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Redcars #4
Doc
Raised in hell. Remade in blood. Levi is a mercy that he won’t survive.
Doc has lived his whole life in the shadows, using sharp skills and colder instincts to keep his sister and her kids safe. He fixes problems no one talks about, navigates dangerous circles without leaving a trace, and has learned that survival means staying hidden, staying in control, and never letting anyone close enough to see the cracks.
Detective Levi Rosen is the exception he never planned for.
Levi should walk away the moment he realizes Doc is tied to a world of underground violence, organ traffickers, and buried bodies. Instead, he finds himself drawn to the man behind the mask—the quiet precision, the impossible loyalty, and fear buried so deep it barely shows.
Together, they’re forced to navigate a violent network, shifting loyalties, and a past that’s been hunting Doc since he was a boy. And Levi has to decide how far he’s willing to go for a man who doesn’t believe he deserves to be saved.
Doc is a dark, emotional MM romantic suspense about trauma, obsession, forced proximity, morally grey choices, found family, and choosing someone even when the world keeps trying to take them away. This is Book 4 in the Redcars series and should be read in order.
Doc has lived his whole life in the shadows, using sharp skills and colder instincts to keep his sister and her kids safe. He fixes problems no one talks about, navigates dangerous circles without leaving a trace, and has learned that survival means staying hidden, staying in control, and never letting anyone close enough to see the cracks.
Detective Levi Rosen is the exception he never planned for.
Levi should walk away the moment he realizes Doc is tied to a world of underground violence, organ traffickers, and buried bodies. Instead, he finds himself drawn to the man behind the mask—the quiet precision, the impossible loyalty, and fear buried so deep it barely shows.
Together, they’re forced to navigate a violent network, shifting loyalties, and a past that’s been hunting Doc since he was a boy. And Levi has to decide how far he’s willing to go for a man who doesn’t believe he deserves to be saved.
Doc is a dark, emotional MM romantic suspense about trauma, obsession, forced proximity, morally grey choices, found family, and choosing someone even when the world keeps trying to take them away. This is Book 4 in the Redcars series and should be read in order.
330 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 9, 2026
47 people are currently reading
67 people want to read
About the author
R.J. Scott
307 books2,719 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 45 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
First read of 2026. Most likely will break my heart, just based on what I've read of this so far.
Thanks, RJ, for the ARC. I'm going in...
After reading this book:
I'm not okay. I'm in tears. This is possibly the darkest, grittiest romantic suspense book I've ever read. There are horrors inside, things that are the stuff of nightmares. Things that don't seem survivable, things that no one, certainly not a child, should ever have to see or live through.
And yet, despite the horrors, despite the gritty, raw and vivid descriptions of those horrors, there is a tiny ribbon of love, of hope, of a reason to live for, that flows through the whole book.
When I first met Doc in book 1 (Enzo), I thought he was older, maybe mid to late 30s or even in his 40s, and I wasn't disabused of that notion in the 2nd or 3rd book either. Yet, here we find out that Doc is not even 30 yet, and that the cold, detached persona we've so far seen is a defense mechanism, a tool he used to stay alive, to keep his sister and her kids alive. The things he saw as a child - I cried for him.
I also had met Levi before - he's the cop who's part of the Cave. Levi's background, while not as horrifying as Doc's, is also dark, and this has shaped him into the man he is today. He's plagued by his father's misdeeds, and he's unfairly held responsible for the things his father did when Levi was just a child.
Both operate in a morally gray area, with Levi's life a balancing act between his responsibilities as a cop and his desire to take out the bad guys with any means possible. Both have to deal with the sins of their fathers, with Doc facing nearly insurmountable odds to make it out alive of the situation that his father's actions put him in.
The romance is not center-stage, but woven directly and seamlessly into the action, just like the previous books' romances, and both of them fight the attraction initially, for reasons, and both can't find the will to stop it from progressing, to stay away, to walk away. Their characterizations made sense and felt realistic, and their actions and behaviors also felt organic and realistic in the circumstances of their lives.
Please heed the trigger warnings, please heed the author's note. This isn't an easy book to read, containing very dark themes, but it's a compelling and intense read, with Doc's resilience and strength in the face of utter evil, and Levi's moral compass, which, while gray, still leads him to do the right thing for the right reasons being the most compelling.
What a book to start off the year. I'm not okay. You probably won't be either, but if you can deal with the themes inside, you should absolutely read this book.
** I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review **
Thanks, RJ, for the ARC. I'm going in...
After reading this book:
I'm not okay. I'm in tears. This is possibly the darkest, grittiest romantic suspense book I've ever read. There are horrors inside, things that are the stuff of nightmares. Things that don't seem survivable, things that no one, certainly not a child, should ever have to see or live through.
And yet, despite the horrors, despite the gritty, raw and vivid descriptions of those horrors, there is a tiny ribbon of love, of hope, of a reason to live for, that flows through the whole book.
When I first met Doc in book 1 (Enzo), I thought he was older, maybe mid to late 30s or even in his 40s, and I wasn't disabused of that notion in the 2nd or 3rd book either. Yet, here we find out that Doc is not even 30 yet, and that the cold, detached persona we've so far seen is a defense mechanism, a tool he used to stay alive, to keep his sister and her kids alive. The things he saw as a child - I cried for him.
I also had met Levi before - he's the cop who's part of the Cave. Levi's background, while not as horrifying as Doc's, is also dark, and this has shaped him into the man he is today. He's plagued by his father's misdeeds, and he's unfairly held responsible for the things his father did when Levi was just a child.
Both operate in a morally gray area, with Levi's life a balancing act between his responsibilities as a cop and his desire to take out the bad guys with any means possible. Both have to deal with the sins of their fathers, with Doc facing nearly insurmountable odds to make it out alive of the situation that his father's actions put him in.
