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Kinloch Tales #1
A Large Measure of Snow: A Tale from Kinloch
It's December 1967, and the town of Kinloch is cut off by heavy snow. With all roads closed, the only way to feed and water the townsfolk is for the fishing fleet to sail to Girvan for much needed supplies.
But the skipper of the Girl Maggie, Sandy Hoynes, has a problem. First mate Hamish has, to everyone's astonishment, been chosen as Young Fisherman of the Year by a Glasgow newspaper. Marooned in the town and with one eye on a scoop, their reporter decides to join the fishing crew on their mercy mission. The thought of the publicity - and some remuneration - delights Hoynes. But Hamish hasn't told him the whole story.
As the blizzards worsen, the crew of the Girl Maggie embark upon a trip like no other, encountering ghostly Vikings, gigantic crustaceans and a helpful seagull.
But the skipper of the Girl Maggie, Sandy Hoynes, has a problem. First mate Hamish has, to everyone's astonishment, been chosen as Young Fisherman of the Year by a Glasgow newspaper. Marooned in the town and with one eye on a scoop, their reporter decides to join the fishing crew on their mercy mission. The thought of the publicity - and some remuneration - delights Hoynes. But Hamish hasn't told him the whole story.
As the blizzards worsen, the crew of the Girl Maggie embark upon a trip like no other, encountering ghostly Vikings, gigantic crustaceans and a helpful seagull.
133 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 1, 2020
29 people are currently reading
280 people want to read
About the author
Denzil Meyrick
37 books529 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 73 reviews
January 14, 2021
Denzil Meyrick returns us to the fishing town of Kinloch in December 1967 in this short story, a town experiencing driving snow that has blocked all the roads, and with food and drink running low, the fishing fleet has been charged with bringing in supplies. Reprobate and experienced seaman Sandy Hoynton and his first mate, Hamish, plan to sail in his boat, Girl Maggie. Sandy has agreed to take a ambitious Glasgow Times reporter, who sees the prospect of a exclusive, after a financial incentive but once he realises who the reporter is, he is not a happy man. However, the reporter proves to be stubborn and refuses to leave the boat. As they set off on a perilous journey, none of them have any idea of the challenges set to come their way.
Conditions worsen considerably with heavy snow blizzards, leaving the townfolk of Kinloch worried and praying for the lives of their fishermen, whilst old seadogs banter and spin yarns at the County Hotel. The intrepid Sandy and Hamish experience hallucinations, giant lobsters, coming to understand there are more things in heaven and earth than they could ever have imagined as they come under the ancient protection that is the soul of Kinloch. This is a terrifically entertaining sea adventure peppered with Meyrick's trademark sense of humour, involving the cast of offbeat characters that inhabit Kinloch who have much to say and discuss when it comes to the swinging sixties, the so called permissive society, drugs and music. Fans of Meyrick's DCI Daley series will love this, and hopefully new readers will try this too.
Conditions worsen considerably with heavy snow blizzards, leaving the townfolk of Kinloch worried and praying for the lives of their fishermen, whilst old seadogs banter and spin yarns at the County Hotel. The intrepid Sandy and Hamish experience hallucinations, giant lobsters, coming to understand there are more things in heaven and earth than they could ever have imagined as they come under the ancient protection that is the soul of Kinloch. This is a terrifically entertaining sea adventure peppered with Meyrick's trademark sense of humour, involving the cast of offbeat characters that inhabit Kinloch who have much to say and discuss when it comes to the swinging sixties, the so called permissive society, drugs and music. Fans of Meyrick's DCI Daley series will love this, and hopefully new readers will try this too.
September 24, 2020
Having not read anything by Scottish author Denzil Meyrick but owning a couple of his main DCI Daley series, I was very much looking forward to reading this novel (which can be read as a stand-alone), set in the fictional town of Kinloch in 1967.
