A MACKENZIE CLAN GATHERING is a novella in Jennifer Ashley's Mackenzies series. Because he is central to this story, THE MADNESS OF LORD IAN MACKENZIE should be read before reading A MACKENZIE CLAN GATHERING. Ian Mackenzie is such a historical romance fan favorite and Jennifer Ashley does justice to the character and creates an interesting mystery to enjoy as well.

There are a few things that stand out in A MACKENZIE CLAN GATHERING, chiefly among them is the mystery of thefts and other misdeeds meant to ruin the Mackenzie family. A MACKENZIE CLAN GATHERING is a very apt title. One of the strengths of this series is the focus on family bonds and comfort that comes from unity. When tales of the theft at the Mackenzie family stronghold of Kilmorgan reach the other family members, everybody draws in and works together, giving support in whatever way they can. It's especially heartening to have Inspector Fellows help out and see how his feelings about his Mackenzie half-brothers have evolved since the first book. It's also interesting to see the appearance of Beth's brother-in-law, how he is pulled into the Mackenzie family orbit, and the bond that he forges with everyone.

Newly arrived John Ackerley, Beth's brother-in-law, is an enigma to me at first. I wasn't sure if he would end up being a friend or a foe. His real purpose and goal in visiting is to "cure" Ian. The consensus from everybody, except Ackerley and Ian, is that Ian doesn't need curing and is fine as he is. A MACKENZIE CLAN GATHERING is a wonderful character study and I love the story told from Ian's point of view and getting Jennifer Ashley's in- depth exploration of Ian and how he thinks. Jennifer Ashley is able to take a favorite character and make him seem new again with added insight. I especially liked seeing Ian and Beth's children with their charming individual personalities and perspectives. The scene when Ian's daughters try to convince him that he's not mad is particularly poignant.

A MACKENZIE CLAN GATHERING is a treat for fans and a satisfying read. Ian Mackenzie makes an intriguing and unique Sherlock Holmes. Each book in this series is an utter delight and Jennifer Ashley does a wonderful job of breathing life into these characters. Above all, the strength and love that a family provides stands out in A MACKENZIE FAMILY GATHERING and gives this story a warm glow. As always, I will be waiting with bated breath for the next Jennifer Ashley book.