The romance is not center-stage, but woven directly and seamlessly into the action, just like the previous books' romances, and both of them fight the attraction initially, for reasons, and both can't find the will to stop it from progressing, to stay away, to walk away. Their characterizations made sense and felt realistic, and their actions and behaviors also felt organic and realistic in the circumstances of their lives.
Please heed the trigger warnings, please heed the author's note. This isn't an easy book to read, containing very dark themes, but it's a compelling and intense read, with Doc's resilience and strength in the face of utter evil, and Levi's moral compass, which, while gray, still leads him to do the right thing for the right reasons being the most compelling.
What a book to start off the year. I'm not okay. You probably won't be either, but if you can deal with the themes inside, you should absolutely read this book.
** I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review **
Review of advance copy received from Author
I really liked it. Rio still has the title of my favorite in this series, but finally seeing more of elusive and mysterious Doc was incredibly satisfying. The romantic build up was rough, with less feeling than the past ones, but given that Doc has a hard time even having feelings it makes sense with him.
I'm glad we're getting more books in this series than what was originally planned, I've been really liking the dark lean on this series
I'm glad we're getting more books in this series than what was originally planned, I've been really liking the dark lean on this series
January 9, 2026
I KNEW IT! I just knew Doc’s story would be an amazing one. I also knew it would wreck me🥺
No wonder he was such a cold, heartless man to those who didn’t know him or the reason for his behavior. There was so much pain hiding inside him that all he could do was wear a mask of indifference in order to not lose his marbles.
Levi was so taken by Doc that he didn’t even notice what hit him. The moment he laid eyes on him, everything else took a back seat. He was just so intrigued by our Doc that it was only a matter of time before they collided.
Doc didn’t fair any better. The attraction to Levi went beyond his control and despite his aversion to cops, there was something about Levi that took hold of Doc and wouldn’t let go. He just kept coming back for more.
I loved how Levi inadvertently made Doc feel so safe that he let down his walls without realizing it. Levi was the only one who could make him feel normal and quiet his mind.
Doc was a much better person than he gave himself credit for. Everything he did was to protect those who couldn’t protect themselves and no matter what methods he used, he did the right thing by getting rid of those who harmed him and his family.
It was so cool seeing the Redcars and Cave gang working together with Doc. Jamie being Jamie will always make me smile. Love my crazy pyro!
I don’t know how RJ managed to make this book even better than the previous ones but I love her for it! Doc’s story needed to be told so we could understand him better and love him.
Every villain has an origin story and as far as origin stories go, this one was absolutely amazing!
No wonder he was such a cold, heartless man to those who didn’t know him or the reason for his behavior. There was so much pain hiding inside him that all he could do was wear a mask of indifference in order to not lose his marbles.
Levi was so taken by Doc that he didn’t even notice what hit him. The moment he laid eyes on him, everything else took a back seat. He was just so intrigued by our Doc that it was only a matter of time before they collided.
Doc didn’t fair any better. The attraction to Levi went beyond his control and despite his aversion to cops, there was something about Levi that took hold of Doc and wouldn’t let go. He just kept coming back for more.
I loved how Levi inadvertently made Doc feel so safe that he let down his walls without realizing it. Levi was the only one who could make him feel normal and quiet his mind.
Doc was a much better person than he gave himself credit for. Everything he did was to protect those who couldn’t protect themselves and no matter what methods he used, he did the right thing by getting rid of those who harmed him and his family.
It was so cool seeing the Redcars and Cave gang working together with Doc. Jamie being Jamie will always make me smile. Love my crazy pyro!
I don’t know how RJ managed to make this book even better than the previous ones but I love her for it! Doc’s story needed to be told so we could understand him better and love him.
Every villain has an origin story and as far as origin stories go, this one was absolutely amazing!
Review of advance copy received from Author
OMG!!!! I cried 😭
I’m absolutely loving RJ Scott’s morally grey Redcars series. The fourth book, Doc, is much darker and grittier than the first three, making it a haunting but amazing addition to the collection. If you want romantic suspense where the suspense actually takes centre stage, this is the book for you.
Doc is a fascinating character. He was raised in a literal hell and operates in an underworld of shadows, but because everything he does is to protect his family, it’s easy to root for him. He starts off cold and closed off, but watching his control slip when he meets Levi is incredibly moving. It's obvious that Doc is lonely and just wants to be loved.
The chemistry between them is explosive, though both men carry a lot of trauma. Levi is the perfect match for Doc, he offers grace and a chance at redemption to a man who doesn't think he deserves to be forgiven.
RJ Scott doesn't hold back on the darkness, but she balances it perfectly with a beautiful hurt/comfort love story. My favourite part was seeing just how far Levi fell for Doc. It was also great to see the loyal Redcars crew again and watch Doc finally find a place where he feels safe and truly belongs.
Please be aware of the trigger warnings at the beginning of the story. There is mention of historical physical and mental abuse, rape, torture, organ trafficking, dark revenge, and violence.
I’m absolutely loving RJ Scott’s morally grey Redcars series. The fourth book, Doc, is much darker and grittier than the first three, making it a haunting but amazing addition to the collection. If you want romantic suspense where the suspense actually takes centre stage, this is the book for you.
Doc is a fascinating character. He was raised in a literal hell and operates in an underworld of shadows, but because everything he does is to protect his family, it’s easy to root for him. He starts off cold and closed off, but watching his control slip when he meets Levi is incredibly moving. It's obvious that Doc is lonely and just wants to be loved.
The chemistry between them is explosive, though both men carry a lot of trauma. Levi is the perfect match for Doc, he offers grace and a chance at redemption to a man who doesn't think he deserves to be forgiven.
