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Mackenzies & McBrides #8.5
A MacKenzie Clan Gathering
Ian Mackenzie is awakened at Kilmorgan Castle one night to find robbers stealing the priceless art collection of his oldest brother, Hart. Since Ian and Beth are the only ones in resident at Kilmorgan at the moment, Ian decides he must find the art and the culprits before the family shows up for Hart's birthday gathering. With Inspector Fellows and Beth, he investigates, though Ian is somewhat worried by Beth's late husband's brother, a retired missionary, who decides to visit. Does John Ackerley hold the "cure" to Ian's madness? And can Ian discover what has happened to Hart's treasures, and who is targeting the Mackenzies before the enemy strikes again?
Return to Kilmorgan Castle to visit the Victorian branch of the Mackenzie family, and catch up on the brothers and friends, their children, and their lives.
Return to Kilmorgan Castle to visit the Victorian branch of the Mackenzie family, and catch up on the brothers and friends, their children, and their lives.
190 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 17, 2015
160 people are currently reading
2385 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer Ashley
215 books7,329 followersNY Times Bestselling author Jennifer Ashley writes historical, contemporary, and paranormal romance, historical mysteries, and urban fantasy as Jennifer Ashley, Allyson James, and Ashley Gardner.
Jennifer's novels have been translated into many different languages, and earned starred reviews from Booklist and Publisher's Weekly. More about her books at http://www.jenniferashley.com and http://gardnermysteries.com.
Jennifer's novels have been translated into many different languages, and earned starred reviews from Booklist and Publisher's Weekly. More about her books at http://www.jenniferashley.com and http://gardnermysteries.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 259 reviews
August 6, 2020
5 The right Mackenzie Stars
A Mackenzie Clan Gathering was a cute little story. I love anything with Ian Mackenzie in it so no surprise I loved this. I do mean anything. This author could shit on a page and then write Ian Mackenzie and I would buy it. I loved getting to see how Beth, Ian and their kids are doing years into their HEA. Jamie, Belle, and Megan(Beth and Ian's kids) were so damn cute I wanted to reach through the pages and squeeze em. I also liked what little bit I got of Hart and Eleanor's son Alec. The kids were just adorable!
You're little enough," Jamie said. "Those men would have carried ye off like a sack of potatoes. I was protecting ye, lad. That's what cousins are for." Alec's look, while still petulant, held admiration. "Well, thank ye," Alec said. "'Twas well done." Jamie and Alec
I also enjoyed the little bits of Fellows this book gave me. And the little peek into lady Mary's journals so we could kinda see Mary and Mal's HEA play out. I was really disappointed that I didn't get more of the other family. I would have liked to get some time with Fellows, Louisa together and meet their kids, see Danny and Vi's kid(s) if they had any. Wasn't Vi pregnant at the end of her and Danny's book and this book is set time wise two years later. Cam, Mac, Iz, Ainsley and their kids, but they were just an afterthought. It's suppose to be a Clan Gathering so I thought you know more of the family. So yea that was a bit of a let down. But still a good read because you know Ian Mackenzie!
"You recall I met Mac and Cameron before I married you. And then I met Hart, which clinched the matter. I definitely chose the right Mackenzie."-Beth
A Mackenzie Clan Gathering was a cute little story. I love anything with Ian Mackenzie in it so no surprise I loved this. I do mean anything. This author could shit on a page and then write Ian Mackenzie and I would buy it. I loved getting to see how Beth, Ian and their kids are doing years into their HEA. Jamie, Belle, and Megan(Beth and Ian's kids) were so damn cute I wanted to reach through the pages and squeeze em. I also liked what little bit I got of Hart and Eleanor's son Alec. The kids were just adorable!
You're little enough," Jamie said. "Those men would have carried ye off like a sack of potatoes. I was protecting ye, lad. That's what cousins are for." Alec's look, while still petulant, held admiration. "Well, thank ye," Alec said. "'Twas well done." Jamie and Alec
I also enjoyed the little bits of Fellows this book gave me. And the little peek into lady Mary's journals so we could kinda see Mary and Mal's HEA play out. I was really disappointed that I didn't get more of the other family. I would have liked to get some time with Fellows, Louisa together and meet their kids, see Danny and Vi's kid(s) if they had any. Wasn't Vi pregnant at the end of her and Danny's book and this book is set time wise two years later. Cam, Mac, Iz, Ainsley and their kids, but they were just an afterthought. It's suppose to be a Clan Gathering so I thought you know more of the family. So yea that was a bit of a let down. But still a good read because you know Ian Mackenzie!
"You recall I met Mac and Cameron before I married you. And then I met Hart, which clinched the matter. I definitely chose the right Mackenzie."-Beth
Read
July 27, 2015I updated the description of this book to give you a few more details, and also to reflect that the pub date has been moved to November, 2015 (it happens). I've made this an Ian and Beth story, with the other family members looking in, rather than the other way around. I couldn't resist writing about Ian Mackenzie again! He needs his own series. :-)
This won't be the end of the Mackenzies! I have more ideas for sequels (in the Mackenzie main timeline), plus more original romances. I originally conceived of this series as a family saga more than simply connected romances; therefore, we'll see more of the Mackenzies in the time to come.
This won't be the end of the Mackenzies! I have more ideas for sequels (in the Mackenzie main timeline), plus more original romances. I originally conceived of this series as a family saga more than simply connected romances; therefore, we'll see more of the Mackenzies in the time to come.
December 16, 2015
4 I Adore Ian MacKenzie Stars
So fist bump to Jennifer Ashley for giving me what I love:
MORE Ian MacKenzie.
I really enjoyed this story...
Thus my 4 stars.
HOWEVER.
Something that annoyed me and, quite frankly, made the characters feel a little... "different" than they have from the characters I have known and loved throughout this whole series was...
...drumroll...
...their SPEECH.
Bear with me.
Now, I know that the Mackenzie CLAN is from Scotland - DUH.
But I felt like Hart and especially Ian's speech pattern completely changed from the other books in the series - all of which I have read MULTIPLE times.
Like so completely different it was distracting.
It got Scottish-ified.
Yep, that's a techinical term right there.
Now this may seem...petty, I know.
But...
Now I realize that Ian would occasionally say "Aye" in The Madness of Lord Ian MacKenzie and the subsequent series books. .
But he mostly sound like this throughout the series up until this point:
In THIS book, however?
Now, I'm not saying that Ian never sounded Scottish in the other books...but not to THIS extent.
Every "yes" became an "aye" and every "you" became a "ye."
Wrong? No.
Inconsistent with the characters I know from all the previous books? Yes.
Like I said, I know it seems petty, and I understand that.
But it just made Ian seem like not quite my Ian, you know?
Another thing that irritated me? The abbreviated/fade to black sex scenes. I am used to getting some AWESOME sexy time with my Ian Mackenzie. But here? Nope. Short and fade to black and - like my good buddy Jen said - half the time they ended up on the floor...for a quickie or an "all nighter" that happened off page.
Boo.
Regardless...
And I will read ANYTHING written about him.
So fist bump to Jennifer Ashley for giving me what I love:
MORE Ian MacKenzie.
I really enjoyed this story...
Thus my 4 stars.
HOWEVER.
Something that annoyed me and, quite frankly, made the characters feel a little... "different" than they have from the characters I have known and loved throughout this whole series was...
...drumroll...
...their SPEECH.
Bear with me.
Now, I know that the Mackenzie CLAN is from Scotland - DUH.
But I felt like Hart and especially Ian's speech pattern completely changed from the other books in the series - all of which I have read MULTIPLE times.
Like so completely different it was distracting.
It got Scottish-ified.
Yep, that's a techinical term right there.
