Upon learning about the series adaptation, I was incredibly excited. I eagerly awaited its release and promptly binge-watched the entire show. Here are my thoughts and feelings, both positive and negative, on this adaptation.
One of my initial concerns was the pacing. To be honest, I found the first two episodes quite dull. It felt trivial, lacking any real stakes. While I understand the challenge of building drama for newly introduced characters, the lack of connection was palpable, and enduring that for three episodes was a stretch. It tested my attention (and likely that of other viewers) considerably.
Alt text: Emma Myers skillfully portrays Pip Fitz-Amobi in the “A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder” TV series adaptation.
Minor spoiler alert: unrelated to the main plot, I appreciated the reference to the Duct Tape killer. Fans of the books will know he becomes significant in the final installment of the trilogy. I thought it was a clever move to introduce him early, as he isn’t mentioned until the third book. This subtle inclusion showcases a deeper understanding of the source material and hints at potential future storylines.
The charisma of certain characters was outstanding. Ravi (Zain Iqbal) embodied all the endearing awkwardness we expect, but Pip (Emma Myers), while still really good, didn’t quite match my mental image. Max Hastings (Henry Ashton) oozed charisma, to the point where I was almost uncomfortably drawn to him 😂. Cara (Asha Banks) was wonderful. Dan da Silva (Jackson Bews) was surprisingly… not as hate-able as I remember him being in the books. I’ll stop there with character assessments, as the others didn’t leave a lasting impression. The acting performances overall were strong, but some interpretations differed from my expectations based on the books.
A significant letdown was the lack of chemistry between Pip and Ravi. I desperately wanted to feel the romance, but it just wasn’t there. This absence of romantic connection was disappointing, as their relationship is a core element of the story.
Alt text: Zain Iqbal shines as Ravi Singh in “A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder”, capturing the character’s adorable awkwardness.
Plot-wise, the series generally follows the book’s narrative threads (though not always chronologically). However, without prior knowledge of the book, some of the mystery’s resolutions might feel a bit too convenient. Ultimately, the plotting wasn’t bad after the initial slow start (as I mentioned, I was bored for the first couple of episodes). It’s important to remember that adaptations often take liberties with the source material, and viewers unfamiliar with the books might have a different perspective.
The ending provided a good setup, mirroring the twists and turns of the book. My only complaint is that some elements were left unsaid.
Overall, I’d give the series a 3.5 out of 5. It wasn’t terrible, but it wasn’t the best either. Approach it without strict expectations based on the book, and you’ll likely find it enjoyable. Don’t anticipate a strong romance, but do tune in for the intriguing mystery. This series offers a compelling adaptation, even with its deviations and pacing issues.
Where to Watch: Netflix
