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The Estate
Inheritance can be murder...
Sebastian Pallander's death leaves behind a multi-billion-dollar financial estate and a castle in the Cairngorms. His family are torn apart, not by grief but by anger at Sebastian's will - and the fact that the great man left them with nothing more than pocket change.
Soon Sebastian's eldest son dies in mysterious circumstances, and DI Salt and DS Blackstock begin to suspect the the people listed on the will might not be future millionaires; they might be future victims.
Because when this much money is at stake, people are capable of almost anything. And if Salt and Blackstock are right, someone is killing their way into the inheritance - once family member at a time...
Sebastian Pallander's death leaves behind a multi-billion-dollar financial estate and a castle in the Cairngorms. His family are torn apart, not by grief but by anger at Sebastian's will - and the fact that the great man left them with nothing more than pocket change.
Soon Sebastian's eldest son dies in mysterious circumstances, and DI Salt and DS Blackstock begin to suspect the the people listed on the will might not be future millionaires; they might be future victims.
Because when this much money is at stake, people are capable of almost anything. And if Salt and Blackstock are right, someone is killing their way into the inheritance - once family member at a time...
400 pages, Hardcover
First published June 20, 2024
121 people are currently reading
300 people want to read
About the author
Denzil Meyrick
37 books531 followersDenzil Meyrick was a Scottish bestselling novelist. Prior to that, he served as a police officer with Strathclyde Police then a manager with Springbank Distillery in Campbeltown, Argyll. Since 2012 Denzil Meyrick had worked as a writer of Scottish crime fiction novels. He was also an executive director of media production company Houses of Steel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 95 reviews
March 2, 2024
4+
Sebastian Pallander CEO of hedge fund Pallander Glossop expires dramatically mid TV interview in Davos, Switzerland. His will makes for interesting reading as the five siblings and his wife Elizabeth find that, although a sum of money wings it’s way into their accounts, they expected way more, after all Papa was a multibillionaire. Especially hard-hit is his eldest daughter, Tabitha, the company CFO, who expects to be CEO, but instead is demoted. What is going on? The youngest son Jean-Luc decides to strike a blow, but not for the reasons you might think and it doesn’t go quite to plan to the horror of his family. Entering into the fraught scene is DI Cara Salt of the Succession, Inheritance and Executory branch of Glasgow’s Serious Crime Squad and the latest recruit to the team, DS Abernathy Blackstock. The latter is quite a surprise to Cara and there’s way more to Blackstock than meets the eye, and the same is true of the Pallander case.
I’ve enjoyed reading Denzil Meyrick’s books for several years now and this is another cracker of a read in what I hope will be a new series. It’s a well thought out, fast paced, ever changing plot that is immersive and makes for compelling reading. The case seems to expand by the minute and becomes increasingly sinister with several characters having much to fear. There’s a game afoot with no rules and no holds barred. It’s an exciting, tense and suspenseful mystery, combined with a high octane thriller resulting in a multiple twisty rollercoaster of a ride which dramatically derails for some. It gets twistier by the day, I thoroughly enjoy the financial shenanigans, which do have a measure of believability about them, considering what we already know about the world of finance. There’s huge greed here, deception which is off the charts and gut punching betrayal as a massive conspiracy begins to reveal itself.
It’s a riveting read with a shocker of an ending, delivering surprise after surprise.
The cast of starring characters are very well portrayed with Cara at the centre, a very likeable carrier of heavy baggage.
Highly entertaining, and one I can recommend.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Random House UK, Transworld for the much appreciated arc return for an honest review.
Sebastian Pallander CEO of hedge fund Pallander Glossop expires dramatically mid TV interview in Davos, Switzerland. His will makes for interesting reading as the five siblings and his wife Elizabeth find that, although a sum of money wings it’s way into their accounts, they expected way more, after all Papa was a multibillionaire. Especially hard-hit is his eldest daughter, Tabitha, the company CFO, who expects to be CEO, but instead is demoted. What is going on? The youngest son Jean-Luc decides to strike a blow, but not for the reasons you might think and it doesn’t go quite to plan to the horror of his family. Entering into the fraught scene is DI Cara Salt of the Succession, Inheritance and Executory branch of Glasgow’s Serious Crime Squad and the latest recruit to the team, DS Abernathy Blackstock. The latter is quite a surprise to Cara and there’s way more to Blackstock than meets the eye, and the same is true of the Pallander case.
I’ve enjoyed reading Denzil Meyrick’s books for several years now and this is another cracker of a read in what I hope will be a new series. It’s a well thought out, fast paced, ever changing plot that is immersive and makes for compelling reading. The case seems to expand by the minute and becomes increasingly sinister with several characters having much to fear. There’s a game afoot with no rules and no holds barred. It’s an exciting, tense and suspenseful mystery, combined with a high octane thriller resulting in a multiple twisty rollercoaster of a ride which dramatically derails for some. It gets twistier by the day, I thoroughly enjoy the financial shenanigans, which do have a measure of believability about them, considering what we already know about the world of finance. There’s huge greed here, deception which is off the charts and gut punching betrayal as a massive conspiracy begins to reveal itself.
It’s a riveting read with a shocker of an ending, delivering surprise after surprise.
The cast of starring characters are very well portrayed with Cara at the centre, a very likeable carrier of heavy baggage.
Highly entertaining, and one I can recommend.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Random House UK, Transworld for the much appreciated arc return for an honest review.
July 4, 2025
This amazing crime novel is another excellent accomplishment by this great author, the now sadly late Denzil Meyrick.
Storytelling is superb, all characters are very believable and lifelike, and the sub-plot(s) and definite plot are tremendously executed.
The story is about Sebastian Pallander, a genius and crook what money is concerned, of Pallander Glossop, a hedge fund who's doing dirty deals for quite some years.
This same Sebastian Pallander dies while being on TV, and this is followed by the death of his son Jean-Luc, and from then on everyone and everything connected with that hedge fund is a target for someone on a deadly mission.
Son Silas and daughter Tabitha are also targeted by henchmen sent by this mysterious someone, and this someone is using minions/puppets to do everything that someone wants them to do at all times.
Amidst all this this financial and criminal chaos, DI Cara Salt will need to be at her very best to survive these dangerous circumstances and solve this case as good as possible, and all this she will accomplish also with the help from some friends, like her former colleague and lover Sorley MacLeod.
Highly recommended, for this is a great crime novel that is brought to us in a most fantastic fashion possible by this author, so a must read for everyone, and that's why I like to call this thrilling and moving novel: "A Powerful Killing Greed"!
Storytelling is superb, all characters are very believable and lifelike, and the sub-plot(s) and definite plot are tremendously executed.
The story is about Sebastian Pallander, a genius and crook what money is concerned, of Pallander Glossop, a hedge fund who's doing dirty deals for quite some years.
This same Sebastian Pallander dies while being on TV, and this is followed by the death of his son Jean-Luc, and from then on everyone and everything connected with that hedge fund is a target for someone on a deadly mission.
Son Silas and daughter Tabitha are also targeted by henchmen sent by this mysterious someone, and this someone is using minions/puppets to do everything that someone wants them to do at all times.
Amidst all this this financial and criminal chaos, DI Cara Salt will need to be at her very best to survive these dangerous circumstances and solve this case as good as possible, and all this she will accomplish also with the help from some friends, like her former colleague and lover Sorley MacLeod.
Highly recommended, for this is a great crime novel that is brought to us in a most fantastic fashion possible by this author, so a must read for everyone, and that's why I like to call this thrilling and moving novel: "A Powerful Killing Greed"!
May 22, 2024
I received a gifted copy of this book to read in exchange for an honest review as part of the book tour hosted by Random Things Tours.
The Estate is a twisty edge of your seat police thriller set in Scotland and is the first book by Denzil Meyrick I've had the pleasure of reading and won't be the last!
We follow DI Salt and her new partner DS Blackstock as they investigate and try to protect a wealthy family from being picked off one by one.
Sebastian Pallander, a multi-billionaire, drops dead live on air during a TV broadcast, leaving his family torn apart in more than one way after the reading of his will. When one of his children turns up murdered in strange circumstances and another is kidnapped and a third persued by thugs, DI Salt and DS Blackstock race against the clock to protect the family at all costs. Everyone falls under suspicion, and even fellow police officers and departments can not be trusted as corruption rots throughout its core.
This was such a twisty, thought-provoking read that I found myself captivated and gripped by, and I flew through this book in 2 days. I can't wait to read through this authors backlist of books and hope to read more of DI Salt in the future.
The Estate is a twisty edge of your seat police thriller set in Scotland and is the first book by Denzil Meyrick I've had the pleasure of reading and won't be the last!
We follow DI Salt and her new partner DS Blackstock as they investigate and try to protect a wealthy family from being picked off one by one.