Now this may seem...petty, I know.
But...
Now I realize that Ian would occasionally say "Aye" in The Madness of Lord Ian MacKenzie and the subsequent series books. .
But he mostly sound like this throughout the series up until this point:
"Because when I look at you, I forget everything. I lose all track of what I'm saying or doing. I can only see your eyes...You have such beautiful eyes."
"All of us are mad in some way...I have a memory that won't let go of details. Hart is obsessed with politics and money. Cameron is a genius with horses, and Mac paints like a god...we all have our madness. Mine is just the most obvious."
In THIS book, however?
"'Ye are staying at the house, going nowhere,' Ian said. 'Do ye have to face your flock later today?'
'No, of course not.'
'Verra well, then.'"
"What th' devil are ye doing?"
"Put m' son down."
"I'm comin' with ye."
Now, I'm not saying that Ian never sounded Scottish in the other books...but not to THIS extent.
Every "yes" became an "aye" and every "you" became a "ye."
Wrong? No.
Inconsistent with the characters I know from all the previous books? Yes.
Like I said, I know it seems petty, and I understand that.
But it just made Ian seem like not quite my Ian, you know?
Another thing that irritated me? The abbreviated/fade to black sex scenes. I am used to getting some AWESOME sexy time with my Ian Mackenzie. But here? Nope. Short and fade to black and - like my good buddy Jen said - half the time they ended up on the floor...for a quickie or an "all nighter" that happened off page.
Boo.
Regardless...
And I will read ANYTHING written about him.
August 12, 2018
Lord Ian MacKenzie's back and better than ever!!
Good Lawd, I love this man!!
Ian awakes to burglers in the home and most of Hart's priceless arts of work are missing. Ian is determined to solve this mystery. But the burglary is just the beginning. Someone has it in for the Mackenzies and things are about to get crazy!!!
This short story was fast paced and full of everything I love Mackenzie. All of the family is there, Ian and Beth, Hart and Eleanor, plus the rest. The family is under attack and Ian is just brilliant enough to figure out who's behind it all!!
This is a must read for all Ian Mackenzie fans!!
Sexxy Mackenzie Reviews:
The Madness of Lord Ian Mackenzie
Lady Isabella's Scandalous Marriage
The Many Sins of Lord Cameron
The Duke's Perfect Wife
A Mackenzie Family Christmas: The Perfect Gift
The Untamed Mackenzie
The Wicked Deeds of Daniel Mackenzie
Scandal and the Duchess
Rules for a Proper Governess
The Stolen Mackenzie Bride
A MacKenzie Clan Gathering
Good Lawd, I love this man!!
Ian awakes to burglers in the home and most of Hart's priceless arts of work are missing. Ian is determined to solve this mystery. But the burglary is just the beginning. Someone has it in for the Mackenzies and things are about to get crazy!!!
This short story was fast paced and full of everything I love Mackenzie. All of the family is there, Ian and Beth, Hart and Eleanor, plus the rest. The family is under attack and Ian is just brilliant enough to figure out who's behind it all!!
This is a must read for all Ian Mackenzie fans!!
Sexxy Mackenzie Reviews:
The Madness of Lord Ian Mackenzie
Lady Isabella's Scandalous Marriage
The Many Sins of Lord Cameron
The Duke's Perfect Wife
A Mackenzie Family Christmas: The Perfect Gift
The Untamed Mackenzie
The Wicked Deeds of Daniel Mackenzie
Scandal and the Duchess
Rules for a Proper Governess
The Stolen Mackenzie Bride
A MacKenzie Clan Gathering
December 16, 2015
I am going to give this book a four stars...because hey....It's with my all time favorite couple: Ian and Beth Mackenzie! Any new book with them in it is an absolute treat for me, but with that being said; I will admit there were certain points where I was disappointed in the story.
This novella starts off with Ian waking up in the middle of the night to find that his home is being invaded by robbers. He immediately goes to investigate and comes across the criminals; but doesn't end up catching them. There has been art work and such that was taken and this begins the mystery of who did the crime.
The Mackenzie family is all getting together to celebrate Hart's birthday as well, so we also get to see all of our favorite characters of the family series. Unfortunately though, Mac, Daniel, and Cameron (as well as their wives) don't really arrive until the end of the story. We do get to revisit with Hart, his wife and children, and Ian,Beth, and their kids. I loved seeing how my favorite characters are living in their HEA'S, and also getting more aquainted with the children! There is that feeling of "coming home" when I get an update on my faves! The biggest complaint I have though with this revisit, is a lot of it became very repetitious. All of us readers who fell in love with Ian, and the fact that he was "different" and has major quirks, have accepted his uniqueness. Within this story though, it got kind of "old" for lack of a better word. I felt like the author kept pushing all the old information on us continuously about Ian's "madness." One example would be when he had finally said I love you to Beth when they were making love..(in their first book) and during their love making- Ian said, "Love you....love you...love you" as he made love to her. Well, this was emphasized more than a few times through out this novella. I think I would have preferred fresh ideas....not focussing on all of the same...
The other issues that my GR buddy, Val and I had discussed were with the sex itself. Beth and Ian have always had a very erotic and healthy sex life; but I felt that we were cheated out of the details! They'd go to "get it on" and then it was a fade to black situation. How darn frustrating, as I remember them being so darn passionate, and Ian was quite the dirty talker too! sigh...
Another quick mention, was brought up by Val; that I totally agree with, and that is the over the top Scottish accents. Ian has suddenly taken to saying : "M' Son" & M' Beth." instead of "My Beth, and My son."
You may be wondering why I rated this a four stars, considering how much I have complained!!! The fact is, I have a major soft spot for the unique and quirky Mackenzie family--especially Ian and Beth! A lot of the annoyance that I had, I chose to over look because I am so taken with this family that they feel a huge part of me. Even though there were times when I was a bit bored...the times when I wasn't I was fully absorbed into what I was reading. I have always loved Jennifer Ashley's work, and will continue to read what she writes. And as long as she continues to write about this family...I will continue to revisit them!!!
This novella starts off with Ian waking up in the middle of the night to find that his home is being invaded by robbers. He immediately goes to investigate and comes across the criminals; but doesn't end up catching them. There has been art work and such that was taken and this begins the mystery of who did the crime.
The Mackenzie family is all getting together to celebrate Hart's birthday as well, so we also get to see all of our favorite characters of the family series. Unfortunately though, Mac, Daniel, and Cameron (as well as their wives) don't really arrive until the end of the story. We do get to revisit with Hart, his wife and children, and Ian,Beth, and their kids. I loved seeing how my favorite characters are living in their HEA'S, and also getting more aquainted with the children! There is that feeling of "coming home" when I get an update on my faves! The biggest complaint I have though with this revisit, is a lot of it became very repetitious. All of us readers who fell in love with Ian, and the fact that he was "different" and has major quirks, have accepted his uniqueness. Within this story though, it got kind of "old" for lack of a better word. I felt like the author kept pushing all the old information on us continuously about Ian's "madness." One example would be when he had finally said I love you to Beth when they were making love..(in their first book) and during their love making- Ian said, "Love you....love you...love you" as he made love to her. Well, this was emphasized more than a few times through out this novella. I think I would have preferred fresh ideas....not focussing on all of the same...
The other issues that my GR buddy, Val and I had discussed were with the sex itself. Beth and Ian have always had a very erotic and healthy sex life; but I felt that we were cheated out of the details! They'd go to "get it on" and then it was a fade to black situation. How darn frustrating, as I remember them being so darn passionate, and Ian was quite the dirty talker too! sigh...
Another quick mention, was brought up by Val; that I totally agree with, and that is the over the top Scottish accents. Ian has suddenly taken to saying : "M' Son" & M' Beth." instead of "My Beth, and My son."
