Oct. 14th 2025
Published by She Writes Press
Distributed by Simon & Schuster
On A Sundown Sea
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 place 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.
Based on the life of a true visionary.
Now available
Or order from your favorite local bookstore!
Jill’s favorites: La Playa Books and Warwick’s
Praise for On A Sundown Sea
“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 of When Your Heart Says Go
Praise for On A Sundown Sea
“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 of When Your Heart Says Go
Discussion Questions
Download the Discussion Sheet to print it.
- How did Katherine Tingley’s childhood affect her life’s passions?
- On a Sundown Sea follows Katherine’s vision to build an artistic and spiritual community despite numerous obstacles. Which of her challenges did you find most compelling, and why?
- If you were to create a community like Katherine’s, what would its setting and purpose be? Who would you invite?
- Katherine had vivid dreams and premonitions. Have you ever had a dream that came true?
- Do you believe some people are able to communicate with departed souls?
- How did reading On a Sundown Sea shape or expand your understanding of Theosophy and spiritual movements in general?
- What do you think fueled the rivalries and resentments among the leaders of the Theosophical movement?
- Leadership is a central theme in Katherine’s story. What qualities do you think make someone the “right” leader, and how do those qualities compare with Katherine’s?
- Was Katherine truly “the chosen one” or were Hargrove, Annie, and Olcott right to contest her leadership?
- Katherine traveled widely during her lifetime. Which journey do you think most influenced her world view?
- If you could ask Katherine one question, what would it be?
- Compare and contrast Katherine’s relationships with William and Philo. Which character did you find most intriguing?
- Cheiro, the palm reader, offers to reveal Katherine’s Fadic date. Do you think she agreed? If you had the chance, would you like to know the date you would die?
- After finishing On a Sundown Sea, what lasting impressions or insights did you take away from Katherine Tingley’s story? How might they influence the way you think about your own life or community?