Brighter Than Fear

I swear I need to make notes about this series because I completely forget who everyone is between books, and that doesn't usually happen to me!

Once I figured out who Flynn was (Shaw's friend from the Academy) it started making more sense. I liked the relationship between him and Rowan, and the way they built their relationship was unusual but felt believable.

The genetic engineering aspect of the ongoing storyline throughout the series was really interesting to me. To see it affecting someone in the team made it more emotional than the previous books because it's the first time it's directly affecting them and not one of their family or friends. I definitely cried when Flynn was restrained for his treatment 🥺

I'm looking forward to the next book with Lucas, and I'm hoping it ends with Hornell finally being stopped! I'm all for an ongoing mystery and recurring bad guy, but this installment definitely made it frustrating because there were so many opportunities that fell through too easily. It's hard to balance keeping the tension going over multiple books and not leaving the reader frustrated with the lack of resolution, so I have my fingers crossed that the next book is great!

Fay MMBookworm

3,084 reviews66 followers

March 3, 2024

❤️❤️❤️🔥❤️ another fantastic book for this series, Fynn and Rowan are gorgeous together and totally perfect for each other.
Flynn 24 yrs was a new grad to the SICB academy; he'd stayed fit for the job. Receiving daily jokes from someone unknown, he hoped they were male since they were 🦄hacks. He loved the data trails he could find on computers.
In a drug operation to bring down the bad guys Flynn gets hurt.
Rowen 🐅 was watch scenes unfold and I loved the scenes leading up to them both talking for the first time, yeah it had me glued.
A combined search of Hornell was highly important and they needed Rowen.
Aww I absolutely loved their first meeting and I felt for Rowen having to hide part of himself.
As scenes progress so do dangers and what results from them more specifically a new lion to the family.
A fantastic ending to the book with a small cliffhanger with more to come in the next story. I adore this series and can't wait for the next instalment of the SICB Agency.
Banter, hot sexy scenes, dangers and lots more included in this, both Povs in first person told. Highly recommended series.

2024

Molly Otto

1,481 reviews31 followers

Well, this series just gets better with each addition! Technically, you don't have to read the otjerd prior, but I would highly recommend getting the whole scope of what is all going on. Action packed from start to finish to keep the reader enthralled the whole time, along with tender moments to make this urban fantasy novel more contemporary.
Love when an author is able to write both urban fantasy and contemporary novels that are so completely different, yet you can tell it's the same author. Rowan and Flynn are just so fake perfect together and deserving of a hea after what life has done to them. Great read, and I can't wait to see what book 4 has in store for us!

Jozey

736 reviews8 followers

February 24, 2024

Contains: hacker, stalking, special op, lion, Tiger, action

Dive in this action filled adrenaline booster. The plot weave slowly, the dot start to align. There is always some action and some details to pay attention. The author did not miss a thing. It is surprising, unpredictable, and a page turner. I couldn't put it down. And I'm so invested now, urgh I need the next book faster now.

I was so in love with them. Will definitely check the bonus scene too. If you like pnr, action with a bit of fantasy this is perfect.

Devoted❤️Reader

1,615 reviews31 followers

February 13, 2024

Fantastic!!!

“It said a lot about my life and state of mind that the thought of riding a unicorn horn got me revved up.” Ha, but I do understand, Flynn, I really do. Let me share this because I can’t reveal much about this enticing and riveting story, the sparkles and sparks are real with Rowan and Flynn. From the beginning these two have a connection that transcends words, but thankfully not code as they hacked my heart in no time. I didn’t want to put this book down, so many heart-pounding surprises and intense reveals, and we’re not done yet! I loved seeing old friends in new ways, racing along with the team as they were on the hunt, and absolutely cannot wait for Lucas’s book.

Claire Louisa

2,115 reviews123 followers

arc aussie-authors australian-women-authors

4.5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐✨

Fangs and Felons is one of my favourite Urban Fantasy series, I love the world Becca Seymour has created and I'm thrilled she is writing more in the series. You don't have to have read the previous two books, but you are missing out on a fabulous read and the back story behind what is happening now.

