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The Gift Legacy #4
Lethal Waters
A body in the water. A vast ocean. A killer on the loose.
In the midst of a bloody rebellion, Emelynn Taylor exposes her gift of flight to save a man’s life. Now International Covert Operations knows her secret. The powerful organization is willing to cover up the carnage and protect her secret—in exchange for her services.
Her first assignment, a drug case in the coastal city of Vancouver, soon reveals a grisly murder that implicates one of her own kind.
Stalked by the ancient Tribunal Novem and vilified by a distrustful team of detectives, Emelynn takes on a perilous undercover role embedded in a drug ring where anyone could be the murderer.
Intrigue and danger lurk in the cold Pacific, challenging Emelynn’s unique gift and pitting her loyalties against her honour. And her choice is guaranteed to hurt someone.
The fourth book in The Gift Legacy series, Lethal Waters is a thriller that skirts the edges of reality in a world within our own. Don your life jacket and escape the ordinary: take flight with Emelynn Taylor.
(Lethal Waters was previously published as The Gift: Penance)
318 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 1, 2015
4 people are currently reading
17 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 - 16 of 16 reviews
July 14, 2019
I'm working my way through The Gift Legacy series, and this is the fourth of seven books. This one was formerly titled Penance, but I like the new title Lethal Waters (and the new cover) much better. The series is about a young woman who lives on the West Coast of Canada and has a supernatural power. In the beginning she didn't fully know how to use her power, but she is getting better at it -- and even has a NEW power to add to the old one. In spite of her powers and her peace-loving nature, she gets embroiled in some life-threatening situations as some very bad dudes are always out to kill her or take away her assets. And along the way, she also has some mind-blowing sexual encounters! Lots of thrills and spills in this action-packed series!
November 19, 2016
This book reunites the readers with Emelynn Taylor – in need to work undercover to keep the deal with the ICO.
With The Gift: Penance, J. P. McLean has once again created a thrilling combination of mystery, paranormal, urban fantasy, and a touch of romance with steamy situations. It is a compelling read centred on Emelynn, drawing you close to her. J. P. McLean paints a clear picture of the main characters' mindsets while the story evolves. In this fourth story, I was drawn even closer to Em – again an invisible friend and ally; trying to find the culprits with her. The characters are of sufficient depth, believable with their flaws and virtues. The story is a very nicely woven combination of several genres, has a wonderful flow; it was easy to get hooked. I had a great time reading The Gift: Penance.
This is a book for you if you like mysteries or paranormal romance with a very urban touch and believable characters, some strewn in steamy situations, and some violent events.
The stunning fourth book in The Gift Legacy series!
Highly recommended!
With The Gift: Penance, J. P. McLean has once again created a thrilling combination of mystery, paranormal, urban fantasy, and a touch of romance with steamy situations. It is a compelling read centred on Emelynn, drawing you close to her. J. P. McLean paints a clear picture of the main characters' mindsets while the story evolves. In this fourth story, I was drawn even closer to Em – again an invisible friend and ally; trying to find the culprits with her. The characters are of sufficient depth, believable with their flaws and virtues. The story is a very nicely woven combination of several genres, has a wonderful flow; it was easy to get hooked. I had a great time reading The Gift: Penance.
This is a book for you if you like mysteries or paranormal romance with a very urban touch and believable characters, some strewn in steamy situations, and some violent events.
The stunning fourth book in The Gift Legacy series!
Highly recommended!
August 26, 2019
Emelynn has been outed, her secret revealed when she uses her flight skills to save a man, all of this in the midst of a bloody revolution. She is given a choice, work for an secret organization, The International Covert Operations and in return they will guard her secret. Her first assignment is an international drug ring and a murdered who just might be another flyer. She is not s safe as the Tribunal is still after her and the police remain suspicious of her. Can she walk the fine line between helping and protecting herself and others she loves.
This book is the fourth book in the Gift Legacy series, a great thriller series about paranormals who can fly among other things. The main character continues to grow and develop and by now, if you have read the previous books, is like family. You can not help but root for her in all aspects of her life. The other characters are creative, each with distinctive personalities and vary from likeable to down right scary. The mystery itself is well executed with surprises, dangerous twist and scary turns that keep you turning the pages until the unexpected climax. This is an emotional rollercoaster as Emelynn deals with her internal struggles and everything life is throwing at her and her feelings for James. The romance is definitely ramped up in this book. There is some sexy hot steamy scenes worked well into the amazing storyline. This is an addictive series worth starting.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This book is the fourth book in the Gift Legacy series, a great thriller series about paranormals who can fly among other things. The main character continues to grow and develop and by now, if you have read the previous books, is like family. You can not help but root for her in all aspects of her life. The other characters are creative, each with distinctive personalities and vary from likeable to down right scary. The mystery itself is well executed with surprises, dangerous twist and scary turns that keep you turning the pages until the unexpected climax. This is an emotional rollercoaster as Emelynn deals with her internal struggles and everything life is throwing at her and her feelings for James. The romance is definitely ramped up in this book. There is some sexy hot steamy scenes worked well into the amazing storyline. This is an addictive series worth starting.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 1, 2023
Lethal Waters is the fourth book in The Gift Legacy series by JP McLean and it reads well as a standalone novel, a fascinating and hugely engaging story that will hold the attention of fans of the paranormal from the beginning to the very last page. To save a man's life, Emelynn Taylor is compelled to use her gift of flight. She exposes herself by so doing and attracts the attention of a shadowy international organization that offers to protect her secret in exchange for her services. While on a mission in Vancouver, she is faced with deadly enemies, haunted by the Tribunal Novem and being on the radar of relentless detectives.
The protagonist is a young female character with a special gift, but when submerged in a case involving a drug ring and murder, she finds her loyalty tested and stretched to the limit. It is an intriguing situation in which no one can be trusted. The suspense is intense and readers want to know what happens to her and if she can solve the case and get out unscathed.
JP McLean plots deftly and writes in language that is captivating, melding engaging dialogues with terrific descriptions to offer the entertainment that readers look for in the genre. But it is her deft plotting and gift for a character that had me turning the pages. Emelynn Taylor is a sophisticated character that readers will quickly get attached to, and while she has a unique gift, her struggles make her deeply human and they win the sympathy of readers. Now, I will have to go back and read other books in the series.
The protagonist is a young female character with a special gift, but when submerged in a case involving a drug ring and murder, she finds her loyalty tested and stretched to the limit. It is an intriguing situation in which no one can be trusted. The suspense is intense and readers want to know what happens to her and if she can solve the case and get out unscathed.
JP McLean plots deftly and writes in language that is captivating, melding engaging dialogues with terrific descriptions to offer the entertainment that readers look for in the genre. But it is her deft plotting and gift for a character that had me turning the pages. Emelynn Taylor is a sophisticated character that readers will quickly get attached to, and while she has a unique gift, her struggles make her deeply human and they win the sympathy of readers. Now, I will have to go back and read other books in the series.
February 14, 2022
The Review
I am a massive fan of this series. I always love seeing the author naturally blend the events of the previous books and the events that individual characters have undergone into the narrative without feeling like a summary and instead more of a natural progression of the modern story. The characters continued to evolve the history and mythos of those with her gifts while turning more into the mystery aspect of the narrative. Emelynn’s turn as an undercover agent of sorts, brought in unexpectedly into an investigation after a series of synchronicity style events puts her in the investigation’s path, added a depth of intrigue and mystery that readers are going to absolutely love.
The descriptive narrative the author utilized here really brought this world to life in the reader’s mind. The action and suspense of who the main players in this investigation were and who could be trusted added a burst of adrenaline as the events began to pile up one after the other for Emelynn.
The Verdict
Entertaining, heart-pounding, yet highly thoughtful in its approach to the mystery, author J.P. McLean’s “Lethal Waters” is a must-read novel and the perfect addition to this growing series. The action and mythos really will keep readers on the edge of their seat, while the new direction the author takes the protagonist will breathe new life into this fantasy universe, making this a book in the series that is not to be missed.
I am a massive fan of this series. I always love seeing the author naturally blend the events of the previous books and the events that individual characters have undergone into the narrative without feeling like a summary and instead more of a natural progression of the modern story. The characters continued to evolve the history and mythos of those with her gifts while turning more into the mystery aspect of the narrative. Emelynn’s turn as an undercover agent of sorts, brought in unexpectedly into an investigation after a series of synchronicity style events puts her in the investigation’s path, added a depth of intrigue and mystery that readers are going to absolutely love.
The descriptive narrative the author utilized here really brought this world to life in the reader’s mind. The action and suspense of who the main players in this investigation were and who could be trusted added a burst of adrenaline as the events began to pile up one after the other for Emelynn.
The Verdict
Entertaining, heart-pounding, yet highly thoughtful in its approach to the mystery, author J.P. McLean’s “Lethal Waters” is a must-read novel and the perfect addition to this growing series. The action and mythos really will keep readers on the edge of their seat, while the new direction the author takes the protagonist will breathe new life into this fantasy universe, making this a book in the series that is not to be missed.
August 23, 2019
When you review a book that is a part have a long series, there's always the danger, it feels like, of telling too much. So, I’m going to try to avoid that. Em’s adventure continues. One thing I can definitely say is that the author does create a very different plot for each book of this series. In this one, Em has to make a hard choice that definitely puts her in danger. She interacts with some new people as well as some old ones. The author does do a good job showing this parallel paranormal world that exists within the greater nonparanormal society.
I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
Read my other reviews at https://www.readingfanaticreviews.com.
I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
Read my other reviews at https://www.readingfanaticreviews.com.
November 15, 2022
Lethal waters
By J.p. mclean
The fourth book in the gift legacy series, does not disappoint. The result of the prior book has set up this story to show the tricky nature of undercover work.The mystery of the fireman's death is uniquely drawn out showing the biased nature of police work.
I liked the characters and found them relatable. The use of the gifted powers makes a great investigative idea.
I didn't like that the main character kept going over the same argument about how their suspect could not be involved. Her argument had no more substance or proof then the police had to accuse him.
I recommend this book to many readers. It can easily cross genres; it can be listed as thriller, superhero, romance or mystery.
By J.p. mclean
The fourth book in the gift legacy series, does not disappoint. The result of the prior book has set up this story to show the tricky nature of undercover work.The mystery of the fireman's death is uniquely drawn out showing the biased nature of police work.
I liked the characters and found them relatable. The use of the gifted powers makes a great investigative idea.
I didn't like that the main character kept going over the same argument about how their suspect could not be involved. Her argument had no more substance or proof then the police had to accuse him.
I recommend this book to many readers. It can easily cross genres; it can be listed as thriller, superhero, romance or mystery.
August 24, 2019
When Eme saved a man's life, her gift was exposed to International Covert Operations and they want her to work for them in exchange to keep her secret quiet. When her first assignment may implicate one of her own, Eme's between a rock and a hard place. How does this all come out? That is for you to read the book to find out. I have read each one in the series and the characters are being developed very well, the storylines are complicated enough it keeps the reader guessing and doesn't let the ending come up until it is right for the story. I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book from Booksprout.
August 17, 2019
Lethal Waters, not The Gift: Penance, is the book I read.
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*
Hidden Enemy #2 – I find this is a better book than the previous two I have read so far. This will be a hard review to write without turning it into a book report. This story picks up three months after Secret Sky ends. I like that there is so much going on with the old and new storylines. While there is a lot of intrigue, Emeline is evolving. She has growth and changes in her makeup making her a more developed person. There are some mysteries to add even more interest and intrigue to the good storylines, with a good blend of the old and present storylines. Although I keep a good reading pace with the first two books, I had a hard time putting the book down. Hopefully, the rest of the books will increase or keep pace with the continued growth in characters and storylines. I found several books of this series in Booksprout. 4*
Burning Lies #3 – This book begins one month after Hidden Enemy ends. OK, I am not bored yet with reading this series. Each book gets better and has quite a few twists and turns that bring back old storylines to mesh with the present and future plots. There is plenty of intrigue, action and other interests to keep the reader immersed in the pages. While the beginning is a bit slow with the author’s usual way of adding mystery before diving into the story. Emelynn has a new job and it is rather interesting, but not without strife and bother. There is an overview and glossary as with the other books. I found several books of this series in Booksprout. 4*
Lethal Waters #4 – This book begins three months after Burning Lies ends. I am still not bored with reading this series; they are a bit wordy and start off with the author’s style of trying to be mysterious. The pace always picks up and there is a good blending of all storylines; past, present and future. Ms. McLean does not disappoint, she adds plenty of intrigue, twists and vivid descriptions. I have a problem with writing reviews for series since I want to write a book report of why this addition was a good read, too. There is an overview, which I appreciate knowing about a book before I read it, and there is a glossary. I found several books of this series in Booksprout. 4*
Deadly Deception #5 – This book picks up where Lethal Waters stops. What an interesting series this has been and I only have one book remaining: Wings of Prey #6. I found this book interesting and intriguing. The characters still run the gamut and since this is a series, only the new ones appear. The rest come and go as the storylines require, which the author does a good job blending all the storylines from book one to present. While a bit wordy, the author does well with her storylines, characters and descriptions, and she keeps the pace moving. There is an overview, which I appreciate knowing about a book before I read it, and there is a glossary. I found several books of this series in Booksprout. 4*
Wings of Prey #6 – This book picks up about three weeks after Deadly Deception ends. I have enjoyed this series by Ms. McLean. All her books have been wordy and a tad slow from the start with her writing style of trying to create a mysterious beginning. Then the stories kick into gear and the pace never slows down. There are plenty of twists and kinks added to the storylines started with the first book and added on to with each addition. There may be a storyline that appeared in one book only to conclude or build upon the present or future storylines. The characters run the gamut and none stand out as particularly stupid, but have depths of their own. Ms. McLean does a wonderful job with her storytelling, placing the reader in the midst of everything, big and small. I like the originality of the subject, flying people with unique skills. The author takes common subject matter and makes them her own. There are no repeats of someone else’s work or a Hollywood product. Intrigue, deception, romance, vengeance, honor, mystery, love and hate; this series has it all. I found this series on 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*
Hidden Enemy #2 – I find this is a better book than the previous two I have read so far. This will be a hard review to write without turning it into a book report. This story picks up three months after Secret Sky ends. I like that there is so much going on with the old and new storylines. While there is a lot of intrigue, Emeline is evolving. She has growth and changes in her makeup making her a more developed person. There are some mysteries to add even more interest and intrigue to the good storylines, with a good blend of the old and present storylines. Although I keep a good reading pace with the first two books, I had a hard time putting the book down. Hopefully, the rest of the books will increase or keep pace with the continued growth in characters and storylines. I found several books of this series in Booksprout. 4*
Burning Lies #3 – This book begins one month after Hidden Enemy ends. OK, I am not bored yet with reading this series. Each book gets better and has quite a few twists and turns that bring back old storylines to mesh with the present and future plots. There is plenty of intrigue, action and other interests to keep the reader immersed in the pages. While the beginning is a bit slow with the author’s usual way of adding mystery before diving into the story. Emelynn has a new job and it is rather interesting, but not without strife and bother. There is an overview and glossary as with the other books. I found several books of this series in Booksprout. 4*
Lethal Waters #4 – This book begins three months after Burning Lies ends. I am still not bored with reading this series; they are a bit wordy and start off with the author’s style of trying to be mysterious. The pace always picks up and there is a good blending of all storylines; past, present and future. Ms. McLean does not disappoint, she adds plenty of intrigue, twists and vivid descriptions. I have a problem with writing reviews for series since I want to write a book report of why this addition was a good read, too. There is an overview, which I appreciate knowing about a book before I read it, and there is a glossary. I found several books of this series in Booksprout. 4*
Deadly Deception #5 – This book picks up where Lethal Waters stops. What an interesting series this has been and I only have one book remaining: Wings of Prey #6. I found this book interesting and intriguing. The characters still run the gamut and since this is a series, only the new ones appear. The rest come and go as the storylines require, which the author does a good job blending all the storylines from book one to present. While a bit wordy, the author does well with her storylines, characters and descriptions, and she keeps the pace moving. There is an overview, which I appreciate knowing about a book before I read it, and there is a glossary. I found several books of this series in Booksprout. 4*
Wings of Prey #6 – This book picks up about three weeks after Deadly Deception ends. I have enjoyed this series by Ms. McLean. All her books have been wordy and a tad slow from the start with her writing style of trying to create a mysterious beginning. Then the stories kick into gear and the pace never slows down. There are plenty of twists and kinks added to the storylines started with the first book and added on to with each addition. There may be a storyline that appeared in one book only to conclude or build upon the present or future storylines. The characters run the gamut and none stand out as particularly stupid, but have depths of their own. Ms. McLean does a wonderful job with her storytelling, placing the reader in the midst of everything, big and small. I like the originality of the subject, flying people with unique skills. The author takes common subject matter and makes them her own. There are no repeats of someone else’s work or a Hollywood product. Intrigue, deception, romance, vengeance, honor, mystery, love and hate; this series has it all. I found this series on Booksprout. 4*
June 30, 2019
Fantasy is not my usual choice in choosing a book, but I was given the first of this series by someone in my book club, and I enjoyed the book and the writing, so have made a point of trying to finish the series. The series has relationships, mystery, and a bit of fantasy thrown in. I found it easy to read, and I when I got near the end, I wanted to finish it before I put it down for the night.
August 28, 2019
This series has me hooked. This is book 4 and it did not disappoint. Love the twists and turns. The book is very well written along with the characters. I highly recommend reading this series. I love reading JP McLeans books.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 25, 2019
JP has created a rich world with memorable and well-crafted characters. In addition to action, tension, thrills and plot twists, there is also a searing hot romance—all the ingredients to keep a reader turning the page and returning for more.
With 4 books now read and relished, I am binge-reading the last 2 books in the series over Christmas.
With 4 books now read and relished, I am binge-reading the last 2 books in the series over Christmas.
August 25, 2019
Lots of twists in the plot and such a compelling story. This is book 4 and I am totally hooked on this series. Have been since the first book. Plenty of action and characters that are very likable.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 26, 2019
The series continues and the author has come up with another exciting, thrilling adventure. As usual the characters are all well rounded and the story flows very well.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 6, 2021
This was a thriller as well as a fantasy story.
The fourth book in the series sees Emelynn move on with her life, so must we as the reader. We take comfort in familiar characters, but new ones are introduced keeping it fresh and intriguing. This time Emelynn is indebted to the police, and for them to keep her secret, she has to help them with their investigations. She is about to start the first case with the help of Sam, her favourite detective.
Another great adventure. I love this series and am working my way through each one.
The fourth book in the series sees Emelynn move on with her life, so must we as the reader. We take comfort in familiar characters, but new ones are introduced keeping it fresh and intriguing. This time Emelynn is indebted to the police, and for them to keep her secret, she has to help them with their investigations. She is about to start the first case with the help of Sam, her favourite detective.
Another great adventure. I love this series and am working my way through each one.
April 23, 2016
I am a huge fan of the Gift Trilogy, and was very keen to dive into this fourth book. I really enjoyed Penance. It is once again, a 'can't put it down once you have started' read, and I was sorry when it was finished. This book is very well-written, dynamic and nicely layered, both in terms of plot and character.
I found Emelynn's role as a detective particularly satisfying- probably because I prefer crime fiction to fantasy in the end. I can't wait for her to delve more into crime solving work!
I wish this one was still on my yet-to-be read list. I look forward to reading more of McLean's books.
Sussan
I found Emelynn's role as a detective particularly satisfying- probably because I prefer crime fiction to fantasy in the end. I can't wait for her to delve more into crime solving work!
I wish this one was still on my yet-to-be read list. I look forward to reading more of McLean's books.
Sussan
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews