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Win It Wednesday - Melanie At FC3!

6/27/2023

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Welcome to Win It Wednesday!

This week's Win it Wednesday is a little different as Melanie talks about her cosplay experience at FC32022 and the difference a year makes!


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 - Should need no introduction!  ​

It was a little over a year ago that Susan and I found out that we would be guests at FC32022! We had decided that we were going to do the cover reveal there for her new book instead of on our regular show, and I was going to cosplay one of the characters. I don't think either of us knew what was going to happen, but we knew we were going to have one hell of a time!
 Greg was actually the person that I think understood what this meant the most. He was the one that pushed for me to have the best costume I could have (including commissioning some amazing leather pieces from Quality Leather Craft (Check out their page HERE), and insisting that as a cosplay guest I needed to stand out. 

And I have never been so glad of anything as they went on to ask me to be a judge for the Cosplay Competition (something that I am also doing this year), and suddenly, my cosplay that had always just been an extra part of my page, was taking on a whole new life thanks to a convention that took a chance on someone new. (Well they actually took a chance on Susan and I came as part of the package - but I'm still counting it!) 

The FC3 community is AMAZING! They welcomed us with open arms and I have been thrilled to be a representative for them at a local Halloween event, A Makers Faire (Where I also judged a cosplay makers competition), and the Yule Ball at the Rochester Museum And Science Center where Greg and I helped run the games!

You hear about conventions that are "Cliquey" or "Unfriendly" but whether you are a first timer new to the circuit, or a seasoned pro, I would challenge you to find a BETTER atmosphere than we found at FC3! It is one of the craziest, most exhausting, weekends I have ever spent ..... and I CAN'T RECOMMEND IT ENOUGH! 
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Halloween Event
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Maker's Faire
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Yule Ball
Now, a year later, we are getting ready for FC32023 and WE CAN'T WAIT! Check out their website HERE to see some of the things that are going to be happening. 

​For us, I have double the costumes, a new banner, Greg has been working on a TON of resin stuff, not to mention Susan will be here with her table AND we have Musers coming to visit and help! 

Check out our awesome new banner - and then flick through the slideshow to see some of the fabulous pics from 2022 and be sure to scroll down to enter the giveaway!


The Pineapple Code Word For This Article Is FC3
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​And Now For The Giveaway

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Melanie's Muses will be giving away a "COSPLAY KIT" prize pack including
 a Cruella Wig, Wig Cap (the good kind), Masquerade Mask, A Choker,
Onyx Shadowsense (full size), Snow Shadowsense (full size),
Foops Remover Wipe, Glossy gloss (sample), Satin Matte Gloss (sample),
Color and Neon Temporary Tattoos, Black fake nails, Inflatable rock star guitar,
Rock star sunglasses, Elf ears, Devil horn headband with stick on gems,
Leopard print headband, Foundation, Light Source Highlighter, Glitter Gel,
Head and wristbands (grey) And a Green bag to store (most of) it in!
ALL f
rom the Melanie's Muses Prize Hoard.

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

Have you Cosplayed? If so who is your favorite Cosplay - if not who would you LIKE to do? OR If cosplay is not for you - which is your favorite cosplay of mine?
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 hat! 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  9th and then posted on the page as well on July 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 Sunday July 9th and posted on the Facebook page on Monday July 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
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Win It Wednesday - Sicarius Security

6/21/2023

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Welcome to Win It Wednesday!

This week Melanie and Jenn are talking about the Sicarius Security series (NO SPOILERS) by Susan Harris as the 5th and final book releases SOON.
​Even better if you haven't started this series yet you can get the first book FOR FREE!!!


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!

The Sicarius Security Series by Melanie - Should need no introduction!   & 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!

Book 1 - Kiss of Death

Melanie - This is book 1 in a new series from Susan Harris and it definitely skews sexier even than the Ever Chace series. Definitely books for grown-ups! (Not that that's a bad thing!) 
Kiss of Death sets up a whole new paranormal world to get lost in. From a security team that is a secret front for a group of supernatural assassins, to the misfit band of creatures that all have "interesting" skill sets. Book 1 is a great introduction to a new cast of characters that you just know will be popping up in their own stories later on. Seriously though she had me at "sexy assassin vampires" and EVEN had me laughing at a werewolf!
This book is fast-paced and comes with the almost expected now emotional drama that makes me put it in the metaphorical freezer for a time out, and yet still I turn the pages!
I am really excited to see where this series goes. I definitely already have my favorite character (Jazz), although there is probably someone for everyone in here. The cliffhanger isn't as bad as many of the Susan Harris ones out there (BURN NOTICE!!!!!!!!), but it definitely reminds you who you are reading.

