Every chapter begins with an Armenian proverb, in both English and Armenian, along with page borders of pomegranates - an Armenian symbol for fertility and abundance. Voskuni integrates the beautiful, unique parts of Armenian culture by highlighting the importance that their foods, language and symbols hold. Nar’s navigation of her relationship with Erebuni forces her to think about what she wants for once, rather than defaulting to what her family may desire. Nar’s struggle with integrating these important aspects of her identity is contrasted with Erebuni’s calm, seamless merging of these factors, thus illustrating that a perfect balance is possible. Throughout the novel, Voskuni makes the assertion that there is a way to be immersed in one’s culture while also staying true to one’s identity. As Nar grows more comfortable with her Armenian identity, she also begins to grow into her queerness, begging the question of whether the two can coexist. Nar must decide whether to please her family and maintain appearances or follow the love that her heart desires. Voskuni delves into the stigma of queerness within the Armenian community through Nar’s inner conflict. However, Nar soon realizes that her interests may lie more with her wingwoman, Erebuni, and must wrestle with the implications of her developing crush, especially since she is not out as bisexual to her family.

As a newly single woman, Nar’s mother pressures her to attend Explore Armenia, a month-long series of events that include activities such as Armenian cooking lessons, dancing and brandy tasting, in order to meet potential suitors and hopefully a good Armenian husband. Nar is unfulfilled - she makes decisions to please her family, her boss does not take her seriously as a reporter and she feels hopelessly disconnected from her culture.

The story follows Nareh Bedrossian, or Nar, an Armenian American woman living in San Francisco who has just turned down the marriage proposal of her non-Armenian boyfriend. “Sorry, Bro” - a heartfelt, charming rom-com debut by Armenian American author Taleen Voskuni - merges the traditional aspects of Armenian culture with the modern world to tell the story of a queer Armenian woman coming into her own, while also falling in love.

Sorry bro taleen voskuni