Dive into the captivating world of Holly Jackson’s “A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder” series. This article provides a detailed summary and review of each book, helping you decide if this thrilling YA mystery series is for you. Be warned: this review contains spoilers!
A Good Girl’s Guide To Murder Summary
The series begins with Pip Fitz-Amobi, a high school senior, embarking on a seemingly impossible task for her capstone project: solving a closed murder case. The case revolves around Andie Bell, a popular student presumed murdered by her boyfriend, Sal Singh, who subsequently committed suicide. However, Pip is skeptical, especially since Andie’s body was never found.
Pip’s investigation starts with reaching out to Sal’s brother, Ravi, who eventually joins her quest for the truth. They meticulously gather evidence, documenting everything in Pip’s comprehensive file. As Pip gets closer to the truth, she receives threatening notes, and her family is put in danger. Her dog, Barney, tragically dies. She discovers Andie’s hidden life: a bully who sold drugs, including Rohypnol, to students like Max Hastings, who used them to drug and assault girls. Andie also had an inappropriate relationship with her teacher, Mr. Ward.
The shocking truth emerges: Mr. Ward murdered Sal, believing he had killed Andie. But Andie’s death was accidental. After being confronted about her drug dealing, Andie’s sister, Becca, watched her choke and die. Panicked, Becca buried Andie in the septic tank of an abandoned farmhouse. Pip’s tenacity is rewarded. Sal’s family finds closure, and Pip receives praise for her work.
Good Girl, Bad Blood Summary
“Good Girl, Bad Blood” sees Pip attempting to leave her sleuthing days behind her. She starts a podcast, “A Good Girl’s Guide To Murder,” detailing the Andie Bell/Sal Singh case. But trouble finds her again when her friend Connor’s brother, Jamie, goes missing.
Despite her reservations, Pip, with Ravi’s help, delves into the investigation. They uncover strange behavior, including Jamie stealing from neighbors. They discover he was communicating with “Layla Mead,” a fake persona. “Layla” turns out to be Pip’s new neighbor, Charlie, and his sister, Flora. Charlie’s twin sister was murdered years ago by a serial killer’s father (Child Brunswick), who was given a new identity. Charlie created “Layla” to find Child Brunswick, who is revealed to be Stanley Forbes, a man who works at the local paper. Pip exposes the truth, but witnesses Charlie murder Stanley and set the building on fire. The experience deeply traumatizes her.
As Good As Dead Summary
“As Good As Dead” finds Pip battling trauma and Xanax addiction, struggling to live a normal life. A stalker emerges, leaving disturbing messages and symbols. The police dismiss her fears, leaving only Ravi to believe her.
Pip and Ravi discover that Pip’s situation mirrors past events connected to the DT Killer, who murdered five girls years ago. They consider the possibility that Billy Karras, wrongly convicted as the DT Killer, may be innocent. Through her investigation, Pip learns that Andie Bell knew the DT Killer and was selling drugs to escape him. Pip realizes Jason Bell is the real DT Killer. Jason abducts Pip, but she escapes. In a shocking turn, she kills Jason and enlists Ravi’s help to cover up the murder, framing Max Hastings.
They create alibis and dispose of evidence, but Pip remains fearful of getting caught. She breaks up with Ravi. The book concludes with Max Hastings seemingly charged with Jason’s murder and Ravi reaching out to Pip again.
Final Thoughts and Recommendations
“A Good Girl’s Guide To Murder” stands out as the best in the series. The characters are well-developed, and the plot is immersive, with a satisfying and unexpected twist. It’s reminiscent of Frieda McFadden’s writing style.
“Good Girl, Bad Blood” is a decent sequel, maintaining interest and featuring another surprising twist. However, “As Good As Dead,” while gripping, feels uncharacteristic. Pip and Ravi’s actions seem unhinged, and the dark themes of drug addiction are jarring.
Overall, the series is recommended but be aware that the books become progressively darker and more intense. Ratings: AGGGTM: 4.5 stars, GGBB: 4 stars, and AGAD: 3.5 stars. If you enjoyed this series, you might also like “Five Survive.”
Have you read this series? Share your thoughts in the comments!
