The 5th Wave, Rick Yancey

The 5th Wave by Rick Yancey, reviewed by Eleanor

What is this book about? 
After the 1st wave, only darkness remains. After the 2nd, only the lucky escape. And after the 3rd, only the unlucky survive. After the 4th wave, only one rule applies: trust no-one.

Now, it's the dawn of a 5th wave, and on a lonely stretch of highway, Cassie runs from 'Them.' The beings who only look human, who roam the countryside killing anyone they see. Who have scattered the Earth's last survivors. To stay alone is to stay alive, or so Cassie believes. And she must choose: between trust and despair, between defiance and surrender, between life and death. To give up or to get up. (Goodreads)

Who should read this book?
I would say this is a young adult book for 14+ because it was really quite scary.

How long is this book?
457 pages

Marks
Story Line: 7/10
Well written: 4/5
Enjoyabililty: 5/5
Overall: 16/20

Star Rating:
4 stars (Another 4* book, crazy)

Question 1. What character would you most like to throw tea at?
I would have to say Evan, he just seemed a teeny tiny bit creepy at times. He was okay at other times though so I wouldn't want to throw a lot of tea at him, just half a mug.

Question 2. What do you think of the cover?
I don't mind this cover, although it seems to be emphasising the sun and I don't remember much about the sun in the book. There's probably a metaphor that I'm missing.

Question 3. What do you think of the title do you think there is an alternative?
I like the title because it's quite intriguing, I think.

Question 4. Can you read the tea leaves from the beginning or are there twists in the plot?
I didn't really get any huge plot shocks but there are lots of little twists throughout the book and you don't quite know where the story is going until it all fits nicely together at the end.

Question 5. Favourite quote!
"You can only call someone crazy if there's someone else who's normal. Like good and evil. If everything was good, then nothing would be good."

Overall:
With the start of my A levels I haven't been reading very much, which is bad. So a couple of days ago I decided I would read for a bit instead of constantly doing homework and I chose to read this book which has been on my kindle for a couple of months. It was brilliant and I was completely hooked for the next five days (it took so long to read because I unfortunately wasn't able to stop homework altogether). The 5th Wave is terrifying, at one point it actually made me jump (a book has never made me jump before!) and the whole time reading it was spent huddled under my duvet as my sub conscience became surer and surer that at any second an alien would break down my door and get me. The characters are lovable and the plot is very fast paced. So read this book, because it's good.

What did you think of this book? What would you like us to review next?

Cover VERSUS Cover #3

Another entertaining instalment of book versus book.

1.
    vs    

Eleanor: Paper Towns
Izzy: Wonder
Bronte: Paper Towns

2.
    vs   

Eleanor: Point of Retreat
Izzy: Me Before You
Bronte: Me Before You

3.
    vs   

Eleanor: Until I Die
Izzy: Until I Die
Bronte: Life Eternal

4.
    vs   

Eleanor: Before I Die
Izzy: Before I Die
Bronte: If I Stay

5.
    vs   

Eleanor: Matched
Izzy: Twilight
Bronte: Matched

Ta Da!

Partials, Dan Wells

Partials by Dan Wells, reviewed by Eleanor

What is this book about?
Humanity is all but extinguished after a war with partials–engineered organic beings identical to humans–has decimated the world’s population. Reduced to only tens of thousands by a weaponized virus to which only a fraction of humanity is immune, the survivors in North America have huddled together on Long Island. The threat of the partials is still imminent, but, worse, no baby has been born immune to the disease in over a decade. Humanity’s time is running out. (blurb)

Who should read this book?
Young adults/adults who like dystopian novels

How long is this book?
468 pages, and average to long sized book

Marks
Story Line: 9/10
Well written: 4/5
Enjoyabililty: 4/5
Overall: 17/20

Star Rating:
4 stars (YES)

Question 1. What character would you most like to have tea with?
Saladin. Being the youngest human alive, at 14 years old, would be pretty cool... and also kind of scary because the human race is clearly dying out.

Question 2. What character would you most like to throw tea at?
Marcus, ahh he annoyed me so much and I can't really explain why as it would slightly spoil the story. But I think you'll understand once you've read it (which will be SOON)

Question 3. What do you think of the cover?
I don't think this cover is particularly special, but there's nothing wrong with it.

Question 4. Can you read the tea leaves from the beginning or are there twist in the plot?
I couldn't predict anything in this book, it was all just surprise after surprise, especially the twist toward the end (although I should have seen it coming!!)

Question 5. Favourite quote!
"Look on the bright side," said Marcus.
Kira waited.
"This is the point at which you would traditionally suggest a bright side."
"I've never been a real traditional guy," said Marcus.

(Fine, although he annoyed me, Marcus did make me laugh.)

Overall: Yes yes yes, I finally found a 4 star book, hooray! I loved this book so much, it's a brilliant story, the idea hasn't been used before so it's a different read from other dystopian books out there. This time humankind have managed to destroy themselves by creating 'partials', engineered human lookalike robots who turned against their creators, leaving only 'tens of thousands' of humans left -definitely not The Hunger Games. The characters are lovable, Kira, the protagonist, in particular because her actions may be impulsive but they're understandable as well. The only problem is that it's slightly slow paced but in general this is just an all round great read so give it a go.

What did you think of this book? What would you like us to review next?

Classic Corner: Catch 22 by Joseph Heller

Catch 22 by Joseph Heller reviewed by Izzy

What is this book about?
Unless you didn't already know,Catch 22 is about American bombardier Yossarian set in the 2nd World War. Yossarian is very angry, because not only is the enemy trying to kill him, but so is his "boss," who keeps upping the missions he has to fly. He's caught in a catch 22, if he flies he is insane and doesn't have to, but if he wants to stop flying he must be sane, so has to fly.

Who should read this book?
It's kind of an advanced read, with some really upsetting parts. I think anyone who reads challenging books can read it,but for enjoyability purposes I'd recommend it for 14 and over. If you're younger than that and managed to finish and understand the book then I applaud you! I'm 16 and had some trouble.

How long is this book?
560 pages

Marks
Story Line: 8/10
Well written: 5/5
Enjoyabililty: 3/5
Overall: 16/20

Star Rating: 4 stars

Question 1. What character would you most like to have tea with?
Major Major Major. That guy just needs one big hug. I don't mind that he looks like Henry Fonda- I think MMM is great. Obviously Yossarian and I would have a great cup of tea, and I would tell him that I love him. But he has friends, I feel like Major Major Major needs me more. Oh I forgot the Chaplain! Oh I love him too. No, Major Major Major. I'm making the right decision here.

Question 2. What character would you most like to throw tea at?
 Aarfy. Aarfy. Aarfy.

Question 3. Do you think the flavour deserves to be a classic?
I don't really know if I'm qualified to decide whether any book should be or shouldn't be a classic. However I do think Catch 22 is a completely unique book. Heller has the most interesting writing style that I've ever read, and although I didn't find it completely readable the whole time the fact the writing style was so interesting, I do think it's deserving of it's classic namesake.

Question 4. Can you read the tea leaves from the beginning or are there twist in the plot?
No-one can know what's going to happen with Catch 22. Although the repitive nature of the book you know the end from the beginning but you also don't. You need to read it to understand what I'm trying to say.

 Favourite Quote:
“They're trying to kill me," Yossarian told him calmly.
No one's trying to kill you," Clevinger cried.
Then why are they shooting at me?" Yossarian asked.
They're shooting at everyone," Clevinger answered. "They're trying to kill everyone."
And what difference does that make?”

Overall: Catch 22 is an absolutely spectacular book. It's the only war book (though if I'm being honest I haven't read many) that mixes humour so well with something so unbelievably tragic. This reminds me of a John Green like talent. It takes about 150 pages until you aretruly immersed into the world of Yossarian which means you might give up on it. My advice: keep going. You won't regret it. 


What did you think of this book? What would you like us to review next?

The Underworld, Jessica Sorenson

The Underworld (Fallen Star, #2) by Jessica Sorenson, reviewed by Bronte

Warning, this book may contain spoilers of the first book.

The Fallen Star

What is this book about?
Gemma thought her mind was gone, but she was wrong. And now she is left trying to figure out the truth to what Stephan is planning to do with her and the star, before it's too late. But finding out the truth is hard, especially since Gemma doesn't know who she can trust. There may be only one person who Gemma can turn to for answers, but that means having to go to the one place no one wants to go-The Underworld.

Who should read this book?
If you read The Fallen Star and enjoyed it. It is a fantasy book for young adults.

How long is this book?
390 pages, an average sized book.

Marks:
Story Line: 7/10
Well written: 3/5
Enjoyablilty: 3/5
Overall: 13/20

Star Rating: 3 Stars

Question 1. What character has remained the same pot of tea?
I think that Gemma is still a very naïve person that can't see things that are balancing on the end of her nose. However I like the fact that she is more of a stronger heroin and starts to think that people can't push her around like in The Fallen Star so voices her opinion more often, which I like.

Question 2. Which character has a whole new flavour?
Alex is quite different in that he finally starts treating people with the respect that he didn't give them in the first book. You also find out more of his past with Gemma so you start to feel sorry for him. I also have to put Lalyan in the equation as you see a lot more of him and his character in this book.

Question 3. Which characters would have the most awkward conversation whilst drinking tea?
Probably Stephan and Alex because they are father and son, but completely different and would have a really awkward conversation for reasons that you have to read the book to find out.

Question 4. What book would you prefer to read while drinking tea?
Umm, I'm not sure because I still haven't decided if I hate this series or love it! However there has to be something that is keeping me coming back to read some more!

Question 5. Favourite quote!
'Everyone will hurt you if you let them in'

Overall: Like I said, I still don't know if I love this series or hate it, but I am currently reading the 3rd so there has to be something that I like. I think that the characters are a lot more, alive? In the sense that you find out more about them and they are more expressive so you feel for them more. However there are things that are so plainly obvious to me that I would have thought anyone would be able to solve the mystery, that isn't so mysterious. Saying that, this book had a lot more twists and turns that I didn't guess than the first book.

What did you think of this book? What would you like us to review next?

Slated, Teri Terry

Slated by Teri Terry, reviewed by Eleanor

What is this book about?
Kyla's memory has been erased, her personality wiped blank, her memories lost for ever. She's been Slated.
The government claims she was a terrorist, and that they are giving her a second chance -as long as she plays by their rules. But echoes of the past whisper in Kyla's mind. Someone is lying to her, and nothing is as it seems. Who can she trust in her search for the truth? (blurb)

Who should read this book?
Young Adult, dystopian

How long is this book?
439 pages, fairly long

Marks
Story Line: 6/10
Well written: 4/5
Enjoyabililty: 4/5
Overall: 14/20

Star Rating:
3 stars

Question 1. What character would you most like to have tea with?
Ben, he's so sweet (even if he did really annoy me in some places of the book!)

Question 2. What character would you most like to throw tea at?
Kyla's 'Mum'. She's so cold towards Kyla at the beginning and it's mean.

Question 3. What do you think of the cover?
It's okay although you can see all of the person's face which I don't like on covers.

Question 4. What do you think of the title do you think there is an alternative?
Slated is a good title, it's simple.

Question 5. Favourite quote!
"It is one thing to ask questions; what do you do with the answers?"

Overall: This book was good, really good. The main character is smart, she worked things out before I did which made the book quite unpredictable, I had no idea where it would go next and this was definitely a good thing. The story line kept me wanting to read on and on and on. The only thing that annoyed me was that I was left with a lot of questions and barely any answers. I know there’s a sequel but the amount of unanswered questions made the book quite confusing in a lot of places, especially at the end where I had little idea what was going on. But I enjoyed this book a lot and definitely recommend it!

What did you think of this book? What would you like us to review next?

The Fallen Star, Jessica Sorensen

The Fallen Star (Fallen Star #1) by Jessica Sorensen, reviewed by Bronte

What is this book about?

For eighteen year-old Gemma, life has never been normal. Up until recently, she has been incapable of feeling emotion. And when she's around Alex, the gorgeous new guy at school, she can feel electricity that makes her skin buzz. Not to mention the monsters that haunt her nightmares have crossed over into real-life. But with Alex seeming to hate her and secrets popping up everywhere, Gemma's life is turning into a chaotic mess. Things that shouldn't be real suddenly seem to exist. And as her world falls apart, figuring out the secrets of her past becomes a matter of life and death.

