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Hleo
Who is Ethan Flynn and the secret society known as Hleo? High school senior Hannah Reed is about to find out in this exciting, young adult fantasy romance. The first book in the Hleo series.
Hannah’s plans for a nice, quiet senior year of high school are rapidly disintegrating. It all starts when she innocently bursts in on Ethan Flynn in the change room of the clothing store where she works. Ethan’s presence in Hannah’s world is subtle but constant, and when he saves her life, they become linked by the workings of an ancient society and Ethan’s sworn duty to protect Hannah. Working together to figure out what destiny wants with Hannah, the two of them stumble on a baffling mystery that leaves even Ethan questioning what is in store for her future. With Ethan’s help, Hannah learns there is far more to this life, to her life, than she ever realized. As they attempt to untangle Hannah’s unique past and emerging abilities, an unknown danger from Ethan’s past looms ever closer. While racing to put together the pieces of the puzzle before it’s too late, Hannah wrestles with the idea that she is anything but average, and that perhaps she is also more to Ethan than just a job.
Hleo; a story of destiny and how one decision can change everything.
Hannah’s plans for a nice, quiet senior year of high school are rapidly disintegrating. It all starts when she innocently bursts in on Ethan Flynn in the change room of the clothing store where she works. Ethan’s presence in Hannah’s world is subtle but constant, and when he saves her life, they become linked by the workings of an ancient society and Ethan’s sworn duty to protect Hannah. Working together to figure out what destiny wants with Hannah, the two of them stumble on a baffling mystery that leaves even Ethan questioning what is in store for her future. With Ethan’s help, Hannah learns there is far more to this life, to her life, than she ever realized. As they attempt to untangle Hannah’s unique past and emerging abilities, an unknown danger from Ethan’s past looms ever closer. While racing to put together the pieces of the puzzle before it’s too late, Hannah wrestles with the idea that she is anything but average, and that perhaps she is also more to Ethan than just a job.
Hleo; a story of destiny and how one decision can change everything.
254 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 28, 2016
16 people are currently reading
122 people want to read
About the author
Rebecca Weller
5 books47 followersRebecca Weller spent her childhood chasing white rabbits, having tea parties on the ceiling, searching for Boo Radley in his tree, or sailing on a raft down the Mississippi River. She spent time in the land of Oz with not only Dorothy but also Elphaba, in the New England area with the March family, and on the red sand shores of Prince Edward Island at Green Gables.
Her years of education spread between Stoneybrook Middle School, Sweet Valley High, The London Institute, and a brief spell in Forks, WA. She has learned much from journeying to ivory towers, exploring the Swiss Alps, or cheering on the selection of a new princess in Illea.
When not writing her own stories, she continues to attend balls with the Bennett sisters in the English countryside, solve complex murder mysteries in the New York area, explore kingdoms found through wardrobes, or enjoys a good Jazz-inspired soiree in Long Island.
Good writers are readers. They are those that have been captured by the beauty of other’s words and feel compelled to share their stories as well. Anything more you want to know about me feel free to ask, I’m an open book 😏.
Her years of education spread between Stoneybrook Middle School, Sweet Valley High, The London Institute, and a brief spell in Forks, WA. She has learned much from journeying to ivory towers, exploring the Swiss Alps, or cheering on the selection of a new princess in Illea.
When not writing her own stories, she continues to attend balls with the Bennett sisters in the English countryside, solve complex murder mysteries in the New York area, explore kingdoms found through wardrobes, or enjoys a good Jazz-inspired soiree in Long Island.
Good writers are readers. They are those that have been captured by the beauty of other’s words and feel compelled to share their stories as well. Anything more you want to know about me feel free to ask, I’m an open book 😏.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
October 27, 2016
(I received a digital copy of this book for free. Thanks to author Rebecca Weller.)
This was a YA paranormal/fantasy story with a touch of romance.
Hannah was an interesting character, and I liked Ethan also, even if they were a little bit clueless when it came to their love lives. I actually felt quite sorry for Ryan though as it seemed like nobody wanted to go out with him.
The storyline in this was about Hannah meeting Ethan and starting a friendship with him, and slowly discovering that he was hiding some massive secrets from her. We got a bit of action, some unusual happenings, and a bit of romance too, and I liked the little twists we got thrown towards the end.
The ending to this was pretty good, and it will be interesting to see where the story goes from here.
7 out of 10
This was a YA paranormal/fantasy story with a touch of romance.
Hannah was an interesting character, and I liked Ethan also, even if they were a little bit clueless when it came to their love lives. I actually felt quite sorry for Ryan though as it seemed like nobody wanted to go out with him.
The storyline in this was about Hannah meeting Ethan and starting a friendship with him, and slowly discovering that he was hiding some massive secrets from her. We got a bit of action, some unusual happenings, and a bit of romance too, and I liked the little twists we got thrown towards the end.
The ending to this was pretty good, and it will be interesting to see where the story goes from here.