*****
​Jenn - I love to read. Ever since high school I've been a avid reader. I was one of those that sat in the bleachers during gym class to read. "Kiss of Death" was the first book I've read in a few years if I'm being honest.
If you're a Muser than you know have probably heard of Susan Harris or have read her books. Starting this book I instantly fell for the two main leads and wanted them together. Their chemistry is off the charts. Malakai and Keeva, vampire and banshee make the pages sizzle. Though neither is my favorite character, that belongs to Zeke. What can I say, except I just want to hug him. There's so much I could say about this book because I absolutely loved it, but I can't because SPOILERS. I read it in three days. It would have been less time if I didn't have to work. The reader is not disappointed. From the very first page it pulls you in. This book is not to be missed and I absolutely cannot wait for the next installment.

​Book 2 - Leap of Faith

Melanie - Where book 1 spent time worldbuilding, book 2 is definitely more about characters and their relationships. This book focuses on a different couple to the first, and the pattern is obviously going to be a new couple for each book (with the underlying story in the background). All the characters are misfits in their own way - supernatural that whilst powerful - might not "work" in quite the way others think they are supposed to. I am a sucker for damaged characters so this definitely appeals to me - and I stand by Jazz being my favorite.
A fast paced read and a real page turner despite the (fighting) action having shifted to the lesser aspect of the story. It certainly didn't detract from wanting to see what happened at all!
There is a cliffhanger, but so far this series definitely isn't as bad as many of the Susan Harris ones out there (BURN NOTICE!!!!!!!! - I will NEVER RECOVER), but it definitely reminds you who you are reading, and I for one am glad that book 3 is already up for pre-order so the wait won't be too long.

*****

​Jenn - This book I was definitely excited for because it was all about my boy Zeke, and discovering his background and what he’s been through. I was hoping that he’d finally get his happy ending, or at least close to it anyways. I can say I wasn’t disappointed in that department, because Scarlett the heroine of Zeke's story definitely deserved him in a way that made me continually keep smiling all through the book. She was there for him, and whatever he tried to do to scare her off, she wasn’t having any of it, and truthfully that’s what he needed and it worked. Scarlett tamed the monk. Now, I’m not saying this book isn’t full of surprises because it definitely is, one surprise even had me dropping my phone, so thanks for that Susan, luckily I was sitting or I might of fainted as well, but don’t worry it’s a good surprise at least I thought so. At the end of this book and you’re left on a whopper of a cliffhanger, but if you’ve read Susan’s books by now you know that’s just her. I personally can’t wait for the third book because this series has me totally enthralled, dare I say tv show anyone? because I may eventually need one!

Book 3 Visions of Destiny

Melanie - Book 3 is Jasmine's book which I was super excited for with her being my main favorite in this series. When you read the series, or if you already have, you will notice a LOT of my personality traits crossover into Jazz's character and so OF COURSE Susan decided that Jazz would fall for a werewolf. That's really not a spoiler as it is pretty evident from book 1! As Visions actually released while Susan was over here we filmed this transformation which is as close as we could get to the scene in the book. Click the picture to watch it on Facebook!
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Jenn - These books have enthralled me from the very beginning and Visions of Destiny was no different. Now just ask Mel’s or Dave when I love something I love it deeply, but getting back to this review. If you’ve read the first two Sicarius Security books then you know how this one starts but you get a lot of answers and then BOOM with this book ending in another cliffhanger all I can say is bring on the fourth. These books of Susan’s are definitely not to be missed and they also have one of my all time favorite male characters and I don’t have many of those, so thanks for that Susan. You’re definitely one hell of a great writer, and maybe one day we can get these characters on the screen.

Book 4 - War of Hearts

Melanie - The 4th installment picks up right where the cliffhanger left you in Visions of Destiny.
This series really needs to be read in order for it to make sense, and as book 1 is free right now if you haven't started it yet, this is the perfect time to jump in.
Book 4 brings readers some of the answers to questions that have been around since the series started, but as I don't believe in spoilers in my reviews, I will just say that there was some serious plot-building involved to get to this point.
As always there is plenty of action with a healthy splattering of romance that I have come to expect from this author, that, and the dreaded cliffhanger. With one more book to come in the series the stakes are as high as ever and I can't wait to find out what happens next.

*****


Jenn - Susan Harris seems to always make me cry and War of Hearts is no exception whether it’s in a good or bad way I’ll leave that decision up to you. The Sicarius Security novels have quickly become some of my favorite, like of all time, and I’d recommend them to any reader who likes a bit of paranormal romance.
Dylan is one of those grey characters for me, but in this book with learning more stuff about him I had to change some of my earlier opinions. Does Dylan take the chance at love he’s been offered or does he throw it away, well like I always tell you, you’ll just have to read and find out. I will say that the end has me excited and ready for the final book in this series but at the same time I sad to see it end but these will definitely always be on the re read list for me.
The Pineapple Code Word For This Article Is CLIFFHANGER

Remember book 5 is available for pre-order now so you won't have long to wait!

​And Now For The Giveaway

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Melanie's Muses will be giving away a "Sicarius Security" prize pack including paperback copies of the first four books from the Melanie's Muses Prize Hoard.

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

Have you read any of Susan's books? If so which is 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 hat! 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 2nd and then posted on the page as well on July 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 Sunday July 2nd and posted on the Facebook page on Monday July 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
Comments

Win It Wednesday - Harlots

6/14/2023

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Welcome to Win It Wednesday!

This week Melanie is talking about the TV Show "Harlots". 


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 - Should need no introduction!

 Harlots is one of those rare shows that is complete at 3 seasons and has a fabulous ending.  Taking place in London, this is very different from the normal period pieces with the focus being on 2 rival brothels. Yes you read that correctly! Funnily enough, despite this, there is very little actual female nudity, which isn't to say this show doesn't have its MA rating for a reason, but it's very female sex positive, and shows what women can achieve when they set their minds to it despite the trappings of their stations.

This show is packed full of star power and anyone familiar with UK TV will no doubt recognize many faces including Lesley Manville, Samantha Morton, Eloise Smyth, Jessica Brown Findlay, Bronwyn James, and watch for Bridgerton's Nicola Coughlan popping up in Season 2.

This show is excellently written, easily moving between comedy and drama, and the costuming is just fabulous. Throw in some interesting musical choices and you really have a home run. There are not many shows that are pretty much perfection from start to finish, but Harlots proves that it can be done with Season 3 finishing exactly as it should! All episodes are currently streaming on Hulu on the US, so check out the trailer below, and if you feel like a laugh my 60ish second video from 3 years ago as to why everyone should watch that I posted just before Season 3 started, and then you should go watch the show for yourself!
The Pineapple Code Word For This Article Is Harlots

And Now For The Giveaway
​

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Melanie's Muses will be giving away a "Harlots" prize pack including a paperback copy of "Perks of Loving A Scoundrel", Gold Masquerade Mask, light up hair clip, gold hair bow clips, rainbow earrings, a choker, and a steam eye mask from the Melanie's Muses Prize Hoard.

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

What's your favorite TV show that you think people might not have heard of?
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 hat! 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 25th and then posted on the page as well on June 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 Sunday June 25th and posted on the Facebook page on Monday June 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
Comments

Win it Wednesday - Siren

6/7/2023

Comments

 
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​Welcome to Win It Wednesday!

This week Jenn is talking about the TV Show "Siren". 


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!

So being on a show drought and not being able to find anything to watch after “The Great”, I decided to do a little show rewatch. One that ended a few years ago that was unfortunately cancelled. “Siren” left me wanting more when it ended with a sort of cliffhanger. As cliffhangers go, I’ve seen worse. If you like mermaids then you need to definitely check out siren.

It’s sort of like Ariel for adults. Meaning that though mermaids and sirens look alike, they definitely have different lores. Sirens have the ability to sing, and with their song can lure men to their deaths. Don’t worry that doesn’t happen here. You meet Ryn, who’s our mermaid/siren on a hunt for her sister who was stolen by humans, and she runs into Ben and Maddie who happen to work at a rescue center for sea life.

Figuring out what Ryn is, they agree to protect and help her to recover her sister. You also meet Helen, finding out later that she might just hold a few secrets of her own. Through the series you find out that Ben, Ryn and Maddie all develop a love for each other that’s honestly the most beautiful thing I’ve ever seen. I honestly think that was my favorite part of the show. As well as the fact that eventually you do meet other sirens, though they might not be as humanized as Ryn now is. If you like mermaids/sirens and you haven’t seen this darker take on them then you should definitely remedy that by going to Hulu and checking it out.
Melanie - I started this but never finished it - and not sure why. 

The Pineapple Code Word For This Article Is Siren

And Now For The Giveaway

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Melanie's Muses will be giving away a "Siren" prize pack including a Mermaid tote bag, makeup bag, hair ties, mermaid tail keychain, and a mermaid tail necklace  from Jenn, and Resin Turtle and light up hair clip from Melanie's Muses Prize Hoard.

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

Would you want to be a Siren (or mermaid)
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 hat! 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 18th and then posted on the page as well on June 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 Sunday June 18th and posted on the Facebook page on Monday June 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
Comments

    About The Blog

    Melanie's Random Musings About The Entertainment World - From Books to TV and Anything Else That Comes To Mind! 

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