Flora Annie Webster Steel 
The Hosts of the Lord 

Flora Annie Steel’s ‘The Hosts of the Lord’ is a captivating novel set in colonial India that explores themes of religion, tradition, and social change. Written in a descriptive and evocative style, Steel paints a vivid portrait of Indian society during the British Raj, highlighting the clash between Western influences and traditional values. The novel is filled with rich cultural and historical details, immersing the reader in the complex world of 19th-century India. Through intricate character development and nuanced storytelling, Steel delves into the complexities of faith and belief, shedding light on the intricacies of human nature and the power of spirituality. As a pioneering female author in the realm of colonial literature, Steel’s work stands out for its unique perspective and insightful commentary on the dynamics of power and privilege in a changing society. Recommended for readers interested in exploring the intersection of religion, culture, and colonialism in a historical context.

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Flora Annie Webster Steel (1847–1929), an English writer, is often lauded for her literary contributions that offered deep insights into Indian life and society during the British Raj. Born in Harrow on the Hill, Middlesex, she was married to Henry William Steel, a member of the Indian Civil Service, and her prolonged residence in India significantly influenced her writing. Steel’s keen observation and sensitivity regarding the complexities of Indian culture and British-Indian relations are evident through her works. ‘The Hosts of the Lord’ is one such powerful novel that exemplifies Steel’s critical view of missionary work and its impact on Indian society, reflecting her nuanced understanding of cross-cultural dynamics (Steel, 1900). Notably, her most acclaimed book, ‘On the Face of the Waters’ (1896), intricately portrays the 1857 Indian Rebellion, earning her a reputation for historical accuracy and vivid storytelling. A prolific author, Steel wrote over 30 books, encompassing fiction, children’s literature, and social essays, using her experiences and observations in India as a backdrop. Her literary style often integrated rich character development with a passionate depiction of social issues, and she has been praised for her realistic portrayal of Indian life, well before the popularization of Anglo-Indian literature. Steel’s work has been recognized for not only its artistic merit but also for contributing to the historic record of colonial India.