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The Gift Legacy #1
The Gift: Awakening
Every Gift has its Price . . .
When Emelynn Taylor accepts a mysterious gift from a stranger, her life alters irrevocably. Haunted by terrifying abilities she can’t control, Emelynn returns to her abandoned home on the British Columbia coast where she vows to take command of her unruly gift. A near-fatal miscalculation drops her into the hands of a man who steals her breath away, and an underground society who share the gift; but as they steer her into unknown territory, secrets surface and conspiracies unfold. Will Emelynn master her dangerous gift and escape the growing web of perils before they take her life?
When Emelynn Taylor accepts a mysterious gift from a stranger, her life alters irrevocably. Haunted by terrifying abilities she can’t control, Emelynn returns to her abandoned home on the British Columbia coast where she vows to take command of her unruly gift. A near-fatal miscalculation drops her into the hands of a man who steals her breath away, and an underground society who share the gift; but as they steer her into unknown territory, secrets surface and conspiracies unfold. Will Emelynn master her dangerous gift and escape the growing web of perils before they take her life?
324 pages, Paperback
First published September 9, 2012
23 people are currently reading
171 people want to read
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 - 30 of 44 reviews
August 13, 2015
I rarely read fantasy, which reminds me of witches and dragons, but this one is different. It features a very human character who was given a supernatural gift. At first I thought it would be ESP, so imagine my surprise when I found it is something quite different. I won't give anything else away, but the author does a masterful job of describing how the character must use to learn her new gift, and her stumbles along the way. Naturally her "gift" opens all kinds of new doors, but it also creates new challenges -- especially because there are people around who want to steal it from her. She finds new friends, and people pretending to be friends, and gets caught up in an intrigue which isn't solved until the last chapter.
This is the first of four books in The Gift series and I will now be reading the others!
This is the first of four books in The Gift series and I will now be reading the others!
January 10, 2021
‘Home was her in the dream, somewhere’ – a fine fantasy thriller
Canadian author JP McLean earned her degree form the University of British Columbia’s Sauder School of Business. She initiated her popular an awarded series THE GIFT LEGACY in 2018 and SECRET SKY was the initial volume of the six book set. She is gaining a devoted audience for her provocative fantasy thrillers, so much so that she has published a Gift Legacy companion book – LOVER BETRAYED. She lives by the water on Denman Island, British Columbia.
Successfully admixing fantasy with romance and suspense, McLean’s style of prose delivers all elements of her story with propulsive ease. In many ways this story shares a ‘what if’ concept: a magic ‘gift,’ in this case flight, can alter our relationship to a world of reality. Given this challenging idea, the author makes her story take flight, as the bracing opening scene evidences: the primary character Emelynn is discovered after a strange fall, and as people attempt to attend her we read, “Female, early twenties, BP’s ninety-eight over fifty…” The man’s voice trailed off as I melted into the pleasant reprieve of quiet darkness. I liked the soft, fuzzy quality of the darkness. I felt comfortable there, but loud voices and harsh lights dragged me back and dumped me into a boisterous room…’ A better description of response to trauma would be difficult to imagine, so keen is the author’s sense of setting scene.
The story is rich in character development and makes fantasy seem credible. The storyline is as follows: ‘When Emelynn Taylor wakes up in the emergency room, her injuries present Dr. Avery Coulter with more questions than answers. Who is this guarded young woman? Why was she found in the middle of Sunset Park? How can she have injuries consistent with falling from above the tree line? Seemingly from nowhere? And, more importantly: Why is she lying about it? The truth is stranger than anyone could have imagined - least of all Emelynn herself. Nine years earlier, during the same summer she'd lost her father, 12-year-old Emelynn accepted a 'gift' from a mysterious woman called Jolene. Now, as she recovers in Dr. Coulter's emergency room, she's left wondering if that blessing was really more of a curse. Jolene's gift planted the seeds of incredible power within Emelynn - but what's the point of such abilities if you can't control them? Her emerging gift of flight, for example, nearly killed Emelynn when it sent her plummeting to the sidewalk in Sunset Park. Next time, she might not be so lucky. But Emelynn is determined to master her abilities, and returns to the seaside cottage where Jolene had once granted her this 'gift.' There, Dr. Coulter guides Emelynn in uncovering a secret society of others just like her, who inhabit a mysterious world-within-a-world that challenges everything Emelynn thought she'd known. But the more she uncovers, the murkier the truth becomes. Soon, Emelynn is left questioning the motives of those she'd trusted the most - and is forced to rely on her barely-mastered powers in a desperate fight for survival.’
As the initial volume of her series, SECRET SKY satisfies on every level, producing a commitment to continue this fine series. Recommended.
Canadian author JP McLean earned her degree form the University of British Columbia’s Sauder School of Business. She initiated her popular an awarded series THE GIFT LEGACY in 2018 and SECRET SKY was the initial volume of the six book set. She is gaining a devoted audience for her provocative fantasy thrillers, so much so that she has published a Gift Legacy companion book – LOVER BETRAYED. She lives by the water on Denman Island, British Columbia.
Successfully admixing fantasy with romance and suspense, McLean’s style of prose delivers all elements of her story with propulsive ease. In many ways this story shares a ‘what if’ concept: a magic ‘gift,’ in this case flight, can alter our relationship to a world of reality. Given this challenging idea, the author makes her story take flight, as the bracing opening scene evidences: the primary character Emelynn is discovered after a strange fall, and as people attempt to attend her we read, “Female, early twenties, BP’s ninety-eight over fifty…” The man’s voice trailed off as I melted into the pleasant reprieve of quiet darkness. I liked the soft, fuzzy quality of the darkness. I felt comfortable there, but loud voices and harsh lights dragged me back and dumped me into a boisterous room…’ A better description of response to trauma would be difficult to imagine, so keen is the author’s sense of setting scene.
The story is rich in character development and makes fantasy seem credible. The storyline is as follows: ‘When Emelynn Taylor wakes up in the emergency room, her injuries present Dr. Avery Coulter with more questions than answers. Who is this guarded young woman? Why was she found in the middle of Sunset Park? How can she have injuries consistent with falling from above the tree line? Seemingly from nowhere? And, more importantly: Why is she lying about it? The truth is stranger than anyone could have imagined - least of all Emelynn herself. Nine years earlier, during the same summer she'd lost her father, 12-year-old Emelynn accepted a 'gift' from a mysterious woman called Jolene. Now, as she recovers in Dr. Coulter's emergency room, she's left wondering if that blessing was really more of a curse. Jolene's gift planted the seeds of incredible power within Emelynn - but what's the point of such abilities if you can't control them? Her emerging gift of flight, for example, nearly killed Emelynn when it sent her plummeting to the sidewalk in Sunset Park. Next time, she might not be so lucky. But Emelynn is determined to master her abilities, and returns to the seaside cottage where Jolene had once granted her this 'gift.' There, Dr. Coulter guides Emelynn in uncovering a secret society of others just like her, who inhabit a mysterious world-within-a-world that challenges everything Emelynn thought she'd known. But the more she uncovers, the murkier the truth becomes. Soon, Emelynn is left questioning the motives of those she'd trusted the most - and is forced to rely on her barely-mastered powers in a desperate fight for survival.’