Sebastian Pallander, a multi-billionaire, drops dead live on air during a TV broadcast, leaving his family torn apart in more than one way after the reading of his will. When one of his children turns up murdered in strange circumstances and another is kidnapped and a third persued by thugs, DI Salt and DS Blackstock race against the clock to protect the family at all costs. Everyone falls under suspicion, and even fellow police officers and departments can not be trusted as corruption rots throughout its core.
This was such a twisty, thought-provoking read that I found myself captivated and gripped by, and I flew through this book in 2 days. I can't wait to read through this authors backlist of books and hope to read more of DI Salt in the future.
March 25, 2025
3 stars
This was a good stand alone but....there were a few things that didn't work for me, one of them being the final twist in the end.
I didn't buy the way DI Salt muscled her way into Pallander's family estate. Nor how she was deployed to "save the world" with little to no knowledge of what she's confronting, and literally no resources. Beyond farfetched.
One of the main twists, was very predictable. Saw it coming early and there were enough hints to give it away.
Nevertheless the book is enjoyable, well written and there is definitely a page turning aspect to it.
This was a good stand alone but....there were a few things that didn't work for me, one of them being the final twist in the end.
I didn't buy the way DI Salt muscled her way into Pallander's family estate. Nor how she was deployed to "save the world" with little to no knowledge of what she's confronting, and literally no resources. Beyond farfetched.
One of the main twists, was very predictable. Saw it coming early and there were enough hints to give it away.
Nevertheless the book is enjoyable, well written and there is definitely a page turning aspect to it.
March 17, 2024
Well, I don't know if the intention is for this to be a stand alone but I have to say that I really did like the character of Cara Salt, and loved this book. I mean, Salt will probably need a transfer from her current role - heading up the Succession, Inheritance and Executory Department - as I'm not sure how many inheritance based investigations Denzil Meyrick might be able to dream up, but given the extent of this particular case, and how dark and twisted it turns out to be, perhaps inheritance law is more than a little bit twisted afterall.
Called in to investigate when the son of a prominent finance expert and personality is killed in an explosion, it's very hard to see how it could possibly fall to DI Cara Salt and her new DS, Abernethy Blackstock, and the SIE to find out if there was any fowl play. But given that family patriarch, Sebastian Pallander, has just predeceased his son, and that the victim was one of a number of siblings to inherit, it's one of those situations that raises all manner of questions. Would someone kill for the victim's seemingly meagre inheritance, or is something far darker in play? All as not as expected in the Pallander empire, and it seems Pallander senior may have made some very powerful enemies who will stop at nothing to claim the family fortune ...
This book really did hit the spot. It's a mixture of tension, action, and good old fashioned Denzil Meyrick humour. From the admittedly one sided banter between Salt and Blackstock - somewhat ironically nicknamed Abs by Salt - to the antagonistic chemistry between Salt and her former colleague, Sorley, for every moment of intensity and threat - and there are many of those to be found - there is a scene to make you chuckle or smile too. There is a constant sense of threat that bubbles along beneath the surface and it often seems as though Salt is really out of her depth. There is a reason for her being sidelined to the SIE, something that is slowly revealed, and is the cause of the tension between her and Sorley. They make a really good pairing, and although Sorley is a former officer, it's one I'd be really keen to see again. As for Salt and Blackstock - well let's just say that they are chalk and cheese, although Blackstock has hidden depths that go much deeper than his part time hobby as a twitcher.
With gangs, corruption and misdirection galore, and a very clear threat against the Pallander family, it remains to be seen whether or not Salt and Blackstock have what it takes to protect them. With a remote setting that just adds to the risk, the isolation and the feeling that literally anything can happen, and the odd unexpected murder along the way, the book really hooked me in. I just love Denzil Meyrick's ability to create and authentic setting, multi-faceted characters who both amuse and infuriate, and a pulsing tension that is balanced by a rich vein of dark humour. Definitely a must read for fans of the author or for new readers who love a bit of Scottish Noir. Definitely recommended.
Called in to investigate when the son of a prominent finance expert and personality is killed in an explosion, it's very hard to see how it could possibly fall to DI Cara Salt and her new DS, Abernethy Blackstock, and the SIE to find out if there was any fowl play. But given that family patriarch, Sebastian Pallander, has just predeceased his son, and that the victim was one of a number of siblings to inherit, it's one of those situations that raises all manner of questions. Would someone kill for the victim's seemingly meagre inheritance, or is something far darker in play? All as not as expected in the Pallander empire, and it seems Pallander senior may have made some very powerful enemies who will stop at nothing to claim the family fortune ...
This book really did hit the spot. It's a mixture of tension, action, and good old fashioned Denzil Meyrick humour. From the admittedly one sided banter between Salt and Blackstock - somewhat ironically nicknamed Abs by Salt - to the antagonistic chemistry between Salt and her former colleague, Sorley, for every moment of intensity and threat - and there are many of those to be found - there is a scene to make you chuckle or smile too. There is a constant sense of threat that bubbles along beneath the surface and it often seems as though Salt is really out of her depth. There is a reason for her being sidelined to the SIE, something that is slowly revealed, and is the cause of the tension between her and Sorley. They make a really good pairing, and although Sorley is a former officer, it's one I'd be really keen to see again. As for Salt and Blackstock - well let's just say that they are chalk and cheese, although Blackstock has hidden depths that go much deeper than his part time hobby as a twitcher.
With gangs, corruption and misdirection galore, and a very clear threat against the Pallander family, it remains to be seen whether or not Salt and Blackstock have what it takes to protect them. With a remote setting that just adds to the risk, the isolation and the feeling that literally anything can happen, and the odd unexpected murder along the way, the book really hooked me in. I just love Denzil Meyrick's ability to create and authentic setting, multi-faceted characters who both amuse and infuriate, and a pulsing tension that is balanced by a rich vein of dark humour. Definitely a must read for fans of the author or for new readers who love a bit of Scottish Noir. Definitely recommended.
August 31, 2024
3.5 Stars
May 9, 2024
A gripping read from an author on my must-not-miss list!
The Pallander family are used to luxury - after all, Sebastian Pallander was ultra-rich and, with his death, they are all looking forward to a huge slice of the pie; so it comes as quite a shock to be left what is, in their eyes, paltry amounts. What was he thinking? Where did it all go? And is their any trust left between them?
This is a cracking thriller and one which kept me absolutely riveted from the moment I began reading. As the story began to unfold I found myself really invested in the characters - liking each at one point then detesting them the next. What was going on? The only way to find out was to keep reading and, believe me, that was no hardship. Completely enthralling and utterly beguiling, I cannot recommend this highly enough. Denzil Meyrick never fails to meet my expectations and with this one he far exceeded them. A superbly crafted novel and completely worth all five glowing stars.
The Pallander family are used to luxury - after all, Sebastian Pallander was ultra-rich and, with his death, they are all looking forward to a huge slice of the pie; so it comes as quite a shock to be left what is, in their eyes, paltry amounts. What was he thinking? Where did it all go? And is their any trust left between them?
This is a cracking thriller and one which kept me absolutely riveted from the moment I began reading. As the story began to unfold I found myself really invested in the characters - liking each at one point then detesting them the next. What was going on? The only way to find out was to keep reading and, believe me, that was no hardship. Completely enthralling and utterly beguiling, I cannot recommend this highly enough. Denzil Meyrick never fails to meet my expectations and with this one he far exceeded them. A superbly crafted novel and completely worth all five glowing stars.
February 6, 2024
There is no denying that Denzil Meyrick has established himself as one of the leading writers of the crime thriller genre. The DCI Daley and Scott series is the perfect blend of gripping dramas, police procedural and wry humour.
The Estate introduces new lead protagonist- DI Cara Salt- haunted by an action from the past and a father who expected more from her. Finding herself sidelined into the Succession, Inheritance and Executory department, she feels lost and trapped in mundanity that is until the death of mega rich billionaire Sebastian Pallander live on TV
.
His death leaves his privileged family in turmoil as their inheritance is far from expected; this tragedy is followed by the violent death of one of his children a few weeks later- all is not what it seems. Are the rest of the family in danger?
DI Salt is partnered with DS Abernathy Blackstock- a man also from a privileged past- and the interplay between the two characters brings to light Denzil Metric's skill for bring together two very differing personalities intertwining humour and a dig at the 'chosen wealthy few. and class divides ' The duo are asked to investigate /protect the family.
Thus ensues chain of events- tense and dramatic and leaving the reader with the questions as to who can be trusted ... who is deceiving who...? A good balance of thriller action and police procedural
This is a fast paced novel- yes, there may be a sense of suspending belief- but in the world we live in nowadays with megalomaniac billionaires and oligarchs nothing feels to far from the truth. The Netflix/BBC series can be envisaged
This can be read as a standalone story (unless DI Salt should make a welcome return in the future) and is also a great way to be introduced to the legion of readers much-enjoyed Meyrick's Kinloch series.
The Estate introduces new lead protagonist- DI Cara Salt- haunted by an action from the past and a father who expected more from her. Finding herself sidelined into the Succession, Inheritance and Executory department, she feels lost and trapped in mundanity that is until the death of mega rich billionaire Sebastian Pallander live on TV
.
His death leaves his privileged family in turmoil as their inheritance is far from expected; this tragedy is followed by the violent death of one of his children a few weeks later- all is not what it seems. Are the rest of the family in danger?
DI Salt is partnered with DS Abernathy Blackstock- a man also from a privileged past- and the interplay between the two characters brings to light Denzil Metric's skill for bring together two very differing personalities intertwining humour and a dig at the 'chosen wealthy few. and class divides ' The duo are asked to investigate /protect the family.
Thus ensues chain of events- tense and dramatic and leaving the reader with the questions as to who can be trusted ... who is deceiving who...? A good balance of thriller action and police procedural
This is a fast paced novel- yes, there may be a sense of suspending belief- but in the world we live in nowadays with megalomaniac billionaires and oligarchs nothing feels to far from the truth. The Netflix/BBC series can be envisaged
This can be read as a standalone story (unless DI Salt should make a welcome return in the future) and is also a great way to be introduced to the legion of readers much-enjoyed Meyrick's Kinloch series.
July 6, 2024
I thoroughly enjoyed this book by Denzil Meyrick. A much faster paced novel than previous outings, I was literally biting my nails through some of the chapters. Absolutely brilliant!
December 16, 2024
It is an easy read that is full of two-dimensional characters and has a predictable plot.
February 17, 2024
I’ve read most of Denzil’s books so I knew this would be good. The story revolves around a wealthy family in crisis after a huge change in circumstances. All the characters have baggage that impinges on their decisions. The action moves between Perthshire, London and Europe and includes references to Covid, the war in Ukraine and the rise of foreign investment in the UK. Cara Salt is a DI in a quiet police department who is tasked with looking into the Pallender family’s current problems. I predicted the ending fairly early on but it just encouraged me to keep reading to see if I was right. It’s definitely a ‘just one more chapter’ book.
Thank you to NetGalley and Transworld publishers for a prepublication ebook.
Thank you to NetGalley and Transworld publishers for a prepublication ebook.
April 19, 2024
Great characters and terrific storylines is what Denzil Meyrick is best known for. And in D.I. Cara Salt, he has found an absolute corker of a character.
D.I. Salt was on the up in Glasgow’s Serious Crime Squad until she, somewhat unfortunately, shot a fellow officer. That had regrettable repercussions on both her career and her personal life. Now she sits in a small office in a tenement above a shop where she is Head of the Succession, Inheritance, and Executory department of said Serious Crime Squad. It’s pretty much a stolid, paper based job that keeps her out of trouble.
Sebastian Pallander is founder and CEO of Pallander Glossop, a well established hedge fund with some very elite clients. He has a castle in the Highlands where his wife Elizabeth lives, having raised 5 children in her family’s seat. Sebastien is in Davos for the World Economic Summit, being interviewed for the TV programme, Money Matters, but takes ill and dies mid-interview.
In a reminder of Succession, Sebastian’s grown children are seriously at odds with each other. The eldest, Silas, is a weak and mewling pup, while his sister, Tabitha has the brains and the balls in the family. Tabitha is expecting great things from the will; her father was grooming her to take over as CEO.
But his will comes as a huge and unwelcome shock to his family. They expected millions but received only a fraction of that while Tabitha’s expectations are shattered when she finds that her father has handed the company’s reins over to his Executive in charge of the Swiss arm of Pallander Glossop. It’s like a slap in the face for Tabitha.
Then one of the Pallander twins is killed at the site of a wind farm. Jean-Luc was an eco-activist and not always a big fan of his father’s investment portfolio. Coming hot on the heels of Pallander Sr.’s death, Cara and her new DS, Abernethy Blackstock (whom, much to his consternation she decides to call ‘Abs’) are asked to take a look at the Pallander family and the set-up of the will.
Given that the family haven’t actually inherited all that much, it’s hard to see what motive they might have for being involved in Jean-Luc’s death, which appears to have been self-inflicted ; the supposition being that the bomb he was planting went off prematurely.
But there remains the question of exactly where the Pallander fortune has gone and who has benefitted? With the Pallander family in disarray, who wants the company’s fortune and what will they do to get it?
Here Meyrick has constructed a beautifully tangled plot with a whole host of people you don’t know whether to trust. There are plots within plots, suspense, high octane action, and even a spectacular chase. The relationship between Cara Salt and ‘Abs’ starts off well though she is surprised when he is outed as part of the aristocracy by Elizabeth Pallander. Abs has hidden layers that constantly surprise Cara as she spends more time with him.
Then there’s Sorley. Sorley is an ex-cop and he and Cara have a very spiky relationship; the kind where they jibe at each other whenever they meet, and when they do there’s a tension in the air that never goes away.
Although The Estate is a rip-roaring page turner, it also harbours the traditional Meyrick humour. I swear if you could see him writing, his tongue would be firmly in his cheek. It is those moments of levity and wicked humour that make the book sparkle as well as lifting the tension for a bit.
Verdict: Meyrick has produced a fast paced, spellbinding novel with topical overtones as he digs into the world of corporate greed, Russian money laundering, corruption at every level and uses it to create a fantastic family drama. Intricately plotted, great fun and full of twists, turns and entanglements, this is a rip-roaring thriller with a special sparkle. More of Cara please – she’s definitely worth her salt!
D.I. Salt was on the up in Glasgow’s Serious Crime Squad until she, somewhat unfortunately, shot a fellow officer. That had regrettable repercussions on both her career and her personal life. Now she sits in a small office in a tenement above a shop where she is Head of the Succession, Inheritance, and Executory department of said Serious Crime Squad. It’s pretty much a stolid, paper based job that keeps her out of trouble.
Sebastian Pallander is founder and CEO of Pallander Glossop, a well established hedge fund with some very elite clients. He has a castle in the Highlands where his wife Elizabeth lives, having raised 5 children in her family’s seat. Sebastien is in Davos for the World Economic Summit, being interviewed for the TV programme, Money Matters, but takes ill and dies mid-interview.
In a reminder of Succession, Sebastian’s grown children are seriously at odds with each other. The eldest, Silas, is a weak and mewling pup, while his sister, Tabitha has the brains and the balls in the family. Tabitha is expecting great things from the will; her father was grooming her to take over as CEO.
But his will comes as a huge and unwelcome shock to his family. They expected millions but received only a fraction of that while Tabitha’s expectations are shattered when she finds that her father has handed the company’s reins over to his Executive in charge of the Swiss arm of Pallander Glossop. It’s like a slap in the face for Tabitha.
Then one of the Pallander twins is killed at the site of a wind farm. Jean-Luc was an eco-activist and not always a big fan of his father’s investment portfolio. Coming hot on the heels of Pallander Sr.’s death, Cara and her new DS, Abernethy Blackstock (whom, much to his consternation she decides to call ‘Abs’) are asked to take a look at the Pallander family and the set-up of the will.
Given that the family haven’t actually inherited all that much, it’s hard to see what motive they might have for being involved in Jean-Luc’s death, which appears to have been self-inflicted ; the supposition being that the bomb he was planting went off prematurely.
But there remains the question of exactly where the Pallander fortune has gone and who has benefitted? With the Pallander family in disarray, who wants the company’s fortune and what will they do to get it?
Here Meyrick has constructed a beautifully tangled plot with a whole host of people you don’t know whether to trust. There are plots within plots, suspense, high octane action, and even a spectacular chase. The relationship between Cara Salt and ‘Abs’ starts off well though she is surprised when he is outed as part of the aristocracy by Elizabeth Pallander. Abs has hidden layers that constantly surprise Cara as she spends more time with him.
Then there’s Sorley. Sorley is an ex-cop and he and Cara have a very spiky relationship; the kind where they jibe at each other whenever they meet, and when they do there’s a tension in the air that never goes away.
Although The Estate is a rip-roaring page turner, it also harbours the traditional Meyrick humour. I swear if you could see him writing, his tongue would be firmly in his cheek. It is those moments of levity and wicked humour that make the book sparkle as well as lifting the tension for a bit.
Verdict: Meyrick has produced a fast paced, spellbinding novel with topical overtones as he digs into the world of corporate greed, Russian money laundering, corruption at every level and uses it to create a fantastic family drama. Intricately plotted, great fun and full of twists, turns and entanglements, this is a rip-roaring thriller with a special sparkle. More of Cara please – she’s definitely worth her salt!
July 26, 2024
Denzil Meyrick is a clever man; in The Estate, he blends the electrifying tension of And Then There Were None with a breathtaking, atmospheric action thriller then adds a cast of intriguing characters, a rich sense of place and some wry humour. It's an unbeatable combination and I tore through the pages of his new standalone novel.
The prologue briefly introduces Sebastian Pallander, the respected boss of his prestigious hedge fund firm, Pallander Glossop. Brief because he soon meets his sudden end, which means that three months later, his wife and children are gathered together to hear the reading of his will. Meanwhile, Detective Inspector Cara Salt of the Succession, Inheritance and Executory Department (SIE) meets her new DS, Abernethy Blackstock – who proves to be far more interesting than his rather timid first impression suggests. Cara is perhaps the highlight of this excellent book, however. The SIE deals with those who refuse to adhere to the lawful terms of wills and the wishes of the departed; she was assigned to this little-known outpost following her brief appointment to detective inspector in the Serious Crime Squad which ended almost as soon as it had begun. She is clearly still haunted by the events that led to her losing that prized position, although exactly what took place isn't revealed until later in proceedings. She is surprised, then, when she and Blackstock are ordered to attend the scene of a terrible tragedy which has resulted in the gruesome death of the youngest Pallander son, Jean-Luc, and understandably nervous when she is given little choice but to become involved in a case involving corruption and betrayal at high levels.
Jean-Luc's death looks to be potentially suspicious and their worst fears seem to be confirmed when more of the Pallander family fall foul of violent adversaries. Denzil Meyrick barely gives his readers a chance to catch their breath as two of these outwardly privileged individuals are subjected to terrifying ordeals. I'm really conscious not to give anything away here, suffice to say that as well as tense scenes of imprisonment, there's a dramatic, nerve-shredding race for survival which starts in London and ultimately leads to the Pallander estate in Perthshire.
The complex, intelligent plot is compulsively serpentine as the truth behind who has the family in their merciless sights and why is gradually revealed.
While Cara desperately tries to keep the remaining Pallanders safe, she also has to confront her past and what – or rather, who – she lost. The insights we are given into her mental turmoil, as well as her memories of the complicated relationship she had with her father are fascinating, and throughout the book, the exploration of family dynamics is first-rate. Cara is such a likeable character and despite her troubles, she is a witty, compassionate and determined woman. The same can't be said of the Pallanders, with the notable exception of one or two, but although they have their flaws, Denzil Meyrick ensures they are multifaceted characters who are obviously products of their upbringing and it's impossible not to feel at least a little sympathy for most of them.
The twists and turns are almost relentless as the book reaches its exciting climax but even then Denzil Meyrick isn't quite done and the conclusion is the perfect ending to this high octane, darkly humorous thriller. The Estate is a thriller of the highest calibre, I loved it!
The prologue briefly introduces Sebastian Pallander, the respected boss of his prestigious hedge fund firm, Pallander Glossop. Brief because he soon meets his sudden end, which means that three months later, his wife and children are gathered together to hear the reading of his will. Meanwhile, Detective Inspector Cara Salt of the Succession, Inheritance and Executory Department (SIE) meets her new DS, Abernethy Blackstock – who proves to be far more interesting than his rather timid first impression suggests. Cara is perhaps the highlight of this excellent book, however. The SIE deals with those who refuse to adhere to the lawful terms of wills and the wishes of the departed; she was assigned to this little-known outpost following her brief appointment to detective inspector in the Serious Crime Squad which ended almost as soon as it had begun. She is clearly still haunted by the events that led to her losing that prized position, although exactly what took place isn't revealed until later in proceedings. She is surprised, then, when she and Blackstock are ordered to attend the scene of a terrible tragedy which has resulted in the gruesome death of the youngest Pallander son, Jean-Luc, and understandably nervous when she is given little choice but to become involved in a case involving corruption and betrayal at high levels.
Jean-Luc's death looks to be potentially suspicious and their worst fears seem to be confirmed when more of the Pallander family fall foul of violent adversaries. Denzil Meyrick barely gives his readers a chance to catch their breath as two of these outwardly privileged individuals are subjected to terrifying ordeals. I'm really conscious not to give anything away here, suffice to say that as well as tense scenes of imprisonment, there's a dramatic, nerve-shredding race for survival which starts in London and ultimately leads to the Pallander estate in Perthshire.
The complex, intelligent plot is compulsively serpentine as the truth behind who has the family in their merciless sights and why is gradually revealed.
While Cara desperately tries to keep the remaining Pallanders safe, she also has to confront her past and what – or rather, who – she lost. The insights we are given into her mental turmoil, as well as her memories of the complicated relationship she had with her father are fascinating, and throughout the book, the exploration of family dynamics is first-rate. Cara is such a likeable character and despite her troubles, she is a witty, compassionate and determined woman. The same can't be said of the Pallanders, with the notable exception of one or two, but although they have their flaws, Denzil Meyrick ensures they are multifaceted characters who are obviously products of their upbringing and it's impossible not to feel at least a little sympathy for most of them.
The twists and turns are almost relentless as the book reaches its exciting climax but even then Denzil Meyrick isn't quite done and the conclusion is the perfect ending to this high octane, darkly humorous thriller. The Estate is a thriller of the highest calibre, I loved it!
April 12, 2024
I am a HUGE fan of this author's DCI Daley series of books, most of which I have listened to and I also read, and loved, the first in his new series featuring Frank Grasby - Murder at Holly House. So... it was pretty much a no brainer that I went into this book knowing that I would also love it just as much. And I Did... very much so...
We begin with a news broadcast in which head of his on financial empire, Sebastian Pallander starts to behave a wee bit off. And then, live on air, he keels over and dies. His family are torn apart, not just from their loss, but also the way he treated them in his will. His oldest daughter, Tabitha, being ousted from her job within the company, having previously been favourite to replace him as head. Oldest son also losing the job he had worked hard at all these years. They and the three other siblings only given meagre payouts, considering his great wealth...
And then, youngest son, Jean-Luc is killed in weird circumstances. He appears to have possibly, inadvertently, blown himself up whilst placing a bomb during an activist outing. It's a bit of a blood bath, with body parts scattered asunder.
Meanwhile, we meet DI Cara Salt of the Succession, Inheritance, and Executory branch of Glasgow's serious crime squad (who knew, right). She has found herself there due to her shooting someone she shouldn't have. A situation that has more personal repercussions too. As we first meet her, she is also meeting her new Sergeant, the greatly named DS Abernathy Blackstock. But just as the two of them are doing the meet and greet thing, she is called in to investigate Jean-Luc's suspected murder...
And so begins an interconnected and convoluted tale which had me running round chasing my tail as I tried to work out what in the heck was going on... With everything that was happening my head was literally spinning as I tried to work out who was what and whether I was rooting for the wrong person. I gave up in the end and just went with the flow and had a cracking time ooing and aahing as the author delivered shock after surprise all the way through to an ending that I didn't see coming at all... One which left me both wholly satisfied as well as reeling!
There are quite a lot of characters in this book but this is one of the things that this author really excels as so it is easy to get to know them and remember who they are. Whose side they are on is really another matter as you'll soon find out! Pacing is consistent and matches the narrative all the way through, mostly fast paced but with the odd slower part which well serves for reader respite.
Now, the only question left, after I finished this book is whether this is the last we will see of DI Cara Salt. I for one was quite sad to see her go and, with something that happened towards the end, I would love to reconnect with her in some way shape or form in the future. Could this even be the start of another series? I'm definitely up for that.
All in all, another winner to add to an already extremely impressive back catalogue. My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.
We begin with a news broadcast in which head of his on financial empire, Sebastian Pallander starts to behave a wee bit off. And then, live on air, he keels over and dies. His family are torn apart, not just from their loss, but also the way he treated them in his will. His oldest daughter, Tabitha, being ousted from her job within the company, having previously been favourite to replace him as head. Oldest son also losing the job he had worked hard at all these years. They and the three other siblings only given meagre payouts, considering his great wealth...
And then, youngest son, Jean-Luc is killed in weird circumstances. He appears to have possibly, inadvertently, blown himself up whilst placing a bomb during an activist outing. It's a bit of a blood bath, with body parts scattered asunder.
Meanwhile, we meet DI Cara Salt of the Succession, Inheritance, and Executory branch of Glasgow's serious crime squad (who knew, right). She has found herself there due to her shooting someone she shouldn't have. A situation that has more personal repercussions too. As we first meet her, she is also meeting her new Sergeant, the greatly named DS Abernathy Blackstock. But just as the two of them are doing the meet and greet thing, she is called in to investigate Jean-Luc's suspected murder...
And so begins an interconnected and convoluted tale which had me running round chasing my tail as I tried to work out what in the heck was going on... With everything that was happening my head was literally spinning as I tried to work out who was what and whether I was rooting for the wrong person. I gave up in the end and just went with the flow and had a cracking time ooing and aahing as the author delivered shock after surprise all the way through to an ending that I didn't see coming at all... One which left me both wholly satisfied as well as reeling!
