Picture a Canadian storyteller who spins tales of secret societies and supernatural gifts against the rugged backdrop of British Columbia’s Gulf Islands—meet J.P. McLean! This award-winning author of urban fantasy and supernatural thrillers has captivated readers with her imaginative worlds, where the impossible feels tantalizingly real. From her home on Denman Island, McLean crafts stories that blend mystery, magic, and heart-pounding suspense, earning praise from literary luminaries and fans alike.
With her Gift Legacy series leading the charge, McLean has carved a niche in speculative fiction, inviting readers to suspend reality and ask, 'What if?' Her unique journey from business professional to bestselling author adds a fascinating layer to her creative legacy, making her a standout voice in Canadian literature.
The Making of J.P. McLean
Born and raised in Toronto, Ontario, Jo-Anne 'J.P.' McLean grew up with a love for the outdoors, spending summers at her family’s cottage on the Manitouwabing River. After earning a Bachelor of Commerce from the University of British Columbia’s Sauder School of Business, she built a successful career in human resources, living in places as diverse as Mexico and Arizona. But it was her move to Denman Island, a serene Gulf Island off Vancouver Island, that sparked her writing journey. Inspired by the island’s wild beaches and towering firs, McLean found her calling in urban fantasy, fueled by authors like Deborah Harkness and Charlaine Harris.
McLean’s transition to writing wasn’t planned—she stumbled into it while seeking a creative outlet during a cold, rainy winter on Denman. What began as a whim became a passion, and her debut novel, The Gift: Awakening, launched a career that would redefine her life and captivate readers worldwide.
J.P. McLean’s Unforgettable Stories
McLean’s flagship series, The Gift Legacy, is a seven-book saga that blends urban fantasy with thriller elements, set against the lush coast of British Columbia. The series follows Emelynn Taylor, a young woman grappling with a mysterious gift of flight that thrusts her into a hidden society of others like her. Books like Secret Sky and Wings of Prey weave tales of conspiracy, loyalty, and self-discovery, earning accolades for their addictive pacing and vivid world-building. Reviewers praise McLean’s ability to make the fantastical feel grounded, with one calling her work 'a magical work of art'.
Beyond The Gift Legacy, McLean’s Dark Dreams series introduces Jane Walker, a heroine haunted by nightmares and a chain of blood-red birthmarks that hold the key to her survival. Titles like Blood Mark and Scorch Mark showcase McLean’s knack for blending supernatural suspense with emotional depth, appealing to readers who crave both thrills and heart. Her standalone novella, Crimson Frost, adds a festive twist to her signature style, proving her versatility.
McLean’s writing is marked by strong female leads, intricate plots, and a playful edge that invites readers to escape the ordinary. Her stories often explore themes of perseverance and identity, reflecting her belief in the power of getting back up after a fall. The rugged beauty of Denman Island permeates her settings, grounding her fantastical narratives in a tangible sense of place.
Why J.P. McLean Matters
J.P. McLean’s impact lies in her ability to make speculative fiction accessible and thrilling, particularly for readers new to urban fantasy. Her 'fantasy light' approach, as some reviewers call it, bridges genres, offering a gateway to the fantastical without overwhelming newcomers. Awards like the Eric Hoffer Award and honors from the Whistler Independent Book Awards underscore her influence, while endorsements from authors like Jennifer Manuel and Elinor Florence highlight her storytelling prowess.
McLean’s commitment to her craft extends beyond writing—she’s a vibrant member of Denman Island’s literary community, volunteering for the Denman Island Readers and Writers Festival and mentoring local writers. Her stories not only entertain but inspire readers to embrace the extraordinary within themselves, leaving a lasting mark on Canadian fantasy literature.
- Pen Name: J.P. (Jo-Anne) McLean
- Key Works: The Gift Legacy series, Blood Mark, Scorch Mark
- Awards: Eric Hoffer Award winner, Whistler Independent Book Awards honoree
- Hobbies: Gardening, cooking, hiking
Snag Secret Sky and dive into J.P. McLean’s thrilling world of supernatural suspense—you won’t want to come back to reality!