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Redcars #3
Rio
Hunted by killers. Protected by a monster.
Lyric Thornwood is on the run, his name stamped on a kill order flooding the dark web. Someone inside the system wants him erased—and Marcus Kessler, the billionaire who twisted Lyric’s stolen code into the murderous AI LyricNight, is hunting him like prey.
Desperate and alone, Lyric follows a ghost contact to a rundown LA garage. What he finds there isn’t safety—it’s Rio Villareal. Rio doesn’t care about code, firewalls, or ghost signals. He knows fists, loyalty, and the kind of violence that keeps his found family alive. When Lyric crashes into his world, Rio should walk away. Instead, he claims the stranger as his responsibility—and maybe something more.
Rio is a dark, explosive story of found family and recovery scarred by violence. With a hunted hacker, a fighter built for blood, and an AI hell-bent on revenge, survival comes at a cost—and only obsession might be enough to keep them alive.
Lyric Thornwood is on the run, his name stamped on a kill order flooding the dark web. Someone inside the system wants him erased—and Marcus Kessler, the billionaire who twisted Lyric’s stolen code into the murderous AI LyricNight, is hunting him like prey.
Desperate and alone, Lyric follows a ghost contact to a rundown LA garage. What he finds there isn’t safety—it’s Rio Villareal. Rio doesn’t care about code, firewalls, or ghost signals. He knows fists, loyalty, and the kind of violence that keeps his found family alive. When Lyric crashes into his world, Rio should walk away. Instead, he claims the stranger as his responsibility—and maybe something more.
Rio is a dark, explosive story of found family and recovery scarred by violence. With a hunted hacker, a fighter built for blood, and an AI hell-bent on revenge, survival comes at a cost—and only obsession might be enough to keep them alive.
- GenresContemporaryM M Romance
372 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 26, 2025
61 people are currently reading
111 people want to read
About the author
R.J. Scott
307 books2,711 followersRJ Scott writes heartwarming, passionate MM/gay romance stories where every man finds his happily ever after. When not writing, she enjoys reading books, watching movies, spending time with her family, following Formula 1 (Forza Ferrari!), and cheering on the Pittsburgh Penguins. Email her here: rj@rjscott.co.uk
Find RJ here: Amazon | BookBub | Facebook - Also, Never miss a release
Find RJ here: Amazon | BookBub | Facebook - Also, Never miss a release
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
September 12, 2025
I think this makes my favorite redcars book so far. Rio doesn't have much hidden in him, he's pretty straightforward in who he is and where he's wounded and how he bleeds. Lyric, on the other hand, is as deep as a pond with as many layers as the earth. It makes for a very interesting combination, with Rio not knowing what he wants or needs and Lyric knowing exactly what he (and Rio) wants and needs, but being unsure if he's safe enough to get it. It makes for a delightful dynamic.
I really liked the plot too. It gave a sense of finality to the main mission of the story, which started when Robbie ran into the shop. Now we're just missing Doc, and I, for one, am itching to know what his deal is.
I really liked the plot too. It gave a sense of finality to the main mission of the story, which started when Robbie ran into the shop. Now we're just missing Doc, and I, for one, am itching to know what his deal is.
September 11, 2025
Lyric, subject of a kill order on the dark web, lands at the Redcars garage where Rio, an ex-con, works. Almost immediately, Rio (a cage fighter by night) feels an overwhelming urge to protect Lyric.
Perhaps even more than in the first two books in the series, Scott submerges us in the world of Redcars and the Cave in a most delightful way. But the standout, for me, was the riveting, complex portrayal of Rio. He is darkness and danger, blood and war-wounds, protection and ownership. But he is also wounded and scarred, submission and loyalty. Rio kind of summed it all up himself when he thought, “I wasn’t sure if I wanted to kiss him or destroy the world for him. Maybe both.”
Robbie’s growing friendship with Lyric is also compelling as he shares more of his back story with Lyric (& us readers). Lyric’s character development flourishes after his interactions with both Robbie and Rio.
But the way Rio and Lyric claim each other is *chef’s kiss*. Their mutual obsession is darkly beautiful. Like Rio thought, “I craved him in the quiet and the chaos.”
Once again, Scott excels at creating the perfect found family out of a group of broken misfit men. 5 stars.
Perhaps even more than in the first two books in the series, Scott submerges us in the world of Redcars and the Cave in a most delightful way. But the standout, for me, was the riveting, complex portrayal of Rio. He is darkness and danger, blood and war-wounds, protection and ownership. But he is also wounded and scarred, submission and loyalty. Rio kind of summed it all up himself when he thought, “I wasn’t sure if I wanted to kiss him or destroy the world for him. Maybe both.”
Robbie’s growing friendship with Lyric is also compelling as he shares more of his back story with Lyric (& us readers). Lyric’s character development flourishes after his interactions with both Robbie and Rio.
But the way Rio and Lyric claim each other is *chef’s kiss*. Their mutual obsession is darkly beautiful. Like Rio thought, “I craved him in the quiet and the chaos.”
Once again, Scott excels at creating the perfect found family out of a group of broken misfit men. 5 stars.
September 22, 2025
This may be my favorite in this series.
This is a fast-paced, action-packed and often explicitly violent thriller with an emotional romance that blew me away, and the recurring theme of found family, and that nothing will stand in Rio's way of defending his Redcars family, and the people he loves. This violent protectiveness comes to the forefront when Lyric shows up at the shop, injured, bleeding, and close to dying, and Rio nearly dropkicks him because he will do anything to protect those he loves.
Which soon, despite his confusion and reluctance, includes Lyric.
Add to that the rather scary take of an AI learning and starting to think on its own, and trying to destroy you and all you hold dear, and this book delves deeply into darkness and violence, and filthy rich people playing with other people's lives. It makes you think about the detriments of AI, and how we may be unleashing a thing we won't be able to control as much as we believe we can.
We also learn more about Robbie's experiences, and get to watch him continue to grow into himself, with Enzo's quiet, steady support.
Both Rio and Lyric are complex characters, and we thankfully get their backstories that quite well explain why and how they became who and what they are. I cried for Rio and what he went through, and I shed a tear or five for Lyric too. I enjoyed learning about them, watching them peel back a layer at a time, and allow themselves to be vulnerable. But what I most enjoyed was the romance between Rio and Lyric. It came out of nowhere, unexpected to them both, and the highly emotional connection they forge, almost without meaning to, hesitant to take that first step for reasons, was what made this book stand out and get to 5 stars.
I would highly recommend that you read this series (in the order it was published), but I'd also highly recommend that you heed the trigger warnings. This isn't for the faint of heart, and this ain't no fluffy romance novel.
A beverage of choice, chocolate, and tissues should be at the ready.
** I received a free copy of this book from its author in exchange for an honest review. **
This is a fast-paced, action-packed and often explicitly violent thriller with an emotional romance that blew me away, and the recurring theme of found family, and that nothing will stand in Rio's way of defending his Redcars family, and the people he loves. This violent protectiveness comes to the forefront when Lyric shows up at the shop, injured, bleeding, and close to dying, and Rio nearly dropkicks him because he will do anything to protect those he loves.
Which soon, despite his confusion and reluctance, includes Lyric.
Add to that the rather scary take of an AI learning and starting to think on its own, and trying to destroy you and all you hold dear, and this book delves deeply into darkness and violence, and filthy rich people playing with other people's lives. It makes you think about the detriments of AI, and how we may be unleashing a thing we won't be able to control as much as we believe we can.
We also learn more about Robbie's experiences, and get to watch him continue to grow into himself, with Enzo's quiet, steady support.
Both Rio and Lyric are complex characters, and we thankfully get their backstories that quite well explain why and how they became who and what they are. I cried for Rio and what he went through, and I shed a tear or five for Lyric too. I enjoyed learning about them, watching them peel back a layer at a time, and allow themselves to be vulnerable. But what I most enjoyed was the romance between Rio and Lyric. It came out of nowhere, unexpected to them both, and the highly emotional connection they forge, almost without meaning to, hesitant to take that first step for reasons, was what made this book stand out and get to 5 stars.
I would highly recommend that you read this series (in the order it was published), but I'd also highly recommend that you heed the trigger warnings. This isn't for the faint of heart, and this ain't no fluffy romance novel.
A beverage of choice, chocolate, and tissues should be at the ready.
** I received a free copy of this book from its author in exchange for an honest review. **
October 8, 2025
I'm loving this series from RJ. The description uses words like "dark," "explosive," "violence," and "blood," all of which sum up the story, it's totally no holds barred. It's a fast moving thriller with a mix of action, romance, and found family themes. Rio has a strong focus on both loyalty and relationships. His commitment to his own found family is immense, and when on the run Lyric shows up the stakes are heightened. The relationship between the two men is intense and escalates quickly. It felt like a whirlwind romance, where the two became dependent on each other in a very short amount of time, and I loved the unexpected twist in said relationship.
I also loved the twist in the story itself, with the inclusion of an AI, Lyric Night, which adds a modern, twist to the chase. It raises the stakes beyond a simple human baddie and introduces the possibility of a truly terrifying, enemy which is relentless. The whole concept certainly makes you think and is incredibly scary! The book is a blend of suspense, action, and emotional connection. All the usual suspects appear, and one of the highlights of each of the stories for me, is the emotional attachment between Enzo, Jamie and Rio. I love how they support one another, and their partners, to bring down evil.
Robbie in particular holds my heart, what that poor lad has gone through is so upsetting. The way in which the whole crew encourage him to move from victim to survivor is an incredible journey. The whole series has been dark. So please be aware of the trigger warnings, the subject content may be disturbing and upsetting to some. However found myself relishing the whole element of the baddies getting their comeuppance in ways which suited their crimes. The bastards totally deserved what they got! Can't wait for the next book.
TW: References to past abuse, Murder, Intense obsession and dark revenge, Mention of human trafficking and captivity, Violence, including killing in defence of a loved one.
I also loved the twist in the story itself, with the inclusion of an AI, Lyric Night, which adds a modern, twist to the chase. It raises the stakes beyond a simple human baddie and introduces the possibility of a truly terrifying, enemy which is relentless. The whole concept certainly makes you think and is incredibly scary! The book is a blend of suspense, action, and emotional connection. All the usual suspects appear, and one of the highlights of each of the stories for me, is the emotional attachment between Enzo, Jamie and Rio. I love how they support one another, and their partners, to bring down evil.
Robbie in particular holds my heart, what that poor lad has gone through is so upsetting. The way in which the whole crew encourage him to move from victim to survivor is an incredible journey. The whole series has been dark. So please be aware of the trigger warnings, the subject content may be disturbing and upsetting to some. However found myself relishing the whole element of the baddies getting their comeuppance in ways which suited their crimes. The bastards totally deserved what they got! Can't wait for the next book.
TW: References to past abuse, Murder, Intense obsession and dark revenge, Mention of human trafficking and captivity, Violence, including killing in defence of a loved one.
October 23, 2025
I read this book back in September but time just got away from me for this review. I gotta start by saying this series just gets better and better. It is a series that has to be read in order. We were originally introduced to the Redcars gang in the author's Single Dad entry, Pride, and though I recommend reading that first to get a better idea of the whole Redcars situation and a little heads up on the whos and whats, it is not necessary to read it to understand the current storyline. I know there is another entry to come, from the description I would guess it's a different story arc than Enzo, Jamie, and Rio.
Onto Rio.
This has been a dark series to read, definitely darker than what one has come to know from the author but that's okay because sometimes I love a little dark with my romance. I still say the first entry, Enzo, is the darkest but Jamie and Rio are not exactly unicorn and rainbows. I couldn't help but compare some of the bad guys to certain real figures in the world today, maybe it's just me but I found that element adding a new layer of satisfaction when certain means of justice was put to use😉.
Rio and Lyric are perfectly complex yet open characters. Not everyone enjoys books written in dual POVs but I love them and when it comes to dark stories, it gives an added texture of individual insight which helps me to connect to the characters but to also understand who they are, how they got to where they are, and what keeps them going. Rio needs the fight like Jamie needs the flame, both are a bit outside my comfort zone and yet the author tells their journey, their need in a respectful way that, though I may not fully understand it I can empathize with them and want them to find whatever they need to calm their soul. Rio's need for the fight is balanced by his need to be dominated, to a degree, in manners of the heart and Lyric fills that role. I loved how the two go against physical stereotypes, Rio is the physical one but needing to be dominated goes against what most of us picture in that role and as for Lyric, he's a tech nerd all the way but he can more than hold his own as surviving multiple contract hits have proven, even if he's hurting when he arrives at Redcars door(Rio plays a part in making that hurt worse but in his mind he's protecting Robbie).
Before I say too much I'm going to stop but just know, Rio is a hugely satisfying read that you don't want to miss. I'll admit though, at this stage, I can't imagine cheering for Doc in the next entry considering his cold bedside demeanor in Enzo and Rio, but I know the author will do his journey justice and that there is more to him than what we've seen so far.
Onto Rio.
This has been a dark series to read, definitely darker than what one has come to know from the author but that's okay because sometimes I love a little dark with my romance. I still say the first entry, Enzo, is the darkest but Jamie and Rio are not exactly unicorn and rainbows. I couldn't help but compare some of the bad guys to certain real figures in the world today, maybe it's just me but I found that element adding a new layer of satisfaction when certain means of justice was put to use😉.
Rio and Lyric are perfectly complex yet open characters. Not everyone enjoys books written in dual POVs but I love them and when it comes to dark stories, it gives an added texture of individual insight which helps me to connect to the characters but to also understand who they are, how they got to where they are, and what keeps them going. Rio needs the fight like Jamie needs the flame, both are a bit outside my comfort zone and yet the author tells their journey, their need in a respectful way that, though I may not fully understand it I can empathize with them and want them to find whatever they need to calm their soul. Rio's need for the fight is balanced by his need to be dominated, to a degree, in manners of the heart and Lyric fills that role. I loved how the two go against physical stereotypes, Rio is the physical one but needing to be dominated goes against what most of us picture in that role and as for Lyric, he's a tech nerd all the way but he can more than hold his own as surviving multiple contract hits have proven, even if he's hurting when he arrives at Redcars door(Rio plays a part in making that hurt worse but in his mind he's protecting Robbie).
Before I say too much I'm going to stop but just know, Rio is a hugely satisfying read that you don't want to miss. I'll admit though, at this stage, I can't imagine cheering for Doc in the next entry considering his cold bedside demeanor in Enzo and Rio, but I know the author will do his journey justice and that there is more to him than what we've seen so far.
September 9, 2025
Im just loving this series and this book continues the dark and gritty theme.
This book is primarily about Rio and Lyric, and its amazing to see how these two come together. Lyric is running from an AI programme he created, which has taken on its own agenda and taken out hits on Lyrics life.
He's come to Redcars to ask a old hacker acquaintance (Jamie) for help. Rio doesn't trust Lyric and will do anything to protect his found family.
In this book we see the intense emotional pain that Rio is dealing with from his past. How he found a way to deal with those personal demons that are self destructive, but we get to see how Lyric finds a way to silence those demons.
I adore reading the relationship between all the members of Redcars, who they allow each other to relate their own stories when they are ready. They support each other no matter what they need. I Love that RJ while focusing in the 2 main characters still weaves in the others so we see the progression of their relationships too.
I have been loving the scenes with Doc, hes just so unapologetically snarkly and rude. I can not tell you how excited I am that he's getting his own book!!!!
I started and finished Rio in one sitting. These boys pull you into their story and dont let you go till the very last page. 100% recommend this series.
This book is primarily about Rio and Lyric, and its amazing to see how these two come together. Lyric is running from an AI programme he created, which has taken on its own agenda and taken out hits on Lyrics life.
He's come to Redcars to ask a old hacker acquaintance (Jamie) for help. Rio doesn't trust Lyric and will do anything to protect his found family.
In this book we see the intense emotional pain that Rio is dealing with from his past. How he found a way to deal with those personal demons that are self destructive, but we get to see how Lyric finds a way to silence those demons.
I adore reading the relationship between all the members of Redcars, who they allow each other to relate their own stories when they are ready. They support each other no matter what they need. I Love that RJ while focusing in the 2 main characters still weaves in the others so we see the progression of their relationships too.
I have been loving the scenes with Doc, hes just so unapologetically snarkly and rude. I can not tell you how excited I am that he's getting his own book!!!!
I started and finished Rio in one sitting. These boys pull you into their story and dont let you go till the very last page. 100% recommend this series.
September 24, 2025
This is the third book in the Redcars series, and it's finally Rio’s turn. When an injured Lyric arrives at the garage looking for Jamie, Rio’s initial thought that he’s a threat to them all soon turns to thoughts of protecting the man instead. Lyric has a lot of depth to him and is a fellow hacker from Jamie’s past, but he has a price on his head, and although he finds it hard to trust anyone, he desperately needs their help to stop a mutual enemy.
It was terrific to get to know more about the often angry and troubled Rio’s backstory, and what made him the way he is. I loved how Lyric brought out Rio’s softer side and quietened his darkness as they worked together, and how Rio allowed Lyric to relax and finally just be. There is a lot of chemistry between these two men, and they are so good together.
As fits with the series, this is again a darker story, filled with emotion, intrigue, suspense and heat. The previous couples in the series also make appearances, and together they all bring a very satisfying end to the overarching storyline that began in the first book, with Robbie’s arrival at the garage.
I can’t recommend this book highly enough and am eagerly awaiting Doc’s story.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
It was terrific to get to know more about the often angry and troubled Rio’s backstory, and what made him the way he is. I loved how Lyric brought out Rio’s softer side and quietened his darkness as they worked together, and how Rio allowed Lyric to relax and finally just be. There is a lot of chemistry between these two men, and they are so good together.
As fits with the series, this is again a darker story, filled with emotion, intrigue, suspense and heat. The previous couples in the series also make appearances, and together they all bring a very satisfying end to the overarching storyline that began in the first book, with Robbie’s arrival at the garage.
