Montesereno: The Chaplain's Garden

Little could Darby Peterson have anticipated the intensity of the challenge his friend Garnett Nelsons invitation would command. Due to a medical condition that requires Nelsons urgent attention Nelson urges his long-time friend Darby to serve as the host and counselor of his Villa during his absence. The Villa known as Montesereno is committed to providing rest and renewal for its many clients and guests suffering from a variety of contemporary disorders. Many who come are obsessed with bipolar anomalies alcohol and anger issues along with depression and sexual addictions. Darby recognizes the invitation requires counseling skills that he frankly lacks as his field is philosophy; nonetheless he accepts inasmuch as Garnett has always wanted him to join his staff because of his “friendly and open-minded” nature and background as a “Renaissance man” and “conversationalist.” Thus Darby takes a leave of absence from his position as chair of his Atlanta Universitys department of philosophy for however long Garnett should need him. What Darby cannot know is that his new role will become permanent. Adding to the mystique of his decision if not contributing to its ultimate success is the discovery of the Villas clients of Darbys background as an ex-priest tormented by his own past divorce and quest for love and healing. That the Villa is located in the scenic mountains of North Carolina along its panoramic Parkway adds to the wholeness and solace that Nature makes possible. There is ample love and challenge as well as magic and mending in this story for every reader.