RJ Scott doesn't hold back on the darkness, but she balances it perfectly with a beautiful hurt/comfort love story. My favourite part was seeing just how far Levi fell for Doc. It was also great to see the loyal Redcars crew again and watch Doc finally find a place where he feels safe and truly belongs.
Please be aware of the trigger warnings at the beginning of the story. There is mention of historical physical and mental abuse, rape, torture, organ trafficking, dark revenge, and violence.
January 6, 2026
Doc (previously Gael, now Alejandro) and Levi’s story is intense. Fueled by intense obsession and happening despite deep past trauma, their relationship will not be for everyone. But I am here for Doc’s long-awaited story. I’d always wondered what made the man tick, and answers started to be provided early in the book. Meanwhile, cop Levi straddles a morally grey line while working at the Cave and involving himself with Doc.
Scott has always been a masterful wordsmith but she’s stepped it up with this one. Some of the lines are beautifully poetic. “I understood the shape of regret, the idea of it, the way people were supposed to feel it.” And sentences like, “I might have only been nine, but I was a kid in a house that wasn’t happy, and I remembered that shit every single day.” conjure up deep levels of emotion. While lines like, “Shame was a reflex, not a feeling” make readers ache for the boys Doc and Levi once were.
These characters are both compellingly nuanced. “Part of me wondered if I only wanted Alejandro because we were both morally bankrupt in ways decent people couldn’t imagine. As if gravitating toward him was me recognizing another ma carrying the same fault lines.”
Throughout, the suspense builds masterfully. My heart was in my throat for so long. Ratcheting up the tension bit by bit, Scott immerses you in adrenaline before you know what’s happening.
Doc is one that will stay with me for a long while, in part due to its frenetic intensity. The other part, of course, is the amazingly deep relationship these two build, against all odds. Five stars.
Scott has always been a masterful wordsmith but she’s stepped it up with this one. Some of the lines are beautifully poetic. “I understood the shape of regret, the idea of it, the way people were supposed to feel it.” And sentences like, “I might have only been nine, but I was a kid in a house that wasn’t happy, and I remembered that shit every single day.” conjure up deep levels of emotion. While lines like, “Shame was a reflex, not a feeling” make readers ache for the boys Doc and Levi once were.
These characters are both compellingly nuanced. “Part of me wondered if I only wanted Alejandro because we were both morally bankrupt in ways decent people couldn’t imagine. As if gravitating toward him was me recognizing another ma carrying the same fault lines.”
Throughout, the suspense builds masterfully. My heart was in my throat for so long. Ratcheting up the tension bit by bit, Scott immerses you in adrenaline before you know what’s happening.
Doc is one that will stay with me for a long while, in part due to its frenetic intensity. The other part, of course, is the amazingly deep relationship these two build, against all odds. Five stars.
January 18, 2026
Hot Damn 🔥🥵 Now I remember why I love this series. I don't know what happened to Rio's book but I want a redo on that one. (It was so tame and surface level)
Doc was cold but efficient, trained by a ruthless man to keep men on deaths door alive.
Levi was a cop working with the people at the Cave. Levi struggled with finding balance between doing the "right" thing and following his heart and gut.
The minute Doc laid eyes on Levi he was obsessed and same with Levi. The tension between these two was perfect. Each knew they shouldn't indulge but the pull was too strong.
Doc found his walls slowly coming down as him and Levi got closer.
I'm excited for Novak and Calebs story!
What kept it from 5 stars
*I didn't like how fast the Redcars guys had turned on Doc in the beginning. He was cold and distant but he saved most of them at some point. They did have his back in the end though.
*Docs past was surface level, never anything in depth about him more hinted at. We know exactly what happened to his mother and sister but not really him.
*The ending happened to fast. We spend the whole book building up to the moment Doc finds out Raven is back and confronts him. Just for it to end in less than 10 pages.
*I wanted to see more interaction with the Redcars guys.
Doc was cold but efficient, trained by a ruthless man to keep men on deaths door alive.
Levi was a cop working with the people at the Cave. Levi struggled with finding balance between doing the "right" thing and following his heart and gut.
The minute Doc laid eyes on Levi he was obsessed and same with Levi. The tension between these two was perfect. Each knew they shouldn't indulge but the pull was too strong.
Doc found his walls slowly coming down as him and Levi got closer.
I'm excited for Novak and Calebs story!
What kept it from 5 stars
*I didn't like how fast the Redcars guys had turned on Doc in the beginning. He was cold and distant but he saved most of them at some point. They did have his back in the end though.
*Docs past was surface level, never anything in depth about him more hinted at. We know exactly what happened to his mother and sister but not really him.
*The ending happened to fast. We spend the whole book building up to the moment Doc finds out Raven is back and confronts him. Just for it to end in less than 10 pages.
*I wanted to see more interaction with the Redcars guys.
January 9, 2026
Book 4 Redcars | Detective x “Doctor” | Levi x Doc (Gael)
KU | Dual 1st | HEA
✨ Continues with dark themes from previous books, check trigger warnings at the start of the book
✨ So much love for this world and the found family I was so excited to look into Docs world. This was probably my fave so far
✨ At first I was a bit miffed at the red cars boys considering Doc has always helped them and they all were throwing him under the bus. As the story developed I felt better
✨ So glad Levi stuck by Doc to help him out and show him the love he deserves. After caring for others for so long, Doc needed someone to step up for him
✨ Excited for Novak!!!!
KU | Dual 1st | HEA
✨ Continues with dark themes from previous books, check trigger warnings at the start of the book
✨ So much love for this world and the found family I was so excited to look into Docs world. This was probably my fave so far
✨ At first I was a bit miffed at the red cars boys considering Doc has always helped them and they all were throwing him under the bus. As the story developed I felt better
✨ So glad Levi stuck by Doc to help him out and show him the love he deserves. After caring for others for so long, Doc needed someone to step up for him
✨ Excited for Novak!!!!