I can’t recommend this book highly enough and am eagerly awaiting Doc’s story.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
September 17, 2025
Oh MY!
So much is going on in this story that it's hard to decide just what to say and not say so I don't give huge plot points away!
Let's just start with how tense I was at many times, how scared I was for them all, how wonderful it was to watch Rio find his person.
There is betrayal, deceit, revenge, hotness, caring, love and made me want to just bake, bake, bake...lol
Much more and I will have said too much.
Amazing story!
A must read if you have read the 2 previous books.
Find out how our boys are doing, what they get up to and how they deal with protecting those they love.
Enjoy!
So much is going on in this story that it's hard to decide just what to say and not say so I don't give huge plot points away!
Let's just start with how tense I was at many times, how scared I was for them all, how wonderful it was to watch Rio find his person.
There is betrayal, deceit, revenge, hotness, caring, love and made me want to just bake, bake, bake...lol
Much more and I will have said too much.
Amazing story!
A must read if you have read the 2 previous books.
Find out how our boys are doing, what they get up to and how they deal with protecting those they love.
Enjoy!
September 27, 2025
I am sooo disappointed. I want to start by saying I loved the other books in this series but this one was boring as fuck. It wasn't an action-packed or fast-paced story. Ughh I had such high hopes! I was expecting Rio to pulverize people, the same death and mayhem from previous books but there wasn't.
The first 47% of the book was Lyric unconscious or delirious while Rio sat by his bed. Rio was either angry because Lyric couldn't/wouldn't talk or angry because someone tried to make him talk.
Heavy Spoilers below
The story starts where book 2 ended. Rio attacked Lyric (unknown at the time) while Jamie tried to stop him from killing him. Rio knocked his head on the wall and threw him down essentially rendering him useless for the first 40% of the book. You get snips of thoughts and delirious dreams but that's it. Everyone is angry and worried Lyric is there to harm so everyone hates him untillllll he gives Jamie some code to check. OFF PAGE Jamie and others work their magic and back ON PAGE they confirm Lyric isn't bad. Lyric eventually comes around and starts working with Jamie (again OFF PAGE and non-descriptive).
During all that, Rio is expected at a cage match because he missed one earlier in the book. During the short match, he almost kills the guy but Doc saves him and sends Rio home.
Rio gets to Redcar and Enzo patches him up while Lyric watches on. Lyric is freaking out because he thinks it was about him and threatens to leave. After Enzo leaves we get a lackluster blowjob/handjob between MCs.
*******Side note. I think I was just expecting Rio to get railed like he did in books 1 & 2. Jamie was always complaining about the loud rough sex and this wasn't it. I don't see how Rio could change his sexual preferences so fast and go for soft sex.
Anyways.... you get 1 more (on page) sex scene that was again soft(for lack of better words) but dominating.
******We don't even get the side character reactions when they find out about Rio and Lyric fucking.
No teasing or lectures nothing NO REACTION!!
Someone breaks onto the property but Rio kills him pretty quickly after getting information from him. They devise a plan to turn Lyric in for the bounty so he can kill the AI technology once and for all.
Now we are at 88%. Rio and Lyric are walking into the Kessler tower hoping to shut it down....The scene was overdescriptive but they arrived at the room containing Kessler. He had been locked(by the program) in for weeks while the program hunted Lyric. Lyric places a device and 60 seconds later they control Lyricnight(AI) turn it against itself. They let Kessler die by shutting down the safety protocols for the room he was in. He does die a slow death.
The end.
The first 47% of the book was Lyric unconscious or delirious while Rio sat by his bed. Rio was either angry because Lyric couldn't/wouldn't talk or angry because someone tried to make him talk.
Heavy Spoilers below
The story starts where book 2 ended. Rio attacked Lyric (unknown at the time) while Jamie tried to stop him from killing him. Rio knocked his head on the wall and threw him down essentially rendering him useless for the first 40% of the book. You get snips of thoughts and delirious dreams but that's it. Everyone is angry and worried Lyric is there to harm so everyone hates him untillllll he gives Jamie some code to check. OFF PAGE Jamie and others work their magic and back ON PAGE they confirm Lyric isn't bad. Lyric eventually comes around and starts working with Jamie (again OFF PAGE and non-descriptive).
During all that, Rio is expected at a cage match because he missed one earlier in the book. During the short match, he almost kills the guy but Doc saves him and sends Rio home.
Rio gets to Redcar and Enzo patches him up while Lyric watches on. Lyric is freaking out because he thinks it was about him and threatens to leave. After Enzo leaves we get a lackluster blowjob/handjob between MCs.
*******Side note. I think I was just expecting Rio to get railed like he did in books 1 & 2. Jamie was always complaining about the loud rough sex and this wasn't it. I don't see how Rio could change his sexual preferences so fast and go for soft sex.
Anyways.... you get 1 more (on page) sex scene that was again soft(for lack of better words) but dominating.
******We don't even get the side character reactions when they find out about Rio and Lyric fucking.
No teasing or lectures nothing NO REACTION!!
Someone breaks onto the property but Rio kills him pretty quickly after getting information from him. They devise a plan to turn Lyric in for the bounty so he can kill the AI technology once and for all.
Now we are at 88%. Rio and Lyric are walking into the Kessler tower hoping to shut it down....The scene was overdescriptive but they arrived at the room containing Kessler. He had been locked(by the program) in for weeks while the program hunted Lyric. Lyric places a device and 60 seconds later they control Lyricnight(AI) turn it against itself. They let Kessler die by shutting down the safety protocols for the room he was in. He does die a slow death.
The end.
October 8, 2025
This series really needs to be read in order to keep up with the timeline on everything. In this installment, the Redcars crew is still on the hunt to take down Kessler and anyone else involved with what happened to Robbie. Lyric is an old gamer buddy of Jamie who has gotten himself involved with Kessler through his hacking and coding abilities. He is now on the run after the AI system they were using took control of itself, turned the tables and has been trying to take Lyric and others out via dark web contracts. With seemingly nowhere else to turn and trying to remain hidden, he turns to the Redcars crew for help. Rio is the one who finds him.
