Villa Mirabella

     Awhile back in one of my thrift store treasure hunts I picked up a copy of a Reader's Digest "Select Editions".  Just recently I returned to it in the hopes of finding a good read.  As I reviewed the synopses of the four featured stories, I decided a good start may be Peter Pezzelli's "Italian Lessons".  Indeed for me it was a wonderful start and was delighted that it exceeded my expectations. 

     "Italian Lessons" is not only an engaging story, but as I read it I got the impression the author was singing, and this author can sing.  I also like the Library Journal's  review of it as they aptly state, "Pezzelli tells an engaging story that is leisurely paced and satisfying as a fine Italian meal." 

     Like the discovery of a new flavorful meal, "Italian Lessons" left me wanting more.  So, soon after I took a trip to the bookstore and purchased another one of his dishes hoping it would be another treat, and that is where this review takes place, just two days after finishing my next Pezzelli novel, "Villa Mirabella".

     Like his former novel, "Villa Mirabella" is a wonderful exploration of life, family, love, and discovering the essentials in it all...and as the summary within the cover states, it is also the story of a prodigal son. 

     In the opening chapter we are introduced to Jason Mirabella, the prodigal.  Unlike his two siblings, Jason has no intention of joining the family business as his heart longs for something much bigger than that.  Like many young souls filled with dreams and ambitions of making it big, Jason carves out his own path.  Leaving behind his hometown in little Rhode Island, Jason sets out for an opportunity that presents itself in Los Angeles.  Just as he had dreamed and planned, Jason begins to reap the fruits of his labor which consists of money, status, and a love interest with a strikingly beautiful woman.  All seems to be going well for Jason, but just like any home built on the wrong foundation, his life begins to unravel.  With it comes the unpleasant decision of allowing events to unfold as they will, or attempt to hold onto the life he has created for himself by going against valuable morals.  Choosing the later, which results in losing it all, Jason is left with what appears to be no other recourse, to swallow his pride and return home to his father.

     Our prodigal son story, very much like the one in the bible, continues with a father that welcomes him with open arms, and siblings not thrilled at the reception and eagerness their father displays at bringing this prodigal into the family nest that they have labored to build together.  Afterall, they've been devoted to their father and his business through it all, why should they have to share a portion with their brother who hasn't been around, and has shown little interest in their lives in Providence?  In truth, Jason isn't happy with the idea either, and so begins his journey into discovering what is essential in life, along with his siblings.  Will the ties of family and love win out in the end?  I won't spoil the mystery by revealing the outcome so feel free to read the book and find out.   

     Pezzelli's stories also implement the flavors of his Italian heritage of which I find endearing.  While reading, I get the impression of a man in love with his culture, along with life unfolding around him.  Yes, in Pezzelli we have an author who does a fine job at stopping to smell the roses.

     This story is also a pleasant reminder that no matter what our differences are, at core we are all basically the same, longing for a more fulfilling life that comes from finding our heart's home and being loved as we are...and so goes the direction of this heartwarming story.

     If you are looking for a great storyline that is also engaging and endearing, "Villa Mirabella" is a flavorful choice.  Like other reviewed items on this site, it doesn't put an emphasis on God, but touches and suggestions are found in this particular story...and as believers we are aware that the essentials are truly found in our heart's home, Jesus Christ.  We were made for Love and we can begin our discovery of Him as life unfolds around us (Colossians 1, Romans 1).