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Alpha Antihero #4
Hard Truth
I couldn't escape the hard sins of my past.
I couldn't unsee the truths in my mistakes.
Every breath she took was a reminder of the pain I'd caused.
Growing up at the mercy of a madman, I swore I would never give anyone that kind of power over me again. But here I was, on my knees, begging for a life I lost.
Except no amount of forgiveness would bring it back.
*HARD TRUTH is the fourth book in the Alpha Antihero Series, and it is not a standalone story.
The Alpha Antihero Series:
HARD LIMIT
HARD JUSTICE
HARD SIN
HARD TRUTH
I couldn't unsee the truths in my mistakes.
Every breath she took was a reminder of the pain I'd caused.
Growing up at the mercy of a madman, I swore I would never give anyone that kind of power over me again. But here I was, on my knees, begging for a life I lost.
Except no amount of forgiveness would bring it back.
*HARD TRUTH is the fourth book in the Alpha Antihero Series, and it is not a standalone story.
The Alpha Antihero Series:
HARD LIMIT
HARD JUSTICE
HARD SIN
HARD TRUTH
First published May 18, 2020
70 people are currently reading
340 people want to read
About the author
Sybil Bartel
50 books1,238 followersSybil Bartel is a USA Today Bestselling author of unapologetic Alpha heroes. Whether you're reading her dominant Alpha Elite mercenaries, her protective Alpha Bodyguards, or her page-turning romantic suspense, all of her heroes are sexy-as-sin and unwaveringly Alpha!
Sybil lives in South Florida, and she is forever Oliver's mom.
Sybil lives in South Florida, and she is forever Oliver's mom.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
August 27, 2020
Wow, I had put off reading the last two books of this series long enough and finally womaned up and dove in. Tarquin “Candle” Scott has always been an enticing villain character in Mrs. Scott’s books. I was especially intrigued by him in Neil, because I could tell there was a lot of potential backstory and tragedy to justify his actions and I think the author did a great job of fleshing it out.
This series is NOT an easy read. There is a lot of unnecessary, some would say gratuitous suffering, especially on Shaila’s part. The angst is off the charts. I am so glad they finally got their happy ending. I would’ve liked to have read more about them actually being happy. The first 3 books are emotionally-draining!
I love Candle, but Shaila’s character is probably the strongest h that Bartel has written so far, imho. Seven years of captive, sex slave hell all for a man you love who you believe has moved on to a new family and detox while said man blames you for being a victim— Shaila is one superhuman cookie!
Heart-wrenching series with an excellent conclusion!
This series is NOT an easy read. There is a lot of unnecessary, some would say gratuitous suffering, especially on Shaila’s part. The angst is off the charts. I am so glad they finally got their happy ending. I would’ve liked to have read more about them actually being happy. The first 3 books are emotionally-draining!
I love Candle, but Shaila’s character is probably the strongest h that Bartel has written so far, imho. Seven years of captive, sex slave hell all for a man you love who you believe has moved on to a new family and detox while said man blames you for being a victim— Shaila is one superhuman cookie!
Heart-wrenching series with an excellent conclusion!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 14, 2020
Some love stories are sweet and easy to read and feel bringing you a smile on your face, some are more angsty and suspenseful, but there are also stories that will break your heart in pieces and have you in tears for almost every page turned. Just like this one. Candle and his heroine have passed through hell along the way, sometimes together, sometimes separately but their feelings towards each other never faded.
Together they overcome the loss of fate in their love, in their life and gained that small hope that maybe, just maybe, the future will be a bit brighter and clear just like the ocean breeze.
It’s angsty, it’s darker and more unexpected but it’s also real and it shows how true to themselves some people are willing to commit for a lifetime no matter how much they suffer.
Together they overcome the loss of fate in their love, in their life and gained that small hope that maybe, just maybe, the future will be a bit brighter and clear just like the ocean breeze.
It’s angsty, it’s darker and more unexpected but it’s also real and it shows how true to themselves some people are willing to commit for a lifetime no matter how much they suffer.
June 17, 2020
I couldn’t concentrate on my work, I just wanted to continue reading. One book after another. I read all four in one day. Yes I’m clearly insane but it’s Sybil’s fault coz she’s such a talented author and created addicting stories that sucked you in and won’t let you go until you have read the last word. I felt it, all the hurt, all the pain, all the anger, all the angst and all the love.
May 15, 2020
How do I describe how this final book in Ms Bartel's 'Alpha Anti-H' series about Candle/Tarquin Scott made me feel? How?
The best thing I can say is how MUCH it made me FEEL. As in tears, as in my heart clenching with uncharacteristic emotion, as in MELTING, as in actual sobs being contained in my chest. ME.
I have read virtually ALL of Ms. Bartel's books. I've loved them. I love her Alpha Heroes & swoon imagining them as I read. But, oh my Lord, Candle. Candle. I do not know where Ms Bartel plumbed her heart & soul for his story, but OMG, it is diamond of the first water.
Candle's story has taken 4 books to complete (& yes, you DO need to read the first 3 before reading this book) & EVERY SINGLE WORD of these 4 books is magic. Tarquin/Candle is a deeply flawed man, he clawed his way out of a pit of damnation to rise stronger & more powerful because of the furnace fire he survived. He is uncompromising, lethal, FOCUSED, huge, powerful & except for only 1 person, ice cold & ruthless.
And this is the man that Ms Bartel offers the reader & against ALL odds gives us an anti-H to admire, to wish him peace, hope & love. And no matter what, Tarquin's fealty to his woman NEVER wavered, never slipped, never failed even when he thinks it did.
The heroine is also marvelous: feisty, tough, determined, steel spined.
But it is the complete depth of emotion, of love, of unwavering devotion that aid Tarquin & Shaila when the past, their guilt, their insecurities threaten to pull them under a raging riptide of misunderstanding, rage & unspoken feelings & memories.
This one is emotionally GUTTING in the BEST of ways. SERIOUSLY. I consider this entire series flawless & this conclusion FAR exceeded my high expectations. STELLAR. WONDEROUS. EMOTIONAL MAGIC.
This one proves just how a superb author is able to use 26 letters in an alphabet to light up your heart, gouge out your feelings, bring a huge lump to your throat. How to make words on a page create people, emotions, situations that engulf the reader removing them seamlessly from reality.
I love Heroes in books.
I do.
But I love Tarquin 'Candle' Scott so very, very much more.
The best thing I can say is how MUCH it made me FEEL. As in tears, as in my heart clenching with uncharacteristic emotion, as in MELTING, as in actual sobs being contained in my chest. ME.
I have read virtually ALL of Ms. Bartel's books. I've loved them. I love her Alpha Heroes & swoon imagining them as I read. But, oh my Lord, Candle. Candle. I do not know where Ms Bartel plumbed her heart & soul for his story, but OMG, it is diamond of the first water.
Candle's story has taken 4 books to complete (& yes, you DO need to read the first 3 before reading this book) & EVERY SINGLE WORD of these 4 books is magic. Tarquin/Candle is a deeply flawed man, he clawed his way out of a pit of damnation to rise stronger & more powerful because of the furnace fire he survived. He is uncompromising, lethal, FOCUSED, huge, powerful & except for only 1 person, ice cold & ruthless.
And this is the man that Ms Bartel offers the reader & against ALL odds gives us an anti-H to admire, to wish him peace, hope & love. And no matter what, Tarquin's fealty to his woman NEVER wavered, never slipped, never failed even when he thinks it did.
The heroine is also marvelous: feisty, tough, determined, steel spined.
But it is the complete depth of emotion, of love, of unwavering devotion that aid Tarquin & Shaila when the past, their guilt, their insecurities threaten to pull them under a raging riptide of misunderstanding, rage & unspoken feelings & memories.
This one is emotionally GUTTING in the BEST of ways. SERIOUSLY. I consider this entire series flawless & this conclusion FAR exceeded my high expectations. STELLAR. WONDEROUS. EMOTIONAL MAGIC.
This one proves just how a superb author is able to use 26 letters in an alphabet to light up your heart, gouge out your feelings, bring a huge lump to your throat. How to make words on a page create people, emotions, situations that engulf the reader removing them seamlessly from reality.
I love Heroes in books.
I do.
But I love Tarquin 'Candle' Scott so very, very much more.
June 14, 2021
Did you that Tarquin was the name of the last king of Rome? Interesting facts you learn when reading.
I like how this book has the Tarquin model facing forward. The book covers are very symbolic for each story. This one was better than book 3, but didn't match the love I felt for book 1. How could it with all the main characters have survived?! It was an uphill battle for them to come to any kind of peace with what the past seven years have done to them.
Even though this series is over, I hope these characters show up in other books so we could see a hea for them
I like how this book has the Tarquin model facing forward. The book covers are very symbolic for each story. This one was better than book 3, but didn't match the love I felt for book 1. How could it with all the main characters have survived?! It was an uphill battle for them to come to any kind of peace with what the past seven years have done to them.
Since the day she'd pulled me out of that swamp, every bad thing that had happened to her was my fault.I guess he has a point, but on the other hand, she would have been given to her father's friend and I have a feeling she would have probably ended up in the same spot.
Seven years a whore, most of them naked, I didn't know what the hell to pick out. If I was being honest, clothes didn't even feel good anymore.I understood the back and forth this couple had to go through, but it was hard reading it. There is no real discussion or open communication about the past seven years and the horrors she went through.