As the initial volume of her series, SECRET SKY satisfies on every level, producing a commitment to continue this fine series. Recommended.
January 23, 2019
Be prepared for flights of fancy, magical experiences and wonderful locations. I was sent an ARC copy of this novel, which I freely chose to review.
I had been aware of The Gift Legacy series and its author for a while, and felt curious about it, but as happens sometimes when I discover a series with several books published already, I never seemed to find the time to catch up on it, and the collection kept growing. When I heard that the series was being relaunched with new covers and titles, I grabbed the opportunity to finally start reading it. And I’m pleased I did.
It is a bit difficult to talk about this novel without revealing too much of what happens, but from the description, you can probably guess some important aspects of it. Emelynn, or Em, as she is known, is the protagonist and first-person narrator of the book. We meet her at an inflection point in her life. She’s finished her studies and has decided that it is time to tackle her “gift”. Her dreams and memories give us a good understanding of the background to her situation and how she came to be in possession of her gift, at least to the extent she understands it. After all, she was a young girl and she was never given much information about what had happened to her. We also learn about her personal life, the death of her father, the move to Toronto, her mother’s taking refuge in her work, and Em’s difficulties fitting in, partly (mostly) caused by her gift. Although she found ways to deal with the disruption to her life caused by the gift, from a practical perspective, she had never been able to have a “normal” life, and that had made her decide to go back to the cottage where her family lived when she was a child, as it was more remote, it had always felt like a refuge and a safe-place to her, and it would give her the breathing space to experiment.
Her plan works although not in the way she intended, and she gets into contact with people who can guide her and teach her to tame her gift, although this is not at first evident to her. Having grown up hiding things and never trusting anyone, she finds it difficult to trust these strangers whose agendas she does not fully understand, and who seem to keep some things under wraps. Despite her initial reluctance, Em discovers a new world, a new group of people she finally belongs to, and a level of skill and power she had never suspected. But things don’t run smoothly: there are threats, mysterious forces at work, and missions that have to be accomplished. And of course, romance and love don’t always mix well with such complications.
I know first-person-narrations are a bit like marmite for readers: some love them and others don’t. In this particular case, Em’s narration is perfect for the story. Although she has a gift (or power, although at times it feel like a curse to her), she does not understand it, and readers have the privilege of experiencing with her the thrill of discovery, the fear of the unknown, her suspicions of the motives of the new people that come into her life, and we also learn about her and what makes her tick. In contrast to many books with a paranormal aspect where characters discover a power or an ability they knew nothing about, Em doesn’t just wake up one day and is somebody completely different, proficient at her ability, and a total kick-ass hero. She has doubts, she hesitates, she does not always want to push the boundaries, she gets tired and sleeps in, she feels pain, she gets hungry, she lacks in self-confidence and doubts herself, she makes mistakes and misjudges people, she feels bad for not phoning her mother… In sum, she is a pretty normal human being, sometimes low and sometimes happy, with a good sense of humour and of observation, and it is easy to empathise with her, even if we might not have much in common with her.
She is also a young woman with zero love experience, and she seems to fall in love easily, perhaps because she had been trying so hard and for so long to block those kinds of feelings. There are sex scenes in the book, and although they are not the most explicit I’ve ever read, they are explicit and this is not a sweet and clean romance. I am not fond of sex scenes, although at least her first time is not totally unrealistic, as it often happens in romances, but yes, I won’t talk too much about that.
The book also has elements of mystery and thriller, and they are worked well into the story. We have several intriguing events going on at the same time: first, there is the attempt at trying to find information about the person who passed the gift to Em (this is far from resolved is this book, but we learn some things); there is the search for a woman who has gone missing that takes up centre stage, especially towards the end of the book, and brings in action scenes and an interesting twist (that I had suspected all along, but it’s a twist nonetheless); and there is also a mystery involving Em and her house, which is seemingly resolved in the novel but has left me wondering. As pertains to this genre of books, there are red herrings, plenty of clues thrown in, information and misinformation, although the book has so many other things going on that I am not sure it will work for people who are looking for a straightforward mystery or thriller. The pace of the book ebbs and flows, with some pretty contemplative moments and some pretty fast ones (when the action kicks in), and there are lengthy and beautiful descriptions of locations, and especially of experiences, that I particularly enjoyed, turning this book into something more than a page-turning by-the-numbers thriller.
There is a paranormal element in the book, but this is not high-fantasy where you need to read pages and pages to gain an understanding of a new world order. This is the world we all know (especially Canadians), and although the lyrical way in which some of the descriptions are written and some of the remote locations give it a timeless quality, the story takes place in contemporary times. We are familiar with the world and the social order portrayed in the book, and we get to know about groups of individuals who are seemingly “normal” but share something “extra”, the “gift” of the title, and it seems this legacy can have as many variants as individuals possess it. Although there are fantasy and paranormal aspects to the novel, I felt they were particularly well integrated into the plot and did not require an extreme grade of suspension of disbelief, and I don’t think you need to be an enthusiast of fantasy or paranormal books to enjoy this series.
This is a book I’d recommend to people who enjoy credible characters, a touch of the paranormal, mysteries that go beyond who-done-it, and who don’t mind a story that builds up slowly and takes readers on flights of fancy through magical experiences and wonderful locations. Oh, and who don’t mind a touch of sex. I’ve become very fond of Em and many of the other characters in the book (Avery is a favourite as well), and I hope to learn how her gift develops further in the future.
I had been aware of The Gift Legacy series and its author for a while, and felt curious about it, but as happens sometimes when I discover a series with several books published already, I never seemed to find the time to catch up on it, and the collection kept growing. When I heard that the series was being relaunched with new covers and titles, I grabbed the opportunity to finally start reading it. And I’m pleased I did.
It is a bit difficult to talk about this novel without revealing too much of what happens, but from the description, you can probably guess some important aspects of it. Emelynn, or Em, as she is known, is the protagonist and first-person narrator of the book. We meet her at an inflection point in her life. She’s finished her studies and has decided that it is time to tackle her “gift”. Her dreams and memories give us a good understanding of the background to her situation and how she came to be in possession of her gift, at least to the extent she understands it. After all, she was a young girl and she was never given much information about what had happened to her. We also learn about her personal life, the death of her father, the move to Toronto, her mother’s taking refuge in her work, and Em’s difficulties fitting in, partly (mostly) caused by her gift. Although she found ways to deal with the disruption to her life caused by the gift, from a practical perspective, she had never been able to have a “normal” life, and that had made her decide to go back to the cottage where her family lived when she was a child, as it was more remote, it had always felt like a refuge and a safe-place to her, and it would give her the breathing space to experiment.
Her plan works although not in the way she intended, and she gets into contact with people who can guide her and teach her to tame her gift, although this is not at first evident to her. Having grown up hiding things and never trusting anyone, she finds it difficult to trust these strangers whose agendas she does not fully understand, and who seem to keep some things under wraps. Despite her initial reluctance, Em discovers a new world, a new group of people she finally belongs to, and a level of skill and power she had never suspected. But things don’t run smoothly: there are threats, mysterious forces at work, and missions that have to be accomplished. And of course, romance and love don’t always mix well with such complications.
I know first-person-narrations are a bit like marmite for readers: some love them and others don’t. In this particular case, Em’s narration is perfect for the story. Although she has a gift (or power, although at times it feel like a curse to her), she does not understand it, and readers have the privilege of experiencing with her the thrill of discovery, the fear of the unknown, her suspicions of the motives of the new people that come into her life, and we also learn about her and what makes her tick. In contrast to many books with a paranormal aspect where characters discover a power or an ability they knew nothing about, Em doesn’t just wake up one day and is somebody completely different, proficient at her ability, and a total kick-ass hero. She has doubts, she hesitates, she does not always want to push the boundaries, she gets tired and sleeps in, she feels pain, she gets hungry, she lacks in self-confidence and doubts herself, she makes mistakes and misjudges people, she feels bad for not phoning her mother… In sum, she is a pretty normal human being, sometimes low and sometimes happy, with a good sense of humour and of observation, and it is easy to empathise with her, even if we might not have much in common with her.
She is also a young woman with zero love experience, and she seems to fall in love easily, perhaps because she had been trying so hard and for so long to block those kinds of feelings. There are sex scenes in the book, and although they are not the most explicit I’ve ever read, they are explicit and this is not a sweet and clean romance. I am not fond of sex scenes, although at least her first time is not totally unrealistic, as it often happens in romances, but yes, I won’t talk too much about that.
The book also has elements of mystery and thriller, and they are worked well into the story. We have several intriguing events going on at the same time: first, there is the attempt at trying to find information about the person who passed the gift to Em (this is far from resolved is this book, but we learn some things); there is the search for a woman who has gone missing that takes up centre stage, especially towards the end of the book, and brings in action scenes and an interesting twist (that I had suspected all along, but it’s a twist nonetheless); and there is also a mystery involving Em and her house, which is seemingly resolved in the novel but has left me wondering. As pertains to this genre of books, there are red herrings, plenty of clues thrown in, information and misinformation, although the book has so many other things going on that I am not sure it will work for people who are looking for a straightforward mystery or thriller. The pace of the book ebbs and flows, with some pretty contemplative moments and some pretty fast ones (when the action kicks in), and there are lengthy and beautiful descriptions of locations, and especially of experiences, that I particularly enjoyed, turning this book into something more than a page-turning by-the-numbers thriller.
There is a paranormal element in the book, but this is not high-fantasy where you need to read pages and pages to gain an understanding of a new world order. This is the world we all know (especially Canadians), and although the lyrical way in which some of the descriptions are written and some of the remote locations give it a timeless quality, the story takes place in contemporary times. We are familiar with the world and the social order portrayed in the book, and we get to know about groups of individuals who are seemingly “normal” but share something “extra”, the “gift” of the title, and it seems this legacy can have as many variants as individuals possess it. Although there are fantasy and paranormal aspects to the novel, I felt they were particularly well integrated into the plot and did not require an extreme grade of suspension of disbelief, and I don’t think you need to be an enthusiast of fantasy or paranormal books to enjoy this series.
This is a book I’d recommend to people who enjoy credible characters, a touch of the paranormal, mysteries that go beyond who-done-it, and who don’t mind a story that builds up slowly and takes readers on flights of fancy through magical experiences and wonderful locations. Oh, and who don’t mind a touch of sex. I’ve become very fond of Em and many of the other characters in the book (Avery is a favourite as well), and I hope to learn how her gift develops further in the future.
June 10, 2013
Though this isn't a genre I typically buy, I was intrigued by the storyline and was rewarded by a "can't put it down" read. The author swept me into a world that's unique in fiction. 'The Gift' the protagonist, Emelynn Taylor, receives is unusual; one I enjoyed vicariously through her actions. J.P. McLean also has a gift for writing racy scenes that are not only surprising but titillating, a bonus for those who like mystery and adventure peppered with spicy romance. I see movie written all over this one.
March 14, 2013
I really enjoyed this book. Took a chance on it as it was a new book with only 3 reviews (obviously by friends of the author or so I would guess).
It is an adult fantacy and while it took me a while to get into it once it had me I couldn't put it down.
Well worth the price. I look forward to the rest of the series.
It is an adult fantacy and while it took me a while to get into it once it had me I couldn't put it down.
Well worth the price. I look forward to the rest of the series.
January 29, 2021
The Review
One of the more unique fantasy-driven narratives I’ve read in a long time, this was a remarkable opening chapter in a new fantasy series. In the first of six books, the author introduces readers to quite a unique world, where the gift many people around the world have always said they’d want is a reality for a select few, but it isn’t always the “gift” people assume it would be.
The core of this novel resides in the protagonist, Emelynn. Her journey hits instantly when readers find her being transported to a hospital, and only gets stranger and stronger as time goes on. The mysterious circumstances of how she got her power, her wild introduction to the Fliers, and the complex web of emotions as she is introduced to new friends, new romance, and freedom she never knew before make her an engaging protagonist.
It was an especially inspired choice to set this story within the real world, and not an original land or world like many fantasy stories like to do. It made the inclusion of thriller and suspense elements in the narrative feel more natural and dynamic. The action and shocking twists and turns as the final pages came made this one of the best reads in the fantasy genre in years.
The Verdict
A powerful, character-driven narrative like no other, author J.P. McLean’s “Secret Sky” is a must-read. The suspense and thrills that this book produces are equally balanced with the more fantastic and romantic genres this book inhabits, while the mythology and protagonist the author crafted help not only draw the reader in but keep them invested throughout the entirety of the novel. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy of this amazing read today!
One of the more unique fantasy-driven narratives I’ve read in a long time, this was a remarkable opening chapter in a new fantasy series. In the first of six books, the author introduces readers to quite a unique world, where the gift many people around the world have always said they’d want is a reality for a select few, but it isn’t always the “gift” people assume it would be.
The core of this novel resides in the protagonist, Emelynn. Her journey hits instantly when readers find her being transported to a hospital, and only gets stranger and stronger as time goes on. The mysterious circumstances of how she got her power, her wild introduction to the Fliers, and the complex web of emotions as she is introduced to new friends, new romance, and freedom she never knew before make her an engaging protagonist.
It was an especially inspired choice to set this story within the real world, and not an original land or world like many fantasy stories like to do. It made the inclusion of thriller and suspense elements in the narrative feel more natural and dynamic. The action and shocking twists and turns as the final pages came made this one of the best reads in the fantasy genre in years.
The Verdict
A powerful, character-driven narrative like no other, author J.P. McLean’s “Secret Sky” is a must-read. The suspense and thrills that this book produces are equally balanced with the more fantastic and romantic genres this book inhabits, while the mythology and protagonist the author crafted help not only draw the reader in but keep them invested throughout the entirety of the novel. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy of this amazing read today!
June 17, 2019
I throughly enjoyed reading this book. It was a perfect escape on a summer day. I couldn’t put it down.
It’s a very creative fun read. Recommend it to anyone who is looking for something to read this summer that is filled with imagination and flights of fancy.
It’s a very creative fun read. Recommend it to anyone who is looking for something to read this summer that is filled with imagination and flights of fancy.
June 24, 2021
An accident, a semi-conscious victim, paramedics and… dark humor?
That’s when you know you might have a great book in your hands and Secret Sky by JP McLean promises, in its first paragraphs, to be an adventure, but does the book live up to seasoned readers expectations? YES IT DOES!
With a very nice description ability, both on the third and first person perspective, JP McLean steadies his grip on our attention and describes to us what we have to see, and slowly but surely the book starts to paint it’s tones upon us.
Mysteries and puzzles are thrown around with a care-free liberty and we as readers follow the main character, trying to solve them, mostly because in a way or another, they are connected to her as she tries to find a hold on her gift and have the chance to experience a “normal” life and release herself from the burden of having to choose her secrets over having people around them.
As she finds people of her “kind” and with the same gift, she realizes that things are more serious than she could imagine and she might be in real danger, and the only way for her to a have a sliver of change of surviving is having hold of her powers.
A warning, though, the book is heavy. Not only in page count, but the mood of our main character and its story is… heavy. Grim, dark and sad, and here’s the kicker, the book would be a reject for this very site, IF it wasn’t so curiously, oddly, and mesmerizingly… satisfying!
Slowly, steadily the book develops and we welcome it’s warm embrace and grip and once we stop reading it, we miss it already because we want more The narrative is strong enough on its grip that we have no other choice to continue to read, and WHY wouldn’t we?! This is about a girl who was given a “gift” of flying and night-vision, that she CAN’T control. How can THAT not make you want know more about what happens?! It’s unheard of!
The roller-coaster rides that we experience as we go along with the main characters adventures and life shows us how hard it is to keep a secret from those you care about in order to protect your own life, which is an interesting take on this type of thriller-fantasy book, and it’s no easy thing to pull out given that as an author, you have to put fantasy while gripping reality, something that JP McLean and made it look easy.
Not only the main character as a uncommon personality setting for a female main character, she surprises us and inspires us with her will and determination even after all that happened in her life, and all that she is going through. It’s something refreshing to read.
Her consistent personality, dark sense of humour and the fact that although she has consistent doubts on herself, which makes her humane, she is determined and wise.
There’s also the fact that Emmelyn, the main character, is logical and not just emotional and reactive.
She is proactive in her choices and thoughts and thinks things through, weighing her decisions and accessing possibilities on her mind, and sometimes even choosing reasoning over feeling.
It’s nice to see such type of female character, specially when on the lead role, which influences readers to be like her, and I think this book will make a difference in the lives of shy women that wish they had the strength and the courage to stand out. It’s empowering. She even, in an indirect fashion, appeals to logic in this sense with other characters, as an example: “Her lack of confidence saddened me because it was way off the mark. Molly’s dark hair set off her flawless pale skin beautifully, she had a curvaceous figure, and her perky personality sealed the deal. Who wouldn’t notice her?”.
There isn’t cliché on the relationships inside the novel, in fact, the relationships examples set out here are VERY healthy, there’s honest love and care, the sex scenes are well made with great build-up and detail and the fact that JP, the author, actually states about putting condoms, is something that distinguishes this book in terms of quality.
There isn’t the arrogant jerk cliché that the girl falls for, but*, there is the “rich” guy cliché, that, if you are ok with, it won’t bother you, because Jackson is a great character, he’s brisk and logical, is well constructed when it comes to his motives, persona and background.
Another thing that I liked a lot about the dynamics of relationships is the fact there are more healthy relationships than toxic ones, even in the spicy sex scenes. It feels natural, it feels real, both his reactions and his concern when the first scene rolls around, not like in some books that the main character has to sign legal documents in order to lose her virginity.
The narrative has a “personal” tone to it, as the narrator, our main character puts in bits and pieces of her thoughts very often and it keeps the atmosphere of the story stable while giving insights on the character’s minds and received inputs of other characters to her.
It’s a pleasant dynamics, given that we can “see, hear and feel” just like the main character, giving us a better experience of reading.
J P McLean
Although few, the action and thriller scenes are worth the wait, and one can feel his heart-rate rise up as he/she reads the words in those detailed sequences, heightening the reading experience significantly.
The whole book has a familiar, VERY much realistic, positive – yet not utopic – feel to it when it comes to relationships.
This is the type of social relationships we should be reading in books more often, the ones that help us understand what to expect and how to behave towards others with care and respect, or, as best as we can. It’s nice. Thank you JP McLean
The book, in it’s entirety and specially upon its completion, feels real. No utopic, fairy tell endings, scenes or platitudes. Although it’s book about flying it’s very much down to earth, and one has to love that.
Great piece of writing by JP McLean, one has to take his hat off for the effort put in this book, it shows.
If you want a book that feels solid and that keeps you on your seat, entertained and pleased, Secret Sky is a very good choice.
PS: For an even better reading experience, do get the paperback or hardcover version. It’ll be worth it.
Pros:
– Emotionally accurate. Great description of emotion
– Consistent plot
– Lovely dark humour
– A resilient, realistic, original, rational and imperfect female main character that DOESN’T play the victim card
– Great character development
– Well thought mysteries and revelations
– Well built of exemplary, realistic and original relationships.
– Realistic storytelling, although there are fantasy points to it
– Lots of burns
– Spicy sex scenes
– Empowering narrative to female readers. Loved this trait of the book.
– Tragic event that hit you
– Amusing character interactions and dialogues
Cons:
Rich, mysterious, bossy “alfa” guy cliché, that had a multi-millionaire father that died. It’s a personal thing, mostly, and it doesn’t show much, but…. yeah…. it’s still a big cliché. I mean, why isn’t the girl rich for once? It seems like a guy isn’t lovable enough if he doesn’t have tons of money.
Favourite Character: Avery.
Lesson from the book:
“Keep your trust in check and think with your head.”
Cover score: 7.8/10
Final Score: 8.5/10
Original review @ https://scribblesworth.wordpress.com/...
That’s when you know you might have a great book in your hands and Secret Sky by JP McLean promises, in its first paragraphs, to be an adventure, but does the book live up to seasoned readers expectations? YES IT DOES!
With a very nice description ability, both on the third and first person perspective, JP McLean steadies his grip on our attention and describes to us what we have to see, and slowly but surely the book starts to paint it’s tones upon us.
Mysteries and puzzles are thrown around with a care-free liberty and we as readers follow the main character, trying to solve them, mostly because in a way or another, they are connected to her as she tries to find a hold on her gift and have the chance to experience a “normal” life and release herself from the burden of having to choose her secrets over having people around them.
As she finds people of her “kind” and with the same gift, she realizes that things are more serious than she could imagine and she might be in real danger, and the only way for her to a have a sliver of change of surviving is having hold of her powers.
A warning, though, the book is heavy. Not only in page count, but the mood of our main character and its story is… heavy. Grim, dark and sad, and here’s the kicker, the book would be a reject for this very site, IF it wasn’t so curiously, oddly, and mesmerizingly… satisfying!
Slowly, steadily the book develops and we welcome it’s warm embrace and grip and once we stop reading it, we miss it already because we want more The narrative is strong enough on its grip that we have no other choice to continue to read, and WHY wouldn’t we?! This is about a girl who was given a “gift” of flying and night-vision, that she CAN’T control. How can THAT not make you want know more about what happens?! It’s unheard of!
The roller-coaster rides that we experience as we go along with the main characters adventures and life shows us how hard it is to keep a secret from those you care about in order to protect your own life, which is an interesting take on this type of thriller-fantasy book, and it’s no easy thing to pull out given that as an author, you have to put fantasy while gripping reality, something that JP McLean and made it look easy.
Not only the main character as a uncommon personality setting for a female main character, she surprises us and inspires us with her will and determination even after all that happened in her life, and all that she is going through. It’s something refreshing to read.
Her consistent personality, dark sense of humour and the fact that although she has consistent doubts on herself, which makes her humane, she is determined and wise.
There’s also the fact that Emmelyn, the main character, is logical and not just emotional and reactive.
She is proactive in her choices and thoughts and thinks things through, weighing her decisions and accessing possibilities on her mind, and sometimes even choosing reasoning over feeling.
It’s nice to see such type of female character, specially when on the lead role, which influences readers to be like her, and I think this book will make a difference in the lives of shy women that wish they had the strength and the courage to stand out. It’s empowering. She even, in an indirect fashion, appeals to logic in this sense with other characters, as an example: “Her lack of confidence saddened me because it was way off the mark. Molly’s dark hair set off her flawless pale skin beautifully, she had a curvaceous figure, and her perky personality sealed the deal. Who wouldn’t notice her?”.
There isn’t cliché on the relationships inside the novel, in fact, the relationships examples set out here are VERY healthy, there’s honest love and care, the sex scenes are well made with great build-up and detail and the fact that JP, the author, actually states about putting condoms, is something that distinguishes this book in terms of quality.
There isn’t the arrogant jerk cliché that the girl falls for, but*, there is the “rich” guy cliché, that, if you are ok with, it won’t bother you, because Jackson is a great character, he’s brisk and logical, is well constructed when it comes to his motives, persona and background.
Another thing that I liked a lot about the dynamics of relationships is the fact there are more healthy relationships than toxic ones, even in the spicy sex scenes. It feels natural, it feels real, both his reactions and his concern when the first scene rolls around, not like in some books that the main character has to sign legal documents in order to lose her virginity.
The narrative has a “personal” tone to it, as the narrator, our main character puts in bits and pieces of her thoughts very often and it keeps the atmosphere of the story stable while giving insights on the character’s minds and received inputs of other characters to her.
It’s a pleasant dynamics, given that we can “see, hear and feel” just like the main character, giving us a better experience of reading.
J P McLean
Although few, the action and thriller scenes are worth the wait, and one can feel his heart-rate rise up as he/she reads the words in those detailed sequences, heightening the reading experience significantly.
The whole book has a familiar, VERY much realistic, positive – yet not utopic – feel to it when it comes to relationships.
This is the type of social relationships we should be reading in books more often, the ones that help us understand what to expect and how to behave towards others with care and respect, or, as best as we can. It’s nice. Thank you JP McLean
The book, in it’s entirety and specially upon its completion, feels real. No utopic, fairy tell endings, scenes or platitudes. Although it’s book about flying it’s very much down to earth, and one has to love that.
Great piece of writing by JP McLean, one has to take his hat off for the effort put in this book, it shows.
If you want a book that feels solid and that keeps you on your seat, entertained and pleased, Secret Sky is a very good choice.
PS: For an even better reading experience, do get the paperback or hardcover version. It’ll be worth it.
Pros:
– Emotionally accurate. Great description of emotion
– Consistent plot
– Lovely dark humour
– A resilient, realistic, original, rational and imperfect female main character that DOESN’T play the victim card
– Great character development
– Well thought mysteries and revelations
– Well built of exemplary, realistic and original relationships.
– Realistic storytelling, although there are fantasy points to it
– Lots of burns
– Spicy sex scenes
– Empowering narrative to female readers. Loved this trait of the book.
– Tragic event that hit you
– Amusing character interactions and dialogues
Cons:
Rich, mysterious, bossy “alfa” guy cliché, that had a multi-millionaire father that died. It’s a personal thing, mostly, and it doesn’t show much, but…. yeah…. it’s still a big cliché. I mean, why isn’t the girl rich for once? It seems like a guy isn’t lovable enough if he doesn’t have tons of money.
Favourite Character: Avery.
Lesson from the book:
“Keep your trust in check and think with your head.”
Cover score: 7.8/10
Final Score: 8.5/10
Original review @ https://scribblesworth.wordpress.com/...
July 15, 2019
Emelynn Taylor’s life hasn’t felt right since she was twelve years old, when a mysterious woman gives her an exceptionally unique gift. But gifts can feel like insurmountable burdens if they take on a life of their own. Emelynn’s situation leaves her isolated, anxious, and desperate to resolve an unwanted ability to levitate. A desperate move to solve her problem lands her in the hospital, which sets off a chain of events causing life-changing consequences.
Although Emelynn is in her early twenties, this book is in many ways a coming of age story about accepting a very different path from the one we choose for ourselves. As more gifts begin to manifest in Emelynn, her life becomes dangerous. There are people who’ll stop at nothing to capture her to analyze, exploit, and dissect her gifts. A spicy new romance with a man named Jackson only adds to the complications of Emelynn’s new reality.
Much of Secret Sky focuses on Emelynn’s need to master her gift and her relationship with Jackson. The author provides a detailed portrayal of Emelynn’s trials and tribulations as she adapts to new possibilities. The methodical pacing allows the reader to fully understand the depth of this character.
To read a novel where monsters and bad guys aren’t bashing down doors at every turn is refreshing. Yet the threat that something awful could happen creates tension on every page. Suspense builds to an action-packed ending that left me breathless. This intelligent, thoughtfully told story will definitely leave fantasy readers wanting more. I’m a huge fan.
Although Emelynn is in her early twenties, this book is in many ways a coming of age story about accepting a very different path from the one we choose for ourselves. As more gifts begin to manifest in Emelynn, her life becomes dangerous. There are people who’ll stop at nothing to capture her to analyze, exploit, and dissect her gifts. A spicy new romance with a man named Jackson only adds to the complications of Emelynn’s new reality.
Much of Secret Sky focuses on Emelynn’s need to master her gift and her relationship with Jackson. The author provides a detailed portrayal of Emelynn’s trials and tribulations as she adapts to new possibilities. The methodical pacing allows the reader to fully understand the depth of this character.
To read a novel where monsters and bad guys aren’t bashing down doors at every turn is refreshing. Yet the threat that something awful could happen creates tension on every page. Suspense builds to an action-packed ending that left me breathless. This intelligent, thoughtfully told story will definitely leave fantasy readers wanting more. I’m a huge fan.
December 21, 2018
This series was originally self-published, and has recently been rebranded with new covers and new titles, a big improvement over the originals. A friend recommended them, and as I am not usually a fan of paranormal/fantasy type novels, I was not sure what I would think. I was absolutely blown away. The protagonist, Emelynn, receives a gift from a stranger as a child, but the gift is really more of a curse. As she matures, she finds herself in possession of strange powers she can't control, and which cause her to withdraw and leave her feeling isolated. After finishing university, she returns to her childhood home, where she meets a mysterious group of similarly gifted people who help her learn to harness and control her powers, but who also draw her into a frightening underworld filled with danger and people who are not what they seem. At first this book felt a bit like the Twilight series, but this is much too clever to be fan-fiction, and it has a bit too much sexual content to be a young adult fantasy novel. The story flowed very well, and I was impressed with the attention to detail, and the originality of the premise. I was able to predict a couple of the plot twists a long way in advance, which should probably make this a four and a half star read, but I enjoyed this novel so much that I am happy to round it up to five. I wasn't looking for another series, but I think I am hooked now.
August 10, 2014
What a Gift!: Fun with Flying
Jo-Anne McLean has created a fun read for those with flights of fancy: as a child, Emelynn has been gifted a remarkable ability by a stranger, one that she only discovers to its full extent as it develops through her teenage years.
Leaving Toronto to start a new life on the West Coast in British Columbia, Emelynn reconnects with old friends but also discovers more of a new life than she bargained for: a complex involvement with a world of others of a similar ability, including their leader, the tetchy Jackson.
What will she do with this new world with rules and regulations that would baffle Einstein? Can she handle the dangers mere mortals don't have to deal with? Embrace them or avoid them? What should she do about her attraction to Jackson? Romantically naive, should she embrace him and become more of a woman or avoid him? Find out. Book your flight with Air McLean at an outlet near you.
Jo-Anne McLean has created a fun read for those with flights of fancy: as a child, Emelynn has been gifted a remarkable ability by a stranger, one that she only discovers to its full extent as it develops through her teenage years.
Leaving Toronto to start a new life on the West Coast in British Columbia, Emelynn reconnects with old friends but also discovers more of a new life than she bargained for: a complex involvement with a world of others of a similar ability, including their leader, the tetchy Jackson.
What will she do with this new world with rules and regulations that would baffle Einstein? Can she handle the dangers mere mortals don't have to deal with? Embrace them or avoid them? What should she do about her attraction to Jackson? Romantically naive, should she embrace him and become more of a woman or avoid him? Find out. Book your flight with Air McLean at an outlet near you.
December 31, 2015
This book introduces you to Emelynn Taylor - waking in hospital after a self-test gone wrong.
With The Gift: Awakening, J. P. McLean has created a thrilling combination of mystery, paranormal, urban fantasy and a touch of romance. It is a compelling read, drawing you in as you learn more about Emelynn ('Em') and her gift. J. P. McLean paints a clear picture of Em's mind while the story evolves. I was drawn close to Em and her story - an invisible friend and ally. The characters are of sufficient depth, believable with their flaws and virtues. The story is a very nicely woven combination of several genres; it was easy to get hooked.
This is a book for you if you like mysteries or paranormal romance with a very urban touch and believable characters with flaws and virtues.
The promising first book in The Gift Legacy series!
Recommended!
4.6 stars
With The Gift: Awakening, J. P. McLean has created a thrilling combination of mystery, paranormal, urban fantasy and a touch of romance. It is a compelling read, drawing you in as you learn more about Emelynn ('Em') and her gift. J. P. McLean paints a clear picture of Em's mind while the story evolves. I was drawn close to Em and her story - an invisible friend and ally. The characters are of sufficient depth, believable with their flaws and virtues. The story is a very nicely woven combination of several genres; it was easy to get hooked.
This is a book for you if you like mysteries or paranormal romance with a very urban touch and believable characters with flaws and virtues.
The promising first book in The Gift Legacy series!
Recommended!
4.6 stars
May 31, 2023
Secret Sky by JP Mclean is an interesting tale. A slow build that readers do not want to miss. I enjoyed the characters, especially, Em. She is the main protagonist. This special character has a gift. A gift that needs to be learned. Em goes about searching for those who can help her with her gift. From there things have spiraled out of control. Danger, suspense, and mystery all bundled into one perfect read. There are elements of paranormal, fantasy, and a tiny itty bit of romance too. The plot is well-crafted. I liked the clues and the twists featured in this novel. Secret Sky is the first in a new addictive series. I cannot wait to follow Em on all of her adventures.
I received this copy from the publisher. This is my voluntary review.
I received this copy from the publisher. This is my voluntary review.
April 2, 2013
JP McLean's The Gift: Awakening drew me in right from the opening pages. It is a smart, contemporary urban fantasy set against the backdrop of Vancouver and the west coast that makes you long to travel there and see the ocean for yourself. This book is a thoroughly entertaining read: it has fully formed, engaging characters, romantic intrigue, humour, action, suspense and a really fascinating premise. This kind of book is outside my usual genre, but sometimes you want a really good page-turner, and The Gift: Awakening answers that call.
July 26, 2012
What an amazing debut novel. It's got something for everyone - a little romance, humour, drama, sex, suspense. A completely satisfactory read. I can't wait to read the next installment: The Gift Book II: Revelation. The excerpt on J.P.'s website has drawn me in.....J.P. McLean
November 8, 2012
Really good book, in the genre of the Twilight Series or even The Hunger Games. In this respect, I think young adults would really like it. It's an easy read, holds ones interest, and I look forward to reading the second installment!
March 15, 2013
Great start to a trilogy! Something in it that appeals to many ages. Looking forward to the next book, to see where & how this gift further influences Emelynn's life. It was a fun to read and with fantasy woven in it provokes the imagination.
September 6, 2013
This book is a lot of fun...sensual, full of adventure, rooted in the underlying story of a young women coming to terms with her life and yet managing to incorporate the burden of her gift.
I am hooked and am deeply in to part 2 Revelation.
I am hooked and am deeply in to part 2 Revelation.
January 11, 2019
Secret skies
I liked the main character. She was a little naive at first but I think she is going to be a quick learner. The thing I didn't like was all of the sequels. I usually only like 1or2 parts. I would recommend this book.
I liked the main character. She was a little naive at first but I think she is going to be a quick learner. The thing I didn't like was all of the sequels. I usually only like 1or2 parts. I would recommend this book.
June 28, 2013
This was amazing! I burned through this in no time, even though I was trying to "save" it so I wouldn't be done so quickly. Can't wait to read the next one!
September 16, 2021
An intense psychological coming-of-age story, Secret Sky kept me flipping pages far into the night. Emelynn Taylor, a troubled and naive twenty-two-year-old woman, returns to the seaside cottage where she grew up. As idyllic as it sounds, something’s not quite right. Without warning, Em’s body begins to lose gravity and she finds herself floating into the sky, then crashing back down. She’s been given a gift but no instructions on how to use it. Though she’s made it through university, her floating bouts impact her ability to work, even with her pockets full of rocks. So, with the keys to the cottage and six-months living expenses courtesy of her mother, she returns to the romantic scene of her childhood. But that doesn’t seem to solve the problem.
Secret Sky is the first book in The Gift Legacy series and Emelynn’s gift is one of flight. Who has not envied the birds and dreamed of flying? As a child, I tried to jump off my father’s armchair into flight; after all, I was named after Wendy from Peter Pan. Flying dreams followed, where I ran off the edge of a hill and was suddenly airborne, arms moving in a gentle breast stroke. If you’ve ever experienced these fantasies, you’ll love Jo-Anne’s descriptions of flying. McLean is a masterful writer and includes a complete flying glossary where she introduces you to her secret world.
After a disastrous crash, Emelynn is discovered, healed, and brought up to speed on her gift by Dr. Avery Coulter, a kind doctor, who is part of a secret underground society of flyers. The handsome, sexy, rich, and charming Jackson takes her “under his wing” on his yacht and teaches her to use her gift. Part romance, part sexy thriller, this series introduces a brilliantly original world where our desires are possible.
The story is set in Coastal British Columbia in an idyllic setting that makes me a little envious of young Emelynn who lives in a postcard cottage with waterfront and is able to fly.
There are seven books in The Gift Legacy series. For more info, go to https://jpmcleanauthor.com/
Secret Sky is the first book in The Gift Legacy series and Emelynn’s gift is one of flight. Who has not envied the birds and dreamed of flying? As a child, I tried to jump off my father’s armchair into flight; after all, I was named after Wendy from Peter Pan. Flying dreams followed, where I ran off the edge of a hill and was suddenly airborne, arms moving in a gentle breast stroke. If you’ve ever experienced these fantasies, you’ll love Jo-Anne’s descriptions of flying. McLean is a masterful writer and includes a complete flying glossary where she introduces you to her secret world.
After a disastrous crash, Emelynn is discovered, healed, and brought up to speed on her gift by Dr. Avery Coulter, a kind doctor, who is part of a secret underground society of flyers. The handsome, sexy, rich, and charming Jackson takes her “under his wing” on his yacht and teaches her to use her gift. Part romance, part sexy thriller, this series introduces a brilliantly original world where our desires are possible.
The story is set in Coastal British Columbia in an idyllic setting that makes me a little envious of young Emelynn who lives in a postcard cottage with waterfront and is able to fly.
There are seven books in The Gift Legacy series. For more info, go to https://jpmcleanauthor.com/
July 25, 2019
This book is a quirky combination of fantasy, romance, and suspense. I know the description of the book says it as a thriller, but I wouldn't call it that. Even the suspense part doesn't really happen until the end. The heroine is given a gift that feels more like a curse until she meets others who have it. Much of the book has to do with her trying to understand her gifts, first on her own and then with the group. The middle section seems to be heavily into the romance aspect of the story while the end is more suspenseful; the book did feel unbalanced to me; I would have liked to see the suspense element woven more throughout.
The first scene pulled me in right away because the action was just allowed to happen without a lot of backstory; authors of fantasy worlds are usually too tempted to describe their world (and sometimes in great detail) and let that to take up much of the beginning pages. But after these good early scenes after her “accident,” the pace of the book really slowed down as the heroine tried to figure out her gift. There was quite a long lull period before things got interesting again.
The author did an excellent job creating a fantasy world that coexists alongside the normal one; it felt believable. I felt like there were some cringe-worthy moments in the romance aspect of the book. This book is a long one, and I do feel it could have benefited from some judicious developmental editing.
I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
Read my other reviews at https://www.readingfanaticreviews.com.
The first scene pulled me in right away because the action was just allowed to happen without a lot of backstory; authors of fantasy worlds are usually too tempted to describe their world (and sometimes in great detail) and let that to take up much of the beginning pages. But after these good early scenes after her “accident,” the pace of the book really slowed down as the heroine tried to figure out her gift. There was quite a long lull period before things got interesting again.
The author did an excellent job creating a fantasy world that coexists alongside the normal one; it felt believable. I felt like there were some cringe-worthy moments in the romance aspect of the book. This book is a long one, and I do feel it could have benefited from some judicious developmental editing.
I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
Read my other reviews at https://www.readingfanaticreviews.com.
August 24, 2019
Emelynn Tayler was twelve when she was given a gift. Not the pretty decorated ones with wonderful things inside but rather a scary one she can’t control. First she got night vision, then she started floating at night and then uncontrolled flights that scare her. Now twenty, she moves back to her home town and the small family cottage determined to get her gift under control. . But instead of finding a way to control things, she is violently thrown around in a storm resulting in an ICU visit.she finds help in the form of a secret society but this is just the beginning of her
story.
I
This is the first book in the Legacy of the Gift series and serves to introduce her paranormal ability, the characters and what is happening in their secret society. Be prepared to read more books as you will get hooked into this series with the excellent writing, personable characters and creativity of the author. The characters are well crafted making the flawed, vulnerable, strong-willed and personable. Emelynn’s characters is extremely likeable and you can identify with her plight to figure out how to handle her gift. Right from the beginning there it is an emotional rollercoaster as she remembers her past and tries to move forward. The narrative is amazing. The action scenes are extremely well done and easy to follow. The storyline is filled with suspense, betrayal and surprises. It is a wonderful start to a creative series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
story.
I
This is the first book in the Legacy of the Gift series and serves to introduce her paranormal ability, the characters and what is happening in their secret society. Be prepared to read more books as you will get hooked into this series with the excellent writing, personable characters and creativity of the author. The characters are well crafted making the flawed, vulnerable, strong-willed and personable. Emelynn’s characters is extremely likeable and you can identify with her plight to figure out how to handle her gift. Right from the beginning there it is an emotional rollercoaster as she remembers her past and tries to move forward. The narrative is amazing. The action scenes are extremely well done and easy to follow. The storyline is filled with suspense, betrayal and surprises. It is a wonderful start to a creative series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 5, 2019
Actually 3.5 stars.
