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4.13 AVERAGE
4.13 AVERAGE
***ARC Review***
This is my honest and voluntary review.
This is the first book in DJ Jamison’s Foster Bro Code series and I love how well she sets the series up. I’m already chomping at the bit to read Axel’s story, but first let’s talk about Gray and Emory. This couple is so endearing!
Gray is returning to Riverton after a ten year separation from his foster brothers: Holden, Axel, and Bailey. A really terrible situation forced him to leave and he’s back to help bring their struggling business back into the fold. All of the foster brothers have past trauma that they are dealing with. It takes a while for their connection to rekindle once Gray returns. Emory is struggling with figuring out his sexuality and dealing with some past trauma and/or guilt of his own. Gray comes to Emory’s rescue one night and the two hit it off. Gray might seem like a bad boy, but he has a heart of gold.
The more time that Gray and Emory spend together, the more obvious it becomes that they want one another in each other’s lives. The main question is for how long. I love the natural progression of Gray and Emory’s connection from inquisitive to all-consuming. Their protectiveness (and possessiveness) over one another is swoon worthy. Gray and Emory both need time and space to heal, and they provide that for one another.
Gray works toward mending fences with his brothers as Emory figures out how to go after what he truly desires. (Emory is a people-pleaser afraid of disappointing his family). Gray is a constant source of comfort for Emory. I love how totally accepting and unassuming Gray is with him. He never pushes Emory and always reassures him. Emory and Gray are the salve to one another’s ragged edges and it is really remarkable watching them slowly work towards their respective healing. Their growing affection and love is beyond heartwarming.
I love all of Gray’s brothers, as well as Emory’s friends like Allison and Marty. I have to say, though, that Axel’s dogs and Emory’s grandpa stole some scenes here and there. This book is really well written. It’s gritty and vulnerable. I appreciate the care and concern that Emory and Gray have for one another. They have a great connection, both physically and emotionally. I really enjoyed seeing the bond between the brothers as well.
This story does have some heavy themes, so be sure to check out the trigger warnings. Don’t worry, Gray and Emory manage to overcome any hurdles and find a way to their HEA. Also, the found family vibes in this book are top tier!
funny
lighthearted
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Loveable characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
I am no stranger to DJ Jamison's books and this one did not disappoint. We first met Gray in Resting Beach Face and I was excited to get his story. This time we're back in Riverton, where Gray grew up, and Gray is back to help his foster brothers save their auto shop. Riverton is next to Granville, the scene of two other series from DJ Jamison's universe. I enjoyed the little cameos and I'm excited to see more.
Gray is back and he rescues Emory from a not so great situation. He ends up helping Emory explore his sexuality. I really enjoyed the progression of their relationship. Despite Gray's bad boy appearance, he is very sweet and gentle with Emory, and he's nice and gentlemanly. I loved how they stood up for each other and leaned on each other in their time of need.
Gray was gone for 10 years, so he needed to make peace with leaving his foster brothers behind, but also had to explain why he left. Emory needed to finally start living for himself. I was happy to see them tackle these issues and come out stronger on the other side.
Gray and Emory's story was sweet, swoony and steamy! I really enjoyed every moment of it. The story felt lighthearted and I loved the banter between the foster brothers. I love these foster brothers and I'm very excited to read more about them.
Gray is back and he rescues Emory from a not so great situation. He ends up helping Emory explore his sexuality. I really enjoyed the progression of their relationship. Despite Gray's bad boy appearance, he is very sweet and gentle with Emory, and he's nice and gentlemanly. I loved how they stood up for each other and leaned on each other in their time of need.
Gray was gone for 10 years, so he needed to make peace with leaving his foster brothers behind, but also had to explain why he left. Emory needed to finally start living for himself. I was happy to see them tackle these issues and come out stronger on the other side.