You may be wondering why I rated this a four stars, considering how much I have complained!!! The fact is, I have a major soft spot for the unique and quirky Mackenzie family--especially Ian and Beth! A lot of the annoyance that I had, I chose to over look because I am so taken with this family that they feel a huge part of me. Even though there were times when I was a bit bored...the times when I wasn't I was fully absorbed into what I was reading. I have always loved Jennifer Ashley's work, and will continue to read what she writes. And as long as she continues to write about this family...I will continue to revisit them!!!
February 23, 2016
I've missed the MacKenzie clan, and it was nice catching up with them.
Lord Ian is my favorite of the brothers, special in every way.
Ian is one of those "best people", I love him just as he is!
5 "madly in love & wouldn't change a thing about him" stars!
Lord Ian is my favorite of the brothers, special in every way.
Ian is one of those "best people", I love him just as he is!
5 "madly in love & wouldn't change a thing about him" stars!
June 17, 2019
I could not resist re-visiting Ian Mackenzie.
“You have always known that I am not . . . right.” He pressed his forefinger to his temple. “Not like my brothers.”
“Thank heavens for that,” Beth said fervently. “You recall I met Mac and Cameron before I married you. And then I met Hart, which clinched the matter. I definitely chose the right Mackenzie.”
But it's either never ending hot eye sex with Beth, thinking of hot sex with Beth or having hot sex with Beth. And I gotta say.... it got tedious.
As for the rest, art is stolen, alcohol production is tampered with, kids are stolen, and someone tries to fix Ian.
“You have always known that I am not . . . right.” He pressed his forefinger to his temple. “Not like my brothers.”
“Thank heavens for that,” Beth said fervently. “You recall I met Mac and Cameron before I married you. And then I met Hart, which clinched the matter. I definitely chose the right Mackenzie.”
But it's either never ending hot eye sex with Beth, thinking of hot sex with Beth or having hot sex with Beth. And I gotta say.... it got tedious.
As for the rest, art is stolen, alcohol production is tampered with, kids are stolen, and someone tries to fix Ian.
December 17, 2015
It is no secret that the MacKenzies are my favorite historical romance family, so naturally I quickly devoured this novella. Jennifer Ashley has written that she originally planned this book to be about the entire family – something like A Mackenzie Family Christmas: The Perfect Gift – but Ian just took over things. He and Beth and Ian’s half-brother Inspector Fellows are the main characters. Given that the events take place ten years after Ian and Beth married, we also get glimpses of their three children – Jamie, 10, Belle, 9, and Megan,7. Not surprisingly, Ian is a hands-on, devoted father, and the scenes with the children are delightful.
All of the other MacKenzies make brief appearances, but the only new character is John Ackerly, the brother of Beth’s first husband, who pays a visit after retiring from years as a missionary. A dabbler in the emerging field of psychiatry, Ackerly thinks he can “cure” Ian’s supposed madness, and Ian’s willingness to try to be more “normal” is touching.
The plot revolves around the shocking theft of priceless artworks from Kilmorgan Castle. Since Ian and Beth were the only family members at home at the time, Ian feels responsible and puts on his sleuthing hat to help Scotland Yard’s Inspector Fellowes. The ultimate resolution is a bit strange, but let’s face it: we’re not reading A MacKenzie Clan Gathering for the plot. We’re reading it for the sheer joy of watching the odd, amazing, and loveable Ian MacKenzie do his thing. And a joy it is indeed.
This review originally appeared at Romantic Historical Reviews.
All of the other MacKenzies make brief appearances, but the only new character is John Ackerly, the brother of Beth’s first husband, who pays a visit after retiring from years as a missionary. A dabbler in the emerging field of psychiatry, Ackerly thinks he can “cure” Ian’s supposed madness, and Ian’s willingness to try to be more “normal” is touching.
The plot revolves around the shocking theft of priceless artworks from Kilmorgan Castle. Since Ian and Beth were the only family members at home at the time, Ian feels responsible and puts on his sleuthing hat to help Scotland Yard’s Inspector Fellowes. The ultimate resolution is a bit strange, but let’s face it: we’re not reading A MacKenzie Clan Gathering for the plot. We’re reading it for the sheer joy of watching the odd, amazing, and loveable Ian MacKenzie do his thing. And a joy it is indeed.
This review originally appeared at Romantic Historical Reviews.
September 27, 2016
Reviewed for herding cats & burning soup.
Amazon: http://amzn.to/1YhHu3t
omg Ian MacKenzie. I just. *swoons* He is the most amazing hero. I loved every little second of A Mackenzie Clan Gathering. It's a quickie read but full of mystery, passion, family, danger and the aforementioned most amazing hero ever, Ian.
It's told from Ian's POV as the family gathers together at Kilmorgan Castle and before everyone arrives, while Ian and his family are the only ones in residence, there's a break in and priceless works of art are stolen. Not only that but it sets off a run of very odd things happening around the family and that spark Ian's suspicions.
I love spending time with Ian. He's such a fascinating character (he has what we'd likely call Aspergers these days) and seeing his life and thought processes as he tries to piece together what's going on was so very interesting.
It was fun catching up with all of the different characters. Seeing who has children now, etc (it's 10ish years since book 1). I always get sent into wistful smiles seeing all of the family together and how much they love each other. There's a spot of heat between Ian and his wife, some very sweet moments with his children and some danger thrown in as well as the culprits are uncovered. It was a delightfully fun encounter with characters I've come to love and adore over the years. Definitely recommended for those who love the series!
April 28, 2019
Ian and Beth MacKenzie along with their children have arrived at the family home of Kilmorgan Castle a few days early to celebrate Hart MacKenzie's birthday. The first night of their stay, a group of men break in and steal some of Hart's priceless works of art. Ian is determined to discover who is behind the theft; but his investigation is curtailed when Beth's former brother-in-law, John Ackerly, visits the estate. John wants to meet Ian because he believes he has a cure for Ian's madness.
This is a novella in the Highland Pleasures (AKA: MacKenzie/McBride) series. I like when the author revisits some of the characters from past novels. And, Ian is always the most interesting of the group. In this story we catch up with many of the past characters in this series. My rating: 4 Stars.
This is a novella in the Highland Pleasures (AKA: MacKenzie/McBride) series. I like when the author revisits some of the characters from past novels. And, Ian is always the most interesting of the group. In this story we catch up with many of the past characters in this series. My rating: 4 Stars.
April 13, 2018
Love it! I 💗Ian Mackenzie!! Good addition to the series. Happy reading!
November 25, 2021
Ian is and will always be my favourite MacKenzie ❤
November 17, 2015
It’s Hart’s birthday and the MacKenzies are all gathering in Kilmorgan to celebrate. However, events quickly turn sinister when the place is robbed of some priceless art and Ian is offered a possible “cure” for his madness. But, who would dare rob from the very powerful Duke of Kilmorgan? The Mackenzies are about to face an enemy from the past determined to ruin them.
I find the MacKenzie family impossible to resist, especially Ian MacKenzie, even now in A MacKenzie Clan Gathering set 10 years after the events in The Madness of Lord Ian MacKenzie I still find him irresistible. So, having this book centre around Ian and Beth was a treat, seeing their love still burning just as bright as it did when they first met, was the highlight of this book for me. Of course, all the MacKenzies were present at some point during this, it wouldn’t be clan gathering if we didn’t get to check in with Hart, Cameron, Ian and Daniel.
Ashley also injects some intrigue into the story as Kilmorgan gets burglarised and some art is stolen. I did enjoy this part of the story I especially liked how it tied in with The Stolen MacKenzie Bride but, for me, I was more interested in seeing the MacKenzie family together. I also enjoyed the “cure” part of the story, which, basically allows us to delve into Ian’s childhood and, I though, just showcased how unique and wonderful Ian is, just as he is.
If you already read this series, this is a must-read, if you haven’t read this series…why not? (Although, please start at the beginning, this book isn’t worth reading until you know the background of all the characters)
August 19, 2018
Not much romance. More of a mystery, but an enjoyable listen.
I never liked Hart, the Duke; but I thought I liked his wife. After listening to her voice in this book, I find Eleanor, The Duchess, not likeable at all.
As always, Beth and Ian were my favorites. Fortunately they were the main characters.
I never liked Hart, the Duke; but I thought I liked his wife. After listening to her voice in this book, I find Eleanor, The Duchess, not likeable at all.
As always, Beth and Ian were my favorites. Fortunately they were the main characters.
November 24, 2015
There is always something magical with the MacKenzie family. I dunno if it's the kilt or the way they love their significant others but it's nice to see some familiar characters once in awhile.
November 23, 2015
I've just realized, while reading A MACKENZIE CLAN GATHERING, that Ian and Beth are probably my very favorite hero and heroine since I started reading romance. With Ian MacKenzie there is no pretense, only the love he feels for Beth that infiltrates every pore of his being. Beth's love for him is unequaled. She understand the man completely and even with his eccentricities would never have him change. I have loved watching them grow as a couple and as a family with their three children. I have adored Ian's transformation from the MADNESS OF LORD IAN MACKENZIE to the Ian of ten years later. That being said, Jennifer Ashley's A MACKENZIE CLAN GATHERING earns a spot on my keeper shelf.
Ian MacKenzie and his family are back at Kilmorgan for eldest brother Hart's birthday festivities. They await the rest of the family and Ian is taking care of things while Hart is away. Ian awakens one night in complete unease, knowing that something is afoot. After making sure his wife and children are secure, he stumbles upon a crime in progress and he jumps into action. A group of thugs is stealing Hart's priceless art collection and Ian can't stop them alone, not if it means his family might be endangered.
While family members are notified and the authorities trickle in, including Ian's half brother, Inspector Fellowes, Beth and Ian welcome Beth's retired missionary and former brother-in-law, John Ackerley. Upon meeting Ian, Ackerley thinks he has a "cure" for Ian's "madness' and with all the troubles going on at Kilmorgan Castle, Ackerley distracts Ian with the possibility of being normal. Beth and the children are content with Ian as is, but his Beth allows Ian to explore without disruption.
When Ian discovers that a feud which began ages ago between the MacKenzies and a rival English family may be the center of the theft, he and Ackerley head out to confront the issue, but things get personal when an abduction takes place that changes the game entirely. Many lessons are learned throughout this must read adventure.
A MACKENZIE CLAN GATHERING by Jennifer Ashley is a fabulous addition to the MacKenzie saga. This tale makes me want to go back and read the entire series all over again and savor each and every tale.
~KIMBERLY~
November 18, 2015
Autry's review posted at Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews
A Mackenzie Clan Gathering has many different characters and twist in the plot. It was a novel that had potential but it did not hold my interest. There were a lot of characters introduced and a lot of different ideas coming together in this novel. Sometimes it was a bit much, I had a very hard time relating to any of the characters and or following the story line. I could definitely feel the heat and attraction between Ian and Beth, along with the depth of love Ian had for his children. However I could not connect with the secondary characters, and there were a bunch of characters that I didn’t really feel needed and introduction. I liked to see Ian and Beth and how they interacted with their family, and how calming Beth was to Ian. I do see that in many relationships that one can help calm, center and focus the other partner, and she did that very well in this novel. I didn’t understand the urge to help fix parts of Ian; it added a lot of confusion to the story line. Were we reading about a gathering or a therapy session? Overall it was a struggle to keep reading, I had to force myself to stay with this book and not start another.
Review copy provided for an honest review.
A Mackenzie Clan Gathering has many different characters and twist in the plot. It was a novel that had potential but it did not hold my interest. There were a lot of characters introduced and a lot of different ideas coming together in this novel. Sometimes it was a bit much, I had a very hard time relating to any of the characters and or following the story line. I could definitely feel the heat and attraction between Ian and Beth, along with the depth of love Ian had for his children. However I could not connect with the secondary characters, and there were a bunch of characters that I didn’t really feel needed and introduction. I liked to see Ian and Beth and how they interacted with their family, and how calming Beth was to Ian. I do see that in many relationships that one can help calm, center and focus the other partner, and she did that very well in this novel. I didn’t understand the urge to help fix parts of Ian; it added a lot of confusion to the story line. Were we reading about a gathering or a therapy session? Overall it was a struggle to keep reading, I had to force myself to stay with this book and not start another.
Review copy provided for an honest review.
December 31, 2021
This was such a great novella! Any extra time we get with Ian and Beth I just adore so much and seeing more of them in this novella, as well as the rest of the MacKenzie clan was just so nice!
December 9, 2015
3.5 stars.
A Mackenzie Clan Gathering is an enjoyable story – a bit longer than a novella but shorter than a full-length novel, in which readers get to spend some time with Ian MacKenzie some ten years on from his first appearance in The Madness of Lord Ian MacKenzie. He and Beth have been married for eleven years and have three children – a boy and two girls – and are staying at Kilmorgan Castle prior to the arrival of the rest of the clan for the celebration of Hart’s birthday.
Ian wakes up suddenly in the wee small hours one night and rushes downstairs where he discovers that thieves have broken in and are ransacking Hart’s priceless art collection. He can’t stop them alone however, especially if it means leaving his family unprotected, so instead he abandons the chase and brings his considerable and unique intellect to bear, mentally cataloguing the missing items, and inspecting the site of entry for clues.
He sends immediately for his half-brother, Chief Inspector Lloyd Fellows, as well as notifying his brothers, and when Lloyd arrives, they start to piece together the clues to see if they can work out what happened and how to recover the treasures. I enjoyed watching them work together, and seeing how far their relationship has come since their earliest encounters.
While this is happening, another visitor arrives at Kilmorgan, Beth’s late husband’s brother, John Ackerley, a former missionary. He is keen to meet Ian and tells him that he has learned of a possible cure for Ian’s “madness” – which as readers know is not madness at all, but rather a form of Autism or Asperger’s – yet Ian is so taken with the thought that he could be “normal” for his beloved Beth, that he agrees to the treatment Ackerley proposes, which is bound up with mesmerism and regression. There is a true poignancy in the way in which Ian, while thoroughly happy with his life, still doubts whether he is good enough for Beth and wonders whether she would prefer a husband she doesn’t have to change her life for, apologise for, be ashamed of…
The story is well-written and engaging, and while it’s not absolutely necessary to have read all the other books (I admit that I haven’t) it’s probably a good idea to have read at least the first in the series. Ian is undoubtedly one of the most remarkable and popular heroes in historical romance, and I certainly appreciated spending more time with him. I loved seeing how he has progressed over the years, that he has learned to respond in certain ways to certain situations, even though, given his condition, such responses will never make sense to him. For instance, he now knows that men like to shake hands, and that it would be churlish to refuse to do so – but he doesn’t really understand why they do it. Yet he is still recognisably Ian, sometimes prone to “muddles” when things get too much for him but otherwise brilliant, a devoted husband and father and, of course, a spectacular lover ;) And the important thing that we readers know, and that Ian eventually remembers is that Beth loves him exactly as he is and wouldn’t want to change a thing about him.
A Mackenzie Clan Gathering is a gentle, entertaining read, and definitely one the fans will appreciate.
A Mackenzie Clan Gathering is an enjoyable story – a bit longer than a novella but shorter than a full-length novel, in which readers get to spend some time with Ian MacKenzie some ten years on from his first appearance in The Madness of Lord Ian MacKenzie. He and Beth have been married for eleven years and have three children – a boy and two girls – and are staying at Kilmorgan Castle prior to the arrival of the rest of the clan for the celebration of Hart’s birthday.
Ian wakes up suddenly in the wee small hours one night and rushes downstairs where he discovers that thieves have broken in and are ransacking Hart’s priceless art collection. He can’t stop them alone however, especially if it means leaving his family unprotected, so instead he abandons the chase and brings his considerable and unique intellect to bear, mentally cataloguing the missing items, and inspecting the site of entry for clues.
He sends immediately for his half-brother, Chief Inspector Lloyd Fellows, as well as notifying his brothers, and when Lloyd arrives, they start to piece together the clues to see if they can work out what happened and how to recover the treasures. I enjoyed watching them work together, and seeing how far their relationship has come since their earliest encounters.
While this is happening, another visitor arrives at Kilmorgan, Beth’s late husband’s brother, John Ackerley, a former missionary. He is keen to meet Ian and tells him that he has learned of a possible cure for Ian’s “madness” – which as readers know is not madness at all, but rather a form of Autism or Asperger’s – yet Ian is so taken with the thought that he could be “normal” for his beloved Beth, that he agrees to the treatment Ackerley proposes, which is bound up with mesmerism and regression. There is a true poignancy in the way in which Ian, while thoroughly happy with his life, still doubts whether he is good enough for Beth and wonders whether she would prefer a husband she doesn’t have to change her life for, apologise for, be ashamed of…
The story is well-written and engaging, and while it’s not absolutely necessary to have read all the other books (I admit that I haven’t) it’s probably a good idea to have read at least the first in the series. Ian is undoubtedly one of the most remarkable and popular heroes in historical romance, and I certainly appreciated spending more time with him. I loved seeing how he has progressed over the years, that he has learned to respond in certain ways to certain situations, even though, given his condition, such responses will never make sense to him. For instance, he now knows that men like to shake hands, and that it would be churlish to refuse to do so – but he doesn’t really understand why they do it. Yet he is still recognisably Ian, sometimes prone to “muddles” when things get too much for him but otherwise brilliant, a devoted husband and father and, of course, a spectacular lover ;) And the important thing that we readers know, and that Ian eventually remembers is that Beth loves him exactly as he is and wouldn’t want to change a thing about him.
A Mackenzie Clan Gathering is a gentle, entertaining read, and definitely one the fans will appreciate.
November 18, 2015
I would categorise this more as a mystery than a romance. There are no new romances here although we do catch up with all the Mackenzie couples from previous MacKenzies & McBrides books.
This book focuses more on Ian and Beth, they are alone at KIlmorgan waiting for the rest of the family to arrive for Hart's birthday party. There is a break in which Ian tries to stop but the thieves still get away with a lot of Hart's art collection, events in subsequent days lead to suspicions that someone has a vendetta against the MacKenzies. This plot ties in nicely with the previous book in the series The Stolen MacKenzie Bride and a lot of time is spent with Ian and Lloyd trying to solve the mystery.
Beth's brother in law from her previous marriage has recently returned from missionary work in India and has been invited for the celebration. He has spent a lot of time travelling and has learned something of new techniques for 'curing' madness. Ian agrees to let him try to cure him and it is heartbreaking watching Ian relive his time spent in an asylum as a youth. Although it is fascinating reading about the advances in psychotherapy, it was horrifying reading about the practices that had been considered treatment up to that point.
Jennifer Ashley is an autobuy author for me, I love this and many of her other series but Ian MacKenzie will always be my favourite of her heroes and I loved reading more about him, I hope she has plans for more books with Ian in the future.
June 12, 2025
Can I put 6 stars?
November 17, 2015
4.5 Stars
The Madness of Lord Ian Mackenzie (2009) is one of only a handful of books that I first read based solely on book buzz. It remains my favorite of Ashley’s Mackenzies-McBrides series and one of my all-time favorite romances. Thus, I was delighted when Ashley first mentioned that this novella would be an Ian-and-Beth story. I must say that it was even better than I hoped.
First, it holds its own as a mystery involving a Mackenzie enemy and as a story about the treatment of mental illness. Assorted strings are woven together in the mystery, including the contrast between Ian’s “madness” and that of someone whose madness poses a threat to others. Even without having read Ian’s book, one understands the difference in the techniques John Ackerley uses and the torturous mistreatment a younger Ian endured in an asylum. By 1892, the time of the novella, Freud and others had used hypnosis with patients and Freud was beginning to develop his theories concerning the human mind. I found it fascinating, albeit somewhat horrifying, to see these methods used by an amateur. On these levels, it is unnecessary to have read other books in the series to enjoy this story. Ashley provides ample details to make meaning clear to a new reader.
However, the joy of seeing the changes years of happiness have wrought in Ian and seeing him and Beth ten years into their marriage, their passion and their commitment deepened by a decade together and their lives enriched by their love for their children, is an experience reserved for readers who know these characters. Since Lloyd Fellows is my second favorite hero in this series (The Untamed Mackenzie, 2013), I was pleased that he plays a significant role, and the reader sees how his relationship with his half-brothers has progressed. Despite the title, except for his role and minor parts for Hart and Eleanor, the gathering of the clan is background, sufficient to see that all is well with the various couples and their growing families but not enough to distract readers from the central story.
If you are a fan of this series or if you read only The Madness of Lord Ian Mackenzie, you will not want to miss this novella. If you have never read any of the series, don’t let the Mackenzies-McBrides 8.5 intimidate you. I promise you can read this one as a single read, but be prepared to become addicted enough to seek out the other eight novels and three novellas as well. I’m practically dancing with delight because Ashley promises more of both the 18th-century Mackenzies (The Stolen Mackenzie Bride, 2015) and the Victorians.
See full review at The Romance Dish:
http://www.theromancedish.com/2015/11...
The Madness of Lord Ian Mackenzie (2009) is one of only a handful of books that I first read based solely on book buzz. It remains my favorite of Ashley’s Mackenzies-McBrides series and one of my all-time favorite romances. Thus, I was delighted when Ashley first mentioned that this novella would be an Ian-and-Beth story. I must say that it was even better than I hoped.
First, it holds its own as a mystery involving a Mackenzie enemy and as a story about the treatment of mental illness. Assorted strings are woven together in the mystery, including the contrast between Ian’s “madness” and that of someone whose madness poses a threat to others. Even without having read Ian’s book, one understands the difference in the techniques John Ackerley uses and the torturous mistreatment a younger Ian endured in an asylum. By 1892, the time of the novella, Freud and others had used hypnosis with patients and Freud was beginning to develop his theories concerning the human mind. I found it fascinating, albeit somewhat horrifying, to see these methods used by an amateur. On these levels, it is unnecessary to have read other books in the series to enjoy this story. Ashley provides ample details to make meaning clear to a new reader.
However, the joy of seeing the changes years of happiness have wrought in Ian and seeing him and Beth ten years into their marriage, their passion and their commitment deepened by a decade together and their lives enriched by their love for their children, is an experience reserved for readers who know these characters. Since Lloyd Fellows is my second favorite hero in this series (The Untamed Mackenzie, 2013), I was pleased that he plays a significant role, and the reader sees how his relationship with his half-brothers has progressed. Despite the title, except for his role and minor parts for Hart and Eleanor, the gathering of the clan is background, sufficient to see that all is well with the various couples and their growing families but not enough to distract readers from the central story.
