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Being the drummer for the hottest new rock band should’ve been a dream come true. Sold out shows, women, more money than I deserved…

But I didn’t want any of it.

The fame sucked, the money was a burden and I’d given away my only chance at ever having her—my best friend’s sister.

I wasn’t supposed to touch her. My best friend made me swear I wouldn’t. Then he was deployed, and he told me to look out for her. Except being around her while still keeping my distance was slowly killing me. Touring with the band should’ve been the perfect escape… Until I fucked up.

I fucked up so bad, she was half-conscious in my arms, fighting for her life.

* BENNETT is the fourth standalone book in the Uncompromising Series.

The Uncompromising Series:
TALON
NEIL
ANDRE
BENNETT

272 pages, Paperback

First published December 19, 2017

206 people are currently reading
615 people want to read

About the author

Sybil Bartel

50 books1,232 followers
Sybil 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.

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5 stars
508 (56%)
4 stars
268 (29%)
3 stars
96 (10%)
2 stars
21 (2%)
1 star
9 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
Profile Image for ➦Paulette & Her Sexy Alphas .
1,163 reviews324 followers
July 8, 2024


Bennett is a full-length, standalone novel and is the 4TH book in the Uncompromising Series.


This is not only Ben and Elyssia’s story, but also Marcus’s story as well…….

Ben Stark, he was no longer that serious and quite seventeen-year-old her brother (Marcus) had brought home with him, after being bullied in school. He was the lost soul her mother had taken in and loved like her own. He was the determined boy who’d grown into a man and made a life for himself most never even dreamed of. He was the drummer for a famous rock band. And he was the man that held her heart in his hands
Marcus has done two tours in the military and is suffering with PTSD, and she has tried her very best to help him through his episodes … until things start to get too out of hand for Elyssia



This is not just a simple love story about a man and a woman and all that they endure to get to that point in their life where they can be with each other

You will get a glimpse of some of the things our servicemen and women endure for us ……… There were a few challenges in the book where it was just too much for me, and it broke my heart………….. But don’t get me wrong this is a sweet love story as well


Now to be honest I really did not know how this book fell in this particular series …… yeah sure Andre, Neil and Talon We’re visible in this installment, But hey who am I to complain it was a good story










Profile Image for Carrie.
105 reviews2 followers
March 2, 2020
I am a rock star but not to her.

I was a foster kid and I got bullied until Marcus stepped in and took me home. I grow up and hit it big but I only wanted her Marcus sister.
Profile Image for Lee Piper.
Author 11 books405 followers
December 17, 2017
I didn’t think it was possible to improve on Sybil Bartel’s, previous release. I mean, how can anyone pen a more perfect alpha hero than Cuban ex-marine, Andre? Turns out, you can. And Bennett, book four in the Uncompromising Series is… *swoons* EVERYTHING.

Dominant? Check.
Protective? Check.
Drummer? Check.
Hot af? Check.
Martial arts expert? Check.
Determined to claim his woman? Check.

There are not enough panties in the world to survive this book. There are not enough hours in the day or batteries in your Kindle.

You. Will. Read. It. In. One. Sitting.

Why? Because it’s that damn good. Because the pacing, rising tension, chemistry—sweet Lord, the chemistry—will draw you in and keep you captive. Even when you turn the last page, you will frantically search through Bartel’s backlog in a bid to exist in her world for a bit longer.

Such is the power of her writing.

And this book is dark, there is no doubt about it. It touches on subjects which will trigger some readers. However, coexisting beside the characters as they navigate through their reality is both an honor and a privilege. No, I’m not glorifying these horrors, I’m respecting the fact they are written about honestly.

Regardless of the sensitive subject matter, the characters, their relationships, and their deservedness for a happily ever after will keep you transfixed. Your will devour every word, you will sigh deep sighs, intermittently reach for the tissues, and find yourself grinning by the end.

You will LOVE Bennett.
Profile Image for Bethany Johnston.
170 reviews5 followers
October 22, 2019
It taken me so long to do a review because I love every one of Sybil’s books to the point of speechlessness. I can’t put into words how much and why I love reading her books.
Profile Image for &#x1f989;Maggie Whitworth.
3,254 reviews113 followers
October 22, 2021
❤️‍🔥❤️‍🔥❤️‍🔥❤️‍🔥
💋💋

Great read.
Yes there’s sibling abuse/violence.
If that’s a trigger this is your warning ⚠️

The characters as usual are good so is the plot.
Andre and the gang are involved too.
Sybil has more to come I’m sure.
Profile Image for Juliana Philippa.
1,029 reviews983 followers
June 19, 2020
Too much angst and conflict for me. Bennett is as terrific as all the reviews say, but Elyssia was annoying. I understood her love for her brother and her torn loyalties between Ben and Marcus (her bro), and on the one hand I admired all she was doing for her brother, but he wasn't helping him, she was just enabling him at some point. She was angry and resentful towards Ben and Talon, who were such good guys and just trying to help her and Marcus, despite all she was holding back and all the shit she gave them.

