Jennifer Ashley's The Madness of Lord Ian Mackenzie

To continue on my special segment of “All things Jennifer Ashley”, I’m deviating from my usual paranormal reviews and featuring one of my favorite historical romance novels – and I mean FA∙VOR∙ITE – The Madness of Lord Ian Mackenzie. As I’ve mentioned previously, I have a wicked hunger for not only killer paranormal books but delicious historical romance books.

Don’t ask me to divulge how many historical/reagent novels I’ve read. I’ve seriously lost count. Being an avid reader of genres like paranormal, urban fantasy and historical romance, I often see some of the same old tiring plots. But Jennifer Ashley’s The Madness of Lord Ian Mackenzie is breathtaking: a true masterpiece in historical romance novels. Beyond the obvious i.e. romance and suspense, Ashley creates the Mackenzie world which epitomizes family dysfunction.  Coming from a long line of raging lunatics, they're all cursed, especially Ian, the youngest of four brothers. With his Ian’s unique personality and bizarre gaze combined with a perilous murder plot, Ashley has perfected a recipe for a wickedly good book.


Ian and Beth are misfits among England’s high society and when they meet, both are mesmerized with one another. Ian becomes instantly obsessed with Beth (a widow) and attempts to steal her away from her fiancé. Despite his brilliant mind, Ian’s considered the craziest in his kin, suffering from early childhood abuse and a stint in an asylum. As the ton dismisses him, Beth gravitates towards him. His peculiar nature is alluring and Beth gets a glimpse of passion and love; something she hasn’t seen in 9 years since her husband’s death. With Ian and Beth’s checkered backgrounds, it’s no wonder they were practically made for each other. But that’s only the beginning.


Ian is cursed with not only his madness but murder. There’s a killer lurking about and Ian – the suspected killer - has been running for the last five years, trying to thwart Scotland Yard and protect his family. When wooing Beth, Ian’s terrified of her learning that side of his life. And what will Beth do when she finds out the entire truth about Ian, his family and their many lies. It’s a mouth-watering read from beginning to end. I won’t say anymore because this book – in my heart – is a classic. It has mystery, suspense, heroism, sinister motives, love, romance, salacious content and above all, a killer plot. And to add a cherry on top, I have a new found respect for men in kilts. Oh, those Mackenzie brothers (…sigh). If you’re looking for a unique romance novel with imperfect characters and a brilliant storyline, The Madness of Lord Ian Mackenzie is just for you.


On the Mina Burrows KilloMeter, Jennifer Ashley’s The Madness of Lord Ian Mackenzie gets a 5. Yes. It’s that good. I love, love, love this book. Since reading it last year, I’ve reread it at least 5 times. I’m also a huge fan of the series. Stay tuned for tomorrow’s posting as I review Book 2 in Jennifer Ashley’s The Mackenzie series, Lady Isabella’s Scandalous Marriage. Ooooo…I can’t wait to give you the 411 on that yummy continuation.


Until next time…read about crazy Mackenzies’.


Mina B.

Reminder:  Free Book Giveaway Contest -

going on now through July 1st. 

Win a copy of Allyson James, 

aka Jennifer Ashley's, Stormwalker.  

This series is hot, hot, hot!

Don't miss out on your free copy today. 

Sign up under comments on this blog post.