AustLit

'George H. Johnston's penetrating novel tells the story of Michael Casey, ex-soldier and artist who, in spite of the scandal and public disgrace of his past life, cannot bring himself to leave the India he loves-but fails to understand. Casey sees himself as disillusioned beyond hope. But he is brought out of his chosen role of outcast artist, first by the unsolicited devotion of the old gharry- walla Refiq, and then by the love and faith of the beautiful and sensible American, Kylie York. At last, in the holy city of Benares, Casey begins to understand India - and himself. But with the coming of the monsoon the suppressed violence of India breaks out and there is the fierce rioting of Indian against Indian and Indian against Briton. In the swift turn of events Casey finds himself a hero to the Indians and a murderer in the eyes of the British Raj: and in the madness of the monsoon, his dark past returns and the shadow of tragedy threatens to become tragedy's very substance. Mr. Johnston writes with color and virtuosity. His strong sense of drama makes this an impressive novel, with a passionate, finely told love story and a brilliant re-creation of the strange and frightening atmosphere of India. Here is a story to excite the imagination and haunt the memory.' (Publication summary)