Shelter the Sea - (Roosevelt) by Heidi Cullinan (Paperback)

About the Book

Emmet Washington doesn't let anyone define him because of his autism, so when a lobbyist threatens the independent living facility he and his boyfriend call home, he doesn't hesitate to fight. He only hopes his calculations can save the day-and that there isn't a variable his formula failed to foresee.

Book Synopsis

Some heroes wear capes. Some prefer sensory sacks.

Emmet Washington has never let the world define him, even though he, his boyfriend, Jeremey, and his friends aren't considered "real" adults because of their disabilities. When the State of Iowa restructures its mental health system and puts the independent living facility where they live in jeopardy, Emmet refuses to be forced into substandard, privatized corporate care. With the help of Jeremey and their friends, he starts a local grassroots organization and fights every step of the way.

In addition to navigating his boyfriend's increased depression and anxiety, Emmet has to make his autistic tics acceptable to politicians and donors, and he wonders if they're raising awareness or putting their disabilities on display. When their campaign attracts the attention of the opposition's powerful corporate lobbyist, Emmet relies on his skill with calculations and predictions and trusts he can save the day--for himself, his friends, and everyone with disabilities.

He only hopes there isn't a variable in his formula he's failed to foresee.

Review Quotes

Cullinan...blends appreciation for down-home values with hopes for gay equality -- Publisher's Weekly

Thanks to the recommendation from a friend, I finally picked up a book by Heidi Cullinan, and I'm so glad I did. -- USA Today

A sure-fire winner --RT Book Reviews

Heidi knows how to make well rounded characters that feel real. -- My Fiction Nook

Warm and romantic and touching and sexy -- Joyfully Jay

If the heart is akin to a musical instrument, Ms. Cullinan played it beautifully. -- Mrs. Condit & Friends Read Books