I cannot put into words how much I absolutely adored this book. I read this in only a few sittings as I kept trying to find things to do while listening to the audiobook to continue the story as I just could not get enough. It made me laugh, it made me cry, and it brought so much joy to my world. I would definitely recommend this to anyone who loves a heart-warming story.

Following Arthur and Teddy, grandfather and son, as they both come out as gay at very different times of their lives, this is a light, queer contemporary novel - and it gave me all of the heartfelt, cosy feels that I was looking for.

I loved following both Arthur and Teddy on their respective journeys. The book had all of the elements I'd hoped for; uplifting and affirming character self-discovery, exploration of tricky family relationships, charming side characters, and plenty of cute and funny moments. It was incredibly readable, and I constantly wanted to be reading and following Arthur and Teddy's stories.

I did find the odd element of the plot to be predictable in places, and some of the characters leant towards being rather one-note and stereotypical. That being said, I didn't mind this too much; the familiarity and predictability added another layer of comfort and enjoyment for me.

Would highly recommend for anyone wanting a feel-good read that will make you care for the characters, and leave you smiling.

A feel-good family read, made even more immersive by the audiobook with two narrators, one for 22 year old Teddy and one for his grandad, 79 year old Arthur, both of whom go through some extraordinary life experiences in the book.
The title seems like a spoiler but we know from the beginning what the other characters don’t. Both Arthur and his grandson are gay, but they haven’t shared it with anyone. Yet.
The book follows Arthur’s mission to finally come out and be accepted in his community for who he is, and Teddy’s quest to make his own place in the world as a journalist under the shadow of his mum’s own writing fame.
This is a great read especially if like me you love books with senior characters.
This one reminded me of Mike Gayle’s All the Lonely People for the community spirit, Beth O’Leary’s The Switch for the grandparent/grandchild dynamic and Matt Cain’s Arthur Entwhistle for a protagonist fighting the demons of his past to finally be proud of who he is.

imagine trying to build up the courage to come out and your grandad beats you to it... that is what happened to teddy! and to make things worse, his grandad's announcement doesn't exactly go down well in the family.

i found arthurs story very powerful as he has created a family that he adores, with a wife that he loves in his own way. she was so incredibly supportive throughout and i found it hilarious when they were supporting each other to enter the world of dating again! there are people in his life that are less supportive and that small village vibe came across really well.

there were times during the book where teddy was just being a typical teenager, but his relationship with his family was beautiful.

I tried listening to this audiobook book more than once and could not get over the narrators voice. It just did not work for me.

This was a generally sweet tale of coming out, with the interesting premise of Grandfather and Grandson doing so at the same time. However, for me it was one where the premise was better in theory than reality, as it depended on the two threads working both individually and together, but for me the Teddy narrative was not nearly as compelling or sympathetic as the Arthur narrative. I should add that I listened to an audio ARC, and it's possible that reading a print version may have had a different impact.

Arthur's narrative worked for me as it gave depth not just to him, but to Madeleine, his friends, and the concepts of what constitutes a successful and happy relationship. I really loved how their marriage was not diminished by the end, and their love maintained and Madeleine was given agency in both the past and present. I also loved the development of relationships with other queer folk, platonic and romantic alike.

In contrast Teddy's narrative was fairly bland, I found it very hard to be interested in him as a character, much less root for him and his romantic relationships. I sympathised with his struggles with his relationship with his mother, and that very early 20s 'what am I doing with my life' angst, but only on this theoretical level, and emotionally I just wanted to skip tovthe mire interesting Arthur chapters. Or to delve more into Ben, his morally grey rival/Love Interest, who I found far more intriguing! I was hoping throughout that we'd get more insight into him and ended extra frustrated that he didn't.

There were several themes raised that I thought were Interest and would have loved to have delved much more into, but it felt a little superficial instead. For example at the start there is mention of how Teddy's coming out had been impacted by how his mother Elizabeth (an Alison Pearson style famous columnist) had written about her family in her columns, and I was definitely hoping for more discussion later about how mining her family for content, especially her minor children, had a directly negative impact on their relationship. Nepotism is a big topic in the book when it comes to Teddy's position at the newspaper, but it is not developed fully - pretty much all of Teddy's big scoops and successes come from his family and it becomes hard to take him seriously as a decent reporter when almost all we see of his success comes across as writing What My Grandad Did Today. And while him getting his internship is clearly seen and discussed as due to nepotism, the fact that he is dependent on his family connections for his scoops and writing is not mentioned at all. Both Arthur and Teddy seem shocked that Elizabeth is mentioned in the former's TV interview, not considering that it is her fame that has been a factor in getting media attention to his story.

Ethics are also a big topic, but again it often seemed rather shallowly portrayed for my liking. When [character] does a very Bad, Unethical journalist thing, it is portrayed as a singular fault of the individual. This negates for example the role that the various editors played in getting the piece published, as well as the journalism culture that led to it. Furthermore there was an opportunity earlier to create a narrative tension and deepen the issue; when Teddy pitches a story that would involve publicly outing a teenager who had killed herself due to threats of her sexuality being exposed against her will, he does so without knowing what her family's vuew would be, if they would want to cooperate or not. For the sake of the story obviously they are very keen to be open and discuss it, sharing very private documents with him. But if they had not consented, if they argued against discussing her in the newspaper, then Teddy would have had to think critically about his ethics and face his editor's opinions too, which then could have created a deeper comparison with the later events, and given greater consideration to the journalism that he has always unquestionably accepted as good.

Overall, this felt like a lot of missed potential. If the book had solely focused on Teddy I'm not sure I would have finished. On the other hand I think it could have worked really well if it had looked solely at Arthur. As it was, I was alternately entertained and frustrated, and finished rather regretful at some of the choices not made. The positive parts of Arthur's narrative were however sufficient to make me look out for more works by this author in the future.

*Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the audio ARC*

Big thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for offering me the opportunity to listen to the audiobook version in exchange for an honest review.
I honestly really enjoyed this book and I thought it was something new, like reading or listening about something you would normally not read or listen to.
I was impressed by how this book covered so many subjects which can be triggering or taboo for some people these days, especially about an elderly person coming out. And if I learned something from this book it is that is never too late to be you and do whatever you want.

This was a lovely heartwarming story, with great narrators depicting each Arthur and Teddy’s story. I really enjoyed the audio of this book and think it would have made an equally good read.
Many thanks for the ARC.

I have heard great things about this book so I jumped at the chance to listen to the audiobook. The book is written from alternating points of view from 79 year old Arthur and 21 year old Teddy, Arthur's grandson. Throughout the story we get to know the main characters and learn about their lives. The main theme of the story is the two main characters coming out as gay to their family members at different times, and dealing with the aftermath. Other themes include identity, including professional identity, family and friendships. The characters are very believable and really well written, with a good mix of personalities and opinions. I really enjoyed the way the story unfolded and felt that it happened organically., without feeling contrived. There were some strong emotions explored and dark themes of bereavement, suicide, and conversion therapy. I enjoyed the storyline of Teddy's internship and his struggle to top out from the shadow of his mother's influence. I felt that the subjects were tackled with sensitivity and overall the book was uplifting and life-affirming, with a satisfying ending. I enjoyed the narration and liked having different narrators for Arthur and Teddy, although it did feel slightly odd for example when Arthur was voicing Teddy and vice versa, but that was a minor thing. There were a couple if errors in playback where a couple of sections skipped. The tone and intonation was great and I loved the voices for the different side characters. I honestly couldn't stop listening and it's one I will want a physical copy of to read in the future. This is a lovely book and I am really keen to read more by Ryan Love.

At the age of 79 Arthur finally decides he has to be truthful to himself and admit to the world he is gay. His wife of 50 years is very supportive but the rest of his family struggle with the news, apart from grandson Teddy who is frightened to tell his family about his own sexuality.

It is refreshing to hear a coming out story from the perspective of the older generation, particularly a character who has been happily married for 50 years. As Arthur summons up the courage to reveal the news to his family we learn that his parents forced him to hide his sexuality and his marriage was one of convenience that saved both him and his wife from a future they didn't want. It is not difficult to imagine that marriages of this type existed and the prejudice that prevailed 50 years ago. What is surprising, and is clearly displayed in this story, is that prejudice still exists in society today meaning that young people do not feel able to be open about their sexuality.

The prejudice that still exists today is shown through the story of grandson Teddy who is frightened to be open with his family. His closest friends are aware he's gay but no-one else knows. Spurred on by his grandfathers bravery, Teddy comes out to his family.

As both grandfather and grandson come to terms with the modern world of dating we see that it is Arthur who is the braver of the two and this bravery makes him a hero for many people. He also becomes something of a target for people he has thought of as friends for many years.

I was engrossed by Arthur's story and the support he had from his closest family and friends. Teddy's story really didn't engage me, I felt he was a bit whinny and the route his story took was a little obvious.

Overall I enjoyed the juxtaposition of the different generations but feel depressed that we still live in a society where people are still afraid to be themselves.

This story was everything I thought it would be - I just love an elderly character and Arthur was an absolute gem. His story at times was incredibly poignant and references to times in his earlier life when society wasn’t accepting of him were heartbreaking. There were times that his story covered heavier themes, but Arthur’s attitude was so uplifting and warm. I loved his outlook over the whole course of the story.

Whilst I enjoyed the story overall I didn’t love Teddy’s perspectives as much as Arthur’s - I enjoyed the comparison of their experiences of coming out - the contrast of young and old and the attitudes of those around them was well navigated by the author and highlighted a lot about the reality of the feelings and challenges that individuals face. I just felt at times that I wasn’t as invested in Teddy’s side of the story - I think his inexperience and vulnerability in love shone through and whilst it was excellently done, it made me less invested in his romance than maybe I’d have liked.

The bond between Arthur and Teddy though was second to none - the absolute support they were for each other was so wonderful and just made this story an absolute warm hug. Madeline also deserves a mention because she was just the most wonderful human, I loved how much support and love she gave to Arthur.

Overall this story was everything I thought it would be, it had the balance between serious and warm hug nailed. The audio was engaging and a very easy listen. I definitely fell in love with Arthur for sure ❤️

An uplifting and heartfelt debut novel from Ryan Love. I listened to the audiobook published by HarperCollins UK Audio and HQ and felt it was brilliantly narrated by Bruce Alexander and Caius Nicholas as the two central protagonists - Arthur and Teddy, an adorable grandfather-grandson duo. This fabulous pair both have bombshell secrets to share regarding their sexuality. They are both gay.
Arthur has taken the incredibly brave decision to come out aged 79yrs - not being able to spend even one more day denying his true self. Meanwhile, 21-year-old Teddy is petrified to come out, having witnessed his mum's outrage towards her father Arthur and the massive waves caused in the family and community by his coming out.
As both Arthur and Teddy try to carve out their true identities and true paths through life and love, we cannot help but fall for them both. It is such a beautiful read/ listen. A gorgeous, uplifting LGBTQ+ listen that will be devoured by all. The book is wonderfully brought to life with the dual narrators and is a binge-worthy listen. The perfect Spring/ Summer 2023 audiobook/ book.
#ArthurandTeddyareComingOut #RyanLove #netgalley #audiobook #harpercollinsukaudio #HQ #BruceAlexander #CaiusNicholas #LGBTQ +literature

⭐️ 3.5 ⭐️

Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ALC, in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.

I listened to the audiobook of Arthur and Teddy are Coming Out. The narration was generally good although I didn’t really gel with one of the narrators and his voice did grate on me towards the end.

Well-written, with well rounded characters — I loved Arthur and his wife Madeleine but never really warmed to Teddy. Teddy’s mum was just a horrible, awful character. Some of the dialogue between the characters didn’t feel authentic or believable but I’m not sure if that was because it was the audiobook.

Overall, Arthur and Teddy are Coming Out is a heartwarming read and a solid debut from Ryan Love.

Arthur And Teddy Are Coming Out is the first novel by British author, Ryan Love. The audio version is narrated by Bruce Alexander and Caius Nicholas. Twenty-one-year-old Teddy’s first day as a trainee journalist at The Post isn’t ideal. His mother, outspoken journalist Elizabeth Marsh called in a favour to secure him the spot, and everyone seems to be aware of that, including his competition, a dishy fellow trainee called Ben. Teddy genuinely just wants to work and learn, but Ben King seems resentful.

Consoling himself after work at the pub with his best friends, Shakeel is sympathetic, but Lexie tells him not to be so sensitive. Her oft-repeated suggestion that he come out to his family dies a quick death when his mum comes home angry and upset: after fifty years married to Madeleine, his seventy-nine-year-old grandfather has revealed that he is gay.

It’s gone as badly as Arthur Edwards expected: his son Patrick is confused, but his daughter Elizabeth is livid. On behalf of her mother, she claims, even though Madeleine is wholly supportive of his decision. Lizzie cuts off contact, and forbids her children to see their grandfather. Arthur spends the following days and weeks hoping she’ll come around, as Patrick quickly has done.

In their small town of Northbridge, there are mixed reactions, and Arthur isn’t at all sure about the dating site his daughter-in-law-to-be signs him up to: surely he’s too old for all this? Arthur is glad that his only grandson won’t be deterred from visiting, despite Lizzie’s edict, and when Teddy reveals his own preferences, their bond is strengthened.

After hearing Arthur’s account of being a closet gay in the sixties, being subjected to conversion therapy at his father’s request, Teddy is grateful that attitudes have changed, but still wary of coming out, given his mother’s reaction. Then, having worked with Ben for some time, he realises he’s attracted, but Shakeel makes it plain he doesn’t trust the ambitious trainee’s motives.

Over the months that follow life for Arthur and Teddy includes: some nasty gossips, a secret crush, a dare-devil stunt for charity, a television appearance, a long-lost love, a teen suicide, long-held secrets, loyal friends, a gay bar, an engagement, a betrayal of trust, a surprise reunion, a vivacious eighty-two-year-old friend, and a double wedding. Teddy eventually matures enough to deal with an amazing job opportunity,

Love gives his protagonists insightful observations and wise words: Arthur tells Teddy “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.” A heart-warming and thought-provoking read.
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and Harper Collins UK Audio

This is such a sweet inter generational story! Considering the biggest demographic of people coming out are young people and OAP’s, this felt so relevant. It’s set in a small satellite village and it really captures small-village mentality towards queer people.

The different narrators for Teddy and Arthur’s made it easy to differentiate whose perspective we switched to and they were very consistent with the voices of all the other characters. This made it easy to follow the story.

Overall, this was heartwarming and nice that there was focus on queer inter generational relationships as well as just romantic.

Alas, this one was not for me.

I adored Arthur's narrator, he really brought Arthur to life. Arthur and Madeleine were my two favourite characters in the book, Ben a distant second favourite. Everyone else? No thank you.

I have seen this criticism around for this book: it feels like a queer book marketed at straight people and as such it tried to cram too much in too little space.

There are countless people who will enjoy this book and find it wholesome and uplifting, and more power to them because of it. I, however, have enough homophobia in my own life to contend with it in my hobbies, too.

Arthur and Teddy Are Coming Out
by Ryan Love
Narrated by Bruce Alexander; Caius Nicholas


This narrative of the book is done very well. I really enjoyed this. I like how office wife is extremely supportive of his coming out. I have found that it is a very unique situation in the way Teddy and I have both come out as well as them being from different times. The accent the narrotor but on makes me smile

I like teddy's relationship with his friends

Author love the reminiscene from office side of the past

By having two different generation and the reaction from those around them initial shows some reality into life that happens.

The sudden outburst to his grandad is so sweet.

I felt more for Authurs journey than Teddy's as he had a lot more he had to go through through in life. Though I understand Teddy's hesitation come out due to his mother's reaction to his granddas coming out.

#NetGalley #bookstagram#bookreview #goodreads#read#bookstagrammer #LGBTQIA #comingout #authurandteddyarecomingout

Arthur and Teddy Are Coming Out follows two characters, Arthur, a married man in his 80s, and his grandson, Teddy, as they both navigate their coming out as gay to friends and family.

I was expecting to be thoroughly charmed and my heart warmed accordingly by the stories of Arthur and Teddy, but I'm afraid it fell somewhat short for me.

Arthur's story was the stronger, and could probably have been a book in itself. Arthur is a kind, brave man who decides to finally be true to who he is with the support of his wife Madeline. He faces some nasty behaviour from people he thought were friends and there are some really dark matters dealt with, albeit not in great depth. I enjoyed finding out how things turned out for Arthur.

Teddy was perhaps where the story fella bit short. Overall, I found him quite annoying. For a young man who has been through some of the things he has, he came across as quite naïve and immature and I just didn't quite connect with him the way I did with Arthur.

The narrators were good, particularly the narrator of Arthur's point of view.

this was an enjoyable enough story, but just one that I didn't find myself fully engaged with.

When Arthur Edwards gathers his grown up children at the dinner to announce that he is gay, things do not go well. His wife is supportive, but his dauther all but denounces him. He finds an ally in his young grandson, Teddy, who confides in him that he is also gay. Together they face unexpected challenges, bigotry and joys of living their lives as authentic selves. It is a delightful and uplifting story, but it also have some sobering , bittersweet moments which reminds us that freedom is a such a fragile thing. I am so grateful that the books like "Arthur and Teddy Are Coming Out" exist, because we need a reminder - now more then ever - that you always can find the courage to be yourself.
PS. I feally liked this audiobook read by Bruce Alexander and Caious Nicholas (I have particularly enjoyed Arthur's parts)
PPS. Already eagarly awaiting seconf novel by Ryan Love.

Such a fantastic premise. Teddy wants to come out as bag but is afraid of his mother’s (and others) reactions.
When his grandfather Arthur declares that he is gay, Teddy’s mother (Arthur’s daughter) shuns him.
This is a well developed story with well fleshed out believable characters. Lots of angst, intrigue, honesty and love.
Arthur is such a wonderful character, kind forgiving and full of love and hope. His wife, and his new friend Oscar are also delightful.

I loved this book. Thanks to #NetGalley for the opportunity to listen to this audiobook in exchange for an honest review