Ghost

Alpha Elite #10

by Sybil Bartel

Navy SEAL.

Tier One Operator.

Pawn.

It started as an order from the Vice Admiral. A Black Ops mission for a woman from a government acronym no one ever spoke about. The brunette slid me a smile and said the parameters were simple. One high-value target, a HALO jump, my sniper skills, and a coordinated exfil. Double-tap the HVT, then I’d be back with my Team in time to spin up.

Except seconds into the jump, everything went FUBAR.

My parachute didn’t open, my backup was tampered with, I was taking enemy fire before I hit the ground, and there was no exfil.

I should’ve been dead. But I was a SEAL. Thirteen bodies later, I made my own way home. The brunette was waiting. With a suggestive wink, she said I’d passed the test and now belonged to her. Enraged, I made a silent vow. This woman wasn’t going to own me.

Codename: Ghost.
Mission: Retaliate.

GHOST is a standalone book in the exciting Alpha Elite Series by USA Today Bestselling author, Sybil Bartel. Come meet Ghost and the dominant, alpha heroes who work for AES!

Genres: Romance, Military Fiction, Action, Slow Burn, Suspense, Contemporary

400 pages, ebook

Published October 1, 2024

About the author

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.

Reviews

[(betts) ⚜ · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.75⭐ / 2.5🌶️

— vibezz
🛰️ military drama
🌊 age gap [30/38H 18/26h]
🛰️ insta-attraction/slowest burn
🌊 both jealous&possessive
🛰️ suspence/espionage

mini blurb — ✍🏻
After going off the grid, former Special Agent Ghost, embark in a personal crusade against his enemies. For eight years he constantly planned and infiltrated himself in the most dangerous organization with the purpose to cut the head of its snake. But during those years he couldn't help to overcome the growing feeling toward the person that saved his life when everything went FUBAR.

//

I don't think I'll ever be stable enough after reading this one.
I've waited for 9 book to read about this unnerving (affectionate) man and every book did nothing but built expectation.
I can say it both went beyond and at the same time was not at all what I've hoped.
The book description threw me off the "real" story that was withing the book, and even tho I loved the book, solely for the pain that he caused me with the whole OW drama I'm holding on that 0.25, but maybe I'll talk about this more later...

Maybe I'm biased of loving this book and the whole series for my ~not so veiled~ obsession with military movies/tv and most recently, call of duty, but it's a rabbit hole I'd never want to get out of 🖤
Sybil's writing style is also something extraordinary, it might be difficult at first approach and not for everyone, but I find it magnificent and extremely adequate paired with this genre of books and the flow of the story.

☛ And about the story. HOLY SHIT.
With the timeline sort of splitted in then/now, would you believe me if I said I felt like reading a heist by Christopher Nolan immersed in a Jason Bourne universe? *poetic cinema* 🤌

☛ The characters.
Ghost was everything. I knew the man was ✨intense✨ but holy shittt, he was too much and not even enough. Talk about a man with his own agenda I can't fucking talk of what he did bc I will spoiler basically all the goods but I will say: the man can make you wait, but it'll be so good 🙏 and he sure loves his satellites lmao

Safiya, girl 🥲 sometimes I really with some characters were real just to give them a hug, she's one of them. This girl overcome so much, SO MUCH, and thinking about everything, knowing every little detail at the end of the book I get the "why" of the wait.

They both weren't ready for taking the next step, for having something more going on between them. but god, I so wish we had even 1 (one) more single chapter of them 😭🙏 it's unfair.


Let's get over the OW drama bc I did not like it one single bit. At all. Yes it was ~sorta~ justified I'd have to admit it, but I cannot make it more bearable even if I know all the reasons and motives, life is not fair, you get me?
He's infiltrated in basically every trafficking ring and as an "excuse" every time he purchased one girl to make his cover real. Than he proceed to give those girl a new identity, life, house, money, basically everything.. and for protection, he made himself new aliases and married them (17) in paper only, at least.
The scene in AES conference room was hard to read, seeing him showing affection and everything he was with them but not with Safiya... It was necessary that that she'd saw him interacting with them and I was glad he showed this part to her, at least I can say he was 100% honest and transparent with her.


One more reason I loved this book was that it introduced so many new characters AHHH 🥰 I've already fell i love and I'm ugly crying bc their book won't come out before one year from now, kill me.


💫 A few random things: 💫
- Adam & Maila cameo in the restaurant 🥰
- Echo & Victor banter, everything started in #2 Victor's book and I fell in love with them in #4 Zulu's
- Ghost funny banter? LIKE, EXCUSE ME SIR?????? where it's come from?? I was flabbergasted shocked astonished this man has riizz™ 👀
- the satellites, he won't sell them, can ppl pls stop offering billions for them? thanks



☛ AND NOW a little personal rant I wanted here just for my sake and prosperity to watch even later.
omg I feel like some king of detective thing to solve the mystery. 🕵🏻‍♀️

If you red all the prev. books you'd have noticed a little ✨extra✨ at the very end, it was not linked to the story and it was very secretive and mysterious of what was happening and who were the characters involved.
For a while I thought it might be a little preview or snippet for the next book but now I think it might have been about Ghost and his PARAGON group. Mostly interaction between him and Phoenix.
I know I might missing something since I did not find the link for all of them in Ghost's book BUT— hear me out.

Here, there's a scene in the book where Ghost is talking with Adam and November, these two found out he was using AES's resources for his motives:

Glancing at his hacker [November], Trefor didn’t let it drop. “Which AES ops has he had his hands in besides Dubai?”
November nodded once. Then he downloaded intel he never should’ve had. “Unofficially, he commandeered the Contender before the Feds seized it, refueled in St. Kitts, then kept the sixty-five-meter Heesen yacht off the grid until he delivered her months later to a secured hangar in a remote shipyard for a retrofit.” The hacker glanced at me. “He’s also been using the stolen Sikorsky S-76D helo. Once to land on the Heesan yacht.” He looked back at Alpha. “He’s had direct contact with Whiskey, Delta, and Kilo, and he facilitated a solo mission for Kilo. HALO insertion, assisted exfil.”

◈ #3 Romeo — he took the Heesen yacht
❝ Looking through the binoculars, I scanned the decks of the sixty-five-meter Heesen yacht. Not seeing anyone, I switched to heat signature and scanned again.
Pulling out a burner, I dialed.
The call was picked up on the second ring. “Ghost ship?”
“Ghost ship,” I confirmed.
“Docked?”
“Negative.” I gave the coordinates. “Take possession.”
“Copy.” Pause. “You sure about this?”
I wouldn’t be calling if I wasn’t. “Captain and two crew will be helo’d out at oh one hundred.”
“Crew or armed escort?”
“Both.”
“This is going to cause backlash.”
It’d be pointless if it didn’t. “Refuel in St. Kitts.”
“Then?”
“I’ll be in touch.” I hung up, took out the SIM card and tossed it into the ocean.❞

◈ #4 Zulu — delivered the Heesen yacht for a retrofit
❝ I glanced at my watch again and calculated the timetable. “Detonating in thirty seconds. Bring the Hessen in. Hangar’s secure.”
“You sure about the retrofit team on the ground? The supplies?”
I would be in forty-seven minutes. “Affirmative.” If I was wrong, I’d handle it.
“Then copy. We’re coming in. Forty-six minutes. Once the yacht’s secure in the hangar, I’m out.” ❞

◈ #5 November — he took the Sikorsky aircraft
❝ I pulled out a clean burner and dialed.
The call was answered on the fifth ring. “I said I was out.”
“New assignment.” I rattled off my GPS coordinates. “[...] Use the Sikorsky S-76D. It’s fueled up and ready to go at the hangar in Indiantown. Fly nap of the earth.”❞

◈ #8 Delta — landing the Sikorsky on the Heesan yacht (I think it was Phoenix piloting it)
❝ Striding across the main deck, keeping my 9mm holstered, I scanned the helicopter for other passengers. Lucky for him, it was empty.
[...]
“—Request a refuel or get back on your helo.”
“It’s your helo, and we need to talk.”
“Not happening.” I turned toward the main salon.
“I know where she is.”
“Not interested.”
“You would be if you’d bothered to ask how I found you.”
Halting, I glanced back.
He said what he came here to say. “She knows where you are.”
“I know.”❞
"she" I think it's **the brunette** woman from the beginning of the book 👀 and she knows where he is bc it was intentional


Here I'm 99.9% sure he's talking with Phoenix:

Driving the SUV as far into the woods as possible, I aimed a direct tactical strike with enough truth for him to get the picture. “I didn’t request getting out of the game. You assumed I’d been burned when we rallied at your drop after your field trip to Monza.” I hadn’t been burned, not back then, but I’d let him think I was because I’d been playing the long game.

◈ #6 Echo
❝ “Where the hell are you? A racetrack?”
He never called me. I called him. “What’s up?”
He ignored my question. “What are you doing at a racetrack?
Recon. “I was in the neighborhood.”
“Sure,” he replied skeptically. “So now you’re a fan.”
I was whatever I had to be. “What do you need?”
“Sounds like Formula One racing.”
“Is there a point to this call?” I didn’t ever talk more than thirty seconds on a burner.
“Yeah, I was wondering where you were, but now I’m not. F-ones that sound like jets doing Mach eleven, crowd noise in the background.” He paused. “Monza. Italy. The Grand Prix is today. Right now, as a matter of fact.”
“Get to the point.” Scanning the track and the crowds one more time, I headed down the back of the stands.
“I need a favor.” ❞

—my burner rang.
Not bothering to glance at the screen, I swiped to answer and waited.
“What did Christensen want?”
Using my drink as cover, listening for any background noise, I tipped the bottle and scanned the length of the shoreline. Swallowing the now tepid beer, I silently cursed, then chose my wording carefully. “You told me I was out.” Where the fuck was he?
“He mentioned you.”
“And?”
And he’d fucking proverbed me in a very unsubtle, un-Christensen way. “He said my fight was done.” While simultaneously telling me to clean up my shit. “Said yours was rising.”

◈ #9 Kilo
❝ I needed to end this call and pull up my shemagh or I’d be eating dust for a week.
“It’s time.”
I shifted into third gear. “For?”
“Come in.”
Slamming in the clutch, I braked to a stop. Then I hit the Speaker button, dropped the cell to my lap, and grabbed my sniper rifle. Uncapping the scope, I sighted and looked the fuck around me. “You wanted out. You’re out.” ❞
I don't even know here, my brain is fried. I think Phoenix wants him in his band of bros, or the contrary, I don't even know anymore. LMAO


🫠 That's the end folks, as you can see I'M SO VERY EXCITED FOR THE NEXT SERIES YAY





////////// 𝚎𝚍𝚒𝚝 — 𝚖𝚊𝚛𝚌𝚑 𝟸𝟶𝟸𝟺

✨👻 cameos from prev. books: 👻✨

◈ #1 Alpha
❝ “You always swear at yourself when you drink alone?”
My reflexes still active-duty sharp, I drew before I spun, aiming my 9mm at the dark corner across the living room where the voice had come from.
A voice I should’ve recognized.
Fuck. “Ghost.” ❞

❝ I knew what Ghost was capable of. There wasn’t a living being I knew who was more lethal with nothing except his hands and a pocketknife. His skills so far beyond anyone I’d ever met, it didn’t matter that I was one of the few people who knew his birth name. He was no longer that man. He was simply a ghost. One you prayed you never met. ❞

❝ “My American friend with no name.” Still holding his shoulder, he shook Ghost’s hand. “So good to see you.”
Ghost smiled as he shook his hand. “I have a name.”
“Yes, yes.” The sheikh laughed. “An apparition. Perhaps you are simply hiding a common name you do not wish to divulge. John?”
“You know my real name, Khalaf.”
The sheikh winked. “I do.” ❞


◈ #7 Whiskey
❝ “Ghost.” That stealth son of a bitch. A former SEAL, Ghost had disappeared off the grid years ago. He’d been recruited from the Teams for an off-the-books Spec Ops unit, same as me, but neither of us were active duty anymore. ❞

❝ Tall, really tall, and all muscles, the striking man with dirty-blond hair and eyes that matched his blue dress shirt stared down at me. ❞

❝ “What’s your name?”
“You don’t need to know.”
Emotionless, quiet and with a perfectly even pitch, he took detachment to a whole new level.
“What do they call you?”
“Ghost.”
“Fitting.”
“So I’ve been told.” ❞


◈ #8 Delta
❝ Former SEAL, Ghost had been pulled from the Teams when we were active duty for an off-the-books Black Ops unit. I’d also been recruited, but I’d declined and recommended Whiskey in my stead. Both he and Ghost had a combination of specialized skill sets, the ability to get in and out of any situation undetected, and they each lacked moral compass. Whiskey was now at AES, but Ghost had since retired and gone off the grid, except for when he wasn’t. ❞


◈ #9 Kilo
❝ I grabbed my cell and called one of the few numbers I knew by heart. One I knew from before all the Breacher Syndrome shit.
“Breacher,” Ghost stated.
“I need a favor.”
“Call Alpha.”
“My favor needs to stay off the books.” That was Ghost’s specialty. You never saw him coming, you never knew he was there, and no one could ever find him. ❞

❝ He already knew the playbook. He had the fucking trail, but he was gonna make me work for it. One goddamn chess move at a time.
Ghost didn’t say shit.
I played my hand. “If you don’t know where they are, then forget I called.”
“You’ll hear from me.” Ghost hung up. ❞



////////// 𝚎𝚍𝚒𝚝 — 𝚏𝚎𝚋𝚛𝚞𝚊𝚛𝚢 𝟸𝟶𝟸𝟺

YALLL
the world is not ready for the person I'll become when this one will be out

[Intel Chicky Reads Romance (Kara Merideth) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2
Trope: protector
Angst: 😱😱😱😱
Smexy: 🔥🔥

What a ride! Ghost and Safiya's story was eight years in the making, and while this was a slow burn, the story's intensity was cranked to "high." I've been super excited for Ghost's story, and Sybil did not disappoint. Tons of action, angst, and heat. Yummy breadcrumbs for future stories will leave you super excited for what's to come.

[Cristina]

I wanted to like this but the writing style wasn’t for me 😟

[Vee · Rating 4 out of 5]

4,5 stars

Tropes : romantic suspense, grumpy x sunshine, age gap (13 years), rich guy x poor girl, J/P H, obsessed H, touch her and ☠️
Ending : HFN
Triggers : human trafficking, murder, violence, gore, kidnapping
Spice : 🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
Angst : 🔥🔥🔥🔥/5
OM/OW drama : slight OM & OW ( H was a jealous type, OW were H’s ‘wives’)
Celibate while separated: yes
Intimacy details: virgin h, no condom, slight breeding kink, rough sex, slight blood play, oral, forced orgasm
Standalone/Series : part of an interconnected series

Hero : Grayson ‘Ghost’ Ryker Gautier (30/38)
Heroine: Safiya Savas (17-18/25-26)

I really enjoyed this one. It would be perfect if Ghost didn’t have a lot of ‘wives’ and hoe he got nicknames for all of them and calling one of them ‘his blonde’ which I thought was Safiya at first. Although I liked how he let her call him by his real name instead of Ghost.

Both of them were the jealous types lol. It was fun to watch them getting bothered whenever one of them were close to OM or OW.

