Ryan Love’s debut : Arthur and Teddy are Coming Out

Since this book isn’t translated into Dutch, I decided this review will be in English.

The story

When 79-year-old Arthur Edwards gathers his family together to share some important news, no one is prepared for the bombshell he drops: he’s gay, and after a lifetime in the closet, he’s finally ready to come out.

Arthur’s 21-year-old grandson, Teddy, has a secret of his own: he’s also gay, and developing serious feelings for his colleague Ben. But Teddy doesn’t feel ready to come out yet – especially when Arthur’s announcement causes shockwaves in the family.

Arthur and Teddy have always been close, and now they must navigate first loves, heartbreak, and finding their place in their community. But can they – and their family – learn to accept who they truly are?

My opinion

Sometimes, I simply don’t know where to start when writing a review. “Arthur and Teddy are Coming Out” is a book that makes you feel a lot of things. Don’t get me wrong, I loved the book, it’s just that the story is sad, but also endearing and, at the same time, it makes you wonder why some people can’t accept others the way they are.

That’s what I mean when I say that this book makes you feel a lot of things. It makes you think and wonder, it makes you sad, happy, maybe even angry at times, but that rollercoaster of emotions is worth it.

quote

Life is full of sacrifices, Teddy. We’ll make good and bad choices, but we shouldn’t let regrets define us. I’m not perfect, but I hope when I’m not here that the people I love will remember me for the good things and know I did my best for them.

Arthur

The title already says it: Arthur and Teddy are coming out. Arthur is Teddy’s grandad, and after 50 years of marriage with his wife, Teddy’s grandma, he’s finally ready to tell the world he’s gay. Well, to tell his family, but soon everyone will know.

It’s a very easy read, even though there are some difficult topics. I’ll mention the trigger warnings below if you want to know. I did notice that at times the story went really fast, and certain things are skipped, which I thought could have been a bit better. And other times, I had the feeling some parts could have been wrapped up a bit sooner.

The problem I have with some things getting skipped or not getting enough explanation is that this story, even though it’s feel-good, handles really serious problems. They need attention, explanation, and time in this story. So, you can say the pacing felt a bit off.

quote

It doesn’t matter if you’re 16 or 79, age us just s silly number thar holds us back. People should be able to live as who they are.

Arthur

Even though I had a bit of trouble with the pacing, I did still enjoy this book. The bond between Teddy and Arthur is amazing, and you can really see both of the men grow into even more amazing human beings.

This story is perfect for you if you love queer romances and are in need of a great book that you’ll finish in no time because of the writing style and story itself.

Trigger warnings ⚠️
  • Homophobia
  • Past attempted suicide
  • Suicide of a side character
  • Outing
  • Cancer
  • Violence (mentioned)
  • Death of a parent (mentioned)
  • Conversion therapy (mentioned)

Thank you so much @harper_reach for this ARC of Arthur and Teddy are Coming Out in exchange for an honest review.


Title: Arthur and Teddy are Coming Out
Author: Ryan Love
Pages: 336
ISBN: 9780008541224
Publisher: HarperCollins



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