If you are a fan of this series or if you read only The Madness of Lord Ian Mackenzie, you will not want to miss this novella. If you have never read any of the series, don’t let the Mackenzies-McBrides 8.5 intimidate you. I promise you can read this one as a single read, but be prepared to become addicted enough to seek out the other eight novels and three novellas as well. I’m practically dancing with delight because Ashley promises more of both the 18th-century Mackenzies (The Stolen Mackenzie Bride, 2015) and the Victorians.
See full review at The Romance Dish:
http://www.theromancedish.com/2015/11...
February 7, 2016
I have to admit that I was a little worried about whether I could love this story after The Stolen Mackenzie Bride was such a miss for me. But Jennifer Ashley brought the magic back with the Mackenzie clan we know and love. All the brothers, wives, and children are here, but this is really an Ian story –and we get the chance to see the man he has become with Beth and his children in his life.
It’s been a dozen years since The Madness of Lord Ian Mackenzie. Ian and Beth now have three children and life as a husband and father has given our hero a joy and stability he had never believed possible. Beth is still his salvation and his world, but their children have widened the bubble of domestic happiness to include them as well. The thing is… Ian is still Ian. The autism or Aspergers he has still exists; he just has learned coping mechanisms that make life better.
Anyway, the Mackenzie clan is on the cusp of a big gathering for Hart’s birthday at Kilmorgan Castle. Only Ian’s family is there so far when thieves break in and plunder Hart’s art collection. Ian sets out to solve the crime with Inspector Fellows. But his plans get a bit complicated when Beth’s former brother-in-law Ackerley shows up for a visit. He is fascinated by Ian and convinced he can cure the madness that has plagued him for so long. Of course, Ian wants to be normal for his family, but the question is… can anyone really help him? The story follows Ian as he uses his keen mind to root out his enemies and faces off with the parts of himself that make him so different.
I enjoyed going back inside Ian’s head. It’s also really great to get a peek after the Happy Ever After. Finding the love of your life fixes many things, but not everything. I like that Ian really struggles with questions about his madness, and I really enjoyed being with him as he reflected on his life as he got to this point. Ackerley was an interesting character, too. I honestly didn’t know what to make of him for most of the book. It was cool that his motivations were not obvious and I liked the way it all unfolded.
The big bad was kind of silly to me. But it didn’t detract from my enjoyment of the story at all. Because that mystery wasn’t what made the book good. That was Ian… and his Beth. Together, they reminded me why I loved this series so much. I see a great future hero in their son, Jamie, too. Fans of the Mackenzies will definitely enjoy this one too. Great characters and a love story that stands the test of time. Plus, appearances from all the rest of the clan we’ve loved throughout the years.
Rating: B/B+
*ARC provided by publisher
It’s been a dozen years since The Madness of Lord Ian Mackenzie. Ian and Beth now have three children and life as a husband and father has given our hero a joy and stability he had never believed possible. Beth is still his salvation and his world, but their children have widened the bubble of domestic happiness to include them as well. The thing is… Ian is still Ian. The autism or Aspergers he has still exists; he just has learned coping mechanisms that make life better.
Anyway, the Mackenzie clan is on the cusp of a big gathering for Hart’s birthday at Kilmorgan Castle. Only Ian’s family is there so far when thieves break in and plunder Hart’s art collection. Ian sets out to solve the crime with Inspector Fellows. But his plans get a bit complicated when Beth’s former brother-in-law Ackerley shows up for a visit. He is fascinated by Ian and convinced he can cure the madness that has plagued him for so long. Of course, Ian wants to be normal for his family, but the question is… can anyone really help him? The story follows Ian as he uses his keen mind to root out his enemies and faces off with the parts of himself that make him so different.
I enjoyed going back inside Ian’s head. It’s also really great to get a peek after the Happy Ever After. Finding the love of your life fixes many things, but not everything. I like that Ian really struggles with questions about his madness, and I really enjoyed being with him as he reflected on his life as he got to this point. Ackerley was an interesting character, too. I honestly didn’t know what to make of him for most of the book. It was cool that his motivations were not obvious and I liked the way it all unfolded.
The big bad was kind of silly to me. But it didn’t detract from my enjoyment of the story at all. Because that mystery wasn’t what made the book good. That was Ian… and his Beth. Together, they reminded me why I loved this series so much. I see a great future hero in their son, Jamie, too. Fans of the Mackenzies will definitely enjoy this one too. Great characters and a love story that stands the test of time. Plus, appearances from all the rest of the clan we’ve loved throughout the years.
Rating: B/B+
*ARC provided by publisher
November 21, 2015
A novella, and I wish it was longer
It is recommended, actually no, mandatory to read the 1st book in the series "The Madness of Ian Mackenzie."
It is 12 years after Ian's meeting of Beth. All of the MacKenzie brothers are now happily married with children. The story opens with Ian discovering robbers stealing priceless artwork from the Kilmorgan gallery. the story continues and without saying too much, another plotline begins. The introduction of Beth' brother in law from her first husband. He is a kind man of the cloth, who approaches Ian with a proposition , a new method the kind man learned that he believes will "cure" Ian's madness.
The MacKenzie romances have already been cemented, leaving no romantic build up. This should be expected, and is no surprise to me. This is not a typical romance novel but a continuation of the beautiful relationship between Beth and Ian. She being his calming force, his protector, and voice of reason(?) He the wonderfully quirky, intelligent and loving man that she loves for all his uniqueness.
Why 4 stars not 5?
I felt the mystery of the theft was intriguing but not as compelling as it could have been. I was more interested in the "curing" of Ian and felt that for a short book, the "mystery" plotline was too much. I think it would have been better to have concentrated on one theme with more detail then two with less.
As opposed to other reviewers, I did not feel that there were too many characters nor felt it confusing to read or follow. I suppose those who have mentioned as such did not read the previous books in the series.
I really enjoy reading sequels where the author maintains the same characters (like the "Blood & Wine" series I have read). Unfortuantely most HR's continue a series by expanding on secondary characters. This is nice too and gives the author a marketing advantage to sell them as standalones.
Anyway, If you Love Ian, you will like this one.
It is recommended, actually no, mandatory to read the 1st book in the series "The Madness of Ian Mackenzie."
It is 12 years after Ian's meeting of Beth. All of the MacKenzie brothers are now happily married with children. The story opens with Ian discovering robbers stealing priceless artwork from the Kilmorgan gallery. the story continues and without saying too much, another plotline begins. The introduction of Beth' brother in law from her first husband. He is a kind man of the cloth, who approaches Ian with a proposition , a new method the kind man learned that he believes will "cure" Ian's madness.
The MacKenzie romances have already been cemented, leaving no romantic build up. This should be expected, and is no surprise to me. This is not a typical romance novel but a continuation of the beautiful relationship between Beth and Ian. She being his calming force, his protector, and voice of reason(?) He the wonderfully quirky, intelligent and loving man that she loves for all his uniqueness.
Why 4 stars not 5?
I felt the mystery of the theft was intriguing but not as compelling as it could have been. I was more interested in the "curing" of Ian and felt that for a short book, the "mystery" plotline was too much. I think it would have been better to have concentrated on one theme with more detail then two with less.
As opposed to other reviewers, I did not feel that there were too many characters nor felt it confusing to read or follow. I suppose those who have mentioned as such did not read the previous books in the series.
I really enjoy reading sequels where the author maintains the same characters (like the "Blood & Wine" series I have read). Unfortuantely most HR's continue a series by expanding on secondary characters. This is nice too and gives the author a marketing advantage to sell them as standalones.
Anyway, If you Love Ian, you will like this one.
December 15, 2015
ARC REVIEW:
Truth. Anytime I can get more of Ian and Beth McKenzie, that is a good thing. They are a unique, beloved, indelible paring. Their love is true and they are so good together. Ian is a bit of an an odd duck but, nonetheless, highly lovable. Maybe it's his condition that makes him a little vulnerable but I love the way Beth responds and interacts with him. She does not treat him as if he has any kind of disability. In fact, she does not perceive his "oddness" as odd but instead, he is "different". I respect how she treats him with an expectation of normalcy that includes an absolute adoration love. As a reader, I am completely attracted to that kind of unconditional love.
As a novella, I'm impressed at how much the author is able to accomplish in such a short space. There's a lot of tension, suspense, and action, all in the context of a kidnapping and a plot for revenge. We get to revisit with the MacKenzie brothers and their wives and children. It is a reunion of characters. This is gathering and family mystery, Jennifer Ashley gets to grow and develop Ian's character. It occurs to me that he could be a wonderful Sherlock Holmes - a bit eccentric, whip smart, and highly logical. The deep dive into his relationship with Beth is an integral part of the story and one in which I much appreciated.
In a Nutshell:
I miss these two. And if Ms. Ashley would like to write another novel featuring Ian and Beth, I'll be first in line to one-click that buy!
Thank you to the author, publisher and Netgalley for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
Truth. Anytime I can get more of Ian and Beth McKenzie, that is a good thing. They are a unique, beloved, indelible paring. Their love is true and they are so good together. Ian is a bit of an an odd duck but, nonetheless, highly lovable. Maybe it's his condition that makes him a little vulnerable but I love the way Beth responds and interacts with him. She does not treat him as if he has any kind of disability. In fact, she does not perceive his "oddness" as odd but instead, he is "different". I respect how she treats him with an expectation of normalcy that includes an absolute adoration love. As a reader, I am completely attracted to that kind of unconditional love.
As a novella, I'm impressed at how much the author is able to accomplish in such a short space. There's a lot of tension, suspense, and action, all in the context of a kidnapping and a plot for revenge. We get to revisit with the MacKenzie brothers and their wives and children. It is a reunion of characters. This is gathering and family mystery, Jennifer Ashley gets to grow and develop Ian's character. It occurs to me that he could be a wonderful Sherlock Holmes - a bit eccentric, whip smart, and highly logical. The deep dive into his relationship with Beth is an integral part of the story and one in which I much appreciated.
In a Nutshell:
I miss these two. And if Ms. Ashley would like to write another novel featuring Ian and Beth, I'll be first in line to one-click that buy!
Thank you to the author, publisher and Netgalley for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
December 20, 2015
For me this novella was more about Ian than a family gathering. I preferred by far the novella, A Mackenzie Family Christmas: The Perfect Gift in which every couples played an important part.
January 13, 2022
attuned to his surroundings, ian woke up in the middle of night realising something is wrong. he tried to subdue the robbers who stole hart’s art collection but there were too many of them. with his family’s safety at risk, ian’s determined to find out who was the mastermind in time for hart’s birthday party. together with beth’s late husband’s brother, ackerley, and fellows, they search for the true culprit. we witness ian’s brilliant mind once again. in the meantime, ackerley tries his “cure” on ian to rid his madness.
i always love reading about ian and beth, and it seems like they’re the main character in this short story. their love is whole and full. they care a lot about one another, their children, and the extended family. ian and beth give each other space whenever it's needed, especially with ian’s tendency to deep dive into a problem without warning. i adore them more with every book i read!
books in the series:
1. the madness of lord ian mackenzie: ✰✰✰✰
2. lady isabella’s scandalous marriage: ✰✰✰✰
3. the many sins of lord cameron: ✰✰✰✰½
4. the duke’s perfect wife
4.5. a mackenzie family christmas: the perfect gift: ✰✰✰✰
5. the seduction of elliot mcbride
5.5. the untamed mackenzie
6. the wicked deeds of daniel mackenzie: ✰✰✰✰
6.5. scandal and the duchess
7. rules for a proper governess
8. the stolen mackenzie bride
8.5. a mackenzie clan gathering: ✰✰✰✰
9. alec mackenzie’s art of seduction
10. the devilish lord will
11. a rogue meets a scandalous lady
11.5. a mackenzie yuletide: ✰✰✰
11.6. fiona and the three wise highlanders
12. the sinful ways of jamie mackenzie: ✰✰✰✰
i always love reading about ian and beth, and it seems like they’re the main character in this short story. their love is whole and full. they care a lot about one another, their children, and the extended family. ian and beth give each other space whenever it's needed, especially with ian’s tendency to deep dive into a problem without warning. i adore them more with every book i read!
books in the series:
1. the madness of lord ian mackenzie: ✰✰✰✰
2. lady isabella’s scandalous marriage: ✰✰✰✰
3. the many sins of lord cameron: ✰✰✰✰½
4. the duke’s perfect wife
4.5. a mackenzie family christmas: the perfect gift: ✰✰✰✰
5. the seduction of elliot mcbride
5.5. the untamed mackenzie
6. the wicked deeds of daniel mackenzie: ✰✰✰✰
6.5. scandal and the duchess
7. rules for a proper governess
8. the stolen mackenzie bride
8.5. a mackenzie clan gathering: ✰✰✰✰
9. alec mackenzie’s art of seduction
10. the devilish lord will
11. a rogue meets a scandalous lady
11.5. a mackenzie yuletide: ✰✰✰
11.6. fiona and the three wise highlanders
12. the sinful ways of jamie mackenzie: ✰✰✰✰
March 4, 2020
Ian Mackenzie come back di novella ini. Sebelumnya Ian sudah muncul di buku pertama seri ini, "The Madness of Lord Ian Mackenzie". Ian yg memiliki gangguan kejiwaan memang tidak bakalan sembuh, setidaknya sudah mereda sejak menikahi Beth, yg sekarang sudah menjadi istrinya.
Ian merasa terganggu sejak rumah kediamannya kemalingan. Belum lagi kedatangan Ackerley, sepupu jauh Beth yg coba-coba mengobati penyakit Ian. Jangan meremehkan kemampuan Ian, walau sakit Ian mampu mendeteksi sesuatu yg ganjil, berkat kedalamannya dlm menganalisa. Jadi Ian melacak jejak pencurinya itu pd buku harian nenek buyutnya, Mary Lennox (heroine di novel "The Stolen Mackenzie Bride").
Ian memiliki bakat dlm mengingat sesuatu, jadi dia ingat musuh nenek buyutnya ini, Lord Halsey, yg bertekad menjadikan keluarga Mackenzie sbg musuh turun-temurunnya. Heran deh dgn org tipe pendendam begini. Ian boleh saja terlihat lemah, tetapi dia bisa melindungi keluarganya apapun yg terjadi.
Jamie kecil, anak Ian mencuri spotlight di novel ini, justru di penghujung cerita. Gpp lah, lumayan menghibur melihat keberanian anak kecil ini. Sayangnya Beth justru spt pemanis di novel ini, cuma sbg pendamping Ian dan (maaf) membuka kaki dan tangan utk Ian.
Entah kenapa saya kurang sreg dgn plot cerita seri Mackenzie ini walau gaya penulisan author lumayan bagus. Mungkin krn sering diselipkan over lebay mendeskripsikan tokoh utamanya (padahal gak sehebat itu, Ferguso), jadi membuat saya merasa "suka-suka lu aja dah nulisnya". Pembaca pintar pasti bakal tahu koq mana tokoh yg memang hebat, mana yg biasa-biasa saja.
Ian merasa terganggu sejak rumah kediamannya kemalingan. Belum lagi kedatangan Ackerley, sepupu jauh Beth yg coba-coba mengobati penyakit Ian. Jangan meremehkan kemampuan Ian, walau sakit Ian mampu mendeteksi sesuatu yg ganjil, berkat kedalamannya dlm menganalisa. Jadi Ian melacak jejak pencurinya itu pd buku harian nenek buyutnya, Mary Lennox (heroine di novel "The Stolen Mackenzie Bride").
Ian memiliki bakat dlm mengingat sesuatu, jadi dia ingat musuh nenek buyutnya ini, Lord Halsey, yg bertekad menjadikan keluarga Mackenzie sbg musuh turun-temurunnya. Heran deh dgn org tipe pendendam begini. Ian boleh saja terlihat lemah, tetapi dia bisa melindungi keluarganya apapun yg terjadi.
Jamie kecil, anak Ian mencuri spotlight di novel ini, justru di penghujung cerita. Gpp lah, lumayan menghibur melihat keberanian anak kecil ini. Sayangnya Beth justru spt pemanis di novel ini, cuma sbg pendamping Ian dan (maaf) membuka kaki dan tangan utk Ian.
Entah kenapa saya kurang sreg dgn plot cerita seri Mackenzie ini walau gaya penulisan author lumayan bagus. Mungkin krn sering diselipkan over lebay mendeskripsikan tokoh utamanya (padahal gak sehebat itu, Ferguso), jadi membuat saya merasa "suka-suka lu aja dah nulisnya". Pembaca pintar pasti bakal tahu koq mana tokoh yg memang hebat, mana yg biasa-biasa saja.
September 13, 2018
It was not what I had expected. I thought it was just going to be about the mystery of who stole Hart's artworks. However, there was one or two other subplots that the blurb didn't mention. Therefore, I wasn't really sure where the direction of the story was headed when those other subplots popped up. It's nice to see Ian and Beth still has the hots for each other after ten years of marriage. I wouldn't be surprised if they end up having more children.
November 22, 2015
Originally posted at SmexyBooks-http://smexybooks.com/2015/11/review-...
Favorite Quote: “Beth is not my friend. She is…Everything.”
Lord Ian MacKenzie and his family have arrived early to Kilmorgan Castle to celebrate Hart MacKenzie’s upcoming birthday. While there, Ian chances upon thieves stealing the priceless art works littering the galley and decides it is up to him to discover who stole the art and why. Ian is also preparing for the arrival of wife’s late husband’s brother, John Ackerly, who is coming to pay a visit. He claims he may have a cure for Ian’s ‘madness’. The past and the present collide as Ian is forced to not only locate a powerful enemy dead set on carrying out an old vendetta but also must decide if he is willing to accept the help of a man whose intentions may not be as innocent as he claims.
Jennifer Ashley’s MacKenzies and McBrides series is one of my top ten favorite historical romance series to date. Ashley develops the perfect love story with a well balanced blend of the romance and conflict. In this series, she addresses mental illness, prejudice, and the injustices suffered by those in this era. Dynamic characters, witty humor, intriguing plots lines, delicious romance, and engaging dialogue keeps readers easily hooked and wanting more from these two families.
It is always a treat to visit with the MacKenzies, especially Ian. A MacKenzie Clan Gathering is an intriguing who dun it filled with action, suspense, and some heart pinching emotional moments. A quick fulfilling read that adsorbs you back into this world quickly and easily. This novella picks up ten years after Ian and Beth first met. Now married and the proud parents of three children, Ian has significantly changed, becoming more open and personable due to his daily interactions with Beth and children. Even with his advancements, Ian does still wonder at times if Beth regrets marrying him.
When a group of thieves ransack the estate, stealing some valuable pieces of art, Ian feels responsible for the crime and sets out to discover who stole the artwork and why with the help of his half-brother, Inspector Fellows. Told completely from Ian’s point of view, it was interesting see how the world and it’s inhabitants act through his eyes. More emotional and honest in his reveals, Ian has slowly become who he was always meant to be. Though he seems to go off on tangents, his complex mindset is rather like that of a computer that just needs the correct input in order to come up with the answer.
The mystery revolving around the theft and accidents occurring around the estate will delight those who have read her latest full length novel, The Stolen MacKenzie Bride, which released on September 19. As this novella refers back to characters and situations in the eighth book, I wouldn’t recommend reading this one first.
Romance is at a premium as Ian and Beth have a very physical and emotionally satisfying relationship. Ian’s love for Beth is all encompassing as she is the light at the end of the tunnel for him. New and old faces make an appearance and lend their opinions and help to Ian as he struggles to solve the mystery, to understand the changes in him, and how it affects his interactions with those he loves. I adored seeing the family and learning what they have been up to over the last ten years.
Jennifer Ashley once again takes us back in time to a place where family meant everything. A MacKenzie Clan Gathering is a delightful story filled with love, laughter, mystery, and hope. I look forward to more from Ms. Ashley and her wild rambunctious highlanders.
RATING: B+
Favorite Quote: “Beth is not my friend. She is…Everything.”
Lord Ian MacKenzie and his family have arrived early to Kilmorgan Castle to celebrate Hart MacKenzie’s upcoming birthday. While there, Ian chances upon thieves stealing the priceless art works littering the galley and decides it is up to him to discover who stole the art and why. Ian is also preparing for the arrival of wife’s late husband’s brother, John Ackerly, who is coming to pay a visit. He claims he may have a cure for Ian’s ‘madness’. The past and the present collide as Ian is forced to not only locate a powerful enemy dead set on carrying out an old vendetta but also must decide if he is willing to accept the help of a man whose intentions may not be as innocent as he claims.
Jennifer Ashley’s MacKenzies and McBrides series is one of my top ten favorite historical romance series to date. Ashley develops the perfect love story with a well balanced blend of the romance and conflict. In this series, she addresses mental illness, prejudice, and the injustices suffered by those in this era. Dynamic characters, witty humor, intriguing plots lines, delicious romance, and engaging dialogue keeps readers easily hooked and wanting more from these two families.
It is always a treat to visit with the MacKenzies, especially Ian. A MacKenzie Clan Gathering is an intriguing who dun it filled with action, suspense, and some heart pinching emotional moments. A quick fulfilling read that adsorbs you back into this world quickly and easily. This novella picks up ten years after Ian and Beth first met. Now married and the proud parents of three children, Ian has significantly changed, becoming more open and personable due to his daily interactions with Beth and children. Even with his advancements, Ian does still wonder at times if Beth regrets marrying him.
When a group of thieves ransack the estate, stealing some valuable pieces of art, Ian feels responsible for the crime and sets out to discover who stole the artwork and why with the help of his half-brother, Inspector Fellows. Told completely from Ian’s point of view, it was interesting see how the world and it’s inhabitants act through his eyes. More emotional and honest in his reveals, Ian has slowly become who he was always meant to be. Though he seems to go off on tangents, his complex mindset is rather like that of a computer that just needs the correct input in order to come up with the answer.
The mystery revolving around the theft and accidents occurring around the estate will delight those who have read her latest full length novel, The Stolen MacKenzie Bride, which released on September 19. As this novella refers back to characters and situations in the eighth book, I wouldn’t recommend reading this one first.
Romance is at a premium as Ian and Beth have a very physical and emotionally satisfying relationship. Ian’s love for Beth is all encompassing as she is the light at the end of the tunnel for him. New and old faces make an appearance and lend their opinions and help to Ian as he struggles to solve the mystery, to understand the changes in him, and how it affects his interactions with those he loves. I adored seeing the family and learning what they have been up to over the last ten years.
Jennifer Ashley once again takes us back in time to a place where family meant everything. A MacKenzie Clan Gathering is a delightful story filled with love, laughter, mystery, and hope. I look forward to more from Ms. Ashley and her wild rambunctious highlanders.
RATING: B+
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