What do you think?
Rate this book
Mackenzies & McBrides #12
The Sinful Ways of Jamie Mackenzie
When in trouble, seek a Highlander...
Even if you pushed him into a river ten years ago...
When Evie McKnight slams into Jamie Mackenzie on a quay on Southampton, she flashes back to the day she accidentally knocked him into the river Cam. When she fished him out again, he shocked her with a searing, bold kiss before walking away in dripping wet shirt and kilt.
Evie has no business reveling in memories of Jamie then and the nearness of him now—she is betrothed to a respectable man from a respectable and wealthy family. But Jamie appears everywhere in London, assisting Evie and her sisters, becoming friends with her fiancé, and agreeing to be drawn into the heist Evie has planned in order to save her best friend’s father from ruin.
The son and heir of Ian Mackenzie, Jamie has roamed the world encountering adventure after adventure, and now he’s back home to settle down as he promised his family. But Jamie is restless, searching for something he can’t seem to find, trying to live up to his potential as the son of a genius.
When he sees Evie again, he knows what he’s been striving for, and he is not going to let the trivial matter of her betrothal to a dull stick and the fact that she wants to break into the British Museum put him off. Jamie is Ian Mackenzie’s son all right—he’ll use all the Mackenzie determination and adroitness to prove that she is for him, and he for her.
Author’s Note: Set in the Edwardian era, The Sinful Ways of Jamie Mackenzie, begins the stories of the next generations Mackenzies, the sons and daughters of Ian, Mac, Cameron, and Hart, and more.
Even if you pushed him into a river ten years ago...
When Evie McKnight slams into Jamie Mackenzie on a quay on Southampton, she flashes back to the day she accidentally knocked him into the river Cam. When she fished him out again, he shocked her with a searing, bold kiss before walking away in dripping wet shirt and kilt.
Evie has no business reveling in memories of Jamie then and the nearness of him now—she is betrothed to a respectable man from a respectable and wealthy family. But Jamie appears everywhere in London, assisting Evie and her sisters, becoming friends with her fiancé, and agreeing to be drawn into the heist Evie has planned in order to save her best friend’s father from ruin.
The son and heir of Ian Mackenzie, Jamie has roamed the world encountering adventure after adventure, and now he’s back home to settle down as he promised his family. But Jamie is restless, searching for something he can’t seem to find, trying to live up to his potential as the son of a genius.
When he sees Evie again, he knows what he’s been striving for, and he is not going to let the trivial matter of her betrothal to a dull stick and the fact that she wants to break into the British Museum put him off. Jamie is Ian Mackenzie’s son all right—he’ll use all the Mackenzie determination and adroitness to prove that she is for him, and he for her.
Author’s Note: Set in the Edwardian era, The Sinful Ways of Jamie Mackenzie, begins the stories of the next generations Mackenzies, the sons and daughters of Ian, Mac, Cameron, and Hart, and more.
338 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 16, 2021
107 people are currently reading
1246 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer Ashley
215 books7,335 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.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 154 reviews
January 6, 2022
I’ve been dying to read this book ever since it was announced that Jennifer Ashley would be writing historical romances for the second generation of the Mackenzies! This first one is none other than Ian and Beth’s son, Jamie. It’s set during the Edwardian era, so there are cars now! I thought it was interesting to read about time period I never really see in historical romances, but obviously it couldn’t still be the Victorian era with the original couples' kids all grown up. And there are a LOT of these kids.
I liked Evie and Jamie’s romance! Maybe not as much as his parents’ romance, but it was really cute and I had fun with their heist, trying to steal back a precious vase hidden in a museum. There were a few things though that prevented me from fully loving the book. It focused too much on Jamie's family when I would've wanted more of the romance between Evie and Jamie. I love the Mackenzies, don’t get me wrong, but there are SO many of them that Jamie and Evie kind of got lost in the middle of them. And also, with this being the Edwardian era, there just weren't as many stakes as there would be in older time periods. If Jamie and Evie wanted to fall in love and be together, nothing really was stopping them from doing so. I have to admit, there’s a lack of thrill/excitement when it comes to a more progressive time period. But still, I’m definitely going to continue reading this second generation series because I love this family!
*****
WE ARE GETTING IAN MACKENZIE’S OLDEST SON’S BOOK GOD BLESS
I liked Evie and Jamie’s romance! Maybe not as much as his parents’ romance, but it was really cute and I had fun with their heist, trying to steal back a precious vase hidden in a museum. There were a few things though that prevented me from fully loving the book. It focused too much on Jamie's family when I would've wanted more of the romance between Evie and Jamie. I love the Mackenzies, don’t get me wrong, but there are SO many of them that Jamie and Evie kind of got lost in the middle of them. And also, with this being the Edwardian era, there just weren't as many stakes as there would be in older time periods. If Jamie and Evie wanted to fall in love and be together, nothing really was stopping them from doing so. I have to admit, there’s a lack of thrill/excitement when it comes to a more progressive time period. But still, I’m definitely going to continue reading this second generation series because I love this family!
*****
WE ARE GETTING IAN MACKENZIE’S OLDEST SON’S BOOK GOD BLESS
Read
November 7, 2021Jamie Mackenzie's story. Ian's son is an adult now and searching for his passion. Evie McKnight is a new character--Jamie met her while they were at Cambridge (Evie went to one of the women's colleges)--and now they are reconnecting.
The many Mackenzie cousins make their appearances, sons and daughters of Hart, Cameron, Mac, Ian, and the McBrides. Ian and Jamie confab often.
For a refresher on the next generation, the best reading is the novellas: A Mackenzie Family Christmas, A Mackenzie Clan Gathering, and A Mackenzie Yuletide (in print w/ Clan Gathering in Mackenzie Clan Christmas).
The many Mackenzie cousins make their appearances, sons and daughters of Hart, Cameron, Mac, Ian, and the McBrides. Ian and Jamie confab often.
For a refresher on the next generation, the best reading is the novellas: A Mackenzie Family Christmas, A Mackenzie Clan Gathering, and A Mackenzie Yuletide (in print w/ Clan Gathering in Mackenzie Clan Christmas).
November 20, 2021
3.5 to 4 stars. In the end, a sweet romance. The Edwardian setting was quite enjoyable - I haven't read too many books set in this period, but the setting was done well.
The romance took a while to really get going, because Evie is already engaged to another man, and the book takes its time disengaging Evie from her fiancé and allowing her time to really fall in love with Jamie. It was done believably, but did slow the pace of the book somewhat.
I did not really enjoy the plot point about them wanting to break into the British Museum (this is all in the blurb so not a spoiler). I'm a bit of a goody-two-shoes rule follower, and this section made me uncomfortable. I feel as if Ms Ashley can do better with the plotting than this.
There were plenty of revisits with Jamie's family, including Beth and Ian, which was nicely done (for those who've read the earlier books). And at the end it's revealed that Ms Ashley intends to write more books about this next-gen group of Edwardian-era Mackenzies, all with guaranteed HEAS, which will be nice. One of Jamie's sisters will be next.
So an enjoyable read and I recommend it, especially to those who've liked other books in the series. The characters were good, although for me the plot was not fully to my taste and the pacing was a bit too slow. So not quite as good as some of the excellent earlier books, but still well worth reading.
The romance took a while to really get going, because Evie is already engaged to another man, and the book takes its time disengaging Evie from her fiancé and allowing her time to really fall in love with Jamie. It was done believably, but did slow the pace of the book somewhat.
I did not really enjoy the plot point about them wanting to break into the British Museum (this is all in the blurb so not a spoiler). I'm a bit of a goody-two-shoes rule follower, and this section made me uncomfortable. I feel as if Ms Ashley can do better with the plotting than this.
There were plenty of revisits with Jamie's family, including Beth and Ian, which was nicely done (for those who've read the earlier books). And at the end it's revealed that Ms Ashley intends to write more books about this next-gen group of Edwardian-era Mackenzies, all with guaranteed HEAS, which will be nice. One of Jamie's sisters will be next.
So an enjoyable read and I recommend it, especially to those who've liked other books in the series. The characters were good, although for me the plot was not fully to my taste and the pacing was a bit too slow. So not quite as good as some of the excellent earlier books, but still well worth reading.
Want to read
June 15, 2021OMG. I did not have "second gen Mackenzies" on my 2021 bingo card 😱
IAN MACKENZIE'S SON!!!!
IAN MACKENZIE'S SON!!!!
December 8, 2021
The book is written really well and can be enjoyable to read. If I wasn't so picky with my romance books, I can see myself giving this book 4 stars.
The reasons for the 2 stars:
- I didn't care about Jamie and Evie planning and stealing a Greek vase (or some sort of pottery) from the museum.
- Since I didn't care for this plot, it made the pacing very slow for me. It took me a few days to get past these couple of first chapters.
- Jamie and Evie recalled their first kiss at Cambridge way too much that I didn't quite buy that they could fall in love so soon, especially Jamie. It felt forced.
The good parts:
- Jamie is a really great guy! Everyone knows and loves him. The title "The Sinful Ways of Jamie MacKenzie" is a bit misleading in my opinion.
- His courtship/wooing of Evie in the second half of the book. *sighs dreamily*
- The Edwardian era is new to me but it was refreshing to read about new historical eras.
- The MacKenzie and McBride families with their children all grown up.
If you are new to this series, I would recommend that you read Books 1 through 7 and the Christmas novellas first, because almost ALL of them show up at one point or another and it can be overwhelming to learn so many names at once.
The reasons for the 2 stars:
- I didn't care about Jamie and Evie planning and stealing a Greek vase (or some sort of pottery) from the museum.
- Since I didn't care for this plot, it made the pacing very slow for me. It took me a few days to get past these couple of first chapters.
- Jamie and Evie recalled their first kiss at Cambridge way too much that I didn't quite buy that they could fall in love so soon, especially Jamie. It felt forced.
The good parts:
- Jamie is a really great guy! Everyone knows and loves him. The title "The Sinful Ways of Jamie MacKenzie" is a bit misleading in my opinion.
- His courtship/wooing of Evie in the second half of the book. *sighs dreamily*
- The Edwardian era is new to me but it was refreshing to read about new historical eras.
- The MacKenzie and McBride families with their children all grown up.
If you are new to this series, I would recommend that you read Books 1 through 7 and the Christmas novellas first, because almost ALL of them show up at one point or another and it can be overwhelming to learn so many names at once.
December 23, 2021
This book is, in a nutshell, 300-plus pages of an unashamed ode to the Mackenzies. You'll meet both generations - Ian and his daring brothers as well as each of their offspring, all of who are now grown up enough to have their own books.
The MC in this book is Jamie, Ian's son which is fitting since Ian's beautiful, dramatic love story kicked off the original, highly popular series about the mad Mackenzie brothers and their assorted friends. There is little plot per se, and you will like this if you have read and enjoyed the books of the previous generation, i.e. Ian, Mac, Cam and Hart. I was just happy to be meeting my fave characters from the earlier books. :)
The MC in this book is Jamie, Ian's son which is fitting since Ian's beautiful, dramatic love story kicked off the original, highly popular series about the mad Mackenzie brothers and their assorted friends. There is little plot per se, and you will like this if you have read and enjoyed the books of the previous generation, i.e. Ian, Mac, Cam and Hart. I was just happy to be meeting my fave characters from the earlier books. :)
April 25, 2023
The story was great until the third act breakup. It didn’t totally make sense to me…Evie’s need to be alone, per Jamie, didn’t make complete sense to me. Still, it was a fun story. I loved seeing the Mackenzies in 1908 and seeing all the children of the original characters. Jennifer Ashley’s afterward saying that she is, indeed, continuing the series with the kids made me so happy!
November 18, 2021
I LOVE the Mackenzies!!! One of my all-time favorite families and series! So happy to see Jennifer Ashley is doing stories on the next generation while we still get to visit with our favorite originating characters (especially my personal favorite Ian - "The Madness of Lord Ian Mackenzie"). Another fabulous addition to the series.
September 20, 2023
Ο Τζέιμι Μακένζι και η Ίβι ΜακΝάιτ, στην τελευταία τους συνάντηση πριν κάποια χρόνια, αντάλλαξαν ένα φιλί. Τώρα, η επιστροφή της Ίβι από την Νέ Υόρκη και το γεγονός ότι συνεχώς βρίσκεται μπροστά του, κάνει τον Τζέιμι να τη δει καλύτερα και όταν εκείνη χρειάζεται βοήθεια, της την προσφέρει απλόχερα. Αποφασισμένος να τη διεκδικήσει, σκοντάφτει στο μόνο ελάττωμα που έχει - είναι αρραβωνιασμένη. Όμως, σεν θα το βάλει κάτω τώρα που είναι σίγουρος πλεόν, ότι αυτή είναι που θέλει η καρδιά του. Θα προσπαθήσει να διαλύσει αυτό τον αρραβώνα, χωρίς να γίνει κάποιο σκάνδαλο που θα έπλητε την υπόληψή της. Άραγε, η Ίβι αισθάνεται το ίδιο?
Έχω ξαναπεί, ότι όταν διαβάζω Σκοτσέζος και κιλτ, δεν μπορώ να αντισταθώ. Τη συγκεκριμμένη σειρά βιβλίων την είχα δει, αλλά όλο και την ανέβαλλα, μέχρι που μια καλή φίλη, μου είπε ότι μπορώ να το διαβάσω κι ας μην έχω διαβάσει τα υπόλοιπα βιβλία με τα μελη της οικογένειας Μακένζι. Δεν έχασα καιρό λοιπόν.
Ο Τζέιμι είναι γλυκός και δυναμικός εκεί που χρειάζεται, ξέρει πως να διεκδικεί χωρίς να πιέζει. Η Ίβι, θέλει από τη ζωή της πολύ περισσότερα από το να γίνει "νοικοκυρούλα χαρωπή", αλλά ξέρει ότι οι συμβάσεις της εποχής δεν ξεπερνιούνται εύκολα. Ο Τζέιμι, θα κάνει την καρδιά της να χτυπήσει δυνατά αλλά είναι αυτό αρκετό?
Η συνέχεια για εσάς, στις σελίδες του βιβλίου αγαπητοί φίλοι!
Το απόλαυσα, το ευχαριστήθηκα και εννοείται ότι θα διαβάσω και άλλα βιβλία για την οικογένεια Μακένζι!
"Όταν ένας Μακένζι σε βάλει στο στόχαστρο,δεν ξέρεις που πατάς και που βρίσκεσαι και πολύ σύντομα αντιλαμβάνεσαι ότι δεν μπορείς να ξεφύγεις. Αλλά δεν πειράζει, γιατί στην πραγματικότητα δεν θέλεις να ξεφύγεις. Αλλά ακόμα κι αν το κάνεις, συνειδητοποιείς τελικά, ότι ο άνδρας αυτός έχει γίνει μέρος της ζωής σου και θα παραμείνει για πάντα εκεί."
Έχω ξαναπεί, ότι όταν διαβάζω Σκοτσέζος και κιλτ, δεν μπορώ να αντισταθώ. Τη συγκεκριμμένη σειρά βιβλίων την είχα δει, αλλά όλο και την ανέβαλλα, μέχρι που μια καλή φίλη, μου είπε ότι μπορώ να το διαβάσω κι ας μην έχω διαβάσει τα υπόλοιπα βιβλία με τα μελη της οικογένειας Μακένζι. Δεν έχασα καιρό λοιπόν.
Ο Τζέιμι είναι γλυκός και δυναμικός εκεί που χρειάζεται, ξέρει πως να διεκδικεί χωρίς να πιέζει. Η Ίβι, θέλει από τη ζωή της πολύ περισσότερα από το να γίνει "νοικοκυρούλα χαρωπή", αλλά ξέρει ότι οι συμβάσεις της εποχής δεν ξεπερνιούνται εύκολα. Ο Τζέιμι, θα κάνει την καρδιά της να χτυπήσει δυνατά αλλά είναι αυτό αρκετό?
Η συνέχεια για εσάς, στις σελίδες του βιβλίου αγαπητοί φίλοι!
Το απόλαυσα, το ευχαριστήθηκα και εννοείται ότι θα διαβάσω και άλλα βιβλία για την οικογένεια Μακένζι!
"Όταν ένας Μακένζι σε βάλει στο στόχαστρο,δεν ξέρεις που πατάς και που βρίσκεσαι και πολύ σύντομα αντιλαμβάνεσαι ότι δεν μπορείς να ξεφύγεις. Αλλά δεν πειράζει, γιατί στην πραγματικότητα δεν θέλεις να ξεφύγεις. Αλλά ακόμα κι αν το κάνεις, συνειδητοποιείς τελικά, ότι ο άνδρας αυτός έχει γίνει μέρος της ζωής σου και θα παραμείνει για πάντα εκεί."
January 13, 2022
Disappointing. Contrived. Tepid.
This can barely be called a romance. The couple spends far more time with various members of his family than with each other. The book felt more like fan service, showing the couples from the previous books still madly in love, and a marketing campaign for a lengthy extension to the series. Eight different characters were highlighted with a strong indication that they would be protagonists in further books. Often in ways that added nothing to this story and in a few cases being jarringly out of place in it.
When the couple is finally together everything feels contrived, they bicker over stupid things just so they can then keep themselves apart. Even the “steamy” scenes are barely warm because there has been no build up and the reader doesn’t feel a connection and certainly no passion. The hero is too busy being careful with her or telling her how competent she is to act passionately. Meanwhile she spends half the book being rude to him and the other half being vaguely self-deprecating and bitter over being a woman.
When I think of how good The Madness of Lord Ian MacKenzie was, it’s deeply disappointing that Ian and Beth’s son’s story was so flat.
Lastly, what a misleading title. There is nothing remotely sinful about Jamie. He is sweet as sugar, doesn’t have a reputation for being promiscuous, isn’t even very flirtatious, and even when they get around to consummating the relationship he is far more cuddly than sinful.
This can barely be called a romance. The couple spends far more time with various members of his family than with each other. The book felt more like fan service, showing the couples from the previous books still madly in love, and a marketing campaign for a lengthy extension to the series. Eight different characters were highlighted with a strong indication that they would be protagonists in further books. Often in ways that added nothing to this story and in a few cases being jarringly out of place in it.
When the couple is finally together everything feels contrived, they bicker over stupid things just so they can then keep themselves apart. Even the “steamy” scenes are barely warm because there has been no build up and the reader doesn’t feel a connection and certainly no passion. The hero is too busy being careful with her or telling her how competent she is to act passionately. Meanwhile she spends half the book being rude to him and the other half being vaguely self-deprecating and bitter over being a woman.
When I think of how good The Madness of Lord Ian MacKenzie was, it’s deeply disappointing that Ian and Beth’s son’s story was so flat.
Lastly, what a misleading title. There is nothing remotely sinful about Jamie. He is sweet as sugar, doesn’t have a reputation for being promiscuous, isn’t even very flirtatious, and even when they get around to consummating the relationship he is far more cuddly than sinful.
May 11, 2022
This was of course stuffed with every single marvelous character we have ever met in a Mackenzie novel. And if that was what my heart needed to be satisfied... this would be a 6 star read. I hope a lot of that is because this is kind of the start of the 2nd Mackenzie run. Because this book felt VERY crowded for me.
I wanted to ABSOLUTELY burst with joy whenever Ian and Beth were around and seeing either of them with their children is freaking beautiful.
But.... though Jamie is SO swoony (what Jamie isn't?) I feel like this book didn't have some of the beautiful, quiet, intimate moments from earlier books in this series. This young couple was almost drowning under the weight of all the Romances I loved in the past. It made it hard to love Evie and Jame, for Evie and Jamie...
I don't know, I'm just conflicted.. cause there is so much good in this but I was also frustrated that this was SUCH a slow burn and even though Jamie does some very epic things to win her. On advice from his Papa of course. I just felt at arms length from them.
I wanted more. I wanted the belly swoops I've had before and honestly... Ian was still the one giving them to me. Not Jamie.
3.5 Stars
2 on the spice scale.
I wanted to ABSOLUTELY burst with joy whenever Ian and Beth were around and seeing either of them with their children is freaking beautiful.
But.... though Jamie is SO swoony (what Jamie isn't?) I feel like this book didn't have some of the beautiful, quiet, intimate moments from earlier books in this series. This young couple was almost drowning under the weight of all the Romances I loved in the past. It made it hard to love Evie and Jame, for Evie and Jamie...
I don't know, I'm just conflicted.. cause there is so much good in this but I was also frustrated that this was SUCH a slow burn and even though Jamie does some very epic things to win her. On advice from his Papa of course. I just felt at arms length from them.
I wanted more. I wanted the belly swoops I've had before and honestly... Ian was still the one giving them to me. Not Jamie.
3.5 Stars
2 on the spice scale.
November 20, 2021
I was disappointed. Jamie is the son of Ian and Beth from book 1 in this series.
I feel no chemistry between the hero and heroine.
He kissed her once at college and they never spoke again. He sees her by chance while picking up his family at a boat, and suddenly he has to have her. It didn't make any sense.
Then they decide they need to rob the British Museum to get back a Greek vase that the heroine's friend's dad gave away to an ambassador (they are Greek) but he had no right to do that so he basically gave away someone else' property. So now they plan a heist and steal a vase. WHAT???
I feel no romance between them. He made the heroine's fiancee write her a letter to break their engagement because he had a mistress and saw her every Thursday night. Hero said heroine deserved better.
Also I think the time period is too modern for me. There are motorcars, the women go out alone and unescorted.
I feel no chemistry between the hero and heroine.
He kissed her once at college and they never spoke again. He sees her by chance while picking up his family at a boat, and suddenly he has to have her. It didn't make any sense.
Then they decide they need to rob the British Museum to get back a Greek vase that the heroine's friend's dad gave away to an ambassador (they are Greek) but he had no right to do that so he basically gave away someone else' property. So now they plan a heist and steal a vase. WHAT???
I feel no romance between them. He made the heroine's fiancee write her a letter to break their engagement because he had a mistress and saw her every Thursday night. Hero said heroine deserved better.
Also I think the time period is too modern for me. There are motorcars, the women go out alone and unescorted.
November 23, 2021
3 3/4 "See me" Stars!
I admit the first half wasn't that great for me. But the second half was really good! I liked both Evie and Jamie a lot. I loved seeing all the MacKenzies again!! There was some really nice set up for future books with this next generation. I absolutely positively adore Ian MacKenzie!! He is my favorite by far. Any page time with him is five star for me. ❤❤❤
Overall, I liked this one a lot. I'm looking forward to future books! Happy reading!
I admit the first half wasn't that great for me. But the second half was really good! I liked both Evie and Jamie a lot. I loved seeing all the MacKenzies again!! There was some really nice set up for future books with this next generation. I absolutely positively adore Ian MacKenzie!! He is my favorite by far. Any page time with him is five star for me. ❤❤❤
Overall, I liked this one a lot. I'm looking forward to future books! Happy reading!
March 25, 2025
3.75/5.
This is a sweet, gentle romance in which Jamie Mackenzie, noted 2nd gen Mackenzie hottie, decides to homewreck the engagement of a girl he kissed after she shoved him in a river years ago. I can't say it's especially memorable, and it DOES suffer from 2nd Gen Syndrome, wherein it's like "How do I give this character a tragic backstory without fucking with the HEA of his parents". The ONLY author I've seen really go for this is Lorraine Heath, and Jennifer Ashley just sorta goes "Jamie's angst is being not as cool as his dad", which, fair. As such this is a pretty mild book about two nice attractive people falling in love wherein not a lot happens (he could've homewrecked harder tbh), but I did really love seeing the Mackenzies again, because they are The Best.
Highlights include:
—Alec Mackenzie Junior, WHOSE BOOK I NEED, JENNIFER ASHLEY COME BACK, being all grumbly and growly and "LIBERATING SCOTLAND FROM ENGLISH RULE IS YOUR DREAM, DAD" was a treat. I sense that he is a menace.
—the confirmation that Ian and Beth are still banging in carriages in their 50s (or 60s???) is what I needed
—Jennifer Ashley wants me to believe that Ian would return his for sure stolen Ming bowls if the Chinese government asked for them; I don't believe her but I appreciate the sentiment
This is a sweet, gentle romance in which Jamie Mackenzie, noted 2nd gen Mackenzie hottie, decides to homewreck the engagement of a girl he kissed after she shoved him in a river years ago. I can't say it's especially memorable, and it DOES suffer from 2nd Gen Syndrome, wherein it's like "How do I give this character a tragic backstory without fucking with the HEA of his parents". The ONLY author I've seen really go for this is Lorraine Heath, and Jennifer Ashley just sorta goes "Jamie's angst is being not as cool as his dad", which, fair. As such this is a pretty mild book about two nice attractive people falling in love wherein not a lot happens (he could've homewrecked harder tbh), but I did really love seeing the Mackenzies again, because they are The Best.
Highlights include:
—Alec Mackenzie Junior, WHOSE BOOK I NEED, JENNIFER ASHLEY COME BACK, being all grumbly and growly and "LIBERATING SCOTLAND FROM ENGLISH RULE IS YOUR DREAM, DAD" was a treat. I sense that he is a menace.
—the confirmation that Ian and Beth are still banging in carriages in their 50s (or 60s???) is what I needed
—Jennifer Ashley wants me to believe that Ian would return his for sure stolen Ming bowls if the Chinese government asked for them; I don't believe her but I appreciate the sentiment
Read
December 29, 2021I hate this. I had such high hopes for this book. The hero, Jamie, is the son of Ian Mackenzie. Ian. One of the best heroes ever. How could it not be great? But alas, it was. It turned out to be a DNF. I found it dreadfully boring. Say it isn’t so. Can’t.
Hopefully others read it and enjoyed it more than I did. I thought maybe I wasn’t in the mood for a historical but I read a couple after that and enjoyed them. It wasn’t the mood, it was the book. *sigh of sadness*
Hopefully others read it and enjoyed it more than I did. I thought maybe I wasn’t in the mood for a historical but I read a couple after that and enjoyed them. It wasn’t the mood, it was the book. *sigh of sadness*
December 20, 2021
Title: The Sinful Ways of Jamie Mackenzie
Author: Jennifer Ashley
Series: Mackenzies and McBrides, #12
Publisher: Self Published
Reviewer: Jaime
Release Date: November 16, 2021
Genre(s): Historical Romance | Edwardian
Page Count: 338 Pages
Heat Level: 5 flames out of 5
Rating: 5 stars out of 5
Blurb:
Review:
Jennifer Ashley has done it again — this story if utterly perfect and I wouldn’t change a thing! I continue to adore the characters that make up the Mackenzies & McBrides and each story reveals new reasons why this is a must read series. This is book 12 of the collective series but it is the first book of the new generation and the timeframe transitions from Victorian to Edwardian, the author does a great job combining aspects of the new times into the world of the characters.
This story focuses on Jamie Mackenzie who of course is Ian & Beth Mackenzie’s oldest child. Watch out though because Jamie is all grown up and he has the determined focus of Ian mixed with the compassion of Beth, add those two things to his daredevil adventures, comfortable style, wit, and seductive ways and you have one hot scot on your hands! Jamie also holds a special place in the family as he is the defecto leader of this generation even though he is not the heir to the Kilmorgan Dukedom.
“The younger generation of Mackenzies had taken to turning to Jamie for advice. Since he was the oldest cousin—apart from Daniel, who was fifteen years Jamie’s senior—and the firstborn son of Ian Mackenzie, they regarded him as their leader. Never mind that Jamie was a long way from the dukedom—thank heaven. Jamie had become a guide to the others, a confidante who helped solve their problems.”
“Jamie had always longed to impress his father by accomplishing something brilliant, and he’d set off at an early age to do so. So far, he’d crashed an aeroplane near Baghdad, nearly killed himself in India and again in Egypt, and almost got himself lost forever in the Australian desert. Not the most impressive of careers.”
This places Jamie in the position of responsibility & certain expectations and at the age of twenty-seven one of those expectations is the hope he will find a bride. Jamie is in no rush to settle down. Then a chance encounter brings a former acquaintance into his life and the possibilities start to look different.
Evie McKnight - she briefly met Jamie years before during a rowing competition when she knocked him in the river with her oar. When she and her family arrive back in London on the same ocean liner as Daniel & Violet, she almost knocks a waiting Jamie off the pier when she runs into him. Evie has her life planned out: marry a man she will never love, fulfill her duties as the wife of a wealthy business man, and have precious children to smother with love. What she doesn’t plan for however is Jamie coming into her life and trampling all over her plans.
Jamie finds himself drawn to Evie — just one problem, she is already betrothed. Unsure what to do, Jamie seeks advice from his father. As we already know, Ian was in a similar situation with Beth.
I loved this interaction between father & Son…
The relationship between Jamie & Ian is heartwarming and this book of course gives us a glimpse at just how much Ian has changed since the first book of the series, The Madness of Lord Ian Mackenzie . I am eager for the next books featuring this generation of the Mackenzie & McBride’s.
The romance between Jamie & Evie is a whirlwind of activity as he introduces Evie to his family and secretly plots how to get her away from her fiancé.
“Evie McKnight was beautiful, Jamie wanted her, and he’d do whatever it took to have her.” … “You are beautiful, lass.”
“Always ready with a compliment, Mackenzie.” Her voice was faint, cracked. Jamie couldn’t stop his grin. “I’ll be making many of them, McKnight.”
The passion shared between Jamie & Evie was scorching hot! Jamie introduces her to all the sinfully wicked ways that pleasure can be found between a man & woman. Evie is an excellent student. 😉
I completely loved the interactions between Evie & all of the various Mackenzie clan. I would love to have a huge family just like them… maybe lol 😉
If you are looking for an amazing book look no further! While you can technically read this book as a standalone —- personally I think you may miss some of the nuances and subtle hints the author sprinkles throughout the story.
Overall rating 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | 5 Flames 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥 and I can’t wait for the next book in the series!!
Review Copy of The Sinful Ways of Jamie Mackenzie purchased by Reviewer for an honest Review.
Author: Jennifer Ashley
Series: Mackenzies and McBrides, #12
Publisher: Self Published
Reviewer: Jaime
Release Date: November 16, 2021
Genre(s): Historical Romance | Edwardian
Page Count: 338 Pages
Heat Level: 5 flames out of 5
Rating: 5 stars out of 5
Blurb:
--- When in trouble, seek a Highlander...
Even if you pushed him into a river ten years ago...
When Evie McKnight slams into Jamie Mackenzie on a quay on Southampton, she flashes back to the day she accidentally knocked him into the river Cam. When she fished him out again, he shocked her with a searing, bold kiss before walking away in dripping wet shirt and kilt.
Evie has no business reveling in memories of Jamie then and the nearness of him now—she is betrothed to a respectable man from a respectable and wealthy family. But Jamie appears everywhere in London, assisting Evie and her sisters, becoming friends with her fiancé, and agreeing to be drawn into the heist Evie has planned in order to save her best friend’s father from ruin.
The son and heir of Ian Mackenzie, Jamie has roamed the world encountering adventure after adventure, and now he’s back home to settle down as he promised his family. But Jamie is restless, searching for something he can’t seem to find, trying to live up to his potential as the son of a genius.
When he sees Evie again, he knows what he’s been striving for, and he is not going to let the trivial matter of her betrothal to a dull stick and the fact that she wants to break into the British Museum put him off. Jamie is Ian Mackenzie’s son all right—he’ll use all the Mackenzie determination and adroitness to prove that she is for him, and he for her.
Author’s Note: Set in the Edwardian era, The Sinful Ways of Jamie Mackenzie, begins the stories of the next generations Mackenzies, the sons and daughters of Ian, Mac, Cameron, and Hart, and more.
Review:
Jennifer Ashley has done it again — this story if utterly perfect and I wouldn’t change a thing! I continue to adore the characters that make up the Mackenzies & McBrides and each story reveals new reasons why this is a must read series. This is book 12 of the collective series but it is the first book of the new generation and the timeframe transitions from Victorian to Edwardian, the author does a great job combining aspects of the new times into the world of the characters.
This story focuses on Jamie Mackenzie who of course is Ian & Beth Mackenzie’s oldest child. Watch out though because Jamie is all grown up and he has the determined focus of Ian mixed with the compassion of Beth, add those two things to his daredevil adventures, comfortable style, wit, and seductive ways and you have one hot scot on your hands! Jamie also holds a special place in the family as he is the defecto leader of this generation even though he is not the heir to the Kilmorgan Dukedom.
“The younger generation of Mackenzies had taken to turning to Jamie for advice. Since he was the oldest cousin—apart from Daniel, who was fifteen years Jamie’s senior—and the firstborn son of Ian Mackenzie, they regarded him as their leader. Never mind that Jamie was a long way from the dukedom—thank heaven. Jamie had become a guide to the others, a confidante who helped solve their problems.”
“Jamie had always longed to impress his father by accomplishing something brilliant, and he’d set off at an early age to do so. So far, he’d crashed an aeroplane near Baghdad, nearly killed himself in India and again in Egypt, and almost got himself lost forever in the Australian desert. Not the most impressive of careers.”
This places Jamie in the position of responsibility & certain expectations and at the age of twenty-seven one of those expectations is the hope he will find a bride. Jamie is in no rush to settle down. Then a chance encounter brings a former acquaintance into his life and the possibilities start to look different.
Evie McKnight - she briefly met Jamie years before during a rowing competition when she knocked him in the river with her oar. When she and her family arrive back in London on the same ocean liner as Daniel & Violet, she almost knocks a waiting Jamie off the pier when she runs into him. Evie has her life planned out: marry a man she will never love, fulfill her duties as the wife of a wealthy business man, and have precious children to smother with love. What she doesn’t plan for however is Jamie coming into her life and trampling all over her plans.
Jamie finds himself drawn to Evie — just one problem, she is already betrothed. Unsure what to do, Jamie seeks advice from his father. As we already know, Ian was in a similar situation with Beth.
I loved this interaction between father & Son…
“Jamie knew better than to answer his father’s question with What lady?
He sipped his whisky and wandered to an armchair, sinking into its welcoming cushions.
“How did you know I was thinking about a woman?”
Ian seated himself on the sofa, his feet in their casual shoes lined up precisely, the kilt, a threadbare one he wore about the house, falling in neat folds over his knees. “The train you traveled on reached Victoria Station at five thirty-five. You arrived here at half past eight, saying you’d come directly from the lock-up. It is thirty minutes from the station to the lock-up, considering the traffic load, and another thirty here in the hansom I saw you alighting from. That leaves one hour and fifty-five minutes unaccounted for. You could have been cleaning the car and speaking to Alec all that time, but probably not.” Ian paused to take a sip of whisky. “Also, you let your sister do most of the talking at supper, and that is unusual.”
Jamie heaved an aggrieved sigh. “Save me from a dad good with numbers. Yes, all right. I met a woman today. Her name is Evie McKnight.”
“A lover?” Ian asked.
Another son might be startled that his father mentioned such a thing, but Ian was a practical man and believed in plain speaking. Jamie was plenty old enough to have a lover, and had in fact, taken several in the past.
“A friend. There’s nothing in it, Dad. She’s betrothed to another man.”
Ian thoughtfully studied the light glinting from the facets in his glass. “Your mother was betrothed when I met her.”
Jamie had heard the tale many times. “I know. You saved her from a blackguard, and she fell in love with you instead.”
“I saw that she would be very unhappy with him,” Ian stated. “I knew he would not appreciate what a priceless jewel he had in her, and so I told her the truth about him.”
Jamie took another sip of the glorious whisky. “Mother says it was wildly romantic.” Ian met Jamie’s gaze. “I was not trying to be romantic. I wanted her to be happy. Would have done anything to make her so.”
“Including coaxing her to marry you one rainy night in Paris.”
Ian shrugged. “It was necessary.”
Jamie let out a laugh. “Necessary, he says. Well, I am selfishly glad you talked her into it, or I would not be here.”
“That is true.” Ian lifted his glass to Jamie. “I am four-fold glad. I have spent my life with my Beth, and you, and Belle, and Megan.”
For a moment, the two men drank in amused silence.
“Are you going to let Evie McKnight marry this other man?” Ian asked abruptly.
“I don’t think it’s my choice, Dad.” Jamie set his glass on the table next to him. “It’s not the same thing as you and Mum.”
“Is it nae?” Ian asked quietly.
The relationship between Jamie & Ian is heartwarming and this book of course gives us a glimpse at just how much Ian has changed since the first book of the series, The Madness of Lord Ian Mackenzie . I am eager for the next books featuring this generation of the Mackenzie & McBride’s.
The romance between Jamie & Evie is a whirlwind of activity as he introduces Evie to his family and secretly plots how to get her away from her fiancé.
“Evie McKnight was beautiful, Jamie wanted her, and he’d do whatever it took to have her.” … “You are beautiful, lass.”
“Always ready with a compliment, Mackenzie.” Her voice was faint, cracked. Jamie couldn’t stop his grin. “I’ll be making many of them, McKnight.”
The passion shared between Jamie & Evie was scorching hot! Jamie introduces her to all the sinfully wicked ways that pleasure can be found between a man & woman. Evie is an excellent student. 😉
I completely loved the interactions between Evie & all of the various Mackenzie clan. I would love to have a huge family just like them… maybe lol 😉
If you are looking for an amazing book look no further! While you can technically read this book as a standalone —- personally I think you may miss some of the nuances and subtle hints the author sprinkles throughout the story.
Overall rating 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | 5 Flames 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥 and I can’t wait for the next book in the series!!
Review Copy of The Sinful Ways of Jamie Mackenzie purchased by Reviewer for an honest Review.
November 21, 2022
Edwardian era, in England and Scotland, April 1908,
going forward. This had sex scenes & some humor.
Gave these 3 stars.
Readers may be familiar w/ the Mackenzie brothers:
Ian (a whisky distiller) and Beth parents of Jamie.
Uncle Mac (an artist) and Isabelle.
Uncle Cam (horse breeder/ racer) and Ainsley.
Uncle Hart (a duke) & Eleanor. These bros & their
offspring participated in this story. Jamie's (& my)
fav cousin was Alec (Hart's heir) who flirted w/
Iris of Greek heritage.
Evie was on her college's female rowing team w/
Iris and others. She and Jamie "met cute" & kissed:
natch. Several years later these 2 met again. Evie
and Hayden had been engaged x 1 year. Hayden, in
business w/ his sire, seldom questioned or contra-
dicted his father.
Jamie had much knowledge and experience w/ the
distillery & would inherit it upon his sire's retire-
ment. He also assisted his uncle with the horses.
Jamie fell in love w/ Evie & was the 1st to say the 3
little words. He seemed in a rush to get Evie to
confess her love. He prematurely took her to meet
his huge family of parents, sibs, aunts and uncles
and too many cousins to keep straight.
I realize Jamie was a non-conformist, proud man,
but why did he wear a well-worn kilt in public? He
could have had older and newer kilts in his wardrobe,
as he had the funds.
My favorite scene? Ian's quiet approval of Evie when
1st introduced to her.
going forward. This had sex scenes & some humor.
Gave these 3 stars.
Readers may be familiar w/ the Mackenzie brothers:
Ian (a whisky distiller) and Beth parents of Jamie.
Uncle Mac (an artist) and Isabelle.
Uncle Cam (horse breeder/ racer) and Ainsley.
Uncle Hart (a duke) & Eleanor. These bros & their
offspring participated in this story. Jamie's (& my)
fav cousin was Alec (Hart's heir) who flirted w/
Iris of Greek heritage.
Evie was on her college's female rowing team w/
Iris and others. She and Jamie "met cute" & kissed:
natch. Several years later these 2 met again. Evie
and Hayden had been engaged x 1 year. Hayden, in
business w/ his sire, seldom questioned or contra-
dicted his father.
Jamie had much knowledge and experience w/ the
distillery & would inherit it upon his sire's retire-
ment. He also assisted his uncle with the horses.
Jamie fell in love w/ Evie & was the 1st to say the 3
little words. He seemed in a rush to get Evie to
confess her love. He prematurely took her to meet
his huge family of parents, sibs, aunts and uncles
and too many cousins to keep straight.
I realize Jamie was a non-conformist, proud man,
but why did he wear a well-worn kilt in public? He
could have had older and newer kilts in his wardrobe,
as he had the funds.
My favorite scene? Ian's quiet approval of Evie when
1st introduced to her.
Read
November 18, 2023Στο @JukeBooks υπήρχε άλλο ένα ιστορικό ρομαντικό της σειράς «Οικογένεια Μακένζι» με τίτλο «Το σχέδιο του Τζέιμι Μακένζι» και φυσικά δεν παρέλειψα να το ακούσω! Αυτή τη φορά ο ήρωάς μας είναι ο Τζέιμι Μακένζι, που πριν έξι χρόνια, στο Κέιμπριτζ φίλησε παθιασμένα την Ίβι ΜακΝάιτ, αφού εκείνη τον είχε «στείλει» σε μια βουτιά στη λίμνη με το κουπί της! Έκτοτε, κανένας από τους δύο δεν έχει ξεχάσει αυτό το φιλί. Όμως αυτή δεν είναι μια ανάμνηση που πρέπει να φέρνει στο νου της μια καθωσπρέπει αρραβωνιασμένη κοπέλα.
Οι δυο τους θα ξαναβρεθούν τυχαία και ο Τζέιμι θα βοηθήσει την Ίβι και την οικογένειά της σε μια δύσκολη στιγμή, θα γνωρίσει τον αρραβωνιαστικό της και θα σχηματίσει τη χειρότερη γνώμη, αλλά και θα δεχτεί να βοηθήσει τη φίλη της Ίβι και να βγάλει τον πατέρα της από μια εξαιρετικά δύσκολη και περίπλοκη θέση. Και όσο περισσότερο χρόνο περνούν μαζί, τόσο περισσότερο αντιλαμβάνονται πως είναι φτιαγμένοι ο ένας για τον άλλο!
Και κάπως έτσι απολαμβάνεις την αφήγηση της Παναγιώτας Βλαντή @panagiotavlanti_official και θέλεις κι άλλο!
Οι δυο τους θα ξαναβρεθούν τυχαία και ο Τζέιμι θα βοηθήσει την Ίβι και την οικογένειά της σε μια δύσκολη στιγμή, θα γνωρίσει τον αρραβωνιαστικό της και θα σχηματίσει τη χειρότερη γνώμη, αλλά και θα δεχτεί να βοηθήσει τη φίλη της Ίβι και να βγάλει τον πατέρα της από μια εξαιρετικά δύσκολη και περίπλοκη θέση. Και όσο περισσότερο χρόνο περνούν μαζί, τόσο περισσότερο αντιλαμβάνονται πως είναι φτιαγμένοι ο ένας για τον άλλο!
Και κάπως έτσι απολαμβάνεις την αφήγηση της Παναγιώτας Βλαντή @panagiotavlanti_official και θέλεις κι άλλο!
January 13, 2022
how do i fall deeper in love with this family with every book i read? evie and jamie used to know each other in school. the day when evie caused jamie to fall into the river, they shared a searing kiss. nothing ever came out of that until evie banged into jamie on a quay, they reconnected.
while evie is betrothed to a respectable and wealthy family in london, jamie is searching to live up to his father's name and genius mind. i loved how easy the mackenzie family just brought evie into their circle knowing full well that jamie has his heart set on evie despite her being engaged. i adored the moments when ian and beth were in, especially when conversing with evie and jamie either together or separately. the rest of the extended family were wonderful as well.
i just want more and more books from this series. it's pretty fascinating to read a historical romance in a setting that's gradually becoming more technologically advanced with motorcars and torchlights being invented.
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: ✰✰✰✰
while evie is betrothed to a respectable and wealthy family in london, jamie is searching to live up to his father's name and genius mind. i loved how easy the mackenzie family just brought evie into their circle knowing full well that jamie has his heart set on evie despite her being engaged. i adored the moments when ian and beth were in, especially when conversing with evie and jamie either together or separately. the rest of the extended family were wonderful as well.
i just want more and more books from this series. it's pretty fascinating to read a historical romance in a setting that's gradually becoming more technologically advanced with motorcars and torchlights being invented.
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: ✰✰✰✰
November 26, 2021
It's fun to see the younger generation get their stories told. Jamie goes on quite the adventure in this one. You get the idea at the start that had he not seen Evie, he wouldn't have given her a thought, but once he literally bumped into her, she was front and center in his mind. From there things get fun as Jamie helps Evie's family out, sort of stalks her, then is drawn into a criminal enterprise. The funny thing is all of this pales in comparison to once the Mackenzie clan meets Evie and decides she would be great for Jamie, all of them going all in in welcoming Evie and putting subtle and not so subtle hints to Evie about what life with Jamie would be like. Ian had the right idea, but Jamie ran with his interpretation of it, which was perfect, making for a great ending.
July 26, 2025
Fun, and we get to see all the characters from the first generation as older with their grown children. Jamie is Ian's oldest child. He is several years younger than Daniel and a tinkerer along with being the ear for his cousins. We get a little look at possible pairings of some of the cousins and the cousins are all interesting characters. I enjoyed this though it did not have a angsty drama filled story line other than trying to get her out of her engagement. I never understood why she was so in need of getting married and it didn't seem like a good fit so... was a little tame there. Jamie and Evie were a cute couple and had chemistry but them thinking about their first kiss years before over and over was a bit repetitive in the first 1/2 of the book. OK, we get it, it was hot, which the first time sure even the second but no more :-). I really liked both of these characters even with delaying because of "feelings". Really you cannot read people's minds. Very nice addition to the MacKenzie/McBrides
August 12, 2024
I think this was actually my most favorite of the series and it’s unfortunate that it’s the last one and we won’t have the rest of this generation of Mackenzie romances to look forward to. I really enjoyed Jamie and Evie and their flirty friends to heist conspirators to lovers arc. It was fun and delightful and steamy and the inclusion of his entire extended family was lovely. I loved the father son relationship between him and Ian and just thoroughly enjoyed this book.
March 12, 2022
My main thing is when i pick up a mackenzie novel i'm looking for drama, mess and a lil chemistry. This instalment was lacking a little in these aspects for me, how do we go from kidnappings, family feuds and other such shenanigans to a tepid heist and mild blackmail, its just not what i was looking for.
I will say i did very much enjoy being back with the characters, seeing how life has changed and getting more acquainted with the other members of the new generation, genuinely they all feel distinct and interesting. By far my biggest issue with this book was that I was bored, don't think that the main couple had chemistry and after the blackmail the story went on for far too long, . Generally there wasn't as much character development I was hoping to see with either character, jamie throughout previous books and this one is shown to be insecure, feeling he can not live up to the examples of his father and uncles and he starts this book as this aimless traveller who builds flying machines... and he ends the novel not much changed. Evie kinda exists to be wooed, personally don't think she was set up for any particular arc.
ALSO its brought up in an argument that jamie just keeps trying to fix things or make decisions on her behalf which she gets angry about only for him to turn around AND DO IT AGAIN but the narrative frames it as a romantic moment, which it could have been for a different couple but for them and the issues that had been established in their relationship it didn't make sense to me. My final and most minor gripe is at one point jamie is described as having licked her cheek and teeth... this is supposed to be their big passionate kiss but this ruined the vibe im afraid!
Pretty sure Alec and Iris will be the focus of the next book but i haven't decided if I will be tuning in quite yet.
I will say i did very much enjoy being back with the characters, seeing how life has changed and getting more acquainted with the other members of the new generation, genuinely they all feel distinct and interesting. By far my biggest issue with this book was that I was bored, don't think that the main couple had chemistry and after the blackmail the story went on for far too long, . Generally there wasn't as much character development I was hoping to see with either character, jamie throughout previous books and this one is shown to be insecure, feeling he can not live up to the examples of his father and uncles and he starts this book as this aimless traveller who builds flying machines... and he ends the novel not much changed. Evie kinda exists to be wooed, personally don't think she was set up for any particular arc.
ALSO its brought up in an argument that jamie just keeps trying to fix things or make decisions on her behalf which she gets angry about only for him to turn around AND DO IT AGAIN but the narrative frames it as a romantic moment, which it could have been for a different couple but for them and the issues that had been established in their relationship it didn't make sense to me. My final and most minor gripe is at one point jamie is described as having licked her cheek and teeth... this is supposed to be their big passionate kiss but this ruined the vibe im afraid!
Pretty sure Alec and Iris will be the focus of the next book but i haven't decided if I will be tuning in quite yet.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 10, 2021
Ian and Beth are one of my favorite book couples of all time, so obviously I had to read about their son falling in love. (Also I've read *all* the books in this series and wasn't going to stop now). But something just ended up feeling a little off about this one. It actually took me a while to get through even. I feel attached to this family and so I felt joy when I saw old favorites, and was pleased they got one more HEA, but the quality that really reels me into their stories was just faint. The heroine was a little hard for me to fully get behind, she was indecisive through most of the book and whenever she did make up her mind on something it seemed to be going in the wrong direction. lol. But I get that when you have one character basically all-in from the start, you need *something* to create a hurdle to their relationship. And that aside, I didn't dislike her. There isn't any particular thing I can point to and say 'well that was rubbish!', but it just overall felt more like a paint-by-numbers version of a Mackenzie love story, rather than the usual amount of heart.
November 20, 2021
I dnf this book. It's me. The first part was so good. I fell in love with Jamie. What a great character! However, the plot of this story became stealing an artifact from a museum in London. I fail to be enticed by this trope. It's uncomfortable for me. Doing something wrong even for the right reason doesn't sit well with me. I would never trust the person who engaged me in such a situation even if I didn't get caught.
December 4, 2021
3.75 stars rounded up
I am going straight with what I less like first...
I think the romance is not satisfyingly developed. This story started with Evie slammed into Jamie at the Southampton dock. Apparently they went to Cambridge together and at one point, after Evie "sort of" pushed Jamie to the river, Jamie kissed her.
But it has been half dozen years since then , and I wasn't completely convinced that they ended up thinking of each other a lot before they met again at the dock. And Evie was engaged this time too! I thought the courting phase was too short. I just wished they spent more time before Jamie claiming that he loved her (and vice versa)
.... Having said that ...
The promise to have a whole new series with a LOT of books with new generation of Mackenzies make me deliriously happy. I LOVE this loud, rambunctious family. I already wished that there are stories with the sons and daughters of Hart, Mac, Cameron, and Ian Macenzie when I read A Mackenzie Clan Christmas: A Mackenzie Yuletide/A Mackenzie Clan Gathering.
Jamie is the first of the new generation (technically is Daniel, Cam's son, but Daniel is fifteen years older than Jamie and he's already has his book in The Wicked Deeds of Daniel Mackenzie, marrying Violet) - and he's the de facto leader, even though he's only the oldest son of the YOUNGEST Mackenzie Clan (Jamie is Ian's son) and not even an heir of a duke. But all of the cousins turn to Jamie for advice - and they are all here.
Knowing this is just the beginning wins over my dissatisfaction of the Jamie/Evie courting. I already can't wait to read about Belle, Megan, Gavina, Alec, Mal, and so many others. Especially with the parents also make appearance here and there. Yes, I cannot wait for the new stories!!
Thank you Fairy Godmother of Cinderella from Goodreads Secret Santa event for gifting this book to me
I am going straight with what I less like first...
I think the romance is not satisfyingly developed. This story started with Evie slammed into Jamie at the Southampton dock. Apparently they went to Cambridge together and at one point, after Evie "sort of" pushed Jamie to the river, Jamie kissed her.
But it has been half dozen years since then , and I wasn't completely convinced that they ended up thinking of each other a lot before they met again at the dock. And Evie was engaged this time too! I thought the courting phase was too short. I just wished they spent more time before Jamie claiming that he loved her (and vice versa)
.... Having said that ...
The promise to have a whole new series with a LOT of books with new generation of Mackenzies make me deliriously happy. I LOVE this loud, rambunctious family. I already wished that there are stories with the sons and daughters of Hart, Mac, Cameron, and Ian Macenzie when I read A Mackenzie Clan Christmas: A Mackenzie Yuletide/A Mackenzie Clan Gathering.
Jamie is the first of the new generation (technically is Daniel, Cam's son, but Daniel is fifteen years older than Jamie and he's already has his book in The Wicked Deeds of Daniel Mackenzie, marrying Violet) - and he's the de facto leader, even though he's only the oldest son of the YOUNGEST Mackenzie Clan (Jamie is Ian's son) and not even an heir of a duke. But all of the cousins turn to Jamie for advice - and they are all here.
Knowing this is just the beginning wins over my dissatisfaction of the Jamie/Evie courting. I already can't wait to read about Belle, Megan, Gavina, Alec, Mal, and so many others. Especially with the parents also make appearance here and there. Yes, I cannot wait for the new stories!!
Thank you Fairy Godmother of Cinderella from Goodreads Secret Santa event for gifting this book to me
April 18, 2022
4⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I devoured this book because I love the Mackenzies and I’d missed them. This book isn’t super fast paced, but I really liked getting to know the next generation of MacKenzies- starting with Jamie (Ian’s oldest son). It was also fun to have Jennifer Ashley jump into the Edwardian era.
Side note: Daniel MacKenzie is technically the oldest of the cousins, but he is much older than Jamie & all the others (at least 10 years) and so he already has his book. Daniel and Jamie are close, so we do get to see a Daniel , his wife Violet and their daughter in this one.
Jamie and Evie had a sweet love story, wrapped around two chance encounters, one in college and one at the start of this book. We see Jamie’s love for his family throughout and we get a good measure of on the page time from Ian, Beth, Meghan and Belle. If you have read the series, you know that Ian is the red thread and has worked behind the scenes, (typically in subtle ways) to help the men in his family find love. He works his magic in this one too, and we see how his son emulates him and works to make him proud and live up to his expectations. It is a nice full circle story for Ian at the same time it is a sweet love story for Jamie.
I’m already looking forward to Gavina’s book after this, although from what Ashley has said it’s a long way off. I believe Meghan & Belle’s books are next and it will be new and welcome to have some books centered on MacKenzie women!
Casting:
Jamie: Jake Austin Walker
Evie: Emily Rudd (dark hair)
I devoured this book because I love the Mackenzies and I’d missed them. This book isn’t super fast paced, but I really liked getting to know the next generation of MacKenzies- starting with Jamie (Ian’s oldest son). It was also fun to have Jennifer Ashley jump into the Edwardian era.
Side note: Daniel MacKenzie is technically the oldest of the cousins, but he is much older than Jamie & all the others (at least 10 years) and so he already has his book. Daniel and Jamie are close, so we do get to see a Daniel , his wife Violet and their daughter in this one.
Jamie and Evie had a sweet love story, wrapped around two chance encounters, one in college and one at the start of this book. We see Jamie’s love for his family throughout and we get a good measure of on the page time from Ian, Beth, Meghan and Belle. If you have read the series, you know that Ian is the red thread and has worked behind the scenes, (typically in subtle ways) to help the men in his family find love. He works his magic in this one too, and we see how his son emulates him and works to make him proud and live up to his expectations. It is a nice full circle story for Ian at the same time it is a sweet love story for Jamie.
I’m already looking forward to Gavina’s book after this, although from what Ashley has said it’s a long way off. I believe Meghan & Belle’s books are next and it will be new and welcome to have some books centered on MacKenzie women!
Casting:
Jamie: Jake Austin Walker
Evie: Emily Rudd (dark hair)
December 31, 2021
3.75 stars
I've always loved reading about the Mackenzie children in the novellas of this series. Jamie Mackenzie is a favourite of mine ever since he was a child (same for Gavina) so I was very excited to learn he will have his own story. Now I'm glad to say that I really enjoyed his book and that I found his heroine, Evie, quite interesting. But to be honest what I liked the most was the strong family bonds existing in this next generation of Mackenzie and seeing again all the members of the family.
I'm looking forward to discovering Jamie's sisters and cousins stories since JA intends to write more books about this generation. And for those like me who are a bit scared about the time period (here we are already in 1908) rest assured, JA stated in the author's note the following : While the series will run into the years of WWI, I have already made the decision not to turn the saga into a tragedy. All of the Mackenzies will make it through just fine. :D
I've always loved reading about the Mackenzie children in the novellas of this series. Jamie Mackenzie is a favourite of mine ever since he was a child (same for Gavina) so I was very excited to learn he will have his own story. Now I'm glad to say that I really enjoyed his book and that I found his heroine, Evie, quite interesting. But to be honest what I liked the most was the strong family bonds existing in this next generation of Mackenzie and seeing again all the members of the family.
I'm looking forward to discovering Jamie's sisters and cousins stories since JA intends to write more books about this generation. And for those like me who are a bit scared about the time period (here we are already in 1908) rest assured, JA stated in the author's note the following : While the series will run into the years of WWI, I have already made the decision not to turn the saga into a tragedy. All of the Mackenzies will make it through just fine. :D
January 4, 2024
I actually liked this a lot more than I expected to. A straightforward romance but with enough engage with outside the two leads. The Mackenzie cousins were a fun group especially without the aggressive sentimentality and perfectionism rife in the novellas. I also liked the time period - I don’t think I’ve read any histroms in a more Downton-esque setting but I enjoyed it.
I somehow felt like Evie needed more?? Her POV was fine and I liked her a lot but I thought she seemed a bit flat in/from Jamie’s POV. Especially for him basically falling in love with her after meeting her 2 times. She did seem lovely but I needed more to believe it lol.
But omg I thought I was done and she’s going to write a book for every Mackenzie child now 😭😭😭😭
I somehow felt like Evie needed more?? Her POV was fine and I liked her a lot but I thought she seemed a bit flat in/from Jamie’s POV. Especially for him basically falling in love with her after meeting her 2 times. She did seem lovely but I needed more to believe it lol.
But omg I thought I was done and she’s going to write a book for every Mackenzie child now 😭😭😭😭
December 11, 2021
I can never get enough of the Mackenzies!! Lord Ian was the first and I fell madly in love with him. I think I read all the other books just to get a glimpse of him. Well, Jamie is his son, the first of the next generation to fall in love. The whole family, and I mean THE WHOLE CLAN, gets involved. Jamie is reunited with Evie, a girl who had knocked him into a river 10 years before. Like his father before him,this is the woman for him and he will win her at any cost. He knows what love is from the wonderful example of his parents and will not settle for less. There are more books to come about all the cousins. I look forward to them .
Displaying 1 - 30 of 154 reviews