On a Sundown Sea: A Novel of Madame Tingley and the Origins of Lomaland

by Jill G. Hall

Set at the turn of the 20th century, a mystical, tantalizing novel about a visionary’s journey toward her destiny. 

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 mystical 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.

Genres: Historical Fiction

384 pages, Paperback

Published October 14, 2025

About the author

Jill G. Hall is author of On a Sundown Sea, a Novel of Madame Tingley and the Origins of Lomaland, and the award-winning “Anne McFarland Series.” The Black Velvet Coat, The Silver Shoes, and The Green Lace Corset. 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, incorporating the arts along the way. She is an instructor and past board president at San Diego Writers, Ink. and holds a doctorate from Northern Arizona University. A native San Diegan, she resides in Point Loma.

Reviews

[Nursebookie · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Mesmerizing, visionary, and utterly unforgettable.

Jill G. Hall’s On a Sundown Sea is a sweeping, lyrical journey through the life of Katherine Tingley—a clairvoyant, dreamer, and spiritual pioneer who dared to chase a recurring childhood vision: a gleaming white city by the sea. Inspired by true events, this historical novel blends mysticism, feminism, and idealism into a captivating portrait of one woman’s quest for purpose and transcendence at the turn of the 20th century.

From the streets of Manhattan’s Do-Good Mission to the distant reaches of the globe in search of hidden wisdom, Hall takes readers on an enthralling path toward the creation of Lomaland—a sanctuary of art, learning, and enlightenment on the cliffs of San Diego. The atmospheric setting is so vividly rendered, I could almost see the golden sunsets and hear the Pacific breeze rustling through eucalyptus trees.

Katherine’s journey is both spiritual and deeply human. Her courage to leave behind societal expectations (and her husband) in pursuit of a higher calling is inspiring, and her struggles with betrayal, power, and faith are emotionally resonant. The courtroom drama that anchors the novel’s final act is tense and powerful—a perfect culmination of everything she’s worked to build.

If you enjoy historical fiction with strong female leads, a touch of mysticism, and a richly immersive setting, On a Sundown Sea belongs on your shelf. One of my favorite reads of the year.

[Leslie aka StoreyBook Reviews · Rating 3 out of 5]

Based on historical characters and an actual movement, this story is educational and intriguing.

Katherine Tingley was a medium and clairvoyant. She played a significant role in the Theosophical Society and led thousands of people to live in harmony with nature. Now, that doesn't mean everything was easy for her. This was the late 1800s to early 1900s, and men didn't always take women seriously. She continually fought an uphill battle to bring her visions to life.

I had never heard of this woman or the Theosophical Society, and this sent me down a rabbit hole seeking more information. I wasn't sure at first whether it was an actual movement or fictional. Imagine my surprise to find a website and information about them, and there is even a center closer to me. As I read this book, I felt like it was some sort of cult, but not the kind we imagine today. This society believed in helping people, especially children's welfare. They provided significant support to improve children's and families' health. 

It is clear that the author did extensive research on her travels, work, and more. While fictional, it is based on truth. Katherine is a compelling woman.

I did feel like the novel moved slowly, and it took me longer to read this book than normal. It was an educational read, and I learned a lot about this woman and Theosophy. It gave many people something to believe in when times seemed bleak. 

We give this book 3 paws up.

[Karen Axnick · Rating 4 out of 5]

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 nineteenth – early twentieth 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.

[Rebecca D’Harlingue · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story of Katherine Tingley, founder of Lomaland in San Diego, and the leader of the Theosophist society for many years, is obviously deeply researched. The details of Katherine’s life and the challenges she must meet to fulfill her dreams of a Theosophist enclave are gripping. We accompany Tingley on her physical and spiritual journey as she overcomes her own self-doubt and the scorn of those who find her unworthy to lead the Theosophist Society.

Hall skillfully reveals the progress from the woman who early on already sees it as her duty to help those less fortunate than she, to the woman who has developed a clear vision of who she is, what she wishes to do, and how her dreams can benefit all of humanity. Many believed in Tingley’s visions and abilities as a medium, and Hall treats these in a matter-of-fact manner, so that they naturally seem an integral part of the portrayal of Tingley.

I also appreciated it that Hall does not shy away from possible faults. Though Tingley is strong and determined, she sometimes misjudges situations, as anyone might. As she becomes more convinced of her own destiny, at times she makes strategic mistakes perhaps due to overconfidence. Throughout it all, the story sweeps us up in this life story of a fascinating woman, told by a masterful writer.

[Courtney Pityer · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[Book Reviewer · Rating 4 out of 5]

When I first closed the final page of On a Sundown Sea, I sat with the feeling that I had been walking alongside Katherine Tingley, a woman caught between the raw struggles of the 19th century and her own restless visions of something more. The novel takes us through New York’s crowded tenements, the snowbound Great Blizzard of 1888, and finally into the swirl of spiritualism, social reform, and theosophy that defined her life. It is a story of Katherine’s yearning for justice, for connection, and for the dream of a golden city by the sea where harmony might prevail.

What struck me first about this book was how alive the writing felt. The historical detail pulled me in, yet it never read like a lecture. The voices of the poor at the mission, the creak of an empty bread cart, even the sound of a baby crying outside in the cold stayed with me. I admired the way author Jill G. Hall let Katherine be complicated, fierce and brave, but also vulnerable, flawed, and often unsure. The visions Katherine experiences could have been written as distant or mystical, but instead they felt immediate and human, even tender. I could sense her exhaustion, her longing to believe they meant something.

There were moments when the pacing slowed, especially when the story lingered on Philo’s inventions or the details of household frustrations. I found myself wanting to move back to Katherine’s work at the mission or her encounters with William Q. Judge, which carried a spark. Yet in a strange way, even these slower stretches made me feel more connected to Katherine, because life itself rarely moves in clean arcs of drama. It’s messy, filled with distractions, petty disappointments, and small betrayals, and the novel captured that truth.

I came away deeply moved by Katherine’s journey. Her search for meaning felt familiar to me, and I imagine it will resonate with many others who’ve ever wondered if they were meant for more than the roles life handed them. I would recommend On a Sundown Sea to readers who enjoy historical fiction rooted in real social movements, but also to anyone who loves a story about resilience and the desire to build a better world. It is a thoughtful, heartfelt novel, and though it is set in the past, it left me thinking about the present in fresh ways.

[Melissa (Nissa_the.bookworm) · Rating 5 out of 5]

𝐑𝐄𝐀𝐃 𝐓𝐇𝐈𝐒 𝐈𝐅 𝐘𝐎𝐔
📖 enjoy books based on real historical figures
🌈 want to live in a utopia
❤️ love drama
 like historical fiction

• 𝐖𝐇𝐀𝐓 𝐈𝐓’𝐒 𝐀𝐁𝐎𝐔𝐓

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.

• 𝐌𝐘 𝐓𝐇𝐎𝐔𝐆𝐇𝐓𝐒

This was a great story, mainly because I had never heard of the Theosophical Society before this, so I learned a lot about it and their ideas. I also didn’t know much about the FMC, Katherine Tingley, so it was fun to see her “brought to life” so to speak in this fictional retelling of her life and what she wanted to create. Even though I don’t think she thought of it as a cult, I can see similarities between the two. I enjoyed getting to see and hear about her visions though! I think that part fascinated me the most. I highly recommend reading the author’s note for more background information!

[Linda Zagon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jill G. Hall, the Author of “On a Sundown Sea; A Novel of Madame Tingley and the Origins of Lomaland" has written an inspirational, captivating and intriguing novel. The Genres for this book are : Biographical Historical Fiction,Metaphysical and Visionary Fiction, and Autobiographical and Autofiction. In this well written novel, the author has done a vast amount of research on the various topics. The timeline for this story is set at the turn of the century. From Goodreads, it states this is " a mystical tantalizing novel about a visionary’s journey towards her journey."

Jill G. Hall vividly describes the scenery, and complex and complicated characters. Katherine Kingley, is a medium and clairvoyant that has an image from childhood of “a vision of a white city on a Sundown Sea .” Katherine Kingley has a husband that likes to invent things, and a beloved dog. She wants to help people less fortunate and helps at a Do- Good Mission. There she meets, William Q. Judge, who is a leader of the American Theosophical Society. William senses something in Katherine Kingley, and takes her on as his student and spiritual path that could help make her dream a reality. He does not introduce her to the other leaders at this time. William is concerned of opposition to her, or betrayals.

When William Q. Judge passes away, Katherine takes over the leadership, and finds strong opposition and there are some betrayals. In 1900, she moves the Theosopical Society to San Diego. There are some splinters and legal battles that ensue. Katherine seeks her goals and wants to form a “Lomaland” where there is a sacred place for learning, solitude, arts, peace and harmony. This is an informative book, and I learned and discovered many things about subjects that I hadn’t known about before. I would recommend this thought-provoking book.

[Chelsie · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[Cassie’s Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

Jill G. Hall’s On a Sundown Sea is a luminous, transportive novel that blends historical fiction with spiritual mysticism, bringing to life the  story of Katherine Tingley and her quest to manifest a utopian community by the sea.
Set at the turn of the 20th century, the novel follows Tingley—a clairvoyant, reformer, and dreamer—whose vision of “a white city on a sundown sea” propels her from the tenements of Manhattan to the sun-washed cliffs of San Diego. Along the way, she crosses paths with William Q. Judge and the Theosophical movement, stepping into a destiny that intertwines faith, ambition, and the search for enlightenment.
Hall writes with an almost poetic grace, evoking the era’s mysticism and optimism while grounding her protagonist in the human struggles of power, betrayal, and belief. The author’s rich detail immerses readers in both the social reform movements of the 1800s and the spiritual experimentation of the early 1900s, capturing the tension between idealism and human frailty.
At its heart, On a Sundown Sea is not just the story of one woman’s vision—it’s about the endurance of hope and the eternal quest for meaning in a chaotic world. Readers of historical and metaphysical fiction alike will be drawn into Katherine’s journey, inspired by her conviction that dreams, no matter how audacious, can shape the world.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5/5) — A mesmerizing blend of history, spirituality, and feminine power.
#HistoricalFiction #JillGHall #OnASundownSea #Theosophy #KatherineTingley #SpiritualFiction #Lomaland #BookReview #WomenInHistory #VisionaryStories

[Elizabeth John · Rating 5 out of 5]

This intriguing new novel by Jill Hall delivers a captivating and meticulously researched account of Katherine Tingley’s extraordinary life, blending history and fiction to create a compelling narrative. Following her transformative encounter with William Q. Judge, Madame Tingley’s rise within the Theosophical Society is portrayed with vivid detail, showcasing her dedication to universal brotherhood and her relentless pursuit of peace. Madame Tingley’s unwavering commitment to her vision of a “city on a sundown sea”, where people live together in harmony and love, creates an absorbing chronicle for the reader and delivers an astonishingly vivid depiction of late-Victorian society.

Ms. Hall’s attention to character development and historical accuracy makes this book a standout. Tingley emerges as a powerful figure: her staunch, and often contentious, ideals drive the story forward. The novel’s blend of historical detail and narrative tension makes it a must-read, offering a fascinating glimpse into the life of a woman who made a lasting impact on the worlds of theosophy, education and social reform. Madame Tingley may have been controversial, divisive, scandalous even. She was also dedicated, steadfast and possessed an indomitable spirit. The resultant novel is an engrossing, page-turning read that’s sure to resonate with fans of literary women’s fiction and historical bestsellers alike.

Highly Recommend.

[Susan Ballard (subakkabookstuff) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love historical fiction when it is both an enjoyable read and able to teach me something new.