Gray and Emory's story was sweet, swoony and steamy! I really enjoyed every moment of it. The story felt lighthearted and I loved the banter between the foster brothers. I love these foster brothers and I'm very excited to read more about them.
lighthearted
relaxing
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
This is book one in the author’s Foster Bro Code series and features Gray, one of the characters in Resting Beach Face, part of the Swallow Cove series.
This was an awesome read! Seriously, Gray was the sweetest guy—patient, kind, a little insecure and so caring—exactly the kind of guy you’d want for yourself. When he ran into Emory, his high school crush, for the first time in a decade, with the way they were instantly attracted to each other, you couldn’t help but root for them to get together and they definitely didn’t disappoint.
This book includes a bi-awakening so sweet it’s already got me craving Axel’s book. Not that he’s in ANY way innocent but I’m wondering if maybe Deputy Harvey might be? I can’t wait to find out. For Gray and Emory, 5+ stars!
I received a copy of this book for free but am voluntarily leaving a review.
This was an awesome read! Seriously, Gray was the sweetest guy—patient, kind, a little insecure and so caring—exactly the kind of guy you’d want for yourself. When he ran into Emory, his high school crush, for the first time in a decade, with the way they were instantly attracted to each other, you couldn’t help but root for them to get together and they definitely didn’t disappoint.
This book includes a bi-awakening so sweet it’s already got me craving Axel’s book. Not that he’s in ANY way innocent but I’m wondering if maybe Deputy Harvey might be? I can’t wait to find out. For Gray and Emory, 5+ stars!
I received a copy of this book for free but am voluntarily leaving a review.
emotional
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
hopeful
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
DJ Jamison's new series is gritty and so good! Couldn't put this down, especially in the second half. Oh man! I love the drama and I already love the Forrester boys. I can't wait to get to know them better!
🔥: Steamy and spicy! Despite Gray's "tough guy" looks, he's beyond sweet with Emory. Their scenes are medium paced with lots of details.
😆: The banter between the brothers as well as Emory and his friends is so much fun and it really brings a balance to those emotional scenes.
😭: Eyes watered a bit with this one. Between Gray and Emory's haunted pasts and their fear of coming out to the town, these two go through so much.
I'm so excited for the rest of this series. It's awesome to see a grittier side to DJ Jamison, but don't worry, there is still plenty of lighthearted moments to keep you smiling!
CW: grief over family member deaths, assault on the page, harassment, homophobia, suicidal ideation, corrupt sheriff/sheriff's son
🔥: Steamy and spicy! Despite Gray's "tough guy" looks, he's beyond sweet with Emory. Their scenes are medium paced with lots of details.
😆: The banter between the brothers as well as Emory and his friends is so much fun and it really brings a balance to those emotional scenes.
😭: Eyes watered a bit with this one. Between Gray and Emory's haunted pasts and their fear of coming out to the town, these two go through so much.
I'm so excited for the rest of this series. It's awesome to see a grittier side to DJ Jamison, but don't worry, there is still plenty of lighthearted moments to keep you smiling!
CW: grief over family member deaths, assault on the page, harassment, homophobia, suicidal ideation, corrupt sheriff/sheriff's son
challenging
emotional
tense
fast-paced
dark
emotional
funny
hopeful
informative
reflective
sad
tense
OUTCAST is the first book in the Foster Bro Code series. It is a bi awakening with found family.
Gray was forced to leave his foster home when he was outed to his foster brother. He left his brothers behind without a word as to why he had to go. Years later when he gets a call from one of his foster brothers that the business they were left is in trouble Gray knows it's time go back to Riverton and make amends. His welcome home is basically is as hostile as he expects it to be. His younger brothers are furious he's back and don't want his help. While he's doing what he can to help with the business one random encounter with Emory wanting more than he thinks he deserves. Emory has a lot of weight on his shoulders. His family has expectations he knows he can never meet. His is questioning his sexuality and hiding it from everyone he knows. When he makes one bad decision Gray is there to help him in more ways than one. Gray and Emory have more in common than they expect and each moment they spend together Gray wants to fight for more than just his brothers.
