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A Better World by Sarah Langan - A Review

5/18/2024

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​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!
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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.
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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!***
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Blood Over Bright Haven by M. L. Wang - A Review

5/17/2024

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​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.

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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!***
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Perfectly Wicked by Lindsay Lovise an ARC Review

5/16/2024

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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.
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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!***
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Win it Wednesday - Remakes

5/15/2024

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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

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​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. 
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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Spindles and Thorns: A Sleeping Beauty Retelling (The Society of Roses Book 1) by Melanie Karsak - An ARC Spoiler Free Review.

5/14/2024

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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.
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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!***
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A Magical Girl Retires by Park Seolyeon (Translated) - A Review

5/13/2024

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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.
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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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Win It Wednesday - Halloween - A Guest Feature From Shannon Watts

5/8/2024

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This week Melanie's Muses is thrilled to welcome Shannon Watts to the blog with her first, of what we hope will be MANY articles!

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!

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?!

I always dress up for Halloween, no matter what, even if it’s just a pair of cat ears or a silly wig. But let’s be serious, I usually go ALL OUT, lol!  And no Halloween is complete without watching my favorite “mostly” family friendly movie: Beetlejuice!


​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 Giveaway

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Melanie'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?
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 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 he​r.
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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Own The Night by Susan Harris - A Spoiler Free Review

4/26/2024

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It's time for a book review!

​If you haven't grabbed your copy of Own The Night yet it is available in 

EBook - HERE
Paperback - HERE
& Special Edition  Hardcover - HERE
Basic Info 

Standalone or series?
 Book 1 in a new series 

Category
 Paranormal Crime / Mystery 

Official Blurb About The Book 

A new vampire series to sink your teeth into from the creator of the best-selling Ever Chace Chronicles.

Detective Sergeant Maximillian “Max” De Barra has always preferred working the night shift in the homicide unit, more at home in the shadows with his own company than saddled with a partner. His single-minded focus to solve crimes has earned him a reputation so when he is called in to solve a string of murders whose only link is the stamp of a nightclub downtown, Max must use that determination to get passed a veil of secrecy.

Theodora Caden or "Theo" to her Scion, has managed to stay under the radar of humans for most of her immortal life. As the Suzerain, it's her responsibility to keep her vampires safe while also making sure that none of her kin do anything stupid that would draw the attention of the humans. When human attendees of her club end up dead, with vampire bite marks, Theo must do everything in her power to stop the lead detective from discovering that monsters really do come out at night.
​
Bodies keep dropping and Max and Theo find themselves in a cat-and-mouse game with a killer who has only just gotten started. Fighting the spark of attraction might be more dangerous than the killer that they hunt and it might just be the death of them.
Own The Night is Book 1 of 5 in the Murdering Hour Series.


How did I get this book?
I got to read it first!

Why did I choose to read  this book:  Is choose the right word? I mean like I am gonna say no lmao

And Now To The Review!

First Impressions:
 This book sets the tone right at the start with a pretty gruesome crime scene.  

General Review
Coming up with new vampire lore is HARD! Coming up with new vampire lore that I don't pick holes in? Even harder. I mean at this point there are already 3 different vampire lores in progress in Susan's series alone, but yet again she has come up with something new and original, something that really works. With the romance side of things really being put on the back burner - I mean it's really more of a minor sub plot here (although I have a feeling that might change down the line), this is really about the crimes, and the hunt for the killer. Definitely not for the faint of heart - this definitely has some of the most graphically described crime scenes in any of her series and the attention to detail is spectacular. Plus can we just take a moment to admire Theo's wardrobe? I'm gonna need access to that closet!


Final Thoughts
I love this new series. I can't wait for Dwell in Darkness - The Murdering Hour Novels book 2. I am fascinated to learn more about this world .... and for those of you that got the special edition hardcover .... THAT EXTRA STORY!  DID NOT SEE ANY OF THAT COMING!



Rating
No Surprise that this gets a solid 5 stars from me. I can't wait for everyone else to read it so we can CHAT! 


Be sure to let me know in the comments below if you've read it and what you think - MINUS the spoilers of course!
​

Pineapple word for this article is Murder

** 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!)
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Win It Wednesday - Girl's Night In

4/24/2024

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This week Melanie is feeling like a girl's night in - so has come up with a giveaway that represents that!

Make sure you scroll down for details on how to enter the giveaway 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!

Those that have been following for a while know that my movie tastes tend to go in extremes. I love things dark and spooky, but on the flip side I love a good Rom Com or Hallmark movie.  Surprisingly, when you consider my passion for KDramas, the movie in this pack was only watched originally because Em wanted to see it. Greg actually can't stand it, but it became one of my favorites despite the fact that when I read the cast members there are a couple that literally want to make me grind my teeth. 