7 out of 10
September 21, 2017
It is a compelling story with believable characters. The characters stand out from the page and make you become involved with them. The pacing is good. It has areas of grey that makes the reader want to explore further as to why these characters behave the way they do. The protagonist, Hannah, is a believable teenager. Conflicted with her emotions, she allows her personality to dictate to her how she should behave not only with her peer group, but also with the characters with the same amount of innocence and sophistication that one finds in today's teens. I would recommend HLeo to the ardent readers of YA genre
October 27, 2016
(I received a copy from the author, In exchange for an honest review.)
The characters in this were alright, but I didn't love any of them.
This was an okay read, although there were points where my interest started to waver slightly, so I felt a bit bored at times. It felt like quite a quick read, so I didn't find it dragging at all, which was good.
Overall, Not one that kept me gripped throughout, but an okay read.
The characters in this were alright, but I didn't love any of them.
This was an okay read, although there were points where my interest started to waver slightly, so I felt a bit bored at times. It felt like quite a quick read, so I didn't find it dragging at all, which was good.
Overall, Not one that kept me gripped throughout, but an okay read.
October 21, 2018
This book draws you into the world of the Hleo. I loved that every moment the two main characters were together I kept hoping that the romance would blossom. It was just enough to hope and turn the next page. I enjoyed the idea of taking real life and mingling it with forces above our realities. Enjoyed this book and look forward to the second one to find out what happens!
September 2, 2018
Beautifully written
This book deserves more than 5 stars. Its a perfect YA in every way. I just couldn't put it down. Hleo captivated me in a way that very few books have. I love Hannah and Ethan. I cannot wait to read the other books in the series.
This book deserves more than 5 stars. Its a perfect YA in every way. I just couldn't put it down. Hleo captivated me in a way that very few books have. I love Hannah and Ethan. I cannot wait to read the other books in the series.
March 2, 2018
"Hleo" is a book about a girl, Hannah, who's in the last year of high school and her life completely changes when she meets a mysterious stranger, named Ethan. She has to tackle hunting for her real parents, as she's adopted, and also her growing attraction to Ethan, who is a new student in her school and seems oddly friendly with her. It turns out that Hannah's life is in more danger than she could possibly imagine!
What I liked most about the book is the fact that it had an original storyline. I liked the notion that every small act serves a greater purpose and that somehow we are all interlinked with historical events. Can I just say how much I loved the fact that Hannah paints! I am very inadequate at painting, so when I find books with the main character being a painter, I get really excited! It gave me a nice insight on how a painter's mind works and how much effort and dedication he/she has to put in his/her paintings or drawings. Lastly, I was expecting it to be a bit of romance between Ethan and Hannah and thankfully I was not disappointed!
What concerned me a bit about the book is that there's too much exposition. Ethan and Hannah spent an excessive amount of time talking about what happened to Hannah's parents, what exactly is Hleo and so on. I would love for them to talk but if that help in developing their relationship more. Ethan in particular explains everything there is to know about their backstories, but I would have liked that to happen a different way, so we could watch them explore how they feel better. A way to solve that would be if certain chapters of the book were dedicated to those backstories, so we could experience them from the author's point of view, thus making the book longer and more insightful. Also, that would give the added benefit of seeing Ethan and Hannah fall in love properly, because if all they do is talk about the past, it's difficult for me to believe Hannah when she suddenly says she loves Ethan so much that she would die for him.
All in all, "Hleo" is an interesting novel, with fresh ideas that make it quite and enjoyable read!
What I liked most about the book is the fact that it had an original storyline. I liked the notion that every small act serves a greater purpose and that somehow we are all interlinked with historical events. Can I just say how much I loved the fact that Hannah paints! I am very inadequate at painting, so when I find books with the main character being a painter, I get really excited! It gave me a nice insight on how a painter's mind works and how much effort and dedication he/she has to put in his/her paintings or drawings. Lastly, I was expecting it to be a bit of romance between Ethan and Hannah and thankfully I was not disappointed!
What concerned me a bit about the book is that there's too much exposition. Ethan and Hannah spent an excessive amount of time talking about what happened to Hannah's parents, what exactly is Hleo and so on. I would love for them to talk but if that help in developing their relationship more. Ethan in particular explains everything there is to know about their backstories, but I would have liked that to happen a different way, so we could watch them explore how they feel better. A way to solve that would be if certain chapters of the book were dedicated to those backstories, so we could experience them from the author's point of view, thus making the book longer and more insightful. Also, that would give the added benefit of seeing Ethan and Hannah fall in love properly, because if all they do is talk about the past, it's difficult for me to believe Hannah when she suddenly says she loves Ethan so much that she would die for him.
All in all, "Hleo" is an interesting novel, with fresh ideas that make it quite and enjoyable read!
September 7, 2018
I really enjoyed this book, it was a quick read and kept my interest. I really liked the storyline and the love story of Ethan and Hannah.
September 16, 2016
I was lucky enough to get a copy of Hleo from the lovely author Rebecca Weller! Thank you so much!
This book was filled with mystery, romance and lots of fantasy fun!
