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Paragon Operations #1
Paragon
I didn’t get to covet.
I bled duty and honor, and my mission was singular—eliminate.
So when I saw her, I didn’t think twice.
She was trespassing.
I was trained to kill.
I drew.
But I didn’t pull the trigger.
I gave her an order… to kneel.
PARAGON is your first taste of the heart-pounding Paragon Operations Series by USA Today bestselling author, Sybil Bartel! If you’re ready to step into a whole new world of romantic suspense, come meet Phoenix and the dominant Tier One Operators at Paragon Operations. But be prepared to brace, because these alpha heroes are going to make your e-reader combust!
This romantic suspense novel has the following Former Navy SEAL hero, Age Gap, Billionaire hero/survivalist heroine, Black Ops band of brothers, Dominant and possessive alpha hero, Found family, and ALL the twists.
I bled duty and honor, and my mission was singular—eliminate.
So when I saw her, I didn’t think twice.
She was trespassing.
I was trained to kill.
I drew.
But I didn’t pull the trigger.
I gave her an order… to kneel.
PARAGON is your first taste of the heart-pounding Paragon Operations Series by USA Today bestselling author, Sybil Bartel! If you’re ready to step into a whole new world of romantic suspense, come meet Phoenix and the dominant Tier One Operators at Paragon Operations. But be prepared to brace, because these alpha heroes are going to make your e-reader combust!
This romantic suspense novel has the following Former Navy SEAL hero, Age Gap, Billionaire hero/survivalist heroine, Black Ops band of brothers, Dominant and possessive alpha hero, Found family, and ALL the twists.
186 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 16, 2025
154 people are currently reading
134 people want to read
About the author
Sybil Bartel
52 books1,254 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 52 reviews
November 2, 2025
It’s my fault for not knowing that this was just a preview to the series. Now I have to wait 20 days to get the actual first book.
It was a lot of info dump, I would strongly advise to not start this series until you’ve read the AES one. I’ve almost read through Sybil’s entire backlog but even I had trouble keeping up with everyone.
I did like Isla, she is very different than most other FMCs Sybil writes. However, I didn’t feel any sort of emotional connection between Isla and Phoenix. It started out so strong but I just didn’t care for them together. I didn’t get that intensity or burning jealousy/ possessiveness from him that her heroes usually have. Which was very disappointing.
Maybe the mystery reveals itself in Phoenix?
It was a lot of info dump, I would strongly advise to not start this series until you’ve read the AES one. I’ve almost read through Sybil’s entire backlog but even I had trouble keeping up with everyone.
I did like Isla, she is very different than most other FMCs Sybil writes. However, I didn’t feel any sort of emotional connection between Isla and Phoenix. It started out so strong but I just didn’t care for them together. I didn’t get that intensity or burning jealousy/ possessiveness from him that her heroes usually have. Which was very disappointing.
Maybe the mystery reveals itself in Phoenix?
October 16, 2025
It’s good enough as an introduction to Paragon Operations, I guess. Though, I don’t actually see the need for it. It didn’t introduce all of the team, and doing that better not take up a chunk of Phoenix’s book. And Helios better not take up much room in Phoenix’s book either. I’m not all that interested in him. Now, his brother Ares? Him I’m curious about.
But I’m really looking forward to much more of Phoenix and Isla. I hope it’s a long book. I want to find out Isla’s backstory and what she’s up to now. I’m really looking forward to Phoenix having to face his sister, Maila, after all this time. I need her to hold some anger for a time and him to have to grovel a bit. But I’m really looking forward to Phoenix and Isla’s story together. They have great chemistry, and that better pay off well in their official book.
But I’m really looking forward to much more of Phoenix and Isla. I hope it’s a long book. I want to find out Isla’s backstory and what she’s up to now. I’m really looking forward to Phoenix having to face his sister, Maila, after all this time. I need her to hold some anger for a time and him to have to grovel a bit. But I’m really looking forward to Phoenix and Isla’s story together. They have great chemistry, and that better pay off well in their official book.
November 14, 2025
Ohhh, SOO GOOD!
This was the best three hours of my week. Fortunate to get my hands on an ARC (thank you), I happily tore through this one, sucked into the danger and intrigue of these operative's world without a backwards glance. I sincerely believe this man has met his match - and I am absolutely here for it!!
