Jessica Totino

Oh, I have so much to say about “A Good Girl's Guide to Murder”! I absolutely loved this book! From the very first page, Holly Jackson grabs your attention with a thrilling premise that sets the stage for an engaging mystery. The pacing is relentless, making it impossible to put down as we follow Pip, our determined protagonist, on her quest to uncover the truth behind a murder that rocked her small town.

The characters in this book are incredibly engaging, each one contributing to the rich tapestry of the story. Pip, in particular, is an intriguing character, although I found her not entirely relatable. Her drive and ambition to solve the case are commendable, but there were moments when her decisions felt distant from my own experiences. Nevertheless, her passion and determination made me root for her as she navigates the twists and turns of her investigation.

What really stood out to me was how immersive the story felt. I almost felt like I was one of Pip's friends, eagerly helping her with her project. Jackson masterfully creates a sense of camaraderie among the characters, and you can't help but feel a part of their world. The way Pip interacts with her friends and the dynamics of their relationships adds depth to the narrative, making it all the more captivating.

The suspense is expertly crafted, with each revelation pulling you deeper into the mystery. Just when you think you have it all figured out, Jackson throws in unexpected twists that keep you guessing until the very end. The exploration of themes like reputation, accountability, and the darker sides of small-town life adds layers to the story, making it more than just a typical murder mystery.

As I turned the last page, I found myself eagerly anticipating the next installments in the series. Holly Jackson has created a gripping world filled with intrigue, and I can't wait to see where she takes Pip next. If you're looking for a fast-paced, suspenseful read that keeps you on the edge of your seat, “A Good Girl's Guide to Murder” is a must-read!

In Good Girl, Bad Blood, Pip finds herself reluctantly drawn back into the world of crime-solving, despite promising herself she was done with investigations. This time, her focus shifts when her friend Connor's brother, Jamie, goes missing, and Pip feels a sense of responsibility to help. What's fascinating is how the story explores the psychological toll her past investigation took on her—she's tougher, less idealistic, and even a bit jaded.

Pip's character arc in this book goes to a much darker place. We see her questioning her morals, pushing boundaries, and doing things that would've shocked the Pip we first met. I think Jackson did a great job showing how these experiences are slowly changing her, even blurring her own sense of justice. While I loved how intense and suspenseful the plot was, I couldn't help but feel a little sad for Pip. She's lost some of her innocence, and the toll of constantly uncovering dark truths is clear.

If you enjoyed the first book but are ready for a grittier, more intense story, Good Girl, Bad Blood dives into that moral complexity with Pip's darker side emerging. It adds a whole new layer to her character and really raises the stakes for what she's willing to do in the name of finding the truth.