A Fabulous Gay Uncle Takes Center Stage
There’s something deliciously entertaining about stories that throw perfectly manicured, self-absorbed characters into messy family situations they’re woefully unprepared for. Steven Rowley’s latest novel “The Guncle” delivers this premise in spades, with a heaping side of snark and sentiment.
Patrick O’Hara, a washed-up sitcom star living in self-imposed exile in Palm Springs, suddenly finds himself playing the role of primary caregiver to his young niece and nephew after tragedy strikes. Patrick may have a set of “Guncle Rules” at the ready, but he soon discovers that parenting requires a lot more than witty quips and poolside lounging. As Patrick fumbles his way through this unexpected new chapter, he’s forced to confront his own grief and isolation while learning to open his heart again.
A Laugh-Out-Loud Look at Chosen Family
Rowley has a gift for mining humor from awkward situations, and “The Guncle” offers no shortage of comedic gold as the flamboyant Patrick attempts to wrangle two grieving children. From disastrous attempts at cooking to impromptu dance parties, the interactions between Patrick and the kids are pure entertainment. Rowley’s background in TV writing shines through in the snappy dialogue and perfect comic timing.
But beyond the laughs, there’s real heart to this story. As Patrick bonds with Maisie and Grant over the course of a Palm Springs summer, we see all three characters begin to heal and rediscover joy. Their makeshift family unit may be unconventional, but it’s incredibly touching to witness.
A Fabulous Lead Character
Patrick is an absolute scene-stealer of a protagonist—glamorous, quippy, and delightfully over-the-top. His “Guncle Rules” (like “Fun drinks make everything more interesting”) had me in stitches. But Rowley also allows us glimpses of Patrick’s vulnerability and grief over losing his partner years ago. Watching Patrick’s walls slowly come down as he connects with the kids is deeply moving.
Maisie and Grant are equally well-drawn characters. Rowley captures the unique voices and personalities of both children, from nine-year-old Maisie’s precocious observations to six-year-old Grant’s endearing lisp. Their grief over losing their mother feels raw and real.
Tackling Tough Topics with Heart and Humor
“The Guncle” doesn’t shy away from weighty themes like grief, addiction, and found family. But Rowley has a deft touch, using humor to leaven the heavier moments without minimizing them. The result is a story that feels honest about loss while still remaining hopeful and uplifting.
I particularly appreciated how Rowley explores different forms of grief through the various characters. Patrick is still processing the loss of his partner years ago, while the kids are in the rawer stages of mourning their mother. There are poignant observations about how grief can ebb and flow over time.
A Love Letter to Chosen Family
At its core, “The Guncle” is a celebration of chosen family and the powerful bonds we form beyond blood relations. Patrick may not be the kids’ parent, but he steps up to provide the love and support they desperately need. The unconventional family unit they create is beautiful in its own way.
This theme extends to the colorful cast of supporting characters as well. From Patrick’s throuple neighbors to his sassy housekeeper Rosa, we see how Patrick has cobbled together his own community in Palm Springs. These relationships prove just as meaningful as traditional family ties.
A Perfect Summer Read
With its Palm Springs setting and poolside hijinks, “The Guncle” is tailor-made for summer reading. Rowley brings the sun-drenched desert landscape to life with vivid descriptions. I could practically feel the heat radiating off the pages (in a good way).
The pacing is brisk and engaging, making this an easy book to devour in a few sittings. While there are certainly emotional moments, the overall tone remains buoyant and escapist—exactly what you want in a beach read.
Comparisons to Rowley’s Previous Work
Fans of Rowley’s previous novels “Lily and the Octopus” and “The Editor” will find much to love here. “The Guncle” continues Rowley’s winning formula of balancing humor and heart while exploring themes of grief and chosen family.
However, “The Guncle” feels a bit lighter and more comedic overall compared to Rowley’s earlier work. The TV sitcom-esque humor is dialed up, resulting in a breezier read. Personally, I found this a welcome shift—the book provided some much-needed laughs after a difficult year.
Minor Quibbles
If I had to nitpick, there were a few moments where the comedy felt slightly forced or over-the-top. Patrick’s diva behavior occasionally borders on caricature. However, these instances are few and far between in an otherwise delightful read.
Some readers may also find the ending a bit neat and tidy. But I’d argue the story earns its hopeful conclusion, and a little wish fulfillment feels appropriate for this type of novel.
The Verdict: A Heartwarming Hit
“The Guncle” is an absolute gem of a novel – funny, touching, and utterly charming. Rowley has crafted a pitch-perfect summer read that will have you laughing out loud one minute and wiping away tears the next.
Patrick’s journey from self-absorbed has-been to devoted caregiver is immensely satisfying to witness. The bond he forms with Maisie and Grant feels genuine and earned. By the end, I was fully invested in this unconventional family unit.
While the book tackles some heavy topics, Rowley’s light touch and humor keep things from ever feeling too weighty. The result is an uplifting story about healing, chosen family, and finding joy again after loss.
Whether you’re looking for poolside laughs or a heartwarming tale of found family, “The Guncle” delivers on all fronts. Clear your schedule and settle in for a wildly entertaining ride with one of the most fabulous protagonists in recent memory. Patrick and his Guncle Rules are sure to win your heart.
Who Should Read This Book
“The Guncle” is a perfect fit for:
- Fans of humorous, heartwarming fiction
- Readers who enjoy LGBTQ+ stories and characters
- Anyone looking for an uplifting beach read
- Those who appreciated Rowley’s previous novels
- Fans of TV sitcoms and Hollywood-set stories
Similar Reads
If you enjoyed “The Guncle,” you might also like:
- “Less” by Andrew Sean Greer
- “The House in the Cerulean Sea” by TJ Klune
- “Lily and the Octopus” by Steven Rowley
- “Red, White & Royal Blue” by Casey McQuiston
- “The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo” by Taylor Jenkins Reid
About the Author
Steven Rowley is the author of “The Editor” and the national bestseller “Lily and the Octopus.” His work has been published in nineteen languages. He has worked as a freelance writer, newspaper columnist, and screenwriter. A native of Portland, Maine, Rowley is a graduate of Emerson College. He currently resides in Palm Springs, California.
Final Thoughts
In a year that’s been short on laughter, “The Guncle” arrived as a much-needed burst of joy. Rowley has given us the literary equivalent of a warm hug from a fabulously dressed uncle—comforting, slightly ridiculous, and guaranteed to lift your spirits.
Patrick’s Guncle Rules may not be conventional parenting advice, but there’s wisdom in his brand of fierce love and unwavering support. In a world that can feel increasingly divided, it’s refreshing to read a story that celebrates chosen family in all its forms.
So grab your shiniest caftan, mix up a strong cocktail, and settle in for a delightful summer escape with “The Guncle.” Just don’t be surprised if you find yourself getting a little misty-eyed between the laughs. After all, as Patrick would say, “Fun drinks make everything more interesting” – including heartwarming tales of found family.
