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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!***
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!***
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!*** 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 GiveawayMelanie'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? 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. 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!***
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!***
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!*** Shannon - Shannon Watts is a long time Muser that now helps run things for Melanie's Muses at FC3. This is her first article for Melanie's Muses but we hope there are many more to come!I wanted to chat with all of the Musers for a minute about my all time favorite holiday ... .HALLOWEEN! Halloween is one of the oldest traditions in the world, touching on the relationship between the living and the dead. There is the Celtic tradition of Samhain, Mexico’s Day of the Dead, China’s Tomb Sweeping Day and some form or another in just about every recorded civilization of history…..But I digress…..Halloween has always been my favorite holiday. What could be more fun than an opportunity to dress up as anything your imagination can come up with?!
This late 80’s classic starring Michael Keaton as “The Ghost with the Most”, alongside Winona Ryder, Geena Davis and Catherine O’Hara, follows the spirits of a deceased couple that are harassed by an unbearable family that has moved into their home…so, who do they turn to for help? Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice, Beetlejui…….nope, not going there! Ok, but hauntings aside, this movie is a fun addition any night of the year, so how many of the Muser family have seen it? The Pineapple Code Word For This Article Is Halloween And Now For The GiveawayMelanie's Muses will be giving away Halloween Nights Decals, A 3 Movie Time Burton Collection DVD (Beetlejuice, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, and The Corpse Bride), A Tarot Cloth, Bag with Horror Movie Charm Bracelet and Skull Mardi Gras Beads, A Never Trust The Living Coin Purse, Beetlejuice Lanyard, Cat Straw Cover, and a Pin, ALL sent in by Shannon! For your chance to win- FILL OUT THE FORM and tell us: What is your favorite movie to watch at Halloween? 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 May 19th and then posted on the page as well on May 20th 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 19th and posted on the Facebook page on Monday May 20th 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!*** |
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