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This is River's story, more information is coming soon!

Royal Bastards MC Reading Order
Book 1: Ice
Book 2: River

147 pages, Kindle Edition

First published August 17, 2021

42 people are currently reading
169 people want to read

About the author

Scarlett Black

17 books1,084 followers
I don’t expect everything but even the thought of a new beginning is enough to change the world for me.....

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5 stars
189 (65%)
4 stars
75 (25%)
3 stars
17 (5%)
2 stars
5 (1%)
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4 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
Profile Image for Yvette | The Saucy Bookshelf.
235 reviews19 followers
August 13, 2021
I really enjoyed this 2nd book in the Royal Bastards: Elko NV series by Scarlett Black. I love how her writing is fast paced and she doesn’t string you along.

This book about River, the VP and Kora, an escort, is so raw! I love the way they fight each other and constantly wind each other up! Their attraction to each other is undeniable, it’s a force stronger than either of them can fight. They give each other what they need and get what they need back in spades.♥️

I loved this book and how the story of the club is unfolding. I can’t wait for the next book! I’d love to read Storm or Easys story next!🔥

Thank you Scarlett 🙏🏻📚♥️
Profile Image for Intel Chicky Reads Romance (Kara Merideth).
2,262 reviews1,528 followers
August 18, 2021
Arghhh!! Scarlett Black strikes again with another super sexy read that will leave you with all the feels. River is the second book in Scarlett’s RBMC series. It is a standalone, but best read after Ice. They are also loosely connected with her Battleborn series (which is also fabulous).River is just a man, living his life with no family connection past those in his club and has never had a woman of his own in his life. In charge of running a brothel, he gets some when he wants it, but never gives away any part of himself. He’s a man in control. Both in and out of the bedroom. Kora is to be a new hire at the brothel. A woman who is comfortable with her sexuality and likes to also be in complete control. Everything is on her terms and never plans on submitting emotionally to any man unless she can find someone content with monogamy and willing to trust. River was a super quick read, but didn’t skimp on the storyline, action, or 🔥🔥🔥 smexy. There’s a little intrigue thrown in as well. I love Scarlett’s stories because they’re always about imperfect characters learning about themselves and all have wonderful journey’s of self-discovery and usually they’re a pretty bumpy ride. River is definitely not the exception. Wonderful characters and a hard-fought HEA ❤️.

Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Trope: Protector/Instalust
Angst: 😰
Smexy: 🔥🔥🔥
Triggers: none
Profile Image for Amanda M.
2,813 reviews16 followers
August 13, 2021
The second book of this chapter and it's just as good as the first. You'll be kept on the edge of your seat, turning those pages wanting more and needing to know what's coming. There's a few revelations that come to light that were a bit surprising. Then the flow of this story made everything unfold smoothly from the beginning. River and Kora definitely have this connection, an undeniable attraction at that. They have this push and pull, fight or deny thing going on, then some sort of acceptance. Along with seeing how everything unfolds for these two, you'll get insight into what's happening with this chapter. Definitely loved this story and I can't wait for more of this series. It's an excellent read.
Profile Image for Shirl.
1,024 reviews45 followers
March 24, 2022
Better than the first one. I rather enjoyed this book. River runs the strip club and their best money maker disappeared. They track her to another MC and find out she has been claimed by a member which means she ran out on her contract and they need to be reimbursed. River chooses one of their own girls to take her place. This girl is different and has something special going on.

Kora was surprised when she is chosen to go to another club for a two year contract but she has plans after her two years are up and it's not going back to where she was. She wants her freedom to do as she wants.

The thing about having the freedom to do as you please might just be what you never knew what you might want.
Profile Image for Mandy.
197 reviews
August 10, 2021
River is a rbmc he runs the brothel all consentual and safe.One of the girls has gone to new mexico to another mc club. Crow the mc president knows our rules. I have to go get her back when we arrive i see a beautiful woman with green eyes i have a plan. we make a deal and take green eyes home with us. Kora can wait to get away from Crow he's not happy we picked her. From that moment i can't think about anything but her she's different, i want her she wants me but... she has a past and when it comes to present i have to make some hard choices. Can i let her go? Does she want to go? Can i give her the peace she deserves? Can her dreams really come true. This book is full of up's n downs and drama..
Profile Image for Sue.
4,352 reviews5 followers
August 9, 2021
This book will keep you on the edge of your seat. True love, soul mates, is worth fighting for when you find out. There's plenty of action, scorching heat, and secrets revealed. River and Kora are so much alike as far as dominance goes. River will do anything to protect Kora and give her freedom. This was an excellent read and a HEA.
Profile Image for Stephanie.
1,576 reviews17 followers
August 17, 2021
River and Kora have a connection that cannot be beat and trust me, it’s been tested. Having River question himself and his feelings for her are perfect, very realistic and not drawn out. The traumatic events that Crow put Kora through put a push on everything. How Kora has the ability to keep true to herself through everything is such a positive message to us all. I loved their story, It gave me the full rollercoaster of emotions!
Profile Image for Julie Jackson.
2,312 reviews10 followers
August 9, 2021
Reviewed for SNS

