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Writing a mystery on a train: behind the scenes

Whose idea was it to write a mystery set on a train? Killer on the Kelvin Explorer was my most challenging to write yet. Here’s a peek behind the scenes:

  • Text reads: This book was my most challenging to write yet. Photo of author G. B. Ralph at his desk with piles of train books and an arrow pointing to the latest Milverton Mystery.
  • Text reads: It involved reading a whole bunch of train books (including many more that aren't shown here). Images show the front covers of a selection of train books and mysteries set on trains.
  • Text reads: Getting out into the wild and riding the rails. Photos show a steam locomotive, selfies, and train tickets.
  • Text reads: Mapping a plausible route for our scenic train journey. Images show train timetables and route maps.
  • Text reads: Plotting and scheming: the suspects, the interviews, the what, the who, the where, the when, the why, the how. Photos show railway tracks, carriages, Woodville station building, and a map of Featherston book town.
  • Text reads: Drafting this book took twice as long as any other. Fortunately, editing that draft wasn't nearly as fraught. Photos show a steam locomotive driver's cab, tea and scones, train carriage, Wellington Railway Station.
  • Text reads: As I said before, this book was the most challenging to write, however… Photo shows a railway level crossing on a sunny day.
  • Text reads: This book might also be the best I've written? Hop aboard the Kelvin Explorer to find out for yourself. Photo shows author G. B. Ralph giving a thumbs up and the book cover image of the latest Milverton Mystery.

Killer on the Kelvin Explorer

Addison Harper and Sergeant Jake Murphy are off to a shaky start with their new living situation. So, when Addison has the chance to get out of town and clear his head, he’s quick to climb aboard.

The day’s scenic railway journey features a powerful steam engine pulling lovingly restored heritage carriages. On the train, passengers enjoy dramatic landscapes and endless cups of tea. When it comes to driving Milverton’s tourism, Addison can see they’re already on the right track. Unfortunately, a death en route threatens to derail not only the day’s excursion but any future marketing efforts.

Passengers have been promised an unforgettable day out… and they’re going to get it.

Buy Killer on the Kelvin Explorer

Kindle / ebook

Amazon US | Amazon UK | Amazon CA | Amazon DE | Amazon AU (NZ)

Also available in Kindle Unlimited.

Paperback

Coming late September / early October 2026.
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Audiobook

The audiobook has been confirmed and will be released 6 April 2027!
Jump on my mailing list for updates.

Killer on the Kelvin Explorer traverses New Zealand’s picturesque lower North Island and is the latest in a wonderful cosy mystery series.

Investigate The Milverton Mysteries for a chaotic cast of local busybodies, delicious baked treats, a demanding and disdainful ginger cat, a very slow-burn romance with a rather appealing policeman, and of course… murder!

G. B. Ralph

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