Listen to Mother by LJ Smith took me by surprise in the best possible way. It’s unlike the typical psychological thrillers I read, yet I found myself completely engrossed. Rather than a fast-paced, hectic style, this is a calm, slow-burn psychological thriller—but the measured pace works perfectly for the Italian setting, enhancing the immersive atmosphere and sense of place. 

 

Set in Northern Italy, mainly Florence, the novel transports readers straight into its evocative locations. Despite the storm outside my window here in Scotland, I felt as though I was walking through the streets of Florence, surrounded by its stunning architecture and rich history. The writing held my attention from the very first page, making it a book I never wanted to put down. 

 

The story follows Lesley Hamilton, who has left her home in Scotland to spend some time in Florence finishing the book she has always wanted to write. As she settles into her new life, she comes across a dead body—but rather than reporting it, she walks past, stopping only to pick up a mobile phone from the scene. Unbeknownst to her, she is being watched by Paolo Bianchi, the assassin responsible for the killing. The phone is his, dropped in the chaos, and when he sees Lesley later discard it into the Arno, he is left wondering what she knows, how she will react, and who she might talk to. With the story unfolding through multiple points of view, we see how each thread gradually weaves together, even as the investigators remain in the dark for much of the novel. 

 

The characters were incredibly well-drawn, each feeling authentic and multi-dimensional. Whether innocent or criminal, their fates carried weight, and I felt genuine sadness when certain characters were killed - even when I saw it coming - because the author had made them so compelling. 

 

On a personal level, the slower pace was something I truly appreciated. I was on high-dose medication while reading and found myself continually falling asleep, despite my desire to keep going. Thankfully, I was able to read a good chunk each time, and I welcomed the measured, immersive storytelling, which suited my state of mind perfectly. It was a book I could sink into, without feeling overwhelmed by a breakneck pace. 

 

This is a gripping and atmospheric thriller that lingers in the mind long after the final page. LJ Smith has crafted a novel that blends psychological depth, crime, and a strong sense of place beautifully. If you love psychological thrillers with immersive writing and layered characters, this is one to add to your list.  Highly recommended!