I love the start of this new series. I was so invested in these characters. Gray and Emory have so much chemistry but so much baggage between them. I was so pulling for Gray and his brothers I loved their interactions. I can't wait to get more from these brothers!
I was given a free copy of this book to read and review for Neon Rainbow.
Gray was forced to leave his foster home when he was outed to his foster brother. He left his brothers behind without a word as to why he had to go. Years later when he gets a call from one of his foster brothers that the business they were left is in trouble Gray knows it's time go back to Riverton and make amends. His welcome home is basically is as hostile as he expects it to be. His younger brothers are furious he's back and don't want his help. While he's doing what he can to help with the business one random encounter with Emory wanting more than he thinks he deserves. Emory has a lot of weight on his shoulders. His family has expectations he knows he can never meet. His is questioning his sexuality and hiding it from everyone he knows. When he makes one bad decision Gray is there to help him in more ways than one. Gray and Emory have more in common than they expect and each moment they spend together Gray wants to fight for more than just his brothers.
I love the start of this new series. I was so invested in these characters. Gray and Emory have so much chemistry but so much baggage between them. I was so pulling for Gray and his brothers I loved their interactions. I can't wait to get more from these brothers!
I was given a free copy of this book to read and review for Neon Rainbow.
challenging
emotional
funny
hopeful
reflective
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Outcast is the first book in DJ Jamison’s Foster Bro Code series. It is set in the small town of Riverton, and it introduces us to Gray and Emory, two men whose lives have been shaped by loss and guilt. Also, if Gray seams familiar, you are right, we first met him in Swallow Cove series (in Resting Beach Face), where Gray gets the message that brings him back to Riverton.
Well, Gray returns after being away for years, having left suddenly at 17. By reuniting with his foster brothers, he’s pulled back into the close-knit, but also sometimes complicated world of found family and second chances.
Then there’s Emory, who is the quintessential golden boy (also Vice President of the local bank), and living a life shaped more by expectations of others than his own choices. And when a reckless decision puts him in a vulnerable spot, it’s Gray who steps in, and that sets off a chain of events that pulls the two of them closer together.
What starts as a “just friends with benefits” setup (we all know better) quickly turns into something much more meaningful. The chemistry between Gray and Emory is undeniable, but what I found really made the story is how emotionally stable and balanced it was. What makes this romance convincing is their personal struggles, their attempts to heal, and the way they support each other. I would say that the angst is present, but it comes from their pasts and the pressures around them.
I love how the author brings Riverton to life with her signature charm, but makes it a little less quirky than her previous towns, although it is also full of interesting side characters.
There is a very nice balance between emotional intensity and small-town sweetness in this book. And I loved that the rebuilding of family bonds is just as central to the book as the romance is. And the connection between the foster brothers really gave the story additional layer of healing and growth for everyone.
I would say this is a promising start to the Foster Bro Code series, and I am eager to see what’s in store for the rest of the brothers.
I received a copy of this book from Neon Rainbow Reviews, and this is my unbiased review.
Well, Gray returns after being away for years, having left suddenly at 17. By reuniting with his foster brothers, he’s pulled back into the close-knit, but also sometimes complicated world of found family and second chances.
Then there’s Emory, who is the quintessential golden boy (also Vice President of the local bank), and living a life shaped more by expectations of others than his own choices. And when a reckless decision puts him in a vulnerable spot, it’s Gray who steps in, and that sets off a chain of events that pulls the two of them closer together.
What starts as a “just friends with benefits” setup (we all know better) quickly turns into something much more meaningful. The chemistry between Gray and Emory is undeniable, but what I found really made the story is how emotionally stable and balanced it was. What makes this romance convincing is their personal struggles, their attempts to heal, and the way they support each other. I would say that the angst is present, but it comes from their pasts and the pressures around them.
I love how the author brings Riverton to life with her signature charm, but makes it a little less quirky than her previous towns, although it is also full of interesting side characters.
There is a very nice balance between emotional intensity and small-town sweetness in this book. And I loved that the rebuilding of family bonds is just as central to the book as the romance is. And the connection between the foster brothers really gave the story additional layer of healing and growth for everyone.
I would say this is a promising start to the Foster Bro Code series, and I am eager to see what’s in store for the rest of the brothers.
I received a copy of this book from Neon Rainbow Reviews, and this is my unbiased review.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Violence, Injury/Injury detail
Minor: Death, Homophobia, Grief, Death of parent
challenging
emotional
funny
reflective
sad
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
OUTCAST
by DJ Jamison
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I received an E-book ARC edition of this novel in exchange for an honest review. This is book 1 of the FOSTER BRO CODE Series. It will be available on Amazon & Kindle Unlimited on May 29, 2025!
www.amzn.com/B0DXDD58QL
This is a 351-page Opposites Attract, Found Family MM Romance. It is a fast-paced story about two men on opposite sides of the community only to realize the line that’s crossed should have never existed in the first place. Written in alternating chapters duel POV, Gray leaves Swallow Cove (series*) and comes home to his foster family to help support their life struggles only to be met with resistance. His fear of letting them down again is hard to overcome with the glares and tension in the family. Emory is a VP of the community bank, and while he doesn’t hate his job, he struggles to find passion in life. He loves art and wants to find his true self without disappointing his family.
(This review is so hard to write because so much happened, and I don’t want to give anything away.)
This had a great balance of character and plot development. Each MC has awesome individual plots, but when they collide together, it’s truly a work of art. DJ Jamison did say this was one of her easiest writes. It shows! What I truly love about this novel is that the romance actually wasn’t the only main focus. It shared the spotlight with Gray's relationship with his foster brothers, Holden, Axel, and Bailey, and their past & current person struggles with themselves and each other. It was a very deep plot that introduced each sibling with phenomenal detail and shared enough of their Bro Code that it hooks you. They way the plot brought Emory into the picture was disturbing but still made your heart beat pound. Their meet-cute was a true moment of heroism. But also how Emory weaved himself into their family by helping them from losing their livelihood. By doing his job, he grows close with Gray and his brothers to the point of no return, that he eventually had to come clean and say who he truly is, and not live someone else’s life just to please others, even his family. Death is hard on everyone, but you can’t remember them by becoming them. You have to be yourself and remember them by living life for yourself.
The spice was 4.5/5🌶! This made my mechanic smut dreams cum true! Gurl! 😋🥵 It was everything from sensual and rough with all the first-times. I also appreciated how realistic the author detailed the scenes even down to the reactions of taste, since that is different for everyone.
The Ensemble was HUGE! Gray has 3 brothers and all the monsters that Axel calls pets and Emory has a family and friends. And lets not forget the mutual enemy that is the reason it all started in the first place. All the ensemble were written with care and not as throw away characters. They all had purpose and you get to know everyone just as much as you do the two MCs. Each of their storylines is just as important too. I felt like I was reading multiple books in one because of how in depth the author took us into everyone’s lives. I also love how she always finds a way to include characters from other series, past & future. We got some cameos from Granville! In additionally sets up the next book really well by including Axel's interests and how their life starts colliding even before book 2 begins. Their tension is already THICK and gives off a rigid rival-to-lover trope.
I can't say it loud enough how much I loved this book. I resonated with both the MCs because of their mutual fear of not being enough for their loved ones. They both have scars and loss from the past that are still fresh. But those scars are also everyone else’s in the present too. By losing someone, they lost themselves but by being honest they can live authentically again. It also opened the door in the ensemble for acceptance for everyone and how giving someone a chance to show their true self and giving second chances after mistakes were made can we all live a happy life together.
💜Happy Reading!🫶
*This series is a Spin-off of Swallow Cove. Gray was introduced in book 4, RESTING BEACH FACE. It can be read as a standalone, however, I recommend reading the entire series in order as characters & plots mildly cross over for Easter egg moments and each MCs character progression through the entire series.
Swallow Cove Series
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CL997SBD
1) DOCK TEASE
2) PRETTY BUOY
3) KNOCKIN' BOATS
4) RESTING BEACH FACE
***Personal Note: 75th book in 2025 (May).
by DJ Jamison
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I received an E-book ARC edition of this novel in exchange for an honest review. This is book 1 of the FOSTER BRO CODE Series. It will be available on Amazon & Kindle Unlimited on May 29, 2025!
www.amzn.com/B0DXDD58QL
This is a 351-page Opposites Attract, Found Family MM Romance. It is a fast-paced story about two men on opposite sides of the community only to realize the line that’s crossed should have never existed in the first place. Written in alternating chapters duel POV, Gray leaves Swallow Cove (series*) and comes home to his foster family to help support their life struggles only to be met with resistance. His fear of letting them down again is hard to overcome with the glares and tension in the family. Emory is a VP of the community bank, and while he doesn’t hate his job, he struggles to find passion in life. He loves art and wants to find his true self without disappointing his family.
(This review is so hard to write because so much happened, and I don’t want to give anything away.)
This had a great balance of character and plot development. Each MC has awesome individual plots, but when they collide together, it’s truly a work of art. DJ Jamison did say this was one of her easiest writes. It shows! What I truly love about this novel is that the romance actually wasn’t the only main focus. It shared the spotlight with Gray's relationship with his foster brothers, Holden, Axel, and Bailey, and their past & current person struggles with themselves and each other. It was a very deep plot that introduced each sibling with phenomenal detail and shared enough of their Bro Code that it hooks you. They way the plot brought Emory into the picture was disturbing but still made your heart beat pound. Their meet-cute was a true moment of heroism. But also how Emory weaved himself into their family by helping them from losing their livelihood. By doing his job, he grows close with Gray and his brothers to the point of no return, that he eventually had to come clean and say who he truly is, and not live someone else’s life just to please others, even his family. Death is hard on everyone, but you can’t remember them by becoming them. You have to be yourself and remember them by living life for yourself.
The spice was 4.5/5🌶! This made my mechanic smut dreams cum true! Gurl! 😋🥵 It was everything from sensual and rough with all the first-times. I also appreciated how realistic the author detailed the scenes even down to the reactions of taste, since that is different for everyone.
The Ensemble was HUGE! Gray has 3 brothers and all the monsters that Axel calls pets and Emory has a family and friends. And lets not forget the mutual enemy that is the reason it all started in the first place. All the ensemble were written with care and not as throw away characters. They all had purpose and you get to know everyone just as much as you do the two MCs. Each of their storylines is just as important too. I felt like I was reading multiple books in one because of how in depth the author took us into everyone’s lives. I also love how she always finds a way to include characters from other series, past & future. We got some cameos from Granville! In additionally sets up the next book really well by including Axel's interests and how their life starts colliding even before book 2 begins. Their tension is already THICK and gives off a rigid rival-to-lover trope.
I can't say it loud enough how much I loved this book. I resonated with both the MCs because of their mutual fear of not being enough for their loved ones. They both have scars and loss from the past that are still fresh. But those scars are also everyone else’s in the present too. By losing someone, they lost themselves but by being honest they can live authentically again. It also opened the door in the ensemble for acceptance for everyone and how giving someone a chance to show their true self and giving second chances after mistakes were made can we all live a happy life together.
💜Happy Reading!🫶
*This series is a Spin-off of Swallow Cove. Gray was introduced in book 4, RESTING BEACH FACE. It can be read as a standalone, however, I recommend reading the entire series in order as characters & plots mildly cross over for Easter egg moments and each MCs character progression through the entire series.
Swallow Cove Series
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CL997SBD
1) DOCK TEASE
2) PRETTY BUOY
3) KNOCKIN' BOATS
4) RESTING BEACH FACE
***Personal Note: 75th book in 2025 (May).
Content Warnings
Graphic: Child abuse, Cursing, Death, Homophobia, Physical abuse, Sexual content, Violence, Grief, Stalking, Death of parent, Outing