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Linda's Midlife Crisis
Meet Linda Lockwood: fifty, fat, frumpy and bullied by her horrible husband Ron and the vile students and principal at the school where she teaches English. But her life is about to undergo a total transformation.
Linda suffers a breakdown after a traumatic classroom incident, and that brings out the worst in Ron and devious principal, Wayne Forsythe. Then she is rocked to discover her husband has a shocking secret.
With her own determination and the help of friends and family, she starts to turn her life around. Her own success might be the best revenge, but life still has some more surprises for Linda.
Linda suffers a breakdown after a traumatic classroom incident, and that brings out the worst in Ron and devious principal, Wayne Forsythe. Then she is rocked to discover her husband has a shocking secret.
With her own determination and the help of friends and family, she starts to turn her life around. Her own success might be the best revenge, but life still has some more surprises for Linda.
- GenresWomens FictionFiction
209 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 26, 2022
About the author
Toni Pike
12 books28 followersToni Pike is a multi-genre author who enjoys writing page-turning fiction for adults, hilarious books for children, and non-fiction. She also loves travelling and being with family and friends. She lives in Australia and firmly believes that coffee and long walks are an essential part of any day.
Do you like books that you can’t stop reading? Pike is the author of LINDA’S MIDLIFE CRISIS, DESOLATION BLUFF, DEAD DRY HEART and The Jotham Fletcher Mystery Thriller Series: THE MAGUS COVENANT, THE ROCK OF MAGUS, THE MAGUS EPIPHANY and HOLY SPEAR OF MAGUS.
The Brody Cody Series is for children aged 6-9: BRODY CODY AND THE STEPMOTHER FROM OUTER SPACE and BRODY CODY AND THE HAUNTED VACATION HOUSE.
She’s also the author of two non-fiction books. THE ONE WAY DIET is a no-nonsense guide to losing weight. HAPPY TRAVELS 101 is a short book of travel tips with advice for anyone who wants to travel overseas.
To find out more, her website is tonipike.com.
Do you like books that you can’t stop reading? Pike is the author of LINDA’S MIDLIFE CRISIS, DESOLATION BLUFF, DEAD DRY HEART and The Jotham Fletcher Mystery Thriller Series: THE MAGUS COVENANT, THE ROCK OF MAGUS, THE MAGUS EPIPHANY and HOLY SPEAR OF MAGUS.
The Brody Cody Series is for children aged 6-9: BRODY CODY AND THE STEPMOTHER FROM OUTER SPACE and BRODY CODY AND THE HAUNTED VACATION HOUSE.
She’s also the author of two non-fiction books. THE ONE WAY DIET is a no-nonsense guide to losing weight. HAPPY TRAVELS 101 is a short book of travel tips with advice for anyone who wants to travel overseas.
To find out more, her website is tonipike.com.
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
January 2, 2023
I can wholeheartedly recommend this book!
Linda has reached a crisis point in her life. Her self-esteem is rock bottom, her husband mocks her, and the school she works at does nothing to support her with some out of control pupils.
As is sometimes the case, when you are forced to face your situation head on it can provide the motivation to do something about it. Linda tackles her problems one by one, growing stronger with each hurdle overcome. My heart broke for her at one point when she discovered a shocking revelation about her husband, but she continues her journey to self-discovery and I was cheering her on every step of the way.
A side benefit of the book comes in the way the author portrays Linda’s weight loss. I understand that the author has written a non-fiction book on the topic and I was certainly impressed with the practical advice that is woven into this story. I felt motivated to do something about my own weight after reading it and so this was a welcome bonus to an entertaining read.
There are plenty of us in similar situations to Linda and there’s a wonderful catharsis to be had in the reading of it!
Linda has reached a crisis point in her life. Her self-esteem is rock bottom, her husband mocks her, and the school she works at does nothing to support her with some out of control pupils.
As is sometimes the case, when you are forced to face your situation head on it can provide the motivation to do something about it. Linda tackles her problems one by one, growing stronger with each hurdle overcome. My heart broke for her at one point when she discovered a shocking revelation about her husband, but she continues her journey to self-discovery and I was cheering her on every step of the way.
A side benefit of the book comes in the way the author portrays Linda’s weight loss. I understand that the author has written a non-fiction book on the topic and I was certainly impressed with the practical advice that is woven into this story. I felt motivated to do something about my own weight after reading it and so this was a welcome bonus to an entertaining read.
There are plenty of us in similar situations to Linda and there’s a wonderful catharsis to be had in the reading of it!
Read
May 3, 2022I am used to associating Toni Pike’s writing with crime and thrillers, not this delightful modern feel-good women’s fiction and so it was a surprise for me to see it on her post.
The first part of the novel is about Linda’s marriage to Ron, a horrible man. He is constantly criticizing Linda about her weight, treats her like his servant and is often going out at night coming home smelling of alcohol. Linda stays in the marriage because she doesn’t know what else to do and likes her home when her husband is at work or playing golf.
As much as Linda is the glass half full type of person Ron is eternally pessimistic.
Aside from her marriage, Linda also hates teaching although there was a time when it was her passion but things have changed.
“She had once been a great teacher, popular with students and respected by other staff members. Every year, a little gloss had been wiped away and now only a dull, rusted undercoat was left. It was so hard to look forward to a day at school when a riot could break out at any moment and every lesson was like trying to tame a herd of wild beasts.”
Linda has a breakdown (or perhaps a breakthrough) She spends a great deal of her time in bed eating chocolates and gaining weight something which Ron doesn’t let her forget.
“If you’re not better tomorrow, then I’m leaving. I’m not taking care of an invalid for the rest of my life. There’s nothing wrong with you, apart from being too fat and too lazy to go to work”
When Linda doesn’t change Ron asks for a divorce and off Linda goes gaining enthusiasm, energy and the will to take care of herself.
The remainder of the novel is sweet and reminiscent of the Television show I used to watch as a kid: Leave it to Beaver. It has that kind, family feel to it. Beneath her submission towards Ron, Linda is a very astute woman who isn’t afraid to speak her mind. Her character adds a fun, easy relaxing and pleasant read.
We see Linda thrive through the obligations of life: getting a house ready to sell. Finding an apartment. Moving to a different city, closer to her sister. Quitting her job. Finding work in fashion. Taking care of herself. And embarking on a new and loving relationship.
The book also contains some heartwarming sentences:
“… your heart matches your lovely face.” Said by boyfriend, Dennis.
Linda uses her struggles with weight to write inspiring articles for The Canberra News Magazine which motivates her in setting goals for her own weight loss program. “Linda was an English teacher who once loved to write, but life with Ron had dulled her inspiration and melted the muse. She loved trying to write with clarity, transposing the thoughts in her brain to paper and then polishing them carefully.”
As the stain of verbal and psychological abuse fades, Linda becomes more confident and someone you’d love to hang out with.
It’s an upbeat novel and Pike shows that there are happy endings even for those in mid-life.
An enjoyable read that is bound to take you out of any morose mood you might be in.
The first part of the novel is about Linda’s marriage to Ron, a horrible man. He is constantly criticizing Linda about her weight, treats her like his servant and is often going out at night coming home smelling of alcohol. Linda stays in the marriage because she doesn’t know what else to do and likes her home when her husband is at work or playing golf.
As much as Linda is the glass half full type of person Ron is eternally pessimistic.
Aside from her marriage, Linda also hates teaching although there was a time when it was her passion but things have changed.
“She had once been a great teacher, popular with students and respected by other staff members. Every year, a little gloss had been wiped away and now only a dull, rusted undercoat was left. It was so hard to look forward to a day at school when a riot could break out at any moment and every lesson was like trying to tame a herd of wild beasts.”
Linda has a breakdown (or perhaps a breakthrough) She spends a great deal of her time in bed eating chocolates and gaining weight something which Ron doesn’t let her forget.
“If you’re not better tomorrow, then I’m leaving. I’m not taking care of an invalid for the rest of my life. There’s nothing wrong with you, apart from being too fat and too lazy to go to work”
When Linda doesn’t change Ron asks for a divorce and off Linda goes gaining enthusiasm, energy and the will to take care of herself.
The remainder of the novel is sweet and reminiscent of the Television show I used to watch as a kid: Leave it to Beaver. It has that kind, family feel to it. Beneath her submission towards Ron, Linda is a very astute woman who isn’t afraid to speak her mind. Her character adds a fun, easy relaxing and pleasant read.
We see Linda thrive through the obligations of life: getting a house ready to sell. Finding an apartment. Moving to a different city, closer to her sister. Quitting her job. Finding work in fashion. Taking care of herself. And embarking on a new and loving relationship.
The book also contains some heartwarming sentences:
“… your heart matches your lovely face.” Said by boyfriend, Dennis.
Linda uses her struggles with weight to write inspiring articles for The Canberra News Magazine which motivates her in setting goals for her own weight loss program. “Linda was an English teacher who once loved to write, but life with Ron had dulled her inspiration and melted the muse. She loved trying to write with clarity, transposing the thoughts in her brain to paper and then polishing them carefully.”
As the stain of verbal and psychological abuse fades, Linda becomes more confident and someone you’d love to hang out with.
It’s an upbeat novel and Pike shows that there are happy endings even for those in mid-life.
An enjoyable read that is bound to take you out of any morose mood you might be in.
May 20, 2022
Despite its heavy title and topic, this book is a fairly light and entertaining read. Linda is married to a selfish inconsiderate man, Ron, who takes great pleasure in belittling her in public. He throws a party for her 50th birthday and goes to great lengths to humiliate her in front of everyone she knows. In addition, to her dreadful relationship, Linda's job as a teacher has degenerated over the years into an unfulfilling daily challenge to deal with unruly and rude teenagers. The principal of the school is "new age" and has some unrealistic views on discipline which has worsened the poor behaviour of some of the students. It is the last straw when Linda has a traumatic experience at school and suffers a nervous breakdown. Her neediness does not suit Ron who decides to leave her.
I enjoyed the character development undergone by Linda from the beginning to the end of this short novel. She is a bit weak and wishy washy in the beginning, allowing everyone she knows, and especially Ron, to walk all over her. After Ron leaves, Linda makes a conscious effort to pull herself together, losing weight and making changes to her life that position her to achieve some success for the first time in her life. I thought the slow progression of Linda's changing personality and attitude to life was well done and realistic.
Ron is a dreadful man who is a bully. He uses Linda as his emotional punching bag because he is not happy with his status in life. He thinks he deserves more, but that is very debatable. He is a completely unredeemable personality and you can only feel pleased when things go wrong for him.
This book is perfect for readers who enjoy reading stories about overcoming obstacles and making the most of life. There is also a sub-theme of a sweet romance.
I enjoyed the character development undergone by Linda from the beginning to the end of this short novel. She is a bit weak and wishy washy in the beginning, allowing everyone she knows, and especially Ron, to walk all over her. After Ron leaves, Linda makes a conscious effort to pull herself together, losing weight and making changes to her life that position her to achieve some success for the first time in her life. I thought the slow progression of Linda's changing personality and attitude to life was well done and realistic.
Ron is a dreadful man who is a bully. He uses Linda as his emotional punching bag because he is not happy with his status in life. He thinks he deserves more, but that is very debatable. He is a completely unredeemable personality and you can only feel pleased when things go wrong for him.
This book is perfect for readers who enjoy reading stories about overcoming obstacles and making the most of life. There is also a sub-theme of a sweet romance.
May 25, 2022
As we head into the beginning of summer, it’s time to think about summer reads. You know, the books that make you feel like everything is alright with the world. “Linda’s Midlife Crisis” will definitely be that book!
We’re introduced to Linda, a plump fifty-something teacher, bullied by her students, the administrative staff, and her own husband, Ron, who she no longer has feelings for. Truth be told, she doesn’t even like the house she lives in.
Eventually, Linda has a breakdown. The doctor orders a period of rest. Ron feels encumbered with her care, and he leaves her. Now, Linda wipes the slate clean and steps into the rest of her life.
I enjoyed Linda’s journey, even though it all seemed a little too good to be true. But that’s what a feel-good book does. This kind of story offers glimpses of hope for other women on how to take those first steps into a new future.
There are some great karmic scenes involving the husband. After reading those, I cheered for Linda even louder.
I read this book in a couple of evenings. It’s not a heavy read which is perfect for a vacation read or an afternoon in a hammock! Enjoy!
We’re introduced to Linda, a plump fifty-something teacher, bullied by her students, the administrative staff, and her own husband, Ron, who she no longer has feelings for. Truth be told, she doesn’t even like the house she lives in.
Eventually, Linda has a breakdown. The doctor orders a period of rest. Ron feels encumbered with her care, and he leaves her. Now, Linda wipes the slate clean and steps into the rest of her life.
I enjoyed Linda’s journey, even though it all seemed a little too good to be true. But that’s what a feel-good book does. This kind of story offers glimpses of hope for other women on how to take those first steps into a new future.
There are some great karmic scenes involving the husband. After reading those, I cheered for Linda even louder.
I read this book in a couple of evenings. It’s not a heavy read which is perfect for a vacation read or an afternoon in a hammock! Enjoy!
April 29, 2022
I was so pleased to receive an ARC of Toni Pike’s new book Linda’s Midlife Crisis. Linda’s story drew me in immediately, and being previously divorced myself in midlife, and starting over in the romance department, I felt an immediate kinship with Linda’s character. I also really love the cover of the book!
Retiring from her unsatisfying teaching position and enduring a verbally abusive husband at age 50, Linda chucks it all and begins work on Linda 2.0. I enjoyed Linda’s weight loss and newfound fitness journeys and cheered her success as a writer sharing her own experiences in the local publications.
Linda’s character is authentic, and I believe any midlife woman (or man) reading this can relate easily to her situation. This is an easy-to-read novel detailing the ups and downs of midlife that ends with satisfying outcomes for most of the characters and with Linda getting her heart’s desires.
Retiring from her unsatisfying teaching position and enduring a verbally abusive husband at age 50, Linda chucks it all and begins work on Linda 2.0. I enjoyed Linda’s weight loss and newfound fitness journeys and cheered her success as a writer sharing her own experiences in the local publications.
Linda’s character is authentic, and I believe any midlife woman (or man) reading this can relate easily to her situation. This is an easy-to-read novel detailing the ups and downs of midlife that ends with satisfying outcomes for most of the characters and with Linda getting her heart’s desires.
April 22, 2025
Uplifting
This was such a nice story. Predictable, but encouraging and oh so positive. It made me feel happy and always have hope that things manage to work out.
This was such a nice story. Predictable, but encouraging and oh so positive. It made me feel happy and always have hope that things manage to work out.
May 29, 2022
Linda had finally had enough of her husband Ron’s neglect, insults and emotional abuse. She was 50 years old, about 25 pounds overweight, and had lost her sense of self-esteem. She was also childless because nasty Ron never wanted any kids.
Linda was an English school teacher, and even her students were mischievous brats who liked to play mean pranks on her. The last prank had kept her at home for a month in a depression-like state. Her husband couldn’t give a damn and continued to belittle her, demanding she cook for him in her near catatonic state. But Linda finally learned to pay him back with silence and neglect of her household duties, a type of revenge that finally had him asking for a divorce and leaving – to her delight.
Linda was clever and held the reins on her demands since Ron was the one leaving, also threatening him with getting a shark lawyer if he did’t comply, worked well. She then went to her cunning school principal, Wayne Forsythe, to inform she was retiring, demanding a package, she eventually got, thanks to her persuasion of assuring him if he didn’t comply she would use the information she had on him about his devious doings. Linda was getting out of her slump and taking her power back.
After selling her house in Sydney, Australia, she moved up to Canberra where her sister lived, bought a beautiful condo, got a part-time job in a clothing store to keep her busy, made some new friends at work, went for long walks, changed her diet, lost her unhappiness weight, and began enjoying her life. But before she left for Canberra, when packing up her house, she packed up Ron’s stuff and left it on the front lawn for him, warning him to pick it up by day’s end. She got a shocking and infuriating surprise when Ron came to pick up his things – sorry, no spoilers.
Linda learns to love her new life in Canberra and takes up her passion for writing, begins to submit articles about her journey back to healthy lifestyle, and was hired to produce weekly articles.
Life was good, and one day she discovers Ron looking for her, begging for her back. Ahhh yes, sweet revenge! Linda learns to step back into the dating pool with her work friends and is pleasantly surprised to meet someone while out with the girls. Dr. Tran was enamoured by Linda and her new life was nearing perfect – if only Ron would stop showing up!
This was a fun and very engaging read. I could have read it in two days because I didn’t want to put it down, but life calls.
Linda was an English school teacher, and even her students were mischievous brats who liked to play mean pranks on her. The last prank had kept her at home for a month in a depression-like state. Her husband couldn’t give a damn and continued to belittle her, demanding she cook for him in her near catatonic state. But Linda finally learned to pay him back with silence and neglect of her household duties, a type of revenge that finally had him asking for a divorce and leaving – to her delight.
Linda was clever and held the reins on her demands since Ron was the one leaving, also threatening him with getting a shark lawyer if he did’t comply, worked well. She then went to her cunning school principal, Wayne Forsythe, to inform she was retiring, demanding a package, she eventually got, thanks to her persuasion of assuring him if he didn’t comply she would use the information she had on him about his devious doings. Linda was getting out of her slump and taking her power back.
After selling her house in Sydney, Australia, she moved up to Canberra where her sister lived, bought a beautiful condo, got a part-time job in a clothing store to keep her busy, made some new friends at work, went for long walks, changed her diet, lost her unhappiness weight, and began enjoying her life. But before she left for Canberra, when packing up her house, she packed up Ron’s stuff and left it on the front lawn for him, warning him to pick it up by day’s end. She got a shocking and infuriating surprise when Ron came to pick up his things – sorry, no spoilers.
Linda learns to love her new life in Canberra and takes up her passion for writing, begins to submit articles about her journey back to healthy lifestyle, and was hired to produce weekly articles.
Life was good, and one day she discovers Ron looking for her, begging for her back. Ahhh yes, sweet revenge! Linda learns to step back into the dating pool with her work friends and is pleasantly surprised to meet someone while out with the girls. Dr. Tran was enamoured by Linda and her new life was nearing perfect – if only Ron would stop showing up!
This was a fun and very engaging read. I could have read it in two days because I didn’t want to put it down, but life calls.
June 7, 2022
Linda Lockwood is stuck in a crappy marriage with an unsatisfying job. She reaches the end of her tether after a terrifying ordeal at the school where she teaches problem children and fakes a breakdown to escape the stress of her life.
After her creep of a husband leaves her, Linda slowly opens her heart to possibilities and begins the journey to self-discovery and new beginnings with the help of friends and family.
This is a story the encourages those going through similar issues that there is a path to happiness if you are brave enough to take the first steps.
After her creep of a husband leaves her, Linda slowly opens her heart to possibilities and begins the journey to self-discovery and new beginnings with the help of friends and family.
This is a story the encourages those going through similar issues that there is a path to happiness if you are brave enough to take the first steps.
June 1, 2024
A lovely reminder to take care of yourself and that it's never too late to change your life
Linda's midlife crisis by Toni Pike is a feel-good book. I think the main message of this book is to love and take care of yourself and to break free of all abusive relationships whether it's professional or personal. I loved the friendships depicted in this book- Tuesday Coffee Club which has Linda and three other women, all of whom have been friends since High School and the new friends Linda makes when she moves from Sydney to Canberra at fifty. Through the story, the author also touches upon the importance of decluttering, being willing to make changes and maintaining a healthy weight.
Toni Pike's writing is realistic. It makes it easy to engage with the main character ( for me, it was after she began standing up for herself). I found myself rooting for Linda as she took steps towards changing her life ( 'She walked every day, no matter what the weather and only a thunderstorm was sufficient excuse to stay indoors'). It made me anxious when I thought she'd fail and give in to the temptation of eating sugar again because it's something I have had a constant struggle with, too. ( Linda scanned the display cabinets, and her mouth watered. There was nothing quite like the luscious taste of milk chocolate when you haven't had one for ever so long and needed some special comfort.)
The story is well-paced making every action the main character take believable. I liked that Linda had a lovely relationship with her sister, nieces, brother-in-law and supportive friends. The author's depiction of Linda's doubts and fears whether it is towards her looks, taking up a new job, moving to a new place or meeting potential dates through an app after 25 years are convincing ( 'Linda said that all the men there has blurred into one big fog of names and faces and trying to have a conversation.')
There are some fun moments like when Linda breaks down in school, and how she deals with Ron when she gets rid of his things. Ron's non-violent reaction was a surprise as was the secret he was hiding.
What did I like about the book? This book was my kind of story- inspiring, happy-ending, positive growth in the main character. By the end of the story, Linda, a diffident, obese woman with low self-esteem transforms into an independent, confident and happy woman who learns happiness is not dependent on others.
The story shows that it's never too late to change your life, the importance of praising oneself and making small changes like looking good for yourself ( 'She had made a vow months ago, to wear make-up every day and try to dress smartly even if she planned to stay home and no one else was likely to see her.')
Linda's midlife crisis by Toni Pike is a feel-good book. I think the main message of this book is to love and take care of yourself and to break free of all abusive relationships whether it's professional or personal. I loved the friendships depicted in this book- Tuesday Coffee Club which has Linda and three other women, all of whom have been friends since High School and the new friends Linda makes when she moves from Sydney to Canberra at fifty. Through the story, the author also touches upon the importance of decluttering, being willing to make changes and maintaining a healthy weight.
Toni Pike's writing is realistic. It makes it easy to engage with the main character ( for me, it was after she began standing up for herself). I found myself rooting for Linda as she took steps towards changing her life ( 'She walked every day, no matter what the weather and only a thunderstorm was sufficient excuse to stay indoors'). It made me anxious when I thought she'd fail and give in to the temptation of eating sugar again because it's something I have had a constant struggle with, too. ( Linda scanned the display cabinets, and her mouth watered. There was nothing quite like the luscious taste of milk chocolate when you haven't had one for ever so long and needed some special comfort.)
The story is well-paced making every action the main character take believable. I liked that Linda had a lovely relationship with her sister, nieces, brother-in-law and supportive friends. The author's depiction of Linda's doubts and fears whether it is towards her looks, taking up a new job, moving to a new place or meeting potential dates through an app after 25 years are convincing ( 'Linda said that all the men there has blurred into one big fog of names and faces and trying to have a conversation.')
There are some fun moments like when Linda breaks down in school, and how she deals with Ron when she gets rid of his things. Ron's non-violent reaction was a surprise as was the secret he was hiding.
What did I like about the book? This book was my kind of story- inspiring, happy-ending, positive growth in the main character. By the end of the story, Linda, a diffident, obese woman with low self-esteem transforms into an independent, confident and happy woman who learns happiness is not dependent on others.
The story shows that it's never too late to change your life, the importance of praising oneself and making small changes like looking good for yourself ( 'She had made a vow months ago, to wear make-up every day and try to dress smartly even if she planned to stay home and no one else was likely to see her.')
May 30, 2022
A light and entertaining read
I kept seeing this book around the web and had to pick up a copy.
"Fifty, frumpy, and a few extra kilos. That summarised Linda Lockwood in a few simple words that always seemed to whirl around in her head." ... from this opening line, we're taken into the life of the main character, Linda, and her awful, awful husband. His character is so well drawn that you hate him and feel angry toward him. This takes skilful writing to pull off.
The pacing was steady, and the storyline straightforward with no plot turns or surprises, making this a light and entertaining read that takes the reader from A to B to C. After Linda's nervous breakdown, the selfish husband had enough of the situation and left her, which actually worked out in her favour. From that point on, Linda set about turning her life around. She set a weight-loss goal and achieved it. Further, she sold the marital home after the divorce and moved to Canberra to be near her family, where more successes followed with work-related aims. A few bumps in the road would have enriched the reading experience for me, rather than things being so straightforward. However, this made for a relaxing read, and one perfect for the beach in summer.
Here are some lines that stood out for me ...
"Every year, a little gloss had been wiped away and now only a dull, rusted undercoat was left."
And ...
"Love was so closely allied to hate and Linda found it hard to separate those two similar feelings."
And ...
"... you have nothing to prove to anyone. You don’t have to be perfect. You don’t need anyone else because you have yourself."
I loved the humour which threads throughout the narrative and the dialogue, and the human interactions that really come alive. Linda's Midlife Crisis gets a solid 3.5 stars, rounded up to 4 for rating purposes. If you enjoy a light read with a low-level romance alongside, definitely give this book a go!
***
NOTE ON RATINGS: I consider a 3-star rating a positive review. Picky about which books I give 5 stars to, I reserve this highest rating for the stories I find stunning and which moved me.
5 STARS: IT WAS AMAZING! I COULD NOT PUT IT DOWN! — Highly Recommended.
4 STARS: I WOULD PULL AN ALL-NIGHTER — Go read this book.
3 STARS: IT WAS GOOD! — An okay read. Didn’t love it. Didn’t hate it.
2 STARS: I MAY HAVE LIKED A FEW THINGS —Lacking in some areas: writing, characterisation, and/or problematic plot lines.
1 STAR: NOT MY CUP OF TEA —Lots of issues with this book.
I kept seeing this book around the web and had to pick up a copy.
"Fifty, frumpy, and a few extra kilos. That summarised Linda Lockwood in a few simple words that always seemed to whirl around in her head." ... from this opening line, we're taken into the life of the main character, Linda, and her awful, awful husband. His character is so well drawn that you hate him and feel angry toward him. This takes skilful writing to pull off.
The pacing was steady, and the storyline straightforward with no plot turns or surprises, making this a light and entertaining read that takes the reader from A to B to C. After Linda's nervous breakdown, the selfish husband had enough of the situation and left her, which actually worked out in her favour. From that point on, Linda set about turning her life around. She set a weight-loss goal and achieved it. Further, she sold the marital home after the divorce and moved to Canberra to be near her family, where more successes followed with work-related aims. A few bumps in the road would have enriched the reading experience for me, rather than things being so straightforward. However, this made for a relaxing read, and one perfect for the beach in summer.
Here are some lines that stood out for me ...
"Every year, a little gloss had been wiped away and now only a dull, rusted undercoat was left."
And ...
"Love was so closely allied to hate and Linda found it hard to separate those two similar feelings."
And ...
"... you have nothing to prove to anyone. You don’t have to be perfect. You don’t need anyone else because you have yourself."
