Defying Expectations (Pride Parlor Book 1) by D.C. Emerson

A wonderful way to start off a new series full of queer joy, diversity, and so much representation!


From the blurb:

Well, Aspen had done it. With their best friend Noah by their side, they came out as nonbinary, weathered the resulting divorce, and got their first drastic haircut. They’re ready to start their new life… there’s just one problem. They want Noah to be a big part of that life, and not just as a friend.

Noah survived growing up under his parents suffocating expectations, came out in college and moved far away to start a new life, but there are some things he can’t run away from. When Aspen admits they have feelings for Noah, he has to come face to face with a truth he’s been avoiding for a long time: he’s not sure romantic relationships, the kind everyone seems to expect from him, are actually what he wants.

So, he has a proposition. A six month trial relationship in which Aspen gets to explore nonheteronormative, polyamorous relationships, and all they entail, while Noah tries to figure out exactly what he’s doing with his life.

Follow Aspen and Noah as they meet Rachel, a recently out bi woman also trying to figure out her life, and Charlie, the harried owner of a failing dog shelter.

Defying Expectations is a LGBTQ+ polyamorous contemporary romance with several pairings including MX/MXF/MXM with trans masc and nonbinary rep.


Angel's review:

Something I love most about reading DC's stories is how they always have such diverse characters and they always pack their books full of representation too. This book, and the characters in it, represented being transgender, the ups and down that come with transitioning, gender dysphoria, being nonbinary while also possibly gender fluid, polyamory, Reciprosexual , and 'romantic-ish', along with so much more.

Throughout reading about Noah, Charlie, Rachel, and Aspen I learned so much and I love when I can learn new things while reading. I also loved how these characters genuinely listened to one another, they made time for each other and gave space when they needed it but also knew when to come in close. The relationship dynamics between all of these characters was exceptional and I loved reading about every part of their journey and their individual self discoveries, as well as what they discovered together.

This book, these characters, and their relationships, was just so refreshing to read about. This was beautiful, and bold, and a little sad at time but that's what made it even more beautiful for me. It was raw, real, and relatable.

Also, I loved everything about the writing! From the characters, to the storyline, to the places where this story took place, everything was just written so well! I am also now using the term 'Gordy Simple' from now on, I thought the way the characters used that to get out of their head was really endearing and a good way to remember to try to keep things simple when your thoughts are all jumbled. All in all, an absolutely terrific book and I'm so excited to read the rest of the books in this series once they are out!

Defying Expectations is currently available as an e-book and paperback and can be read as part of your Kindle Unlimited Subscription