𝐎𝐧 𝐀 𝐒𝐮𝐧𝐝𝐨𝐰𝐧 𝐒𝐞𝐚 was an utterly immersive journey, following the life of Katherine Tingley, a woman I had never heard of before. She was a woman who, in the late 1800s, started the Do-Good missions on the streets of Manhattan, but she was also a clairvoyant and medium who often had visions. She constantly had visions of a “white city on a sundown sea.”

Her life took a dramatic turn when she was approached by the leader of the Theosophical Society. This marked the beginning of her true journey, a quest for ancient wisdom and enlightenment that would take her across the globe. Eventually, Katherine would assume leadership of the Theosophical Society, relocating it to San Diego and expanding it into Lomaland - a sacred place of learning and artistry. However, this transformation was not without its share of challenges, including betrayal and turmoil.

As I mentioned, I had never heard of Madame Tingley prior to reading this book, nor did I know what the Theosophical Society was. While she was certainly ahead of her time, although controversially, I found her to be fascinating. The writing was not just transportive and descriptive, but also engaging, and I was easily swept up in the story.

*The Author’s Note added more insight into what came next for Katherine and Lomaland.


Thank you to @suzyapprovedbooktours and @jillg.hall for the #gifted book.

[Erika Powell · Rating 4 out of 5]

My sincere thanks to the author for sending me a signed copy of On a Sundown Sea after I won the giveaway.

This novel skillfully intertwines historical detail with imaginative fiction, centering on the community of spiritual seekers associated with Lomaland in early twentieth-century San Diego. It vividly captures a period when alternative spiritual movements were flourishing on the American West Coast, offering a richly textured depiction of a distinctive cultural moment.

From a historical standpoint, the narrative is well-researched and informative, bringing the social and philosophical currents of the era to life. The prose moves fluidly between realism and mysticism, reflecting the tension between documented history and speculative belief.

Because the story engages themes of spiritualism, it benefits from thoughtful and discerning reading. These elements are best appreciated as portrayals of historical belief systems rather than invitations to embrace the worldview they represent.

Overall, On a Sundown Sea succeeds as reflective and meticulously crafted historical fiction, providing a compelling window into the aspirations and uncertainties of a bygone spiritual age in the American West.

[Debbie Rozier · Rating 4 out of 5]

This historical fiction novel tells about the real life of Katherine Tingley and her vision of a white city. It starts in 1888 and goes through the beginning of the 1900s.

This book talks about the Theosophical Society, William Q. Judge, and Katherine’s connection to both.

The first half of the book tells how Katherine is a chela under Judge.

The second half of the book takes place after Judge’s death. In this part, Katherine becomes Outer Head and travels with other crusaders around the world spreading theosophy and team building.

The read then goes on to tell about how Katherine’s vision becomes a school in California at Point Loma which was thought at first to be uninhabitable.

There is also a lot of infighting among other parts of the Theosophical Society group as well as a slanderous newspaper article.

I felt that this could be two books because there was so much going on and it was all tremendously fascinating.

My take away from this book is that Katherine just wanted to help people and the Theosophical Society gave her those means. It also shows Katherine as an influential woman during a time well before women had much say at all.

[Reeca Elliott · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoy a book with a strong female lead! This book has it in spades!

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.

Not only is a strong female lead a favorite of mine, I adore a book with mysticism. Katherine Tingley is a clairvoyant with a plan. She is one of my favorite characters of the whole year!

This book takes you on a wild ride through many aspects of Katherine’s life. She did not fit into the norm of society. As a matter of fact, she took on this society with the fight of her life.

Need a wonderful, historical tale about a real person…THIS IS IT!

I received this novel for a honest review.

[K. Lang-Slattery · Rating 4 out of 5]

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.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[TarHeelReader · Rating 4 out of 5]

Gorgeous cover, right? I won a copy of The Black Velvet Coat by this author, back in 2015, and I was so excited to read her newest book!

