Maybe with a Chance of Certainty by John Goode is a homoerotic contemporary romance.

Kyle has always known that he was different from the other kids. While other boys were drooling over girls, he was getting hot watching the guys get changed for PE. The only way to keep others from knowing is to not make waves, keep his head down, and become almost invisible at school. Since Kyle has nothing else to do, all he does is study, getting incredible grades. This works well until Brad, the most popular guy in school, approaches him and instantly, everything changes. Brad needs help studying for history or he will be kicked off the team. Kyle agrees to help Brad, never expecting to learn that Brad's home life wasn't any better than his was. Obviously, Brad's family is well off, but the issues of verbal, mental and sometimes, physical abuse, are similar. Kyle gets the surprise of his life when Brad kisses him, then tells Kyle that he likes him. The attraction is mutual, but when Kyle learns that Brad has a girlfriend, Kyle's world begins to spiral out of control. Can Kyle find a way to fit into Brad's world or will their differences be too big to overcome?

I remember high school well and there is a definite hierarchy that is very resistant to change. Brad's reaching out for help with school is one thing, but to cross the unwritten line was very brave of him, or very stupid, depending on your position. Having personal knowledge of being bullied, I felt horrible when Kyle became a victim but I applauded when he stood up for himself, even though it caused him problems with the school administration. If more people refused to give in, maybe the bullying would stop. It was amazing when Brad stepped up to help him, but what will it cost him? The love between Kyle and Brad was charming, but is it strong enough for what lies ahead?

Reviewed by: Teresa