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Foster Bro Code #2
Wild Card
I'm the wild brother ...
I live for the moment. For instant gratification.
And Deputy Dalton Harvey will bring me a lot of gratification.
He's fighting our attraction, but I see the lust in his eyes. I don't care that he's slapped cuffs on me before and probably will again. It'll just make it all the sweeter when he breaks.
When that happens, I'll gladly dirty up that lawman and move on, like I always do. It doesn't matter that Dalton is one of the best men I've met. Or that he's sexy as sin with a sweet smile that always reaches his eyes. Everyone leaves in the end.
The only ones I trust are the strays I take in. The pets abandoned on the side of the road are thrown away just like me. I give them my heart because they'll be unquestionably loyal to me.
Unlike humans.
Unlike Dalton.
He says he wants more. He has honorable intentions. But he just doesn't understand.
He'll leave too. He'll have to when he becomes the sheriff this town needs.
I'm bad news. I'll only drag him down with me. And he deserves better.
He just doesn't know it yet.
Wild Card is Book 2 of Foster Bro Code about a group of brothers who live by a pact they made as kids to always have one another's backs. Expect lawman/lawbreaker, sizzling hot hookups, pet rescues, and emotional healing. TW for childhood neglect and abandonment off page.
I live for the moment. For instant gratification.
And Deputy Dalton Harvey will bring me a lot of gratification.
He's fighting our attraction, but I see the lust in his eyes. I don't care that he's slapped cuffs on me before and probably will again. It'll just make it all the sweeter when he breaks.
When that happens, I'll gladly dirty up that lawman and move on, like I always do. It doesn't matter that Dalton is one of the best men I've met. Or that he's sexy as sin with a sweet smile that always reaches his eyes. Everyone leaves in the end.
The only ones I trust are the strays I take in. The pets abandoned on the side of the road are thrown away just like me. I give them my heart because they'll be unquestionably loyal to me.
Unlike humans.
Unlike Dalton.
He says he wants more. He has honorable intentions. But he just doesn't understand.
He'll leave too. He'll have to when he becomes the sheriff this town needs.
I'm bad news. I'll only drag him down with me. And he deserves better.
He just doesn't know it yet.
Wild Card is Book 2 of Foster Bro Code about a group of brothers who live by a pact they made as kids to always have one another's backs. Expect lawman/lawbreaker, sizzling hot hookups, pet rescues, and emotional healing. TW for childhood neglect and abandonment off page.
368 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 30, 2025
298 people are currently reading
303 people want to read
About the author
D.J. Jamison
78 books971 followersDJ Jamison writes a variety of queer men finding extraordinary love through M/M Romance! She is a lifelong reader and has always loved writing and editing, with a ten-year journalism career before she began publishing romance. She has books in ebook, print, and audio, as well as German, French, and Italian translations.
DJ lives in Kansas with her husband, two sons, and a sadistic cat named Birdie.
Join DJ's mailing list at http://tinyurl.com/DJandCompany
Join her FB group at www.facebook.com/groups/DJandCompany
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DJ lives in Kansas with her husband, two sons, and a sadistic cat named Birdie.
Join DJ's mailing list at http://tinyurl.com/DJandCompany
Join her FB group at www.facebook.com/groups/DJandCompany
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September 1, 2025
Wild Card is book two in the Foster Bro Code series by D.J. Jamison. This is Axel and Dalton’s story, the Police Deputy and the junk yard owner.
We got to know Axel Wilder in the first book, the wildest of the four foster brothers. Axel was taken from his parents at a young age and placed with the Forresters as one of four foster brothers. After being abandoned by his parents, and then one of his brothers leaving them, he knew that people would always leave. So now he only has hook ups. No emotional ties, except to his brothers. But they all live in the main house of their property. Axel keeps himself separate from them, living in an RV and running the junk yard. Their part of town has become the favorite place where people dump off unwanted pets. Axel is determined to make sure that any animal doesn’t feel unwanted as he was. He takes them in, loves them, and either finds them homes or keeps them himself.
Deputy Dalton Harvey works for the police department in Riverton. He is a play by the rules man, always trying to do the right thing, unlike his boss, the sheriff. Every time he sees Axel, the sparks are flying between them but he tries his best to ignore the attraction, until he just can’t any more. But Axel just wants a one and done, Dalton wants more. And he will do whatever he can, every single day, to prove to Axel that he will stay.
First, I loved seeing how great Gray and Emory are doing from book one. They are truly happy. Axel was definitely the wild brother but his heart was so big. I loved seeing how he was with the animals. Dalton was perfect for him, strong enough to finally get him to see that he mattered, that he was important, and that he could trust him. They definitely had their share of road blocks. Even a little good versus evil included. But Dalton was not giving up until he got his man. We get a little hint about the next book, Control Freak, which will be Holden’s book.
We got to know Axel Wilder in the first book, the wildest of the four foster brothers. Axel was taken from his parents at a young age and placed with the Forresters as one of four foster brothers. After being abandoned by his parents, and then one of his brothers leaving them, he knew that people would always leave. So now he only has hook ups. No emotional ties, except to his brothers. But they all live in the main house of their property. Axel keeps himself separate from them, living in an RV and running the junk yard. Their part of town has become the favorite place where people dump off unwanted pets. Axel is determined to make sure that any animal doesn’t feel unwanted as he was. He takes them in, loves them, and either finds them homes or keeps them himself.
Deputy Dalton Harvey works for the police department in Riverton. He is a play by the rules man, always trying to do the right thing, unlike his boss, the sheriff. Every time he sees Axel, the sparks are flying between them but he tries his best to ignore the attraction, until he just can’t any more. But Axel just wants a one and done, Dalton wants more. And he will do whatever he can, every single day, to prove to Axel that he will stay.
First, I loved seeing how great Gray and Emory are doing from book one. They are truly happy. Axel was definitely the wild brother but his heart was so big. I loved seeing how he was with the animals. Dalton was perfect for him, strong enough to finally get him to see that he mattered, that he was important, and that he could trust him. They definitely had their share of road blocks. Even a little good versus evil included. But Dalton was not giving up until he got his man. We get a little hint about the next book, Control Freak, which will be Holden’s book.
Currently reading
July 19, 2025Dear Readers,
Axel is a little feral, just like his animals. He lives in a gray area most of the time, but he's got a good heart just waiting to be seen. He hides it out of fear, out of the belief he'll only be abandoned again, but Deputy Dalton Harvey, of all people, won't give up on him.
As I was writing this, I was afraid some readers wouldn't see Axel for who he is: a wounded man, one still hurting, one who needs to see love won't betray him again. I sincerely hope this book delivers all this and more.
The Foster Bro Code is dear to me. I'm exploring a lot more emotional themes than ever before, and I was really touched so many people enjoyed Outcast!
Axel is a little feral, just like his animals. He lives in a gray area most of the time, but he's got a good heart just waiting to be seen. He hides it out of fear, out of the belief he'll only be abandoned again, but Deputy Dalton Harvey, of all people, won't give up on him.
As I was writing this, I was afraid some readers wouldn't see Axel for who he is: a wounded man, one still hurting, one who needs to see love won't betray him again. I sincerely hope this book delivers all this and more.
The Foster Bro Code is dear to me. I'm exploring a lot more emotional themes than ever before, and I was really touched so many people enjoyed Outcast!
July 22, 2025
I absolutely loved how Axel was a secret soft boy! The way he cares for all of the abandoned dogs and cats.... ugh I wanted to squish him and cry at the same time, especially when he was so down on himself and whenever his abandonment issues came up.
Dalton finally giving in to the tension between him and Axel was highly entertaining! I loved the internal thoughts, but even more, I loved how Dalton totally took control of Axel and the relationship - he'd still be waiting in fifty years if he left it up to Axel! The brothers teasing Axel about having feelings felt so natural and I love how their bonds are becoming more solid again after Gray's return.
The small town feel was great as ever, and I love how Riverton has a different feel to it than Granville.
I am beyond curious about what sneaky Holden has been up to, even more so now that he made me cry in this one 🥺🥺
*****
I received an ARC of this book from Neon Rainbow, and this is my honest review
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HRCYED2: Challenge Yourself
Dalton finally giving in to the tension between him and Axel was highly entertaining! I loved the internal thoughts, but even more, I loved how Dalton totally took control of Axel and the relationship - he'd still be waiting in fifty years if he left it up to Axel! The brothers teasing Axel about having feelings felt so natural and I love how their bonds are becoming more solid again after Gray's return.
The small town feel was great as ever, and I love how Riverton has a different feel to it than Granville.
I am beyond curious about what sneaky Holden has been up to, even more so now that he made me cry in this one 🥺🥺
*****
I received an ARC of this book from Neon Rainbow, and this is my honest review
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HRCYED2: Challenge Yourself
August 24, 2025
3.5 stars
I liked this and I was also bored by it. This author has written books I’ve loved and books I can’t finish. I didn’t finish the first book in this series but I will probably try that one again at another time.
This was predictable but there was the relationship between the foster brothers that really made me like this. I love the strength each of these men find in each other. They are all damaged but have each other to support them and keep them going.
I loved Axel’s animals. Axel was such an intense character but he really was a softie inside. He needed love and affection and besides his brothers he didn’t trust anyone. He always thought he’d be left like he was as a child and that transferred to him taking in the animals people left on the road. He deserved a happy ever after and Dalton gave that to him.
Dalton had a trauma in his last job so he came home to work in a small town Sheriffs office. Unfortunately he has to deal with a boss who is dirty and his own attraction to the towns bad boy. He wanted Axel though and once he had him he wasn’t giving him up. It was nice to see him work through his past trauma and help Axel through his.
I am interested in Holden and Bailey’s stories. This is a nice series so far. I just wish there was something more that kept me invested. Some of the book is repetitive and I found myself bored. Overall though I’m glad I read this.
I liked this and I was also bored by it. This author has written books I’ve loved and books I can’t finish. I didn’t finish the first book in this series but I will probably try that one again at another time.
This was predictable but there was the relationship between the foster brothers that really made me like this. I love the strength each of these men find in each other. They are all damaged but have each other to support them and keep them going.
I loved Axel’s animals. Axel was such an intense character but he really was a softie inside. He needed love and affection and besides his brothers he didn’t trust anyone. He always thought he’d be left like he was as a child and that transferred to him taking in the animals people left on the road. He deserved a happy ever after and Dalton gave that to him.
Dalton had a trauma in his last job so he came home to work in a small town Sheriffs office. Unfortunately he has to deal with a boss who is dirty and his own attraction to the towns bad boy. He wanted Axel though and once he had him he wasn’t giving him up. It was nice to see him work through his past trauma and help Axel through his.
I am interested in Holden and Bailey’s stories. This is a nice series so far. I just wish there was something more that kept me invested. Some of the book is repetitive and I found myself bored. Overall though I’m glad I read this.
July 31, 2025
3.75 stars.
I loved coming back to these characters and this world ( ˊᵕˋ )♡.°⑅ My thoughts (spoilers ahead):
- The biggest thing that brought the rating down for me, and which at one point made me so angry that I almost cried, was Axel. I thought he was a total prick. I was shocked nobody else was talking about this, and maybe it's just my dislike of harsh characters who can get away with treating their love interests with indifference and scoffs because of a tough background, but I couldn't stand how cruel at times and downright selfish Axel was. I understand his trouble with letting people in, but Axel had ZERO accountability for his own actions, how often he pushed Dalton away, and how indifferently he treated him. I mean, during their first time in a bathroom stall, Axel's entire thought was getting Dalton out of his system, and how he would never sleep with him again. How charming.
When Axel gets inspired to finally take on the animal shelter, it's not even because he was even inspired by Dalton, it was because of something a coworker tells him. For most of the book, Axel comes off completely indifferent to Dalton, which I personally didn't find romantic at all. It would be one thing if he was thinking of him all the time and had an internal monologue about how he wanted Dalton but was scared of asking him to stay, but even near the end, there's a point when Axel actually thinks about cheating on Dalton and can't do it at the last minute. His best explanation to Dalton was that he'd passed up on sleeping with the guy, like Dalton should just be grateful Axel didn't actually go through with it. I couldn't believe it. When his friend tries to get him to do something illegal, Axel's thought process is only "I shouldn't do it with Dalton all up on in my business." Not until three to four chapters at the end does Axel even really consider Dalton and how it would make him feel and look if his boyfriend was arrested. Where's the romance in that?? Why is that endearing??
Axel, for me, was too much. He was too selfish, for most of the book, all he thought about was himself and how he felt and what he wanted. Dalton tried to excuse it away by saying Axel had been through a lot, and fair enough, but Axel TOOK those excuses every time, almost never accounted for the fact that HE was the one treating Dalton badly, and that Dalton only left that first time because Axel was the one dismissing him.
- I didn't hate Axel though ( ≧ᗜ≦) I want to make that clear. I don't think I COULD hate these characters. I did love his love for the animals, I loved his love for his brothers, and I loved him in those last few chapters when he FINALLY started to treat Dalton like he deserved.
- Dalton was easily the best part of this. He was so cool and sweet and patient (some might say TOO patient ( •̯́ ₃ •̯̀)), and those chapters with him becoming sheriff were pretty badass. I just thought he was so noble and good and kind and wonderful. He was such a protector, and I guess that's why I wish Axel had shown him more appreciation, especially considering all the crap he was facing at work, and yet almost all of his interactions with Axel were about Axel's past and Axel's feelings and what Axel wanted. But yeah, I loved Dalton ( ˶˘ ³˘)♡
Despite my problems with Axel, I really did ultimately enjoy my time reading this. I loved seeing the Foster Bros again, I loved the cameos with Gray and Emory, I loved Dalton, and I will say, this book did make me want a dog ( ˶ˆ꒳ˆ˵ ) I'm so glad I finally got to read this, and I can't wait for Holden's story ( ˘͈ ᵕ ˘͈♡)
I loved coming back to these characters and this world ( ˊᵕˋ )♡.°⑅ My thoughts (spoilers ahead):
- The biggest thing that brought the rating down for me, and which at one point made me so angry that I almost cried, was Axel. I thought he was a total prick. I was shocked nobody else was talking about this, and maybe it's just my dislike of harsh characters who can get away with treating their love interests with indifference and scoffs because of a tough background, but I couldn't stand how cruel at times and downright selfish Axel was. I understand his trouble with letting people in, but Axel had ZERO accountability for his own actions, how often he pushed Dalton away, and how indifferently he treated him. I mean, during their first time in a bathroom stall, Axel's entire thought was getting Dalton out of his system, and how he would never sleep with him again. How charming.
When Axel gets inspired to finally take on the animal shelter, it's not even because he was even inspired by Dalton, it was because of something a coworker tells him. For most of the book, Axel comes off completely indifferent to Dalton, which I personally didn't find romantic at all. It would be one thing if he was thinking of him all the time and had an internal monologue about how he wanted Dalton but was scared of asking him to stay, but even near the end, there's a point when Axel actually thinks about cheating on Dalton and can't do it at the last minute. His best explanation to Dalton was that he'd passed up on sleeping with the guy, like Dalton should just be grateful Axel didn't actually go through with it. I couldn't believe it. When his friend tries to get him to do something illegal, Axel's thought process is only "I shouldn't do it with Dalton all up on in my business." Not until three to four chapters at the end does Axel even really consider Dalton and how it would make him feel and look if his boyfriend was arrested. Where's the romance in that?? Why is that endearing??
Axel, for me, was too much. He was too selfish, for most of the book, all he thought about was himself and how he felt and what he wanted. Dalton tried to excuse it away by saying Axel had been through a lot, and fair enough, but Axel TOOK those excuses every time, almost never accounted for the fact that HE was the one treating Dalton badly, and that Dalton only left that first time because Axel was the one dismissing him.
- I didn't hate Axel though ( ≧ᗜ≦) I want to make that clear. I don't think I COULD hate these characters. I did love his love for the animals, I loved his love for his brothers, and I loved him in those last few chapters when he FINALLY started to treat Dalton like he deserved.
- Dalton was easily the best part of this. He was so cool and sweet and patient (some might say TOO patient ( •̯́ ₃ •̯̀)), and those chapters with him becoming sheriff were pretty badass. I just thought he was so noble and good and kind and wonderful. He was such a protector, and I guess that's why I wish Axel had shown him more appreciation, especially considering all the crap he was facing at work, and yet almost all of his interactions with Axel were about Axel's past and Axel's feelings and what Axel wanted. But yeah, I loved Dalton ( ˶˘ ³˘)♡
Despite my problems with Axel, I really did ultimately enjoy my time reading this. I loved seeing the Foster Bros again, I loved the cameos with Gray and Emory, I loved Dalton, and I will say, this book did make me want a dog ( ˶ˆ꒳ˆ˵ ) I'm so glad I finally got to read this, and I can't wait for Holden's story ( ˘͈ ᵕ ˘͈♡)
July 31, 2025
I'm truly loving this series. These brothers have already stolen my heart and I absolutely loved this book.
I was looking forward to reading Axel's story. I knew it'd be emotional, he thought everybody left him at some point in life and that was why he was, sort of, happy at his junkyard with his dogs. How wrong he was, because Dalton was everything he needed to realise he deserved a life full of love and happiness.
Dalton was amazing. From the start he fought to protect Axel, not only from other people but from himself too. He walked a thin line as a lawman, but he always acted right by people. I loved how he cared about his town. He was a strong person, with principles and a clear view of right and wrong. I despised the sheriff all along (I had from the first book) and seeing Dalton working hard to protect his people, I just couldn't stop cheering for him.
Axel and Dalton were fire together, but there were also heartwarming moments and sweet words, confessions and looks that told more than words. Dalton's patience was everything and eventually he won over Axel's heart, who resisted to let the other man in his heart.
There were funny moments, especially the dognapping. I couldn't stop laughing thinking of how many times that poor dog had been taken to some other place. The dogs were an important part of Axel's life so I enjoyed when they got mentioned and talked about.
I loved the first book, but this one? This book was amazing, sweet, emotional and just beautiful. What a great way to tell a story of someone who had been deeply wounded but that deserved everything the world could offer him. I really fell in love with Axel and Dalton, and I can't wait for the next brother to get his HEA.
I was looking forward to reading Axel's story. I knew it'd be emotional, he thought everybody left him at some point in life and that was why he was, sort of, happy at his junkyard with his dogs. How wrong he was, because Dalton was everything he needed to realise he deserved a life full of love and happiness.
Dalton was amazing. From the start he fought to protect Axel, not only from other people but from himself too. He walked a thin line as a lawman, but he always acted right by people. I loved how he cared about his town. He was a strong person, with principles and a clear view of right and wrong. I despised the sheriff all along (I had from the first book) and seeing Dalton working hard to protect his people, I just couldn't stop cheering for him.
Axel and Dalton were fire together, but there were also heartwarming moments and sweet words, confessions and looks that told more than words. Dalton's patience was everything and eventually he won over Axel's heart, who resisted to let the other man in his heart.
There were funny moments, especially the dognapping. I couldn't stop laughing thinking of how many times that poor dog had been taken to some other place. The dogs were an important part of Axel's life so I enjoyed when they got mentioned and talked about.
I loved the first book, but this one? This book was amazing, sweet, emotional and just beautiful. What a great way to tell a story of someone who had been deeply wounded but that deserved everything the world could offer him. I really fell in love with Axel and Dalton, and I can't wait for the next brother to get his HEA.
July 30, 2025
Wild Card by D.J. Jamison is book 2 in the Foster Bro Code series. I adored book 1 and I was really looking forward to Axel and Deputy Dalton’s story. Axel is the troublemaker of the family and often has run-ins with the law over his driving, illegal poker games, and fights. Dalton is attracted to Axel, but doesn’t want to take the risk of upsetting the sheriff. I really love how Dalton approached Axel and got him into a relationship. Axel’s love of animals was a way that Dalton was able to relate to Axel and he was very careful not to push too hard. Axel claimed to not want someone to love him, but he really wanted someone to stand up for him and stay. I loved that Dalton was able to see behind the facade that Axel projected to the world. I really, really enjoyed this story and look forward to reading the next book about Holden. I am dying for his story!
I received an ARC from the Neon Rainbow ARC Reviews for my honest review
I received an ARC from the Neon Rainbow ARC Reviews for my honest review
October 9, 2025
Axel is a closet sweetie pie and I just wanted to love on him. Full RTC
August 2, 2025
Rating: 4
Steam: 3
PoV: dual, 1st person
Genre: contemporary romance, MM
Tropes / tags: past abuse, found family, opposites attract
I truly enjoyed the glimpses between Axel and Dalton in Outcast, and their story had exactly the push and pull that I had been hoping for!
It's always a fun read when the strict police officer falls for the town's troublemaker, and Axel definitely did his best to push every button Dalton had. Dalton tried to keep things professional, but it wasn't long before his self-restrain snapped. Axel didn't even know what hit him once Dalton stopped fighting the pull between them, and I loved how committed he was to gain Axel's trust and making things work between them.
Their romance was sweet, with small confessions, heat and lots of patience. The push and pull was very entertaining, and while Dalton had to work to get his man, it was clear that Axel wanted more with him as well. Axel was such a softy once he dropped his walls, it was mostly noticeable when it came to his animals, but also with his brother and later on Dalton.
Wild Card was a sweet and entertaining read, with lots of tension and heat between Axel and Dalton. I loved seeing more of the foster brothers, they're such a cute little found family, and their banter was a lot of fun. I'm really enjoying this series so far, and I'm very excited for Holden's story!
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I received an advanced copy of this book, and these are my honest thoughts and opinions.
Steam: 3
PoV: dual, 1st person
Genre: contemporary romance, MM
Tropes / tags: past abuse, found family, opposites attract
I truly enjoyed the glimpses between Axel and Dalton in Outcast, and their story had exactly the push and pull that I had been hoping for!
It's always a fun read when the strict police officer falls for the town's troublemaker, and Axel definitely did his best to push every button Dalton had. Dalton tried to keep things professional, but it wasn't long before his self-restrain snapped. Axel didn't even know what hit him once Dalton stopped fighting the pull between them, and I loved how committed he was to gain Axel's trust and making things work between them.
Their romance was sweet, with small confessions, heat and lots of patience. The push and pull was very entertaining, and while Dalton had to work to get his man, it was clear that Axel wanted more with him as well. Axel was such a softy once he dropped his walls, it was mostly noticeable when it came to his animals, but also with his brother and later on Dalton.
Wild Card was a sweet and entertaining read, with lots of tension and heat between Axel and Dalton. I loved seeing more of the foster brothers, they're such a cute little found family, and their banter was a lot of fun. I'm really enjoying this series so far, and I'm very excited for Holden's story!
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I received an advanced copy of this book, and these are my honest thoughts and opinions.
July 30, 2025
I was very excited to read Axel's story and it did not disappoint! We got glimpses of the attraction and tension between Axel and Dalton in Gray's book, but now we got the whole story.
I loved the emotional parts of the book when we learned about Axel's childhood and his issues surrounding that. I loved how patient Dalton was with Axel, but also that he knew when to push and be a bit more assertive. Despite how people see Axel as chaos incarnate, which he is, he still has a sweet and soft heart. He feels unworthy of love, but Dalton patiently shows him how wrong he is about that.
I loved the push and pull between Axel and Dalton, their relationship was very dynamic and I loved how it played out.
It was great to see the Foster Bros again. Their banter and ribbing was great as usual and we got to know them even better. It was also great to see Dallas and his father being finally dealt with.
So, if you want to see a deputy fall in love with a troublemaker who also takes in stray dogs then this is the book for you!
I loved the emotional parts of the book when we learned about Axel's childhood and his issues surrounding that. I loved how patient Dalton was with Axel, but also that he knew when to push and be a bit more assertive. Despite how people see Axel as chaos incarnate, which he is, he still has a sweet and soft heart. He feels unworthy of love, but Dalton patiently shows him how wrong he is about that.
I loved the push and pull between Axel and Dalton, their relationship was very dynamic and I loved how it played out.
It was great to see the Foster Bros again. Their banter and ribbing was great as usual and we got to know them even better. It was also great to see Dallas and his father being finally dealt with.
So, if you want to see a deputy fall in love with a troublemaker who also takes in stray dogs then this is the book for you!
July 30, 2025
Axel is our second Foster Brother to find his perfect partner. He has always skated that line of what is right and wrong, and the one person aside from his brothers who is stuck by his side is Deputy Dalton Harvey. Dalton can not push away this man who has slowly worked his way into his heart. When he allows himself to see the broken man, you deserve someone to love him. These two may seem to be complete opposites but are made to complete the other. Their banter is top-notch, and what makes them so dang beautiful when they commit to one another, they fully commit. Just shows that once you give someone a chance to show their true colors, they can show you how beautiful they really are.
It has been nice to see the continued growth of the brothers’ relationships now that Gray has returned home. You can see how much they need each other even through the hurt. They will always have the others back. Their growth alone will have me keep coming back to this series to see how strong their bond may become.
I really love this series from DJ; it shows that they can step away from what made them a popular author for something more. It was appreciated to see the cameo from previous works to show how those characters fit into this new world. I can't wait to see what comes next from this series and how the next brother finds their partner.
It has been nice to see the continued growth of the brothers’ relationships now that Gray has returned home. You can see how much they need each other even through the hurt. They will always have the others back. Their growth alone will have me keep coming back to this series to see how strong their bond may become.
I really love this series from DJ; it shows that they can step away from what made them a popular author for something more. It was appreciated to see the cameo from previous works to show how those characters fit into this new world. I can't wait to see what comes next from this series and how the next brother finds their partner.
July 21, 2025
This was too sweet. Axel and Dalton had such an oil and water vibe I wasn't sure how they would mesh together but it worked out a lot better than I expected and I loved it. It made sense and made for a really good story
August 25, 2025
Meh.
This one became insta love and Axel became way too soft. Not that he was the most gritty character to start with but his sass was cute. Dalton is one dimensional and a bit boring. It’s a shame the so called bad boy and the good boy trope happened. Not really my favourite type of pairing, unless there is some serious storytelling.
Alas, the story kind of centred around Dalton becoming sheriff and Axel needing to change his personality to become Mr. Stepford.
This one became insta love and Axel became way too soft. Not that he was the most gritty character to start with but his sass was cute. Dalton is one dimensional and a bit boring. It’s a shame the so called bad boy and the good boy trope happened. Not really my favourite type of pairing, unless there is some serious storytelling.
Alas, the story kind of centred around Dalton becoming sheriff and Axel needing to change his personality to become Mr. Stepford.
October 25, 2025
4.25 ⭐
Wild Card is the second book in DJ Jamison’s Foster Bro Code series, and it’s Axel’s story.
Axel acts tough, he’s guarded, a bit of a troublemaker, and pretty much convinced that everyone leaves eventually. (Honestly, who can blame him?) After being let down by his parents, foster families, and even his own brother, he’s learned to rely on no one but himself and is always braced for disappointment. He keeps his distance, even from his brothers, living at a junkyard with a pack of rescue animals he cares for far more tenderly than he’ll ever admit. Underneath all the rough edges, there’s a soft heart, even if Axel does his best to hide it. And that secret softness and moments of vulnerability made me love him from the start.
Then there’s Dalton. He’s a steady, dependable deputy who’s been crushing on Axel for a while. But, as expected, he hasn’t made a move because Axel’s tendency to end up on the wrong side of the law doesn’t exactly make things simple. Still, as we know, there’s only so long you can ignore that kind of pull. So, when Dalton finally decides he’s in, he really goes for it. He’s determined to prove to Axel that not everyone walks away, and that some people are actually worth trusting.
The chemistry between Axel and Dalton is pretty much undeniable, despite their…or maybe because of their clear opposites-attract dynamic. Their push-and-pull makes for some entertaining moments. I especially loved when Dalton takes charge when Axel is too scared to move forward. Watching their relationship grow into something deeper was genuinely heart warming.
All the brotherly moments are a lot of fun too. They’re full of teasing and bickering, but also support and just the right amount of chaos. It felt natural and genuine. It's also great to see the family slowly starting to heal and reconnect following Gray’s return.
That said, I did have a problem with Axel's attitude toward Gray. On one hand, he seems to understand why Gray left (was forced to leave) and appears to forgive him. But then, in the next moment, he is all “Taz is an extension of my feelings,” while Taz continues to growl at Gray. That implies Axel still isn’t okay with Gray, which felt inconsistent...and a bit unfair toward Gray. I get that Axel’s behaviour might be intentionally inconsistent, reflecting his inner conflict, but maybe my problem is with the way it was executed which felt repetitive and slightly heavy-handed.
Nevertheless, Wild Card is sweet, emotional, and quite charming. Axel and Dalton have a lot to work through, but together they really do bring out the best in each other. Axel finally gets someone who actually sticks around, and Dalton finds someone who helps him loosen up and live a little. That said, although I loved Axel and Dalton and was enjoying their story, I did wish there was a bit more “meat on the bones,” so to speak.
All in all, it’s a great addition to the series, and I’m looking forward to seeing what’s next for the rest of the Foster brothers.
I received a copy of this book from Neon Rainbow Reviews, and this is my unbiased review.
Wild Card is the second book in DJ Jamison’s Foster Bro Code series, and it’s Axel’s story.
Axel acts tough, he’s guarded, a bit of a troublemaker, and pretty much convinced that everyone leaves eventually. (Honestly, who can blame him?) After being let down by his parents, foster families, and even his own brother, he’s learned to rely on no one but himself and is always braced for disappointment. He keeps his distance, even from his brothers, living at a junkyard with a pack of rescue animals he cares for far more tenderly than he’ll ever admit. Underneath all the rough edges, there’s a soft heart, even if Axel does his best to hide it. And that secret softness and moments of vulnerability made me love him from the start.
Then there’s Dalton. He’s a steady, dependable deputy who’s been crushing on Axel for a while. But, as expected, he hasn’t made a move because Axel’s tendency to end up on the wrong side of the law doesn’t exactly make things simple. Still, as we know, there’s only so long you can ignore that kind of pull. So, when Dalton finally decides he’s in, he really goes for it. He’s determined to prove to Axel that not everyone walks away, and that some people are actually worth trusting.
The chemistry between Axel and Dalton is pretty much undeniable, despite their…or maybe because of their clear opposites-attract dynamic. Their push-and-pull makes for some entertaining moments. I especially loved when Dalton takes charge when Axel is too scared to move forward. Watching their relationship grow into something deeper was genuinely heart warming.
All the brotherly moments are a lot of fun too. They’re full of teasing and bickering, but also support and just the right amount of chaos. It felt natural and genuine. It's also great to see the family slowly starting to heal and reconnect following Gray’s return.
That said, I did have a problem with Axel's attitude toward Gray. On one hand, he seems to understand why Gray left (was forced to leave) and appears to forgive him. But then, in the next moment, he is all “Taz is an extension of my feelings,” while Taz continues to growl at Gray. That implies Axel still isn’t okay with Gray, which felt inconsistent...and a bit unfair toward Gray. I get that Axel’s behaviour might be intentionally inconsistent, reflecting his inner conflict, but maybe my problem is with the way it was executed which felt repetitive and slightly heavy-handed.
Nevertheless, Wild Card is sweet, emotional, and quite charming. Axel and Dalton have a lot to work through, but together they really do bring out the best in each other. Axel finally gets someone who actually sticks around, and Dalton finds someone who helps him loosen up and live a little. That said, although I loved Axel and Dalton and was enjoying their story, I did wish there was a bit more “meat on the bones,” so to speak.
All in all, it’s a great addition to the series, and I’m looking forward to seeing what’s next for the rest of the Foster brothers.
I received a copy of this book from Neon Rainbow Reviews, and this is my unbiased review.
July 19, 2025
I really dislike cop MCs these days unless there’s some kind of acknowledgment about police brutality or discussion of ethics or quitting. Ethics of policing does come up a bit but it wasn’t super impactful for me in a positive way.
Axel was great though and I loved his love of animals and how he was able to expand on that. I just wanted Dalton to have a different job, even if I sorta understand how the author was trying to pair a stereotypical “bad boy” with a “good guy.” I just kinda hated every time there was on page police work. Your mileage may vary. 😂
Axel was great though and I loved his love of animals and how he was able to expand on that. I just wanted Dalton to have a different job, even if I sorta understand how the author was trying to pair a stereotypical “bad boy” with a “good guy.” I just kinda hated every time there was on page police work. Your mileage may vary. 😂
October 8, 2025
Powerful love story x
l love broken bad boys, with a soft centre, and I love dogs. Both are my Kryptonite, so this story is right up my street. Axel is a bit of a wild child, but you know he's not all bad because he loves and rescues animals. Axel, the archetypical bad boy, and Dalton, the lawman, are an unlikely pair. Dalton ends up arresting Axel a couple of times, and you do wonder about his attraction to the guy and how it might affect his career. However, it's clear from the start that Dalton sees something special in Axel, and he does seem to bring out a softer side of the deputy. Axel thinks Dalton is the typical grumpy lawman, but he does find the guy as sexy as all out. Things do get a little,'naughty' early on in the story, between the two, and just demonstrate how far gone Dalton is ovger Axel. Here, Dalton actually puts his career at risk, and I couldn't help but think that he could've found himself accused of abuse of position for a sexual purpose. I did find this somewhat out of character for Dalton, I'm pretty sure that he wouldn't have taken part in an act, which could've been so misconstrued.
However, as time passes, Dalton realises that he and Axel belong together and he is determined to make sure they get a chance. I loved how he has so much faith in Axel. He never gives up on him and often demonstrates how much he cares. They're obviously meant for each other, and Dalton shows Axel a love and romance he has never experienced before. I thought it was sad how Axel constantly believed that he wasn't worthy of Dalton. It was also sweet the way in which Dalton never gave up on Axel, and helped him grow in both confidence and self respect. Due to their love, Axel came to realise his true self and realise that he was worthy of both love and care. Emotional story, recommended. It is the second book in a series. You don't have to read the first story, but it does set the scene for the whole series and will give you some background.