Sybil Bartel has written some really terrific novels, and I would recommend those instead of this one; they include: Thrust, Rough, and Callan.

SYBIL BARTEL RECOMMENDATIONS
The Alpha Escort Series
Book 1: Thrust (4 stars)
Book 2: Rough (4 stars)
Book 3: Grind (2.5 stars)

The Uncompromising Series
Book 1: Talon (3 stars)
Book 2: Neil (4 stars)
Book 3: André (TBR)
Book 4: Bennett (3 stars)
Book 5: Callan (3.75 stars)
Book 6: Roark (To Be Released)

The Alpha Bodyguard Series
Book 1: Scandalous (TBR)
Book 2: Merciless (3.75 stars)
Book 3: Reckless (3.5 stars)
Book 4: Ruthless (3.75 stars)
Book 5: Fearless (DNF)
Book 6: Callous (TBR)
Book 7: Relentless (TBR)
Book 8: Shameless (To Be Released)
Book 9: Heartless (To Be Released)
Profile Image for Mikky.
966 reviews269 followers
December 26, 2017


My Rating: 4 and a half stars

Though things started off rocky (in the first book) this series has grown on me and I'm loving every minute of it. The authors writing and narrating style has gotten better with every novel. I liked how this story was structured.

I don't remember Bennett being introduced in the last few books in this series, though that could be because he belongs in one of the other intertwined series by this author. I can't say I'm mad about it though. I liked how willing to talk things out he was and his level of rationality.

I liked how the heroine was trained in karate and how headstrong she seemed to be with everyone except her brother. On a completely separate note, I started out sympathizing with her, but I ended up getting tired of her waterworks. I can understand (to a point) the amount of tears considering what happened to her and the situation she was left in. If every small detail makes you cry, shouldn't you eventually try and get help or talk it out with someone?

My one criticism should be taken with a grain of salt because it's mostly a personal preference: Would it kill someone to write in a condom in some part of the story? Why was it that the talk of babies was brought up even before they were officially together? Why does everything revolve around having kids? It can't be only me with this rationale.

Favorite Quotes:

"I wasn't losing hope. I'd lost it."

"She'd made me want to be better. She'd made me want to become someone that she'd be proud of."

"Everything I'd ever wanted was slipping away before I had a chance to grab onto it."
Profile Image for Sheila Schoenauer.
1,068 reviews12 followers
January 3, 2018
This is the second book by this author that I have read. I loved the first one (Grind) so I had a feeling that I would love this one too. I was so right. This book broke me in so many ways. As the wife of a combat veteran I've seen how PTSD can affect those who have served. It's not easy watching the one(s) you love struggle and suffer. Reading Elyssia's plight with her brother Marcus wasn't easy. It was hard, real hard. I understood her desire to help him, to be there for him. But the effect it was having on her wasn't easy to read at all. That's where Bennett (Ben) steps in. God I wish he had manned up and come back sooner. But I'm glad that he finally came back when he did. And I'm glad that he not only kept putting his foot down but that he also didn't give up on Elyssia even when she made it difficult for him. I also loved that he didn't let what he band mates said affect his decisions and opinions. There two had their struggles but they are an amazing couple. This author really knows how to keep you reading as I just didn't want to stop until I was finished. Great book, great read!
Profile Image for Kristen Johnson.
1,173 reviews48 followers
December 22, 2017
It's no secret I'm in love with Sybil's Alpha Males and the women they claim as their own. With each book, there's always something unexpected, something that knocks you off the path you thought you were on.

Bennett is a taboo tale of finding love with your best friends little sister - but there's so much more to the story than that. Bennett is a superstar Drummer who's known by millions and wanted by most of them. Something has come between Bennett and his best friend Marcus which makes this taboo even more forbidden.

Elyssia is such a fascinating character herself, she's been through a lot, she's strong but has her vulnerabilities, she's smart, but sometimes doesn't make the right decisions, she's loyal - sometimes to her own detriments. Elyssia's also loved Bennett forever - but she doesn't know that she can ever act on that love.

Bennett feels stagnated - he's had a wonderful life, his band is in an amazing position and yet something seems off in his life, he doesn't realize what it is until Elyssia falls back into his orbit. Bennett has loved her for a long time too - but he knows she's off limits - Marcus would be more than a little upset if he were to act on those feelings. But Bennett can't walk away from Elyssia - and when he discovers a secret she's hiding, he's even more determined than ever to right some wrongs and find a way to get her to believe in him.

Bennett is a story that will draw you in with all the glitz of a rockstar romance, all the angst of the forbidden, and all the pain involved when happiness is blocked by the hard stuff. Each aspect of this story will hold you captive and have you rooting for these two to find a way to make it work - to snag their happiness and run with it.
Profile Image for Kristin.
318 reviews16 followers
December 20, 2017
Bennett & Elyssia = One of A Kind Romance 5 Stars
Sybil Bartel has done it again with this incredible story. Be ready to be sweep up into the story from the beginning. I devoured Bennett and Elyssia's story. Bennett is one of my favorite books by Sybil. You can't go wrong with any of the books in this series.

Bennett is a captivating story of Elyssia 'Sia' and Bennett 'Ben'. They met as teenagers. Elyssia's brother, Marcus, brought Ben home. Marcus and Ben are best friends. Marcus tells him to stay away from Sia. Sia stays home and takes care of her brother. Marcus has done two tours in the military and is suffering with PTSD. Sia takes care of herself and her brother. She is a very strong, determined and caring person.

Ben is a famous drummer in a rock band. Ben has domineering personality / alpha. He is sexy with a dirty mouth. Ben can be very sweet and care very much for Sia.

I adore Bennett. The chemistry between Ben and Sia is very hot. I love with Ben talks all dirty and is bossy. I highly recommend that everyone read and get Immersed in Bennett.

Overall Story - 5 Stars
Chemistry - 5 Stars
POV - Alternating / Dual POVs
Alpha - Yes
HEA - Yes
Recommend to Others - Hell Yes
Cliffhanger - No
Series - Yes book 4, but a Standalone
96 reviews1 follower
January 5, 2018
Great Read

Very unusual story. The heroine will do whatever it takes to save the people she loves. She trained in martial arts and can hold her own in most situations but her brother who served 2 tours with the marines has lost his way, her Mother is given short time to live and the only good thing is her childhood crush comes back into her life. Unfortunately, he's the Drummer for a hot rock band. She hates crowds, being in the spotlight and not taking care of her brother who is suffering from PTSD. He takes his aggression out by fighting but he's self destructive and she fears for his life. Bennett the drummer wants her in his life but she's afraid to leave her brother and her brother is against her having a relationship with Bennett. This is very fast paced read with great characters in it. There are some very graphic scenes, hot love scenes, and underworld characters. Be prepared to read straight through to the end. Highly recommend this book.
912 reviews5 followers
December 23, 2021
It's okay, different from previous books in the series

No plot spoilers
No real potential triggers although there is a scene of domestic abuse
The characterisation is good
The plotline is engaging
I think my main problem with the book is that Bennett isn't one of the usual characters (i.e. Former Marine etc.) But is instead a member of the band Neil's nephew plays in, well, that and the fact he hasn't been mentioned in previous books so the character is from left field. Then there is little from previous characters, Andre, Tyler Neil and Talon have cameos but nothing more so the book is light on known faces.
I didn't quite get my head around Ben's 'dominance ' either because he just felt too 'young' to carry it off.
It's a well written book so deserves four stars, it's just not my favourite.
There are some sex scenes and plenty of swearing
Profile Image for Shelly Shaw.
296 reviews6 followers
September 14, 2019
Momma Mia, this was soooo awesome!

Part of me want to smack the sh!t outta Sia (only Ben calls her Elyssia) because she was being such a turd!!! But I understand now. What a fantastic story. Different from the others, but again my boy, Talon showed up!! We need an end book that brings them all together with their woman and their babies!!!! . One last thing for Sybil Bartel..... a HUGE HUGE THANK YOU for showing how difficult it is for most returning military, to return to civilian life. I was not able to serve (physically handicapped) but I am proud to say I am American and my heart and prayers to go to all who serve and another thank you to those at home who sacrifice, while their family is deployed. GOD BLESS AMERICA, and Sybil Bartel.
Profile Image for ToniAnn.
646 reviews12 followers
December 19, 2017
Oh, my. Bennett is sexy, strong, and determined. He knows what he wants and do whatever he can to get it...or her. Elyssia is gorgeous girl, doing her best to survive. When Bennett shows up at her house, and is confronted by her drunken brother, he knows something is up. What he never expected to find, was Elyssia beaten. This book is on the "dark" side, but you will be hooked once you start. Sybil has done an amazing job with every character in this book. I'm pretty sure Bennett is my favorite character she writes! ;)
Profile Image for ereader26.
221 reviews2 followers
December 20, 2017
A must read

This book had me up all night because I couldn’t put it down. It was worth a night of no sleep. I knew I was not putting it down after the first chapter. This book deals with a few things that relatable to a lot of people and because of that I had to know what would happen next. I was beyond satisfied with everything in this book. My emotions were on overdrive all throughout the book because I can relate on missing someone who is no longer alive. I would recommend this book to anyone since it’s different from many books I’ve read recently.
4 reviews
December 26, 2017
All the love and all the feels for Bennett!

5 huge stars for Bennett, Elyssia and Marcus...their story is one that needed to ne told and Sybil told it beautifully. Sybil Bartel is a favorite of mine. I've read and loved every one of her books and this one was no different. She broke my heart while I fell in love with Bennett. His {and Elyssia and Marcus'} story is raw and emotional and so tragically real. As the proud wife of a veteran, this one will be with me for a while. ❤️
290 reviews3 followers
January 13, 2018
Ummm...this book had loads of potential and I adored Ben but Elyssia drove me fucking insane!! She was juvenile, whiney and way too wishy-washy. I love Ben, no I hate Ben, no wait I love Ben. I have no fucking idea why she kept pushing this man away! It was obvious he was head over heels for her but she just kept pushing!! Ugh! I almost DNFd, but I powered through. Her brother was a d-bag of the tenth degree, yet she defended him to the end even though...spoiler alert....he beat the shit out of her!!!! Yeah, no, no, and no!
403 reviews
March 4, 2023
Ben and Elyssia

Great read couldn’t put it down. The story had love and hate relationship. It was happy and sad how love can swing between family and friends. It also took on the subject of PTSD and the many treatments. How Marcus wasn’t getting the treatment that he needed because he was fighting it. Bennett fame scared both Marcus and his sister Elyssia except live always wins in the end. Loved it
Profile Image for Kathyjacks.
Author 0 books146 followers
January 22, 2019
I am not a fan of rock star romances but this installment has been my favorite of the series . I actually held out to read this one last because I didn’t anticipate liking it this much . If you like alpha males then this is the author you should check out . All books can be read as a stand-alone or a series!
152 reviews
November 6, 2019
Still Amazing.

Loved to story line. Good see you touch on an issue many ex military experience. And to watch a long love finally come to fulfillment. I'm still hooked and all these stories. Amazing writing yet again. Got lost in the story. I laughed I cried and I even got a little mad as I read. Couldn't put it down til I finished it cover to cover.
Profile Image for Sassy Southern Girl.
55 reviews
December 21, 2017
Once again Sybil Bartel wows us with an amazing story! This book gave me all the feels and more! Bennett had me hooked from beginning to end! I devoured every word and didn’t want it to end! Loved Bennett & Elyssia!!
Profile Image for Hendrix Fan 4ever.
2,526 reviews7 followers
April 9, 2019
LOVED IT!!!

I fell in love with Ms Bartel's writing from the very first book. I was mesmerized and couldn't put it down. It's been that way with every book since then. can't wait to read the next in the series
Profile Image for Gina wooldridge.
361 reviews2 followers
February 21, 2022
OMG

First off the attention to PTSD this book brought to readers is a great service to those who served .

I loved Bennett and Allyssia even though they denied what they wanted and wasted so much time but her devotion to her brother and her strength just spoke to me .
288 reviews2 followers
May 6, 2022
Another Good Book From Sybil Bartel

Another good read in Sybil Bartel's The Uncompromising Series. Ben and Elyssia's story was so engrossing I read it all in one sitting! Now I can't wait to get started on the next book!
Profile Image for Karen Lovvorn.
2,073 reviews12 followers
June 3, 2022
He loved her for eight years.

Her brother had been his best friend, but no more. He’d never let them be together. Something happened and now, the protector in him was free roaming . He had to make her his.
Profile Image for Jennifer Cleaveland.
22 reviews1 follower
December 30, 2017
Another great read

Bennett story is another great read, the love story is great. Her book always leave me wanting more. So of course I go looking for her next book..
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