Rio has a few issues of his own, most notably his need to protect his found family, guilt issues over events in his past and his need to punish himself for same and simultaneously ease his aggressions through underground cage fighting. He is extremely skeptical of Lyric and his intentions, and it takes quite a bit of time for him to come around. The others get on board more quickly seeing Lyric as their best way to get to Kessler.
The story twists and turns a bit as they try to thwart the AI system and make a plan to both get to Kessler and shut the whole thing down. Eventually, Rio no longer fights his attraction to Lyric, especially when Lyric shows him he is actually a stronger alpha type than he appears and can be just what Rio needs.
I struggled a little with this one and all the AI stuff even though it was pivotal to the story. Rio’s fighting, which seemed to be such a big part of his life, seemed to just fizzle out, so I was hoping for that topic to have a little more meat to it. But, all in all, I love this series and the guys involved. I admit that I’m pretty excited to finally get Doc’s story. He has been a bit mysterious and clearly has a big story to tell. Hopefully, the guys will all end up finding the peace they have worked so hard to find while getting the second chances Redcars has given them.
Review written for Love Bytes Reviews.
October 2, 2025
I only have one complaint about this book: IT FELT TOO SHORT!
It’s so good it feels like I started reading it and then I was done😅
Rio was exactly what I expected him to be. Sweet, loyal and ready to knock out anyone who threatened his family. Unfortunately for Lyric, he was piled into that group of threats if only for a moment.
All Rio thought was that Lyric was there to hurt his family and didn’t think twice before acting on it. His deep rooted rage came to the surface and there was nothing that could calm him down. He saw a threat and wanted to neutralize it.
From the start of the book my heart started breaking. What happened to Rio when he was younger was absolutely heartbreaking. I’m glad the guys made the one responsible pay. Rio never forgot what happened with Daniel. The fact that he cared about him made it even more painful.
Lyric wasn’t what I expected. He might have been small and lean but he sure had what it took to take care of Rio. Love when little guys are the ones to dominate the big guys. And boy did Lyric dominate Rio😁
Rio needed someone to give up his control over and Lyric didn’t take it for granted. I love their chemistry and dynamic. Rio finally found someone who really saw him. And Lyric could finally stop running and build a new life.
This whole series has been absolutely incredible. I just love how the guys have gone above and beyond to make those that hurt Robbie pay. Our baby boy has the best protectors in the world.
Now I NEED doc’s story because I seriously hate him. But I’ve learned that every villain has a story and they weren’t always evil, so I’m giving doc the benefit of the doubt 😆
It’s so good it feels like I started reading it and then I was done😅
Rio was exactly what I expected him to be. Sweet, loyal and ready to knock out anyone who threatened his family. Unfortunately for Lyric, he was piled into that group of threats if only for a moment.
All Rio thought was that Lyric was there to hurt his family and didn’t think twice before acting on it. His deep rooted rage came to the surface and there was nothing that could calm him down. He saw a threat and wanted to neutralize it.
From the start of the book my heart started breaking. What happened to Rio when he was younger was absolutely heartbreaking. I’m glad the guys made the one responsible pay. Rio never forgot what happened with Daniel. The fact that he cared about him made it even more painful.
Lyric wasn’t what I expected. He might have been small and lean but he sure had what it took to take care of Rio. Love when little guys are the ones to dominate the big guys. And boy did Lyric dominate Rio😁
Rio needed someone to give up his control over and Lyric didn’t take it for granted. I love their chemistry and dynamic. Rio finally found someone who really saw him. And Lyric could finally stop running and build a new life.
This whole series has been absolutely incredible. I just love how the guys have gone above and beyond to make those that hurt Robbie pay. Our baby boy has the best protectors in the world.
Now I NEED doc’s story because I seriously hate him. But I’ve learned that every villain has a story and they weren’t always evil, so I’m giving doc the benefit of the doubt 😆
September 26, 2025
This is the third book in this dark series from RJ. It is fast-paced and action-packed but be aware it is an explicitly violent thriller but it is interlaced with a beautiful comlicated romance.
The theme of the series is found family and the lengths they will go to, to protect the people they love.
When Lyric shows up on deaths door Rio is all for kicking him to the kerb but as reluctant as he is Lyric becomes family. This relationship between Rio and Lyric confuses them both, neither were expecting it and it is made all the sweeter for it.
The scary element of this story is around AI and the rich, greedy people that play and prey on people’s lives and this is where the book delves into the darker side of how they are unleashing something on the public that might even be out of their control, as AI takes control.
Rio and Lyric are very complex characters but their backstories give us a good idea of just why they are the people they have become and as they begin to peel back their layers and become vulnerable to each other I shed a tear, ok lots of tears.
It was good to see that Robbie, with the support from Enzo, is becoming stronger each day.
As much as I enjoy the series it makes difficult reading at times, a lot of the time, so please heed the trigger warnings as this is not RJ’s usual romance book.
The theme of the series is found family and the lengths they will go to, to protect the people they love.
When Lyric shows up on deaths door Rio is all for kicking him to the kerb but as reluctant as he is Lyric becomes family. This relationship between Rio and Lyric confuses them both, neither were expecting it and it is made all the sweeter for it.
The scary element of this story is around AI and the rich, greedy people that play and prey on people’s lives and this is where the book delves into the darker side of how they are unleashing something on the public that might even be out of their control, as AI takes control.
Rio and Lyric are very complex characters but their backstories give us a good idea of just why they are the people they have become and as they begin to peel back their layers and become vulnerable to each other I shed a tear, ok lots of tears.
It was good to see that Robbie, with the support from Enzo, is becoming stronger each day.
As much as I enjoy the series it makes difficult reading at times, a lot of the time, so please heed the trigger warnings as this is not RJ’s usual romance book.
October 12, 2025
I've said it before - I love RJ Scott's books no matter what she decides to write, but for me she's at her best when she ventures on the darker side. And Redcars is dark so make sure to read possible trigger warnings.