I received an ARC of this book, which in no way influenced my opinion.
l love broken bad boys, with a soft centre, and I love dogs. Both are my Kryptonite, so this story is right up my street. Axel is a bit of a wild child, but you know he's not all bad because he loves and rescues animals. Axel, the archetypical bad boy, and Dalton, the lawman, are an unlikely pair. Dalton ends up arresting Axel a couple of times, and you do wonder about his attraction to the guy and how it might affect his career. However, it's clear from the start that Dalton sees something special in Axel, and he does seem to bring out a softer side of the deputy. Axel thinks Dalton is the typical grumpy lawman, but he does find the guy as sexy as all out. Things do get a little,'naughty' early on in the story, between the two, and just demonstrate how far gone Dalton is ovger Axel. Here, Dalton actually puts his career at risk, and I couldn't help but think that he could've found himself accused of abuse of position for a sexual purpose. I did find this somewhat out of character for Dalton, I'm pretty sure that he wouldn't have taken part in an act, which could've been so misconstrued.
However, as time passes, Dalton realises that he and Axel belong together and he is determined to make sure they get a chance. I loved how he has so much faith in Axel. He never gives up on him and often demonstrates how much he cares. They're obviously meant for each other, and Dalton shows Axel a love and romance he has never experienced before. I thought it was sad how Axel constantly believed that he wasn't worthy of Dalton. It was also sweet the way in which Dalton never gave up on Axel, and helped him grow in both confidence and self respect. Due to their love, Axel came to realise his true self and realise that he was worthy of both love and care. Emotional story, recommended. It is the second book in a series. You don't have to read the first story, but it does set the scene for the whole series and will give you some background.
I received an ARC of this book, which in no way influenced my opinion.
July 26, 2025
Wild Card by D. J. Jamison is the second book in her Foster Bro Code series. I suggest that you read the first book before this one as it describes the backgrounds of the 4 foster brothers, the situation they find themselves in, and what is happening in their town. This is the story of a man who thought he was unlovable and was wild because of this and the sheriff’s deputy who fell for him and helped him heal. Axel Wilder was a hothead who craved chaos and was basically a wild card. He had been taken and given back to his parents 3 times in his young life when he was finally taken into foster care in Riverton where he had his 3 brothers, Gray, Holden, and Bailey. They inherited a car repair shop and junk yard from their foster father, who wasn’t a nice person after their foster mother died, and were trying to make a go of it. Because of his situation he was very clingy with people he loved and was afraid they would leave him and this was brought home when Gray left, but he came back and apologized and had fallen in love with Emory, the town bank president’s son. Axel now lived in the junk yard in an old RV and ran that part of their business and he collected dogs and cats who were strays just like him. He had had several run ins with Deputy Sheriff Dalton Harvey that ended up being very flirty on both sides after he had gotten in trouble for illegal gambling and when the brothers had gotten into a brawl with Sheriff Hale’s son, Dallas, and had been arrested. The sheriff had some very shady deals going on and always got his son out of anything he did and people were getting tired of it, as was Dalton. And there were rumors of having Dalton run against him in the next election but Dalton wanted no part of it because of what had happened to his partner when he was working in Phoenix. When there was a problem with Banshee, one of the strays Axel had found and was taking care of, their attraction came to the forefront with a kiss and then more later in a restroom. Dalton is not happy with himself because of his duties but he also can’t help it that he is so attracted to Axel and wants more. Axel is usually a one time guy but he also wants more even though he is sure that Dalton will leave him just like everyone else in his life has. Axel has more on his plate with the junk yard and his dogs and then after the Banshee incident he is told about some grants that he might be able to have a place for fostering animals but he is sure he couldn’t do a good job at it. Dalton is also having problems with the sheriff who thinks he’s getting too big for his britches and assigning him more tasks at odd hours, being asked to think about running for sheriff which he doesn’t think he can do because of what happened with his partner, and being with Axel. However, the more time they spend with each other the more they want to be together and this leads to some very hot love scenes. Then something big happens that makes them confront their feelings and what they really want and a misunderstanding makes Axel realize he loves Dalton and when it is cleared up Dalton tells him he loves him too. In the end Axel is willing to change his bad boy ways because Dalton has convinced him he will never leave him and they are looking forward to the future together, along with all their dogs. I really enjoyed this story. Axel has had a hard life and really doesn’t believe he is worth loving and will always be left behind. This has made him crave chaos because it is the only way that he feels anything and it numbs him for a while. Dalton has lots of remorse over his partner and because of this can’t see himself being in charge of the whole department like everyone wants him to do. They both have to work through these things and they do this with the help of Axel’s brothers, the other deputies, and Dalton’s family. Their feelings keep growing and Dalton is finally able to get Axel to see that he isn’t going to leave, he’s going to put him first, and that he is worthy of love. Plus, all of Axel’s stray dogs are there to give them all the love they could want. In the end good things are happening for both of them. I highly recommend this book, especially if you like stories about a broken man who thinks he is unlovable, his brothers who have problems of their own but are supportive, a sheriff’s deputy with past difficulties to overcome, a town with a sheriff problem, and how they all come together to help them realize their love so they can move forward with their lives.
July 22, 2025
Copy received via Neon Rainbow Reviews for an honest review
Well, isn't this just the sweetest.
I haven't read the first Foster Bro Code book, but that was fine.
Because Axel was born to stand out - just not in the way he thought he did.
He skirts that grey area legally a lot of the time, but that heart of gold underneath it all? Yeah, no wonder the Deputy can't resist him
Dalton and Axel are on the complete opposite sides of life, and really they shouldn't fit. But oh my they do.
I adored how they couldn't resist each other, how every time they were in the vicinity of each other, things got explosive - IYKWIM!
I think the brothers are all great, I love the way they play off each other, bicker like only siblings can, but also have each other's backs, no matter what.
And the puppers!!! How can I forget the puppers! They had me smiling whenever they were on the page.
I need to go back and read the first book, and I look forward to more Foster Bro Code in the future
Well, isn't this just the sweetest.
I haven't read the first Foster Bro Code book, but that was fine.
Because Axel was born to stand out - just not in the way he thought he did.
He skirts that grey area legally a lot of the time, but that heart of gold underneath it all? Yeah, no wonder the Deputy can't resist him
Dalton and Axel are on the complete opposite sides of life, and really they shouldn't fit. But oh my they do.
I adored how they couldn't resist each other, how every time they were in the vicinity of each other, things got explosive - IYKWIM!
I think the brothers are all great, I love the way they play off each other, bicker like only siblings can, but also have each other's backs, no matter what.
And the puppers!!! How can I forget the puppers! They had me smiling whenever they were on the page.
I need to go back and read the first book, and I look forward to more Foster Bro Code in the future
August 2, 2025
This is the second book in the series with four foster brothers in a small Nebraska town running the family garage and junkyard. Axel is the wilder brother, always taking chances and living on the edge of the law, running illegal gambling games, only indulging in one night stands and hookups, running the junkyard part of the family business, and taking in animals dumped at the side of the road rather than being taken to the local animal shelter. His older brother, Grey, along with his boyfriend Emory (the MCs in book 1), another brother Holden, and the younger brother Bailey, all live in the family home while Axel lives in an RV in the junkyard with his dogs. Axel is attracted to a local sheriff’s deputy, Dalton, but figures it will probably never amount to something, since he is always in trouble, not suitable for someone like the deputy. The victim of trauma from abandonment three times before the age of ten and spending time in foster care until joining his three”brothers” in his final placement, has left him feeling that everyone he cares for will leave him eventually, so connections and caring aren’t worth it since no one ever stays.
Dalton returned to his home town a few years ago after the death of his partner on a previous police force, suffering guilt for the death even though it wasn’t his fault. He is a deputy with a strong moral code stuck working for a corrupt sheriff, finding it hard to justify what he is ordered to ignore, creating a crisis of conscience often in his line of work. He is single, gay, and avoids relationships, leaving his county when he needs to hookup. He is attracted to bad boy Alex, seeing beyond the facade to the damaged soul underneath. Unable to resist Alex, he creates a situation for himself which also preys on his mind trying to justify his attraction to a “bad boy”.
The more time Alex spends taunting and flirting with Dalton, the weaker his walls, until the two finally give in, finding something neither were expecting. There is a lot of conflict for Dalton and Alex, as well as the situation with the sheriff, and Alex’s concern for the animals abandoned near his junkyard, which bring the two together to navigate where to go with each other and what to do about the sherriff and the implications for Alex and Dalton. Eventually they sort things out and get to their HEA in an interesting and complicated set of events. The story is told from a dual POV as we get alternating views and feelings from Alex and Dalton, often on. the same event. There are also spicy times and some tension but not a lot of violence. And interesting and entertaining read about a second brother, waiting for Holden’s book, which should be quite different. I can’t wait for his story.
Dalton returned to his home town a few years ago after the death of his partner on a previous police force, suffering guilt for the death even though it wasn’t his fault. He is a deputy with a strong moral code stuck working for a corrupt sheriff, finding it hard to justify what he is ordered to ignore, creating a crisis of conscience often in his line of work. He is single, gay, and avoids relationships, leaving his county when he needs to hookup. He is attracted to bad boy Alex, seeing beyond the facade to the damaged soul underneath. Unable to resist Alex, he creates a situation for himself which also preys on his mind trying to justify his attraction to a “bad boy”.
The more time Alex spends taunting and flirting with Dalton, the weaker his walls, until the two finally give in, finding something neither were expecting. There is a lot of conflict for Dalton and Alex, as well as the situation with the sheriff, and Alex’s concern for the animals abandoned near his junkyard, which bring the two together to navigate where to go with each other and what to do about the sherriff and the implications for Alex and Dalton. Eventually they sort things out and get to their HEA in an interesting and complicated set of events. The story is told from a dual POV as we get alternating views and feelings from Alex and Dalton, often on. the same event. There are also spicy times and some tension but not a lot of violence. And interesting and entertaining read about a second brother, waiting for Holden’s book, which should be quite different. I can’t wait for his story.
August 4, 2025
WILD CARD
by DJ Jamison
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.25
I received an E-book ARC edition of this novel in exchange for an honest review. It is available on NOW on Amazon & Kindle Unlimited!
This is a 346-page Medium-Paced Opposites Attraction, Found Family, MM Romance, with Will They or Won't They feels. This is book 2 of the FOSTER BRO CODE Series and it’s best to enjoy read in order. It is about 2 men on opposites sides of the law, one a bit wild and tends to play with luck and cuffs while the other does the cuffing.
Axel and his band of fur-babies run the family junk yard while his brothers run the auto shop. He always has been the wild one and was banished out to the yard where he chooses to live as well, when his foster dad couldn’t deal with his antics anymore. When abandoned pets started to appear, he took them in as his own, seeing himself in them after suffering from separation & anxiety issues. Dalton is a deputy sheriff in their small town of Riverton, next to Granville (sound familiar), but people in town want him to have a different job that he doesn't want. He came from a big city job after a traumatizing incident that he is having a hard time getting passed. From the moment he first saw Axel and his long blonde locks, he was shook. Telling himself to stay away. It will never work. But like oil and water, shake them hard enough to see reason, they make something beautiful like a lava lamp.
After the first book set up the town and characters so well, the author only added to it. Axel and Dalton’s past, though very different, comes with a lesson of self-forgiveness. Hard Hurt-comfort vibes that they each help with while also pushing away from the other. When feelings are so betraying, they make you think you don’t deserve the life that’s laid out in front of you. You go on a push & pull journey of will they trust each other enough of love and move on to bigger and better things, while in process of helping others and doing what’s right. It has the right mix of remorse and humor.
The spice 4/5🌶! I’m gonna leave it at that. I don’t wanna spoil anything, but denial is a heavy thing.
The ensemble was amazing!!! I love the way these books are written because each MC has their own plot line with ensemble, on top of there love story. So much happens with phenomenal detail and character interaction, you feel like you know these people whether the plot carried over from book 1 or a new plot detail was introduced. It opens your eyes to how hard it is to handle abandoned animals legally and with very little funds and dealing with corruption within a police department while only having so much pull or motivation to do the right thing. Eggs were dropped on the next brother’s book, and the title is revealed at the end of this novel!!!
💜Happy Reading🫶
*Bonus Points if you notice Granville residents!
**Personal Note: Book #125 of 2025! (July)
by DJ Jamison
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.25
I received an E-book ARC edition of this novel in exchange for an honest review. It is available on NOW on Amazon & Kindle Unlimited!
This is a 346-page Medium-Paced Opposites Attraction, Found Family, MM Romance, with Will They or Won't They feels. This is book 2 of the FOSTER BRO CODE Series and it’s best to enjoy read in order. It is about 2 men on opposites sides of the law, one a bit wild and tends to play with luck and cuffs while the other does the cuffing.
Axel and his band of fur-babies run the family junk yard while his brothers run the auto shop. He always has been the wild one and was banished out to the yard where he chooses to live as well, when his foster dad couldn’t deal with his antics anymore. When abandoned pets started to appear, he took them in as his own, seeing himself in them after suffering from separation & anxiety issues. Dalton is a deputy sheriff in their small town of Riverton, next to Granville (sound familiar), but people in town want him to have a different job that he doesn't want. He came from a big city job after a traumatizing incident that he is having a hard time getting passed. From the moment he first saw Axel and his long blonde locks, he was shook. Telling himself to stay away. It will never work. But like oil and water, shake them hard enough to see reason, they make something beautiful like a lava lamp.
After the first book set up the town and characters so well, the author only added to it. Axel and Dalton’s past, though very different, comes with a lesson of self-forgiveness. Hard Hurt-comfort vibes that they each help with while also pushing away from the other. When feelings are so betraying, they make you think you don’t deserve the life that’s laid out in front of you. You go on a push & pull journey of will they trust each other enough of love and move on to bigger and better things, while in process of helping others and doing what’s right. It has the right mix of remorse and humor.
The spice 4/5🌶! I’m gonna leave it at that. I don’t wanna spoil anything, but denial is a heavy thing.
The ensemble was amazing!!! I love the way these books are written because each MC has their own plot line with ensemble, on top of there love story. So much happens with phenomenal detail and character interaction, you feel like you know these people whether the plot carried over from book 1 or a new plot detail was introduced. It opens your eyes to how hard it is to handle abandoned animals legally and with very little funds and dealing with corruption within a police department while only having so much pull or motivation to do the right thing. Eggs were dropped on the next brother’s book, and the title is revealed at the end of this novel!!!
💜Happy Reading🫶
*Bonus Points if you notice Granville residents!
**Personal Note: Book #125 of 2025! (July)
July 30, 2025
I knew that Axel's journey was going to be a wild ride, and sure enough, his and Dalton's romance was full of passion and vibrancy. Axel had no shame about his frequent hookups or need for regular adrenaline fixes, and he didn't hesitate to speak his mind regardless of who was around. He and his brothers had gained a reputation for being the town's troublemakers, but it wasn't hard to see that there was a lot more to Axel than what was on the surface. He was fiercely loyal to his foster brothers, an animal lover who never met a stray he wouldn't take in, and a man hiding his deep-seated fear of being left behind by the people he cared about. It took a special person to convince him that a romantic relationship was worth the risk, and a man as patient and steady as Dalton was exactly the right fit. Dalton and Axel had ended up on opposite sides of the law a handful of times, but that didn't stop their chemistry from simmering in the background any time they were around each other. Dalton fought hard to resist the troublemaker that he couldn't get out of his head, but there's only so much teasing a guy can take before giving in. I was thrilled by their steamy hookups, but even more exciting was seeing the two of them get to know each other outside the bedroom. Axel played off their time together as casual, but Dalton got past his defenses like no one else. Between Dalton's sheriff issues, Axel's brotherly banter, and the herd of animals they were caring for, there was plenty going on outside the romantic relationship to keep me invested in the character development. I found it easy to stay engaged in both men's lives, and I thought the pacing of the overall story and romance paired nicely together. I especially enjoyed seeing how Dalton's professional path developed over the course of the book, and his choices ended up being a turning point for not just his career but also his future with Axel. Axel's growth was more inward, but it was no less satisfying to see him open his heart to everything Dalton was offering. By the time the two of them reached the end of their journey, I was sold hook, line, and sinker on the strength and durability of their love.
**I voluntarily read an ARC of this book. This review expresses my honest thoughts and opinions.
**I voluntarily read an ARC of this book. This review expresses my honest thoughts and opinions.
August 14, 2025
4⭐️
This was hot as hell, ok? Do I think this couple will last in the long run without changing some things first? Probs not. Both our guys have something traumatic in their past that prevents them from going after what they want/need in the present. Be that love/affection/connection for Axel or the sheriff job/peace of mind for Dalton. Without any input from outside professionals, they seem to find the solution to their individual problems in each other. It helps them form a connection when it’s clear they both were desperate to find one. So yeah, that probably isn’t the healthiest way to address your past trauma and also probably has an expiration date on how long it works, so I choose to imagine a future where they both chose to see a therapist and work through their traumas in a way that will be sustainable and won’t come back to haunt them. These guys are also suffering from a case of instalove, based on really not a whole lot tbh. Like…they both find each other really hot, Axel likes dogs and is a bit of a chaos demon to distract from a heart of gold as well as the hurt little boy inside. Dalton is kind and good at his job? Other than those things and their super hot sexual chemistry, there wasn’t a whole lot to inspire a somewhat sudden, deep and emotional love connection. BUT I realllllly enjoyed these characters so I let that shit slide and chose to suspend my belief lol they were just a good time and I wasn’t gonna let a little thing like logic ruin it for me 🫢💁🏻♀️ I loved all the puppy love we got - made me wanna cuddle up with my pup for sure. I loved the brothers and Emory living it up in the main house and their fun meal times. I’m definitely looking forward to Holdens story and am intrigued to see how Willow responds to his touch aversion, as it’s incredibly severe and I just can’t see a reasonable turn around for him (May have to suspend that ole belief again lol) and then Bailey is a good time gal, and I am hoping that Matteo’s friend, Flynn(?) or someone else comes along and makes him forget his little crush on our resident sweet as pie yet hot af felon, Matteo.
This was hot as hell, ok? Do I think this couple will last in the long run without changing some things first? Probs not. Both our guys have something traumatic in their past that prevents them from going after what they want/need in the present. Be that love/affection/connection for Axel or the sheriff job/peace of mind for Dalton. Without any input from outside professionals, they seem to find the solution to their individual problems in each other. It helps them form a connection when it’s clear they both were desperate to find one. So yeah, that probably isn’t the healthiest way to address your past trauma and also probably has an expiration date on how long it works, so I choose to imagine a future where they both chose to see a therapist and work through their traumas in a way that will be sustainable and won’t come back to haunt them. These guys are also suffering from a case of instalove, based on really not a whole lot tbh. Like…they both find each other really hot, Axel likes dogs and is a bit of a chaos demon to distract from a heart of gold as well as the hurt little boy inside. Dalton is kind and good at his job? Other than those things and their super hot sexual chemistry, there wasn’t a whole lot to inspire a somewhat sudden, deep and emotional love connection. BUT I realllllly enjoyed these characters so I let that shit slide and chose to suspend my belief lol they were just a good time and I wasn’t gonna let a little thing like logic ruin it for me 🫢💁🏻♀️ I loved all the puppy love we got - made me wanna cuddle up with my pup for sure. I loved the brothers and Emory living it up in the main house and their fun meal times. I’m definitely looking forward to Holdens story and am intrigued to see how Willow responds to his touch aversion, as it’s incredibly severe and I just can’t see a reasonable turn around for him (May have to suspend that ole belief again lol) and then Bailey is a good time gal, and I am hoping that Matteo’s friend, Flynn(?) or someone else comes along and makes him forget his little crush on our resident sweet as pie yet hot af felon, Matteo.
October 25, 2025
Here is D.J. Jamison's latest and highly anticipated "Wild Card." It's the second novel in the new Foster Bro Code series. This series takes place in Riverton, which is next door to Granville (which appears in Games We Play and Rules We Break series).
["I'm the wild brother ...
I live for the moment. For instant gratification.
And Deputy Dalton Harvey will bring me a lot of gratification.
He's fighting our attraction, but I see the lust in his eyes. I don't care that he's slapped cuffs on me before and probably will again. It'll just make it all the sweeter when he breaks.
When that happens, I'll gladly dirty up that lawman and move on, like I always do. It doesn't matter that Dalton is one of the best men I've met. Or that he's sexy as sin with a sweet smile that always reaches his eyes. Everyone leaves in the end.
The only ones I trust are the strays I take in. The pets abandoned on the side of the road are thrown away just like me. I give them my heart because they'll be unquestionably loyal to me.
Unlike humans.
Unlike Dalton.
He says he wants more. He has honorable intentions. But he just doesn't understand.
He'll leave too. He'll have to when he becomes the sheriff this town needs.
I'm bad news. I'll only drag him down with me. And he deserves better.
He just doesn't know it yet."]
I’m not crying, you are (no, it is me, hi).
These two near about ruined me. They were both so sad and had so much baggage and so broken (especially our poor, sweet Axel). But together, they helped each other get back up again and try. They healed each other, and they healed themselves.
And the town is suuuuuch a better place now (spoiler alert), Dalton taking care of the people, Axel taking care of the animals.
Off to Holden and his HEA..I mean his “business meeting.”
Trigger Warnings: childhood neglect, childhood trauma, abandonment, death of past coworker/partner, dogs being abandoned (they're okay but people suck), toxic law enforcement, on-page panic attack, and more.
#outcast #wildcard #controlfreak #problemchild #djjamison #fosterbrocode #fosterbrocodeseries #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks
["I'm the wild brother ...
I live for the moment. For instant gratification.
And Deputy Dalton Harvey will bring me a lot of gratification.
He's fighting our attraction, but I see the lust in his eyes. I don't care that he's slapped cuffs on me before and probably will again. It'll just make it all the sweeter when he breaks.
When that happens, I'll gladly dirty up that lawman and move on, like I always do. It doesn't matter that Dalton is one of the best men I've met. Or that he's sexy as sin with a sweet smile that always reaches his eyes. Everyone leaves in the end.
The only ones I trust are the strays I take in. The pets abandoned on the side of the road are thrown away just like me. I give them my heart because they'll be unquestionably loyal to me.
Unlike humans.
Unlike Dalton.
He says he wants more. He has honorable intentions. But he just doesn't understand.
He'll leave too. He'll have to when he becomes the sheriff this town needs.
I'm bad news. I'll only drag him down with me. And he deserves better.
He just doesn't know it yet."]
I’m not crying, you are (no, it is me, hi).
These two near about ruined me. They were both so sad and had so much baggage and so broken (especially our poor, sweet Axel). But together, they helped each other get back up again and try. They healed each other, and they healed themselves.
And the town is suuuuuch a better place now (spoiler alert), Dalton taking care of the people, Axel taking care of the animals.
Off to Holden and his HEA..I mean his “business meeting.”
Trigger Warnings: childhood neglect, childhood trauma, abandonment, death of past coworker/partner, dogs being abandoned (they're okay but people suck), toxic law enforcement, on-page panic attack, and more.
#outcast #wildcard #controlfreak #problemchild #djjamison #fosterbrocode #fosterbrocodeseries #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks
July 29, 2025
In Wild Card, the second installment of DJ Jamison’s Foster Bro Code series, Axel—gruff, guarded, and heartbreakingly lovable—takes center stage. Life’s dealt him a rough hand: neglected by parents, bounced between foster homes, and even let down by his own brother. So he’s retreated to a junkyard and surrounded himself with a motley crew of rescue animals he’s too tender with for his own good. Beneath the snark and sharp edges lies a softness that makes him unforgettable.
Enter Dalton: a straight-laced deputy with a steady hand and a long-standing crush. Their dynamic crackles with tension—the lawman and the law-bender, opposites in all the best ways. Dalton’s patient pursuit, combined with Axel’s vulnerability, creates a slow-burn romance that’s deeply emotional and authentically messy. Their back-and-forth builds into moments of genuine sweetness, especially when Dalton steps up and proves he's not just another person ready to walk away. The brotherly banter adds a delightful layer—equal parts chaos and compassion—and watching the Foster family begin to patch themselves back together adds depth beyond the love story. That said, Axel’s shifting attitude toward Gray does feel a touch repetitive. His emotional inconsistency is realistic, but the execution could’ve offered more nuance instead of circling the same ground. Still, Wild Card shines with heart and honesty. It's sweet, gritty, and quietly profound. Axel and Dalton are opposites who don't just attract—they heal each other in unexpected ways. While the story leaves you craving a bit more narrative heft, its emotional resonance makes it a worthy continuation of the series.
Enter Dalton: a straight-laced deputy with a steady hand and a long-standing crush. Their dynamic crackles with tension—the lawman and the law-bender, opposites in all the best ways. Dalton’s patient pursuit, combined with Axel’s vulnerability, creates a slow-burn romance that’s deeply emotional and authentically messy. Their back-and-forth builds into moments of genuine sweetness, especially when Dalton steps up and proves he's not just another person ready to walk away. The brotherly banter adds a delightful layer—equal parts chaos and compassion—and watching the Foster family begin to patch themselves back together adds depth beyond the love story. That said, Axel’s shifting attitude toward Gray does feel a touch repetitive. His emotional inconsistency is realistic, but the execution could’ve offered more nuance instead of circling the same ground. Still, Wild Card shines with heart and honesty. It's sweet, gritty, and quietly profound. Axel and Dalton are opposites who don't just attract—they heal each other in unexpected ways. While the story leaves you craving a bit more narrative heft, its emotional resonance makes it a worthy continuation of the series.
August 2, 2025
Good cop and his wild child heat up the pages
I loved the first book and this one was just as good. After Gray and Emory's story introduced all the foster brothers, now we get to meet the wild one properly. Axel and Dalton's romance was a page-turner and I raced through it.
On the face of it, bad boy Axel and good man Dalton shouldn't work but they really do. The attraction between them last time was so obvious but here, it was scorching. Once they let themselves, they can't keep their hands off each other but, to Axel, it's unsettling because it's just another person who'll leave him like everyone always does. He doesn't trust easily, with only his three foster brothers allowed to see who he really is and love him for it, and even then he still doesn't see his own worth.