Their romance could be considered slow burn bcs they didn’t slept together until 70% mark but I wasn’t bothered by it. The suspense side of the book was quite heavy but I liked it. Then we get to see how he was being an alpha in the bedroom and out of it with Safiya.

There was certainly a dom/sub relationship between both of them.

Sadly there was no pregnancy nor baby in this one. The fact that both of them were talking about babies a couple chapter before the ending got my hopes up. But well nevertheless I really enjoyed this.

[French · Rating 1 out of 5]

least favorite… ugh… way too long and o by setting up next series.. where’s the romance?

500+ pages…
Way too long for content.
I gave up at 90%
I just didn’t care anymore.
There were no Swoony moments for me in this one.
Everyone of the past books hooked me. This one was painful.
It felt like most of the book was setting up her next books… when you buy a book you want a story & romance… at least I do.
Honestly I didn’t like either one of the characters.?I value my money, but I value my time more. No thank you.

[Shelly Shaw · Rating 5 out of 5]

GHOST is the 10th book in the Alpha Elite series by Sybil Bartel and I have a read them all … so far! But, good reader you do not need to read all those that came before, each is a stand alone but many of the characters come by to visit.

This is probably the longest book I have ever read, and I have read a lot of books. GHOST was my 280th book just for this year. And it took me 23 hours and 34 minutes to read it!! It has taken me 7 hours to get over this book hangover. And to clear my mind to write this review.

That being said, it will grip you by the throat from the very beginning. And it will NOT let you go until you get to the very very end!!

This story has a very strong dominate MMC. And a submissive FMC. Both are equally strong but in different ways. There is also a great deal of drama and suspense to keep you turning the pages. I know I did.

One of my most favorite traits of this author is that she is diligent on the details. Like clothing, weather, locations, vehicles etc. Ms. Bartel is very descriptive with situations, making the reader feel as though they are in the midst of it all. I don’t and won’t give out any specifics as I don’t like it when reviewers do that so I will not be one of them.

Just grab this book, you won’t regret it! I promise!!

[franklinia ☦︎ · Rating 1 out of 5]

I don’t know how to feel about this book. I disliked it from all points of view and that angers me because it could have had potential.
Overall, her books are too long and kinda confusing.

[Ellen YS · Rating 5 out of 5]

Yes, gushing is allowed

It is no secret that I love the way Ms Bartel can weave a story.

Ghost is no exception. Ms Bartel employs a very subtle literary theme, using interesting words and even the lack off, to convey a much bigger meaning.

Ghost stands strong in his protectiveness and his convictions. His FMC is a very strong counterpoint to him. Bravery comes in many forms and loving a man in loneliness is a strength in this instance.

You could read this as a standalone, but why would you given this great series?

[Conny · Rating 3 out of 5]

I could not wait to get started on Ghost's story but it was a real disappointment for me. I love the books by Sybil Bartel and I own almost all of them but this book fell flat for me. There was a lot of side stories going on that added nothing to the book and I found that the chemistry was not really there for the two main characters, plus nothing happened for them until you are about 90% done with the book, I also did not care for how he groomed her. I really hope that the next book will be a winner again.

[Susana Sousa · Rating 5 out of 5]

The number one.....

Ghost is the tenth installment in the Alpha Elite Security (AES) Series and can be read as a standalone.

If you're familiar with the world of AES, you already know Ghost is a force to be reckoned with, resourceful, connected and indetected, he's his own boss, man and operative that goes at his own volition, pace and plans. Most of all, he's a savior, but can be vengeful if the threat touches the innocent. He might aid AES here and there, but he's on a mission of his own, dangerous, secretive and potentially destroying....if things don't go as devised, nevertheless, he's risking it all, to save it all.
The narrative develops fast and furious, as Sybil got as used too, on two different tones: the mission, the final reckoning and the possibility of everything going FUBAR, in the first half of the story, the setling dust, the reunion, the emotional overload, the mixed feelings, insecurity, doubt and the ultimate connection, the unique, unparalleled sentiment of touching the ocean for the very first time, so real, quintessential, something far and in between, like an apparition, for long eight years.....about to become permanent and consolidated, but where everything seems pretty much SNAFU......in the second half.
Emotionally complex and convoluted, the story brings together two very different protagonists in every facet of their existence, but it only took one look of salvation for Ghost to give his heart, his soul and devotion to the one......who would become irrevocably his, she just didn't knew it yet, but she would.......eight years later.
As well, the men of AES are always up to extend a helping hand and so were others. Paragon operatives are introduced in Ghost's tale as adjuvants and not only........
Sybil, once more, didn't disappoint, presenting us with another high-octane, tension-filled and full blast, gut punching story, accurately molding our characters and their dynamics through their culture, environment, personality, demeanor and states of mind as well as some background to her upcoming new series.
One question remains, are we getting some for Neil Christensen's PM?
I want it, I want it, I want it.....

[Victoria · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved the FMC.

If you take nothing else away from this book, you should be irrevocably in love with our heroine. She is the perfect blend of spirit and sweetness and I absolutely love her. There's no way she could have survived Ghost without her backbone of steel because let me tell you-

This man. Lord save us.

