The Plumbers' Retreat: A Novel of Discovery

In a humorous tale about a serious problem, four plumbers in the town of Llewellyn, NC - Tony, Willie, Ricky, and Elen - often face rude treatment from their customers. Tired and discouraged, the plumbers are persuaded by a friend to seek relief at a mountaintop retreat center. But instead of finding peace, the four friends encounter the unexpected. "The center," as it is called, is both opulent and a little mysterious. Its staff of counselors and scholars seem kind and caring yet somehow know more about the plumbers than do the plumbers themselves. The four friends find their every assumption is being challenged, as the center's staff encourage them to think differently about themselves and the world around them.

Then, as the plumbers depart the center and wonder what they have learned, a twist of fate gives way to still greater struggles. A bus accident leaves them hospitalized and suffering from amnesia, even as they are told they never arrived at the center. But somehow the center's teachings imbue their lives with a new outlook and purpose: Elen rises to a leadership role in her business and community, Willie realizes he must change professions, and Tony and Ricky experience blossoming romances. The center, in short, transforms the plumbers' lives forever, and in the end the mystery of how the center did so comes to light.

So, what do four plumbers have to do with disgruntled customers, wounded veterans, climate change, race relations, corruption, ethical duties, labor unions, amnesia, the purpose of prayer, and the importance of respect? It's all made clear in The Plumbers' Retreat.

The greatest truths have always been communicated most powerfully through stories. John Adney has crafted for us a memorable tale of 4 ordinary people who have an extraordinary experience that opens their minds up to many new insights and life changes. I loved the characters (they are described so vividly), and how they find ways to work through their everyday problems has profound implications for everyone. Pick this novel up and you won't want to put it down.
Douglas Pratt, Senior Pastor Emeritus, First Presbyterian Church of Bonita Springs