Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

A Matter of Class #2

A Class Entwined

Rate this book
'A book that you can't stop reading because you want to see how it ends, and yet you never want it to end...Susie Murphy is becoming one of my favorite authors.' Ashley O'Melia, author and freelance writer

They never thought they'd see each other again...

Trapped in a loveless marriage far from home, Bridget does what she can to fill her lonely days. She throws herself into charitable work, but her cherished daughter, Emily, is her only true source of happiness.

Meanwhile, Cormac's own life unravels and he finds himself doing unspeakable things just to survive.

Neither of them dream they will ever meet again, but fate brings them back together in the most unexpected of ways.

Can Bridget rediscover her love for the man Cormac has become? And how will Cormac react when he learns Bridget’s secret?

A Class Entwined is the second book in Susie Murphy’s historical fiction series A Matter of Class. The story continues in the third book, A Class Forsaken.

Praise for A Class Entwined:

'An Irish historical saga full of romance and betrayal across the class divide…My heart broke repeatedly for the characters as they navigated their harsh new existence, all the way to its riveting conclusion…Highly recommend!' Kelsey Gietl, author of Across Oceans

'Even better than the first…It kept me rapt throughout.' Elizabeth Bell, author of the Lazare Family Saga

'This book was a surprise and joy to read...The sympathy that the author created for her readers was exceptional.' The Lit Bitch, book reviewer

'One of my favorite books of this year...one that I will return to re-read again and again.' Coffee, Books and China Cups, book reviewer

'Wonderfully memorable characters, a page turning plot and a brilliant atmosphere...Susie Murphy is a fantastic storyteller who has really done her research.' Lisa Reads Books, book reviewer

'From the fast pace of the plot, to the incredible way the author sets a scene, to the inevitable investing into the lives of the characters, you will be hard-pressed to find a better read or a more gifted author.' Pursuing Stacie, book reviewer

What readers are saying:

★★★★★ 'Don't contemplate whether or not to read it, just read it!'

★★★★★ 'I couldn't put this book down.'

★★★★★ 'I finished the last chapter with my heart racing.'

★★★★★ 'Best read of your life.'

★★★★★ 'The chemistry between Bridget and Cormac is fantastic.'

★★★★★ 'Do yourself a favour and buy these books now.'

★★★★★ 'Each page kept me enthralled.'

★★★★★ 'A thoroughly absorbing read.'

★★★★★ 'I absolutely LOVED both books in this series so far.'

★★★★★ 'I really can't wait for the next instalment!'

450 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 1, 2019

787 people are currently reading
515 people want to read

About the author

Susie Murphy

9 books113 followers
Susie Murphy is an Irish historical fiction author. She loves historical fiction so much that she often wishes she had been born two hundred years ago. Still, she remains grateful for many aspects of the modern age, including women's suffrage, electric showers and pizza. Her ongoing A Matter of Class series is a sweeping romance saga that begins in Ireland in 1828 and explores the complexities of love, class and family over the decades that follow.

To find out more, visit www.susiemurphywrites.com, where you can join the Susie Murphy Readers’ Club and receive a collection of six free short stories which tie in with A Matter of Class.

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
1,412 (59%)
4 stars
711 (29%)
3 stars
211 (8%)
2 stars
32 (1%)
1 star
14 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
Profile Image for The Lit Bitch.
1,272 reviews402 followers
February 11, 2019
I read the first book in this series about a year ago and thought that it was a decent start to a new series. I mentioned in my first review, that I haven’t read a lot of works published by smaller publishing companies or indie publishers in recent years.

But I don’t mind reading them when I can because I like being able to offer not only constructive criticism, but I also enjoy reading books like this that fly under the radar.

When this second book in the series came up for review, the author asked if I would like to review it and I was happy to agree so I could see how she had grown as a writer and how the story and characters have now evolved with a little bit of time and polish.

I remember loving the cover art of the first book and this book met every expectation I had when it came to design. I thought this was a beautiful cover and continued to capture my eye. Well done to the cover artist.

The first thing I noticed right away was how much the characters had evolved and changed since the first book. The first book they had this kind of naivety that one would expect with characters so young, but in this book we get a better sense of who they are as people and how their circumstances changed them in unexpected ways.