Kinloch is experiencing one of its worst snow fall, with blizzards and heavy snow causing the roads into its town to be cut off. The only way to keep the townsfolk fed and watered, is for the fishing fleet to sail to Girvan for much needed supplies. However, Sandy Hoynes, skipper of the ‘Girl Maggie’ has a dilemma. His first mate Hamish, after being awarded Young Fisherman of the Year by a Glasgow newspaper, has brought their keen reporter to join the fishing crew on its mercy mission. Sandy is tempted by the payment involved and the potential publicity but what he doesn’t know, is who the reporter is. As the weather worsens, the crew embark on a ‘trip’ like they’ve never experienced before, involving a giant lobster and a Viking lord.
What I loved so much about this story was the good natured humour between the characters, such funny dialogue and with the Scottish accent highlighting the quirky conversations, I found myself totally immersed in the narrative and happily smiling at the story. The time setting of 1967 was perfect, small shipping technology was only just taking off and a rural harbour town, not in keeping with the big city of Glasgow, was the ideal place for superstitions and the way of the fisherman set in their routines.
Sandy Hoynes made a fabulous skipper and his experiences during the mercy mission is a one that will stay with me for a long time. I may never look at a lobster again in the same way!
With an atmospheric prologue that has you literally flying the skies, you can’t help but fall in love with the story and if you enjoy Scottish themes and Highland adventures, I guarantee you’ll enjoy “A Large Measure of Snow - A Tale from Kinloch”. I am now aiming to start the author’s main series from book one as soon as possible.
5 easy stars for a fabulous read!
Kinloch is experiencing one of its worst snow fall, with blizzards and heavy snow causing the roads into its town to be cut off. The only way to keep the townsfolk fed and watered, is for the fishing fleet to sail to Girvan for much needed supplies. However, Sandy Hoynes, skipper of the ‘Girl Maggie’ has a dilemma. His first mate Hamish, after being awarded Young Fisherman of the Year by a Glasgow newspaper, has brought their keen reporter to join the fishing crew on its mercy mission. Sandy is tempted by the payment involved and the potential publicity but what he doesn’t know, is who the reporter is. As the weather worsens, the crew embark on a ‘trip’ like they’ve never experienced before, involving a giant lobster and a Viking lord.
What I loved so much about this story was the good natured humour between the characters, such funny dialogue and with the Scottish accent highlighting the quirky conversations, I found myself totally immersed in the narrative and happily smiling at the story. The time setting of 1967 was perfect, small shipping technology was only just taking off and a rural harbour town, not in keeping with the big city of Glasgow, was the ideal place for superstitions and the way of the fisherman set in their routines.
Sandy Hoynes made a fabulous skipper and his experiences during the mercy mission is a one that will stay with me for a long time. I may never look at a lobster again in the same way!
With an atmospheric prologue that has you literally flying the skies, you can’t help but fall in love with the story and if you enjoy Scottish themes and Highland adventures, I guarantee you’ll enjoy “A Large Measure of Snow - A Tale from Kinloch”. I am now aiming to start the author’s main series from book one as soon as possible.
5 easy stars for a fabulous read!
July 16, 2023
I’ve not read anything by this author before, but this seemed like a pleasant novella-length story to start with. And it was.
The tale is a bit odd. Set in 1960s Scotland, during a snow storm which cuts off the town’s supplies, a local fishing boat sets sail with a journalist on board to fetch food and drink. It’s then a mixture of local humour and possibly the supernatural, but if I say more, then I’ll be giving out spoilers. There isn’t really a point to anything that happens, it’s just a gentle story to pass the time.
If you enjoyed Alexander McCall Smith’s, ‘44 Scotland Street’ series of books, then you’ll probably enjoy this too.
The tale is a bit odd. Set in 1960s Scotland, during a snow storm which cuts off the town’s supplies, a local fishing boat sets sail with a journalist on board to fetch food and drink. It’s then a mixture of local humour and possibly the supernatural, but if I say more, then I’ll be giving out spoilers. There isn’t really a point to anything that happens, it’s just a gentle story to pass the time.
If you enjoyed Alexander McCall Smith’s, ‘44 Scotland Street’ series of books, then you’ll probably enjoy this too.
September 27, 2021
Do you need a good laugh? Get this book. I can't recall any book of recent times that has made me laugh this hard....and I do mean screaming in laughter!
Scots/townspeople from seafaring roots/newspaper lass who wishes to write up heroic story of sea captain going across the water to gain needed essentials for snowbound residents of Kinloch/barstool regulars and their commentary/governing characters of the town/BBC getting in on the news front and a life-saving encounter with a Viking. Hugely funny!
...and a new author for me to follow.
Scots/townspeople from seafaring roots/newspaper lass who wishes to write up heroic story of sea captain going across the water to gain needed essentials for snowbound residents of Kinloch/barstool regulars and their commentary/governing characters of the town/BBC getting in on the news front and a life-saving encounter with a Viking. Hugely funny!
...and a new author for me to follow.
October 18, 2020
I had been patiently waiting for this novella to be published and I was rewarded for my patience by being highly entertained. It’s a real laugh out loud tonic, just what I was needing right now. Set in 1967, Kinloch is cut off by an unrelenting snowstorm. The roads are impassable. The fishing fleet are encouraged to set sail for the mainland to collect supplies. The ‘Girl Maggie’, with Sandy Hoynes, the skipper, and a young Hamish on board as well as another unwelcome passenger have an unforgettable trip. The dialogue between the two is hilarious and a testament to the author’s skill in creating such realistic and entertaining characters. It cleverly weaves in ancient legends and a mysterious guiding gull as well as the unfolding events on board. Fabulous stuff. I may just giggle every time I see a lobster now.
September 14, 2020
My 5* review of "A Large Measure of Snow" by Denzil Meyrick...
Denzil you have excelled yourself, a brilliant atmospheric book. The superstitious nature of fishermen came through very well and the link to Vikings totally fab.
Denzil you have excelled yourself, a brilliant atmospheric book. The superstitious nature of fishermen came through very well and the link to Vikings totally fab.
October 17, 2022
5 stars
Denzil Meyrick is always succeeding to write funny, witty stories. This one was no exception.
Made me laugh and left me feeling lighthearted. Great little story!
Denzil Meyrick is always succeeding to write funny, witty stories. This one was no exception.
Made me laugh and left me feeling lighthearted. Great little story!
December 3, 2023
Surprisingly enjoyed this book as it’s not my usual go to. Was a wholesome wee tale and at point was quite hilarious (who doesn’t love a skipper high on lsd fighting a ‘giant lobster’ on the roof of his wheelhouse while lost in a storm).
October 3, 2021
My first book by this author and from what I understand this is not his usual sort of tale.
I believe that books like this and another that I read recently may be changing my opinion about short stories or novellas.
This one is as much about the older folk of a fishing village on the South West coast of Scotland gathered together to 'chew the cud' over a few drinks as it is about the adventure of a fishing boat battling the weather conditions to bring much needed supplies to an isolated village. In that respect the old folk could as easily have been from a farming village on the moors or a mill town in Lancashire faced with their own emergency especially if they have a good broad dialect.
For a short book it contains a lot. There is humour , action, suspense and even an element of the supernatural or perhaps that may have been whisky or 'wacky baccy'
Make your own minds up . It wont take a large investment in your time and you will probably enjoy it as I did.
I believe that books like this and another that I read recently may be changing my opinion about short stories or novellas.
This one is as much about the older folk of a fishing village on the South West coast of Scotland gathered together to 'chew the cud' over a few drinks as it is about the adventure of a fishing boat battling the weather conditions to bring much needed supplies to an isolated village. In that respect the old folk could as easily have been from a farming village on the moors or a mill town in Lancashire faced with their own emergency especially if they have a good broad dialect.
For a short book it contains a lot. There is humour , action, suspense and even an element of the supernatural or perhaps that may have been whisky or 'wacky baccy'
Make your own minds up . It wont take a large investment in your time and you will probably enjoy it as I did.
March 16, 2025
This is a very entertaining book.
I was upset to read that Denzil Meyrick passed away recently, as I have enjoyed each and every book of his that I have read.
The description of Hoynes tripping on LSD and thinking there was a huge lobster on the boat with him, Hamish and Jo, the young reporter was absolutely brilliant and hilarious.
I was upset to read that Denzil Meyrick passed away recently, as I have enjoyed each and every book of his that I have read.
The description of Hoynes tripping on LSD and thinking there was a huge lobster on the boat with him, Hamish and Jo, the young reporter was absolutely brilliant and hilarious.
November 17, 2020
Different but still Hamish and still gripping amd funny
March 1, 2021
I enjoyed the audio of this fairy tale style story of vikings, seagulls and Scottish fishermen.
August 11, 2024
I am a recent convert to the short story genre and thoroughly enjoyed this book. It’s a beautifully knitted fisherman’s jumper of yarn which made a great read. I listened, whilst David Monteath the narrator, captured the nuances of the locals in a truly masterful way. I closed my eyes and was transported back in time to this Scottish coastal village. Laugh out loud funny.
January 20, 2021
This story brought me immense joy. I laughed a lot and had to try and explain the jokes to my husband when he asked what I was laughing at. I feel like it was just what I needed to read, considering everything at the moment.
Yes, this book does contain outdated views (which is understandable considering that it is set in the 60s) but they are contradicted and by the end, people are shown to be changing their thinking.
It was really nice to read a book from home. I'm not from where the book is set but it was lovely to read the Scottish speech in this story.
I recommended this to multiple people while reading and I feel the same upon finishing. It's a lovely, strange, and funny story. Give it a shot!
Yes, this book does contain outdated views (which is understandable considering that it is set in the 60s) but they are contradicted and by the end, people are shown to be changing their thinking.
It was really nice to read a book from home. I'm not from where the book is set but it was lovely to read the Scottish speech in this story.
I recommended this to multiple people while reading and I feel the same upon finishing. It's a lovely, strange, and funny story. Give it a shot!
November 12, 2020
I have read and enjoyed v,up until now, all Denzil Meyrick's tales of Kinlich. This book,however was something else again. A silly boring story , I think I should leave it at that.
December 8, 2021
Its 1968 and the snowfall has been heavy around Kinloch cutting the town off like it did in 1947. Supplies are running low and the prospect of running out of whisky calls for desperate measures. Despite the blizzard Sandy Hoynes skipper of the Girl Maggie agrees to lead boats from the fishing fleet across to Ayrshire to restock the shops.
Sandy's first mate Hamish has agreed with a journalist that they can have passage with them and record their exploits. Sandy is not keen and then is horrified to discover its Jo not Joe and the journalist is 'a wee lassie'. Seafarers are a superstitious lot and having a woman onboard is top of the list.
What follows is a series of mishaps, frictions between young and old, illicit substances, sexist attitudes and a touch of the supernatural.
A short book with a huge heart that captures the period, the way of life and attitudes of the people with great warmth. Its also packed with funny dialogue and a fine streak of devilish humour.
Sandy's first mate Hamish has agreed with a journalist that they can have passage with them and record their exploits. Sandy is not keen and then is horrified to discover its Jo not Joe and the journalist is 'a wee lassie'. Seafarers are a superstitious lot and having a woman onboard is top of the list.
What follows is a series of mishaps, frictions between young and old, illicit substances, sexist attitudes and a touch of the supernatural.
A short book with a huge heart that captures the period, the way of life and attitudes of the people with great warmth. Its also packed with funny dialogue and a fine streak of devilish humour.
October 5, 2020
I am an ardent fan of the DCI Daley series and one of Denzil Meyrick’s most memorable characters from those books is Hamish, an ancient fisherman who enjoys a wee dram and who claims to be able to foretell the future.
We have already met a younger version of Hamish in Empty Nets and Promises, a short story set in 1968 which features a 30 something Hamish who is second mate to Sandy Hoynes, skipper of the Girl Maggie.
A large measure of snow is a novella featuring Hamish and Sandy also set in the mid sixties and also set aboard the Girl Maggie.
These stories are much gentler than the gritty Daley novels, but they are still laced with the humour which is such a draw in those books. The characterisation is first class. I listened to this book via Audible and David Monteath, the narrator,is on top form as always.
We have already met a younger version of Hamish in Empty Nets and Promises, a short story set in 1968 which features a 30 something Hamish who is second mate to Sandy Hoynes, skipper of the Girl Maggie.
A large measure of snow is a novella featuring Hamish and Sandy also set in the mid sixties and also set aboard the Girl Maggie.
These stories are much gentler than the gritty Daley novels, but they are still laced with the humour which is such a draw in those books. The characterisation is first class. I listened to this book via Audible and David Monteath, the narrator,is on top form as always.
June 14, 2021
Set in 1967 in the fictional fishing town of Kinloch, on the west coast of Scotland, this is a wee gem of a book at only 112 pages. If you are a fan of Denzil Meyrick's DCI Daley series ( even if you are not ) you will love this.
The atmospheric prologue sets the scene and is a work of art. The story is hilarious in places and is really entertaining. The banter between Sandy, the skipper and Hamish is brilliant. I listened to this as an audiobook and highly recommend this to fully immerse in the atmosphere of the story.
This book will make you smile, it will make you laugh. A real tonic.
The atmospheric prologue sets the scene and is a work of art. The story is hilarious in places and is really entertaining. The banter between Sandy, the skipper and Hamish is brilliant. I listened to this as an audiobook and highly recommend this to fully immerse in the atmosphere of the story.
This book will make you smile, it will make you laugh. A real tonic.
November 21, 2023
This is my 4th audiobook and was it or good choice or what?
David Monteith did an excellent job of the narration.
It's a wee tale about a small fishing town in Argyll which gets hit by loads of snow and gets cut off. The fishing fleet wangles a way to help gets supplies in, but things do not go to plan.
I found myself laughing out loud at the antics, there were Para Handy feels. It was like listening to the fishermen from my home village, bunch of gossips so they were.
I really found this funny and nostalgic and well worth the effort. Loved the story and every single character......definitely reading more!
David Monteith did an excellent job of the narration.
It's a wee tale about a small fishing town in Argyll which gets hit by loads of snow and gets cut off. The fishing fleet wangles a way to help gets supplies in, but things do not go to plan.
I found myself laughing out loud at the antics, there were Para Handy feels. It was like listening to the fishermen from my home village, bunch of gossips so they were.
I really found this funny and nostalgic and well worth the effort. Loved the story and every single character......definitely reading more!
December 9, 2023
This is just a heartwarming lovely story that will make you chuckle from time to time.
Flawless writing - the only fault I can find with it is that it lacks an actual storyline and it can get a tat boring.
Two fishermen set off to sea to get supplies for a snowed-in village.
This is more of a feel-good book rather than an actual 'what will happen' story. So pick this up only if you are looking for a nice little cozy read. However, if you are looking for a great adventure set in Scotland, this is not the book for you.
Flawless writing - the only fault I can find with it is that it lacks an actual storyline and it can get a tat boring.
Two fishermen set off to sea to get supplies for a snowed-in village.
This is more of a feel-good book rather than an actual 'what will happen' story. So pick this up only if you are looking for a nice little cozy read. However, if you are looking for a great adventure set in Scotland, this is not the book for you.
December 29, 2024
3.5
Enjoyed, charming novella set in the DCI Daley world - albeit 60 years ago. Not a detective story at all, however (if you're looking for that), closer to Alexander McCall Smith. Fun to recognise familiars names and places but through a different lens and how much (if any) has changed in fictional Kinloch.
While having the same narrator at the Daley series was nice in terms of consistency, I wonder if the Kinloch Tales might benefit from a different voice artist who might be a better fit for such a story's light-hearted nature.
Enjoyed, charming novella set in the DCI Daley world - albeit 60 years ago. Not a detective story at all, however (if you're looking for that), closer to Alexander McCall Smith. Fun to recognise familiars names and places but through a different lens and how much (if any) has changed in fictional Kinloch.
While having the same narrator at the Daley series was nice in terms of consistency, I wonder if the Kinloch Tales might benefit from a different voice artist who might be a better fit for such a story's light-hearted nature.
November 19, 2020
An enjoyable romp. Have always enjoyed Denzil Meyrick's DCI Daley stories. This short story features Hamish as a young(er) man. Really liked the prologue , which I found beautifully written. A succinct history of the development of Kinloch from the bronze age until the 60's. Story very funny at times as the mercy trip ,goes from bad to worse. Heavy snows from the sky, freezing water below and giant hallucinogenic monsters on board .All saved by the vikings and a seagull. All in 148 pages.
December 27, 2020
A Large Measure of Snow by Denzil Meyrick
This was a stand alone story of the happenings in Kinloch in 1967 when there was unprecedented snowfall and the fishermen had to go and get fresh supplies. It covers the fishermen’s rivalry, LSD, hallucinations and bygone eras. A journalist, a skipper and a second mate all go to see and back.
A good riveting tale. A highly recommended read.
This was a stand alone story of the happenings in Kinloch in 1967 when there was unprecedented snowfall and the fishermen had to go and get fresh supplies. It covers the fishermen’s rivalry, LSD, hallucinations and bygone eras. A journalist, a skipper and a second mate all go to see and back.
A good riveting tale. A highly recommended read.
March 25, 2021
This is a nice wee story set in the fictional town of Kinloch back before DCI Daley was born and when Campbeltown was a quaint fishing village. Taking one of the lovable rogues from the Daley series, this is a nice enough wee novella but whilst it was diverting, I hope it was just meant to b3 a taster of what could be, as it’s not really more than that. I liked it - what’s not to like? But I need to be convinced. Another is in its way, so I’m hoping this spin off grows some legs
March 26, 2022
It's 1967 and it's winter in Kinloch. Hamish is donning his father's old suit as he is being interview by a paper about fishing. When snow begins falling heavily and it is realised that Kinloch will be cut off for some time, his boss Sandy and the fleet decide to sail to the mainland to get supplies. Hamish has a surprise for Sandy and it causes no end of problems. The snow is the least of Sandy's problems as they make the crossing in near zero visibility.
A nice light read.
A nice light read.
October 1, 2020
I got a wee early read of this from the publisher. It's warm, funny with some brilliant characters. It's the ideal winter read and from the very start you know you're in a safe pair of hands. Mr Meyrick is a master storyteller, and although he is better known for his best-selling gritty crime fiction, I reckon fans will be demanding more of these rather more gentle Kinloch adventures!
October 28, 2020
Sorry Mr Meyrick
I liked the description of the gull at the beginning of the book. After that it just all went down hill. I confess I did not finish this book, I got half way through and gave up. The characters where made out to be local idiots. It was embarrassing. Loved Jeremiah’s Bell though. Bring back DCI Daley.
I liked the description of the gull at the beginning of the book. After that it just all went down hill. I confess I did not finish this book, I got half way through and gave up. The characters where made out to be local idiots. It was embarrassing. Loved Jeremiah’s Bell though. Bring back DCI Daley.
August 24, 2021
3.5 stars rounded up. This is a collection of short stories, which are back-stories to the various story-lines and character of the DCI Daley series. The Daley and Scott stories where my favourite sections of the book; the fishermen stories were well worth reading but of slightly less interest to me.
April 13, 2024
Cozy little shaggy dog story, the humour really works for me in the simpler smaller gags at the beginning but begins to fall flat as it gets more exaggerated. The setting and characters are sweet and charming but ultimately it wasn't as engaging as I had hoped, but I think this is by design and it just wasn't for me.
February 14, 2021
For lovers of DCI Daley, a tale from long ago about Hamish in his younger days on the sea. Didnt take long to read (3 hours at most). But a nice charming backstory about a much loved character. quaintly amusing!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews