Jessica Totino

I really enjoyed “First Lie Wins”! This book is different from what I'm used to, but it turned out to be a quick read and an absolute page-turner—I finished it in a single day! The private investigator vibes added a fun twist, drawing me into the mystery from the get-go.

The intricate plot and morally complex characters completely captivated me. Right from the start, I was pulled into a web of lies and deceit, making for a thrilling ride that kept me guessing until the end. The main character's twisting nature and her alibis are as intricate as the plot itself. I found her both fascinating and frustrating; just when I thought I had a handle on her motivations, the narrative would flip, revealing new layers and truths that kept me on my toes.

Ashley Elston does a phenomenal job of crafting a suspenseful atmosphere, with each chapter peeling back more layers of the protagonist's life. The way her alibis unfold—some plausible, others questionable—adds to the tension. I often found myself questioning not only her actions but also the reliability of the people around her. Who can you trust when everyone has something to hide? This theme of deception runs throughout the novel, creating a sense of unease that lingered long after I put the book down.

The pacing is spot-on, with each twist and turn leading to unexpected revelations that kept my heart racing. I appreciated how Elston balanced the suspense with deeper emotional moments, allowing readers to connect with the characters on a personal level. The exploration of trust, betrayal, and the lengths people go to protect themselves made for a thought-provoking read.

Overall, “First Lie Wins” is a gripping psychological thriller that had me hooked from beginning to end. If you're a fan of complex characters and mind-bending plots, I highly recommend picking up this book. It's a wild ride that will keep you guessing, leaving you to ponder the fine line between truth and deception long after you've turned the last page!

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.

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!