A Creepy Classic Review: Dickens's A Christmas Carol

This month’s Creepy Classic and the last post of this year is Charles Dickens’s A Christmas Carol.  For starters – for those that don’t know – it’s a novella.  It can’t be more than a hundred pages, depending on the printed version you have.  But that’s neither her no there. It’s a “hellofa” good read – which is much more to the point.

When I first learned of this story, I was a child. In fact, I was a performer in a play of this classic.  I won’t tell you what character I played, but it’s memory still haunts me to this day.  I love this story back then and nothing’s changed.  I remember being smitten by the iconic words that Dickens wrote that were burned into my memory.  Strangely, when I recently picked up this book, it struck me to view how nearly every word/detail written by Dickens is – to this day – still described/regurgitated how he intended.  It’s amazing how close we’ve all carry this tale in our hearts.  That's a true indicator of a classic.

Scrooge was, at the beginning, a lost soul, very much like so many people today.  He’s lived his life in isolation, cursing the world around him.  It seems far likely to imagine an individual like that today, rather than some 150+ years ago.  But the truth is despite the advancement of technology, people I suspect are probably the same now as they were back then.  The world is most likely still filled with too many cynical, money-hungy Scrooges.  And that’s what makes this story more relevant.

The story begins with the disgusting reality of who Scrooge is; an unfeeling, rich ogre.  They say your past shapes you and I wonder if that’s what happened with Scrooge.  He grew up with more means and opportunity than most and eventually an opportunity for love.  Yet then he threw it all away and chose to live a lonely existance.   And over the years he was transformed into lonely, unbearable grouch?  Oh, I loved this tale so very, very much.

The writing and story are so timeless it’s inexplicable.  And let's face it, we all have a bit of Scrooge buried deep within that surfaces from time to time.  For so many people, life can be terribly daunting, just like how it was for Scrooge.  But to have the opportunity at a second chance – to infuse happiness back in an otherwise morose life is priceless, practically a Christmas miracle.  

This tale is a 5 for me, hands down. I love, love, love Dickens’s A Christmas Carol.

Until next time….try something different, read a classic.

Mina B.

Fridays with Fred: The Glutton

It’s New Year’s Eve, folks and Fred’s already overindulged.  Seriously though, this JRT has caused some real drama in my household during the holidays.  Christmas was at my house this year.  Two days filled with family and feasting was total fun, but a ton of work.  In my opinion it was easily controlled chaos with one exception, Fred.  Ya see…Fred had visitors too.  And frankly, he was a bad doggie!  I finally lost it when I saw him pull my daughter’s plate off the table – with his teeth - and began devouring the food with his buddies.  I'm sure those rascals planned it.  But the point is...I totally caught him - the little mastermind, taking one for the team!  Like I said…baaaaad doggie!  He partied way to hard and now he’s paying for it.  Serves him right!

See where gluttony gets you, Fred?

Want to see more of Fred? Try here - it seems to be a fitting picture to go with this post.  Before I forget, please give a shout out to Schatze over at Mary's from BookHounds.  Her phoDOGraphy is the best!

Be safe this holiday. I hope you enjoy your New Year’s Eve.


Until next time… cheers to a fantastic New Year!


Mina B.

My Blogoversary & Free Book Contest

Okay, so this month’s my first Blogoversary. Yeah!  *pops champagne cork*  I think that’s a pretty big deal.  I would have been celebrating earlier but I was in somewhat of a quandary. Since I created my blog in December of 2009, I didn’t officially begin blogging until January of this year. So when I decided to celebrate this momentous occasion, I’ve come up with a solution... I’m doing a special Free Book Contest that runs part in December & January to honor both the creation and implementation of my Mystic Mind blog. How’s that sound?

Now to also pay homage to all my hard work – not only as a reader, but as an aspiring writer - I’ve posted a few prologues and or chapters of my work. See three of my urban fantasy and paranormal romance novels: Mystic Deeds, Blessed One and A Vampire's Silent Genes. These are stories I’ve been slaving away at for quite some time so I do hope you enjoy.  As for the status of each of these works, well, God willing, I hope to have good news in the 2011 year. With that, I promise to keep you posted.

And now, on my Free Book Contest to honor my first Blogoversary.  First and foremost, I am a huge fan of Richelle Mead’s Vampire Academy series.  And so, naturally, I want to share what I think is one of the best YA series out there with my fans. If you haven’t read the series, please do. I promise you’re in for a wild ride. Anyway, I finally got my hands on one delicious copy of Last Sacrifice. One lucky winner will win a copy of Mead’s Last Sacrifice. My Free Book Contest starts today December 27 and will run until January 10, 2011, end of day. That’s two weeks folks to enter and win.

See details below and don’t miss out! 

To enter

You MUST be a follower of my blog and MUST fill out this entry form.
(Note:  This contest is open to US only.)

Extra entries
+3 NEW/OLD Followers on Twitter @MinaBurrows
+1 Retweet this (limited to one RT)
+2 Like me on Facebook/Mina Burrows 


 

 
Thanks again for celebrating my first blogovesary with me.
 
Until next time...
 
Mina B.

Fridays with Fred: Stocking Stuffers

My Fridays with Fred today is all about stocking stuffers. His primarily. I decided to give him his toys and treats early this year because... he deserves it. I stuffed his paw stocking with bonies, greenies, treats, a rope toy and a Frisbee. I’d say he made out like a bandit but that’s me. One of his favorite toys is a Frisbee. I’ll have to get some pix for next year of him in action with the darn thing. It’s pretty hilarious. Anyway, from the bottom of my heart and Fred’s too…Happy Holidays!

Happy. Happy. Joy. Joy.

Want to see more of Fred? Try here and here. Also, remember to check out Mary at Book Hounds and her wonderful phoDOGraphy.


Until next time…


Mina B.

Mina’s Shorts: The Beast

I sometimes get lost in my imagination when it comes to writing.  As far as an idea goes, I get inspired by something as random as a passerby’s comment or words on the back of a cereal box. From time to time, an idea will throttle my brain until I write something down.  In the spirit of these random thoughts, I thought I’d start doing a segment on my blog called Mina’s Shorts. They’ll be most likely around 300 words and creepy in nature, cuz…that’s just my thing and all. Anyway, here’s one I scribbled recently called The Beast.  Enjoy.

The Beast

By Mina Burrows

“Kill the beast!”

A savage cry bellowed from the amassed crowd, followed by a surge of approving screams.

The group’s leader, a domineering hunk, approached center stage. His voice boomed across the sea of onlookers, “Silence!”

The crowd simmered as the speaker summoned the beast on stage. The beast was massive, excessively pale, and bare-chested with a nipple ring. His head covered with a burlap sack – a seemingly better alternative to his face. His black pants were ordinary except for a slit in the back, allowing for the beast’s winding tail.

Flanked with two beefy guards, the beast jerked ferociously, his tail whipping in defiance.

A busty beauty called out.

“Let me have it,” she cried. “I want that bloody tail.”

The leader's eyes honed in on the woman. She wore a tight crimson ensemble, revealing breasts begging to be touched. Lust assaulted him and he sneered a reply, “That can be arranged.”

The woman winked at him, silently agreeing to his demands, her desire increasing tenfold. The leader waved her on stage and she hurried in response, her matching Gucci shoes clicked in tandem.

The leader grunted at her enthusiasm, while the crowd roared.

The beast stilled, sensing her presence.

“I know who you are,” the beast growled, unable to see her face.

The red seductress laughed, unsheathing her dagger. The knife gleamed against the harsh lighting, making the crowd go wild.

She snatched the tail, her brain engrossed in her task. As she readied her knife, she felt a nudge on her shoulder.

“Honey?”