While I will not spoil your read, I will point out that it is to your advantage to have already consumed ALPHA, and the rest of that series - as everything begins and ends with him. Understanding his storyline will help you make sense of why things turn out the way they did, and give you a "heads up" about what's to come in this connected series - and you seriously want to know!! I feel like anything else I might say will spoil your enjoyment, so I will just strongly encourage you to buckle in for a wild ride; full of all the demanding, intense, seductive, harsh, and unforgiving energies of their world.
Really - go right now - one click this, and set aside your time, because once you begin, you're in, and not going to want to stop reading. This has everything we love about this author's creativity, and you're going to enjoy it! :)
This was the best three hours of my week. Fortunate to get my hands on an ARC (thank you), I happily tore through this one, sucked into the danger and intrigue of these operative's world without a backwards glance. I sincerely believe this man has met his match - and I am absolutely here for it!!
While I will not spoil your read, I will point out that it is to your advantage to have already consumed ALPHA, and the rest of that series - as everything begins and ends with him. Understanding his storyline will help you make sense of why things turn out the way they did, and give you a "heads up" about what's to come in this connected series - and you seriously want to know!! I feel like anything else I might say will spoil your enjoyment, so I will just strongly encourage you to buckle in for a wild ride; full of all the demanding, intense, seductive, harsh, and unforgiving energies of their world.
Really - go right now - one click this, and set aside your time, because once you begin, you're in, and not going to want to stop reading. This has everything we love about this author's creativity, and you're going to enjoy it! :)
November 14, 2025
I'm going to need so much more
I'm going to need more.
MORE I TELL YOU.
I fell in love with the FMC right away, she's feisty without being obnoxious. She is self aware and hilarious and I loved her from her first admittance to “selective hearing impairment.” I can't wait to see more of her.
This whole book is a teaser for what's promising to be a heart pounding story with new characters to fall in love with. The book ends on a cliffhanger that will leave you salivating for the next release, which, good news, is in a month.
I'm going to need more.
MORE I TELL YOU.
I fell in love with the FMC right away, she's feisty without being obnoxious. She is self aware and hilarious and I loved her from her first admittance to “selective hearing impairment.” I can't wait to see more of her.
This whole book is a teaser for what's promising to be a heart pounding story with new characters to fall in love with. The book ends on a cliffhanger that will leave you salivating for the next release, which, good news, is in a month.
October 30, 2025
Welp that was a waste of time. Nothing actually happens and it’s left on a cliffhanger which I don’t believe continues on in the next book?
October 25, 2025
Big Disappointment in this cliffhanger
I buy her books on preorder and have never read a cliffhanger and I'm not happy to have this letdown!!! Will have to go back and see if the fact it was a prequel or just a teaser was indicated. If not I will be more cautious in buying the remaining books in this series. I feel like I wasted 3hours on a huge nothing. Might as well have read the back of a cereal box. And so far, I'm unimpressed with the MMC.
I buy her books on preorder and have never read a cliffhanger and I'm not happy to have this letdown!!! Will have to go back and see if the fact it was a prequel or just a teaser was indicated. If not I will be more cautious in buying the remaining books in this series. I feel like I wasted 3hours on a huge nothing. Might as well have read the back of a cereal box. And so far, I'm unimpressed with the MMC.
October 15, 2025
5/5 Stars!!!
Paragon is the perfect first book in the new series and it was so good I couldn’t put it down!!
I absolutely loved the FMC. She is a beautiful contradiction. A fierce survivalist who still retains an almost whimsical world view, and she refuses to be dimmed by her hardships. She’s also hilarious and meets Phoenix and the other Paragon men head-on. She can hold her own against anyone. Her banter with the guys had me laughing (and maybe even kicking my feet a little). Her resilience hasn’t come without cost, though and her upbringing still holds secrets I’m intrigued to uncover in the next book.
Even though Isla is incredible, Phoenix is on another level. He’s an unimaginable mix of lethality, competence and intelligence. His raw magnetism and tightly coiled danger are utterly consuming. I thought I understood his reach before reading this book, but oh my god, he’s something else entirely!!
Duty and familial circumstances beyond their control have forced these two characters into situations that we still don’t know the depths of. These similarities yet differences make Phoenix and his woman explosive together. Phoenix’s lethal brilliance and strategic dominance bleed into all his interactions, especially when he’s with his woman, and the tension between them is pure heat.
The multiple POVs gives us glimpses into the other Paragon men while maintaining enough mystery and intrigue to make this the perfect launch to a new series. I loved it so much, and I’m already counting down the days until Phoenix releases in November.