I loved the humour which threads throughout the narrative and the dialogue, and the human interactions that really come alive. Linda's Midlife Crisis gets a solid 3.5 stars, rounded up to 4 for rating purposes. If you enjoy a light read with a low-level romance alongside, definitely give this book a go!
***
NOTE ON RATINGS: I consider a 3-star rating a positive review. Picky about which books I give 5 stars to, I reserve this highest rating for the stories I find stunning and which moved me.
5 STARS: IT WAS AMAZING! I COULD NOT PUT IT DOWN! — Highly Recommended.
4 STARS: I WOULD PULL AN ALL-NIGHTER — Go read this book.
3 STARS: IT WAS GOOD! — An okay read. Didn’t love it. Didn’t hate it.
2 STARS: I MAY HAVE LIKED A FEW THINGS —Lacking in some areas: writing, characterisation, and/or problematic plot lines.
1 STAR: NOT MY CUP OF TEA —Lots of issues with this book.
November 1, 2022
Linda's Midlife Crisis deals with an important topic—escaping a lousy marriage and regaining one's self-esteem. Linda is married to a genuinely despicable husband named Ron, who emotionally abuses her for years. When he humiliates her on her 50th birthday in front of their friends, she finally realizes that this is not the life she wants anymore. On top of her personal woes, she is unhappy in her teaching career, tolerating unruly kids and poor administrators. After having a mental breakdown, she decides to start over in her life.
Linda makes a steady progression of improvements in her life, including health, career, and romance. Ron tries to worm his way back into her life, but she wants nothing to do with him. While author Toni Pike did an excellent job writing this story and showing Linda's character development, there were some points where I thought the changes the protagonist makes come a little too easily.
I thought one of the strengths of this read was to show how a controlling person can manipulate their spouse. I found myself a little frustrated with Linda for not leaving this schmuck earlier, especially since they had no children together. After the marriage ends, Linda learns other disturbing details about Ron. She rights the ship and shows us that with determination and a sound support system of friends, people can make positive changes in their life that make them happier and feel good about themselves.
Linda makes a steady progression of improvements in her life, including health, career, and romance. Ron tries to worm his way back into her life, but she wants nothing to do with him. While author Toni Pike did an excellent job writing this story and showing Linda's character development, there were some points where I thought the changes the protagonist makes come a little too easily.
I thought one of the strengths of this read was to show how a controlling person can manipulate their spouse. I found myself a little frustrated with Linda for not leaving this schmuck earlier, especially since they had no children together. After the marriage ends, Linda learns other disturbing details about Ron. She rights the ship and shows us that with determination and a sound support system of friends, people can make positive changes in their life that make them happier and feel good about themselves.
May 10, 2024
Linda is celebrating her fiftieth birthday surrounded by friends at a party her husband, Ron, provided. Although it seemed like a nice gesture on Ron’s part, he gave a speech that quickly summed up how he treated his wife. I immediately thought Linda should leave him, but she smiled it away, which showed how beaten down she was. She was also a teacher, a profession she’d loved until the support for teachers faded away under a new principal. This all spiraled into an event at her work that pushed her into a breakdown. When Ron lost patience in caring for his recovering wife, he left. Here, in the darkest part of Linda’s life, she found a strength she didn’t know she had. Healing began and her voice emerged. At first, I cringed at the treatment Linda allowed her husband to get away with. He was truly a horrible person. Even when he appeared to be defending his wife, it quickly twisted and became about him. When Linda took control of her life, I cheered for her. She found ways to improve her mental and physical health, step by step. There was a shocking twist at one point, but she was finally at a point to deal with it. I loved how far she went and was open to being happy again. It was satisfying that Ron got what was coming to him, too. A wonderful story of second chances and healing after an emotionally abusive marriage. I can easily recommend “Linda’s Midlife Crisis.”
May 7, 2022
Linda is an overweight teacher, bullied by her students, ignored by the school’s administration, and unappreciated by her husband who has no problem humiliating her, at home and in public. When Linda has a breakdown and is ordered to rest, her husband, feeling burdened, leaves her. The sense of relief begins Linda’s journey into remaking her life.
Linda faces few obstacles in her path beyond her own self-doubt as she forges ahead with some eye-opening determination. She has wonderful support from family and friends, and though most opportunities fall easily into her lap, she also takes risks. I’d categorize the story as Women’s Lit and though it’s fictional, it offers some practical advice on how to remake one’s life, as well as messages of empowerment.
The pace is spot on for a book light on conflict, and I finished it in a day. I enjoyed the array of well-developed characters, especially Linda who carries the POV. This happily-ever-after story would make a fun beach read. Recommended to Women’s Lit readers who are looking for a light and entertaining way to spend a few hours.
Linda faces few obstacles in her path beyond her own self-doubt as she forges ahead with some eye-opening determination. She has wonderful support from family and friends, and though most opportunities fall easily into her lap, she also takes risks. I’d categorize the story as Women’s Lit and though it’s fictional, it offers some practical advice on how to remake one’s life, as well as messages of empowerment.
The pace is spot on for a book light on conflict, and I finished it in a day. I enjoyed the array of well-developed characters, especially Linda who carries the POV. This happily-ever-after story would make a fun beach read. Recommended to Women’s Lit readers who are looking for a light and entertaining way to spend a few hours.