There are quite a lot of characters in this book but this is one of the things that this author really excels as so it is easy to get to know them and remember who they are. Whose side they are on is really another matter as you'll soon find out! Pacing is consistent and matches the narrative all the way through, mostly fast paced but with the odd slower part which well serves for reader respite.
Now, the only question left, after I finished this book is whether this is the last we will see of DI Cara Salt. I for one was quite sad to see her go and, with something that happened towards the end, I would love to reconnect with her in some way shape or form in the future. Could this even be the start of another series? I'm definitely up for that.
All in all, another winner to add to an already extremely impressive back catalogue. My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.
June 20, 2024
The Pallander family are rich. A castle in the Scottish Highlands, a villa in Tuscany, an island in the Caribbean, a billion-dollar fortune, and everything they could possibly want. Their dream life is shattered when the head of the family Sebastian Pallander dies during an interview live on TV. The multimillionaire businessman was a hard man to please, but still the family are left in complete shock when during the reading of the will he removes his favourite child Tabitha from her role in the company, despite her being primed as the person to take over from him. He also removes his loved son Silus from his role in the company and leaves all his children a measly one million pounds each out of his immense fortune. The family are left reeling at Sebastian’s decisions, and questioning the veracity of the will. They are left further shocked when they learn that the eldest son has been found dead in very dramatic circumstances.
Given the situation, the police are sent to investigate. DI Cara Salt had not too long ago been sidelined to the Succession, Inheritance and Executory Department (SIE) after a misdemeanour on a case. With a new DS on her team - Abernethy Blackstock, a previously retired detective, just come back out of retirement, with an obsession for birdwatching - DI Salt is summoned to the Pallander family seat in Scotland to begin an investigation.
DI Salt is not quite sure why the SIE has been put on the case but is happy to be out of the office and back on a case. She quickly finds that all is not as it seems. Not just with the case, but with her DS, and many of the people around her. DI Salt has to get to the bottom of the two deaths quickly and determine if she has two murders on her hands before there are more.
This story had it all, money, drama, intrigue, action, suspense, romance, humour, and mystery. I loved DI Salt, she is very likeable, with a can-do, kick-ass attitude, that doesn’t take crap from anyone. Unbothered by the wealth around her on this case, and unafraid to ruffle feathers to get the case solved. Yet she still connects with people, understands them, and how to get a rapport which can help progress her investigation. She has the right level of cynicism for her position in life, with the trauma that has placed her where she is, and she is working through it well. I really enjoyed this book, even if some of the elements were a little far-fetched. I do read these crime novels to be transported into a make-believe world, so some of the more eyebrow-raising plot twists were just delightful when remembering, this is just entertainment. Entertained I was. I look forward to more from DI Salt!
*I received this book from NetGalley but all opinions are my own.
Given the situation, the police are sent to investigate. DI Cara Salt had not too long ago been sidelined to the Succession, Inheritance and Executory Department (SIE) after a misdemeanour on a case. With a new DS on her team - Abernethy Blackstock, a previously retired detective, just come back out of retirement, with an obsession for birdwatching - DI Salt is summoned to the Pallander family seat in Scotland to begin an investigation.
DI Salt is not quite sure why the SIE has been put on the case but is happy to be out of the office and back on a case. She quickly finds that all is not as it seems. Not just with the case, but with her DS, and many of the people around her. DI Salt has to get to the bottom of the two deaths quickly and determine if she has two murders on her hands before there are more.
This story had it all, money, drama, intrigue, action, suspense, romance, humour, and mystery. I loved DI Salt, she is very likeable, with a can-do, kick-ass attitude, that doesn’t take crap from anyone. Unbothered by the wealth around her on this case, and unafraid to ruffle feathers to get the case solved. Yet she still connects with people, understands them, and how to get a rapport which can help progress her investigation. She has the right level of cynicism for her position in life, with the trauma that has placed her where she is, and she is working through it well. I really enjoyed this book, even if some of the elements were a little far-fetched. I do read these crime novels to be transported into a make-believe world, so some of the more eyebrow-raising plot twists were just delightful when remembering, this is just entertainment. Entertained I was. I look forward to more from DI Salt!
*I received this book from NetGalley but all opinions are my own.
April 12, 2024
The wonderful Denzil Meyrick begins what might possibly be the start of a new series, featuring DI Cara Salt, who happens to be whiling away time quietly serving as the head of the Succession, Inheritance, Executory branch of Glasgow's Serious Crime Squad, after a problematic shooting incident. In Davos, billionaire Sebastian Pallander, CEO of hedge fund Pallandar Glossop, dies dramatically whilst being interviewed on TV. However, his will comes as a unwelcome shock to his privileged family, widow Elizabeth, and his 5 children, who had expected to inherit his vast fortune, instead they only get a paltry million pounds, whilst Tabitha feels pain on finding herself demoted in the business. What could possibly have driven his decision?
Salt's team has a new addition, DS Abernathy 'Abs' Blackstock, who it turns out has an aristocratic background. ACC Frank Dixon has them working below the radar on an ongoing investigation into Pallander's criminal activities, after the suspicious death of his eco-activist son, Jean-Luc. Could some sinister forces be targeting the children to get their hands on Pallander Glossop's funds? It certainly appears to be so, with an abduction and more, as fears for the other children raise the levels of tension and suspense, as efforts are made to ensure they all return to their exclusive, if isolated, extensive family estate. Cara and Abs end up living there too, as they endeavour to protect them. In the process, we are made privy to greater details of Cara's past, the shooting which saw the only person who mattered to her, Sorley, leaving the police force.
Meyrick writes with his trademark complex plotting, the creation of a wide ranging cast of characters, and humour, with twists and turns galore, and his compulsive storytelling that had me turning the pages as fast as possible as I raced to the end. There are surprises that come out of the blue, betrayals, and unprecedented levels of corruption and greed at play and concludes with perhaps what might be seen as a form of justice taking place, after Cara faces the gravest of danger, left on her own to face the forces of darkness descending on the estate. Whilst the DCI Jim Daley and DS Brian Scott series is my personal favourite, I look forward with great anticipation with whatever the author comes up with next! Many thanks to the publisher for an ARC.
Salt's team has a new addition, DS Abernathy 'Abs' Blackstock, who it turns out has an aristocratic background. ACC Frank Dixon has them working below the radar on an ongoing investigation into Pallander's criminal activities, after the suspicious death of his eco-activist son, Jean-Luc. Could some sinister forces be targeting the children to get their hands on Pallander Glossop's funds? It certainly appears to be so, with an abduction and more, as fears for the other children raise the levels of tension and suspense, as efforts are made to ensure they all return to their exclusive, if isolated, extensive family estate. Cara and Abs end up living there too, as they endeavour to protect them. In the process, we are made privy to greater details of Cara's past, the shooting which saw the only person who mattered to her, Sorley, leaving the police force.
Meyrick writes with his trademark complex plotting, the creation of a wide ranging cast of characters, and humour, with twists and turns galore, and his compulsive storytelling that had me turning the pages as fast as possible as I raced to the end. There are surprises that come out of the blue, betrayals, and unprecedented levels of corruption and greed at play and concludes with perhaps what might be seen as a form of justice taking place, after Cara faces the gravest of danger, left on her own to face the forces of darkness descending on the estate. Whilst the DCI Jim Daley and DS Brian Scott series is my personal favourite, I look forward with great anticipation with whatever the author comes up with next! Many thanks to the publisher for an ARC.
March 27, 2024
The Estate by Denzil Mayrick is a gripping read full of mystery and adventures.
The book starts, with the sudden death of a hedge fund manager, Sebastian Pallander, on live tv, it then takes us to an out of the way office of a small police department Succession, Inheritance and Executory (SIE) where the disgraced, or certainly “hidden”, DI Cara Salt, meets her new DS, Abernethy Blackstock.
After a slow build up, the excitement begins when Pallander’s eco warrior son gets blown up in what is likely to be a nasty accident. Salt is called to attend the scene and then sent to the Pallander’s stately home to impart details of the investigation. SIE’s involvement wouldn’t usually be required and it is all very cloak and dagger. Things are not what they seem and are about to get more mysterious and perilous for DI Salt as kidnapping, murder and mayhem ensue.
The Pallander clan are not likable characters. Salt herself holds her own secrets and is initially a very hard shell to crack. Once in situ at the Pallander’s home though things begin to get far more interesting. I like to be able to understand if not like, characters in a book and each member of the Pallander clan was intriguing. Each had their reasons, selfish or otherwise, for being unlikable and for some, hints of true kindness and empathy are displayed. As the story develops so did my interest in DI Salt and her backstory. I love the complexity of the characterisation in the book where every turn of the page unwraps layers, answering some of the questions or reservations I had about each one.
I usually stick to “cosy” crime and have never been a fan of police procedurals, traditional crime or thrillers. However once I got into this book, I was gripped by all the action and loved the mysteries held within the pages. I do enjoy a good car chase on tv and it turns out it is no different on paper! I know that if DI Salt has more adventures in the future I will there to join her.
May 10, 2024
The story begins with the dramatic death of billionaire Sebastian Pallender live on TV as he is being interviewed at Davos. However, when the will is read Sebastian's family discover that they will not receive the wealth and power which they expected. The family are left in shock as they can't understand why they have been treated in this way. Shortly afterwards, Sebastian's eldest son dies in mysterious circumstances. The police are drafted in to look in to the mysterious circumstances surrounding the will, cue the introduction on DI Cara Salt who has been holed up in a backwater of Police Scotland investigating inheritance frauds following a previous incident. The hierarchy task her with looking in to what is unfolding at the Pallender family home in the wilds of the Highlands. She is paired up with the straightlaced, bird enthusiast DS Abernathy Blackstock and before long they suspect that the beneficiaries of the will are at risk. There is a great interplay between the two officers who come from very different social backgrounds but must work together to unravel why the Pallender family are at risk.
This was a brilliant read with an interesting and fast-paced story with a likeable and plucky heroine in DI Salt. There are lots of twists and turns as the story unfolds and the action moves between different locations and different characters. Like Meyrick's other series, there are also laughs and some dark humour and of course most of the action takes place in Scotland. In particular, the isolation of the family estate in the Highlands added to the drama of the story as malevolent forces pick off the victims who are trapped awaiting their fate. I hope that this will be the first in a new series as Cara Salt has more to offer. Many thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC.
This was a brilliant read with an interesting and fast-paced story with a likeable and plucky heroine in DI Salt. There are lots of twists and turns as the story unfolds and the action moves between different locations and different characters. Like Meyrick's other series, there are also laughs and some dark humour and of course most of the action takes place in Scotland. In particular, the isolation of the family estate in the Highlands added to the drama of the story as malevolent forces pick off the victims who are trapped awaiting their fate. I hope that this will be the first in a new series as Cara Salt has more to offer. Many thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC.
February 11, 2025
Denzil Meyrick’s The Estate is a solid, well-paced crime thriller, but one that never quite pushes beyond the familiar. Set against the brooding backdrop of Scotland, it offers financial crime, conspiracy, and a tangled web of betrayal—but while the ingredients are there, the result feels like a standard entry into the genre rather than something truly memorable.
The novel kicks off with a high-profile death: billionaire hedge fund CEO Sebastian Pallander collapses mid-TV interview, sending shockwaves through his family and the financial world. What follows is a mess of inheritance disputes, corporate manoeuvring, and deadly stakes, with DI Cara Salt and her new partner DS Abernathy Blackstock attempting to keep the Pallander heirs alive. As expected, corruption seeps into the investigation at every turn, and no one—inside or outside the family—is above suspicion.
Meyrick knows how to set a scene, and his Scottish locations add an atmospheric, almost cinematic quality to the narrative. The tension builds nicely, with enough twists to keep the pages turning. But while the plot delivers, the characters often feel like they’ve been plucked from a crime fiction template—hard-nosed detectives with troubled pasts, wealthy schemers, and morally grey figures lurking at the edges. There’s a distinct “classic male crime novel” energy to the storytelling, which may appeal to genre purists but left me wanting more depth, more nuance.
That being said, The Estate is undeniably entertaining. It’s a competent, engaging thriller that does exactly what it sets out to do—nothing less, but also nothing more. If you’re after a crime novel that ticks all the right boxes but doesn’t necessarily reinvent the wheel, this one’s a solid choice.
3/5
The novel kicks off with a high-profile death: billionaire hedge fund CEO Sebastian Pallander collapses mid-TV interview, sending shockwaves through his family and the financial world. What follows is a mess of inheritance disputes, corporate manoeuvring, and deadly stakes, with DI Cara Salt and her new partner DS Abernathy Blackstock attempting to keep the Pallander heirs alive. As expected, corruption seeps into the investigation at every turn, and no one—inside or outside the family—is above suspicion.
Meyrick knows how to set a scene, and his Scottish locations add an atmospheric, almost cinematic quality to the narrative. The tension builds nicely, with enough twists to keep the pages turning. But while the plot delivers, the characters often feel like they’ve been plucked from a crime fiction template—hard-nosed detectives with troubled pasts, wealthy schemers, and morally grey figures lurking at the edges. There’s a distinct “classic male crime novel” energy to the storytelling, which may appeal to genre purists but left me wanting more depth, more nuance.
That being said, The Estate is undeniably entertaining. It’s a competent, engaging thriller that does exactly what it sets out to do—nothing less, but also nothing more. If you’re after a crime novel that ticks all the right boxes but doesn’t necessarily reinvent the wheel, this one’s a solid choice.
3/5
May 8, 2024
4.5⭐
The Estate is my first introduction to Denzil Meyrick and after reading it, it certainly won't be my last!!
As this was such a cracking thriller. That easily pulled me in and kept me reading.
As Sebastian Pollander CEO of hedge fund Pollander Glossop dies dramatically whilst being interviewed on live TV. In Davos, Switzerland. And his wife Elizabeth and five children all expect to inherit heavily. After all, Sebastian was a multi-billionaire.
Only the will throws up some interesting reading and information including the demotion of the daughter and CFO of the company Tabitha. And when one of the children is later murdered. It becomes clear the will and inheritance are at the heart of it.
So it's up to DI Cora Salt. Who after an unfortunate incident finds herself heading up the Succession, Inheritance and Executory department of the Serious Crime Squad to investigate.
But luckily for Cora she's not alone. As she has help in the form of layered DS Abernathy Blackstock. Who Cora nicknames Abs.
And it soon becomes clear Cora is going to need all the help she can get. Especially as she has to deal with an ex-cop who she has a very spiky relationship with.
And with great characters, not all of whom are likable. An intricately plotted storyline. That's full of twists and turns and great humour. As well as an ending I didn't see coming. This was a story that truly shined and I would happily recommend it to all.
My thanks to Random House and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an early copy of The Estate. ☺️
The Estate is my first introduction to Denzil Meyrick and after reading it, it certainly won't be my last!!
As this was such a cracking thriller. That easily pulled me in and kept me reading.
As Sebastian Pollander CEO of hedge fund Pollander Glossop dies dramatically whilst being interviewed on live TV. In Davos, Switzerland. And his wife Elizabeth and five children all expect to inherit heavily. After all, Sebastian was a multi-billionaire.
Only the will throws up some interesting reading and information including the demotion of the daughter and CFO of the company Tabitha. And when one of the children is later murdered. It becomes clear the will and inheritance are at the heart of it.
So it's up to DI Cora Salt. Who after an unfortunate incident finds herself heading up the Succession, Inheritance and Executory department of the Serious Crime Squad to investigate.
But luckily for Cora she's not alone. As she has help in the form of layered DS Abernathy Blackstock. Who Cora nicknames Abs.
And it soon becomes clear Cora is going to need all the help she can get. Especially as she has to deal with an ex-cop who she has a very spiky relationship with.
And with great characters, not all of whom are likable. An intricately plotted storyline. That's full of twists and turns and great humour. As well as an ending I didn't see coming. This was a story that truly shined and I would happily recommend it to all.
My thanks to Random House and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an early copy of The Estate. ☺️
August 4, 2024
Knives Out meets The Sopranos in Denzil Meyrick’s exhilarating new thriller, The Estate.
The Pallanders are a wealthy family who are rich beyond most people’s dreams. With properties all over the world and their every whim and desire catered for, the Pallanders thought they would spend the rest of their lives living in the lap of luxury – until the Aubusson rug was well and truly pulled out from under their feet when Sebastian Pallander died and left a pitiful sum of money to his wife and children. What could have possibly possessed Sebastian to do such a thing? Was he in his right mind? Or could there have been a twisted and nefarious reason behind his decision to leave his family with almost nothing?
As the Pallanders fight over the scraps, old rivalries and twisted jealousies rise to the surface, however, when Sebastian’s son is killed in mysterious circumstances, everyone suspects foul play. As the rest of the clan begin to wonder who will be next, will the killer strike again and will they will ever see Sebastian Pallander’s money ever again?
Denzil Meyrick’s The Estate is a rip-roaring thriller packed with red herrings, wry humour and nail-biting tension that once you start reading, you will not want to put down. Denzil Meyrick’s name on a book cover is a surefire guarantee of a good read and he pulls out all the stops with his fantastic new thriller, The Estate.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The Pallanders are a wealthy family who are rich beyond most people’s dreams. With properties all over the world and their every whim and desire catered for, the Pallanders thought they would spend the rest of their lives living in the lap of luxury – until the Aubusson rug was well and truly pulled out from under their feet when Sebastian Pallander died and left a pitiful sum of money to his wife and children. What could have possibly possessed Sebastian to do such a thing? Was he in his right mind? Or could there have been a twisted and nefarious reason behind his decision to leave his family with almost nothing?
