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Mercenary.
Dominant.
Sine Pari.
The first rule of Delta Force was don’t talk about Delta Force.
The second rule I wasn’t at liberty to discuss.
Serving with the 1st Special Forces Operational Detachment–Delta was an honor. CAG was my home, and I protected my brothers…. Until I didn’t.
Staring at the terrorist through my scope, I had her in my sights. Black hair, hazel eyes, bruises all over her face.
I knew what I had to do.
But I didn’t do it.
I broke the second rule.
ARES is the third standalone book in 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 Ares and the darkly dominant Tier One Operators at Paragon Operations who will make your e-reader combust!
This romantic suspense novel has the following Billionaire Hero, Dominant hero, Protector hero, Forbidden Love, Black Ops band of brothers, Former Special Forces Military hero, High Stakes covert operations, and ALL the twists!
Dominant.
Sine Pari.
The first rule of Delta Force was don’t talk about Delta Force.
The second rule I wasn’t at liberty to discuss.
Serving with the 1st Special Forces Operational Detachment–Delta was an honor. CAG was my home, and I protected my brothers…. Until I didn’t.
Staring at the terrorist through my scope, I had her in my sights. Black hair, hazel eyes, bruises all over her face.
I knew what I had to do.
But I didn’t do it.
I broke the second rule.
ARES is the third standalone book in 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 Ares and the darkly dominant Tier One Operators at Paragon Operations who will make your e-reader combust!
This romantic suspense novel has the following Billionaire Hero, Dominant hero, Protector hero, Forbidden Love, Black Ops band of brothers, Former Special Forces Military hero, High Stakes covert operations, and ALL the twists!
581 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 17, 2026
About the author
Sybil Bartel
65 books1,268 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 31 reviews
October 23, 2026
Slow burns can be downright painful when they aren't done right. If I can't feel the chemistry practically crackling off the pages, if the tension doesn't have my pulse racing long before the characters finally give in, then all that waiting can lead to one massive letdown.
But Sybil Bartel? She's one of the very few authors I trust to deliver a slow burn that is worth every agonizing second. And Ares was no exception.
I felt my pulse pounding through every single one of those hefty pages. The tension. The chemistry. The dominance. The suspense. Good Lord, this book had me in a chokehold, and I loved every minute of it!
What makes Ares and Helios even more special to me is my absolute obsession with Greek mythology. I'm such a mythology geek that I even named one of my sons Achilles! So naturally, these brothers already have a special place in my heart.
And seeing Ares in action on the battlefield? DOWNRIGHT RIVETING. Bartel delivers that perfect balance of sizzling romance, commanding dominance, heart-pounding suspense, and just enough emotional depth to make you fall even harder for her characters.
I'm already ridiculously invested in the new faces she's introduced, and of course, those familiar cameos are always a welcome treat. There's something so satisfying about watching her world continue to expand while still getting glimpses of the characters we've come to love.
I am absolutely DYING to see where this series goes next, especially when it comes to Cypher and Saint!
Sybil Bartel has once again proven that a slow burn doesn't have to mean a slow heartbeat. Sometimes, the anticipation is the most delicious torture of all. ❤️🔥
But Sybil Bartel? She's one of the very few authors I trust to deliver a slow burn that is worth every agonizing second. And Ares was no exception.
I felt my pulse pounding through every single one of those hefty pages. The tension. The chemistry. The dominance. The suspense. Good Lord, this book had me in a chokehold, and I loved every minute of it!
What makes Ares and Helios even more special to me is my absolute obsession with Greek mythology. I'm such a mythology geek that I even named one of my sons Achilles! So naturally, these brothers already have a special place in my heart.
And seeing Ares in action on the battlefield? DOWNRIGHT RIVETING. Bartel delivers that perfect balance of sizzling romance, commanding dominance, heart-pounding suspense, and just enough emotional depth to make you fall even harder for her characters.
I'm already ridiculously invested in the new faces she's introduced, and of course, those familiar cameos are always a welcome treat. There's something so satisfying about watching her world continue to expand while still getting glimpses of the characters we've come to love.
I am absolutely DYING to see where this series goes next, especially when it comes to Cypher and Saint!
Sybil Bartel has once again proven that a slow burn doesn't have to mean a slow heartbeat. Sometimes, the anticipation is the most delicious torture of all. ❤️🔥
October 17, 2026
First and foremost, ARES is BIG book but when I turned the last page and sat with the masterpiece that Sybil crafted, and even re-reading the book back-to-back, I’m left wanting another 600 pages about Ares and his heroine and all of the other delightful, multi-faceted characters in this book who became their own unit and family.
This book is a love-story (and omg, hello spice !!) but it is also so much more, and I loved every word!
We’ve seen ARES in several of the previous books but finally getting into his head, seeing the nuances that make the War God into who he is at his core, it was EVERYTHING. His dominant, war-hardened brutality contrasted with the unexpected tenderness that manifests in the home he both fiercely and deliberately builds for his FMC was perfection!
The other characters in the book, some familiar and some completely new, were definitely a highlight of the story. They added so much depth to the book but also didn’t take away from the journey of Ares and his heroine. I loved every single person in this book (November, my heart <3), and I’m very, very intrigued about these upcoming Paragon men's books (i’m looking at you, Saint !!)
Sybil ups the ante with every book, and Ares' addition to the Paragon series was phenomenal! It was a masterclass in slow burn. The pacing, the build-up, and the cataclysmic panacea between these two was so, so, so good!!
5/5 Stars! It made me laugh. It made me cry. The action was superb and the spice topped new levels. But all of this was eclipsed by the unexpected arc of all these characters forging a family and home together. I loved it so much!!
This book is a love-story (and omg, hello spice !!) but it is also so much more, and I loved every word!
We’ve seen ARES in several of the previous books but finally getting into his head, seeing the nuances that make the War God into who he is at his core, it was EVERYTHING. His dominant, war-hardened brutality contrasted with the unexpected tenderness that manifests in the home he both fiercely and deliberately builds for his FMC was perfection!
The other characters in the book, some familiar and some completely new, were definitely a highlight of the story. They added so much depth to the book but also didn’t take away from the journey of Ares and his heroine. I loved every single person in this book (November, my heart <3), and I’m very, very intrigued about these upcoming Paragon men's books (i’m looking at you, Saint !!)
Sybil ups the ante with every book, and Ares' addition to the Paragon series was phenomenal! It was a masterclass in slow burn. The pacing, the build-up, and the cataclysmic panacea between these two was so, so, so good!!
5/5 Stars! It made me laugh. It made me cry. The action was superb and the spice topped new levels. But all of this was eclipsed by the unexpected arc of all these characters forging a family and home together. I loved it so much!!
October 18, 2026
I have been (NOT) so patiently waiting for this book to be released! I will start by saying I absolutely love Sybil’s books and have reread them 3-4 times since discovering them in 2024. Ares is finally here! We’ve met Ares in other books, but now we get to see all of him in his own book. I think Ares has become my favorite Sybil read - but then of course, I also said that about the last book she released. . . and the one before that, too! ❤️
Sybil takes us into a world that is all new to me, and I was hitting the dictionary regularly! What more could you ask for - a spicy, military, romantic adventure and learning something new as you read! It has a love story at its core, and trust me - you will be invested in how the story turns out. While in all the twists and turns of the book, you also get to catch up with characters you’ve met in previous books (and previous series of books!) You will meet a few new characters who I hope will return in future books because they were so lovable!
Sybil’s writing is superior and I feel she has such a gift! We are lucky people that she can weave such a story and share that with each of her readers! She sets the story and pulls you in that you are invested immediately! All I can say is - READ THE BOOK! And then go read all of her books! You will not be disappointed!
Sybil takes us into a world that is all new to me, and I was hitting the dictionary regularly! What more could you ask for - a spicy, military, romantic adventure and learning something new as you read! It has a love story at its core, and trust me - you will be invested in how the story turns out. While in all the twists and turns of the book, you also get to catch up with characters you’ve met in previous books (and previous series of books!) You will meet a few new characters who I hope will return in future books because they were so lovable!
Sybil’s writing is superior and I feel she has such a gift! We are lucky people that she can weave such a story and share that with each of her readers! She sets the story and pulls you in that you are invested immediately! All I can say is - READ THE BOOK! And then go read all of her books! You will not be disappointed!
October 31, 2026
4⭐️
3🌶️
Hmmm, where to begin, where to begin....
Every book of Ms. Bartel's I have absolutely loved, aside from one, but I still liked that one.
I also felt the same with this one. I loved it.
I'm loving the new series and the brand new characters we started meeting in the Alpha Elite Series.
This was actually my favorite of the series so far.
The characters felt like they had way more depth than the first few in the series. I connected better with them and was flipping through the pages just so I could see what happened next.
However, I was a bit disappointed with this one in two different ways.
Firstly, we didn't get to see the characters together until well after the 40% mark, I believe it was, maybe even further than that.
I enjoyed the obsession Ares had with Aracet. Seeing into his mindset while he was stalking her was *chef's kiss*.
Second disappointment, the spice didn't start spicing until AFTER 90%.
If you've read my reviews before, you've heard me say this a million and one times, at this point. It must be repeated though.
It's become a trend in the romance genre for the spice to not start spicing until 60% or even later.
I miss the days when we'd get it at the 30%-40% mark. I want those days back.
But it was taken a step further in this book and didn't start till like 94%. And it's been several months since I read the previous book in the series, Helios, but I believe it was very similar in that regard, as well.
I think at this point, it has become a pet peeve of mine lol.
I know I'm picky, but I like what I like.
However, even with all that stated, if you like the tropes listed below, I'd still definitely recommend reading this one. It's my favorite in the series, so far, and I cannot wait for Cypher's story. Though I'm sad I won't get that one till April 2027.
Tropes:
✨ VERY Alpha Male
✨ Dominate MMC
✨ Suspense
✨ Military Romance
✨ On The Run FMC
✨ OTT Possessive MMC
✨ Dual, First Person POV
3🌶️
Hmmm, where to begin, where to begin....
Every book of Ms. Bartel's I have absolutely loved, aside from one, but I still liked that one.
I also felt the same with this one. I loved it.
I'm loving the new series and the brand new characters we started meeting in the Alpha Elite Series.
This was actually my favorite of the series so far.
The characters felt like they had way more depth than the first few in the series. I connected better with them and was flipping through the pages just so I could see what happened next.
However, I was a bit disappointed with this one in two different ways.
Firstly, we didn't get to see the characters together until well after the 40% mark, I believe it was, maybe even further than that.
I enjoyed the obsession Ares had with Aracet. Seeing into his mindset while he was stalking her was *chef's kiss*.
Second disappointment, the spice didn't start spicing until AFTER 90%.
If you've read my reviews before, you've heard me say this a million and one times, at this point. It must be repeated though.
It's become a trend in the romance genre for the spice to not start spicing until 60% or even later.
I miss the days when we'd get it at the 30%-40% mark. I want those days back.
But it was taken a step further in this book and didn't start till like 94%. And it's been several months since I read the previous book in the series, Helios, but I believe it was very similar in that regard, as well.
I think at this point, it has become a pet peeve of mine lol.
I know I'm picky, but I like what I like.
However, even with all that stated, if you like the tropes listed below, I'd still definitely recommend reading this one. It's my favorite in the series, so far, and I cannot wait for Cypher's story. Though I'm sad I won't get that one till April 2027.
Tropes:
✨ VERY Alpha Male
✨ Dominate MMC
✨ Suspense
✨ Military Romance
✨ On The Run FMC
✨ OTT Possessive MMC
✨ Dual, First Person POV
Review of advance copy received from Author
Such an experience!!
I loved it!! 😍
This couple - GAH! - Soo Goood!
Be ready, because this will pull you in so fast, and it’s hard to leave these pages.
The suspense and pulse-pounding situations that that Paragon Operations handles always keeps me engaged and connected with the characters, and this one robbed me of sleep!
(I just couldn't stop reading.
Worth it!!)
Knowing full well the strength, single-mindedness and dominance of the men involved with Paragon Operations, I wasn’t surprised when the intensity and focus Ares held for the HVT turned into obsession. Loved it.
That is my favorite part of this author's creativity. The all encompassing need of these battle-hardened men for their respective women is just so entertaining.
I loved the slow burn of this relationship, and the steamy chemistry between these two.
Tie that with all the military level intrigue, betrayals, covert missions, storyline twists and the brutality of this storyline - there is no way I was escaping from these pages until I got the HEA.
It's just such a fantastic experience (made even better because I knew all the former storylines).
The prior characters in this world that we know and love are here as well and the banter between them is very easy to enjoy. Helios and Cypher definitely keep him in check!!
I absolutely cannot WAIT for more of this storyline. I highly recommend this author, this series and anything else from her catalog of work.
Fortunate to have received an ARC from the author (thank you) I happily leave my thoughts.
I loved it!! 😍
This couple - GAH! - Soo Goood!
Be ready, because this will pull you in so fast, and it’s hard to leave these pages.
The suspense and pulse-pounding situations that that Paragon Operations handles always keeps me engaged and connected with the characters, and this one robbed me of sleep!
(I just couldn't stop reading.
Worth it!!)
Knowing full well the strength, single-mindedness and dominance of the men involved with Paragon Operations, I wasn’t surprised when the intensity and focus Ares held for the HVT turned into obsession. Loved it.
That is my favorite part of this author's creativity. The all encompassing need of these battle-hardened men for their respective women is just so entertaining.
I loved the slow burn of this relationship, and the steamy chemistry between these two.
Tie that with all the military level intrigue, betrayals, covert missions, storyline twists and the brutality of this storyline - there is no way I was escaping from these pages until I got the HEA.
It's just such a fantastic experience (made even better because I knew all the former storylines).
The prior characters in this world that we know and love are here as well and the banter between them is very easy to enjoy. Helios and Cypher definitely keep him in check!!
I absolutely cannot WAIT for more of this storyline. I highly recommend this author, this series and anything else from her catalog of work.
Fortunate to have received an ARC from the author (thank you) I happily leave my thoughts.
October 18, 2026
All the feels is the easiest way to describe this book. While the book is long I felt like it flew by and I was surprised when the Epilogue heading showed up . Although its slow burn of soul mates I feel the time taken to understand Ares and what makes him tick, and also how his brunettes life events have formed who she is today was important to take time with. Ares is best described in his brunettes own words, Helios without the swear words (this made me laugh out loud). Where Helio's expresses all his emotion outward loud and in your face (with all the swears), Ares is the master of control and power but very much keeps his emotion within himself, except when it comes to his woman. I love this series has cameo's from our favorites and of course others who we yet to get to know. This book contain situations that may be triggers for some, if you are sensitive to abuse in any form then proceed with caution.
October 17, 2026
This was an excruciatingly slow burn that had me hooked from the very first page.
Ares was every bit as dominant, intense, and captivating as I expected him to be, and I loved watching the dynamic between him and the FMC unfold. Sybil Bartel always has a way of creating alpha heroes who push the boundaries of your trust, and there was definitely a moment where I found myself questioning Ares's motives. But if there's one thing I've learned, it's that when it comes to Sybil Bartel, you just have to trust the process.
What I loved most was how those moments of uncertainty ultimately led to some of the most vulnerable and emotional character development. The payoff was absolutely worth the wait, making this slow burn all the sweeter.
This book was everything I hoped it would be, and now I'm even more excited to spend more time with the operators at Paragon.
Ares was every bit as dominant, intense, and captivating as I expected him to be, and I loved watching the dynamic between him and the FMC unfold. Sybil Bartel always has a way of creating alpha heroes who push the boundaries of your trust, and there was definitely a moment where I found myself questioning Ares's motives. But if there's one thing I've learned, it's that when it comes to Sybil Bartel, you just have to trust the process.
What I loved most was how those moments of uncertainty ultimately led to some of the most vulnerable and emotional character development. The payoff was absolutely worth the wait, making this slow burn all the sweeter.
This book was everything I hoped it would be, and now I'm even more excited to spend more time with the operators at Paragon.
October 18, 2026
Well let’s talk about Ares, this god of war can go to battle on me anytime… 😉 This man takes being the whole alpha—male protector to another level. We’ve met Ares in previous books from the series, now the time has come for readers to meet him in all his masculine glory.
The steamy chemistry and slow burn of the relationship between Ares and his leading lady had me enthralled from start to finish. I was intrigued with the betrayals, the missions and the brutality of this storyline, the banter too, was top tier as always. The whole military aspect was on par with what we’ve come to expect from Sybil Bartel, and as usual I had my dictionary on hand IYKYK.
I loved the interactions between the characters, especially Ares and Helios, and it was great catching up with some of the other characters from previous books. I can’t recommend Ares enough, if a spicy, military, romantic adventure sounds right up your alley, you won’t get better than this… until she releases the next book that is.
𝔸𝕣𝕔 𝕠𝕗 𝕥𝕙𝕚𝕤 𝕓𝕠𝕠𝕜 𝕨𝕒𝕤 𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕕, 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕥𝕙𝕚𝕤 𝕚𝕤 𝕞𝕪 𝕙𝕠𝕟𝕖𝕤𝕥 𝕣𝕖𝕧𝕚𝕖𝕨.
𝓑𝓸𝓸𝓴𝓼 & 𝓑𝓮𝔂𝓸𝓷𝓭 𝓑𝓵𝓸𝓰
The steamy chemistry and slow burn of the relationship between Ares and his leading lady had me enthralled from start to finish. I was intrigued with the betrayals, the missions and the brutality of this storyline, the banter too, was top tier as always. The whole military aspect was on par with what we’ve come to expect from Sybil Bartel, and as usual I had my dictionary on hand IYKYK.
I loved the interactions between the characters, especially Ares and Helios, and it was great catching up with some of the other characters from previous books. I can’t recommend Ares enough, if a spicy, military, romantic adventure sounds right up your alley, you won’t get better than this… until she releases the next book that is.
𝔸𝕣𝕔 𝕠𝕗 𝕥𝕙𝕚𝕤 𝕓𝕠𝕠𝕜 𝕨𝕒𝕤 𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕕, 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕥𝕙𝕚𝕤 𝕚𝕤 𝕞𝕪 𝕙𝕠𝕟𝕖𝕤𝕥 𝕣𝕖𝕧𝕚𝕖𝕨.
𝓑𝓸𝓸𝓴𝓼 & 𝓑𝓮𝔂𝓸𝓷𝓭 𝓑𝓵𝓸𝓰
October 17, 2026
Ares had me hooked from the very first page. I read it every chance I got because I just had to know what happened next!
Sybil has really upped her game with this one, and it has quickly become one of my all-time favourites since November. Ares is a former Delta Force operator who breaks the second rule when it matters most, and that moment of hesitation sets off a tension that kept me turning pages late into the night.
It was such a treat to see another of my favourite alphas make an appearance in the Paragon Operations series. Sybil's characters feel so real and well written, and I honestly didn't want Ares's story to end.
Thank you! Sybil Bartel
Sybil has really upped her game with this one, and it has quickly become one of my all-time favourites since November. Ares is a former Delta Force operator who breaks the second rule when it matters most, and that moment of hesitation sets off a tension that kept me turning pages late into the night.
It was such a treat to see another of my favourite alphas make an appearance in the Paragon Operations series. Sybil's characters feel so real and well written, and I honestly didn't want Ares's story to end.
Thank you! Sybil Bartel
October 18, 2026
It's so hard to give a review without spoilers. There was a lot to this story, it was a long book but it didn't feel that way because it had amazing pacing. Sometimes there was heart pounding action and others there was intense suspense, heartbreaking angst, and as always, an incredible depth of feeling. I cried, I laughed, I wanted to smack fictional characters, ya know, as you do.
This is a book we're side characters absolutely steal the show. Pasqual and Henry are absolutely wonderful and I hope beyond hope we see more of these remarkable men. I love a found family and this book delivers in such a satisfying way.
This was a wonderful addition to the series and I can't wait for the next installment!
This is a book we're side characters absolutely steal the show. Pasqual and Henry are absolutely wonderful and I hope beyond hope we see more of these remarkable men. I love a found family and this book delivers in such a satisfying way.
This was a wonderful addition to the series and I can't wait for the next installment!
October 18, 2026
Sybil Bartel writes a book … it’s at the top of my TBR immediately.
This weekend I read Ares. I have a few authors that I haven’t read one of their books and didn’t love it, Sybil Bartel is one.
The way she writes is perfection.
Her Alphas are perfect book boyfriends.
Ares is a slow burn paramilitary romance, which is spread over nearly a decade and features characters from Sybil’s universe plus some new ones, some I hope reappear 🖤 The action in this book is probably one of the best I’ve read, I felt like I was part of it.
Historically, Andre, Alex and Shade’s FMCs have been my faves but the FMCs of recent have had a bit more feistiness about them and they have made these stories even better than before, which is hard as every book by Sybil Bartel are all 5 stars for me.
This weekend I read Ares. I have a few authors that I haven’t read one of their books and didn’t love it, Sybil Bartel is one.
The way she writes is perfection.
Her Alphas are perfect book boyfriends.
Ares is a slow burn paramilitary romance, which is spread over nearly a decade and features characters from Sybil’s universe plus some new ones, some I hope reappear 🖤 The action in this book is probably one of the best I’ve read, I felt like I was part of it.
Historically, Andre, Alex and Shade’s FMCs have been my faves but the FMCs of recent have had a bit more feistiness about them and they have made these stories even better than before, which is hard as every book by Sybil Bartel are all 5 stars for me.
October 18, 2026
Wow! Sybil Bartel has outdone herself on this one and I honestly didn’t think that was possible. I absolutely love her books. The characters she creates are all so unique in their own way. There were parts of this book that I felt like I was physically there in the book because of her writing style. So good! Ares was not the character I thought he would be. He has definitely become one of my favorite Alpha men. This storyline was breathtakingly beautiful. There are not enough words to convey my love for this story without giving anything away. I would definitely recommend this to everyone.
October 19, 2026
Despite looking like a monster of book at first appearance, Ares left me wanting more. I was completely consumed by Ares. He has taken the alpha protector to a new level and he may be my new favourite. Sybil is the master of creating unique and addicting romances that suck you into a new world each time and I love every moment of it. Ares story is no exception. Lots of twists, a slow burning inferno that definitely leads to no shortage of spice. I can’t leave without admiring the strength of Ares heroine. She is awesome. As always I loved the inclusion of our other beloved military men to share some memorable love.
October 24, 2026
Ares, Ares, Ares.. I will admit I struggled and bit with you. You are definitely alpha; that being said, I wanted you to embrace the FMC a bit more because I LOVED the FMC. (Not just because I firmly believe Sybil was spying on my fb page, lol.) I loved the FMC's grit and that she truly wanted to evolve and grow. We also meet some new characters, and I ADORE them both! I really want their story and would have loved to have them star more in this book. (Maybe a follow-up with them in it? Hint, hint) Thank you, Sybil, for the military love and all of the wonderful ins and outs of loving those military types! Cannot wait for the next one.
October 27, 2026
So much happened in this book it’s difficult to cover it all. I couldn’t put it down and only wished I was a faster reader. Very powerful emotions some scenes overwhelming and necessary to the story. Circumstances, causes and effects of your life’s choices.
Stalker, warrior, rigger and emotionally much more. Their history of eight years very different. She hides and stays silent from guilt. Ares can’t forget her and continues to stalk her. Ares can’t control himself when he realizes that this time she’s running to his town. Confrontations, new and old characters intricately blended into the story. Great read worth the wait. Now who’s up next.
Stalker, warrior, rigger and emotionally much more. Their history of eight years very different. She hides and stays silent from guilt. Ares can’t forget her and continues to stalk her. Ares can’t control himself when he realizes that this time she’s running to his town. Confrontations, new and old characters intricately blended into the story. Great read worth the wait. Now who’s up next.
October 17, 2026
Ares Eyes on Me Grayson.🖤
♡My soul belonged to a god of war before I had ever met him.♡
☆Like life... you sound... like my life☆
Perfection. Slow burn. Rigger.
100% worth the wait. I knew Ares was going to be good during Helios... but what we got was even better than I could have imagined.
The helmet scene was a laugh out loud moment, I would have said the same thing. 🤣🤣
I also knew Henry was going to be a favorite when we first met him. Maybeeee we will get to see more of him in the future.
I cant wait for the next book.
Sybil, you NEVER disappoint.
♡My soul belonged to a god of war before I had ever met him.♡
☆Like life... you sound... like my life☆
Perfection. Slow burn. Rigger.
100% worth the wait. I knew Ares was going to be good during Helios... but what we got was even better than I could have imagined.
The helmet scene was a laugh out loud moment, I would have said the same thing. 🤣🤣
I also knew Henry was going to be a favorite when we first met him. Maybeeee we will get to see more of him in the future.
I cant wait for the next book.
Sybil, you NEVER disappoint.
October 17, 2026
This book captured my attention from the very 1st page right till the last one. For such a long book, it was a dream to read . Once I started I knew this was going to be a massive reading session. The story flowed so well I couldn’t believe how quickly I had finished the book!
I loved both Area and Aracet, their connection was so strong. Helios in the book was just so Helios! I’m so glad he didn’t change.
The story had excitement and interest and the slow burn was oh so very worth the wait!
Another brilliant read and I can’t wait for the next book.
I loved both Area and Aracet, their connection was so strong. Helios in the book was just so Helios! I’m so glad he didn’t change.
The story had excitement and interest and the slow burn was oh so very worth the wait!
Another brilliant read and I can’t wait for the next book.
October 19, 2026
Ares and Aracet
I'm already in a book hangover, this was so good and I just need to sit with it and enjoy the afterglow. This is the first book in a LONG time that I've wanted to stay up all night to read. I truly could not put this down, and I loved every bit of Ares' and Aracet's story. Excellent pacing, excellent action, excellent romance/ bonding. I also loved seeing a few past characters sprinkled throughout and a couple new characters I instantly loved. (And some Tier One nicknaming! IYKYK!) Excellent book!
I'm already in a book hangover, this was so good and I just need to sit with it and enjoy the afterglow. This is the first book in a LONG time that I've wanted to stay up all night to read. I truly could not put this down, and I loved every bit of Ares' and Aracet's story. Excellent pacing, excellent action, excellent romance/ bonding. I also loved seeing a few past characters sprinkled throughout and a couple new characters I instantly loved. (And some Tier One nicknaming! IYKYK!) Excellent book!
October 28, 2026
Ares was a long awaited dream read, and I’m still reveling in all the ooey-gooey decadence of it! Ares expertly dances the fine line between darkness and vulnerability, strength/softness and two characters connected in a way that sinks its teeth into you. Theres sloooowwwww burn tension, intensity and an ocean of emotional depth from start to finish.
The story is layered and nuanced and I loved unraveling the complexities of the characters. Sybil is the queen at balance action, angst and Ares was heart-stopping. Another 5 star read in the Paragon world.
The story is layered and nuanced and I loved unraveling the complexities of the characters. Sybil is the queen at balance action, angst and Ares was heart-stopping. Another 5 star read in the Paragon world.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Omgggggg Ares!!!!
We’ve been asking about Ares since the beginning of this series and she DID NOT DISAPPOINT
This story has action and trauma and yearning and friendships. It’s got challenges and heartbreak and healing and growth…
This was a riiidddeeeee!!
Story TOP TIER!!! So much detail and getting some of our favs as little cameos.. new friends that we LOVEEEE
Honestly I have read every Sybil Bartel book and this one is right up there with Talon for me!!!!!
100000/10
We’ve been asking about Ares since the beginning of this series and she DID NOT DISAPPOINT
This story has action and trauma and yearning and friendships. It’s got challenges and heartbreak and healing and growth…
This was a riiidddeeeee!!
Story TOP TIER!!! So much detail and getting some of our favs as little cameos.. new friends that we LOVEEEE
Honestly I have read every Sybil Bartel book and this one is right up there with Talon for me!!!!!
