Chasing Marigolds

by Moira Yeldon

Visiting India was a lifelong dream but with major health issues, it seemed impossible to achieve. A chance finding of a book in a remote location led to a life-changing journey. Embracing the philosophy of yoga and ancient Hindu teachings Moira Yeldon found the courage to live but not before first confronting death. While many go to India seeking a guru, enlightenment is not always what we imagine. This honest memoir marks the debut of a writer who discovers that humor exists in even the toughest moments in life and that unimaginable joys can happen without us knowing. It is a reminder to embrace life with all its uncertainties, to cherish the joyful times and the wonderful people who make them possible. Share in this inspirational journey of healing yoga, fun and food blended with the sensuality and vibrancy of India.

Kindle Edition

Published January 27, 2020

About the author

Moira lived in Western Australia before being bitten by the travel bug in her teens. A working holiday around Australia extended to New Zealand, followed by twelve years in Brunei, Southeast Asia which inspired her to write her two latest fiction novels, 'Where Sunbeams Fall' and 'Where Dragonflies Dream'. An early love of writing motivated her to complete a course in creative writing and she's been writing ever since.
Caravanning around Australia and travelling overseas have given her inspiration for her writing. Her first novel, 'Chasing Marigolds', a travel memoir was inspired from a trip to India. Countries such as India and the tiny Shangri-La of Bandar Seri Begawan have provided exotic locations for her stories. You may not be surprised to hear that she's currently writing a novel set in Japan. ​
When she graduated from university and chose a career in teaching, she had no idea she'd spend most of her life teaching everything from computing to languages, communication, religion, philosophy, sociology and yoga. The subject that interests her most is how to live life. It's what she loves writing about most and living every moment to the fullest. Currently she lives with her husband in Perth, Western Australia. ​

Reviews

[Maxine Boyd · Rating 4 out of 5]

Moira is a breath of fresh air to the world of travel 'novels' as she has the ability to take you with her (and it is a lot cheaper than actually going!) Chasing Marigolds will have you engaged from the first page. There are many laughs but the best thing about this read is you actually can smell, feel, touch and hear India. Moira is well travelled and when she travels she is not just ticking off some bucket list, she connects with the people, environment, food and emotions surrounding her. Have a read, you will not be disappointed.

[Elaine Freer]

Tim gave me your book as part of my birthday present. As I read in bed of a night, the memories came flooding back, the smells I could almost smell, the sights, the colours and the taste of the wonderful food. Along with the great company of fellow tourists, a lovely man as our tour guide, a daring driver and our little blue bus; such fun. Just to let you know, tonight I made your recipe kadai paneer. We loved it.

[Debra De Klerk · Rating 3 out of 5]

Delightful dip into travelling in India

A delightful, uplifting book about the importance of the journey and the destination. Tantalising snippets of daily life in India. The joy of travel interspersed with insights and wisdom about moving through life in different ways and honouring the stages of that journey. I loved being able to read a couple of chapters at a time, digest their content and then dip in again the following evening.

[Kaye · Rating 5 out of 5]

A gentle, easy-to-read but highly informative book which showcases the beauty and delights of India.
Part history, part yoga, part observation - Moira combines these with her keen eye for detail into a warm and joyous introduction to India for everyone.

[Emilija · Rating 5 out of 5]

An honest, inspirational and perceptive memoir!
Moira shares events that tested her faith and her life-affirming trip to India. Her words will resonate with readers who have already been to India and inspire the ones who never thought of visiting India. The opening of the story is very powerful and inviting. Moira makes an immediate connection and you want to know more.
Moira doesn't just travel through sites and shares candid thoughts in a witty manner, but she gives a full insight into India's history, culture, politics, economy, architecture and Yoga philosophy.
The novel leaves a strong message, the remainder to "embrace life with all its uncertainties and cherish joyful times both small and momentous".

[Bern Towner · Rating 4 out of 5]

Finished your book this morning & might I say it was not a surprise but felt like we were having a quiet catchup where you simply & beautifully relayed your journey.
Rich, vibrant, sensual.
Reflective, insightful informative.
Humorous, historical, philosophical ...
I found your narration triggered all sorts of reflective moments for me in spite of never having been to India.
Also caused me on one evening during the week to order in Indian dinner!!! Which just hit the spot
Trev is looking forward to reading it as well now. In my humble opinion this beautiful piece of work.

[Mairéad Lyons]

The author combines humour, adventure, friendship and a continuous sense of awe and delight at finally fulfilling a lifelong dream of exploring India. It would definitely inspire others to follow. You don’t have to be a yoga practitioner or a vegetarian either although the book would encourage you to consider taking up both. What I enjoyed most was the remembrance of the colours, smells and unique atmosphere which Chasing Marigolds conjured up in this easy read but very enjoyable book.

[Liz · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a truly amazing book this was. I felt as though I was actually in India myself and involved in all the many comings and going’s that were happening. The colours and beauty of the country were breathtaking to read about.A truly great read.

[Ss · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was an accidental find. Her travel writing felt new and invigorating. In many places, she based her writing on research about India's history that has helped to read the whole book.
It was a honest exploration of some parts of India.