Secret Sky #1 – This is my first read by this author and I like it. The story’s beginning was slow where the author tried to make a mystery of what happened to Emelynn. The story is interesting, but too wordy, needs editing.
The storylines are good with good characters, several of which were likeable. The author does well with her descriptions, adding to the interest of the story. There is infrequent usage of vulgar language. Ms. McLean shows a complete disregard for the proper usage of God and expressions concerning God, which shows me an intolerance and prejudice against Christians. There are plenty of inoffensive expressions that will work in place of God. There is an overview, which I appreciate knowing what a book is about before I read it. I found several books of this series in Booksprout. 3.5*
Lover Betrayed (Companion Book or #1.5) – I recommend reading this book after Secret Sky since there are parts that explain some things that were not discussed in detail in SS. Of course, there will be redundancies, which I skipped. I found this book too wordy with a good viewpoint from him, but not really a need to read book. It is largely about him, his father and his brother. The event of her kidnapping is detailed. Again, the author shows her prejudice against Christians with her word choices. There is an overview, which I appreciate knowing what a book is about before I read it. I found several books of this series in Booksprout. 4*
Secret Sky #1 – This is my first read by this author and I like it. The story’s beginning was slow where the author tried to make a mystery of what happened to Emelynn. The story is interesting, but too wordy, needs editing.
The storylines are good with good characters, several of which were likeable. The author does well with her descriptions, adding to the interest of the story. There is infrequent usage of vulgar language. Ms. McLean shows a complete disregard for the proper usage of God and expressions concerning God, which shows me an intolerance and prejudice against Christians. There are plenty of inoffensive expressions that will work in place of God. There is an overview, which I appreciate knowing what a book is about before I read it. I found several books of this series in Booksprout. 3.5*
Lover Betrayed (Companion Book or #1.5) – I recommend reading this book after Secret Sky since there are parts that explain some things that were not discussed in detail in SS. Of course, there will be redundancies, which I skipped. I found this book too wordy with a good viewpoint from him, but not really a need to read book. It is largely about him, his father and his brother. The event of her kidnapping is detailed. Again, the author shows her prejudice against Christians with her word choices. There is an overview, which I appreciate knowing what a book is about before I read it. I found several books of this series in Booksprout. 4*
April 17, 2020
I received this as an advanced reading copy.
The plot is interesting. The book reads like a mystery with elements of fantasy and romance. While the content definitely makes this a fantasy novel, the structure is more like that of a mystery. The start is a bit slow but starts with an event that really captures you. The main character, Em, explains her background that set the stage for this novel in a series of flash backs right at the start that were deftly handled during periods of unconsciousness as she is in the hospital recovering from her mysterious accident. This is right at the start of the book so I don't really consider this a spoiler.
So while the start is slow the mystery of what is happening to Em holds the reader's attention. Because Em clearly knows what happened but it is a mystery to the reader. I'm trying not to say too much about this book. I don't want to give things away. Even when I was not reading the book I kept thinking about it. It is a bit longer than most of the other ARCs I get. The kindle said it would be a 6 hour read for me and most are only 2 to 3 hours.
I can happily give this book a 5 star rating.
The plot is interesting. The book reads like a mystery with elements of fantasy and romance. While the content definitely makes this a fantasy novel, the structure is more like that of a mystery. The start is a bit slow but starts with an event that really captures you. The main character, Em, explains her background that set the stage for this novel in a series of flash backs right at the start that were deftly handled during periods of unconsciousness as she is in the hospital recovering from her mysterious accident. This is right at the start of the book so I don't really consider this a spoiler.
So while the start is slow the mystery of what is happening to Em holds the reader's attention. Because Em clearly knows what happened but it is a mystery to the reader. I'm trying not to say too much about this book. I don't want to give things away. Even when I was not reading the book I kept thinking about it. It is a bit longer than most of the other ARCs I get. The kindle said it would be a 6 hour read for me and most are only 2 to 3 hours.
I can happily give this book a 5 star rating.
October 23, 2021
Secret Sky (The Gift Legacy, #1)
by J.P. McLean
For Creative Edge Publicity
I found this book an exciting twist the the heroic novels. The idea that gifts can bestow not only magical flight, but other abilities is a rare and refreshing look into the idea of superhuman powers. Emelynn Taylor does not understand the gift given to her by the stranger Jolene. Whom she meets on the shoreside of her childhood home. The price of the gift is a lot of secrets. When she begins to find the answers about the mystery becomes larger, and more dangerous. Her inexperience may be her downfall. J. P. McLean has a wonderful prose in her story, looking at the cost in emotion and body for the gifts are given.
by J.P. McLean
For Creative Edge Publicity
I found this book an exciting twist the the heroic novels. The idea that gifts can bestow not only magical flight, but other abilities is a rare and refreshing look into the idea of superhuman powers. Emelynn Taylor does not understand the gift given to her by the stranger Jolene. Whom she meets on the shoreside of her childhood home. The price of the gift is a lot of secrets. When she begins to find the answers about the mystery becomes larger, and more dangerous. Her inexperience may be her downfall. J. P. McLean has a wonderful prose in her story, looking at the cost in emotion and body for the gifts are given.
December 26, 2023
I'm delighted that I was recommended this book. It encompasses all the elements of a good story: likable characters, an unpredictable plot, adventure, suspense, and romance. The main character, Em, possesses supernatural gifts that she learns and strengthens throughout the story, encountering a series of situations and mishaps along the way. She grapples with fitting in with "regular" people and those who share her gifts, all while navigating complex family relationships. To say that I enjoyed this book would be an understatement: I loved it and highly recommend it to anyone who appreciates a compelling story, regardless of the genre. It's phenomenal.
January 19, 2022
I discovered J.P. in a blog post where she talked about writing on a isolated island and how it affected her work. I was intrigued and purchased Secret Sky. Here prose is very descriptive and evocative in its descriptions of place. The story started a bit slow for me but 'took off' (pardon the pun), when the main character learns to control her gift of flight. This story is full of mystery, intrigue, magic, romance and adventure. The flight scenes will take you breath away. Made me re-live my childhood fantasy of being able to fly. Looking forward to reading the rest of the series.
November 4, 2023
Emmelyn Taylor lived on the Pacific Coast of Canada until the death of her father, after that her mother moved her to Toronto. Just before her father dies Emmelyn is given a gift by a woman on the beach but does not realize the extent of her gift until much later. Emmelyn was grieving and socially awkward most of her teen years and on top of everything else she has a huge secret that makes her think she is going crazy. People are being killed, women are being kidnapped and others want the gifts that Emmelyn has. I definitely want the next book in this series!
August 1, 2019
This story is on the realms of fantasy, which is not my chosen genre to read. This story tells of a young girl who gets a 'gift' all of a sudden and has no control over it. This causes problems for her since she doesn't know how to control it. She goes to the 'Secret Society' in hopes of learning more, but there she isn't sure what they are. Good or bad. I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book.
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