As a lawman and bound by duty, Dalton could have been a difficult character to like in someone else's hands, but DJ gave him a bit of an edge and showed us his inner wild streak (or should that be freak, because he definitely wasn't afraid to get his freak on with Axel!). He had his demons, just like Axel, but they helped and healed each other, and together they were perfect. The epilogue was lovely, showing a glimpse into their future and made me very happy.
Again, the foster brothers were the heart of the book, alongside Axel's menagerie, and I loved seeing them all again. Holden's book is next and I can't wait to see how this sweet touch-starved man finally finds love.
Nearly forgot... that cover is absolutely bloody gorgeous.
I loved the first book and this one was just as good. After Gray and Emory's story introduced all the foster brothers, now we get to meet the wild one properly. Axel and Dalton's romance was a page-turner and I raced through it.
On the face of it, bad boy Axel and good man Dalton shouldn't work but they really do. The attraction between them last time was so obvious but here, it was scorching. Once they let themselves, they can't keep their hands off each other but, to Axel, it's unsettling because it's just another person who'll leave him like everyone always does. He doesn't trust easily, with only his three foster brothers allowed to see who he really is and love him for it, and even then he still doesn't see his own worth.
As a lawman and bound by duty, Dalton could have been a difficult character to like in someone else's hands, but DJ gave him a bit of an edge and showed us his inner wild streak (or should that be freak, because he definitely wasn't afraid to get his freak on with Axel!). He had his demons, just like Axel, but they helped and healed each other, and together they were perfect. The epilogue was lovely, showing a glimpse into their future and made me very happy.
Again, the foster brothers were the heart of the book, alongside Axel's menagerie, and I loved seeing them all again. Holden's book is next and I can't wait to see how this sweet touch-starved man finally finds love.
Nearly forgot... that cover is absolutely bloody gorgeous.
July 18, 2025
It’s Axel and Dalton’s turn and I’ve definitely been excited for their book! Axel hasn’t had it easy through the years. At this point in his life, he expects everyone to leave. Because no one has stuck around before. He can’t even fully trust his brothers to stick around. The hurt is deep and there to stay. But Dalton…he’s different. He’s threatening the walls Axel has built and maybe he could be truly different if Axel gives him a chance. Dalton is tired of fighting his feelings for Axel. His position as Deputy has always held him back in the fear of toeing the line when Axel tends to end up in trouble more often than not. But he’s had enough. Because this connection with Axel is everything. And he’ll prove it to Axel that he isn’t going anywhere. He’s here to stay and he isn’t going to let Axel go. Because he sees past Axel’s mask to the kind hearted person he is. The two of them have a lot going on and a lot to overcome but it’s crystal clear just how well these two are suited for one another. I loved getting to know them more and watch them fall for one another hard. Dalton is everything Axel needs, that stable guy willing to fight for him and be is safe harbor. And Axel reminds Dalton to let loose and take the weight off his shoulders. Loved these two! We have such a great cast of interesting characters in this series and I’m so excited to see the rest of the brothers get their books!
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
July 26, 2025
MY OPINION: I am drawn to the story of these ‘brothers’ and loved the second book about Axel. I’m already excited about the next one.
This book is really good. We had some foreshadowing in book one that Axel wanted to get a taste of the deputy. Axel is chaos and trouble. He will sleep with anyone, gets into bar fights, and runs illegal gambling games. Literally the last person he should be involved with, even as a one-and-done, is a lawman, but he couldn’t help himself.
Dalton is a lawman, and Axel is a pain in his butt, but he is drawn to him. There is a need that he shouldn’t have, but he knows it would be so much fun.
We learn that Axel isn’t just the bad boy he portrays but is a good guy who compensates for his hurt by rescuing animals and loving his brothers fiercely. We get to see a lot of that side of him. Dalton is recovering from a situation at his previous job, but he finds himself with a boss who is untrustworthy. These two men find that support from the other is what they need, and when they are in bed, it’s fire.
There are a lot of great spice scenes, two men seeing behind their walls, and a found family that works hard together, supporting each other blindly. There are plenty of dogs, a shack in the woods, and that well-earned (how did we end up in love) happily ever after.
Loved the book and all the characters in it. I recommend you read it if you want a well written story about two damaged men that fix each other.
This book is really good. We had some foreshadowing in book one that Axel wanted to get a taste of the deputy. Axel is chaos and trouble. He will sleep with anyone, gets into bar fights, and runs illegal gambling games. Literally the last person he should be involved with, even as a one-and-done, is a lawman, but he couldn’t help himself.
Dalton is a lawman, and Axel is a pain in his butt, but he is drawn to him. There is a need that he shouldn’t have, but he knows it would be so much fun.
We learn that Axel isn’t just the bad boy he portrays but is a good guy who compensates for his hurt by rescuing animals and loving his brothers fiercely. We get to see a lot of that side of him. Dalton is recovering from a situation at his previous job, but he finds himself with a boss who is untrustworthy. These two men find that support from the other is what they need, and when they are in bed, it’s fire.
There are a lot of great spice scenes, two men seeing behind their walls, and a found family that works hard together, supporting each other blindly. There are plenty of dogs, a shack in the woods, and that well-earned (how did we end up in love) happily ever after.
Loved the book and all the characters in it. I recommend you read it if you want a well written story about two damaged men that fix each other.
August 1, 2025
i read this book as part of an arc program. This is the second book in the Foster Bro Code series. In this book, Axel is a reckless man who lives in his junkyard in a RV, but is close to his foster brothers who live in the house and run an automotive parts store. Axel is also not afraid to run illegal gambling games and is always getting in trouble in one form or another. He also is bisexual and doesn't want a relationship ever because he believes people will always leave and let you down, so he avoid any type of connection. Dalton is a deputy and is very attracted to Axel, but he knows Axel is trouble and he would never risk his job for a hook up. Dalton is frustrated with the current sheriff and the corruption in the department, and when he is asked to run as sheriff in the next election, he feels he is not the right man for the job. Dalton and Axel cross paths again when Axel is accused of stealing a dog and Dalton wants to protect Axel. Dalton is also getting tired of fighting his attraction to Axel and wants to show him not everyone will abandon him. I liked this book. I liked Dalton and thought he was a good man, Axel was not what i thought at first. He had a lot of things in his past he needed to work through and Dalton helped him. Axel was so kind to animals and he needed to realize he wasn't alone and he could accomplish more. This was a good story, i look forward to more of this series.
August 14, 2025
***ARC Review***
This is my honest and voluntary review.
This is the second book in Jamison’s Foster Bro Code series. I’ve been looking forward to Axel and Dalton’s story. Axel has a wild streak but he also has a heart of gold that he hides behind carefully constructed walls. Axel has a lot of trauma from his past and keeps people at arm’s length. It was lovely watching him grow closer to Dalton, as well as his brothers. It was great seeing Holden, Gray, and Bailey again in this story.
I appreciate the push and pull dynamic fizzling between Axel and Dalton. They push one another’s buttons and the tension is palpable. After an unexpected and explosive kiss, things begin to take a turn for the MCs. I was ecstatic when things turned from the physical to the emotional for this pair. Dalton also has trauma from a past experience, so it is definitely heartwarming to see these men support one another. Their honest conversations are so compelling.
I love how stubborn Dalton is and how he refuses to give up on Axel. I love how Axel eventually lets his guard down and lets Dalton into his heart. This book is really well paced and make you a fan of emotional healing. Axel and Dalton manage to overcome any obstacles in order to attain their satisfying HEA.
Side note 1: there are a couple of heavy themes in this book, so be sure to check out any trigger warnings prior to reading.
Side note 2: I cannot wait for Holden’s story!
This is my honest and voluntary review.
This is the second book in Jamison’s Foster Bro Code series. I’ve been looking forward to Axel and Dalton’s story. Axel has a wild streak but he also has a heart of gold that he hides behind carefully constructed walls. Axel has a lot of trauma from his past and keeps people at arm’s length. It was lovely watching him grow closer to Dalton, as well as his brothers. It was great seeing Holden, Gray, and Bailey again in this story.
I appreciate the push and pull dynamic fizzling between Axel and Dalton. They push one another’s buttons and the tension is palpable. After an unexpected and explosive kiss, things begin to take a turn for the MCs. I was ecstatic when things turned from the physical to the emotional for this pair. Dalton also has trauma from a past experience, so it is definitely heartwarming to see these men support one another. Their honest conversations are so compelling.
I love how stubborn Dalton is and how he refuses to give up on Axel. I love how Axel eventually lets his guard down and lets Dalton into his heart. This book is really well paced and make you a fan of emotional healing. Axel and Dalton manage to overcome any obstacles in order to attain their satisfying HEA.
Side note 1: there are a couple of heavy themes in this book, so be sure to check out any trigger warnings prior to reading.
Side note 2: I cannot wait for Holden’s story!
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