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Centuries-old customs are alive and well in Jane Richardson's latest novel Steadfast the Lamp!
 Fusing cultures requires a delicate balance for newlyweds Hindu Mohan and Christian Karen. Necessity moves the young couple from Cleveland, Ohio to Secunderabad in Andhra Pradesh, South India. Sights and sounds come alive as the reader moves about the vibrant countryside. Cultures of the orthodox Hindu come to life in seldom-viewed, rich, provocative rituals, including Seemanthum.
This fascinating love story also transports the reader to vibrant Tirupati, Kancheepurum and Calcutta’s Kalipuja.
The newlyweds strive to protect their love as Nobel prize-winner Rabindranath Tagore said in his poem Gitanjoli – “steadfast the lamp burns, sheltered from the wind.”
The joys and sorrows of an average family reveal more than average love and caring. A gripping tale. |
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What others are saying about Steadfast the Lamp ...
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| A very beautifully written story which demonstrates the author's deep understanding of the cultural differences between East and West and how pure love can transcend them. As an Indian settled in the US, I could relate to the nuances expressed by the author while dealing with the thought processes of the characters molded by their respective cultures. The language is flowery but lucid. A very captivating novel written in exquisite detail.
— Ravi Gutala, San Jose, California |
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| Jane Richardson has captured most of Indian lifestyles, mentalities and mannerisms so well.
— Sarala Bhatt, Marlboro, New Jersey |
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| India's spectacular ancient architecture is vividly portrayed. Steadfast returned me to this exotic land. I again watched the rice grow, smelled spices, and thrilled to fascinating sights while learning about various cultures. An exciting, informative fast-moving book.
— M.R. Immormino, Architect, Cleveland, Ohio |
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| Another world-class novel ... A beautifully poignant love story. This is a story you don’t want to end.
— G. Wyckoff, Author, New York |
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About the author ...
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Jane Richardson has had a full and varied career as a travel consultant, photographer, author, lecturer, and artist, in addition to being a wife and mom. She has traveled 25 times through India since 1969, living with families in Secunderabad, Hyderabad, Madras, New Delhi and with the royal family in Udaipur. She became a member of the illustrious Mewar family in 1970 with the Eklingji Temple priest officiating. Her background is obviously broad and varied. She has also designed tour packages and escorted numerous tour groups, some of one-month duration, with the added "job" of discussing family life, customs, religions, etc.
The author was considered by India's late Prime Minister Indira Gandhi and late President V.V. Giri as the most widely traveled person in the Asian subcontinent. President Giri jokingly introduced her as his "American daughter."
Richardson's 25+ years experience and life with many families throughout both north and south India are evident by her authentic details and excellent descriptions. The Deccan Chronicle wrote: "She is really interested in knowing and staying with ordinary people."
The magazine "Andhra Pradesh" also wrote: "Mrs. Richardson is a shrewd reader of men and penetrating observer."
Her talents again shine in Steadfast the Lamp, her 6th book and her 4th on India. |
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Purchase the book ...
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Steadfast the Lamp (hardcover) retails for $24.95 plus $4 USPS Priority shipping (usually delivered in 2-3 business days).
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| ISBN 1-879403-11-0. Hardcover book, 5.5 x 8.5, 302 pages, $24.95. |
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