A retired teacher from Perthshire has ventured into the world of crime fiction with her debut novel, marking a new chapter in her literary journey. Laura Smith, who hails from Carse of Gowrie, spent two years crafting her thriller “Listen To Mother” after concluding her 34-year teaching career in 2019. The inspiration for her first crime novel stemmed from a blend of her educational background, European travels, and a fondness for gripping psychological thrillers.
In her novel, Smith delves into human behaviour, individual motivations, and the complexities of relationships in the face of life-altering events and tough decisions. The story follows Scottish teacher Lesley Hamilton navigating a web of mystery and danger in Florence, where she encounters a deceased neighbour and dives into the disturbing underworld of assassins and organised crime. Smith, who adopts the pen name LJ Smith, intricately weaves a narrative that explores the repercussions of decisions on one’s life journey.
Having grown up in Broughty Ferry and residing in Perthshire for 25 years, Smith has not only penned her first novel but has also completed two more unpublished works. The next novels promise a family saga exploring the influence of family dynamics on life choices and a dystopian thriller titled ‘Alone’. Eager to share her stories with readers, Smith remains hopeful about the future of her writing career.
“Listen To Mother” was recently published by Blossom Spring Publishing, marking a significant milestone in Smith’s transition from teacher to author. Her foray into crime fiction exemplifies a passion for storytelling and a keen eye for human nature, promising readers a captivating blend of intrigue and suspense in her narrative.
In conclusion, Laura Smith’s evolution from educator to novelist demonstrates the limitless possibilities that follow one’s passions and interests. Her dedication to crafting engaging stories reflects a deep understanding of human complexities and a commitment to providing readers with immersive literary experiences. As she embarks on her writing journey, Smith’s debut crime novel is a testament to the creative potential that can flourish in new beginnings.