Debut Novel Captures Small Town Life – With Some Unexpected Twists

Between raising four children and working full-time as a pharmaceutical executive, what was left for Frances Grote to do in her spare time? Pursue her dream of writing a novel. Fire In The Henhouse, which Publishers Weekly calls, “A debut novel brewing with tension, lightened by warm humor,” is set in the fictional town of Dooleysburg, PA. Local celebrities include a cross-dressing car dealer who doubles as the town mascot and a police chief who had to get his own juvenile record expunged. When widowed Maggie Rifkin returns here with her fourteen-year-old son and her New York attitude, she only wants to leave her past behind. But there is no such thing as anonymity in this quirky town, and when sudden tragedy strikes the thread of destruction might well unravel all the way back to Maggie's childhood secret.

Grote creates a memorable cast of flawed characters who say and do whatever they want, miring themselves in hilarious situations. But the many moments of outrageous fun serve to brighten a landscape that contains struggle, transition and finally, proof that life can be flawed and lovely at the same time.

Readers have taken Fire in the Henhouse to heart, giving five star reviews: "Full of great lines and laughs out loud. I felt a genuine affinity for these characters and their lives;" “A gripping story rich with insight. You will find this one hard to put down;” "The mystery woven through this story is so unconventional it makes this a book you have to get back to the minute you walk in the door."

http://www.fireinthehenhouse.com

Review:

Fascinatingly Humorous Work

Small town Pennsylvania turned upside down. Fire in the Henhouse is a wonderfully witty read full of crazy neighbors, true friendships, bitter truths, and hilarious situations. Readers will delight in the stories, the characters and the enduring nature of the book. The author, Frances Grote, has done an amazing job with both her characters and storyline.  This book will not disappoint.

Truly exceptional creation. Highly Recommended!!