Domestic Violets: A Novel

Dive into the darkly humorous world of Matthew Norman's *Domestic Violets: A Novel*, a captivating exploration of mid-life crises, marital discord, and the desperate pursuit of literary glory. This 1st Paperback Edition, published by Harper Perennial in 2011, offers a sharp, witty, and surprisingly tender look at modern suburban life gone delightfully awry. Our protagonist finds himself adrift in a sea of domesticity, grappling with a stalled career, a strained marriage, and the ever-present temptation of forbidden desires. He's a man whose carefully constructed world begins to crumble around him, leading to a series of increasingly absurd and hilariously misguided choices. Driven by a potent mix of ambition, resentment, and a healthy dose of self-pity, he embarks on a quest for fulfillment that takes him down unexpected and often outrageous paths. *Domestic Violets* masterfully blends humor and pathos, inviting readers to both laugh at and empathize with its flawed characters. Norman's writing is sharp, insightful, and consistently entertaining, reminiscent of authors like Jonathan Tropper and Tom Perrotta, known for their ability to find the extraordinary within the ordinary. This book appeals to fans of character-driven stories, witty banter, and narratives that explore the complexities of human relationships. This novel isn't just about a man's mid-life struggles; it's a broader commentary on ambition, fidelity, and the often-comical gap between our aspirations and our realities. Prepare to be thoroughly entertained as you witness the unraveling (and eventual reassembling) of a life in spectacular and utterly relatable fashion. This is a must-read for those who appreciate a well-crafted story with a generous helping of dark humor and a touch of heartfelt sincerity. With 329 pages of cleverly written prose, *Domestic Violets* is more than just a novel; it's an experience. "Hystericaland often touching. . . . Domestic Violets is a fast, fun, hilariousread," as Jessica Anya Blau, author of *The Summer of Naked Swim Parties*, aptly describes it. If you enjoyed stories that blur the lines between genre fiction, contemporary, and the suspenseful elements of a thriller with spies and politics with themes of love, loss, and ambition, this book is for you. Grab your copy today and prepare for a wild ride through the ups and downs of modern suburban life!