The Madness Of Lord Ian Mackenzie
Jennifer Ashley
ISBN: 978-0-8439-6043-3
Leisure books May 2009, 320 pages
England/Scotland 1881
$7.99 US $9.99 Canada
Reviewed by Teresa
May 2009
When I opened up The Madness Of Lord Ian Mackenzie, I had no idea that I would be reading a historical romance the likes of which I'd never read before. Our hero, Ian Mackenzie, is suffering from what today could be compared to Asperger's syndrome. He is not fond of crowds, has terrible migraines and is a genius when it comes to memorizing pages of words exactly and mathematics. He is blunt and has no social graces, but underneath it all he is kind and possesses a warm heart. He is an unusual choice for a hero, but an extremely intriguing and likable one.
Beth Ackerley is also not your typical heroine. She has had to endure a harsh existence, which has neither dampened her spirit nor her optimism. The night she meets Ian, he promptly gives her information that helps her avoid a serious mistake she would have made otherwise. An immediate attraction arcs between them and Ian, ever frank, proposes on the spot. Beth is charmed by the uncommon Ian and is tempted by his offer. Thus beginning an unlikely courtship, filled with delicious tension and sensuality. Their encounters were passionate and erotic (complete with historical dirty talk), so for those who like a tamer romance, you won't find it here.
I very much enjoyed Ian and Beth's effortless relationship. They complemented each other beautifully, as if each were made for the other. There was no “big misunderstanding” in sight. Beth was always willing to discuss things with Ian and was enduringly there for him. Ian is a complicated man, whose prone to rages, and Beth is the balm that soothes his soul. What more can I say? They were simply delightful protagonists. If that isn't enough to entice you, there is also an engrossing murder mystery that will keep you guessing.
The Madness Of Lord Ian Mackenzie is the first book in the Highland Pleasures series. You are introduced to Ian's brothers in this book, who are each as singular as Ian, scarred by the past and dealing with their individual pain. I am anticipating each of their stories, if they are anything like their predecessor, they will definitely be a wonderful reading experience.