One of my favorite things about historical fiction is learning about places/eras/historical events I didn’t previously know much about. Such is the case with Christine Lindsey’s series Twilight of the British Raj, set in India in the years following the first World War. Captured by Moonlight, the second book in this series, is now available as an ebook, with the physical book releasing in May.
Both of Christine’s books take us into the world of India, introducing us not only to the different culture of the Indian people, but also to the British there, many of whom have lived in India longer than in England. It’s a fascinating mesh of cultures and religions, all shown through a story of mystery, intrigue, and, of course, romance. I loved how the fictional plot was woven into the historical setting, keeping me engaged in both. In fact, I enjoyed Captured by Moonlight so much (I read it a few months ago, before publication) that I provided this official endorsement:
The exotic but turbulent world of post WWI India comes to life in Captured by Moonlight. Deep with emotion and rich in faith, the story satisfies, entertains and enlightens. I loved both the British and the Indian characters as well as the feast of details that made me feel as if I’d traveled to India myself.
If you enjoy unusual settings and time periods, check out Christine’s books. At under $4 each for the kindle versions, they are a great deal!
Shirley Thompson
India has always been a fascinating place to me!
Anne Mateer
Then you would love these two books, Shirley!
Christine Lindsay
Thank you Ann for having me as a guest today.
Anne
Thank you for jumping in on the replies! So happy to have spotlighted your books for those who will enjoy them! 🙂
Christine Lindsay
Me too Shirley. My favorite book of all time is Shadow of the Moon by MM Kaye, and Far Pavilions by the same author as a close second. I loved MM Kayes books on the British Raj of India so much that I had to write my own books, but from a Christian viewpoint.
In Captured by Moonlight, I also enjoyed weaving in some true-life Christian heroes and heroines, both Indian and British. One was the great American medical missionary, Dr. Ida Scudder, then the Indian Christian preacher Sundar Singh, and a wonderful Christian social reformer Pandita Ramabai.
Cherryl Makatura
I really enjoy reading the history of India, and this particular period is very compelling. If you enjoy it you should read the The Raj Quartet by Paul Scott.. very good. BBC did a mini series based on the books titled The Jewel in the Crown, which is also very good. Another book Far Pavilions by M.M. Kaye is ok, the series based on it wasn’t great however. There are wonderful histories of the period and the time of the “Great Game” including of course Kiplings Kim. I will check this book out.
Anne
I’ve put those title on my “looking for” list now, Cherryl! Thank you!
Christine Lindsay
Oh Cherryl, I am so in agreement with you. I love the British Raj history. I’m a huge MM Kaye fan, and the BBC production of that great novel didn’t do justice to the book. I’ve read everything by MM Kaye. Also own tattered copies of the Raj Quartet, due to too many readings. Loved the BBC production of that though.
And yes, the Great Game, just a time of sweeping adventure and romance. If you liked any of those books, then I’m confident you will like my series. I did so much research that even Indian people were amazed that I’d never been there. But I did make a trip to India not that long ago.
Love that country, and you can still see evidence of the British Raj. Check out an article I wrote on Laurie Alice Eakes blog today on the history of the British Raj. http://lauriealiceeakes.com/blog/news/twilight-of-the-british-empire-by-christine-lindsay/