Sick to Death by Chris Bridges review

About The Book

Book: Sick to Death
Author: Chris Bridges
Series or Standalone: Standalone
Publisher: Avon Books
Publication Date (UK): 27th March 2025

🔍Standout Read. Awarded to books I highly recommend.

My Review

Sick to Death is the debut psychological thriller from Chris Bridges. I was really keen to read this as the author seems so friendly over on Instagram and I’m a big fan of his book reviews. You can guarantee that if he has recommended it, it will be good – so make sure to check out his page for more books to add to your TBR!

Sick to Death unfolds in three parts. We meet Emma, who has chronic illness. It’s a neurological, invisible illness that has rendered her unable to work and she has to rely on others for support. As such she still lives at home in her mother’s council house with her stepdad, stepsister and her own daughter, Ava. Emma tells us that she is “trapped in a life that I didn’t choose.” This line floored me – I am so fortunate to have my health. My family and friends have been affected by various illnesses and it’s so important to make the most of the time we have and not take anything for granted.

As well as the health issues within the book, the story also explores the wealth and working-class divide. When COVID hit, Emma’s heinous stepfather turned her bedroom within their 3 bedroom council house into an office and relegated her to the downstairs sofa. Meanwhile, her daughter, Ava, shares a bedroom with her stepsister, Becky. Her stepfather is always berating Emma whilst her mum, despicably chooses to look the other way.

Within the same neighbourhood, there is an opulent house that tells a very different story – home to celebrity chef Celeste and her handsome husband, Adam. They are worlds apart.Emma becomes no stranger to Adam. He collides into her world – quite literally – when he helps her after a fall at a hospital check-up. She is enamoured by his care for her and he soon divulges that he’s divorcing Celeste. Emma quietly notices the bruises on him…

Adam collides into Emma’s world – quite literally – when he helps her after a fall at a hospital check-up. She is enamoured by his care for her and after a second chance meeting it isn’t long before he divulges that he’s divorcing Celeste. Emma quietly notices the bruises on him… She begins to enjoy their time together and starts to see a way out of her current situation.

Part one sets up the story well. I did feel it was going on a little long, but wow part two certainly packed a punch and made sure I knew it had arrived! Chris has done a fantastic job of writing both Emma and Celeste. They are both incredible female characters.This was an incredible debut, and I can’t wait to see what comes next.

An amazing debut, I can’t wait to see what comes next.

Thank you to Avon Books for my copy.