The crime spree starts as a robbery but explodes into acts of terrorism. The author unfolds this police procedural tale in movie-like scenes, with engaging characters, and a touch of witty humour. This crime novel might have been improved by the addition of a simple sketch map of the London-Birmingham railway line showing the relevant station and place names.

For the most part it's a fun read with a likeable detective and some interesting characters and period detail. The mastermind behind the dastardly deeds is known way before the end of the story, so it's not really a mystery, more a semi-police procedural. I thought it was a little too long and the last section involving the railroad driver's daughter could have been truncated or left out.

Very pleased with The Railway Detective. I read a couple in the series about detective Robert Colbeck and had to read the initial offering of the series. This one does a good job of filling in the background for the series.
I like Marston's pacing and the cinematic quality of the writing. It is engaging and moves along well. I liked and cared about the characters. I also have been interested in the late 1800's period and the development of modern police work. The advent of the railroads and their effect on society are handled well. Definitely recommend!

Marston has several series, some of which I liked--some didn't appeal to me. This is the first book in this series. His practice at putting together appealing characters, a complex mystery, and a masterful writing style make this a good read. The detective is Robert Colbeck, who was educated as a lawyer, but decided he'd be more interested in a career as a policeman in the newly formed Scotland Yard. The well done setting is 1851 England and a good deal of railway information is germaine to the plot and presented in an interesting manner. I think I'll be reading the rest of this series.

good late 1800 who dunnit -- scotland yard and all the victorian age nuances etc.