In the late 1899s, Katherine Tingley is a medium and clairvoyant with a vision. While serving on a mission, she meets a mesmerist named William Q. Judge. He sees her potential and takes her under his wing to train her on a spiritual path.

After he passes away, Katherine takes over the helm of the society he ran. Eventually she moves the society to San Diego and establishes Lomaland, a sacred space. People travel from all over to experience enlightenment there.

What a fascinating life and character to feature, off the beaten path. I enjoyed the mysticism of it all. Pretty audacious, Katherine’s life she created. I loved reading about it!

I received a gifted copy.

Many of my reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com and instagram: www.instagram.com/tarheelreader

[Linda Ulleseit · Rating 5 out of 5]

On a Sundown Sea, by Jill Hall, does more than relate the history of Madame Tingley and Lomaland. It’s true that it presents a well-researched book, devoted to true historical figures, and explains the origins of Theosophy. The character of Madame Tingley, however, jumps from the page. The novel examines the charismatic leader’s paranormal abilities and rise to leadership in the Theosophical Society. It paints her as a talented woman who helps others as her confidence in herself grows. Madame Tingley builds hospitals and does relief work, and she travels the world spreading her message. She is a role model for female leadership in a time when women weren’t expected to lead. On a Sundown Sea is accurate enough to be a biography and compelling enough to satisfy every historical fiction reader.
~Linda Ulleseit, award-winning author of historical fiction

[Barbara Stark-Nemon · Rating 5 out of 5]

On a Sundown Sea- a Novel of Madame Tingley and the Origins of Lomaland, is author Jill Hall’s love letter to a woman, a movement, a time and a place that clearly fascinates her and she transmits that fascination to her reader. Weaving the true history of the Theosophist movement at the turn of the 20th century America, focusing on the life of Katherine Tingley, and the creation of Lomaland in San Diego, Hall educates on the movement, as Tingley becomes involved, then becomes its leader. With elements of the paranormal, the deeply spiritual, and reminders of how hard it was for a female to function in a leadership position at a national and international level, this well-researched novel brings to life the trials and triumphs of an unusual and interesting woman and a little-known movement.

[Susan Gembrowski · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was lucky to read an advance copy of this fascinating book. It is the story of a determined and charismatic woman, Katherine Tingley, and the intrigue surrounding her rise to power as the leader of the American section of the Theosophical Society, a philosophical movement that seeks to understand the nature of the universe and man's place in it. Tingley twice traveled the world on theosophical crusades, did relief work during the Spanish-American War, and established hospitals in Manila and Cuba, before founding Lomaland near San Diego, California, in 1900, as the international headquarters of the Society. Highly recommended.

[Iris J · Rating 5 out of 5]

Before I read Hall’s On a Sundown Sea, I had never heard of Theosophy, Katherine Tingley, or Lomaland. I am glad to learn about this fascinating bit of history. The author, Jill Hall, does a masterful job of guiding the reader through the ups and downs of Tingley’s vision of a white city on a sundown sea and her progress in realizing that vision. I cheered for Katherine Tingley all throughout the book as she found ways to put down all the men who objected to a woman leader, those who objected to any faith other than their own form of Christianity, and those who told outright lies to boost themselves or sell newspapers. It’s a great read!

[Pat Fayo Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

A new author to me and not a typical type of book I would normally choose to read. The author peaked my interest about the protagonist, Katherine Tingley, and her life story.

The author writes of an orphic, utopian city and the visions Katherine sees concerning it. A book about a woman’s journey to her destiny. Very interesting and informative about the Theosophy Movement of the 19th century. Science, philosophy, and religion within a movement with concepts of karma and reincarnation. Definitely a good read and gives a
totally different aspect other than organized religion.

Thank you to #suzyapprovedbooktours. Words and thoughts are mine alone.

[Sherry · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’d not heard of Katherine and didn’t realize this is based on a historical figure until I read the authors note at the end of the book. Katherine is a strong driven woman who becomes focused on doing good in the world. The writing and my appreciation of the research the author did pulled me. I like that she showed both her good acts and her faults. How her drive led her ego.

Through her connection with William, Katherine’s journey takes her around the world as she strives to become the leader of the Theosophical Society.

It’s both enchanting and hopeful while also showing scandal and controversy. Katherine led an interesting and at times challenging life.

[Tania Pryputniewicz · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a lover of spiritual biographies, I loved meeting Madame Tingley—the visionary founder of San Diego’s Lomaland—in this deftly rendered and historically anchored novel about a woman’s spiritual coming of age and her tenacious commitment to following a dream of creating a unique teaching space to benefit her community. Tingley has to prove not only her spiritual skill but her practical leadership capability amidst backlash and betrayal. Hall’s novel gives important historical context for the turn-of-the-century dynamics facing a married woman slandered by accusations made in print media that were designed to destroy Tingley’s reputation and tarnish her beloved Lomaland legacy.

[Marlene Wagman-Geller · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you are intrigued by women who have become forgotten footnotes, delve into On a Sundown Sea. Jill G. Hall resurrects the legacy of Katheine Tingley, founder of Lomaland, the site of Point Loma Nazarene University, which she inaugurated while dressed in flowing purple robes. The nineteenth century force-of-nature feminist makes for a riveting read, both as a biography, and historic fiction. On a Sundown Sea sizzles. ~Marlene Wagman-Geller, author of Women of Means: The Fascinating Biographies of Royals, Heiresses, Eccentrics and Other Poor Little Rich Girls.

[Dawnny · Rating 5 out of 5]

This historical fiction novel is based on real events and weaves together spirituality, mysticism and occult. It takes us into the life of Katherine Tingley, a medium, and the founder of Lomaland. We follow her life from a child with visions, and told to be quiet about her gift to being the woman who leads the Theosophical Society. I really enjoyed this look into her life. Her dreams, and the challenges she faced. This was really interesting, and I appreciate the research that went into this novel.

Dawnny Ruby
Novels N Latte
Hudson Valley NY

[Danielle B · Rating 4 out of 5]

ON A SUNDOWN SEA was an interesting work of historical fiction. The main character, Katherine Tingley, was an actual person from this time frame and she was also a medium. The author clearly did her homework and made a fantastic story that is part truth and part fiction. If historical fiction and strong women lead characters are your thing, you will probably love this one!

Many thanks to Jill G. Hall for my gifted copy.

This review will be shared to my Instagram account (@coffee.break.book.reviews) in the future.

[crafty.jenn.reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Canada might be gearing up for winter, but this book made me warm and toasty. Everything I want for an October read.

I love historical fiction, particularly, when the author plays, not only with time periods, but actual people in those time periods.

I find Mysticism super-interesting, glutting myself on the details of this real life person with a real life mission in a real life place? Perfection

I don’t generally like a lot of negative internal dialogue but considering the time period and her vision, it felt natural and necessary.

Can’t wait to track down more from this author.

[Kim Wilch · Rating 4 out of 5]

This beautifully written historical novel brings to life Katherine Tingley, a woman whose search for truth and harmony feels timeless. Once a student of William Judge, she rose to lead the Theosophical Society, guided by visions of justice, connection, and peace. Through serene, heartfelt prose, the story captures her dream of creating a sanctuary by the sea—a place where balance and compassion could thrive. A quiet gem of historical fiction, it invites reflection on the universal longing to find meaning and belonging.

[Lisa Albright · Rating 4 out of 5]

This fictional story recreates Katherine Tingley's lifelong efforts to help the poor and create a communal space for higher learning, while also including characters and events that did exist. I always find it so interesting to learn about fascinating yet relatively unknown historical figures and the impact they had on the past and the future. Well-written and well-researched this novel is a must read for historical fiction lovers and don't miss the author's notes for more intriguing information.

I received a gifted copy in exchange for an honest review.