Morally grey, body and soul wounded and flawed characters in this series along found family are what I'm usually looking for in a book. I believe that angst that goes along is a given but so are strong bonds and warmth that goes without saying in chosen family.
I was really looking forward to this book because Rio was a mess that needed to be deciphered. Where did his, a mile wide protective streak come from? Does he ever lower his walls and just let go, and what happens when he does? The answer to some of the above is Lyric and the dynamic between the two might surprise you. And here's the reason for 4 instead of 5 stars. It's maybe really just a minor thing for some readers but I really missed more background story. How did Lyric end up at the point he's right now? There was a promising hint/dream/memory? that sadly lead nowhere.
Honestly I've noticed that this author rarely goes above certain page/word count. Well maybe sometimes you just need to let go and see where your characters take you. You might be surprised.
I'm really looking forward to Doc's book. He's the most mysterious and seemly the darkest character in this series, so bring it!
Morally grey, body and soul wounded and flawed characters in this series along found family are what I'm usually looking for in a book. I believe that angst that goes along is a given but so are strong bonds and warmth that goes without saying in chosen family.
I was really looking forward to this book because Rio was a mess that needed to be deciphered. Where did his, a mile wide protective streak come from? Does he ever lower his walls and just let go, and what happens when he does? The answer to some of the above is Lyric and the dynamic between the two might surprise you. And here's the reason for 4 instead of 5 stars. It's maybe really just a minor thing for some readers but I really missed more background story. How did Lyric end up at the point he's right now? There was a promising hint/dream/memory? that sadly lead nowhere.
Honestly I've noticed that this author rarely goes above certain page/word count. Well maybe sometimes you just need to let go and see where your characters take you. You might be surprised.
I'm really looking forward to Doc's book. He's the most mysterious and seemly the darkest character in this series, so bring it!
January 3, 2026
**4.5** (content warnings)
This series is so damn good! I'm glad that we have Rio's book after his best friend and housemate, Jamie, found his HEA. They were each other's support and with that not really around now, Rio is kind of spiralling.
We start this book as we finished book two, with Lyric turning up, in search of Jamie. Certain that he's there to hurt the ones he loves, Rio is in full protector mode from the start but he soon starts to feel that way about Lyric, something he finds confusing and adds to the noise in his head, which he deals with by underground fighting. Something that has had a huge impact on his life, the reason he ended up at Redcars.
Lyric has nowhere left to go. Jamie is his last hope in escaping and destroying LyricNight, and finally being done with Kessler, the one who the guys from Redcars want the most for what he did to Robbie.
It's an intense story with moments of suspense and a connection that slowly builds between Lyric and Rio. Reading their relationship develop is really interesting as it probably has a different dynamic to what some would think. I love the scenes we still get to have with the other guys from Redcars, especially one poignant scene between Robbie and Lyric.
This is a fantastic continuation of the Redcars series and, I've heard it's not the last one! The epilogue for this book made me happy, after the intensity of the book and getting to see the men enjoying the lighter side of life.
**Content warning - memory of killing someone, fighting, recollection of abuse**
This series is so damn good! I'm glad that we have Rio's book after his best friend and housemate, Jamie, found his HEA. They were each other's support and with that not really around now, Rio is kind of spiralling.
We start this book as we finished book two, with Lyric turning up, in search of Jamie. Certain that he's there to hurt the ones he loves, Rio is in full protector mode from the start but he soon starts to feel that way about Lyric, something he finds confusing and adds to the noise in his head, which he deals with by underground fighting. Something that has had a huge impact on his life, the reason he ended up at Redcars.
Lyric has nowhere left to go. Jamie is his last hope in escaping and destroying LyricNight, and finally being done with Kessler, the one who the guys from Redcars want the most for what he did to Robbie.
It's an intense story with moments of suspense and a connection that slowly builds between Lyric and Rio. Reading their relationship develop is really interesting as it probably has a different dynamic to what some would think. I love the scenes we still get to have with the other guys from Redcars, especially one poignant scene between Robbie and Lyric.
This is a fantastic continuation of the Redcars series and, I've heard it's not the last one! The epilogue for this book made me happy, after the intensity of the book and getting to see the men enjoying the lighter side of life.
**Content warning - memory of killing someone, fighting, recollection of abuse**
September 24, 2025
Third in series (Redcars), best if read in order. Hurt/comfort. Found family. Slow burn. Dual POV. Heed content warnings.
Rio has been a fighter all his life, and he will do anything to protect his found family, and he certainly doesn’t trust the hacker that knows a little too much about the men of Redcars and their enemies. Lyric has been on the run and in survival mode for a long time, he doesn’t need or want a protector but he’s run out of time, so Rio and the group at Redcars may be his last hope.
This story remains entrenched in the overarching plotline that began with Robbie’s terrible past and the men of Redcars attempting to take down a list of bad guys. Lyric can help with his hacking knowledge and he and Rio slowly begin a tentative truce where they are able to see deeper parts of the other which leads to a quickly forming bond. I do wish there was more time spent with just Lyric and Rio getting to know each other, but the found family aspect was strong with the same supporting characters throughout the series. I enjoyed Lyric and Rio together and look forward to another (perhaps the last?) book in the series.
Rio has been a fighter all his life, and he will do anything to protect his found family, and he certainly doesn’t trust the hacker that knows a little too much about the men of Redcars and their enemies. Lyric has been on the run and in survival mode for a long time, he doesn’t need or want a protector but he’s run out of time, so Rio and the group at Redcars may be his last hope.
This story remains entrenched in the overarching plotline that began with Robbie’s terrible past and the men of Redcars attempting to take down a list of bad guys. Lyric can help with his hacking knowledge and he and Rio slowly begin a tentative truce where they are able to see deeper parts of the other which leads to a quickly forming bond. I do wish there was more time spent with just Lyric and Rio getting to know each other, but the found family aspect was strong with the same supporting characters throughout the series. I enjoyed Lyric and Rio together and look forward to another (perhaps the last?) book in the series.
