The Hereafter

Justin Ebberson lived and worked on Roa Island, near Barrow-in-Furness, and he had spent the last two years grieving over the death of the love of his life, Jean Baxter. Joining the Territorial Army was meant to help him get over his loss, but eventually he yearned for a new partner, which led to a love triangle, or was it lust? Would he find his way out of this?In another northern community, namely Workington, John Seeton had a marriage that he wanted to protect, and his connection with a brass band wasn’t helping. As if that wasn’t enough, John found himself on the fringe of another love triangle that involved his ex-wife. Could his marriage survive?Whilst these two northern communities played out their own dramas, they were interconnected, and a link between Justin and John influenced their individual fortunes.

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

Alan King

What a pleasure to find a fourth book following on from Tony Smith's wonderful Trilogy. 'The Hereafter' covers all the usual suspects and brings in some new ones, each one cleverly 'painted' in Tony's inimitable style. The fact that Justin had lost Jean, 'his true love', resonated with me anyway as a few years ago I went through that. Tony brilliantly describes the anguish and confusion Justin went through as he tried to deal with his grief and the steps he took in that process. I know because it happened to me. The fact that Justin's new life, his search for love and comfort in it, the path it eventually led him down and the involvement of characters from his past, are all beautifully segued into this tale of two societies brought together by human nature and history. Or was it love or even lust? Is there a difference? I urge you to read 'The Hereafter' and make up your own mind.
Somala

Really enjoyed The Hereafter! Justin’s struggle with loss felt so real, and John’s marriage drama kept me hooked. I liked how their stories somehow connected across these small northern towns. It’s emotional, messy, and very human. Definitely makes you think about love, choices, and moving on.
Ashkita

The Hereafter by Tony Smith is a compelling exploration of love, loss, and the complexities of human relationships set in northern England. Through the intertwined lives of Justin Ebberson on Roa Island and John Seeton in Workington, Smith paints a vivid picture of grief, desire, and the challenges of commitment. Justin’s struggle to move on after the death of his beloved and his entanglement in a new love triangle feels raw and relatable, while John’s efforts to protect his marriage amidst past connections add depth and tension. The novel beautifully captures the nuances of northern community life, with its close-knit bonds and underlying dramas, all while maintaining a gripping narrative. Smith’s storytelling is honest, emotionally resonant, and keeps readers invested in the fates of both protagonists. The Hereafter is a heartfelt, thoughtful read about the choices that define love and loyalty.