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The Hybrid #1
The Hybrid
Sebastian Parker is thirteen. He thinks he is just an ordinary alpha off to join the Academy to refine his skills, but ‘the test’ shows something different. It turns out he is a Hybrid – a Quad-brid to be exact - and will grow up to be the most powerful alpha in more than two millennia.
Forced to join the Dark side of the Academy, Sebastian faces fear, rejection, and brutality. Making some unlikely friends and finding adventure, he strives to keep to the Light. However, in a final twist, unsure of who to trust, and what is real, Sebastian is faced with the ultimate decision of whether to embrace the Darkness …
Dark, brutal, and gripping, The Hybrid is the first novel in The Hybrid series. The series is set in a dark vision of the future where some humans, known as alphas, have developed abilities.
Forced to join the Dark side of the Academy, Sebastian faces fear, rejection, and brutality. Making some unlikely friends and finding adventure, he strives to keep to the Light. However, in a final twist, unsure of who to trust, and what is real, Sebastian is faced with the ultimate decision of whether to embrace the Darkness …
Dark, brutal, and gripping, The Hybrid is the first novel in The Hybrid series. The series is set in a dark vision of the future where some humans, known as alphas, have developed abilities.
424 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 1, 2022
295 people are currently reading
602 people want to read
About the author
E.K. Frances
14 books86 followersBorn with a love of fantasy, and an out-of-control imagination, E.K. Frances has been creating stories all their life. Whether travelling the world, or walking the dog, their mind is always dreaming up a new adventure.
Dark, gritty, broken worlds; fast-moving plots, and morally grey characters; blurred lines between right and wrong, and plenty of twists. If you like the sound of that, you will enjoy E.K. Frances’ books.
Are you ready to embrace the darkness?
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Dark, gritty, broken worlds; fast-moving plots, and morally grey characters; blurred lines between right and wrong, and plenty of twists. If you like the sound of that, you will enjoy E.K. Frances’ books.
Are you ready to embrace the darkness?
Mailing list | Follow on BookBub | Follow on Amazon
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
July 1, 2024
I read this book on my tablet using the Kindle app.
To start this review, I must say that I am greatly impressed and amazed by the story. You may read from the blurb that this is a "dark version" of Harry Potter, but saying that understates the story we have in front of us.
It's true that the first book of this series takes place during Sebastian's first year at the Academy for Alphas (Alphas are an evolved form of humanity with amazing powers, divided into four different clusters). Sebastian is forced by his father to choose the dark cluster, even though he doesn't want to. The problem for Sebastian is that he is so good at everything that the teachers soon see him as a dangerous specimen that must be eliminated.
Sebastian's life inside the Academy will be tremendously difficult as he learns to master his incredible abilities, all while a plan to get rid of him unfolds around him.
I found this book and story super original and with incredible potential. This book serves as an introduction, hinting at the mayhem that may happen in the future. I think this is a very promising fantasy sci-fi story, and I really want to keep reading. I totally recommend it.
To start this review, I must say that I am greatly impressed and amazed by the story. You may read from the blurb that this is a "dark version" of Harry Potter, but saying that understates the story we have in front of us.
It's true that the first book of this series takes place during Sebastian's first year at the Academy for Alphas (Alphas are an evolved form of humanity with amazing powers, divided into four different clusters). Sebastian is forced by his father to choose the dark cluster, even though he doesn't want to. The problem for Sebastian is that he is so good at everything that the teachers soon see him as a dangerous specimen that must be eliminated.
Sebastian's life inside the Academy will be tremendously difficult as he learns to master his incredible abilities, all while a plan to get rid of him unfolds around him.
I found this book and story super original and with incredible potential. This book serves as an introduction, hinting at the mayhem that may happen in the future. I think this is a very promising fantasy sci-fi story, and I really want to keep reading. I totally recommend it.
March 26, 2022
This is a YA/NA novel that has many elements of popular YA series. Although the premise of the novel is explained in sci-fi terms - part of humanity mutating to develop powers, which bring them into conflict with other humans - the nature of the powers is such that the story reads more as fantasy than as science fiction.
The initial set up is very similar to the Divergent series: 'alpha' teenagers with powers have to pick their 'core' at the age of thirteen, choosing to focus on either on telekinesis, conjuring, healing, or killing. The protagonist, Seb, is torn between his natural tendencies towards healing and his father's desire for him to join the 'Necros' core. It turns out that he is actually a hybrid, exhibiting powers across all four cores.
The remainder of the story definitely has the flavour of Harry Potter as the protagonist navigates learning, friendship and higher-level politics that place him in immediate danger. The story is engaging and interesting, with framing of the battle between Light and Dark and the conflict between alphas and humans.
There is one aspect of the novel that I found quite difficult to deal with though. Two of the key relationships in Seb's life - that with his father and that with one of his teachers and the head of his Core - are based on cycles of violence and abuse. I don't generally mind violence as part of the narrative in novels, and many YA novels have violence as part of the story. What left me uneasy was that it was an integral part of two relationships with power imbalance, where the stronger party should have been guiding and protecting the weaker one. More than that, though, I found it disturbing that violence and torture was repeatedly forgiven, accepted and even expected. In fact, this act of acceptance and forgiveness and fortitude is implicitly framed as being part of the character's 'Light' nature. Whereas the rebellion against bullying and abuse towards the end is framed in terms of the conversion to the 'Dark.' I think I would have to read the sequel to better understand the moral framing of this story.
The initial set up is very similar to the Divergent series: 'alpha' teenagers with powers have to pick their 'core' at the age of thirteen, choosing to focus on either on telekinesis, conjuring, healing, or killing. The protagonist, Seb, is torn between his natural tendencies towards healing and his father's desire for him to join the 'Necros' core. It turns out that he is actually a hybrid, exhibiting powers across all four cores.
The remainder of the story definitely has the flavour of Harry Potter as the protagonist navigates learning, friendship and higher-level politics that place him in immediate danger. The story is engaging and interesting, with framing of the battle between Light and Dark and the conflict between alphas and humans.
There is one aspect of the novel that I found quite difficult to deal with though. Two of the key relationships in Seb's life - that with his father and that with one of his teachers and the head of his Core - are based on cycles of violence and abuse. I don't generally mind violence as part of the narrative in novels, and many YA novels have violence as part of the story. What left me uneasy was that it was an integral part of two relationships with power imbalance, where the stronger party should have been guiding and protecting the weaker one. More than that, though, I found it disturbing that violence and torture was repeatedly forgiven, accepted and even expected. In fact, this act of acceptance and forgiveness and fortitude is implicitly framed as being part of the character's 'Light' nature. Whereas the rebellion against bullying and abuse towards the end is framed in terms of the conversion to the 'Dark.' I think I would have to read the sequel to better understand the moral framing of this story.
June 15, 2024
I reviewed this book a tear or so ago and at the time called out a few technical glitches I thought needed cleaning up. Since then, the author has redone the editing, I've read the new edition, and am delighted to say things look and read so much better to me now.
This is a YA magic-school story with a conflicted main character named Seb, friendships and enemies, snappy pacing, lots of action and intrigue.
I love the ‘kid with great powers’ trope. The magic school has a sketchy cast of teachers and students who keep newly arrived Seb on guard. Gruesome tests come at him early on, adding lots of tension. Seb wants to be a healer (he has a good heart) even as his dad wants otherwise (this is the allure of power). The rise in stakes throughout was done well.
I'm glad the author has written more in this series. This is one author to watch.
For fans of Harry Potter and Divergent. Really well done.
This is a YA magic-school story with a conflicted main character named Seb, friendships and enemies, snappy pacing, lots of action and intrigue.
I love the ‘kid with great powers’ trope. The magic school has a sketchy cast of teachers and students who keep newly arrived Seb on guard. Gruesome tests come at him early on, adding lots of tension. Seb wants to be a healer (he has a good heart) even as his dad wants otherwise (this is the allure of power). The rise in stakes throughout was done well.
I'm glad the author has written more in this series. This is one author to watch.
For fans of Harry Potter and Divergent. Really well done.
March 12, 2022
The setting of “The Hybrid” is a dark future world where some humans have evolved into alphas. Sebastian Parker is one of them: But his abusive and oppressive childhood is about to change. At 13 all alphas must test to see if they are Light or Dark, and then sorted into one of the 4 core duties. Seb, it turns out, is a ‘Hybrid’ or more specifically, a quad-brid: he fits into all four cores. The ‘healers’, ‘conjurers’, ‘teleks’ and the ‘necros’. But which one fits him? He chooses to join the necros, the darkest ‘killers’, as his father desires and goes to the Academy to hone his skills. Will Seb fit in with his ‘killer’ classmates? Will his other abilities overpower the darkness? Find out in this engaging fantasy read where you find yourself rooting for Seb to find the ‘Light’ and his purpose.
October 22, 2022
The hybrid is book one of the hybrid series and is a YA fantasy novel.
The novel is set in a dark future world where some humans have turned into Alpha's.
Seb is a 13 year old Alpha and has suffered a abusive childhood. He starts his first term at the academy and the students have to take tests to see if they are light or dark and get sorted into 4 core duties. Seb is a hybrid as he fits into all 4 core duties. His father forces him to choose the darkest of all 4 core duties, the necros.
I really enjoyed this novel and found myself rooting for seb. I really recommend this book to fans of the Harry Potter series. It was well written and I cannot wait to read part 2 in the series.
🌟 received a e book copy through voracious readers only in exchange for a honest review and also thanks to the author for sending me a paper back copy.
The novel is set in a dark future world where some humans have turned into Alpha's.
Seb is a 13 year old Alpha and has suffered a abusive childhood. He starts his first term at the academy and the students have to take tests to see if they are light or dark and get sorted into 4 core duties. Seb is a hybrid as he fits into all 4 core duties. His father forces him to choose the darkest of all 4 core duties, the necros.
I really enjoyed this novel and found myself rooting for seb. I really recommend this book to fans of the Harry Potter series. It was well written and I cannot wait to read part 2 in the series.
🌟 received a e book copy through voracious readers only in exchange for a honest review and also thanks to the author for sending me a paper back copy.
November 3, 2022
Can I kill?
Sebastian has been held inside by his father for 9 years. Now he is going to be Academy. When he arrives at the Academy He is tested for his powers. What can he do with the powers? Is he of the darkness or of the light? What will he do?
An enthralling tale which is sure to delight lovers of Harry Potter!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Sebastian has been held inside by his father for 9 years. Now he is going to be Academy. When he arrives at the Academy He is tested for his powers. What can he do with the powers? Is he of the darkness or of the light? What will he do?
An enthralling tale which is sure to delight lovers of Harry Potter!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 21, 2024
Having previously read and enjoyed Frances' work, I was curious to see their depth and range within the fantasy and more specifically dark fantasy genre. Needless to say I was highly impressed. What is presented is a colossal book, a book with a centre of orbit. Multiple perspectives and a web of very dark undertones. Perspectives shifts were successfully distinctive and the dialogue played a big role in this, being sharp and establishing character. Frances furthers the plot effectively via these channels also. The occasional line would trip me up - "sweating cold"?
Away from the exact mechanics of writing, the book is a dark and richly-infused work of fantastical drama. There are of course more conventional high-school drama parts of the book, a YA component. But at times the delightful darkness does make you question the place of trying to age-categorise this book. Sebastian is damn near brutalised by the plot.
Overall, it's hard not to recommend a work that stands out as such as firebrand - drawing on Harry Potter and The Divergent, and yet standing alone - unique.
Away from the exact mechanics of writing, the book is a dark and richly-infused work of fantastical drama. There are of course more conventional high-school drama parts of the book, a YA component. But at times the delightful darkness does make you question the place of trying to age-categorise this book. Sebastian is damn near brutalised by the plot.
Overall, it's hard not to recommend a work that stands out as such as firebrand - drawing on Harry Potter and The Divergent, and yet standing alone - unique.
October 11, 2022
This book is kind of in the same vein as harry potter yet with a twist. The Alphas in the story are quite interesting. Overall, it was a fun read. With this being book 1, I am presuming there will be more story yet to come. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 28, 2023
The Hybrid is a dark YA fantasy novel that I couldn’t put down. In the future, the world is divided into humans and alphas, born with one of four core abilities: healing, telekinesis, conjuring, or necros, the ability to inflict pain.
Sebastian parker, a 13-year-old boy, is a hybrid, a quad-brid in fact, as he excels in all four abilities and possibly Sight too. That makes him the most powerful being and, unfortunately, the most feared. At 13, he is sent to the Academy, a magical school where Alphas are trained in their core abilities. Despite his ‘Light’ tendency and inclination towards healing, Sebastian, fearing his father, chooses to join the Necros.
A few things are reminiscent of HP: four groups, Pain inflicted on spiders, chocolate-eating, a dark teacher (Snape), flying races, a dueling club, apparate/‘pop’, and a ball. But this is a brutal and harsh world. The tests are gruesome and stomach-churning, and Sebastian as a Necro student, must not only bear and inflict pain but also overcome his fears.
This book was captivating, not because of the violence but because I was rooting for the character. The book opens with Sebastian’s abuse and oppression under his father and then goes on with the tough tests and bullying. I found myself rooting for him to find some light in this dark world. To read about his struggle to cling to the Light was compelling. Sebastian is a humble and sweet boy, and under such torture, he resorts to anger only a few times.
After such an explosive start, the book does have a lulling middle, with Sebastian finding allies and enemies among the teachers and students. Neptune’s POV gives us a glimpse of the gray line between the Light and the Dark.