5/5 Stars!!!!!!
Paragon is the perfect first book in the new series and it was so good I couldn’t put it down!!
I absolutely loved the FMC. She is a beautiful contradiction. A fierce survivalist who still retains an almost whimsical world view, and she refuses to be dimmed by her hardships. She’s also hilarious and meets Phoenix and the other Paragon men head-on. She can hold her own against anyone. Her banter with the guys had me laughing (and maybe even kicking my feet a little). Her resilience hasn’t come without cost, though and her upbringing still holds secrets I’m intrigued to uncover in the next book.
Even though Isla is incredible, Phoenix is on another level. He’s an unimaginable mix of lethality, competence and intelligence. His raw magnetism and tightly coiled danger are utterly consuming. I thought I understood his reach before reading this book, but oh my god, he’s something else entirely!!
Duty and familial circumstances beyond their control have forced these two characters into situations that we still don’t know the depths of. These similarities yet differences make Phoenix and his woman explosive together. Phoenix’s lethal brilliance and strategic dominance bleed into all his interactions, especially when he’s with his woman, and the tension between them is pure heat.
The multiple POVs gives us glimpses into the other Paragon men while maintaining enough mystery and intrigue to make this the perfect launch to a new series. I loved it so much, and I’m already counting down the days until Phoenix releases in November.
5/5 Stars!!!!!!
October 16, 2025
📖 ARC REVIEW 📖
October has been the best month for new releases and Paragon by Sybil Bartel is no exception.
What to expect:
🖤 Miltary Romance
💛 Alpha MMC
🖤 Enemies To Lovers
💛 Back From The Dead
🖤 Billionaire Assassin
💛 Compromised Heroine
🖤 He Kidnaps Her (Twice!)
💛 Both Have Secrets
Blade, the last book in the Alpha Elite Series left some questions, questions that could be answered in the Paragon Operations Series.
Paragon is the first book in the new series, it is a four person POV and sets up the new series and I am so happy I only have a month to wait for Phoenix.
Sybil Bartel’s writing is quite different to every other author I’ve read. It’s fast paced and addictive. Her knowledge is amazing, the way she describes everything makes you feel like you are right there, her humour is perfect, her sensitivity is real and she addresses real issues and lets not forget her ability to create the perfect alpha book boyfriend and his perfect match and the spice is top notch.
You could start your Sybil Bartel journey with Paragon, ready for the upcoming series, but I would be surprised if you don’t spend the next month trying to catch up on the other series in Sybil’s catalogue.
Sybil sent me an eARC in exchange for my honest review and I honestly can’t recommend Paragon enough.
RELEASE DATE: 16 October 2025
October has been the best month for new releases and Paragon by Sybil Bartel is no exception.
What to expect:
🖤 Miltary Romance
💛 Alpha MMC
🖤 Enemies To Lovers
💛 Back From The Dead
🖤 Billionaire Assassin
💛 Compromised Heroine
🖤 He Kidnaps Her (Twice!)
💛 Both Have Secrets
Blade, the last book in the Alpha Elite Series left some questions, questions that could be answered in the Paragon Operations Series.
Paragon is the first book in the new series, it is a four person POV and sets up the new series and I am so happy I only have a month to wait for Phoenix.
Sybil Bartel’s writing is quite different to every other author I’ve read. It’s fast paced and addictive. Her knowledge is amazing, the way she describes everything makes you feel like you are right there, her humour is perfect, her sensitivity is real and she addresses real issues and lets not forget her ability to create the perfect alpha book boyfriend and his perfect match and the spice is top notch.
You could start your Sybil Bartel journey with Paragon, ready for the upcoming series, but I would be surprised if you don’t spend the next month trying to catch up on the other series in Sybil’s catalogue.
Sybil sent me an eARC in exchange for my honest review and I honestly can’t recommend Paragon enough.
RELEASE DATE: 16 October 2025
December 1, 2025
📚Review ~ Paragon
Paragon Operations #1
🖋Author ~ Sybil Bartel
🖋Features: Military Romance, Romantic Suspense
⭐️Rating: 5/5
Petty Officer Second Class William "Bravo" Nilsen is officially deceased. Your new call sign is Phoenix.
The Phoenix has risen and is reclaiming his life. A Vice Admiral dictated the trajectory of his life. A Vice Admiral took away his sister, his family, and his team. Now, Will "Phoenix" Nilsen is determined to right those wrongs, to come out of the dark, and reclaim a new life.
Another set of operators is stepping out of their three-foot world. And, it begins with Phoenix. A force of nature, there is nothing...not a dead Vice Admiral or a couple of dirty Federal Marshals that will stop him. Taking back what was always his, he thought he'd planned for every contingency. He never planned for a late-night call from a phone that hadn't rung in too many years or for a trespasser to breach through his entire existence.
I love these dominant alpha heroes that Sybil creates. Reading her books, I feel like I'm following Gretel as she drops hints of breadcrumbs for me to gobble up. Although Phoenix can be read as a stand-alone, I recommend reading Sybil's work from the beginning. Several of my favorite characters make appearances. Plus, I wouldn't want to miss any hidden gems.
Paragon Operations #1
🖋Author ~ Sybil Bartel
🖋Features: Military Romance, Romantic Suspense
⭐️Rating: 5/5
Petty Officer Second Class William "Bravo" Nilsen is officially deceased. Your new call sign is Phoenix.
The Phoenix has risen and is reclaiming his life. A Vice Admiral dictated the trajectory of his life. A Vice Admiral took away his sister, his family, and his team. Now, Will "Phoenix" Nilsen is determined to right those wrongs, to come out of the dark, and reclaim a new life.
Another set of operators is stepping out of their three-foot world. And, it begins with Phoenix. A force of nature, there is nothing...not a dead Vice Admiral or a couple of dirty Federal Marshals that will stop him. Taking back what was always his, he thought he'd planned for every contingency. He never planned for a late-night call from a phone that hadn't rung in too many years or for a trespasser to breach through his entire existence.
I love these dominant alpha heroes that Sybil creates. Reading her books, I feel like I'm following Gretel as she drops hints of breadcrumbs for me to gobble up. Although Phoenix can be read as a stand-alone, I recommend reading Sybil's work from the beginning. Several of my favorite characters make appearances. Plus, I wouldn't want to miss any hidden gems.
December 2, 2025
The captivating writing of the book completely absorbed me in its enthralling plot, causing me to lose track of time as I couldn't put it down. The story immediately drew me in from the very first chapter.
As the plot unfolds, it gradually reveals intriguing glimpses that eventually come together to form a captivating narrative. The book is fantastic, with an engaging and suspenseful plot, filled with mystery and witty banter between the characters that made me laugh out loud.
The characters were lovable, dangerous, mysterious, funny, serious, and engaging. Isla quickly became my favourite character with her mysterious, funny, and outspoken personality, leaving me eager to uncover more about her. There is clearly more to Isla than meets the eye, and I am excited to discover the secrets of this intriguing character. Will Isla and Nix act on the explosive chemistry between them?
Nix exuded a sexy and dangerous aura, wrapped in lies and suspense, with his bad boy vibes adding to the intoxicating mix. I love plots like this that keep you guessing with layers of mystery and suspense, keeping you on the edge of your seat. I can't wait to see what unfolds next in the story. I didn't want this captivating tale to end.
As the plot unfolds, it gradually reveals intriguing glimpses that eventually come together to form a captivating narrative. The book is fantastic, with an engaging and suspenseful plot, filled with mystery and witty banter between the characters that made me laugh out loud.
The characters were lovable, dangerous, mysterious, funny, serious, and engaging. Isla quickly became my favourite character with her mysterious, funny, and outspoken personality, leaving me eager to uncover more about her. There is clearly more to Isla than meets the eye, and I am excited to discover the secrets of this intriguing character. Will Isla and Nix act on the explosive chemistry between them?
Nix exuded a sexy and dangerous aura, wrapped in lies and suspense, with his bad boy vibes adding to the intoxicating mix. I love plots like this that keep you guessing with layers of mystery and suspense, keeping you on the edge of your seat. I can't wait to see what unfolds next in the story. I didn't want this captivating tale to end.
October 14, 2025
This heart pounding start to a new series of alpha men had everything I wanted and more. It gave just enough info to give you more questions than answers and keep you hooked for more. While these men are much like AES men, there’s also a big difference. They are more ruthless and bit a more I don’t know… mean. And it’s going to take a special woman to tame a few of them. I laughed at Helios antics, he’s so funny in a grouchy kind of Oscar way. I imagined him banging trash can lids a few times. Ares felt more like a mystery I can’t quite put my finger on. Phoenix is gruff and brash at times, but there’s something underneath that shines thru every so often. We only saw it just a smidge in this book, but that one part has me ready to see what comes next. Without spoiling anything, the woman is fun. A mess and a half but real fun. Very different than I expected. I can’t wait to see where this one goes. We got a little cameo from some old characters and that was fun too. This book has four POVs which is different from the other series but was really fun to read. Can’t wait to see what becomes of Paragon as this one continues.
October 17, 2025
Bartel did say we were in for a heart-pounding start with Paragon, the first book from her new Paragon Operations series and she wasn’t lying.
An enthralling plot filled with intrigue, mystery and, as we were warned, heart-pounding action,
Paragon will have you drawn in, captivated and fully immersed from start to finish, leaving you desperate for more. Told from multiple points of view, readers are introduced to a new line of characters, but fear not there are a few familiar faces along the way, easing readers into this new series, smoothing the transition onwards from the well loved Alpha Elite series. Readers familiar with Alpha, and the other books for Bartel’s Elite series will have the advantage of knowing that everything began and ended with him, so although it’s not necessary to have read the Elite series, I highly recommend it.
I’m honestly struggling not to say more about this book for fear of spoiling others' enjoyment, which is the last thing I want. So buckle up and enjoy the ride, this really was a fantastic read, plenty of action, great characters and some brilliant banter all add up to making this one hell of a read. I’m excited for the next book in the series!
𝔸ℝℂ 𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕕 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕥𝕙𝕚𝕤 𝕚𝕤 𝕞𝕪 𝕙𝕠𝕟𝕖𝕤𝕥 𝕣𝕖𝕧𝕚𝕖𝕨
An enthralling plot filled with intrigue, mystery and, as we were warned, heart-pounding action,
Paragon will have you drawn in, captivated and fully immersed from start to finish, leaving you desperate for more. Told from multiple points of view, readers are introduced to a new line of characters, but fear not there are a few familiar faces along the way, easing readers into this new series, smoothing the transition onwards from the well loved Alpha Elite series. Readers familiar with Alpha, and the other books for Bartel’s Elite series will have the advantage of knowing that everything began and ended with him, so although it’s not necessary to have read the Elite series, I highly recommend it.
I’m honestly struggling not to say more about this book for fear of spoiling others' enjoyment, which is the last thing I want. So buckle up and enjoy the ride, this really was a fantastic read, plenty of action, great characters and some brilliant banter all add up to making this one hell of a read. I’m excited for the next book in the series!
𝔸ℝℂ 𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕕 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕥𝕙𝕚𝕤 𝕚𝕤 𝕞𝕪 𝕙𝕠𝕟𝕖𝕤𝕥 𝕣𝕖𝕧𝕚𝕖𝕨
October 15, 2025
First off, if you, dear reader, have not read a book by this author, Sybil Bartel, you've been missing out. This book is the first in her new series PARAGON OPERATIONS. The main character is PHOENIX and oh man, what a man!!! He is ex-military (which most of Ms. Bartel's books are) he is bred for war fighting, groomed for covert ops, hyper-intelligent, detached, merciless, and relentless, oh and DOMINATE!!
This was a very fast paced novel and it did not take me long to read it. This story and these very male characters will make you need a fan or an air conditioner ON HIGH!! Seriously, folks, I could not put this book down!
Ms. Bartel has always been a very detail oriented writer and that is one of my favorite things about her writing. Yes, I have read every book she has published! Her characters are like real people to her, she really gets into the nitty-gritty with them. Which makes each and every book worth the time and money to invest yourself in!!
THANK YOU SYBIL BARTEL FOR ALL YOUR WORDS!!
This was a very fast paced novel and it did not take me long to read it. This story and these very male characters will make you need a fan or an air conditioner ON HIGH!! Seriously, folks, I could not put this book down!
Ms. Bartel has always been a very detail oriented writer and that is one of my favorite things about her writing. Yes, I have read every book she has published! Her characters are like real people to her, she really gets into the nitty-gritty with them. Which makes each and every book worth the time and money to invest yourself in!!
THANK YOU SYBIL BARTEL FOR ALL YOUR WORDS!!
October 16, 2025
Absolutely amazing, as always Sybil brings it all!!
I'm on pins waiting for the next book in the series, then when it comes, I read it within hours and the cycle starts again!!
I was fortunate enough to receive an ARC (Thank you, thank you!!)
A few times through this book, which I absolutely powered through as if on my own mission, the thought came that ..........Wow he has met his match! And I cannot wait to see how this plays out in his full book.
FOUR POINTS OF VIEW!!
I am absolutely always in awe of SB's writing, her knowledge is so impressive, the way she can bring the intensity right from the start and carry it all the way through the book, from the first word to the last never fails to keep me gripped!!
Some cameos from our old favourites, some new faces that I can't wait to meet in more depth, this book has it all.... so please, absolutely go right now and download this book- and all the others, it was so absolutely worth the wait but boy am I so glad we only have to wait a month for Pheonix!! Roll on Nov 17th!!
I'm on pins waiting for the next book in the series, then when it comes, I read it within hours and the cycle starts again!!
I was fortunate enough to receive an ARC (Thank you, thank you!!)
A few times through this book, which I absolutely powered through as if on my own mission, the thought came that ..........Wow he has met his match! And I cannot wait to see how this plays out in his full book.
FOUR POINTS OF VIEW!!
I am absolutely always in awe of SB's writing, her knowledge is so impressive, the way she can bring the intensity right from the start and carry it all the way through the book, from the first word to the last never fails to keep me gripped!!
Some cameos from our old favourites, some new faces that I can't wait to meet in more depth, this book has it all.... so please, absolutely go right now and download this book- and all the others, it was so absolutely worth the wait but boy am I so glad we only have to wait a month for Pheonix!! Roll on Nov 17th!!
October 21, 2025
Absolutely where to begin. As a follower of all of Ms Bartol’s books.. PARAGON and Paragon OPERATIONS is a fast paced intro to this new series. And hot. A SEAL, ‘dead’ for 10 years surfaces. Why? Why was his death faked? What damage did his “death” leave in its wake? To the sister who adored him and to the Team leader who was more brother than any other. What of the young intruder on Phoenix’ estate on the coast of France. Why did the assassin let her go? What does she know and how is she involved in th plans Phoenix is hoping to enact? A page turner from the first moment readers see the words on the written page. Phoenix Erickson is obviously NOT who he seems. But who is he really and will all of readers’ and his family questions be answered. Isla is an unknown. A survivor and well trained but not military of any branch but with the instincts of Special forces. She is unafraid to go toe to toe with Phoenix and his crew of the brothers Ares and Helios. DO NOT MISS THIS NEW SERIES. The new series begins with PHOENIX and this reader can not wait. A 5 stars… Hot, mysterious, lots of loose ends and questions which need answering. The characters are powerful, each in their own right.. DO NOT MISS THIS SERIES…
December 15, 2025
Interesting 🤔 Hmm...
I am glad that we finally get to find out how Phoenix became the head of a rogue group that was only answerable to the Commander in Chief. This was an interesting story but I can't wait to read Phoenix to see how Isla fits into this series and who exactly she is. Phoenix had been introduced to us in Blade's story. Phoenix was an Agent and an operative as long as he stayed anonymous because he was dead as far as his friends and his only family Malia Nilsen and her husband and his best friend Adam Trefor. He had to be a ghost to do the jobs he was assigned to do. He had wanted to let his sister know but he was told he couldn't. Then there is Isla who he found on his property and for some reason he put her on his boat and took her with them as he was going to allow himself to be exposed to his brother in law so he could find out about his sister, I think 🤔. Hmm...
I am glad that we finally get to find out how Phoenix became the head of a rogue group that was only answerable to the Commander in Chief. This was an interesting story but I can't wait to read Phoenix to see how Isla fits into this series and who exactly she is. Phoenix had been introduced to us in Blade's story. Phoenix was an Agent and an operative as long as he stayed anonymous because he was dead as far as his friends and his only family Malia Nilsen and her husband and his best friend Adam Trefor. He had to be a ghost to do the jobs he was assigned to do. He had wanted to let his sister know but he was told he couldn't. Then there is Isla who he found on his property and for some reason he put her on his boat and took her with them as he was going to allow himself to be exposed to his brother in law so he could find out about his sister, I think 🤔. Hmm...
October 16, 2025
Hold onto your bikini ties ladies and gents, coz there is a new set of Alpha's in the hood and man on man do they mean business.
This is a quick read that is really scene setting for the series, you get introduced to 3 of the key Paragon players, and a little bit of background into how they all came together. And of course some cameo's from previous series.
MFC is interesting, clearly a story about her to uncover , shes got a bit of backbone and a whole lot of spice to her.
