A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder, the Netflix series adapted from Holly Jackson’s novel, takes viewers on a thrilling journey into the dark secrets of Little Kilton. At the heart of this gripping mystery lies the question: who really killed Andie Bell? The series follows Pip Fitz-Amobi, played by Emma Myers, as she reopens the case, challenging the official narrative and uncovering shocking truths.
The initial assumption is that Andie Bell was murdered by her boyfriend, Sal Singh, who then took his own life. However, Pip, unconvinced of Sal’s guilt, teams up with his brother, Ravi, to clear the Singh family name. Their investigation leads them through a web of hidden relationships, incriminating messages, and ultimately, to the real killer, who was hiding in plain sight.
Becca Bell: The Unexpected Killer Revealed
The series’ climax reveals that Andie’s sister, Becca Bell, is the actual murderer. This revelation comes as a shock, as Becca appears to be an unlikely suspect throughout the investigation. The ending sees Becca attempting to dispose of Pip’s body in the same well where she dumped Andie’s, but her plan is foiled by Ravi and Pip’s friend, Cara.
Unveiling the Motives: More Than Just Evil
Becca’s motivation is complex, highlighting the moral ambiguity within the show. The series masterfully avoids portraying characters as purely good or evil. Becca’s actions are fueled by a mix of rage and desperation. After being drugged and assaulted by Max Hastings, she discovers that Andie was the one who provided Max with the Rohypnol.
Furthermore, Becca learns that Andie planned to run away with Sal, leaving Becca to face the consequences of a crime she wasn’t initially responsible for. This combination of betrayal and abandonment pushed Becca to the edge, leading her to commit the unthinkable.
The Sins of the Fathers: A Deeper Look at Little Kilton’s Darkness
While Becca is ultimately responsible for Andie’s death, A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder points to a larger issue: the toxic environment fostered by the men in Little Kilton. Jason Bell, Andie and Becca’s father, and Elliot Ward, Cara’s father, both play significant roles in the tragedy.
Elliot Ward, who had an inappropriate relationship with Andie, murdered Sal to cover his involvement. He also blackmailed Andie’s friends to protect his daughter from scrutiny related to a hit-and-run incident. Jason Bell, while not physically abusive, created a controlling and fearful environment that contributed to Becca’s desperate actions.
Toxic Masculinity: The Underlying Problem
The actions of these fathers highlight the underlying issue of toxic masculinity in Little Kilton. In their attempts to protect their daughters, they inflict further harm. Their choices prioritize their own security over the well-being of others, perpetuating a cycle of injustice.
The series suggests that the real villains are not just the individuals who commit the crimes, but also the system that enables them. The unchecked behavior of men like Max Hastings and the secrets surrounding Mr. Ward’s involvement with Andie expose a community riddled with inequality and abuse.
Hope for the Future
A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder delivers a compelling mystery with a shocking resolution. While Becca Bell is revealed as the killer, the series emphasizes the systemic issues that contributed to her actions. By exposing the darkness within Little Kilton, the show offers a glimmer of hope that the town’s “good girl,” Pip, can overcome the legacy of violence and injustice.
