Better Than People

by Roan Parrish

Overview

"An irresistible queer romance." —Publishers Weekly, starred review

It’s not long before their pet-centric arrangement sparks a person-centric desire…

Simon Burke has always preferred animals to people. When the countdown to adopting his own dog is unexpectedly put on hold, Simon turns to the PetShare app to find the fluffy TLC he’s been missing. Meeting a grumpy children’s book illustrator who needs a dog walker isn’t easy for the man whose persistent anxiety has colored his whole life, but Jack Matheson’s menagerie is just what Simon needs.

Four dogs, three cats and counting. Jack’s pack of rescue pets is the only company he needs. But when a bad fall leaves him with a broken leg, Jack is forced to admit he needs help. That the help comes in the form of the most beautiful man he’s ever seen is a complicated, glorious surprise.

Being with Jack—talking, walking, making out—is a game changer for Simon. And Simon’s company certainly…eases the pain of recovery for Jack. But making a real relationship work once Jack’s cast comes off will mean compromise, understanding and lots of love.

Carina Adores is home to romantic love stories where LGBTQ+ characters find their happily-ever-afters.


Garnet Run
Book 1: Better Than People
Book 2: Best Laid Plans
Book 3: The Lights on Knockbridge Lane

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781335542823
Publisher:	Carina Press
Publication date:	08/25/2020
Series:	Garnet Run , #1
Edition description:	Original
Pages:	336
Sales rank:	681,086
Product dimensions:	7.90(w) x 5.30(h) x 0.70(d)

About the Author

Roan Parrish lives in Philadelphia, where she’s gradually attempting to write love stories in every genre. When not writing, she can be found cutting her friends’ hair, meandering through the city while listening to torch songs and melodic death metal, or cooking overly elaborate meals. She loves bonfires, winter beaches, minor chord harmonies, and self-tattooing. One time she may or may not have baked a six-layer chocolate cake and then thrown it out the window in a fit of pique.

Editorial Reviews

★ 06/29/2020

Parrish (Small Change) delivers an irresistible queer romance between a grumpy children’s book illustrator and a pathologically shy graphic designer. When Wyoming illustrator Jack Matheson—already down in the dumps following a business partner’s betrayal—breaks his leg while walking his menagerie of rescue dogs (and one cat who likes to lead the way), he hires Simon Burke to walk his pets. Simon has debilitating anxiety and has an easier time interacting with animals than with humans, but the more time he spends with caring, supportive Jack, the more he opens up. Parrish nails both the throat-closing hell of Simon’s anxiety disorder and his palpable desire to have a healthy relationship, as well as Jack’s frustration at not always being able to soothe Simon’s fears. Superb supporting characters—especially Simon’s firecracker of a grandmother, Jean, and Jack’s doting older brother, Charlie—add considerable charm. This sensitive tale will leave readers with big smiles on their faces. (Sept.)

Publishers Weekly

ACCLAIM FOR BETTER THAN PEOPLE:

"Parrish delivers an irresistible queer romance […] This sensitive tale will leave readers with big smiles on their faces." —Publishers Weekly, starred review

"The endearing cast of pets in this heartfelt and hopeful contemporary romance will definitely steal readers’ hearts." —Booklist

"Better Than People is the kind of book you'll want to hold close and read much like the life that Simon and Jack share in the story: while curled up on the couch with the fire flickering and your dogs close by.” —Love in Panels

"Parrish has a real talent for writing unusual characters and conveying the struggles that they go through brilliantly through inner dialogue. […] Highly recommended for all the feelz!" —Love Bytes

From the Publisher

An affirming contemporary romance is illuminated by James Cavenaugh's balanced portrayals of two strangers who gain unsought comfort and strength from each other. Embittered children's book illustrator Jack Matheson and independent businessman Simon Burke meet through a pet-sharing smartphone app after an injury sidelines the artist. Jack's hard, clipped speech initially contrasts with Simon's quieter, self-conscience tone. Both men have more in common than they realize as they open up and learn from each other. Cavenaugh's portrayal of Simon and his severe anxiety comes across with particular sensitivity and nuance. Each pet-walking visit shows their evolving self-perceptions and personalities, which are reflected through timbre and inflection shifts. Cavenaugh also captures their sex scenes with a passionate intensity warranting headphones. J.R.T. © AudioFile 2021, Portland, Maine

MARCH 2021 - AudioFile

An affirming contemporary romance is illuminated by James Cavenaugh's balanced portrayals of two strangers who gain unsought comfort and strength from each other. Embittered children's book illustrator Jack Matheson and independent businessman Simon Burke meet through a pet-sharing smartphone app after an injury sidelines the artist. Jack's hard, clipped speech initially contrasts with Simon's quieter, self-conscience tone. Both men have more in common than they realize as they open up and learn from each other. Cavenaugh's portrayal of Simon and his severe anxiety comes across with particular sensitivity and nuance. Each pet-walking visit shows their evolving self-perceptions and personalities, which are reflected through timbre and inflection shifts. Cavenaugh also captures their sex scenes with a passionate intensity warranting headphones. J.R.T. © AudioFile 2021, Portland, Maine

MARCH 2021 - AudioFile