A review by helena_g_reads
The Unraveling of Julia by Lisa Scottoline

mysterious medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? No
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.0

⭐️: 3 / 5 

 

Publication Date: July 15, 2025 

 

I want to thank Grand Central Publishing and Net Galley for allowing me to get an eARC of this book in exchange for an honest review! 

 

The first chapter was shocking! I was not expecting the book to start so hard and fast. 

 

Some of the coolest aspects of this story, one was how vivid the imagery became once the story transitioned to Italy. I thought the best friend, Courtney, was a great addition to the book. There were a few moments that were riveting and had me at the edge of my seat to see what would come next. 

 

As for my reservations, I was disappointed by the lack of imagery in the first quarter of the book. Along this line, it also felt very surface-level in terms of engagement with the story until after the first quarter. I’m also not a big astrology person, and that was a very popular theme throughout the book along with other spiritual elements that, while interesting, I just didn’t feel connected to. 

 

Overall, this book had its highs and lows. I would recommend this for people to try it out even if it didn’t totally knock my socks off. 

 

Would recommend for those who are fans of: 

• (Mostly) Linear timeline
• Pennsylvania / Italy setting
• Haunted house stories
• Ghosts/mediums
• So many horoscopes

 
⚠️ violence, PTSD, 
 
Characters: 5
Atmosphere/setting: 7
Writing style: 6
Plot: 6
Intrigue: 7
Logic: 4
Relationships: 7
Entertainment: 7
Total: 3.06