January 10, 2026
Finally, after seeing him in each of the previous books, we get Doc’s story, and it was terrific. He’s been a mysterious figure so far, but now we get to understand and find out what makes him the way he is. Levi is the perfect foil for him, and watching them dance around each other was fabulous. This is another dark and gritty tale. Their story is intense, full of suspense, emotion, and heat, and it gripped my heart from the first page to the last. It’s a great addition to the series and was everything I had hoped for.
I highly recommend this book and the entire series.
I highly recommend this book and the entire series.
January 9, 2026
Great addition to the series
Doc and Levi both have terrible pasts.
They're just trying to survive and not be swallowed up by the darkness.
Sometimes you have to befriend the darkness in order to survive it.
These two had chemistry that burned as hot as the midday sun.
Doc and Levi both have terrible pasts.
They're just trying to survive and not be swallowed up by the darkness.
Sometimes you have to befriend the darkness in order to survive it.
These two had chemistry that burned as hot as the midday sun.
January 11, 2026
The best one in this serie, so far. Absolutely stunning, and the story's highest point... wow!! If this serie is going better in this amount, I can't wait to get Novak's story in my hands.
January 14, 2026
I don't know if I have already said before but this lade book about Doc and Levi is so intense, passionate despite the gore, blood and fire. So much hot and chemistry and love: I loved it! The story was fast progresed, actions at go go. I have read the book in only a breth.
January 12, 2026
4.25 stars - I have been looking forward to Doc’s story since we first met him. He is the guy the Redcars guys call when they need medical assistance outside of official care, and he has always come at a high price for that service. He is methodical and seemingly cold with very little actual bedside manner, but he is always on call and gets the job done when needed. I just knew there had to be a big back story behind his character, and I wasn’t wrong.
It doesn’t take long for us to learn the reasoning behind his behavior and why he does the things he does. He was a victim forced to do some pretty horrific things and after escaping has used those skills to protect himself and provide a somewhat normal life for his sister and her kids. Unfortunately, he ends up on the radar of Levi, the cop who walks the fine line between upstanding cop and the underground Cave group.
We know from previous books about the Cave and those involved, but this installment gives us another look at their capabilities and intentions when they cross over into Doc’s world. Levi is constantly walking the line of having the inside information to help him on the cop job while trying to stay under the radar of other cops who are none too happy with having to work with Levi due to the past actions of his father, a crooked cop who ruined a number of cases for Levi’s now fellow officers.
Back to Doc and Levi. While they have each maintained their distance and safety, that all comes into question when they meet and have a steamy connection that looks like it will test all of their carefully built walls of protection. There are murders to solve and while Doc is somewhat involved, he is now dealing with betrayal on his side of things and is determined to figure out who and why. Then, the past comes crashing back in and Doc must trust Levi, the Redcars guys and his cleaner, Novak, to see him through the mess. Things get pretty intense as the walls close in, but Doc and Levi grow stronger as a result.
I love seeing all of the other guys again and love this little world of second chances and found family. We meet Novak in this book, and just like with Doc, I am left intrigued and excited to learn more. The next book is already on my to read list.
Review written for Love Bytes Reviews.
January 14, 2026
Love this series.
Enzo and Jamie remain my favourites of the Redcars world. Enzo was an incredible opener to RJ's first foray into darker romance and the psychological aspects to her writing are phenomenal, particularly for Jamie and his pyromania. I knew I was in for a treat when Doc's story was coming up for release - the most unlikable character in the series gets his own romance? - oh yes please, I ordered the paperback as soon as I could, and I was not disappointed.
If you are new to Redcars, Doc is harsh, hard, and emotionless, and portrayed as only ever caring about the money. It was going to be a journey for RJ to make past readers want to root for him and his HEA, and the foundations she gave him grip us right from chapter one. The action is actioning, the spice is spicing, and I won't ruin anything by going into the actual story, but it's, as always, well written and draws you into the Redcars realm, with old friends popping up along the way.
I loved the way 'Doc' and Levi become a part of each others world - the casualness suited the previous character that we'd gotten to know, whilst offering some softness too.
There were times when I found myself itching for more between our main characters and I would have loved to have been let in on the scenes where they shared a bed, for example, and the nuisances associated with that - did it change after the first time and one played big or little spoon? How did Doc feel sharing a bed? Did either one do anything nice that surprised the other - a cloth, a coffee, was music playing in the kitchen? Basically, I'm greedy and although this story was particularly action packed, I craved their togetherness, the quiet moments, and wanted to know both our MMCs a little deeper.
Scott has me hooked and I really hope she continues to write these darker, heart squeezing romances. Love them
Enzo and Jamie remain my favourites of the Redcars world. Enzo was an incredible opener to RJ's first foray into darker romance and the psychological aspects to her writing are phenomenal, particularly for Jamie and his pyromania. I knew I was in for a treat when Doc's story was coming up for release - the most unlikable character in the series gets his own romance? - oh yes please, I ordered the paperback as soon as I could, and I was not disappointed.
If you are new to Redcars, Doc is harsh, hard, and emotionless, and portrayed as only ever caring about the money. It was going to be a journey for RJ to make past readers want to root for him and his HEA, and the foundations she gave him grip us right from chapter one. The action is actioning, the spice is spicing, and I won't ruin anything by going into the actual story, but it's, as always, well written and draws you into the Redcars realm, with old friends popping up along the way.
I loved the way 'Doc' and Levi become a part of each others world - the casualness suited the previous character that we'd gotten to know, whilst offering some softness too.
