Tortured Dream – J.M. Stockford

Tortured Dream 💭
@authorjmstockford

Sydney McKenna is a dreamwalker. After a traumatic event, she believed that part of herself was gone for good, along with any chance at a normal life. Seeking peace, she retreats to the mountains with her dog, Cane.

But one stormy night changes everything. Pulled into a stranger’s dream, Sydney realizes her ability was never truly gone. She later finds that same man — injured and unconscious in the woods near her home.

Garrett Rogers is an agent hunting a dangerous criminal who escaped custody after committing unthinkable acts. The last thing he remembers is a bar… and a woman in his dreams.
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This is such a fun mix of thriller and spicy romance.
The story is fast-paced and easy to get into. The dreamwalking concept is really well developed and adds a unique layer to the suspense. I’m definitely curious to see how it expands in the next book.
Sydney and Cane? I loved them. Their dynamic and their quiet life in the mountains almost gives Stardew Valley vibes, which made the setting feel both cozy and immersive despite the darker elements of the plot.
Sydney herself is a deeply shaped character — everything she’s been through has changed her and it makes her feel real and grounded.
And Garrett, such a contrast. Calm and steady, he brings a sense of balance to her chaos.
Also, Diaz? Absolutely horrible. The kind of villain you just hate. (And he’s getting his own novella later this month 👀)

“For him to say he wanted to protect me, to fight my demons for me, a big part of me wanted to hide away and let him. But if I let him, I would always be half the woman I once was, always hiding, and I didn’t want to be that woman anymore.”

💫 Thriller • Paranormal • Romantic suspense

🌿 Featured at Merveilles & Chuchotements
A gripping, fast-paced read perfect for readers who love thrillers with a paranormal twist and a touch of romance. Ideal if you’re looking for something immersive, slightly dark, but still emotionally engaging.

⚠️ Content warnings: profanity, torture, kidnapping, violence, trauma, death, spicy scenes (112–117; 120–124; 159–161; 199–202)