The Guncle

Patrick, or Gay Uncle Patrick (GUP for short), has always adored his niece, Maisie, and nephew, Grant. He loves spending time with them – in small doses and with their parents available to manage the tears and tricky questions. However, when tragedy strikes, Patrick finds himself suddenly thrust into the role of primary guardian, leaving him feeling truly overwhelmed.

Having spent years grappling with the loss of his great love, enduring a stalled acting career, and maintaining a lifestyle ill-suited to raising young children, Patrick has no idea what to expect. Fighting through his own grief, he soon realises that parenting involves much more than just doling out treats and making jokes to keep the kids entertained. Patrick discovers that stepping into this new role requires confronting his vulnerabilities and opening his heart in ways he never imagined possible.

With wit and warmth, The Guncle takes readers on a journey of laughter and tears, charmingly illustrating that embracing vulnerability can sometimes be the key to healing one's own wounds. As Patrick navigates the challenges of guardianship, he experiences moments of hilarity, tenderness, and profound love, ultimately finding solace and joy in the bonds he forms with Maisie and Grant.

The Guncle is an endearing and poignant celebration of family, healing, and self-discovery. Readers will delight in the ups and downs of Patrick’s journey, finding themselves both laughing out loud and deeply moved in equal measure.

"Steven Rowley's The Guncle is a gift. At once funny, charming, and heartbreaking, it's that rare novel that will have you laughing out loud, even through tears. I have yet to meet a person who did not love this book." Sally Hepworth, bestselling author of The Good Sister and The Younger Wife

"A joyous Auntie Mame spritz! A reading pleasure; pour yourself a tall glass and enjoy, preferably poolside. You deserve it!" Andrew Sean Greer, winner of the 2018 Pulitzer Prize for Less