The wisest word is from Johnson - It’s about thinking for yourselves. I can assure you that not all Healers are ‘good’ and not all Necros are ‘bad’… the world would be much better if we abolished the Cores.
The book ends on a cliffhanger as the Dark consumes Sebastian. Will he cling to the Light or give in to the Dark Arts? I recommend this book for readers of YA dark fantasy, perhaps for older teens/15+ years, and will continue the series.
Sebastian parker, a 13-year-old boy, is a hybrid, a quad-brid in fact, as he excels in all four abilities and possibly Sight too. That makes him the most powerful being and, unfortunately, the most feared. At 13, he is sent to the Academy, a magical school where Alphas are trained in their core abilities. Despite his ‘Light’ tendency and inclination towards healing, Sebastian, fearing his father, chooses to join the Necros.
A few things are reminiscent of HP: four groups, Pain inflicted on spiders, chocolate-eating, a dark teacher (Snape), flying races, a dueling club, apparate/‘pop’, and a ball. But this is a brutal and harsh world. The tests are gruesome and stomach-churning, and Sebastian as a Necro student, must not only bear and inflict pain but also overcome his fears.
This book was captivating, not because of the violence but because I was rooting for the character. The book opens with Sebastian’s abuse and oppression under his father and then goes on with the tough tests and bullying. I found myself rooting for him to find some light in this dark world. To read about his struggle to cling to the Light was compelling. Sebastian is a humble and sweet boy, and under such torture, he resorts to anger only a few times.
After such an explosive start, the book does have a lulling middle, with Sebastian finding allies and enemies among the teachers and students. Neptune’s POV gives us a glimpse of the gray line between the Light and the Dark.
The wisest word is from Johnson - It’s about thinking for yourselves. I can assure you that not all Healers are ‘good’ and not all Necros are ‘bad’… the world would be much better if we abolished the Cores.
The book ends on a cliffhanger as the Dark consumes Sebastian. Will he cling to the Light or give in to the Dark Arts? I recommend this book for readers of YA dark fantasy, perhaps for older teens/15+ years, and will continue the series.
May 13, 2022
A Fun And Beautifully Written Novel.
The one confusing aspect for me was that I came into the story with a predefined idea of the terms Hybrid and Alpha. From my experience with other paranormal and science fiction stories, these terms were closely associated with werewolves. But in the case of this story, Alpha is used to describe humans who are born with one of four core abilities; conjuring, healing, telekinesis, or pain. And Hybrid describes Alphas who have access to two or more core abilities. This term also more closely aligns an Alpha to Light or Dark depending on the combination of their abilities.
Anyhow, despite a rather rough introduction, the Hybrid takes a fast turn with plenty of details, primarily those letting the reader know they've been flown off to a mystical place outside of the human world. The Academy.
As the story continues, it becomes clear there are a lot of circumstantial issues and controversy surrounding Alphas and namely Hybrids among the students and teachers. It might also seem some teachers are a little underprepared to handle Hybrids. Although, that doesn't stop them from trying.
In the reading, much of this controversy begins to feel like nonsense and doesn't carry its weight towards the novel's climax. Honestly, aside from certain power levels, there are only rumors of Hybrids being truly dangerous.
All in all, the reader will undoubtedly find themselves intrigued by the relationship between the protagonist, Sebastian, and his Dark Arts teacher, Neptune. Although the dynamic is abusive and sometimes unsettling, it's hard to not like Neptune. He's vastly reminiscent of a character archetype in another popular and magical YA Fantasy Series (Oh, you'll see!!).
With that said, this was a fun and beautifully written novel. I believe plenty of YA readers will enjoy the story, and then move on to the second and third books in the series.
The one confusing aspect for me was that I came into the story with a predefined idea of the terms Hybrid and Alpha. From my experience with other paranormal and science fiction stories, these terms were closely associated with werewolves. But in the case of this story, Alpha is used to describe humans who are born with one of four core abilities; conjuring, healing, telekinesis, or pain. And Hybrid describes Alphas who have access to two or more core abilities. This term also more closely aligns an Alpha to Light or Dark depending on the combination of their abilities.
Anyhow, despite a rather rough introduction, the Hybrid takes a fast turn with plenty of details, primarily those letting the reader know they've been flown off to a mystical place outside of the human world. The Academy.
As the story continues, it becomes clear there are a lot of circumstantial issues and controversy surrounding Alphas and namely Hybrids among the students and teachers. It might also seem some teachers are a little underprepared to handle Hybrids. Although, that doesn't stop them from trying.
In the reading, much of this controversy begins to feel like nonsense and doesn't carry its weight towards the novel's climax. Honestly, aside from certain power levels, there are only rumors of Hybrids being truly dangerous.