Who should read this book?

I think anyone 12+ can read this book and enjoy it. I think anyone over 20 would find it a little unrealistic, but then it is fantasy. But even for a fantasy book sometimes I still found my self saying 'reeeaally?'

How long is this book?
449 pages, an average size

Marks:
Story Line: 7/10
Well written: 3/5
Enjoyabililty: 4/5
Overall: 14/20

Star Rating: 3 Stars

Question 1. What character would you most like to have tea with?
Laylen! Because he seemed lovely for the small part of the book that he was in, I wish he was in more. He probably has a lot of interesting stories to tell and he is really funny. However I don't think he drinks tea because he is a vampire.

Question 2. What character would you most like to throw tea at?
Well the obvious answer here is Stephan because of who he is, what he is planning and what he does. However I have to consider Sophia and Marco because although they were protecting Gemma, who could possible just blank out someone for 14 years! But then there is Alex who's personality changes like the wind, and he is often mean to Gemma for no reason other than the fact she doesn't understand. I'm pretty undecided on this question.

Question 3. What do you think of the cover?
I think the cover is really cool. How its all white and then the startling violet colour of her eye is boldly put in the centre.

 Question 4a. Can you read the tea leaves from the beginning or are there twist in the plot?
To be perfectly honest I figured out what was going on quite early in the book, I often questioned how naïve Gemma could get; but maybe if I was in the situation I would struggle to see what was, quite frankly, under her nose. Or maybe I'm just super duper clever in solving the puzzle. Comments to anyone who has read the book, did you figure it out, or am I a detective in the making?

Question 5. Favourite quote!

'I was in love with the lyrics, the rhythm, and the way it could sweep me away to another world.'

Overall: Overall I enjoyed this book. I mean yes, I practically figured it out quite early on and with more and more facts coming out throughout I had to question realistically if Gemma seriously could not see what was happening. However I thought this book was different and the characters well thought out. I would have like to see more of Aislin and Laylen because I liked them. I can see why people would dislike this book, but I can also see how for some people this book is the bee's knees. For me its neither, but I will be reading the sequel.

What did you think of this book? What would you like us to review next?

Our 50th Post!!

Okay, so its the 51st post but who's counting. The laptop, that I like to think likes me as I do it, decided to go all 'I'm not going to do anything you tell me to' on me, so I couldn't do the photos. But I have now: (~Bronte)

So we've been around for 7 months! Whooaa. We have reached the 50th post, which seems quite a mile stone to us; therefore we feel you should know more about us if we're going to stick around some more. Very generic questions, very simple answers so you know how we all roll. Enjoy.

Just drinking our tea

Bronte:
1. Favourite Colour
Red
2. Favourite Food (savoury)
Pasta
3. Favourite Food (sweet)
White chocolate buttons
4. Favourite Season
Winter
5. Favourite Holiday
Christmas! Obviously!
6. Favourite Place in the World
The Lake District
7. Favourite TV Programme
Grand Designs
8. Favourite Movie

Pretending to be cool, or I was anyway...

The Perfect Man
9. Favourite Artist
Taylor Swift
10. Favourite Song
Wake Me Up, Avicii (at the moments) I have no idea what my favourite EVER song is, probably some Christmas song!
11. Favourite Time/Place to Read
In bed, before I go to sleep
12. Favourite Sport
Golf/Rounders
13. Favourite Time of Day
Evening
14. Favourite Book Hero
Augustus (The Fault in Our Stars)

Aww, look at these two cuties

15. Favourite Book Heroin
Tessa Gray (The Infernal Devices)
16. Favourite Book EVER!
The Fault in Our Stars, by John Green

Eleanor:
1. Favourite Colour
Purple
2. Favourite Food (savoury)
Mashed Potato
3. Favourite Food (sweet)
White Chocolate Mice
4. Favourite Season
Autumn
5. Favourite Holiday

Christmas
6. Favourite Place in the World
My room, I get homesick pretty easily!
7. Favourite TV Programme
Dance Academy (THE BEST THING EVER, literally)
8. Favourite Movie
The Notebook
9. Favourite Artist (Band?)
Bastille, Bad Blood is my summer album
10. Favourite Song
Too Lost in You, Sugababes
11. Favourite Time/Place to Read
I'll read anywhere. My favourite time to be reading is after exams are over and I don't have to worry about how I'm reading and not revising.
12. Favourite Sport

Just reading...

Swimming
13. Favourite Time of Day
11pm
14. Favourite Book Hero
Percy Jackson
15. Favourite Book Heroin
Katniss Everdeen
16. Favourite Book EVER!
Me Before You, by Jojo Moyes

Izzy:
1. Favourite Colour
 Yellow
 2. Favourite Food (savoury)
Pad Thai with Massoman Curry
 3. Favourite Food (sweet)
Lemon Meringue Pie
 4. Favourite Season
Summer
 5. Favourite Holiday
Christmas is the best by a mile. BY A MILE.
 6. Favourite Place in the World
I was in LA three days ago and absolutely loved it but I think my favourite place in the world is my house, surrounded by family and friends. How soppy am I?
 7. Favourite TV Programme
 Gilmore Girls (I know, it's cancelled. Don't remind me)
 8. Favourite Movie
Clueless, just. A Cinderella Story (w/Hilary Duff and Chad) comes a close, close second.
9. Favourite Artist
Taylor Swift. BUT Hunter Hayes is a recent discovery whom I love.
10. Favourite Song
Right now, I Want Crazy by Hunter Hayes.
11. Favourite Time/Place to Read
In the car or on a train.
12. Favourite Sport
Tennis. I love to watch and play it.
13. Favourite Time of Day
Late Morning
14. Favourite Book Hero
Charlie from The Perks of Being a Wallflower
15. Favourite Book Heroin
Hermione Granger
16. Favourite Book EVER!
Oh man that's not fair at all. Stickin' with an old classic, probably the Harry Potter series. Just because I love them oh so much.

We hope you enjoyed this different post for the celebration of the 50th post. We'll go back to our usual rambling about books and stuff now though.

We're spies.

We have thought of some new questions for our reviews, again in keeping with our tea theme. We will always have 5 questions + an overall, so we will pick which ones we want to answer for that book. Do you have any suggestions for questions you want us to answer?

Eleanor and Park, Rainbow Rowell

Eleanor and Park by Rainbow Rowell, reviewed by Bronte

What is this book about?

Set over the course of one school year in 1986, Eleanor and Park is the story of two star-crossed misfits – smart enough to know that first love almost never lasts, but brave and desperate enough to try. When Eleanor meets Park, you’ll remember your own first love – and just how hard it pulled you under.

Who should read this book?

I think that quite a wide range of people could read this book. It is a young adult romance, but that doesn't necessarily mean that older people wouldn't enjoy it. 15+ though.

How long is this book?

335 pages, an average sized book.

Marks
Story Line: 7/10
Well written: 5/5
Enjoyabililty: 4/5
Overall: 16/20

Star Rating: 4 Stars

Question 1. What character would you most like to have tea with?
If I am honest with myself there isn't really anyone who I clearly and definitely would want to have tea with. Park would be okay to have tea with as would Eleanor, but I don't really know what I would talk to them about; we have nothing in common really. Maybe because I'm from 21st century England and their from 1980's America.


Question 2. What character would you most like to throw tea at?
Easy. Richie. Obviously.

Question 3. What do you think of the cover?
This cover is really sweet and I really like it. Its really simple and doesn't show anything but the back of Eleanor and Park, so we don't judge them; yet we see the most defining aspect of them that makes them them: the fact that they bonded over the music and that that's the only thing that matters.

 Question 4b. Can you read the tea leaves from the beginning or are there twist in the plot? (New Question)
Other reviews said that the ending was disappointing however even so I could not have second guessed what was going to happen. Some things became obvious as I was reading but I would say that this book wasn't entirely predictable, which is good.

Question 5. Favourite quote!
"Eleanor was right. She never looked nice. She looked like art, and art wasn't supposed to look nice; it was supposed to make you feel something."
I also really liked the Star Wars quotes, but I thought that would give too much of the book away.

Overall:
Overall I can say that I did really enjoy this book. It is a bit different and not normally something that I would usually pick up; but it had been recommended by a certain person called Izzy, so I read it. I'm glad I did. What I struggled with in this book, which the author and any other person couldn't help, is my complete lack of American 80's trivia. There were lots of references to people, clothing items and various objects and things that I didn't understand. However this didn't detract from my general enjoyment of the whole book because I could get the gist of what Rowell was trying to imply. The ending, for me, was not disappointing. I can see why Eleanor did what she did and it was left open which allows a reader to finish it in effect, which I liked.

What did you think of this book? What would you like us to review next?

Free Falling, Kirsty Moseley

Free Falling by Kirsty Moseley, reviewed by Bronte

What is this book about?

They say that your school years are supposed to be the best years of your life, and that you should make the most of them because you’ll miss them when you’re all grown up. Up until Maisie Preston’s senior year, she would have totally agreed with that statement. Life was great, she had everything going for her, excellent grades, great parents, an annoying yet caring twin brother, and an impossibly sweet boyfriend. Everything was perfect - that is until the arrival of Zach Anderson. A misfit delinquent that seemed to bring with him a lot of bad karma. Is it just a coincidence that his arrival marks a significant change in Maisie’s life? Up until senior year, life was perfect, but things seem to be going downhill fast.

Who should read this book?

If you liked Always You, this is a spin off book, which still stands on its own. In other words you don't have to have read one to read the other, or vice versa. Its a young adult book, it says realistic fiction but personally some parts seem pretty un realistic in day to day life!

How long is this book?

281 pages, a short book.

Marks:
Story Line: 7/10
Well written: 5/5
Enjoyabililty: 4/5
Overall: 16/20

Star Rating: 4 Stars

Question 1. What character would you most like to have tea with?
Zack, because Zack is pretty cool. He is really funny and can have a laugh with you and joke around a lot. He's also had a bit of a rough past, which makes you feel sad for him. Also I want to find out more about him because he is quite secretive.

Question 2. What character would you most like to throw tea at?
There is an obvious choice, but telling you that would give away the book so I'm going to go with Maisie. She is very naïve and gets annoyed with her dad and twin brother for being overly protective over her, but of course they are going to be because she just seems to stroll into danger completely oblivious as to what she is doing. However she does know what she is doing which makes it worse because she knows the dangers is imminent.

Question 3. What do you think of the cover?
This cover doesn't blow me away. I mean it relates to the book, its simplistic(which I like) but there is just nothing that makes you look back at it, its just as it is.

Question 4. What do you think of the title do you think there is an alternative?
The title is okay, it does come up in the book and has a literal and mental meaning.

Question 5. Favourite quote!
There weren't very many quotes from this book, but I quite like this one-
“Some girls, deserves to have you treat her like a princess everyday, just like you always do to me."

Overall: This book actually has quite a lot of twists and almost turns in to a detective novel, which gave the book a lot of levels making it a very enjoyable but a quick read. I thought that there were surprises in this book, just like other Kirsty Moseley novels, that made me smile and laugh but also sometimes a sadness to the book. A good holiday read.

What did you think of this book? What would you like us to review next?

The Host, Stephenie Meyer

The Host by Stephenie Meyer, reviewed by Bronte

Page to Screen Comparison

What is this book about?

Melanie Stryder refuses to fade away. The earth has been invaded by a species that take over the minds of human hosts while leaving their bodies intact. Wanderer, the invading "soul" who has been given Melanie's body, didn't expect to find its former tenant refusing to relinquish possession of her mind. As Melanie fills Wanderer's thoughts with visions of Jared, a human who still lives in hiding, Wanderer begins to yearn for a man she's never met. Reluctant allies, Wanderer and Melanie set off to search for the man they both love.

Who should read this book?

If you hated Twilight, don't be put of by the fact that this book is by Stephenie Meyer, even more reason for you to read it; to experience some really awesome writing and story from her that isn't about odd vampires, shirtless ware wolves and naïve humans. This book is 10 times better than Twilight and you should read it if you love fantasy/science fiction dramatic love story's. I'm feeling the need to point out that I don't actually think Twilight is awful, The Host is just much much better in comparison.

How long is this book?

619 pages, a long book.

