Murder mysteries have always captivated audiences, but what makes A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder by Holly Jackson stand out? This article dives deep into the creation of this thrilling YA novel, exploring its unique elements and the minds behind its success. The A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder phenomenon has taken the literary world by storm.
Behind the Book: Q&A with Holly Jackson
What sparked your interest in writing a murder mystery?
“I’ve always been drawn to murder mysteries and crime thrillers,” Jackson explains. “But the real inspiration for A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder was the world of true crime: podcasts and documentaries. I wanted to replicate this ‘real’ amateur detective angle.” This fascination with true crime gives the book its authentic and engaging feel.
What were the advantages of having a teenage girl as your detective?
Jackson sees Pip’s age as a strength. “One of my favorite parts of writing was coming up with ways that Pip could turn everyday tech into crime-solving tools. Other characters underestimate her, and Pip is able to turn that complacency into a weapon.” Pip’s resourcefulness and the way she uses her perceived limitations to her advantage is a key element of the book’s appeal.
What did you enjoy most about working with editor Lindsey Heaven?
Jackson highlights the collaborative spirit: “Lindsey totally embraced [the ‘true crime’ feel] from the beginning… I think the final book is all the better for them. So I’m very grateful that Lindsey fully supported this dual format from the get-go and was this book’s greatest champion.” This shared vision was essential to the book’s success.
What was the most challenging part of writing A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder?
“I think, with any crime thriller, a lot of pressure is put upon having THE BIG TWIST,” Jackson admits. “It’s an expected part of the genre, and you want to strike the right balance between shocking the reader, but also that they accept the twist was guessable all along, they just didn’t see it.” The pressure to deliver a satisfying and unexpected conclusion is a common challenge for crime writers. A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder had to balance shock with believability.
What advice would you give to debut authors aiming to write a similar thriller to A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder?
Jackson emphasizes the importance of passion: “Try to remember what is at the heart of this career: the joy of storytelling… remember that your ultimate job is to tell a story that you yourself would have loved to read, and that is the best job in the whole world.”
The Editor’s Perspective: Q&A with Lindsey Heaven
What excited you most about Holly’s manuscript upon your first reading of A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder?
Heaven was immediately captivated. “It was the most compelling thing I’d ever read… We were utterly addicted to Pip’s investigation from the first page. The editors and I were WhatsApping each other at ridiculous times during the night, checking which bit we’d got to.” This immediate engagement is a testament to the strength of Jackson’s writing.
What qualities mark Holly Jackson as a talent to watch within the A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder universe?
“Holly’s sense of social justice rings out in equal measures to the most credible YA voice and addictive mystery I’ve ever read,” Heaven says. “She’s commercial, distinctive, brave, and I‘ve never met an author who cares so deeply about every detail.”
How did you work with Holly on her manuscript, and were there changes you wanted for A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder?
Heaven explains, “Holly and I talked a lot about how far you can stretch that leap, but that’s one of her absolute standout skills as a writer, taking the reader on an almost impossible journey whilst still having their full buy-in to where they’re going.”
What made you want to be an editor?
Heaven wanted to transform lives. “To know that children’s books could entertain, transform lives and bring children together in a shared love for one writer – across reading abilities – was a life-changing moment for me.”
What advice would you give to debut authors interested in penning novels like A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder?
“Know your story and know your voice but be open to being challenged,” Heaven advises. “You’ll discover what’s really important to you and where you can make what’s great, incredible.”
A Must-Read for Mystery Lovers
A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder is more than just a YA novel; it’s a meticulously crafted murder mystery that keeps readers guessing until the very end. With its compelling characters, unique format, and thought-provoking themes, it’s no wonder this book has become a bestseller. If you are looking for your next YA obsession, A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder should be at the top of your list.
A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder is published by Electric Monkey, 978-1405293181, £7.99 pbk.
