Beth Ackerley never expected to have money and a house with servants, but as the hired companion to a lonely wealthy widow, she learned manners and how to behave in polite society.  When her benefactress left everything to her, Beth learned what it was to become highly sought after and even became engaged to a lord.  Until, one night, Lord Ian Mackenzie walked into the room and took her breath away. 

Lord Ian was considered mad by everyone – society, his family, anyone who knew he had been locked in an asylum as a child.  His strange moods, his inability to look at people or even communicate effectively, kept everyone from him.  But Beth saw something different – and that meant all the world to Ian. 

Ian steals away Beth, knowing only that she soothes his restless mind.  But someone is out to prove that Ian is not just truly mad, but a murderer, as well.  Can Beth’s love for Ian survive the truth? 

The Madness of Lord Ian MacKenzie is the first book Jennifer Ashley’s Highland Pleasures series featuring the Mackenzie brothers and it’s a great start to what is sure to be a fantastic series.  The descriptions of Ian’s madness are recognizable to modern readers, but are played out well against the historical background.  His sweetness and his passion are wonderful to read, even though his behaviors are unusual.  Usually, I am not as fond of the female characters in the books as I am of the men, but in this case, I also loved reading about Beth.  She was multilayered and fun to watch as she learned more about Ian and his family.  I loved this book and I am eagerly awaiting the next in the series.