As I was reading, I was surprised by the different directions of Cormac’s character. He was the one who had the most drastic change for me. It was sometimes hard to read and the sympathy that the author created for her readers was exceptional. I enjoyed watching him evolve and change throughout the story and I think this was what stole the novel for me.

Bridget had struggles of her own, but in my opinion they did not compare to Cormac’s and at times I felt that she was a little on the flat side. I had a hard time connecting with her in this book, where as I didn’t have the issue with Cormac. I found myself quickly reading through Bridget’s chapters in order to get back to Cormac’s storyline. It’s funny because I remember loving her so much in the first book and in this one her story and character just seemed to take a backseat for me.

It was evident that Murphy’s writing has continued to grow. This book had a brighter polish than the first. I can see that she is finding her voice and style and I was rather impressed with this book. I was actually surprised that a larger publishing firm hasn’t snatched this author up yet! In the first book, I felt like there were a lot of over the top descriptions that were maybe unnecessary and I can see that in this book, the descriptions are much more direct and to the point. This book was a surprise and joy to read. I am happy to say that Murphy met and exceeded my expectations for this book in every way!

See my full review here
Profile Image for Wendy Hart.
Author 1 book72 followers
March 1, 2025
A beautifully written book. Plenty of twists and turns. A real page turner. What sets it apart is the depth with which the author has developed the very interesting characters
1,113 reviews4 followers
March 7, 2021
This is the second book in a marvelous trilogy. The Matter of Class series is one of the many gems which don't make it to "regular" print publishers, but deserves a wide readership on its many merits.

Cormac Macgovern is a poor Irish stable boy, Bridget Lambourn his long lost childhood love.Horrible things have happened to them since being forcibly separated in the first book, A Class Apart. The nineteenth century was not pleasant for everyone but the upper classes, who did everything possible to keep it that way.

Bridget is trapped in an unhappy marriage, and Cormac has been forced to ignore his better instincts to survive in the slums of Dublin. How they meet and resolve their quandary shows Murphy's cleverness in writing the involved plot. Her characters are beautifully written, and really pulled at my heart even while worrying about Cormac's situation of moral ambiguity.

I think this may be on Kindle only, I am sure it will be well worth the search for it.
41 reviews
April 6, 2022
Don’t worry about what could have been but what can be again

In this second book about Bridget and Cormac, we see how their lives continue on without each other. She lives in misery with a man she cannot love, feeling guilty for what happened to his family. He becomes a beggar with no chance to get ahead. Through miraculous circumstances, they reunite and make plans to run away together. Great reading!
Profile Image for Jennifer Hines Hansel.
216 reviews3 followers
October 5, 2025
I’m really enjoying this series. Well written. Learning history about Ireland and England, the separation of the classes and churches. Wow. Protestants & Catholics despised each other. So senseless!
718 reviews
February 24, 2024
The second book in the Matter of Class series, A Class Entwined follows the very different fortunes of Bridget and Cormac after the fallout from their previous actions. Bridget has found herself in a very loveless marriage going through the motions in order to protect her daughter Emily. Cormac has fallen on very hard times and has to make life choices that do not sit well with him but are made just in order to survive.
From the start it is clear just how vindictive Bridget’s husband and mother are towards Cormac as his attempts to start afresh are quickly torn apart and he finds himself on the streets begging which has him contemplating how he can go on. Even for him it is a state he would not wish on anyone. It is hard to see him struggling with what he sees and what he does in order to survive. Even when he finds a way to start afresh again it has its own problems and his life is based on secrets and lies that could be exposed at any moment.
Bridget is also struggling in her own self-imposed prison as she wallows in guilt only trying when she realises she is pregnant. Until her daughter is born however she is uncertain who the father is. In an effort to make up for the misery and suffering she caused Cormac and his family she throws herself into charitable works even if it means putting herself at odds with her husband. I did love the fact that finally Bridget stood up to her mother although I think the support from her husband was out of self-interest so that he could assert his control over her without interference. That is not to say they were always at odds with each other all the time and when tragedy befalls them there is a coming together that hits even the hardest of hearts.
This is very much a book of two different stories until chance brings Cormac and Bridget back together unexpectedly but what is evident is that their feelings for one another have not dimmed during their time apart. The struggle they have trying to redefine their relationship as the people they have become is what makes this book a compelling read. Susie Murphy has created two characters that are worlds apart yet have found themselves drawn together no matter what. Her descriptions of the struggles of the time for both the working class and the gentry show that no matter what your station in life sometimes things are not what they appear. I am still very much enjoying learning about the journey of the two main characters and finding out what fate has in store for them next
Profile Image for Emma Davis.
9 reviews1 follower
Read
August 4, 2021
A Love Entwined is the second instalment in Susie Murphy's A Matter of Class series. This novel continues Bridget and Cormac's saga following the bitter and painful conclusion to A Class Apart.
This novel explores the devastating consequences that both characters endure as victims of circumstance. Although they are living vastly different lives, both are struggling to survive in the harsh and unforgiving environments that are presented to them. Whilst Bridget is smothering in the rigid confines of her marriage and London's High Society, Cormac is crumbling in destitution and falsehood.
Far away from the comfort and belonging that Oakleigh Manor represents, the author grips her readers with a fresh and exciting path of adventure. Filled with equal measures of tragedy, sorrow, passion, anticipation and some deeply shocking revelations, A Class Entwined is a truly captivating and evocative read.
I cannot wait to start part three!
Profile Image for Michele Quirke.
Author 2 books138 followers
February 2, 2020
I was so excited to read A Class Entwined since I loved the first in the series so much! Like the first book, I read this one in just a few days. I can't wait for the third!
3 reviews
August 8, 2019
A Class Entwined by author Susie Murphy is a very enjoyable read. This book is the second book in a series that follows the story of Bridget and Cormac.

I read the beginning of this book with great interest and intrigue as it was fascinating and wholly unexpected by me the reader.

I had to keep reading all the while devouring all the intricate details of each character.

I was so happy reading the middle section of the book too as the storyline changed, to my delight!

I read the end section of this book with both worry and the often occasional smile.

I just want to read the next book now.

I thought the first book was fantastic and yet this book seemed to really develop the characters more fully to us the readers.

I love this series and it has ignited my own personal interest in reading.

Susie Murphy is incredibly talented.
Profile Image for Dima Chakra.
30 reviews1 follower
July 21, 2024
OMG!!!!! Just finished books 1 & 2 of this amazing series in 2 days!!!! And I’m embarking right after posting my review in book 3!!!! I highly recommend this series. The plot is just incredible. A page turner. I’ve been lacking a lot of sleep lately! The characters very well written. We believe in each and every one of them. The chemistry between the 2 main characters are so believable and tangible!!!!
Up to 3 days ago I have never heard of Susie Murphy. And now I’m just amazed by this incredible author. One of the best storytellers. Planning to read all the books of the series one after the other!
And if you’re subscribed to her newsletter, you will be receiving prequels and short stories as well!!!⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Profile Image for Jeanne Look.
61 reviews1 follower
July 5, 2025
I read A Class Apart as all my grandparents were born in Ireland and I feel that I do not know enough about the class system that existed in Ireland in the early 1800's when this series of books is set. I devoured A Class Apart as I enjoyed escaping our present day reality although the circumstances of daily life for the Irish at that time were horrific!

The second book follows Cormac and Bridget's story and all the hardships they endure, but did not compel me in the same way to move onto the third book.....maybe someday I will come back to their story.

I definitely had an inside look at extremely low opinion the English had of the Irish and can see why it was reciprocated!
Profile Image for Theresa.
213 reviews
March 17, 2025
This author and her series has really captured my interest! Newly wed Bridget has been taken across the water by her English husband. The birth of her beautiful Emily has soured the relationship into a loveless marriage! Bridget is trying hard to make do with charitable works, but the past at times pops into her mind and the love that could have been! Meantime, Irish Cormac is also on to his own journey of loneliness and hardship. Fate has other ideas of how to bring these two lost souls back together! A new path of intrigue, redevelopment and secrets - wow, oh so many secrets indeed!
58 reviews2 followers
August 22, 2024
stunning with many twists and turns

This book was absolutely remarkable in the way the author weaves so many scenes in and out in twists and surprises equal to a James Rollins novel. It’s breathtaking how she was able to move so many characters around flawlessly as the ladies twirled around the mentioned dance floors at the “upper crust” parties.

This was a splenectomy read and I can’t wait toreador the rest of the series
1 review
February 1, 2019
Wow Susie Murphy! Fantastic Read. I Fell right back in with Bridget and Cormac like they were old friends. A Class Entwined transported me to the 1800s where I would happily stay surround by the hustle and bustle of Bridget's Life. Each page kept me enthralled as to where this romantic duo were going to go next or are they ever going to get together.
Profile Image for Stacy Alderman.
Author 2 books22 followers
March 7, 2019
I absolutely LOVED both books in this series so far. The writing is beautifully descriptive and the characters are so real you feel like you know them. The story takes you straight to 19th century Ireland with all the sites and smells of each time and place. The plot continues to grow, twist, and thicken with every chapter and I cannot wait to read the rest of the books!
Profile Image for Sharon Davis.
79 reviews
May 16, 2022
Did they actually get away?

Loved all of the book even if I myself felt terrified at the end.
Leave this book out of the hands of young girls still in school. I lost her over her obstinance. She has a teenage daughter now just as hard headed as her mother!
I wish I knew what is next if any.
Thank you Susie Murphy. Keep up the good work!
31 reviews
May 16, 2024
This was the second book in this series. It's an amazing tale of how the different classes regard each other and the story gets intwined when a young lady gets involved with a stable hand while she's engaged to a gentleman. The story pulls you in and you want to see what happens to all the characters. Well written and a fast read. Loved it and am continuing the series.
Profile Image for Fay D.
136 reviews1 follower
April 4, 2019
Enjoyable

Nice continuation of the previous book. Also nice to see the characters growth at a decent pace instead of feeling forced. Looking forward to reading more books in this series
Profile Image for Lisa Shardlow.
Author 1 book15 followers
May 4, 2020
This was gripping! I enjoyed it even more than the first one. I felt like the first one was just setting the scene, but this one was really exciting and tense. I think I may well have fallen in love with Cormac myself! I really can't wait for the next one in the series.
56 reviews1 follower
June 25, 2020
Good read but not as good as previous book

I would not have read this if I hadn’t fallen for the characters in the first book. This was very shallow by comparison. I hope the next in the sequel will offer more.
Profile Image for Sue.
36 reviews1 follower
November 29, 2020
The story has left me wanting more and more.

I'm ready to start the next book. A very easy series to read and enjoy. Its first page caught me in a web, the story is difficult to let go. I loved it and would highly recommend to my friends.
654 reviews2 followers
March 28, 2021
This is really a historical romance

The stories of Bridget and Cormac are interesting, sometimes happy, sometimes sad. This book is not based on any persons or events as far as I know. Book one was a good depiction of class and the roles within each. Book two is just a romance.
33 reviews
June 15, 2022
Dang this is good!

I absolutely can not wait to get to the next part!! Such good writing and it is so descriptive, its like you are right there!! This book is very engrossing and how it all falls together is fantastic!


Profile Image for Lucy  Dunphy.
437 reviews8 followers
March 6, 2023
I'm pretty sure I had my breath held for a good section of this book. The tension, there was a lot going on. I absolutely love this series and I'll be reading the third book as soon as possible. I can't wait to find out what the future holds for Bridget and Cormac.
Profile Image for Abbi Melissa.
120 reviews5 followers
March 27, 2023
4.5 stars rounded up. Absolutely loving this series. A turn that was almost unbelievable in this the only thing keeping me from 5 stars. I need more information! So, I'm moving onto book three post-haste!
58 reviews
March 24, 2024
A Class Entwined. book 2

One of the best books I have read in years! I haven’t been able to put the first two books down! Just awesome! Thank you Susie Murphy….praise for your talent!
Profile Image for Aïda Bella .
93 reviews
January 10, 2025
4.5⭐️ Loved. I postponed reading the last twenty pages because I was in such distress. I love her writing style and I can’t wait to follow their story into the next book. This gives me more true historical romance than Lisa Kleyas and Tessa Dare due to heavy topics and little spice.
4 reviews
May 30, 2025
Beautifully romantic

Definitely 5 stars for this sequel! As beautiful as the first novel, I loved the twists and turns. I love how fast paced it is as it follows the characters over years. If you love bridgerton, then you would love this!
Profile Image for Frances  Hughes.
578 reviews
May 24, 2019
The saga continues

Very enjoyable although I rather wish it had concluded with book 2 as I now have to wait for a HEA when I only have a HFN.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.