So silly old me accidentally posted the wrong review to the wrong book earlier so thankfully I figured out my mistake. Lol
This intriguing late nineteenth century and early twentieth century novel explores the art of the occults. I read a novel a while back that was similar but this one is a bit more lighthearted although they are both equally good books. Overall I was very impressed with the characters and the writing itself was goos and easy to understand.
Our main heroine Katherine Tingley has always felt like an outsider to her family who were frightened at her ability to have visions. Deciding that she wants to seek her own destiny she leaves her home and travels to find people who understand her gift. Along the way she manages to help those who have lost loved be able to communicate with them.
She then meets William Q Judge who is a very influential mesmerist and teaches her to embrace her gift. Overtime she manages to become much more confident with her abilities. After Mr. Judges passing her takes up her leadership role in the society and moves to San Diego to grow her prospects. However some of these people don't have the best intentions and if she isn't careful she could possibly lose everything.
I received an arc copy from Netgalley and all opinions are of my own.

I had a passing understanding of Theosophy, and this intriguing historical novel filled in many blanks in my knowledge. It is clear from the author’s note on her research that, while this is a work of fiction, it is based on a deep dive into the life of Katherine Tingley and the Theosophy movement. According to the notes all the characters (except for one at the mission in NYC) were actual people involved in the movement.

Katherine Tingley’s story is unique, not only in her paranormal abilities, but also in her leadership at a time when the role of women was severely constricted by social norms of the late eighteenth – early nineteenth centuries. The descriptions of her accomplishments gave me a deep appreciation of her commitment to her vision in the face of betrayal, lies and even slander. The pacing as the novel began kept me engaged, but I found myself becoming a bit fatigued by all the drama and power struggles described in great detail. Additionally, the ending felt rushed after the extensive focus on the beginning of her involvement.

Leaders of spiritual movements that defy traditional religious roles are often met with disdain, contempt and even violence. As I reflected on the description of Lomaland compound from today’s perspective, I wondered if it would be labeled a cult with all the weight that label carries. Regardless of one’s perspective concerning the community and its adherents, the Theosophy movement/philosophy itself held pure intentions for universal brotherhood, love, and peace – much needed qualities then and now.

Overall, this was an informative and enjoyable read that pays tribute to the courage and resourcefulness of a remarkable woman.

My thanks to the author, the publisher, and NetGalley for the privilege of reviewing this book. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

This review is being posted immediately to my GoodReads account and will be posted on Amazon upon publication.

One of my favorite authors did not disappoint! Great characters and storyline. I loved the journey that Katherine went on, to find her destiny. Great book!

Based on the true story of the founder of Lomaland in San Diego, On a Sundown Sea presents an engrossing tale of the establishment of the west coast home of Theosophy and the determined and spiritual woman who was the Outer Head of the Theosophical Society from 1896 until her death in 1929. Though written as historical fiction, the author’s prodigious research raises On a Sundown Sea to the level of a stunning biography of Katherine Tingley. The story of the little-known Tingley is full of spiritual and supernatural events and fascinating real characters, all based on deep research. Tingley’s leadership created a holistic school and paradise from the sandy scrubland of Point Loma, California. Jill G. Hall's depiction of Tingley's life is well worth reading for anyone interested in Theosophy, California history, spiritualism, or the achievements of an unusual and motivating woman at the turn of the century.

On a Sundown Sea by Jill G. Hall is an incredible book of historical fiction.

The author did an incredible amount of research. The story of Katherine Tingley's life was incredibly well done.

The Theosophical Society was new to me and was so well portrayed.

The character development is excellent. Well researched, complex, and scandalous.

Madame Tingley kept me engrossed in her life. This was a page turner that i was totally engrossed in and highly recommend!

Brilliant blend of historical and fiction writing. Good character development from a reserved woman to more leadership influencer. Tingley starts her journey from a reoccurring vision that leads to romance and heartache. Lots of historical learnings from ancient civilisations.

A fascinating turn of the century book that should be on your read list.

Not read Hall’s novels prior so this was a welcome treat thanks to #NetGalley for the opportunity to read via the ARC programme.

A little slow at times, but a very atmospheric read about a very interesting woman.
I was drawn to this book initially because I attended PLNU which occupies the Lomaland campus currently.

Such a fun and interesting look into the Theosophical Society and Katherine Tingley.

A book that although a bit slow at times and a bit slow to start but the story and characters are very interesting which helped to keep me reading. The storyline flowed well and it was easy to read. I can't say it was a favourite book of mine but I did enjoy it. I'd give it 3 1/2 stars.

Thank you NetGalley and She Writes Press for giving me the opportunity to read and review this book.

The book is set around the turn of the 20th century.
It’s about a protagonist women named Katherine Tingley, who is a real historical figure
She was a medium, visionary, leader in the Theosophical Society.
She started out being a student of William Q. Judge but after his death she takes up role of leadership,
She moves the theosophical headquarters to San Diego, and tries to bring her vision into reality.
Along the way, there are obstacles: betrayals, libels, legal issues, and the weight of running a community with lofty ideals.

What a magical journey!
This story completely swept me away.
It beautifully blends history and fiction, bringing Madame Tingley and her extraordinary vision to life.
The writing is gorgeous, the descriptions so vivid, and knowing it’s inspired by true events made it all the more fascinating.

Clairvoyant's have always fascinated me and I had not heard of Madame Tingley until reading this novel. She was quite fascinating and really did what she could to do good in the world, although many didn't seem to believe her true intentions. Having seen visions as a child, she often was scolded for lying and learning to not speak about it, so she tries to live a normal life until she is sought out by William Q. Judge, who is associated it the American Theosophical Society. This encounter will forever change Katherine's life, but it will be a challenge and one she is willing to take on to see her visions come to fruitions. After years of training and tutelage under William, it's time for her to take over and many question that she was the chosen one. Katherine continues as planned and takes a world crusade to spread word of the brotherhood and look to gain followers and those who also can see her vision for the future of the Theosophical Society. As she returns to the US and starts to put her plans in placed, she is often challenged but things always come through and her visions continue to prove her correct in being their leader but the most enduring challenges will be when she once again has to prove herself to the courts, government and those who have always been out to prove that she is just a fraud. There was so much history in this novel and I was so fascinated with everything that happened with these people and what they believed in. I will be looking to learn more about Katherine Tingley, this historical society and place. Thank you to the author for the complementary novel and to Suzy Approved Book Tours for the invite! This review is of my own opinion and accord.

such a captivating book. one that interested me straight away and of a topic i already loved looking and learning into but to be honest never really feel clever enough to do so other than passing moments. after googling more after and throughout this novel it actually really helped me to garner more snippets from the theosophy world. and i loved how this book in itself helped me get into it in way that was fascinating and fiction and in the realities of it. not least with how the lady involved in the book had so much truth to her.
it had a magical element whilst reading this, both in thoughts and feelings. the settings just leaped from the pages. it was like some wonderful adventure you go on with both scenes and locations and the people themselves. maybe i dont mean magical actually maybe it felt more spiritual. this book just had a special kind of quality to it. and i wanted to read more and more spending as much time within the pages as i could.
i love how at this time in society Katherine felt like an even more brave and inspiring woman. to leave so much behind to go on what was for some larger calling was quite incredible. and whether you believe in this type of things or not, for me somehow i really did believe in her and her abilities. or certainly wanted to know more of them, i wanted to know more of her.
the way Jill wrote this book and the characters really helped me to feel involved and like i could understand what was going on. Katherine just fascinated me from the get go and i could've read any story about her. im so glad her story even in this form has been told.