I did not want to put this book down, I loved diving back into this world and the found family the members of the SICB have become. I loved Rowan and Flynn's connection from where Rowan stalks Flynn from afar to where they meet and already have a connection between them. I really enjoyed the connection between Flynn and Rowan and loved seeing it expand albeit quite fast, it was clear there was something special between them.

The hunt to bring down Hornell, the tech used to bring back Prince which causes some tense times for Flynn and his coworkers and loved ones, the corruption they uncover and the danger and intrigue that is always close had me well and truly caught up in the story.

I can't wait for book 4 Stronger Than Fate to continue the intrigue and learn Lucus' story.

Elizabeth D

884 reviews6 followers

February 10, 2024

4.5/5 This was another wild ride, and I loved Flynn and Rowan so much. They were just so adorable together, especially at the beginning when they spent a lot of time staring at one another, not being able to speak, or saying embarrassing things. It made their connection feel very visceral and real. Their banter was adorable, and the texting build-up over months helped make the in-person speed seem believable. (And the unicorn jokes made me laugh!)

I loved how Rowan got roped into having a team, how he and Flynn were so protective of one another, and how the team worked together. I enjoyed learning more about shifters and getting deeper into Hornell’s plan.

I’m looking forward to Lucas’s book!

I received an ARC from GRR. This is my honest review.

Vicki

1,139 reviews25 followers

February 6, 2024

I was eagerly anticipating this instalment of the Fangs and Felons series and I was not disappointed. It is fast paced with plenty of action balancing the romance element between the two strong main characters and the continuation of the overall complex plot line.

Rowan is a bit of a grump, with good reason, who isolates himself from the world and Flynn is the tech guru for a secret government department. When their circumstances change they go from communicating via messages only to meeting in person causing a change in the dynamic between them. A little hint - it’s a change that includes steamy times mixed with sweet and tender moments.

They get a well deserved HEA even though there’s a bit of drama along the way due to the dastardly villain of the piece and their henchpersons.
I really just loved this urban fantasy book. I would advise at least reading book 2 of the series before jumping in but to really enhance the reading experience start from the beginning. The story telling ability of this author certainly makes it worth it and book 4 is not far away.

mm-other

MLF

113 reviews

February 13, 2024

Flynn the super hot computer wizard, is now on the SICB elite team. He is secretly texting the Unicorn hacker from Book 2. Rowan aka the Unicorn hacker is a Tiger shifter, that was on an elite ghost team, that no one has ever heard of. He was injured and hasn't come out of hiding in years. Rowan has been keeping tabs on Flynn since he has been in the academy. Stalking him and making sure he gets information on cases. He also keeps Flynn alive. After a bomb goes off Flynn's life changes and he needs Rowans help to bring the bad guys down.
This was an amazing 3rd book in the series. I couldn't put it down. Also my favorite so far. More spice than the other 2 books. HEA
Can't wait for the next book.

Melissa

645 reviews1 follower

I have been waiting for the reveal of the Unicorn Hacker and Flynns story and it did not disappoint. Although, I am now in a quandary because I don't want to give the big reveal away. But seeing as the book overview on Amazon has Rowan's name and the fact he was a former agent, I won't worry about giving that part away.
Instead, I think I will tease about how hot Flynn and Rowan are. With all the tension having built up with their texting communication, when they finally meet, they practically burn up the pages. I mean really, fan me!
The overarching story with Hornell continues to grow and twist with more to come in the next book. I seriously need it now.

Taylin Clavelli

Author 12 books11 followers

Reviewed for Love Bytes – 4.5 hearts.
Flynn Smythe must work twice as hard to maintain the same fitness level as his supernatural colleagues. Still, he does it because he loves his job as a cyber geek for the Infiltration Tactical Unit (ITU) within the Supernatural Investigation and Crime Bureau (SICB). However, part of that job is not getting familiar with a hacker Flynn has never met and who sends him riddles to solve. Is the hacker a foe or savior? Both are smitten by the brainpower of the other. However, can neurological compatibility translate to something more practical and rewarding, and at what cost?
Without even reading the blurb for this book, I would have picked it up off the shelf because the cover is beautiful, and I love such things in my bookcase.
Anyhoo – Brighter Than Fear is book three in the Fangs and Felons series. The author suggests that reading the previous installments is recommended but not essential. I would say that while technically correct, there are crossover characters, which is to be expected. These have little impact on the overall narrative. However, while Flynn and Rowan’s journey comes to some conclusion, there is another element of the story, probably an underlying arc, that isn’t complete, leaving a cliffhanger that I have no idea if it will be resolved in the next book. Therefore, regardless of the advice and knowing that I should have known better, I shaved some marks off since I didn’t get closure. Depth added by crossover characters wouldn’t have bothered me.
Given that I have still rated the tale 4.5 Hearts, it should give you the idea that this is a super, action-packed read full of explosions, cyber investigations, hacking, and chosen family. The series could be a phenomenal world worth investing time and money in. What also makes a nice change is that the setting is Australia.
The story is told in the first person from the viewpoints of Flynn and Rowan. Technically, it’s pretty good, although the occasional autonomous body parts sneak in. Worldbuilding surrounds some balanced investigations following the clues amid explosive periods of drama, with lives on the line. The relationship between Flynn and Rowan was a delight to read as they navigate secrets, injuries, and past events that would impact their future.
This book was provided free in exchange for a fair and honest review for
Love Bytes.

Donna

1,677 reviews11 followers

This book was interesting, but I found myself confused often since I had not read the previous two books to get the necessary background for a clear understanding of the dynamics involved. It can be read as a standalone for this couple, but it does a disservice to the complexity of the story to not read what has come before first.

The SICB is the Supernatural Investigative & Crime Bureau and the ITU is the Infiltration Tactical Unit of which Flynn is a team member, a talented computer geek. The team is working on tracking down and capturing a man named Hornell, wanted for genetic experimentation and bloodshed. Over the last several months, Flynn has been in communication with someone going by the name SPARKLESORCERER, a genius hacker known as the unicorn hacker. Sparklesorcerer has been feeding Flynn tips through riddles and cryptic clues, all tying into the cases the team is working on. When these communications are discovered by the team, in order to get the unicorn hacker to work with the team, Flynn discovers the hacker’s identity, and he is the only one the hacker will meet with. When Flynn meets Rowan (the unicorn hacker/Sparklesorcerer), the interest in each other that had grown through the messages becomes a physical attraction, drawing the two to each other. As the hunt for Hornell increases, events unfold putting the team members, and Flynn especially, into mortal danger, leading to unexpected outcomes. By the end of the book, Flynn and Rowan’s story has resolved, but the hunt for Hornell will continue into book 4 and maybe beyond.

This is an action-packed story with complex and interesting characters, a cohesive team composed of shifters, vampires, and Flynn, the lone human. There are twists and turns, betrayals, wary building of trust on Rowan’s part, and genetic engineering with unforeseen consequences. Not the “normal” shifter books I am used to, but fascinating in its own way. 4.5 stars, rounded up to 5.

I received an ARC of this book and this is my voluntary review.

Katriana

1,053 reviews13 followers

ebook m-m wish-list-print-copy

This book starts a few months after book two ended, and we're jumping into Smythe's story right away. I found Smythe and Rowan's relationship really intriguing, I personally enjoyed how they communicated with each other and formed a bond around their love of computers and tech.

I feel as though Smythe and Rowan had a lot more hoops to jump through on their journey to being with each other, they had a lot going on. I thought the writing was good, as always, the plot carried through nicely with this book, a seamless continuation from book two. I adore that Becca keeps the characters from the other books in each additional story, I love being able to get glimpses of the unit, and getting to see the banter that still occurs between everyone.

There was less action in this book compared to other books in the series, however, there was more mysteries that made up for it. The bond that Kent and her wife have with Smythe is so special, they really formed a family with each other, which I found incredible.

The aspect of there being a 'zombie' drug is really interesting! I've never read a shifter book/series like this one, this PNR series is completely unique and very creative! The way all these characters come together and help each other out give such a profound found family feel to the story, and helps lighten the heaviness of what's occuring.

I will say that nothing really got answered in this book. Book 2 left off with quite a few questions that I thought would be answered in this book; however, more questions just arose with this story, instead of them being answered. This book definitely ends with a cliffhanger, I can't even say a HFN because there wasn't even really an ending. The way it ended just left things open-ended with no answers. Overall, this was still a great book, and I'm excited to see what's going to happen next!

AshPenny37

1,031 reviews5 followers

February 23, 2024

So, we're back with the Supernatural Crime Investigation Bureau for the third time. Flynn and Rowan's story is definitely best enjoyed when read in series order.

I’d been picturing all kinds of things about the Unicorn Hacker after the previous book and the development of Rowan's character doesn't disappoint. The chemistry between him and Flynn is great and I really like how they're looking out for each other from the off.

Although I do like the MCs work together both on a personal and professional level and the principles of the plot development work for me, this isn't my favourite book in the series. To me, the action and investigative elements of the story don't quite find the right balance with the relationship and romance aspects. Due to the nature of both - no spoilers - it felt like there was a bit of plot downloading with side characters in the team investigating some key things whilst Flynn and Rowan were not in a position to support. Personally, I would have preferred maybe an extra chapter or so for the MCs to get back in the game so they could be the focus of some of that action.

It's also a sort of slow-but-not-slow burn. The fact that much of their initial contact and getting each other was via messaging and Rowan's protective snooping - I'm not going to say stalking - gives the feeling of that build up of anticipation you usually get from a slow burn even if ‘for reasons’ (again, no spoilers here) it really isn't.

Although Brighter Than Fear didn't quite reach the heights I'd hoped, it's still an enjoyable read in a great urban fantasy universe. I still love the team vibes and the overarching plot is still to be concluded so I'll definitely be waiting impatiently for the next Fangs & Felons installment. 3.5* rounded up.

An ARC was provided by GRR. This is my honest opinion.

Anne Barwell

Author 23 books108 followers

March 2, 2024

I love this series, and that it’s set in Australia. It’s wonderful reading paranormal books set this side of the world. I loved how the series plot advances with this story, as well as Flynn and Rowan’s, with a mix of intrigue, danger, and romance. This series is one I’ll be collecting for my paperback shelf.

I loved Flynn from his first appearance in a previous book, and was intrigued by the mysterious unicorn hacker. Their text flirting, and later banter, is wonderful. The snark between this found family is a highlight, as is the friendships/relationships. I loved the introduction of Rowan and his brother, Vinnie, to the mix, and have a theory where that’s leading.

Rowan and Flynn fit together so well. I love how protective they both are of each other, and how Rowan’s love and concern for Flynn help him to start to move forward, and how he supports Flynn when things go pear shaped.

The world building in this series is great. I love the details and some of the differences I haven’t read anywhere else like shifters being able to ‘gift’ their ability when they die. I like how the bad guy ups the ante, and just when you think it’s not going to get worse, it does.

I love Kent and Jada and their taking Flynn in as their own. The two bonus scenes are well worth the read, especially the one with Kent. She totally rocks.

Hanging out for the next one in the series.

Mari Cardenas

2,294 reviews28 followers

4-5-stars action favorite

4.5 Stars!

Brighter than Fear is book 3 in Becca Seymour's Fangs & Felons series, and it should be read in order because there's a continuing storyline.

I loved Flynn Smythe and Rowan Hart, I was totally gone for the Sunshine/Grumpy relationship they had. They were so good together, for the most part. Smythe was already a goner by the time they met, and Hart had been kind of stalking Smythe since they stumbled upon each other while working (hacking for Hart). A warning, though, their first time together can be considered as dubious consent for some, although for me it was more a case of miscommunication, but if that's a trigger for you, proceed with caution. Other than that, they're pretty much my favorite couple in the series.

After everything he's done, I'm very invested in the SICB team finding Hornell. I'm really enjoying this continuing plotline.

All in all, I can't wait for more in this series! I loved every second of it, but the camaraderie between the team members, Rowan and his brother, and Hart's protectiveness and Smythe's possessiveness were definitely my favorite parts. Very recommendable!

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

Suzanne Irving

2,730 reviews24 followers

February 23, 2024

Rowan and Flynn plus the continuing struggles

Although Becca Seymour has this book focused around Flynn and Rowan it’s much more about the continuing struggles of the agents and their agency for supernatural beings. This series is a definite one click for me to the point where I have gotten an early reader copy because I can’t wait to read what is happening with this group. Because this series is based around an overall story there are lots of characters from the other volumes and probably glimpses of future couples and situations. It’s lots of fun to read and lots of exciting stuff happens including things that I didn’t see coming. These surprises are one of the things that I feel like Ms. Seymour does terrifically. I read so many books that it’s hard to get things by me and Ms. Seymour does and in ways that make sense. I don’t feel like I’m saying it right myself. It’s that I never feel like she pulls out a shift in the story from nothing or just to wrap up a problem easily. She writes great. Buy her books. Nuff said.

Shana W

712 reviews6 followers

arc-review lgbtq paranormal-romance

This book is action-packed, with romance, steam, found family and some humour. The plot is intriguing and it is such a page-turner that I could not put the book down. Becca Seymour's writing is terrific as usual, with good world building. Flynn works for a secret government agency. Unbeknownst to his team, the unicorn hacker has been contacting Flynn for quite some time, and he has developed a crush on this unknown person. When he finally finds out the hacker's identity, sparks begin to fly. Rowan reluctantly agrees to assist the team, to help take down the villain Hornell. There are many twists and exciting surprises which I do not want to give away. Suffice it to say that Flynn and Rowan are just perfect for each other and oh so sweet together. I love Flynn's found family and Rowan's brother. This is the third book in the series; I am highly anticipating the next installment because I love all of these characters so much.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Mandy (MP Book Reviews)

4,937 reviews45 followers

May 26, 2025

Flynn, an agent in covert operations, has been secretly collaborating with an elusive "unicorn hacker," jeopardizing his loyalty to his unit, the ITU. When an investigation escalates, Flynn's world is upended, and he finally hears the hacker's voice, learning his name is Rowan Hart, a former agent and tiger shifter. Despite initial clashes with Flynn's team, they form an alliance against their target, Hornell. A sudden attack leaves Flynn gravely injured and transformed, requiring both his unit and Rowan's unwavering support to survive. Through this ordeal, Rowan's dedication becomes evident, as he's determined to give Flynn a second chance at life and a potential future together.

I loved this story with the continuation of the mystery and the developing relationship between Flynn and Rowan. There was so much danger and drama that I was swept away in the story. Their relationship was so sweet and the way that Rowan protected Flynn was just adorable. There were a lot of emotions and feelings as the story and their relationship developed. This was an MM story with mature content.

Fran

1,054 reviews11 followers

February 20, 2024

Rowan and Flynn are very believably written characters.
Each has their own weaknesses but are very compatible with each other. Rowan suffered so much from the treachery played upon him, suffering physical and emotional scars. He isolated himself from all society with the exception of his brother Vinnie who was his staunchest supporter; that is only until human Flynn connected via on-line with him. Flynn was the 7-month newbie to the SICB who fantasied about the mysterious unicorn hacker as Flynn had dubbed this enigma. What unfolds in this third book of the Fang & Felons series involves an action-packed narrative that has suspense, surprises, high level danger, mystery aplenty but most of all the dynamitic relationship between Rowan and Flynn. Shifter and Human or something else? The reader will just have to find that answer for themselves. For the ARC I received this review is my honest and willing opinion.

Scatteredashes

443 reviews5 followers

February 23, 2024

This series is definitely read best in order and I think each one gets a bit better. There's an overarching plot that connects but we get to see events through different characters POV. Here we have Rowan and Flynn. Flynn's one of the few humans who work with the SICB but he is a great hacker. Rowan is not part of SICB but his goals have somewhat aligned with theirs...plus he's somewhat obsessed with Flynn. I really felt for both of these guys and loved their interactions with each other. Flynn is always looking for the approval he never got from his family. Rowan has voluntarily become a hermit due to his scars from a previous attack. Trust is really important to these two and I really enjoyed their interactions.

Fynn's SICB team is full of well done characters and I enjoyed watching all their personalities come together. This series has really grown on me and I do enjoy each one a bit more than the previous!

Sarita Chapdelaine

1,251 reviews1 follower

Brighter Than Fear is another wonderful addition to the Fangs & Felons series and I was fully engaged from the first page to the last. It is beautifully written, gritty, emotional, fast-paced, has lots of action and I fell in love with Flynn and Rowan. They are my favorite couple in this series so far and I love how their relationship develops as they are exactly what the other needs. The obstacles they and Flynn's team are facing seem to be insurmountable but together they can deal with anything thrown at them. When Flynn's life is in danger Rowan and the team will do whatever it takes to help him and I love how supportive and caring everyone is. I can't wait to read the next book in this exciting series.

I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.

arc

Elaine Gray

2,003 reviews25 followers

Flynn is a skilled computer wizard who recently joined the prestigious SICB elite team. However, his colleagues are unaware that he has been secretly communicating with Rowan, also known as the Unicorn hacker and a Tiger shifter. Rowan is a former member of a ghost team, whose identity remains undisclosed and who has been in hiding for years due to injuries. Despite this, he has been closely monitoring Flynn and providing him with information to ensure his safety.

Unfortunately, Flynn's peaceful life is disrupted when a bomb explodes, and he turns to Rowan for help in taking down those responsible. Together, they form an unlikely partnership crucial in unraveling the mystery behind the explosion and bringing justice to those involved. Their story is action-packed, romantic, and very emotional and I enjoyed it from start to finish.

Manuela

903 reviews

October 4, 2024

I did get an ARC copy of this book and in order to give it an honest review I went and read the first two books in this series. And good it was. There is an over-reaching storyline that would most certainly be confusing if one would start the series with this book.
This is the story of Flynn Smythe and Rowan Hart, both are keyboard wizzards, though one is imbedded in a secret government unit while the other is freelance with his own agenda. There's a lot going on and plenty of it builds up on top of the previous books.
I liked both main characters and was happy to see that they were mixing well with the rest of the unit. What I didn't like was security breaches that had no follow-up because either the story or sex came in to distract from it. I hope though that there will be answers in the next book, as it ends on some form of cliffhanger.

anxiety arc cliffhanger

Joanne Mccorkell

1,644 reviews14 followers

arc covert-operations law-enforcement

The score should be higher, but Im a dumb ass, for 2 reasons, firstly, I missed the first 2 books of this series..... to be corrected, secondly, Im crap at science, so most of the genetics passed by me.

Anyways back to Rowan and Flynn, I loved these two. Despite the cyber stalking and fantasizing of mysterious horned men... it was so apparent they were made for eachother. Yes Rowan had his hangups, and to be fair its more than understandable why..yet Flynns possessiveness showed he wasnt put off at all.. but Flynn and Rowan were both attracted to the other because of their big brains and tech skills.
I loved the found family and the support they all had, and the fact that they just adopted Rowan also

Diane

3,554 reviews38 followers

February 24, 2024

This is definitely a series you will want to read...in order! Each book is fantastic.

Becca has a done a wonderful job!

You'll love her writing and the characters she creates.

The relationships are written in such a way that you have immediate 'buy-in' to their success.

The plot is complex without be overwhelming.

Family ties add to the intrigue and feelings of warmth and the ability to rely on others.

As covert operations take a deadly tone, the reliance they place on each other becomes even more necessary.

Plan on lots of fear, fun and love.

You'll want to continue this series...while breathlessly waiting for the release of each book!

I received an ARC from GRR! So much fun!

Alias11

352 reviews4 followers

This book was my introduction to the Fangs & Felons series, and although it *can* be read as a standalone, I recommend starting at the beginning, as I felt like I was missing some history and details of the characters. That said, this was still a fantastic read, with action, secrets, attraction, suspense, betrayal, and surprises. I loved the connections between the characters, and how Rowan and Flynn's distance communications set the stage for when they actually meet. I loved the spice factor! The world building and character development are top notch, and now I need to go back and read the first two books, while I wait for book 4.

I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving this honest review.

L H

3,042 reviews22 followers