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The Forgotten Bride #1
The Forgotten Bride
Ten years ago, Olivia’s world shattered in an instant.
On what was supposed to be the happiest day of her life — her wedding day — she vanished without a trace, snatched from outside a church in a quiet Californian town. For a decade, she languished in a hidden underground prison, her only company the taunting voice of her captor and disturbing glimpses of the life she once had. When Olivia miraculously escapes, she is a shadow of her former self, struggling to piece together what happened and why. But freedom brings its own pain. Her fiancé has moved on, their daughter barely remembers her, and the world she fought so hard to return to is no longer hers.
As Olivia reenters a life that has moved on without her, haunting questions remain: Who took her? Why was she kept alive? And is the danger truly over? In a twisted maze of buried secrets, betrayal, and lost time, Olivia must confront her darkest fears to reclaim her life — or lose it all over again.
On what was supposed to be the happiest day of her life — her wedding day — she vanished without a trace, snatched from outside a church in a quiet Californian town. For a decade, she languished in a hidden underground prison, her only company the taunting voice of her captor and disturbing glimpses of the life she once had. When Olivia miraculously escapes, she is a shadow of her former self, struggling to piece together what happened and why. But freedom brings its own pain. Her fiancé has moved on, their daughter barely remembers her, and the world she fought so hard to return to is no longer hers.
As Olivia reenters a life that has moved on without her, haunting questions remain: Who took her? Why was she kept alive? And is the danger truly over? In a twisted maze of buried secrets, betrayal, and lost time, Olivia must confront her darkest fears to reclaim her life — or lose it all over again.
433 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 21, 2024
573 people are currently reading
560 people want to read
About the author
Philip Anthony Smith
18 books113 followersGet a free book by clicking here! Philip Anthony Smith made his debut as an author in 2024 with his first psychological thriller, 'Run For Your Life', which released in April of the same year.
As a first time author, he has no accolades or awards to show off, but boasts a lifetime of desire to become an acclaimed story teller.
After a long string of seemingly unrelated professions including window cleaner, SMS psychic and small business owner, Philip decided 2024 was the year to bring his stories to life.
As a first time author, he has no accolades or awards to show off, but boasts a lifetime of desire to become an acclaimed story teller.
After a long string of seemingly unrelated professions including window cleaner, SMS psychic and small business owner, Philip decided 2024 was the year to bring his stories to life.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews
December 10, 2024
This was a 5 star read from chapter 1 with a jaw dropping twist of an ending. I can't wait until the sequel comes out next month. Highly Recommend!!
November 14, 2024
5⭐️
AD-PR PRODUCT
An impeccably attractive and captivating psychological thriller! 😍
What a wild rollercoaster of a read. The way that Smith truly gets into your head was impressive and cements himself as a top tier thriller writer! This read was insane!!!
The nightmarishly eventful beginning perfectly set the tone for this read. The book was fast-paced, has you invigoratingly turning the page and was superbly thrilling. I absolutely inhaled this read in under 24 hours!
What Olivia went through should be beyond imaginable, but Smith vividly describes her situation well. The trauma she experienced formulated a new person within, but how she clung to the hope of her family was heart clenching. I loved her character and her fiery determination to get her life back.
I loved how this book was told from only Olivia’s POV and how the timeline constantly flicked ephemerally between the past and present to really build suspense and fragment the atmosphere. I truly learnt to expect the unexpected at times during this read!
I also enjoyed the cast of characters too. They were all different and slotted into the story very fittingly, making this book both plot and character focussed. To maintain both components to a high standard like Smith has, is superb!
This read was twist galore and oh was it flawlessly executed and at times dark! My jaw was on the floor for the final quarter as I quit all my plans to devour and uncover what happened. You think you’ve solved it, and then BAMMM, a twist is thrown your way. You then come up with the next solution and BAMMM, you’re whiplashed with another twist. And then you think all is over and BAMMM more twists and turns! This was amazing!!!
This was one of the best thrillers I’ve read and will be featured in my top 10 of the year!
I NEED A SEQUEL! 👏👏👏
A huge thank you to @philipsmithfiction for this outstanding ARC of The Forgotten Bride which is published on the 21st November. 🔥
You HAVE to read this book! 😍
⚠️ Please check out the trigger warnings! ⚠️
AD-PR PRODUCT
An impeccably attractive and captivating psychological thriller! 😍
What a wild rollercoaster of a read. The way that Smith truly gets into your head was impressive and cements himself as a top tier thriller writer! This read was insane!!!
The nightmarishly eventful beginning perfectly set the tone for this read. The book was fast-paced, has you invigoratingly turning the page and was superbly thrilling. I absolutely inhaled this read in under 24 hours!
What Olivia went through should be beyond imaginable, but Smith vividly describes her situation well. The trauma she experienced formulated a new person within, but how she clung to the hope of her family was heart clenching. I loved her character and her fiery determination to get her life back.
I loved how this book was told from only Olivia’s POV and how the timeline constantly flicked ephemerally between the past and present to really build suspense and fragment the atmosphere. I truly learnt to expect the unexpected at times during this read!
I also enjoyed the cast of characters too. They were all different and slotted into the story very fittingly, making this book both plot and character focussed. To maintain both components to a high standard like Smith has, is superb!
This read was twist galore and oh was it flawlessly executed and at times dark! My jaw was on the floor for the final quarter as I quit all my plans to devour and uncover what happened. You think you’ve solved it, and then BAMMM, a twist is thrown your way. You then come up with the next solution and BAMMM, you’re whiplashed with another twist. And then you think all is over and BAMMM more twists and turns! This was amazing!!!
This was one of the best thrillers I’ve read and will be featured in my top 10 of the year!
I NEED A SEQUEL! 👏👏👏
A huge thank you to @philipsmithfiction for this outstanding ARC of The Forgotten Bride which is published on the 21st November. 🔥
You HAVE to read this book! 😍
⚠️ Please check out the trigger warnings! ⚠️
November 18, 2024
Thank you @philipsmithfiction for giving me an ARC of this book, in exchange for an honest review. I loved it!!!
I rated this book 4 ⭐️ as it didnt grip me until i read the last sentence in chapter 6. Then I was hooked. The twists and turns that then followed kept me up all night reading. I just needed to know the whys and who!
The book follows Olivia who was snatched from her wedding day. After being held hostage for 10 years she escapes to find her fiancé has moved on and her daughter hardly remembers her and has her own problems to deal with. Now she has another fight on her hands, find out why and who took her and to get her family back.
I really felt for Olivia as a mother and not seeing your child grow up.
The book is very well written and is very descriptive.
The chapters weren't too long and quite manageable.
This was my first book by this author it certainly won't be my last.
I rated this book 4 ⭐️ as it didnt grip me until i read the last sentence in chapter 6. Then I was hooked. The twists and turns that then followed kept me up all night reading. I just needed to know the whys and who!
The book follows Olivia who was snatched from her wedding day. After being held hostage for 10 years she escapes to find her fiancé has moved on and her daughter hardly remembers her and has her own problems to deal with. Now she has another fight on her hands, find out why and who took her and to get her family back.
I really felt for Olivia as a mother and not seeing your child grow up.
The book is very well written and is very descriptive.
The chapters weren't too long and quite manageable.
This was my first book by this author it certainly won't be my last.
November 7, 2024
First book review and it’s a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️!
Thank you so much to @philipsmithfiction for this ARC copy of The Forgotten Bride. Loved the story, loved the pace, loved the main character Olivia, and the timeline swaps worked well. Definitely one to add to your TBR if you love a psychological thriller. Out on 21/11/24!
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On what was supposed to be the happiest day of her life — her wedding day — she vanished without a trace, snatched from outside a church in a quiet Californian town. For a decade, she languished in a hidden underground prison, her only company the taunting voice of her captor and disturbing glimpses of the life she once had. When Olivia miraculously escapes, she is a shadow of her former self, struggling to piece together what happened and why. But freedom brings its own pain. Her fiancé has moved on, their daughter barely remembers her, and the world she fought so hard to return to is no longer hers.
As Olivia reenters a life that has moved on without her, haunting questions remain: Who took her? Why was she kept alive? And is the danger truly over? In a twisted maze of buried secrets, betrayal, and lost time, Olivia must confront her darkest fears to reclaim her life — or lose it all over again.
Thank you so much to @philipsmithfiction for this ARC copy of The Forgotten Bride. Loved the story, loved the pace, loved the main character Olivia, and the timeline swaps worked well. Definitely one to add to your TBR if you love a psychological thriller. Out on 21/11/24!
.
.
On what was supposed to be the happiest day of her life — her wedding day — she vanished without a trace, snatched from outside a church in a quiet Californian town. For a decade, she languished in a hidden underground prison, her only company the taunting voice of her captor and disturbing glimpses of the life she once had. When Olivia miraculously escapes, she is a shadow of her former self, struggling to piece together what happened and why. But freedom brings its own pain. Her fiancé has moved on, their daughter barely remembers her, and the world she fought so hard to return to is no longer hers.
As Olivia reenters a life that has moved on without her, haunting questions remain: Who took her? Why was she kept alive? And is the danger truly over? In a twisted maze of buried secrets, betrayal, and lost time, Olivia must confront her darkest fears to reclaim her life — or lose it all over again.
November 9, 2024
Olivia is abducted without a trace on her wedding day and held captive for ten years. After escaping, she returns to a world that has moved on without her. As she struggles to rebuild her life, she is forced to face up to her fears in a quest to discover who did this to her and why. This gripping nail-biter kept me engaged from the first word to the last. With twist after twist, I thought I had it figured out several times until that monumental final twist that I never saw coming. I positively recommend this to everyone looking for a sitting-on-the-edge of your seat thriller.
November 5, 2024
Ten years ago, Olivia’s world shattered in an instant.
Many thanks to Philip for allowing me to be apart of your Arc team yet again❤️
What I love is that you think you know BUT do you?
I was totally engaged with this story,some reads are predictable but not so this authors work he really knows how to execute a story to its full potential.
Each chapter gives you a little bit more to keep you interested. Secrets are revealed along the way leading us to an impressive ending.
This was his best book so far the writing is getting better and better with each book.
This would make a great mini series.
Looking forward to reading his next book
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Great for lovers of psychological thrillers.
Many thanks to Philip for allowing me to be apart of your Arc team yet again❤️
What I love is that you think you know BUT do you?
I was totally engaged with this story,some reads are predictable but not so this authors work he really knows how to execute a story to its full potential.
Each chapter gives you a little bit more to keep you interested. Secrets are revealed along the way leading us to an impressive ending.
This was his best book so far the writing is getting better and better with each book.
This would make a great mini series.
Looking forward to reading his next book
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Great for lovers of psychological thrillers.
November 16, 2024
All the reviews I have read for this are spot on. It's a totally addictive read that you will not be able to put down.
It's told solely from the point of view of Olivia. Who fell in love with an American, got pregnant, and moved from England to be with him. This is far from a happy love story. Her dream is shattered when, on her wedding day, her life as she knew it was cruelly taken away. To spend 10 years being held captive...
This book had me obsessing over who I thought it was. Whilst not reading it, I kept going over in my head as to who it could be and how this story was going to pan out. The plot is clever, it's keeps you guessing and leads you in every direction. Twists galore and has one of those omg moments at the end.
I loved Olivia's character. After all she went through, she was strong minded, determined to find justice for herself. As too with the other characters, they are all well written and believable.
The Forgotten Bride is fast-paced and binge-worthy. I flew through this book. It had me on the edge of my seat and filled with anxiety. It's dark and uncomfortable in places, but that just adds to the tension and suspense the story builds.
A must-read book.
It's told solely from the point of view of Olivia. Who fell in love with an American, got pregnant, and moved from England to be with him. This is far from a happy love story. Her dream is shattered when, on her wedding day, her life as she knew it was cruelly taken away. To spend 10 years being held captive...
This book had me obsessing over who I thought it was. Whilst not reading it, I kept going over in my head as to who it could be and how this story was going to pan out. The plot is clever, it's keeps you guessing and leads you in every direction. Twists galore and has one of those omg moments at the end.
I loved Olivia's character. After all she went through, she was strong minded, determined to find justice for herself. As too with the other characters, they are all well written and believable.
The Forgotten Bride is fast-paced and binge-worthy. I flew through this book. It had me on the edge of my seat and filled with anxiety. It's dark and uncomfortable in places, but that just adds to the tension and suspense the story builds.
A must-read book.
January 3, 2026
Not awful, just meh. A promising start….however this novel was painfully predictable, every “twist” showed up right on cue.
The ending leans hard into a cliffhanger, but instead of making me eager for the next book, it had the opposite effect. I won’t be reading book 2 (or 3 or 4).
The ending leans hard into a cliffhanger, but instead of making me eager for the next book, it had the opposite effect. I won’t be reading book 2 (or 3 or 4).
January 12, 2025
4.5 ⭐️
November 21, 2024
Olivia was kidnapped just moments before she was going to walk down the aisle on her wedding day. 10 years later she miraculously escapes her captor and is desperate to be reunited with her family, who have seemed to happily move on without her. As she struggles to find a sense of normalcy after a decade of captivity, she is also desperate for answers that explain who stole her life 10 years ago.
This was a very addicting popcorn thriller! It starts off with a bang right away! The dual timeline storytelling allows the plot to unfold at a solid pace, however I did find one of the timelines to be more captivating than the other. I didn't dislike the current day timeline, but Olivia as an MC did make some pretty frustrating decisions and at times seem almost dumb. At the same time, it's hard to say how I would respond to the world around me if I had been locked in a basement bunker for 10 years... So maybe her character was more realistic than she sometimes seemed? The ending didn't overly shock me, but parts of it definitely caught me off guard! I hate when a thriller ends with a really ridiculous far fetched twist that no one could have ever possibly guessed. I feel like this book's ending had a nice balance of twists and sensibility. I will definitely be reading this author's other books!
Thank you to the author, Philip Anthony Smith, for emailing me an ARC of this thriller that will be released tomorrow, November 21st!
This was a very addicting popcorn thriller! It starts off with a bang right away! The dual timeline storytelling allows the plot to unfold at a solid pace, however I did find one of the timelines to be more captivating than the other. I didn't dislike the current day timeline, but Olivia as an MC did make some pretty frustrating decisions and at times seem almost dumb. At the same time, it's hard to say how I would respond to the world around me if I had been locked in a basement bunker for 10 years... So maybe her character was more realistic than she sometimes seemed? The ending didn't overly shock me, but parts of it definitely caught me off guard! I hate when a thriller ends with a really ridiculous far fetched twist that no one could have ever possibly guessed. I feel like this book's ending had a nice balance of twists and sensibility. I will definitely be reading this author's other books!
Thank you to the author, Philip Anthony Smith, for emailing me an ARC of this thriller that will be released tomorrow, November 21st!
November 21, 2024
Olivia is taken on her wedding day, forced into an underground prison, watching snippets of her old life outside. Years later, she escapes!
Everyone has moved on. Life isn't the same, and who is the person who took it all away?
What a belter of a read this one was. I raced through the first half with speed, I couldn't put it down. What Olivia went through while being held prisoner was horrific and then went straight into another nightmare on her escape. It must be horrible to know that life has carried on, and now she needs to find a place for her while trying to work out who took her and why.
Also, being away from your child when they were so young is heartbreaking and missing so much of their life. Then, trying to form some kind of bond and relationship is hard.
I loved trying to work out who was the captor and why they may have taken her. Everyone is guilty at some point, right?
There were some extremely tense moments throughout the book, and then when it was all starting to come together, it was superb!
Loved. Loved. Loved it!!!
Everyone has moved on. Life isn't the same, and who is the person who took it all away?
What a belter of a read this one was. I raced through the first half with speed, I couldn't put it down. What Olivia went through while being held prisoner was horrific and then went straight into another nightmare on her escape. It must be horrible to know that life has carried on, and now she needs to find a place for her while trying to work out who took her and why.
Also, being away from your child when they were so young is heartbreaking and missing so much of their life. Then, trying to form some kind of bond and relationship is hard.
I loved trying to work out who was the captor and why they may have taken her. Everyone is guilty at some point, right?
There were some extremely tense moments throughout the book, and then when it was all starting to come together, it was superb!
Loved. Loved. Loved it!!!
November 10, 2024
I have a huge respect for Philip and his work and have thoroughly enjoyed everything that he has written. He has the most amazing story telling ability and character creation skills!
This story is told from a now and then perspective which enriched the story and allowed you to really get to know all of the characters and their backgrounds.
The brilliant shock tactic pretty much straight away pulls you in, something so happy turns into the beginning of a nightmare in the blink of an eye!
There is just SO much content here in both the past and the present. Layers upon layers of deceit, lies, intrigue, emotions all of which adds to the story no end. And the twists.....they just keep coming and I always love a good twist!
I loved Olivia. I enjoyed reading a female lead that, despite everything, was a madam with an attitude who wanted to get things done!
The only downside for me was a couple of issues I struggled to connect with in the present day part of the book. However, I messaged Philip straight away and we had a good chat about those bits. Being the talented writer that he is he soon made some subtle changes which actually turned these parts around for me! I intend to reread this when it is released as I believe those changes will help me connect with the present day part of the story much better and hopefully enable me to add that last star! 🌟
This story is told from a now and then perspective which enriched the story and allowed you to really get to know all of the characters and their backgrounds.
The brilliant shock tactic pretty much straight away pulls you in, something so happy turns into the beginning of a nightmare in the blink of an eye!
There is just SO much content here in both the past and the present. Layers upon layers of deceit, lies, intrigue, emotions all of which adds to the story no end. And the twists.....they just keep coming and I always love a good twist!
I loved Olivia. I enjoyed reading a female lead that, despite everything, was a madam with an attitude who wanted to get things done!
The only downside for me was a couple of issues I struggled to connect with in the present day part of the book. However, I messaged Philip straight away and we had a good chat about those bits. Being the talented writer that he is he soon made some subtle changes which actually turned these parts around for me! I intend to reread this when it is released as I believe those changes will help me connect with the present day part of the story much better and hopefully enable me to add that last star! 🌟
November 21, 2024
This had me hooked from the get go and get me gripped the whole way through and the twists just kept on coming!
If your a psychological thriller fan you will love this!
It's fast paced, gripping and edge of the seat material.
If your a psychological thriller fan you will love this!
It's fast paced, gripping and edge of the seat material.
November 13, 2024
✨Arc Review✨
The Forgotten Bride
By Philip Smith
Firstly thank you so much to Philip Smith for giving me the opportunity to read this ARC, I absolutely loved this book and couldn’t put it down.
This book was told from the POV of Olivia- a female who was abducted on her wedding day and held captive in a bunker for 10 years. Olivia endured so much hardship in that bunker but finally, with grit and determination she manages to set herself free only to rejoin such a different difficult world.
I was captivated from chapter one. I loved the picturesque descriptions of the wedding venue from the outset. Then comes the twist in chapter one- I was not expecting that! I loved the dual time, I found this really gave us a thorough understanding of the characters backgrounds. I also loved the little pictures at the start of each new chapter, I felt like this was really giving me clues😂 The ending was outstanding, it was like a punch to the gut
The Forgotten Bride
By Philip Smith
Firstly thank you so much to Philip Smith for giving me the opportunity to read this ARC, I absolutely loved this book and couldn’t put it down.
This book was told from the POV of Olivia- a female who was abducted on her wedding day and held captive in a bunker for 10 years. Olivia endured so much hardship in that bunker but finally, with grit and determination she manages to set herself free only to rejoin such a different difficult world.
