Can you not try plugging it into a USB caddy and plugging that into a different PC/laptop, you might be lucky and find you can read it even if you can't boot from it?
I run SyncbackSE (paid for, though they do a free version) from http://www.2brightsparks.com/syncback/sbse-features.html. I have a daily schedule set up that backs up the active data partition on my SSD to the HDD every evening.
I managed to retrieve the files using the caddy!! thank you for the idea
I formatted the SSD and I am able to connect it to my desktop. I am running a full diagnostic scan using the Intel SSD toolbox, PCS was very kind to send me a new one. Is this a sign that the SSD may fail at some later stage so I should send it back or do you think it was a one off? I am buying the software you suggested just to create a backup of my stuff.
What's the difference between a caddy and the pc? Why could Keynes access the SSD from the caddy?
I agree with tom, hang on to the new SSD if you can.
Glad you got your essay back!
Note to self: If it's important... back it up! If it's VERY important... back up the back up, and keep it in a different location!!