I cannot say enough how fantastic this book is. River is all dominant. Kora knows herself and her limits. These two connect on such a deep level, so much more than love. Excellent writing. Spectacular storyline.
Profile Image for Amber.
260 reviews2 followers
August 18, 2021
I loved this book so much. This is the first book I have read by this author and I’m so glad I did. The characters were amazing. I loved the way the story was pulled together. For me I think the biggest part of this book was the build of trust between River and Kora. They are definitely soul mates and it’s pretty obvious early on in the book that they are made for each other. The story wrapped up great and I can’t wait to read the next book in this series.
Profile Image for Sandy S.
8,263 reviews206 followers
August 22, 2021
3.75 stars--RIVER is the second instalment in Scarlett Black’s contemporary, adult ROYAL B*STARDS MC: ELKO NV erotic, MC romance series, a part of the multi-authored RBMC universe. This is RBMC: Elko NV club VP River, and Kora’s story line. RIVER can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story line is revealed where necessary.

WARNING: Due to the nature of the story line premise there may be triggers for more sensitive readers. RIVER contains scenes of BDSM, bondage and D/s scenarios.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Kora and River) RIVER follows in the aftermath of Chloe’s disappearance from the club run Royal Fantasy Girls $ex club. Chloe is the $ex club headliner, and as such her disappearance is a big financial hit to the Royal B*stards MC. When the club discovers Chloe whereabouts at the Desert Scorpion MC, the RBMC president Ice, and VP River, demand payment for damages, taking one of the Desert Scorpion’s girls in return. Enter Dominatrix Kora, and the woman with whom River will fall in love. What ensues is the acrimonious relationship between Kora and River, and the potential fall-out as Kora’s secrets come to bear, and with it, a price on her life.

Kora is a woman hiding in plain sight but a woman whose past is mired in secrets and lies.When the Scorpion’s president wants Kora to return, all h*ll break loose, leaving death and destruction in the wake of betrayal. River doesn’t do relationships, and spends most of his time at the Royal Fantasy Girls Club. Demanding Kora in payment for Chloe, River quickly discovers that his heart wants something his head refuses to accept.

The relationship between Kora and River is one of immediate attraction but if predicated upon a business exchange. All Kora wants is her freedom but the past refuse to let go, and she is currently tied to a contract with the RBMC. Falling for Kora was never in the picture but River’s jealousy and heart are threatened when Kora finds herself the target of betrayal and revenge. The $ex scenes are erotic and intense.

There is a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters including the members of the RBMC: ELKO,NV club. We are reintroduced to club president Ice, and his wife/old lady Harley, as well as club Enforcer /tattooist Storm, and several women who work at the Royal Fantasy Girls Club.

RIVER is a story of power and control; betrayal and vengeance; acceptance, obedience, friendships and love. The premise is dark and gritty; the romance is seductive; the characters are raw and dynamic.

www.thereadingcafe.com
Profile Image for Karen.
1,500 reviews15 followers
August 18, 2021
He sells what all men want and desire. He’s a man that never gives his whole self to anyone. He does what he wants, when he wants and however he wants. He’s the VP of the Elko, NV Chapter of the RBMC, and manages the brothel for the chapter. When his star leaves unexpectedly and they hunt her down, they end up coming home with a different woman. She’s every man’s wet dream come to life.

Kora is a woman that has to always be in control. She learned from the best on how to read her clients and what they need or want. She’s beautiful, sexy, and a woman that is hiding her full past. When she gets the chance to leave New Mexico and the Desert Scorpion MC, she comes close to running out the door with a smile on her face, but she knows that she has to be careful or Crow, the president, will be a problem. She’s closer to her freedom than she has ever been and she’ll do just about anything to gain that freedom.

Secrets, betrayal, danger and sexy scenes fill this story of a woman that has had to fight for her freedom since she was young. The RBMC, Elko chapter is a new start for her, but River, the man that keeps telling her what to do is grating on her nerves and neither one of them knows what the problem is between them. River is a complicated man and the turmoil within him could destroy these two before they even find out what it is between them, although, Kora’s secrets may do that on their own. Trust is a hard thing to come by in this life and it has to be earned, but when River wants to get Kora to open up when they’ve only known each other for a short time, they may not find the HEA they both deserve. I really liked this book and the characters. I give this book a 5-star review and I am looking forward to more in the Elko, NV Chapter of the RBMC.
Profile Image for M Mendes Bookstagram.
725 reviews48 followers
August 18, 2021
O.M.G…you just have to love MC romances!! There is always a lot of action, drama, surprises, secrets, revelations, emotions, and so much heat 🔥 (panty melting level heat). I absolutely love MC romances and never get tired of them. There have been only a very few that I did not like and I read a lot so there are way more that I do like…no love! The men from MC are all portrayed as alpha to the max, loyalty, brotherhood, family, and respect. Scarlett Black has become one of my top ten favorite authors. Scarlett creates storylines I love, worlds that support the story, and characters that you absolutely love full with unique characteristics, histories that enhance their individuality, and are easy to relate to. Scarlett’s stories are original and just the right amount of darkness and heat 🔥🌡! Scarlett always can bring out my emotional responses to her books and I love that. When you read and an author can bring out your emotions you know that is a very excellent 5 ⭐️ book. . I have read all of Scarlett’s books and have not been disappointed in any of them. I can never put one down once I start reading and even though I have a list of TBRs and the order I intend to read them I always drop the one I had on my list for Scarlett’s books and a few other authors in my top ten list of favorite authors! Have fun with reading. Hope you can get lost in the storyline and really enjoy the books of your choice.
Profile Image for Elsie Pitt.
1,753 reviews13 followers
August 18, 2021
The RBMC is Back in the Elko NV Chapter. Here we find The RBMC up to their shenanigan's and fighting a unseen war that is coming for them.
Kora, she has secrets and holds hands down that she can do it by herself until secrets come to light. Now that River has made the BIGGEST Mistake of his life he has to finally fight for something that may never be his. Can they overcome what is ahead? Will Kora finally realize that River is what she needs?
If you have not found this series yet you seriously have been living under a rock! Seriously, I implore you to pick up this series! Its ok if you have not yet; but I tell you with honestly and truth that you will ABSOLUTELY love this series once you start! Now they have chapters all over the world and The RBMC is not to be trifled with, if you mess with one then you mess with all! Be warned these Men fight for what they believe in and they fight for the women who are their equals in all things but especially their hearts!
Scarlett Brings her characters to life right off the pages! She makes it so easy to slide right in to their clubhouse and pick up right where you thought you did not need to be! Oh yes I know I am blabbering but I cannot tell you enough good about this series! It is a amazing ride, you want to be on the back of that bike when it rumbles to life and believe me you will be expecting your heart to soar, and it will trust me!
312 reviews2 followers
August 17, 2021
River & Kora bring the heat 🔥🔥🔥. This is book 2 in the Royal Bastards/Elko Chapter series. River/ Elko Vice President runs the club brothel. Kora is a working girl from a rival club. When thier paths cross the moody VP can't help be taken back by the green eyed siren 🧜‍♀️. So this book is a little different than some other books you may have read. Sometimes we get the sweet innocent virgin, at other times it's known that the heroine has had some partners in the past, heck maybe even likes hooking up on the regular, but this time we get a heroine who is working girl. Now before you may get your panties in a bunch, Kora is no club slut, she's not jumping every Tom, Dick, & Harry in sight.She is actually a savvy businessman woman who for reasons you will find out reading the book has been brought into the brothel businesses. So many times we only see the men getting thier freak on, many times with club sluts ( before they meet thier future Old Lady's) , so I LOVE that what's good for the goose is good for the gander in this book 😂. That being said will River be able to stand by letting Kora contiue working as a call girl, will he be able to put aside feelings that he has never felt before...or will he be entranced by the sexy siren stopping all those who stand in thier way of being together, including himself. Their love story may not be like many others but that's what it make it theirs, unique and perfect for them. Loved seeing Ice & Harley again, plus the mention of the always adorable Maddy had my heart smiling. Cannot wait for the next book in the series.
Profile Image for Barbara.
2,644 reviews61 followers
August 16, 2021
Excellent, fast paced, thrilling MC Romance. This is book 2 of the RBMC, ELKO, NV chapter and it’s just as exciting as the first one. Ms. Black has given us a well written storyline with amazing characters. This chapter has brotherhood down to the core of its existence. The brothers play rough, ride hard, love deep and will protect what’s theirs to the death.

River is the manager of the MC’s gentlemen’s club. Being located in Nevada where just about “everything” is legal, their high end gentlemen’s club offers the elite of services/girls. When their top girl goes missing and is found out of state with a rival MC, they travel to get her back. But another deal is struck when River spots a beauty with red hair and green eyes (Kora). Little do they know the trouble they are bringing back to their door when Kora leaves with them.

This is a must read book in a must read series. All the RBMC books are great reads but you don’t want to miss out on the ELKO, NV chapter. I highly recommend grabbing up Ice, Book 1 and River, Book 2. You won’t regret it.

2 Thumbs Up and 5+ Stars
Profile Image for Kathy Wideman.
2,613 reviews44 followers
April 11, 2022
This book is part of the Royal Bastards MC collection. This is the second book for the Elko chapter. This book can be read as a standalone. River is in charge of the club’s brothel. When one of the girls goes missing, he tracks her down to another MC. They make a trade. A girl for a girl. River knows which one he wants right away. Kora, River is drawn to her right away and doesn’t know why. Kora has secrets and the other club doesn’t want to let her go so easily even though they agreed to it. Kora wants to get away. She never imagined another club would help her do that. Maybe she doesn’t want to be completely free, just free to be herself. Both River and Kora’s lives are changed by what they feel for each other. Will River be able to protect Kora and set her free? I loved this book right away. River has nothing tying him to anyone besides his brothers. Kora has never really had a choice in anything. I love the characters in this chapter. I can’t wait to read more about them. Great job Scarlett.
Profile Image for Patricia Iannaconi.
178 reviews3 followers
August 18, 2021
This is the 2nd book in the Elko, NV chapter of the RBMC. It's about River who runs a brothel for the MC and Kora, an escort from a rival club. She comes to them in an exchange for the rival club from taking their main escort and money maker. Crow is not happy about the RBMC picking Kora, but knows that he must give her up in order to avoid an all out war with them. Sparks fly from the start between her and River and it never lets up. There's definitely a connection between them both, but you'll need to read it to see where it leads to. Both are very strong minded people and don't want to give in to the other. You want to love/hate them at the same time. Story was very well written and Scarlett Black gives it everything and more that you need to keep coming back for more. I'd put this on the TBR list for sure.
Profile Image for Wendy Hodges.
2,898 reviews41 followers
December 25, 2022
Both characters are complex, they have dark needs sexually and both are in charge. But Lora also recognises a different need where River is concerned. This is intense and suspenseful, there is violence and for the most part River is hard, but the toughest guys are the ones that fall the hardest, even so he gives her choices. There is a strong BDSM element to this story, with that it is all consensual, no forced bondage or rape. It is a powerful story with both characters struggling with feelings they have never faced before and not always talking to each other so things get misunderstood. I found it interesting though slightly confusing at times, the threat especially, her father, not father and Crow. I loved Harley taking Kora under her wing and the other girls easy acceptance of her, she needed that. Storm as well was really great with her. Full on read.
Profile Image for Elysian Fields.
2,190 reviews37 followers
August 14, 2021

It is always fun to read and MC story that has a lot of action and secrets and twists and turns. It really makes the story bolder and allows the reader more of a chance to become a part of the story. In this story we get that and more.

River and Kora are an amazing couple. What I appreciated about this story is that these two butted heads time and time again. They were both strong, gutsy people and they refused to stand down, even to each other if they were right. It was a great way to see two people get together without changing their core beings.

Also, this story read in a natural light. I could feel the emotions, the actions the thoughts; it was like I was there and that is always fun.
Profile Image for Ann L.
4,806 reviews39 followers
August 16, 2021
When River's top escort leaves to go to another MC in Mexico before her contract ends, him, Ice and a few brothers go down to get retribution, as soon as he sees Kora he knows there is something about her, Ice negotiates with the MC Prez, Crow, other words takes his pick of Crow's girls in place of the one they poached. As River is in charge of the girls, he tells Ice to pick Kora.

Kora wanted out of the MC club she had been in since a child and couldn't believe her luck when she saw River, though she has secrets she finds it hard to trust, maybe River can help with that.

Absolutely riveting, from the first chapter I was hooked, this is the second book in the RBMC Elko NV series and is a wonderful companion to Ice.

Profile Image for Vicki Shaff.
412 reviews2 followers
August 19, 2021
Another awesome story

River is second in command and runs the MC brothel. One of the girls has been missing for weeks and they finally track her down in another club. Apparently one of the members has claimed her. She was a top money draw so the men take a ride to the other club. While there River lays eyes on a beautiful redhead with an attitude and is immediately drawn to her. A deal is struck and Kora leaves with the Elko club members. There is a mystery in her background and River is determined to learn what it is. They both try to fight the attraction and not mix business with pleasure but the chemistry proves to be too much. It takes each of them almost dying in separate incidents for them to realize they are meant to be together for a lifetime. Excellent story.
Profile Image for Mimirureviewbooks.
2,204 reviews
August 18, 2021
River is book 2 in the Royal Bastards MC, Elko NV written by talented author Scarlett Black. She delivers an utterly exhilarating story with Kora and River. I loved every page in this book. It was the perfect mix of suspense and romance. Also it was breathtaking watching these two deal with their issues and fall in love at the same time. This one goes to the top of my 2021 favorite reads. I was not expecting the intensity, the amazing heroine, the badass/jerk/alpha hero, the banter and a plot to keep you glued to the pages that only Scarlett Black can write! Can't wait for more from the Royal Bastards MC, Elko NV Chapter.
"I voluntarily read an advanced copy and this is my review...".
Profile Image for Patricia Howard.
644 reviews
August 15, 2021
Another awesome addition to the Elko, NV RBMC series.
As a man that can do whatever he wants, when he wants, he finds himself in over his head when he meets his new employee.
One that will bring him to his knees when the time comes.
She is a girl running from her past that needs to find her dream and happiness.
Together they are a team that will never be broken up, once they find each other.
You'll find all of your dreams come true with this hero and heroin. Watch as they build up their relationship from the embers of her past.
Profile Image for Jacinda Timm-avalos.
155 reviews1 follower
August 17, 2021
This is the second book of the Royal Bastards Elko NV series. River is the VP and he runs the clubs brothel. He is a Dom who never loses control so when an working girl of his goes missing and finds out that she was taken by another MC they go to get her back but when he sees Kora he wants her so they make a deal to switch.

When Kota is given a chance to leave the MC is has been in since a child she takes it. Kora is a dominant that know how to please a man.

Once you start this book you will not be able to put it down!!
Profile Image for MJ's Book Blog and Reviews.
3,048 reviews65 followers
August 18, 2021
Review by: Jennifer
(4 stars)

I have been bouncing around to the different Royal Bastard MC stories, this is a great way to read some new to you authors and get a feel for them. I have had the pleasure of reading Scarlett Black before and absolutely love her previous stories. Kora and River, all I'm going to say is: what started out as a business deal has the potential to go further, but with the promise of freedom, will Kora be willing to even try? This has everything going for it, danger, violence, naughty bits that were on fire! River and Kora's story was on FIRE! I give this 4 stars.
Profile Image for Lynne Garlick.
2,476 reviews27 followers
August 21, 2021
Wow!!!

OMG!!! What a freaking read!!! This book took me by surprise, as in made me cry!
Honestly!! I did not expect that. This is full on, not going to lie, River is a grade A arsehole but he is good at his job. Looking after the girls he is also very protective and kinda respectful!
When he sets eyes on Kora as a means to settle a debt he feels so much more!
They are fire!! Darkness and light. Sweet and sour, she has a heart of gold but lady balls of Steel!!
I absolutely loved this book!!
Profile Image for Terri West.
2,156 reviews
August 28, 2021
A good MC read, I suspect the feminists out there will hate it but I really enjoyed it. There were a few holes in the plot, however it still flowed reasonable well and I liked River and Kora. I also liked the fact that Kora was a high end escort and she wasn't ashamed of what she did, she owned it. I think River's character came across a bit crass initially, this maybe because of the author's take on BDSM, as she admits she is no expert 9n the subject and I think that shows.
I would definitely read more by this author.
Profile Image for Joy Whiteside.
4,857 reviews112 followers
August 14, 2021
This book was a thrill to read from the moment that I started it. IT moves along at a really great pace which suited the flow of the story. You will find yourself loving these characters no matter what happens and you want to be there to support them no matter what they need to do. This story is a must read and once you start you will be unable to put it down until you finish the last page. This book needs to be read, no doubts about that at all.
864 reviews3 followers
August 15, 2021
This book!!! Oh my goodness! I so enjoyed the plot line here and the characters. They were stellar. And everything they go through and all the action it was just nonstop. I read the book straight through in one sitting. I'm telling you you can never go wrong with one of Scarlett's books. And this one is every bit as good as the first one this series. I love me some River even though he's a bit of a jerk. LOL sometimes we just kind of like them that way!
Profile Image for Outrageous Lady.
2 reviews
August 15, 2021
River is the VP for the Elko chapter of the Royal Bastards.
He runs their brothel.
He's a hard bodied Dom who never loses control.

Until he meets Kora.
...a gorgeous red head... an elite Call Girl with very sought after skills.
...a Dominant woman who knows exactly how to please a man.

Kora isn't submissive to any man.
Until River.

This book is a wonderful addition to the Royal Bastards family.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews

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