I was captivated from chapter one. I loved the picturesque descriptions of the wedding venue from the outset. Then comes the twist in chapter one- I was not expecting that! I loved the dual time, I found this really gave us a thorough understanding of the characters backgrounds. I also loved the little pictures at the start of each new chapter, I felt like this was really giving me clues😂 The ending was outstanding, it was like a punch to the gut
November 1, 2024
She was snatched from outside a church in a quiet Californian town and vanished without a trace on the day that was supposed to be the happiest day of her life: her wedding day. For a decade she languished in a hidden underground prison, her only company the taunting voice of her captor and disturbing glimpses of the life she was missing out on the outside. When she miraculously manages to escape, she is a shadow of her former self struggling to piece together what happened to her and why. But freedom brings its own pain: her fiancé has moved on, their daughter barely remembers her, and the world she fought so hard to return to is no longer hers.
As she reenters a life that has moved on without her, haunting questions remain unanswered: who took her? Why was she kept alive? And is the danger truly over? In a twisted maze of buried secrets, betrayal, and lost time, Olivia must confront her darkest fears to reclaim her life—or lose it all over again.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Well I was gripped from page 1 and read this book in one sitting. I was absolutely blown away. I’ve followed the author from his very first book and have to say this is his longest book yet and in my opinion, his best !!!
We follow Olivia and Nathaniel as they are about to get married, when suddenly Olivia is snatched and kidnapped without a trace and ends up in a bunker. From here we follow different timelines from when they met, their circle of friends which is full of love, deceit, betrayal, pschyopaths and murder. After 10 tormenting years she manages to break free only to realise everyone has moved on and all think she’s crazy - but is she and who can really trust? Follow Olivia’s story as she tries to piece her life together.
Loved everything about this story, so if you love a brilliant psychopath story, grab this book out on 21.11.2024
As she reenters a life that has moved on without her, haunting questions remain unanswered: who took her? Why was she kept alive? And is the danger truly over? In a twisted maze of buried secrets, betrayal, and lost time, Olivia must confront her darkest fears to reclaim her life—or lose it all over again.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Well I was gripped from page 1 and read this book in one sitting. I was absolutely blown away. I’ve followed the author from his very first book and have to say this is his longest book yet and in my opinion, his best !!!
We follow Olivia and Nathaniel as they are about to get married, when suddenly Olivia is snatched and kidnapped without a trace and ends up in a bunker. From here we follow different timelines from when they met, their circle of friends which is full of love, deceit, betrayal, pschyopaths and murder. After 10 tormenting years she manages to break free only to realise everyone has moved on and all think she’s crazy - but is she and who can really trust? Follow Olivia’s story as she tries to piece her life together.
Loved everything about this story, so if you love a brilliant psychopath story, grab this book out on 21.11.2024
November 5, 2024
“Dead women don’t get angry, and they certainly don’t get justice.”
The Forgotten Bride follows Olivia who disappears on her wedding day. When she survives the ordeal and escapes, she struggles to reacclimatise with her old life and self, especially as her fiancé has moved on and her daughter barely remembers her. But Olivia still wants to know who took her? And why? Is she safe now, or is she about to lose the life she fought so hard to get back?
This was my first read by Philip Anthony Smith and wow!! The Forgotten Bride is told across a few timelines from 2004-2024, all from Liv’s perspective. I really enjoyed just having the one POV as I felt it added depth to the concept and it’s true crime homage, especially as I am someone who absolutely loves true crime. This book is well written and wasn’t too unrealistic, and the malice and jealousy behind it all only adds to the tension.
Each chapter is cleverly named and has a little picture which I quite liked, but what makes this book for me is the plot! It was full of jaw dropping twists that continuously unravelled the plot and added further complexities that kept me turning the pages, meaning I flew through this book. Then the ending was both beautifully wrapped up, but left a lot to the reader’s imagination which was definitely a goosebumps moment for me!
I just want to say again a massive thank you to Philip Anthony Smith for sending me this advanced copy. The Forgotten Bride is out Nov 21st!👰🏻♀️
The Forgotten Bride follows Olivia who disappears on her wedding day. When she survives the ordeal and escapes, she struggles to reacclimatise with her old life and self, especially as her fiancé has moved on and her daughter barely remembers her. But Olivia still wants to know who took her? And why? Is she safe now, or is she about to lose the life she fought so hard to get back?
This was my first read by Philip Anthony Smith and wow!! The Forgotten Bride is told across a few timelines from 2004-2024, all from Liv’s perspective. I really enjoyed just having the one POV as I felt it added depth to the concept and it’s true crime homage, especially as I am someone who absolutely loves true crime. This book is well written and wasn’t too unrealistic, and the malice and jealousy behind it all only adds to the tension.
Each chapter is cleverly named and has a little picture which I quite liked, but what makes this book for me is the plot! It was full of jaw dropping twists that continuously unravelled the plot and added further complexities that kept me turning the pages, meaning I flew through this book. Then the ending was both beautifully wrapped up, but left a lot to the reader’s imagination which was definitely a goosebumps moment for me!
I just want to say again a massive thank you to Philip Anthony Smith for sending me this advanced copy. The Forgotten Bride is out Nov 21st!👰🏻♀️
November 14, 2024
Thank you @philipsmithfiction for providing me with an ARC of your soon to be published book The Forgotten Bride!
I was addicted to this book from the beginning to the end! I’ve added it to my favorite books list of 2024! It’s a heart in your throat page turner. The characters and story played like a thriller movie in my mind. I loved that part of the story took place in California (my home state 😉).
You should read this book if you enjoy:
* psychological thrillers
* past/present timeline
* plot twists
* compelling characters
* solving mysteries
I was addicted to this book from the beginning to the end! I’ve added it to my favorite books list of 2024! It’s a heart in your throat page turner. The characters and story played like a thriller movie in my mind. I loved that part of the story took place in California (my home state 😉).
You should read this book if you enjoy:
* psychological thrillers
* past/present timeline
* plot twists
* compelling characters
* solving mysteries
November 4, 2024
Wow, another amazing 5*, fast-paced, psychological thriller read by Philip from me!
I must admit, with me being on holiday and generally MIA on my bookstagram, I went in relatively blind with this ARC! And wow what a fantastic book this was!
Olivia is kidnapped right before she is about to step into the church to get married and vanished without a trace. What should have been the happiest day of her life turned into the worst day of her life and being taken was only the beginning of a horrific 10 years in captivity with an unknown captor. Through past and present timelines (which I really love - as you get to read about both her time in captivity and also her road to the truth), we follow her ordeal and her journey to find out the truth.
This will throw you into a spin and have you hooked from the first page, when you think you have it sussed, you don't. This book also had my emotions flying around the place, my heart was in my mouth at times and also the tears were flowing. The plot twists at the end were perfect, and I did not see it coming. The perfectly written twists and turns kept me hooked, and constantly saying 'one more chapter' until my eyes couldn't stay open any longer! And it was the first thing I thought about when I woke up!
Overall, if you like fast-paced, psychological thrillers with twists and turns then Philip is your author and if this is your 1st read by him then I highly recommend reading his previous books!
I must admit, with me being on holiday and generally MIA on my bookstagram, I went in relatively blind with this ARC! And wow what a fantastic book this was!
Olivia is kidnapped right before she is about to step into the church to get married and vanished without a trace. What should have been the happiest day of her life turned into the worst day of her life and being taken was only the beginning of a horrific 10 years in captivity with an unknown captor. Through past and present timelines (which I really love - as you get to read about both her time in captivity and also her road to the truth), we follow her ordeal and her journey to find out the truth.
This will throw you into a spin and have you hooked from the first page, when you think you have it sussed, you don't. This book also had my emotions flying around the place, my heart was in my mouth at times and also the tears were flowing. The plot twists at the end were perfect, and I did not see it coming. The perfectly written twists and turns kept me hooked, and constantly saying 'one more chapter' until my eyes couldn't stay open any longer! And it was the first thing I thought about when I woke up!
Overall, if you like fast-paced, psychological thrillers with twists and turns then Philip is your author and if this is your 1st read by him then I highly recommend reading his previous books!
December 11, 2024
If you are looking for an author who knows exactly what they are doing when it comes to writing a Psychological Thriller then you need to read Philip Anthony Smith. The Forgotten Bride is his fourth book and like his previous books it will have you hooked from the start.
Olivia is waiting outside the church ready to marry the love of her life, Nathaniel, when suddenly out of nowhere her world becomes dark. For 10yrs she was held in a bunker and treated like an animal but one day she escapes. That should be the end of the trauma for Olivia but unfortunately things are far from over.
Told across several timelines from the build up to the wedding, her time in the bunker and present day we get a 360 on Olivia’s life. We only have one POV so as a reader we have one persons perspective and I really think this helped with the story. You can really see the authors progression as you read through his books. You will constantly be on edge and your mind will be spinning as you read this. Just when you think you have it all figured out you will realise that you don’t. Yet another 5⭐️
Olivia is waiting outside the church ready to marry the love of her life, Nathaniel, when suddenly out of nowhere her world becomes dark. For 10yrs she was held in a bunker and treated like an animal but one day she escapes. That should be the end of the trauma for Olivia but unfortunately things are far from over.
Told across several timelines from the build up to the wedding, her time in the bunker and present day we get a 360 on Olivia’s life. We only have one POV so as a reader we have one persons perspective and I really think this helped with the story. You can really see the authors progression as you read through his books. You will constantly be on edge and your mind will be spinning as you read this. Just when you think you have it all figured out you will realise that you don’t. Yet another 5⭐️
November 2, 2024
Philip Anthony Smiths latest book ‘The Forgotten Bride’ not only showcases his exceptional storytelling abilities but also highlights his knack for weaving captivating plots filled with suspense, clever timelines, and a mind-blowing finale that kept me on the edge of my seat. From the moment I opened its pages, I was hooked.
The use of different timelines added depth to the characters and their motivations, allowing me to piece together the backstory.
The pacing is expertly crafted, just when I thought I had a grasp on the plot, an unexpected twist was thrown in that challenged my assumptions which kept me engaged and eager to uncover what lies ahead.
As the story reached its climax, the revelations unfolded in a manner that was both shocking and brilliantly executed.
Philip Anthony Smith has once again raised the bar with ‘The Forgotten Bride’ and I am very grateful for an early copy of his fantastic book, it was absolutely brilliant and I loved it.
Thank you so much Phil !
The use of different timelines added depth to the characters and their motivations, allowing me to piece together the backstory.
The pacing is expertly crafted, just when I thought I had a grasp on the plot, an unexpected twist was thrown in that challenged my assumptions which kept me engaged and eager to uncover what lies ahead.
As the story reached its climax, the revelations unfolded in a manner that was both shocking and brilliantly executed.
Philip Anthony Smith has once again raised the bar with ‘The Forgotten Bride’ and I am very grateful for an early copy of his fantastic book, it was absolutely brilliant and I loved it.
Thank you so much Phil !
November 7, 2024
This was a pulse-pounding, shocking thriller! Thank you to Philip Anthony Smith for allowing me to read an advanced copy. On her wedding day ten years ago, Olivia vanished without a trace, kidnapped outside of the church. She finally escapes, and struggles to piece together who took her and what happened. This one had me on edge the whole time, then a spectacular twist, then I thought ok, I know what's going on, then another twist!! This is a must read if you love thrillers!
November 1, 2024
I’d already previously read the prologue so I was already excited about continuing. I devoured this book ridiculously quickly and for me that’s always the sign of a really good read. Have to say this is my favourite one by this author to date. If you love a psychological thriller then honestly you need to check this one out!
What could be worse than being kidnapped on your wedding day?! But this is what happens to Olivia! Fast paced, full of twists and turns that had me on the edge of my seat for pretty much the entire read, just when I thought I had it all figured out, I was wrong a few times 🙈. The ending just blew my mind.
What could be worse than being kidnapped on your wedding day?! But this is what happens to Olivia! Fast paced, full of twists and turns that had me on the edge of my seat for pretty much the entire read, just when I thought I had it all figured out, I was wrong a few times 🙈. The ending just blew my mind.
December 17, 2024
I was lucky enough to be given an ARC of @philipsmithfiction new book.
This is the 3rd book I have read by this author and my favourite so far (the other books are also amazing).
The prologue throws you straight into the action and having read this before getting my hands on the book, made me want to read it more.
Written as multiple timelines going back and forth from the present to the future, I was gripped and found it difficult to put this book down. It was fast paced and I finished it within a matter of days.
I don't really want to say much more as I don't want to spoil it for others but if you love a good thriller/crime novel I would 100% recommend you picking this book up on its release date - 21.11.2024
This is the 3rd book I have read by this author and my favourite so far (the other books are also amazing).
The prologue throws you straight into the action and having read this before getting my hands on the book, made me want to read it more.
Written as multiple timelines going back and forth from the present to the future, I was gripped and found it difficult to put this book down. It was fast paced and I finished it within a matter of days.
I don't really want to say much more as I don't want to spoil it for others but if you love a good thriller/crime novel I would 100% recommend you picking this book up on its release date - 21.11.2024
January 4, 2025
An easy 5 star from me! The Forgotten Bride is a thrilling, camp delight that kept me hooked from start to finish. Though mainly set in America, it avoids feeling Americanised in any way and instead delivers a tone that feels almost British in its dialogue - sharp, witty & endlessly entertaining. The dialogue was one of my personal highlights; I gasped, chuckled, and savored every biting remark & clever exchange.
In the real life, I firmly believe in Women Supporting Women. But in entertainment, having grown up loving the rivalries within EastEnders and Footballers’ Wives, I couldn’t get enough of the deliciously camp feud between two of these characters. The bitchy rivalry, full of sly comments and devious smirks, was brilliantly entertaining, giving me serious Tanya & Amber vibes from Footballers’ Wives. I cackled out loud more than once!
Like most thrillers, the story requires you to suspend a little disbelief and dive into its heightened world - and trust me, it’s worth it. While there were a few plot holes, they didn’t bother me; I was too invested in the exaggerated twists and turns, eager to see what was next in store next. The plot was brilliant for me!
The characters are a standout feature, especially the main protagonist, Olivia. I loved spending time with her, rooting for her to get justice - with her claws out if necessary! Without spoiling anything, I’ll just say the finale had me audibly exclaim, “Oh my god!” The big reveal was everything I hoped for, capping off a brilliantly crafted story.
The Forgotten Bride is a gripping thriller packed with cunning characters, a mystery that kept me guessing, and dialogue so camp I couldn’t stop laughing. I loved every moment of it. Bring on the sequel!
In the real life, I firmly believe in Women Supporting Women. But in entertainment, having grown up loving the rivalries within EastEnders and Footballers’ Wives, I couldn’t get enough of the deliciously camp feud between two of these characters. The bitchy rivalry, full of sly comments and devious smirks, was brilliantly entertaining, giving me serious Tanya & Amber vibes from Footballers’ Wives. I cackled out loud more than once!
Like most thrillers, the story requires you to suspend a little disbelief and dive into its heightened world - and trust me, it’s worth it. While there were a few plot holes, they didn’t bother me; I was too invested in the exaggerated twists and turns, eager to see what was next in store next. The plot was brilliant for me!
The characters are a standout feature, especially the main protagonist, Olivia. I loved spending time with her, rooting for her to get justice - with her claws out if necessary! Without spoiling anything, I’ll just say the finale had me audibly exclaim, “Oh my god!” The big reveal was everything I hoped for, capping off a brilliantly crafted story.
The Forgotten Bride is a gripping thriller packed with cunning characters, a mystery that kept me guessing, and dialogue so camp I couldn’t stop laughing. I loved every moment of it. Bring on the sequel!
March 31, 2025
5 ⭐
You should definitely try reading this book!! I just can't put my thoughts in line to write this review coz I'm that much shocked after closing the book🫢
This was just going to be a 4.5 star read for me until the revealing shock at the end of the book left me speechless and made me give a 5 star rating for this psychological thriller!! 🤯😵
Some scenes really incorporated in my mind and no doubt I will remember them whenever I see this book 😵💫😂
*Spoiler*
I'm curious about what is written in the note that olivia received at the end of the book 🧐
I'm more than excited to read the 2nd book in this series..
Thank you Philip Anthony smith for the free ebook copy
You should definitely try reading this book!! I just can't put my thoughts in line to write this review coz I'm that much shocked after closing the book🫢
This was just going to be a 4.5 star read for me until the revealing shock at the end of the book left me speechless and made me give a 5 star rating for this psychological thriller!! 🤯😵
Some scenes really incorporated in my mind and no doubt I will remember them whenever I see this book 😵💫😂
*Spoiler*
I'm curious about what is written in the note that olivia received at the end of the book 🧐
I'm more than excited to read the 2nd book in this series..
Thank you Philip Anthony smith for the free ebook copy
March 21, 2025
A bride to be, Olivia, is excited to marry the man of her dreams. They have a 6 year old daughter together and the couple is excited for this day. While standing outside of the church, Olivia is kidnapped. She is taken to an underground bunker and held captive for 10 years. During her captivity, she was able to see videos how the man she was going to marry and her child has moved on with their lives. After such a long time being in captivity, she managed to escape and get to the police. They reunite her with the man she was going to marry and he is happy for her return. However, he is engaged to someone else and this causes problems. Besides trying to remember any clues about who took her, she has to deal with this woman in her life. As time passes, she begins to remember things but nobody believes her. So she makes it her mission to get proof and see the kidnapper go to prison.
March 18, 2025
I wasn't sure what to expect with this book. The cover definitely got my attention. But I can honestly say it was AMAZING! All the twists were greatly written & completely unexpected. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone! Can't wait to read number 2.
March 23, 2025
I absolutely love this book! It kept me guessing and I could not stop reading it! Flows beautifully and each chapter leaves you wanting more!! 5 stars!
October 30, 2025
Thrilling
Wow, there were so many twists and surprises in this book. Fast-paced and engaging. Looking forward to the next book.
Wow, there were so many twists and surprises in this book. Fast-paced and engaging. Looking forward to the next book.
January 6, 2025
- Review -
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
“𝚂𝚕𝚎𝚎𝚙 𝚝𝚒𝚐𝚑𝚝. 𝙳𝚘𝚗’𝚝 𝚕𝚎𝚝 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚋𝚎𝚍𝚋𝚞𝚐𝚜 𝚋𝚒𝚝𝚎..”
Wow wow wow..
First of all a massive thank you to Phil for gifting me a copy of The Forgotten Bride .
This was a rollercoaster… a psychological thriller with in my opinion some horror thrown in… this is exactly the type of film I would watch and I was obsessed within the first few chapters..
The way Phil’s mine works with these twists and turns was sensational!
I absolutely LOVE Olivia, her strength and her British characteristics.
The ENDING of this book…. YES! BRILLIANT!
Patiently waiting for Thursday for the ARC of The Brides Revenge 👀🔪 beyond exciting!
This is a MUST read!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
“𝚂𝚕𝚎𝚎𝚙 𝚝𝚒𝚐𝚑𝚝. 𝙳𝚘𝚗’𝚝 𝚕𝚎𝚝 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚋𝚎𝚍𝚋𝚞𝚐𝚜 𝚋𝚒𝚝𝚎..”
Wow wow wow..
First of all a massive thank you to Phil for gifting me a copy of The Forgotten Bride .
This was a rollercoaster… a psychological thriller with in my opinion some horror thrown in… this is exactly the type of film I would watch and I was obsessed within the first few chapters..
The way Phil’s mine works with these twists and turns was sensational!
I absolutely LOVE Olivia, her strength and her British characteristics.
The ENDING of this book…. YES! BRILLIANT!
Patiently waiting for Thursday for the ARC of The Brides Revenge 👀🔪 beyond exciting!
This is a MUST read!
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