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Odds and Expectations #1
Against the Odds
Marcus Brady seems to have it all. He's the captain of the football team and dating the head cheerleader but things aren't always how they seem. When the new guy at school catches his eye, he soon realizes that feelings are being awoken in him that he never expected. Will others accept the new him, or will it all go to hell?
Trey Banks is the new guy at school, starting from scratch with his mom after they move to a small town for a fresh start. Trey can finally be who he is meant to be. Marcus, the jock, is a temptation he never asked for but he just can’t resist. Are his fantasies about Marcus just that, or could they become something real?
Soon enough, both guys find themselves fighting against the odds.
**This book is intended for mature readers and includes M/M, as well as some M/F scenes. Some readers may find some content of the story triggering. This story contains homophobic slurs, cheating, violence and bullying in some chapters.**
Trey Banks is the new guy at school, starting from scratch with his mom after they move to a small town for a fresh start. Trey can finally be who he is meant to be. Marcus, the jock, is a temptation he never asked for but he just can’t resist. Are his fantasies about Marcus just that, or could they become something real?
Soon enough, both guys find themselves fighting against the odds.
**This book is intended for mature readers and includes M/M, as well as some M/F scenes. Some readers may find some content of the story triggering. This story contains homophobic slurs, cheating, violence and bullying in some chapters.**
- GenresM M RomanceContemporary
189 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 30, 2021
About the author
S. Lucas
7 books106 followersPowered by tea and sarcasm.
S. Lucas is a self-published indie author, who lives in the UK with their significant other. When they are not writing they can be found either reading, blogging, or sat behind a sewing machine making costumes for various events around the country.
After completing NanoWriMo for the first time in 2020 with the completed story of Against the Odds, they were set on the track of publishing their very first book.
S. Lucas is a self-published indie author, who lives in the UK with their significant other. When they are not writing they can be found either reading, blogging, or sat behind a sewing machine making costumes for various events around the country.
After completing NanoWriMo for the first time in 2020 with the completed story of Against the Odds, they were set on the track of publishing their very first book.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
July 1, 2021
"This should feel so wrong, but right now it feels so right."
What a way to end pride month. This is S Lucas' debut novel. This is a beautiful coming of age story of self discovery, exploring one's sexuality, and acceptance themselves. Honestly, I fell in love with Trey and Marcus' story. They were so right for each other. That instant attraction even gave me flutters. Of course, there was the hardships and many who disapproved of them. However, the fact they've overcame it together and had allies in their corner,. That made it so much better. I really enjoyed this story. I'm so interested in any upcoming of this series
What a way to end pride month. This is S Lucas' debut novel. This is a beautiful coming of age story of self discovery, exploring one's sexuality, and acceptance themselves. Honestly, I fell in love with Trey and Marcus' story. They were so right for each other. That instant attraction even gave me flutters. Of course, there was the hardships and many who disapproved of them. However, the fact they've overcame it together and had allies in their corner,. That made it so much better. I really enjoyed this story. I'm so interested in any upcoming of this series
April 30, 2021
This is the debut novel for S. Lucas, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. There were high and low points to move the plot along and keep the reader in the story. With great characters and a good story, it kept me turning page after page. There were a couple of times when I found myself rolling my eyes at the characters, but they were all well developed, and I especially loved Trey and his attitude. 4 stars and I recommend you one-click today!
April 28, 2021
This is S Lucas’ first book and honestly after giving this a read I have to say that I’m quite impressed.
Normally when it’s a brand new author who’s not experienced much with writing, you tend to expect things to not flow right or for there to be a few plot holes, but honestly I can say that none of that was the case… if anything, I found myself thinking that this author should be so proud of herself because when you first take that leap and release your work for so many other people to see, it can be intimidating, but she’s done a great job at what she’s written that I honestly just love the story.
In life most things tend to happen for a reason, but then some of the life choices that were already programmed aren’t exactly something we choose. Most people in life don’t have to worry about who they are or if people are going to judge you for it, but then after reading this book you actually think back and see that there’s a small selection that don’t have it as easy as us or it can take a while to figure out who we are… but even still this book makes you think about the choices that we do have control of and the ones we don’t.
I love how S Lucas approached this book, I love how she had Trey know exactly what he wanted in life, who he fell in love with and just generally was able to be himself, he didn’t want to hide away… he knew what it was like without being able to do those things. Then you’ve got Marcus who is confused as to what’s happening, he knows he should be into girls, but the fact he can’t get Trey out of his head the minute he sees him on the first day, but it’s clear that he is still trying to figure things out.
I loved the dynamics between the two of them, but as well the chemistry between them was just even more amazing.
I do have to say though that Trey was my favourite out of the two, there’s just something about that pulls you in from the minute you’re first introduced to him.
With this book I’m hoping that it helps others who don’t exactly have a grasp fully on their emotions or their feelings, but manage to find a way to figure out who they are. It’s clear that there’s a lesson to be learned here, and I think that S Lucas did a great job at adding it into her story.
It’s clear that she’s passionate about writing and it shines through the words.
I honestly can’t fault this book, I just loved everything about it and can’t wait to see what else S Lucas writes.
I’d recommend that you give this a read as it’s so unique and you can’t help but fall in love with the story.
Trey is starting at a new school, he’s moved away from everything he’s ever known, but the one thing that he won’t miss is the beatings and abuse from him dad. This time he plans on being who he is and he doesn’t care if people know he’s into guys.
When his eyes spot Marcus, it’s as if something is pulling at him to just walk toward him, but luckily he manages to control everything inside… but that doesn’t stop him from trying to work out what’s going on. It’s clear from where Trey is that Marcus doesn’t bat for the same team, but he just knows that something doesn’t sit right. Yet, when they’re at a party, everything seems to change and neither of them can get the other out of their head.
What starts off as Marcus aiding Trey due to a cut on his heads, ends up with them stroking each other and with them not being able to tear their mouths from each other… But when they get distracted, how will things play out then???
Will things magically fall into place for Marcus??? Will Rachel finally get the hint that she no longer makes Marcus happy??? But both Marcus and Trey are in for a lot more, will they be able to handle everything when it comes to light???
Normally when it’s a brand new author who’s not experienced much with writing, you tend to expect things to not flow right or for there to be a few plot holes, but honestly I can say that none of that was the case… if anything, I found myself thinking that this author should be so proud of herself because when you first take that leap and release your work for so many other people to see, it can be intimidating, but she’s done a great job at what she’s written that I honestly just love the story.
In life most things tend to happen for a reason, but then some of the life choices that were already programmed aren’t exactly something we choose. Most people in life don’t have to worry about who they are or if people are going to judge you for it, but then after reading this book you actually think back and see that there’s a small selection that don’t have it as easy as us or it can take a while to figure out who we are… but even still this book makes you think about the choices that we do have control of and the ones we don’t.
I love how S Lucas approached this book, I love how she had Trey know exactly what he wanted in life, who he fell in love with and just generally was able to be himself, he didn’t want to hide away… he knew what it was like without being able to do those things. Then you’ve got Marcus who is confused as to what’s happening, he knows he should be into girls, but the fact he can’t get Trey out of his head the minute he sees him on the first day, but it’s clear that he is still trying to figure things out.
I loved the dynamics between the two of them, but as well the chemistry between them was just even more amazing.
I do have to say though that Trey was my favourite out of the two, there’s just something about that pulls you in from the minute you’re first introduced to him.
With this book I’m hoping that it helps others who don’t exactly have a grasp fully on their emotions or their feelings, but manage to find a way to figure out who they are. It’s clear that there’s a lesson to be learned here, and I think that S Lucas did a great job at adding it into her story.
It’s clear that she’s passionate about writing and it shines through the words.
I honestly can’t fault this book, I just loved everything about it and can’t wait to see what else S Lucas writes.
I’d recommend that you give this a read as it’s so unique and you can’t help but fall in love with the story.
Trey is starting at a new school, he’s moved away from everything he’s ever known, but the one thing that he won’t miss is the beatings and abuse from him dad. This time he plans on being who he is and he doesn’t care if people know he’s into guys.
When his eyes spot Marcus, it’s as if something is pulling at him to just walk toward him, but luckily he manages to control everything inside… but that doesn’t stop him from trying to work out what’s going on. It’s clear from where Trey is that Marcus doesn’t bat for the same team, but he just knows that something doesn’t sit right. Yet, when they’re at a party, everything seems to change and neither of them can get the other out of their head.
What starts off as Marcus aiding Trey due to a cut on his heads, ends up with them stroking each other and with them not being able to tear their mouths from each other… But when they get distracted, how will things play out then???
Will things magically fall into place for Marcus??? Will Rachel finally get the hint that she no longer makes Marcus happy??? But both Marcus and Trey are in for a lot more, will they be able to handle everything when it comes to light???
July 3, 2021
This was a cute high school romance between the new guy and the it guy at the high school. It had everything, first love romance and a powerful coming out. All he goodness that makes you have all the feels.
Trey is complex, he uses his body to hide his thoughts for so long from the world.
When he arrives in the new town the odds are against him
Lucas doesn’t paint a pretty picture
Small town and heaps of possibilities of it all going wrong .
Marcus stands out, he isn’t sure what to think but slowly Lucas coaches him through the thoughts that have held him back from becoming his true self. Marcus has been fighting for so long and he ready to give up the battle.
Against the Odds is one of my favourite discoveries this month and can’t wait for more from this author. Full of promises and positivity. Against the Odds isn't all sunshine but it delivers a powerful message. It can get better and it does
Trey is complex, he uses his body to hide his thoughts for so long from the world.
When he arrives in the new town the odds are against him
Lucas doesn’t paint a pretty picture
Small town and heaps of possibilities of it all going wrong .
Marcus stands out, he isn’t sure what to think but slowly Lucas coaches him through the thoughts that have held him back from becoming his true self. Marcus has been fighting for so long and he ready to give up the battle.
Against the Odds is one of my favourite discoveries this month and can’t wait for more from this author. Full of promises and positivity. Against the Odds isn't all sunshine but it delivers a powerful message. It can get better and it does
June 11, 2021
I've been friends with Lucas for a while now, and when she told me she was writing a book, I was so proud. Then I read it and was even prouder.
This book is great and I loved it. The conflict within Marcus compared to Trey's unforgiving confidence in himself and his sexuality was such a good contrast. Especially when things went to shit for them both. They complimented and helped one another so well that the story felt like it was real.
A great coming of age story in which sexuality is explored and accepted (mostly). I can't wait to read more from lucas.
This book is great and I loved it. The conflict within Marcus compared to Trey's unforgiving confidence in himself and his sexuality was such a good contrast. Especially when things went to shit for them both. They complimented and helped one another so well that the story felt like it was real.
A great coming of age story in which sexuality is explored and accepted (mostly). I can't wait to read more from lucas.
May 23, 2021
An enjoyable short story
I really enjoyed this book / novella it's under 200 pages. I would have liked to spend a bit more time with these characters in their story to become more invested in their lives and relationship.
This was an enjoyable read with plenty of content, some of it could be triggering so read those warnings at the front of the book, cos it will get your emotions up.
Trey is adorable you couldn't ask for any more from a leading guy, Marcus had his moments where you wanted to shake him so badly.
I would have loved to get to know some of the side characters better as what I saw of Nate I adored and It would have been great to get to know 'the beast' better.
I really would have enjoyed some bigger repercussions for the baddies in this especially Rachel.
I really loved the ending and let out a little squeal. Overall an impressive debut from the author and I would definitely pick up their next book.
I really enjoyed this book / novella it's under 200 pages. I would have liked to spend a bit more time with these characters in their story to become more invested in their lives and relationship.
This was an enjoyable read with plenty of content, some of it could be triggering so read those warnings at the front of the book, cos it will get your emotions up.
Trey is adorable you couldn't ask for any more from a leading guy, Marcus had his moments where you wanted to shake him so badly.
I would have loved to get to know some of the side characters better as what I saw of Nate I adored and It would have been great to get to know 'the beast' better.
I really would have enjoyed some bigger repercussions for the baddies in this especially Rachel.
I really loved the ending and let out a little squeal. Overall an impressive debut from the author and I would definitely pick up their next book.
May 30, 2021
This was a well written account of coming to terms with one's sexual attraction. It gives you the different POVs. You do have the typical mean girl but it fits the story line. I look forward to reading more from this new author
May 23, 2021
Dramatic
A story full of love and trauma. Trey suffers so much before moving. Then he meets Marcus and things change. But not all changes are for the better. Will they get a happy ever after or does life get in the way.
An incredible story of the issues faced by the young trying to find their way in the world.
A story full of love and trauma. Trey suffers so much before moving. Then he meets Marcus and things change. But not all changes are for the better. Will they get a happy ever after or does life get in the way.
An incredible story of the issues faced by the young trying to find their way in the world.
May 18, 2021
What a fantastic coming-of-age debut by S. Lucas. Trey and Marcus' story really pulled me in and grabbed me by the heartstrings. It was written beautifully and I felt Lucas handled the gay/bi storyline wonderfully! There were times when it had me wanting to cry, times when I was incredibly frustrated and upset with Marcus, and there were times when I wanted to slap both Rachel and Jackson into next week with how they treated Marcus and Trey! I felt absolutely disgusted by Rachel! I think an author who can invoke these kind of feelings in a reader is doing their job RIGHT! So keep on doing what you're doing, S. Lucas! If you like steam with your romance then this has plenty of steam coming off its pages! I can't wait to read more from S. Lucas.
