What do you think?
Rate this book
The Dream Dancers: Akashic Chronicles #5
The Witches of Scotland Book 5
It’s one thing to read about witches; it’s another thing to discover you are one. David is on a quest to elevate his magickal abilities. If you love witches, magick, and conspiracy theories, you’ll love the first book in this fast-paced supernatural thriller series.
184 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 7, 2023
696 people are currently reading
917 people want to read
About the author
Steven P. Aitchison
35 books359 followersSteven Aitchison is an author of magick fantasy with his 9 book series The Witches of Scotland https://geni.us/hFD1N about astral projection, an energy magic system and Witches from the West end of Glasgow.
He has a degree in Psychology and has one of the longest running personal development blogs.
He loves a good conspiracy theory but more than that, he loves reading, writing and spending time in his own magickal worlds inside his head.
Sign up for his newsletter at https://www.stevenaitchison.co.uk/fiv... for ARC opportunities, bonus content, and new releases or follow him on TikTok, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram for frequent updates.
Want to be part of the Witches of Scotland author group https://www.facebook.com/StevenAitchi...
He has a degree in Psychology and has one of the longest running personal development blogs.
He loves a good conspiracy theory but more than that, he loves reading, writing and spending time in his own magickal worlds inside his head.
Sign up for his newsletter at https://www.stevenaitchison.co.uk/fiv... for ARC opportunities, bonus content, and new releases or follow him on TikTok, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram for frequent updates.
Want to be part of the Witches of Scotland author group https://www.facebook.com/StevenAitchi...
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
November 19, 2025
So this one went at a little better pace then book four but still didn't have the spark or excitement. While overall I really like the series, the abrupt news of the endings is really getting to me. With that being said I am looking forward to the next book. Already have it in my kindle, ready to read. Got to find out what happens to David, Jessica and Alicia.
April 6, 2024
Struggled with this one. Not sure why. I do wish, like so many others, that these stories were put together as larger volumes. One or two larger volumes with clear beginnings and endings. Perhaps that is why I struggled with this particular one. The jarring start. Dropped right down into the story with no preamble. Frustrating. The story is compelling enough to want to keep reading, but I really dislike the format of multiple volumes.
September 26, 2025
Steven P. Aitchison’s Witches of Scotland series has been a captivating ride through urban fantasy, blending Scottish folklore, magick, and modern conspiracies. Book 5, part of The Dream Dancers: Akashic Chronicles, delivers more of the series’ strengths: a vivid Edinburgh setting, a compelling coven led by the relatable David and fiery Jessica, and a high-stakes battle against a shadowy cabal plotting a “Big Reset” to control global energies. The story weaves Celtic mysticism with dream-realm adventures, making Scotland feel like a living, breathing character. The slow-burn romance between David and Jessica adds heart, and the philosophical undertones about humanity’s evolution through belief are thought-provoking without being heavy-handed.
However, my enjoyment was significantly dampened by the book’s foray into real-world politics, particularly its claim that the American and British governments lied about Iraq having weapons of mass destruction. This assertion felt jarring and out of place in a fantasy novel, but more importantly, it struck a personal nerve. My husband served in Iraq and was part of a unit that uncovered mass graves of Kurds in northern Iraq, victims of Saddam Hussein’s biological weapons. He and his entire unit were medevacked out after being exposed to chemicals released from the ground during their mission. For those who were there, the reality of these weapons is undeniable, and Aitchison’s casual dismissal of this truth feels irresponsible and uninformed. It’s a misstep that pulls you out of the story and undermines the otherwise immersive world-building.
While the series’ lore—centered on the Akashic Records and the witches’ mission to protect humanity’s collective knowledge—remains engaging, the political tangent overshadows the magic. The pacing also falters in dense exposition about dream planes, and the cliffhanger ending, while gripping, left me frustrated rather than eager for Book 6. Fans of urban fantasy like Deborah Harkness’s All Souls series might still enjoy the mystical elements, but for me, the inclusion of poorly researched political commentary was a dealbreaker.
In short, The Dream Dancers: Akashic Chronicles Book 5 offers a rich, witchy world, but its misguided political references disrespect the experiences of those who lived through the realities it glosses over. I’d recommend the series for its Scottish charm but caution readers about this installment’s frustrating detour. Proceed with Book 6 at your own discretion.
However, my enjoyment was significantly dampened by the book’s foray into real-world politics, particularly its claim that the American and British governments lied about Iraq having weapons of mass destruction. This assertion felt jarring and out of place in a fantasy novel, but more importantly, it struck a personal nerve. My husband served in Iraq and was part of a unit that uncovered mass graves of Kurds in northern Iraq, victims of Saddam Hussein’s biological weapons. He and his entire unit were medevacked out after being exposed to chemicals released from the ground during their mission. For those who were there, the reality of these weapons is undeniable, and Aitchison’s casual dismissal of this truth feels irresponsible and uninformed. It’s a misstep that pulls you out of the story and undermines the otherwise immersive world-building.
While the series’ lore—centered on the Akashic Records and the witches’ mission to protect humanity’s collective knowledge—remains engaging, the political tangent overshadows the magic. The pacing also falters in dense exposition about dream planes, and the cliffhanger ending, while gripping, left me frustrated rather than eager for Book 6. Fans of urban fantasy like Deborah Harkness’s All Souls series might still enjoy the mystical elements, but for me, the inclusion of poorly researched political commentary was a dealbreaker.
In short, The Dream Dancers: Akashic Chronicles Book 5 offers a rich, witchy world, but its misguided political references disrespect the experiences of those who lived through the realities it glosses over. I’d recommend the series for its Scottish charm but caution readers about this installment’s frustrating detour. Proceed with Book 6 at your own discretion.
September 1, 2025
Stronger Pace and Better Connections
Book Five of Steven Aitchison’s The Witches of Scotland series finds its rhythm again after the slower pacing of Book Four. While it doesn’t quite capture the spark of the first two books, it strikes a good balance of action, revelations, and character development, making it one of the stronger entries since Book Two.
What worked especially well was the merging of Jessica’s storyline with that of Aunt Genevieve and Terence. Together, their arcs felt fuller, with Genevieve finally getting a measure of happiness amidst the drama and chaos of the magical and real world. I’m cautiously optimistic about her joy, given how often this series reveals hidden motives, but for now it added warmth and balance. Jessica also became more palatable paired with Genevieve’s no-nonsense motherly energy, which tempered her impulsive unlikeable tendencies.
“I don’t want to use up too much energy doing that...”
David’s trials stood out as a highlight of the book. His tests and challenges and each step taken toward the possibility of entering the magical academy. I as a reader was enthralled with a mix of pressure, creatures, and moral lessons that raised the stakes. Alicia’s chapters, while slower in the buildup, delivered a dramatic payoff by the end with the introduction of a new character and chaotic fallout at a pivotal event.
What keeps me invested is how these stories continue to expand without becoming predictable. Terence, in particular, continues to shine. I’d love to see a spinoff or prequel focusing on his backstory and adventures.
Book Five is fantastically better paced than Book Four, though not as sharp as the early installments. I’d place it at about 3.7 stars solid, engaging, and full of promise for what’s next, but still not the strongest of the series. For new readers, this is not the book to jump into out of order; the series needs to be read sequentially to fully understand its many layers. If you’re willing to go through the journey of reading the entire series do it if not, don’t read this one book, because you’ll be missing too much.
Book Five of Steven Aitchison’s The Witches of Scotland series finds its rhythm again after the slower pacing of Book Four. While it doesn’t quite capture the spark of the first two books, it strikes a good balance of action, revelations, and character development, making it one of the stronger entries since Book Two.
What worked especially well was the merging of Jessica’s storyline with that of Aunt Genevieve and Terence. Together, their arcs felt fuller, with Genevieve finally getting a measure of happiness amidst the drama and chaos of the magical and real world. I’m cautiously optimistic about her joy, given how often this series reveals hidden motives, but for now it added warmth and balance. Jessica also became more palatable paired with Genevieve’s no-nonsense motherly energy, which tempered her impulsive unlikeable tendencies.
“I don’t want to use up too much energy doing that...”
David’s trials stood out as a highlight of the book. His tests and challenges and each step taken toward the possibility of entering the magical academy. I as a reader was enthralled with a mix of pressure, creatures, and moral lessons that raised the stakes. Alicia’s chapters, while slower in the buildup, delivered a dramatic payoff by the end with the introduction of a new character and chaotic fallout at a pivotal event.
What keeps me invested is how these stories continue to expand without becoming predictable. Terence, in particular, continues to shine. I’d love to see a spinoff or prequel focusing on his backstory and adventures.
Book Five is fantastically better paced than Book Four, though not as sharp as the early installments. I’d place it at about 3.7 stars solid, engaging, and full of promise for what’s next, but still not the strongest of the series. For new readers, this is not the book to jump into out of order; the series needs to be read sequentially to fully understand its many layers. If you’re willing to go through the journey of reading the entire series do it if not, don’t read this one book, because you’ll be missing too much.
August 25, 2025
Education continues...
I think after 82 years on earth, that very little really interests or impresses me to the point I feel I want to share with others. But, I have been given a lovely gift by finding this author and his books. He is educated, he has a great vocabulary, and is not afraid to use it. I love looking up words and how they are being used in his stories. There is so much to learn from someone who knows more than you. I am not saying his fiction is more truthful than other authors, only that it speaks to us in a "new" way. I highly recommend these stories to others like me, that are a bit 'snobby' about what they read and why. It's very refreshing. And I definitely enjoy
Hi stories, and usually cannot stop reading even as the sun rises. I hop these books are a great success, and valued by future authors as someone to emulate. Best wishes, and keep them coming.
I think after 82 years on earth, that very little really interests or impresses me to the point I feel I want to share with others. But, I have been given a lovely gift by finding this author and his books. He is educated, he has a great vocabulary, and is not afraid to use it. I love looking up words and how they are being used in his stories. There is so much to learn from someone who knows more than you. I am not saying his fiction is more truthful than other authors, only that it speaks to us in a "new" way. I highly recommend these stories to others like me, that are a bit 'snobby' about what they read and why. It's very refreshing. And I definitely enjoy
Hi stories, and usually cannot stop reading even as the sun rises. I hop these books are a great success, and valued by future authors as someone to emulate. Best wishes, and keep them coming.
January 8, 2024
Unbelievably Real
Okay. I've read this series up to #5! I've found a few grammar misspelled or a wrong pronoun used which leads me to question the intention . A bit distracting for me, however, this is an amazing trip! The story sends the reader through the storyline, using very descriptive and unusual descriptors . Your journey joins with David, Jess, Tee, Gen, and the rest as they learn their way to answers. This is a world event on so many levels of unknowns , while the characters experience the human side of it All! It has suspense,suspension, mysterious twists and turns. You as the reader will be able to relate. You will know what you want to happen; sometimes it will happen that way and then...I'm off to Book 5! (Its hard to lay these books down.) To the author, I must say, your story is well- planned and relatable. Your imagination is astounding!!
Okay. I've read this series up to #5! I've found a few grammar misspelled or a wrong pronoun used which leads me to question the intention . A bit distracting for me, however, this is an amazing trip! The story sends the reader through the storyline, using very descriptive and unusual descriptors . Your journey joins with David, Jess, Tee, Gen, and the rest as they learn their way to answers. This is a world event on so many levels of unknowns , while the characters experience the human side of it All! It has suspense,suspension, mysterious twists and turns. You as the reader will be able to relate. You will know what you want to happen; sometimes it will happen that way and then...I'm off to Book 5! (Its hard to lay these books down.) To the author, I must say, your story is well- planned and relatable. Your imagination is astounding!!
April 25, 2024
The Witches of Scotland: Book5
Wow! There is just no pause in the action! Jessica's dad helped her to remove Alicia's possesion of her body. David has a "fairy" that has helped him to work through the three "rooms" to increase his control and knowledge of his magick. Terence is visiting Aunt Gen while David is working his way through the Magical Academy. Not giving away any secrets of Alicia's plans!
Wow! There is just no pause in the action! Jessica's dad helped her to remove Alicia's possesion of her body. David has a "fairy" that has helped him to work through the three "rooms" to increase his control and knowledge of his magick. Terence is visiting Aunt Gen while David is working his way through the Magical Academy. Not giving away any secrets of Alicia's plans!
April 28, 2024
I struggle between giving these 3 or 4 stars because while I LOVE the overall story arc so far, the abruptness of each individual volume is starting to become a bit wearing on me. I'd rather that each would combine "Books" a piece at this point and have one longer novel rather than the abruptness that happens now, especially in books 4 & 5.
That being said, I DO LOVE the overall story arc and am very much looking forward to continuing this story through to its conclusion.
That being said, I DO LOVE the overall story arc and am very much looking forward to continuing this story through to its conclusion.
September 17, 2023
Who can you trust
David is facing challenges he needs magic to survive and get into magic school.But that's why he want to go to the school to teach him how to use it.Jess has to fight the unknown with help from dad.(he never does explain why he might of not been dad at one point) Alicia is up to know good the group is now wondering about her?
David is facing challenges he needs magic to survive and get into magic school.But that's why he want to go to the school to teach him how to use it.Jess has to fight the unknown with help from dad.(he never does explain why he might of not been dad at one point) Alicia is up to know good the group is now wondering about her?
February 26, 2024
Another fine entry
The story continues with exciting scenarios and some nice twists. The characters continue to be compelling and sympathetic. It’s easy to have empathy with many of them. It’s actually even easy to connect with the potential bad guys. What’s weird is that it’s not quite cut and dry exactly who the bad guys really are. Good job.
The story continues with exciting scenarios and some nice twists. The characters continue to be compelling and sympathetic. It’s easy to have empathy with many of them. It’s actually even easy to connect with the potential bad guys. What’s weird is that it’s not quite cut and dry exactly who the bad guys really are. Good job.
May 28, 2024
I have read 5 series. I love the way you bring in real time to the story! After following you and watching your video, I am so glad you never gave up. It would be great to have Netflix pick this up, I just hope that they could reach your imagination and make these series as great ! Keep writing, I am on book six !
October 2, 2024
Another SHORT book. Mr. Aitchison needs to combine these into more appropriate / meaty lengths for us readers, not just for our enjoyment but also they're not cost effective on a user standpoint.
Complaints aside, I am still greatly enjoying this serious. It strikes a chord with me on many levels.
Complaints aside, I am still greatly enjoying this serious. It strikes a chord with me on many levels.
February 4, 2024
Sizing up the plots
The plots from Book 4 are finished up. Questions have been answered. A couple of new plot lines were introduced.
The action was steady throughout. A couple of surprise twists were enjoyable.
The plots from Book 4 are finished up. Questions have been answered. A couple of new plot lines were introduced.
The action was steady throughout. A couple of surprise twists were enjoyable.
March 2, 2024
A Fun Journey
Book 5 continues the interesting tale and journey from the previous books. The story becomes more complex as do the characters and the book ends leaving the reader wondering what happens next.
Book 5 continues the interesting tale and journey from the previous books. The story becomes more complex as do the characters and the book ends leaving the reader wondering what happens next.
March 13, 2024
Love love love
I love this series, give yourself a treat. Imagine being a young Scottish lad and finding out you are a witch. This series has it all, and it's feasible. Like there's a possibility that it is true. At least that's how I feel when I read it.
I love this series, give yourself a treat. Imagine being a young Scottish lad and finding out you are a witch. This series has it all, and it's feasible. Like there's a possibility that it is true. At least that's how I feel when I read it.
April 2, 2024
entertaining read
Good story line.
Mistakes in the editing. My old journalism teacher would have had my head had I turned in work with errors.
Still, I liked the book, and the series so far.
Good story line.
Mistakes in the editing. My old journalism teacher would have had my head had I turned in work with errors.
Still, I liked the book, and the series so far.
May 20, 2024
Terrence
I liked this book. I don't know if I noticed in all of the other books but I really felt that there was an overusage of the words 'just now'. Really bothered me. Im excited for the next book though!
I liked this book. I don't know if I noticed in all of the other books but I really felt that there was an overusage of the words 'just now'. Really bothered me. Im excited for the next book though!
June 6, 2024
A perfect series?
This series has it all; action, majick, intrigue, and some entertaining drama. I really like almost all the characters and look forward to reading the remaining books. Well done!
This series has it all; action, majick, intrigue, and some entertaining drama. I really like almost all the characters and look forward to reading the remaining books. Well done!
June 10, 2024
getting better
It has taken me a few books to warm up to this story. It is captivating and makes you root for the characters that you identify with. I can see a line drawn from this story to present day happenings.
It has taken me a few books to warm up to this story. It is captivating and makes you root for the characters that you identify with. I can see a line drawn from this story to present day happenings.
October 29, 2024
Great book 5 in ongoing series Witches of Scotland
Great read, exciting plots with many twists and turns, charactacters further developed as their skills and mastery of their Majick impfoves. Looking forward to Book 6.
Great read, exciting plots with many twists and turns, charactacters further developed as their skills and mastery of their Majick impfoves. Looking forward to Book 6.
December 6, 2024
The Witches of Scotland: Akashic Chronicles is a spellbinding series that captures the imagination and refuses to let go. From the very first chapter, I was utterly drawn into its world—a masterful blend of magic, history, and personal growth that left me turning pages late into the night.
The series weaves a rich tapestry of Scottish folklore with modern storytelling, creating a universe that feels both timeless and refreshingly original. The witches themselves are captivating—each with unique abilities and deeply personal journeys that kept me invested in their struggles and triumphs. The way the Akashic records are integrated into the narrative adds a layer of mystique and depth, turning the plot into something more profound than a simple fantasy.
What truly sets this series apart is its ability to balance action with introspection. The characters face not only external conflicts but also internal battles, and their growth over the series is both relatable and inspiring. Themes of power, legacy, and self-discovery resonate throughout, making the story not just an entertaining escape but also an emotionally fulfilling experience.
The prose is immersive, painting vivid landscapes of Scotland’s rugged beauty and its mystical undercurrents. It’s a love letter to the country’s culture and history, wrapped in the enchantment of a fantastical narrative.
If you’re looking for a series that combines compelling characters, intricate world-building, and a plot that grips you from the beginning, The Witches of Scotland: Akashic Chronicles is a must-read. I was enchanted from start to finish and can’t wait to revisit this world again.
The series weaves a rich tapestry of Scottish folklore with modern storytelling, creating a universe that feels both timeless and refreshingly original. The witches themselves are captivating—each with unique abilities and deeply personal journeys that kept me invested in their struggles and triumphs. The way the Akashic records are integrated into the narrative adds a layer of mystique and depth, turning the plot into something more profound than a simple fantasy.
What truly sets this series apart is its ability to balance action with introspection. The characters face not only external conflicts but also internal battles, and their growth over the series is both relatable and inspiring. Themes of power, legacy, and self-discovery resonate throughout, making the story not just an entertaining escape but also an emotionally fulfilling experience.
The prose is immersive, painting vivid landscapes of Scotland’s rugged beauty and its mystical undercurrents. It’s a love letter to the country’s culture and history, wrapped in the enchantment of a fantastical narrative.
If you’re looking for a series that combines compelling characters, intricate world-building, and a plot that grips you from the beginning, The Witches of Scotland: Akashic Chronicles is a must-read. I was enchanted from start to finish and can’t wait to revisit this world again.
May 7, 2025
disputing knowing David was special its finally been confirmed, throughout the books so far I had a feeling that jess was also going be just as special and finally they have confirmed it.... can't wait too see just how special they both are going to be
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 7, 2023
Mesmerizing story.
July 26, 2023
As with book 4, I found this engaging but too short.
July 28, 2023
Nice read
Kept me interested all the way the through the book.Lobe tall the twists and turns and surprises. Can't wait to read the next one.
Kept me interested all the way the through the book.Lobe tall the twists and turns and surprises. Can't wait to read the next one.
January 8, 2024
This is a really good series, such a shame though that the books are ao short, and then end early for notes and a bot about the author
February 5, 2024
Showing the progress of the two lead characters in the series. This book was about developing the characters with a few surprises.
February 13, 2024
Definitely getting better, still think it would have been better as one big book or a trilogy
February 16, 2024
Exciting and fun read
Unlike any magical themed book I've read. Its new age and enlightened theories make this series very unique. I'm truly enjoying this new experience!
Unlike any magical themed book I've read. Its new age and enlightened theories make this series very unique. I'm truly enjoying this new experience!
March 19, 2024
Enjoying the world building of these books.
Referring to normal life as "the tick tock world" is annoying though
Referring to normal life as "the tick tock world" is annoying though
Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews