'The Madness of Lord Ian Mackenzie' is a historical romance novel that follows the unconventional love story between Lord Ian Mackenzie, who has Asperger's Syndrome, and Beth, a practical and strong-willed heroine. Set in 1881, the book delves into the challenges faced by Ian due to his condition and the societal norms of the time. The plot includes a murder mystery subplot that adds depth to the story, while the writing style is described as touching, funny, and enthralling, capturing the reader's attention with its originality and surprising twists.
The characters of Ian and Beth are portrayed as unique and endearing, with their relationship being a central focus of the book. The story is praised for its portrayal of Ian's condition and the historical context surrounding it, showing the author's skill in handling sensitive topics with depth and authenticity. Additionally, the book is commended for its engaging plot, well-developed characters, and the introduction of the intriguing MacKenzie family, setting the stage for a captivating series of novels.
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Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings
Content warnings include themes of mental health institutionalization, trauma, violence, and societal stigma related to neurodiversity.
Has Romance?
Yes, the book features a high level of romance, focusing on the evolving relationship between the protagonists under challenging circumstances.
From The Publisher:
A woman is drawn to a dangerously intruiging man in this unique historical romance from New York Times bestselling author Jennifer Ashley.
It was whispered all through London Society that Ian Mackenzie was mad, that he'd spent his youth in an asylum, and was not to be trusted-especially with a lady. For the reputation of any woman caught in his presence was instantly ruined.
Yet Beth found herself inexorably drawn to the Scottish lord whose hint of a brogue wrapped around her like silk and whose touch could draw her into a world of ecstasy. Despite his decadence and his intimidating intelligence, she could see that he needed help. Her help. Because suddenly the only thing that made sense to her was…The Madness of Lord Ian Mackenzie.
Ratings (25)
Incredible (4) | |
Loved It (12) | |
Liked It (6) | |
It Was OK (2) | |
Did Not Like (1) |
Reader Stats (46):
Read It (27) | |
Currently Reading (1) | |
Want To Read (6) | |
Not Interested (12) |
3 comment(s)
I liked this book because Ashley doesn't rely on stereotypes for her hero or heroine. Ian Mackenzie's "madness" is a form of autism, probably Asperger's from the hints Ashley drops throughout the book. This alone would be enough to institutionalize him in the 19th century, but there is also a layer of family intrigue to his past. Ashley avoids the virginal ingenue heroine by making Beth Ackerley a widow who loved her first husband and grew up on the wrong side of the tracks. These character traits allow Ashley to sidestep a lot of typical romance plot-building and tell a more original story.
The mystery, too, is more than a moment of danger inserted only to force a realization of "true love" on the protagonists. It reflects back on the Mackenzie family and their truly screwed up relationships. This isn't just a family of sequel-bait brothers; each one is going to be a challenge to redeem. I didn't love the prose, but I'll probably read the sequels.
I liked the story even though it was different that I expected. The strongest points are the characters that you really care about. That is why I will likely read the other books in the series.
Absolutely unique
What can you read after
The Madness of Lord Ian Mackenzie?
About the Author:
Jennifer Ashley is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of the Shifters Unbound series and the Mackenzies series. A winner of a Romance Writers of America RITA Award, she also writes as national bestselling and award-winning author…
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