[Short Review] AGGGTM Series by Holly Jackson

A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder (Book 1)

Brief Overview:

Two dead people.

A closed murder case used as a final-year school project.

A student who won’t let go of the case until she finds the truth.

But then, she starts getting notes and death threats to stop her from finding the truth.

My Thoughts:

I think this is my first time reading this kind of book—with visuals like maps, photos of diaries, text messages, and other materials needed to investigate a case. I even wondered, “Why didn’t I take criminal law or journalism when I was in school?” I felt like I was part of her investigation. It was exciting to read and made me nervous at the same time. Such a page-turner.

Good Girl, Bad Blood (Book 2)

Brief Overview:

Someone close to Pip is missing. The incident has been reported to the police, but they don’t consider it a high-risk case. She promised she was done with these things, but she chose to carry out the investigation herself. Besides, she created a podcast, and everyone is listening now.

My Thoughts:

I admired Pip’s bravery and resourcefulness in this installment. Her evolution from a curious student to a proactive investigator was compelling, and I enjoyed the suspenseful twists and turns that kept me guessing.

I enjoyed the second book as much as I enjoyed the first one. The Layla Mead reveal was something I didn’t expect.

As Good as Dead (Book 3)

Brief Overview:

Pip has a stalker, and this person has the same MO as the serial killer who is already in prison. She has a list of persons of interest who might consider her their enemy, but is the stalker one of them? She was so close to finding out the truth—if this person is the same—but they are one step ahead of Pip, and she has to make a new plan.

My Thoughts:

I don’t know why, but I was a bit emotional while reading the book. I could feel Pip’s rage, her anger, and her disappointments. The last 50% of the book was crazy, and I was a bit anxious the entire time I was reading. The unexpected twists involving Andie kept me engaged until the powerful conclusion.

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The series is known for its exciting story, detailed characters, and use of different formats like interviews and diary entries, making it feel very real. It explores themes like justice, the effects of crime on a community, the search for truth, and the challenges of being an amateur detective. Pip’s character development throughout the series is significant, as she transitions from a determined student to a seasoned investigator facing personal challenges and ethical dilemmas.

These books are thrilling, with lots of surprises and unexpected twists. Can’t wait to read more books by Holly Jackson.