Hleo was fast paced and so good I just couldn't put it down! It focuses on Hannah, a seemingly normal adopted teen girl. One night when working she accidentally walks in on a guy getting changed and is shocked to find him at school the next day. Ethan seems to always pop up at the right time and after the second time of saving her life, she starts to wonder if it is a coincidence or not. Ethan is hiding many secrets and Hannah won't stop until she finds out what they are.
I loved the story and the characters of this book. Hannaha's character is strong and independent and she handles learning the truth and having people come after her, trying to kill her pretty well. And that says a lot about her character because I know I wouldn't be that casual about it. Ethan, Ethan, Ethan, where do I start. At the begging he seems like a bit of a stalker, but I wouldn't mind a stalker if he looked like that! The number 1 rule of being a Hleo is to never fall in love with the person your protecting and he yet he still does and that made my heart melt! I was so annoyed when he would just say she was a job because it was so obvious he loved her and I was so happy when he admitted it!
I felt like the villain was a little too obvious, as soon as they introduced him, I knew it was suspicious and that he would be the bad guy. But that might just be because I have read so many YA books and I'm pretty good at picking out what is going to happen.
Overall, Hleo was a great YA book that I would definitely recommend!
This book was filled with mystery, romance and lots of fantasy fun!
Hleo was fast paced and so good I just couldn't put it down! It focuses on Hannah, a seemingly normal adopted teen girl. One night when working she accidentally walks in on a guy getting changed and is shocked to find him at school the next day. Ethan seems to always pop up at the right time and after the second time of saving her life, she starts to wonder if it is a coincidence or not. Ethan is hiding many secrets and Hannah won't stop until she finds out what they are.
I loved the story and the characters of this book. Hannaha's character is strong and independent and she handles learning the truth and having people come after her, trying to kill her pretty well. And that says a lot about her character because I know I wouldn't be that casual about it. Ethan, Ethan, Ethan, where do I start. At the begging he seems like a bit of a stalker, but I wouldn't mind a stalker if he looked like that! The number 1 rule of being a Hleo is to never fall in love with the person your protecting and he yet he still does and that made my heart melt! I was so annoyed when he would just say she was a job because it was so obvious he loved her and I was so happy when he admitted it!
I felt like the villain was a little too obvious, as soon as they introduced him, I knew it was suspicious and that he would be the bad guy. But that might just be because I have read so many YA books and I'm pretty good at picking out what is going to happen.
Overall, Hleo was a great YA book that I would definitely recommend!
November 5, 2016
It was quite predictable for me, but still I kinda like the way the book was written, so I was able to finish it quickly because I couldn't stop reading. (I was on a trip when I read this, so three days are fast for me.) I wanted to know what will happen.
Like I said, this was quite predictable, but that didn't mean I wasn't intrigued by the book. Adam's identity is something predictable, but there are a lot of other things that's surprising and interesting like Ethan's role, because I expected it would be something more supernatural. It was refreshing. I liked Hannah's strange ability. It was mysterious, and I wondered if there was something more to it. If she was destined to be a part of Hleo.
I don't know if I like the mystery of this book. There are soooo many unanswered questions in my mind by the end of the book. I hope that this is not the end because I seriously want to know more on what's going to happen to Hannah and Ethan. I've grown attached to them, and I ship them very much. (Though the forbidden romance is also part of the reason. *sheepish grin*)
This has big potential for a sequel. And I really really hope that there will be one. So much things to discover about Hannah and their relationship. And with the Bana too.
Like I said, this was quite predictable, but that didn't mean I wasn't intrigued by the book. Adam's identity is something predictable, but there are a lot of other things that's surprising and interesting like Ethan's role, because I expected it would be something more supernatural. It was refreshing. I liked Hannah's strange ability. It was mysterious, and I wondered if there was something more to it. If she was destined to be a part of Hleo.
I don't know if I like the mystery of this book. There are soooo many unanswered questions in my mind by the end of the book. I hope that this is not the end because I seriously want to know more on what's going to happen to Hannah and Ethan. I've grown attached to them, and I ship them very much. (Though the forbidden romance is also part of the reason. *sheepish grin*)
This has big potential for a sequel. And I really really hope that there will be one. So much things to discover about Hannah and their relationship. And with the Bana too.
Read
October 17, 2017This was a really great story , I found myself reading every time I had the chance even times when I should’ve been doing something else, I thoroughly enjoyed every minute and I got hooked from the very beginning. I loved the emotions displayed and how you kept up with all the characters. Just as I thought you forgot about someone they were mentioned a little more. Great work and I hope you are writing a follow on story
March 1, 2018
I recieved a free copy of this book in exchange for a review. Thankyou Rebecca Weller!
I loved this book!! I couldn't put it down and can't wait to see what happens next!
School girl Hannah begins a friendship with Ethan. But not all is as it seems when Hannah's life is at risk which leads to secrets being revealed about not only Ethan, but Hannah's past too.
The book contains action, romance and twists that keep you guessing! I would 100% recommending reading it!
I loved this book!! I couldn't put it down and can't wait to see what happens next!
School girl Hannah begins a friendship with Ethan. But not all is as it seems when Hannah's life is at risk which leads to secrets being revealed about not only Ethan, but Hannah's past too.
The book contains action, romance and twists that keep you guessing! I would 100% recommending reading it!
July 26, 2016
Seventeen year old Hannah Reed helps her boss, Carmen, clean up East Halton’s clothing store, The Patch, at closing time. While checking that all stock had been removed from the change rooms, Hannah inadvertently walks in on semi-naked Ethan Flynn, who hadn’t realized the store had closed its doors for the night. Hannah is aghast when she discovers Ethan has just enrolled at her school, in which she is about to complete her senior year. While the female students fruitlessly throw themselves at the handsome new student, Ethan only has eyes for Hannah. When unexplained attempts are suddenly made on her life, Hannah feels both relieved and uneasy that Ethan always seems to be there to save her. Then she witnesses him murder a man before her very eyes. While trying to flee, she learns that Ethan is no ordinary boy and that she is no ordinary girl. Hannah will soon make a decision that will either save or destroy the earth and Ethan has been sent to protect her at all costs. For he is a Hleo – one of the many supernatural bodyguards whose job it is to protect those who are exceptional. Hannah now needs to figure out what monumental action on her part will make such a difference to the future of mankind, while trying to rein in her feelings for Ethan and determining the role of another new face in town, Adam, whose smile lights up any room... if she can survive the frequent assassination attempts on her life.
Wow. Just... wow. Rebecca Weller’s incredibly imaginative and action-packed tale kept me hanging on every single word. Hleo is a total whirlwind of adventure and an emotional roller-coaster ride. The main character had lived a normal, ordinary life for seventeen years before being thrown into a life of danger, carnage and fear. Hannah’s determination to make sense of what is going on around her, especially in the middle of trying to find out who her biological parents are, is impressive. I very much enjoyed the special bonds within Hannah’s close friendship circle, with typical teenage girls wanting to know ‘all the goss’ every single time Hannah is seen with Ethan or Adam. Although the story is paranormal in nature, each of the characters is presented as realistic and easy to engage with. Hleo is, without a doubt, one of the best young adult fiction books I have ever read. I look forward to the next book in the series and recommend this book to readers over the age of 15 who enjoy fast-paced action, adventure, humor and suspense in this romantic thriller.
- Rosie Malezer for Readers’ Favorite
Wow. Just... wow. Rebecca Weller’s incredibly imaginative and action-packed tale kept me hanging on every single word. Hleo is a total whirlwind of adventure and an emotional roller-coaster ride. The main character had lived a normal, ordinary life for seventeen years before being thrown into a life of danger, carnage and fear. Hannah’s determination to make sense of what is going on around her, especially in the middle of trying to find out who her biological parents are, is impressive. I very much enjoyed the special bonds within Hannah’s close friendship circle, with typical teenage girls wanting to know ‘all the goss’ every single time Hannah is seen with Ethan or Adam. Although the story is paranormal in nature, each of the characters is presented as realistic and easy to engage with. Hleo is, without a doubt, one of the best young adult fiction books I have ever read. I look forward to the next book in the series and recommend this book to readers over the age of 15 who enjoy fast-paced action, adventure, humor and suspense in this romantic thriller.
- Rosie Malezer for Readers’ Favorite
July 5, 2016
Hleo is a great action packed novel and covers many aspects of its genre! The story is also continuously moving along, making it both intriguing and fast paced.
It is narrated by a high school girl, Hannah. Hannah is very artistically gifted -which sadly I personally cannot relate to…but this whole concept of her artwork was introduced subtly so I sure didn’t see the whole thing about her foreshadowing coming, which was another key aspect of the book that I enjoyed. The explanations for occurrences throughout we’re revealed gradually and it allowed me to theorise as I read. (Especially the Adam storyline).
However the backstory behind these plots were given all at once in one large explanation and could be slightly confusing at times. The story is very well explained though and no key information in the history of the characters prior to the story is left out, other than that of which is intentional.
Hleo also gave me ‘the chosen one’ vibes. The main character, despite being a strong female character, didn’t do anything or work towards her fate and this was a recurring theme in many points in the book. Reminiscent of a Kardashian one could say… Perhaps she could’ve actually done something in order to achieve her destiny, rather than just waiting for the ‘decision’ that she must make in the future. She just waited for things to come to her. That being said, this could be elaborated on through character development in a sequel!
The story took a big turn in direction around half way through in terms of the way the story was unfolding, therefore I would’ve liked to hear more about the adoption and how her father knew about Ethan before. Was he somehow involved?
Other than that it was a very enjoyable read, although there were a few minor technicalities in the more action filled scenes. I can’t wait for a sequel and will definitely post another review on how the hole theme of destiny unravels!
It’s not the most intellectual of reads but I certainly recommend to give Hleo a chance!
It is narrated by a high school girl, Hannah. Hannah is very artistically gifted -which sadly I personally cannot relate to…but this whole concept of her artwork was introduced subtly so I sure didn’t see the whole thing about her foreshadowing coming, which was another key aspect of the book that I enjoyed. The explanations for occurrences throughout we’re revealed gradually and it allowed me to theorise as I read. (Especially the Adam storyline).