There were times when I found myself itching for more between our main characters and I would have loved to have been let in on the scenes where they shared a bed, for example, and the nuisances associated with that - did it change after the first time and one played big or little spoon? How did Doc feel sharing a bed? Did either one do anything nice that surprised the other - a cloth, a coffee, was music playing in the kitchen? Basically, I'm greedy and although this story was particularly action packed, I craved their togetherness, the quiet moments, and wanted to know both our MMCs a little deeper.
Scott has me hooked and I really hope she continues to write these darker, heart squeezing romances. Love them
January 15, 2026
This was the best Redcars story so far. I knew that there was so much more to Doc but I had no idea what he had gone through to keep his family safe and continued to do for their safety. His memories of Raven were so horrifying and you wondered how he survived but understand why he kept the scalpel and hypodermic with him always and locked his emotions away. Levi was such an interesting man because of his late father's actions and not being trusted by too many cops in the department and his work with the Cave that helped give clues for cases that he couldn't tell where he really got them though he did want to tell Frank, his partner, how he knew. He was hunting for Doc because of the boxer who he had treated after an illegal fight was murdered and organs trafficked and he was sure that Doc was involved. Then he finds Doc and a man who worked with him at a warehouse and the man that Novak slit his throat and Doc just watched but Levi did not arrest him.
Their relationship was fascinating and the Cave provided information about the cartel that Doc thought he had destroyed and that they are operating again in the U.S. Levi wanted to know what Alejandro knew about the deaths especially the doctors who were killed who had been involved in the organ trafficking. When Alejandro's sister Marisol is attacked and he finds a clue in the alley nearby he knows that somehow Raven has found them and he takes his sister and her twins and has them guarded by Enzo. The scene where Alejandro confronted Raven in the kill room in the warehouse was scary and frightening and of course Jamie saves the day though Alejandro is badly hurt. I was glad that Levi never left his side and quit the police to work with the Cave and help Alejandro set up a kind of clinic to help kids. Really looking forward to Novak and Caleb's story.
Their relationship was fascinating and the Cave provided information about the cartel that Doc thought he had destroyed and that they are operating again in the U.S. Levi wanted to know what Alejandro knew about the deaths especially the doctors who were killed who had been involved in the organ trafficking. When Alejandro's sister Marisol is attacked and he finds a clue in the alley nearby he knows that somehow Raven has found them and he takes his sister and her twins and has them guarded by Enzo. The scene where Alejandro confronted Raven in the kill room in the warehouse was scary and frightening and of course Jamie saves the day though Alejandro is badly hurt. I was glad that Levi never left his side and quit the police to work with the Cave and help Alejandro set up a kind of clinic to help kids. Really looking forward to Novak and Caleb's story.
January 13, 2026
I was really wondering how the author will make one of the most intriguing characters in this series and his actions redeemable and his character even remotely likeable. Well, guess what, she did it and wrote a memorable, heart wrenching story about resilience, unimaginable abuse of a child that rose above all and did whatever was needed to protect the ones he loved, while sacrificing parts of himself and his life he didn't even know he craved for until he met someone... Someone who avakened parts of himself he thought were a long time gone.
This book will be forever on the top of my list of darker angsty reads.
This author has a lot to offer for every taste and I liked or loved everything she chose to write about so far. There are lighter reads to choose from her backlist if you prefer to do so. I guess my review on this one is enough of trigger alert if this is not your thing, but for me she's at her best when she delves on the darker side.
The depth and realism of emotions and consequently plot and relationships development is something that will stay with me for a long time. I don't usually highlight passages in books but this time my Kindle looks like a child's colouring book. Do yourself a favour and download free short story (link at the end of the book) because it's an introduction to whole new series that I can't wait to read.
That doesn't mean that Redcars are over. If possible, there's even darker story ahead. Can't wait to se how she tells Novak's story.
This book will be forever on the top of my list of darker angsty reads.
This author has a lot to offer for every taste and I liked or loved everything she chose to write about so far. There are lighter reads to choose from her backlist if you prefer to do so. I guess my review on this one is enough of trigger alert if this is not your thing, but for me she's at her best when she delves on the darker side.
The depth and realism of emotions and consequently plot and relationships development is something that will stay with me for a long time. I don't usually highlight passages in books but this time my Kindle looks like a child's colouring book. Do yourself a favour and download free short story (link at the end of the book) because it's an introduction to whole new series that I can't wait to read.
That doesn't mean that Redcars are over. If possible, there's even darker story ahead. Can't wait to se how she tells Novak's story.
January 19, 2026
**4.5** Please ensure to read the content warnings before starting this book.
Wow! Doc takes us even darker than the first three books, in a slightly different way to Enzo. There is a painful history there for Doc that is hinted at in memories and then revealed as the story unfolds, for himself and his family. Levi has his own demons, but they were caused by his father.
This book is actually the first time either man will meet and it's when a dead body is linked to Doc through The Cave, and of course, Levi has questions that can't be answered at the police station. Tension and chemistry crackle between the two, with neither of them being happy about it but also not able to stay away. Doc is getting more stressed by the minute as things from his past that were supposed to stay dead and buried whilst Levi digs into it, trying to find answers.
It's a brilliantly written story as you can't help but like, and understand the characters, and why they do what they do but also feel a little wrong about it. Doc has definitely done some dark things, and all that matters to him is to keep his family safe, but my heart still broke for him as he seemed to unravel slightly from his new need for Levi, not something he has felt before.
One thing I would have maybe liked was a little bit more of the two together, with some sort of conversation or just close proximity, but the way their relationship unfolded felt very natural for both of them. I like how things have played out for them and think it's plausible as well as positive for what they both can do.
Wow! Doc takes us even darker than the first three books, in a slightly different way to Enzo. There is a painful history there for Doc that is hinted at in memories and then revealed as the story unfolds, for himself and his family. Levi has his own demons, but they were caused by his father.
This book is actually the first time either man will meet and it's when a dead body is linked to Doc through The Cave, and of course, Levi has questions that can't be answered at the police station. Tension and chemistry crackle between the two, with neither of them being happy about it but also not able to stay away. Doc is getting more stressed by the minute as things from his past that were supposed to stay dead and buried whilst Levi digs into it, trying to find answers.
It's a brilliantly written story as you can't help but like, and understand the characters, and why they do what they do but also feel a little wrong about it. Doc has definitely done some dark things, and all that matters to him is to keep his family safe, but my heart still broke for him as he seemed to unravel slightly from his new need for Levi, not something he has felt before.
One thing I would have maybe liked was a little bit more of the two together, with some sort of conversation or just close proximity, but the way their relationship unfolded felt very natural for both of them. I like how things have played out for them and think it's plausible as well as positive for what they both can do.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I've been excitedly waiting for the release of Doc, his appearances in the previous books had me dying to know his story. And it didn't disappoint!!
Doc has trigger warnings at the start so please read those before deciding to read this book.
This book is another story of inner strength, surviving horrible pasts, found family and being accepted for who you truly are.
Doc's history is heartbreaking and you fully understand why he trusts no-one and is a little on the surly side. Levi is a cop who's dealing with the awful legacy his father left attached to their name.
Doc is brought to Levi's attention when a pile of bodies are found with missing organs, most have been there a while...1 was more recent. Investigating the case Levi finds ties to Doc's past, which brings them both into a collision with things Doc thought was over.
Entwined with their story is glimpses of other loved characters from this series and new ones. They are beautifully woven into the story to really add extra layers.
I love everything about his book. How Levi and Doc are brought together, how they instanly click and how they eventually find the common ground to be together.
Im absolutely loving this darker series from RJ Scott, its quickly becoming one of my favs.
I absolutely loved this book
I started and didnt stop reading till it was finished.
Doc has trigger warnings at the start so please read those before deciding to read this book.
This book is another story of inner strength, surviving horrible pasts, found family and being accepted for who you truly are.
Doc's history is heartbreaking and you fully understand why he trusts no-one and is a little on the surly side. Levi is a cop who's dealing with the awful legacy his father left attached to their name.
Doc is brought to Levi's attention when a pile of bodies are found with missing organs, most have been there a while...1 was more recent. Investigating the case Levi finds ties to Doc's past, which brings them both into a collision with things Doc thought was over.
Entwined with their story is glimpses of other loved characters from this series and new ones. They are beautifully woven into the story to really add extra layers.
I love everything about his book. How Levi and Doc are brought together, how they instanly click and how they eventually find the common ground to be together.
Im absolutely loving this darker series from RJ Scott, its quickly becoming one of my favs.
I absolutely loved this book
I started and didnt stop reading till it was finished.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Definitely read the TW for this book.
This book, specifically Doc himself, completely broke my heart. The resilience Doc showed in dealing with and overcoming the horrific trauma he suffered (on page) just blew me away. He may be living a life that is morally grey, but all things considered, I am one hundred percent behind him.
As for Levi, his trauma came from the things his father did - or didn't do - as a cop and the stigma it left on him. He is a cop that leads a bit of a double life, easing into that morally grey area when he feels it's necessary.
They clash as much as they connect, and there is such intensity to these two equally powerful MC's, as individuals and together, that it makes them a powerful couple - once they get to actually know and understand one another.
There is a lot of extreme violence in this dark and edgy book, both past and present, but I never expected the emotional upheavals, or to cry - but I did. I was captivated from the first page and it kept my attention straight through to the end.
If you don't mind going down the dark paths of this type of book, then I would absolutely recommed it. This series needs to be read in order. Each book focuses on a new couple, but they are all interconnected.
This book, specifically Doc himself, completely broke my heart. The resilience Doc showed in dealing with and overcoming the horrific trauma he suffered (on page) just blew me away. He may be living a life that is morally grey, but all things considered, I am one hundred percent behind him.
As for Levi, his trauma came from the things his father did - or didn't do - as a cop and the stigma it left on him. He is a cop that leads a bit of a double life, easing into that morally grey area when he feels it's necessary.
They clash as much as they connect, and there is such intensity to these two equally powerful MC's, as individuals and together, that it makes them a powerful couple - once they get to actually know and understand one another.
There is a lot of extreme violence in this dark and edgy book, both past and present, but I never expected the emotional upheavals, or to cry - but I did. I was captivated from the first page and it kept my attention straight through to the end.
If you don't mind going down the dark paths of this type of book, then I would absolutely recommed it. This series needs to be read in order. Each book focuses on a new couple, but they are all interconnected.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Doc's story is a very dark story. With past abuse, healing yet to happen and a love that he didn't think he'd ever find.
There is danger surrounding Doc, in his profession. People pay him to "fix" medical issues brought on by violence, and everything is not as it seems.
Levi is a very dedicated, hot, stubborn cop. He sees things he shouldn't see and then has to decide how to handle them.
Their meeting has sparks flying. A deep attraction that not only brings them together but also causes issues if not handled correctly.
Loved ones are in danger and these two need to figure out how to help, heal and protect not only each other but others as well.
I won't give away much more, but I must say that, in getting to know Doc in the first 3 books of this series, I suspected there was far more to him than the gruff, insensitive and sometimes cruel personality he showed.
I had NO idea.
This was a fantastic book, and I absolutely love Doc and Levi together.
Heat, softness, caring, support and love find them and I for one am happy they did.
One more thing, the evil in this book was handled in a VERY satisfying way.
There is danger surrounding Doc, in his profession. People pay him to "fix" medical issues brought on by violence, and everything is not as it seems.
Levi is a very dedicated, hot, stubborn cop. He sees things he shouldn't see and then has to decide how to handle them.
Their meeting has sparks flying. A deep attraction that not only brings them together but also causes issues if not handled correctly.
Loved ones are in danger and these two need to figure out how to help, heal and protect not only each other but others as well.
I won't give away much more, but I must say that, in getting to know Doc in the first 3 books of this series, I suspected there was far more to him than the gruff, insensitive and sometimes cruel personality he showed.
I had NO idea.
This was a fantastic book, and I absolutely love Doc and Levi together.
Heat, softness, caring, support and love find them and I for one am happy they did.
One more thing, the evil in this book was handled in a VERY satisfying way.
January 23, 2026
4.5*
Omg, this one is fairly brutal and absolutely heartbreaking.
It's a book you need a couple of breaks inbetween and a more fluffy story afterwards. But it is also rewarding and a story which will stay with you.
We finally learn about the elusive Doc and his background, it's not just a mess and the worst you can imagine, it's also clearly shows why he is the way he shows - cold, detached and unable to show emotions.
But Levi is doing what Doc thinks can't be done, cracking open the armour. Even when Levi hardly went out to do it.
Levi is battling the shadow his corrupt father left behind, joining The Cave to give justice which can reach further than his police work, he is torn and walks a very fine line until Doc forces him to make a decision. His conflict between his badge and the less than legal work is visible all the time and for me is the most important part of his character.
This story has less of the "found family" we saw in the previous ones and sometimes Levi and Doc felt too isolated and it was difficult to find why their attraction moved to love.
Now to the Cleaner - that will be interesting.
Omg, this one is fairly brutal and absolutely heartbreaking.
It's a book you need a couple of breaks inbetween and a more fluffy story afterwards. But it is also rewarding and a story which will stay with you.
We finally learn about the elusive Doc and his background, it's not just a mess and the worst you can imagine, it's also clearly shows why he is the way he shows - cold, detached and unable to show emotions.
But Levi is doing what Doc thinks can't be done, cracking open the armour. Even when Levi hardly went out to do it.
Levi is battling the shadow his corrupt father left behind, joining The Cave to give justice which can reach further than his police work, he is torn and walks a very fine line until Doc forces him to make a decision. His conflict between his badge and the less than legal work is visible all the time and for me is the most important part of his character.
This story has less of the "found family" we saw in the previous ones and sometimes Levi and Doc felt too isolated and it was difficult to find why their attraction moved to love.
Now to the Cleaner - that will be interesting.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Fourth in series (Redcars), best if read in order. Adversarial to lovers. Found family. Slow burn. Dual POV. Heed content warnings.
Doc is a survivor and protects his family the only way he knows how, providing medical care for a fee to whoever has the cash. When he crosses paths with Detective Levi Rosen, Doc’s past also comes knocking, and he has to navigate his attraction to Levi while keeping his criminal activities secret.
Even though these two men know they should stay away from each other, they have an instant spark that becomes something more risky to their hearts and their livelihoods. I would have loved more time spent with these two outside of the bedroom for the emotional connection, but I enjoyed every monet they were on page together. Doc is a compellingly empathetic morally grey character and even tries to keep Levi from crossing lines he may regret. A thoroughly entertaining story, with two men to root for and a glimpse of their HEA that includes found family. 4.5 rounded up
Doc is a survivor and protects his family the only way he knows how, providing medical care for a fee to whoever has the cash. When he crosses paths with Detective Levi Rosen, Doc’s past also comes knocking, and he has to navigate his attraction to Levi while keeping his criminal activities secret.
Even though these two men know they should stay away from each other, they have an instant spark that becomes something more risky to their hearts and their livelihoods. I would have loved more time spent with these two outside of the bedroom for the emotional connection, but I enjoyed every monet they were on page together. Doc is a compellingly empathetic morally grey character and even tries to keep Levi from crossing lines he may regret. A thoroughly entertaining story, with two men to root for and a glimpse of their HEA that includes found family. 4.5 rounded up
January 11, 2026
Doc’s story is devastating, raw, and incredibly powerful. The resilience he shows while surviving and pushing through the horrific trauma he endured left me in awe. He may live firmly in the morally grey, but given everything he’s faced, I couldn’t help but root for him completely.
Levi’s struggles stem from a very different place, shaped by the failures of his father as both a police officer and a parent. He carries that weight into his own life and career, slipping into morally grey areas when he feels he has no other choice. The contrast between these two men is striking, and when they clash, the tension is electric. When they connect, it’s even more intense. Their journey is emotional, gritty, and full of depth. I didn’t expect the level of emotional upheaval this story delivered, and I definitely didn’t expect to cry—but I did. The violence is extreme at times, both past and present, but it never feels gratuitous. Instead, it adds to the weight of their stories and the impact of their growth.
Levi’s struggles stem from a very different place, shaped by the failures of his father as both a police officer and a parent. He carries that weight into his own life and career, slipping into morally grey areas when he feels he has no other choice. The contrast between these two men is striking, and when they clash, the tension is electric. When they connect, it’s even more intense. Their journey is emotional, gritty, and full of depth. I didn’t expect the level of emotional upheaval this story delivered, and I definitely didn’t expect to cry—but I did. The violence is extreme at times, both past and present, but it never feels gratuitous. Instead, it adds to the weight of their stories and the impact of their growth.
Review of advance copy received from Author
A gritty emotional story of a child born into an environment of control and unimaginable violence who becomes a man driven to protect those he loves. Doc has built an armoured cover over the brutalised helpless child he was to become emotionally detached. But he has never dealt with his internal scars or allowed anyone to see them until Levi crashes into his world. Levi is a good cop, who lives in the shadow of his father being a dirty cop, he realises sometimes you need to work outside the law to reach and destroy those who are too powerful for ordinary rules. Getting involved with Doc may be a step too far but the heart recognises it's own match and neither man can resist the pull of the other. Another emotional rollercoaster of a book with morally grey men, powerful enemies, obsessive protection, found family and a lovely deep enough to heal hidden scars. Loved it. The series gets better with every book.
January 15, 2026
5 Stars!
This has been my favorite book in the series so far, which you need to read in order, btw.
We finally get to know the mysterious Doc a whole lot better, and his backstory is heartwrenching. He had to go through so much since he was a little kid, that is no wonder he was as closed-off as he was. At least until he met Levi, and neither of them could stay away from each other despite their misgivings.
I loved catching up with the Redcars and Cave guys and seeing them helping Doc, even if they weren't all that convinced of doing it. I'm super intrigued about Novak, so I can't wait to get to know him better in the next book.
Overall, a fast-paced, dark, angsty read that tugged at my heartstrings, but that I can't recommend more. It was an amazing read, just don't forget to pay attention to the triggers.
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure. A review wasn't a requirement. ***
This has been my favorite book in the series so far, which you need to read in order, btw.
We finally get to know the mysterious Doc a whole lot better, and his backstory is heartwrenching. He had to go through so much since he was a little kid, that is no wonder he was as closed-off as he was. At least until he met Levi, and neither of them could stay away from each other despite their misgivings.
I loved catching up with the Redcars and Cave guys and seeing them helping Doc, even if they weren't all that convinced of doing it. I'm super intrigued about Novak, so I can't wait to get to know him better in the next book.
Overall, a fast-paced, dark, angsty read that tugged at my heartstrings, but that I can't recommend more. It was an amazing read, just don't forget to pay attention to the triggers.
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure. A review wasn't a requirement. ***
January 9, 2026
★彡 𝟓 𝐒𝐓𝐀𝐑𝐒 彡★
I’ve got to say that I’ve been wanting Doc’s story since reading the first book in the Redcars series (which you need to read in order) and boy did RJ write a great one for him. This book is raw and gritty and difficult to read in places (heed the content warnings) but it was worth every bit of angst and there’s a great HEA and epilogue.
The whole series is a bit different than what RJ usually writes but she’s proven once again that she can write anything and write it well. I don’t know what else to say (the blurb is great) so I’m going to leave it short. I will give a shout out to another reviewer on Goodreads. – Sandra – because her review is outstanding and better than anything I could write.
An advanced copy of this book was provided to me at my request; my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author.
I’ve got to say that I’ve been wanting Doc’s story since reading the first book in the Redcars series (which you need to read in order) and boy did RJ write a great one for him. This book is raw and gritty and difficult to read in places (heed the content warnings) but it was worth every bit of angst and there’s a great HEA and epilogue.
The whole series is a bit different than what RJ usually writes but she’s proven once again that she can write anything and write it well. I don’t know what else to say (the blurb is great) so I’m going to leave it short. I will give a shout out to another reviewer on Goodreads. – Sandra – because her review is outstanding and better than anything I could write.
An advanced copy of this book was provided to me at my request; my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The Redcars series keeps getting better with each successive story, and Doc was my favorite of the series. At first I was concerned that I wouldn't be able to empathize with Doc based on his behavior in past books, but the author wove a compelling story that drew me in. I connected with Levi right away and enjoyed the interplay between him and Alejandro (Doc) as they explored their unexpected attraction to each other. The climactic scenes of the story were intense in the best way. I always enjoy Redcars' "I will burn down the world for the people I love" mindset, and it was fun seeing cameos from the MCs of the previous books, especially Jamie (my favorite). I look forward to reading Novak, the upcoming fifth book in the Redcars series.
January 13, 2026
Overall I have enjoyed this whole series, with Doc probably being my favourite. Although, Enzo was a great start.
That being said, I have found it a struggle to grasp some of the relationships. Doc and Levi hooked up once or twice, hardly spoke, but then were in love. I do prefer there to be a little more involvement between love interests.
However, in all these books have loved the underground stories forged around the relationships. The presence of The Cave, the way the Redcars men would die for each other and their partner's. The stories are gritty and seedy and perfectly tread the line of 'not too gruesome to put me off'.
You must read in order, to fully understand each couples story as there is a lot of reference to past events in the previous books
That being said, I have found it a struggle to grasp some of the relationships. Doc and Levi hooked up once or twice, hardly spoke, but then were in love. I do prefer there to be a little more involvement between love interests.
However, in all these books have loved the underground stories forged around the relationships. The presence of The Cave, the way the Redcars men would die for each other and their partner's. The stories are gritty and seedy and perfectly tread the line of 'not too gruesome to put me off'.
You must read in order, to fully understand each couples story as there is a lot of reference to past events in the previous books
January 10, 2026
Levi and Doc are both men forged from hard childhoods. Doc is cold and standoffish and Levi isn't much better. Doc will do what ever he needs to to keep his family safe. He isn't about to let them go through what he did. Levi is navigating life where he feels like he has to atone for his father's offenses. When these two get together the heat and chemistry is on fire. They may not be the ideal couple but they're perfect for each other. There's some dark moments that will have you reaching for the kleenex. Definitely recommend this book. 🙂
Review of advance copy
Oh be still my heart - if you thought your heart was in your throat with the earlier books in the series it was absolutely nothing in comparable to this book. Doc and Levi are both dealing with pasts neither one wants to live with as well as truing to find a future based on one tragedy after another. But it is not until they come together does the line between good and bad gets blurry. Loved every single solidary moment of this book - phenomenal!!
Review of advance copy
This book was emotionally intense. Doc trusted no one and nothing and I could completely feel all of this with him. I understood him and was able to be in his heart and mind. He was alone and felt he wanted and needed to be. Evan slowly broke something loose for him while healing himself. Their romance develops over the book perfectly woven in with their pasts and the need to get beyond them together.
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