A Parallel Life

When John and Gloria Seeton from Workington divorced, it marked the beginning of a vibrant new chapter in both their lives. Their paths forward were uncharted and their destinies unpredictable – though not everyone would agree.Gloria, with her keen interest in men, found herself drawn to two prominent figures: Commander RN (Rtd) Rupert Isherwood, whom she met while he was deputy managing director of Isherwood & Son, Photo-Etching Specialists on Roa Island, and Fergus Morris, a local photographer with a free spirit and a hand in some questionable publications.John, on the other hand, underwent a transformation after this marital split, leading to a series of new female encounters. His search for a new place to live introduced him to Sheila, while his search for a solicitor brought him into contact with Penny. Which of these women he would ultimately choose as a partner was a question only time – and his ex’s willingness to let go – could answer.

The author was born in Blaenavon, Monmouthshire, but now resides in Atherton, Greater Manchester, with his wife Jean. Most of his working life was spent as a college lecturer whereas in his spare time he spent 25 years in uniformed service, firstly with the TAVR (REME) followed by the RAFVR (T) and finally with the RNR (SCC). Nowadays when not caring for his wife he writes, reads books and builds model aircraft. He also has a craving for Brass Bands and is notorious for having his head in the clouds.

Customer Reviews

5.0

3 reviews

Helen Farrimond

If you thought that sex was invented in the swinging sixties, then think again! Here we are on the cusp of the new decade in Northern communities, and we witness a plethora of amorous liaisons, one of which was illegal at the time but is overseen by a sympathetic police sergeant. How Gloria and John Seeton ever came to be married is a mystery. She is an unashamed nymphomaniac and he is the steadies, most reliable, dare one say boring, character you could wish to meet. And why anyone would wish to be associated with Commander Rupert Isherwood RN(retired) is another unfathomable mystery. He uses women as and when the mood takes him and his obsession with one woman in particular causes considerable grief. These stories are about relationships: friends, lovers, good neighbours always ready to lend a hand, parents who support their offspring no matter what trouble they find themselves in and nosy neighbours adding a touch of humour. A photographer with questionable ethics and a solicitor who, together, dabble in pornography and the grooming of minors, are two unpleasant characters who eventually get their just desserts. John looks destined for a happy ever after with his new love, Sheila, and her daughter. Not so, Justin and Jean, who suffer many misfortunes, and for whom New Years Eve is not a happy time.
Sue Routledge

Having known Tony for many years I was kean to see just how good a job Tony could make as an author. His first book of the trilogy was a good read and his descriptions of the area it has been set in intrigued me so much that I went to visit the area on a weekend break. Tony uses words and situations that put you in amongst the characters and storyline without realising how involved you can get. A.Parallel Life follows on in an even better way and Tony uses his own experiences and learning with the military, brass band experiences and environment so well. In you dedication note in book number two you worry about Jean and her thoughts I am sure she would have loved it just like I did. The final book of the trilogy is currently on its way to me due to arrive tomorrow so thank you Tony for writing so well keep doing it you are excellent with pen and words. Sue x
Alan King

I eagerly awaited this book as I was desperate to know if Justine survived the final awful incident in; 'They Left It Too Late.' The Author paints wonderful word pictures of characters and places in his books and I have powerful mental images of those that inhabit 'A Parallel Life.' However, my concerns for Justine continue as at the end of this tale we are left with even more questions and no answers. This is an intriguing and vividly etched story of life in the late 50's heading towards the early 60's. I loved it but please bring on book three, if only for Justines sake eh?