Today, we celebrate twisted heroines! Keep reading for a review of The Three Musketeers, the new Steampunk-Rococo action movie, and a Halloween book giveaway.

It’s nearly the most important holiday of the year. Let’s celebrate with a contest: win autographed copies of a gorgeous book, along with original illustrations, inspired by Greek mythology and fantastical characters.

These haunting drawings were created by Katy Smail, a talented Scottish artist, who has collaborated with indie author Jeremy Tarr. Together have created this fantasy fairy tale titled: (S)mythology.

(S)mythology revolves around twenty-one year old “Sophie” has spent her life in seclusion, fearful of a curse turning her loved ones to marble. But when events drive her onto the streets of London, she must combat her fears and battle the forces that have kept her hidden away. Her adventure takes her from haunted islands to African villages, from the peaks of the Alps to the depths of the Underworld.

Now, the best part: three lucky readers will each win an autographed paperback and illustration from the book! To enter to win, simply answer the following question and comment on this post:

“Sophie may be young, but she tackles life like a true heroine. Share with us, who is your superhero and what sort of superpower do you wish you had?”

Contest is open to US and Canada residents only and ends October 31st at midnight. 3 winners chosen at random. (S)mythology is responsible for shipping prizes to winners.

The (S)mythology eBook is currently available at a special “Halloween price” of only $3.99 at Nook and Kindle stores. (Also available on iTunes/iBook App, and in hardcover and paperback).

And the authors partnered with the Keep A Breast Foundation to raise funds for breast cancer awareness! One dollar of every book sold for the next month will benefit KAB, so show your support and visit the Facebook page for more details.

Speaking of heroines… I’m thrilled that Milady the Winter is front and center in the new Paul WS Anderson movie, The Three Musketeers. She’s cold-hearted, and switches alliances at the toss of a dime. But when she’s wielding a sword, Rococo skirts flying, you can’t help but cheer her on.

Even better: she’s played by Milla Jovovich, who kicks zombie butt in the Resident Evil series (I wrote a review of Afterlife here). Throw in steampunk devices, and 17th century French aristocrat fashion? Sounds like the film was written by me!

The Musketeers are charismatic swashbucklers, brought to life in fast-moving 3D. The story follows a few Alexandre Dumas storylines: D’Artagnan’s arrival in Paris, and the intrigue of the Queen’s missing necklace.

Personally, I loved the modern artistic license. Steampunk airship battles. Arr.

Sure, parts of the movie are ridiculous, but the quick action keeps your attention. I laughed at the portrayal of King Louis XXIII, whining about the color of his man-leggings (reminds me of some people I know…) The servant Planchet, a non-entity in the book, becomes a gay-ish fuddler with some of the best lines.

Don’t even get me started on the ringlet hair, and grand Rococo dresses with high collars and hoods! The Three Musketeers opens today; go see for yourself. (Thanks to Alliance for the advance screening tickets.)

What do you think of the 2011 steampunk adaptation of The Three Musketeers? I highly recommend the adventure book; it’s one of my favorites.

And don’t miss your chance to win a copy of the Gothic-fantasy book, (S)mythology! What are you waiting for? Simply comment about your hero and coveted power.

Song of the Day: NamNamBulu – Alone