This movie stands out for me because of the culture shift. I am fascinated by many of the customs and cultures of the Asian countries, and this provides an interesting take on how things could be. Obviously, a lot has been added to make the movie accessible to a US market, but still, it provides the opportunity for some changes to the typical narrative.

When I decided that it was going to be a Girl's Night In type theme, I knew I wanted a book to go with the movie, and so you can all thank Em for the Rom Com Title that she provided. (Rom Coms in a book - are NOT my cup of coffee at all). My romances all skew paranormal or historical - no contemporary Rom Coms to be found! 

Check out the trailer for Crazy Rich Asians, click the picture to read more about the book choice on Amazon, and then scroll down to enter the giveaway.

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

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​Melanie's Muses will be giving away a BluRay copy of Crazy Rich Asians, A Facemask, and eye patches from the Melanie's Muses Prize Hoard, and a paperback copy of It Happened On Summer provided by Em!

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

What is your favorite RomCom? (Movie or Book)
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 5th and then posted on the page as well on May 6th 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 5th and posted on the Facebook page on Monday May 6th 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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Own The Night - Mug Giveaway!

4/18/2024

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Melanie's Muses is proud to be teaming up with Susan Harris for the
Own The Night - Pre-Order /Purchase Giveaway Opportunity!
​

To celebrate the release of book 1 in her new Murdering Hour series, Susan is going to be giving away one of the new Murdering Hour Mugs available in Susan's new Zazzle Store. 

Choose from Team Theo (Velesan) or Team Max (Cathainite) pictured below.
(Click the pictures to see the mugs in the store)


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Team Theo - Velesan
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Team Max - Cathainite
​You can Pre-order the Ebook HERE

BUT THE PAPERRBACK AND SPECIAL EDITION HARDCOVER are already available. 

Get your Paperback HERE
Get your Special Edition Hardcover Here (and check out the sneak peek video about the HC Below)

To enter just email proof of your purchase AND YOUR MAILING ADDRESS, AND WHICH MUG YOU WOULD PREFER IF YOU WON! to Susan Harris

at 
[email protected]

1 Winner will be chosen via a wheel spin from all qualifying entries on Melanie's Muses show on April 28th 2024.


   Good luck everyone! 

Rules

  • Only entries that follow the directions will be considered.
    Incomplete entries will not be included.
    No communication will be entered in to regarding entries.
  • 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.
  • Prizes are provided by Susan Harris but will be mailed directly from the Zazzle Store
  • 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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Win It Wednesday - The Eclipse

4/10/2024

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This week Melanie is reflecting on the weekend and events leading up to the Solar Eclipse - and giving a special shout out to some awesome people that celebrated with us.

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!

The past weekend has been a blur, as thousands of people clocked to Rochester to celebrate the Solar Eclipse, and thanks to an invite from FC3 and RMSC - this weekend spiraled into a crazy amount of cosplay, pictures, and connections. I wanted to take a moment to highlight a few of our favorite moments, and giveaway a few mementoes. 
FC3 - Nothing that happened this weekend would have happened without an invite from FC3 to attend the celebrations with them at the Rochester Museum and Science center.  When I asked during Nerd World News if there was a theme, or costume ideas, Muser Ashley Brilinski suggested the inflatables - and I don't think anyone could have predicted how popular they would be! A special shout out to Tanya for her help with the costume changes between the Sun, and the Sun in her Human Avatar look on Saturday, and to Anne for her help handling the insanity that hit us on Sunday outside the Museum, including answering questions from the press while we we busy taking pictures.  We could not have done this without you!
RMSC- We have done a few events now via FC3 with the Rochester Museum And Science Center's After Dark program, but this weekend we also got to be there during their 3 day long celebration that put together by Dan Schneiderman. The energy was infectious as people old and young alike flocked to Rochester from all over. There were even a few people from England! We had an absolute blast, caused LOTS of Chaos, Melanie acquired a Light Saber, and we have a pair of commemorative eclipse glasses that we are giving away as well as a couple of stickers! Click Here to visit them on Facebook - RMSC
The Rochester Public Market - we met SO many amazing people, and businesses, and we wanted to share a little with you! We would also like to give the City Of Rochester's Mayor's Office a shout out and thank you for sharing our picture! (You can see one of their posts HERE). 

The first business shout out has to go to Laughing Gull Chocolates! They invited us to come and hang out at the market after meeting us on Saturday night - and we have some chocolate covered pretzels to giveaway. Honestly - there would have been more -but Greg ate them all.  I want to give a shout out to their Dark Hot Chocolate which is quite literally the best hot chocolate I think I have ever had. Owned by 3 women, they not only make awesome chocolate but they support great causes too. Allison - if you're reading this - I hope you had chance to sit down. (Ask us on the show what this is all about lol).  Click Here to visit them on Facebook - Laughing Gull Chocolates

We are thrilled to be able to giveaway a little taste of Falanga's gourmet cotton candy. We were lucky enough to snag a couple of bags and one of them is going to be heading to the lucky winner. This is SUPER special as right now they aren't shipping BUT owner Jennifer tells me they are getting ready to launch that feature so remember you heard it here first!  Click Here to visit them on Facebook - Falanga's Gourmet Artisan Cotton Candy

The amazing people from Cheeky Monkey Foods make a lot of amazing food that I can't eat ... BUT GREG CAN and he LOVES it!  After trying some samples Greg picked out a few things that he came home with and made almost like a pizza with them. PLUS they had these super cute "E"Clipse paperclips which you can see one in the giveaway - AND when they found out we planned to give one away they gave us a BUNCH - so look for them in swag packs too.
  Click Here to visit them on Facebook -Cheeky Monkey Foods
Check out some of our favorite pictures from this weekend below and then scroll down to enter the giveaway!

​The Pineapple Code Word For This Article Is Eclipse

​And Now For The Giveaway

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​Melanie's Muses will be giving away A pair of commemorative eclipse glasses and a couple of stickers from RMSC, Some chocolate drizzled pretzels from Laughing Gull Chocolates, A Bag of Roc Berry Blackout cotton candy and business card from Falanga's Gourmet Cotton Candy, and an "E"Clipse paperclip and business card from Cheeky Monkey Foods.

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

Did you see any of our pictures around Social Media? If so where?
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 April 21st and then posted on the page as well on April 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 April 21st and posted on the Facebook page on Monday April 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!***
Comments

Win It Wednesday - A Few Of My Favorite Things!

4/3/2024

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​This week Melanie is feeling a little random and so the giveaway reflects that with some prizes relating to some of her favorite things!

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!

This week, as I feel kind of meh I realized that when that happens I tend to gravitate towards old favorites. Rereads and more recently Rewatches have become a source of comfort, and that lead to this week's giveaway featuring some of my FAVORITE things - and why they made the cut!

Angel's Gambit by Susan Harris - I am pretty sure that Susan being on the list won't surprise many of you but the reason THIS book made the cut might.  This was the first format I did from start to finish, with new techniques, and really pushing the boundaries of WHAT I could do with book pages.  Add to that Rieka, the ruthless Angel leader that I have a real affinity for, and she remains one of my favorite cosplays, even though I might love some of the other stories more ... this one will ALWAYS have a special place.  (The Visions of Destiny Sticker is a nod to another favorite character cosplay - Jasmine from the Sicarius Security series)



Last Blood by Kristen Painter - I am OK so Ideally this would be Blood Rights and not Last Blood but hey I didn't have an extra one of those in my hoard and so Last Blood it is. The House of Comarré is the series that introduced me to Kristen Painter. Much darker than the fiction that she writes now, this was the series that started me stalking her page as I desperately waited for the next installments to come out. Without this series I am 100% convinced that I wouldn't have the connection that I have now without this series. (The House of the Rising Sun bookmark is an inside joke because my hair was that color for a while and some of the street team thought she looked like me, and the Nocturne Falls sticker is because I would love to live in a town where every day is Halloween). 

The FC3 Comic Book - FC3 sort of got stuck with me because I came as part of a package deal with Susan but they welcomed me with open arms and I am thrilled to be attending events with them and have been named their official Cosplay Consultant! I would never have believed how much being a part of this would open so many new opportunities for me. 

Firefly - One of my all time favorite shows and one I revisit often. Even though it only lasted for one season, with FOX 100% being out to sabotage it from day 1, it hasn't stopped legions of fans from loving it even now.  When I rewatch I am always surprised at how many famous people appear in here - from sci-fi staples such as Mark Sheppard to even a very baby faced Zac Effron, there is probably someone in there everyone would recognize.

Muser Life Is The Best Life - One I couldn't have a post about my favorite things without mentioning The Musers! I am forever amazed and grateful to all the Musers whether you have been with us for a while, or you are new to the experience, as Amanda Horton says "Muser Life Is The Best Life".

The Yellowstone Sticker - Because the Rip/Beth relationship reminds me a lot of me and Greg. Greg is definitely my favorite thing I have ever found on the Internet. Find someone who really loves you for YOU! ALL the parts of you ..... even the dark and crazy bits.

​The Pineapple Code Word For This Article Is Random

​And Now For The Giveaway

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​Melanie's Muses will be giving away paperback copies of the Angel's Gambit ARC by Susan Harris and Last Blood by Kristen Painter, The FC3 2023 Comic Book, Firefly Complete Series DVDs, Signed House of the Rising Sun Bookmark, and some various stickers all from the Melanie's Muses prize hoard.

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

What are some of YOUR favorite things?
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 April 14th and then posted on the page as well on April 15th 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 April 14th and posted on the Facebook page on Monday April 15th  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!***
Comments

Win It Wednesday - Damsel

3/27/2024

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This week Jenn is encouraging EVERYONE to check out Damsel, with her spoiler free thoughts!

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!

This is no ordinary fairytale. No Prince Charming is coming. This is just a kick butt princess saving her own self from a Dragon and that movie is Netflix’s “Damsel” , starring “Stranger Things” actress Millie Bobby Brown.

I won’t go into much detail because this has only recently released and some of you may not have seen it yet and this is one movie that definitely should not be spoiled as there are a lot of turns and twists along the way.

​Like I said, this is definitely not a Cinderella type fairy tale, but honestly after watching I think it’s one that was desperately needed. We don’t get a lot of kick butt princesses saying I’m going to save myself. This is exactly what Elodie does when she’s betrayed by the man she married. What does he do? And what ends up happening with the dragon? Well Musers, I’m telling you go watch and see. This may not be a kid friendly movie but it’s definitely still one that you should not miss.
The Pineapple Code Word For This Article Is Damsel

​​And Now For The Giveaway

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Melanie's Muses will be giving away hardcover copies of Dragon Mound by Richard Knaak and Timeless by R.A. Salvatore, and the some bookish swag from the Melanie's Muses prize hoard.

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

 What is your favorite Fantasy TV Series or movie?
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 April 8th and then posted on the page as well on April 9th 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 he​r.
Winner will be announced during the live on April 8th and posted on the Facebook page on Monday April 9th 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!***
Comments

Win It Wednesday - For The Love Of A Character

3/20/2024

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This week Melanie and Jenn are talking about something a little different. Rather than focusing on one show/movie they are talking about the love of a Character. For Melanie - that's her normal state of being .... For Jenn - this is something new!

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!

 This week Jenn sent me the idea about talking about characters rather than a specific show or movie as she had recently come across characters she liked, even though she really didn't like the show.  I can't say that that particular case has happened to me but I can tell you I am definitely a character girl, and always have been.  I have always liked characters in a show, rather than the actors portraying them. I think that's one of the reason that I don't really care what they are like in the real world.

I really noticed it when I was watching The Borgias and I adored the character Cesare. Skip forward to a behind the scenes special, and there was 
François Arnaud talking about the role, annnnnd I had no interest whatsoever. 

There are of course some exceptions, David Tennant and Alan Rickman for example, but for the most part it is the characters.

In fact, this is one of the things I am pretty consistent about. (That and show endings). One of the very first videos I did as Melanie's Muses was talking about that very thing, (I've included it here for those that want to check it out), and then just last week I was talking about how although I adore Song Kang as the lead in the show My Demon, I have checked out a bunch of other things he is in and he hold no appeal at all.  Such a shame!

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!

Has there ever been a show or even a movie that you’ve only watched because you happen to love the characters in said show? Well, to tell you the truth that was not really me until now. I don’t like “The Walking Dead” series and I hate zombies. They freak me out. Sometimes there are exceptions. Like in the case of this show. Rick and Michonne have grabbed ahold of my heart and won’t let go, so much so that I’m watching “The Ones Who Live” just too see them.

​Yes, I’m even going back to “Walking Dead” episodes with them two, though I don’t watch the bridge scene. Has that ever happened to you? I mean I’ve watched a show because I liked the actress but never because of the characters until these two. Yes, I love characters after I watch a show or movie but not before actually seeing them. Was it because I had heard so much about them I just had to check them out? Well maybe and I’m glad I did because these two characters are amazing and I’m starting to understand why fans call the not only a huge power couple but also the GOAT! (greatest of all time)

There’s also a few other characters I love like Rose Tyler and Clark Griswald, but the actors not so much. I can personally say from experience that Billie Piper is not a nice person. I was so excited too meet her but then she just was rude. I’m always cautious now when I meet one of my favorites but luckily everyone else has been great. Chevy Chase I’ve never actually met but I’m glad I haven’t from what I’ve heard from people who have.
The Pineapple Code Word For This Article Is Character

​And Now For The Giveaway

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​Melanie's Muses will be giving away a Mystery Box - filled with random things from the Melanie's Muses prize hoard.

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

 Do you tend to like Actors or Characters? Feel free to share any of your favorites!
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 March 31st and then posted on the page as well on April 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 March 31st and posted on the Facebook page on Monday April 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!***
Comments

Win It Wednesday - Avatar - The Last Airbender

3/13/2024

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This week  Jenn is talking about Avatar - The Last Airbender, both the animated series and touching a little on the Netflix live action remake.
​

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!

This animated show I have heard about it before, but I just recently watched it and I ended up loving it, and that’s “Avatar”. No not the blue aliens. I mean “Avatar - The Last Airbender” (which was also made into a live action movie in 2010 but fans just pretend it doesn’t exist. So I will just skip over that, trust me it’s bad.)

Netflix has also recently adapted the show into a live action version that just aired. I will say it was very rushed and stuff was added. I didn’t hate it, but going into season two and three there’s a lot of stuff they should take into consideration and fix.

For those that have never seen “Avatar - The Last Airbender”, the story follows Aang, Sokka and Katara. They meet others along the way, and eventually become known as Team Avatar. You also meet Zukko of the fire nation, who honestly has a great redemption arc and you all know how I love those. I won’t go into much detail because I’m sure a lot haven’t seen Avatar, but whatever I will say is don’t let the only reason you don’t check it out is because it was a animated kids show, because some kids shows are absolutely some of the best shows you’ll ever see.

The new live action version I will say does feel very more adult. I guess that’s because it’s geared towards the ones that grew up with Avatar like me, though I’ve only just seen it recently, so if you’re looking for something light family friendly and fun too watch, definitely check out “Avatar - The Last Airbender” but watch the animated version first before checking out any of the live action.
​The Pineapple Code Word For This Article Is Avatar

​And Now For The Giveaway

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Melanie's Muses will be giving away the Animated Series DVD from Jenn, and Earrings, a keychain, temporary tattoos, stickers, and a random squishy toy  Melanie's Muses prize hoard.

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

 Animated or Live Action versions (or any movie/show) - which are your favorites?
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 March 24th and then posted on the page as well on March 25th 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 March 24th and posted on the Facebook page on Monday March 25th 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!***
Comments

Win It Wednesday - Demon Knight

3/6/2024

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This week Melanie is talking about the movie Demon Knight - but only a little bit because she brings this up REGULARLY!

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!

This week I am bringing back one of my absolute cheesy horror movies, which some of you will probably recognize from my Forgotten Feature Fridays back in the day.  Although released in the 90's this movie would be right at home with all the fabulously bad 80's movies I adore.  By far, this is my favorite Billy Zane role and even though I can't stand Jada Pinkett Smith, she isn't bad in this.

I have included the YouTube video from back when I first covered it for the blog, and most of the info is in there if you choose to refresh your memory ... if not then just enter the giveaway lol.

The Pineapple Code Word For This Article Is Deal

​And Now For The Giveaway

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​Melanie's Muses will be giving away the double feature DVD and a hardback edition of A Terrible Fall Of Angels - which features demons  from the  Melanie's Muses prize hoard.

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

 Would you ever make a deal with a Demon?​
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 March 17th and then posted on the page as well on March 18th 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 March 17th  and posted on the Facebook page on Monday March 18th 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!***
Comments

Win It Wednesday - Police Academy

2/28/2024

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This week  Jenn is talking about The Police Academy Movies.

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!

These movies I’ve actually loved forever, and they are the “Police Academy” films. The only one I didn’t really enjoy was basically the last one. My favorites being one thru six.

They were a comedy staple for 10 years from 1984-1994. In the first movie you see a bunch of rag tag people joining up with the police academy, and you know the higher ups are definitely not on board, until they prove that they might actually turn out to be some of the best cops around. Even though you see the other characters a lot it follows mostly cadet Mahoney and his antics , most of which are aimed at the incompetents helping a rival captain in order to get thrown out. As it goes he realizes maybe he just wants to stay.

​The other movies follow this group on more adventures like in “Police Academy 2: Their First Assignment”. They hit the streets to help out a real police captain and his precinct deal with a bunch of thugs. The series tones down the sex as they go on. Starting out rated R and hits PG soon after. If you have not seen these movies then I highly suggest remedying that as soon as possible especially if you’re in the mood to laugh.
​The Pineapple Code Word For This Article Is Police

​And Now For The Giveaway

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Melanie's Muses will be giving away the 4 movie DVD set from  Jenn and a Hardcover version of A Terrible Fall Of Angels (Book 1 in a paranormal angel based cop series)  Melanie's Muses prize hoard.

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

 What is your goto comedy movie that you never get tired of watching?
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 March 10th and then posted on the page as well on March 11th 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 March 10th and posted on the Facebook page on Monday March 11th 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!***
Comments

Win It Wednesday - Hustlers

2/21/2024

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This week Melanie is talking about the movie Hustlers - that she thinks is a highly underrated gem - especially considering it was based on a true story!

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!

Let me start by saying that when this released, Hustlers wasn't really on my radar.  I'm not a huge J-Lo person, and there aren't really any cast members that I can say I enjoy, but then Em had me read about the story behind it - and then I decided to pay attention.

Based on a 2015 New York Magazine article, Hustlers follows the story of a bunch of dancers that have had enough of how their world works and decide to take things into their own hands. The actual premise takes a well known scheme and ups it by about 100.

The story is a little insane, more so because it is based on actual events, but for the the standout in this movie is the music and the dancing. I was amazed to see that J-Lo actually did ALL her own routines, including a 3 month intensive so that she could learn the pole dancing routines to give an authentic performance and I included one below (although as it is a more adult routine YouTube does have it age restricted).

If you haven't seen it I highly recommend it (despite the cast) because the story is really well done!
The Pineapple Code Word For This Article Is Dancer
Note the second video is a performance from the movie - it is ager restricted so you will need to sign in to your YouTube account if you want to watch it.

​And Now For The Giveaway

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​Melanie's Muses will be giving away a Hustlers pack with the DVD, Wig, Cat Ears, and Mystery Pack  from the  Melanie's Muses prize hoard.

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

 Have you ever been to a strip club? 
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 March 3rd and then posted on the page as well on March 4th 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 March 3rd  and posted on the Facebook page on Monday March 4th 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!***
Comments

Win It Wednesday - Heathers

2/14/2024

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This week Melanie is talking about one of her all time, top favorite movies - Heathers!

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!

​"Dear Diary ...... Heather says she teaches people real life ‘real life.’ She said, "real life sucks losers dry. You want to f*@# with the eagles, you have to learn to fly." 

Not your typical High School movie introduction, but then this is anything other than a typical High School movie.  If you've never seen Heathers (SUSAN - looking directly at you - even though I reference it so much you used them in Sanguine Crown), then you really need to.  Releasing in 1988, I actually wrote a blog about the movie in 2012 and how many of the messages were still relevant then, (If you are really bored you can read that HERE - stuff on the internet REALLY is forever), and honestly are still relevant today. 

Heathers takes your typical school bullying scenario but ups the stakes dramatically with a murder spree being made to look like teen suicides.  One of the darker comedies out there, this movie has remained a favorite for over 30 years, and I still watch it regularly.  I have, at this point, finally gotten over my absolute HATE for Wynona Ryder that I harbored as a teen that refused to recognize that she was only playing a part, (that took MANY years), but the many memorably lines from the movie will probably be quoted forever.

Dark satire is one of my favorite genres, and as with anything I obsess over, I have watched a lot of commentaries, behind the scenes extras etc etc, and if anyone watches and wants to know what the ORIGINAL end was meant to be, just ask. For completely selfish and slightly psychotic reasons, I would have liked to have seen a realized version of it offered as an alternate ending, but in the real world the way they went probably was for the best. 
 Heathers went through a little mini resurgence a few years back with it being turned into a Musical (which actually has a decent soundtrack - thanks to Emily for introducing me to that), but the casting will never match the powerhouse presence that the screen enigmas brought to it. (As a recording of the stage musical is available on Roku to watch I have included a link to that trailer too).

So, let me know what you think. I am sure many of you will have seen it already but for those that haven't, you really should! 

​The Pineapple Code Word For This Article Is Very

​And Now For The Giveaway

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Melanie's Muses will be giving away a Heathers Prize pack with the DVD and a Diary (OK It's a Supernatural journal - I had to improvise) from Jenn, and a big Red Bow (because I didn't have a scrunchie) and a pen from the Melanie's Muses prize hoard.

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

 What is your favorite High School Movie?
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 February 25th and then posted on the page as well on February 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 February 25th  and posted on the Facebook page on Monday February 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!***
Comments

His Maker's Mark by Kristen Painter - A Spoiler Free Review

2/14/2024

Comments

 
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Kristen Painter has a new book out today! Check out my review for His Maker's Mark!
Blurb About The Book
Annaleigh Bartow has one goal in mind. Save the last remaining examples of her grandfather’s stonemasonry work. Unfortunately, that work is part of an old hotel scheduled for demolition.
And she’s not the only one out to get a piece of it.

When her attempt is thwarted by some ruthless thugs, an unexpected hero comes to her rescue. One who both frightens and fascinates her. One who will change her life in ways she can’t imagine.
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Click Here To Get Your Copy Of The Novella!
Blurb About The Book
Annaleigh Bartow has one goal in mind. Save the last remaining examples of her grandfather’s stonemasonry work. Unfortunately, that work is part of an old hotel scheduled for demolition.
And she’s not the only one out to get a piece of it.

When her attempt is thwarted by some ruthless thugs, an unexpected hero comes to her rescue. One who both frightens and fascinates her. One who will change her life in ways she can’t imagine.
Now For The Review

Standalone or series?
Complete standalone - not connected (nor planned on being connected) to any of Kristen's other worlds or series.

How did I get this book?
I am lucky enough to Kristen's alpha reader.

Why did I choose to read this book:  
Because I will literally read anything with Kristen's name attached!

Genre
Paranormal Romance

And Now To The Review!

First Impressions:
This book starts off with a much darker feel than most of Kristen's more recent work and I have to say I am there for it. As I found her through her House of Comarre series the darkness works for me.
​
General Review
I really enjoyed this unique take on Gargoyle legend (and if it ISN'T totally unique - then it's just new to me - and I read A LOT). The story manages to cover a lot despite being a novella and as with Kristen's other writing, the descriptions allows you to immediately immerse yourself in this new world without any issues.  

Final Thoughts
I am always impressed at the new directions Kristen manages to take stories in. I didn't guess the twist in this one which is always a bonus. Despite being a novella it's definitely a complete story, and personally I really like the fact that everything is wrapped up and you don't have to wait for more in the series!

Rating:
5 Diamonds! (OK so they are the same as stars. It will make sense when you read it)

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

Pineapple Code word for this article is Diamond

***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!***

Comments

Win It Wednesday - Stranger Things

2/7/2024

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This week with the release of news about the final season Jenn is talking about Stranger Things (and Melanie is adding a couple of thoughts because she only watched the first couple of seasons lol).

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!

This show is actually one of my favorites that I didn’t find until later, maybe like second season but it was so good that I couldn’t stop watching. I see “Stranger Things” as a mix of comedy, horror, romance and add a dash of sci-fi so basically it has it all. Not to mention the 80s feel.

​Being set in the 80s helps but so does having an 80s icon like Winona Ryder as one of the main alongside mostly relative unknowns. Do you agree? This series is about five kids and there adventures with the upside down, though they might say nightmare. The upside down is a world parallel to ours, but more dangerous and dark. I know this show is older and popular but there might still be some who have never seen it, so I’ll stay away from spoilers. But if you’re into different then I definitely recommend you check out and watch “Stranger Things”.

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

When Stranger Things came out I loved the first season. It felt fresh, despite being set in the 80s, and filled me with a ton of nostalgia for things that just aren't the same now.  That being said once Season 2 started for me (and I know I am in the minority here) it lost its way and I just never went back to it. I see a lot of pieces about it on Social Media and KNOW some of the things that have happened have been fabulous (Kate Bush's resurgence for example lol) ... but for me I will stick with my other shows.
​The Pineapple Code Word For This Article Is Eleven

​And Now For The Giveaway

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​Melanie's Muses will be giving away a Stranger Things Prize pack with the special edition Target VHS looking DVD collection from Jenn and an Eleven Funko Pop from the Melanie's Muses prize hoard.

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

 Have you watched Stranger Things?
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 February 18th and then posted on the page as well on February 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 February 18th  and posted on the Facebook page on Monday February 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!***
Comments

Win It Wednesday - Dr. Seuss

1/24/2024

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​This week Jenn is talking about Dr. Seuss!

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!

These books turned movies have been around for a long time. They are probably everybody’s first books, or at least one of their first. I remember even getting these at my old school book fairs as well, and those books/movies are none other than Dr Seuss.

I think he’s the first one that I read when I was learning all about poems in grade school. He has surpassed generations and honestly I’m not surprised by that. He’s pretty awesome and so are the movies based from his books. They also seem to always have a hidden lesson in them as well. I mean look at the Lorax, they got rid of trees and looked what happened. I’m not saying that’s all that it’s about because it’s not, but it is definitely in there.

I think my favorite Dr Seuss book and movie has too be the Grinch and Jim Carrey’s 
 portrayal of the grinch. Spot on! It instantly became a Christmas classic. I’m definitely sure you’ve heard of this awesome children’s book writer, so do you have a favorite book or even movie adaptation from the loveable Dr Seuss.
The Pineapple Code Word For This Article Is Rhyme

And Now For The Giveaway

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Melanie's Muses will be giving away the Lorax and Horton Hears A Who dvds from Jenn and a Mystery box that I have left over from FC3 that I can't even remember what's in it  from the Melanie's Muses prize hoard.

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

Do you have a favorite Dr. Seuss story/movie? If so what is it?
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 February 4th and then posted on the page as well on February 5th 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 February 4th  and posted on the Facebook page on Monday February 5th 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!***
Comments

Angel's Rebel by Susan Harris - Release Day Spoiler Free Review & Giveaway!

1/19/2024

Comments

 
Check out my review for Angel's Rebel PLUS scroll down for your last chance to enter the giveaways!
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Click Here To Purchase Book 1
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Click Here To Purchase Book 2
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Click Here To Pre-Order Book 3
Blurb About The Book (As appears on Amazon)
Betrayal is a dish served best with revenge…
Raven Cassidy should have known better. She should never have believed that the angels would stay true to their word even if she held up her end of the bargain. Having let herself forget that these monsters were her enemies, and getting too close behind enemy lines, Raven is now focused on payback, and not even the Imperium’s Commander of the League of Dominious can stand in her way.
But the Citadel isn’t the safest place for a human, even one with angelic DNA. There are skeletons lurking at every corner, and an Imperium who could demand her head in a heartbeat if she knew the secrets that Raven was hiding. Fighting a war on all sides, with a long list of people that want to see Raven dead still might be easier than fighting whatever the hell is between her and Nathaniel.
Whatever happens, one thing is absolute; Raven is a Rebel and it’s time everyone found out the lengths she is willing to go to prove it.
Now For The Review

Standalone or series?
Book 2 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 first 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 something that I would normally even have on my radar what with it being Angels (even though the bad guys are the Angels in this one which helps), and it's Dystopian (another one of my not favorite genres) but this series is a great read. Of course, I am rather partial to the Imperium, although if she did all I wanted then it would be a very short series.

Final Thoughts
Ask I have come to expect with Susan's series book 2 does end with a cliffhanger, and I imagine with a 5 book series that books 3 and 4 probably will too. At least book 3 is up for pre-order and is releasing in August so it's not too long of a wait.

Rating:
5 Stars and now the wait for book 3 begins!

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

Pineapple Code word for this article is Rieka

Click The Picture For Your Chance To Win A Paperback Copy And Some Awesome Bookmarks!

PLUS Purchases UNTIL 12pm SATURDAY 20th WILL COUNT FOR THE PRE-ORDER EXTRA GIVEAWAY!

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***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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Win It Wednesday - Mean Girls

1/17/2024

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​This week Jenn is talking about Mean Girls!


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!

This movie was actually a staple of my childhood and since then it’s been turned into a Broadway play, and  a newer version that just came out based on the Broadway play. You follow me, so far? So technically it’s not a remake remake, and if you hadn't guessed that movie is “Mean Girls”.

I love this movie because it reminds us that you shouldn’t have to ever change for anybody, especially a boy. Yes it’s also a revenge type story which is actually kind of interesting. Unpopular kids want to bring down the popular girls, or in this movie “the plastics". They use a brand new girl to do it, which doesn’t really turn out the way that they planned. Cady ends up joining the plastics but everything turns upside down especially when a burn book is released.

​ This movie is fun and family friendly. If you haven’t seen this version but you want to see the newer one, then I highly suggest watching this one first.
​​​The Pineapple Code Word For This Article Is Pink

And Now For The Giveaway

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Melanie's Muses will be giving away the Mean Girls dvd from Jenn and a pink tourmaline Lipsense, a selection of glosses, a cat ears headband, and some silver hair tinsel from the Melanie's Muses prize hoard.

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

What would your signature color 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 January 27th and then posted on the page as well on January 28th 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 January 27th  and posted on the Facebook page on Monday January 28th 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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A Sky Full Of Stars (Shadowvale book 7) by Kristen Painter - A Spoiler Free Review (Plus A Free Copy of Book 1!)

1/15/2024

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Check out my review for A Sky Full Of Stars (Shadowvale Book 7) by Kristen Painter - PLUS if you haven't started the series yet you can get book 1 for free for a limited time!
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Click The Picture To Get Your Copy Of The Book.
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Click The Picture To Get Book 1 For Free
Blurb About The Book
Shadowvale isn’t your typical small town America. The sun never shines, the gates decide who enters, magic abounds, and every resident bears some kind of curse.
Lexi Gardner is a rare creature with a nearly unlimited supply of magic. Unfortunately, that magic has gotten a little low. That’s all right. She’s come to Shadowvale for a refill and thanks to an impending magical event, getting all the magic she requires shouldn’t be a problem.
Until she crosses paths with someone who greatly needs her help. A man trapped in the forest. A man no one wanted anything to do with. A man considered by most to be a curse. Lexi, however, sees beyond his past. She sees him for who he is now. And who he could become. The only problem is saving this handsome mountain of a man will take more magic than she has. In fact, it’ll take all the magic she can get her hands on. Seems a small price to pay for his company, however.
She vows to help him if he’ll help her in return, something he’s glad to do. But he has his own issues to deal with. As do most people in town. Like Amelia Marchand, the witch who created Shadowvale. Will Lexi be able to help Amelia and her new friend while securing the magic she desperately wants? Because a life without magic won’t be any kind of life at all. Unless love turns out to be all the magic she needs…
Now For The Review

Standalone or series?
Book 7 in a series (With most Shadowvale books you can jump in as standalones but this one links VERY much to book 6, and provides info on some events that have been ongoing that would make a lot more sense if you read books 1,2, and 6. (Books 3, 4, and 5 work well as standalones in my opinion.)

How did I get this book?
I am lucky enough to Kristen's alpha reader.

Why did I choose to read this book:  
Because I will literally read anything with Kristen's name attached!

Genre
Urban Fantasy (light)

And Now To The Review!

First Impressions:
In book 6 I was very blindsided by what happened so I was excited when I realized that this was going to follow up on those events!
​
General Review
As This is another unique story with yet another new paranormal creature. Seriously I don't know how she keeps coming up with brand news ones but she does! We get to follow up on events from not just book 6, but issues that have been pretty ongoing throughout the series which I wasn't expecting but defintiely appreciated.

Final Thoughts
I loved this story. I may have a bias because I was so blindsided with book 6, and this felt like order had been restored in my version of Shadowvale (you know the one that lives in my head with 100% my plans for the characters, which doesn't always line up with where the story goes).  A great installment and I am, as always, excited to see what happens in Shadowvale next!

Rating:
5 Stars! I am very happy that this story is now out there! 

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

Pineapple Code word for this article is Tree
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