September 26, 2025
Rio is a revelation. A cage fighter with a past that bleeds through every glance and gesture, he’s a walking contradiction—brutal yet tender, possessive yet loyal. His internal war is mesmerizing, and Scott captures it with raw, poetic intensity. That line—“I wasn’t sure if I wanted to kiss him or destroy the world for him. Maybe both.”—is the emotional thesis of the book. Rio doesn’t just protect Lyric; he redefines what protection means. Lyric’s evolution is beautifully paced. His interactions with Robbie peel back layers of trauma and resilience, and Robbie’s own story adds depth and warmth. Their friendship is a quiet counterpoint to the storm of Rio and Lyric’s connection. Their bond is feral, magnetic, and unapologetically intense. Scott doesn’t shy away from the darker edges of love—she embraces them. “I craved him in the quiet and the chaos” isn’t just a line—it’s a mood, a mantra, a promise. Their claiming of each other is primal and poetic, and it lingers long after the final page. This book is a knockout. If you’re drawn to stories that explore love in its most dangerous, devoted form, this one will wreck you—in the best way.
October 2, 2025
I’ve been a huge RJ Scot fan for over ten years. The first books I read were on the sweeter side – the Redcars series is not and that is just fine with me. Over the ten years I’ve found that RJ can write all different kinds of stories and some of her grittier ones have become favorites.
Rio is full of rage but he tries desperately to hold it in – except when he perceives a threat to his Redcars family. His first meet up with Lyric isn’t pretty and I almost wondered how RJ was going to take that first meeting and get Rio and Lyric to become a couple. I wasn’t really worried because I knew she’d get them there and that it would be worth every heart-pounding moment – and it was.
The Redcars series must be read in order or you most likely won’t be able to appreciate everything that happens because the stories build on each other. Rio kind of wraps up what was started in book one but there is more to come and we’ll finally get to know what’s going on with Doc in the next book. Doc has been kind of a mysterious character in each of the first three books and I can’t wait to read more about him.
An advanced copy of this book was provided to me at my request; my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author.
Rio is full of rage but he tries desperately to hold it in – except when he perceives a threat to his Redcars family. His first meet up with Lyric isn’t pretty and I almost wondered how RJ was going to take that first meeting and get Rio and Lyric to become a couple. I wasn’t really worried because I knew she’d get them there and that it would be worth every heart-pounding moment – and it was.
The Redcars series must be read in order or you most likely won’t be able to appreciate everything that happens because the stories build on each other. Rio kind of wraps up what was started in book one but there is more to come and we’ll finally get to know what’s going on with Doc in the next book. Doc has been kind of a mysterious character in each of the first three books and I can’t wait to read more about him.
An advanced copy of this book was provided to me at my request; my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author.
December 17, 2025
This is the third book in the Redcars series and they have to be read in order.
It starts where book 2 ends, with Rio finding a wounded Lyric.
Similar to how Jamie needs the fire, Rio needs the fight.
It is interesting to see how Lyric gets him so fast and how he manages to show that just because you are big and tough, you can't be the one who let go as well.
Rio doesn't really know why Lyric gets so fast under his skin but it's an instant protection need when the danger Lyric is in becomes clear.
The book has a very different path than Enzo and Jamie, slower, more about the connection between Rio and Lyric than going gung-ho into the fight.
It also is about an interesting topic, how can/will AI evolve. Let's hope the author has just a very vivid imagination here.
Rio's fight "career" fizzles out and I find that is a loose thread in this story. I would have also loved to see him finding peace on-page, especially with regards to the incident which brought him behind bars in the first place.
Next up is Doc and that will be an interesting one I think.
It starts where book 2 ends, with Rio finding a wounded Lyric.
Similar to how Jamie needs the fire, Rio needs the fight.
It is interesting to see how Lyric gets him so fast and how he manages to show that just because you are big and tough, you can't be the one who let go as well.
Rio doesn't really know why Lyric gets so fast under his skin but it's an instant protection need when the danger Lyric is in becomes clear.
The book has a very different path than Enzo and Jamie, slower, more about the connection between Rio and Lyric than going gung-ho into the fight.
It also is about an interesting topic, how can/will AI evolve. Let's hope the author has just a very vivid imagination here.
Rio's fight "career" fizzles out and I find that is a loose thread in this story. I would have also loved to see him finding peace on-page, especially with regards to the incident which brought him behind bars in the first place.
Next up is Doc and that will be an interesting one I think.
November 18, 2025
This was the most intense book of the series so far and I was nervous the whole time I was reading. Lyric was so tortured and I was scared when Rio attacked him when he showed up at Redcars because he thought he was a danger to his family. What was so scary was the program that Lyric wrote took on a life of its own and was trying to destroy Lyric to protect itself. It was weird when Lyric was getting texts from Kessler that seemed to be cries for help. I didn't blame Rio when Lyric went to KessTech to infiltrate in order to input a program to make the malevolent destroy itself. Not being a tech person I was a bit lost about the tech talk but I admit that I was pleased that Kessler was in the glass prison and wanted out but was so hateful and monstrous that when his air was being sucked out and he slowly died I was thinking about others who also deserved the same fate.
I really am interested in Doc's story.
I really am interested in Doc's story.
September 30, 2025
Rio is book #3 in the Redcars series by R.J. Scott.
This is a fast-paced, action-packed thriller romance that will keep the reader on the edge of their seat.
Both Rio and Lyric are complex characters and we thankfully get their backstories that well explain why and how they became who and what they are.
I enjoyed learning about them, watching them peel back a layer at a time, and allow themselves to be vulnerable.
As fits with the series, this is again a darker story, filled with emotion, intrigue, suspense and heat. The previous couples in the series also make appearances.
I can’t recommend this book highly enough and am eagerly awaiting Doc’s story.
This is a fast-paced, action-packed thriller romance that will keep the reader on the edge of their seat.
Both Rio and Lyric are complex characters and we thankfully get their backstories that well explain why and how they became who and what they are.
I enjoyed learning about them, watching them peel back a layer at a time, and allow themselves to be vulnerable.
