Gary's Books
A Bricklayer's Tales
Description
Anyone who has ever done building work for brutal wage slavery and wondered if they were going mad, will recognise the life of Ray Dennis, (Troia's alter ego) which evokes a vision of mind-numbing, soul-destroying workplaces and workmates. His is the voice of discord for the marginally employed, the creatively frustrated working Joe, who turns to a life of drink and drugs to elevate the monotony of life. A Bricklayer's Tales is the ultimate "I hate this job" story, written as a collection of short stories and memoirs, each one containing a snapshot of the life of Ray. Troia captures the tedium of working in a low paid, menial job and living hand to mouth. This book of short stories is sad and questions the reader to ask questions about their own life.
Baby on Board
Description
Join Gary, Marina, and baby Aemelia on a reflective voyage aboard Cunard's Queen Victoria in "Baby on Board." As they embark on a journey to Rotterdam, Zeebrugge, and Cherbourg, Gary muses on the transformative power of their previous cruise and the anticipation of embarkation day.
Coach to Como: A Reflective Coach Trip to Lake Como, St Moritz and Milan
Description
After Gary announces that he will no longer fly, his wife, Poppo books a coach holiday to Lake Como. One week later, with the newly acquired kittens dropped off at the cattery, Gary and Poppo embark on a twenty-four hour coach journey to Italy. While the book itself is a narrative account of a journey to Lake Como, Coach to Como is ultimately the story of survival, recovery and evolution. A colourful but incredibly honest account of the journey Gary has undertaken since he came to terms with his ego, his internal struggles with life, BDP, Bipolar, loneliness, rebelliousness and self-destructive behavior.
Covid Cruise Confusion and Contemplation
Description
Gary sets sail on his ninth cruise, where Covid-19 rules cast shadows over the voyage. Drawing from his previous accounts like "Through the Porthole" and "Baby on Board," Gary offers a candid exploration of cruising – navigating both destinations and the emotions stirred along the way. Despite pandemic challenges, Gary invites readers to experience the allure of the open sea and the joy of discovery amidst changing times.
English Yarns and Beyond
Description
This collection of short stories captures the monotony of low-paid work, prompting reflection on life's challenges. From boyhood mishaps to sobering realisations, each tale offers a glimpse into Ray's turbulent life, inviting contemplation of existence amidst adversity with dark humour and poignant…
I Return to Versions of Myself
Description
There are different versions of me: some in my mind, unseen but felt; some quite familiar because I live them constantly; and a version that brings emptiness, darkness, and depression. I hide some of these versions of myself – versions that radiate all manner of unpleasant characteristics, moods, and personalities – because of the inevitable public scrutiny. However, without these versions, I cannot tell this tale, and more importantly, I cannot be me.
New York and Back
Description
Step aboard the Queen Mary 2 for an unforgettable journey from Southampton to New York. In this narrative, I won't offer cruise tips or penny-pinching strategies. Instead, I invite you to explore the essence of cruising – a tale of freedom, clarity, and serenity amidst the vast expanse of the open sea. Join me, along with my wife Marina and our daughter Aemelia, as we embark on a soulful voyage that transcends mere travel. If you seek a respite from the chaos of modern life and a deeper connection with the world around you, turn the page and set sail with us.
Ray Dennis Does 'The Secret'
Description
Embark on a riveting journey with Ray Dennis in "Ray Dennis Does The Secret: A Simple Law of Attraction Story." After deportation and a life-changing encounter with "The Secret", Ray returns to LA with a new identity and a determination to manifest his dreams. But success comes with a price as tragedy strikes, leading Ray into a perilous battle with drug traffickers and the complexities of the Law of Attraction.
Spanish Yarns and Beyond: A Collection of Short Stories and Memoirs from Spain and Italy
Description
Delve into Gary Troia's collection of short stories chronicling life in a new country, hailed by critics for its humour and wit. From connected tales to standalone gems, these stories offer a delightful read for all. In this collection, Gary shares his adventures from travels in Spain, including memorable tales like "How Not To Travel To The Alhambra," "Poking A Carob Tree," and "The Road To Ronda." With a total of nine stories, readers will embark on a journey through Spain and beyond, celebrating the joys and challenges of expat life.
The Complete Short Stories of Gary Troia
Description
From the boyhood tragedy of "The Cuckoo's Egg" to surreal encounters with Greek philosophers in "Angel Dust," each story offers humor, introspection, and unexpected turns. Encounter Ray's misadventures abroad in "Return Ticket" and "Advert In The Art Shop Window," as well as his humorous escapades closer to home in "Pointing a House in Islington" and "Teaching Other People." As Ray navigates life's absurdities and challenges, "A Bricklayer's Tales" provides a candid, entertaining, and sometimes poignant exploration of resilience and the human experience.
Through the Porthole
Description
A ten-day voyage aboard Cunard's Queen Victoria, from charming ports to vibrant streets. In "Through the Porthole," Gary reflects on the lost art of leisurely travel, opting for the serene pace of the sea over the rush of modern flights. Set sail with Gary and Marina, where every wave brings new adventure.
ULOpia
Description
Fleeing a murder, almost drowning, desperate and on the verge of insanity, Ray is rescued from the Pacific Ocean and taken aboard a yacht where he anxiously awaits his fate. The owner of the yacht, a Scottish billionaire and philanthropist, grants Ray a second chance at life on the paradise island of ULOpia. The only rules for ULOpians are: Be grateful every day, remove pre-programmed labels and prejudices, lend a helping hand, and write a personal account every six months. And so begins a life changing spiritual odyssey on ULOpia where Ray learns some powerful life lessons, harnesses his inner demons, encounters both higher and lower versions of himself, and struggles to find a way to a fulfilled, peaceful and meaningful way of living, beyond the dark grasp of the world “out there.”