As the Pallanders fight over the scraps, old rivalries and twisted jealousies rise to the surface, however, when Sebastian’s son is killed in mysterious circumstances, everyone suspects foul play. As the rest of the clan begin to wonder who will be next, will the killer strike again and will they will ever see Sebastian Pallander’s money ever again?
Denzil Meyrick’s The Estate is a rip-roaring thriller packed with red herrings, wry humour and nail-biting tension that once you start reading, you will not want to put down. Denzil Meyrick’s name on a book cover is a surefire guarantee of a good read and he pulls out all the stops with his fantastic new thriller, The Estate.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 8, 2024
I don’t know how this author has passed me by but I’m definitely going to rectify that. This was such a good read, I didn’t want to put it down. Billionaire Sebastian Pallander is head of Pallander Glossop, one of the largest hedge funds in Europe and also, amongst other things, owner of a substantial estate in Scotland. He is being interviewed on TV when he suddenly collapses and dies. Shocked but undaunted his family meet at their castle estate for the reading of his will. There is one almighty bombshell coming their way! A plethora of unlikeable, in the main, but believable characters all written so well.
Briefly, DI Cara Salt, working for the Succession, Inheritance and Executory (SIE) police unit in Glasgow, is responsible for dealing with those who refused to adhere to the lawful terms and wishes of wills. After meeting her new DS, Abernethy Blackstock, she is called in by her boss and told to investigate the Estate of Pallander as he was the subject of investigation by the Major Crimes unit.
Welcome to a world of financial skullduggery and murder where money is literally the root of all evil. Salt finds herself pitched into the maelstrom of the family’s finances and relationships as she ends up trying to prevent murder! A fast paced thriller with twists abounding and where it proves impossible who to know to trust. A fairly fast paced and exciting read and I’m hoping to see DI Cara Salt again.
Briefly, DI Cara Salt, working for the Succession, Inheritance and Executory (SIE) police unit in Glasgow, is responsible for dealing with those who refused to adhere to the lawful terms and wishes of wills. After meeting her new DS, Abernethy Blackstock, she is called in by her boss and told to investigate the Estate of Pallander as he was the subject of investigation by the Major Crimes unit.
Welcome to a world of financial skullduggery and murder where money is literally the root of all evil. Salt finds herself pitched into the maelstrom of the family’s finances and relationships as she ends up trying to prevent murder! A fast paced thriller with twists abounding and where it proves impossible who to know to trust. A fairly fast paced and exciting read and I’m hoping to see DI Cara Salt again.
May 16, 2024
When Sebastian Pallander dies during an interview on live TV, the multimillionaire businessman's family are left reeling when during the reading of the will, he's stripped his 'favourite child' Tabitha and son Silus of their roles in his company and left his children a mere 1 million pounds each. The family are left in shock and can't understand why all these strange specifics were left Sebastian's will.
When one of his sons is killed in suspicious circumstances, DI Cara Salt a police detective who was sent to Succession, Inheritance and Executory Department (SIE) after a misdemeanour of her own is sent to investigate. She has with her DS Abernethy Blackstock - a retired detective who has come back from retirement and has been seconded to Cara's team. Along with her bird-watching DS, she starts to discover not all is what it seems, and after two deaths in the same family occurring, it could mean that any one of the others could be next. As people start to show their true colours, and secrets bubble to the surface, it's up to DI Salt to find out exactly what's going on and save the lives of the rest of the family, but money is a weapon of its own, and it seems anyone could be willing to risk everything for it.
I really enjoyed this! I was immediately drawn in to the story and felt myself wanting to read on to discover what was going to happen next. The main characters (especially Abernethy!) were brilliantly written, and I enjoyed seeing the layers peeling away from them like an onion as the story unfolded. This book has everything, mystery, suspense, humour, a bit of romance and loads of surprises! The biggest shock and surprise that I didn't see coming was right at the end! Brilliant!
Thank you so much for letting me read it, excellent storyline, brilliant characters and superbly written!
When one of his sons is killed in suspicious circumstances, DI Cara Salt a police detective who was sent to Succession, Inheritance and Executory Department (SIE) after a misdemeanour of her own is sent to investigate. She has with her DS Abernethy Blackstock - a retired detective who has come back from retirement and has been seconded to Cara's team. Along with her bird-watching DS, she starts to discover not all is what it seems, and after two deaths in the same family occurring, it could mean that any one of the others could be next. As people start to show their true colours, and secrets bubble to the surface, it's up to DI Salt to find out exactly what's going on and save the lives of the rest of the family, but money is a weapon of its own, and it seems anyone could be willing to risk everything for it.
I really enjoyed this! I was immediately drawn in to the story and felt myself wanting to read on to discover what was going to happen next. The main characters (especially Abernethy!) were brilliantly written, and I enjoyed seeing the layers peeling away from them like an onion as the story unfolded. This book has everything, mystery, suspense, humour, a bit of romance and loads of surprises! The biggest shock and surprise that I didn't see coming was right at the end! Brilliant!
Thank you so much for letting me read it, excellent storyline, brilliant characters and superbly written!
July 29, 2025
4+ Stars!
I very much enjoyed reading this mystery thriller, set in Scotland, with a troubled but feisty Detective Inspector (DI) Cara Salt and a crop of mostly spoiled adult children of a shrewd financial investor, Sebastian Pallander.
The book starts with Sebastian's death during a live interview. While the family is still grieving and feeling betrayed by their father leaving only one million pounds per member, one of the children dies.
Cara Salt is asked to investigate the death, which leads her to meet the rest of the family. She is accompanied by her newly appointed assistant, who comes from the upper class. Their investigation is being kept quiet since, according to her boss. There are people in high places in the government concealing information. In fact, the entire operation is undercover.
Then, the oldest son is abducted, and the oldest daughter is rescued during the kidnap attempt but whisked off to a hotel in London. And the action does not stop until the very end.
As Cara digs deeper into these events, we learn her backstory: of a father who didn’t want her to be a police person; of a previous lover she accidentally shot while shooting his assailant.
FB. An unpretentious book which I thoroughly enjoyed, with a sympathetic, if at times off-putting lead, with many twists, betrayals, near-death and death experiences. Fun!
I very much enjoyed reading this mystery thriller, set in Scotland, with a troubled but feisty Detective Inspector (DI) Cara Salt and a crop of mostly spoiled adult children of a shrewd financial investor, Sebastian Pallander.
The book starts with Sebastian's death during a live interview. While the family is still grieving and feeling betrayed by their father leaving only one million pounds per member, one of the children dies.
Cara Salt is asked to investigate the death, which leads her to meet the rest of the family. She is accompanied by her newly appointed assistant, who comes from the upper class. Their investigation is being kept quiet since, according to her boss. There are people in high places in the government concealing information. In fact, the entire operation is undercover.
Then, the oldest son is abducted, and the oldest daughter is rescued during the kidnap attempt but whisked off to a hotel in London. And the action does not stop until the very end.
As Cara digs deeper into these events, we learn her backstory: of a father who didn’t want her to be a police person; of a previous lover she accidentally shot while shooting his assailant.
FB. An unpretentious book which I thoroughly enjoyed, with a sympathetic, if at times off-putting lead, with many twists, betrayals, near-death and death experiences. Fun!
May 17, 2024
I’m finding this book quite difficult to review as for my taste in what I read this has some poor elements as well as some very good ones. I will mention both but it’s difficult to decide how many stars to give especially as it was very nearly a DNF.
The bad: I found the first quarter to third of this book very pedestrian, there seemed to be nothing much happening that was feeding the adrenaline junkie reader that I am, that did change however but the very predictable final reveal of who was behind the events and seemingly unfinished business, personally, between Cara and Sorley made the ending feel a little rushed and flat.
The good: Once the action started it was engaging, exciting and made the pages turn fast! I had no regrets about not DNF’ing this book as the action sequences were different and fired my imagination. This author has a great way of conveying his descriptions to his audience, all the scenes were easy to picture in my mind as they had been so well described to me, the mental imagery while reading this book flowed easily and this is due to the writers skill in his narrative also.
This is purely my opinion and I do know quite a few friends really enjoy this author which is why I read this book, my first by him, his style just maybe isn’t for me.
The bad: I found the first quarter to third of this book very pedestrian, there seemed to be nothing much happening that was feeding the adrenaline junkie reader that I am, that did change however but the very predictable final reveal of who was behind the events and seemingly unfinished business, personally, between Cara and Sorley made the ending feel a little rushed and flat.
The good: Once the action started it was engaging, exciting and made the pages turn fast! I had no regrets about not DNF’ing this book as the action sequences were different and fired my imagination. This author has a great way of conveying his descriptions to his audience, all the scenes were easy to picture in my mind as they had been so well described to me, the mental imagery while reading this book flowed easily and this is due to the writers skill in his narrative also.
This is purely my opinion and I do know quite a few friends really enjoy this author which is why I read this book, my first by him, his style just maybe isn’t for me.