She ignored it, lost in her salacious mind.

“Sweetheart!” The tap turned into push. “Can you hear me?”

The distant voice finally pulled Delia, the day dreaming housewife, out of her musings.

“What?” She glanced at her husband in surprise.

“You’re day dreaming again,” her hubby replied.

Delia grinned. “Only about you, you beast…I mean, sweetie.”


The End




Until next time…read a little, write a little. Yeah, that’s my thing.

Mina B.

 
 
 
 
Copyright 2010 by Mina Burrows.

All rights reserved.

Fridays with Fred: Under Covers

I said it on my last post. I’ve been sick. I mean really sick. In fact, every person in my house has been ill, except for Fred. Lucky dog. But Fred is really the best when you’re under the weather. While my entire family has been laid up for the past week, Dr. Fred has made his rounds, giving us all attention, snuggles and kisses when he knows we feel blue. He’s just the best that way, really. This picture below is a natural pose of him, burrowing underneath my covers – a favorite pastime of his. It so nice to have such a faithful hound like Fred. He’s there for me no matter what. Even though I’m feeling like crap, my buddy, Fred makes it that much more tolerable.

Want to see more of Fred? Try here and here.
Also, check out Mary at Book Hounds and her wonderful phoDOGraphy.



Until next time…try not to catch the holiday flu like I did. Ugh. It’s the worst.

Mina B.

New Author Alert: Elisabeth Staab

I’m back. I was on a sick hiatus. No really…I was sick, I swear. In fact, I’m still suffering from a plethora of ailments – all due to the common cold and a case of the stomach flu. I know. I know…and believe me, it sucked. And during the holidays too. Ugh. And yet, even as I sit here and type, hack and spew, I’m still dedicated to bring you enriched paranormal romance content. Which brings me to my next post…

For those of you that haven’t checked out Elisabeth Staab…please do. She’s a talented author that I stumbled upon – I can’t remember where…maybe twitter.  Anyway, she writes paranormal romance books that are hawt, hawt, HAWT! Catch my drift? In fact, her first novel is of course is about vampires called, Power From Darkness and it set to be released in Spring 2012. I previously read the first chapter of this book and let me tell you…it was really good.  I’m definitely a fan and can’t wait to sink my teeth into the series.

And while you wait for the series, Staab has been feeding her fan base with titillating reads called, Risqué Story Series, Beautiful Blue. This series Staab writes is so much fun to read and what’s even better is it’s FREE.  Yes, free…on her blog – click here to get started on the first 4 chapters.  She’s up to 20 chapters now so follow her on twitter to know when she releases her next chapter/installment.

And just look at Staab's main character here...she is beautiful and blue, of course.  Despite her alien-like features, the unique blue female character, Genevieve, couldn’t be more human and probably more likeable. After reading only a chapter, I’m sure you’ll be hooked on the series. So be sure and check it out. I mean for cripes sake…they're free.

Until next time…check out Elisabeth Staab and see Risqué Story Series, Beautiful Blue

Mina B.

Fridays with Fred: A Car Ride

Today's Friday with Fred is all about car rides.  My dog Fred is notorious for sitting in the front seat and popping his nose out the window.  He loves the windy sensation, like most dogs.  Fred also knows how to roll the window down.  Yes...I'm dead serious.  What do you expect from a JRT.  Overall, he's fairly calm when riding shotgun and just look at that smile!  He's the best.  The only thing that makes him spaz out is the windshield wipers.  If you happen to turn those bad boys on and Fred's in the car...look out. 

The Best Day Ever

On another note, I have another adorable picture of two of Fred's friends, Darcy and Sophie.  Don't they look all sassy and cuddly?  Thanks for letting me share Carla.  Fred loves the babes.

Darcy & Sophie

Anyway...enjoy your weekend.

Until next time...read a little, while snuggling with your pooch.

Mina B.

Want to see more of Fred?  Try here and here.   Also, check out Mary at Book Hounds and her wonderful phoDOGraphy.

