Listen To Mother

Title: Listen To Mother

Author: LJ Smith

Genre: Psychological thriller, crime mystery

Publisher: Blossom Spring Publishing

Published Date: 2025

Book Length: 370

Format Read: E Book supplied by Zooloos Book Tours in return for an honest review

Star Rating: 5***** I loved it and highly recommend

About Book: Lesley Hamilton is starting a new life in Florence when she discovers a dead neighbour. An inexplicable mistake leads her to Paolo Bianchi, an individual unaffected by usual human emotions. His involvement in crime leaves him living in the shadowy fringes of society where decisions are made for him. When he is left to his own devices, his actions lead to tragic consequences, not just for himself but also for all those lives he touches. As Paolo’s life unravels, Gianfranco Valdi and his Caribinieri team must unpick the threads that lead to Paolo and his connection with organised crime.

My Thoughts: This is the first book I’ve read by LJ Smith, and wow, what a way to start! Listen to Mother is a gripping mystery thriller that hooked me right from the beginning. You can tell from the very first page that this is going to be a psychological rollercoaster.

The story is set in Italy, and let me just say, the descriptions woven into the narrative are absolutely stunning. It felt like I was right there, wandering through the streets and soaking in the atmosphere.

What really stood out for me was how unique and engaging the storyline was. The characters were fascinating and believable, and the eerie vibe running through the book kept me on edge the entire time. I could feel the tension building with every chapter, and Smith’s writing only drew me in further. Her knack for subtle details and those unexpected little connections—it’s like the literary version of the butterfly effect—made it impossible to put the book down.

I also loved the depth brought by one of the main characters, who is autistic. The way Smith portrayed their thoughts and feelings added another layer of richness to an already brilliant story. On top of that, the police procedural elements were a treat. Watching the investigation unfold step by step, with its twists and ever-shifting horizon, was completely engrossing.

If you love psychological thrillers packed with twists, turns, and fantastic characters, this book is a must-read. I can’t wait to see what LJ Smith writes next!