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Scorch Mark
Jane stands alone between a powerful artifact and the wrong hands. Jane Walker’s alarming dreams, in which she sees events that have yet to happen, have finally subsided. The man who killed her parents and kidnapped Jane is behind bars. So it’s the perfect time for Jane and her partner Ethan to set out on a road trip to unravel the secrets of her ancestry.
But their journey takes a spine-chilling turn when they encounter a gang of men who stare at Jane as if they recognize her. That can only mean one thing: they’ve met her in a dream she has yet to experience. When the gang begins stalking her, Jane realizes she must have witnessed a deadly event. But what could it be? She slips into hiding and waits for the disturbing dream to arrive.
And now her BFF, Sadie Prescott, is dating a cop whose curiosity about Jane leads him to unearth the mysterious deaths that litter her past. When his latest investigation crosses paths with Jane’s stalkers, Jane must intervene and turn the skeptical cop into a believer before he kills himself and causes the deaths of his entire law enforcement team.
Immerse yourself in a supernatural thriller where dreams and reality meet, weaving a web of suspense that will keep you turning the page until the final, heart-stopping revelation.
But their journey takes a spine-chilling turn when they encounter a gang of men who stare at Jane as if they recognize her. That can only mean one thing: they’ve met her in a dream she has yet to experience. When the gang begins stalking her, Jane realizes she must have witnessed a deadly event. But what could it be? She slips into hiding and waits for the disturbing dream to arrive.
And now her BFF, Sadie Prescott, is dating a cop whose curiosity about Jane leads him to unearth the mysterious deaths that litter her past. When his latest investigation crosses paths with Jane’s stalkers, Jane must intervene and turn the skeptical cop into a believer before he kills himself and causes the deaths of his entire law enforcement team.
Immerse yourself in a supernatural thriller where dreams and reality meet, weaving a web of suspense that will keep you turning the page until the final, heart-stopping revelation.
286 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 14, 2023
About the author
J.P. McLean
15 books81 followersWelcome to my Goodreads page.
I'm very fortunate to live in a writer's paradise on one of the small northern Gulf Islands off the eastern shore of Vancouver Island, British Columbia. The rugged beaches and towering fir and arbutus trees that surround me often end up in my stories. When I'm not pouring my imagination into my computer, I'm futzing in gardens, making a mess of the kitchen or hiking local trails. I write stories that entice you to believe the impossible and escape the everyday for a while. Enjoy the read!
I'm also on Facebook http://www.facebook.com/JPMcLeanBooks
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
November 10, 2023
Third in the series, this book sees Jane Walker, Sadie, Ethan, Dylan move through another phase. A tense and involving trial of Jane's kidnappers and killers of her parents, where she runs the gauntlet of the press and bad guys daily whilst exploring her dream revelations and warnings. Still learning from her unique heritage, Jane has to interpret the messages from the dreams, leading her to attempt to save a precious artifact from the wrong hands and deadly mis use. At the same time, Jane's birth marks signal changes she must explore.
This is a gripping, thrilling page turner, perfectly following up the previous two books and I became more involved and emotionally attached to Jane's new family she had gathered around her during the whole progression of the story. She is a strong, clever and independent figure who has overcome so much that has been thrown at her yet a part of her needs the people around her. Fiercely loyal, they stand with her as she seeks justice and ultimately the successful completion of what her dreams are telling her must be done. This book asks questions, makes you think, and makes you want more.
It is clever, involving, sad and made me smile more than once. When I wasn't reading, I was thinking about it, the type of story, people and happenings that get into your head and under your skin, I am excited for Jane's future it could go anywhere....
This is a gripping, thrilling page turner, perfectly following up the previous two books and I became more involved and emotionally attached to Jane's new family she had gathered around her during the whole progression of the story. She is a strong, clever and independent figure who has overcome so much that has been thrown at her yet a part of her needs the people around her. Fiercely loyal, they stand with her as she seeks justice and ultimately the successful completion of what her dreams are telling her must be done. This book asks questions, makes you think, and makes you want more.
It is clever, involving, sad and made me smile more than once. When I wasn't reading, I was thinking about it, the type of story, people and happenings that get into your head and under your skin, I am excited for Jane's future it could go anywhere....
November 16, 2023
Unputdownable. The exciting conclusion to a dynamic, must-read series.
November 26, 2023
And we are back with the gripping “Dark Dreams Series” of one of our beloved paranormal/thriller writers, and bestselling, multiple award-winning author, JP McLean, that is also author of the “The Gift” Series that you should totally check out if you like paranormal romance books about flying.
Scorch Mark, this book, is the third book of the present series where we have our main character, Jane that has mystical marks on her body that protect her from evil, and people trying to kill her. The side-effect for her superpower? Well, narcolepsy every other day or so, with dreams about the past that she can and will influence, and that will have very real repercussions if she is not careful, you know, your daily bread and butter of joyful sleep. And yes, many of those dreams are about things that will probably get a normal person killed or hunted down, so if you are new to the series, read the first book here and join the party!
Now that we are acquainted with the powers of Jane, and the consequences of the marks, we think, “ah, JP McLean will not surprise us with these marks anymore”, but wait, there will be more to them, or might we say, less to them than in the previous books.
The dynamic of dreams and how they come about will change a bit, and Jane will have to adjust to all of it throughout the book, which will be interesting to read, we assure you that.
If you are new, and reading this review and let us explain this way: Think of astral projection, but a forced astral projection where you can’t control where you go nor how long you stay there, you just take your clothes with you and wham, off you go with barely a warning. Cool ugh? Yeap, this is what our MC has to deal with.
The book starts well, and we got our main characters and love-birds going to the grave of Jane’s mother, and in the way there, Jane gets recognized by strangers. Yes. She has never been there in her life, but, somehow, these strangers recognize her as she is passing by, to the point that they all stand at attention and then leave. Like… why? That’s what we are about to find out.
Talking about weird dreams, imagine being a cop and having a case where a victim, that was a gang member, that was killed by gunshots, didn’t have wounds and was also killed by a car, but the x-rays showed the bullets, and the gun to which the bullets were fired from was locked in a police safe and never left the place . Imagine being in charge of solving THAT and keeping your sanity, or your job.
Side note: I loved the way JP McLean ordered the chapters, everything just feels so clean and easy to the eyes, giving you a clear expectation of who’s POV or to which character the next pages will be direct to or will be about. Nice trick.
Once you stop to realize the setup of the book, and the characters, you will laugh a bit. It goes like this: The main characters are all connected somehow, and they run around in circles on each other, either wanting to bang each other, or, wanting to find each other, or being friends and pretending not to be friends for the sake of protection, hahahhahaha. Nice.
There are times where JP McLean puts details so sharp that you see it:
“A few moments later, Hunter pulled in beside her. He walked over and stood with his feet shoulder width apart, one hand deep in the pocket of his cargo pants, the other twitching by his thigh.”
So, the main characters, Jane in particular is being chased by people she doesn’t know, but that know her, and the only way that she can know about them is by having dreams she can’t control about a past that she must not influence (or she’ll mess up the future), where, funny enough, people can see her in these dreams and can interact with her if she is not careful enough, so yeah…
Side note #2: Well, unpopular opinion, but it’s an honest one and has to be said. We know that this is fiction, and love is forever beautiful, yes, but there are things that normally men deeply frown upon and do not tolerate in a relationship, and those things are connected to a woman’s past. Being a prostitute, is one of the big ones and yes, we don’t like to hear it, but body count does count when it comes to being accepted by a man, so we get it that this is fiction but, we have to say it for readers that think that a woman’s past cannot be judged, and also the part of accepting “everything” about a women is not very practical in real life. So yeah, we appreciate the author’s attempt at trying to show this and being positive about it.
The great thing about this is that although the author tried to put some hope in the past of prostitution towards the future, the author also, detailed the temptations and the dangers of the job very well. The fact that prostitution at times can be like drug-dealing in the sense that the past life always comes back around with great offers to entice you, or their dangers and loose debts thatt you have with your clients/haters/lovers that will put you in danger and keep you looking over your shoulder. JP McLean did an excellent job in this regard and kept it real.
After being given an unsolvable case, and becoming obsessed with it, Dylan, the cop, gets a very wild partner that will make you ask: “why would one of your colleagues in a new team have a beef with you when you barely know each other? What gives? And then you will have to travel with such a subject. Is it just him? Is he planning or into something sketchy? Or is he just reckless?”, you will find out soon enough inside the book.
So, the more Jane dreams, the more she runs in circles and the funny thing is that the one that starts solving some mysteries is actually Sadie. It’s funny because you see that there are like three cops searching for the same thing, but it’s Sadie that gets the first clue as per why they are looking for Jane, and, buckle yourself for this one, the reason might be disturbingly familiar (pun intended). No spoilers, but when you find out why they are into Jane, you will be scared with the implications. Shit is about to hit the fan, fast.
