Hot Property: ‘The Secret’ author Rhonda Byrne seeks new chapter for Montecito estate

Rhonda Byrne, author of the popular New Age self-help book “The Secret,” has listed her sprawling estate in Montecito, Calif., at $23.5 million.

Found on a remote promontory, the property, known as “Prima Luce,” encompasses more than two acres with a 8,425-square-foot main residence, a one-bedroom guest house, a pool house, a 65-foot-long pool, a two-story children’s play cottage, expansive lawns and gardens.

Designed in the mold of a Tuscan-style villa by Robert Webb, sandstone quarried from the grounds features prominently in the walls and facades, and imported French limestone was used to form the pillars and chimneys found throughout the estate.

Inside, interiors are defined by soft palettes, custom woodwork and detailed molding. A country kitchen with a large center island, a stately wood-paneled office with a fireplace, and a master suite replete with a spa-like bath and a private viewing terrace with a fireplace are among its features.

In all, the estate counts five bedrooms, six full baths, two fireplaces and five fireplaces.

A native of Australia, Byrne gained notoriety after appearing on “The Oprah Winfrey Show.” In addition to “The Secret,” she has written two sequels, “The Power” and “The Magic.”

Byrne purchased the estate in 2007 for $18 million, according to property records. Harry Kolb of Sotheby’s International Realty is the listing agent.

neal.leitereg@latimes.com
Twitter: @NJLeitereg