April 30, 2021
This debut novel from S. Lucas was a wonderfully written coming-of-age story. I think the author did a great job telling the tale of these two young men. It isn't easy writing these topics (such as the ones mentioned in the blurb), but Lucas did great!
From living your life one way to one day, finally opening your eyes and heart to realize you were not completely living your FULLEST life and being true to yourself... well, that could be scary for anyone, and it is something one of our young characters goes through.
Lucas created great characters, wonderful story, and did a great job with the subject matter in this one. I enjoyed the story. It was fun, a little emotional (because I am one of those sensitive readers who puts themselves in the character's place), and overall entertaining story that I am glad I read and would happily recommend. Solid 4.5 stars from this reader!
From living your life one way to one day, finally opening your eyes and heart to realize you were not completely living your FULLEST life and being true to yourself... well, that could be scary for anyone, and it is something one of our young characters goes through.
Lucas created great characters, wonderful story, and did a great job with the subject matter in this one. I enjoyed the story. It was fun, a little emotional (because I am one of those sensitive readers who puts themselves in the character's place), and overall entertaining story that I am glad I read and would happily recommend. Solid 4.5 stars from this reader!
May 1, 2021
A most excellent book
I really enjoyed this book from a new author and look forward to seeing what else may come in the future. But read and be aware of the trigger warning in the front as this may not be the book for you due to certain scenes in this book.
I really enjoyed this book from a new author and look forward to seeing what else may come in the future. But read and be aware of the trigger warning in the front as this may not be the book for you due to certain scenes in this book.
June 30, 2021
I absolutely loved reading this book. We have two characters that are complete opposites, one who is a jock and a star on the football team that is dating the head cheerleader, and one who seems like the bad boy type with tattoo's and piercings but has a really sweet personality and knows he is gay. We follow Marcus and Trey's story where Trey knows who he wants but is under the impression that he is not into guys while Marcus has conflicting feelings.
It is a great coming out story where Marcus is fighting these feelings because he does not feel like they are true. There were plenty of scenes that you could feel the s*xual tension and plenty of hot and bothered scenes but you also see the struggles between these two. I loved reading this book and these guys are just fighting against the typically high school stereotype of being gay in high school. There are some really great supportive characters in the book as well and I found myself being unable to put it down. It was a great debut novel and the flow for the book was great as well as getting to see both Marcus and Trey's thoughts and interactions.
It is a great coming out story where Marcus is fighting these feelings because he does not feel like they are true. There were plenty of scenes that you could feel the s*xual tension and plenty of hot and bothered scenes but you also see the struggles between these two. I loved reading this book and these guys are just fighting against the typically high school stereotype of being gay in high school. There are some really great supportive characters in the book as well and I found myself being unable to put it down. It was a great debut novel and the flow for the book was great as well as getting to see both Marcus and Trey's thoughts and interactions.
June 7, 2021
I've read a lot of M/M books, but this is the first one I've read that really delved into how it feels to realize that you are a gay male as a teenager and sadly, how that affects your relationships with everyone in your life. I both love and hate that the author portrayed the hardships faced among friends and at home. I wish I could say it is not realistic, but sadly it is. I really loved this debut novel. It definitely had some triggers of bullying and abuse, but it was also steamy and lighthearted in parts as well. Very well done.
June 30, 2021
For a debut novel this exceptionally well put together. The characters were well put together and I loved the dynamic between Trey and Marcus. Trey is escaping his past but despite this he seems really well put together. He’s new to school and ends up catching Marcus’ eye but Marcus has a girlfriend.
I enjoyed watching these characters develop and the drama and hear between Trey and Marcus was great. Can’t wait to see what happens next.
I enjoyed watching these characters develop and the drama and hear between Trey and Marcus was great. Can’t wait to see what happens next.
August 2, 2021
Great read
I really enjoyed this book, it’s so well written the storyline just flows.
To be honest I haven’t read a solely MM relationship book before, I usually read RH with some FMM. And this won’t be the last mm I’m going to read.l it was really great - those steamy scenes were hot.
I really liked the characters and would live to see a spin-off about Nate.
I really enjoyed this book, it’s so well written the storyline just flows.
To be honest I haven’t read a solely MM relationship book before, I usually read RH with some FMM. And this won’t be the last mm I’m going to read.l it was really great - those steamy scenes were hot.
I really liked the characters and would live to see a spin-off about Nate.
June 4, 2021
I really enjoyed this debut novel from S. Lucas. Although it was more like a short story because it’s less than 200 pages and it went by really quick. I would’ve really loved a longer story so that we could get more invested in the characters with deeper content. However it was a good story with great MM scenes I really enjoyed :-)
June 6, 2021
Wow what a book. S lucas sure knows how to write an amazing read. Look forward to what this author will provide is with next. Definitely recommend this book as you will not be able to put it down till you are done.
