. A Ticket to Oblivion (2013)

11. Blood on the Line (2014)

12. The Circus Train Conspiracy (2018)

13. Points of Danger (2021)

14. Signal for Vengeance (2022)

15. Tragedy on the Branch Line (2023)

16. Accident on the Line (2024)

(Note: publication dates may vary slightly depending on reprints and editions.)