On a Sundown Sea
A Novel of Madame Tingley and the Origins of Lomaland
by Jill G. Hall
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Pub Date Oct 14 2025 | Archive Date Not set
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Description
In 1888, Katherine Tingley, a medium and clairvoyant, continues to have a childhood vision of a white city on a sundown sea. While serving the poor at her Do-Good Mission on Manhattan’s East Side, she encounters William Q. Judge, a mesmerist and leader of the American Theosophical Society. He recognizes her potential, convinces her to become his student, and guides her on a spiritual path that could make her mystical dream become a reality.
After Judge’s passing, Katherine assumes leadership of the Society and embarks on a world crusade to spread brotherhood, learn from ancient cultures, and search for a Himalayan Mahatma. In 1900, she moves the Theosophical headquarters to San Diego. Here, she sets out to establish Lomaland—a sacred space of learning, artistry, and divine harmony, built on a barren peninsula yet brimming with hidden potential. As people from around the world converge to share in her vision, they form a community united in purpose to spread enlightenment. However, betrayals, lies, and libels accumulate until a monumental court case ultimately decides her future and the fate of the white city on a sundown sea.
A Note From the Publisher
Jill G. Hall is author of the award-winning Anne McFarland Series about women searching for their place in the world connected by vintage finds. The Black Velvet Coat, The Silver Shoes, and The Green Lace Corset are bestselling book club favorites. Hall’s poems and personal narratives have appeared in a variety of publications and on her blog Crealivity, the art of practicing a creative lifestyle.
Her tenure as an educator spanned over twenty years. She is an instructor and past board president of San Diego Writers, Ink. In addition to being a wordsmith, she is a mixed media mosaic artist and her stage performances have ranged from Macbeth to The Music Man. Passionate about yoga, gardening, and spending time in nature, she finds joy in meeting with readers because that’s what inspires her to keep writing. She holds degrees from Point Loma Nazarene University and the University of San Diego, with a doctorate from Northern Arizona University.
A native San Diegan, she resides in Point Loma within walking distance of the historic Lomaland property.
Advance Praise
“Richly detailed and inspiring, On a Sundown Sea adeptly captures Madame Tingley’s mysticism and ambition. Hall’s vivid storytelling makes this a must-read for history lovers and dreamers alike.”—Kristen Fogle, Executive Director, San Diego Writers, Ink
“A masterful blend of history and fiction in every chapter.”—Elizabeth St.John, author of The Godmother’s Secret
“Mesmerizing, smart, and unforgettable, Hall’s Katherine Tingley soars!”—Richard Farrell, author of The Falling Woman
“A captivating novel that illuminates the extraordinary journey of Madame Tingley, and the culmination of her esoteric vision.” —Judy Reeves, author, When Your Heart Says Go
Available Editions
| EDITION | Other Format |
| ISBN | 9781647429881 |
| PRICE | $18.99 (USD) |
| PAGES | 256 |
Links
Available on NetGalley
Featured Reviews
Courtney P, Reviewer
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.
Reviewer 707034
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.
