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"The novel thrives thanks to its lively ensemble of characters and their sharp, fast-moving dialogue [a] coming of age story for adults, buoyed by an endearing protagonist" - Kirkus Reviews

Andy Barrows Explores Queer Reinvention and Late-Blooming Identity in Debut Novel Peter in Progress

Acclaimed by Kirkus Reviews as "a coming of age story for adults," Andy Barrows' debut novel Peter in Progress will be released this June from Atmosphere Press. Blending sharp humor, emotional honesty, and queer self-discovery, the novel follows one man's unexpected reinvention during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.

Already earning early critical praise, Kirkus Reviews writes:

"The novel thrives thanks to its lively ensemble of characters and their sharp, fast-moving dialogue [a] coming of age story for adults, buoyed by an endearing protagonist."

Reedsy Discovery awarded the novel five stars and a Must Read designation, describing it as:

"An engaging, inspiring read that I recommend to anyone who likes relatable protagonists, especially in their thirties, slice-of-life stories, and heartwarming romance."

When COVID hits, Peter Hughes finds himself unemployed, out of shape, and living in his mother's basement-not where he imagined life would lead in his mid-thirties. Everything changes when he discovers Ryan's Fabulous Fitness, a gay-forward online workout program that sparks not only a physical transformation, but a reckoning with his sexuality.

Newly out and entirely unprepared for New York's chaotic gay dating scene, Peter throws himself into a whirlwind of app-fueled hookups, underwear parties, friendship, heartbreak, and unexpected love. Told with wry humor and emotional depth, Peter in Progress explores identity, reinvention, and the courage it takes to begin again.

In addition to the upcoming release of his debut novel, Barrows has recently received national recognition for his work across multiple literary genres. He earned an Honorable Mention in the poetry contest at the Saints and Sinners Literary Festival, and his short play, Many Apartments Including My Own, was selected for the OUT/PLAY Summer Shorts Festival, running June 11-14. The festival features 14 original short plays by queer playwrights and directors presented in two seven-show programs.

Many Apartments Including My Own follows a thirtysomething man colliding with New York's gay scene after divorcing his wife-a thematic exploration that echoes Barrows' interest in reinvention, identity, and queer adulthood.

Andy Barrows is a writer whose work spans fiction, poetry, and theater. Peter in Progress marks his debut novel. For more information about Andy Barrows and Peter in Progress, visit:

https://andybarrow.com