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The Trail #1
The Bride's Trail
Shady friends and sinister secrets. When a shy graduate finds herself framed, can she clear her name before she ends up dead?
Amy Satterthwaite longs for excitement. Stuck in a dead-end job and shoebox flat, the wide-eyed graduate eagerly joins her best friend to seek love on the London party scene. When her bestie steals her ID for a sham marriage, skips town and leaves her branded a crook, Amy is heartbroken by the betrayal.
Desperate to prove her innocence, Amy scrambles to track down the missing party girl… and stumbles upon the man of her dreams. But with a vengeful crime boss chasing after cash that vanished too, she finds herself trapped in a deadly nightmare.
Can she reach her friend before both girls face a date with death?
The Bride’s Trail is the riveting first book in the Trail Series of British mystery thrillers. If you like strong women, edgy suspense, and a sleuth thrown in at the deep end, then you'll love AA Abbott's rollercoaster tale.
Buy The Bride’s Trail to start the chase today!
Amy Satterthwaite longs for excitement. Stuck in a dead-end job and shoebox flat, the wide-eyed graduate eagerly joins her best friend to seek love on the London party scene. When her bestie steals her ID for a sham marriage, skips town and leaves her branded a crook, Amy is heartbroken by the betrayal.
Desperate to prove her innocence, Amy scrambles to track down the missing party girl… and stumbles upon the man of her dreams. But with a vengeful crime boss chasing after cash that vanished too, she finds herself trapped in a deadly nightmare.
Can she reach her friend before both girls face a date with death?
The Bride’s Trail is the riveting first book in the Trail Series of British mystery thrillers. If you like strong women, edgy suspense, and a sleuth thrown in at the deep end, then you'll love AA Abbott's rollercoaster tale.
Buy The Bride’s Trail to start the chase today!
572 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 7, 2015
686 people are currently reading
354 people want to read
About the author
A.A. Abbott
22 books77 followersWho doesn’t love a page-turner packed with mystery, twists and suspense? Those are the books I yearn to read, and I enjoy writing them, too. I’m British thriller writer A.A. Abbott – known to friends as Helen – and I believe a good read is one of life’s greatest pleasures. As a city girl, I've lived and worked in London, Bristol and Birmingham, so it’s no surprise that my books are often set there.
Like 10% of us, many of my family are dyslexic. While I'm not, I want my books to be enjoyed by readers with dyslexia and visual impairment too. That's why I publish my thrillers in a LARGE PRINT dyslexia-friendly edition as well as the standard paperback and ebook versions. Don't forget, when you’re reading an ebook, you can adjust the font on your Kindle to suit your needs. Some titles are published in a conventional large print font too. Bright Lies is also available as an audiobook, recorded by amazing voice actor Eilidh Beaton.
I like speaking to book groups, business networks and social circles, and reading my thrillers and short stories at live fiction events and on Zoom. If you're a book blogger, litfest organiser, reviewer or simply adore books, I'd love to hear from you.
I'm a member of the Alliance of Independent Authors, Bristol Fiction Writers' Group, and Birmingham's New Street Authors.
Find out more about the books I love to read and write, and get free short stories, at https://aaabbott.co.uk
Like 10% of us, many of my family are dyslexic. While I'm not, I want my books to be enjoyed by readers with dyslexia and visual impairment too. That's why I publish my thrillers in a LARGE PRINT dyslexia-friendly edition as well as the standard paperback and ebook versions. Don't forget, when you’re reading an ebook, you can adjust the font on your Kindle to suit your needs. Some titles are published in a conventional large print font too. Bright Lies is also available as an audiobook, recorded by amazing voice actor Eilidh Beaton.
I like speaking to book groups, business networks and social circles, and reading my thrillers and short stories at live fiction events and on Zoom. If you're a book blogger, litfest organiser, reviewer or simply adore books, I'd love to hear from you.
I'm a member of the Alliance of Independent Authors, Bristol Fiction Writers' Group, and Birmingham's New Street Authors.
Find out more about the books I love to read and write, and get free short stories, at https://aaabbott.co.uk
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 92 reviews
December 18, 2018
Meet Kat White ... blonde, beautiful ...and bad. Working as a croupier in a casino, she disappears with Twenty-Thousand Dollars belonging to gangster Shaun Halloran. Kat has also stolen Amy Satterwaite's identity for a sham marriage.
With a gangster swearing to hunt Kat down with the intent of killing her, and with Amy looking to clear her name and saving Kat from a certain death, Kat finds herself on the run.
This is a well-written crime fiction with twists and turns and chills and thrills. Each chapter is written from the point of view of one of the characters. The characters are finely drawn and unforgettable. I kept looking for some redeeming quality in Kat ... and just couldn't find it. She's the character you love to hate.
Throw in a little romance between Amy and the arrogant Ross, and a mention or two of a cancer cure, and it's like riding a roller coaster.
Many thanks to the author / TBC Reviewer Request Group (FB) for the digital copy of this crime fiction. Opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
With a gangster swearing to hunt Kat down with the intent of killing her, and with Amy looking to clear her name and saving Kat from a certain death, Kat finds herself on the run.
This is a well-written crime fiction with twists and turns and chills and thrills. Each chapter is written from the point of view of one of the characters. The characters are finely drawn and unforgettable. I kept looking for some redeeming quality in Kat ... and just couldn't find it. She's the character you love to hate.
Throw in a little romance between Amy and the arrogant Ross, and a mention or two of a cancer cure, and it's like riding a roller coaster.
Many thanks to the author / TBC Reviewer Request Group (FB) for the digital copy of this crime fiction. Opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
August 3, 2015
Not a Romance – A Swift, Slick Thriller.
A A Abbott’s latest thriller belts off on the trail straight away. From London’s fashionable Fitzrovia to the seedier parts of Birmingham, Abbott fans will not be disappointed by this relentless read. The Bride’s Trail is not deep, but then I don’t think Abbott ever intended it to be. Swift, slick and superbly escapist, it’s the perfect novel for an executive on a long journey or vacationer lounging in the sun on some exotic isle.