June 21, 2021
This is an incredibly sweet MM coming out romance. This is the debut of S. Lucas and has made me excited for their future work. The plot is well developed. Very enjoyable read with multi-POV and a fantastic flow.
June 30, 2021
A realistic, gritty truth filled romance tale
Trey, the new kid in school, has decided to live his life as he wants and not to the beliefs of others including staying away from Marcus, the star quarterback. As the story progresses a chance meeting changes directions, the first betrayal doesn’t sting as much, and the final blows may cause more damage than what could be seen. S. Lucas has written a realistic, gritty truth filled romance tale that triumphs against the odds.
Trey, the new kid in school, has decided to live his life as he wants and not to the beliefs of others including staying away from Marcus, the star quarterback. As the story progresses a chance meeting changes directions, the first betrayal doesn’t sting as much, and the final blows may cause more damage than what could be seen. S. Lucas has written a realistic, gritty truth filled romance tale that triumphs against the odds.
July 1, 2021
The author did an amazing job with this coming of age story. The men had such great chemistry and worked well with each other. Trey has dealt with a lot and now he’s in a new town and hopefully things will go better here for him. The author did an amazing job portraying the teenagers and how things feel. I really loved getting to know these characters and watch as the relationship developed between Trey and Marcus.
July 3, 2021
I loved this book! This is a great coming of age book. I loved watching the character progression. I never would've have thought this was a debut book! Loved it! Great way to end pride month. I will definitely be recommending to all my friends. I cant wait to see what else this author has in store for us.
July 3, 2021
Swoon Worthy
I enjoyed reading this book. It had a swoon worthy story with some jaw clenching moments. I wanted to slap a couple of characters or throw my kindle across the room. It shows how Lucas was able to express the character’s emotions through the pages.
I enjoyed reading this book. It had a swoon worthy story with some jaw clenching moments. I wanted to slap a couple of characters or throw my kindle across the room. It shows how Lucas was able to express the character’s emotions through the pages.
September 29, 2021
This was my first read by this author but I cant resist an MM read so when I was recommended to read it I knew I had to give it a chance.
Marcus is part of the football team in high-school and looks to have it all, even the beautiful girlfriend by his side but that's all thrown up In the air when new guy Trey walks through the doors.
Trey has moved into the area after him coming out didn't go too well in his last school and the minute he sets eyes on Marcus its game over for him!
These guys have such insane chemistry but with Marcus struggling with his emotions and feelings its definitely not an easy journey at all for them.
These guys deserved their HEA for sure!
Great quick read that keeps you turning those pages!
*Read as part of KU*
Marcus is part of the football team in high-school and looks to have it all, even the beautiful girlfriend by his side but that's all thrown up In the air when new guy Trey walks through the doors.
Trey has moved into the area after him coming out didn't go too well in his last school and the minute he sets eyes on Marcus its game over for him!
These guys have such insane chemistry but with Marcus struggling with his emotions and feelings its definitely not an easy journey at all for them.
These guys deserved their HEA for sure!
Great quick read that keeps you turning those pages!
*Read as part of KU*
May 31, 2021
Great story
This was a great story with love, drama, evil girls and so much more.
The issues mentioned in this book are handled with care and respect for the subject.
This was a great story with love, drama, evil girls and so much more.
The issues mentioned in this book are handled with care and respect for the subject.
June 4, 2021
I enjoyed this book from beginning to end. It moved along at a really great pace making for an easy read. It has interesting characters that you want to know ore about and a story that will not let you down. This book is a must read and needs to be on your TBR list for 2021.
June 30, 2021
Wow, what a read
I really enjoyed the story of Trey and Marcus. Beautifully written, not gonna lie Rachel was annoying from the start with how she treated Marcus.
I really enjoyed the story of Trey and Marcus. Beautifully written, not gonna lie Rachel was annoying from the start with how she treated Marcus.
July 3, 2021
This book was a good one and first in series. New author to me but very entertaining and enjoyable. Highly recommended.
August 4, 2021
What a debut!
What a debut!
This book had me hotter than a summers day in h#ll.
It has ALL the feels. I found my next one-click author for sure.
What a debut!
This book had me hotter than a summers day in h#ll.
It has ALL the feels. I found my next one-click author for sure.
June 28, 2021
great M/M read
July 1, 2021
A well written coming of age story about a young man coming to terms with his sexual attractions. Great use of the different POVs to help the reader understand all the struggles and drama.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews