‘Deadly Will’ by Leigh Russell

Published by No Exit Press,
15 August 2024. 
ISBN: 978-1-83501-026-6 (PB)

This is the author's 22^nd novel in the Geraldine Steel series.  The novel follows Geraldine's return to work as a Senior Detective Inspector after her maternity leave.  She is both reluctant to leave her baby and relieved to get her old life back.  

There is a thrilling start to the story which details a murder, and the following pages explains something of the background to this murder and its subsequently linked second murder.  

Geraldine and her fellow detectives are focussed on the members of the family of Martin Reed, a rich man who has two grown up children and a young partner.  Martin is liked by practically all his acquaintances and family so it is quickly established that his murder must have been prompted by either greed or revenge.  Martin had recently changed his Will to benefit his young lover rather than his children who had expected to inherit his not inconsiderable fortune.  

The story has various side issues involving a criminal childminder (the stuff of nightmares for parents) and Geraldine's relationship with her partner who is also a detective who works undercover. 

This is a fascinating and sometimes chilling mystery which keeps you guessing right to the very end.  The characters are believable, and the story line is sufficiently action packed to keep the reader on their toes.  I really enjoyed it! 
------
Reviewer: Toni Russell

Leigh Russell studied at the University of Kent gaining a Master’s degree in English and American literature. Formerly a secondary school English teacher, with the success of her Geraldine Steel series, Leigh now writes full-time. Her debut novel, Cut Short, was published in 2009 by No Exit Press in the UK, there are now 22 books in the series  featuring detective Geraldine Steel.  Leigh also has a  series featuring Lucy Hall. Her most recent series features Poppy the dog. Leigh Russell is married with two daughters and lives in Middlesex.

 leighrussell.co.uk/

Toni Russell is a retired teacher who has lived in London all her life and loves the city.  She says, ‘I enjoy museums, galleries and the theatre but probably my favourite pastime is reading.  I found myself reading detective fiction almost for the first time during lockdown and have particularly enjoyed old fashioned detective fiction rather than the nordic noir variety.  I am a member of a book club at the local library and have previously attended literature classes at our local Adult Education Centre.  I am married with three children and five grandchildren.