*I received a copy from the publisher via Netgalley in return for an honest review. This in no way affected my opinion of the book.*
When Arthur Edwards decides to come out to his family, he is unprepared for the bombshell it brings to his family and community. His grandson, Teddy, yearns to come out but, after seeing the reaction to his grandfather, finds himself stepping back into his shell as he struggles to juggle his internship and his growing feelings for his colleague, Ben.
After almost 80 years of being in the closet, Arthur decides he can no longer keep his sexuality a secret and decides to confide in his children, which causes a dramatic effect on his community, especially his grandson, who is also contemplating the same thing. I adored Arthur and Teddy’s bond throughout the story. Both grappling with the same feelings and emotions in different life stages made this a rather emotional read. In alternating narratives, Arthur comes to terms with his past, while Teddy works to understand his future, both striving to find peace in their lives. This book’s promotions emphasise the feel-good humour, which hit the feel-good spot, but I don’t think the comedic aspects hit the correct mark.
Honestly, Arthur’s story was the better half of this tale. I enjoyed the back and forth between grandfather and grandson, as the story highlights how coming out is never a definitive time; it can and should be done when the person feels most comfortable doing so. Teddy’s entire narrative was sort of soiled when I realised his story is mainly him complaining about being a nepo baby and being upset when people rightfully call him out on it. I had anticipated a moment where he acknowledges it and grows from that oddly selfish attitude, but he spends most of that time being coddled by his friends and then being harsh to Ben for no reason, even when they start dating. Ben does go on to do something horrible, but it’s all for the plot’s sake because there is no way anyone would be rooting for Teddy until then. Also, Elizabeth, Arthur’s daughter and Teddy’s mother acted so appalling towards her father and son that I was surprised that the story allows her to be forgiven so easily, which I assumed was for a more wholesome ending.
Overall, Arthur and Teddy Are Coming Out was a delightful story with a lovely premise, but I did have mixed feelings about Teddy, which soured his half of the story. Nonetheless, it is a story of finding oneself regardless of the life stage I believe will find its place in other people’s hearts.
as told by zaheerah 