Based on Holly Jackson’s bestselling novel, A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder is a gripping detective story about one teenage girl’s mission to uncover the truth behind a small-town murder, setting the stage for a tense and suspenseful investigation.
In the first episode, we are introduced to Pip Fitz-Amobi, portrayed by Emma Myers. Pip is a dedicated, straight-A student in search of the truth all the while having dreams of becoming an investigative journalist and getting into the top university in her country.
But Pip’s life takes an unexpected turn when she begins digging into the murder that shocked her small town, Little Kilton.
For her school project, she decides to delve into the mysterious case of Andie Bell, a teenager from Kilburn who was allegedly murdered by her boyfriend, Sal Iqbal, before he took his own life over a decade ago.
The town has long believed that Sal killed Andie, but Pip doesn’t believe this is the case. Pip is a stubborn teenager who knows she shouldn’t be digging into a crime that the police have since solved. She may have lied but Pip is determined to prove that there’s more to the Sal Singh case that everyone has let on.
Pip Meets Ravi
Pip starts an independent EPQ project to investigate the case. Determined to uncover the truth behind Andie’s disappearance, she trusts no adults. She confides in Ravi Iqbal, Sal’s brother. At first, Ravi hesitates, but soon he joins her. Together, they go to extreme lengths to uncover what really happened to Andie and Sal.
Ravi is much older than his brother Sal, who is still grieving. But he finally agrees to help Pip, as he still insists on his brother’s innocence.
As Pip digs deeper, she interviews those connected to the case. She speaks with Andie and Sal’s close friends, who provide conflicting accounts and puzzling details that don’t add up.
Her search for answers leads her to a local journalist, who has information that might expose hidden truths.
Through these conversations, Pip uncovers a web of secrets, lies, and dark connections, pushing her closer to the truth – but also putting her own safety in jeopardy.
The series focuses on the tense and gripping investigation, as Pip confronts the unsettling question: what really happened to Andie Bell?
Overall Thoughts
A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder stays impressively true to the plot of the book, which fans can appreciate.
The YA novel has a huge fanbase particularly on BookTok, with many raving over the character and plot of the book.
I read A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder nearly a year ago, so while some of the plot points have slipped my mind, I was instantly transported back into the world of Pip and her murder mystery hunt, which felt strikingly familiar.
The adaptation perfect murder mystery story, keeping the intricate twists and character developments intact. Emma Myers does a wonderful job portraying Pip, who is a little chaotic and hot-headed.
One standout moment of the show for me was the chemistry between Pip and Ravi. The unstoppable duo met under unfortunate circumstances but we can all feel how perfect they are for each other. Their romantic subplot felt natural without overshadowing the main story.
Other heartwarming moments include Pip’s relationships with her family and friends, as she balances school and her secret project.
The town setting is quaint and picturesque, Overall, it’s a satisfying adaptation that balances mystery and love while exploring much darker themes.
If you enjoy murder mystery dramas but this time revolving around teenagers, this one is for you.