Even though this series is over, I hope these characters show up in other books so we could see a hea for them
May 16, 2020
What a ride! Hard Truth is book 4 in the Alpha Antihero series and did it ever start out with a bang! I believe after the first chapter, my exact words were “How you gonna do me like that?!” My heart physically hurt and it wouldn’t stop for many, many more chapters. But, in true Sybil fashion, she began to mend the little pieces of my heart back together and redeemed the antihero.
This entire series had a personal (to me) element. I’m not a huge crier, unless something means a lot to me. So tell me, why did I cry in every single book of this series?! Gah! The woman made me feel things! The entire series had all the trademark action, suspense, super steam, and strong alpha heroes but it pulled some really strong emotion from me. I applaud anyone who can do that to my semi-cold heart.
I just want to say THANK YOU to Sybil for writing these books. I have no other words. Just THANK YOU. Your words are a healing balm to my soul. You were meant for this job, so never quit!
🕯🕯🕯🕯🕯 5 flaming candles for Candle and Shaila!
This entire series had a personal (to me) element. I’m not a huge crier, unless something means a lot to me. So tell me, why did I cry in every single book of this series?! Gah! The woman made me feel things! The entire series had all the trademark action, suspense, super steam, and strong alpha heroes but it pulled some really strong emotion from me. I applaud anyone who can do that to my semi-cold heart.
I just want to say THANK YOU to Sybil for writing these books. I have no other words. Just THANK YOU. Your words are a healing balm to my soul. You were meant for this job, so never quit!
🕯🕯🕯🕯🕯 5 flaming candles for Candle and Shaila!
October 2, 2020
Candle like always made me fall in love , his character is so well written, he is so interesting and so unique, he steals your heart, no questions asked. He is one of the best Hero's i read in a long time😍😍 i literally pout every time he did something sweet, i melted, i could read about him all the time and never get tired of him.
Shaila, shit i still hate the author choice for her, i hated all she is been trough 😥 i'm still so mad and pissed for it, no matter how much Candle did to close her past, still i can't forget and not be bothered by it, i just wished it was a bit different :( and i felt like they didn't discuss it enough, you know?.
Overall their story was breathtaking and tragic, if it wasn't for Candle this story wouldn't be the same.
I didn't give the last star because of the author choice in the other book and also because i wanted more in the epilogue, we still don't know about them, if they will have kids or not, and i can't not know that, i NEED to know
Shaila, shit i still hate the author choice for her, i hated all she is been trough 😥 i'm still so mad and pissed for it, no matter how much Candle did to close her past, still i can't forget and not be bothered by it, i just wished it was a bit different :( and i felt like they didn't discuss it enough, you know?.
Overall their story was breathtaking and tragic, if it wasn't for Candle this story wouldn't be the same.
I didn't give the last star because of the author choice in the other book and also because i wanted more in the epilogue, we still don't know about them, if they will have kids or not, and i can't not know that, i NEED to know
May 30, 2020
Worth your reading time
These two broke my heart! I loved every minute of it! Reading their story, this series was soooo worth every bit of time.
These two broke my heart! I loved every minute of it! Reading their story, this series was soooo worth every bit of time.
May 19, 2020
"You didn't have to light all those candles." Her voice turned reverent. "You were the candle."
My heart. Thank God it is strong because I feel like it's been through the ringer. HARD TRUTH was everything that a conclusion to a series should be. This review is so hard to write because I can't get into details for fear of spoilers. Just know this-- Tarquin "Candle" Scott has become my favorite alpha hero (or in this case, anti-hero) of all time. Let me say that again, favorite alpha hero of ALL TIME. He has just trumped every single alpha I have ever read-- and I love me some alphas, especially the OTT, possessive, jealous kind. Candle fits that description and then some. If you read my review for book #3, then you already know I had some issues with Candle towards the later half of HARD SIN. I was angry at him. I didn't like how he was handling things with Shaila and I even told the author that if there was a way I could reach through the book and throat punch him, I would have. But one thing I have learned while reading this series is that Candle the man has many layers. And I had to put my trust into the hands of the author that all would be explained and get resolved in HARD TRUTH. And oh it did.
How I could go from wanting to throttle Candle to wanting to comfort him is beyond me. That is the literary genius of Sybil Bartel. Candle completely redeems himself in HARD TRUTH. There are so many scenes that had me gasping, crying, gave me goosebumps-- the candle scene, the hair salon scene, the scene between him and Ronan (I seriously cannot wait for Ronan's story, he is one mysterious alpha), the tattoos, the diamonds...I know you are reading this review and wondering what the hell am I talking about but trust me. Now is the time. If you have not picked up the first three books in the series because you hate cliffhangers and were waiting for the final book to come out, well you have no more excuses. Grab all 4 books, set some time aside, grab a box of tissues and some water (gotta stay hydrated) and jump in. This is not my greatest review and probably my shortest because I seriously can't give anything away. And honestly, words can't do justice when describing Tarquin "Candle" Scott. He has to be experienced so you can judge and see for yourself. Trust me, you won't regret it!
Sybil, thank you for giving us your words and weaving them into incredibly gorgeous stories. Thank you for giving us Tarquin and allowing us to read his and Shaila's journey. Their HEA was hard fought but so well deserved. <3
My heart. Thank God it is strong because I feel like it's been through the ringer. HARD TRUTH was everything that a conclusion to a series should be. This review is so hard to write because I can't get into details for fear of spoilers. Just know this-- Tarquin "Candle" Scott has become my favorite alpha hero (or in this case, anti-hero) of all time. Let me say that again, favorite alpha hero of ALL TIME. He has just trumped every single alpha I have ever read-- and I love me some alphas, especially the OTT, possessive, jealous kind. Candle fits that description and then some. If you read my review for book #3, then you already know I had some issues with Candle towards the later half of HARD SIN. I was angry at him. I didn't like how he was handling things with Shaila and I even told the author that if there was a way I could reach through the book and throat punch him, I would have. But one thing I have learned while reading this series is that Candle the man has many layers. And I had to put my trust into the hands of the author that all would be explained and get resolved in HARD TRUTH. And oh it did.
How I could go from wanting to throttle Candle to wanting to comfort him is beyond me. That is the literary genius of Sybil Bartel. Candle completely redeems himself in HARD TRUTH. There are so many scenes that had me gasping, crying, gave me goosebumps-- the candle scene, the hair salon scene, the scene between him and Ronan (I seriously cannot wait for Ronan's story, he is one mysterious alpha), the tattoos, the diamonds...I know you are reading this review and wondering what the hell am I talking about but trust me. Now is the time. If you have not picked up the first three books in the series because you hate cliffhangers and were waiting for the final book to come out, well you have no more excuses. Grab all 4 books, set some time aside, grab a box of tissues and some water (gotta stay hydrated) and jump in. This is not my greatest review and probably my shortest because I seriously can't give anything away. And honestly, words can't do justice when describing Tarquin "Candle" Scott. He has to be experienced so you can judge and see for yourself. Trust me, you won't regret it!
Sybil, thank you for giving us your words and weaving them into incredibly gorgeous stories. Thank you for giving us Tarquin and allowing us to read his and Shaila's journey. Their HEA was hard fought but so well deserved. <3
May 17, 2020
Hard Truth embodies the love, anguish and heartbreak one suffers through wrapped up in one beautifully tormented novel, starring our antihero Tarquin "Candle" Scott. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5 STARs
This novel is a part of series, and Hard Truth is the last and final book in the Alpha Antihero series with some appearances from other characters that appear in Sybil Bartel's other books.
Tarquin "Candle" Scott ripped my heart, got on the back of his Hog, revved that sexy thing up and ran over it multiple times. And you know what -- I'm perfectly okay with it.
When we met Candle in Sybil's other novels, I never liked him. In fact, I hated him. I couldn't stand him. I wished every single time that he showed up I could push my hands through the book and strangle him with my bare hands, but now? I want to give him the tightest hug, even if he will just throw me away.
I'm so happy that Sybil allowed us a look into Candle's life, and I'm even more excited that she gave us an ending to his horror story of a life that he's lived. This whole series stole my breath away while tearing my heart out before putting it back together slowly, oh so painstakingly slowly. Ms. Bartel as a style of writing that encapsulates what the character's are feeling and projects it on to us. The amount of times that I've gotten sucked into a such a fast-paced, crime-ridden, yet so deliciously mysterious world of all her characters I cannot count on one hand. Her characters ingrain themselves in my mind and leave a permanent imprint, especially Candle. It's been days since I finished this series, and I can't get him out of my head -- his story haunts me in the most inviting way.
Hero: ★★★★★
Heroine: ★★★★★
Plot: ★★★★★
Storytelling: ★★★★★
Sexual tension: ★★★★
Sex scenes: ★★★★★
Story ending: ★★★★
**************************
Romance: | HIGH FOCUS |
Sex frequency: | HIGH FOCUS |
Suspense: | MEDIUM- HIGH FOCUS |
Violence: | LOW FOCUS |
OVERALL RATING: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5 STARs
This novel is a part of series, and Hard Truth is the last and final book in the Alpha Antihero series with some appearances from other characters that appear in Sybil Bartel's other books.
Tarquin "Candle" Scott ripped my heart, got on the back of his Hog, revved that sexy thing up and ran over it multiple times. And you know what -- I'm perfectly okay with it.
When we met Candle in Sybil's other novels, I never liked him. In fact, I hated him. I couldn't stand him. I wished every single time that he showed up I could push my hands through the book and strangle him with my bare hands, but now? I want to give him the tightest hug, even if he will just throw me away.
I'm so happy that Sybil allowed us a look into Candle's life, and I'm even more excited that she gave us an ending to his horror story of a life that he's lived. This whole series stole my breath away while tearing my heart out before putting it back together slowly, oh so painstakingly slowly. Ms. Bartel as a style of writing that encapsulates what the character's are feeling and projects it on to us. The amount of times that I've gotten sucked into a such a fast-paced, crime-ridden, yet so deliciously mysterious world of all her characters I cannot count on one hand. Her characters ingrain themselves in my mind and leave a permanent imprint, especially Candle. It's been days since I finished this series, and I can't get him out of my head -- his story haunts me in the most inviting way.
Hero: ★★★★★
Heroine: ★★★★★
Plot: ★★★★★
Storytelling: ★★★★★
Sexual tension: ★★★★
Sex scenes: ★★★★★
Story ending: ★★★★
**************************
Romance: | HIGH FOCUS |
Sex frequency: | HIGH FOCUS |
Suspense: | MEDIUM- HIGH FOCUS |
Violence: | LOW FOCUS |
OVERALL RATING: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5 STARs
May 18, 2020
🕯Tarquin🕯& ❤Shaila❤: The Grand Finale!!!
Hard Truth it's the 4th and final installment in the Alpha Antihero series and must be read after books #1, #2, and #3.
I must confess that these books were very difficult for me to review due to the fact that they brought up so many emotions and feelings that the truest and most honest words could only come out from experiencing such a wonderful story! Tarquin and Shaila's journey was not an easy one: they had very different upbringings, but at the same time were raised in a very similiar way and that's why, IMO, they connected so profoundly.
They found each other again, after seven years, but nothing would ever be the same. I loved everything about this book and, in a complete way, this series. These characters are so real that you can't stop hurting with, crying and feel happy for them! I loved their efforts to reconnect their bound after what life threw at them and even how difficult it was, Tarquin (mainly, since it was though to accept what happened to Shaila and his sentiment of impotency regarding what went down) used his skills as Candle and never ceased to do justice for his woman and himself. And Shaila...she was such an amazing and strong character herself, as was she in the three previous books: hell bent in leaving behind her life of forced addiction and abuse, she came out insecure, understandably so, but with a full intent of getting on track and be there for her man as well. And most of all, I loved that - and this is my very particular opinion - Tarquin & Shaila represented love and Candle & Shaila represented caos, sides that could never be separated because both were their story!!!
Hard Truth it's the 4th and final installment in the Alpha Antihero series and must be read after books #1, #2, and #3.
I must confess that these books were very difficult for me to review due to the fact that they brought up so many emotions and feelings that the truest and most honest words could only come out from experiencing such a wonderful story! Tarquin and Shaila's journey was not an easy one: they had very different upbringings, but at the same time were raised in a very similiar way and that's why, IMO, they connected so profoundly.
They found each other again, after seven years, but nothing would ever be the same. I loved everything about this book and, in a complete way, this series. These characters are so real that you can't stop hurting with, crying and feel happy for them! I loved their efforts to reconnect their bound after what life threw at them and even how difficult it was, Tarquin (mainly, since it was though to accept what happened to Shaila and his sentiment of impotency regarding what went down) used his skills as Candle and never ceased to do justice for his woman and himself. And Shaila...she was such an amazing and strong character herself, as was she in the three previous books: hell bent in leaving behind her life of forced addiction and abuse, she came out insecure, understandably so, but with a full intent of getting on track and be there for her man as well. And most of all, I loved that - and this is my very particular opinion - Tarquin & Shaila represented love and Candle & Shaila represented caos, sides that could never be separated because both were their story!!!
May 18, 2020
I think my heart stopped! 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Okay, I am already a huge fan and then Sybil started writing this anti hero series with Candle and I thought how will she be able to balance this dark character? This won’t be easy, especially when Candle has been a bad guy throughout many of the previous books but I shouldn’t have worried because this author nailed it! What an amazing rollercoaster! This is now the 4th and final instalment covering Candle’s journey and the author saved the best for last. This book starts with a huge bang! And then I read for several hours straight. This whole series is filled with every conceivable emotion but this book, Hard Truth WOW! I considered taking up drinking lol okay no, but my heart felt like it was going to break or burst most of the time. Sybil May need a good spanking cause this book nearly gave me a heart attack but then my heart stopped hearting and bit by bit, it started to smile. This is an emotional rollercoaster but trust me, this is a ride you want to take! I’m still on a high, and, I doubt, I’ll ever forget this series. Congratulations Sybil - every time I put you at the top of my list, you write something even more amazing to push you head and shoulders above the rest again!
May 24, 2020
Five stars. Maybe even six stars but a teeny tiny bit disappointed with the last book.
I loved her, but I really, really loved him. He came out as a complete asshole in the previous series and I was really excited to get to know him. He did not disappoint and it was so great getting to know him. They were perfect for each other. Their story was heartbreaking, and the ending felt right though the first books was more entertaining than the last one.
Spoiler alert!
Plot:
The story of Tarquin (Candle) and Shaila. They meet when he nearly dies after being brutally beaten up and thrown out by his cult. She saves him and they instantly fall for each other. He saves her right back when she’s about to get sold as a sex slave by her fucked up biker dad. They run away and only returns when she gets pregnant. After an encounter with her dad, she’s left bleeding on the floor seemingly dead. Feeling completely lost and broken, he joins the army. Seven years later he learns that she survived but has been held captive as a slave by her dad. He saves her but they both have a hard time coping with the hell she’s been through. Still, they find a way to reconnect and heal each other.
I loved her, but I really, really loved him. He came out as a complete asshole in the previous series and I was really excited to get to know him. He did not disappoint and it was so great getting to know him. They were perfect for each other. Their story was heartbreaking, and the ending felt right though the first books was more entertaining than the last one.
Spoiler alert!
Plot:
The story of Tarquin (Candle) and Shaila. They meet when he nearly dies after being brutally beaten up and thrown out by his cult. She saves him and they instantly fall for each other. He saves her right back when she’s about to get sold as a sex slave by her fucked up biker dad. They run away and only returns when she gets pregnant. After an encounter with her dad, she’s left bleeding on the floor seemingly dead. Feeling completely lost and broken, he joins the army. Seven years later he learns that she survived but has been held captive as a slave by her dad. He saves her but they both have a hard time coping with the hell she’s been through. Still, they find a way to reconnect and heal each other.
May 17, 2020
All the feels ...... another emotional roller coaster
Yet again we are on the edge of our seats with more trials and tribulations with this push and pull relationship whilst both characters battle with inner demons and the history that they have together but even worse .... the missing years they were kept apart and the agony they lived through
A man of few words Tarquin AKA Candle communicates with actions and He shows his woman over and over with his actions .... once he starts to make amends many of his actions only Shaila could ever understand ..... he tips her over the edge emotionally when he presents her with a flower ..... no words just a flower ..... the feelings between these two can only be described as raw emotion up until finally he gives her the words she’s been longing to hear 😍🔥
Please say that this isn’t the last we hear of these two in their new life 🤔..... it would be the icing on the cake if an update were to be written in another book with perhaps a little surprise about extending the family
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 24, 2020
Words fail them when I try to describe Candle as he has always been the man you have loved to hate but living his backstory with him gives you such an understanding of his actions and seeing his redemption leaves you breathless. His strength is unwavering, every move he makes is methodical, his demeanor seems cold and detached except for when it comes to Shaila.
Shaila has overcome the despair of her past and she is like a phoenix rising determined to face the future and chart a different course for herself. She and Candle are not the teenagers that fell in love and their experiences have changed them but that has only made them realize what is truly important in their lives and how much they are willing to fight for it.
This is an emotional story that will captivate you and these compelling characters will not only break your heart but inspire you and they and the story will stay with you long after you read the last page.
Shaila has overcome the despair of her past and she is like a phoenix rising determined to face the future and chart a different course for herself. She and Candle are not the teenagers that fell in love and their experiences have changed them but that has only made them realize what is truly important in their lives and how much they are willing to fight for it.
This is an emotional story that will captivate you and these compelling characters will not only break your heart but inspire you and they and the story will stay with you long after you read the last page.
May 29, 2020
You know, I'm a fan of almost all of Bartel's alphahole men. They are the right mix of hero vs a**hole. I live an alpha man more than a weak one, I live a jerk more than a nice one, and add in the military back ground and you basically got me drooling. Candle was.... an anti hero. Military, dark past, blackmail, MC biker gang, you name it, he was involved. He was also so very broken from the events that transpired along the way. I cried so hard for this man. I screamed at him just like Kendall did. I wanted to jump in and slap the absolute crap out of him. But man did I fall for the brooding mean guy.
I think Candle is by far my favorite series by Bartel. She really captured me and kept me immersed in the story the entire way. I wish this wasn't the end for him, because honestly I would read another 5 books of him. I can't wait to see who is next in this amazing series of men.
I think Candle is by far my favorite series by Bartel. She really captured me and kept me immersed in the story the entire way. I wish this wasn't the end for him, because honestly I would read another 5 books of him. I can't wait to see who is next in this amazing series of men.
September 26, 2022
Ok, I had written a text of pure hate and frustration, so I had blood in my eyes...
Well I really liked this series but I confess that I was disappointed with a lot, I don't know why they insist on using some unnecessary arrangements, I hate it when they use these passages of time, for what sense, for what?! just to make the main couple suffer and the readers.
I think the story was good, the couple had amazing chemistry but the curve the author made for him didn't work for me, see I'm not saying that they would have a perfect life, but look at the chaos they were in, and there were so many paths to follow go on without making the couple suffer, of course the author does what she wants because the characters are hers, but I'm tired of these types of situations that are always repeated in the book.
I had a lot more to say but I'll stop here, because it won't do any good.
Well I really liked this series but I confess that I was disappointed with a lot, I don't know why they insist on using some unnecessary arrangements, I hate it when they use these passages of time, for what sense, for what?! just to make the main couple suffer and the readers.
I think the story was good, the couple had amazing chemistry but the curve the author made for him didn't work for me, see I'm not saying that they would have a perfect life, but look at the chaos they were in, and there were so many paths to follow go on without making the couple suffer, of course the author does what she wants because the characters are hers, but I'm tired of these types of situations that are always repeated in the book.
I had a lot more to say but I'll stop here, because it won't do any good.
May 25, 2020
An Incredible Ending To Candle and Shaila’s Story
As always Sybil Bartel did not disappoint. I have loved every book in Tarquin “Candle” Scott’s story. Hard Truth is book 4 of The Alpha Antihero Series. The books in this story can not be read as a standalone. Hard Truth had twists and turns. It had me captivated from the beginning. Hard Truth had heartache, misunderstanding, angst, hope, romance, and love. It was a wonderful continuation and ending to Tarquin and Shaila’s story. It is a well-written story filled with plenty of emotion. I am so glad that Tarquin “Candle’ got his story. I am looking forward to Sybil’s next book. Tissues are required for The Alpha Antihero Series that features Tarquin "Candle" Scott.
5 Star Read
As always Sybil Bartel did not disappoint. I have loved every book in Tarquin “Candle” Scott’s story. Hard Truth is book 4 of The Alpha Antihero Series. The books in this story can not be read as a standalone. Hard Truth had twists and turns. It had me captivated from the beginning. Hard Truth had heartache, misunderstanding, angst, hope, romance, and love. It was a wonderful continuation and ending to Tarquin and Shaila’s story. It is a well-written story filled with plenty of emotion. I am so glad that Tarquin “Candle’ got his story. I am looking forward to Sybil’s next book. Tissues are required for The Alpha Antihero Series that features Tarquin "Candle" Scott.
5 Star Read
May 16, 2020
Hard Truth, the 4th and final installment in the Alpha Antihero Series by Sybil Bartel, is an emotionally charged masterpiece that packs a punch. Tarquin Candle Scott is such a dichotomy of light vs. dark; his constant struggle with the events that play out, entertaining, yet equally unsettling. I loved this entire series, even though parts of it were difficult to read. If you are looking for a series filled with intriguing, dynamic, Ex-Military Alphas, lots of action packed pages, and just enough darkness to tie the storyline together and keep you reading, then this Series is a must read. I loved it! 5 Wonderful Stars!
May 15, 2020
Beautiful! That one word describes this truly emotional book. I knew Candle’s story had to come to an end, but I don’t think I was ready for it. This entire series is phenomenal! It goes deep into the mind of two truly tortured souls and their undying love for each other. It cemented in my mind that love can really conquer all your demons if you are willing to give it a chance. But you have to be willing to chance it. And these two wonderful characters tried the best way they knew how to in their own ways. An exceptional read!!!
September 13, 2020
I waited to read this series until all books were out, sorry Sybil. But wow was this series worth the wait. These books SLAYED me. Oh I was an emotional mess from start to finish.
I loved the characters and what an incredible journey they took. It was a rollercoaster ride of the best kind. I must admit I stopped at one point to read parts of Andre, again, not a hardship. It was great to get visits from out favorites, Andre, Talerco, Shade, Ronin...
Thank you Sybil for introducing me to a new favorite. You won't want to miss out on these books.
I loved the characters and what an incredible journey they took. It was a rollercoaster ride of the best kind. I must admit I stopped at one point to read parts of Andre, again, not a hardship. It was great to get visits from out favorites, Andre, Talerco, Shade, Ronin...
Thank you Sybil for introducing me to a new favorite. You won't want to miss out on these books.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 11, 2022
Sybil Bartel’s weaves a story like a spider weaves a web.
Already a huge fan of Sybil Bartel’s Alpha hero’s, I hesitated over The Antihero series as I’m not usually a fan of MC romance. Well, colour me shocked. This series just adds to the whole world Ms Bartel has created for our pleasure. We meet knew alpha males, revisit their pasts from a new perspective and greedily indulge in our favourite Alpha boys as they pop in with their special brand of protective dominance and no f’s given.
Jump in, hang on and get ready to feel! She’s done it again.
Already a huge fan of Sybil Bartel’s Alpha hero’s, I hesitated over The Antihero series as I’m not usually a fan of MC romance. Well, colour me shocked. This series just adds to the whole world Ms Bartel has created for our pleasure. We meet knew alpha males, revisit their pasts from a new perspective and greedily indulge in our favourite Alpha boys as they pop in with their special brand of protective dominance and no f’s given.
Jump in, hang on and get ready to feel! She’s done it again.
May 15, 2020
Sybil Bartel is the QUEEN of writing about Alphaholes. This story is the 4th book of this series and it grabs the reader by the throat and does not let go until he has finished his business! This character Tarquin ‘Candle’ Scott puts the reader through the meat grinder of feelings. Honestly, I cried my way through from beginning to end. It makes me wanna drive to FLORIDA and become the mama he never had.. Sybil Bartel you ROCK!
May 19, 2020
Hard Truth is book 4 in Sybil's Alpha Antihero
Series
**This is part of a series AND CANNOT BE READ AS A STANDALONE...Book 1 Hard Limit; Book 2 Hard Justice; and Book 3 Hard Sin**
Tarquin "Candle" Scott and Shaila Hawkins story comes to end with so much love, angst, and heartbreak.
They've been to hell and back; can they overcome their past and find happily ever after.... you gotta read to find out!
All the feels....what a rollercoaster....
Phenomenal
5 stars
Series
**This is part of a series AND CANNOT BE READ AS A STANDALONE...Book 1 Hard Limit; Book 2 Hard Justice; and Book 3 Hard Sin**
Tarquin "Candle" Scott and Shaila Hawkins story comes to end with so much love, angst, and heartbreak.
They've been to hell and back; can they overcome their past and find happily ever after.... you gotta read to find out!
All the feels....what a rollercoaster....
Phenomenal
5 stars
May 19, 2020
This book had me in tears more than once. Everything Tarquin and Shaila went through.....
I couldn't put it down. It was released this afternoon and I immediately bought it and read it in one sitting. The characters are so well done that you become attached to them. I like how all Sybils series interconnect and you get to read your favorite characters in each book.
I'll definitely read anything she writes.
I couldn't put it down. It was released this afternoon and I immediately bought it and read it in one sitting. The characters are so well done that you become attached to them. I like how all Sybils series interconnect and you get to read your favorite characters in each book.
I'll definitely read anything she writes.
November 25, 2020
I'm kinda shocked it's over. I was expecting more to the end, more happiness, more of a glimpse into their future. Maybe that's in the books about the other characters. 🤷🏼♀️
I was kinda irritated with Hard Truth, but it was good enough to read.
Just like with the rest of the series it comes with a trigger warning. If you like biker books with really messed up characters, pick up these books!
I was kinda irritated with Hard Truth, but it was good enough to read.
Just like with the rest of the series it comes with a trigger warning. If you like biker books with really messed up characters, pick up these books!
April 25, 2021
Overall I would recommend this series. It is an intense journey and Candle/Tarquin is a very dominant personality. The things that both main characters survived were horrific, and their relationship is hard to understand at times. I really enjoyed the glimpses of the others I had read about in previous books. I often found myself thinking about what these characters were going through when I wasn’t reading, but this story is not for the faint of heart.
May 17, 2020
Absolutely amazing! What a ride this series has been and for this last installment Sybil did not disappoint! Everything these two have to go through will break your heart, Tarquin and Shaila are amazing characters who fight to overcome the odds placed in front of them. 5 stars does not give this series justice- hurry up and get your copy and thank me later!
May 18, 2020
How can I love Candle so much!! Sybil has created the ultimate ending to the torturous love story of Candle and Shaila. For a man on the outside I would hate, I couldn’t stop reading his struggle on the journey to fulfill his heart. Wow, just wow!! My heart just kept breaking and being put back together. Loved every moment!!
May 18, 2020
Let’s begin with a WOW!!! This is the last book in the Alpha Antihero Series by Sybil Bartel, it got all the feels. It’s raw at its best, it let me transport myself with them through out the book. Thank you for giving them this story Sybil it was much needed. As always you out did yourself. Great read if you like Ex-military Alphas full of hot steamy passion and action packed.
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