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Alpha Elite #11
Blade
Battle born.
SEAL.
Loner.
Ringing out of BUD/S was never an option. Third generation Navy SEAL, the Teams were in my blood. I earned my Trident, and a year later my brother earned his.
As Tier One operators, the battlefield was our playground.
Then I got a cryptic call. Enemy combatants, coordinated attack, no survivors, catastrophic loss—my brother was dead. Two days later, I was carrying his coffin off a transport. Except my brother hadn’t been deployed at the time of the attack, his new wife was missing, and no one was talking.
Intent on answers, I left the Teams and joined Alpha Elite Security. With the private military contractor as my cover, I went looking for payback and found it—all five feet of her.
Code Blade.
Vengeance.
BLADE is a standalone book in the exciting Alpha Elite Series by USA Today Bestselling author, Sybil Bartel. Come meet Blade and the dominant, alpha heroes who work for AES!
SEAL.
Loner.
Ringing out of BUD/S was never an option. Third generation Navy SEAL, the Teams were in my blood. I earned my Trident, and a year later my brother earned his.
As Tier One operators, the battlefield was our playground.
Then I got a cryptic call. Enemy combatants, coordinated attack, no survivors, catastrophic loss—my brother was dead. Two days later, I was carrying his coffin off a transport. Except my brother hadn’t been deployed at the time of the attack, his new wife was missing, and no one was talking.
Intent on answers, I left the Teams and joined Alpha Elite Security. With the private military contractor as my cover, I went looking for payback and found it—all five feet of her.
Code Blade.
Vengeance.
BLADE is a standalone book in the exciting Alpha Elite Series by USA Today Bestselling author, Sybil Bartel. Come meet Blade and the dominant, alpha heroes who work for AES!
545 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 19, 2025
78 people are currently reading
242 people want to read
About the author
Sybil Bartel
50 books1,238 followersSybil Bartel is a USA Today Bestselling author of unapologetic Alpha heroes. Whether you're reading her dominant Alpha Elite mercenaries, her protective Alpha Bodyguards, or her page-turning romantic suspense, all of her heroes are sexy-as-sin and unwaveringly Alpha!
Sybil lives in South Florida, and she is forever Oliver's mom.
Sybil lives in South Florida, and she is forever Oliver's mom.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
February 28, 2025
Rinse and Repeat
I have read every book Sybil had written, but I think this will be my last. I get the Alpha anti hero, but the mmc seems to get more jerking ( worse but I don’t want my review to get pulled) when you read about them when they were just supporting characters they were interested and even warm at times. Her first series prior to Alpha, had characters that were not so very dark. They mixed strong alpha tendencies with humor and warmth. And I’m just tired of seeing the same messed up, falling apart female lead repurposed. How about some different women personalities instead of every book highlighting a fmc that needs rescuing. At least in Alpha the fmc was a strong character. It just seems as each book is change of names but rinse and repeat and the mmc is darker and darker. Once the mmc decides she is his woman, no one can even say his woman’s name or look at her. I had a hard time especially with this book because the way the fmc talks in run on sentences and says idiotic things. I understand it was due to her past trauma, but a little would have gone a long way. I skimmed most of the book because it drug on so much. Just my opinion but there are likely thousands of other readers that don’t agree.
I have read every book Sybil had written, but I think this will be my last. I get the Alpha anti hero, but the mmc seems to get more jerking ( worse but I don’t want my review to get pulled) when you read about them when they were just supporting characters they were interested and even warm at times. Her first series prior to Alpha, had characters that were not so very dark. They mixed strong alpha tendencies with humor and warmth. And I’m just tired of seeing the same messed up, falling apart female lead repurposed. How about some different women personalities instead of every book highlighting a fmc that needs rescuing. At least in Alpha the fmc was a strong character. It just seems as each book is change of names but rinse and repeat and the mmc is darker and darker. Once the mmc decides she is his woman, no one can even say his woman’s name or look at her. I had a hard time especially with this book because the way the fmc talks in run on sentences and says idiotic things. I understand it was due to her past trauma, but a little would have gone a long way. I skimmed most of the book because it drug on so much. Just my opinion but there are likely thousands of other readers that don’t agree.
February 19, 2025
I have book hangover and I think it's going to take me a while to get over.
The tone of this book was a lot different from most of the other books in the series and I loved that this story was the one to close out the series. I fell absolutely head over heels for the FMC at her first appearance. That beautiful disaster had me in tears of laughter and anguish through the whole book.
And Blade… holy homicidal snuggle bunny. Was *not* expecting this man to be so… everything. He was one of the biggest (literally) most pleasant surprises because this man is book boyfriend goals. Don't get me wrong, he's ABSOLUTELY unhinged but sooooo much more.
And the BANTER. Top tier. No notes. The chemistry between these two was off the charts. They complimented every part of each other and it was beautiful and perfect.
The twist? Yeah, I jumped up off my couch and started freaking out. I was lucky I didn't wake my kid up because my mind. Was. Blown.
I have this leftover potty training chart from my kid’s diaper days and I recycled it to encourage my tiny terrorist child to do good listening and get rewards. Basically, she earns 5 stars and she gets to do a preferred fun activity at the end of the day. However, if she has an extra good day, she insists she gets a unicorn magnet in addition to 5 stars to show just how incredible she is and how she exceeds expectations.
This book is 5 stars and a unicorn.
I received an ARC, ignored all responsibilities, stayed up way too late reading, and cried happy tears into a bag of potato chips before reviewing.
The tone of this book was a lot different from most of the other books in the series and I loved that this story was the one to close out the series. I fell absolutely head over heels for the FMC at her first appearance. That beautiful disaster had me in tears of laughter and anguish through the whole book.
And Blade… holy homicidal snuggle bunny. Was *not* expecting this man to be so… everything. He was one of the biggest (literally) most pleasant surprises because this man is book boyfriend goals. Don't get me wrong, he's ABSOLUTELY unhinged but sooooo much more.
And the BANTER. Top tier. No notes. The chemistry between these two was off the charts. They complimented every part of each other and it was beautiful and perfect.
The twist? Yeah, I jumped up off my couch and started freaking out. I was lucky I didn't wake my kid up because my mind. Was. Blown.
I have this leftover potty training chart from my kid’s diaper days and I recycled it to encourage my tiny terrorist child to do good listening and get rewards. Basically, she earns 5 stars and she gets to do a preferred fun activity at the end of the day. However, if she has an extra good day, she insists she gets a unicorn magnet in addition to 5 stars to show just how incredible she is and how she exceeds expectations.
This book is 5 stars and a unicorn.
I received an ARC, ignored all responsibilities, stayed up way too late reading, and cried happy tears into a bag of potato chips before reviewing.
February 26, 2025
I really really love Sybil's writing style..and this one was good and a little different ..I loved the banter and the story BUT my God I just HATED how the hero always called the FMC "WOMAN" or reffer to her as "the brunette" ..ughhhh it really bugged me to no end ..not once did he call her "babe, baby, sweetheart or honey ..I noticed that Sybil did this a lot in her latest books and it really didn't feel nice ...here when Blade call her woman or the brunette it felt so Cold ..and detached 😫
That being said ..I liked this book and I will definitely be reading more of whatever Sybil writes
That being said ..I liked this book and I will definitely be reading more of whatever Sybil writes
February 22, 2025
This book gave me the biggest book hangover. Blade is everything. Possessive BUT loving. In a way, he doesn’t even realize.
Want to read
September 6, 2024Counting down the days until this one. My most anticipated read of the series!
February 22, 2025
I spent quite a bit of time pondering how on earth I can possibly review this book without the use of swear words..... it was not easy.
For those who are sensitive to trigger topics, there is a back story which includes S abuse, so make purchase choices that are best for you.
If I was to select a single word to represent this book it would of course have to be HUGE.
Blade.... is HUGE, like every single part of him
Blades alpha proclivities ...HUGE
Blades heart....Oh brother, it is HUGE
Blades love for his woman... HUGE
Blades can of iced tea ..... HUGE. I mean.... H U G E
Blades need to protect those he loves ... HUGE
Did I mention his can of iced tea .... yep, it is eye wateringly HUGE
Blades skill to undead the bad guys.... HUGE
Man, oh man was this book good. Right from the start my brain was constantly wandering pondering ... who, what, why, where, who who who .... Twists and turns will keep you questioning everything.
From the minute Juni joined the world, she's suffered, she has never experienced real love, affection and genuine care. She is damaged beyond words but even with this, she is tough tiny packet of spice. Blade has his own demons and suffers great loss in his life, but together they are perfection. The back and forward/push and pull as they rode out the roller coaster of emotions and battled to keep the demons at bay will keep tugging at your heart strings and may make you want to throw your kindle across the room at times. Hold on tight, it's worth the ride.
Sybil saved the best till last of this series, she really upped the mystery/twists and has perfectly set up the Paragon series to begin. I cannot wait!!!
Sybil your acknowledgement section was beautiful, he will absolutely be watching over you with immense pride.
Easy 5 stars + a HUGE can of Iced Tea & a bag of Lays :)
For those who are sensitive to trigger topics, there is a back story which includes S abuse, so make purchase choices that are best for you.
If I was to select a single word to represent this book it would of course have to be HUGE.
Blade.... is HUGE, like every single part of him
Blades alpha proclivities ...HUGE
Blades heart....Oh brother, it is HUGE
Blades love for his woman... HUGE
Blades can of iced tea ..... HUGE. I mean.... H U G E
Blades need to protect those he loves ... HUGE
Did I mention his can of iced tea .... yep, it is eye wateringly HUGE
Blades skill to undead the bad guys.... HUGE
Man, oh man was this book good. Right from the start my brain was constantly wandering pondering ... who, what, why, where, who who who .... Twists and turns will keep you questioning everything.
From the minute Juni joined the world, she's suffered, she has never experienced real love, affection and genuine care. She is damaged beyond words but even with this, she is tough tiny packet of spice. Blade has his own demons and suffers great loss in his life, but together they are perfection. The back and forward/push and pull as they rode out the roller coaster of emotions and battled to keep the demons at bay will keep tugging at your heart strings and may make you want to throw your kindle across the room at times. Hold on tight, it's worth the ride.
