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The Evolution Trilogy #1
Hybrid
Steven Thorn has no trouble settling in at University. Having grown up at boarding school, he is used to living away from home. He’s smart, so studying comes naturally. When it comes to making new friends, he’s cautious. Usually, he receives too much unwanted attention.
Caitlin Chance catches him off guard. She’s the first girl he has ever felt an instant attraction towards and the more he gets to know, the more he likes. However, the romance is cut short when Caitlin leaves University after a suspicious suicide.
Now Steven is alone, Ingrid gets her chance and it doesn’t take long for her to discover that Steven is a HYBRID. The wheels are set in motion for his radical upheaval. Now they know he exists, they will come to get him...
Caitlin Chance catches him off guard. She’s the first girl he has ever felt an instant attraction towards and the more he gets to know, the more he likes. However, the romance is cut short when Caitlin leaves University after a suspicious suicide.
Now Steven is alone, Ingrid gets her chance and it doesn’t take long for her to discover that Steven is a HYBRID. The wheels are set in motion for his radical upheaval. Now they know he exists, they will come to get him...
334 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 27, 2012
68 people are currently reading
699 people want to read
About the author
Vanessa Wester
20 books169 followersVanessa Wester is bilingual in English and Spanish, since she was born and raised in Gibraltar. With a degree in Accountancy & Law, she initially worked for two leading accountancy firms, before she changed career and became a secondary school mathematics teacher. Over the past fourteen years, she has devoted her time to the upbringing of her children, whilst giving up a lot of her time to help voluntary organisations. Now, she is teaching again, but still dreams of pursuing her literary career.
Vanessa developed her writing bug in 2010. Her main published work is ‘THE EVOLUTION TRILOGY’, which is comprised of HYBRID, her debut novel, followed by COMPLICATIONS and RETURN. You can also find out how it all began in the prequel to the Trilogy, EMILY.
In addition, she has written a novelette called FIRST DATE, which is based on her true story. She has also published, and included stories in, six anthologies to raise money for fantastic causes, such as Gurnard Primary School on the Isle of Wight.
Writing is one of her passions, reading the other. The day she decided to start writing her ideas down she found another way to lose herself in a book, whilst finding an outlet for her imagination. It is the best way she can think of to escape from everyday life. She is currently working on a historical fiction novel based on the life of her great, great, grandparents... and is finding the research fascinating!
Readers can find Vanessa Wester online at:
Blogger http://vanessawesterwriter.blogspot.c...
Twitter https://twitter.com/vanessa_wester
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/vanessaWeste...
LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/pub/vanessa-...
Pinterest http://www.pinterest.com/vanessawester/
Vanessa developed her writing bug in 2010. Her main published work is ‘THE EVOLUTION TRILOGY’, which is comprised of HYBRID, her debut novel, followed by COMPLICATIONS and RETURN. You can also find out how it all began in the prequel to the Trilogy, EMILY.
In addition, she has written a novelette called FIRST DATE, which is based on her true story. She has also published, and included stories in, six anthologies to raise money for fantastic causes, such as Gurnard Primary School on the Isle of Wight.
Writing is one of her passions, reading the other. The day she decided to start writing her ideas down she found another way to lose herself in a book, whilst finding an outlet for her imagination. It is the best way she can think of to escape from everyday life. She is currently working on a historical fiction novel based on the life of her great, great, grandparents... and is finding the research fascinating!
Readers can find Vanessa Wester online at:
Blogger http://vanessawesterwriter.blogspot.c...
Twitter https://twitter.com/vanessa_wester
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/vanessaWeste...
LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/pub/vanessa-...
Pinterest http://www.pinterest.com/vanessawester/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
May 7, 2016
I really liked this book! I thought this was a great book. When I first read about this book I was kind of confused that Steven was the main character I thought it would be Caitlyn but it all panned out in the end. Also, it was nothing like I thought it would be, however I was pleasantly surprised!
I recommend this book 100x's over!
I recommend this book 100x's over!
August 1, 2013
Not your usual vampire story :)
I enjoyed reading "Hybrid". This book is written in a believable way, with believable characters and interesting situations. Half way through the story it took an unexpected turn that I enjoyed very much. An unusual take on the sort of vampires and the aspects of their lives. I enjoyed their point of view.
All in all it's a good read
I enjoyed reading "Hybrid". This book is written in a believable way, with believable characters and interesting situations. Half way through the story it took an unexpected turn that I enjoyed very much. An unusual take on the sort of vampires and the aspects of their lives. I enjoyed their point of view.
All in all it's a good read
July 1, 2015
Amazing love story between Steven and Caitlin! Both are living normal lives as any student does when going to college. Steven had everything falling into place and meeting a nice girl that both can't keep away from each other. Some peculiar and strange things have been happing and Steven is caught in the middle of it. The life Steven has changes whether good or bad Steven finds out. It's a thrilling and suspenseful romantic story with character you fall in love with. It keeps you on the edge and wanting more. I highly recommend this book to paranormal readers and vampire readers. The end will definitely want you to keep reading more. I will be reading the next book Complications from the Evolution Trilogy. Vanessa Wester is an amazing writer!
August 19, 2015
This book roped me in from the beginning and took me on a fantastic ride. The story is unique and unlike other "vampire" stories, which was quite refreshing. I loved getting to know the characters and I can't wait to continue the story and see what happens!
October 15, 2014
From jbgarner58.wordpress.com:
As I hoped for some more book sales to fill my pantry, I was fortunate enough to get a new book to chow down on instead. That’s right, it’s time for another Starving Review!
This week’s main course is Hybrid, the first book in a paranormal romance series, The Evolution Trilogy. What you say? The guy who writes superhero and wrestling fiction picking up a romance book? To that I say, ‘Broaden your minds! The Tale of the Tape had a huge romance sub-plot! Plus I was starving!’. As per my standards, I will do my best to make this review as spoiler-free as possible and to see this in the light of a fan of the genre in question.
Let’s start off by saying this: On a technical level, the writing is quite good. The pacing, character development, and depth of story are well ahead of many of Hybrid‘s brothers and sisters in the paranormal romance genre. On a personal relationship level, there are fewer contrivances and those that do come up fit into the well-worn tropes of the romance genre … in other words, they are things that the readers will want to see. The inevitable romantic entanglements and love dodecahedrons fit together much more naturally than most books of this kind.
In fact, talking about the genre tropes, at first blush, Hybrid seems to be a standard, if better written, book of the type, very paint-by-numbers. However, at about the quarter way mark, Ms. Wester eschews the paint brush and brings in an industrial car painting robot, setting it on ‘CRAZY’ mode. That may sound bad. It’s not. In fact, it’s almost glorious in the insanity it reaps!
You see, Hybrid goes off the rails now in the sense of the personal relationships and characterizations, which remain solid, but in a very Silver Age comic book/1950s atomic horror kind of way. As the paranormal species that is core to the book is introduced and explained, the book takes glee as it smashes basic conventions and sets up the world these beings live in and how they operate. I can’t really go into details without major spoilers, but simply let me say that I, as a comic book fan, really loved the general crazy involved. It is a good kind of crazy and one that, for a genre that generally has more angst that sense, delights in that as much as the interpersonal conflicts.
Another point where Hybrid bucks the usual paranormal romance formula is in the rather expansive range of characters and points of view it dances over, adding to the narrative depth. Add on to that the fact that the main PoV character for large sections of the book is the male lead and you get another turn off the over-trod path of the first person, female lead formula. Refreshing.
Now, Hybrid isn’t without flaws. Sometimes the over-the-top elements become too much even for a lover of such things to take seriously. One incident in particular involving a mass mental manipulation (that should be vague enough to dodge the Spoiler Police) really made me pause and the later explanation of it did nothing to make it better. There is little action, which while not a requirement in this genre can add to it, and the overall dramatic and romantic tension is uneven at times. There is a fair amount of world-building that goes on in this book and, while Wester does a fairly good job at weaving it in with the actual story, there is a bit on info-dumping and a few cringe-worthy scenes of ‘As You Know‘ exposition. Final flaw: the sudden climax and twist to set up the next book comes out of nowhere at the last minute, though the epilogue sweeps in and salvages part of it with a clever bit of follow-up on foreshadowing early in the book.
Let’s bring it all together then.
Hybrid is a solid paranormal romance and a good start for it’s series of books. There are some intriguing surprises and Vanessa Wester wisely is not afraid to blaze off of the over-used pathways other writers in this genre have tread, bringing about a gleeful insanity to the whole thing. It’s not perfect, but it stands above the majority of this genre that I’ve read. If you enjoy this genre, definitely give this a read. If you don’t, you may still want to give it a shot. The first book is free, after all.
FINAL VERDICT: **** (Vanilla on the outside, crazy mix of flavors on the inside)
As I hoped for some more book sales to fill my pantry, I was fortunate enough to get a new book to chow down on instead. That’s right, it’s time for another Starving Review!
This week’s main course is Hybrid, the first book in a paranormal romance series, The Evolution Trilogy. What you say? The guy who writes superhero and wrestling fiction picking up a romance book? To that I say, ‘Broaden your minds! The Tale of the Tape had a huge romance sub-plot! Plus I was starving!’. As per my standards, I will do my best to make this review as spoiler-free as possible and to see this in the light of a fan of the genre in question.
Let’s start off by saying this: On a technical level, the writing is quite good. The pacing, character development, and depth of story are well ahead of many of Hybrid‘s brothers and sisters in the paranormal romance genre. On a personal relationship level, there are fewer contrivances and those that do come up fit into the well-worn tropes of the romance genre … in other words, they are things that the readers will want to see. The inevitable romantic entanglements and love dodecahedrons fit together much more naturally than most books of this kind.
In fact, talking about the genre tropes, at first blush, Hybrid seems to be a standard, if better written, book of the type, very paint-by-numbers. However, at about the quarter way mark, Ms. Wester eschews the paint brush and brings in an industrial car painting robot, setting it on ‘CRAZY’ mode. That may sound bad. It’s not. In fact, it’s almost glorious in the insanity it reaps!
You see, Hybrid goes off the rails now in the sense of the personal relationships and characterizations, which remain solid, but in a very Silver Age comic book/1950s atomic horror kind of way. As the paranormal species that is core to the book is introduced and explained, the book takes glee as it smashes basic conventions and sets up the world these beings live in and how they operate. I can’t really go into details without major spoilers, but simply let me say that I, as a comic book fan, really loved the general crazy involved. It is a good kind of crazy and one that, for a genre that generally has more angst that sense, delights in that as much as the interpersonal conflicts.
Another point where Hybrid bucks the usual paranormal romance formula is in the rather expansive range of characters and points of view it dances over, adding to the narrative depth. Add on to that the fact that the main PoV character for large sections of the book is the male lead and you get another turn off the over-trod path of the first person, female lead formula. Refreshing.
Now, Hybrid isn’t without flaws. Sometimes the over-the-top elements become too much even for a lover of such things to take seriously. One incident in particular involving a mass mental manipulation (that should be vague enough to dodge the Spoiler Police) really made me pause and the later explanation of it did nothing to make it better. There is little action, which while not a requirement in this genre can add to it, and the overall dramatic and romantic tension is uneven at times. There is a fair amount of world-building that goes on in this book and, while Wester does a fairly good job at weaving it in with the actual story, there is a bit on info-dumping and a few cringe-worthy scenes of ‘As You Know‘ exposition. Final flaw: the sudden climax and twist to set up the next book comes out of nowhere at the last minute, though the epilogue sweeps in and salvages part of it with a clever bit of follow-up on foreshadowing early in the book.
Let’s bring it all together then.
Hybrid is a solid paranormal romance and a good start for it’s series of books. There are some intriguing surprises and Vanessa Wester wisely is not afraid to blaze off of the over-used pathways other writers in this genre have tread, bringing about a gleeful insanity to the whole thing. It’s not perfect, but it stands above the majority of this genre that I’ve read. If you enjoy this genre, definitely give this a read. If you don’t, you may still want to give it a shot. The first book is free, after all.
FINAL VERDICT: **** (Vanilla on the outside, crazy mix of flavors on the inside)
April 30, 2017
I have added the 5 star reviews I have received during October on Amazon UK... I was over the moon with these!
Thanks a lot
Vanessa :) xx
5.0 out of 5 stars Brilliant Debut, 24 Oct 2012
By J. S. Houliston "Jan" (West Sussex) - See all my reviews
"I was a bit dubious at first about this type of novel as I am not really 'into' this sort of theme but I was pleasantly surprised. Once you have met the main characters and realise that things are going to go off at a different angle it all becomes clear and is intriguing. I am really looking forward to book 2 to find out what happens next!"
5.0 out of 5 stars Altogether good read., 12 Oct 2012
By nana
"Can't quite believe that this is a first novel, the quality of writing is smooth and vivid, and the characters solicit sympathy and emotion in various degrees. This is not really my kind of book, my kind of genre, but I must confess to having become engrossed in the style and the well paced delivery of discovery.
There is undoubted hints, or at least flavours of the 'Twighlight' tales about it, but Hyprid has an altogether silkier feel to it, (if that makes sense). I won't give any plot away, but the underlying idea is clever and well thought through.
Anyway, it's a good read,and I have no hesitation in recommending it. Help other customers find the most helpful reviews"
5.0 out of 5 stars an unexpected gem of a story, 10 Oct 2012
By Silk
"I started reading this book and within a couple of pages was gripped by the style of writing. Worrying that it was going to be a British twighlight I was soon proven wrong as the story unfolded into something much much better!
I loved it and am eagerly awaiting the rest of the trilogy!
Vanessa if you're reading this, please make it soon!"
