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.
The author of The Stolen Mackenzie Bride returns to the tumultuous and passionate world of the Mackenzie clan as a family celebration is shaken by an unexpected danger... The Mackenzie clan has gathered for Hart’s birthday at the sprawling family estate in Scotland. But before the festivities can start, the house is robbed, and thieves make off with an untold fortune in rare art. Ian Mackenzie and his brothers must do what they can to retrieve the family treasure, but Ian is distracted by a family friend who claims he might have the power to “cure” Ian of his madness forever. All the Mackenzies must draw together as courage, love, and a tantalizing mystery serve to strengthen their bond, and redefine the meaning of family.
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