The Unraveling of Julia by Lisa Scottoline ~ an Audiobook Review

by Donna Huber

I've listened to a LOT of audiobooks this year, and I was starting to think I might be experiencing burnout as none I've listened to recently have really held my attention. After listening to The Unraveling of Julia, I think it was just the books because I didn't want to put this one down.

Amazon affiliate links are used on this site. A free audiobook was provided for an honest review.

July 2025; Grand Central Publishing; 9781668648278
audio (10h 28m), ebook, print; thriller

When someone is looking for a great thriller, I usually recommend Lisa Scottoline. They are always a rollercoaster read.  Her newest book, The Unraveling of Julia, is no exception. 

Julia's husband dies in her arms after a mugging goes wrong.  She has delved deeper into astrology since her husband's death, since she is convinced that her horoscope that day predicted his murder, and if she had paid more attention, he would still be alive. While still grieving, she learns that she has inherited a villa in Italy along with a good chunk of change. Though she has not left her home since her husband's death, the encouragement of her best friend (and her horoscope) convinces her that she must go to Italy. The mysterious inheritance is just the tip of the iceberg. Is Julia going crazy or is there something more nefarious happening?

Maria Marquis is an excellent narrator. Thrillers can sometimes be difficult to follow as an audiobook due to getting distracted. I have no problem keeping up with the story and the different characters. 

This isn't a mystery that you can solve on your own; instead, it is a story where you buckle up and enjoy the ride. 

I feel that Scottoline is trying to branch out and dabble in other genres and tropes. She did that with Loyalty, which has a bit of suspense but is solidly historical fiction. The Unraveling of Julia is definitely the thriller that she is known for, but with the inclusion of astrology and possibly some paranormal elements (I don't want to spoil anything, so I won't say more), this story has the feel of a gothic novel. I know Halloween is several months away, but it would be a great novel to put on a list of haunting reads.

Buy The Unraveling of Julia at Amazon

Donna Huber is an avid reader and natural encourager. She is the founder of Girl Who Reads and the author of how-to marketing book Secrets to a Successful Blog Tour.

Enjoyed this post? Never miss out on future posts by following us. Get even more book news in your inbox, sign up for our newsletter today! Or Follow Girl Who Reads with Bloglovin. Girl Who Reads is an Amazon advertising affiliate; a small commission is earned when purchases are made at Amazon using any Amazon links on this site. Thank you for supporting Girl Who Reads.