A Mexican Mystery

A new edition of a remarkable 1888 science fiction novel about an autonomous steam locomotive that develops self-preservation and a will of its own—then turns against its creators.

From the back cover

In 1860s Mexico, English engineer John Brown has been commissioned to build a railway into the mountains, where reports of gold have raised hopes of untold riches. Among his assistants is Pedro da Luz, a brilliant young inventor whose revolutionary locomotive can gather its own fuel, replenish its own water and travel without a driver.

But the Engine begins to act in ways Pedro never intended. It recognises danger, resists interference and strikes back when threatened. When it escapes human control, Brown must enter a deadly contest with a machine that grows more resourceful with every attempt to stop it.

W. Grove's A Mexican Mystery first appeared in 1888, but it has never been republished until now. Issued 138 years after the original as part of Enchanted Bit's Early Science Fiction series, this 2026 edition features a foreword by Artificial Life researcher Dr Tim Taylor, new typesetting and new cover art. It brings this remarkably early exploration of themes now familiar in science fiction—such as AI takeover and revolt of the machines—to a new general readership.

Publication details

Paperback
105 pp., 5.06 x 7.81 in
ISBN: 978-1-7394868-2-2
Published: October 2026
Publisher: Enchanted Bit

eBook
ISBN: 978-1-7394868-3-9
Published: December 2026
Publisher: Enchanted Bit

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A Mexican Mystery will soon be available for purchase on various platforms. Full details will be available here soon.