If you love Sybil's alpha stories, this is an easy 1 click buy and quick read, you will get whiplash from how fast you fly through it, and want to throw your kindle across the room because it comes to an end too quickly and you badly need more. Never fear, Sybil wont keep you salivating for too long.
This is a quick read that is really scene setting for the series, you get introduced to 3 of the key Paragon players, and a little bit of background into how they all came together. And of course some cameo's from previous series.
MFC is interesting, clearly a story about her to uncover , shes got a bit of backbone and a whole lot of spice to her.
If you love Sybil's alpha stories, this is an easy 1 click buy and quick read, you will get whiplash from how fast you fly through it, and want to throw your kindle across the room because it comes to an end too quickly and you badly need more. Never fear, Sybil wont keep you salivating for too long.
October 15, 2025
For lovers of all things AES and the wonderful world created by Sybil Bartel - Paragon is what we've been waiting for! This tension filled, funny - and yes - heart-wrenching kickoff to Paragon Operations is the perfect little aperitif to prepare us for all the dominant, alpha attitude to come. Paragon builds off what we know from AES (no spoilers - you should definitely read AES if you haven't before picking up Paragon), and will definitely leave you wanting more. Paragon is unputdownable! I read this when I was sleep-deprived and under the weather, and it still felt more important to consume this book immediately instead of sleep! Honestly, no notes - this is perfection and I can't wait until November for the next installment.
October 16, 2025
Sybil Bartel has done it again! I am obsessed with every book and every character she creates. Once again, I could not put this book down and I am anxiously awaiting the next book, Phoenix. A month is too long in my opinion because I am already hooked and I can't stand it that I don't know more about these characters yet. Our FMC Isla is another great strong female. Paragon is a new format for me, told from 4 POVs. I actually really liked being in the head of 4 characters. My experience has been that you don't necessarily need to read the different series' in order. But I highly recommend that this time... one should read the AES series, before starting the Paragon Operations series. It will grab your heart.
October 16, 2025
Excellent!
Wonderfully exciting with an enthralling plot peopled with mesmerizing characters.
Ms. Bartel really knows how to grab her readers by the throat AND heartstrings, how to dig deep into emotions and make us CARE about characters as if they were real.
This start to a brand new series by the author is a reader's delight IMO. Adventure, danger, tension, excitement and superb writing that smoothly slides the reader into the action and lives of the characters: we are fully invested in them and what will/does happen to them on their journey.
So curl up with a favorite drink of your choice, turn off the phone, wrap yourself in a soft blanket and prepare to be whirled away into a gloriously awesome adventure!
I know I was!
Wonderfully exciting with an enthralling plot peopled with mesmerizing characters.
Ms. Bartel really knows how to grab her readers by the throat AND heartstrings, how to dig deep into emotions and make us CARE about characters as if they were real.
This start to a brand new series by the author is a reader's delight IMO. Adventure, danger, tension, excitement and superb writing that smoothly slides the reader into the action and lives of the characters: we are fully invested in them and what will/does happen to them on their journey.
So curl up with a favorite drink of your choice, turn off the phone, wrap yourself in a soft blanket and prepare to be whirled away into a gloriously awesome adventure!
I know I was!
October 21, 2025
My rating: 3 stars. Normally, I am a big fan of Sybil Bartel … but, unfortunately, this booked didn’t work for me. I couldn’t warm up to the main characters, especially the female … I found her immature and self absorbed! The author hints at her super powers but leaves us hanging, to make up our own impression from what we read! It was OK for her to squat on Phoenix’s property but not when he took her hair piece! It wasn’t until the end of the book that I realized that this novel was a prelude to the series (the author had never done this before) so, I felt the ending was not finished and ended abruptly … with a cliffhanger. This book actually made me question whether I would pay $ for the rest of the series
October 15, 2025
The best start to a series I’ve read in a long while! This certainly captured my attention and I read the whole book with no breaks- I just couldn’t stop reading!
A great lead into the next book which thankfully is very soon! I have so many questions and I’m desperate to know more! I loved the characters in this book, their behaviour was even more dominant than in previous series and that’s saying a lot! But in a different way and had me in stitches at times!
I loved Isla! She was just brilliant, so spunky and had a great attitude. I can’t wait to read more of her story in the next book
5 brilliantly shiny stars from me and roll on book 2!
A great lead into the next book which thankfully is very soon! I have so many questions and I’m desperate to know more! I loved the characters in this book, their behaviour was even more dominant than in previous series and that’s saying a lot! But in a different way and had me in stitches at times!