March 12, 2026
I immediately related to this character! Linda Lockwood is a school teacher. Her self-esteem is below zero, not only because of her aging body, but also because of husband who is constantly belittling her and telling her she is fat, lazy and worthless.
The book opens with a scene that made me cringe. It's Linda's birthday. Her husband has planned an extravagant celebration and invited all their friends. But instead of celebrating Linda, he makes a speech that causes Linda to shrink into herself and caused me to want to slap him. She is beyond humiliated. Then she is bullied by some students who are hoodlums and she reaches her breaking point.
This is when I began to cheer her on. She could do this! She could climb back out from the bottom. The story is about that transformation journey and I found it empowering and uplifting. I recommend this book for anyone who is riddled with self-doubt or who suffers any kind of spousal mental abuse. The author did a great job of placing me in the story. I became Linda's friend and longed to see her succeed. I won't say what happens. but I will say it was quite a journey for Linda Lockwood! I highly recommend this book.
The book opens with a scene that made me cringe. It's Linda's birthday. Her husband has planned an extravagant celebration and invited all their friends. But instead of celebrating Linda, he makes a speech that causes Linda to shrink into herself and caused me to want to slap him. She is beyond humiliated. Then she is bullied by some students who are hoodlums and she reaches her breaking point.
This is when I began to cheer her on. She could do this! She could climb back out from the bottom. The story is about that transformation journey and I found it empowering and uplifting. I recommend this book for anyone who is riddled with self-doubt or who suffers any kind of spousal mental abuse. The author did a great job of placing me in the story. I became Linda's friend and longed to see her succeed. I won't say what happens. but I will say it was quite a journey for Linda Lockwood! I highly recommend this book.
April 27, 2022
In Toni Pike's Linda's Midlife Crisis (2022), Linda Lockwood finds herself fifty years old in a job she hates--teaching in a dysfunctional High School, married to a man she no longer loves--doesn't even like, living in a house she likes even less. She tolerates all of this by eating too much until one day, she snaps and decides to make some changes. If you think it's impossible to redo every part of your life at the advanced age of fifty years old, you haven't met Linda. She's a clever woman and chips away at problems one at a time, in a logical way with planning and fortitude. Piece by piece, she remakes her life. To tell you more would be to give away the plot, but trust me, it is fun, believable, and you will finish the book thinking, "I can do that".
I've read other books by Toni Pike and find them fast moving, enjoyable, with characters I grow to like. This book was the same. Highly recommended for those who enjoy a good story with a satisfying ending.
I've read other books by Toni Pike and find them fast moving, enjoyable, with characters I grow to like. This book was the same. Highly recommended for those who enjoy a good story with a satisfying ending.
May 21, 2022
This is a heartwarming read that shares the journey of Linda Lockwood as she suffers bullies in and out of the classroom, a husband who treats her like a doormat and is very vocal in public about her ‘flaws’, and her own lack of self-esteem.
Just how much is too much, and when will Linda finally snap? At 50 years old and at the end of her tether she decides there has to be a better life than this. Especially when her secret dreams are thrown back in her face.
After years as a teacher she is resourceful and over the following months Linda gets back her joy in life and begins to open up to the world. Meeting new friends, being close to family and looking amazing she blossoms.The one area of her life that doesn’t tempt her is romance, but when you are not looking, sometimes it finds you anyway.
This story encourages all those who find themselves suddenly alone and facing an uncertain future that there is hope and a second chance. Recommended.
Just how much is too much, and when will Linda finally snap? At 50 years old and at the end of her tether she decides there has to be a better life than this. Especially when her secret dreams are thrown back in her face.
After years as a teacher she is resourceful and over the following months Linda gets back her joy in life and begins to open up to the world. Meeting new friends, being close to family and looking amazing she blossoms.The one area of her life that doesn’t tempt her is romance, but when you are not looking, sometimes it finds you anyway.
This story encourages all those who find themselves suddenly alone and facing an uncertain future that there is hope and a second chance. Recommended.
May 4, 2022
Poor Linda; she's married to an ogre who verbally and psychologically abuses her and she no longer enjoys her job as a high school teacher. She has just turned fifty, is not happy with her life and feels trapped. To compensate, she overeats. She experiences a traumatic event at school and snaps. She finally wakes up to the awful reality of her life and realizes she has to do something about it. When she finds an inner strength she didn't know she had, her life begins to turn around. It was good to see Linda's transformation as she was quite pathetic initially. Self-doubt plagues her but she rises above it, realizing that life can indeed begin at fifty. How she does this makes a good piece of women's fiction with a positive twist. I recommend this book. I received an ARC (an Advance Reader Copy) from the author, my opinions are my own.
April 27, 2022
Thanks to Toni I received an ARC (an Advance Reader Copy) for Linda's Midlife Crisis and once I started reading I couldn't stop!
I really enjoyed it as it had lots of local stuff in and around Canberra, characters I could relate to and (spoiler alert) an ending I was happy with!!
Linda's life with her husband was awful and her working life wasn't much better with a horrid Principal and after she had a crisis she changed her life around to one she deserved. As a midlife woman myself I could relate to some of the issues Linda had to deal with, but thankfully my husband is a much nice bloke than hers was!
Linda sets out to change things up and does it well. A feel good story in the end and a credit to author Toni Pike, it was really good!
I really enjoyed it as it had lots of local stuff in and around Canberra, characters I could relate to and (spoiler alert) an ending I was happy with!!
Linda's life with her husband was awful and her working life wasn't much better with a horrid Principal and after she had a crisis she changed her life around to one she deserved. As a midlife woman myself I could relate to some of the issues Linda had to deal with, but thankfully my husband is a much nice bloke than hers was!
Linda sets out to change things up and does it well. A feel good story in the end and a credit to author Toni Pike, it was really good!
February 16, 2024
Linda’s Midlife Crisis is a story of a woman who overcomes many obstacles to find fulfillment. Linda, the protagonist, is a relatable character. She’s 50ish, overweight, insecure, and married to a jerk. Eventually, the various pressures build up until she has a nervous breakdown, at which time, her husband leaves her. This development provides the needed turn in Linda’s life. She pulls herself together and makes changes in her life.
Toni Pike masterfully shows the devolvement of a marriage and the transformation of the victim into the heroine. The themes are universal, the characters are relatable, and the story is uplifting. This was a refreshing 5-star read.
Toni Pike masterfully shows the devolvement of a marriage and the transformation of the victim into the heroine. The themes are universal, the characters are relatable, and the story is uplifting. This was a refreshing 5-star read.
May 19, 2022
Teacher Linda Lockwood is overweight and has low self esteem after years of being bullied by her husband Ron, and after a traumatic classroom incident she can no longer face going to work. When Ron reveals a not-too-delightful secret, Linda decides enough is enough.
She decides to start off by addressing all the negatives in her life; her marriage, her weight, and her job, and remains determined to turn her life around. Does she succeed? You will have to read the book to find out.
This is a light beach read for fans of Women's Fiction.
She decides to start off by addressing all the negatives in her life; her marriage, her weight, and her job, and remains determined to turn her life around. Does she succeed? You will have to read the book to find out.
This is a light beach read for fans of Women's Fiction.
October 13, 2025
Satisfying in that Linda left her abusive marriage and an interesting read. Just a note that her healing journey portrayed by the author is very educational and important for people to understand, but it's all too quick and predictable - which is untrue in real life. The trauma and psychological damage is gratifyingly depicted, but in real life, the survival patterns in the brain must be rebuilt over lots of time and are not so easily turned off. I am grateful that the whole issue is addressed, however, and appreciate the kind of writing that is hard to put down.
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April 27, 2022Once again, Toni Pike has produced an enthralling, thoughtful and sensitive novel. For anyone who has already enjoyed reading her other books, you will not be disappointed. I encourage you all to curl up in a comfortable chair and immerse yourself in this readable and entertaining story. I was delighted to receive an Advanced Reader Copy and very pleased to recommend it to you.
July 7, 2025
Interesting story
I loved the happy ending with the three loving members eventually becoming "FAMILY" . After a horrible life with a miserable husband, Linda finally found well deserved happiness.
I loved the happy ending with the three loving members eventually becoming "FAMILY" . After a horrible life with a miserable husband, Linda finally found well deserved happiness.
December 26, 2024
I enjoyed this book! :)
Love the book cover too!
Love the book cover too!
May 17, 2022
I was lucky enough to be asked by Toni to read and ARC of her latest book Linda's Midlife Crisis (2022). This is a delight to read and shows that we don't have to put up with a life that is making us unhappy and unhealthy. After a 'breakdown', Linda decides it is time to make some changes in her life and with the encouragement and support of friends and family, she finds the courage to make the changes to live life her way
December 15, 2023
Linda's Midlife Crisis by Toni Pike is an absolutely marvelous book that had me rooting for Linda every step of the way, finding her character to be a genuine source of inspiration.
The author skillfully portrays Linda's transformation, as she evolves from a meek and indecisive individual, allowing herself to be taken advantage of by everyone around her, particularly the dreadful Ron. Ron, a despicable man who bullies Linda relentlessly, serves as an emotional punching bag, driven by his own dissatisfaction with life.
The book aptly showcases Linda's gradual progression, as she makes a conscious effort to rebuild her life, shedding weight and making necessary changes that pave the way for newfound success.
The strength of this story lies in its portrayal of how a controlling person can manipulate their spouse, leaving me somewhat frustrated with Linda for not liberating herself from this unpleasant situation earlier, especially given their childless marriage.
As the story unfolds and Linda's marriage ends, she uncovers further distressing revelations about Ron, prompting her to take charge and demonstrate that, with determination and the support of steadfast friends, people can enact positive transformations in their lives, leading to happiness and self-assurance.
This remarkable book is a superb choice for readers who relish stories about triumphing over obstacles and embracing life to the fullest.
Alongside the overarching theme, there is a delightful undercurrent of a heartwarming romance. Toni Pike's excellent writing effortlessly captures the essence of Linda's journey and delivers an engaging narrative that leaves a lasting impression.
November 30, 2024
Wonderful book
Linda's Midlife Crisis is an absolutely wonderful book and I was cheering Linda on every step of the way and I found her character to be a real inspiration. Ron was a real piece of work and he made me so angry😠😠😠. This book is an absolute must read.
Edited 30/11/24 :- I've just finished re-reading this book and I didn't enjoy it nearly as much 2nd time around. Oh well c'est la vie.
Linda's Midlife Crisis is an absolutely wonderful book and I was cheering Linda on every step of the way and I found her character to be a real inspiration. Ron was a real piece of work and he made me so angry😠😠😠. This book is an absolute must read.
Edited 30/11/24 :- I've just finished re-reading this book and I didn't enjoy it nearly as much 2nd time around. Oh well c'est la vie.
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