Lockleys of Parramatta

Hands upon the AnvilA blacksmith's life and love are more than workParramatta 1830sEddie Lockley's parents were transported for their crimes. Can a steadfast lad rise above his origins and guide others to succeed in a land of opportunity?Ten-year-old Eddie longs to help his mum and dad. Living in a convict town with his family, the keen youngster has been working with the local blacksmith since his sixth birthday. But when a lieutenant doesn't stop abusing his older brother, the young boy yearns for the day when he can stand up and end the torment. Though he's thrilled when his mentor offers to send him off to learn his letters, Eddie fears he won't be around to watch his siblings' backs. But as he takes on the biggest adventure of his life, the brave believer soon discovers that God is looking out for everyone he loves. Does this young man in the making have what it takes to change everything for the better?***An Australian Historical tale set in the colonial days of Parramatta, Australia. Book 1 of a 100-year family saga. (All books are standalone stories.)

Out Where The Brolgas DanceGold is found, and so is loveParramatta 1840sHow can a question change so many people?It's the 1840s, and discoveries across the Blue Mountains continue. Major Mitchell's new road is complete, and towns are planned and being built. Abundant land is available for those who want it. Eighteen-year-old William "Wills" Lockley has laid a solid foundation for a respectable career as a blacksmith, but the Lockley lust for adventure flows deeply within his veins. He dreads the monotony of work at the blacksmith's forge and yearns for adventure in a new frontier. Wills meets six Englishmen (Coping with what is now known as PTSD) who have the means to make his dreams come true. What they discover changes the Colony and their lives forever. Gold fever ensues. While in the West, Wills must deal with an uncertain romance. Does Cathy even want him?***Australian Historical Fiction set in Parramatta and western New South Wales.

Diamonds in the DirtDiamonds, love and money… but there is much more to life.Parramatta 1850sThe youngest Lockley son, Luke Lockley, has completed his university education, and his life lacks direction. No job, no money, and no love. Desperately alone, he prays for guidance. How can Luke trust that God has a plan for him if he can't even find a job? He does the only thing he can … he prays. Within a week, life has changed … oh, how it has changed as his brother Wills turns up with a suggestion. Would Luke be interested in joining the expedition with John Evans? Reverend William Clarke needs assistance with a government mineral survey. The challenges, adventures and finds are life-changing for many. However, it gives Luke meaning, purpose and direction. The condition of his heart problems also takes a turn. Can he walk away? Will she wait for him?***An Australian HIstorical story about the discovery of diamonds in Australia. Wills Lockley is unable to obtain a teaching post, but his brother finds him something much better. Adventure and travel await, as does Ellen.

The Earl's ShadowWho or what is the 'shadow'? How does it affect so many?Parramatta 1860sCharles Lockley, the Earl of Coxheath, spent his youth as a convict in Parramatta, unaware of his noble birth, with limited education and few social skills. Now, after a near-death experience, Charles must decide how to live the rest of his life. He is thrust out of his comfort zone in London. There, Charles discovers his purpose. He delivers a speech in parliament-an action that will reshape the empire. His eldest son, Charlie, shares many of his father's shortcomings. However, the past continues to haunt Charlie.But how does Jim Leslie, the Cobb and Co. coach driver, fit into their story? And what exactly is 'The Earl's Shadow' that he mentions? ***An Australian Historical tale that stretches far across the seas. The ramifications of one speech change the Empire. Behind it is one man who has walked both sides of society. First as a poverty-stricken English lad, then a convict, to finally discover he was titled. Charles's speech in Parliament inspires many, including his eldest son and family.This story is a father-son saga-book 4 in the Lockleys of Parramatta.

Once a Jolly SwagmanAn old black Billy Can contains the secrets of an incredible lifeAn Australian Historical Novel Inspired by the songs of The SeekersSet in 1870s Parramatta and Kent, UKRick Lockley, struggling to escape his family's expectations, runs away to find himself. Jack, a jolly swagman, takes him under his care. Even after years together, Rick knows little about the old man.On his death, Jack leaves Rick his precious billy can; the contents reveal Jack's identity. Stunned, Rick must travel to England to finalise Jack's wishes. There, he uncovers Jack's life of love, betrayal and a link to his own family. Rick also discovers there is much more to learn about this enigmatic man.***An Australian Historical tale about an enigmatic swagman and his secret identity. Everybody has a back story; Jack's ties into Rick's own family. ***This story was inspired by twenty of the songs by "The Seekers," an Australian folk group that sang about a swagman.

Unshackled LivesSet in England &Australia in the 1800sAustralian historical fiction of early colonial days***Lord Edward "Ned" Lockley is the second of four sons of the Duke and Duchess of Gracemere. His mother favors him, and her devotion makes his childhood blissful-but he knows he must one day grow up.A whirlwind romance ends when his elder brother betrays him, and the shock plunges Ned into emotional turmoil. He struggles even more as the society around him collapses into immorality.As his family falls apart, Ned decides he cannot stay. His mother urges him to remain true to himself and to his faith, and her words drive him to leave everything he knows. How does Ned end up in New South Wales, where he oversees the placement of female convicts? Will he ever find happiness-or discover who Charles truly is?***An Australian Historical prequel to the series "The Lockleys of Parramatta." A 6-volume set that covers 100 years of the Lockley Family in Parramatta, Australia. Ned is a central figure in many of my stories. His pure heart and loving care of the convict women is what I hoped they found, but don't expect the poor felons were that lucky. Over two hundred peers served in the military from 1800, and many served with the governors in Australia.