Book Review: Good Girl, Bad Blood by Holly Jackson
As an avid fan of the mystery genre, I was instantly drawn to Holly Jackson’s Good Girl, Bad Blood, the second book in the A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder series. The blend of suspense, social themes, and a relatable protagonist drew me in, but it was the promise of Pip’s journey back into the murky waters of investigation after swearing it off that truly piqued my interest. Jackson has a unique way of crafting a narrative that both excites and resonates deeply, and this installment was no exception.
In this sequel, we find Pip ready to leave her detective work behind after the tumultuous events of the first book. Her viral podcast has taken off, and she believes she can leave her investigative days in the rearview mirror. However, when Jamie Reynolds suddenly disappears, Pip quickly realizes that her idyllic plans cannot withstand the pull of her innate curiosity and sense of justice. This compelling premise sets the stage for a story that unfolds across the backdrop of a town mourning the anniversary of Andie Bell and Sal Singh’s tragic deaths.
Jackson masterfully presents the juxtaposition of a slower start with an exhilarating mid-section that had me glued to the page. The pacing does take a little while to ramp up, but once it does, it delivers twists and turns that are both thrilling and thought-provoking. It’s here that we get to explore complex themes such as emotional manipulation, the hidden scars of poor parenting, and societal pressures, all while following Pip’s determined quest for answers.
One of my favorite elements in Good Girl, Bad Blood is how Jackson tackles the weighty theme of emotional abuse—a topic that is often brushed aside in both literature and real life. Pip’s experience highlights the grave consequences of how words and labels can shatter a person’s sense of self-worth, echoing throughout the narrative. In a world that sometimes feels apathetic, the reminder that emotional predatory behavior exists alongside overt threats feels especially poignant.
Notable quotes punctuate the story, leaving readers with much to ponder. “Hunches have to follow the evidence, that’s how this works,” encapsulates Pip’s approach and the logical journey toward truth amidst chaos. Meanwhile, “What do you do when the things that are supposed to protect you, fail you like that,” resonates deeply with anyone who has faced betrayal or disappointment.
However, while the initial build-up and core story arc are strong, I felt the latter half of the novel became a bit unwieldy, especially with an unexpected subplot that didn’t quite mesh with the build-up. The casual treatment of some serious themes, particularly surrounding vandalism and justice, left me wanting a more nuanced exploration. It feels like a missed opportunity to delve deeper into the consequences of actions, which could have elevated the narrative even further.
Still, despite these quibbles, I would recommend Good Girl, Bad Blood to fans of the first installment and anyone who enjoys vibrant, character-driven mysteries. The book is a thought-provoking read filled with lessons about resilience, the hidden monsters in our lives, and the persistent pull of moral duty versus personal safety.
If you’re looking for an engrossing tale that blends thrills with meaningful reflections, pick this one up; it might just inspire you to trust your instincts and find your own truth along the way. Happy reading!
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