Sybil saved the best till last of this series, she really upped the mystery/twists and has perfectly set up the Paragon series to begin. I cannot wait!!!
Sybil your acknowledgement section was beautiful, he will absolutely be watching over you with immense pride.
Easy 5 stars + a HUGE can of Iced Tea & a bag of Lays :)
July 29, 2025
An amazing combination of accurate military lingo, great action scenes, sexy spice and compelling storytelling. A thrilling conclusion to the AES series.
March 14, 2025
This author definitely has the best plots, is very well documented and has good writing style however, I hate how cold and uncivilised all her male characters are. Every single one of them. I understand they all went through something, but still. Why do they all have to suffer and be cold? Why all the female characters are victims of something? Why is there a sex scene in almost every chapter?
Can’t a soldier fall in love with a normal girl and treat her right from the beginning?
Can’t a soldier fall in love with a normal girl and treat her right from the beginning?
February 18, 2025
Sybil saved the BEST for Last! BLADE was UNTOPPABLE!!!! 5 million/5 Stars!!!!
I had expectations going into this book, especially after seeing glimpses of Blade throughout the preceding books in the AES series, but all of that went out the freaking window as soon as I started reading BLADE. And by reading, I mean obsessing over every word and nuance and silent tell about this merciless, dominant and possessive man. I completely DEVOURED this book all night long. And then I woke up and immediately re-read it because it was SO incredible!!
BLADE wrecked me. My heart ached for yet loudly rooted for his FMC. She is my favorite FMC that Sybil has ever written. Her quick wit and snarky honesty combined with her resilience through unimaginable circumstances made me love her so much. She was real and relatable and a survivor!!
She is strong without Blade but she also is carrying trauma, grief, and trust issues a mile wide. It’s raw and messy, but Blade is a Valhalla warrior, and he never backs down. He cleans that metaphorical and literal mess with his own brand of ruthless justice and resolute love for his woman.
And omg does he love this woman!! The emotions that run between them, the progression of their communication, and the trust that he forges with her was everything!!! Blade is unmatched, especially in the bedroom. The spice was supreme! Not just due to their physical chemistry, but because of their unspoken understanding of the similarities between one another. It was intoxicating and explosive, and indescribably HOT.
I don’t know if Sybil was holding out or just purposely saving her absolute BEST BOOK HERO EVER for last, but BLADE was untoppable!! Blade is the 12th and final book in the AES series, and I found myself getting teary while reading the final chapters. In part, because those chapters themselves were so profound and cemented my love for Blade and his woman forever, but also because I never wanted this book or this phenomenal series to end.
But, as endings go, it was transcendent.
And not without a shattering twist! Let’s just say that I’m counting down the days until the first book in the Paragon series is released!! But until then, I’ll be right here, re-reading BLADE, my new ultimate book boyfriend.
5 Million out of 5 STARS!!!!!
I had expectations going into this book, especially after seeing glimpses of Blade throughout the preceding books in the AES series, but all of that went out the freaking window as soon as I started reading BLADE. And by reading, I mean obsessing over every word and nuance and silent tell about this merciless, dominant and possessive man. I completely DEVOURED this book all night long. And then I woke up and immediately re-read it because it was SO incredible!!
BLADE wrecked me. My heart ached for yet loudly rooted for his FMC. She is my favorite FMC that Sybil has ever written. Her quick wit and snarky honesty combined with her resilience through unimaginable circumstances made me love her so much. She was real and relatable and a survivor!!
She is strong without Blade but she also is carrying trauma, grief, and trust issues a mile wide. It’s raw and messy, but Blade is a Valhalla warrior, and he never backs down. He cleans that metaphorical and literal mess with his own brand of ruthless justice and resolute love for his woman.
And omg does he love this woman!! The emotions that run between them, the progression of their communication, and the trust that he forges with her was everything!!! Blade is unmatched, especially in the bedroom. The spice was supreme! Not just due to their physical chemistry, but because of their unspoken understanding of the similarities between one another. It was intoxicating and explosive, and indescribably HOT.
I don’t know if Sybil was holding out or just purposely saving her absolute BEST BOOK HERO EVER for last, but BLADE was untoppable!! Blade is the 12th and final book in the AES series, and I found myself getting teary while reading the final chapters. In part, because those chapters themselves were so profound and cemented my love for Blade and his woman forever, but also because I never wanted this book or this phenomenal series to end.
But, as endings go, it was transcendent.
And not without a shattering twist! Let’s just say that I’m counting down the days until the first book in the Paragon series is released!! But until then, I’ll be right here, re-reading BLADE, my new ultimate book boyfriend.
5 Million out of 5 STARS!!!!!
February 24, 2025
UP at 2am, reading BLADE. I just COULDN’T sleep. BLADE woke ME up. I just HAD to KNOW. I still NEED to know MORE…Paragon Operations
📚Review ~ Blade (The Alpha Elite Series)
🖋Author ~ Sybil Bartel, Author Sybil Bartel
🖋Features: Military Romance, Romantic Suspense
⭐️Rating: 5/5
Battle born. SEAL. Loner.
Baghdad is the wrong question. Phoenix is rising. Stop looking for your brother or start listening.
🗡Blade is a very different AES operative. Resistant and more than willing to go it alone without the interference of his Team, he has to learn a little patience to save the one sassy-mouthed woman who unwittingly crashed into his orbit like a downed satellite.
Could you fall in love with a voice?
📲With no money and having just lost her one best friend, Juni is alone, circling aimlessly around Miami. Defiant and refusing to just sink into nothingness but keeping her head down, her one lifeline is her cell phone and the dominant alpha male who keeps answering her.
🫦 Marvelous Moments:
🗡“Can you tell me where we’re going now?” I gave the woman another opportunity to trust me and tell me who she was. “Does it matter?” She bit her bottom lip. I fed her the opening. “Where don’t you want to go?” She looked me in the eye. Then the woman kept her sh$t locked down as tight as any Tier One I’d ever met. “The past.”
📲When he stood, he scanned the room and slider doors so quickly that I wasn’t sure if it was even a conscious thought for him or just ingrained into his DNA at this point. But when his cool, light blue eyes landed on me and heated with intent, I knew that was purposeful.
Blade didn’t love with words. He loved with protection and his own brand of justice, and he was merciless in both.
https://linktr.ee/ravenblackbird74
#writer #editor #review #books #bookstagrammers #bookreviewer #reader #MustRead #bookclub #bookish #booklover #bookworm #readers #currentlyreading #readersofinstagram #brokenwingbookreviews #ravenblackbird74 #booktok #sybilbartel #alphaeliteseries #blade #navyseal #militaryromance #romanticsuspence
📚Review ~ Blade (The Alpha Elite Series)
🖋Author ~ Sybil Bartel, Author Sybil Bartel
🖋Features: Military Romance, Romantic Suspense
⭐️Rating: 5/5
Battle born. SEAL. Loner.
Baghdad is the wrong question. Phoenix is rising. Stop looking for your brother or start listening.
🗡Blade is a very different AES operative. Resistant and more than willing to go it alone without the interference of his Team, he has to learn a little patience to save the one sassy-mouthed woman who unwittingly crashed into his orbit like a downed satellite.
Could you fall in love with a voice?
📲With no money and having just lost her one best friend, Juni is alone, circling aimlessly around Miami. Defiant and refusing to just sink into nothingness but keeping her head down, her one lifeline is her cell phone and the dominant alpha male who keeps answering her.
🫦 Marvelous Moments:
🗡“Can you tell me where we’re going now?” I gave the woman another opportunity to trust me and tell me who she was. “Does it matter?” She bit her bottom lip. I fed her the opening. “Where don’t you want to go?” She looked me in the eye. Then the woman kept her sh$t locked down as tight as any Tier One I’d ever met. “The past.”
📲When he stood, he scanned the room and slider doors so quickly that I wasn’t sure if it was even a conscious thought for him or just ingrained into his DNA at this point. But when his cool, light blue eyes landed on me and heated with intent, I knew that was purposeful.
Blade didn’t love with words. He loved with protection and his own brand of justice, and he was merciless in both.
https://linktr.ee/ravenblackbird74
#writer #editor #review #books #bookstagrammers #bookreviewer #reader #MustRead #bookclub #bookish #booklover #bookworm #readers #currentlyreading #readersofinstagram #brokenwingbookreviews #ravenblackbird74 #booktok #sybilbartel #alphaeliteseries #blade #navyseal #militaryromance #romanticsuspence
February 21, 2025
I say this so much, but Sybil Bartel is a writing genius. She’s creating new exciting fresh stories every single time. Each one so different from the last. Each MMC and FMC different from the last. Yet still remaining in the same world where crossovers happen. She is literally a genius. Some of the things that came together in this book were just like Wow, I forgot about that! But Sybil did not forget. The chemistry between the characters is always explosive and hot hot hot, the banter, the possessiveness of the MMC. Just gah!
Blade is… I need this man. Idk how to describe him but I need him. He’s possessive. He’s homicidal at times. He’s a lover and a nurturer. Like he’s all these things that contradict the other but somehow it works and makes him the best freakin’ book boyfriend. I need him!
Blades lady is mentally strong. She’s quick witted and snarky, honest and quirky. She’s a beautiful disaster in the flesh. She’s whiskey in a tea cup. Lol
I LOVE the way Sybil writes strong women. Her characters can be mentally strong and still fit right with a possessive man. Most of the books in this trope the women aren’t so this is one of the things I love most about Sybil’s books. You relate to these women, feel with these women, cry with them. It’s beautiful. I always have so many emotions reading a book by Sybil and this one was no different.
However, the TWIST? Unpredictable. Chefs kiss. I thought I was prepared. Thought I knew what was going on in this book. What would happen next. Wrong. I was so so wrong.
This book is unputdownable. As with all her books, I could NOT STOP. It’s so good. Edge of your seat, I must know what happens next.
In summation, Sybil Bartel always sends my heart catawampus with her beautiful words and I think everyone should read them.
Blade is… I need this man. Idk how to describe him but I need him. He’s possessive. He’s homicidal at times. He’s a lover and a nurturer. Like he’s all these things that contradict the other but somehow it works and makes him the best freakin’ book boyfriend. I need him!
Blades lady is mentally strong. She’s quick witted and snarky, honest and quirky. She’s a beautiful disaster in the flesh. She’s whiskey in a tea cup. Lol
I LOVE the way Sybil writes strong women. Her characters can be mentally strong and still fit right with a possessive man. Most of the books in this trope the women aren’t so this is one of the things I love most about Sybil’s books. You relate to these women, feel with these women, cry with them. It’s beautiful. I always have so many emotions reading a book by Sybil and this one was no different.
However, the TWIST? Unpredictable. Chefs kiss. I thought I was prepared. Thought I knew what was going on in this book. What would happen next. Wrong. I was so so wrong.
This book is unputdownable. As with all her books, I could NOT STOP. It’s so good. Edge of your seat, I must know what happens next.
In summation, Sybil Bartel always sends my heart catawampus with her beautiful words and I think everyone should read them.
December 10, 2025
This story was packed with angst, betrayal, lies, and secrets, but it was so good. I loved the two strong-willed characters—Juniper, aka Georgia Lakes, and Blade, the Alpha SEAL who left the service after his brother was presumed dead, even though he wasn’t on deployment when it happened. As usual, Alpha recruits Blade and sets him up in his company with all the same benefits as the other Alphas. Blade meets Juni because of a text she accidentally sent to her friend Reena. Juni ends up in Miami, trying to escape the abuse of the husband her grandfather forced her to marry before he died. Blade heads to Miami searching for the woman meant to marry his brother, Church, and, with AES technology, discovers that Juni—a brunette—and Reena—a blonde—leave a bar drunk after a day of drinking since Reena was supposed to be getting married. He somehow learns where at least one of them lives, but as he’s on his way to find them, a shootout erupts in the street, and he comes across the brunette who had been with his brother’s fiancée.
This is where the wild, back-and-forth relationship kicked off, spanning over two years, starting with a one-night stand and followed only by texts. The story is gripping, with a twist at the end you’ll never see coming. It’s an exciting read, just like the other Alpha Elite books. Set aside a couple of hours or more for this tale about Blade, aka Haakon "Blade" Emrik, and Georgia Lynn Lyons—it will keep you on edge and answer questions you didn’t even know you had. Absolutely loved this book. Not just a good read it was an awesome reading book.
This is where the wild, back-and-forth relationship kicked off, spanning over two years, starting with a one-night stand and followed only by texts. The story is gripping, with a twist at the end you’ll never see coming. It’s an exciting read, just like the other Alpha Elite books. Set aside a couple of hours or more for this tale about Blade, aka Haakon "Blade" Emrik, and Georgia Lynn Lyons—it will keep you on edge and answer questions you didn’t even know you had. Absolutely loved this book. Not just a good read it was an awesome reading book.
February 19, 2025
The perfect ending to a stellar series - Sybil saved the best for last!
Blade had a slightly different vibe than the other books in the series, although our favorite themes were vibrant as always.
The FMC was sassy, sarcastic and hilarious. She faces a lot of adversity and is the ultimate survivor. I really admired her from the get go; being so young and living through as much as she has. She might try and shut herself off, but she can’t help herself but care. I empathized with her deeply, and she’s a well-rounded character. Absolutely loved her take no sh*t demeanor. The perfect match for Blade.
Blade really surprised me…but to be honest, I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect from him. Like all of our alphas, Blade knows what he wants, and he’s not shy about who he is. He made me laugh and I liked how he read people. He’s head over heels for the FMC - the emotion was raw and I found myself tearing up quite a few times, especially in the last few chapters.
Without giving anything away - the plot…CHEF’S KISS! Perfection! No notes! It was suspenseful, and ramped up my anxiety for sure. It wrapped up perfectly and I CANNOT wait for what’s next in this world. Bring it on!
Blade had a slightly different vibe than the other books in the series, although our favorite themes were vibrant as always.
The FMC was sassy, sarcastic and hilarious. She faces a lot of adversity and is the ultimate survivor. I really admired her from the get go; being so young and living through as much as she has. She might try and shut herself off, but she can’t help herself but care. I empathized with her deeply, and she’s a well-rounded character. Absolutely loved her take no sh*t demeanor. The perfect match for Blade.
Blade really surprised me…but to be honest, I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect from him. Like all of our alphas, Blade knows what he wants, and he’s not shy about who he is. He made me laugh and I liked how he read people. He’s head over heels for the FMC - the emotion was raw and I found myself tearing up quite a few times, especially in the last few chapters.
Without giving anything away - the plot…CHEF’S KISS! Perfection! No notes! It was suspenseful, and ramped up my anxiety for sure. It wrapped up perfectly and I CANNOT wait for what’s next in this world. Bring it on!
February 19, 2025
I honestly don’t know how Sybil Bartel does it. I hope I don’t get crucified for this, but I wasn’t as excited for Blade’s story as I was for some of her previous characters. Maybe it’s because, in past books, he came across as a hothead, and I tend to gravitate toward alphas who are more in control of their emotions.
That being said, I trust Sybil 100%—I knew she’d deliver an amazing book. But I was not ready for Blade. Not at all. This story completely surpassed my wildest expectations! I wasn’t prepared for the depth of his character, and I have to admit, I totally misjudged him. I not only grew to love Blade, but I was also blown away by the way he loved his woman. She was complex, layered, and intense—and he embraced every broken piece of her.
Their text exchanges? Absolutely priceless. I grinned so hard my face hurt. And the spice? OFF-THE-CHARTS FIRE. Sybil never disappoints in that department.
Of course, I also love the cameos from past characters—everything always comes full circle in the best way. I’m not sure if the Alpha Elite series is officially over, but with a new series in the works, I can’t wait to see what Sybil Bartel cooks up next!
That being said, I trust Sybil 100%—I knew she’d deliver an amazing book. But I was not ready for Blade. Not at all. This story completely surpassed my wildest expectations! I wasn’t prepared for the depth of his character, and I have to admit, I totally misjudged him. I not only grew to love Blade, but I was also blown away by the way he loved his woman. She was complex, layered, and intense—and he embraced every broken piece of her.
Their text exchanges? Absolutely priceless. I grinned so hard my face hurt. And the spice? OFF-THE-CHARTS FIRE. Sybil never disappoints in that department.
Of course, I also love the cameos from past characters—everything always comes full circle in the best way. I’m not sure if the Alpha Elite series is officially over, but with a new series in the works, I can’t wait to see what Sybil Bartel cooks up next!
February 21, 2025
BLADE (THE ALPHA ELITE SERIES)
From previous books in Alpha Elite, I knew Blade would need a special type of woman to break his code about any personal relationships. When Church his brother died and was buried at Arlington, Blade felt something didn’t add up. For 2 years he looked for him and th en found a clue through a cellphone text. While following a lead he runs INTO A WOMEN under attack at a drive by shooting and she takes him into her friend’s shockingly empty house. She is homeless and traumatized and distrusting, drunk and needy. That one night they spent together haunts them both and all of a sudden she and Blade find themselves texting not knowing it is the one they met. This story was so damned good, and sucked me in and haunted me when not reading I had to get back into it. This is a book you want to buy because you will want to read it again because it is so engrossing you miss a lot of little innuendos that hold the story together. Thank you Sybil and I did listen to Oliver’s beautiful symphony❤️
From previous books in Alpha Elite, I knew Blade would need a special type of woman to break his code about any personal relationships. When Church his brother died and was buried at Arlington, Blade felt something didn’t add up. For 2 years he looked for him and th en found a clue through a cellphone text. While following a lead he runs INTO A WOMEN under attack at a drive by shooting and she takes him into her friend’s shockingly empty house. She is homeless and traumatized and distrusting, drunk and needy. That one night they spent together haunts them both and all of a sudden she and Blade find themselves texting not knowing it is the one they met. This story was so damned good, and sucked me in and haunted me when not reading I had to get back into it. This is a book you want to buy because you will want to read it again because it is so engrossing you miss a lot of little innuendos that hold the story together. Thank you Sybil and I did listen to Oliver’s beautiful symphony❤️
February 20, 2025
Mmmm, Blade.
. . . . romantic sigh . . . .
How do I explain how perfect this one was for me?
I mean I've read tons of Ms. Bartel's books and love her MMC's without fail and BLADE was no exception!
But for me, he was extra yummy: he's uber dominant, uber confident, uber lethal.
And I also loved the MFC who has a hot mess past & current life.
The writing is subtle, Ms. Bartel is superbly skillful at gouging out her reader's hearts with only a few perfect words that conjure emotional whirlpools. This one tore at my heart, my emotions & kept me on deliciously agonizing tenterhooks for numerous situations.
For the reader who wants to CARE about, be INVESTED in, ENTHRALLED by writing, characters & plot, who want to deep dive into another reality & not surface until after the last word, this book is for you.
It has enough danger, suspense, twists & turns, scorching sizzle & intrigue to keep you glued to your Kindle from the first word to the last.
I loved it.
. . . . romantic sigh . . . .
How do I explain how perfect this one was for me?
I mean I've read tons of Ms. Bartel's books and love her MMC's without fail and BLADE was no exception!
But for me, he was extra yummy: he's uber dominant, uber confident, uber lethal.
And I also loved the MFC who has a hot mess past & current life.
The writing is subtle, Ms. Bartel is superbly skillful at gouging out her reader's hearts with only a few perfect words that conjure emotional whirlpools. This one tore at my heart, my emotions & kept me on deliciously agonizing tenterhooks for numerous situations.
For the reader who wants to CARE about, be INVESTED in, ENTHRALLED by writing, characters & plot, who want to deep dive into another reality & not surface until after the last word, this book is for you.
It has enough danger, suspense, twists & turns, scorching sizzle & intrigue to keep you glued to your Kindle from the first word to the last.
I loved it.
Read
February 21, 2025This book was exciting, intense, and full of mystery! The action kept me hooked from the start, and the steamy moments added just the right amount of heat. Blade’s story was gripping, and I loved how the plot unfolded with unexpected twists. The mix of suspense and romance was perfect, making it hard to put the book down.
It was great to see “Superman” step in and provide a sense of safety, much like Talon did before. That connection to previous books made me want to go back and reread some of the older ones. The writing was fast-paced, and the chemistry between the characters was undeniable.
Overall, Blade was an exciting and emotional ride. If you love military romance with action, mystery, and strong characters, this book is a must-read. I can’t wait for the next one in the series!
It was great to see “Superman” step in and provide a sense of safety, much like Talon did before. That connection to previous books made me want to go back and reread some of the older ones. The writing was fast-paced, and the chemistry between the characters was undeniable.
Overall, Blade was an exciting and emotional ride. If you love military romance with action, mystery, and strong characters, this book is a must-read. I can’t wait for the next one in the series!
February 27, 2025
OMG, what a way to end the AES!!!
Tropes:
• Age-gap
• Alpha male
• Dominant
• Former military
Blade is one of my favorite characters in this series but if you have read anything by Sybil, especially in this series, you will understand, most of them are my favs 😊 and Blade is n different!
When Blade finds out that his brother is dead, he sees that things aren’t adding up and he needs to find out what happened. So, giving up his military career to go on a scavenger hunt for answers, he joins the alpha elite group in order to spend time chasing leads. He didn’t know he would chase one right into Juni.
Sybil definitely gave us an epic ending to this series with Blade and I can’t wait to see what she does next!
Tropes:
• Age-gap
• Alpha male
• Dominant
• Former military
Blade is one of my favorite characters in this series but if you have read anything by Sybil, especially in this series, you will understand, most of them are my favs 😊 and Blade is n different!
When Blade finds out that his brother is dead, he sees that things aren’t adding up and he needs to find out what happened. So, giving up his military career to go on a scavenger hunt for answers, he joins the alpha elite group in order to spend time chasing leads. He didn’t know he would chase one right into Juni.
Sybil definitely gave us an epic ending to this series with Blade and I can’t wait to see what she does next!
March 1, 2025
It's no surprise how much I love Sybil Bartel's work. Her male characters are the stuff of legends. That said, I almost felt, at times, that I wasn't supposed to like Blade, easily. He's s gruff, abrupt, bossy, demanding and downright rude at times. Yet he grew on me. The reason I didn't give this a five star rating is that the first half of this book seemed chaotic and helter-skelter. The texting convos, trying to sort out who was who, the anonymous phone calls, Blade's demands of Alpha, Ghost and Christiensen and his search for his brother didn't line up well. Juni was also a bit confusing. I liked her but had trouble connecting with her. The second half of this story was stellar. The action, suspense, danger and spicy encounters were what i'd been waiting for.
April 29, 2025
Be prepared to not stop once you start reading this
This is yet another totally amazing book by one of my favourite authors.
Do I want my own "Blade" ?
Absolutely, & who wouldn't, especially with the reveal at the end of the book, which I loved. For a moment there I thought he was going to have been a closet chef growing up😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂 My "work things out" mind goes in odd directions sometimes -apologies to the author.
And I love the sound of that cabin - although I'm not fond of the cold.
Suffice to say, this is an intricate story of 2 people who need each other in their lives which I can highly recommend.
This is yet another totally amazing book by one of my favourite authors.
Do I want my own "Blade" ?
Absolutely, & who wouldn't, especially with the reveal at the end of the book, which I loved. For a moment there I thought he was going to have been a closet chef growing up😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂 My "work things out" mind goes in odd directions sometimes -apologies to the author.
And I love the sound of that cabin - although I'm not fond of the cold.
Suffice to say, this is an intricate story of 2 people who need each other in their lives which I can highly recommend.
February 19, 2025
What a way to finish the alpha elite series! I loved loved loved it!
Blade and Juni were perfection together and who would have thought that! I loved that they both had severe attitude problems, and so were meant to be together. They were unintentionally hilarious with their grumpiness.
This had an intriguing story and an unexpected ending. This has lead me to eagerly await the next series! I’m already sold! So, as sad as I am about the end of Alpha elite I know that there are great things ahead!
An altogether brilliant book, 5 stars all the way!
Blade and Juni were perfection together and who would have thought that! I loved that they both had severe attitude problems, and so were meant to be together. They were unintentionally hilarious with their grumpiness.
This had an intriguing story and an unexpected ending. This has lead me to eagerly await the next series! I’m already sold! So, as sad as I am about the end of Alpha elite I know that there are great things ahead!
An altogether brilliant book, 5 stars all the way!
February 19, 2025
Blade is what every woman secretly wants, but few will ever find. He is the strong and charismatic man who takes charge and deals with life in his own way. I have loved this series so much and Blade just opened the door for more to come. This storyline kept me on my toes and was never a disappointment. A lot of my questions concerning other books were answered while at the same time opening a whole new can of worms. Sybil Bartel once again gave a beautifully scripted story that took hold at the very beginning and had me holding my breath until the end. Well done!!
February 20, 2025
4.5⭐️
I was gripped and intrigued right from the get go on this one. Blade was filled with everything I have come to love with a Sybil Bartel book and more. There was a bit mystery, adventure, and loads of spice. Did I ever think there would be a FMC that could go toe to toe with the dominant alpha Blade? No, but Sybil definitely delivered with the FMC and I enjoyed their interactions. There were a couple twists and new characters that threw me for a loop and I can’t wait to meet the next set of dominant alpha males that Sybil creates.
I was gripped and intrigued right from the get go on this one. Blade was filled with everything I have come to love with a Sybil Bartel book and more. There was a bit mystery, adventure, and loads of spice. Did I ever think there would be a FMC that could go toe to toe with the dominant alpha Blade? No, but Sybil definitely delivered with the FMC and I enjoyed their interactions. There were a couple twists and new characters that threw me for a loop and I can’t wait to meet the next set of dominant alpha males that Sybil creates.
February 20, 2025
Blade, If you love the Alpha Elite Series then you will love Blade and if this is the first book of Sybil’s that you are reading it does not disappoint in any way.
I enjoyed the introduction to some new characters and welcomed some established ones as well. I loved the page turning journey with Blade that Sybil took us on and you feel that you are there in the book with them. Sybil is outstanding in giving the reader that slow burn and to be honest I don’t want the story to end. Thank you Sybil and I can’t wait to see what happens next!xoxo
I enjoyed the introduction to some new characters and welcomed some established ones as well. I loved the page turning journey with Blade that Sybil took us on and you feel that you are there in the book with them. Sybil is outstanding in giving the reader that slow burn and to be honest I don’t want the story to end. Thank you Sybil and I can’t wait to see what happens next!xoxo
February 21, 2025
There is so much that happens in this book. So much of the goodness we know and love about Sybil, AES, et al. The cameos of some of our favorite alpha heroes are always so exciting....buuuuut this book we are introduced to some new ones. It's so much goodness about Blade himself and add in a super strong, resilient and fierce leading lady. I couldn't put it down but didn't want it to end. This was really a fast read with all the everything we expect from our girl Sybil. Much love and hugs to you my sweet, dear friend. This one really takes the cake.
February 22, 2025
Seriously, how does Sybil make every book better than the last!! Blade is exceptional. He’s gruff, blunt and always in control but out of control at the same time. Read it, you’ll understand. I just loved him. Now the female lead, I connected to her right from the beginning. She is by far my favorite and took this book to a new level. The banter between them is awesome and the chemistry off the charts. Now the heart of this book!! Sybil really upped her twist game with this book because I literally freaked out. Like WOW!!! I hate to see the series end but look forward to what’s next!!
February 22, 2025
a hundred chapters, almost no real dialogue
Ok. I really tried to like this. But it was so frustrating how none of the characters could hold a real discussion. It was all innuendo and “mysterious inferences”. These are supposed to be a group of military folks who form a brotherhood, but none of them trust each other enough to provide details about anything. The male lead was an a-hole to everyone (including his boss) for no reason, and rarely bothered to explain himself which led to many confusing encounters for his fellow characters. And the female lead was needy. DNF
Ok. I really tried to like this. But it was so frustrating how none of the characters could hold a real discussion. It was all innuendo and “mysterious inferences”. These are supposed to be a group of military folks who form a brotherhood, but none of them trust each other enough to provide details about anything. The male lead was an a-hole to everyone (including his boss) for no reason, and rarely bothered to explain himself which led to many confusing encounters for his fellow characters. And the female lead was needy. DNF
March 20, 2025
I discovered Sybil Bartel last year when I was recovering from surgery and her Alpha Bodyguard Series had me hooked. Even though I enjoyed Blade's story, I do have to agree with another reviewer that it is pretty predictable on how the stories will unfold, and just once I would like a taller heroin with a bit more backbone and toughness. Having said that the two main characters had great chemistry and it was a fun read with action and suspense. I still love to re-read the stories, since I tend to devour them and then enjoy them a second or third time at a slower pace.
February 19, 2025
Blade was ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️. I've read all of Sybil Bartel's books and they just keep getting better. This story is fantastic, it had me hooked from the first page to the last. It is the final book in the Alpha series and like Ghost, provides a little insight to some characters in the next series and makes me excited for what is to come. Reading the full Alpha series before reading this is highly recommended.
February 19, 2025
Be warned I have a severe book hangover! This book…wow… where do I start…
I have loved Sybil’s literary world for years and eagerly anticipate each new release but this book I didn’t want to end - I was torn between turning the next page and stopping to savour each line and not reaching the end!
Blade is dominant whilst somehow managing to be sweet and his lioness is a worthy equal.
Very sad to reach the end of AES but SO looking forward to a new series. Enjoy!
I have loved Sybil’s literary world for years and eagerly anticipate each new release but this book I didn’t want to end - I was torn between turning the next page and stopping to savour each line and not reaching the end!
Blade is dominant whilst somehow managing to be sweet and his lioness is a worthy equal.
Very sad to reach the end of AES but SO looking forward to a new series. Enjoy!
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