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Mina and the Undead
Mina and the Cult
NEW ORLEANS, 1995. MINA'S HAVING A HELL OF A FAMILY REUNION
After the death and chaos of Halloween, Mina and the gang are looking forward to their road trip to Roswell, New Mexico, where they are hoping to be thrilled by the alien stories and have some quiet time with Mina’s parents. However, their trip ends abruptly and before they know it, they are back in New Orleans. Instead of enjoying the fall celebrations and renovating the mansion, they find themselves investigating a serial killer who claims to be a real vampire in disturbing letters to the press.
As the city is gripped by fear, a group of believers is planning to disrupt the fragile balance between the humans and the supernatural creatures hiding in the shadows. This threatens the peace that Mina and her friends have been working so hard at maintaining.
Caught between investigating the killer and trying to stop the group’s destructive plans, Mina’s third mystery might be her last . . .
'I could not put this down! Strong Buffy meets Charmed in New Orleans vibes... so much nineties nostalgia.' Cynthia Murphy.
After the death and chaos of Halloween, Mina and the gang are looking forward to their road trip to Roswell, New Mexico, where they are hoping to be thrilled by the alien stories and have some quiet time with Mina’s parents. However, their trip ends abruptly and before they know it, they are back in New Orleans. Instead of enjoying the fall celebrations and renovating the mansion, they find themselves investigating a serial killer who claims to be a real vampire in disturbing letters to the press.
As the city is gripped by fear, a group of believers is planning to disrupt the fragile balance between the humans and the supernatural creatures hiding in the shadows. This threatens the peace that Mina and her friends have been working so hard at maintaining.
Caught between investigating the killer and trying to stop the group’s destructive plans, Mina’s third mystery might be her last . . .
'I could not put this down! Strong Buffy meets Charmed in New Orleans vibes... so much nineties nostalgia.' Cynthia Murphy.
400 pages, Paperback
First published April 4, 2024
12 people are currently reading
584 people want to read
About the author
Amy McCaw
6 books286 followersAmy McCaw is a YA writer and BookTuber. She's the author of the 'Mina and the Undead' series, a YA murder mystery set in 1995 New Orleans. She also curated 'A Taste of Darkness' YA horror anthology.
Her main interests are books, movies and the macabre, and her debut novel has elements of all of these. If Amy's not at a book event or reading, she can usually be found scribbling away in her writing room, surrounded by movie memorabilia and an out-of-control signed books collection. Unsurprisingly, she's a huge Buffy the Vampire Slayer fan and has gone to conventions to meet James Marsters more times than she cares to admit.
Amy also loves travelling and has a particular affinity for America. She's visited 29 states, 13 Man Vs Food restaurants and many bookish locations, including the cities where Twilight, Interview with a Vampire and Vampire Diaries were set.
If you want to talk with Amy about books or 90s movies, you can find her on Twitter.
Her main interests are books, movies and the macabre, and her debut novel has elements of all of these. If Amy's not at a book event or reading, she can usually be found scribbling away in her writing room, surrounded by movie memorabilia and an out-of-control signed books collection. Unsurprisingly, she's a huge Buffy the Vampire Slayer fan and has gone to conventions to meet James Marsters more times than she cares to admit.
Amy also loves travelling and has a particular affinity for America. She's visited 29 states, 13 Man Vs Food restaurants and many bookish locations, including the cities where Twilight, Interview with a Vampire and Vampire Diaries were set.
If you want to talk with Amy about books or 90s movies, you can find her on Twitter.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
October 19, 2024
4.5 Stars
I adored this. This whole series. Unfortunately, this book did take me 196 days to read but that was entirely my fault. It has probably effected how much I enjoyed this because I had such a long break with about 140 pages to go, but that's totally on me. Regardless, I love Mina, Jared, Libby, Della and the other characters. This had me gasping and laughing out loud, and really shocked and sad in places too. But I still had a blast. Thank again to Amy for sending me a copy of Mina and the Cult.
I adored this. This whole series. Unfortunately, this book did take me 196 days to read but that was entirely my fault. It has probably effected how much I enjoyed this because I had such a long break with about 140 pages to go, but that's totally on me. Regardless, I love Mina, Jared, Libby, Della and the other characters. This had me gasping and laughing out loud, and really shocked and sad in places too. But I still had a blast. Thank again to Amy for sending me a copy of Mina and the Cult.
March 20, 2024
Following the death and destruction of Halloween, Mina, her sister Libby and her friends are visiting their absent father and mother on a ranch in New Mexico. When things don’t go to plan they arrive back in New Orleans where a series killer is on the loose claiming to be a real vampire and a group of fanatics plan to expose the supernatural beings Mina has worked so hard to protect. This is one battle she may not win.
Wow! I love the other two Mina books but this is incredible! The action kicks off straight after the previous book and does not let up. The cult is creepy and extreme, the killer lethal and seemingly just as fanatical. The cult references are spot on and incredibly well researched, their apocalyptic way of thinking and willingness to commit any crime or atrocity to prove their point is frighteningly realistic.
This story pulls no punches and there is a cloying atmosphere of dread and fear of what is coming. No-one is safe and anything is possible, there are new characters as well as the originals, a big bad who is a fabulous villain and this time the non-humans are supercharged, they are all so well drawn and although there are quite a few new faces it is easy to recognise and remember them.
It is a completely thrilling story smothered in 90’s nostalgia with New Orleans as a character itself along with deadly peril, gore and non stop action. Family, love, sacrifice and grief combine as the story races to an explosive finale I could not put this down!
Wow! I love the other two Mina books but this is incredible! The action kicks off straight after the previous book and does not let up. The cult is creepy and extreme, the killer lethal and seemingly just as fanatical. The cult references are spot on and incredibly well researched, their apocalyptic way of thinking and willingness to commit any crime or atrocity to prove their point is frighteningly realistic.
This story pulls no punches and there is a cloying atmosphere of dread and fear of what is coming. No-one is safe and anything is possible, there are new characters as well as the originals, a big bad who is a fabulous villain and this time the non-humans are supercharged, they are all so well drawn and although there are quite a few new faces it is easy to recognise and remember them.
It is a completely thrilling story smothered in 90’s nostalgia with New Orleans as a character itself along with deadly peril, gore and non stop action. Family, love, sacrifice and grief combine as the story races to an explosive finale I could not put this down!
Want to read
May 4, 2023EXCITEMENTTTTTT
April 7, 2024
I love the universe Amy has created and I've grown very attached to the cast of characters so I'm sad its come to an end but I'm excited to see what Amy writes next, as always there is lots of 90s nostalgia (peep the VHS style covers 👀 ) and pop culture references, I'd describe this series as The Vampire Diaries X Buffy, I love the tropes of cults and thought it was executed well, action packed and rather terrifying if I'm honest 👀
November 26, 2024
A good conclusion to the trilogy, I felt like it wasn’t as intense plot wise, but it was good in a sense of closure for all characters and a good couple of plot reveals too.
September 16, 2024
Mina and the Cult is such a fun, gripping read, I’d hoped it would match up to the first two in the trilogy and I think it’s even better! Right from the start, the story pulls you in with its mysterious vibe and the dark, unsettling atmosphere surrounding the cult. Mina is a relatable character, and her journey through all the eerie happenings keeps you on edge, but in the best way.
McCaw strikes a great balance between suspense and character development, so you’re not just on the edge of your seat but also invested in Mina and the people around her. The twists are surprising but never feel forced, and there’s just the right amount of tension throughout.
A definite page turner, I really enjoyed this but I’m a little sad because it’s the last one.
McCaw strikes a great balance between suspense and character development, so you’re not just on the edge of your seat but also invested in Mina and the people around her. The twists are surprising but never feel forced, and there’s just the right amount of tension throughout.
A definite page turner, I really enjoyed this but I’m a little sad because it’s the last one.
September 9, 2024
HOLY SHIT WAS THIS BOOK AN EMOTIONAL ROLLERCOASTER!!!This whole series is a 6 star read for me i love these characters so much and seeing how far they have come makes me so proud of them.
March 21, 2024
Loved this book so much! There was so much action and all the twist and turns really kept me reading. I adored all the horror references and even loved the mention of cryptids!
Overall I could not put this book down and I highly recommend this series to anyone looking for a spooky vampire filled story 🧛🏻🖤
Overall I could not put this book down and I highly recommend this series to anyone looking for a spooky vampire filled story 🧛🏻🖤
July 8, 2024
another fangtastic read from this series i adore 😍 jam-packed with 90's pop culture, horror references and plot twists - not to mention the soundtrack is perfect 🫶🏻 definitely my favourite of the mina books now
the perfect summerween read 🖤
the perfect summerween read 🖤
April 24, 2024
There is just so much to unpack here… but I absolutely loved it!
Firstly, trying to remember what happened first two books but it came back pretty quick once I started getting into it and back to the gang. But a full re-read is on the cards for me at some point!
Originally I wanted to give this book a 4.9 stars, but she deserves a full 5 stars (it was like a whole season of Buffy in one book, chaos everywhere but in a good way!) - there was so much actually going on that at first I thought it might have been better as two books maybe, but that would ruin it being a trilogy. I think I also didn’t like their dad, it felt like he used the sisters a lot for knowledge to help himself a lot and I didn’t like it.
With slayers and also the suspicious new community to look into and with the ripper killing people, it felt like a lot but at the same time it felt like any chaotic vampire tv show/movie! I loved a lot of it, I loved all the references - I mean who doesn’t love a throwback to the 90s with the music and the tv shows and the fashion?!
The relationship progression for Mina and Jared felt perfect, they really are the cutest and I think I wouldn’t be the only one to say so! At one point I didn’t think either of them would survive this third instalment if I’m honest!
Firstly, trying to remember what happened first two books but it came back pretty quick once I started getting into it and back to the gang. But a full re-read is on the cards for me at some point!
Originally I wanted to give this book a 4.9 stars, but she deserves a full 5 stars (it was like a whole season of Buffy in one book, chaos everywhere but in a good way!) - there was so much actually going on that at first I thought it might have been better as two books maybe, but that would ruin it being a trilogy. I think I also didn’t like their dad, it felt like he used the sisters a lot for knowledge to help himself a lot and I didn’t like it.
With slayers and also the suspicious new community to look into and with the ripper killing people, it felt like a lot but at the same time it felt like any chaotic vampire tv show/movie! I loved a lot of it, I loved all the references - I mean who doesn’t love a throwback to the 90s with the music and the tv shows and the fashion?!
The relationship progression for Mina and Jared felt perfect, they really are the cutest and I think I wouldn’t be the only one to say so! At one point I didn’t think either of them would survive this third instalment if I’m honest!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 27, 2024
There is only one thing I can say about this series.......... wow. All the 90s pop culture is amazing, and these characters are my favourite from any book I have ever read. The first book was absolutely amazing, and the second book topped that, but this book has the best plot twists I have ever read. This book series has the most perfect setting, characters and references. I would absolutely recommend it to everyone. I am sad it is over, but I can't wait for Amy McCaw's next books.
April 21, 2024
I cannot big up this series enough, we join Mina and her friends after dealing with the Undead and then some Slayers... and now a Cult... they really sound maybe consider leaving New Orleans with their history there haha
However, I am glad they don't as I love Nola as a setting, and I love the story we went on here. Not just about Cults but also includes the Vamps, a possible serial killer, and also all the shenanigans we know and love, also points for all the music choices Amy!
I loved this adventure with Mina, with so many twist and turns that kept me guessing, and some I just didn't see coming! Made me laugh, and cry, Amy is an amazing writer and if you are looking for a great fun read with a healthy dose of nostalgia, you're found it here!
However, I am glad they don't as I love Nola as a setting, and I love the story we went on here. Not just about Cults but also includes the Vamps, a possible serial killer, and also all the shenanigans we know and love, also points for all the music choices Amy!
I loved this adventure with Mina, with so many twist and turns that kept me guessing, and some I just didn't see coming! Made me laugh, and cry, Amy is an amazing writer and if you are looking for a great fun read with a healthy dose of nostalgia, you're found it here!
August 23, 2024
A Gripping Mystery with Room for Emotional Depth
I devoured "Mina and the Cult" by Amy McCaw, the latest installment in the series, and while it didn't entirely captivate me, I still relished the thrilling mystery and supernatural intrigue. Set in 1995 New Orleans, Mina and her friends face a chilling serial killer claiming to be a vampire, threatening the delicate balance between humans and supernatural creatures.
McCaw's storytelling shines in her ability to weave a complex plot, but I felt some scenes lacked emotional resonance. For instance, a character's loss of virginity was glossed over in just a few sentences, feeling rushed and underdeveloped. Some chapters also felt hurried, with opportunities for more nuanced language and pacing.
Despite these criticisms, I remain a huge fan of Amy McCaw and the Mina series. The book concludes on a strong note, leaving room for future installments. I eagerly anticipate McCaw's next work, hoping for more emotional depth and character exploration.
Overall, "Mina and the Cult" is a compelling read for fans of supernatural mysteries, but may benefit from more attention to emotional detail and pacing.
I devoured "Mina and the Cult" by Amy McCaw, the latest installment in the series, and while it didn't entirely captivate me, I still relished the thrilling mystery and supernatural intrigue. Set in 1995 New Orleans, Mina and her friends face a chilling serial killer claiming to be a vampire, threatening the delicate balance between humans and supernatural creatures.
McCaw's storytelling shines in her ability to weave a complex plot, but I felt some scenes lacked emotional resonance. For instance, a character's loss of virginity was glossed over in just a few sentences, feeling rushed and underdeveloped. Some chapters also felt hurried, with opportunities for more nuanced language and pacing.
Despite these criticisms, I remain a huge fan of Amy McCaw and the Mina series. The book concludes on a strong note, leaving room for future installments. I eagerly anticipate McCaw's next work, hoping for more emotional depth and character exploration.
Overall, "Mina and the Cult" is a compelling read for fans of supernatural mysteries, but may benefit from more attention to emotional detail and pacing.
September 14, 2024
This book is the best of the three.
So many new developments.
A murder mystery AND a really well written baddie.
I was waiting for the Ripper to be revealed as a specific character but was genuinely shocked!
I love this series 💖
Hope there's some Minaverse spin offs in the works 🧛🏻♀️
So many new developments.
A murder mystery AND a really well written baddie.
I was waiting for the Ripper to be revealed as a specific character but was genuinely shocked!
I love this series 💖
Hope there's some Minaverse spin offs in the works 🧛🏻♀️
November 15, 2024
I’m sad to see the end of Minas groups story but I’m happy it ends on a postive note after everything they’ve been through. I did feel like the ending was slightly rushed and Armands death came out of nowhere. But I’d love to see a spin off with cafferty and rosario and what they get up to as the new owners of the empire in New Orleans ! Also I just would love to see more of the entire group in general!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 17, 2024
Wonderful trilogy!!!
January 17, 2025
In the final part of the trilogy Mina and her friends face off against various foe whilst dealing with their own personal stuff. I have adored this series set in 1995 as it takes me back to my teen years with all the pop culture references.
April 15, 2024
(CRYING) Cannot believe this is the last book. Wish this had been split into two books or a prequel for the community as i would love to learn more of its origins. Mina has been through so much on this final journey and so much happened to her friends. I was on the edge of my seat to get through it, Again great writing by Amy keeping me in suspense and i did only shout at my book a couple of times. Will miss Mina's story
May 14, 2024
Another thrilling vampire romp through 90s pop culture. Sadly, the final book in this trilogy, but I've loved every minute I've been immersed in these fabulous YA books... I'm off to re-watch The Lost Boys now!
I can't wait to see what Amy writes next.
I can't wait to see what Amy writes next.
April 25, 2024
I knew this series was only a triology, but I'm still gutted. Minas adventures have come to an end.
🧛♀️
I was worried I'd forget what was going on, as its been over a year since I read book two, and thought it'd take me some time to get into the story, but nope, straight away, I'm in the jeep with Mina and Co, to New Mexico, to see her parents.
🧛♀️
As a child of the 90s, albeit in England, not America, the references always give me a nostalgic throwback, to the music, the movies, reading newspapers and using a phone box to make a call (simpler times!)
Par this with friendships, romances, vampires, witches, bad guys, a vampire Ripper, a Cult, a haunted museum, what more could you ask for in a book?! It had everything, things I didn't even know I wanted, and so much more!
🧛♀️
I'm never usually a fan on endings of series, because we've been on this journey with the characters, we're part of their group, we've been through the ups and downs, and the ending has to be just right, and I'm happy to say, Amy, you smashed it!
🧛♀️
I hope in the future, we'll hear more from Mina. I'm gutted that the series is over, but I'm glad to have been along for the ride!
🧛♀️
If you've read Mina’s other adventures, I'm sure you'll be grabbing this one soon. If you haven't, why the hell not?!
🧛♀️
🧛♀️
I was worried I'd forget what was going on, as its been over a year since I read book two, and thought it'd take me some time to get into the story, but nope, straight away, I'm in the jeep with Mina and Co, to New Mexico, to see her parents.
🧛♀️
As a child of the 90s, albeit in England, not America, the references always give me a nostalgic throwback, to the music, the movies, reading newspapers and using a phone box to make a call (simpler times!)
Par this with friendships, romances, vampires, witches, bad guys, a vampire Ripper, a Cult, a haunted museum, what more could you ask for in a book?! It had everything, things I didn't even know I wanted, and so much more!
🧛♀️
I'm never usually a fan on endings of series, because we've been on this journey with the characters, we're part of their group, we've been through the ups and downs, and the ending has to be just right, and I'm happy to say, Amy, you smashed it!
🧛♀️
I hope in the future, we'll hear more from Mina. I'm gutted that the series is over, but I'm glad to have been along for the ride!
🧛♀️
If you've read Mina’s other adventures, I'm sure you'll be grabbing this one soon. If you haven't, why the hell not?!
🧛♀️
December 6, 2025
The book opens with Mina in a difficult situation, going to visit her parents. From the moment they arrive it’s clear that their father is head of something unusual. A cult? Perhaps not by the strictest definition, but his aim and vision certainly make things difficult.
While Mina is struggling with her family issues, there’s the small matter of some newly turned vampires and what appears to be a serial killer threatening everything that has been pulled together.
A host of familiar characters working towards the ultimate goal. Not everyone survives. Many are irrevocably changed by events. But, throughout, we get the usual blend of action and humour. Great fun.
While Mina is struggling with her family issues, there’s the small matter of some newly turned vampires and what appears to be a serial killer threatening everything that has been pulled together.
A host of familiar characters working towards the ultimate goal. Not everyone survives. Many are irrevocably changed by events. But, throughout, we get the usual blend of action and humour. Great fun.
June 16, 2024
A ROLLERCOASTER OF EMOTIONS
April 21, 2024
Not entirely sure why Goodreads won't let me choose 6 stars, as this is surely deserving of more than 5!
I've hugely enjoyed all 3 books and while I'm sad to have reached the end of Mina's story this was a fitting, exciting, and incredibly satisfying conclusion. I'll be reading all 3 again before long.
Outstanding.
I've hugely enjoyed all 3 books and while I'm sad to have reached the end of Mina's story this was a fitting, exciting, and incredibly satisfying conclusion. I'll be reading all 3 again before long.
Outstanding.
June 14, 2024
Absolutely loved going back into this world with Mina,Jared and friends. It still gives me that nostalgia vibes of Buffy which I love. Mina is a favourite character of mine.
Can’t quite believe this is the last book we will have with these characters but I loved the way it ended in a bittersweet way.
Highly recommend ☺️
Can’t quite believe this is the last book we will have with these characters but I loved the way it ended in a bittersweet way.
Highly recommend ☺️
April 30, 2024
Brilliant end to an excellent trilogy! I will miss this series but can't wait to see what Amy does next.
April 17, 2024
I really enjoyed this!
The nostalgic 90s setting, and creepy cult themes were addictive to read and I ended up devouring this book in one day.
We got more lore about the worldbuilding and I hope this isn't the end as I would really like to see this expanded on.
The nostalgic 90s setting, and creepy cult themes were addictive to read and I ended up devouring this book in one day.
We got more lore about the worldbuilding and I hope this isn't the end as I would really like to see this expanded on.
June 3, 2024
I LOVED THIS TRILOGY!!
Each book in this trilogy got better and better. The characters had so much growth and some I really grew to love. I’m going to miss them. There was never a dull, boring moment throughout the series and the mystery was tricky with lots of twists and turns. I will miss this world so much, but I’m sure I will visit it again, when I reread the series.
If you enjoy mystery/suspense, along with the paranormal, romance, found family and friends, vampires and slayers, then you will love this trilogy!!
Each book in this trilogy got better and better. The characters had so much growth and some I really grew to love. I’m going to miss them. There was never a dull, boring moment throughout the series and the mystery was tricky with lots of twists and turns. I will miss this world so much, but I’m sure I will visit it again, when I reread the series.
If you enjoy mystery/suspense, along with the paranormal, romance, found family and friends, vampires and slayers, then you will love this trilogy!!
May 28, 2024
From the first book to the last❤️❤️❤️. Mina and Jared are still a good couple, I love them. They are so cute together. And well I understand the family reunion I absolutely give a big high five to Mina for being smarter than her sister Libby and keeping her distance from her dad, but at the same time trying to forgive him..
Ohh Will....
Ohh Will....
Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews