SHELBYVILLE, Ind., Nov. 18, 2004 (PRIMEZONE) -- A young man goes away to college to learn about business, but ends up getting an education in life in the fascinating new novel, The Awakening of Dan Hanley: A Novel (now available through AuthorHouse), by Rita K. Hamilton.
Set in Indiana, the novel follows Dan Hanley who, at 21, decides he needs to obtain a business degree to make it in the world. Although his parents, devout Christians, will not stop him, they also refuse to help him. He saves as much money as he can while working on a factory maintenance crew until a distant cousin who lives in a college town contacts him. Margaret, who is 71 and a professor's widow, offers Dan free room and board if he agrees to do handiwork around her century-old home. Agreeing to her proposal, Dan sets off for college with a promise to his parents that he will not let "godless professors" change him.
Upon his arrival, Margaret lets Dan in on her gift---she is able to telepathically communicate with animals. Dumbfounded, Dan believes she is either senile or evil. Either way, her claim disturbs him. Through a series of events, she proves her abilities more and more, but Dan is still skeptical. Her neighbor, Laurie, a beautiful young student majoring in home economics and comparative religions, thinks Dan should give his relative a chance. She and Dan fall for each other quickly, but he is afraid to pursue her because he feels she has been brainwashed by Margaret.
Lurking around the neighborhood is Bill Saxon, a thug, thief and animal tormentor who instantly dislikes Dan. Knowing any entanglement could spell trouble, Dan steers clear. However, when a tragedy befalls one of Margaret's beloved pets, Dan discovers more about the world than he could have ever known possible.
A dramatic, haunting story, The Awakening of Dan Hanley examines the line between fact and fiction, and between what is taught and what is learned.
Hamilton has lived in Indiana her entire life. She has been a librarian, church secretary, substitute teacher, hospice volunteer and homemaker but considers her true vocation to be that of seeker of hidden realities behind life. She also serves on the board of a homeless animal shelter. She lives with her husband, Howard, and their two dogs, three cats and one cockatiel in Shelbyville, Ind. She is currently working on her second book.