Ghost has been playing 4-D chess for years and all that planning finally gets put into action. The first part of the book is where we see why Ghost is so feared and our alpha loves at AES give him the side eye- he's ruthless, calculating, and if you think you're a step ahead, he's already lapped you. The action is fast-paced and will keep you on the edge of your seat. Our heroine is an absolute rock star through all the chaos but stays true to her character. She isn't born for battle but you know who is? Ghost. This man is ruthless and thorough.

The second half of the book is arguably the harder task for Ghost. There's so much angst, a constant push and pull of two lonely people who've wanted the other for so long and are trying to navigate the hard-won freedom. I'm not usually a fan of slow burns but I don't think this story could have been anything but a very, very slow burn and it worked. It made sense with the two people who wanted each other so desperately but were separated by circumstance and the worst kind of villans until they could both be free.

We saw a few of our AES favorites, and of course, Talon was there, causing trouble as always. I loved the integration of the characters we know and love and I'm MORE than intrigued about those who were introduced. Helios, I got my eye on you.

If you love high-action slow burns, you need to add this book to your TBR. If you love heart of gold, spine of steel heroines then you ABSOLUTELY need this on your bookshelf. Seriously, she might be my new favorite woman in this universe.

I devoured this book in ARC form and reviewed based on that marathon reading session that left me sniffling wikth the feels, shrieking in surprise, and delighting over the FMC.

[Kate · Rating 5 out of 5]

5/5 STARS!!!

I thought I had an idea of what Ghost would be like when I started reading, but this man was so mysterious, cagey, dominant, and downright PRIMAL that he made my head spin.
But he was also the most selfless, deliberate, and unexpectedly tender hero, especially in the company of those he loves and his woman.

To use his own verbiage, I RUTHLESSLY fell in love with Ghost!

The FMC in this book is so profoundly strong, yet she possessed reservations and a vulnerability born from her circumstances. But Ghost sees her. He sees all of her, and he knows exactly what she wants because he wants the same things. This is a slow burn, but for Ghost and his FMC, they needed the time. Ghost has been fueled by revenge, duty, and an admirable propensity to save those around him. It felt like there were two parts to this book—one born of duty, and one born of love. And gah!! This man loves his woman fiercely!!

Don’t let the slow burn fool you!! I already said that Ghost was downright PRIMAL but I’m going to say it again because there are no words to describe this man. He is so dominant, and if there were any more chapters, I think my kindle would’ve caught on fire.

While Ghost had all the action, suspense, and heat that every AES book has, Ghost was just so much more!!! The imagery painted throughout the book elevated the story to new levels. Like Ghost, everything in his book was calculated. The recurring themes were so poignant, the motifs so beautiful. The last chapter made me cry and fall so deeply for Ghost!

And of course, Sybil always blesses us with characters from previous stories, and OMG did they come through in this book!! A testament to the gravity of the situation that Ghost is up against, he needs all the help he can get to save his woman. Including help from a whole new set of dangerous, secretive, and highly capable men who I am already falling for!!! (Helios is definitely my new obsession!!)

5/5 STARS!!!

[Rose · Rating 4 out of 5]

The book was good. The trope just wasn't my type. Safiya's love for him was too unreciprocated at times. Also, the "no touching without permission" rule?? NO WAY IN HELL (I did like how he called her 'hayatim'. it's going in my swoon-worthy nicknames list.)

QUOTES

1. “And while he may not outright lie to me, his unyielding aloofness was no different than had he spoken a falsehood and intentionally misled me.” — Chapter 11: Ghost by Sybil Bartel

2. “Just as I knew he would, he did not placate. ‘What’s the worst that can happen?’
 ‘We could die.’ He could die.
 His hand slid from my chin to the side of my face. Then the SEAL who had given me a second chance at life robbed me of my breath. ‘Then we die together.’” — Chapter 31: Ghost by Sybil Bartel

3. “We did not die together.
We had not lived together.
I was alive.
He was alive.
But he did not show emotion. 
His eyes had not changed.
 He had not changed.
 We were not together.” — Chapter 33: Ghost by Sybil Bartel

4. “He could stand there and reject me.
 He could use his now cool and collected tone.
 He could insult my intelligence.
 And he could run his hands all over my flesh and throw out his enigmatic words like sun-kissed ripe fruit on a low branch.
 But I would not reach for it.
 I would not reach for him. Not ever again because I was done being humiliated.
 He could keep his need and his want.
 I was keeping my silence.” — Chapter 41: Ghost by Sybil Bartel

5. “Couples that faint together, stay together.” — Chapter 45: Ghost by Sybil Bartel

6. “Then I pulled out and drew my bloodied fingers against my chest.
 One vertical line.
 One horizontal.
 Cross my heart.
 I brought my lips to my wife’s. ’Hayatim.’” — Chapter 85: Ghost by Sybil Bartel

[Lara Hill · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have never wanted to be haunted by a ghost more than I do right now !

Ghost has always been a bit of an enigma, silently appears, helps the teams, and then disappears. Finally we got our chance to know this beast of a man.

This book is intense, fast paced, and you rip into the action right from the first chapter. Much like Ghost, there is no gentle with this book.

I love the interactions he has with the various alpha team members, his relationship with Echo so incredibly strained because Echo the ever protector of women just simply has never got a chance to know what Ghosts MO really is. If only he did, they would be best of buds. Ghost is so blind to the outcome of his mission, he will use, take whatever and whoever he needs to ensure success.

Lots of cameos from all our favorites, and of course the introduction to what will be the next series of incredible alpha men.

I was pleased that November played a pivotal role in this book, I disliked him after his book, he was not what I expected in his story, but his unwavering support for Ghosts core mission showed him in the best way.

For those who have read all the books of these series to date, you will love understanding the man behind the Ghost. And of course the woman who has stolen his heart. If you are new to these books while they can all be read as a stand alone, I do recommend for the best experience go back to the start and read them all. So many amazing characters to discover, and you will appreciate them more if you know their individual stories.

One click, enjoy. Sybil you knocked it out of the park again. Bravo !

[ravenblackbird74 · Rating 5 out of 5]

📚Review ~ Ghost (The Alpha Elite Series)
🖋Author ~ Sybil Bartel
🖋Features: Military Romance, Romantic Suspense
⭐️Rating: 5/5

I am emotionally wrecked in the best way possible. You’ve done it again! Beautifully written, a definite experience ~

I wanted to give her the future so she’d forget the past. I wanted to give her that peace she said she wanted to give me.

Ghost is the most incredible of all the Alpha Elite operatives. Throughout his entire life, he is generous, taking care of his mother. In his career, he turns that generosity into selflessness towards his country and teammates. Until the unthinkable happens, and he is forced to become completely self-reliant. Yet, he is the most giving and unselfish hero in his tragedy.

Ghost’s story is an epic telling that spans several years. So be prepared to absorb every detail and understand the complete control that is required to enable an elite operator like Ghost to survive under impossible conditions. The man is the absolute definition of determined strength and subtle nuances that created a person who could love another so selflessly that he would sacrifice so much to give the woman he loves everything.

https://linktr.ee/ravenblackbird74

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[Cathy Black · Rating 5 out of 5]

The men of the Alpha Elite Series, AES, each come from vastly different life experiences and paths that led them there yet share certain traits—maybe thanks to their backgrounds as SEALs, with a couple of Marines added for good measure. I’ve loved every story Sybil Bartel has written about these men, but this one hit hard because Ghost is so intense. If you’ve been reading in order, you’ll remember he helped extract Alpha’s now-wife, Malia, and now we learn that, while not working for AES at the time, he was taking down one of the largest child trafficking rings.
Thank you, Sybil Bartel, for these beautifully epic stories that let us escape reality for a while. You want to savor them slowly like the masterpieces they are, but you end up devouring every chapter. I love how you take the pain of these men and women and turn it into something beautiful, never shying away from the raw, real, or painful moments. It’s epically beautiful every single time.
Grayson Ryker Gautier, also known as Ghost, rescued 18 women from a child trafficking ring, with the most significant rescue being the first—Safiya, whom he saved from a Turkish town, married, and gave his last name. He brought the other women to safety as well, marrying them and giving them names, though not his own, to help bring them into the country. I appreciated how Sybil addresses societal issues in her books, making us reflect on the continued reality of sex trafficking today. This story offered a compelling glimpse into a true dominant, told from both perspectives. I thoroughly enjoyed the book.

[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

I never know what to expect going into a book by Sybil Bartel because every single time I think I do, she surprises me. All I ever really know is that it will hit hard. The way she crafts a story is honestly insane. The attention to every little tiny detail makes you feel like you are there in the scene. And it’s always an experience that outshines the last.
Ghost is the perfect blend of hard and soft, fiercely loyal but also lethal and his story was action packed, keeps you on the edge of your seat, heart pounding deliciousness.
I honestly cannot wait for the new series to come, and I loved seeing the guys show up, especially Talon. He’s my favorite.
Thank you Sybil Bartel for giving us these beautifully epic stories to escape from our reality every now and then. You want to take it slow and enjoy it for the masterpiece that it is, but you can’t seem to stop reading and devouring each and every chapter.
I love how you take these men and women’s pain and craft it into something beautiful. How you aren’t afraid to be raw and real in your stories. How you don’t shy away from things that hurt or make people angry. It’s so epically beautiful every time.
Don’t go into Ghost expecting to meet a man like Alpha or November, Talon or Neil. Ghost is a different breed all together, but still utterly delicious.
Until next time.

[The Devildogwyfe · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have read ALL of Sybil's books and most of her work a second time while I waited for Ghost to publish. This story is an amalgamation of allllll of these works pulled together with key team members getting pulled in to one of the longest chess-style missions these characters could complete. There are loose ends that keep putting too much risk on this character's plan. The only secret about a secret is who knows it., and Ghost discovers that some things were not as he thought they were, and it left him scrambling. I had moments that my blood pressure was elevated as they go through the harrowing stuff. This one had me holding my breath so many times. We also meet some new characters and get a glimpse of the long-harbored resentment between a couple of them.

As for the spicy and romance parts of it, this story is a slow burn, and is not as many peppers on my spice scale as some of her other stories. I love it regardless and it has an intensity that sticks with you. Ghost takes so much time building that connection with his FMC, doing the relationship version of "pebbling". He takes such good care of her as he is able, but she still struggles with her past colliding with her present, and t-boning with Ghost's past being forced into a concentrated space. There are no airbags, and there is no turning back. And Ghost doesn't want to do that anyway. Neither will you.

[Melanie Marnell · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW! This is the best book I've read in 2024. What an intense ride. Think world's most extreme rollercoaster highs and lows. Ghost is: heart pounding suspense; fast paced, edge of your seat hard hitting action; and holding your breath until you gasp for air. It's danger on steroids. There was no downside to this book and no way you could anticipate its contents. In addition, Sybil Bartel has introduced a new set of characters from her next series. Also, the men from AES will make appearances and play significant roles. You need to buy and read this book! You won't be sorry!

Ghost is one of the most, if not the most enigmatic, ruthless, intense and mysterious characters I've ever run across. The man is a complete conundrum. I am completely enthralled by him. Safiya intrigued me too. She's mostly innocent in the ways of the world but nothing in her previous life could have prepared her for Ghost; his dominance, his all or nothing attitude, nor his demand for complete surrender. Yet, there's a steel core within her and she's a survivor. She learns that being his is what's meant to be. The relationship between these two is eight years in the making, quite unique and underscores the entire story.

[Alex · Rating 5 out of 5]

How does Sybil know exactly what my soul needs to read when I dont even know it? This book was everything I didn't know I needed. It was slow paced, angsty,swoon worthy, deliciously alpha, and will obliterate your soul in the sweetest way. I was on the edge of my seat, biting my nails, and totally hooked right from the beginning.
Ghost was not at all what I expected but even better than I imagined. I know I always say the newest Alpha is my favorite, but I truly think Ghost will officially be my #1.
I was expecting a little more action with Ghost's book but was pleasantly surprised at the direction Sybil took this book. I will forever be amazed at how well Sybil builds her characters and intertwines her stories. Everything is precisely planned down to the smallest detail. I always leave her stories feeling like I've spent time with family and homesick for more. Her books are my comfort, and soothe my soul. Her name is what is spoken in our home when we talk about our favorite author, and it is well deserved. If you have not read her stories, you are missing out on something you don't know you need until you experience it. I can't speak enough amazing things about this author or her work.

[Cheryl O'Harney · Rating 5 out of 5]

The time has come for the story of a man simply known as Ghost, but there’s nothing simple about him at all. In the background of previous books from Bartel’s Alpha Elite Series, Ghost has glided smoothly and effortlessly throughout many of the storylines. Now it’s the highly anticipated turn of the man himself.

From the moment the book began the story for me, hit the ground running and did not stop nor slow down until the very end. The plot was full, I mean full of action, suspense and danger. Just like the other men of Alpha Elite, Ghost is the strong dominant type, and certainly just as stubborn, his protective nature and the lengths he’ll go to protect the woman who’s become his life was enthralling. The whole storyline and the characters, old and new made this one captivating and unforgettable read, and it sets the scene for Bartel’s new series in which readers will meet some of those interesting characters in more detail.

Ghost was a long, fast paced read. Get it added to your library today, you won’t regret it.

𝐵𝑜𝑜𝓀𝓈 & 𝐵𝑒𝓎𝑜𝓃𝒹 𝐵𝓁𝑜𝑔
𝔸ℝℂ 𝕨𝕒𝕤 𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕕 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕥𝕙𝕚𝕤 𝕚𝕤 𝕞𝕪 𝕙𝕠𝕟𝕖𝕤𝕥 𝕣𝕖𝕧𝕚𝕖𝕨.

[Sandra · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sybil Bartel once again demonstrates her mastery of military romance with Ghost, delivering an intense and gripping story that exceeds expectations. The novel follows a Navy SEAL, code-named Ghost, on a Black Ops mission that goes catastrophically wrong.

Her attention to detail in depicting military operations is impeccable, lending authenticity to the high-stakes action that propels the narrative. The tension builds rapidly as Ghost’s mission takes a dangerous turn, culminating in a complex and intriguing relationship with a mysterious operative...

Ghost is not just a hardened SEAL; his inner turmoil and the emotional challenges he faces make him a fully realized, multidimensional character. The plot twists are well-paced, keeping readers on edge as they navigate a world of deception, betrayal, and raw passion.

Bartel’s signature blend of drama, suspense, and explosive chemistry shines through in this novel, making it a must-read for fans of military romance. Her storytelling is seamless, immersing readers in a world where danger and desire intersect. Ghost is not just a thrilling read—it’s a story that lingers long after the last page.

[Flo₂₂ · Rating 2 out of 5]

I skipped all the books in this series and i tried to read 2 of them one of it i dnf at 70% this one ? i almost DNF it at around the same percentual ...
The plot was interesting, this h was sweet BUT what he did in those 8 years rubbed me the wrong way :(... all those '' wifes '' and the thing that made me want to DNF this so so bad was when we get to see that he basically did almost everything with each of them than he made with her :( that was a big NO NO..he said he was faithful BUT he did admit he kissed them on the mouth .....all those pet names and term of affection with them..the blond one specifically which he called even in his mind '' my little one '' '' my blonde'' ''my baby doll' i got sick..this was before he kissed or has been intimate with our h... but still..a few times he also called her by her number..''my number one'' ..argh all this story was so frustrating TBH , but i got invested and i wanted to finish it .

Even without those ''wifes'' i was pissed they lost 8 years of him coming and going as he pleased.

[carmen wise · Rating 5 out of 5]

First off thank you Sybil for the ARC copy and for this whole entire world you’ve created is just so f-ing insanely good. Whenever I feel the need I start at the beginning and cycle back through again and again. ❤️

Holy Batman edging book boyfriend
Damn you Ghost
The story is slowly morphing into the new one by going back to his beginning
His need for her
His want for her
His reason for the way his life has panned out

He is her need
He is her want
And he is her reason
She will submit

The first few chapters I had to read standing up
I couldn’t work out what was up or down
The hold these two had had on me
The suspense and action in this story has blown up to epic proportions
The new and old characters in the story will leave you salivating for more
The slow burn and dominance of Ghost will get you good

Can not wait for Blade and the new alpha’s to come.

Thank you again Sybil Bartel for the ARC

[Vicki · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve been waiting for this book for what feels like a lifetime and it did not disappoint! This book is as girthy as the Ghost himself and just as enjoyable. The layers to this man, what a journey he goes on, the tiny little details that all add up to make him who and what he is. Being lucky enough to receive this as an ARC, I pushed everything aside that night and read half the book before I had to make myself be a good girl and go to sleep so I could actually function the next day.

The backstory, the details and the side characters that we know and love are woven into the story in the classic Sybil Bartel manner. We see the bits we love and remember but also new details about our favourites in each story. The FMC was such an interesting character, I thoroughly enjoyed reading from her POV as well.

An absolute winner of a book, you’ll struggle to put it down and will be left desperate to get your hands on more of this author’s books.

[Windi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been anxiously awaiting to learn more about Ghost. Just the snippets we were given in other books was not enough for me. I needed to know more. And boy did I learn a lot with this book! Ghost is everything and nothing what I thought he would be. I am addicted to him at this point. Sybil Bartel has such an amazing way of creating characters that just seem to grip your soul. Her style of writing is mesmerizing. She has so much knowledge of the technical aspects of her storyline. It makes you feel like you are a part of the story and this is a story I would definitely love to have a role in. I wasn’t sure I would love Ghost. But he definitely finds a way of working himself into your heart. Ghost is another unbelievable alpha male that will make you want to slap him while you are climbing him like a monkey. Great book!!!!!

[Brianne · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25⭐️
I knew I needed to get my hands on this book as soon as we met Ghost in Alpha’s book and it didn’t disappoint!

While everyone else was playing mindless checkers in this series, Ghost was playing long game chess all along. Even though in previous books Ghost was sometimes painted as guy with ulterior motives it was so satisfying seeing his endgame finally unfold.This book dived deeper into the mind of a complex man and I loved seeing his softer side come through with the FMC. This book was a simmering slow burn filled with lots of action packed moments that kept me on my toes but also sweet and tender moments that I will be thinking about for long time. This book laid the foundation for the new upcoming series perfectly with the introduction of new exciting characters and I can’t wait for what is yet to come.

[LianaReads blog · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ghost by Sybil Bartel was one of my most anticipated reads, and it definitely lived up to the hype! After learning about him from previous books, I was eager for his story, and it didn’t disappoint. The plot was full of surprises, taking twists I didn’t expect.
The slow burn romance kept me on the edge throughout the entire book, which only added to the tension.
Ghost is just as strong, dominant, and stubborn as the other characters in the Alpha Elite series, but his personal desires and emotions really stood out. My heart melted as I learned more about his past and the sacrifices he made for others over the years. The balance of action, suspense, and romance was perfect, making this a must-read for anyone who loves thrilling, romantic suspense stories.
Overall, Ghost is a great addition to the series, with the perfect mix of suspense and a satisfying happily-ever-after.

[Reyne Clark · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ghost is one of those books that stays with you for a while after you read it. You think about the characters, the craftsmanship in the writing, the flow of the storyline, the suburb editing. And you remind yourself that this is the reason why you read, consume, devour, and appreciate superb writing. Ghost is my new favorite book and Sybil Bartel is definitely a QUEEN at giving her readers an intriguing, intelligently written romance to savor, highlight passages, and then reread. If you love insta-love, second chances, slow burn and steam, dominant ex-military Alphas, a book that you will not forget, grab this one and buckle up for a fantastic ride! Please note: Although this is Book 10 in the Alpha Elite Series, it is a complete standalone and can be read without compromising any other book in the Series. 5 Stars!

[Cathy Jackson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, this book threw me around everywhere! Not because of the writing but emotional overload. Ghost was not how I expected his character to be but I am so happy with how he was written!
I read the first half of this book in about 3 hrs and while it is a slow burn, we get to feel the emotions that not only Ghost gives off but the FMC as well. Ghost has to be slow, too many moving pieces and everything has to be exact and precise.
The second half, OMG…leaving this right here!
Totally head over in love but so afraid to admit it, feeling like he isn’t good enough or too dangerous. Captivating from the beginning until the very end. This book has it all!
Sybil held nothing back in Ghost but then again, she never does! Be sure to carve out time to binge read this!