A Good Girl's Guide to Murder

Holly Jackson

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Clock126 Min Reading Time
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cover backgroundA Good Girl's Guide to Murder

About this book

Everyone in Fairview knows the story: high school senior Andie Bell was murdered by her boyfriend, Sal Singh, who then killed himself. Case closed. But Pippa Fitz-Amobi isn't so sure.

When she chooses the case as her senior project, Pip begins to uncover secrets that someone in town desperately wants to stay buried. As she digs deeper, Pip starts receiving threatening messages that escalate into real danger. With the help of Sal's younger brother, Ravi, she races against time to unmask the killer before they silence her for good.

A Good Girl's Guide to Murder is a twisty, addictive thriller that expertly blends suspense, mystery, and high-stakes investigation. Get ready to question everything you thought you knew in this electrifying debut that will leave you guessing until the very end.

Summary of Key Ideas

  • Challenging Perceptions: Unraveling the Truth Behind a Closed Case

    In the small town of Fairview, Connecticut, the closed case of Andie Bell's murder, allegedly by her boyfriend Sal Singh, is reopened by Pippa Fitz-Amobi as a senior project. The community believes Sal was guilty, but Pippa is determined to prove his innocence, challenging the established narrative. This exploration of truth versus perception sets the stage for a thrilling investigation, questioning the reliability of first impressions and the potential for hidden biases to influence judgment. Pippa's determination reveals that what seems like an open-and-shut case is riddled with secrets and unanswered questions.

  • The Power of Investigation: Unearthing Hidden Truths

    Pippa's relentless pursuit of justice involves a comprehensive investigation using various methods, from interviewing key witnesses to analyzing evidence. She meticulously gathers clues, uncovering inconsistencies and lies that were previously overlooked. This approach highlights the importance of thorough investigation and critical thinking in uncovering the truth. The more Pippa digs, the more dangerous the situation becomes, illustrating the lengths people will go to protect their secrets and maintain the status quo.

  • Secrets and Lies: Exposing the Dark Side of a Small Town

    As Pippa delves deeper into the case, she uncovers a web of secrets and lies that permeate the seemingly idyllic town of Fairview. This exposes the darker underbelly of the community, revealing hidden motives and complex relationships among the residents. The story explores how secrets can fester and corrupt, leading to tragic consequences. The close-knit nature of the town amplifies the impact of these revelations, as Pippa discovers that those closest to the case may be the most deceptive.

  • Unlikely Alliances: Finding Strength in Unity

    Pippa's investigation is not a solitary endeavor; she forms an unlikely partnership with Ravi Singh, Sal's brother. Ravi's unwavering belief in his brother's innocence and his willingness to help Pippa, despite the town's prejudice, highlights the importance of trust and loyalty in the face of adversity. Their collaboration underscores the strength that can be found in unity and the potential for unlikely alliances to challenge injustice. Together, they navigate the dangers and obstacles that arise, strengthening their bond and reinforcing their commitment to uncovering the truth.

  • Escalating Danger: The Perilous Pursuit of Justice

    Throughout her investigation, Pippa faces numerous obstacles and threats that escalate the tension and danger. These challenges test her resolve and put her in harm's way, underscoring the risks associated with seeking justice. The stakes rise as Pippa gets closer to the truth, and the lengths to which the real killer will go to protect their identity become increasingly apparent. This element of danger creates a suspenseful atmosphere, keeping readers on the edge of their seats as Pippa navigates the perilous path to uncovering the truth.

  • The Relentless Pursuit of Justice: Standing Up for What's Right

    Pippa's determination to uncover the truth is driven by a strong sense of justice and empathy for Sal Singh, who was wrongly accused and vilified by the community. Her unwavering commitment to clearing his name reflects her moral compass and her belief in fairness. This pursuit of justice underscores the importance of standing up for what is right, even when faced with opposition and adversity. Pippa's actions inspire readers to question assumptions and challenge the status quo in the pursuit of truth and accountability.

Chapter Recap

Part OneIn Fairview, Connecticut, Pippa Fitz-Amobi, a bright and determined student, begins her senior capstone project with an ambitious aim: to investigate the 2014 missing persons case of Andie Bell, a local teenager presumed murdered by her boyfriend, Sal Singh, who subsequently committed suicide. Despi
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About The Author

Holly Jackson

Main Quotes

"“I’m not sure I’m the good girl I once thought I was. I’ve lost her along the way.”"

"“But sometimes remembering isn't for yourself, sometimes you do it just to make someone else smile. Those lies were allowed.”"

"“An innocent life was taken and everyone in this town turned it ugly in their mouths, turned him into a villain. But if a villain can be made, then they can be unmade too.”"

"“How far would you go to find the truth?”"

"“Maybe the truth was like a wild animal, and the harder you tried to hold on to it, the more it struggled.”"

"“She was alone with her thoughts, and they were not gentle company.”"

"“People weren't supposed to be mysterious or tragic. People were supposed to be ordinary.”"

"“Everyone always has a reason, even if it isn’t a good one.”"

"“I wish someone like you had been there for me […] All I had was Andie. She was my only escape from my dad. She was my only hope after Max. And she didn't care.”"

"“Fox or deer, she couldn't tell, but they shrieked and cried, and it was and wasn't Andie Bell, screaming through time. Stop digging, Pippa.”"

Who Should Read This Book

Young adults (ages 14+)

Teenagers interested in mystery and thriller novels

Readers who enjoy suspenseful stories with strong female leads

Fans of YA fiction with elements of crime and investigation

Readers looking for a fast-paced and engaging plot

Individuals who appreciate books with twists and turns

Those who enjoy stories set in a high school environment

Readers who like true crime-style narratives in fiction

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