Hollywood

Redemption Road #2

by D.J. Jamison

Everyone calls me Hollywood because I look like a leading man, but I didn't expect the starring role of single father....

When my ex-girlfriend, Carrie, is injured in an accident, I take sole custody of my two-year-old daughter overnight. I've wanted to be Ruby's father for a long time, but my ex--and her family--haven't forgiven me for going to prison.

This is my chance to get to know Ruby and prove that I've changed. I leap at the chance, even though I've got no idea what I'm doing.

Thankfully, my former best friend Tex shows up and sticks by me. He's a natural with kids and instantly calms the panic setting in. One night of support turns into another and another. Bit by bit, Tex is moving into my life and making himself a second father to Ruby.

But he's bailed on me before. Three months ago, he ran from the feelings growing between us. He couldn't handle the idea of being bisexual.

Now he's here, plucking all of my heartstrings and making me love him all over again. Ruby is head over heels, too. He's everything I want in a partner. For me. For my daughter.

But will Tex return the love this time--or will he break both our hearts?

Genres: Friends To Lovers, Romance, M M Romance, Found Family, Contemporary, Second Chance, LGBT

342 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 5, 2026

About the author

DJ 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

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Reviews

[D.J. Jamison]

When I was writing Hollywood, I was a little concerned its vibe wouldn't match that of Book 1 for Redemption Road. As a single dad, slow-burn, friends-to-lovers romance, it was a quieter book than Knight. The storyline is rooted in parenting, supportive friendship, and personal growth rather than fighting back against the world.

But redemption comes in all shapes and sizes, and sometimes it comes in the shape of a two-year-old girl who needs someone to take care of her during a crisis. Sometimes, too, it comes in the shape of a best friend who puts all their messy feelings aside to step up and be there for you when you need them.

At its core, the Redemption Road series has always been about friendship--about the brotherhood of flawed men who have made mistakes, taken their punishment, and want to rebuild their lives for the better. In that sense, Hollywood is very much like Knight. We continue to see the Redemption Road guys show up for each other. We continue to see how a found family can be more loyal and loving, sometimes, than a bio one.

I adored the way Hollywood and Tex cared for Ruby. But more than that, I loved how they cared for each other. This little family will go the distance, well beyond the last page, because they know that no one's perfect, but that love can help you weather the bumps and hold on to what's important if you don't lose faith in each other.

I hope you all enjoy this more emotional side of Redemption Road.

[Lily Suzanne]

I really liked this! I think this has been my favorite of the books in this series and the Foster Bro one. The two series are very connected and this one stands more on its own from the others but imo Knight needs to be read first and if you read Knight you should read at least Problem Child, the final book in the Foster Bro series.

Hollywood was such a sweetheart and I loved how he just wanted to be a good dad. Tex stepped up when needed and he didn’t deny his feelings for Hollywood for long. Together they made a great team caring for Ruby.

The drama with Tex’s dad was a bit crazy but there needed to be something and I’m glad Tex did the right thing in the end.

These stories are, at their core, about found family and this group of ex-cons who become each other’s family. I cannot wait for Joyride’s story.

[Julia Toth]

Another great one from D.J. Jamison! I'm always excited to read a book from this author and this one did not disappoint! I've loved the town of Riverton and the fact that multiple series take place there and we usually get some cameos from other characters. It was great to see Hollywood and Tex get their happily ever after, especially because Tex took off for a couple of months. I loved their friendship and chemistry a lot! I loved how they stood up for each other and how they helped each other. Hollywood's daughter, Ruby is such a little attention stealer. It was great seeing both men step up and take care of her. They made the sweetest little family. The book gives you hope that with hard work and perseverance things can get better.
Their relationship felt so natural and effortless. I loved how well matched they were. I loved the easy domesticity they felt into naturally. Otherwise their intimacy was tender and worshipful and I really enjoyed that.
This book gave me huge feel-good vibes and I loved every moment reading this. It's sweet and tender but also funny, lighthearted with a touch of angst. So if you're looking to read about two ex cons getting their life on track and falling in love, then this is the book for you.

[Demian Grimm]

Hollywood is the second book in the Redemption Road series, and it’s such a warm and emotional read.

Hollywood and Tex are both such complex, relatable, and lovable characters. Hollywood carries a lot of guilt because he feels like he has failed the people he loves, while Tex has spent years believing he isn’t good enough... thanks to his father. 😡😡
Their struggles felt very real, and I loved how the book explored the importance of letting people in instead of trying to handle everything alone. *Something I can definitely relate to.*

While I loved the contrast between them, I also really liked the parallel between Hollywood and Tex. In their own ways, both of them were trying to help others when they made the choices that eventually led them to prison. Their intentions came from a good place, but those decisions ended up costing them a lot. I think this added another connection between them and made it even easier to understand why they were drawn to each other.

Their romance was sweet, emotional, and full of pining, but what I loved most was how secure they felt together. Even with all their challenges, it was clear how much they cared about each other and how willing they were to fight for their future. ❤️

As always, I really enjoyed the found family aspect of this story. Seeing everyone come together to support Tex and Hollywood was wonderful to see. It’s always a pleasure spending time with the Redemption Road guys, and I love their bond and the way they show up for each other. 🥰🥰

Of course, Ruby was an adorable addition as well! Watching Hollywood get the chance to be the father he always wanted to be and seeing Tex become part of that little family was just so lovely.💞💞

Tex and Hollywood’s story is about family, healing, and learning that love means showing up, even when things get difficult. It’s a beautiful addition to the series, and it definitely left me even more excited for what comes next.
Why do I have a feeling Joyride's story is going to make me cry?!🫣

I received a copy of this book from Neon Rainbow Reviews, and this is my unbiased review.

[Betty Loves Books Galore]

This is an ex-best friends to more / second chance romance, featuring Tex and Hollywood, and is book two in the Redemption Road series.

Hollywood’s life changes overnight when he suddenly becomes the full-time dad to his two-year-old daughter. With help from his ex-best friend Tex, they discover a second chance at something that might be worth the risk.

This was such a sweet read, Hollywood and Tex didn’t make me wait too long either for them to move from ex best friends, to best friends, to more. I love them together and I love this found family so much.

Things to expect in this book are:
Book 2 in series
MM romance
Second chance
Ex best friends to more
Ex-con x Ex-con
Sudden parenthood
Single dad
Roommates
Hurt / Comfort
Family drama
Both pining
Slow burn
Bi awakening
Spicy times
First times
Sixty-nine
Dates
Found family
HEA

[rin]

This was so cute!! ⸜(｡˃ ᵕ ˂ )⸝♡ I loved it so much, it was so romantic, I loved Tex's love for Hollywood, I loved Hollywood's love for Tex, I loved their little family unit with Ruby. A few notes while I was reading:

- I was surprised I didn't see any reviews talk about this, and I don't know much about how a two-year-old speaks, but I feel like I can say for certainty that Ruby does not talk like a two-year-old half the time. She was speaking in contractions and full sentences and understanding context of things and just. No ( ≧ᗜ≦)

- I feel like a broken record with this, but again, there was a lot of boring detail that we didn't need to know. Why do I need to know what kind of car everyone's driving? I don't. Why are there characters that show up and go away and are completely irrelevant to the story? Why are there details on how Hollywood is cutting hair, or how Tex is taking care of the plants? It just feels like Jamison's writing takes us through everyone's day-to-day by the minute, and a lot of that mundane stuff is really unnecessary, clutters up the paragraphs, and turns half of a chapter into a pointless conversation about uninteresting things. These aren't Hogwarts classes, I really don't need to know the details.

- Okayyy... I warmed up to Carrie in the end... ( •̯́ ₃ •̯̀) I do feel like she became very likable. I still don't like that she kept Ruby from Hollywood for two whole years, but I like that she acknowledged that was wrong and is trying to make up for it.

- A lot of heart-to-heart conversations felt like a different rendition of "You messed up, but you're trying to be better" which I get is necessary, but it's also the same conversation between every character. Like, we get it. They're ex-cons, they've messed up, they're trying to move on. That's the plot of the entire series, I don't need it reiterated over and over in the same book between every character.

- I love Ghost. This book featured a bonus story at the very end, and I just CANNOT WAIT for Ghost's story, I had HOPED that would be his love interest, and that whole section was SO FLIPPING CUTE I LOVED IT (∩˃o˂∩)♡

This was such a fun story, I felt like it was exactly what I needed. These characters have truly formed a found family that I enjoy revisiting every time. I haven't felt this kind of family element in a series since the Puckboys, and I love getting to have that feeling again of taking such comfort in a cast of characters and a world. I do wonder how Joyride's book is going to go, since I think his story is the darkest of all of them, but I'm excited to be back with these characters when the time comes.

[Edga]

I loved Knight, the first book in this series, so I knew that I'd enjoy Hollywood! This is full of single dad angst, bisexual awakening, and a delicious slow burn romance to boot.
When Hollywood unexpectedly gets custody of his toddler, the cuter than cute Ruby, his former best friend, Tex, steps up to help. Tex is a natural with kids, I found this so lovely cos he was brought up by a bastard of a dad who constantly makes him feel completely useless.
As the two guys attempt parenting together, they also have to sort out their bisexuality. The slow burn tension is real, as they figure out their feelings, leading to beautiful moments like this:

"He’s everything I want in a partner. For me. For my daughter."

It was also so nice to see some familiar faces from the past pop up! Its such a sweet, emotional rollercoaster of a read about healing from family trauma and finding true love ❤️

I received an ARC of this story, which in no way influenced my opinion.

[Heather MMRomanceReviewed]

I absolutely love this story and the way Hollywood just jumps back into Tex's life when he's needed the most... the way these two lean on each other and move from best friends to lovers amidst the chaos of learning to parent, dealing with toxic family and finding their places together was just all consuming - from pining and pain to such joy and this series continues to embrace the supportive nature of found family...

Best read in order, but can be read standalone... make sure you carve out uninterrupted time before starting this one, because you won't want to put it down.

[Darcy (at the cottage)]

This one didn’t flow as well as the first in the series. I loved the storyline and Hollywood and Tex as characters ( and little Ruby), but the writing at times seemed stilted. I think maybe the author is putting the books out too quickly, there was only a couple months between releases. I really enjoyed the first book in the series and the whole ‘found family’ vibe, but I’m really bummed this one didn’t hit right for me. Crossing my fingers the third book will be better.

[Dan]

I expected to like it, and yet I liked it more than I expected. We get to see not only how Hollywood grows as a father and as a partner to Tex, but also how Tex learns to stand up to his steamrolling father and to trust his feelings and problems with others, especially Hollywood. It was a joy to read

[♥ Rebecca ♥]

This came with a short about Ghost and it was NOT long enough! You have got to be kidding me!!

[Alexooo]

I loved this one even more than the first one. It had such great found family trope - I adored all buys rallying around Holly. Ruby was the sweetest kid and Tex was so good with her. I also liked how the author handled the heavier side of this book. I'm excited for the next one!! 🩷

[Julie Underhill]

Hollywood by DJ Jamison is the second book in her Redemption Road series. I suggest you read the first one as it contains characters and the back story for this one. This is the story of two ex-cons who meet at Redemption Road, a group for men who spent time in prison that helps them rehabilitate and go on to lead productive lives. Both are facing uncertainty and problems in their lives, especially with family, that they help each other with and along the way fall in love. Hendrix, or Hollywood, worked in the business sector just like his demanding mother. But when he saw something wrong happening, he did something about it that landed him in a low security prison for two years. At the time he did what he thought was right, but he didn’t think about what it would do to his fiancé, Carrie, and that she was pregnant and would have to raise their daughter, Ruby, by herself. She was so mad at him that he didn’t let him see Ruby at all when he got out. He was working as a barber for Clint at the River Town Barbershop in Riverton and really liked him and his job. Jedidiah, or Tex, had grown up in Hayworth, about an hour from Riverton, and was working for his father who kept trying to make businesses work with Tex doing most of the work but they never seemed to succeed. Tex had a scholarship to play football in college but in a foolish high school move lost it. His father never let him forget about it and kept bringing up everything he did wrong going forward. Trying to help him is what got Tex put in the state penitentiary for 3 years. He had been part of Redemption Road but when his sister, Chastity, got in trouble with her ex, he left the program to help her, and was happy when Knight, Ghost, and Joyride, also members of the group came to help. Hollywood had a crush on Tex and they kissed before he left, but that scared Tex because he thought he was straight and also because he didn’t think he would be good enough for him because of his past and how everything he did seemed to go wrong. Life went on but then Carrie got in a very serious car accident and couldn’t take care of Ruby. So Hollywood suddenly had to take her and he was thrilled, even though he had no idea of how to take care of her. Tex had had time to think about what happened between them and wanted to make it up to Hollywood so when he heard about the accident, he immediately came back to help. He had a niece and nephews and knew how to take care of kids so he was able to do that. The other guys were always there for them and found them a bigger trailer in the trailer park they lived in and helped when they could. Tex rejoined Redemption Road and got a job at Wilde Roots Greenhouse at night, which he really enjoyed, and watched Ruby during the day so Hollywood could work. As time went on Hollywood and Tex were getting closer but Hollywood was always fearful that Tex would leave like he did before. They were both feeling the attraction to each other and Tex knew he wanted to be with Hollywood and had to keep telling him that he wasn’t going to leave. Eventually this led to more kisses and then some hot love scenes. Tex’s dad was still in the picture and causing major problems, as was Hollywood’s mom who found him a business world job that she thought he should take, and guilt hit both men hard, but then they realized the life they had was what they wanted and along with the other guys they formed a very tight knit family. They said I love you and together with Ruby were going to continue their lives together. I really enjoyed this story. Tex and Hollywood had both made mistakes in their lives and paid for them in prison. The Redemption Road group helped them start over and find the family they both needed. Ruby played a big part in the story as she brought Hollywood and Tex back together and she was a very typical toddler in her antics. Both of their families were important because Hollywood got Ruby when Carrie was hurt and Chastity was there for Tex when he needed her. Plus their parents were the cause of a lot of their problems, especially with the guilt they laid on them, but in the end they were able to see what they really wanted was each other and the lives they had so they could move forward. The other guys of Redemption Road were always there for them, helping them when they could and giving advice, as well as being the family they always wanted and needed. I highly recommend this book, especially if you like stories about ex-cons who are trying to start over and make amends for what they did, a cute little girl who brings two of them together, some family drama, and figuring out what the life was that they wanted together as they fell in love.

[Donna]

The stories about the guys from Redemption Road continue, and this time it is Hollywood and Tex’s turn. Both are ex-cons, part of the rehabilitation back into society program, and part of a found family of ex-cons and their mentor in the small town of Riverton. Hollywood, real name Hendrix, has been in the program close to 18 months and has been working in a local barbershop. Tex is newer to the group and hasn’t been able to keep a job. He and Hollywood had a moment about three months ago where Holly kissed Tex and Tex fled, questioning his sexuality as well as his place in the program, staying away until he hears Holly has temporary custody of his daughter after her mother was in an auto accident. Totally unprepared to take over the care of a two-year old. Hollywood welcomes Tex’s help and support when he steps right in, seeming to speak fluent toddler, guiding Hollywood through the initial days. With three nieces and nephews of his own, Tex is the lifesaver Holly needs as he is immersed in the caregiver/father role with little prep time to ease him into the situation. Over the next several months as the relationship between Ruby and her father grows, the one between Tex and Holly does, too. The attraction between them has never left, and both have admitted how much they are into each other now, just waiting to attach a label to it until Tex is comfortable sharing their relationship. When family issues arise for both men, each questions if what they are doing is right for each other and for Ruby, leading to the communication both needed to participate in to decide where they go next, do they each go their separate ways or move forward to a future together. Care to guess which they choose?

I love the found family that makes up the Redemption Road group of men. Each an ex-con with their own story and demons to address, but they are unfailingly there for each other, to talk, to listen, to support, to advise, to do whatever is needed, in whatever situation, to help each other through the ups and downs of re-entering society and maybe to finding the person that is meant for them. These guys will stand together to protect a family member from an abusive spouse, to step up and help a struggling new dad try to figure out parenting, to pull together whatever support is needed for any of the ‘brothers’ physically, emotionally, financially, or with any of the problems that can crop up in everyday life, watching for clues of struggle to catch a spiral before it gets out of hand. The care and understanding they have with and for each other is inspiring. The characters and situations seem very real to me, leading me to reflect on what it must be like to come back into a town where everyone knows you have done something to be sent to jail for, and are just waiting for you to screw up again and prove the doubters right. It would have to be a very hard thing to do.

The characters are realistic and relatable, the situations they face ring true, and it is so easy to get drawn into the lives of these men and root for them to deal with their own demons, to find their way back to a place in society, and to be able to live a life as normal as it can be. Ruby is a show-stealer, she’ll have you smiling and chuckling at her antics in only the way a precocious toddler can do. Tex finding his way back to Holly and accepting his sexuality and beginning to believe in himself the way Holly sees him had me wanting to reach in and give both a hug as they both tried to work their way to each other while giving the reader some spicy times to share as well. I found myself in a good place at the end, happy where Tex and Holly are now, and looking forward to Joyride’s story next. I hope he finds his forgiveness and peace. I received an ARC from the author and this is my voluntary review.

[Ana Silva]

Just as I thought, beautiful story! I knew I was going to love Tex, Hollywood and Ruby! They were just the perfect little family to melt your heart.

It sucks how things happened in order for them to be a family but at the same time, it was the perfect chance for Tex to finally admit how much he cared about Hollywood. That running away wasn’t enough to make his feelings go away.

He was so afraid of what others would think that he almost lost the best thing to ever happen to him. Tex’s biggest fear was letting people down, which is why he got in trouble with the law to begin with.

After losing it all when he went to jail, he tried to do right by those he loved but for some people that wasn’t enough. His efforts to be a better man never seem satisfactory for his father.

But when Hollywood needed him, he didn’t hesitate to go to him. Despite how things ended between them, there was no way that he would let Hollywood handle the situation with his daughter alone.

Tex was the last person Hollywood expected to show up for him. Yet he was the one he wanted there the most. He thought their friendship was over after he crossed the line but Tex was there for him just like he always did.

Hollywood had always wanted Tex but Tex wasn’t ready for Hollywood’s love. Tex wasn’t ready to accept he wanted Hollywood too despite of how hard he tried. But having Tex back as his friend was more important than his romantic feelings for him. Just his presence made things easier to deal with, especially since Tex was an expert with kids.

It shouldn’t have felt so good to be part of Hollywood’s little family, but Tex had never felt happier in his life. Ruby was the sweetest girl and Tex couldn’t imagine his life without either of them.

When Tex is faced with the ultimate betrayal, he finally decides to choose his own happiness over commitment and guilt. He had made Hollywood wait long enough. It was time he accepted he was in love with him and fear would not take his chance to be happy away.

Having his love reciprocated by Tex was everything Hollywood ever wanted other than having his daughter close. Redeeming himself to society and making a new life with the family he’d always wanted, was the best gift life could have given him.

𝑰’𝒅 𝒘𝒂𝒏𝒕𝒆𝒅 𝒉𝒊𝒎 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒏. 𝑳𝒐𝒏𝒈𝒆𝒅 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒕𝒐𝒖𝒄𝒉. 𝑩𝒖𝒕 𝒏𝒐𝒘 𝒊𝒕 𝒘𝒂𝒔 𝒅𝒊𝒇𝒇𝒆𝒓𝒆𝒏𝒕. 𝑻𝒆𝒙 𝒘𝒂𝒔𝒏’𝒕 𝒂 𝒇𝒂𝒏𝒕𝒂𝒔𝒚. 𝑯𝒆 𝒘𝒂𝒔𝒏’𝒕 𝒂 𝒉𝒂𝒛𝒚 𝒄𝒐𝒍𝒍𝒆𝒄𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝒐𝒇 𝒘𝒉𝒂𝒕-𝒊𝒇𝒔 𝒐𝒓 𝒎𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕-𝒃𝒆𝒔. 𝑯𝒆 𝒘𝒂𝒔 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒎𝒂𝒏 𝒃𝒚 𝒎𝒚 𝒔𝒊𝒅𝒆, 𝒅𝒂𝒚 𝒂𝒇𝒕𝒆𝒓 𝒅𝒂𝒚, 𝒕𝒉𝒓𝒐𝒖𝒈𝒉 𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒍𝒚 𝒎𝒐𝒓𝒏𝒊𝒏𝒈𝒔, 𝒕𝒉𝒓𝒐𝒖𝒈𝒉 𝒄𝒉𝒐𝒓𝒆𝒔, 𝒕𝒉𝒓𝒐𝒖𝒈𝒉 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒎𝒖𝒏𝒅𝒂𝒏𝒆 𝒂𝒏𝒏𝒐𝒚𝒂𝒏𝒄𝒆 𝒐𝒇 𝒃𝒊𝒍𝒍𝒔 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒐𝒊𝒍 𝒄𝒉𝒂𝒏𝒈𝒆𝒔. 𝑯𝒆 𝒘𝒂𝒔 𝒎𝒚 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒚 𝒅𝒂𝒚. 𝑴𝒚 𝒐𝒓𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒂𝒓𝒚.

Loved them so much! Ruby is seriously the most adorable thing ever! I can’t wait for Joyride and Kit. I just know that one is gonna hurt🥺

[D.Talks]

I was provided with an ARC by the author in exchange for an honest review. These are my real sentiments about the story and everything written here is respectful, without meaning to harm anyone, but to offer my opinion as constructive criticism/compliments. Thank you, DJ, for the opportunity!

⭐⭐⭐⭐.75 / 5 - Rounded to 5
🔥🔥🔥 / 5

Couple: Hollywood (Hendrix) and Tex.

Structure: 1st person. Past tense. Dual POV. Second book in a series.

I didn't expect to like this book even more than Knight, but I so did!

From the prologue, we can already feel the chemistry between Tex and Holly. Their fisrt kiss is both so sweet and full of desire, it made me melt. And even though them parting ways is sad, it doesn't linger on that.

Tex's redemption is glorious. Honestly, the love that guy has for Hollywood was so intense! And I absolutely adored hoe quickly he connected with Ruby. They were a destined family from the start. I have a soft spot for animals and cute kids, and this book shows both (more the kid than animals, but the scenes between the two are sooooo sweet!). Ruby is the MOST adorable kid I've ever read, for real. I loved every single scene with the three of them.

As a sucker for jealousy, I also loved Tex's jealous scenes haha It was never over-the-top, but just enough so his possessivenes was really hot. And sweet Holly didn't even realize how much his friend truly wanted him. When he does, though... Tex doesn't stand a chance.

I'll tell you, they are so hot together! And not just because of the smut, but mainly because of how much love is shown in those scenes. How special they are because it's the two of them together. They truly are each other's person.

The Carrie plot also made me very happy. I love a good redemption story, and seeing Holly also finding a family with his co-parent and her family, who also embraced Tex, was beautiful. The female representation in this book (other than Holly's stupid mother) is incredible!

The stuff with Tex's dad was hard. I was constantly tense whenever he appeared. At the same time I just wanted Tex to tell hum to fuck off, I understood his fear as well. DJ is the best in depicting found family and difficult family dynamics. This one is full of those, and it's as healing as it's sad.

But it all works out wonderfully in the end.

Now I'm so very ready for Joyride's story. Everything we see from him in this book already got me hooked, and I think his is gonna be an even more intense and exquisite than Hollywood, which is saying a lot.

If you're already familiar with DJ's writing, you'll probably love this book. If you're not, but love a good friends-turned-estranged-turned-friends-turn-lovers, single dad with his crush coming to his rescue, and lots of sweet moments between a found family that only grows better, dive in without fear!

[Bill Bottomley]

I received a free copy. This review is submitted voluntarily.

Hollywood is a former inmate who was convicted of robbing his corporate bosses of monies they owed their former employees. His family cast him away, though his mother maintained some communication but finally gave up when he would not go back to his old corporate life. His ex-fiancée and her family cut him off as some type of low-life and he was not allowed to see his two-year-old daughter, Ruby. This changes, however, after his ex is involved in a serious car accident requiring surgery and extended physiotherapy, leaving Hollywood to care for his daughter, Ruby, full-time. Tex is a man with whom Hollywood is I love, but he ran off after Hollywood kissed him. This book starts three months after that incident when Knight (from the previous book) phones Tex to tell him about Hollywood’s situation and Tex drops everything to go help Hollywood. Tex is in some respects relieved to leave his father’s employ, because his father has not treated Tex with respect ever since he injured his ACL and lost his football scholarship.

This book has a lot of angst the I found enhanced the plot. Hollywood carries a lot of guilt because of the effects of his conviction on his family, particularly his ex and daughter. He’s now working as a small-town barber. He also feels badly about the results of his kissing Tex three months ago. Tex feels regrets for what he did, including the accident that killed his football hopes. He is stuck working with his father who constantly reminds him of his failings and almost gets him back into crime by trying to convince Tex to steal things from his latest employer. The father is the only negative character in the book. On top of that, Tex has always thought of himself as straight. He doesn’t have trouble with the sex part per se but has problems with the idea of actually coming out. The author has presented us with quite complex characters and has dealt with them very well. They are ably supported by a group of ex-cons whom we have seen in previous installments or will see in future ones, plus a few others who offer help in various ways.

I have read a number of the author’s books (and reviewed several), and I admire the way she weaves in previous series into what she is currently writing. It makes reading that much more interesting.

[Sunshine]

HOLLYWOOD – DJ JAMISON

This is book two in the Redemption Road series, and while it can be read as a standalone, it is always nice to read in order so you stay current with all of the characters.

Hollywood (Hendrix) has done his time for the crime he committed, and is still making restitution payments for it, but his ex-girlfriend still was not allowing him to see his daughter Ruby. He was working full-time at a barbershop that he hoped to take over one day and felt he had his life on the right path. When Hollywood gets a call that his ex was in a car accident and he needed to get to the hospital to take care of Ruby, he reached out to his friends for support.

Knowing how much help he would need, Knight called everyone to meet at the emergency room, even Tex who had been the closest to Hollywood before returning to his hometown of Hayworth to help his sister. Tex wanted to be there for Hollywood, and knew he would do whatever he could to help him get Ruby settled in. This found family worked together to move them into a bigger place in the trailer park where Knight and Ghost already lived, and Tex was able to get baby furniture and clothing from his sister as well.

While knowing they had issues to resolve, Hollywood and Tex put them aside and made sure Ruby felt loved and secure after being separated from her mom while she was going through surgery and then rehab. Spending time together brought the men closer together, and Tex didn’t want to leave Hollywood again. He could finally admit he felt more than friendship for him and knew that Hollywood felt the same way for him.

Tex had problems with his father, and guilt kept him helping with the landscape business, until his dad wanted him to do something that would risk his probation. Tex finally said no, and admitted he was in love with Hollywood, but his dad was homophobic and disowned him after trying to make him feel guilty again about the business. Thankfully, the guys from Redemption Road made sure Tex knew he still had their love and support as his family, and Hollywood made his life complete.

This was a friends to lovers, second chance romance, and worth the read. I am looking forward to the next book in the series and I would recommend this author to everyone.

[Jacqueleen the Reading Queen♡]

"𝚈𝚘𝚞 𝚌𝚊𝚗 𝚋𝚛𝚎𝚊𝚔 𝚖𝚢 𝚑𝚎𝚊𝚛𝚝, 𝚋𝚞𝚝 𝙸 𝚠𝚘𝚗'𝚝 𝚕𝚎𝚝 𝚢𝚘𝚞 𝚋𝚛𝚎𝚊𝚔 𝚑𝚎𝚛𝚜."

Oh boy was I excited to get my hands on this! I knew from Knight's book that something was going on between Hollywood and Tex, but I didn't know to what extent. Was helping his sister really the reason Tex left Redemption Road and Hollywood in his rear view or was Hollywood right and it all came down to him? Thankfully this book gave me those answers and more.

My heart hurt for both of the MCs. They were both hurting with the loss of their friendship, but neither could figure out a way forward. Unfortunately, tragedy strikes in the form of Hollywood's ex getting in an accident leaving Hollywood scrambling to figure out how to be a Dad to a toddler he's never even been allowed to meet. The choice is taken out of their hands because there is no way in Hell Tex is going to let his best friend go through something like this alone.

I was glad Tex had been doing some thinking while he was gone. His actions devastated Hollywood, but him coming to help out with Ruby went a long way to soothing those old hurts. It also helped that Tex was a natural with children and Ruby took to him like a duck to water. It was so sweet seeing Tex guide Hollywood through things like giving Ruby a bath or reminding him to cut her food small.

All the domestic bliss these two have been living in has been lovely for Hollywood, but also torture at the same time. He sees the life they could all have together, but he isn't willing to push and end up with Tex running away all over again. Thankfully, Tex's introspective months have given him insight into what he truly wants and what he wants is a life with Hollywood.

I was so happy when these two finally got together. It was obvious to everyone they knew that they were sweet on one another. Joyride made some particularly funny comments. Speaking of Joyride, that boy is not in a good place. Myself and all the redemption road guys are worried about that kid and I'm glad his book is next because he deserves happiness as much as the rest of this crew.

[Tara Bennett]

MY OPINION: Somehow I had missed the first book in this series; for sure, I will go back and read it. This is in the same world as the Foster Bro Code, which I really enjoyed. This one fit right in and was a joy to read.

The men in this series are coming out of prison for different reasons but have joined a group that helps those who want to be helped find work and be part of a community. This is the story of two of these men, both in the program, trying to start over and find their way after being a felon. It’s not easy.

Hollywood's crime damaged him, sending him to prison, leaving his girlfriend alone through pregnancy and the first two years of his daughter’s life. In his head, he was doing the right thing; he didn’t see how far-reaching his choices were. Especially the damage to his family. Tex made choices he thought would help, but it didn’t, creating yet another rift between him and his father. Both wanted to do better; both had found a path that could work for them.

Hollywood was bi and felt things for his friend; he didn’t know that would drive him off. But when Tex came back to help him, it was time for Tex to face his feelings.

This was a lovely story of two men finding their paths, not only together but as men. What works, what doesn’t, where are their lines? You also get to learn about his daughter and how someone who hadn’t been a father had to become one literally overnight. His found family banded around him, their sisters stood by their sides, and together they all made a family.

There is a lot of healing, love, and hope throughout the story. When Tex decided he wanted Hollywood, his gender didn’t affect his enjoyment of physical intimacy. He labeled himself, but generally gender wasn’t relevant because he was all in with Hollywood. There are some good open-door spice scenes, and like the Bro Code, the characters feel very real. This was very low angst, and enjoyable throughout. I love the world that these men are part of and am glad to have more stories coming from them. You won’t be disappointed if you pick it up.

[S.M. Harshell]

HOLLYWOOD is the second book in the redemption road series. It can be read as a standalone but reads much better if read in the order the author intended.

What to expect:
❤️small town
❤️ex cons
❤️friends to lovers
❤️single father
❤️bi-awakening
❤️angst
❤️found family
❤️an adorable 2 year old

Hollywood (Hendrix) and Tex (Jedediah) are both part of Redemption Road trying to make a new life for themselves despite both going to prison. Tex and Hollywood have become best friends. Hollywood is bi-sexual and has a bit of a crush on Tex but Tex insists he's straight just affectionate. Tex's touchy feely affection confuses Hollywood on more than one occasion. When Hollywood shoots his shot and kisses Tex, Tex responds but then run back to his hometown. Both to get away from his feelings and to help his sister. While he's gone Hollywood's ex crashes her car and has some pretty serious injuries requiring Hollywood to keep his daughter for six months. Hollywood has never been in his daughter's life, not for lack of trying but because his ex wanted to punish him for leaving her and having to go to prison while she was pregnant. When Tex finds out Hollywood needs help he wastes no time to be at Hollywood's side even though he knows he hurt Hollywood and has no idea if he'll even accept his help.

I loved watching this relationship build through friendship. Tex holds so much guilt for the things he's done in his past, his injury, trying to help his father and ending up in prison and his father uses that guilt against him at every turn. Hollywood tries to help him push past that guilt and get out those feelings he's been holding onto for way too long. Hollywood just wants to be a good dad and Tex helps him do that. They are so good for each other in every way. Their chemistry is explosive and the sweet side is so heart meltingly good!

I can't wait for what's next in this series!

I was given a free copy of this book to read and review for Neon Rainbow.

[Amanda Winter]

Another fantastic read from D.J. Jamison! I always look forward to picking up one of their books, and Hollywood absolutely delivered. I love returning to Riverton and seeing familiar faces pop up across the interconnected series—it always feels like coming home.

Hollywood and Tex completely stole my heart. Their journey from former best friends to something more felt so natural, with years of friendship creating the perfect foundation for their romance. The chemistry between them was effortless, and I loved how they always had each other's backs, supporting and encouraging one another through every challenge.

One of my favourite parts of the book was little Ruby. She completely stole every scene she was in, and watching Hollywood and Tex step into parenthood together was incredibly heartwarming. They created such a sweet little family, and the domestic moments between them were some of my favourites. Their relationship was filled with tenderness, patience, and quiet devotion, making every milestone feel earned.

I also loved the found family aspect of this series. The Redemption Road crew continue to prove that family isn't always the people you're born to—it's the people who choose to stand beside you. Seeing everyone rally around each other through the highs and lows added so much warmth to the story.

This book struck a wonderful balance between humour, emotion, and romance. There are definitely emotional moments, but they're balanced with plenty of laughs, hope, and the reminder that people deserve second chances.

❤️ Second Chance Romance
❤️ Ex Best Friends to Lovers
❤️ Single Dad
❤️ Sudden Parenthood
❤️ Roommates
❤️ Hurt/Comfort
❤️ Found Family
❤️ Bi Awakening
❤️ Slow Burn

This was such a feel-good romance full of heart, healing, and hope. Hollywood and Tex were an absolute joy to read, Ruby completely stole the show, and I already can't wait for the next book in the series.

[Marion]

This is book two in the Redemption Road series. I think that you should read the series in order as a lot of characters from book one (Knight) are involved in this book. This is the story of Hendrix aka Hollywood and Jedidiah aka Tex, Both men have been released from prison and worked through the Redemption Road program. In book one, Tex and Hollywood kissed but then Tex left. The story starts off after the ending of book one. Hollywood is the father of two year old Ruby. His fiancée Carrie was pregnant when he went to prison and has refused Hollywood access to his daughter for his sins since his release. Hollywood was working as a barber for Clint at the River Town Barbershop in Riverton and he enjoyed his work. Then came the phone call that changed everything. Carrie was in a serious car accident and can not take care of Ruby. Suddenly Hollywood is now responsible for an active two year old daughter he doesn't know. He also doesn't know how to take care of her and be a good dad. Tex left Redemption Road when his sister was in trouble and he went home to help. He was shaken by his kiss with Hollywood so his natural reaction was to just ignore it all together. Deny, deny, deny. Even to himself. Then Knight calls Tex to tell him about Hollywood's situation. Tex immediately drops everything and returns back to help. He at least has experience with his nieces and nephews. He is more familiar with childcare than Hollywood. This is their story. The book is written well and is easy to read. I received a complementary advanced review copy of this book from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review. I loved the found family in this book, a group of ex-cons who are truly supporting each other. As the series title suggests, this is a story of redemption. I enjoyed watching them move from best friends to lovers while slowing finding their place together. I look forward to the next book in this series.

[Emily Hernandez]

Tex and Hollywood's best friends to lovers romance was all about family. From Hollywood getting the chance to be a dad to his adorable toddler, Ruby, to Tex's complicated relationship with his father, this book explored what matters most in those relationships: unconditional love and showing up. Tex had a lot of internalized guilt from his perceived failures in life, and he let that turn into a reason to run away whenever things got serious. This book actually opened up after Tex had done exactly that to Hollywood, so when he showed back up to help co-parent, there was some understandable tension. Hollywood was afraid to get attached and lose the man he could see himself falling for, but it was hard to resist when Tex's actions demonstrated his commitment to him and his daughter. Their family bonding moments were delightful to experience, even when Ruby was being a little chaos monster and running around the house. The best word I can think of to describe how I was feeling about Hollywood and Tex's romance is cozy. Not because their relationship lacked steam, but because I felt so secure in the longevity of their feelings. Did Tex need to learn how to lean on Hollywood when things got tough? Yes, he was particularly bad at asking for help, but I knew they'd be able to work through it. I also really enjoyed seeing more of the Redemption Road guys and how they've built a strong support network for each other. Joyride has already won over my whole heart, and I'm afraid of what he'll have to work through to get to his own happy ending, and Ghost's outer shell is starting to crack open ever so slightly. Tex and Hollywood left things off on a career and relationship high, and I adored getting a little glimpse at how their found family is expanding.

**I voluntarily read an early copy of this book. This review expresses my honest thoughts and opinions.

[Vicki]

This is book two in the author’s Redemption Road series featuring a group of ex cons working together toward a better future. I’ve been waiting for this one ever since reading Knight, the first book in the series, when we were teased with the knowledge that SOMETHING had been going on between Tex and Hollywood and this certainly didn’t disappoint!

I didn’t have as clear a picture of Tex in my mind as I did Hollywood, in part, thanks to the cover model, but the author’s description of him made me certain I could pick Hollywood out in a crowd. Although not as clear, I fell totally in love with Tex… with his generosity and protectiveness over Hollywood and his daughter Ruby, even in the face of his own fears and insecurities… he was the real hero here. I wanted so badly for his dad to finally get what he had coming; that’s my only complaint—that he got off scot free but I did love that Tex and his sister Chasity flourished without him and that kinda gave it that awww factor so I can’t really complain.

The heat was out of this world, which I LOVED but the emotions expressed between the MCs was amazing and made for a book that I absolutely INHALED; I never could resist MCs who could be as tender and caring as these two were, chef’s kiss! And of course, what recent DJ Jamison book would be complete without a cameo of characters from one of my favorite series, Foster Bro Code? Axel and Dalton (from Wild Card) popped up and Flynn (from Problem Child) even made an appearance. You should know that neither of those are necessary to the understanding of this series but they’re so amazingly good that I suggest reading that series too.

For a good, steamy, emotional read, this book can’t be beat so if that strikes your fancy, grab it today, you won’t regret it! 5 stars

I received a copy of this book for free but am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Romantic Reads and Such]

4.25 - 4.5*s

Hollywood finally gets the chance to get to know his daughter but it means that he has to become an instant dad, with none of the know-how. You can feel how much he wants this chance but how scary it is to find himself responsible for a little girl and having no idea what he’s supposed to do. Luckily he’s got friends on his side, especially Tex.

And Tex is going to take advantage of this opportunity to make up for running away and hurting Hollywood. It takes a little bit to come to terms with his sexuality but he knows how he feels about him is special. As is the family they are creating together, both with Ruby and their Redemption Ridge friends.

And I couldn’t love that any more, found families is one of my favorite tropes and Jamison does it well here. These guys are here for each other, supporting each other, checking in and stepping up when someone needs it. Sometimes they just need to get out of their own way and accept the help in the manner that it is meant, to realize that they are worthy of such care.

While not quite as angsty as Knight, I loved seeing Tex and Hollywood get together. And them getting the opportunity to form a relationship with sweet, little Ruby … oh my heart. There is just so much with the feels and the slow slide to a HEA for them. So while it isn’t necessary to have read the first book to enjoy this one, returning readers will love that opportunity to find out exactly how things work out between these two. We got just enough of a teaser before that I was rooting for them from the start. And we get just enough here to have me anxious to get my hands on Joyride!

**I voluntarily read and reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.**

[Sabrina]

It’s Hollywood and Tex’s turn! And I’ve been looking forward to their story after we saw the tension between the two of them in the last book. When Tex left Hollywood three months ago, he was hurting in all kinds of ways. He lost his closest friend and someone he thought he could even be more than friends with. But Tex pushed him away and ran. But when Hollywood gets a call that his ex was in a bad car accident and he needs to take care of their daughter, he is shocked to find Tex is back. And he’s back for him. Being part of his daughter’s life is all Hollywood ever wanted and he is going to do everything he can to prove to his ex that he has changed and he can be there for Ruby. But he’ll need some help and he knows it. So he pushes his anger at Tex away. Because Hollywood isn’t the only one who has something to prove. Tex knows he messed up when he left. But he won’t make that mistake again. He wants to be there for Hollywood and for Ruby. He’ll show them that he isn’t going anywhere. Even when his dad makes it hard to shake the guilt of his past. I loved these two! So happy to see them get their happy ending. It was clear from the beginning just how much these two cared for one another and how they’ve been hurting since they’ve been apart. While the circumstances they are in aren’t great, it gives them another chance. A chance to reignite their friendship and take it to the level they both crave. Just another great story all around! And oh man, the hint at the next book looks really good. Can’t wait to see what happens next!

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[The Secret Librarian]

Rating: 4
Steam: 3
PoV: dual, 1st person
Genre: contemporary romance, MM
Tropes / tags: friends to lovers, single dad, found family

I've been so curious about what was going on between Hollywood and Texas, and I loved how sweet their romance turned out to be! It's always fun when a character finally figures out why he's been feeling so possessive over his best friend…

Hollywood and Texas managed to snag my attention while I was reading the first book, and I'd been looking forward to finding out exactly what was going on between them. Texas was confused about his feelings for Hollywood, as he'd never been attracted to a man before. Neither of them wanted to do anything that could negatively affect their friendship, but it didn't take long before Texas felt ready enough to take things further. Their feelings and fears were easy to relate to and felt realistic, and it was sweet to see them figure things out together.

They were both feeling insecure initially, not entirely sure where they had each other and Hollywood had his reasons for being a little wary and unsure. He needed all the support he could get when it came to Ruby though, and Texas was amazing with her. I loved seeing Hollywood getting a chance at being a dad, and even if it was quite sudden and unexpected they managed to make the best of it.

Considering the themes and topics, this could have easily been a more angsty story, but I loved how it instead took a sweeter turn and was low on the angst. Hollywood and Texas both struggled with feeling guilty about things in their past, but they were ready to work on it and find ways to move on. The found family was fantastic, these guys were all so supportive and it was heart-warming to see them together trying to help each other the best they could.

Hollywood was a great continuation of the Redemption Road series, and I can't get enough of the found family in this one! Hollywood and Texas' romance was very sweet, and I loved seeing Hollywood finally being able to be a dad to Ruby. I love spending time with these characters and I'm really looking forward to the remaining books in the series!

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I received a complimentary copy of this book, and these are my honest thoughts and opinions.

[Katriana]

When I tell you this book CONSUMED me, I am not lying or exaggerating. I started this book this morning and finished within 2 hours, I just couldn't put it down. Ever since I read Knight's story, I was extremely curious about what was going on between Hollywood and Tex, cause there were definitely some vibes I was picking up on between those two. And in this book, I finally got to learn what was going on!

A whole lotta pining and angst, that's what! But there's also so much more than that too, there's so much love, compassion, found family goodness, and an eye-watering amount of support. This story is extremely beautiful, I loved the found family aspect that came into play in Knight's book, and it just went above and beyond that in this one. The way they all stepped up to help out Tex and Holly, made me emotional, it was just so beautiful to see how they all tried to support and uplift one another.

And I can't write this review without talking about Roo, aka, Ruby, Holly's daughter. The way in which he was able to spend time with his daughter wasn't the greatest of circumstances, but I'm so glad he was able to get that time with her and actually be the dad to her he always wanted to be. Reading about him and Ruby figuring out how to raise her together while also figuring out their feelings for each other was honestly so enjoyable. DJ did a SPECTACULAR job with this book and these characters, and this book just made me even more excited for Joy's book. Although, I fear that one has the potential to make me cry..but I'm here for it anyways!

All in all, an absolutely terrific book!!

[JenCW]

4.25 Stars!

While readers might be able to read this one as a standalone, I would suggest at least reading Problem Child or Knight first; mostly so you have a better understanding of the Redemption Road program and the other characters. Hollywood and Tex are both members of the Redemption Road program, trying to rebuild their lives after prison. In the previous book, Knight, Tex had left town and the program, and no one seemed to know why, except Hollywood (and he wasn't talking). That all said, I enjoyed reading this one and getting to know some of the other characters better.

Hollywood suddenly is thrust into fatherhood when his ex is seriously hurt in an accident. Tex comes to help, but there's a lot for them both to unpack and deal with. Getting to see Tex with his father and sister gave so much insight into his perspective and actions. I loved that Tex's sister was so supportive of him. I loved how the Redemption Road guys were all there for both Hollywood and Tex, even when not asked. I loved seeing Hollywood get to know his daughter and clearing the air with his ex. I hated the position Tex found himself in, but was glad that Hollywood showed Tex exactly the reaction and support that he needed and deserved. These two are great together, and I'm glad that they worked hard to reach a good place together.

I suspect that the next book might be a hard read, but I am so looking forward to it. I also hope that Ghost gets a book at some point as well.

*Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure. A review wasn't a requirement.*