This story follows Elliot, a 30-something gay disabled man who writes for a popular TV show and lives in Los Angeles with his boyfriend, Gus. Elliot struggles with cerebral palsy, a lack of confidence, and a serious alcohol problem. Elliot begins cheating on Gus with sex workers and hopes he will never find out, but the world is a lot smaller than he thinks. O’Connell’s writing shimmers with sharp wit and candor which makes this story feel extremely intimate. Elliot is a deeply flawed, darkly humorous character you can’t help but root for. JUST BY LOOKING AT HIM is a hilarious yet thoughtful exploration of the gay community, sex, relationships, monogamy, ableism, addiction, self-discovery, and it highlights what it’s like living with a disability.