100000/10
October 21, 2026
Excellent
I loved this book. Ares and Aracet are perfect for each other as they both are kind of lost Aracet because of her past and Ares because of the future. Aracet is different in that she tries to hide and isn't truly sure who she is. Ares knows who he is, but is he too much? The storyline is fantastic and fast-paced, and I love that there are returning characters, which are definitely worth the read.
I loved this book. Ares and Aracet are perfect for each other as they both are kind of lost Aracet because of her past and Ares because of the future. Aracet is different in that she tries to hide and isn't truly sure who she is. Ares knows who he is, but is he too much? The storyline is fantastic and fast-paced, and I love that there are returning characters, which are definitely worth the read.
October 21, 2026
Ares and Aracet have arrived
I was hooked from the first page to the last. I really like Aracet. She was always a step ahead with Ares a protective step behind her. Then circumstances bring them together. Loved their dynamic, her new friends and his work. If you have read any of Sybil Bartel's books you know there's a little spice which was just right for this god of war. A must read!
I was hooked from the first page to the last. I really like Aracet. She was always a step ahead with Ares a protective step behind her. Then circumstances bring them together. Loved their dynamic, her new friends and his work. If you have read any of Sybil Bartel's books you know there's a little spice which was just right for this god of war. A must read!
October 29, 2026
Oh my god, Sybil gave us another incredible paragon operator, oh wait, who am I kidding, they are all incredible!!
I am not saying much at all about this one other than, be warned!
Ares is a new book to us, but we have read about him in the previous book, just glad to finally have his! Yes, the book is thick, lots of pages, but I promise, they will go by fast. Even with the slow burn building up, you don’t want to miss how this one turns out!
I am not saying much at all about this one other than, be warned!
Ares is a new book to us, but we have read about him in the previous book, just glad to finally have his! Yes, the book is thick, lots of pages, but I promise, they will go by fast. Even with the slow burn building up, you don’t want to miss how this one turns out!
October 22, 2026
Another amazing one!
I can't believe I was losing hope that Talon would make an appearance! I feel like I could copy and paste my reviews for Sybil's books - my new favorite; can't wait for the next one; they just keep getting better, etc....
These characters are all my favorite. Ares and Aracet were perfection.
I can't believe I was losing hope that Talon would make an appearance! I feel like I could copy and paste my reviews for Sybil's books - my new favorite; can't wait for the next one; they just keep getting better, etc....
These characters are all my favorite. Ares and Aracet were perfection.
October 19, 2026
Liked the story a lot. Love Sybil Bartel
Good story! I love Sybil’s books. I’ve been wanting a bit more spice in her more recent books. I’ve just about every single book at least once. I love how she lays out a story. I can’t wait to read more.
Good story! I love Sybil’s books. I’ve been wanting a bit more spice in her more recent books. I’ve just about every single book at least once. I love how she lays out a story. I can’t wait to read more.
October 20, 2026
Fabulous Read!
What a book! I love everything by Sybil Bartel but this book really tops them all. The quality of writing is second to none and the characters are so complex yet so likeable! I cannot wait for the next in the series.
What a book! I love everything by Sybil Bartel but this book really tops them all. The quality of writing is second to none and the characters are so complex yet so likeable! I cannot wait for the next in the series.
October 23, 2026
Truly intense story, but good
I love the series, but I must say this one is probably the most intense one I’ve read. It’s one of the longest books, I think, written by the author. I do recommend reading her books in order so you’ll get background on the other characters.
I love the series, but I must say this one is probably the most intense one I’ve read. It’s one of the longest books, I think, written by the author. I do recommend reading her books in order so you’ll get background on the other characters.
October 23, 2026
I love Sybil Bartel, and this book does not disappoint. Ares is the perfect amount of over the top delicious dominance with just a touch of tender in all the right spots. Cannot wait for Cypher, and really hoping some of these characters that are starting to pop up are a sign of things to come...
October 19, 2026
Love it, old characters, new characters, awesome!!
October 23, 2026
I think she peaked with the uncompromising series.
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