5.0 out of 5 stars Didn't think I would enjoy, 1 Oct 2012
By J. Smith "toon_james"
"First let me make it clear. I am a 34 year old man who has a tendancy to shout a lot if someone mentions the words Twilight. Vampires are meant to rip the throats out of young girls not ....
Sorry - distracted.
Seriously - I did not think I would enjoy this story, but even after the first few pages I was hooked. Without including spoilers, the story is a twist on the now familiar girl meets vampire premise. The characters are engaging enough, but what really sets this book apart is Westers talent as a writer. She raises questions throughout the story - making you read - before revealing the answers in a satisfying way - but not without raising a few more questions to make you read on.
The plot has plenty of originality and does not feel forced at any point. The pace changes at appropriate points and ensures the story flows along without getting bogged down. There is also plenty of humour to lighten the sometimes dark world we are exploring.
Overall I have been very impressed by Vanessa Westers writing. I hope the trilogy is completed soon."
Thanks a lot
Vanessa :) xx
5.0 out of 5 stars Brilliant Debut, 24 Oct 2012
By J. S. Houliston "Jan" (West Sussex) - See all my reviews
"I was a bit dubious at first about this type of novel as I am not really 'into' this sort of theme but I was pleasantly surprised. Once you have met the main characters and realise that things are going to go off at a different angle it all becomes clear and is intriguing. I am really looking forward to book 2 to find out what happens next!"
5.0 out of 5 stars Altogether good read., 12 Oct 2012
By nana
"Can't quite believe that this is a first novel, the quality of writing is smooth and vivid, and the characters solicit sympathy and emotion in various degrees. This is not really my kind of book, my kind of genre, but I must confess to having become engrossed in the style and the well paced delivery of discovery.
There is undoubted hints, or at least flavours of the 'Twighlight' tales about it, but Hyprid has an altogether silkier feel to it, (if that makes sense). I won't give any plot away, but the underlying idea is clever and well thought through.
Anyway, it's a good read,and I have no hesitation in recommending it. Help other customers find the most helpful reviews"
5.0 out of 5 stars an unexpected gem of a story, 10 Oct 2012
By Silk
"I started reading this book and within a couple of pages was gripped by the style of writing. Worrying that it was going to be a British twighlight I was soon proven wrong as the story unfolded into something much much better!
I loved it and am eagerly awaiting the rest of the trilogy!
Vanessa if you're reading this, please make it soon!"
5.0 out of 5 stars Didn't think I would enjoy, 1 Oct 2012
By J. Smith "toon_james"
"First let me make it clear. I am a 34 year old man who has a tendancy to shout a lot if someone mentions the words Twilight. Vampires are meant to rip the throats out of young girls not ....
Sorry - distracted.
Seriously - I did not think I would enjoy this story, but even after the first few pages I was hooked. Without including spoilers, the story is a twist on the now familiar girl meets vampire premise. The characters are engaging enough, but what really sets this book apart is Westers talent as a writer. She raises questions throughout the story - making you read - before revealing the answers in a satisfying way - but not without raising a few more questions to make you read on.
The plot has plenty of originality and does not feel forced at any point. The pace changes at appropriate points and ensures the story flows along without getting bogged down. There is also plenty of humour to lighten the sometimes dark world we are exploring.
Overall I have been very impressed by Vanessa Westers writing. I hope the trilogy is completed soon."
May 19, 2014
This is a story that could be considered a paranormal romance, but it’s so much more than that. The story starts out with a young woman, Caitlin, headed to college and introduces you to her and her four “roommates”, getting right into the feel of starting out in a new place in college and the different types of people you will meet. I immediately liked Caitlin and could understand her situation and the feelings she had of being in a new place, both excitement and intimidation. A new place, new people and an unsure environment and the last thing she’s worried about is a boyfriend or falling in love, even though it seems that people are looking all around and yet she bumps into Steven, a “tall, dark, handsome and athletic” guy you expect to be another womanizer and yet he’s not. Steven is a complex character and he’s sincerely intrigued by Caitlin. You spend the first half or so of the story learning about Caitlin and Steven and watching their relationship develop. Then there is an unexpected turn of events, which sets the baseline for the remainder of the story. You see Steven taken away from everyone he knows and everyone he loves, no one knows who he is, or that he exists. You come to learn about the next evolution in humankind and their trials and tribulations, their wants and needs and the story leaves you wanting for more. All of the main and supporting characters are well built with complex personalities which brings the story to life. You can feel the pain they feel and understand their feelings from excitement, fear, love and lust to sorrow and uncertainty about the future. I couldn't put this book down and read from the start to about 63% in before I stopped and by the time I was about 80% done I knew I’d be buying the remaining two in the trilogy.
I gave this book a rating of 5 out of 5 stars because aside from a single sentence which didn't seem grammatically correct, the story was nearly flawless. The characters and story had me enchanted from day one and the plot unfolded at just the right pace. This isn't your typical paranormal or vampire story, but it will keep you on your toes and isn't full of “fluff”, but has a lot of deeper issues going on in the sidelines along with the main plot. When I found out this was the authors debut novel I couldn't believe it. I can’t wait to see what else Vanessa writes in the remainder of this trilogy and beyond. I've already borrowed the trilogy on the Kindle so I can decide if I want to buy them all in the Kindle edition or in a physical book.
I gave this book a rating of 5 out of 5 stars because aside from a single sentence which didn't seem grammatically correct, the story was nearly flawless. The characters and story had me enchanted from day one and the plot unfolded at just the right pace. This isn't your typical paranormal or vampire story, but it will keep you on your toes and isn't full of “fluff”, but has a lot of deeper issues going on in the sidelines along with the main plot. When I found out this was the authors debut novel I couldn't believe it. I can’t wait to see what else Vanessa writes in the remainder of this trilogy and beyond. I've already borrowed the trilogy on the Kindle so I can decide if I want to buy them all in the Kindle edition or in a physical book.
January 5, 2014
As promised I have read and reviewed this wonderful book by Vanessa Wester and really can recommend this I gave it a well deserved 5 stars
This book is introduced with a prologue, which initially I didn't understand, but it really helped once the main story began to unfold
The opening chapter of Hybrid begins with our introduction to one of the main protagonist, Caitlin, and gives a narrative about her first semester at University and attempts to settle in on campus. We also begin to meet quite a few of the other minor characters and these fill out the narrative rather nicely.
Before too long we are then become acquainted with the main protagonist of the piece (and her eventual love interest) Steven.
From the first description we have of Steven it is obvious that he is a very special individual and this draws you in and piqued my interest as a lover of all things paranormal.
The attraction between the two is almost tangible and instantaneous but not at the cost of the storyline in this instance.
They gradually develop into "an item" and then their romance is cut short by the appearance of some of Steven's long lost and also unknown family members, and with that a history that he cannot run away from. The consequence is that all their lives are altered irrevocably and also apparently forever.
This story has a twist in the tale regarding the "vampires" in this story as it takes a refreshing slant on the usual vampire tale, which is ultimately explained extremely well.
I loved this book and especially the detail regarding Freshers week and it took me back to my own memories of that time at University.
I was captivated and finished the book in short shrift and was compelled to immediately download the second in the series "Complications"
A thoroughly well deserved 5* and an author to look out for in the future
This book is introduced with a prologue, which initially I didn't understand, but it really helped once the main story began to unfold
The opening chapter of Hybrid begins with our introduction to one of the main protagonist, Caitlin, and gives a narrative about her first semester at University and attempts to settle in on campus. We also begin to meet quite a few of the other minor characters and these fill out the narrative rather nicely.
Before too long we are then become acquainted with the main protagonist of the piece (and her eventual love interest) Steven.
From the first description we have of Steven it is obvious that he is a very special individual and this draws you in and piqued my interest as a lover of all things paranormal.
The attraction between the two is almost tangible and instantaneous but not at the cost of the storyline in this instance.
They gradually develop into "an item" and then their romance is cut short by the appearance of some of Steven's long lost and also unknown family members, and with that a history that he cannot run away from. The consequence is that all their lives are altered irrevocably and also apparently forever.
This story has a twist in the tale regarding the "vampires" in this story as it takes a refreshing slant on the usual vampire tale, which is ultimately explained extremely well.
I loved this book and especially the detail regarding Freshers week and it took me back to my own memories of that time at University.
I was captivated and finished the book in short shrift and was compelled to immediately download the second in the series "Complications"
A thoroughly well deserved 5* and an author to look out for in the future
January 31, 2013
This book is introduced with a prologue, which initially I didn't understand, but it really helped once the main story began to unfold
The opening chapter of Hybrid begins with our introduction to one of the main protagonist, Caitlin, and gives a narrative about her first semester at University and attempts to settle in on campus. We also begin to meet quite a few of the other minor characters and these fill out the narrative rather nicely.
Before too long we are then become acquainted with the main protagonist of the piece (and her eventual love interest) Steven.
From the first description we have of Steven it is obvious that he is a very special individual and this draws you in and piqued my interest as a lover of all things paranormal.
The attraction between the two is almost tangible and instantaneous but not at the cost of the storyline in this instance.
They gradually develop into "an item" and then their romance is cut short by the appearance of some of Steven's long lost and also unknown family members, and with that a history that he cannot run away from. The consequence is that all their lives are altered irrevocably and also apparently forever.
This story has a twist in the tale regarding the "vampires" in this story as it takes a refreshing slant on the usual vampire tale, which is ultimately explained extremely well.
I loved this book and especially the detail regarding Freshers week and it took me back to my own memories of that time at University.
I was captivated and finished the book in short shrift and was compelled to immediately download the second in the series "Complications"
A thoroughly well deserved 5* and an author to look out for in the future
The opening chapter of Hybrid begins with our introduction to one of the main protagonist, Caitlin, and gives a narrative about her first semester at University and attempts to settle in on campus. We also begin to meet quite a few of the other minor characters and these fill out the narrative rather nicely.
Before too long we are then become acquainted with the main protagonist of the piece (and her eventual love interest) Steven.
From the first description we have of Steven it is obvious that he is a very special individual and this draws you in and piqued my interest as a lover of all things paranormal.
The attraction between the two is almost tangible and instantaneous but not at the cost of the storyline in this instance.
They gradually develop into "an item" and then their romance is cut short by the appearance of some of Steven's long lost and also unknown family members, and with that a history that he cannot run away from. The consequence is that all their lives are altered irrevocably and also apparently forever.
This story has a twist in the tale regarding the "vampires" in this story as it takes a refreshing slant on the usual vampire tale, which is ultimately explained extremely well.
I loved this book and especially the detail regarding Freshers week and it took me back to my own memories of that time at University.
I was captivated and finished the book in short shrift and was compelled to immediately download the second in the series "Complications"
A thoroughly well deserved 5* and an author to look out for in the future
February 28, 2015
3.5 stars, and that mostly because this is a YA/NA book (which isn't normally my target reading).
A group of kids are starting their first year at university, trying to fit in, adjusting to being away from home, reinventing themselves into who they will become. For some, it is easier than for others. Caitlin shares a hall with three other girls, one of which is horribly homesick and struggling to fit in. Lonely, homesick girls make the easiest targets, and before she has a chance to go home, she dies of an apparent suicide.
Steven is handsome and confident, and he and Caitlin share an instant bond. When Caitlin returns home to sort out her hall-mate's death, another woman targets Steven, leaving him confused and with an odd bruise on his neck.
Caitlin returns to university to pick up where she left off with Steven and the two rapidly become a couple, until one night when she is kidnapped to lure Steven out - and then he is kidnapped and all memory of him and his existence is expunged.
What is Steven? And what are all the people claiming to be a superior race who are secreted away inside a volcano deep in the Amazonian jungle?
The story was interesting. The author creates a hidden society, a modern-day Utopia, and yet humanity almost always chooses freedom over confined quarters, no matter how perfect the living conditions. I think the author has done an excellent job showing the differing personalities and societal cliques. She's done a nice job of ending the first book in the trilogy, teasing you into the next book without leaving you wanting for answers to the theme in the first book. Worth the read.
A group of kids are starting their first year at university, trying to fit in, adjusting to being away from home, reinventing themselves into who they will become. For some, it is easier than for others. Caitlin shares a hall with three other girls, one of which is horribly homesick and struggling to fit in. Lonely, homesick girls make the easiest targets, and before she has a chance to go home, she dies of an apparent suicide.
Steven is handsome and confident, and he and Caitlin share an instant bond. When Caitlin returns home to sort out her hall-mate's death, another woman targets Steven, leaving him confused and with an odd bruise on his neck.
Caitlin returns to university to pick up where she left off with Steven and the two rapidly become a couple, until one night when she is kidnapped to lure Steven out - and then he is kidnapped and all memory of him and his existence is expunged.
What is Steven? And what are all the people claiming to be a superior race who are secreted away inside a volcano deep in the Amazonian jungle?
The story was interesting. The author creates a hidden society, a modern-day Utopia, and yet humanity almost always chooses freedom over confined quarters, no matter how perfect the living conditions. I think the author has done an excellent job showing the differing personalities and societal cliques. She's done a nice job of ending the first book in the trilogy, teasing you into the next book without leaving you wanting for answers to the theme in the first book. Worth the read.
October 20, 2013
Meet Steven Thorn, a university student whose life is turned upside when he discovers he's a Hybrid. Steven has lost his family, friends and his girlfriend and is then kidnapped by his maternal family and thrown into a world far away from everyone. Everyone human that is.
When you first start getting into the story you automatically think Vampires, but as you discover more, Vampires is not the correct term for Steven's new family and he must learn to accept what he has become and embrace his new life.
