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146 C A R M E L M A G A Z I N E • H O L I D A Y 2 0 1 7 Linda Siver tsen is awe-inspiring on the Internet, a force on the phone, and a miracle worker in person. The lean, fit woman with the long, brown hair and a striking smile works much of her magic during her iconic writers' retreats in Carmel, which she considers her second home. Her parents spent their honey- moon in Carmel, and it was the favorite get- away of her Bay Area-based family. "I felt that if any place in the world could nur ture me, it would be this place. It's known as one of the most beautiful locations anywhere. The ethers here ar e filled with the brilliance of past ar tists, and it's exceeded every imaginable hope I had." Just years ago, hope was hard to come by for Siver tsen. Her success was borne of hard knocks after her long marriage went south, right under her nose, and the infidelity Those who come to work with Sivertsen share a lovely house — but don't have to do chores — in Carmel Highlands. They come from far and wide. "From all over the world, and varied professions," Sivertsen adds. Retreat attendees arrive as strangers, and leave with connections that last a lifetime. "Even women who say they aren't 'joiners,' " Sivertsen says. Photos: Caroline Harrison