All in all, the reader will undoubtedly find themselves intrigued by the relationship between the protagonist, Sebastian, and his Dark Arts teacher, Neptune. Although the dynamic is abusive and sometimes unsettling, it's hard to not like Neptune. He's vastly reminiscent of a character archetype in another popular and magical YA Fantasy Series (Oh, you'll see!!).
With that said, this was a fun and beautifully written novel. I believe plenty of YA readers will enjoy the story, and then move on to the second and third books in the series.
June 30, 2022
5+ STARS
13 year-old Sebastian Parker's life has been anything but easy. Raised by a brutal father, Seb has been mistreated and isolated from other Alpha's his own age. He hasn't had contact with humans either but things are about to change. He is sent to the alpha Academy with strict orders from his father to become a Necro—that or return to life in the cellar.
When Seb arrives at the Academy he's tested to see where he belongs. There are four schools—Healers, Teleks, Conjurers, and his father's choice the Necros. The test reveals that Seb is a Hybrid—the first in anyone's memory— gifted in all four areas. He has to choose one. Fearing his father will pull him from the Academy, Seb chooses Necro with its Darkness although he'd prefer being trained as a healer and embracing the Light. The training is harsh, brutal, and alienating. Most of the students fear him. And although he's dealt a series of betrayals from his father, his teachers, and peers, he clings to the Light. At the same time he fears he's been consumed by the Dark.
The story is fast paced, full of drama, danger, and has just the right mix of humanity to appeal to a YA audience.
E.K. Frances has taken a fantasy/dystopian/Sci Fi trope and transformed it into a fresh and compelling read. I can easily see this as a best selling series once it's discovered. In spite of the story's dark side, against all odds and self-doubt, Seb is pure Light. I loved this book and assume YA readers will as well. It's the best dark fantasy I have read. I couldn't put it down. I recommend parents of Middle Grade students to read the book first and perhaps wait until their child is a little more mature to give them a copy.
13 year-old Sebastian Parker's life has been anything but easy. Raised by a brutal father, Seb has been mistreated and isolated from other Alpha's his own age. He hasn't had contact with humans either but things are about to change. He is sent to the alpha Academy with strict orders from his father to become a Necro—that or return to life in the cellar.
When Seb arrives at the Academy he's tested to see where he belongs. There are four schools—Healers, Teleks, Conjurers, and his father's choice the Necros. The test reveals that Seb is a Hybrid—the first in anyone's memory— gifted in all four areas. He has to choose one. Fearing his father will pull him from the Academy, Seb chooses Necro with its Darkness although he'd prefer being trained as a healer and embracing the Light. The training is harsh, brutal, and alienating. Most of the students fear him. And although he's dealt a series of betrayals from his father, his teachers, and peers, he clings to the Light. At the same time he fears he's been consumed by the Dark.
The story is fast paced, full of drama, danger, and has just the right mix of humanity to appeal to a YA audience.
E.K. Frances has taken a fantasy/dystopian/Sci Fi trope and transformed it into a fresh and compelling read. I can easily see this as a best selling series once it's discovered. In spite of the story's dark side, against all odds and self-doubt, Seb is pure Light. I loved this book and assume YA readers will as well. It's the best dark fantasy I have read. I couldn't put it down. I recommend parents of Middle Grade students to read the book first and perhaps wait until their child is a little more mature to give them a copy.
July 12, 2024
Fast Paced, Thrilling, YA
This was a fun and exciting YA fantasy. Right off the bat the author garners sympathy for the main character, Seb, a teenager who is reluctant to realise his dad’s dream of him becoming a necro— a trained killer. Seb would rather be a healer, and I think just that in itself speaks volumes about the character.
From the first pages we get a good understanding of Sebs miserable life with his abusive father, and we hope things will improve once he starts at the academy, but nothing is ever so simple…
There were some great characters and interesting dynamics. I love a complicated character, and Neptune has that in spades. And Sebastian is likeable, brave, and honest.
The story is set in first person present tense, with multi person POV. First present is definitely not my preferred tense but the author pulled it off really well, and the writing felt engaging.
The story sees Seb battle with himself throughout the story and also encompasses a deeper message about prejudice and bigotry, and standing up for our beliefs.
This was a fun and exciting YA fantasy. Right off the bat the author garners sympathy for the main character, Seb, a teenager who is reluctant to realise his dad’s dream of him becoming a necro— a trained killer. Seb would rather be a healer, and I think just that in itself speaks volumes about the character.
From the first pages we get a good understanding of Sebs miserable life with his abusive father, and we hope things will improve once he starts at the academy, but nothing is ever so simple…
There were some great characters and interesting dynamics. I love a complicated character, and Neptune has that in spades. And Sebastian is likeable, brave, and honest.
The story is set in first person present tense, with multi person POV. First present is definitely not my preferred tense but the author pulled it off really well, and the writing felt engaging.
The story sees Seb battle with himself throughout the story and also encompasses a deeper message about prejudice and bigotry, and standing up for our beliefs.
May 31, 2022
A familiar tale told well.
At its heart, this is the Hero's Journey. Like thousands of others, but it is done very well. Rather than reject the familiar framework of the Hero's Journey, E. K. Frances embraces it and puts their own spin on it. When done well this really works, (Star Wars, Wizard of OZ, Harry Potter) and E. K. did a great job.
Although the Hero's Journey is about the Hero, which in this case is The Hybrid (as the title implies) I couldn't help but enjoy all the side characters. On both sides.
One problem that others often have with the Hero's Journey is the bad guys. E. K. did a great job making them diverse in thought, and not mustache-twirling villains.
I really enjoyed reading a classic theme that was given a new light and told well. If that is what you are in the mood for you should like this.
At its heart, this is the Hero's Journey. Like thousands of others, but it is done very well. Rather than reject the familiar framework of the Hero's Journey, E. K. Frances embraces it and puts their own spin on it. When done well this really works, (Star Wars, Wizard of OZ, Harry Potter) and E. K. did a great job.
Although the Hero's Journey is about the Hero, which in this case is The Hybrid (as the title implies) I couldn't help but enjoy all the side characters. On both sides.
One problem that others often have with the Hero's Journey is the bad guys. E. K. did a great job making them diverse in thought, and not mustache-twirling villains.
I really enjoyed reading a classic theme that was given a new light and told well. If that is what you are in the mood for you should like this.
February 10, 2023
This is a captivating YA fantasy novel that transports you to a magical world with a unique twist. Ever wondered about the goings-on in a Dementor-like school? Think of it as the anti-Hogwarts.
Sebastian Parker, a 13-year-old boy, has faced a difficult life under the care of his brutal father, who has kept him isolated from others. But now, things are about to change as he is sent to attend The Academy, a magical school where Alphas are trained in their core abilities. Alphas are non-humans born with one of four abilities: healing, telekinesis, magic, or inflicting pain.
Sebastian is a unique case, as he is a hybrid Alpha, gifted in all four abilities. However, fearful of his father's wrath, he chooses to attend the Necro school, which trains fighters. Despite the harsh and brutal training he faces, as well as the betrayals from his father, teachers, and peers, Sebastian holds onto his sense of self and goodness.
This fast-paced, dramatic story appeals to the YA audience with its mix of danger, humanity, and intrigue. The shifting alliances of the characters around Sebastian keep the reader engaged, as he struggles to understand and embrace his true identity. Get ready to be on the edge of your seat and bring some tissues, as at times, the emotional charge hits hard.
Sebastian Parker, a 13-year-old boy, has faced a difficult life under the care of his brutal father, who has kept him isolated from others. But now, things are about to change as he is sent to attend The Academy, a magical school where Alphas are trained in their core abilities. Alphas are non-humans born with one of four abilities: healing, telekinesis, magic, or inflicting pain.
Sebastian is a unique case, as he is a hybrid Alpha, gifted in all four abilities. However, fearful of his father's wrath, he chooses to attend the Necro school, which trains fighters. Despite the harsh and brutal training he faces, as well as the betrayals from his father, teachers, and peers, Sebastian holds onto his sense of self and goodness.
This fast-paced, dramatic story appeals to the YA audience with its mix of danger, humanity, and intrigue. The shifting alliances of the characters around Sebastian keep the reader engaged, as he struggles to understand and embrace his true identity. Get ready to be on the edge of your seat and bring some tissues, as at times, the emotional charge hits hard.
May 22, 2024
I really enjoyed The Hybrid by E K Francis, and I'm looking forward to reading the next book - especially as this one ends on a cliffhanger!
Seb is a thirteen-year-old boy who has just started training at the Academy and is far more powerful than anyone in generations. He is an abused boy with a mysterious past and the abuse continues at the Academy between harsh teaching methods, and fear over his power. Seb is a likable character who, despite the abuse and his power, is still innocent. The book contains intriguing worldbuilding and is well-paced with plenty of hooks to keep you reading.
Although the main character is thirteen, this story feels more suitable for older teens due to the level of violence and abuse. However, as an adult, I found it to be an engaging read and well worth my time.
