Bright Before Sunrise, Tiffany Schmidt

Bright Before Sunrise by Tiffany Schmidt, reviewed by Bronte

Author: Website Twitter

Publisher: Walker Childrens

Pages: 288

Buy this book: Amazon, Barnes and Noble

What is this book about?

When Jonah is forced to move from Hamilton to Cross Pointe for the second half of his senior year, "miserable" doesn't even begin to cover it. He feels like the doggy-bag from his mother's first marriage and everything else about her new life—with a new husband, new home and a new baby—is an upgrade. The people at Cross Pointe High School are pretentious and privileged—and worst of all is Brighton Waterford, the embodiment of all things superficial and popular. Jonah’s girlfriend, Carly, is his last tie to what feels real... until she breaks up with him. 

For Brighton, every day is a gauntlet of demands and expectations. Since her father died, she’s relied on one coping method: smile big and pretend to be fine. It may have kept her family together, but she has no clue how to handle how she's really feeling. Today is the anniversary of his death and cracks are beginning to show. The last thing she needs is the new kid telling her how much he dislikes her for no reason she can understand. She's determined to change his mind, and when they're stuck together for the night, she finally gets her chance. (Goodreads)

Who should read this book?

If you, like me, really enjoyed Schmidt's Send Me a Sign debut novel I think you will really enjoy this book too. Its a really cute novel and if I hadn't of read it already, it would definitely be on my Top Ten Books That Will Be In My Beach Bag list!

Marks:

Story Line: 8/10

Well written: 5/5

Enjoyabililty: 4/5

Overall: 17/20

Star Rating: 4 Stars

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

This maybe weird, but I think that I would most like to have tea with Brighton's father. From what I read he sounded like a really nice, kind, lovely caring person who would be really easy to just talk to. (Although I don't mean "nice"...how about great...inside joke)

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

Potentially everyone at some point...Brighton for being such a 'teflon' person, Jonah for being so mean at the beginning, his Mum for changing, Paul for being so horrible to Johan...but anyway. I can only pick one which would have to be Paul as he is consistently horrible whereas the others all change to some degree.

Question 3. What do you think of the cover?

I think this cover is so cute! It was actually what drew me in to read it in the first place - and then when I realised Schmidt had written it, it became top on my list of books to read next.

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

This title made no sense to me before I read the book! Only after I finish the book did I realise: Brighton is her name (Bright is her nickname) and we see her personality change at night, before the sun has risen. I think it is the perfect title because it makes me want to read more to understand!

Question 5. Favourite quote!

'One night with Jonah and I've morphed from Teflon to something that reacts when scratched...a record or a match."

Overall:

We all know how much I enjoyed Send me a Sign so it is difficult for Schmidt to beat it; maybe its because I finished the book yesterday and I'm still basking in the post book enjoyment period, but I think I almost enjoyed this book more! I think again, however, Schmidt rushed the ending slightly more than was necessary, but I do understand that as a 300 paged book that covers a 12 hour period, it does have to end somewhere. I would have perhaps liked to see Brighton and Jonah develop their relationship a bit more though. Overall, great book and I can't wait to read more from Tiffany Schmidt if they keep getting better!

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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.

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This Is What Happy Looks Like, Jennifer E. Smith

This Is What Happy Looks Like by Jennifer E. Smith reviewed by Izzy

SORRY THIS IS REVIEW HAS TAKEN ME SO LONG. I am so, so sorry. Exam stress is definitely getting the better of me.  We love you all and appreciate every single pageview we get.

What is this book about?
 When teenage movie star Graham Larkin accidentally sends small town girl Ellie O'Neill an email about his pet pig, the two seventeen-year-olds strike up a witty and unforgettable correspondence, discussing everything under the sun, except for their names or backgrounds.

Then Graham finds out that Ellie's Maine hometown is the perfect location for his latest film, and he decides to take their relationship from online to in-person. But can a star as famous as Graham really start a relationship with an ordinary girl like Ellie? And why does Ellie want to avoid the media's spotlight at all costs?

Who should read this book?

Fans of Sarah Dessen and Stephanie Perkins will love this book. Also any fangirls who really want to go out with a member of One Direction, or if you're a little less mainstream like me and go for Logan Lerman, you have to read this! It does get your hopes up though, like you could actually end up with someone with a superstar. (I'm just kidding, you will all marry one of One Direction I'm sure.)

How long is this book?
 404 pages

Marks
Story Line:  8/10
Well written:  4/5
Enjoyabililty:  5/5
Overall:   17/20

Star Rating:

4 Stars

Question 1. What character would you most like to have tea with?
 I think Ellie and I would get along like a house on fire. Plus she works at an ice cream shop, which even though I'm lactose intolerant, appeals to the greedy animal that lives inside of me.

Question 2. What character would you most like to throw tea at?
 Ellie's dad. I know it's not his fault, what happens, but I want to actually kill him. When reading the book I was like, "NO. NO. NO. Oh gawd, you jerk." I said it just like that. In my room. Alone. I have an AMAZING social life.

Question 3. What do you think of the cover?
 Aw guys Jennifer knows how to make me very happy. Is there a photo? Nope. Is there a drawing? Yes. Yes there is. I like it even more than TSPOLAFS cover, and guys, I liked that cover. I think since Smith is a nerdfighter she knows how to make me happy. Drawings as covers please me.

Question 4. What do you think of the title?
 I like the title. I really, really like the title. I love the way it is integrated into the story. I just don't like it quite as much as "The Statistical Probability of Love at First Sight." However, I prefer the cover of this one so swings and roundabouts.

Question 5. Favourite quote!
He waved this away. "I'd have to come to rescue you," he told her. "I might not have a white horse, but I do have a very portly pig."
"How romantic," Ellie said.”

Overall: I love how Smith writes. 3rd person is my favourite kind of writing, and she understands how to make teenage girls squeal. I like the characters even more than in The Statistical Probability of Love at First Sight, probably because there is more time to get to know them, and love them. For me, this is her best book so far.

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Dreamless, Josephine Angelini

Dreamless (Starcrossed, #2) by Josephine Angelini, reviewed by Bronte

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

Starcrossed

What is this book about?

As the only Scion who can descend into the Underworld, Helen Hamilton has been given a nearly impossible task. By night she wanders through Hades, trying to stop the endless cycle of revenge that has cursed her family. By day she struggles to overcome the fatigue that is rapidly eroding her sanity. Without Lucas by her side, Helen is not sure she has the strength to go on.

Who should read this book?

A person who enjoyed Starcrossed wouldn't be able to go about normal life without finding out how the series continued. People who enjoy Greek Mythology, fantasy and romance. Its thrilling and page turning.

How long is this book?

496 pages.

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

Star Rating:

4 Stars

Question 1. What character has remained the same pot of tea?

Jerry. Jerry is still kind and lovely to Helen however he does clearly notice something is wrong and he doesn't question Helen about it which means that he must really trust her, which is sweet.

Question 2. Which character has a whole new flavour?

Lucas. Jeez, wow, what a grump! I can see why though and I do kind of feel for him a bit after reading the whole book. I obviously not going to tell you because you have to read the book!

Question 3. Which characters would have the most awkward conversation whilst drinking tea?

This is tricky. I think the there could have potentially been an incredibly akward conversation between Lucas and Orion, but there wasn't. I really have no idea what characters could create a really awkward conversation, what do you think?

Question 4. What book would you prefer to read while drinking tea?

To be perfectly honest, and honesty is best, I would not mind. I love the beginning of Starcrossed, finding out about all of the characters and discovering Helen and what she was but I love the bit in the Underworld in Dreamless when Helen and Orion are searching for the rivers, and the bit where they forget and the night garden...trying not to reveal to much here so lets leave it at that!

Question 5. Favourite quote!

“...try to remember that dreams do come true, but they don't come easily.”

Overall:

Another fantastic book. The series works really well together, however I'm not going to lie, there are bits I find really annoying and fustrating, a bit like Helen really! Saying that I would really recommend this book because the idea's and story that Josephine Angelini has written is so so clever!

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

Dead Beautiful, Yvonne Woon

Dead Beautiful by Yvonne Woon, reviewed by Eleanor

What is this book about?

'Coming from sunny California, the mist-shrouded Academy was a shock, with its strange customs, ancient curriculum and study of Latin - the language of the dead. Then I discovered that the school has more than one dark secret... I also discovered Dante. Intelligent, elusive and devastatingly gorgeous, most people can't decide whether they love, hate or fear him. All I know is that when we're together, I've never felt more alive - or more afraid.'

Who should read this book?
This is a Young Adult book, which could probably be read by adults and younger teens too. Having said that, it was a little scary in places (for Bronte and Me!)

How long is this book?

506 pages, quite a long book.

Marks
Story Line: 9/10
Well written: 4/5

Enjoyablilty: 4/5

Overall: 17/20

Star Rating:
4 stars

Question 1. What character would you most like to have tea with?
Dante. Dante. Dante. Now that I am reviewing this book, I am beginning to slightly regret not putting Dante as one of my book boyfriends because he's so nice and good looking and he can speak Latin, which is cool.

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

Renée's Grandfather. I know that, obviously, it makes for a good story to not have all the secrets told in chapter one however I did feel as though Renée's Grandfather kept her in the dark for just a little bit too long.

Question 3. What do you think of the cover?

I don't mind this cover. But, although I'm not quite as extreme as Izzy with her burning hatred of photo-title-pages, I really don't like covers which have photos where you can see peoples' eyes clearly. That sounds weird -I'm not actually scared of eyes.

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

I like the title of this book, it's relevant to the story and I cannot really think of an alternative.

Question 5. Favourite quote!

“In love, everyone does things that hurt the other person, so there really is no "Right" and "Wrong". You just have to decide what you're willing to forgive”

Overall:

I really liked this book. I don't want to give too much of the storyline away though, because one of the main things that I loved about it was how surprised I was by some parts of the plot. And it was for this reason that I found myself unable to put it down. I read this book on my Kindle so, as soon as I finished reading Dead Beautiful, I could download the second book in the series, Life Eternal, straightaway. Hooray for Kindles!

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

Die for Me, Amy Plum

Die for Me by Amy Plum, reviewed by Bronte

What is this book about?

When Kate Mercier's parents die in a tragic car accident, she leaves her life--and memories--behind to live with her grandparents in Paris. For Kate, the only way to survive her pain is escaping into the world of books and Parisian art. Until she meets Vincent.

Who should read this book?

A thrilling romance with a great story line is almost everyones cup of tea (thank you, yes the pun was indeed intended (: )

How long is this book?

341 pages, an average sized book

Marks
Story Line: 8/10
Well written: 4/5
Enjoyablilty: 5/5
Overall: 17/20

Star Rating:
4 Stars.

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

Jules. Jules, funny, sweet, clever, irrestistable, I could go on. I just think that he comes up with the funniest things to say and some made me even laugh out loud. I like poeple that make me laugh.

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

Every single one of the Numa. I can't just throw tea at one so I have to throw some at all of them although I'm pretty sure I'm going to need more than a cup, maybe a bucket?

Question 3. What do you think of the cover?

I love this cover! So much. It is very pretty and I love the colour. Red is my favourite colour. I love the way you can see Paris in the backround and the cloudy-ness of it. I love the pretty patterns and the style of writing, old and ancient. I love the way she is standing alone, as if she tackles Paris on her own but how she is above it, looking down and in control. I also love the dress. I love this cover. Just in case you didn't pick that up but I do love this cover.

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

This title is perfect. It can mean so many things relating to the story which is why it is perfect.

Question 5. Favourite quote!

'“You've heard of vampires?"
I nodded.
"You've heard of werwolves?"
"Of course."
"Had you ever heard of us?"
I shook my head.
"That's called 'staying under the radar,' dear Kate. It's what we're good at.”' - I thought it was funny.

Overall:

I loved this book. I thought the way that Amy Plum described Paris was beautiful. The detail she put in to just the littliest things. I like the way that it wasn't the 'normal' Paris, it was the back street, not the normal things that get described like the Eiffel Tower. It made me want to go to Paris. I loved Vincent and I loved his family, house and his way of living. It was just all very good. Good story, well written and very enjoyable.

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

Wonder, R. J Palacio

Wonder by R.J Palacio reviewed by Izzy

What is this book about?
August (Auggie) Pullman was born with a facial deformity that prevented him from going to a mainstream school—until now. He's about to start 5th grade at Beecher Prep, and if you've ever been the new kid then you know how hard that can be. The thing is Auggie's just an ordinary kid, with an extraordinary face. But can he convince his new classmates that he's just like them, despite appearances?
Who should read this book?
I'm finally able to say all teenagers. Thank gosh. Man, that's a huge relief. BOYS, YOU CAN READ THIS ONE TOO.

How long is this book?
313 pages

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

Star Rating: 4 Stars.

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

It's a toss up between the obvious choice of Auggie and his sister Via. I'm thinking Via because she's my age, so we'd have more to talk about. I still feel as hard as her parent's try Via is always going to be slightly overlooked and overshadowed. Also in the book she seems so sweet and smart. I like sweet and smart people.

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

Julian's Mum. You can almost forgive Julian for his stupid behaviour. He is 10 years old and doesn't know any better. One of the things his Mum does though just made me cry my eyes out. And made me really, really want to throw tea on her.

Question 3. What do you think of the cover?

I'm a big fan of the cover, especially as it's repeated throughout the book. Definitely very eye catching, certain to make you pick it up in your local Waterstones (UK) or Barnes and Noble (USA).

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

I like the title, I do. I like how it ties together at the end. However I think a different title might have been better. Something about a standing ovation maybe?

Question 5. Favourite quote!

"Everyone should get a standing ovation at least once in their life."

Overall: This is the first book ever that has made me cry happy tears and sad tears (also angry tears.) Definitely a... I want to say emotional roller coaster but the phrase is so clichéd and over used. An experience? I don't know, all I know is that this book is special and you won't have read anything like it before.

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