<![CDATA[Melanie's Muses

<![CDATA[Melanie's Muses - Blog]]>Wed, 11 Mar 2026 17:31:17 -0400Weebly<![CDATA[Team Greg Vs Team Mel - Challenge Three]]>Fri, 06 Jun 2025 18:59:11 GMThttps://www.melaniesmuses.com/blog/team-greg-vs-team-mel-challenge-threeTASK 3 - The Logo Challenge

For this task all the teams knew was that they were going to have to do a NON Video task!

Team Greg nominated Chuck and Team Mel nominated Stacy!

This challenge ended up being the Logo challenge that was planned for Task 2! Both teams came out swinging but Chuck from Team Greg ended up with a slight edge just because we are going to put his design on a sticker.

Check out both entries below and be sure to let them teams know how well they both did!

Chuck - Team Greg

Stacy - Team Melanie

]]><![CDATA[Team Greg Vs Team Mel - Challenge Two]]>Fri, 30 May 2025 16:08:09 GMThttps://www.melaniesmuses.com/blog/team-greg-vs-team-mel-challenge-twoTASK 2 - The Logo Challenge (That became the LEGO Challenge) lol

For this task all the teams knew was that they were going to have to do a NON Video task!

Team Greg nominated Shalene and Team Mel nominated Dana.

The Results ..... Well - Keep Reading lol (Although some of this has been discussed on the show)

The challenge issued for Dana and Shalene was create a Melanie’s Muses Logo.
The Monday morning after the challenge was issued I got a picture from Shalene with a Melanie’s Muses Lego ……. And as I was explaining that it was cute but the challenge was for a LOGO my messenger pinged with Dana and HER LEGO entry 😳.

At this point I’m laughing and I’m like you know what you both did it so it counts - and then Shalene messages me to let me know they got together and decided to punk me 🤣. But Kudos to them - I laughed so much I’m keeping it and they both get points.

BUT WAIT - there’s more! So I’m telling a friend about it because I was laughing so much and THEY ADD … “Wait.. was it Lego Lego or Lego Bricks?” Now what most of you probably don’t know is that there is a very pretty Thai singer CALLED Lego - and whilst I’m not sure HOW that would have been a thing - it just added to the level of amusement and Shalene created a LEGO LOGO with the Person.🤣🤣🤣.
Here are the pictures!!

Lego Entry From Shalene

Lego Entry From Dana

Bonus "Lego Logo" From Shalene lol

]]><![CDATA[Team Greg Vs Team Mel - Challenge One]]>Mon, 05 May 2025 18:37:51 GMThttps://www.melaniesmuses.com/blog/team-greg-vs-team-mel-challenge-oneTASK 1 - Recreate One Of Melanie's TikTok Dance Challenge Videos!

Musers got to choose which "Team" they wanted to be on with no idea what the teams would have to do and then the teams had to nominate a player with no idea what the task would be!

Team Greg nominated Lupe and Team Mel nominated Shannon.

The Results ..... Lupe knocked it out the park and took the win!

Check out her video below (and the original video she copied so you can see how well she did in case you don't recognize it).

WAY TO GO LUPE!!!

]]><![CDATA[Vote Now For Your Favorite Reel & Live Moment From 2024]]>Sat, 21 Dec 2024 14:31:15 GMThttps://www.melaniesmuses.com/blog/vote-now-for-your-favorite-reel-live-moment-from-2024It's that time of year again! Huge thank you to everyone that sent in suggestions for "Favorite Live Moment" and "Favorite Reel" from 2024. The top 3 for each are below! Take a look and then VOTE on the forms provided!

Top 3 Live Moments

The Tesco Bag!

Greg Invents A New Word

Mel and Susan in Spirit Halloween

CLICK HERE TO VOTE FOR YOUR FAVORITE LIVE MOMENT

Top 3 Reels

Reel 1 - Crowded Room Challenge (Click To Watch)

Reel 2 - Under The Sea (Click To Watch)

Reel 3 - Mel's 31 Looks in 31 Days (Click To Watch)

CLICK HERE TO VOTE FOR YOUR FAVORITE REEL

]]><![CDATA[Win It Wednesday - The Mindf*ck Series - A Guest Feature by Vicky Storch]]>Wed, 25 Sep 2024 12:51:38 GMThttps://www.melaniesmuses.com/blog/win-it-wednesday-the-mindfck-series-a-guest-feature-by-vicky-storch

This week Melanie's Muses is thrilled to welcome Vicky Storch back to the blog with another book based Muser feature!

Make sure you scroll down for details on how to enter the awesome giveaway too - and as always be sure to let us know what you think!

Vicky met Melanie years ago through an online book group and they have been friends ever since. Vicky often sends in prizes for Melanie's Muses Giveaways and we loves that she is now adding articles into the mix too!

This series is a 5 star read for me and one of my favourites. This is a dark romance, mystery-slash-thriller and I hope you enjoy it as much as I did. I prefer my books to have a dual POV, which is what you have with Lana and Logan. The main character is a kickass strong female, who doesn’t back down and is on a mission. This book gives off Dexter and Criminal Minds vibes. I loved the storyline and couldn’t put this book down.

For the giveaway I would have preferred to have sent the older cover but we are unable to get that in Canada but some places in the states are still able to get them. Amazon made them take down the older cover unfortunately.

St Abby is only one of her pen names. She tends to go by CM Owens the most but also has 2 paranormal series under Kristy Cunning which are also RH. Unfortunately she was only able to get one series done with the pen name of St Abby before she was tragically murdered by her husband in 2021. Her pen name St Abby stands for Stabby for her darker books.

Melanie is Founder of Melanie's Muses - You should know who I am lol If not take a look around the website - All about me is on the homepage!

I've started this book, (the giveaway is for the set published as 1 paperback but I am reading them through Kindle Unlimited on Amazon), and there is a twist right off the bat that is interesting and not the normal. It hooked me enough that I am going to keep reading (which at this point is pretty amazing lol).

I wanted to add that in the book there is a note about how the author, sadly. is no longer with us. In talking with Vicky I have learned that there is a WHOLE lot of DARK story that goes with that and VERY little ACCURATE information. I have never been more tempted to investigate podcast style than I am right now! (To Clarify - if you are new here - this will most likely never happen - an idea pops in my brain and lives there for a couple weeks and then I see something shiny and new and move on lol).

The Pineapple Code Word For This Article Is Stabby

Melanie's Muses will be giving away a paperback copy of the whole MindF*ck series, a bookmark, and a book sleeve, and book stickers from Vicky!

For your chance to win- GO BACK TO THE FACEBOOK PAGE HERE AND COMMENT ON THE ORIGINAL POST WITH

What is your latest 5 star read?

Comments about the article are encouraged - ESPECIALLY SO GUESTS CAN SEE WHAT YOU THINK OF THEIR ARTICLES - but for now only qualifying entries on the Facebook post will go in the bag! What your answer is will not influence whether you go into the hat - Only that you answer the question!

Winner will be announced during the Live show on October 6th and then posted on the page as well on October 7th if the winner isn't at the live.) Full Rules Below!
Good luck everyone!

Rules
Only comments posted on THE FORM will be considered.
This is open internationally. If you win and you cannot accept mail due to Covid issues we will hold the prize until such time as you can. Some exceptions may apply based on Post Office Regulations. Melanie's Muses takes no responsibility for rules beyond her control. Void Where Prohibited.
Sharing is always appreciated but is not required for entry.
Winner Will Be Picked At Random.
One Entry Per Person / Household
Prize is provided via Melanie's Muses and will be mailed by her.
Winner will be announced during the live on October 6th and posted on the Facebook page on Monday October 7th if they aren't at the live. Winner will have 48 hours to claim by messaging their address to
- https://www.facebook.com/MelaniesMuses/ Or prize is considered forfeit.
Failure to claim will result in a no future giveaway entry being counted for 30 days.
We want people to claim their prizes! Don't get on the list!
Any questions please contact Melanie on the Facebook page

***Disclaimer - Any Links To Buy and/or Subscribe to Amazon Programs On Amazon on this website are Amazon Affiliate Links
Melanie's Muses is part of the Amazon Associate program and earns from qualifying purchases which in turns helps support all the Muser giveaways we do!***

]]><![CDATA[The Cloud Kingdom by Kristen Painter - A Spoiler Free Review.]]>Sat, 31 Aug 2024 12:00:55 GMThttps://www.melaniesmuses.com/blog/the-cloud-kingdom-by-kristen-painter-a-spoiler-free-reviewMy spoiler free review for The Could Kingdom by Kristen Painter ! Be sure to let me know if you are going to check it out!

Click Here To Get Your Copy On Amazon.

Blurb About The Book
Queen Sparrow’s goal of reuniting the Radiant fae with the Grym fae isn’t going the way she’d hoped. Brokering peace is hard to do when Queen Anyka, the woman who sits on the Grym throne, believes both kingdoms should be hers to rule.
Ro isn’t about to let that happen. Since recovering an ancient grimoire filled with dangerous dark magic, she understands better who and what she’s up against. Anyka craves possession of the grimoire and Ro knows why. Anyka wants to use the magic inside to take control of Ro’s kingdom. And eliminate Ro.
Ro seeks the help and possible alliance with the fire-breathing citizens of the Cloud Kingdom, but they might be as dangerous as the book she’d hidden from Anyka. If she can win them over, it would be a major victory.
The real question is can she get to the Cloud Kingdom alive? Someone is out to get her. And it might not be Anyka.

REVIEW

Standalone or series?
Book 3 in the Midlife Fairy Tale series (or as I call it the Accidental Queen series) - Cannot be read as a standalone.

How did I get this book?
Kristen wrote it - enough said!

Why did I choose to read this book:
See above comment

Genre
Paranormal Women's Fiction

And Now To The Review!

First Impressions:
Picking up where book 2 left off we get to dive back into to Ro's latest adventure in her new role as a Fae queen.

General Review
I There is a LOT that happens in this book but most importantly THERE ARE DRAGONS! I mean is it really even a fantasy book without them (OK Yes I know - it is - but still). I really enjoy that "magic" although so readily available, isn't the easy answer to everything, but I would definitely still like to have some of it .... and a Raven!

Final Thoughts
Kristen's main series haven't really hit you with cliffhangers for a few years. Original readers may remember the days of wanting to throw the book because you had to wait to see what happens. This isn't quite that bad but it definitely makes me want book 4 in my hands ASAP! Diabolical things are afoot!

Rating:
5 Stars! And a full Melanie's Muses approval!

Code word for this article is Raven

** Disclosure**
Any Links To Buy On Amazon Is My Amazon Affiliate Link.(As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases - Which helps provide for the giveaways!

]]><![CDATA[Win It Wednesday - Reviews!]]>Wed, 14 Aug 2024 15:40:30 GMThttps://www.melaniesmuses.com/blog/win-it-wednesday-reviews

Today's Win it Wednesday feature chronicles how I became a reviewer, and why I work had to provide HONEST reviews.

Check out the article and then make sure you scroll down for details on how to enter the giveaway too, and as always be sure to let us know what you think!

Melanie - Founder of Melanie's Muses - You should know who I am lol If not click - All about Melanie!

As I am back on the book review circuit (well kind of), I thought I would share a little about how it all came about, and why I feel that honest reviews are SO important for EVERYTHING! One of the things I often get asked is how did I end up doing what I do .... so here is the story. Well for the review side anyway.

Back in about 2011 one of my friends reached out to see if I would be interested in reading a book and providing an honest review of it. Although I was a voracious reader, I had never really considered reviewing and something I would be interested in, but the Indie Author Market was in its infancy and authors were offering free eCopies in exchange for honest reviews so I thought why not. I reviewed the book and then the authors reached out to see if I would be interested in reviewing their other series, but I declined. (It wasn't a genre I was interested in and I had other things I wanted to read).

And here's the twist - THEY DIDN'T GIVE UP! They liked my first review so much that they kept asking until I eventually gave in, and you know what? I actually loved the book and ended up reading and reviewing the whole series over the next couple of years. Those authors then went on to form CTP - and that is a whole other fabulous story.

A couple of years after I started reviewing for authors, cherry picking things that interested me, another friend approached me about starting a blog where Indie Authors could request honest reviews and Nerd Girl was born. (Nerd Girl is still going, but I branched out). NerdGirlVamp, my reviewing name, got herself a reputation for honest reviews. 5 Stars don't come easily from me and so if an author gets it - then they earned it. This opened SO many doors for me, doors that I would never have expected. My honest reviews are what got me an invite to the Amazon Vine program where I now get all sorts of products to review. It got me on to publishing house lists, so that when I am active they will randomly send me books on the off chance I might want to review it.

Even now I am bemused by the fact that my reviews are often not favorable, and yet the requests just keep coming. I am definitely a difficult reader to impress, mainly because I have READ so much, and I have OFTEN read better. I require twists to be unpredictable, I need my characters well rounded, and I need originality in genres that quite honestly are beyond over-saturated. Then again, reviews are subjective. When I don't like something I try to constructively explain why it didn't work FOR ME. For those in the subscriber group know that sometimes I offer up books I haven't liked as giveaways, and then they can decide for themselves. And often their opinion is different and THAT'S GREAT! Diverse reviews make the world a better place. Hateful reviews do not. Neither does giving everything 5 stars. So when you see those 5 little stars from me, know that they are earned. I refuse compromise the reputation that I have constructed over the past 13 years, because damn it - I EARNED IT!

The Pineapple Code Word For This Article Is Reviews

And Now For The Giveaway

Melanie's Muses will be giving away a Summer Book Prize with 4 Books in it! (Yes they are books from publishers because sometimes I get duplicates).

For your chance to win- FILL OUT THE FORM and tell us:
Do book reviews sway your decision to read a book? (Feel free to explain your answer if you would like to).

Click Here to Enter The Giveaway

Comments about the article are encouraged - but for now only qualifying entries on the form will go in the bag! What your answer is will not influence whether you go into the hat - Only that you answer the question!

Winner will be announced during the Live show on August 25th and then posted on the page as well on August 26th if the winner isn't at the live.) Full Rules Below!
Good luck everyone!

Rules
Only comments posted on THE FORM will be considered.
This is open internationally. If you win and you cannot accept mail due to Covid issues we will hold the prize until such time as you can. Some exceptions may apply based on Post Office Regulations. Melanie's Muses takes no responsibility for rules beyond her control. Void Where Prohibited.
Sharing is always appreciated but is not required for entry.
Winner Will Be Picked At Random.
One Entry Per Person / Household
Prize is provided via Melanie's Muses and will be mailed by her.
Winner will be announced during the live on August 25th and posted on the Facebook page on Monday August 26th if they aren't at the live. Winner will have 48 hours to claim by messaging their address to
- https://www.facebook.com/MelaniesMuses/ Or prize is considered forfeit.
Failure to claim will result in a no future giveaway entry being counted for 30 days.
We want people to claim their prizes! Don't get on the list!
Any questions please contact Melanie on the Facebook page

***Disclaimer - Any Links To Buy and/or Subscribe to Amazon Programs On Amazon on this website are Amazon Affiliate Links
Melanie's Muses is part of the Amazon Associate program and earns from qualifying purchases which in turns helps support all the Muser giveaways we do!***

]]><![CDATA[Win It Wednesday - Angel's Traitor]]>Wed, 07 Aug 2024 13:23:47 GMThttps://www.melaniesmuses.com/blog/win-it-wednesday-angels-traitor

Angel's Traitor releases TOMORROW - August 8th - so this week's Win It Wednesday is a feature about that!

Check out the article and then make sure you scroll down for details on how to enter the giveaway too, and as always be sure to let us know what you think!

Melanie - Founder of Melanie's Muses - You should know who I am lol If not click - All about Melanie!

Blurb About The Book (As appears on Amazon)
The line between friend and foe has never been more unclear…
Raven Cassidy is beginning to learn the hard way that you can’t sit on both sides of the fence. Having found herself in a situation she never expected to be in, Raven is forced to turn to the only place she might be safe. The place she once called home.
It’s easy to forget that Raven and those she cares for are fighting a war. It’s too tempting to slip back into the Rebel she was before she became the Imperium’s prisoner, and Nathaniel’s Gambit. It’s too easy to forget that Rieka will never let her go.
Raven’s secrets and lies are getting harder to hide, but when her two worlds collide, she might just be forced to wear the one label she never thought possible: traitor.

Details
Standalone or series?
Book 3 in the Wings of Deceit Series (Cannot be read as a standalone)

How did I get this book?
Because I am lucky enough to get first read through on ALL Susan's books

Why did I choose to read this book:
Because I will literally read anything with Susan's name on it!

Genre
Dystopian

And Now To The Review!

First Impressions:
As with most of Susan's books, the second installment had ended on a cliffhanger. This book picks up right where we left off and is even easier to get into because you already know the world!

General Review
This series isn't my normal read but as with most things Susan writes I am totally on board with it. Rieka is definitely upping the stakes and even though I KNOW that the story is about Raven - I am almost 100% Team Rieka - almost - because I personally would have killed Raven by now lol. (NO that's not a spoiler - you'll see if you read it).

Final Thoughts
As I have come to expect with Susan's series book 3 does end with a cliffhanger, and I imagine with a 5 book series that book 4 probably will too. At least book 4 is up for pre-order and is releasing in April so it's not too long of a wait.

Rating:
5 Stars and now the wait for book 4 begins!

As always let me know what you think in the comments and be sure you enter the giveaway!

The Pineapple Code Word For This Article Is Traitor

Click To See On Amazon

Pre-Order Now On Amazon

And Now For The Giveaway

Melanie's Muses will be giving away a Wings of Deceit mug and a set of metal feather bookmarks,

For your chance to win- FILL OUT THE FORM and tell us:
Have you started the series yet? If so you are you Team Rebel or Team Angel?

Click Here to Enter The Giveaway

Comments about the article are encouraged - but for now only qualifying entries on the form will go in the bag! What your answer is will not influence whether you go into the hat - Only that you answer the question!

Winner will be announced during the Live show on August 18th and then posted on the page as well on August 19th if the winner isn't at the live.) Full Rules Below!
Good luck everyone!

Rules
Only comments posted on THE FORM will be considered.
This is open internationally. If you win and you cannot accept mail due to Covid issues we will hold the prize until such time as you can. Some exceptions may apply based on Post Office Regulations. Melanie's Muses takes no responsibility for rules beyond her control. Void Where Prohibited.
Sharing is always appreciated but is not required for entry.
Winner Will Be Picked At Random.
One Entry Per Person / Household
Prize is provided via Melanie's Muses and will be mailed by her.
Winner will be announced during the live on August 18th and posted on the Facebook page on Monday August 19th if they aren't at the live. Winner will have 48 hours to claim by messaging their address to
- https://www.facebook.com/MelaniesMuses/ Or prize is considered forfeit.
Failure to claim will result in a no future giveaway entry being counted for 30 days.
We want people to claim their prizes! Don't get on the list!
Any questions please contact Melanie on the Facebook page

***Disclaimer - Any Links To Buy and/or Subscribe to Amazon Programs On Amazon on this website are Amazon Affiliate Links
Melanie's Muses is part of the Amazon Associate program and earns from qualifying purchases which in turns helps support all the Muser giveaways we do!***

]]><![CDATA[Win It Wednesday -Pen Pal - A Guest Feature by Vicky Storch]]>Wed, 10 Jul 2024 13:53:02 GMThttps://www.melaniesmuses.com/blog/win-it-wednesday-pen-pal-a-guest-feature-by-vicky-storch

This week Melanie's Muses is thrilled to welcome Vicky Storch to the blog with her first Muser feature!

Make sure you scroll down for details on how to enter the awesome giveaway too - and as always be sure to let us know what you think!

Vicky met Melanie years ago through an online book group and they have been friends ever since. This is Vicky's second guest article for Melanie's Muses and we hope there will be more to come.

With the special edition just coming out I decided that I had to share this book with you. This book is so pretty and has a bonus chapter that you won’t find in any of the other copies. I don’t give out many 5 star reads but this is one of them.

I loved this book and I am always recommending it to anyone that will listen. This isn’t your traditional romance but more of a thriller with some smut. It is hard to give a review for this book as I don’t want to give anything away but I feel that you need to go into this book blind to fully enjoy it.

All I can say is OMG, this book blew me away.

Melanie is Founder of Melanie's Muses - You should know who I am lol If not click - All about Melanie!

I've started this book and it's giving me 9 1/2 Weeks vibes! (I do love 9 1/2 weeks). I haven't got to the OMG moment yet but I am very curious as to what it will be!

The Pineapple Code Word For This Article Is Smut

And Now For The Giveaway

Melanie's Muses will be giving away a special edition paperback copy of Pen Pal, a bookmark, and a book sleeve from Vicky!

For your chance to win- FILL OUT THE FORM and tell us:

Do you like sexy books?

Click Here to Enter The Giveaway

Comments about the article are encouraged - ESPECIALLY SO GUESTS CAN SEE WHAT YOU THINK OF THEIR ARTICLES - but for now only qualifying entries on the form will go in the bag! What your answer is will not influence whether you go into the hat - Only that you answer the question!

Winner will be announced during the Live show on July 21st and then posted on the page as well on July 22nd if the winner isn't at the live.) Full Rules Below!
Good luck everyone!

Rules
Only comments posted on THE FORM will be considered.
This is open internationally. If you win and you cannot accept mail due to Covid issues we will hold the prize until such time as you can. Some exceptions may apply based on Post Office Regulations. Melanie's Muses takes no responsibility for rules beyond her control. Void Where Prohibited.
Sharing is always appreciated but is not required for entry.
Winner Will Be Picked At Random.
One Entry Per Person / Household
Prize is provided via Melanie's Muses and will be mailed by her.
Winner will be announced during the live on July 21st and posted on the Facebook page on Monday July 22nd if they aren't at the live. Winner will have 48 hours to claim by messaging their address to
- https://www.facebook.com/MelaniesMuses/ Or prize is considered forfeit.
Failure to claim will result in a no future giveaway entry being counted for 30 days.
We want people to claim their prizes! Don't get on the list!
Any questions please contact Melanie on the Facebook page

***Disclaimer - Any Links To Buy and/or Subscribe to Amazon Programs On Amazon on this website are Amazon Affiliate Links
Melanie's Muses is part of the Amazon Associate program and earns from qualifying purchases which in turns helps support all the Muser giveaways we do!***

]]><![CDATA[Everything We Never Said by Sloan Harlow - A Joint Review by Mel & Sue]]>Fri, 28 Jun 2024 04:00:00 GMThttps://www.melaniesmuses.com/blog/everything-we-never-said-by-sloan-harlow-a-joint-review-by-mel-sue

Book reviews are being kicked up a gear for 2024! Be sure to comment on ALL the book reviews you see for YOUR chance at a special book prize every month!

Today it's a joint review with Mel and Sue!

Blurb From Amazon
What you don't know can hurt you....
It’s been months since the accident that killed Ella’s best friend, Hayley, and Ella can’t stop blaming herself. Now Ella is back at school, and everywhere she looks are reminders of her best friend—including Sawyer, Hayley’s boyfriend. Little by little, they grow closer, until Ella realizes something horrifying . . .
She’s in love with her dead best friend’s boyfriend.
Racked with guilt, Ella turns to Hayley’s journal, hoping she’ll find something in the pages that will make her feel better about what’s happening. Instead, she discovers that Sawyer has secrets of his own and that his relationship with Hayley wasn’t as picture-perfect as it seemed.
Ella knows she should stay away but finds herself inextricably drawn to him—and scared of everything she never knew about him. Perhaps it’s his grief. Or maybe his desires, cut short by tragedy. Or could it be something twisted only Hayley knew about?
A dark, romantic thriller perfect for fans of Colleen Hoover and Laura Nowlin, Everything We Never Said explores the secrets in even the best of friendships and asks how well you ever know the ones you love.

Click to check out the book and other reviews on Amazon.

Review

Standalone or series?
Melanie - Standalone
Susan - Standalone

How did I get this book?
Melanie - Offered to me on Netgalley
Susan - I had it on my Wishlist for ages and when Mel got a copy, I read it too.

Why did I choose to read this book:
Melanie - Mainly because Susan wanted to read it and we could do a joint review. Although the premise did look interesting.
Susan- what Mel said LOL

Genre:
Melanie - YA Thriller
Susan - Ya Thriller

Who would enjoy this book:
Melanie - Anyone looking for books with a "Cruel Summer Vibe" - although this was no where near that level.
Susan- This story would appeal to anyone who wants some twists with their teen angst.

And Now To The Review!

First Impressions:
Melanie - This throws the reader in at the beginning of a school year after what we soon discover is the aftermath of the death of the protagonist's best friend, that she had been driving for, and her guilt over the events she can't remember happening.

Susan - You jump right into the main character living with the fallout from a crash that killed her best friend and also dealing with the fact that her memories of that night are gone.

General Review
Melanie - The premise definitely had interesting potential. The book deals with a lot of the regular issues that come with teenage death, while also presenting a mystery as to what actually happened. It fast becomes apparent that things aren't as they seem, and that all of these kids come from questionable home situations.

There was a lot of the story that didn't work for me as a reader. I figured out both twists very early on, the whole not reading the diary as soon as she got it didn't feel authentic, and the whole boyfriend situation just felt forced, and some of the language was so flowery (and included entries with complete word for word conversations remembered) just didn't connect for me.

Susan - The blurb drew me in and I liked that we were immediately dropped in at the deep end. The twists I saw coming from the jump. Where the author was trying to lead the reader off the track only gave more hints to the true outcome of the book. Like Mel, the word for word recollections seemed a bit, unnatural, because in a two person conversation, two people will remember it differently- and unless you have an Eidetic memory, that's not happening, especially with teenagers.

Final Thoughts
Melanie - I loved the idea of the story, but sadly with being able to spot the twists so easily, and the over-the-top language and word-for-word conversations recalled, it just didn't work for me.

Susan - The premise of the story was good, though it was ruined because I was able to spot the twists so early one. Some aspects of the way the story was retold, made it hard to believe it was YA.

Rating:
Melanie - 2 1/2 stars rounded up to 3 The idea had potential but I felt the twist was predictable, and the writing didn't always fit the character narrative.

Susan - 2 1/2 stars for me - I just felt that the hints that were thrown in an attempt to steer you in the wrong direction, gave away more than I like when there is a mystery.

As always let us know what you think in the comments!

***Disclaimer - Any Links To Buy and/or Subscribe to Amazon Programs On Amazon on this website are Amazon Affiliate Links
Melanie's Muses is part of the Amazon Associate program and earns from qualifying purchases which in turns helps support all the Muser giveaways we do!***

]]><![CDATA[Win It Wednesday - Summer]]>Wed, 19 Jun 2024 17:13:48 GMThttps://www.melaniesmuses.com/blog/win-it-wednesday-summer

It feels like 99 degrees outside my house right now and so this week I am talking about SUMMER!

Check out the article and then make sure you scroll down for details on how to enter the giveaway too, and as always be sure to let us know what you think!

Melanie - Founder of Melanie's Muses - You should know who I am lol If not click - All about Melanie!

I didn't really know what we should do for Win It Wednesday this week and Krista suggested Summer - as it officially starts this week, and New York currently has a heat wave, so that's what I went with!

I LOVE summer! Let me be clear .... I don't like the sun, well being in the sun, direct sunlight is decidedly NOT my friend, but I do like the warmth. I love it when it feels like you step outside and could be in Florida - the VERY thing that Greg hates lol. I like to read my book in the shade by the pool (I don't like to go IN the pool - but being by it works just fine), I like when Greg cooks out on the grill, and I like that there is NO SNOW!

On the other hand I don't like to go to the beach - I absolutely LOATHE the feeling of sand between my toes and I don't understand why anyone would want to go in the sea! I like the little festival we have for Treason Day in our area (4th of July for anyone who is new to the blog lol), and I would say that I like that it stays light longer, but honestly I still like to go to bed ridiculously early!

So what about you Musers? Are you summer folks? Or are you all waiting for it to cool off again?

The Pineapple Code Word For This Article Is Summer

And Now For The Giveaway

Melanie's Muses will be giving away a summer prize pack including Ocean's 8 DVD, Plastic Cup with lid and Wednesday Straw, Can/bottle cozy, hair clip, sunglasses, hairbrush, a set of 90's butterfly clips, bubbles, a temporary tattoo, slap bracelet, and an inflatable lemon can holder - all from the Melanie's Muses Prize Hoard.

For your chance to win- FILL OUT THE FORM and tell us:

What is your favorite thing about Summer?

Click Here to Enter The Giveaway

Comments about the article are encouraged - but for now only qualifying entries on the form will go in the bag! What your answer is will not influence whether you go into the hat - Only that you answer the question!

Winner will be announced during the Live show on June 30th and then posted on the page as well on July 1st if the winner isn't at the live.) Full Rules Below!
Good luck everyone!

Rules
Only comments posted on THE FORM will be considered.
This is open internationally. If you win and you cannot accept mail due to Covid issues we will hold the prize until such time as you can. Some exceptions may apply based on Post Office Regulations. Melanie's Muses takes no responsibility for rules beyond her control. Void Where Prohibited.
Sharing is always appreciated but is not required for entry.
Winner Will Be Picked At Random.
One Entry Per Person / Household
Prize is provided via Melanie's Muses and will be mailed by her.
Winner will be announced during the live on June 30th and posted on the Facebook page on Monday July 1st if they aren't at the live. Winner will have 48 hours to claim by messaging their address to
- https://www.facebook.com/MelaniesMuses/ Or prize is considered forfeit.
Failure to claim will result in a no future giveaway entry being counted for 30 days.
We want people to claim their prizes! Don't get on the list!
Any questions please contact Melanie on the Facebook page

***Disclaimer - Any Links To Buy and/or Subscribe to Amazon Programs On Amazon on this website are Amazon Affiliate Links
Melanie's Muses is part of the Amazon Associate program and earns from qualifying purchases which in turns helps support all the Muser giveaways we do!***

]]><![CDATA[Win It Wednesday - Books]]>Wed, 12 Jun 2024 19:39:20 GMThttps://www.melaniesmuses.com/blog/win-it-wednesday-books

This week Melanie didn't sort anything in advance so you get the chance to win a box of books!

Check out the article (all 2 lines of it) and then make sure you scroll down for details on how to enter the giveaway too, and as always be sure to let us know what you think!

Melanie - Founder of Melanie's Muses - You should know who I am lol If not click - All about Melanie!

OK I am having a crazy sort out week so this week because SO much is going on. I put a bunch of books in a box and you get the chance to win in. This is what you get this week lol.

The Pineapple Code Word For This Article Is Books

And Now For The Giveaway

Melanie's Muses will be giving away a box of books. There are 4 HCs and 1 PB in there.

For your chance to win- FILL OUT THE FORM and tell us:

What was your most recent 5 Star read?

Click Here to Enter The Giveaway

Comments about the article are encouraged - but for now only qualifying entries on the form will go in the bag! What your answer is will not influence whether you go into the hat - Only that you answer the question!

Winner will be announced during the Live show on June 23rd and then posted on the page as well on June 24th if the winner isn't at the live.) Full Rules Below!
Good luck everyone!

Rules
Only comments posted on THE FORM will be considered.
This is open internationally. If you win and you cannot accept mail due to Covid issues we will hold the prize until such time as you can. Some exceptions may apply based on Post Office Regulations. Melanie's Muses takes no responsibility for rules beyond her control. Void Where Prohibited.
Sharing is always appreciated but is not required for entry.
Winner Will Be Picked At Random.
One Entry Per Person / Household
Prize is provided via Melanie's Muses and will be mailed by her.
Winner will be announced during the live on June 23rd and posted on the Facebook page on Monday June 24th if they aren't at the live. Winner will have 48 hours to claim by messaging their address to
- https://www.facebook.com/MelaniesMuses/ Or prize is considered forfeit.
Failure to claim will result in a no future giveaway entry being counted for 30 days.
We want people to claim their prizes! Don't get on the list!
Any questions please contact Melanie on the Facebook page

***Disclaimer - Any Links To Buy and/or Subscribe to Amazon Programs On Amazon on this website are Amazon Affiliate Links
Melanie's Muses is part of the Amazon Associate program and earns from qualifying purchases which in turns helps support all the Muser giveaways we do!***

]]><![CDATA[The Secret Keeper by Maggie Miller - A Review]]>Thu, 06 Jun 2024 13:54:03 GMThttps://www.melaniesmuses.com/blog/the-secret-keeper-by-maggie-miller-a-review

Book reviews are being kicked up a gear for 2024! Be sure to comment on ALL the book reviews you see for YOUR chance at a special book prize every month!

Blurb - As Per Amazon

A brand-new epic novel from best-selling author Maggie Miller; The Secret Keeper is the first in a trilogy and the big summer read you’ve been waiting for.
Harper Calhoun lives a pretty rarified life. She’s the personal confidant of Hollywood’s elite. But she does more than rub elbows with them. She helps them make big decisions, gives them advice when they need it, and coaches them on how to deal with the pressures of fame.
She’s even dating one of the biggest superstars. But when the spotlight turns on her, she’s the one who can’t deal with the pressure. The risk is too great that the truth about who she really is will be exposed.
So Harper does the only thing she can think of. She packs up and heads to the cottage she’s recently inherited from a very grateful client. A cottage on a random beach in Florida seems like the perfect place to escape and figure out how to move forward.
She didn’t intend to become a professional secret keeper, but there’s no turning back now. Can she escape the media microscope, or is her past about to be exposed?

Click Here To See The Book On Amazon - Free To Read With Kindle Unlimited.

Review

Standalone or series?
Book 1 in a new Trilogy

How did I get this book?
Em saw it on her Kindle Unlimited and thought it would be something I would like.

Why did I choose to read this book:
The idea of a professional secret keeper sounded interesting. (And I had a free 30 day trial of Kindle Unlimited available - You can see if you are eligible for a free trial HERE.)

Genre:
Technically this falls under Women's Fiction - but it's definitely not what I think of when I hear the words "Women's Fiction". Maybe because I don't really read anything other than Paranormal Women's Fiction.

Who would enjoy this book:
Anyone looking for something summery but different. There's a little romance but the main focus is set around other things.

And Now To The Review!

First Impressions:
I have never heard of a professional confidant like this. The whole idea of it is quite fascinating and I have no idea if this is based on a real thing or not - but it is super intriguing. The prologue gives you a quick intro before skipping 5 years forward to the main story.

General Review
I haven't read Maggie Miller before, (and honestly looking at her other titles she probably isn't an author that would have crossed my radar), but I am glad Em suggested this. The story is a surprising page turner. It was very easy to get wrapped up in this lifestyle that is so beyond anything I think most of us can imagine it's almost the perfect escape but with a strong enough story to keep you paying attention.

The book switches between a few characters POVs as you go on with my favorite being the famous author that lives next door (as an aside I REALLY wish this author was real - I would totally read his series AND watch the NETFLIX show based on it), plus he gets bonus points for having an English housekeeper. Aside from the unfolding mysteries the story manages to unapologetically deal with some very real issues such as grief, which really resonated in me in a way I wasn't expecting.

Final Thoughts
At one point it seemed to me that everything was going to be resolved for the most part and I wondered if the second book of the trilogy would focus on a totally different story ..... but no, it is quite clearly set up for book two to continue with the same cast of characters which I am pleased about. I am very intrigued as to where this series will go next.

Rating:
A surprising 4 1/2 rounded up to 5 stars for this and I will definitely be on the lookout for book 2.

As always let me know what you think in the comments!

***Disclaimer - Any Links To Buy and/or Subscribe to Amazon Programs On Amazon on this website are Amazon Affiliate Links
Melanie's Muses is part of the Amazon Associate program and earns from qualifying purchases which in turns helps support all the Muser giveaways we do!***

]]><![CDATA[Win It Wednesday - Sanguine Crown]]>Wed, 05 Jun 2024 17:58:47 GMThttps://www.melaniesmuses.com/blog/win-it-wednesday-sanguine-crown

This week to celebrate the Sanguine Crown series makeover, Susan Harris is sponsoring
Win It Wednesday!

Check out the article and then make sure you scroll down for details on how to enter the giveaway too, and as always be sure to let us know what you think

Melanie - Founder of Melanie's Muses - You should know who I am lol If not click - All about Melanie!

About 5 years ago Susan messaged me to talk about a possible YA Vampire series. We talked through SO much lore, and SO many creative choices, and Covid striking, it was almost surreal in May 2020 to see Chaos Theory release. I described the book as "The new YA series fans of the Vampire Academy have been waiting for" and I stand by that to this day. Now, 4 years later, the series has had a cover makeover, and the books are available as hardcovers for the first time ever. If you haven't started the series yet you can get book 1 for Free HERE! All books are available to purchase in ALL formats by clicking the banner below!

Click The Picture To Go To The Series Page On Amazon!

And check out the interview that was original posted when Chaos Theory released in 2020!

Exclusive Interview With Author Susan Harris- Originally Posted in May 2020 when Chaos Theory Released!

Melanie (M) Hello Susan! Thank you so much for joining me today from Ireland. How is everything over there? I hope you are staying safe!

Susan (S)Like the rest of the world, Ireland is dealing with Covid 19 as best we possibly can. I find the online community has been so awesome, and even the author community has helped to allow us to escape reality for a couple of chapters by offering discounted or free books.

(M) So before I get to the Muser’s questions, I have to ask, how excited are you to finally be able to share this with the world. I feel like we have been talking about it behind the scenes forever!

(S) I am excited and nervous at the same time. I think this is the most nervous I’ve ever been for a release. You and me have been discussing Ryan and her world for so long, even when it was a concept and Ryan was just this badass who was beautifully broken. These characters have taken over the last year of our lives and I think readers are ready to meet Ryan…and Nicky ?

(M) So true! They have definitely monopolized a LOT of our conversations, but I wouldn't have it any other way! OK let’s get down to some Muser Questions! This one was submitted by Toni Pill - How much of events in your life do you put in your books? Give us an example, please. XOXO

(S) You would be surprised how much of me goes into a character. I take conversations and use them in books. I wrote Shattered Memories as therapy after being diagnosed with an anxiety disorder. There is a chapter in Chaos Theory, with something that happens to Ryan that happened to me in real life. I don’t want to spoil anything and Ryan’s experience was different to mine, because Hello, vampire, but it was something traumatic I went through and needed to write about it to get some closure on it.

(M) Ha – and I will add that I know for a fact that LOTS of things that happen in conversations both with me, and things that have happened during live definitely have been known to “pop up” on the pages!

And with that thought in mind it leads nicely to this question submitted by Jaime Cross - Just what would you do with Tom Hardy if you ever got your hands on him? Kidding. I already know. Love you. Love your books. Who has been the hardest, and easiest, characters for you to write?

(S) For question one, see Night of the Hunter, because Donnie is Tom Hardy lol The hardest character to write I think had to be Erika. She wasn’t a planned main character; I had intended to kill her off but she became this larger than life character who demanded centre stage and I was powerless to stop her.
And the easiest, I’d say Ricky or Ryan as they just write themselves; I have no say in what they do or what they say; I am merely she who documents their awesomeness.

(M) I love that about them! Their voices are so strong. I think that’s what I often have so many opinions about what I think they would do. Sometimes I can totally feel in their head….. Which now sounds a bit weird … so moving on we have a question submitted by Holly McMiller - Who is the most fun character to write for and which of your characters can be the hardest to write for?

(S) See Jaime’s question for the hardest. But the most fun, omg there are a few…Ryan has been terribly fun to write because she just has no filter, she says what she wants. I also love the bromance between Donnie and Ricky, which can be very fun to write. I think if they had known each other as teens, then I’d have had a LOT of writing material.

(M) I’m sure that really Melanie is the easiest – I mean she is based on a combination of 2 rather awesome people – One real and One TV Character….. but enough of that. Let’s move on to a question submitted by Ashley Brilinski. If you could pick another author who has done their own take on vampires to cowrite with you who would it be?

(S) OMG Ashley- that’s a hard question to answer. I’d love to see Ryan bump into Cat and Bones from Jeaniene Frost’s Night Huntress series…or have her fangirl over Anita Blake from Laurell K Hamilton’s series.
Well I don’t personally think she will be running into Cat and Bones – I mean they are kind of off the grid right now lol but I agree Ryan would definitely be fangirling hard with Anita! And the running commentary as she makes a fool of herself would be hilarious.

(M) Ooooh this is an interesting question from Diana Stamatis Dalton. I know how much work you put into to researching your books so I can’t wait to see your answer to this. Diana says - I love the Ever Chace Chronicles. You have melded the supernatural with the mythical Gods together beautifully. Did you do a lot of research before or as you were writing the series on Greek and/or Roman Gods, myths and supernatural beings?

(S) I have a lot of books in my research library about all aspects of my books, from criminal psychology to vampire encyclopedias. I make sure I know what I’m writing about. With the Norse Gods, I read books and blogs online so I follow the legends as much as possible, but give it my own flair as well. If it doesn’t feel authentic to me, then it will not feel authentic to the reader and the story then loses its trueness…well as much as a story about vampires and werewolves can.

(M) Yup that sounds about right. I think that’s one of the things I love most about your books. The characters do feel so authentic! Which leads nicely to this question by Ashley Brilinkski - Do you get emotionally attached to your characters?

(S) Absolutely. You create these characters and they become part of your daily life. I have no doubt I will cry when I say goodbye to the EC series, even with a spin-off planned. When I wrote Night of the Hunter, I spent a lot of time with tears in my eyes because I felt that Caitlyn deserved a happy ever after. I felt so terrible during the Defy series for Toby and what happens to him, that I wanted to change things because I felt I was being to hard on him. But I think it’s my duty to write the hard stories even if it breaks my heart sometimes to do it.

(M) Sometimes I think the hard choices are the most compelling. That being said I have been known to moan about a few, and especially certain characters lol. Following up from the last questions from Ashley – she has another one that is more are your writing process. She asks - When it comes to plots, endings, characters, & settings what do you focus on/outline first?

(S) First, it’s a general story outline from book 1 to book whatever and how I think the story will go. The plot for Arsonist’s Lullaby was planned from day one, the villain and supernatural creature planned from day one. Then I mold my characters. I like to listen to music that the character may listen to, even if it’s not my usual tastes. I find actors or actresses that could play the characters that I see in my head and then use my city as my scene. It’s all a process that I love creating worlds and characters and then letting them loose in my head.

(M) And of course sometimes there is a little voice in the background saying YOU NEED TO WRITE THIS *cough Chaos Theory Cough*. Ashley is obviously a huge fan and has a couple more questions for you. She says that Defy the Stars was hands down the BEST version of Romeo & Juliet ever (which I have to agree with!) . Any plans to put your own spin on other Shakespearean works in the future? (Edited for the new article - Ashley loved the Sanguine Crown books so much SHE HAD A QUOTE MADE INTO A TATTOO!!)

(S) I would love to do another Shakespeare retelling! Macbeth is my favourite play of Shakespeare’s and I would love to continue in the Defy world, with the children. Or maybe I can use one of the bards plays when I write a Mercy and Toby book…exclusive news there … and if you have any suggestions on what plays you’d like me to retell, let me know!

(M) WOO HOOO Got to love an extra exclusive! You heard it here first! I would totally be down for both a Mercy and Toby book – and a Macbeth reimagined. Macbeth is one of my favourites as well. I mean who can resist something that is so cursed you have to call it “The Scottish Play? Final question from Ashley - If you were invited to write an episode of any tv show which show would you want it to be & what would happen?

(S) I love this question! I would love to write an episode of The Blacklist and have a Blacklister called The Leprechaun. I think it would be very tongue in cheek, with The Leprechaun being a dealer of luck, not at all stereotypical, with Jaime Dornan or Colin O’Donoghue as the Blacklister, with like a gambling ring and people who lose their luck end up dead. I can just imagine Raymond Reddington sitting down with The Leprechaun with his usual suave, as the team chance their luck …I haven’t thought of this at all as you can tell.

(M) Oh yes I can see that you have put zero thought into that AT ALL!! Quite obviously that just all popped into your head spontaneously.

(S) No comment (laughs)

(M) Well Susan, it is always a pleasure talking to you. Thank you so much for taking the time out to answer these fan questions, and give us a little more insight into you and your fabulous writing world. Is there anything else you would like to say before we go?

(S) I really want to thank Melanie's Muses and ALL of the Musers for the love and support you have shown for me and my books. You guys are an amazing group of people and I'm so happy to be a part of everything. Especially on Sundays! Go raibh míle maith agat go léir (Thank you all so much)

The Pineapple Code Word For This Article Is Ryan

And Now For The Giveaway

Melanie's Muses will be giving away a Sanguine Crown Mug & Keychain (provided by Susan Harris)

For your chance to win- FILL OUT THE FORM and tell us:

Have you read any of Susan Harris's Books? If so which one was your favorite?

Click Here to Enter The Giveaway

Comments about the article are encouraged - but for now only qualifying entries on the form will go in the bag! What your answer is will not influence whether you go into the hat - Only that you answer the question!

Winner will be announced during the Live show on June 16th and then posted on the page as well on June 17th if the winner isn't at the live.) Full Rules Below!
Good luck everyone!

Rules
Only comments posted on THE FORM will be considered.
This is open internationally. If you win and you cannot accept mail due to Covid issues we will hold the prize until such time as you can. Some exceptions may apply based on Post Office Regulations. Melanie's Muses takes no responsibility for rules beyond her control. Void Where Prohibited.
Sharing is always appreciated but is not required for entry.
Winner Will Be Picked At Random.
One Entry Per Person / Household
Prize is provided via Melanie's Muses and will be mailed by her.
Winner will be announced during the live on June 16th and posted on the Facebook page on Monday June 17th if they aren't at the live. Winner will have 48 hours to claim by messaging their address to
- https://www.facebook.com/MelaniesMuses/ Or prize is considered forfeit.
Failure to claim will result in a no future giveaway entry being counted for 30 days.
We want people to claim their prizes! Don't get on the list!
Any questions please contact Melanie on the Facebook page

***Disclaimer - Any Links To Buy and/or Subscribe to Amazon Programs On Amazon on this website are Amazon Affiliate Links
Melanie's Muses is part of the Amazon Associate program and earns from qualifying purchases which in turns helps support all the Muser giveaways we do!***

]]><![CDATA[The Memo by Rachel Dodes and Lauren Mechling - An ARC Review]]>Thu, 30 May 2024 13:28:12 GMThttps://www.melaniesmuses.com/blog/the-memo-by-rachel-dodes-and-lauren-mechling-an-arc-review

Book reviews are being kicked up a gear for 2024! Be sure to comment on ALL the book reviews you see for YOUR chance at a special book prize every month!

Do you ever feel like your life doesn’t measure up to everyone else’s—and wonder if you just didn’t get the memo helping you make the right choices?
Jenny Green dreads her upcoming college reunion. Once top of her class, the thirty-five-year-old finds herself stuck in a life that isn’t the one she expected. Her promising career has flamed out (literally) and her deadbeat boyfriend is cheating on her (again). All her friends seem to have it all figured it out, enjoying glittering lives and careers that she can only envy from the sidelines. Did she just not get the memo they all did?
As it turns out, she didn’t!
When she arrives at her alma mater for the festivities, she receives a text from an unlisted number.
“Jenny Green: please collect your memo.”
Somewhere on campus, a discreet female-led organization provides comprehensive memos to select students, a set of instructions that are a blueprint for success.
The first time around, Jenny didn’t receive hers. Now, she’s being given the second chance she wants—an opportunity to relive her life and make all the right decisions this time around. But at what price?

Click The Picture To Check Out The Details On Amazon.

Review

Standalone or series?
Standalone

How did I get this book?
Paperback turned up in the mail from the publisher.

Why did I choose to read this book:
When I saw the cover I almost just put it to one side, but then the info sheet fell out and the it seemed a lot more intriguing. I am going to offer it up as a giveaway in the subscriber group as I would be interested to see what others think.

Genre:
Time Travel / Contemporary

Who would enjoy this book:
The idea would appeal to anyone who likes the idea of a "do over" for the mistakes.

And Now To The Review!

First Impressions:
This was a whole lot of story when all I really wanted to do is get the "The Memo" bit. The first 1/3 of the book is set up, which I felt was too much, and if I hadn't really wanted to know how the memo but was going to work, I probably wouldn't have carried on.

General Review
Time Travel rules are a HUGE thing for me.  The Boot Strap Paradox (or as I call it when explaining things to Greg - The Bill & Ted Effect), is pretty much my go to default. If you are NOT going to use this in your writing then you really need a good explanation as to how your time travel rules work. My issue with this is that while the concept of going back to key moments to "fix" errors that changed your destiny is intriguing, in this case the cause and effect was so convoluted it failed to connect with me. I found my self frustrated both with, and for the protagonist, and ALL the things that were happening.

Final Thoughts
I Without spoilers I will just say it was disappointing, The premise was not realized in any way I could relate to and I got to the point where I just wanted to know the outcome, and, you guessed it, I wasn't really happy with that either.

Rating:
A generous 2 1/2 stars rounded up to 3 (mainly for the idea - and I will admit some of the issues could well be "Melanie Issues", I am well aware that that is a thing, but it's not going anywhere so I have taken to just noting it lol).

As always let me know what you think in the comments!

***Disclaimer - Any Links To Buy and/or Subscribe to Amazon Programs On Amazon on this website are Amazon Affiliate Links
Melanie's Muses is part of the Amazon Associate program and earns from qualifying purchases which in turns helps support all the Muser giveaways we do!***

]]><![CDATA[Win It Wednesday - Alternate Academy]]>Wed, 29 May 2024 13:27:28 GMThttps://www.melaniesmuses.com/blog/win-it-wednesday-alternate-academy

This week Author Melissa Woods is sponsoring
Win It Wednesday!

Check out the article and then make sure you scroll down for details on how to enter the giveaway too, and as always be sure to let us know what you think!

Melanie - Founder of Melanie's Muses - You should know who I am lol If not click - All about Melanie!

With book 2 in the Alternate Academy series releasing next week, Melissa Woods is providing the prize for this week's Win It Wednesday! It's a Tidemarsh Academy Mug, which for those that haven't read the first book yet, is the school that Nova is sent to. I thought the BEST thing to remind people about the series would be to reshare the joint review that Susan and I did. Have a read, and if you haven't started the series yet Book 1 is ON SALE for just $2.99 - you can get your copy HERE ... and book 2 is available for Pre-Order HERE and releases NEXT WEEK!

A Joint Review From Mel & Sue

Standalone or series?
Book 1 in a new series
Category
YA Paranormal
Official Blurb About The Book
Being a teenager can be hard. Being a teenager with supernatural abilities can be murder.
Nova Harris hasn’t had the easiest life. Her mother died when she was five, and she never knew her father. Her stepdad wasn’t exactly the warm and fuzzy type…but Nova had never meant to kill him. Now Nova has discovered that she is an Alternate – a person with supernatural abilities – and that there are others just like her at Tidemarsh: a school for freaks.
When Nova finds herself drawn to a mysterious boy being held in The Tombs; a place where the most dangerous Alternates are locked away in the dark, she ends up with more questions than answers. The more she explores, the more secrets she uncovers that she really should have left well alone.
Welcome to Alternate Academy, where the only things not falling apart, are probably already on fire

First Impressions:
Melanie -  I love the opening to this book. It's so crazy and drops you right into probably the worst moment so far of Nova's life!

Susan -   I am quite fond of a book that slaps you right in the face with something the moment you open the first page and that's exactly what you get when you dive in to Alternate Academy.

General Review
Melanie - Kids with misfit powers and abilities - some of which can kill (either accidentally or on purpose), plus a pretty snarky English teen made this an easy page turner. Some of the abilities make me wonder how they would ever be useful .... and then there are others where I would definitely not mind having. The story layers up as we discover things along with Nova, and one thing is certain ... pretty much nothing here is as it seems. I have read Melissa's work before and I have to say this series has levelled up majorly, and maybe because I know Susan's writing style so well, but I could definitely feel her influence in places, and the final result definitely leads me to want book 2 NOW!

Susan -  I fell in love with this book and it's characters right from the get go. This is exactly what I imagine teens would be like if they had special abilities. And like Mel said...some abilities were ones you'd be thrilled to wake up with one day...and others not so much LOL But of course like every great YA book, nothing is quite like it seems and Nova has to find her way in her new normal...

Oh and there's a mysterious, broody, bad boy... #justsayin

Melanie - Oh yep - that too! Am a bit of a fan of a bad boy lol

Final Thoughts
Melanie - . A great start to this new series. I'm very intrigued as to where this will go .... I do know that I wouldn't be sharing Nova's hesitation about certain things lol ... when you read it - you'll get that!

Susan -   A brilliant, twisty, opener to a series that's X-Men meets Red Queen and Shatter me with a British twist!

Melanie - Well that made my final thoughts look a bit crap didn't it, but she's not wrong.

Rating
Melanie – 4 1/2 rounded up to 5 stars and a strong recommendation that all Musers go and read it.

Susan -   Has to be 5 stars - A brilliant start to what's gonna be a epic series! Go get it now!!

The Pineapple Code Word For This Article Is Nova

And Now For The Giveaway

Melanie's Muses will be giving away a Tidemarsh Academy Mug (provided by Melissa Woods)

For your chance to win- FILL OUT THE FORM and tell us:

If you had a weird power - what do you think it would be?

Click Here to Enter The Giveaway

Comments about the article are encouraged - but for now only qualifying entries on the form will go in the bag! What your answer is will not influence whether you go into the hat - Only that you answer the question!

Winner will be announced during the Live show on June 9th and then posted on the page as well on June 10th if the winner isn't at the live.) Full Rules Below!
Good luck everyone!

Rules
Only comments posted on THE FORM will be considered.
This is open internationally. If you win and you cannot accept mail due to Covid issues we will hold the prize until such time as you can. Some exceptions may apply based on Post Office Regulations. Melanie's Muses takes no responsibility for rules beyond her control. Void Where Prohibited.
Sharing is always appreciated but is not required for entry.
Winner Will Be Picked At Random.
One Entry Per Person / Household
Prize is provided via Melanie's Muses and will be mailed by her.
Winner will be announced during the live on June 9th and posted on the Facebook page on Monday June 10th if they aren't at the live. Winner will have 48 hours to claim by messaging their address to
- https://www.facebook.com/MelaniesMuses/ Or prize is considered forfeit.
Failure to claim will result in a no future giveaway entry being counted for 30 days.
We want people to claim their prizes! Don't get on the list!
Any questions please contact Melanie on the Facebook page

***Disclaimer - Any Links To Buy and/or Subscribe to Amazon Programs On Amazon on this website are Amazon Affiliate Links
Melanie's Muses is part of the Amazon Associate program and earns from qualifying purchases which in turns helps support all the Muser giveaways we do!***

]]><![CDATA[Streetlight People by Charlene Thomas an ARC Review]]>Tue, 28 May 2024 14:21:43 GMThttps://www.melaniesmuses.com/blog/streetlight-people-by-charlene-thomas-and-arc-review

Book reviews are being kicked up a gear for 2024! Be sure to comment on ALL the book reviews you see for YOUR chance at a special book prize every month!

A little bit Twin Peaks, a little bit Black Mirror, Streetlight People is a story of growing up in—and out of—a small town with a huge secret.
For most, Streetlight is a dot on the map you pass on your way to somewhere else. But if you live there, you’re either a Have-Not, like Kady, or a Have-Lot like her boyfriend, Nik, who also happens to be a member of the exclusive social club, The IV Boys.
Known for their powerful families and the coveted ball they host for a selective guest list, The IV Boys have always refused to accept Kady regardless of how much Nik loves her. All the Boys except for Aaron, who didn’t grow up in Streetlight and is one of the few who knows that life—real life—exists outside of it. But his stepmom has the kind of wealth and power even IV Boys can’t resist.
With Nik at college, Aaron stands by Kady’s side. But all Kady really wants is Nik, and when a chance encounter on Halloween hands her the power to twist and hold time, she doesn’t hesitate. Now she can keep Nik close for as long as she wants.
While Kady tries to relive her best moments with Nik, the IV Boys have her in their sights. A rumor’s spreading that Kady and Aaron are much more than friends—and not even twisting time is enough to defend against the power that the Boys were born with.
The more Kady changes the clock, the more dizzying reality becomes, until she stumbles upon a truth darker than anything she could have imagined. Streetlight is filled with monsters—and maybe she’s always been one, too.

Click the picture to see book details on Amazon.

Review

Standalone or series?
Standalone

How did I get this book?
Netgalley offered it to me to review

Why did I choose to read this book:
Although the cover didn't appeal to me - the tagline "A little bit Twin Peaks, a little bit Black Mirror, Streetlight People is a story of growing up in—and out of—a small town with a huge secret." intrigued me.

Genre:
YA Time Travel / Mystery

Who would enjoy this book:
Fans of a slightly more mature feeling Goosebumps or Tales from the Crypt vibes.

And Now To The Review!

First Impressions:
Interesting start with a flashback before getting into the main story. Because of the Twin Peaks comparison I think I was expecting a murder and that wasn't the mystery at all.

General Review
Followers of my reviews will know that I love a good Time Travel story. Wibbly Wobbly, Timey Wimey, but ONLY if they get their rules right and I have to say Charlene Thomas nailed that. There are a LOT of clues available to solve the mystery but I will admit I only got a few of them. In hindsight I could clearly see and follow the path of breadcrumbs that had been scattered, and I am a little mad at myself about it.

Final Thoughts
I LOVE how this ended. Remember my whole Goosebumps/Tales from the Crypt mention above? If you are not fans of that style of ending this will NOT be for you.

Rating:
A solid 4 stars and I will definitely be looking out for other books by her.

As always let me know what you think in the comments!

***Disclaimer - Any Links To Buy and/or Subscribe to Amazon Programs On Amazon on this website are Amazon Affiliate Links
Melanie's Muses is part of the Amazon Associate program and earns from qualifying purchases which in turns helps support all the Muser giveaways we do!***

]]><![CDATA[Scarlet Night (Behind the Vail Book 1) by Megan J. Parker - A Review]]>Mon, 27 May 2024 13:12:03 GMThttps://www.melaniesmuses.com/blog/scarlet-night-behind-the-vail-book-1-by-megan-j-parker-a-review

Book reviews are being kicked up a gear for 2024! Be sure to comment on ALL the book reviews you see for YOUR chance at a special book prize every month!

Blurb From Amazon
His “beast” is no match for her “beauty”…
Or her crazy!
Zane Murdoch’s horrific past is forever etched on his skin, marking him as a monster; making him into a monster. It’s his punishment, one that anchors him to his pain and anger. But he’s fought on, hopeful that someday he’ll find a way to conquer the beast within him.
Serena Vailean can’t let go of the past, and her past can’t let go of her. In the spectral embrace of her murdered lover, it’s easy to not let go. But all that changes when Zane arrives on her doorstep, blows her off her feet, and then pulls her back into her old life…
And her new future.
All at once, Serena finds herself fighting. Fighting her growing feelings for Zane, fighting the urge to let go of the past, and fighting to keep her and her new friends-- her clan! —from being destroyed by an old, familiar foe.
Can the untamed beauty and the battered beast overcome their pasts, accept their entwined destinies, and, together, overcome this new threat…
Or will they find themselves marked and haunted by even more failure?

Click To Get Your Free Copy On Amazon!

Review

Standalone or series?
Series - This is book 1 in the Behind the Vail trilogy.

How did I get this book?
I met Megan at FC3 and she kindly sent me a copy to review.

Why did I choose to read this book:
This has been floating around on my Kindle since last year and I FINALLY got around to reading it.

Genre:
Dark Urban Fantasy

Who would enjoy this book:
Fans of paranormal that don't mind when things skew a little darker. Language and some sexy scenes (not as many as I expected based on the cover though lol)

And Now To The Comments!

First Impressions:
You get thrown RIGHT into the story. You meet the sassy protagonist and there action and drama right off the bat.

General Review
This is the first book that I have read by Megan J. Parker. I am always impressed when authors are able to twist well known ideas and make them unique and this story definitely has that. There are differences even with regular supernaturals where the laws are generally a finite selection. That was actually also part of a problem for me. I like to know all the rules, all the parameters, at least in general. This had parts where I felt like I was missing something - as if there was another series or prequel that I should have read first. (I did reach out to the author and that was not the case). That being said, this could well be a "Melanie issue". I do tend to get hung up on things that don't bother other readers. I'm not apologizing for it, I just recognize that it's a thing.

Final Thoughts
This skewed darker than I was expecting, with less super sexy romance (again that's on me based on the cover), but the story was enough that I kept turning the pages and plan on reading the next one. I love that the protagonist has a total lack of a filter, even in situations where she probably SHOULD have one, it makes for far more entertaining reading that she doesn't. It does end on a cliffhanger - and the tease from the next book was no help at all!

Rating:
4 Stars - and I will be continuing the series! (This book is free on Amazon at the time of posting)

As always let me know what you think in the comments!

***Disclaimer - Any Links To Buy and/or Subscribe to Amazon Programs On Amazon on this website are Amazon Affiliate Links
Melanie's Muses is part of the Amazon Associate program and earns from qualifying purchases which in turns helps support all the Muser giveaways we do!***

Prices listed are correct at time of review posting. Please check before purchasing.

]]><![CDATA[Win It Wednesday - For The Love Of Fandoms - A Guest Feature Ashley Brilinski]]>Wed, 22 May 2024 14:52:21 GMThttps://www.melaniesmuses.com/blog/win-it-wednesday-for-the-love-of-fandoms-a-guest-feature-ashley-brilinski

This week Melanie's Muses is thrilled to welcome Ashley Brilinski back to the blog with her latest Muser feature!

Make sure you scroll down for details on how to enter the awesome giveaway too - and as always be sure to let us know what you think!

Ashley - Ashley Brilinski is the queen of Halloween and can loves everything to do with it. She regularly provides awesome fandom items for Muser Giveaways AND sends in amazing items for Melanie and Greg. Her attention to detail is second to none. She is now almost a regular guest writer for Melanie's Muses!

I just finished rewatching Charmed (the original version) for the...well I've lost count of how many times now but it got me thinking. Not just about rewatching things although that was part of it but also shows, movies, and books in general and the various reasons we love them so much.

As many Musers know already I have a habit of falling down rabbit holes when it comes to something I enjoy. I want ALL the behind the scenes tidbits. An interview with the author discussing their inspiration behind a book or series? Gimme. Set tour? Yes please. Q & A with the wardrobe people? Count me in. A one minute reel of the cast having fun between takes? I can't hit the like button fast enough.

Whatever the form might be the creator made it and put it out in the world to be consumed and hopefully well received. Not everyone has to fall down rabbit holes but there's at least one thing every person enjoys. That got me thinking about how powerful fandoms can be. Don't get me wrong, I'm very aware how utterly toxic some can be but that just means you've stumbled upon the wrong people. That's a case of don't let the bad outweigh the good because for every toxic fan group be it online or in person there's one that will welcome you and enjoy discussing it with you. Sometimes you have to sift out the gunk to get to the good stuff. People have formed lifelong friendships and even found love through being fans of something. There are people who have been so deeply touched by how something spoke to them that it literally saved their lives. If that's not special than I don't know what is.

You could find something that has you feeling nostalgic for a time or place that was important to you. You could find something that reminds you of someone who has passed on or lives far away from you that helps ease the feeling of missing them. Sometimes you can even be lucky enough to find something that reaches you on a personal level like seeing a part of you represented in a way you hadn't come across before.

Then we have the good ol comfort watch. It's different for everyone and at times different for each situation but there's a reason we do it. We know what's going to happen but we keep coming back to it because something about it makes us happy. It could be a horror movie with an epic final girl or a killer we feel is justified. It could be a comedy that still makes us smile and laugh no matter how many we've heard the jokes. It may be something that was a total game changer to the genre or storytelling in general. Whatever the reason is it's something I do often and don't think I'll ever tire of.

I think I went a bit all over the place with this but the point I'm trying to make is whatever it is that makes you want to read or watch or even create something yourself don't let anyone make you feel bad for it. Art is meant to be cherished and if you find something you want to make yours you do just that and you wear a smile on your face while you do it. If you want to keep your fandoms to yourself more power to ya but don't let the possibility of toxicity scare you because it's quite possible that one day completely out of the blue you can come across a post for a Facebook show and give in to curiosity and end up finding the best online community full of people of various fandoms there is. Long live fandoms and may the list of fandoms continue to grow for all of you.

Melanie is Founder of Melanie's Muses - You should know who I am lol If not click - All about Melanie!

This is almost perfect timing as I was just watching the episode of Lucifer where the Morningstars got a shout out. I'm not going to add much but if you want to see some early musings about Fandoms you can read my old blog from 2012 HERE (that actually got me an invite to apply for the game show "King of the Nerds" Or watch my (terrible) video from 7 years ago HERE (that I just saw Ashley commented on 3 years ago lol).

The Pineapple Code Word For This Article Is Fandom

Melanie's Muses will be giving away a Fandom Swag Pack with various fandom items from the Melanie's Muses Prize Hoard!

For your chance to win- FILL OUT THE FORM and tell us:

What fandoms would you say you were part of?

Click Here to Enter The Giveaway

Comments about the article are encouraged - ESPECIALLY SO GUESTS CAN SEE WHAT YOU THINK OF THEIR ARTICLES - but for now only qualifying entries on the form will go in the bag! What your answer is will not influence whether you go into the hat - Only that you answer the question!

Winner will be announced during the Live show on June 2nd and then posted on the page as well on June 3rd if the winner isn't at the live.) Full Rules Below!
Good luck everyone!

Rules
Only comments posted on THE FORM will be considered.
This is open internationally. If you win and you cannot accept mail due to Covid issues we will hold the prize until such time as you can. Some exceptions may apply based on Post Office Regulations. Melanie's Muses takes no responsibility for rules beyond her control. Void Where Prohibited.
Sharing is always appreciated but is not required for entry.
Winner Will Be Picked At Random.
One Entry Per Person / Household
Prize is provided via Melanie's Muses and will be mailed by her.
Winner will be announced during the live on June 2nd and posted on the Facebook page on Monday June 3rd if they aren't at the live. Winner will have 48 hours to claim by messaging their address to
- https://www.facebook.com/MelaniesMuses/ Or prize is considered forfeit.
Failure to claim will result in a no future giveaway entry being counted for 30 days.
We want people to claim their prizes! Don't get on the list!
Any questions please contact Melanie on the Facebook page

***Disclaimer - Any Links To Buy and/or Subscribe to Amazon Programs On Amazon on this website are Amazon Affiliate Links
Melanie's Muses is part of the Amazon Associate program and earns from qualifying purchases which in turns helps support all the Muser giveaways we do!***

]]><![CDATA[A Better World by Sarah Langan - A Review]]>Sat, 18 May 2024 11:41:21 GMThttps://www.melaniesmuses.com/blog/a-better-world-by-sarah-langan-a-review

Book reviews are being kicked up a gear for 2024! Be sure to comment on ALL the book reviews you see for YOUR chance at a special book prize every month!

A cunning, outside-the-box satirical thriller about a family’s odyssey into an exclusive enclave for the wealthy that might not be as ideal as it seems.
You’ll be safe here. That’s what the tour guide tells the Farmer-Bowens when they visit Plymouth Valley, a walled-off company town with clean air, pantries that never go empty, and blue-ribbon schools. On a very trial basis, the company offers to hire Linda Farmer’s husband, Russell, a numbers genius, and relocate her whole family to this bucolic paradise for the .0001 percent. Though Linda will have to sacrifice her medical career back home, the family jumps at the opportunity. They’d be crazy not to take it. With the outside world falling apart, this might be the Farmer-Bowens’ last chance.
But fitting in takes work. The pampered locals distrust outsiders, snubbing Linda, Russell, and their teen twins. And the residents fervently adhere to a group of customs and beliefs called Hollow...but what exactly is Hollow?
It’s Linda who brokers acceptance, by volunteering her medical skills to the most influential people in town through their pet charity, ActHollow. In the months afterward, everything seems fine. Sure, Russell starts hyperventilating through a paper bag in the middle of the night, and the kids have become secretive, but living in Plymouth Valley is worth sacrificing their family’s closeness, isn’t it? At least they’ll survive. The trouble is, the locals never say what they think. They seem scared. And Hollow’s ominous culminating event, the Plymouth Valley Winter Festival, is coming.
Linda is warned by her husband and her powerful new friends to stop asking questions. But the more she learns, the more frightened she becomes. Should the Farmer-Bowens be fighting to stay, or fighting to get out?
Sarah Langan’s latest novel, A Better World, is gleefully ruthless in its dissection of wealth, power, and privilege, timely in its depiction of a self-destructing world—and it is a prescient warning to us all.

Click the picture to see what everyone else is saying about the book!

Review

Standalone or series?
Standalone

How did I get this book?
I was sent a hardcover by the publisher for consideration

Why did I choose to read this book:
I was in the mood for a thriller and this looked interesting. The "Bullet Point" taglines from previous reviews sounded like something I would like for example " A Better World is terrifying, shocking, sinister . . . and yet heartfelt and often hilarious."

Genre:
Psychological Thriller / Dystopian Thriller

Who would enjoy this book:
Fans of dystopian thrillers might like it - honestly I am not sure. I am going to offer it up as a giveaway in the subscriber group as I would be interested to see what others think.

And Now To The Review!

First Impressions:
This has a really strong start. The first, almost half of the book, set an interesting premise and I was pleased I had decided to read it.

General Review
Sarah Langan is a new to me author. She has won numerous awards and has lots of fabulous critiques, but the further into the book I got, the more it lost me. I didn't find any of it funny, and followers of my blog will know I have a definitely dark sense of humor so based on what people were saying this should have been right up my alley.  The main underlying darkness was pretty obvious from early on, which isn't necessarily a bad thing, but to me it felt that the author knew where she needed the story to go ... but wasn't quite sure how to get it there. I felt that the plot points became inconsistent (if you DO read this then about 3/4 of the way in there is a security incident that really lost me), and the convenient thing happened, even if there wasn't really a logical way for that to be the case. One of the things I least enjoyed was how the characters became more two dimensional for me during the time that they should all have been showing the most.

Final Thoughts
I don't get it. That's my final thought on this one. I don't understand what others loved in it (I mean all book reviews are subjectional), I really just didn't get it in general. What could have been a great commentary on how the world is basically being destroyed by corporations saving the high flyers and leaving the little people to rot, became a lackluster story with a very unsatisfactory ending. I don't think it's set up for a sequel, although I was definitely left with questions, but not enough to really care now if they are answered.

Rating:
This started at a solid 4 stars but by the end I was at a 2. The book systematically lost its appeal as it went on and I am sort of mad about it.

As always let me know what you think in the comments!

***Disclaimer - Any Links To Buy and/or Subscribe to Amazon Programs On Amazon on this website are Amazon Affiliate Links
Melanie's Muses is part of the Amazon Associate program and earns from qualifying purchases which in turns helps support all the Muser giveaways we do!***

]]><![CDATA[Blood Over Bright Haven by M. L. Wang - A Review]]>Fri, 17 May 2024 04:00:00 GMThttps://www.melaniesmuses.com/blog/blood-over-bright-haven-by-m-l-wang-a-review

Book reviews are being kicked up a gear for 2024! Be sure to comment on ALL the book reviews you see for YOUR chance at a special book prize every month!

Blurb - As Per Amazon
The first woman ever admitted to a prestigious order of mages unravels a secret conspiracy that could change the practice of magic forever, in this standalone dark fantasy from the author of The Sword of Kaigen.
For twenty years, Sciona has devoted every waking moment to the study of magic, fueled by a mad desire to achieve the impossible: to be the first woman ever admitted to the High Magistry at the University of Magics and Industry.
When Sciona finally passes the qualifying exam and becomes a highmage, she finds her challenges have just begun. Her new colleagues are determined to make her feel unwelcome—and, instead of a qualified lab assistant, they give her a janitor.
What neither Sciona nor her peers realize is that her taciturn assistant was not always a janitor. Ten years ago, he was a nomadic hunter who lost his family on their perilous journey from the wild plains to the city. But now he sees the opportunity to understand the forces that decimated his tribe, drove him from his homeland, and keep the privileged in power.
At first, mage and outsider have a fractious relationship. But working together, they uncover an ancient secret that could change the course of magic forever—if it doesn’t get them killed first.

Click the picture to check out more details on Amazon.

Now For The Review

Standalone or series?
Standalone

How did I get this book?
I was offered it for review on Netgalley. (Although the eBook is available now it looks like the Hardcover is releasing in October.)

Why did I choose to read this book:
I really like mage magic in general and dark storylines when I am in the right mood.

Genre:
Dark Fantasy

Who would enjoy this book:
Readers who are familiar with mage magic theories. This wasn't a "light" read. There is some quite graphic violence throughout the book.

And Now To The Review!

First Impressions:
This is a harsh start and really sets the tone for the rest of the book despite it being told from a completely different perspective than the main story. It's quite a harsh pivot that comes with no initial explanation but it DOES all tie in eventually.

General Review
This was my first introduction to M.L. Wang and it was a good one. The book is very "Mage Magic" heavy so may not appeal to everyone but it reminded me of a cross between the Alex Versus novels By Benedict Jacka and the Shadow and Bone series. The world-building is strong, with a heavy emphasis on women generally being second-class citizens, but still above settlers from another part of the country. I enjoyed that there was a serious cost that came with magic, and I don't think anyone will be prepared for what that cost ends up being.

Final Thoughts
Overall I am not sure if enjoyed is the right word for how I felt about this book, but it was good. I thought the ending was particularly well done but know that many may disagree with what the author decided. I would definitely read other works by her.

Rating:
Overall a solid 4 stars, because I felt some of the characters weren't quite as developed as I wanted them to be, and the mage magic was a little heavy on the theory side at times even for me.

As always let me know what you think in the comments!

***Disclaimer - Any Links To Buy and/or Subscribe to Amazon Programs On Amazon on this website are Amazon Affiliate Links
Melanie's Muses is part of the Amazon Associate program and earns from qualifying purchases which in turns helps support all the Muser giveaways we do!***

]]><![CDATA[Perfectly Wicked by Lindsay Lovise an ARC Review]]>Thu, 16 May 2024 17:14:50 GMThttps://www.melaniesmuses.com/blog/perfectly-wicked-by-lindsay-lovise-an-arc-review

Book reviews are being kicked up a gear for 2024! Be sure to comment on ALL the book reviews you see for YOUR chance at a special book prize every month!

Blurb - As Per Amazon
Charmed meets Ghosthunters in this magically wicked paranormal romance, perfect for fans of Not the Witch You Wed and The Ex Hex.
Holly Celeste and her sisters make the best apple cider in Maine—courtesy of a magical secret ingredient—but even that hasn’t been enough to keep their orchard afloat. To save the family business, Holly accepts a proposal to let a ghost hunting series film an episode on her farm. Connor Grimm may be the sexy and down-to-earth TV host the nation loves, but to Holly he represents her greatest fear: exposure. Holly doesn’t mind if Connor chases down a silly ghost story—it’s their other secret she’s terrified he’ll reveal.
Connor Grimm’s life goal is to normalize the paranormal, which he does on his show, Grimm Reality. Except he isn’t only looking for a ghost at Wicked Good Apples. There have been rumors of rain during droughts and other inexplicable happenings that could only be attributed to something supernatural, and Connor plans to expose it on an episode that will take his show’s success to another level.
Intent on keeping Connor in the dark, Holly joins him as he interviews eyewitnesses, hunts for old records, and unearths a story even she didn’t know existed. Despite her resolution to dislike him, she begins to fall for the only man who’s ever made her feel like strange could be normal. Too bad a relationship with Connor could only be temporary: he moves to a new state every month, and there’s no room in his life for a woman with a pet hedgehog, a houseful of nosy aunts and sisters, and a failing apple orchard.
When Connor finally pieces together Holly’s greatest secret, he’s forced to choose between revealing his biggest paranormal discovery yet and propelling his show to the top of the charts, and giving it all up for the wicked woman who’s charmed his heart.

You Can See The Book On Amazon By Clicking The Pic

Now For The Review

Standalone or series?
Standalone

How did I get this book?
I was offered it for review on Netgalley

Why did I choose to read this book:
The blurb really appealed to me - Charmed meets Ghosthunters in this magically wicked paranormal romance!

Genre:
Paranormal Romance

Who would enjoy this book:
Hmmm I am really not sure as you will see from the review. There is a lot of stronger swear words and although the cover looks like it would be on the sweeter side - it skews on the sexier side of things with some fairly detailed descriptions.

And Now To The Review!

First Impressions:
This throws you into a situation that you don't have a backstory for and I kind of felt that I needed to know a bit more than the author was sharing. Sometimes this is done for a big reveal later, in this case I think the author may have done SO much research and knew her story so well that she forgot that readers didn't have all the info.

General Review
The general premise is an interesting one. Any time you can put a twist on the paranormal side of things that hasn't been done before is a bonus. Whilst I was able to figure out the rough powers, and the issues surrounding them, I really expected it to lean into a different supernatural path - this one not being one I had encountered before.

*MINOR SPOILERS AHEAD*. Normally, I avoid all spoilers in my reviews but I can't figure out a way to give accurate feedback as to why I ended up with that rating I did without pointing out a few specifics. Firstly, Ghost Adventures would definitely be a better description than Ghost Hunters. I can't help but feel that Connor was very influenced by the main Ghost Adventures cast, with SO many similarities that I wasn't able to appreciate him AS his own character in the story. Secondly, I don't feel the cover is appropriate for the story, It leads to the idea of the generally cute Rom/Com style TikTok popular books, and this definitely leans more into the sexy (which isn't a bad thing), and stronger language than I expected. (Note -NEITHER of these things is an issue for me - I really literally everything from YA to Erotica - I just think the cover doesn't accurately portray the contents). Thirdly, and this is the biggest spoiler, the ghost back story mentioned is literally a gender-bend on the Bent-Neck Lady from the Haunting of Hill House. The Bent-Neck lady is so iconic I find it hard to believe that others won't make the connection. Finally, there are several major sticking points for me where it feels that things happen LITERALLY as an excuse for something else to happen with NO real tie-in to the actual story, or proper resolution.

Final Thoughts
I really wanted to enjoy this book but was sadly left feeling sort of Meh about it. It's a shame because the idea definitely had potential.

Rating:
A sad 2/12 stars rounded up to 3 because most places you post don't allow a half star option.

As always let me know what you think in the comments!

***Disclaimer - Any Links To Buy and/or Subscribe to Amazon Programs On Amazon on this website are Amazon Affiliate Links
Melanie's Muses is part of the Amazon Associate program and earns from qualifying purchases which in turns helps support all the Muser giveaways we do!***

]]><![CDATA[Win it Wednesday - Remakes]]>Wed, 15 May 2024 16:04:15 GMThttps://www.melaniesmuses.com/blog/win-it-wednesday-remakes

This week Jenn and Mel are moaning about remakes and reboots!

Make sure you scroll down for details on how to enter the giveaway too, and as always be sure to let us know what you think!

Jenn - Jennifer Rhodes met Melanie back when True Blood was popular and they have been friends ever since. She loves TV (especially things that make you smile), Doctor Who, Finding new shows, and regularly provides awesome fandom items for Muser Giveaways. Jennifer is now a proud member of the VIPers - the Melanie's Muses Spotlight Feature Team!

Since we entered the digital age some time ago now, remakes are definitely needed less and less. As if they ever truly were needed. Originals are more readily available to buy, rent or stream for free on various platforms, not to mention DVDs and Blu-Rays for collectors. But since Hollywood has no original ideas anymore, they remake movies or reboot an older movie with a sequel many years later.

There’s so many movies that honestly never needed a part two, but they end up getting made anyways. Like "Hocus Pocus" and now "Beetlejuice". They even did it years ago with "Caddyshack" but had a new lead that failed miserably. The story feels concluded but because they were so popular it usually ends up happening to many fans dismay.

I could also say this about "The Ones Who Live", and "Queen Charlotte". Fans wanting more, why?! Or do you feel its more the studios trying to milk their moneymaker until the well is dry? They both ended perfectly. I mean would you rather it end like it should or be ruined? That’s happened to shows I’ve watched and loved as well. Ruined because the writers either didn’t know when to stop or just stopped caring. "Game of Thrones", I’m looking at you.

“The Crow” was one that should have never been touched. The 1994 classic was beautifully perfect. The tone, the art, the story. So dark and fitting. Brandon Lee’s swan song has everything. The remake had enough false starts along the way that we had hoped would never get done. But now it has and fans are pissed. The backlash is brutal. I try to keep an open mind until i see the trailer. But one look at the new trailer and everything we held dear about the original is gone. The heart is gone. The characters look, the overall scenery, mood and tone is much brighter. Its not even recognizable. “The Crow” has already had 3 sequels and a television series. If they wanted to add to the lore, do another sequel. No need to remake the same story.

Now I’m not saying all sequels are bad because they’re not but these are the movies and shows you feel are incomplete without more or the ones left on nasty cliffhangers which happens a lot. The ones that leave you wondering what will happen, maybe finish them instead of remaking movies and shows no one asked for like "Charmed" and "Walker Texas Ranger". You get huge names and think it will work. No!!! Leave originals alone. They’re originals for a reason.

I could even go on about those pesky prequels "Young Sheldon" being one, sorry if you’re a fan but again not needed. Some would even argue the Star Wars prequels were not needed, and I may be in the minority but those weren’t bad except the third. Whatever your take is on prequels, sequels and remakes.

I’m sure we can all agree that maybe at some point we just get tired of them. Hollywood has lost any original ideas or imagination and honestly that’s just sad. Maybe I’ll just read a book instead.

Melanie - Founder of Melanie's Muses - You should know who I am lol If not click - All about Melanie!

So I vlogged about this back in 2018 - and my thoughts haven't changed much - so here's the video for anyone that missed it the first time round lol.

The Pineapple Code Word For This Article Is Remake

And Now For The Giveaway

Melanie's Muses will be giving away a 3 pack Spirit Halloween exclusive Hocus Pocus Funko set from the Melanie's Muses Prize Hoard!

For your chance to win- FILL OUT THE FORM and tell us:

Is there a Remake / Reboot that you actually liked?

Click Here to Enter The Giveaway

Comments about the article are encouraged - but for now only qualifying entries on the form will go in the bag! What your answer is will not influence whether you go into the hat - Only that you answer the question!

Winner will be announced during the Live show on May 26th and then posted on the page as well on May 27th if the winner isn't at the live.) Full Rules Below!
Good luck everyone!

Rules
Only comments posted on THE FORM will be considered.
This is open internationally. If you win and you cannot accept mail due to Covid issues we will hold the prize until such time as you can. Some exceptions may apply based on Post Office Regulations. Melanie's Muses takes no responsibility for rules beyond her control. Void Where Prohibited.
Sharing is always appreciated but is not required for entry.
Winner Will Be Picked At Random.
One Entry Per Person / Household
Prize is provided via Melanie's Muses and will be mailed by her.
Winner will be announced during the live on May 26th and posted on the Facebook page on Monday May 27th if they aren't at the live. Winner will have 48 hours to claim by messaging their address to
- https://www.facebook.com/MelaniesMuses/ Or prize is considered forfeit.
Failure to claim will result in a no future giveaway entry being counted for 30 days.
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]]><![CDATA[Spindles and Thorns: A Sleeping Beauty Retelling (The Society of Roses Book 1) by Melanie Karsak - An ARC Spoiler Free Review.]]>Tue, 14 May 2024 11:37:44 GMThttps://www.melaniesmuses.com/blog/spindles-and-thorns-a-sleeping-beauty-retelling-the-society-of-roses-book-1-by-melanie-karsak-an-arc-spoiler-free-review

Book reviews are being kicked up a gear for 2024! Be sure to comment on ALL the book reviews you see for YOUR chance at a special book prize every month!

Blurb About The Book (As Per Amazon)
Three blessings.
One curse.
A beauty whose life will change forever.
When Aurora and her twin brother Aubrey were born, a dark mage cursed them: before their eighteenth birthday, the twins would suffer the torment of eternal sleep. Aurora and Aubrey’s parents, being sensible wizards, eviscerated the mage. Unfortunately, dark magic doesn’t go quietly. Aurora and Aubrey were left orphans.
Raised by three half-faerie guardians, the twins’ lives pass unremarkably. Attractive, witty, and in possession of a large fortune, they are the toast of polite society.
But as the twins approach their eighteenth birthday, they will learn that some enchantments aren’t so easily broken.
Spindles and Thorns is a retelling of Sleeping Beauty set in New York Times bestselling author Melanie Karsak’s fairy tale universe. This is a sister series to the Red Cape Society, focusing on the origin story of Agent Rose, but each series can be read independently.

Click The Picture To Pre-Order On Amazon.

Now For The Review

Standalone or series?
Book 1 in The Society Of Roses Series (Apparently this is a spin off from a previous Fairytale series BUT you definitely do not need to have read any of them to read this one).

How did I get this book?
I saw a random post about it in a book group I obviously joined at some point with a signup for the chance at an ARC. As I haven't read or reviewed this author before I was actually quite surprised I got it.

Why did I choose to read this book:
The blurb really appealed to me (which was why I applied for it in the first place).

Genre:
Dark Fantasy / Fairy Tale Retelling / Historical Fantasy

Who would enjoy this book:
Fans of Bridgerton and Magic. It pulls from actual History (as well as the fairy tale), and it is super light on the violence, sex, and language.

And Now To The Review!

First Impressions:
This is a really well crafted novel. The sleeping beauty references start immediately but in a Victorian England setting, with fae. The whole thing has a gothic/steampunk feel, and as a fan of regency romance (I mean OK technically as this hits the Victorian era it isn't actually regency - but I feel that is relatable for more readers), it immediately gave me Colleen Gleason Gardella vibes - which is one of my all time favorite series.

General Review
This book actually captivated me enough to sit and read it in one sitting. There are VERY few authors that can accomplish that, and even fewer new to me authors. The story pulls from a lot of elements I am familiar with but you definitely don't need to know any of the other works to enjoy this. (It just meant my reading included adding mental notes about the various nods to other authors or stories as I read). The book manages to have a beautiful gothic feel, without the reliance on violence, sex, or other tropes that could easily have been thrown in.

Final Thoughts
Although I was able to figure out some of the main plot twists, it in no way detracted from my enjoyment of the story. There is a cliffhanger, but it is more a gateway to book two rather than something leaving you wanting to throw your kindle against the wall. (We all know there are some authors ... Susan Harris ... that would have cut the story pages earlier, resulting in some not very pleasant words).

Rating:
A very unusual 5 stars from me - those new to my blog may not realize how rare it is for a new to me author to earn that. In fact it was the LACK of 5 star review material that really caused me to take a break in the first place from reading new authors. This might be the first book from Melanie Karsak that I have read, but it won't be the last. I already downloaded the first book in the original fairy tale series as it was free on Amazon. If you want to check it out too you can do so HERE. (Please note at the time of the review I have NOT read that one - and my review is strictly in relation to the new series).

As always let me know what you think in the comments!

***Disclaimer - Any Links To Buy and/or Subscribe to Amazon Programs On Amazon on this website are Amazon Affiliate Links
Melanie's Muses is part of the Amazon Associate program and earns from qualifying purchases which in turns helps support all the Muser giveaways we do!***

]]><![CDATA[A Magical Girl Retires by Park Seolyeon (Translated) - A Review]]>Mon, 13 May 2024 12:33:00 GMThttps://www.melaniesmuses.com/blog/a-magical-girl-retires-by-park-seolyeon-translated-a-review

Book reviews are being kicked up a gear for 2024! Be sure to comment on ALL the book reviews you see for YOUR chance at a special book prize every month!

Blurb About The Book (As Per Amazon)

A millennial turned magical girl must combat climate change and credit card debt in this delightful, witty, and wildly imaginative ode to magical girl manga.
Twenty-nine, depressed, and drowning in credit card debt after losing her job during the pandemic, a millennial woman decides to end her troubles by jumping off Seoul’s Mapo Bridge.
But her suicide attempt is interrupted by a girl dressed all in white—her guardian angel. Ah Roa is a clairvoyant magical girl on a mission to find the greatest magical girl of all time. And our protagonist just may be that special someone.
But the young woman’s initial excitement turns to frustration when she learns being a magical girl in real life is much different than how it’s portrayed in stories. It isn’t just destiny—it’s work. Magical girls go to job fairs, join trade unions, attend classes. And for this magical girl there are no special powers and no great perks, and despite being magical, she still battles with low self-esteem. Her magic wand . . . is a credit card—which she must use to defeat a terrifying threat that isn’t a monster or an intergalactic war. It’s global climate change. Because magical girls need to think about sustainability, too.

Click The Picture To See Details On Amazon.

Now For The Review

Standalone or series?
Complete standalone.

How did I get this book?
Sent to me by the publisher.

Why did I choose to read this book:
I am very much into all things Korean at the moment so the premise appealed to me.

Genre:
Fantasy Manga (Translated)

Who would enjoy this book:
Anyone who likes Magic with a bit of a cultural shift. (PG rated with regard to language and sexual content).

And Now To The Review!

First Impressions:
This is a translation from an original Korean manga and has some beautiful illustrations at the beginning of each chapter. It was easy for me to jump right into the story because it very much reminded me of some of the KDramas I am watching. I don't think you necessarily need any previous knowledge about Korea and the culture to read it, BUT, the general premises were so familiar to me that I think it definitely influenced my wanting to read it in the first place.

General Review
The Magical Girl theme might feel genre specific, and there are references made to that genre in its own right, but "Magical Girls" are actually very common throughout Western culture too. For example. Samantha from Bewitched would technically fall into the category. This translation explores issues that I am seeing repeatedly through the KDramas I am watching, but also addresses the global issue of climate change (in a non-preachy way). Despite this being a translation, I didn't feel that any of the author's original voice was lost and I respected the way it moved from the more traditional "Magical Girl" that often comes into their power during teen years, to someone a little older, with issues that many people can relate too.

Final Thoughts
Overall I really enjoyed this story and it was a very quick read. Whether I would have enjoyed it so much without my vested interest in all things Korean at the moment, I do think my review is probably more subjective than some of my other ones, but I like what I like!

Rating:
4 Stars!

As always let me know what you think in the comments!

***Disclaimer - Any Links To Buy and/or Subscribe to Amazon Programs On Amazon on this website are Amazon Affiliate Links
Melanie's Muses is part of the Amazon Associate program and earns from qualifying purchases which in turns helps support all the Muser giveaways we do!***

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Vicky met Melanie years ago through an online book group and they have been friends ever since. Vicky often sends in prizes for Melanie's Muses Giveaways and we loves that she is now adding articles into the mix too!​

Melanie is Founder of Melanie's Muses - You should know who I am lol If not take a look around the website - All about me is on the homepage!

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Vicky met Melanie years ago through an online book group and they have been friends ever since. This is Vicky's second guest article for Melanie's Muses and we hope there will be more to come.

Melanie is Founder of Melanie's Muses - You should know who I am lol If not click - All about Melanie!

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Exclusive Interview With Author Susan Harris- Originally Posted in May 2020 when Chaos Theory Released!

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A Joint Review From Mel & Sue

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Melanie - Founder of Melanie's Muses - You should know who I am lol If not click - All about Melanie!

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Vicky met Melanie years ago through an online book group and they have been friends ever since. Vicky often sends in prizes for Melanie's Muses Giveaways and we loves that she is now adding articles into the mix too!

And Now For The Giveaway

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Melanie - Founder of Melanie's Muses - You should know who I am lol If not click - All about Melanie!