1951-1983 20 Vols A Collection of First Editions by John Masters

Description

First Edition, Original Binding, Publishers' Original Binding, With Dustwrapper

The first edition, first impressions of these twenty works in the publisher's original cloth bindings, with the original unclipped dust wrappers.

A large collection of twenty novels by British author and ex-Indian Army officer John Masters (1914-1983), best known for his historical novels set in India, particularly Bhowani Junction. Three works in the set are from his saga of the Savage family, who serve in the British and Indian Armies in India.

This set comprises:

Nightrunners of Bengal (1951), a historical novel set during the Indian Rebellion of 1857, following a British officer's confrontation with rebellion and personal conflict in colonial India.

The Deceivers (1952), set in 1820s India, this novel follows a British officer who goes undercover to infiltrate the murderous Thuggee cult, exploring themes of identity and moral ambiguity.

The Lotus and the Wind (1953), a spy-adventure set on the turbulent northwest frontier of British India, where an officer is drawn into espionage and spiritual discovery.

Bhowani Junction (1954), a romantic novel set amid the Indian fight for independence and the Partition of India. This work is notable for its portrayal of the Anglo-Indian community, who had conflicting loyalties.

Coromandel! (1955), set in southern India, this novel follows the journey of a young British officer navigating military and personal challenges during the final days of the British Raj.

Far, Far the Mountain Peak (1957), a novel set in the Ruwenzori mountains of Africa, against the background of the First World War.

Fandango Rock (1959), exploring the relationship between the American and Spanish governments, and set in Spain during the rule by General Franco.

The Venus of Konpara (1960), a novel which uses the "Aryan Invasion Theory", according to which the invading "Aryans" oppressed the Dravidian people.

To the Coral Strand (1962), telling the story of an ex-officer who is no longer needed in the newly independent India, but refuses to accept change.

Trial at Monomoy (1964), a courtroom drama set in colonial India, focusing on issues of justice, cultural misunderstanding, and the legacy of British rule.

The Breaking Strain (1967), a psychological novel examining the breakdown of a British officer under pressure during his service in India, reflecting post-colonial tensions.

The Rock (1970), set in Gibraltar, this novel explores the strategic military importance of the Rock and the personal lives of those stationed there during a time of political tension.

The Ravi Lancers (1972), a World War I saga about an Indian cavalry regiment fighting in Europe, highlighting themes of loyalty, identity, and colonial military service.

Thunder at Sunset (1974), set in Kenya during the Mau Mau uprising, this novel explores the decline of British colonial power and the personal struggles of settlers caught in the turmoil.

The Field-Marshal’s Memoirs (1975), a fictional autobiography that traces the life and career of a British officer through two world wars and the collapse of empire.

The Himalayan Concerto (1976), a suspense novel set in the Himalayas, combining espionage, music, and political intrigue during the Cold War.

Now, God be Thanked (1979), the first volume in The Loss of Eden trilogy, follows several British families through the early stages of World War I, highlighting class divisions and personal transformations.

Heart of War (1980), the second volume of The Loss of Eden trilogy, continues the saga of British families as they experience the full brutality of World War I and its emotional toll.

By the Green of the Spring (1981), the final installment of The Loss of Eden trilogy, focusing on the end of the war and the reshaping of British society through personal sacrifice and national upheaval.

Man of War (1983), a naval historical novel set during the Napoleonic Wars, centered on a British officer’s rise through the ranks and the strategic challenges of naval command.