Marks:
Story Line: 9/10
Well written: 5/5
Enjoyabililty: 4/5
Overall: 18/20

Star Rating: 5 Stars

Question 1. What character would you most like to have tea with?
I'm in a little bit of a predicament. This is because having tea with Jeb would be really fun because he is essentially the 'king', which is cool. However think of all the other amazing stories that Wanda hadn't even told yet which means chatting with her would be fascinating. But then there is Jared, who is Jared. So.

 Question 2. What character would you most like to throw tea at?
Wanda. Which seems pretty mean really. I wouldn't want to throw tea at Melanie so I would have to throw the tea at just Wanda; and souls as souls are so beautiful it would be sacrilege to throw tea over her! But she was so naïve sometimes it annoyed me. Not all the time though, mostly she was lovely.

Question 3. What do you think of the cover?
This cover fits the story well, but I'm not going to lie, I do find it a bit creepy. And Melanie has brown eyes.

Question 4. What do you think of the title do you think there is an alternative?
I like this title because it simplistic and easy to remember.

Question 5. Favourite quote!
 “Perhaps there could be no joy on this planet without an equal weight of pain to balance it out on some unknown scale.”
A honest and totally human quote coming from a dystopian science fiction book.

Overall:
I really liked this book. It's one of the books that's on your reading list for ages but its so long and you can't really summon up the patients to read it. A sunbed in Italy is all you need. Now after reading it I am so glad I have done so because it was Wandaful (see what I did there) and yes, the beginning drags on a little and some bits Wanda does makes you wonder if there is such a thing as common sense. But then there are parts that make you laugh, smile and cry and you go back to loving everything about this book again. It also contains one of the most complicated love, rectangles? ever. Well worth a read!

What did you think of this book? What would you like us to review next?

All These Things I've Done, Gabrielle Zevin

All These Things I've Done by Gabrielle Zevin, reviewed by Eleanor

What is this book about?
In 2083, chocolate and coffee are illegal, paper is hard to find, water is carefully rationed, and New York City is rife with crime and poverty. And yet, for Anya Balanchine, the sixteen-year-old daughter of the city's most notorious (and dead) crime boss, life is fairly routine. That is until her ex is accidentally poisoned by the chocolate her family manufactures and the police think she's to blame. Suddenly, Anya finds herself thrust unwillingly into the spotlight -at school, in the news and, most importantly, within her mafia family. (goodreads.com)

Who should read this book?
12+, YA dystopian, romance

How long is this book?
351 pages

Marks
Story Line: 6/10
Well written: 4/5
Enjoyabililty: 3/5
Overall: 13/20

Star Rating:
3 stars

Question 1. What character would you most like to have tea with?
Anya's Nana because she was born in 1995 and I was born a year later and that's kinda cool (this book is set in 2082/3)


Question 2. What character would you most like to throw tea at?
Mr Delacroix. I know he has his reasons for not wanting Anya and Win to be together but I would still throw tea at him because they're a cute couple!

Question 3. What do you think of the cover?
I'm not so sure about the front cover of the edition I read but I do love the cover of another edition so I'm putting a picture of that up instead.

Question 4. What do you think of the title? Do you think there is an alternative?
I like the title. It's quite catchy after a while and suits the book.

Question 5. Favourite quote!
"Should have. Would have. Could have. Didn't."

Overall: I loved the main characters in this book, Anya is a likable protagonist, her older brother, Leo, is so sweet and her younger sister, Natty, is pretty cute. And then there's Win. Although he's no Jace Wayland, I did like his character too. The problem for me was that I found the romance to be rather rushed. One day Anya's not interested in Win, the next she's really not interested in him and then the next she's suddenly kissing him. Hmmm. Also, the book is written as though Anya is writing her life down for the reader (e.g. "N.B. This is foreshadowing, dear readers...") however when she has time for this/why she's doing it is not explained and so I'm not sure if this really worked. Maybe it shall all become clear in the sequel though, which I'll definitely be reading on its release!

This summer I seem to have given rather a lot of 3 stars out in my reviews. Any recommendations for books I'd be able to like enough to give 4 or even 5 stars to?

Revolution, Jennifer Donnelly

Revolution by Jennifer Donnelly, reviewed by Eleanor

What is this book about?
Andi lives in present-day New York and is dealing with the aftermath of her brother's accidental death.
Alexandrine lives in Paris and is desperately trying to save a young boy from the ravages of the French Revolution.
Their paths collide as Andi unlocks a route to the past which might just hold the key to reconciling herself to her own history -and her future blurb

Who should read this book?
14+ historical fiction novel

How long is this book?
471 pages

Marks
Story Line: 7/10
Well written: 3/5
Enjoyabililty: 3/5
Overall: 13/20

Star Rating:
3 stars

Question 1. What character would you most like to have tea with?
Virgil, I want him to sing to me like he sings to Andi

Question 2. What character would you most like to throw tea at?
Louis XVI's cousin -the Duke of Orléans, just because (am I allowed to say that, seem as he was a real person and all?!!!)

Question 3. What do you think of the cover?
It's a nice cover I like how it's mysterious at first until you learn about where this key came from. (I also love the little sparrow on the back cover!)

Question 4. What do you think of the title do you think there is an alternative?
I don't think the title is all that great, although the novel is based on the French Revolution I still don't think it really fits.

Question 5. Favourite quote!
"When you can write music that endures, bravo. Until then, keep quiet and study the work of those who can"

Overall: This book took me quite a long time to read and this wasn't at all because it wasn't good but just because I could tell how much research had been put into the book and I was determined not to skim over a single detail of it. The book is engaging and although I don't know much about the music the character's in the book like so much, it doesn't matter because Andi's love for music is so strong that I forgot I'd never properly heard any of the songs! The story line is well put together and the 'twist' at the end is good. I haven't given this book any more than 13 out of 20 because it was quite hard to read, however I really like Donnelly's style of writing and definitely recommend this book along with one of the author's other novels, A Gathering Light (A Northern Light)

Did you enjoy this book?

My Sister Lives on the Mantelpiece, Annabel Pitcher

My Sister Lives on the Mantelpiece by Annabel Pitcher, reviewed by Eleanor

What is this book about?
Ten-year-old Jamie hasn't cried since it happened. He knows he should have - Jasmine cried, Mum cried, Dad still cries. Roger didn't, but then he is just a cat and didn't know Rose that well, really.
Five years on, it's worse than ever: Dad drinks, Mum's gone and Jamie's left with questions that he must answer for himself. blurb

Who should read this book?
This book can be read by children as well as adults because, despite a quite grown up theme, it is funny and relatable to readers who are just entering the YA bracket.