Seb is a thirteen-year-old boy who has just started training at the Academy and is far more powerful than anyone in generations. He is an abused boy with a mysterious past and the abuse continues at the Academy between harsh teaching methods, and fear over his power. Seb is a likable character who, despite the abuse and his power, is still innocent. The book contains intriguing worldbuilding and is well-paced with plenty of hooks to keep you reading.
Although the main character is thirteen, this story feels more suitable for older teens due to the level of violence and abuse. However, as an adult, I found it to be an engaging read and well worth my time.
October 26, 2022
Four core learning areas, and out main character Sebastian Parker is good at all of them. Fine if this was the normal world, but in this series, more than one skill labels you a Hybrid. The more you have the more feared you are. What will befall Seb as he tries to navigate a whole new reality, one that is far removed from his life to date.
I wondered if this book was going to be a little too much like Harry Potter... but there was enough differences to keep reading... and reading... and reading... and reading... only to find I was finished and left wanting more. Bring on the next book in the series!
I received a complimentary copy of this book by Voracious Readers Only and am leaving this unbiased review voluntarily.
I wondered if this book was going to be a little too much like Harry Potter... but there was enough differences to keep reading... and reading... and reading... and reading... only to find I was finished and left wanting more. Bring on the next book in the series!
I received a complimentary copy of this book by Voracious Readers Only and am leaving this unbiased review voluntarily.
November 14, 2022
A spine tingling adventure story that never lets up about a 13 year old boy, Sebastian, whose childhood was anything but normal. His father taught him to kill so he could excel at the Academy, but he hated doing it and as it turned out, did little to help him pursue his true studies. The academy trains four types of students, as healers, conjurers, teleks, and necros or killers, none of which have more than one ability. But Sebastian is different, he has all four powers, and can make up his own mind about how to use them. The story follows Sebastian's journey as he discovers his true self and how the academy is stifling change, even resorting to murder to get rid of those who don't fit the traditional norms.
December 11, 2022
When I started this book I got a very strong Harry Potter blended with Divergent vibe but after the first chapter that was replaced with a unique and exciting story all of it own.
The characters were well written and the story as a whole really drew me in to Seb’s world. I am going to have to read the next one as I absolutely MUST know what happens next!
I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys reading books like Divergent and wants a new twist to that theme. Fantasy and magic lovers will also have a great time reading this and if you like a story with a main character who is struggling with good vs evil, this book is for you!
I received this book from the author through Voracious Readers Only
The characters were well written and the story as a whole really drew me in to Seb’s world. I am going to have to read the next one as I absolutely MUST know what happens next!
I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys reading books like Divergent and wants a new twist to that theme. Fantasy and magic lovers will also have a great time reading this and if you like a story with a main character who is struggling with good vs evil, this book is for you!
I received this book from the author through Voracious Readers Only
June 2, 2024
The Hybrid is a fun foray into a world of fantasy-like magical abilities, reminiscent of the beloved Harry Potter series. Okay, not reminiscent – it very much wears its influences on its sleeve, leaning heavily on the tropes and themes popularized by J.K. Rowling. Yet, even in doing so, it manages to carve out its own niche with a blend of fresh ideas and characters.
The plot revolves around Sebastian, who discovers he’s a sort of powerfully evolved human called an Alpha (actually, he's like a super evolved hybrid version of an Alpha) and is sent off to the Academy to learn to master his skills (sound familiar?). There’s some interesting character development and evocative language, with the story moving along at an engaging pace. There’s some dark themes, violence and murder, so it’s definitely written for the young adult market (think the later in the series Harry Potter or Hunger Games books) rather than children.
My main criticism is I found the first person perspective could become a bit distracting at times (this is mostly a personal preference thing) though it does allow us to get inside the head of Sebastian.
If you enjoyed Harry Potter or Hunger Games, then why not check this one out. I think it’ll definitely help to scratch that itch.
The plot revolves around Sebastian, who discovers he’s a sort of powerfully evolved human called an Alpha (actually, he's like a super evolved hybrid version of an Alpha) and is sent off to the Academy to learn to master his skills (sound familiar?). There’s some interesting character development and evocative language, with the story moving along at an engaging pace. There’s some dark themes, violence and murder, so it’s definitely written for the young adult market (think the later in the series Harry Potter or Hunger Games books) rather than children.
My main criticism is I found the first person perspective could become a bit distracting at times (this is mostly a personal preference thing) though it does allow us to get inside the head of Sebastian.
If you enjoyed Harry Potter or Hunger Games, then why not check this one out. I think it’ll definitely help to scratch that itch.