However the backstory behind these plots were given all at once in one large explanation and could be slightly confusing at times. The story is very well explained though and no key information in the history of the characters prior to the story is left out, other than that of which is intentional.
Hleo also gave me ‘the chosen one’ vibes. The main character, despite being a strong female character, didn’t do anything or work towards her fate and this was a recurring theme in many points in the book. Reminiscent of a Kardashian one could say… Perhaps she could’ve actually done something in order to achieve her destiny, rather than just waiting for the ‘decision’ that she must make in the future. She just waited for things to come to her. That being said, this could be elaborated on through character development in a sequel!
The story took a big turn in direction around half way through in terms of the way the story was unfolding, therefore I would’ve liked to hear more about the adoption and how her father knew about Ethan before. Was he somehow involved?
Other than that it was a very enjoyable read, although there were a few minor technicalities in the more action filled scenes. I can’t wait for a sequel and will definitely post another review on how the hole theme of destiny unravels!
It’s not the most intellectual of reads but I certainly recommend to give Hleo a chance!
October 28, 2016
/ I was given a free copy to give an honest review on the content I read. Thanks, Ms. Weller! /
The beginning of the book really sucked me in, and for a while I felt like I was mostly getting to know the characters. I didn't mind that at all, because I found them relatable and likeable. However, this continued on and I began to become bored.
The writing was really good, but once we got into the nitty gritty of what is going on, it was a load of information being dumped onto me and I grew even more bored. However, Hannah kept me engaged (even though her being a huge damsel made me cringe) with this mystery behind herself and her family, but I wasn't all too interested in Ethan. He was rather...bland. I suppose he's supposed to be as mysterious as his position and the Hleo, despite the relationship that blossoms between him and Hannah.
I give it a solid 3* because of how well written it was, and hope that the info dumping was necessary for the next book to totally blow me away. I'm looking forward to it, and would recommend it for someone during their day of relaxation. It's not too intense that you're ripping your hair out, but good enough to have your face a little too close to the screen/page (guilty).
The beginning of the book really sucked me in, and for a while I felt like I was mostly getting to know the characters. I didn't mind that at all, because I found them relatable and likeable. However, this continued on and I began to become bored.
The writing was really good, but once we got into the nitty gritty of what is going on, it was a load of information being dumped onto me and I grew even more bored. However, Hannah kept me engaged (even though her being a huge damsel made me cringe) with this mystery behind herself and her family, but I wasn't all too interested in Ethan. He was rather...bland. I suppose he's supposed to be as mysterious as his position and the Hleo, despite the relationship that blossoms between him and Hannah.
I give it a solid 3* because of how well written it was, and hope that the info dumping was necessary for the next book to totally blow me away. I'm looking forward to it, and would recommend it for someone during their day of relaxation. It's not too intense that you're ripping your hair out, but good enough to have your face a little too close to the screen/page (guilty).
September 20, 2017
I didn't know what to expect as I began reading Hleo. I was put off early on by a few glitches in wording but the story began to pull me in regardless.. With each chapter the glitches became less and less and the pull inward stronger. The plot unfolded with ease and by the last ten chapters I found my self pressing on with more urgency to find out how it would unfold.. What I found as the work ended was satisfaction and longing. My suspicions about some of the characters were proven true but the way they were revealed only increased my desire to see how it would unfold. Those things were satisfying. The longing came in the questions that were purposely left unanswered. I want to read more, know more and understand this world better. I look forward to experiencing the further development of this Hleo series.
December 7, 2016
(I received a digital copy of this book. Thanks to Rebecca Weller! )
The story was pretty good and well narrated. I liked it!! . The story began very well and I liked the climax. The middle part about the whole hleo thing and Hannah's love story was great too but I enjoyed the beggining and the ending the most. They had an amazing chemistry. And the characters were cute. Hannah , a perfect cute girl who has fallen in love with Ethan, who is the most handsome man we could imagine having a special charm. He is someone out of a fairy tale. Their relationship and the series of events kept me stuck to the book till the end.They were all good but it felt to me like something was missing. I'll like to know what happens with the story and so I'm definitely gonna read the next book :)
The story was pretty good and well narrated. I liked it!! . The story began very well and I liked the climax. The middle part about the whole hleo thing and Hannah's love story was great too but I enjoyed the beggining and the ending the most. They had an amazing chemistry. And the characters were cute. Hannah , a perfect cute girl who has fallen in love with Ethan, who is the most handsome man we could imagine having a special charm. He is someone out of a fairy tale. Their relationship and the series of events kept me stuck to the book till the end.They were all good but it felt to me like something was missing. I'll like to know what happens with the story and so I'm definitely gonna read the next book :)
September 20, 2017
From the moment I started 'Hleo' I wanted to keep reading, I was hooked instantly & had lots of questions - that were all answered in the course of the story. It took me a while to finish the book because I was busy with other stuff but it was on my mind the whole time. The construct of Hleo is brilliant, I loved the strong plot, thrilling action, strong characterisations and gripping writing style. The characters are all likeable (even a certain one that I won't name because of spoilers - is likeable until a twist reveals his evil nature.) I cared about them all and the constant threats to Hannah's safety made for a nerve-wracking read! Its perfectly set up for a sequel and I really hope one is on the way because I'd like to read it!