This book has a fabulous story line (except one teeny tiny little paragraph which made me laugh) but don't let that spoil it for you. It's well worth the read and as I got to the end I was frantically swiping my kindle screen looking for more as I wanted to know what happened next. I will definitely be reading the next book and would highly recommend it.
Reviewed by Laura
When you first start getting into the story you automatically think Vampires, but as you discover more, Vampires is not the correct term for Steven's new family and he must learn to accept what he has become and embrace his new life.
This book has a fabulous story line (except one teeny tiny little paragraph which made me laugh) but don't let that spoil it for you. It's well worth the read and as I got to the end I was frantically swiping my kindle screen looking for more as I wanted to know what happened next. I will definitely be reading the next book and would highly recommend it.
Reviewed by Laura
July 21, 2016
"Hybrid (The Evolution Trilogy)" by Vanessa Wester is a very original paranormal novel with great romance and a unique story line. It starts off as a regular University romance story between Steven Thorn and Caitlin. They meet at her first day at a UK university and fall for each other. By allowing alternating viewpoints we get to feel for the characters and see the pure nature of their feelings for each other. Wester establishes also a few important side characters and gives enough time to the romance part before changing course and embarking on the paranormal part of the story. The latter is indeed quite unique and makes this book a welcome addition to the often predictable or repetitive helpings in the genre.
By openig the book with a mysterious prologue the author has already prepared us readers for some twists and the solid plot does not let us down.
By openig the book with a mysterious prologue the author has already prepared us readers for some twists and the solid plot does not let us down.
April 24, 2014
I really enjoyed this novel and it definitely wasn’t what I was expecting when I started. I thought that both main characters, Caitlin and Steven, were well established from the beginning and I found the development of their relationship believable. The opening section worked well in creating empathy with both of them and I found myself routing for them throughout the rest of the novel.
Hybrid is also very well paced and has little hooks throughout the novel that make you want to read on. One element that I really liked was the use of multiple points of view that allows the reader into the mind of the different characters and therefore builds up layers of understanding about what is happening through different characters’ motivations.
I also liked the ending and it definitely made me want to read the other two books in the trilogy.
Hybrid is also very well paced and has little hooks throughout the novel that make you want to read on. One element that I really liked was the use of multiple points of view that allows the reader into the mind of the different characters and therefore builds up layers of understanding about what is happening through different characters’ motivations.
I also liked the ending and it definitely made me want to read the other two books in the trilogy.
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May 18, 2015A SURPRISING BOOK CREATING AN AMAZING COMMUNITY!
I would love to visit the home of the main characters, even maybe join up and live there forever. It really seemed utopian.
This is a love story that has all the characteristics of every genre that is important: mystery, thrills, danger, suspense, action and adventure. I love Author, Vanessa Wester's creation of a hidden society and her interpretation of evolution of mankind to the next level....could it actually happen? You will have to read "Hybrid" to decide for yourself.
I am going on to the next book in the series because I love the main characters and can't wait to find out what happens next. It is interesting to me that I care alot for the main characters because you would normally characterise them as bad guys.
KUDOS Ms. Wester on a tale well told. Don't pass this trilogy up...it is an awesome read.
I would love to visit the home of the main characters, even maybe join up and live there forever. It really seemed utopian.
This is a love story that has all the characteristics of every genre that is important: mystery, thrills, danger, suspense, action and adventure. I love Author, Vanessa Wester's creation of a hidden society and her interpretation of evolution of mankind to the next level....could it actually happen? You will have to read "Hybrid" to decide for yourself.
I am going on to the next book in the series because I love the main characters and can't wait to find out what happens next. It is interesting to me that I care alot for the main characters because you would normally characterise them as bad guys.
KUDOS Ms. Wester on a tale well told. Don't pass this trilogy up...it is an awesome read.
July 30, 2014
Vanessa Wester has done well with her first book. The plot was excellent refreshingly engaging with a hint of love story with a lot of paranormal. I really enjoy Steven and how he was discovered to have been a part of this new evolved form of the human race. I loved how emotional Vanessa made the characters. The concept of a vampire utopia was a great addition to the book. Even though the characters had to make a kill on thier change was an excellent idea. The abilities that each individual acquires on thier change is great. I really liked this book a must read! Cant wait for the second in the series
January 19, 2016
Who am I-What am I
Scotland was very excited about being a freshman at college. Although she didn't know what she wanted as a major, she kept her mind open to change. Cairo and meets Steven the very first day and knows she is very attracted to him. Steven was going into law and didn't have many classes together with Cairo and, but they did run into each other a lot. As their friendship grew, they became very close. Feeling that someone was going watching him, Steven became uneasy. Although he didn't know it, he had been bitten by something. He was now on someone's agenda, but who?
