Reviewed by Taylin

TITLE: Stronger Than Fate

SERIES: Fangs and Felons #4

AUTHOR: Becca Seymour

PUBLISHER: Rainbow Tree Publishing

LENGTH: 227 Pages

RELEASE DATE: August 20, 2024

BLURB:

In the covert world of espionage, trust is a precious commodity with deadly consequences. Leading the Infiltration Tactical Unit, I’ve always relied on my instincts, careful planning, and my team. Now, hunted by the very agency I once served, I’m reluctantly forging an alliance with Ethan Wilder, a bear shifter whose gruff exterior belies a sharp intellect and unwavering loyalty.

No matter where I turn, Wilder is there—infuriatingly competent, irresistibly attractive. Despite my reservations, I can’t ignore the undeniable connection between us. Nor the fact that we’re trapped in a cabin with just one bed. With the SICB tightening its grip, Ethan becomes not just an asset, but integral to helping me keep everything from falling apart; he’s also possibly our only hope of bringing down Hornell, our elusive nemesis.

As our mission escalates, Ethan’s steadfast support stops me from imploding as the secrets of my past start to unravel, threatening everything I’ve fought to protect. Amidst looming danger, with my team beside me and Ethan at my back, I must confront the shadows before they consume us all.

“Stronger Than Fate,” the fourth instalment of the Fangs & Felons series, delivers heart-pounding action, unexpected alliances, and a romance that defies the odds in a world where danger lurks at every turn. It is recommended that book three, Brighter Than Fear, be read first.

Trigger Warnings: scenes of torture, mention of past emotional abuse, discussion of mental illness.

REVIEW:

After the events in Brighter than Fear, Bear Shifter Ethan Wilder helps vampire Mathew Lucas and his Infiltration Tactical Unit team hunt down Captain Hornell. Simultaneously, Lucas is trying to clear his teams’ names. For two people used to being emotionally/physically alone, sharing space becomes a trial, and challenge, and ultimately sparks fly – but what will catch fire?

Stronger Than Fear is the fourth book in the Fangs and Felons series. To enjoy this installment, it is suggested that book three, Brighter Than Fear, is pre-reading. Both books are Australian-based tales and are very much worth reading. However, as Strong Than Fate is the focus of this review, I will try to concentrate on it. If you like a good mixture of paranormal, hackers, explosive action, and good guys who work within and outside of the law, then this is a must for you.

The story is told in the first person from the viewpoints of Matt and Ethan. The worldbuilding spans Brisbane and Sydney, plus tech warehouses and military-style operations. It’s an all-action story with snarky banter, plus some tender and dominating how’s-your-father on the side.

Matt and Ethan have interesting histories. Ethan is a bear shifter formerly attached to British Intelligence but ended up on his own on the other side of the law, where his connection to Hart from Brighter Than Fear comes in. The Phoenix hacker, Hart, is one of several that make an appearance from book three.

Matt is a vampire who has problems with his daughter because he chose to protect her from her mother’s deeds instead of coming clean at a time when she probably wouldn’t have listened, either. His subsequent protective actions towards her were not welcomed either. He has always worked for law enforcement and must make peace with alternative ways of solving a puzzle. Matt is also a man who keeps his past known to very few people.

So, for both men, divulging their past or inner turmoil to someone is an emotional experience.

Stronger Than Fate is a macho experience of detective work, utilizing both sides of the law using a cast that are family, colleagues, and friends with all the banter that comes with it. It was a delight to read.

RATING:

BUY LINKS: 

Amazon