“The Dance Man” by Stephen Hayes Delivers Humor, Heart, and Unexpected Twists

Thomasville, NC USA – WEBWIRE – Thursday, February 13, 2025

Author Stephen Hayes unveils his novel, “The Dance Man,” a witty, heartfelt story of redemption, eccentric family dynamics, and the mysteries of life in the Deep South. Set in the quirky world of the Boozer family, Hayes weaves a tale that is equal parts humorous and thought-provoking, leaving readers captivated until the last page.

About the Book
Set in the heart of south Alabama, “The Dance Man” tells the story of Mortimer Boozer, a long-time bachelor who’s been drifting aimlessly through life. Mort spends his days fishing, drinking, and avoiding any semblance of responsibility. Deep down, he knows he’s missing something—a sense of purpose, love, and connection with a higher power.

When Mort and his responsible but overburdened sister, Weenie Boozer, move in with their aging and sharp-tongued Aunt Magnolia Boozer Paxton, their lives take an unpredictable turn.

The mismatched trio rattles around Magnolia’s antebellum home, where daily life becomes a simmering pot of resentment, dry humor, and reluctant care.

A terrifying storm at sea, seemingly delivered by the Hand of the Almighty, shakes Mort to his core and sends him on an unexpected journey—one that leads to a Ladies’ Bible Study, where he believes God was a “no-show.” But someone else was present, and her arrival will change the course of Mort’s life forever.

As fate continues to deliver blows and blessings, the Boozer family navigates the fallout of two untimely deaths, three unplanned marriages, and the fleeting but enigmatic presence of “The Dance Man.” Combining Stephen Hayes’ signature humor and heart, “The Dance Man” is a poignant exploration of how people grow, stumble, and find their way back to each other—often when least expected.

What Readers Can Expect:
● Eccentric Southern Charm: A colorful cast of characters brought to life with sharp dialogue and vivid imagery.

● Humor and Humanity: A lighthearted yet deeply meaningful take on family dysfunction, faith, and redemption.

● Compelling Twists: Surprising events and revelations that upend the Boozers’ lives, keeping readers turning pages.

● The Mystery of the Dance Man: A subtle yet powerful presence that ties together the novel’s exploration of life’s purpose and the unseen forces that guide us.

About the Author
Stephen Hayes brings decades of experience and a sharp literary wit to his writing. A graduate

of Dartmouth College and Georgetown University, Hayes served as a U.S. Naval officer, a speechwriter for the U.S. Secretary of the Treasury, and a humor columnist for the Alexandria Times. His previous novels, Light on Dark Water (2012) and Missing Letters (2015), garnered praise for their engaging characters and thoughtful narratives.

Now splitting his time between Alexandria, Virginia, and Lewes, Delaware, Hayes remains active in the literary community as a member of the Writers Center in Bethesda, MD, and the Rehoboth Beach Writers Guild.

Availability
“The Dance Man” is in paperback, hardcover, and eBook formats. Readers can purchase the book through Amazon and Barnes & Noble or contact Stephen Hayes in his email at stevehayesemail@gmail.com.