08/07/2026
The Keeper of the Wells by Zhayynn James
Set in an era when Chennai was known as Madras, The Keeper of the Wells is an incredible story that offers a rich blend of history, adventure, and gripping characters. Readers will be absolutely enthralled – I certainly was – by this deeply fascinating chronicle of one family's legacy.
Described by the author as a blend of "fact and fiction," this historical work brilliantly dramatises a real-world narrative into a thoroughly enjoyable read. For those who love history and a great story set during the early years of Madras, this book is a true treasure trove. The author, Zhayynn James, draws from the history of his own family – the Nicholases – who served as the caretakers of the Seven Wells waterworks in the city of Madras for an astonishing 125 years.
The narrative follows John Nicholas, a captain of the local Irish militia who once kept the peace between wealthy English landlords and poor Irish peasants. When he finds himself unjustly accused of murder, he is forced to flee Ireland. Escaping to England, he boards an East India Company ship and sets sail for Madras.
The historical backdrop is fascinating: built in 1772, the Seven Wells constituted the very first piped water supply in British India (today, only one of these wells remains in Chennai). Zhayynn vividly illustrates what life was like in the days of Fort St. George and surrounding areas of Madras, capturing the complex dynamics between the British and local people of the era. As the story unfolds, readers are treated to an authentic flavour of the times.
By sharing his family’s private history, Zhayynn keeps alive a mesmerising mélange of legends and tales of daring. The meticulous detail of the narrative leaps off the page, proving just how much care went into preserving this heritage.
Grab a copy of The Keeper of the Wells at your earliest opportunity. It is a lovely book that seamlessly blends historical fact with creative fiction, treating you to a sweeping epic of swashbuckling adventure in pure cinematic style. In fact, this book would make a meaningful gift to your friends and family members.
Harry MacLure,
Editor: Anglos In The Wind
Get your copy here:
The link is: https://notionpress.com/in/read/the-keeper-of-the-wells