How long is this book?
221 pages, a fairly short book

Marks
Story Line: 7/10
Well written: 4/5
Enjoyability: 3/5
Overall: 14/20

Star Rating:
3 stars

Question 1. Which character would you most likely to have tea with?
Sunya was definitely my favourite character. It's always nice when you find a child (even if she's fictional) who doesn't care what others think of her.

Question 2. What character would you most like to throw tea at?
Probably Jamie's Mum, although I can't say why because I don't want to ruin the plot.


Question 3. What do you think of the cover?
I quite like the cover of this book on the edition that I read. I like the drawing of the girl, even though I'm not exactly sure what she is supposed to represent (I'm guessing the dead sister, Rose, but I'm not certain) And I like that the title and cover fit nicely together.

Question 4. What do you think of the title do you think there is an alternative?
I really like long titles (just as I like one-worded titles) and so love this one. It really does make you stop and pick it off the shelf, simply because the title is so different and eye catching.

Question 5. Favourite quote!
“In fact she was quite bad and according to Jas she was naughty at school, but no one seems to remember that now she is all dead and perfect.”

Overall: I enjoyed this book because it was something a bit different. The narrator is lovable and explains things in a way that really emphasises his feelings towards what is taking place in the novel. The book is emotional and brings up some quite controversial themes yet it will be able to reach a much younger audience, which just adds to the cleverness of the book.

What did you think of this book? What's your book blog called? (If you have one!)

Breathe, Sarah Crossan

Breathe by Sarah Crossan, reviewed by Eleanor

What is this book about?
Oxygen levels have fallen due to deforestation and now, years later, people live in the Pod; a huge structure which has oxygen pumped into it. Society is divided into Premiums, who can afford enough oxygen to live a normal life, and Auxiliaries who can barely breathe each day.

Three teenagers end up outside of the Pod with only two days worth of air. Outside, they begin to wonder if their government back home has been telling the complete truth...

Who should read this book?
This is a young adult book, for anyone who enjoys dystopian/vaguely post-apocalyptic novels

How long is this book?
372 pages

Marks
Story Line: 7/10
Well written: 4/5
Enjoyabililty: 3/5
Overall: 14/20

Star Rating:
3 stars

Question 1. What character would you most like to have tea with?
I'd say Jazz, she's a nine year old girl in the rebel group and her outlook on life is pretty amusing so it would be quite funny having a cup of tea with her, I think.

Question 2. What character would you most like to throw tea at?
Quinn because it's so obvious that his best friend likes him yet he fails to notice. Pffft, boys.

Question 3. What do you think of the cover?
I like the colours on the cover because purple is my favourite colour, it's quite an eye catching picture and it looks very science fiction.

Question 4. What do you think of the title do you think there is an alternative?
I really like titles that are one word long so I think Breathe is a really good title. And it makes sense that the book would be called this with the low oxygen levels outside, etc...

Question 5. Favourite quote!
 "I cough and cough and before long the cough turns into panicked pants. I'll die here."

Overall: I sometimes find that characters in dystopian books can be quite unlikeable and boring but I really liked the characters in this book. Alina, Quinn and Bea were all interesting to read about, which made the book a lot more enjoyable. Although I wouldn't say this is my favourite dystopian book, the plot is exciting and fast paced and it's worth reading.

What did you think of this book? What should we review next?

Noughts and Crosses, Malorie Blackman

Noughts and Crosses by Malorie Blackman, reviewed by Eleanor

What is this book about?
Callum is a nought -a second-class citizen in a world run my the ruling Crosses...

Sephy is a Cross, the daughter of one of the most powerful men in the country...

In their world, noughts and Crosses simply don't mix. And as violence turns to peace and love, can Callum and Sephy possibly find a way to be together? They are determined to try.

And then the bomb explodes... blurb

Who should read this book?
YA/Teen

How long is this book?
512 pages

Marks
Story Line: 8/10
Well written: 4/5
Enjoyabililty: 4/5
Overall: 16/20

Star Rating: 4 stars

Question 1. Which characters would have the most awkward conversation whilst drinking tea?
I would have to say Meggie and Mrs Hadley (Callum's Mum and Sephy's Mum) After Mrs Hadley firing Meggie, I can see a potentially awkward/angry conversation between them.


Question 2. What character would you most like to throw tea at?
Jude, Callum's older brother, because he infuriated me for the whole book with his huge inability to think before speaking. I know there were some bordering-on-evil characters in the book, but quite honestly Jude annoyed me more than all of them!

Question 3. What do you think of the cover?
It's simple but clever because the only colours used are black and white and these really make the shapes stand out.

Question 4. What do you think of the title do you think there is an alternative?
I can't decide if I like the title or not. It's simple, like the cover, yet I think it could possibly have been something a little more inventive. Maybe. No idea what though!

Question 5. Favourite quote!
"Do you ever wonder what it would be like if our positions were reversed? If we whites were in charge instead of you Crosses?"

Overall: I really enjoyed this book! It's clever and thought provoking and has a really unexpected ending, which I love in a book! I've been meaning to read Noughts and Crosses for a long time and I'm so glad I finally have. It was definitely worth reading!

Do you have any summer reading recommendations?

Cover VERSUS Cover: Sarah Dessen Edition

Beautiful Sarah Dessen book covers all in one place, but which will be your favourite? (I am aware that there is the 'new' and the 'old' covers, but I went for the newer ones as I think that the old ones are very similar to each other)

1.   vs

Eleanor: This Lullaby
Izzy: This Lullaby
Bronte: The Truth about Forever

2.  vs  

Eleanor: Just Listen
Izzy: Keeping the Moon
Bronte: Just Listen

3.   vs  

Eleanor: Dreamland
Izzy: Dreamland
Bronte: Lock and Key, I like the simplicity

4.   vs  

Eleanor: Along for the Ride
Izzy: Along for the Ride
Bronte: The Moon and More

5.   vs   (It's like 'feet vs feet'!)

