Better Than People

Jack Matheson is an illustrator who becomes housebound after an accident. Unable to walk his beloved dogs, he connects with Simon Burke through a dog-walking app. Simon prefers animals to people and struggles with social anxiety and verbal communication. His work as a dog walker allows him to avoid most human interaction while spending time with the creatures he trusts most. As Jack and Simon develop a friendship through text messages and careful interactions, they begin to understand each other's challenges and ways of moving through the world. Their shared love of animals creates a foundation for deeper connection. The story explores themes of healing, trust, and the various ways people can communicate and build relationships when traditional social patterns don't work for them. Through Jack and Simon's perspectives, it examines how bonds with animals can help bridge gaps between people.

Readers highlight the authentic portrayal of social anxiety and agoraphobia, with many relating to protagonist Jack's struggles. The quiet, slow-burn romance and gentle pace resonated with fans of low-conflict stories. Likes: - Natural representation of neurodivergent characters - Animal characters have distinct personalities - Audiobook narration by James Cavanaugh - Realistic handling of therapy and recovery Dislikes: - Some found the pacing too slow - Limited external conflict or plot development - Several readers wanted more relationship development - A few noted the ending felt rushed Ratings: Goodreads: 4.0/5 (4,800+ ratings) Amazon: 4.3/5 (1,100+ ratings) BookBub: 4.4/5 (400+ ratings) "The anxiety rep hit so close to home" - Goodreads reviewer "Too much internal monologue, not enough actual interaction between the MCs" - Amazon reviewer "Perfect comfort read for anyone who prefers animals to people" - BookBub reviewer

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🌟 Author Roan Parrish is known for creating characters with realistic mental health challenges, drawing from her background as a former professor of literature and writing. 🐾 The book features a diverse array of therapy animals, including cats, dogs, and chickens, reflecting the growing recognition of animal-assisted therapy in treating social anxiety. 📚 This story is part of the "Garnet Run" series, set in a small, LGBTQ+ friendly town in Wyoming, which challenges stereotypes about rural American communities. 🏠 The main character's agoraphobia is portrayed with sensitivity and accuracy, based on extensive research and consultations with mental health professionals. 🎧 The audiobook version is narrated by James Cavenaugh, who received praise for his distinct character voices and emotional depth in portraying both protagonists' perspectives.