I loved Isla! She was just brilliant, so spunky and had a great attitude. I can’t wait to read more of her story in the next book
5 brilliantly shiny stars from me and roll on book 2!
October 18, 2025
This was a perfect appetizer into the new series 👌 I just know i am going to absolutely love this entire series. If there's one thing you can always count on, it's that Sybil will have you falling in love with her characters for the very first few pages. She gives them so much life and personality that you feel like you are part of their world rather than reading it. Her research and knowledge on her subject matter is next level! I'm also so impressed by the detail she puts into each story to accurately describe each scenario the characters are in. I am so excited for the next book because this one has drawn me in already.
October 18, 2025
Slow start but looking forward to book 2
This book was a slow start into the new Paragon Operations world but it was world building so I’m ok with that.
Looking forward to book 2 and more of Phoenix.
It was good to have it feed back to the Alpha Elite series and to have reoccurring roles for a lot of the characters we know and love.
Intrigued as to why he’s making contact now and why Healix and Aries were able to keep in touch with their family but Phoenix couldn’t.
Definitely lots to look forward to but would have liked a bit more in this one
This book was a slow start into the new Paragon Operations world but it was world building so I’m ok with that.
Looking forward to book 2 and more of Phoenix.
It was good to have it feed back to the Alpha Elite series and to have reoccurring roles for a lot of the characters we know and love.
Intrigued as to why he’s making contact now and why Healix and Aries were able to keep in touch with their family but Phoenix couldn’t.
Definitely lots to look forward to but would have liked a bit more in this one
October 20, 2025
This novel reminded me of Sybil's book "Seal" in that it's definitely an introduction to this new series. And I'm glad the next book is only a month away! Bravo's death in the Alpha Elite series had such a ripple effect on so many of the characters in that series, that it's very cool to now have Phoenix to complete the story I didn't see coming :) I was a bit miffed at Alpha because out of everyone he would/should be the one to understand Bravo's choices (or lack thereof) when asked to act for his country, though I do guess that Alpha is channeling Maila's grief/anger as well as his own.
Read
October 23, 2025This is great for a series opener! Paragon Operations is the new series that gives us this great prequel. You can’t miss the tension between Helio’s and Phoenix. I hope the series is strong enough to contain these two male alphas that can’t seem to have a decent conversation with each other.
I hated that it was too short and was just that, an opener because I really need to have Phoenix and Isla story!
Being on her own for so long, Isla knows how to survive and is perfectly capable of standing up against Phoenix.
I can’t wait to read how Phoenix and Isla get their story!
I hated that it was too short and was just that, an opener because I really need to have Phoenix and Isla story!
Being on her own for so long, Isla knows how to survive and is perfectly capable of standing up against Phoenix.
I can’t wait to read how Phoenix and Isla get their story!
November 18, 2025
This new series is shaping up to be exception based on this introduction. Sybil is the master of drawing in my attention and keeping me captive to the very end. Nix is all alpha and lethal with all kinds of intrigue directed at Isla. This leading lady is all spice and sass. I love her. I love how Nix is linked into the other series but not dependent on their stories, so it can be read stand alone. This is a great introduction for what promises to be a brilliant part two to the story. Can’t wait for Phoenix!!
October 15, 2025
Omg I couldn’t put it down. I read until my eyes couldn’t focus any longer. Mystery, intrigue, action and spicy all rolled together in one amazing story. Strong characters great banter between characters. What a start to a new series. I might have to go back and reread previous series again while waiting for next book to be released. I was shocked to see that I was lucky to get the ARC. Thank you it was a wonderful enjoyable read.
October 16, 2025
Paragon is the perfect start to the new Paragon Operations series. Multiple POV, AES crossover, a beautifully strong contradiction of an FMC that immediately became my favourite SB FMC of all time, and Phoenix. Good Lord, Phoenix, recollections of the past and the wanting pulled heartstrings deeper than R.H.Y.S. (if you know, you know). I cannot wait to dive into the rest of this series. 10 Stars!!
October 31, 2025
I have been a fan of Sybil Bartel for a long time, so of course I was on board for the next new Series. This book pretty much sets up the tone of the Series, it introduces us to some characters, that most fans of the Author are already familiar with and the next book in the Series will pick up where this book left off. I for one can't wait for the next installment. A slow burn and very entertaining.
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