Did the villains of the previous books and this one unite and are collaborating? That’s a question that the author forces you to think more than once, because of the cool of both and having the same “enemy” to zero in on, Jane. It’s curious. And that note…
It seems like JP McLean thought about everything, and every little possible detail, especially when the scenes of the trial come on. You can notice that she doesn’t forget to mention the psychological toll and the drainage that such ordeals usually take, even if just for a few hours, to the ones on the bench, nor did she forget about the delays and the waiting periods that they usually imply. That is very impressive work from the writer! And then you add up the accusing and defendant lawyers statements and how things can be twisted… devilish!
Talking about detail, one has to mention that the author also nails it when it comes to portraying the restless mind of a dedicated cop in an investigation and the questions he might ask even off-duty. That little detail would have been missed by many writers if put on the same situation. Impressive.
JP McLean made an excellent job in the plot consistency department, and this is not easy, specially because of the implications of the trials, secrets to keep, time-travel and butterfly effect in the future. Excellent stuff.
So, how crazy does this book get? And yes, the more you read, the more entangled and dangerous it becomes. Imagine having an army of gunman, with homemade, untraceable lethal guns with bullet proof bodies assembling in the shadows? Yeah…. That!
So, if you like a high-tension, fast plot twists, female-centred books filled with romance, drama (some spice) , and want to dive into a complex series full of details that will come back to haunt every single character in the next books, then you must get this book and series now.
Pros:
Twisted, unpredictable plot with fast-changing events
Excellently developed characters
Consistency of the plot not only in regards of this book, but in relation with the others in the series
Dabs of realism, pessimism and optimism when needed that balance the book quite well
– Incredible touch when it comes about the human mind workings and how people do react in certain situations
The Court scenes were intense!
A book that will get you emotionally involved
Cons:
The hope-giving of having a sex-work past and being able to be loved as a normal woman. But it’s understandable because this is fiction
Lesson of the book: Family will always come first.
Cover score: 8.8/10
Book score: 8.8/10
Scorch Mark, this book, is the third book of the present series where we have our main character, Jane that has mystical marks on her body that protect her from evil, and people trying to kill her. The side-effect for her superpower? Well, narcolepsy every other day or so, with dreams about the past that she can and will influence, and that will have very real repercussions if she is not careful, you know, your daily bread and butter of joyful sleep. And yes, many of those dreams are about things that will probably get a normal person killed or hunted down, so if you are new to the series, read the first book here and join the party!
Now that we are acquainted with the powers of Jane, and the consequences of the marks, we think, “ah, JP McLean will not surprise us with these marks anymore”, but wait, there will be more to them, or might we say, less to them than in the previous books.
The dynamic of dreams and how they come about will change a bit, and Jane will have to adjust to all of it throughout the book, which will be interesting to read, we assure you that.
If you are new, and reading this review and let us explain this way: Think of astral projection, but a forced astral projection where you can’t control where you go nor how long you stay there, you just take your clothes with you and wham, off you go with barely a warning. Cool ugh? Yeap, this is what our MC has to deal with.
The book starts well, and we got our main characters and love-birds going to the grave of Jane’s mother, and in the way there, Jane gets recognized by strangers. Yes. She has never been there in her life, but, somehow, these strangers recognize her as she is passing by, to the point that they all stand at attention and then leave. Like… why? That’s what we are about to find out.
Talking about weird dreams, imagine being a cop and having a case where a victim, that was a gang member, that was killed by gunshots, didn’t have wounds and was also killed by a car, but the x-rays showed the bullets, and the gun to which the bullets were fired from was locked in a police safe and never left the place . Imagine being in charge of solving THAT and keeping your sanity, or your job.
Side note: I loved the way JP McLean ordered the chapters, everything just feels so clean and easy to the eyes, giving you a clear expectation of who’s POV or to which character the next pages will be direct to or will be about. Nice trick.
Once you stop to realize the setup of the book, and the characters, you will laugh a bit. It goes like this: The main characters are all connected somehow, and they run around in circles on each other, either wanting to bang each other, or, wanting to find each other, or being friends and pretending not to be friends for the sake of protection, hahahhahaha. Nice.
There are times where JP McLean puts details so sharp that you see it:
“A few moments later, Hunter pulled in beside her. He walked over and stood with his feet shoulder width apart, one hand deep in the pocket of his cargo pants, the other twitching by his thigh.”
So, the main characters, Jane in particular is being chased by people she doesn’t know, but that know her, and the only way that she can know about them is by having dreams she can’t control about a past that she must not influence (or she’ll mess up the future), where, funny enough, people can see her in these dreams and can interact with her if she is not careful enough, so yeah…
Side note #2: Well, unpopular opinion, but it’s an honest one and has to be said. We know that this is fiction, and love is forever beautiful, yes, but there are things that normally men deeply frown upon and do not tolerate in a relationship, and those things are connected to a woman’s past. Being a prostitute, is one of the big ones and yes, we don’t like to hear it, but body count does count when it comes to being accepted by a man, so we get it that this is fiction but, we have to say it for readers that think that a woman’s past cannot be judged, and also the part of accepting “everything” about a women is not very practical in real life. So yeah, we appreciate the author’s attempt at trying to show this and being positive about it.
The great thing about this is that although the author tried to put some hope in the past of prostitution towards the future, the author also, detailed the temptations and the dangers of the job very well. The fact that prostitution at times can be like drug-dealing in the sense that the past life always comes back around with great offers to entice you, or their dangers and loose debts thatt you have with your clients/haters/lovers that will put you in danger and keep you looking over your shoulder. JP McLean did an excellent job in this regard and kept it real.
After being given an unsolvable case, and becoming obsessed with it, Dylan, the cop, gets a very wild partner that will make you ask: “why would one of your colleagues in a new team have a beef with you when you barely know each other? What gives? And then you will have to travel with such a subject. Is it just him? Is he planning or into something sketchy? Or is he just reckless?”, you will find out soon enough inside the book.
So, the more Jane dreams, the more she runs in circles and the funny thing is that the one that starts solving some mysteries is actually Sadie. It’s funny because you see that there are like three cops searching for the same thing, but it’s Sadie that gets the first clue as per why they are looking for Jane, and, buckle yourself for this one, the reason might be disturbingly familiar (pun intended). No spoilers, but when you find out why they are into Jane, you will be scared with the implications. Shit is about to hit the fan, fast.
Did the villains of the previous books and this one unite and are collaborating? That’s a question that the author forces you to think more than once, because of the cool of both and having the same “enemy” to zero in on, Jane. It’s curious. And that note…
It seems like JP McLean thought about everything, and every little possible detail, especially when the scenes of the trial come on. You can notice that she doesn’t forget to mention the psychological toll and the drainage that such ordeals usually take, even if just for a few hours, to the ones on the bench, nor did she forget about the delays and the waiting periods that they usually imply. That is very impressive work from the writer! And then you add up the accusing and defendant lawyers statements and how things can be twisted… devilish!
Talking about detail, one has to mention that the author also nails it when it comes to portraying the restless mind of a dedicated cop in an investigation and the questions he might ask even off-duty. That little detail would have been missed by many writers if put on the same situation. Impressive.
JP McLean made an excellent job in the plot consistency department, and this is not easy, specially because of the implications of the trials, secrets to keep, time-travel and butterfly effect in the future. Excellent stuff.
So, how crazy does this book get? And yes, the more you read, the more entangled and dangerous it becomes. Imagine having an army of gunman, with homemade, untraceable lethal guns with bullet proof bodies assembling in the shadows? Yeah…. That!
So, if you like a high-tension, fast plot twists, female-centred books filled with romance, drama (some spice) , and want to dive into a complex series full of details that will come back to haunt every single character in the next books, then you must get this book and series now.
Pros:
Twisted, unpredictable plot with fast-changing events
Excellently developed characters
Consistency of the plot not only in regards of this book, but in relation with the others in the series
Dabs of realism, pessimism and optimism when needed that balance the book quite well
– Incredible touch when it comes about the human mind workings and how people do react in certain situations
The Court scenes were intense!
A book that will get you emotionally involved
Cons:
The hope-giving of having a sex-work past and being able to be loved as a normal woman. But it’s understandable because this is fiction
Lesson of the book: Family will always come first.
Cover score: 8.8/10
Book score: 8.8/10
February 21, 2024
If you’re unfamiliar with JP McLean’s award-winning supernatural crime novels, you should investigate her Dark Dreams series from the beginning. The first two books, Blood Mark and Ghost Mark, are narrated by a gnarly and loveable trio: Jane Walker, protagonist, dreamer, and bearer of magical marks; Jane’s boyfriend, Ethan Bryce, swaggering manager of the Riptide bar in Vancouver; and Jane’s loyal sidekick, former foster child, and high-class escort, Sadie Prescott. In Scorch Mark, the narration expands to include Sadie’s love interest, undercover Vancouver cop Dylan O’Brien.
In Blood Mark, we learn that the scarlet marks snaking around Jane’s body were gifted to her in an ancient Incan ritual to protect her from death. Now, McLean reveals that anyone who tries to kill Jane will end up dead themselves, and this threat has been proven true. Jane also suffers from lucid dreams in which she appears as a shadowy figure whose actions can affect history. In Ghost Mark, the blood marks transform, and she appears in her dreams dressed in whatever she wore when she fell asleep. Since she’s visible, you can imagine the problems this presents. Jane also discovers a vivid white “escape valve” on the back of her hand that rewinds a dream if she turns it counterclockwise and jumps her out of the dream if she moves it clockwise. The spectral marks remain in Scorch Mark, but in a clever stake-raising move, McLean introduces a villainous group of cowboy thugs who intend to use the marks for their own evil purposes. She also reveals much more about the old Peruvian families, the old silver offering bowl, and the Incan ritual itself.
McLean deftly intertwines three plots in Scorch Mark. In one, the psychologist who abducted Jane in Blood Mark goes on trial, and we await the verdict with bated breath. Will the defence attorneys create enough reasonable doubt for the jury to allow him and his accomplice to go free? And how will the attorneys twist Jane’s story? As is typical of courtroom drama, it’s a fist-squeezing, jaw-grinding experience for the reader. Meanwhile, Detective Dylan O’Brien is investigating “ghost guns” — a shipment of illegal firearms that have been produced using a three-D printer, and Jane is dreaming about the evil producers. Interspersed are Jane’s dangerous dreams, where she must act as a witness without being caught by the villains who are changing history. Tension anyone?
Wickedly clever, original, suspenseful, and action-packed, McLean’s impeccable writing and razor-sharp plotting will draw you in and keep you rivetted. Scorch Mark is glamor and grit, spliced with a magical sense of the macabre, and wildly Canadian. Detailed, descriptive scenes of the Vancouver Law Courts will have you sitting tensely beside Jane as she watches her attacker from the gallery through thick, bulletproof glass. Then it’s a race across the country to a 12,000-acre Alberta ranch and a massive criminal takedown.
JP McLean is a bestselling author of urban fantasy and supernatural thrillers. She’s been the recipient of numerous honours for the Dark Dreams series and her six-book Gift Legacy series. Among them are a Global Book Award, CIBA and Page Turner Award, the National Indie Excellence Awards, the UK Wishing Shelf Book Awards, and the Whistler independent Book Awards.
In Blood Mark, we learn that the scarlet marks snaking around Jane’s body were gifted to her in an ancient Incan ritual to protect her from death. Now, McLean reveals that anyone who tries to kill Jane will end up dead themselves, and this threat has been proven true. Jane also suffers from lucid dreams in which she appears as a shadowy figure whose actions can affect history. In Ghost Mark, the blood marks transform, and she appears in her dreams dressed in whatever she wore when she fell asleep. Since she’s visible, you can imagine the problems this presents. Jane also discovers a vivid white “escape valve” on the back of her hand that rewinds a dream if she turns it counterclockwise and jumps her out of the dream if she moves it clockwise. The spectral marks remain in Scorch Mark, but in a clever stake-raising move, McLean introduces a villainous group of cowboy thugs who intend to use the marks for their own evil purposes. She also reveals much more about the old Peruvian families, the old silver offering bowl, and the Incan ritual itself.
McLean deftly intertwines three plots in Scorch Mark. In one, the psychologist who abducted Jane in Blood Mark goes on trial, and we await the verdict with bated breath. Will the defence attorneys create enough reasonable doubt for the jury to allow him and his accomplice to go free? And how will the attorneys twist Jane’s story? As is typical of courtroom drama, it’s a fist-squeezing, jaw-grinding experience for the reader. Meanwhile, Detective Dylan O’Brien is investigating “ghost guns” — a shipment of illegal firearms that have been produced using a three-D printer, and Jane is dreaming about the evil producers. Interspersed are Jane’s dangerous dreams, where she must act as a witness without being caught by the villains who are changing history. Tension anyone?
Wickedly clever, original, suspenseful, and action-packed, McLean’s impeccable writing and razor-sharp plotting will draw you in and keep you rivetted. Scorch Mark is glamor and grit, spliced with a magical sense of the macabre, and wildly Canadian. Detailed, descriptive scenes of the Vancouver Law Courts will have you sitting tensely beside Jane as she watches her attacker from the gallery through thick, bulletproof glass. Then it’s a race across the country to a 12,000-acre Alberta ranch and a massive criminal takedown.
JP McLean is a bestselling author of urban fantasy and supernatural thrillers. She’s been the recipient of numerous honours for the Dark Dreams series and her six-book Gift Legacy series. Among them are a Global Book Award, CIBA and Page Turner Award, the National Indie Excellence Awards, the UK Wishing Shelf Book Awards, and the Whistler independent Book Awards.
November 15, 2023
Jane is back and her birthmarks are evolving! She was blessed and plagued with blood red birthmarks as a child. The marks led to a lot of bullying and discrimination, but they also protected her life. She is still learning about the sacred Peruvian ritual that resulted in the marks and how the marks protected her and hurt those who would try to kill her. She is very aware of the danger to those closest to her, and has always been very independent to minimize the risk to herself and others. The book blurb gave a great outline of the storyline, so I’ll just give you my take on this 3rd book in the series.
Ethan has problems accepting Jane’s unusual situation and continually tries to change her into a regular/normal person in the guise of protecting her. Ethan repeatedly underestimates Jane’s abilities, but I like that he is a strong, masculine ally. Ethan and Jane are well suited to each other.
Sadie stumbles as she distances herself from her former life, but is almost as formidable a person as Jane. She is such a realistic, down to earth character. I can relate to her inner struggles of self-worth and potential. Her new love interest almost feels forced, but I like this new character and hope he continues to be present in subsequent books in the series.
Rick continues to be a shadow monster in the background. I see the danger from him always being a specter in her life.
The addition of a new type of mark, the scorch mark, is a very interesting twist. Also, the presence of a weapons cartel and their knowledge of the Peruvian protection ritual really spices up the story because it takes the danger up a notch.
This is another fully engrossing read that you will not be able to put down. There is so much action, both in dream and real world. This book continues seamlessly with the previous books in the series. Although I anxiously await each new book in the series (and I have!), this series is perfect for binge-reading. There really is so much going on. Jane becomes so real that you want to stay in her world. The surprise ending leaves me in no doubt that the series will continue, and I am very excited about Jane’s new role!
Ethan has problems accepting Jane’s unusual situation and continually tries to change her into a regular/normal person in the guise of protecting her. Ethan repeatedly underestimates Jane’s abilities, but I like that he is a strong, masculine ally. Ethan and Jane are well suited to each other.
Sadie stumbles as she distances herself from her former life, but is almost as formidable a person as Jane. She is such a realistic, down to earth character. I can relate to her inner struggles of self-worth and potential. Her new love interest almost feels forced, but I like this new character and hope he continues to be present in subsequent books in the series.
Rick continues to be a shadow monster in the background. I see the danger from him always being a specter in her life.
The addition of a new type of mark, the scorch mark, is a very interesting twist. Also, the presence of a weapons cartel and their knowledge of the Peruvian protection ritual really spices up the story because it takes the danger up a notch.
This is another fully engrossing read that you will not be able to put down. There is so much action, both in dream and real world. This book continues seamlessly with the previous books in the series. Although I anxiously await each new book in the series (and I have!), this series is perfect for binge-reading. There really is so much going on. Jane becomes so real that you want to stay in her world. The surprise ending leaves me in no doubt that the series will continue, and I am very excited about Jane’s new role!
November 2, 2023
The Wishing Shelf Book Awards
1st November 2023
TITLE: Scorch Mark
AUTHOR: JP McLean
Star Rating: 4
‘A cleverly plotted, supernatural thriller that’ll keep you hooked to the very last word.’ The Wishing Shelf
REVIEW
In many ways, the best way of summing up this thriller is – a woman who sees events that have yet to happen. It’s a good hook, clever even, although not the most original. However, in the hands of this accomplished writer, this simple hook is turned into a suspense-filled rollercoaster most fans of the paranormal genre will love.
Now, I see this book is the third book in the Dark Dreams set. First there’s Blood Mark, then Ghost Mark and finally this. Now, I have never read the first two books (saying that, I checked them out on Amazon, and they look AMAZING!) but I had no problems following the plot of Scorch Mark or, indeed, getting to know the protagonists, Jane, and, to a lesser extent, Ethan. And, as the plot developed (good pacing by the way), I was soon rooting for Jane as she gets to grips with the paranormal skill which haunts her. As I say, the author’s a talented writer who knows how to develop chemistry between characters, get things moving – which is important in a thriller – and, best of all, keep it just that little bit dark and gritty.
In terms of who’s this book for – well, if paranormal thrillers are your ‘thing’; if, for example, you enjoy C M Sutter’s psychic detective novels or if you simply like dark, sexy thrillers packed full of suspense, you’ll probably enjoy Scorch Mark. Admittedly, the secondary characters were a bit shallow and difficult to get a handle on, but, other than that, it’s a page-turner. All I would suggest is you check out the other two books first; they look fab too, so why miss out? In fact, I’m going to buy Blood Mark for myself!
A ‘Wishing Shelf’ Book Review
www.thewsa.co.uk
1st November 2023
TITLE: Scorch Mark
AUTHOR: JP McLean
Star Rating: 4
‘A cleverly plotted, supernatural thriller that’ll keep you hooked to the very last word.’ The Wishing Shelf
REVIEW
In many ways, the best way of summing up this thriller is – a woman who sees events that have yet to happen. It’s a good hook, clever even, although not the most original. However, in the hands of this accomplished writer, this simple hook is turned into a suspense-filled rollercoaster most fans of the paranormal genre will love.
Now, I see this book is the third book in the Dark Dreams set. First there’s Blood Mark, then Ghost Mark and finally this. Now, I have never read the first two books (saying that, I checked them out on Amazon, and they look AMAZING!) but I had no problems following the plot of Scorch Mark or, indeed, getting to know the protagonists, Jane, and, to a lesser extent, Ethan. And, as the plot developed (good pacing by the way), I was soon rooting for Jane as she gets to grips with the paranormal skill which haunts her. As I say, the author’s a talented writer who knows how to develop chemistry between characters, get things moving – which is important in a thriller – and, best of all, keep it just that little bit dark and gritty.
In terms of who’s this book for – well, if paranormal thrillers are your ‘thing’; if, for example, you enjoy C M Sutter’s psychic detective novels or if you simply like dark, sexy thrillers packed full of suspense, you’ll probably enjoy Scorch Mark. Admittedly, the secondary characters were a bit shallow and difficult to get a handle on, but, other than that, it’s a page-turner. All I would suggest is you check out the other two books first; they look fab too, so why miss out? In fact, I’m going to buy Blood Mark for myself!
A ‘Wishing Shelf’ Book Review
www.thewsa.co.uk
November 1, 2023
The Review
This was a fantastic entry into the Dark Dreams series. The author does a phenomenal job of crafting a new narrative that keeps the character development and action of the first two books in the series while also laying the groundwork for more mythos and world-building to take center stage. The tension that builds over time and the way the author was able to bring new readers into the series effortlessly really set the tone for the entirety of the narrative.
The action and suspense of the story, the great strides the author made in enhancing the character’s story arcs in this new entry, and the creative and tense occult/supernatural abilities that take hold of the protagonist’s life made this story truly shine. The imagery of the author’s writing style allowed the gritty road aspect of the protagonist and her partner to meld with the city-based investigative work that the police detective brings to the table in this read.
The Verdict
Memorable, action-packed, and entertaining, author JP McLean’s “Scorch Mark” is a fantastic read and the perfect entry in the Dark Dreams series. The twists and turns, the wealth of world-building, and the haunting atmosphere will keep readers invested in this gripping tale.
This was a fantastic entry into the Dark Dreams series. The author does a phenomenal job of crafting a new narrative that keeps the character development and action of the first two books in the series while also laying the groundwork for more mythos and world-building to take center stage. The tension that builds over time and the way the author was able to bring new readers into the series effortlessly really set the tone for the entirety of the narrative.
The action and suspense of the story, the great strides the author made in enhancing the character’s story arcs in this new entry, and the creative and tense occult/supernatural abilities that take hold of the protagonist’s life made this story truly shine. The imagery of the author’s writing style allowed the gritty road aspect of the protagonist and her partner to meld with the city-based investigative work that the police detective brings to the table in this read.
The Verdict
Memorable, action-packed, and entertaining, author JP McLean’s “Scorch Mark” is a fantastic read and the perfect entry in the Dark Dreams series. The twists and turns, the wealth of world-building, and the haunting atmosphere will keep readers invested in this gripping tale.
November 30, 2023
Scorch Mark by JP McLean is a combination of Gena Showalter and Maya Banks. With that combination of writers, you get a paranormal kick ass high action-packed read aka Scorch Mark! I absolutely love when writers take a supernatural spin and combine it with romance and suspense. JP McLean knows how to keep her readers, like me, on the edge of suspense and plunge them deep into danger, trouble, and romance. The main character, Jane, struggles with her ability. If you have ever watched the Ghost Whisperer TV-drama show than you know what I mean. Because that show also had a lead heroine like Jane who has an ability that no one wants to believe and struggles with it. Jane is a strong independent woman. She does not let anything stop her. Scorch Mark is the third book that will have you, like me, begging for more fantastic reads by this talented writer. JP McLean writes well enough to be categorized with Nora Roberts, Heather Graham, Lynsay Sands and many more top bestselling writers.
I received this copy from the publisher. This is my voluntary review.
I received this copy from the publisher. This is my voluntary review.
November 19, 2023
Jane Walker is born with birthmarks all over her skin. She wears clothes that hide them as best she can but, as an adult, she learns they identify her as an una testigo, a witness in the Inca tradition. Jane has very explicit dreams when she sleeps that tell her things that have happened in the past and these dreams give her the opportunity to change things for the better. Jane is also in danger of being caught during her dreams and not being able to return to the present.
Jo-Anne McLean has, once again, written an exciting page turner with lots of twists and turns. This book has well developed characters that keep the reader’s interest. Being set in Vancouver allows the reader to recognize familiar places in the Vancouver area which makes the story even more relatable.
Scorch Mark is a book anyone would enjoy even if they have not read fantasy before. I highly recommend Scorch Mark along with Blood Mark, the first of this series.
Evelyn Miller
Jo-Anne McLean has, once again, written an exciting page turner with lots of twists and turns. This book has well developed characters that keep the reader’s interest. Being set in Vancouver allows the reader to recognize familiar places in the Vancouver area which makes the story even more relatable.
Scorch Mark is a book anyone would enjoy even if they have not read fantasy before. I highly recommend Scorch Mark along with Blood Mark, the first of this series.
Evelyn Miller
April 4, 2024
Jane Walker has been different her entire life. She’s come to terms with the unusual ritualistic marks that are now invisible on her body, but their presence still forces her to have disturbing dreams. In this third installment in the series, the people she observes in those dreams can actually see her, which adds a terrifying element of danger. Compounding Jane’s stress is her role as the key witness in a trial and the unwanted publicity that’s disrupting her life.
This gripping installment of the Dark Dreams series is also told from her best friend Sadie’s point of view and that of Sadie’s love interest Dylan, a cop who’s investigating a crime that might have something to do with Jane’s most recent dream visions. Having enjoyed the previous two books, it’s been fascinating to learn more about Jane’s marks, what they mean, and the mysticism and rituals behind them. A highly enjoyable read.
This gripping installment of the Dark Dreams series is also told from her best friend Sadie’s point of view and that of Sadie’s love interest Dylan, a cop who’s investigating a crime that might have something to do with Jane’s most recent dream visions. Having enjoyed the previous two books, it’s been fascinating to learn more about Jane’s marks, what they mean, and the mysticism and rituals behind them. A highly enjoyable read.
November 14, 2023
The fertile imagination of JP McLean has produced a fitting conclusion to this three-part thrill ride called the Dark Dreams series. Once again Jane Walker battles her demons, both living and dead, but this time she vanquishes them once and for all. The mysterious birthmarks that have been a lifelong burden prove to be her salvation. And Jane’s best friend Sadie finally lets down her emotional walls and allows herself to experience true love.
The writing is fresh and original. For example: “Vancouver was laid out before her, the downtown like a birthday cake with the setting sun gilding the high-rise towers, turning them into candles.” Or this: “Jane felt untethered, as if she’d been hollowed out by a sharp spoon, filled with helium, and set adrift.” JP McLean’s books offer an unbeatable blend of creativity and craft.
The writing is fresh and original. For example: “Vancouver was laid out before her, the downtown like a birthday cake with the setting sun gilding the high-rise towers, turning them into candles.” Or this: “Jane felt untethered, as if she’d been hollowed out by a sharp spoon, filled with helium, and set adrift.” JP McLean’s books offer an unbeatable blend of creativity and craft.
November 15, 2023
I reviewed this as an ARC and soon realized it is not a standalone. Before continuing too far into the first chapter, I went back and read Books 1 &2. Definitely glad I did...not only so I knew what had brought us to this point in Book 3 but also because...this story is darn good!
I was engrossed from the start of Book1 . Book 2 kept the intrigue going. And Scorch Mark? This concluding installment of this paranormal thriller was so riveting that I barely looked up from the pages until I hit the end!
The continuing character growth and plot development led to a thoroughly entertaining read. The wealth of description left me feeling I was standing next to Jane during "Visiting Dreams" and joining in the depths of her emotions. Truly a captivating read!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I was engrossed from the start of Book1 . Book 2 kept the intrigue going. And Scorch Mark? This concluding installment of this paranormal thriller was so riveting that I barely looked up from the pages until I hit the end!
The continuing character growth and plot development led to a thoroughly entertaining read. The wealth of description left me feeling I was standing next to Jane during "Visiting Dreams" and joining in the depths of her emotions. Truly a captivating read!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 17, 2023
Scorch Mark by JP McLean is the 3rd in the Dark Dreams series. This supernatural fantasy/thriller continues with intriguing twists and turns, following Jane, Sadie, Ethan and her fascinating dreams of the past. She has each character speak in their own voice which is a delightful change of pace from most novels, as she delves into each character’s personal thoughts and the reasons for their actions. Set in Vancouver and the foothills of Alberta, this gripping novel, as with the first two books in the series, will have you staying up late, just to find out what happens next!
Vikki Zulpo
Ottawa
Vikki Zulpo
Ottawa
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