Better Than People: A Novel

Roan Parrish

Aug 2020 · Garnet Run Book 1 · Sold by Harlequin

About this eBook

"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

Ratings and reviews

I rarely give 5 stars to a book. This book is everything i look for in a book. Genuine, interesting, characters stuck in their own heads, falling in love unexpectedly. Super romantic. The sex scenes were also fantastic; well woven into the story, patient, authentic, loving and hot as heck. The neuro atypical anxiety experience was captured with love. The joy of discovering a world where words aren't needed to communicate. Super nice to read a book where the gayness of relationship wasn't an issue for any characters, including friends and family. I will definitely read this book again and recommend to my friends.

I have yet to read a book by Roan Parish that I didn't like. This book is no different. The writing is amazing, and even with the challenges they faced, Simon and Jack's story was beautiful and touched my heart just like her other characters. And all the animals made it that much better. I'm excited to read Charlie's story. He definitely deserves one

Hurt/comfort, cinnamon sugar love story with emotional healing, anxiety rep, hot sex, & sweet dogs. Over-the-top adorable. This is going on the comfort read pile.

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.