The title may confuse some, but this is no romantic reverie. The central character, Kat, around whom the plot pivots, is awesomely awful, I kept hoping for a redeeming feature but found Kat lacking in anything other than beauty, boundless self-confidence and the staying power of a gnat. Evident at the start, Kat in absentia, makes one wonder why anyone should wish to find her.
The edge of grimness, and the potential for awful consequence, looms as the chase continues. Abbott uses the multiple points of view technique to good effect. This can sometimes be a tiresome literary tactic, breaking off when the plot is buzzing, or weakening the story with lacklustre sectioning. In this novel, the plot moves easily, seamlessly segueing from one perspective to another, not detracting from the story at all. I think this is her best yet.
A A Abbott’s latest thriller belts off on the trail straight away. From London’s fashionable Fitzrovia to the seedier parts of Birmingham, Abbott fans will not be disappointed by this relentless read. The Bride’s Trail is not deep, but then I don’t think Abbott ever intended it to be. Swift, slick and superbly escapist, it’s the perfect novel for an executive on a long journey or vacationer lounging in the sun on some exotic isle.
The title may confuse some, but this is no romantic reverie. The central character, Kat, around whom the plot pivots, is awesomely awful, I kept hoping for a redeeming feature but found Kat lacking in anything other than beauty, boundless self-confidence and the staying power of a gnat. Evident at the start, Kat in absentia, makes one wonder why anyone should wish to find her.
The edge of grimness, and the potential for awful consequence, looms as the chase continues. Abbott uses the multiple points of view technique to good effect. This can sometimes be a tiresome literary tactic, breaking off when the plot is buzzing, or weakening the story with lacklustre sectioning. In this novel, the plot moves easily, seamlessly segueing from one perspective to another, not detracting from the story at all. I think this is her best yet.
March 8, 2019
A fast-paced thriller set in London and Birmingham. Two women get drawn into a gangster world of violence and crime. When one of them disappears, the other sets out to find her.
September 9, 2015
I really enjoyed this book, it was entertaining. I’m not entirely convinced I would be able to maintain a friendship with someone who had sold my ID to some dodgy person organising illegal marriages, let alone go looking for them, when they disappear unexpectedly.
Amy comes across as a really nice person, yet her so called friend Kat, leaves me wondering whether she is in fact a friend at all. What kind of mate would do a runner, leaving you in a property where the rent wasn’t being paid, even when you were paying and leaving you without a word of warning; to deal with a couple of angry gangsters. Those kind of friends are best avoided if you want a quiet life.
Ross, the high –flyer in love with Kat is a total waste of time, he was a complete and utter rat. I was half hoping he would end up losing his career, after the way he treated Amy. She comes across as very naive, but he sounds like a complete prig! I would have emptied the mini bar at Malmaison every night if I’d been Amy and he was footing the bill. Horrible man.
The storyline was great, I loved the fact that it jumped from London to the back streets of Birmingham. I was fascinated to read about the tunnels under the city in the old jewellery quarter of the city. I have lived in Birmingham all my life and never knew they existed, a very well- kept secret.
I did think that Kat might end up in a relationship with Shaun at one point during the story, she sounds like a gangster’s moll, but when he and his crony Jeb catches up with her, Jeb then drops her in it, accusing Kat of stealing the money; it becomes less and less likely. Jeb was a nasty piece of work, the type that would sell his granny. He got what was coming to him in the end though, and all because of twenty grand. It’s too late for Kat and her mates though, Shaun wants no witnesses and he’s armed with a gun. Ross did surprise me when he lunged for the gun and grappled with Shaun, I have to admit I was very amused when he took a bullet, even if it did only clip his knee. I can imagine him in the future really hamming that one up and playing the hero.
The tables turn on Shaun ,when Kat picks up the gun and aims it at Shaun, she has Ross tie him up. Good job Kat isn’t aware that he has slit her brother’s throat in his attempt to catch up with her, she’d have shot him for sure. Luckily, Erik survives and it looks like things may develop between him and Amy romantically, awe. Amy deserves a decent bloke. Ross deserves a whole heap of headache and I’m sure he’ll find that with Kat, no matter how gorgeous she is, let’s face it, she’s trouble with a capital T.
The real heroine, of course is Jackie, the Librarian who finds Kat’s brother Erik in the street and saves his life by getting him to hospital in the nick of time. She sounds just like a lady I know! Strange but true.
Amy comes across as a really nice person, yet her so called friend Kat, leaves me wondering whether she is in fact a friend at all. What kind of mate would do a runner, leaving you in a property where the rent wasn’t being paid, even when you were paying and leaving you without a word of warning; to deal with a couple of angry gangsters. Those kind of friends are best avoided if you want a quiet life.
Ross, the high –flyer in love with Kat is a total waste of time, he was a complete and utter rat. I was half hoping he would end up losing his career, after the way he treated Amy. She comes across as very naive, but he sounds like a complete prig! I would have emptied the mini bar at Malmaison every night if I’d been Amy and he was footing the bill. Horrible man.
The storyline was great, I loved the fact that it jumped from London to the back streets of Birmingham. I was fascinated to read about the tunnels under the city in the old jewellery quarter of the city. I have lived in Birmingham all my life and never knew they existed, a very well- kept secret.
I did think that Kat might end up in a relationship with Shaun at one point during the story, she sounds like a gangster’s moll, but when he and his crony Jeb catches up with her, Jeb then drops her in it, accusing Kat of stealing the money; it becomes less and less likely. Jeb was a nasty piece of work, the type that would sell his granny. He got what was coming to him in the end though, and all because of twenty grand. It’s too late for Kat and her mates though, Shaun wants no witnesses and he’s armed with a gun. Ross did surprise me when he lunged for the gun and grappled with Shaun, I have to admit I was very amused when he took a bullet, even if it did only clip his knee. I can imagine him in the future really hamming that one up and playing the hero.
The tables turn on Shaun ,when Kat picks up the gun and aims it at Shaun, she has Ross tie him up. Good job Kat isn’t aware that he has slit her brother’s throat in his attempt to catch up with her, she’d have shot him for sure. Luckily, Erik survives and it looks like things may develop between him and Amy romantically, awe. Amy deserves a decent bloke. Ross deserves a whole heap of headache and I’m sure he’ll find that with Kat, no matter how gorgeous she is, let’s face it, she’s trouble with a capital T.
The real heroine, of course is Jackie, the Librarian who finds Kat’s brother Erik in the street and saves his life by getting him to hospital in the nick of time. She sounds just like a lady I know! Strange but true.
August 9, 2015
As usual, A A Abbott writes with ease and authority – the locations and workplaces she describes leave the reader in no doubt that she is, or has been, familiar with all of them. She writes equally convincingly about the lives and backgrounds of her assorted array of characters, who range from the CEO of an insurance company, through a beautiful croupier, to a villain who’s willing to kill as casually as lighting his next cigarette.
I like the way the book is structured. Each chapter is written from the point of view of one of the characters, giving us more information about their motivation and intentions, yet not giving too much away. If you’re into shady dealings and corporate cunning, seasoned with a subplot involving a cure for cancer, this pacy, stylish thriller should be your next read.
I like the way the book is structured. Each chapter is written from the point of view of one of the characters, giving us more information about their motivation and intentions, yet not giving too much away. If you’re into shady dealings and corporate cunning, seasoned with a subplot involving a cure for cancer, this pacy, stylish thriller should be your next read.
November 28, 2019
An intense, engaging thriller that flows easily across multiple POVs. What at first seems to start as a cozy mystery ramps up in intensity when Amy learns that her roommate has gotten involved in some thing she would’ve been smart to avoid. Things get worse for Amy when she learns that Kat used her name to do it. Desperate to save Kat and herself, Amy is whisked on a race against the clock.
The beginning of the story from the end was very easy to read. The characters were realistic, and I especially loved the back and forths between Kat and Amy. Both of them felt like real people. I didn’t care for Ross at much, but his character was very well developed too. Since we spend time inside each character’s head at least once in the story, it is easy to understand all of their motives.
I enjoyed this thriller from start to finish.
The beginning of the story from the end was very easy to read. The characters were realistic, and I especially loved the back and forths between Kat and Amy. Both of them felt like real people. I didn’t care for Ross at much, but his character was very well developed too. Since we spend time inside each character’s head at least once in the story, it is easy to understand all of their motives.
I enjoyed this thriller from start to finish.
July 14, 2021
My thoughts about A A Abbott’s The Bride’s Trial was incredible,brilliantly written and well plotted, I was blown away with A A Abbott’s writing. The Bride’s Trial has lots of twists and turns that blows you away with its breathtaking suspense and its fantastic locations accross Birmingham is remarkable. A A Abbott handles the the characters and the story so well together is just spectacular, and the introduction of the lead character Amy is fantastic,her journey from London to Birmingham,is just brilliantly well portrayed. The story of The Bride’s Trial begins,were we see Amy’s job drives her insane, her flat is a shoebox, and she can’t get a man. The weekend is her only chance of fun. Thanks to her glamorous flatmate, it’s a whirl of glitzy parties in London. Then the music stops. Amy’s roomie has vanished. She’s made big money from sham marriages and the cops are closing in. Worse, they pin the crime on Amy.
Desperate to clear her name, Amy turns detective. She’s in a race against time. A gun-toting gangster has lost a pile of cash and is chasing the fake bride too. Clues lead them both to secret tunnels in Birmingham. Can Amy find her friend first, or will she face a date with death. Author A A Abbott delivers a gripping thriller,that is a masterpiece in it’s own right, I’ve enjoyed reading this unique thriller that is spectacular, a great start to a great series I’m sure it will be. The Bride’s Trial is a sure shot winner and highly recommend, and the underground jewellery quarter scene in Birmingham is remarkable. I would like to say thank you to Author A A Abbott, for kindly gifting me this unique thriller for me to read and review which I’ve enjoyed reading and the introduction of Amy's Friend Kat is also superb. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Desperate to clear her name, Amy turns detective. She’s in a race against time. A gun-toting gangster has lost a pile of cash and is chasing the fake bride too. Clues lead them both to secret tunnels in Birmingham. Can Amy find her friend first, or will she face a date with death. Author A A Abbott delivers a gripping thriller,that is a masterpiece in it’s own right, I’ve enjoyed reading this unique thriller that is spectacular, a great start to a great series I’m sure it will be. The Bride’s Trial is a sure shot winner and highly recommend, and the underground jewellery quarter scene in Birmingham is remarkable. I would like to say thank you to Author A A Abbott, for kindly gifting me this unique thriller for me to read and review which I’ve enjoyed reading and the introduction of Amy's Friend Kat is also superb. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
December 28, 2018
A A Abbott has written a very cleverly plotted book. It has a big cast of characters who are tied and linked to one another. The heroine is Amy Satterthwaite who is trapped in a job she hates working for an insurance company. Amy shares a tiny flat with Kat who works as a casino croupier.
When Kat disappears - and so does £20000 from her workplace - Amy decides to try and find her. Especially once she finds out that Kat appears to have entered into a sham marriage in Amy’s name. She pairs us with Ross who is a colleague with a much more senior role in the insurance company.
The action takes place in London and Birmingham and Kat’s bosses are - unsurprisingly - ruthless in the pursuit of the missing money.
Well-plotted the book brings all the characters together in an exciting ending. This is a great read - exciting and tense - and I thoroughly enjoyed it!! I look forward to reading the sequels.
When Kat disappears - and so does £20000 from her workplace - Amy decides to try and find her. Especially once she finds out that Kat appears to have entered into a sham marriage in Amy’s name. She pairs us with Ross who is a colleague with a much more senior role in the insurance company.
The action takes place in London and Birmingham and Kat’s bosses are - unsurprisingly - ruthless in the pursuit of the missing money.
Well-plotted the book brings all the characters together in an exciting ending. This is a great read - exciting and tense - and I thoroughly enjoyed it!! I look forward to reading the sequels.
January 23, 2019
This is the first book I’ve read from this author and I found it and easy read . A lot of characters to get to know , maybe a little too many and Ross one of the main characters I really didn’t like or warm to. All in all a decent read 3.5 stars
December 28, 2018
I saw this advertised on Facebook so decided to get a copy, it sounded quite interesting and right up my street. Nothing wrong with a change of pace and I've been reading a lot of romance and chick-lit recently so I really needed something different. Plus I was starting to find myself in a bit of a slump. This has definitely got me out of it!
I quite liked Kat who with all of her flaws just wanted to do the right thing but got herself in too deep. She is quite naïve in some respects, she wanted to please someone who just wanted to earn money out of her.
Amy has a job and is just about getting by living in the tiniest apartment with Kat, but she soon finds out that Kat has stolen her identity for a sham marriage. I really feel for Amy as she is trying to make ends meet and Kat is constantly living the high life and spend hundreds, if not thousands of pounds on outfits she can't really afford.
Amy soon gets into the thick of the gangster life trying to search for Kat when she goes missing. Amy doesn't know that Kat has run away but genuinely thinks she's missing. All she wants to do is clear her name and get her life back.
The characters were quite addictive and I found myself turning the pages into the early hours of the morning. A. A. Abbott is a new author for me and I'm definitely going to add the next book to my TBR. I'm invested in the characters and I'm routing for Amy and Kat's brother. Amy deserves something good out of all this.
It was well written and I thoroughly enjoyed the pace of it as well as the twists and turns. Definitely worth a read!
I quite liked Kat who with all of her flaws just wanted to do the right thing but got herself in too deep. She is quite naïve in some respects, she wanted to please someone who just wanted to earn money out of her.
Amy has a job and is just about getting by living in the tiniest apartment with Kat, but she soon finds out that Kat has stolen her identity for a sham marriage. I really feel for Amy as she is trying to make ends meet and Kat is constantly living the high life and spend hundreds, if not thousands of pounds on outfits she can't really afford.
Amy soon gets into the thick of the gangster life trying to search for Kat when she goes missing. Amy doesn't know that Kat has run away but genuinely thinks she's missing. All she wants to do is clear her name and get her life back.
The characters were quite addictive and I found myself turning the pages into the early hours of the morning. A. A. Abbott is a new author for me and I'm definitely going to add the next book to my TBR. I'm invested in the characters and I'm routing for Amy and Kat's brother. Amy deserves something good out of all this.
It was well written and I thoroughly enjoyed the pace of it as well as the twists and turns. Definitely worth a read!
February 22, 2024
It wasn’t too bad so enjoyed it very much….
Holy lots of characters in that book and hard to keep track of it too…I don’t even know what to begin but rather keep nice and short here…
Looking forward to read more book series soon…
Holy lots of characters in that book and hard to keep track of it too…I don’t even know what to begin but rather keep nice and short here…
Looking forward to read more book series soon…
February 3, 2018
Addictive Characters; great research; fascinating web of a story.
The Bride's Trail is a thoroughly interesting, exciting, and involving book which puts an entire story onto the focus of the characters. That might seem an obvious thing to say, but each chapter is switched from one character's view to another, and it works so well. It's not just the physical appearance of the characters that works, it is their behaviour, mannerisms, idiosyncrasies that the author chips in, layering more and more as the novel progress. There's a really strong feeling of "yeh, I know someone just like that" throughout the story.
From their first introduction, we meet and learn about each key character on their own, appearing to be in isolation at first, but them Abbott weaves them all together in a fascinating web of business, and crime. They all come from a mixture of the corporate world in London, to the darker, seedy criminal underworld, and then off to Birmingham as the story expands.
The recognisable locations bring an extra energy to the story and I found myself smiling at those I knew, and looking other ones up - the book has inspired me to look something up about one of the key cities which sounds fascinating, and is a testament to some great writer's research having taken place for this book to be penned.
We often hear how books are so good they "just can't be put down" - what I loved about this book was how easy it was to pick up. I nearly gave it a big 5 star, but for my personal preference for more fast-paced crime focus where the criminal element and police procedure is more involved and at the centre - but that's more just my own proclivity.
A highly recommended book, and I will definitely be picking up the next ones in the series very soon.
The Bride's Trail is a thoroughly interesting, exciting, and involving book which puts an entire story onto the focus of the characters. That might seem an obvious thing to say, but each chapter is switched from one character's view to another, and it works so well. It's not just the physical appearance of the characters that works, it is their behaviour, mannerisms, idiosyncrasies that the author chips in, layering more and more as the novel progress. There's a really strong feeling of "yeh, I know someone just like that" throughout the story.
From their first introduction, we meet and learn about each key character on their own, appearing to be in isolation at first, but them Abbott weaves them all together in a fascinating web of business, and crime. They all come from a mixture of the corporate world in London, to the darker, seedy criminal underworld, and then off to Birmingham as the story expands.
The recognisable locations bring an extra energy to the story and I found myself smiling at those I knew, and looking other ones up - the book has inspired me to look something up about one of the key cities which sounds fascinating, and is a testament to some great writer's research having taken place for this book to be penned.
We often hear how books are so good they "just can't be put down" - what I loved about this book was how easy it was to pick up. I nearly gave it a big 5 star, but for my personal preference for more fast-paced crime focus where the criminal element and police procedure is more involved and at the centre - but that's more just my own proclivity.
A highly recommended book, and I will definitely be picking up the next ones in the series very soon.
January 5, 2016
This is the first book I have read by AA Abbott and I will certainly be reading more!
It's an exciting, pacey thriller that centres around the disappearance of the beautiful and glamorous Kat, featuring some delightfully unsavoury characters from an underworld of speak-easies, casinos and sham weddings, with a sprinkling of corruption, casual sex and gangsters thrown in.
Naive Amy becomes unwittingly involved embroiled in her flatmate's disappearance in an adventure that takes her from Fitzrovia and City life to the Victorian streets of Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter and the hidden passageways that lie beneath.
The story is well-constructed and well-written, with a multi-level plot and plenty of action, and chapters told from different characters' perspectives to keep things moving. If you're looking for a slick thriller that keeps you turning the pages, this is the book for you! I fully recommend it.
It's an exciting, pacey thriller that centres around the disappearance of the beautiful and glamorous Kat, featuring some delightfully unsavoury characters from an underworld of speak-easies, casinos and sham weddings, with a sprinkling of corruption, casual sex and gangsters thrown in.
Naive Amy becomes unwittingly involved embroiled in her flatmate's disappearance in an adventure that takes her from Fitzrovia and City life to the Victorian streets of Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter and the hidden passageways that lie beneath.
The story is well-constructed and well-written, with a multi-level plot and plenty of action, and chapters told from different characters' perspectives to keep things moving. If you're looking for a slick thriller that keeps you turning the pages, this is the book for you! I fully recommend it.
June 24, 2017
I liked the way this book was written. It was highly addictive and entertaining.
The Bride's Trail by A.A. Abbott
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I liked the way this book was written. It was highly addictive and entertaining.
View all my reviews
The Bride's Trail by A.A. AbbottMy rating: 4 of 5 stars
I liked the way this book was written. It was highly addictive and entertaining.
View all my reviews
June 9, 2017
The Bride's Trail by A A Abbott has received a Chill with a Book Readers' Award.
www.chillwithabook.com
"An interesting story."
"Well written."
"A light enjoyable read."
Pauline Barclay
Founder of Chill with a Book Awards
www.chillwithabook.com
"An interesting story."
"Well written."
"A light enjoyable read."
Pauline Barclay
Founder of Chill with a Book Awards
October 8, 2017
A fast paced page turner that I read in double paced time! I particularly enjoyed the characters who were visibly described in believable detail. It felt like watching a movie as I was quickly drawn in to each character and how their lives intertwined. Gritty and at times also humourous - an enjoyable read.
April 29, 2016
A fun romp through London and Brum. Perfectly pitched writing for the several characters.
January 18, 2023
I had a hard time getting into this one at first. The book's chapters are all from different characters points of views, but there are so many different ones who get a POV that it makes it hard to know why you're supposed to care about the character you're following. Eventually, as the story gets going a little this sorts itself out a bit, but I think just going for a regular old third person narrative style would have probably worked out a bit better in my opinion. It would have at least created a smoother start.
Beyond that the book was just okay. There weren't many characters that I really liked. I did like Amy, who is kind of our main character in our story, but also thought that it was a bit of an odd move for her to work so hard to find her missing roommate, Kat, that she had only known for two months and had recently found out that she had stolen her identity for a sham marriage. Why would she have cared quite enough? I'm not sure we're given a good enough motive for that.
I did also like a few of the minor characters like Charles, Amy's dad and Mark, Kat's brother. However, they were somewhat minor characters and didn't play that much of a role in the book. The rest of the cast, I didn't really fancy that much. Kat was barely in the book and since she was the cause of so much trouble with her poor choices, it was hard to like her. Ross who winds up helping Amy, more because he fancies Kat then anything else, was kind of an arrogant jerk that was hard to like.
The narrative also seemed more cluttered than it needed to be. You have a company buyout going on in the background for the company that Amy and Ross work at, a backstory about a high end vodka company that Kat's dad started, some characters like Amy's dad that seemed unimportant to the plot, and even a potential cure for cancer thrown into the mix. It was just a bit cluttered feeling, but this is the start to a series of books, so maybe it is all setup for later reveals?
Even though I do have these complaints about the book, it was also a fairly nice easy read and kept me interested once I got past the first quarter of the book or so. It has a fair share of issues, but it did end up being enjoyable enough. The big question, that I don't currently have an answer to, is do I go on to the next book? It's tempting, but I'm not sure if I will or not especially since it seems to follow Kat more than Amy which is kind of odd in some ways.
Beyond that the book was just okay. There weren't many characters that I really liked. I did like Amy, who is kind of our main character in our story, but also thought that it was a bit of an odd move for her to work so hard to find her missing roommate, Kat, that she had only known for two months and had recently found out that she had stolen her identity for a sham marriage. Why would she have cared quite enough? I'm not sure we're given a good enough motive for that.
I did also like a few of the minor characters like Charles, Amy's dad and Mark, Kat's brother. However, they were somewhat minor characters and didn't play that much of a role in the book. The rest of the cast, I didn't really fancy that much. Kat was barely in the book and since she was the cause of so much trouble with her poor choices, it was hard to like her. Ross who winds up helping Amy, more because he fancies Kat then anything else, was kind of an arrogant jerk that was hard to like.
The narrative also seemed more cluttered than it needed to be. You have a company buyout going on in the background for the company that Amy and Ross work at, a backstory about a high end vodka company that Kat's dad started, some characters like Amy's dad that seemed unimportant to the plot, and even a potential cure for cancer thrown into the mix. It was just a bit cluttered feeling, but this is the start to a series of books, so maybe it is all setup for later reveals?
Even though I do have these complaints about the book, it was also a fairly nice easy read and kept me interested once I got past the first quarter of the book or so. It has a fair share of issues, but it did end up being enjoyable enough. The big question, that I don't currently have an answer to, is do I go on to the next book? It's tempting, but I'm not sure if I will or not especially since it seems to follow Kat more than Amy which is kind of odd in some ways.
February 20, 2019
This book was the definition of a page-turner! It’s a compulsive read where once you start you can’t stop.
It’s gritty, dark and dips into the dark underbelly of the world around us. You never know who could be standing right beside you, do you?
Amy Satterthwaite’s flatmate has vanished. Finding out that Kat stole her identity for some sham marriage scam is the least of her worries when certain unsavoury characters come knocking at their door looking for Amy’s erstwhile flatmate.
These are not the type of people you want to double cross *shakes head* With not just Kat’s life being threatened, it’s paramount that Amy tracks her down asap. Only, where to begin?
Enlisting the help of one of Kat’s many admirers, Ross Pritchard (although I would rather have stuck pins in my eyes), the two set off to track down the missing Kat. Can they warn/get to her in time?
Who is the mysterious Kat? The game is afoot as they say.
Told via multiple POVs this story had me gripped till the very end where I was still left with more questions than answers. Curse you, author *raises fists* lol!
And breathe...
However, when you take a moment and think about it like a rational person (which despite popular opinion I can be on occasion *smirks*), this is exactly what you want from the first book in a series.
Whaaa?
*wags finger*
Don’t go looking at me like that - I’m getting to the reason behind my rating. Sheesh! All in good time, people, all in good time.
*sucks in breath*
Okay, so beside the more questions than answers at the end thing, Ididntreallylikeanyofthecharacters *blows out breath* They just weren’t very likeable, but part of me thinks that was part of their charm *shrugs*
Honestly, I can’t repeat what I thought of Ross in polite society and the jury is still out on Amy and Kat. Hmm, okay, I was intrigued by Erik so I hope we hear more about him.
But, above all, I was compelled to keep turning the pages to find out what happened. In other words, I’m hooked.
Onwards to Book 2 - who’s coming with?
It’s gritty, dark and dips into the dark underbelly of the world around us. You never know who could be standing right beside you, do you?
Amy Satterthwaite’s flatmate has vanished. Finding out that Kat stole her identity for some sham marriage scam is the least of her worries when certain unsavoury characters come knocking at their door looking for Amy’s erstwhile flatmate.
These are not the type of people you want to double cross *shakes head* With not just Kat’s life being threatened, it’s paramount that Amy tracks her down asap. Only, where to begin?
Enlisting the help of one of Kat’s many admirers, Ross Pritchard (although I would rather have stuck pins in my eyes), the two set off to track down the missing Kat. Can they warn/get to her in time?
Who is the mysterious Kat? The game is afoot as they say.
Told via multiple POVs this story had me gripped till the very end where I was still left with more questions than answers. Curse you, author *raises fists* lol!
And breathe...
However, when you take a moment and think about it like a rational person (which despite popular opinion I can be on occasion *smirks*), this is exactly what you want from the first book in a series.
Whaaa?
*wags finger*
Don’t go looking at me like that - I’m getting to the reason behind my rating. Sheesh! All in good time, people, all in good time.
*sucks in breath*
Okay, so beside the more questions than answers at the end thing, Ididntreallylikeanyofthecharacters *blows out breath* They just weren’t very likeable, but part of me thinks that was part of their charm *shrugs*
Honestly, I can’t repeat what I thought of Ross in polite society and the jury is still out on Amy and Kat. Hmm, okay, I was intrigued by Erik so I hope we hear more about him.
But, above all, I was compelled to keep turning the pages to find out what happened. In other words, I’m hooked.
Onwards to Book 2 - who’s coming with?
June 18, 2019
Amy has what she feels is a dull job at an insurance company and it doesn't help that she is constantly overlooked and her hard work is taken for granted. On top of that she shares a small flat in London, but due to the size of the place, she is sleeping in little more than a cupboard. All of this makes her feel rather second-rate - only compounded by her flatmate, Kat, who is confident, popular and also has an exciting job as a croupier which leads to lots of invitations.
However, it soon becomes clear that not all of what Kat has been doing to earn her money is legit and one of her "sidelines" is to marry foreigners for cash to enable them to get a UK citizenship. The first big sign of things being far from okay is when Kat disappears without a trace and Amy is threatened.
Teaming up with a work colleague, Ross - who has designs on Kat, they do some detective work, finding the trail to find Kat leads to Birmingham where she apparently has some contacts. Following her, Ross and Amy think they're getting somewhere. That is until they learnt the hard way that Kat is involved in a LOT more than they realised and they're not the only ones looking for her...
I can't say any more without outlining the plot, but the book was well-written, easy to read, had some great characters and plenty of unexpected twists.
I also especially enjoyed the descriptions and places in Birmingham, having originally come from that neck of the woods myself.
An enjoyable read and I look forward to reading more by this author.
However, it soon becomes clear that not all of what Kat has been doing to earn her money is legit and one of her "sidelines" is to marry foreigners for cash to enable them to get a UK citizenship. The first big sign of things being far from okay is when Kat disappears without a trace and Amy is threatened.
Teaming up with a work colleague, Ross - who has designs on Kat, they do some detective work, finding the trail to find Kat leads to Birmingham where she apparently has some contacts. Following her, Ross and Amy think they're getting somewhere. That is until they learnt the hard way that Kat is involved in a LOT more than they realised and they're not the only ones looking for her...
I can't say any more without outlining the plot, but the book was well-written, easy to read, had some great characters and plenty of unexpected twists.
I also especially enjoyed the descriptions and places in Birmingham, having originally come from that neck of the woods myself.
An enjoyable read and I look forward to reading more by this author.
March 3, 2021
"I'VE BEEN WAITING ALL MY LIFE FOR THIS . . . "
The runners and riders are an assortment of well-drawn characters from modern British life, all instantly recognisable, like Hogarth's famous drawings were.
A brace of young women starting out on the man and career trail – one knowing, crafty and glamorous, one hopeful but as yet unfulfilled; two young dudes – one a steely, success-driven ice cube, one a caring character on a humanitarian mission; a clutch of variously parental and city whizz types at the top of the career tree, or in the second flush of romance; and a brace of well-dodgy, doped up and dangerous crims.
Add two throbbing cities, speakeasy London – where “they all wear masks” – and underground Birmingham, babs.
The Bride’s Trail sets off like an Epsom Derby Day sprint, hurtling forwards in a blur of action. A strong story arc evolves based on nothing being what it seems, with well-plotted links and surprises as the action progresses.
While the read is story-led and the writing tight, there are still some nice flourishes to savour: “A stray sunray caught Cari’s short red hair, appearing to set it on fire. Coupled with her thin frame and cream linen dress, the effect was of a flaming match, or stick of dynamite about to blow.”
And some amusing strokes, too: “You’ve got quite a bush.” The story is even a tale of two very different bushes.
All-in-all a great read. As this was the third of AA Abbot’s books I’ve read, I suppose I am now a fan. I will read more by this author.
The runners and riders are an assortment of well-drawn characters from modern British life, all instantly recognisable, like Hogarth's famous drawings were.
A brace of young women starting out on the man and career trail – one knowing, crafty and glamorous, one hopeful but as yet unfulfilled; two young dudes – one a steely, success-driven ice cube, one a caring character on a humanitarian mission; a clutch of variously parental and city whizz types at the top of the career tree, or in the second flush of romance; and a brace of well-dodgy, doped up and dangerous crims.
Add two throbbing cities, speakeasy London – where “they all wear masks” – and underground Birmingham, babs.
The Bride’s Trail sets off like an Epsom Derby Day sprint, hurtling forwards in a blur of action. A strong story arc evolves based on nothing being what it seems, with well-plotted links and surprises as the action progresses.
While the read is story-led and the writing tight, there are still some nice flourishes to savour: “A stray sunray caught Cari’s short red hair, appearing to set it on fire. Coupled with her thin frame and cream linen dress, the effect was of a flaming match, or stick of dynamite about to blow.”
And some amusing strokes, too: “You’ve got quite a bush.” The story is even a tale of two very different bushes.
All-in-all a great read. As this was the third of AA Abbot’s books I’ve read, I suppose I am now a fan. I will read more by this author.
January 2, 2019
Do not let the title confuse you, this is not a Romance or Romantic Comedy! It’s a fast paced, gripping Thriller that will have you on the edge of your seat for what will happen!
I enjoyed every page of this, Although I must say that the multiple points of view made me nervous. Initially I was concerned that I wouldn’t follow what was happening, less an issue in longer books, but in one of this length I was worried it would feel a bit rushed and without substance.
Instead, I found that it kept me on my toes, made me smile, and surprised me multiple times. The various viewpoints made it intriguing, add in the unique plot line that to be honest, caught me off guard a bit, and this was certainly worth picking up.
If I’m honest. I still haven’t decided if I like Kat or not. It’s a love/hate situation I think, her Character is certainly intriguing, but she’s not exactly likeable.
Don’t let the length of this thriller put you off! There are plenty of twists and turns to keep you entertained, and the writing style flows wonderfully.
The worry with a shorter book is often that it will fall a bit flat, have loose ends of a hole in the plot. A character who makes no sense, or a rushed ending. There are very few authors who can craft a shorter book with just as much punch as a longer, keep you entertained the whole way, and leave you feeling satisfied overall.
I’m definitely looking forwards to the next in the series!
I enjoyed every page of this, Although I must say that the multiple points of view made me nervous. Initially I was concerned that I wouldn’t follow what was happening, less an issue in longer books, but in one of this length I was worried it would feel a bit rushed and without substance.
Instead, I found that it kept me on my toes, made me smile, and surprised me multiple times. The various viewpoints made it intriguing, add in the unique plot line that to be honest, caught me off guard a bit, and this was certainly worth picking up.
If I’m honest. I still haven’t decided if I like Kat or not. It’s a love/hate situation I think, her Character is certainly intriguing, but she’s not exactly likeable.
Don’t let the length of this thriller put you off! There are plenty of twists and turns to keep you entertained, and the writing style flows wonderfully.
The worry with a shorter book is often that it will fall a bit flat, have loose ends of a hole in the plot. A character who makes no sense, or a rushed ending. There are very few authors who can craft a shorter book with just as much punch as a longer, keep you entertained the whole way, and leave you feeling satisfied overall.
I’m definitely looking forwards to the next in the series!
February 11, 2020
Quick, enjoyable Thriller.
Can't believe it has taken me nearly 5 years to find and read this book. It gripped me straight away with the 2 unlikely roommates in London's smart Fitzrovia.
The book has each chapter written from different characters point of view. This I found was done really well and added to the story. With the title was at the beginning expecting more of a romance however this is definitely a thriller that has you looking for more.
Bad girl Kat ends up on the run after getting herself into trouble with fake marriages and stolen money from gangster Shaun.
Shaun is on the warpath and wants to hunt Kat down with every intention of killing her.
Amy also wants to find her as she needs to clear her name as Kat stole her identity. She also though wants to save Kat's life.
This crime thriller takes you on a journey to secret tunnels below central Birmingham. There is plenty of twist and turns to keep readers interested and the characters are well written and set up for the next book. I will of course be making sure I read this so I can see how the story progresses.
Recommend to those who enjoy crime thrillers.
Can't believe it has taken me nearly 5 years to find and read this book. It gripped me straight away with the 2 unlikely roommates in London's smart Fitzrovia.
The book has each chapter written from different characters point of view. This I found was done really well and added to the story. With the title was at the beginning expecting more of a romance however this is definitely a thriller that has you looking for more.
Bad girl Kat ends up on the run after getting herself into trouble with fake marriages and stolen money from gangster Shaun.
Shaun is on the warpath and wants to hunt Kat down with every intention of killing her.
Amy also wants to find her as she needs to clear her name as Kat stole her identity. She also though wants to save Kat's life.
This crime thriller takes you on a journey to secret tunnels below central Birmingham. There is plenty of twist and turns to keep readers interested and the characters are well written and set up for the next book. I will of course be making sure I read this so I can see how the story progresses.
Recommend to those who enjoy crime thrillers.
March 16, 2019
The Bride's Trail is the first book in the Trail series and its a great start bringing in plenty of characters, with twists and turns to keep the reader interested.
The format keeps the story fresh throughout as each chapter is written from the view of one of the central six characters. The main character in the book is Amy, a 20 something woman living in a basement flat with her flamboyant flatmate Kat. Amy works in a relatively boring marketing job in an insurance company but Kat is a croupier, wearing designer dresses and going out for nights out in the exclusive Fitzrovia area in London. Soon Amy realises Kats life is not all it seems when Kat disappears and Amy ends up searching for her with Ross, who wants to be Kat's boyfriend, terrified that Kat's life is in danger.
This story if fairly fast paced but at the same time gives plenty of background information into the characters as you'd expect from a series. I enjoyed the mix of characters from the East End gangster to the Elite classed executive.
This is a really enjoyable story and I'm looking firward to finding out what happens to the characters in the rest of the books.
The format keeps the story fresh throughout as each chapter is written from the view of one of the central six characters. The main character in the book is Amy, a 20 something woman living in a basement flat with her flamboyant flatmate Kat. Amy works in a relatively boring marketing job in an insurance company but Kat is a croupier, wearing designer dresses and going out for nights out in the exclusive Fitzrovia area in London. Soon Amy realises Kats life is not all it seems when Kat disappears and Amy ends up searching for her with Ross, who wants to be Kat's boyfriend, terrified that Kat's life is in danger.
This story if fairly fast paced but at the same time gives plenty of background information into the characters as you'd expect from a series. I enjoyed the mix of characters from the East End gangster to the Elite classed executive.
This is a really enjoyable story and I'm looking firward to finding out what happens to the characters in the rest of the books.
February 8, 2019
The Bride’s Trail is an intriguing mystery set in London and Birmingham, England. The settings are so well-known and handled that the reader gets the feeling of being there, of being totally accustomed to the various neighborhoods and districts, to the point of just feeling natural there.
Then there’s the story. It’s told through the viewpoint, at one point or another, of everyone involved. Each character gets a chapter, or two, or three, so the reader is really able to get inside each character’s head. It’s fascinating to see the story unfold from everybody’s side, especially when the reader forms an opinion of a character only to see the story next from that character’s position and realize that the opinion was completely wrong.
And the mystery – suffice it to say that it kept me involved the whole way along, kept me wanting to come back for more and left me ready to read the next book in the series. Oh, and wishing to get my hands on a bottle of Snow Mountain Vodka!
Then there’s the story. It’s told through the viewpoint, at one point or another, of everyone involved. Each character gets a chapter, or two, or three, so the reader is really able to get inside each character’s head. It’s fascinating to see the story unfold from everybody’s side, especially when the reader forms an opinion of a character only to see the story next from that character’s position and realize that the opinion was completely wrong.
And the mystery – suffice it to say that it kept me involved the whole way along, kept me wanting to come back for more and left me ready to read the next book in the series. Oh, and wishing to get my hands on a bottle of Snow Mountain Vodka!
February 7, 2019
When Amy’s roommate Kat suddenly disappears and the police appear on her doorstep accusing Amy of marrying an illegal immigrant for money, Amy realizes that Kat not only used her identity but apparently did a runner. But the police is the least of Kat’s troubles as an angered mobster gets on her tail, searching for his missing money. Together with her co-worker Ross, Amy begins her own search of her missing roommate and soon the plot takes on a dangerous turn.
“The Bride’s Trail” is an action-packed thriller which certainly doesn’t lack intrigue and interesting characters. I loved the witty parts of the dialogue and I thoroughly enjoyed the development of Ross and Amy’s relationship. Ross’s story explained a lot in the end, and from an arrogant snob, he actually grew into a real hero who saves the day. Definitely a five-star read!
“The Bride’s Trail” is an action-packed thriller which certainly doesn’t lack intrigue and interesting characters. I loved the witty parts of the dialogue and I thoroughly enjoyed the development of Ross and Amy’s relationship. Ross’s story explained a lot in the end, and from an arrogant snob, he actually grew into a real hero who saves the day. Definitely a five-star read!
March 7, 2019
The authors did a great job here, and I was gripped from the start. Two friends Amy and Kat live together in the tiniest of London flats, which is the typical living arrangement facing people working in the City. Be careful who you choose as a flatmate. When I lived in London, I knew some people who had become involved in marriages for money, and in those cases, things also went bad. Therefore I felt this book had a ring of authenticity from the start.
There is a multitude of characters which I like as I feel it’s more believable. The characters were also well drawn and fitted the clever plot, and I enjoyed both. It’s a fast-paced and an exciting read with a fluid writing style which flows you easily through every twist and turns. Can’t wait to read the next book in this series.
There is a multitude of characters which I like as I feel it’s more believable. The characters were also well drawn and fitted the clever plot, and I enjoyed both. It’s a fast-paced and an exciting read with a fluid writing style which flows you easily through every twist and turns. Can’t wait to read the next book in this series.
April 25, 2019
Good Read
I must admit that it took me a while to connect to this story, but once I was in to it, I couldn't put it down. Great mixture of characters - the good, the bad, and the ugly. Amy and Kat - flat mates - are as different as chalk and cheese. Kat is reckless; Amy is too trusting with a sweet nature to go with it. When Kat disappears, Amy discovers that she had stolen her identity for a sham marriage after a visit from the police. Even though Kat has put Amy into all kinds of trouble, not forgetting danger, Amy is still worried about her disappearance and decides to go in search for her. At this point, the story becomes exciting as all the characters interlink. No spoilers. If you are curious, buy the book - you won't be disappointed.
I must admit that it took me a while to connect to this story, but once I was in to it, I couldn't put it down. Great mixture of characters - the good, the bad, and the ugly. Amy and Kat - flat mates - are as different as chalk and cheese. Kat is reckless; Amy is too trusting with a sweet nature to go with it. When Kat disappears, Amy discovers that she had stolen her identity for a sham marriage after a visit from the police. Even though Kat has put Amy into all kinds of trouble, not forgetting danger, Amy is still worried about her disappearance and decides to go in search for her. At this point, the story becomes exciting as all the characters interlink. No spoilers. If you are curious, buy the book - you won't be disappointed.
December 28, 2019
This was a fun, light read, and yet quite intense at moments as well. From the boredom and stress of a corporate worklife, to running away from killers, you'll be completely immersed in the story.
Stories with a lot of characters can become confusing at times. That isn't true of this one. As it's told from the viewpoint of all these characters, you get to know each of them better than if another character were simply describing them. You even get to feel a little sympathy for the bad guys, understanding some of the reasoning behind their actions. (Just a little bad... they still could have made better choices with their lives.) ;)
Stories with a lot of characters can become confusing at times. That isn't true of this one. As it's told from the viewpoint of all these characters, you get to know each of them better than if another character were simply describing them. You even get to feel a little sympathy for the bad guys, understanding some of the reasoning behind their actions. (Just a little bad... they still could have made better choices with their lives.) ;)
May 4, 2020
Satisfying thriller
Loaded with a large cast of diverse characters, it took a while to introduce the players – interesting but slow to start. The action was not fast-paced, but enough to keep my interest going. The blurb indicated lots of surprises, but most of the plot was predictable. The climax was thrilling and satisfying, and it felt like it worked its way to a good ending. But it did not stop. The final chapters droned on to fill in all the gaps and make sure everyone had a “happy-ever-after” story. Perhaps not necessary, but it didn’t’ hurt. I enjoyed the book and never felt I had to put it down.
Loaded with a large cast of diverse characters, it took a while to introduce the players – interesting but slow to start. The action was not fast-paced, but enough to keep my interest going. The blurb indicated lots of surprises, but most of the plot was predictable. The climax was thrilling and satisfying, and it felt like it worked its way to a good ending. But it did not stop. The final chapters droned on to fill in all the gaps and make sure everyone had a “happy-ever-after” story. Perhaps not necessary, but it didn’t’ hurt. I enjoyed the book and never felt I had to put it down.
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