Eleanor: Someone Like You
Izzy: What Happened to Goodbye
Bronte: Someone Like You

Which is your favourite cover out of ALL of them? Do you prefer these covers or the other ones better?

Love story VERSUS Love story #1

This is our first ever love story VERSUS love story! YAY, happy happy happy, we do love a good love story, especially a triangle! Can you imagine an octagonal love story? Mind=BLOWN! So without further ado:

1. Bella and Edward vs Bella and Jacob (Twilight)

Bronte: Bella and Edward
Izzy: Bella and Jacob
Eleanor: Bella and Edward

2. Tobias and Tris (Divergent) vs Katniss and Peeta (Hunger Games)

Bronte: Tobias and Tris
Izzy: Katniss and Peeta, but I prefer the Divergent series.
Eleanor: Katniss and Peeta

3. Katniss and Peeta vs Katniss and Gale (Hunger Games)

Bronte: Katniss and Peeta
Izzy: Katniss and Gale
Eleanor: Katniss and Peeta

4. Lena and Ethan (Beautiful Creatures) vs Lena and Alex (Delirium)

Bronte: Lena and Alex
Izzy: Lena and Alex
Eleanor: Lena and Ethan

5. Anna and St.Clair (Anna and the French Kiss) vs Lola and Cricket (Lola and the Boy Next Door)

Bronte: Anna and St.Clair
Izzy: Ooh tough one! Anna and St.Clair just win this one for me
Eleanor: Anna and St. Clair

6. Tessa and Will (The Infernal Devices) vs Clary and Jace (The Mortal Instruments)

Bronte: Tessa and Will
Izzy: Clary and Jace
Eleanor: Clary and Jace

7. Isabelle and Simon (The Mortal Instruments) vs Sophie and Gideon (The Infernal Devices)

Bronte: Isabelle and Simon
Izzy: Isabelle and Simon
Eleanor: Isabelle and Simon

8. Helen and Lucas vs Helen and Orion (Starcrossed)

Bronte: Helen and Lucas, but I do love Orion
Izzy: Helen and Orion
Eleanor: Helen and Lucas

9. Kate and Vincent (Die for Me) vs Renée and Dante (Dead Beautiful)

Bronte: Kate and Vincent, just
Izzy: Haven't read either!
Eleanor: Renée and Dante

10. Lou and Will (Me Before You) vs Hazel and Augustus (The Fault in our Stars)

Bronte: Lou and Will, again, just
Izzy: Hazel and Augustus
Eleanor: Lou and Will

Stolen: A Letter to my Captor, Lucy Christopher

Stolen: A Letter to my Captor by Lucy Christopher, reviewed by Eleanor

What is this book about?
It happened like this. 
I was stolen from an airport. 
Taken from everything I knew, everything I was used to. 
Taken to sand and heat, dirt and danger. 
And he expected me to love him. 
This is my story. 
A letter from nowhere. –the blurb

Who should read this book?
This is a YA book.

How long is this book?
301 pages

Marks
Story Line: 6/10
Well written: 4/5
Enjoyabililty: 4/5
Overall: 14/20

Star Rating:
3 stars

Question 1. What character would you most like to have tea with?

There isn't a character in this book that I would like to have tea with and this is just because there are only really two characters we get to know throughout the book. While Gemma is a great character and I admire her strength (in her situation I’m pretty sure I would just break down and cry all of the time) I don’t think I really want to sit down and have tea with her because there isn't really anything that interesting about her.

Question 2. What character would you most like to throw tea at?

It’s obvious to anyone who has already read this book that Ty really needs someone to throw a lot of tea at him. Fine, I get that he has his reasons for kidnapping Gemma and everything but I seriously do not get how taking a sixteen year old girl could be right in any way. I’m a sixteen year old girl and just the thought terrifies me.

Question 3. What do you think of the cover?

Hmm, I’m not too sure about the cover of the edition that I read. The butterfly is pretty but it’s nothing particularly special or eye catching.

Question 4. What do you think of the title do you think there is an alternative?
I think Stolen is actually quite a good title for this book. It fits what the book is about and works well for the story.

Question 5. Favourite quote!

“How long will you keep me?” I asked.

You shrugged. “Forever, of course.”

Overall: I had my last GCSE exam earlier today and so I got this book out of the library as a beginning to a summer of lots and lots of reading (I also borrowed Noughts and Crosses by Malorie Blackman, as this is another book I have been planning on reading for a long time) After starting the book, I literally did not stop reading it until I had reached the end. The whole book is one long letter from the main character, Gemma, to her captor and as I don’t normally pick up books written in letter format I was surprised at how engaging this book was. Although the story line becomes a bit slow at times, the book is not divided into chapters and this makes it extremely fast paced. I had to keep reading in order to reach the end and find out how Gemma would end her letter because I was just as conflicted as she was about Ty. I really recommend this book just because it’s different and so unlike all the books I read at the moment.

Do you have any requests for reviews? And are there any books you highly recommend? 

Starcrossed Trilogy QandA!

Well hello there, me and Izzy are going to do something ever so special in light of Josephine Angelini's trilogy Starcrossed concluding. We have both read all three books and enjoyed them so much we are going to do a Q and A for you and on top of that you can answer the questions to! What fun!

WARNING, ALTHOUGH THIS IS TO BE AVOIDED, WE MAY GIVE ACCIDENTAL SPOILERS TO THE TRILOGY AS A WHOLE. If you are planning on reading the trilogy (which we highly recommend) please come back once you've read all three books.

 Izzy's Questions and Bronte's Answers

1) Who was your favourite character from the whole series?

Helen, just because she is such a strong character and loves and wants to protect everyone around her (although sometimes this can be annoying because the people that love her just as much as she loves them want to help, so you sometimes find yourself thinking, uuhh common sense??). However I also LOVE Lucas, Ariadne and Claire.

2) If Lucas and Orion were real who do you think would better suit your personality?

This is so difficult! Probably Lucas, just. But to be honest there personalities are really similar which is probably why Helen had such a difficult problem choosing one.

3) Were you pleased with the ending?

I have to say that I was a little tiney weeney incy wincy bit disappointed with the ending. Read my review to find out why because it is a little lengthy! My Review of Dreamless

 4) Were there any points in any of the three books you didn't enjoy or didn't find necessary?

I can honestly say that I don't think that there was any point where I lost interest at all. However in Dreamless it did get a little repetitive when she was going down to awful places in the underworld, but I do think that it was necessary, so I contradict myself!

5) Would you like to be a Scion?

YES! 100%! Why would you not, super strength, super speed, super pretty and you could have a talent. Personally I would love to fly and be a world builder, but that might be a lot to take on. Oh, and I would love to see what people are feeling, like Orion, in colours; but I wouldn't want to control hearts.

Bronte's Questions Izzy's Answers

 1) Who would you rather have as brothers and sisters: Lucas and Cassandra or Hector, Ariadne and Jason?

Hector, Ariadne and Jason.
I have a couple of reasons for this;
1. Cassandra either annoys me or freaks me out throughout the series. I'm not saying it's her fault, it's not. However if she started doing that freaky flying, talking think in front of me I think I would be absolutely petrified, which would not help the situation.
2. Lucas is good-looking, not brother material
3. Hector gives the best hugs = good brother material.

2) Which cover is your favourite?

They're all the same really. I mean I like them, but they're all some attractive girl, in a dress, in the wind. I do like blue and purple though, so I'm going to go with Goddess.

3) Describe each book with one word

Starcrossed: Absorbing
Dreamless: ...Intimate (seriously, this book should have had some kind of age limit)
Goddess:  Rough

4) In all three books, which was your utmost favourite part/bit?

Being the Orion fan I am, I loved the bit in Dreamless where Helen touched the river and forgot everything so her and Orion really started to go for it. I swear I'm not a creep, it just warmed my shipping heart as I had been waiting for that bit throughout the whole book. I also liked any part with her and Orion in the final book too. 

5) What character do you think you are most like or could relate to the most?

Hmm...Hmmm...HMMMM... I'm going to have to go with Claire, who's Helen's best friend. She's the only normal one, which helps me relate to her. Plus she always tries her best, and tries to do the right thing even if she doesn't always get it right (especially in the last one!) I find that a really relatable idea, trying to do the right thing and what is best for everyone, but not actually getting it right.

What do you guys think? Do you have different answers to us? Do you have any questions about the books that you want to ask us?

Opppps...

Hello Everyone,

Just a short post to say while experimenting with 'summer colours' and 'summer themes' for Titles and Teacups for over the summer period I accidently, the technological guru that I am, clicked on the wrong button and published the pink Titles and Teacups!!!

I, of course will change it back because I was only experimenting (thank gosh I wrote down the colour numbers) but I was fiddling during revision breaks and have to continue revising now.

It will be changed back by tomorrow afternoon, definitely.

So, this little post, was just to inform you that if you arrive and think 'PINK, AHHH am I at the right place?' Yes, yes you are.

I'm really sorry!

~Bronte, because I am sure the others don't want the shame of being the one who doesn't know how to use her laptop.

Updated: Right, we're back in business, thanks for the patience! We should have a summer theme going on soon. Oh the excitement.

Dying to Know You, Aidan Chambers

Dying to Know You by Aidan Chambers reviewed by Izzy

What is this book about?
Karl, aged seventeen, is hopelessly in love. But the object of his affections, Fiorella, demands proof, and poses him a series of questions regarding his attitude to the many sides of love. But Karl is dyslexic, and convinced that if Fiorella finds out, she will think he is stupid, and unworthy of her, and leave him.

So Karl asks a local writer to help him construct his replies - and an unlikely, but extremely touching, friendship develops between the two men. They both come to learn a great deal about about life from a very different perspective, and when an act of violence shatters their calm, they find their respective appraisal of life shifting in profound ways (Goodreads)

Who should read this book?
I found it in the "Teen Fiction" section of the Waterstones I was in however I think adults could read this book as well.

How long is this book?
288 pages

Marks
Story Line:  7/10
Well written:  4/5
Enjoyablilty:  3/5
Overall:   14/20

Star Rating: 3 Stars

Question 1. What character would you most like to have tea with?

Karl. Mostly because he's such a sweetheart in the books and I just want to hug him whenever he says anything.

Question 2. What character would you most like to throw tea at?

Fiorella. My gosh this girl bugs me for the entirity of the novel. I think Chambers wants me to find her annoying but her character hit a really raw nerve with me, mostly becuse she reminded me of me at my most annoying and pretentious.

Question 3. What do you think of the cover?

I did not get it at first, but one your half way through the novel you realise why the cover s important and relevant. I like how simple it is, and it caught my eye among the jungle of books in the teen section.

Question 4. What do you think of the title do you think there is an alternative?

I may be wrong but I think this is a Fiorella quote (Dying to Know You) which puts me off it a bit. It makes sense, but I think something to do with art would have been more appropriate and different to other books.

Question 5. Favourite quote! 

"You remember that experiment with iron filings and a magnet the science teacher did at school when you were of an age still easy to amaze? You remember the iron filings, which where scattered like a mess of dust on a sheet of paper suddenly formed into clean strong patterns when the magnet was placed in the middle of the mess...?

Overall: I really enjoyed this book, the writing was beautiful. However I felt like the climax came a bit early and from there on out it was just a downwards spiral. Not to say this book wasn't enjoyable, it was. However I much preferred Chambers work in "This Is All: The Pillow Book Of Cordelia Kenn," which is truly one of the most beautiful pieces of writing I have ever had the fortune of reading.

What did you think of this book? What would you like us to review next?

Cover VERSUS Cover #1

This is the first in a series called cover versus cover. For this first post, the covers are all from books we have reviewed so far...

1.                         vs               

Bronte: This Is What Happy Looks Like

Izzy: Wonder

Eleanor: Wonder

2.                         vs               

Bronte: Send Me a Sign

Izzy: Ketchup Clouds

Eleanor: Ketchup Clouds

3.                         vs               

Bronte: Clockwork Angel

Izzy: Clockwork Angel (darn we all went with the same!)

Eleanor: Clockwork Angel

4.                         vs               

Bronte: Die For Me

Izzy: Divergent

Eleanor: Divergent

5.                         vs               

Bronte: The Fault in our Stars

Izzy: Uglies is actually probably more eye catching for me, but I prefer The Fault in Our Stars so much more! Still, Uglies.

Eleanor: The Fault in our Stars

What features on a cover make you pick up a book? What do you want us to review next?