February 28, 2024
My Review….
Thank you so so much to Denzil and Bantam Books for my proof copy of The Estate.
The book opens with famous Sebastian Pallander suddenly dying, live on air. One of the worlds richest families has lost is head, children have lost a father and a wife has lost a husband. However when the will gets read out and the family find out that they have been left hardly anything of his wealth, it starts a chain of events that lead to a climatic ending. Including murder and abduction, the Pallander’s are being targeted by someone, but who?
As always with Denzil Meyrick, the observations of the different characters and how they interact is written with mastery and ease. There are a large cast in The Estate , the Pallander family and also our lead Police Officer in the is Detective Inspector Cara Salt, who gets pulled into helping find out what is going on. This is a corporate thriller of the highest order, with an amazing attention to details of the business that the Pallanders own. It is a taut and slick thriller that grips you by the throat and doesn’t let you go until you’ve read the last page!
It has some of Denzils usually Scottish Humour which I love, and is an intricately plotted thriller. I really liked DI Cara Salt, she’s a kick ass cop and I’d like to hear more stories with her in.
I was totally invested into the plot line and didn’t guess the outcome until it was revealed, and it is a great ending!
Another fantastic 5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ star novel, written by an author on the top of his game. Denzil Meyrick can do no wrong!
Thank you so so much to Denzil and Bantam Books for my proof copy of The Estate.
The book opens with famous Sebastian Pallander suddenly dying, live on air. One of the worlds richest families has lost is head, children have lost a father and a wife has lost a husband. However when the will gets read out and the family find out that they have been left hardly anything of his wealth, it starts a chain of events that lead to a climatic ending. Including murder and abduction, the Pallander’s are being targeted by someone, but who?
As always with Denzil Meyrick, the observations of the different characters and how they interact is written with mastery and ease. There are a large cast in The Estate , the Pallander family and also our lead Police Officer in the is Detective Inspector Cara Salt, who gets pulled into helping find out what is going on. This is a corporate thriller of the highest order, with an amazing attention to details of the business that the Pallanders own. It is a taut and slick thriller that grips you by the throat and doesn’t let you go until you’ve read the last page!
It has some of Denzils usually Scottish Humour which I love, and is an intricately plotted thriller. I really liked DI Cara Salt, she’s a kick ass cop and I’d like to hear more stories with her in.
I was totally invested into the plot line and didn’t guess the outcome until it was revealed, and it is a great ending!
Another fantastic 5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ star novel, written by an author on the top of his game. Denzil Meyrick can do no wrong!
May 23, 2024
I liked the writing style and the plot is so engaging. The characters are mysterious. Character development is good. The twists were unpredictable. This is a kind of book where you cannot predict the characters real motives. The book will keep you guessing till the end.
There is a billion dollar estate and like every family, Pallanders also have a secret. There is no doubt the family is mega-rich. They have a billion dollar fortune. But everything turns upside down when Sebastien dies and the question remains of the inheritance. But unthinkable things continued to happen.And with the stroke of luck, his death brings everyone’s lives at stake. Unthinkable things happens with Jean and Tabitha. The killer is still not yet found. Anyone could be after the family wealth or there are conflicts in the family which led to misfortunes? The revelation at the end was shocking. Twists and turns along with secrets and mystery will keep you on the edge. Go for it, If you like insightful and intriguing police procedural and mysterious characters. This is a crime thriller and loved the backdrop of mega-rich wealthy family.
Thanks to the Publisher and Author
There is a billion dollar estate and like every family, Pallanders also have a secret. There is no doubt the family is mega-rich. They have a billion dollar fortune. But everything turns upside down when Sebastien dies and the question remains of the inheritance. But unthinkable things continued to happen.And with the stroke of luck, his death brings everyone’s lives at stake. Unthinkable things happens with Jean and Tabitha. The killer is still not yet found. Anyone could be after the family wealth or there are conflicts in the family which led to misfortunes? The revelation at the end was shocking. Twists and turns along with secrets and mystery will keep you on the edge. Go for it, If you like insightful and intriguing police procedural and mysterious characters. This is a crime thriller and loved the backdrop of mega-rich wealthy family.
Thanks to the Publisher and Author
October 13, 2024
I would like to thank Netgalley and Random House UK, Transworld Publishers for a review copy of The Estate, a stand-alone featuring DI Cara Salt set mostly in Perthshire, Scotland.
I enjoyed The Estate, which is a rollicking thriller with plenty of twists and turns and a dash of Glaswegian humour to keep it real, because the author makes no attempt at realism in the plot. It is a fun read and I imagine that the author enjoyed himself when devising it.
The big twists come towards the end of the novel and the author does a good job in misdirecting the reader so that they come as a surprise. I don’t think I guessed any of the big elements and there are some crackers. There is just enough information and plot developments throughout the novel to keep the reader engrossed and turning the pages. It’s inventive and fun, although not particularly tense as there is always a sense that the good guys will survive, if not prosper.
I like Cara Salt, who seems like a real person, not perfect and with some dodgy decisions in her past, but smart and dedicated.
The Estate is a good read that I have no hesitation in recommending.
I enjoyed The Estate, which is a rollicking thriller with plenty of twists and turns and a dash of Glaswegian humour to keep it real, because the author makes no attempt at realism in the plot. It is a fun read and I imagine that the author enjoyed himself when devising it.
The big twists come towards the end of the novel and the author does a good job in misdirecting the reader so that they come as a surprise. I don’t think I guessed any of the big elements and there are some crackers. There is just enough information and plot developments throughout the novel to keep the reader engrossed and turning the pages. It’s inventive and fun, although not particularly tense as there is always a sense that the good guys will survive, if not prosper.
I like Cara Salt, who seems like a real person, not perfect and with some dodgy decisions in her past, but smart and dedicated.
The Estate is a good read that I have no hesitation in recommending.
March 6, 2024
Denzil Meyrick’s ‘The Estate’ tells of the sudden death of dodgy financier Sebastian Pallander,resulting in potentially dire consequences for his wife, family and business associates.As a result of this, somewhat reluctant investigative partners DCI Salt and DS Blackstock are tasked with trying to untangle the web of intrigue and prevent the likely murderous intention of hidden foes,with their not so subtle threats.
This new story from the author of the excellent Kinloch based detective series which was led by DCI Daley, introduces a new police lead duo and fresh settings for a fast moving intriguing tale.It makes for an exciting whodunnit style adventure,between trying to figure out who the shady figures really are and just what is their motivation.
The action moves along at a brisk entertaining pace that grabs the attention of the reader and makes the book difficult to put down.
I had looked forward to reading this for some time and am very pleased for the opportunity to have read a preview copy.Hopefully some of the characters will return for more similar episodes.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This new story from the author of the excellent Kinloch based detective series which was led by DCI Daley, introduces a new police lead duo and fresh settings for a fast moving intriguing tale.It makes for an exciting whodunnit style adventure,between trying to figure out who the shady figures really are and just what is their motivation.
The action moves along at a brisk entertaining pace that grabs the attention of the reader and makes the book difficult to put down.
I had looked forward to reading this for some time and am very pleased for the opportunity to have read a preview copy.Hopefully some of the characters will return for more similar episodes.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
April 21, 2024
Crime thriller fans who enjoy multiple POVs, flawed characters and inheritance drama will want to get their hands on this one.
It follows the privileged Pallander family who have grown rich by suspicious means, and the life-threatening repercussions of their patriarch’s will. It also follows Detective Inspector Cara Salt, who has lost a lot in life but never her determination to do the right thing.
All of the characters are memorable, though many are unlikeable, and the mystery is complex and well-crafted, leading you to form multiple theories and suspect lots of different people. The various antagonists have darkly realistic motivations such as greed, selfishness, revenge and classism, and this, along with the modern-day setting (against the backdrop of the Russia-Ukraine conflict), makes it somewhat scarily/uncomfortably believable.
I found some parts of the story fast-paced and hard to put down and others a fair bit slower, but overall this was another compelling and clever read by Denzil Meyrick.
Thank you to Bantam Books for my copy in exchange for an honest review.
It follows the privileged Pallander family who have grown rich by suspicious means, and the life-threatening repercussions of their patriarch’s will. It also follows Detective Inspector Cara Salt, who has lost a lot in life but never her determination to do the right thing.
All of the characters are memorable, though many are unlikeable, and the mystery is complex and well-crafted, leading you to form multiple theories and suspect lots of different people. The various antagonists have darkly realistic motivations such as greed, selfishness, revenge and classism, and this, along with the modern-day setting (against the backdrop of the Russia-Ukraine conflict), makes it somewhat scarily/uncomfortably believable.
I found some parts of the story fast-paced and hard to put down and others a fair bit slower, but overall this was another compelling and clever read by Denzil Meyrick.
Thank you to Bantam Books for my copy in exchange for an honest review.
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