Scotland was very excited about being a freshman at college. Although she didn't know what she wanted as a major, she kept her mind open to change. Cairo and meets Steven the very first day and knows she is very attracted to him. Steven was going into law and didn't have many classes together with Cairo and, but they did run into each other a lot. As their friendship grew, they became very close. Feeling that someone was going watching him, Steven became uneasy. Although he didn't know it, he had been bitten by something. He was now on someone's agenda, but who?
May 8, 2016
Steven meets Caitlin at university, catching him off guard with the instant attraction between them.
Steven though has a secret past and it's unveiling will change everything. Steven then meets with others as his secret is revealed to him and he learns all about his Mother's family.
Though classed as romance, I didn't find this overbearing, yes romance in it, blossoming. Sex but not graphic and not off putting, actually well written! I don't read many books in this genre but I've added next 2 to wish list as I enjoyed this 1 so much. A good change of genre.
Steven though has a secret past and it's unveiling will change everything. Steven then meets with others as his secret is revealed to him and he learns all about his Mother's family.
Though classed as romance, I didn't find this overbearing, yes romance in it, blossoming. Sex but not graphic and not off putting, actually well written! I don't read many books in this genre but I've added next 2 to wish list as I enjoyed this 1 so much. A good change of genre.
November 22, 2012
Firstly, I need to acknowledge how FAST I was drawn in. An original story line, that I could easily see on the big screen. The isolation of this new breed gave me flash back images of "Logan's Run". Very much enjoyed the concept, though wanted a more thorough, descriptive dialogue to correspond with my active imagination. This story definitely has the possibility of running feet!! Looking forward to Part II...
June 26, 2013
I liked this book most of the time. There were points in the book where I got bored and felt the history of the characters was repetitive and I found myself skipping over it. The concept is refreshing and unique but the story just didn't have enough excitement to keep me reading through the trilogy. I struggled to get an image of the characters and the relationships and dialogue seemed a little wooden. Like I said I love the concept but this just didn't suck me in.
February 9, 2014
Stories about paranormals are not my usual read but I was intrigued by the title. Indeed I found the concept of a "hybrid" original. I enjoyed the different take on how the people in the story became vampires and what abilities that gave them. The suggestion that they might contribute to an evolution of a different species was thought provoking. I am curious to see where the author takes the notion of a human/vampire "hybrid."
April 2, 2013
Awesome!!! As I started this book, I enjoyed the set up and the character pov's. as the story progressed I was completely reeled in. I am excited to see where this series goes, I am rooting for Steven, his independence and hoping he reconnects with Caitlan. I am also hoping we get a story line on Emily.
August 26, 2014
This is a well written book that I found fascinating from the start.
I had to keep reading at every opportunity. It's not the usual type of book that I read, but I will definitely be reading the others in the series.
I had to keep reading at every opportunity. It's not the usual type of book that I read, but I will definitely be reading the others in the series.
August 16, 2015
A good book that followed the tropes, until about the middle of the story, and then it went in a different direction. Not saying that is bad, just it was unexpected.
I enjoyed and would read another of Ms. Wester's books.
I enjoyed and would read another of Ms. Wester's books.
August 3, 2012
A great twist on the usual vampire tale. I loved Stephen's character and how he was dealing with everything that had been thrown at him. Can't wait for the next book out. Kim
November 3, 2013
My review has been posted under Orchard Book Club
October 27, 2014
Fantastic book. A really good read.
Well written characters and plot. Really sucked me in.
Well written characters and plot. Really sucked me in.
August 13, 2016
A fun read which made me read the rest of the trilogy - and which I also enjoyed.
November 12, 2016
Not what it seems to be at first...
Thoroughly enjoyable. Took some twists, took some turns. But wow, the ideas, the secrets. I want to read the next one, and the next one....
Thoroughly enjoyable. Took some twists, took some turns. But wow, the ideas, the secrets. I want to read the next one, and the next one....
May 14, 2023
I started reading this as a free ebook a while ago but stalled a few chapters in. It was good enough to get through when I re-started but I think it continued to be slightly less than convincing. While the earlier chapters remained a little vague, the remainder of the story was interesting enough to keep me until the end. The key to a fiction of this kind – paranormal/fantasy/scifi – is a convincing twist on reality or alternative reality which wasn’t the case for me. Any rationale for hybridisation as radical as the one proposed here is unlikely to be ‘scientifically’ plausible, but that isn’t always a showstopper. But in this case it felt weak, particularly given the ‘denial’ of those affected regarding their condition or what they are willing to be labelled. Not sure I’ll follow up with subsequent books in the series.
February 15, 2022
A good story with well developed characters and a solid plot.
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