What do you think?
Rate this book
Lights of the Veil
Faith and purpose collide in the exotic setting of this powerful love story. Through mysterious circumstances, Erica Tanner meets her late sister's only child, Betul. Within hours they are kidnapped and taken to India, where an unexpected friendship with the handsome Prince Ajari complicates Erica's escape -- especially when she learns he is Betul's uncle. As friends attempt a rescue, Erica fights to fulfill her sister's final request -- Betul must not become lost in Sajah Ajari's Hindu heritage. Can the light of Christ overcome the differences holding Erica and Sajah captive? Breathtakingly paced, Lights of the Veil moves with grand adventure toward the ultimate triumph of God's truth.
368 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2001
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
November 20, 2022
Rereading one of your favorite childhood books isn't always the best decision. Sometimes they hold up and are just like you remembered. Unfortunately... sometimes that's not the case.
I kind of wish I had left Lights of the Veil untouched, a novel I could still simply think about with nostalgic, completely fond memories. Reading this book as an adult was such a weird experience. There were so many problems with this story that I don't even want to get into, especially because middle school Julia loved this book so much and she'd be horrified to know that I grow up to be critical of how so many heavy topics were handled in this story.
I don't really want to bash a book I loved so much. I seriously read this book over and over again when I was a kid, twenty times at the very least. I don't reread many books now, but when I was younger anytime I felt the least bit anxious about anything, I'd pick up a story I'd already read and feel instantly better, like I was revisiting friends.
So yeah. This wasn't as good as I remembered it being (though there were still some great parts, like Sajah and Erika's first meeting. That scene where he sweeps her off her feet and carries her away to his palace is burned on my brain lol), I wouldn't necessarily rec this book to anyone nowadays, but I'm leaving my five-star rating for nostalgia's sake.
I kind of wish I had left Lights of the Veil untouched, a novel I could still simply think about with nostalgic, completely fond memories. Reading this book as an adult was such a weird experience. There were so many problems with this story that I don't even want to get into, especially because middle school Julia loved this book so much and she'd be horrified to know that I grow up to be critical of how so many heavy topics were handled in this story.
I don't really want to bash a book I loved so much. I seriously read this book over and over again when I was a kid, twenty times at the very least. I don't reread many books now, but when I was younger anytime I felt the least bit anxious about anything, I'd pick up a story I'd already read and feel instantly better, like I was revisiting friends.
So yeah. This wasn't as good as I remembered it being (though there were still some great parts, like Sajah and Erika's first meeting. That scene where he sweeps her off her feet and carries her away to his palace is burned on my brain lol), I wouldn't necessarily rec this book to anyone nowadays, but I'm leaving my five-star rating for nostalgia's sake.
June 8, 2012
This is one of my favorite books of all times. I wish that Patty could have written some more books before losing her battle with cancer, but she is with Jesus.
December 5, 2023
3.5 Stars.
Amazing story! While it was more religious than I like, there was action, kidnapping, danger and the action kept going! This would of been a 5 star read if the holes in the story were filled in. I felt like there were somethings that were not explained and it left me confused.
Amazing story! While it was more religious than I like, there was action, kidnapping, danger and the action kept going! This would of been a 5 star read if the holes in the story were filled in. I felt like there were somethings that were not explained and it left me confused.
August 6, 2018
This book seriously grabs you. I loved how immersive it was and I couldn’t stop reading. So much fun!
That said, I had to detract some stars here for a view of Indian culture that seemed overly simplistic. Also, to be honest, this book will not change the world or intellectually challenge you.
That said... sometimes fun is the greatest need, and this romance is the perfect fun, immersive summer read.
That said, I had to detract some stars here for a view of Indian culture that seemed overly simplistic. Also, to be honest, this book will not change the world or intellectually challenge you.
That said... sometimes fun is the greatest need, and this romance is the perfect fun, immersive summer read.
June 12, 2020
Setting: India
Time Period: Modern Day
She’s Christian, he’s Hindu - and they’re in love. What now?
When we meet Erica Tanner, she’s a simple, single gal living in Seattle, grieving the loss of her sister and brother-in-law who were missionaries in India. Halfway through the story, Erica transforms into a protective aunt to her sister's son, enduring house arrest in India where her brother-in-law's brother was holding her hostage. Or, was he protecting her? With Erica’s purpose in life drastically changed, she wrestles with what is best for her nephew - and herself.
First of all, let me say that the writing and imagery in this novel were top notch. I’ve never been to India in my life, but after reading this book, I feel like I could close my eyes and see the temples; smell the moist earth and spices; and walk the halls of Prince Ajari’s palace. Everything felt so real. And not just the atmosphere - the danger Erica was in felt real too. If she left the palace would she be murdered by those who opposed her sister and brother-in-law’s work? Erica was truly trapped with no way to get out.
The most frustrating thing about Erica and Prince Ajari’s story was the difference between their religions. In Christianity, we always talk about not being “unequally yoked.” The importance of sharing your life with someone who believes in the same God you do and knowing better than to get wrapped up with a non-believer. But most importantly, if someone comes into your life who isn’t, how do you deal with that? These themes play a big part in “Lights Of The Veil.” I felt so sorry for Erica because she really did love this man, but her circumstances seemed impossible. If there was one thing this novel did a good job in, it was portraying the pain that comes within such a relationship. Some of the arguments between those two were downright torture to read! At times, I just wanted the author to give them a happy ending sooner...but, the author did such a great job depicting the struggle that the story ended up with more depth the other way.
Conclusion: At first, I had mixed feelings about this book. It was beautifully written, but full of hard questions, dark secrets and painful emotions. It was a good read, but heart wrenching in places. Definitely a hard read in some categories! Yet, if you’re looking for a read that portrays the cultural and religious differences of India and Hinduism, then “Lights Of The Veil” by Patty Metzer would be a great book to look into!
Time Period: Modern Day
She’s Christian, he’s Hindu - and they’re in love. What now?
When we meet Erica Tanner, she’s a simple, single gal living in Seattle, grieving the loss of her sister and brother-in-law who were missionaries in India. Halfway through the story, Erica transforms into a protective aunt to her sister's son, enduring house arrest in India where her brother-in-law's brother was holding her hostage. Or, was he protecting her? With Erica’s purpose in life drastically changed, she wrestles with what is best for her nephew - and herself.
First of all, let me say that the writing and imagery in this novel were top notch. I’ve never been to India in my life, but after reading this book, I feel like I could close my eyes and see the temples; smell the moist earth and spices; and walk the halls of Prince Ajari’s palace. Everything felt so real. And not just the atmosphere - the danger Erica was in felt real too. If she left the palace would she be murdered by those who opposed her sister and brother-in-law’s work? Erica was truly trapped with no way to get out.
The most frustrating thing about Erica and Prince Ajari’s story was the difference between their religions. In Christianity, we always talk about not being “unequally yoked.” The importance of sharing your life with someone who believes in the same God you do and knowing better than to get wrapped up with a non-believer. But most importantly, if someone comes into your life who isn’t, how do you deal with that? These themes play a big part in “Lights Of The Veil.” I felt so sorry for Erica because she really did love this man, but her circumstances seemed impossible. If there was one thing this novel did a good job in, it was portraying the pain that comes within such a relationship. Some of the arguments between those two were downright torture to read! At times, I just wanted the author to give them a happy ending sooner...but, the author did such a great job depicting the struggle that the story ended up with more depth the other way.
Conclusion: At first, I had mixed feelings about this book. It was beautifully written, but full of hard questions, dark secrets and painful emotions. It was a good read, but heart wrenching in places. Definitely a hard read in some categories! Yet, if you’re looking for a read that portrays the cultural and religious differences of India and Hinduism, then “Lights Of The Veil” by Patty Metzer would be a great book to look into!
January 30, 2010
What an amazing book! I am so used to "Christian fiction" being very lackluster in really showing how one lives while being a Christian, how ones continually relies on God. This book proves it can be done. It is a thrilling ride right from the first paragraph. I didn't want to stop reading!
June 20, 2018
This story never gets old - forever one of my favorites!
May 27, 2019
When Erica Tanner receives a mysterious letter concerning her older sister, she is determined to find out the circumstances. A strange chain of events lands her in India, where she soon meets Rajah Sajah Ajari. They have one very important thing in common—strong love for Betul, Erica’s nephew. Yet contention arises when both of them want to raise Betul according to their own religion. Also, someone is hunting Erica, seemingly willing to stop at nothing to see her dead. As troubles mount, Erica wonders why God has brought her back to her childhood home...
This book was decent. I wasn’t sure what I was getting into when I picked it up, but it was fairly interesting, and I enjoyed the adventure for the most part. But for the entire first half of the book, I was confused. Not the usual confusion that comes with mystery stories, but more of a, “I really have no idea who all these people are and how any of these events are remotely related and what exactly is going on here”, confusion. Naturally, that makes for a bit of an unpleasant experience. I only kept reading because I wanted to see if anything would ever make sense.
I’m glad I persevered, because things started coming together at the halfway point. All those hectic happenings at the beginning made sense, and there were several very interesting twists. There were several times when I was unsure how the story would end, but I was very happy with the conclusion.
I did find the romance to be too much, and it also seemed a bit cheesy. I mean, really, guys; you’ve know each other for how long? The writing was also a bit frenzied, and I had trouble keeping up with some things. But I appreciated the honest message of salvation, and it was interesting to get a glimpse of Christianity in India. I don’t know if I’d recommend it to anyone, but it was a good read overall.
This book was decent. I wasn’t sure what I was getting into when I picked it up, but it was fairly interesting, and I enjoyed the adventure for the most part. But for the entire first half of the book, I was confused. Not the usual confusion that comes with mystery stories, but more of a, “I really have no idea who all these people are and how any of these events are remotely related and what exactly is going on here”, confusion. Naturally, that makes for a bit of an unpleasant experience. I only kept reading because I wanted to see if anything would ever make sense.
I’m glad I persevered, because things started coming together at the halfway point. All those hectic happenings at the beginning made sense, and there were several very interesting twists. There were several times when I was unsure how the story would end, but I was very happy with the conclusion.
I did find the romance to be too much, and it also seemed a bit cheesy. I mean, really, guys; you’ve know each other for how long? The writing was also a bit frenzied, and I had trouble keeping up with some things. But I appreciated the honest message of salvation, and it was interesting to get a glimpse of Christianity in India. I don’t know if I’d recommend it to anyone, but it was a good read overall.
December 31, 2019
Patty Metzer has a way of writing that gets you so caught up in the story! The characters in this book are real, and the plotline is well researched. Patty Metzer makes you feel that you are right there in India, seeing the vibrant colors, the adorned temples, and talking with the people. It is a totally different world, one that brings you in and shows you how other people live.
In this powerful story, Erica Tanner gets kidnapped and taken to India, where her parents and her sister and brother-in-law were missionaries. Although her parents died when Erica was young, her sister went back to finish their work in India. Now that her sister and brother-in-law have died at the hands of the Sikh (religious extremists) Erica must care for their son, Betul. When Erica escapes her kidnappers she is desperate to find help, and her nephew Betul again. In looking for help, Erica happens to run to the arms of Sajah Ajari who also happens to be a prince, and Betul's uncle. Now that she has his help, can she overcome Sikh, the Hindu influences that try to scare her at every turn, and her growing love for Prince Ajari?
A story of love, adventure, and the battle between Christianity and Hinduism, and how God never fails!
In this powerful story, Erica Tanner gets kidnapped and taken to India, where her parents and her sister and brother-in-law were missionaries. Although her parents died when Erica was young, her sister went back to finish their work in India. Now that her sister and brother-in-law have died at the hands of the Sikh (religious extremists) Erica must care for their son, Betul. When Erica escapes her kidnappers she is desperate to find help, and her nephew Betul again. In looking for help, Erica happens to run to the arms of Sajah Ajari who also happens to be a prince, and Betul's uncle. Now that she has his help, can she overcome Sikh, the Hindu influences that try to scare her at every turn, and her growing love for Prince Ajari?
A story of love, adventure, and the battle between Christianity and Hinduism, and how God never fails!
February 6, 2020
Really powerful book and one that still captivates me from first page to last every time I read it. I love the journey the characters take, discovering not only faith but what it means to be a Christian in a place that's not, but what 'letting your light shine' really means. The difference between a fire that burns and a lantern that draws people in. Also really loved the descriptions. They're so vivid!
September 21, 2021
I really, really enjoyed reading this book. I've just begun dipping my feet into Christian fiction and I have only read a handful of them so far, but this one really stood out to me. I loved both the main characters and was invested in their journey through the book. I also love how faith was dealt with in the book i.e. not pushing it to the background for the sake of romance. The supporting characters were very likeable as well and the suspense was quite good.
January 29, 2019
i read this book several years ago. i really enjoyed rereading it! it's very well written, and very exciting. would highly recommend!
February 23, 2023
Truth will triumph!! A real true page turner that I stayed up till 2 am reading it!!
April 25, 2013
This is one of my favorite books of all time. I must have read it six times. It is very unique in its plot, which I am always searching for. I have read so many books that they are all beginning to sound the same. It is very realistic, sweet, and desperately romantic. Jesus is very real in this book, in how He is revealed among horrible poverty in the slums of India. I won't reveal too much, but Lights of the Veil involves a prince, a hopeless love, and the tender, godly heart of Erica Tanner, the woman caught up in the midst of it against her will.
April 21, 2020
There was just so much western Christianity in it that clouded the story. I don't think the author took time to research Indian culture and Christianity in India and was obsessed with sharing a viewpoint of Christianity where the pagan prince was evil and naive about "true faith."
December 16, 2007
This book was great. Patty Metzer gave really colorful, detailed descriptions of the people, plces, customs, etc., of India. I'd read it a million times! :-D
June 23, 2012
Loved this book!!!
November 13, 2012
Very interesting! Kept me wanting to read more....
November 24, 2015
Read this story years ago and I still enjoy rereading it.
January 31, 2015
One of my all time favorite books, one which I have re-read several times since purchasing it many many years ago. Loved the characters, the setting, the storyline, everything.
June 22, 2015
It's a must read!
August 3, 2016
I love this book. Full of everything you want in a story...adventure, romance, intrigue, travel, faith, and even humor!
December 3, 2025
Hands down one of my all time favorite books. I can't even count how many times I've read it.
September 14, 2025
Loved the suspense, adventure, and passion of this book!
June 29, 2008
Very Good!
April 20, 2017
Read this book twice and I still have fond memories it... think my sister was in India the first time I picked it up so somehow that made the book more interesting to me at the time
July 28, 2017
Right from the start this book grabs you. The author has a beautiful way with words and the story moves along quickly, pulling you in. I like how it touches on different genres...starting out as a mystery it has elements of thriller/adventure tales, romance, exotic flavors that take you to foreign lands, and the aspect of the struggles of faith.
On a whole I really enjoyed this book. But I will admit that a little over halfway through I found myself getting very annoyed with the main character, the constantly reoccurring struggles that she had were redundant, it seemed like she would take one step forward, two steps back. She struck me as being weak, very western, naive, and too easily caught up in the emotions of everything. One moment she would pray and have peace, then the very next moment she would be back asking the same questions, with the same problems...just frustrating.
I read this mostly because it is based in India and I'm enthralled with the country and culture. That being said,I found the spiritual struggles weren't a realistic representation of Hindu and Christian beliefs. It was a very Western take on Christianity, a lack luster, weak sort of faith. I knew where the author was taking the ending of the book, but I don't feel like she really connected the dots to get you there satisfactorily. I felt that aspects of the character's spiritual transformation were rushed and assumed. They didn't go deep enough for me to really feel any lasting changes had happened, especially in the main male character, by the conclusion of the book.
But all in all, a good story that will keep you turning the pages.
On a whole I really enjoyed this book. But I will admit that a little over halfway through I found myself getting very annoyed with the main character, the constantly reoccurring struggles that she had were redundant, it seemed like she would take one step forward, two steps back. She struck me as being weak, very western, naive, and too easily caught up in the emotions of everything. One moment she would pray and have peace, then the very next moment she would be back asking the same questions, with the same problems...just frustrating.
I read this mostly because it is based in India and I'm enthralled with the country and culture. That being said,I found the spiritual struggles weren't a realistic representation of Hindu and Christian beliefs. It was a very Western take on Christianity, a lack luster, weak sort of faith. I knew where the author was taking the ending of the book, but I don't feel like she really connected the dots to get you there satisfactorily. I felt that aspects of the character's spiritual transformation were rushed and assumed. They didn't go deep enough for me to really feel any lasting changes had happened, especially in the main male character, by the conclusion of the book.
But all in all, a good story that will keep you turning the pages.
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews