Hera acquires sparkling and uplifting LGBTQ romcom by Philip William Stover

Hera Publisher, Keshini Naidoo, has acquired World English Language rights to a ‘Kiki Lit’ romcom by Philip William Stover from Alyssa Eisner Henkin at Birch Path Literary in a one-book deal. 

The Problem With Perfect follows Ethan Wells, executive producer of the hit LGBTQ lifestyle programme Myles of Style, which teaches its viewers how to throw together a swinging dinner party or redecorate an entire townhouse with jaw-dropping elegance. But when Chase Myles, star of the show, goes AWOL to party on the other side of the world, right before the live Pride broadcast that could make or break Ethan’s career, Ethan’s only option is to convince Chase’s estranged identical twin to pretend to be him. 

Trouble is, Beau Myles has been living off the grid in upstate New York for the last few years, and looks a world apart from his social butterfly, influencer brother. Can Ethan transform this human sasquatch into the star of the show and fool his bosses and Chase’s followers? And when Beau turns out to be warm, funny and kind, does Ethan even want Chase back, anyway…?

Keshini Naidoo says: ‘Having spoken with Philip at an event about inclusive romance, realizing we shared the same worldview about wanting to see more contemporary, high-concept LGBTQ romcoms with wide commercial appeal, I was desperate to read his submission - and when The Problem with Perfect arrived in my in-box, it did not disappoint! This book is an absolute joy - with a cast of characters that encompass Insta-influencers, hard-nosed TV execs and elderly drag queens, all set against a backdrop of TV production in New York, I found myself smiling with every new page, as well as having my emotions tugged by the deep connections that grow between key characters. This book has such heart, perfectly reflects our contemporary society and romance readers everywhere will be utterly captivated by this warm, inclusive and authentic read. I am so proud that Hera will be publishing this book, and can’t wait for readers to discover The Problem with Perfect in May 2023!’

Philip William Stover commented:  ‘All writers dream about being heard and feeling seen. Being part of a publishing team that not only encourages my authentic voice but, in fact, celebrates it is “freaking awesome.” When I met Keshini we clicked right away and we made each other laugh. Always an excellent sign. I’m excited to bring my experiences as a television presenter and a designer to this book where I get to share my point of view as a gay man. I’m also nervous. If you know me from my work in television, my role as a designer or if we dated, please know none of these characters are based on you. Probably. Did I mention Hera has an excellent legal team? I’m thrilled to be published with them.’

Alyssa Eisner Henkin added: ‘After working with Philip on a number of middle grade books, it’s heartening to see this pivot to queer romcom. His humor, a touch of snark, and homage to self-love is what I’ve admired in his work all along.’

The Problem With Perfect will be published in May 2023, in mass-market paperback and ebook. For more information, please contact publicity@canelo.co