October 26, 2017
This was overall a wonderful novel! I fell in love with it. I love the characters and plot. It’s simple to understand, and very creative in how it’s played out. There are hits to a sequel, and I want one! The writing style is great! I loved seeing things in Hannah’s perspective, and it does cause some mystery in how Ethan feels. For me personally, I could predict some things that would happen, but it was still very clever how it was done in the end. The only, nitpicking, thing I would say is that it did seem fairly slow on some things. At least for me, but it worked well for this story. I would definitely reread this novel, and read any sequels to come out, if any come. Great job! Thanks for the fun adventure!
April 4, 2016
I was honestly extremely shocked by how phenomenal of a read Hleo was. The first chapter had me hooked into this alternate reality so deeply I could hardly put it down until I had finished, causing me to read during my work shift (potentially the only problematic part of this book). I found myself lost in the world and words of this author in a way I have difficulty doing with most novels; an incredible feat for the debut book of an author! I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys the writings of authors like Maggie Stiefvater, Cassandra Clare or really anyone who enjoys a good young adult fantasy and I cannot wait to have more instalments in this series!
January 2, 2018
Hleo was a great and compelling read for those who like YA fiction/sci-fi, like myself. The reader is taken on a journey, along with the main character Hannah, and as the story unfolds is hit with surprises along the way. As revelations were being presented, more questions into the secrets of the Hleo world would arise making the plot line exhilarating and hard to put the book down! Connections and loose ends from instances that seemed irrelevant in the early parts of the book were tied up in the end, which was very satisfying, while at the same time leaving enough mystery to draw you to pick up the next book in the series. Can’t wait to read book #2 - Veridan!
July 11, 2016
Starting out like a romance, the story includes enough car chases and danger to be a good action adventure for any guy to like. The romantic episodes are great for girls to read and the sci-fi/fantasy lovers will love this book too. This is really a great book for everyone, well written and a great story and believable characters. Great book!!!!
October 3, 2017
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. As I read I got more drawn into the characters. It had a good pace and kept me engaged in the story. I am very curious where it will go from here. I will be keeping my eye out for the next book in this series. I was sad when the book ended. I really do want to know what happens next.
October 26, 2017
This was an amazing story. Becky Weller's writing style reels you in and makes you want to keep reading page after page. I found myself on the edge of my seat, excited to find out where the twists and turns were going to lead to and cracking up at the perfectly timed humor throughout the book. To put it simply, you are going to fall in love with this book. Can't wait to read more from you Becky!
November 15, 2017
This book literally took the breath out of me. ;) I loved the characters, the descriptions, and just every single thing about it. It's very rare on this site to find something for me that is so easy to read. And I wouldn't change one thing about it. I can't wait to see what happens next! Please keep writing about the Hleo!
October 28, 2016
Thanks to the author for the copy, and it's probably 2.5 stars.
It wasn't that there was anything wrong with this, but it all felt rather obvious and predictable. It was reasonably entertaining, but I didn't feel enough for Hannah to really care too much about how events panned out.
It wasn't that there was anything wrong with this, but it all felt rather obvious and predictable. It was reasonably entertaining, but I didn't feel enough for Hannah to really care too much about how events panned out.
October 9, 2018
I was provided with a free digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
It was difficult to make it through this book for a number of reasons. There are inconsistencies throughout for example at first Hannah states it was her step mother who died but later we find out it is her adopted mother who she has been with since she was a baby she never refers to her adopted dad as a step fathers why this inconsistent remark with her mother.
Another is that her dad apparently knows all about Ethan's secret life so he should know why Ethan is there yet he doesn't want his daughter to hang out with him?? Also knowing your daughter was possibly in danger you still leave her alone for a month - not likely.
The characters are very flat and don't have much personality at all. Hannah's supposed best friend doesn't seem concerned with any odd behaviour from Hannah - show me any girl's best friend who would act in the same manner. Some weren't needed at all there wasn't really any need for Ryan and Evelyn in my opinion.
Descriptions got to be too much and over the top the example that is the freshest in my mind is at the gala when the author describes each and every mask the characters are wearing. We get they were at a masked gala where they all had to wear masks. It was enough to explain how the art students made them and all the different varieties and how one matched Hannah's painting and leave it at that instead of boring the reader with what felt like a way to reach a word count.
I will not be running put to get the other two books in this series. I'm very glad I didn't pay for this book.
It was difficult to make it through this book for a number of reasons. There are inconsistencies throughout for example at first Hannah states it was her step mother who died but later we find out it is her adopted mother who she has been with since she was a baby she never refers to her adopted dad as a step fathers why this inconsistent remark with her mother.
Another is that her dad apparently knows all about Ethan's secret life so he should know why Ethan is there yet he doesn't want his daughter to hang out with him?? Also knowing your daughter was possibly in danger you still leave her alone for a month - not likely.
