Oh my goodness, this book was everything.

One of my biggest challenges when starting a new book is getting fully invested in the story. I often find the first 50 pages or so a bit of a struggle, but that wasn’t the case here at all. I was completely hooked from the very first chapter.

As a Canadian, I also loved that the story takes place in Toronto—it made me ridiculously excited. 🤣🍁

Craig is such an awkwardly sweet, wonderfully obsessive character. I saw so much of my younger self in him, which made him incredibly easy to connect with. Eddie is an absolute gem, and while I found myself wishing for his POV at times, I never felt like its absence took anything away from the story.

The writing style felt a little choppy in places, but in a way that was comfortable, conversational, and incredibly easy to read. It works, and it works well.

There are two things I’m now dying to know:

1. How many times are the words shoot or shot used in this book?
2. What was his damn kink?!

This story gave me all the feelings. I cringed, I laughed, I smiled, and I cried. By the end, I didn’t just enjoy the book—I was completely invested in these characters and their journey.

Huuuuge freaking thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for having the opportunity for this ARC.

Title - Come Out With Your Hearts Up
Author - Alden B. Atmore
Star rating - ⭐️⭐️⭐️ ⭐️⭐️
Spicy Rating - 🌶️🌶️ 🌶️🌶️
Overall - Autistic Allie Approved ✅

Come Out with Your Hearts Up by Alden B. Atmore completely caught me off guard in the best possible way. What starts as a quiet romance gradually unfolds into a deeply emotional journey about identity, healing, forgiveness, and learning to embrace every part of yourself. ❤️🏳️‍🌈

This book took me on an emotional rollercoaster. One chapter had me smiling like an idiot, the next had me frustrated, anxious, or fighting back tears. 😭😂 The story doesn't rely on dramatic twists or over-the-top moments to make an impact. Instead, it quietly works its way into your heart and refuses to leave.

Everything is told through Craig's perspective, which makes his journey feel incredibly personal. Watching him wrestle with his feelings, his fears, and the beliefs he's carried for years felt authentic and heartbreaking. His attraction to Eddie isn't the problem—it's what accepting those feelings means for the life Craig thought he was supposed to have. That internal struggle is handled with so much care and realism that I couldn't help but root for him every step of the way.

And then there's Eddie. 🥹

I absolutely adored him. He brings a sense of calm and stability to Craig's often chaotic thoughts. He's compassionate without being overbearing, supportive without trying to "fix" anyone, and patient in a way that feels genuine rather than unrealistic. Eddie understands when to step forward and when to give Craig the room he needs to figure things out for himself.

The connection between them develops in such a refreshing way. Their story doesn't follow the usual romance formula, and that's exactly what makes it so special. From their first encounter, there's an undeniable spark, but life, timing, and personal baggage make the road to happiness anything but straightforward. Watching them navigate those obstacles felt incredibly rewarding. 💕

One aspect I appreciated was that the author didn't take shortcuts with their relationship. When things fall apart, it hurts. A lot. 💔 But the separation serves a purpose. Both Craig and Eddie need time to confront their own struggles, grow as individuals, and learn what they truly want. Because of that, when they finally find their way back to each other, it feels meaningful and deserved rather than convenient.

The themes woven throughout the story are beautiful. Found family, trust, self-discovery, second chances, and the messy reality of healing all play important roles. The book acknowledges that personal growth isn't a straight line and that repairing relationships takes effort, vulnerability, and courage.

What touched me most was how much love exists within these pages—not just romantic love, but the kind of unconditional support that helps someone become the person they're meant to be. Craig often struggles to understand his own worth, while Eddie sees it clearly from the very beginning. Their relationship becomes a safe place where both men can learn, heal, and grow together. ✨

By the end, I felt completely connected to these characters and emotionally invested in their happiness. Alden B. Atmore delivers a thoughtful, heartfelt romance that balances pain and hope beautifully. If you're looking for an MM romance filled with emotional depth, character growth, second chances, and a love story that truly earns its happy ending, this is one I highly recommend. ❤️📚

Took me a bit longer to finish this one because of the triggers.
There were so many sad parts that I found I really did need to take a break sometimes. But I really did like it anyways.

It felt like it was missing a few things, like a few things that were hinted at were never told. That’s not always a deal breaker but it does kinda leave me disappointed.

I connected with Craig so much and I enjoyed watching his character grow. I actually cried at the end when Eddie found him again. I was so full of happiness. I loved it.

Thank you for allowing me to read an early copy.