As fits with the series, this is again a darker story, filled with emotion, intrigue, suspense and heat. The previous couples in the series also make appearances.
I can’t recommend this book highly enough and am eagerly awaiting Doc’s story.
October 4, 2025
Good book, kept me interested. Lots of suspense and it continues from the book before and finishes of what was started in the first book, so I say their stories are done but I’m sure we’ll be reading more of The RedCars gang and their men in Doc’s book. Rio I always thought quiet but I was wrong, he had a lot of anger issues and needed to get it out in underground fights, Lyric, on the run looking for Jamie to help him take down a crazy AI that’s sending out contracts for his death and Rio takes him in and cares for him and being a bodyguard, but his friends help out too. They talk and become close and one thing leads to another and they become an item. Happy ending, always good!
January 1, 2026
Book 3 | Dark romance Ex-con x Hacker | Rio x Lyric
MM | KU | HEA
✨ CW: Read blurb & Author's note. Continues dark themes from previous books, although I found this alot less dark than previous
✨ I really could not connect with characters as much in this book, I was so excited based on the Rio we have seen in the previous two books. The Rio we got just seemed a bit meh, the romance development for me was lacking
✨ I will say I did like that this book concluded what the redcars team were "hunting" - I am excited to read Doc's book though and hopefully get a look inside his inner workings
✨ Overall a good edition to the series and look forward to the coming books
MM | KU | HEA
✨ CW: Read blurb & Author's note. Continues dark themes from previous books, although I found this alot less dark than previous
✨ I really could not connect with characters as much in this book, I was so excited based on the Rio we have seen in the previous two books. The Rio we got just seemed a bit meh, the romance development for me was lacking
✨ I will say I did like that this book concluded what the redcars team were "hunting" - I am excited to read Doc's book though and hopefully get a look inside his inner workings
✨ Overall a good edition to the series and look forward to the coming books
September 14, 2025
A fast paced action packed book with an alarming take on how AI could behave in the future in the wrong hands. Lyric's code and work was stolen and corrupted and he is now on the run trying to work out who is far enough in the past to be safe to approach and settles on Jamie. Rio sees only a threat to his family which needs to be contained. The story does really make you think about AI in a very different way. I loved seeing the development of this amazing group of men and particularly Robbie who is finding himself more in each book. Really looking forward to Doc and Levi's story.
September 24, 2025
The Redcars series keeps getting better with each successive story. At first I found it hard to connect with Rio due to his overwhelming rage, and Lyric wasn't able to properly express himself for the first portion of the book. But as Lyric healed and he and Rio explored their attraction, their chemistry was off the charts. I enjoyed Redcars' "I will burn down the world for the people I love" mindset. However, there were a number of continuity breaks around both important and trivial details, plus difficult themes that continued in this book, so it didn't reach the 5-star mark for me.
September 28, 2025
Rio is willing to do whatever is needed to protect his found family. When Lyric comes into his world he automatically thinks the worse. By the time he realizes Lyric isn't the bad guy, Lyric is hurt. When Lyric heals they work things out and become close.
The storyline from books 1 & 2 continues here. The world and character building are good. The chemistry between Rio and Lyric is good. I did think that Rio was rather tame in the second half of the book compared to the previous books. Really liking this series. Definitely worth reading.
The storyline from books 1 & 2 continues here. The world and character building are good. The chemistry between Rio and Lyric is good. I did think that Rio was rather tame in the second half of the book compared to the previous books. Really liking this series. Definitely worth reading.
October 2, 2025
I enjoyed this book so much! It has so much raw emotion and brutality contrasted by camaraderie, loyalty, passion, and love. In this book, Rio, a haunted street fighter and mechanic, meets his person in Lyric, the computer hacker who is being pursued by a runaway, sentient AI that Lyric originally created.
The various threads of the story come together well, with many realistic details. The friend/family group advances in its commitment to justice, destroying the network that had tortured one of their own, and a beautiful HEA. I can't wait to read Bk 4 in the series!
The various threads of the story come together well, with many realistic details. The friend/family group advances in its commitment to justice, destroying the network that had tortured one of their own, and a beautiful HEA. I can't wait to read Bk 4 in the series!
September 28, 2025
Opposites attract, slow burn, hurt/comfort
Lyric is a hacker with knowledge he really shouldn't have, and he needs protection.
Rio absolutely doesn't trust him but grudgingly offers that protection.
As they slowly get to know one another, they're able to let their guard down and be vulnerable together.
There's secrets still being uncovered and betryals all leading up to what should be an explosive ending.
Lyric is a hacker with knowledge he really shouldn't have, and he needs protection.
Rio absolutely doesn't trust him but grudgingly offers that protection.
As they slowly get to know one another, they're able to let their guard down and be vulnerable together.
There's secrets still being uncovered and betryals all leading up to what should be an explosive ending.
September 29, 2025
Another fantastic book in this series. I was really looking forward to Rio and Lyric's story and was not disappointed, fast paced and full of action and back story of how they became the people they are. At the beginning of the book I was hoping the Doc would get a book, when I got to the end discovered his book is next, so very happy. Great interesting characters. A really great happy ending. Highly recommend.
January 3, 2026
I don’t even have words for this book. Out of the released books, this one is my favourite.
Rio is my favourite of the Redcars men. Hands down. I loved how he was with Jamie, I loved the protective nature he automatically took with Robbie. He’s just, incredible.
Lyric. Resilient as heck, stubborn. He’s perfect for rio in every way, and I’m so happy about this ending.
If you like fast-paced action with romance, read this series!!!
Rio is my favourite of the Redcars men. Hands down. I loved how he was with Jamie, I loved the protective nature he automatically took with Robbie. He’s just, incredible.
Lyric. Resilient as heck, stubborn. He’s perfect for rio in every way, and I’m so happy about this ending.
If you like fast-paced action with romance, read this series!!!
September 17, 2025
While they might seem like opposites, Rio and Lyric are the best fit for each other. One being as straightforward as they come and the other having so many facets that with every turn of the page something new comes forward. But through it all they bring out the best in each other making this an emotional and very well done addition to the series.
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