The characters are very flat and don't have much personality at all. Hannah's supposed best friend doesn't seem concerned with any odd behaviour from Hannah - show me any girl's best friend who would act in the same manner. Some weren't needed at all there wasn't really any need for Ryan and Evelyn in my opinion.
Descriptions got to be too much and over the top the example that is the freshest in my mind is at the gala when the author describes each and every mask the characters are wearing. We get they were at a masked gala where they all had to wear masks. It was enough to explain how the art students made them and all the different varieties and how one matched Hannah's painting and leave it at that instead of boring the reader with what felt like a way to reach a word count.
I will not be running put to get the other two books in this series. I'm very glad I didn't pay for this book.
February 19, 2018
I received a free copy of this ebook in exchange for an honest review. Thank you Rebecca Weller.
I enjoyed reading this book and I thought the writing style was very good.
I had a bit of a rough start as I kept reminders of other books of the same genre but about 1/4 of the way through, the originality of this book started coming through because this is a rather original story.
Hleo (protector/bodyguard in Old English) are the guardians of destinies. They are tasked with protecting people whose actions , as tiny as they might be, will have an influence on the world at large. I thought this was a very intriguing and enticing premise. It's well exploited and well developed by the author and I am curious to know more.
But, and this is rather uncharacteristic for me, I think we could have done without the love story. I don't think it brought anything further to the plot and it felt a little rushed, and sometimes didn't even make sense to me. I don't mind a good love story but I want to believe in it and her it wasn't the case. Or at least the romance could have a little more slow-burning.
That said I liked the characters who are completely believable and full-formed, and I really enjoyed being into this universe with its mythology, I am actually curious to see where this is going to go.
I enjoyed reading this book and I thought the writing style was very good.
I had a bit of a rough start as I kept reminders of other books of the same genre but about 1/4 of the way through, the originality of this book started coming through because this is a rather original story.
Hleo (protector/bodyguard in Old English) are the guardians of destinies. They are tasked with protecting people whose actions , as tiny as they might be, will have an influence on the world at large. I thought this was a very intriguing and enticing premise. It's well exploited and well developed by the author and I am curious to know more.
But, and this is rather uncharacteristic for me, I think we could have done without the love story. I don't think it brought anything further to the plot and it felt a little rushed, and sometimes didn't even make sense to me. I don't mind a good love story but I want to believe in it and her it wasn't the case. Or at least the romance could have a little more slow-burning.
That said I liked the characters who are completely believable and full-formed, and I really enjoyed being into this universe with its mythology, I am actually curious to see where this is going to go.
March 10, 2024
Trope heavy but entertaining enough
December 14, 2016
Finished! Finally! Although this is a R2R so now I have to write a review...
*update*
Review based on an advance copy.
Hannah is a normal teenage girl until one day she meets Ethan Flynn and realizes that not everything- or even most things- in her life are what they seem. Suddenly pursued on all sides, Hannah must decide who to trust in a world where everything has been turned upside down.
The initial premise is awesome, but unfortunately I nearly DNFed on this book. I am willing to put part of the blame on the fact that I don't do so well with ebooks, but at the same time I have read some really good books that have kept me hooked on my computer and this one just... didn't.
I hate the fact that my first R2R is one where I have to say negative things, but this book had several failing points.
The first thing that killed me was her naivete... I was screaming at my computer because no way would anyone in real life have arrows shot at them and not suspect SOMETHING. I like my heroines feisty and awesome, not stupid or naive. And while Hannah was certainly not stupid she did tend to rely on other people to do things for her as well as seeming to not suspect obviously strange activity around her.
The second main drawback for me was that the writing style seemed stifled a lot of the time. Phrases like, "nothing overly interesting to report" would never be spoken by a teenager in real life. Also, considering that the whole story was from Hannah's perspective, it would have been nice if she didn't think things like "hoping my friend would keep her reaction to a minimum." Teenagers, of which I am one, do not have that good silent grammar. Sorry.
Finally, so much in this book seemed to hinge on things Hannah overhead while standing just outside the door. Really? Just a pet peeve, honestly, but still annoying.
Obviously, there were also factors on the positive side. Otherwise this book wouldn't have three stars. The action while slow at the start, did amp up quite nicely toward the end, and I enjoyed the drama.
Ethan was well crafted, and how the two met was very creatively done. That was perhaps my favorite scene of the book.
Hannah's best friend was really fun. She was funny and sarcastic and maybe the most realistic character in the book, and I enjoyed her scenes if the dialogue between her and Hannah was a bit teenage girl cliche.
Finally, and perhaps the main factor that left me giving this three stars, was that I loved the base idea. The whole concept of Hleo was very cool, and was what initially drew me to the book as well as remaining its best feature. Yes, it could have been executed a little better in my opinion, but still overall a good read, if you're willing to overlook the few flaws I have mentioned.
*update*
Review based on an advance copy.
Hannah is a normal teenage girl until one day she meets Ethan Flynn and realizes that not everything- or even most things- in her life are what they seem. Suddenly pursued on all sides, Hannah must decide who to trust in a world where everything has been turned upside down.
The initial premise is awesome, but unfortunately I nearly DNFed on this book. I am willing to put part of the blame on the fact that I don't do so well with ebooks, but at the same time I have read some really good books that have kept me hooked on my computer and this one just... didn't.
I hate the fact that my first R2R is one where I have to say negative things, but this book had several failing points.
The first thing that killed me was her naivete... I was screaming at my computer because no way would anyone in real life have arrows shot at them and not suspect SOMETHING. I like my heroines feisty and awesome, not stupid or naive. And while Hannah was certainly not stupid she did tend to rely on other people to do things for her as well as seeming to not suspect obviously strange activity around her.
The second main drawback for me was that the writing style seemed stifled a lot of the time. Phrases like, "nothing overly interesting to report" would never be spoken by a teenager in real life. Also, considering that the whole story was from Hannah's perspective, it would have been nice if she didn't think things like "hoping my friend would keep her reaction to a minimum." Teenagers, of which I am one, do not have that good silent grammar. Sorry.
Finally, so much in this book seemed to hinge on things Hannah overhead while standing just outside the door. Really? Just a pet peeve, honestly, but still annoying.
Obviously, there were also factors on the positive side. Otherwise this book wouldn't have three stars. The action while slow at the start, did amp up quite nicely toward the end, and I enjoyed the drama.
Ethan was well crafted, and how the two met was very creatively done. That was perhaps my favorite scene of the book.
Hannah's best friend was really fun. She was funny and sarcastic and maybe the most realistic character in the book, and I enjoyed her scenes if the dialogue between her and Hannah was a bit teenage girl cliche.
Finally, and perhaps the main factor that left me giving this three stars, was that I loved the base idea. The whole concept of Hleo was very cool, and was what initially drew me to the book as well as remaining its best feature. Yes, it could have been executed a little better in my opinion, but still overall a good read, if you're willing to overlook the few flaws I have mentioned.
October 24, 2016
Seventeen year old Hannah Reed helps her boss, Carmen, clean up East Halton’s clothing store, The Patch, at closing time. While checking that all stock had been removed from the change rooms, Hannah inadvertently walks in on semi-naked Ethan Flynn, who hadn’t realized the store had closed its doors for the night. Hannah is aghast when she discovers Ethan has just enrolled at her school, in which she is about to complete her senior year. While the female students fruitlessly throw themselves at the handsome new student, Ethan only has eyes for Hannah. When unexplained attempts are suddenly made on her life, Hannah feels both relieved and uneasy that Ethan always seems to be there to save her. Then she witnesses him murder a man before her very eyes. While trying to flee, she learns that Ethan is no ordinary boy and that she is no ordinary girl. Hannah will soon make a decision that will either save or destroy the earth and Ethan has been sent to protect her at all costs. For he is a Hleo – one of the many supernatural bodyguards whose job it is to protect those who are exceptional. Hannah now needs to figure out what monumental action on her part will make such a difference to the future of mankind, while trying to rein in her feelings for Ethan and determining the role of another new face in town, Adam, whose smile lights up any room... if she can survive the frequent assassination attempts on her life.
Wow. Just... wow. Rebecca Weller’s incredibly imaginative and action-packed tale kept me hanging on every single word. Hleo is a total whirlwind of adventure and an emotional roller-coaster ride. The main character had lived a normal, ordinary life for seventeen years before being thrown into a life of danger, carnage and fear. Hannah’s determination to make sense of what is going on around her, especially in the middle of trying to find out who her biological parents are, is impressive. I very much enjoyed the special bonds within Hannah’s close friendship circle, with typical teenage girls wanting to know ‘all the goss’ every single time Hannah is seen with Ethan or Adam. Although the story is paranormal in nature, each of the characters is presented as realistic and easy to engage with. Hleo is, without a doubt, one of the best young adult fiction books I have ever read. I look forward to the next book in the series and recommend this book to readers over the age of 15 who enjoy fast-paced action, adventure, humor and suspense in this romantic thriller.
- Rosie Malezer for Readers’ Favorite
Wow. Just... wow. Rebecca Weller’s incredibly imaginative and action-packed tale kept me hanging on every single word. Hleo is a total whirlwind of adventure and an emotional roller-coaster ride. The main character had lived a normal, ordinary life for seventeen years before being thrown into a life of danger, carnage and fear. Hannah’s determination to make sense of what is going on around her, especially in the middle of trying to find out who her biological parents are, is impressive. I very much enjoyed the special bonds within Hannah’s close friendship circle, with typical teenage girls wanting to know ‘all the goss’ every single time Hannah is seen with Ethan or Adam. Although the story is paranormal in nature, each of the characters is presented as realistic and easy to engage with. Hleo is, without a doubt, one of the best young adult fiction books I have ever read. I look forward to the next book in the series and recommend this book to readers over the age of 15 who enjoy fast-paced action, adventure, humor and suspense in this romantic thriller.
- Rosie Malezer for Readers’ Favorite
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