Richelle Mead's Vampire Academy Movie Update

So I was super excited when I saw this MTV interview with Richelle Mead.  Since Last Sacrifice came out two days ago, the series has been on my brain.  Book bloggers are going insane, spreading the Last Sacrifice reviews like a bloody virus on the internet.  I’ve barely surfed, blogged, read email or tweeted for fear I’ll run across a Last Sacrifice spoiler, thus ruining it for me.  Normally, I could care less about spoilers but oh no…not with this book. And so…while I wait for my LS fix, I shall discuss the next best thing…the Vampire Academy film production.

If you get a chance, read this article, where Mead discusses about the process of bringing her bestselling Vampire Academy series to the big screen.  Authors like J.K. Rowling and Stephenie Meyers have substantial creative input in the film production of their bestsellers but what about Richelle Mead?  From the article, it doesn’t look like much is going on pre-production wise, but you never know with Hollywood.  Could production start as early as 2011?  Ooooh, wouldn’t that be divine?

Until next time…Last Sacrifice is here and the Vampire Academy movie could be right around the corner.

Mina B.

Book Review: Rachel Caine's Kiss of Death

I finally finished Rachel Caine’s Kiss of Death.  And oh…it was soooo good.  Truthfully, I laughed out loud so many times…it was ridiculous.  Caine – like always - nails these Morganville characters so brilliantly that it made me enjoy Kiss of Death that much more.

First off…so much has happened to Claire, Shane, Eve and Michael. Claire and Shane’s relationship seems to be going to the next level.  Her parents aren’t that happy about it, but what parents of a 17 year old would be?  Naturally they want what’s best for Claire and hardly think Shane's the guy for her.  But with all his slacker tendencies, he still kind, gentle, and loving.  Maybe not all the time but at least when it counts.  On the other hand, Eve and Michael’s relationship is somewhat in question.  The strain in the relationship is only natural of course, since he’s undead and she’s still breathing.  It’s not like they can be together forever – unless she’s turned.  And if we know anything about the Morganville series – no one gets turned that easily.

All romance aside, Kiss of Death was all about a road trip. Specifically, Michael, Eve, Shane, and Claire were given free passes to exit Morganville so that Michael could record with a music producer in Dallas.  There’s one small caveat…Oliver was their assigned escort.  Part of my laugh out loud moments were from the visuals Caine descibed of the Glass house bunch driving in a car with Oliver.  You see…I’m from Texas and no one can appreciate the literary descriptions of flat lands, endless pavements and po-dunk towns more than a Texan.  Add in set of loveable Morganville characters and you have one hell of a road trip.  Just about everything you think could go wrong does – and that added to the hilarity.  Oliver was a pisser. I just adored the way initially (in book 1) he pretended to be a fun-loving hippy/coffee shop owner when deep down he was a sadistic, power hungry bloodsucking lunatic.  And did I mention he’s the road trip escort.  Hah Hah! Oooh he so vile at times it’s delicious.  I love how Claire goes toe-to-toe with him. Her character is growing too. Finally, I think she’s earned some respect from Oliver among others.

Even though the book ended on a somber note, there were those feel-good moments that just made the insane trip worthwhile. You can’t help but feel bad for Michael, Eve, Claire & Shane. I won’t tell you what happens because that would be wrong.  Go out and get it, read it and revel in another one of Rachel Caine’s riveting Morganville tales.  It’s classic Morganville so I don’t think you’ll be disappointed.

On my KilloMeter, I give Rachel Caine's Kiss of Death a 4.

Until next time…read the killer Morganville Series. You’ll be glad you did.

Mina B.

Fridays with Fred: Santa's Little Helper

Well…I had to do it.  A friend of mine gave me this costume a few years back and I’ve never subjected Fred to it, but today…I couldn’t resist.  In case you haven’t figured it out, Fred is an elf.  He doesn't have quite the enthusiasm as Will Ferrell, but hey...he’s still cute as heck.  And I thought with this being the first Friday in December, it was a perfect time for Fred to wear it.  Anyway, as you can see, he’s not too happy about the look, but don’t feel too bad for him.  He's well compensated with these photo shoots in a form of bones, treats, toys, cuddles and tons of attention.

Fred the Elf

Enjoy your weekend.

Until next time…check out Mary at Book Hounds and her beautiful phoDOGraphy.

Mina B.

Want to see more shots of Fred? Click here or here.

A Creepy Classic Review: Edgar Allan Poe

My Creepy Classic this month is the collections of poems and tales of the master, Edgar Allan Poe. I have to say – as if it isn’t obvious on my blog – that Poe is one of my favorite classic authors. I’ve spent a good portion of this month rereading his classic poems and stories and frankly…I can’t get enough. Sadly, I won’t review his entire collection, but I will be discussing the ones I adore: The Raven, The Bells, and The Tell-Tale Heart.

There are two aspects I loved for both The Raven and The Bells. First, Poe’s unmatched ability to begin a story.  He starts quiet and subdued and then skillfully, using a crescendo effect, delivers two spell binding, classic poems.  He’s amazing.  In The Raven, his melody - for me – was like reading a symphony…the tap, tap, tapping on the chamber door.  It was poetic genius.  Poe’s main character rambles incessantly, until his rants turn maddening.  Like The Raven, The Bells starts out describing the lovely, silver bells and then gradually progresses into a treacherous, clamoring noise. That’s the other aspect I love about him. Poe can take something so minuscule in life and make in monumental, turning it into a killer story. Something so insignificant and every day like a bird or a chime and he’s created a timeless thriller that’s suspenseful as hell. I love that about him.

In The Tell-Tale Heart, Poe writes about a madman. His main character is practically a modern day serial stalker/killer the way he described his fixation on the old man’s evil eye. It’s symbolic and thrilling how the eye haunts him in the beginning, only to have the heart taunt him in the end.   Poe was a master story teller period. His ability to intertwine humor in his freaksih tales is a large part of his allure – I believe. He writes horror, drenched with humanity, making his sick characters likeable. His dark vision - to this day - brilliantly outshines many of today’s literary masters.

On my KilloMeter…Edgar Allan Poe is a 5.

Until next time…try a Creepy Classic like Edgar Allan Poe’s Classic Collections.

Mina B.

Richelle Mead’s Last Sacrifice Chapter 1 excerpt is here!

Richelle Mead’s Last Sacrifice Chapter 1 excerpt is here! 

Last Sacrifice, the 6th and final book is set to release December 7th. Recently, I took part in the Vampire Book Club’s Vampire Academy Re-Read Challenge and for this entire month, I’ve fervently read each of the five books. See my mini reviews here: Vampire Academy, Frostbite, Shadow Kiss, Blood Promise and Spirit Bound.  Ooooh this serious is so deliciously good. For those of you who haven’t read the Vampire Academy series, get on it, would ya?

And for those of you who have…read the excerpt quick and come back and comment. I’m dying to know what you think.

Until next time…breaking news like this is just too HOT!

Mina B.

And the winner of My Gratitude Giveaway is...

Congratulations to Anne J. for winning my Gratitude Giveaway (My Feast for Fools.) The winner was chosen through the established and reputable Random.org. 

My participation in this Blog Hop was a special way to say “Thank You” to all my blog followers. I had a ton of fun as usual and ate a bunch of turkey in the process. Once again, thank you followers. And here’s a big sloppy wet kiss to every last one of you, especially the ones who entered. Mmmmwhaaa!

Oh…before I forget, I’d like to give another shout out to Kathy from I’m a reader not a writer who organizes these hops. It’s a tone of work on her part so…Thanks Kathy. :)

Until next time…looking for reading material? You’ve come to the right place.

Mina B.

Fridays with Fred: Leftovers

Happy Thanksgiving weekend. I hope you're not too stuffed. I am. Ugh! Fred is tearing through a leftover turkey leg. How’s that for leftovers? Not really.  That’s actually a toy of his.  Seriously though, Fred is about as stuffed and nauseas as the rest of us. Sorry about the picture. After yesterday, Fred’s not up for much picture taking. Poor buddy. Yesterday he spent the day hoovering the floors littered with Thanksgiving droppings. Gotta love that about my pooch.

Anyway, I hope you had a great Thanksgiving and now…enjoy your weekend.

Mina B.

Want to see other pix of Fred?  Click here and here.

A Mini Book Review: Richelle Mead's Blood Promise

Continuing on with the Vampire Academy mini book reviews, next up is Richelle Mead’s Blood Promise (book 4).  I can’t thank the Vampire Book Club enough for hosting their Vampire Academy Re-Read Challenge. This has been a challenge indeed, trying to fit in all the extra reading, but well worth it. For those that are interested in my previous review, click here. (Spoilers mentioned there and here.)


Earlier this year, I reviewed Blood Promise and gave it a 5. Ironically, I read this book over the Thanksgiving holiday last year and now I’m here today doing this mini-review. Three news aspects I recognized this time around are as follows. First, I’m incredibly happy that Rose went off on her own thing, leaving Lissa. I know she’s bonded and all but still – the girl’s got have a life. And with their separation, both Rose and Lissa grew, ultimately appreciating each other more. Second, the ghosts Rose summons as a result of her being shadow-kissed. Very cool. And finally, I ardently read the part when Strigoi Dimitri captures and detains Rose. There was much insight in these scenes; moments where an outsider, like Rose and the reader, can delve into the sadistic mind/lifestyle of a Strigoi. I couldn’t help but wonder if Rose was part of a bigger plot here. I haven’t a clue but some of the dialogue between Rose & Dimitri was intriguing as hell.

Blood Promise was emotionally and difficult to read, whether it’s your first, 2nd or 10th time to read it. I felt Rose’s pain, conflict and unconditional love for Dimitri. And at times, I even wanted him to turn her just so they could be together. I know it’s wrong but its how I felt. Oh well.

If you haven’t read this series, do be a fool. Get out there and buy it/read it immediately. And you’re lucky because unlike the rest of us, you’ll be able to read these books immediately in sequence without having to wait. Last Sacrifice comes out December 7th. Ooooh, I can’t wait!

Mina B.

A Mini Book Review: Richelle Mead's Shadow Kiss

As part of the Vampire Book Club’s Vampire Academy Re-Read Challenge, my next mini review is for book 3 in the series, Richelle Mead’s Shadow Kiss. For those interested in my original review, click here.

In my original review, I gave this book a 5. I recall loving this story for the suspense, passion and creative twists. And now since I’ve participated in this reread challenge, I can appreciate it so much more. As for new discoveries with Shadow Kiss…first and foremost is the tone of this book. For me, Shadow Kiss transformed the series. In the beginning, the books went from suspenseful, imaginative YA tales and then in this book, something bewitching happened…it morphed into a soul searing, spellbinding epic tale. Richelle Mead is a master storyteller. My emotions were completely out of whack when I finished this book. And the story still haunts me.

The second thing I discovered was Adrian and Ambrose. In lieu of the cliff hanger of Spirit Bound, I couldn’t help but take a closer look at characters like Adrian and Ambrose. And finally, Rose. Her entire notion of being shadow-kissed put me in awe all over again. It really is creepy as hell and from the looks of it; Rose doesn’t seem to have much of a future with that curse lurking around her.

Those are my thoughts and once again, I give it a 5. A special thanks for Vampire Book Club for having this challenge. It was such a pleasure to re-read Shadow Kiss and discovering its brilliance all over again. Last Sacrifice comes out December 7th

Until next time…hurry and read the Vampire Academy series. It will blow you away.

Mina B.

Fridays with Fred: A Football Fan

Today’s Fridays with Fred is all about the Miami Dolphins, folks. Fred is a huge fan. Why? I have no idea. Still, he’s a diehard just the same – which is why he’s wearing a Dan Marino jersey. I could have killed the Dolphins though when they took the TV slot for Vampire Diaries last night. Oh and by the way…the Dolphins lost too. Typical. Hey, I’m a fan but seriously; don’t mess with me and my vampires. I’m not a TV addict, I’m a book addict. But…I do like my vamp shows. And since Buffy’s not around anymore – what other options do I have?

Oh well. Fred still looks adorable in his jersey. As usual…he’s such a good sport. Don’t forget to check out Mary from BookHounds...phoDOGraphy. Enjoy your weekend.

Mina B.

Looking for other fun pix of Fred? Click here and here.

The Gratitude Giveaway: My Feast for Fools

It’s here! The Gratitude Giveaways - Blog Follower Appreciation Hop. What’s that? It’s a killer way to say thanks to all my mystic minions for following my blog.  So...without further delay...let’s get down to business.

It’s a Thanksgiving feast, you fools. If you’re any bit of a real fool, then you probably hunger for Rachel Caine’s Morganville Vampires. This YA vamp series is dark, mysterious and unique as hell.  I inhaled the series initially but then I ran out of money and had to seek a book therapist for my habitual reading addiction and constant overspending.  But…when Ghost Town was released, I sadly picked up my habit again.  Drat.  But mystic readers don’t despair; I’ve since become quite savvy shopping for books.  And today, with this Gratitude Giveaway: My Thanksgiving Feast for Fools, (themed after Rachel Caine's 4th book, Feast of Fools) I’m passing my good fortune on to you.

Below is my feast. Like it? Good. You should. One lucky winner will receive the last two installments of Rachel Caine’s killer Morganville Vampire series, Kiss of Death and Ghost Town.  I stopped reading the series after Lord of Misrule so I have a ton of reading to finish before this bloody contest ends. These books retail for about $25 so this isn’t a shabby giveaway. In fact…it’s a feast.

My Gratitude Giveaway starts today, Wednesday, November 17th and ends on Sunday, November 28th eod.  Oh and by the way...Thank you for following me and have a Happy Thanksgiving.

Here are the rules…

To enter…

You MUST be a follower of my blog and MUST fill out this entry form.

Extra entries…

+2 NEW/OLD Followers on Twitter @MinaBurrows
+1 For Becoming my Fan/Like on Facebook 


That’s it. The contest runs from runs from 12:01 AM on Wednesday, November 17th to 11:59 PM on Sunday, November 28th. Contest is for US residents only. Lastly, I want to give a quick shout out to Kathy from I’m a reader not a writer who organizes these hops. Thanks, Kathy.


Want to see who else is participating? Take a look at the links below and hop on by.

A Mini Book Review: Richelle Mead’s Frostbite

Book 2 in Richelle Mead’s thrilling Vampire Academy series is Frostbite.  As part of the Vampire Book Club Vampire Academy ReRead Challenge, I am doing this mini-review. Want to read my previous review for Frostbite, click here.


I have to say – although I’m sure it’s debatable –Frostbite is my favorite book of the series…so far. I preferred it when I read the series initially and so far…I still do. I think I loved it so much because of the ending. What can I say about the ending: intense, riveting, spellbinding? Yes. All of those and of course more. And Mason, my hero *sigh*. I love that boy.

This time around three things resonated with me. First, I have more of an appreciation than before of Rose’s wit. Damn she’s funny. Second, the life lessons learned about love and how you can’t force it. And finally, Adrian. Getting a fresh new take on him was inspiring. He’s wicked, sexy, mysterious and yuuuummy!

If you haven’t had a chance to read the series, holy hell you better get on it. Last Sacrifice comes out next month. Oh, and the Vampire Book Club’s Vampire Academy ReRead Challenge ends this month.


Until next time…read Frostbite…a veritable classic on my bookshelf.


Mina B.

A Mini Book Review: Richelle Mead's Vampire Academy

As I mentioned previously, I am participating in the Vampire Book Club's Vampire Academy ReRead Challenge.  It took me awhile, but I finally got my hands on Richelle Mead's first book, Vampire Academy.  I'm happy to report it was equally as difficult to put down the 2nd time around. Before starting, I went back and read my previous review of the Vampire Academy.

I initially stated the book was phenomenal and frankly, not much has changed. Reading this novel the first time around, I remember being so enthralled, I sucked the pages down. This story set my mind racing with anticipation. Some new things I got from the Vampire Academy reread was an appreciation for two things. First, the originality or brilliance, rather of Mead's tale and second, the entire Victor storyline and Vladimir history. Victor's purpose resonated more clearly this time around - kind of like a take on "for the greater good."  In his minor rants, he spoke volumes of what's to come - which again speaks to Mead's brilliance.  Other things of note were Rose’s maturity - her need to act less irresponsible and more like Lissa’s true guardian.

I loved, loved, loved this book. I didn’t state it the first time, but it’s an automatic 5; a keeper among literary vamp classics.

Until next time…join the Vampire Book Club Vampire Academy ReRead Challenge. You have until the end of this month…so hurry.  Last Sacrifice releases in less than one month...can't wait.


Mina B.

Book Review: H.A. Goodman's Logic of Demons

H.A. Goodman’s debut novel, Logic of Demons: The Quest for Nadine’s Soul, is a fictional tale about the pivotal decisions you make in your life that may effect your afterlife.  What would happen if your pregnant wife was raped and murdered and you knew who the killer was?  Would you seek justice and kill the culprit?  It’s a logic “what if” question; one that we all ponder from time to time.  If that scenario happened to you…what would you do?

The book opens with our hero faced with that conflict. Devin Schwartz's wife is brutally murdered and he’s knows the killer.  With little hesitation, Devin slaughters the man responsible for his wife & unborn child’s death and winds up dead himself, suspending in a bizarre afterlife. Since his vengeance, he’s now deemed a “demon” and is recruited to work for The Company, selling something called “The Formula” to unsuspecting living humans.  With all the conviction that Devin started out with in this book, he certainly lost his bravado when it came to the afterlife.

The bulk of this book was about Devin fumbling through afterlife, attempting to reunite with his wife and child. There were many times were I wanted to smack Devin. Between The Company, the Angels, the Paladins and Satan herself, there was a point in the book where I didn’t know who was telling the truth. Devin acted – often to his detriment – too impulsively, causing more problems for our demonic hero.

The Company (aka Hell), ultimately tasks Devin with selling The Formula to a troubled teenage girl, Nadine. Using The Formula, Devin must convince Nadine to do something heinous. And who is Nadine anyway? In the story, Nadine is this talented anime artist whose parents are dead and she lives with her holy-rolling Uncle. But why her? There’s a billion depressed, self-loathing teenagers out there so what makes her so special? With all the tragedy bestowed on this chick, I couldn’t help but feel sorry for her. While reading this, I often thought that personal tragedy was the common thread between Devin and Nadine. Could it be that Devin is the key to save or condemn Nadine’s soul? I won’t tell you…you’ll have to find out.

Overall, I liked H.A. Goodman’s novel, Logic of Demons:The Quest for Nadine’s Soul. To be honest, the last 50 pages did it for me.  During Devin's quest, I found there was too much back and forth between afterlife characters/scenes that I didn’t appreciate.  But the ending….ah, the ending…redeemed the book for me. On my KilloMeter, I give H.A. Goodman’s novel, Logic of Demons: The Quest for Nadine’s Soul a 3.5.

Until next time…looking for a killer plot twist, try this book.

Mina B.