A Class Forsaken (A Matter of Class)
This is Book 3 in the A Matter of Class series, set in 1800s Ireland. It would be beneficial to read the first two books in the series first, as there are major spoilers.
Escaping authorities in England, Bridget and Cormac flee home to Carlow, Ireland, with their daughter Emily. They return to Cormac’s former cottage, but his mother and siblings are gone, forced out years ago by Bridget’s embittered mother, who is lady of the manor. Many changes have occurred at Oakleigh manor, and Bridget must face off with her mother in an attempt to save the tenants from her harsh management. At the same time, Cormac is determined to find his family. The saga follows Bridget, Cormac, and Emily to Dublin, where they encounter evil people of all classes as they attempt to find Cormac’s mother and sisters.
I found this to be a well-written and entertaining love story. It is also a scathing look back at the treatment of the so-called lower classes by the rich and entitled of the era. At the same time, the author brings forth a thread of hope in the form of Bridget. Although Bridget was born in privilege, she can see the humanity of every person and has already cast her title aside for love. The characters are all well-developed, and the desperation of the time is well conveyed. The novel is fast-paced and full of obstacles and adventure. Highly recommended for fans of historical romance and Irish history.