July 9, 2022
ABSOLUTELY FAN-FREAKING-TASTIC 😁
I don't usually read YA stories, but I was intrigued by this one and Boy am I Glad I did 😃! This story is a Harry Potter on STEROIDS with a completely Different kid 😲. Abused and kept away from life, he's thrown into a school where everybody is scared of him, despite his good deeds and friendly ways, he's judged as DANGEROUS and therefore must DIE 🤔. Thanks so much E.K., I can't wait to find out what happens next 🤓.
I don't usually read YA stories, but I was intrigued by this one and Boy am I Glad I did 😃! This story is a Harry Potter on STEROIDS with a completely Different kid 😲. Abused and kept away from life, he's thrown into a school where everybody is scared of him, despite his good deeds and friendly ways, he's judged as DANGEROUS and therefore must DIE 🤔. Thanks so much E.K., I can't wait to find out what happens next 🤓.
October 8, 2022
this worked perfectly in The Hybrid series, it was a great dark fantasy novel. I was invested in what was happening and enjoyed the story overall. It did what I was hoping for and kept me invested in what was happening. It did it's job in making me want to read more.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 7, 2024
This book is well written, and the characters come off the page. It is a perfect for those who like worlds which a group of people have abilities that are different then a regular human. It is also very dark for those readers that like to have dark in their reads.
May 27, 2025
LOVED this story. 4.75 stars (only because I felt like there were a few story-flow issues). It felt familiar but still thoroughly engrossing. I found myself pouring so much of my heart out for Seb, Michael, and even Neptune! Got this as a free download via BookBub and can’t wait to start book #2!!
October 19, 2022
This was a slow burn for me - darker than I expected at first but then it really picked up speed and I was in for the whole story. Loved the idea of the hybrid and the fact they’re so rare as it added tension to the characters journey that otherwise wouldn’t have been there. Fans of magic, sorcery, dark themes and school bullies will find this to their liking.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 5, 2024
definitely recommend
I found this book very enjoyable. It was very similar to Harry Potter but with a different theme. I would recommend.
I found this book very enjoyable. It was very similar to Harry Potter but with a different theme. I would recommend.
May 18, 2024
What an incredible book.. with an original storyline I've not seen before full of magic a wonder, murder and mystery.. can't wait to dive into the next one
February 8, 2024
Excellent and compelling read.
I couldnt put it down and read it all in one day. The characters are complicated and enjoyable and I am looking forward to subsequent books.
I couldnt put it down and read it all in one day. The characters are complicated and enjoyable and I am looking forward to subsequent books.
February 21, 2025
Loved this story, rarely do we get a good male narrator anymore and this was sick....Sebastian gives me Tanjiro vibes ❤️ POV switch was also SUPER UNIQUE (never seem that combo of character types) Some language choice was odd but I can't wait to start the next!!!!!
May 10, 2022
The Hybrid is a very fascinating and engaging story. It is probably one of those books where the side characters made the story even more interesting. The setting and the dialogues took me back to my teenage days, reading about the good and the evil, the light and the dark, with some great terminologies like the healers, the necros, etc., it all kept me hooked till the end. I feel the story has a potential to engage readers even though it’s dark and has a lot of violence, which I usually avoid reading. It also leaves with a lot of questions that remain unanswered in the first part, but maybe they will be addressed in the next series… I look forward to reading it. If you like dark fantasy/sci-fi, I would recommend this book. It will not disappoint you.
November 19, 2024
This is a great dsytopian fantasy series for teens. No spice, just lots of teen trauma and bulling with mistrust for good reasons from a male perspective. It can be irritating and choppy at times, but maybe it's my age.
Waiting for 3rd book of Alpha series to see how Daniel and Sébastien relate.
Definately recommend for teens!
Commented added after finishing both series:
I really enjoyed this teen dystopian fantasy series! The MC is male with a great supporting cast of good and evil. Makes me want to reread the Hybrid series after finishing New Dawn.
I recommend reading the prequels before starting on the Hybrid series. New Dawn was just released so I didn't read them in order.
They are very well written and New Dawn really pulled on my heart strings like the Hybrid series did.
A good series stays with you and these did that for me.
Waiting for 3rd book of Alpha series to see how Daniel and Sébastien relate.
Definately recommend for teens!
Commented added after finishing both series:
I really enjoyed this teen dystopian fantasy series! The MC is male with a great supporting cast of good and evil. Makes me want to reread the Hybrid series after finishing New Dawn.
I recommend reading the prequels before starting on the Hybrid series. New Dawn was just released so I didn't read them in order.
They are very well written and New Dawn really pulled on my heart strings like the Hybrid series did.
A good series stays with you and these did that for me.
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