Book Review: As Good As Dead (A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder, #3) by Holly Jackson
When I picked up As Good As Dead, the final entry in Holly Jackson’s gripping A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder series, I was ready for one last tantalizing mystery. After the rollercoaster of emotions in the first two installments, I thought I had a solid grip on what to expect. But oh, how things can turn out differently! With a mix of anticipation and a little trepidation, I dove into Pip Fitz-Amobi’s world again, hoping for surprises that would keep me on the edge of my seat.
From the outset, I appreciated Jackson’s knack for creating memorable characters, but I found myself disappointed this time around. Pip’s journey felt less like an evolution and more like a frustrating cycle. Sure, she’s supposed to be a complex character grappling with her demons, but instead of depth, I was met with circles of repetitive angst that left me yearning for more substance. The concept of the “murderer gene” seemed intriguing at first, but it was too transparent, barely scratching the surface of what could have been a chilling exploration of nature versus nurture.
Speaking of transparency, the plot twist was about as shocking as a wet noodle. As soon as Jason Bell entered the scene, I couldn’t shake the feeling that he was the killer, and, spoiler alert, he was! This predictability was a letdown for a thriller—one that should have kept me guessing but ended up feeling flat instead. With no jaw-dropping twists or chilling moments, it often felt more like a missed opportunity than a thrilling finale.
But all is not lost! There’s a silver lining in the cloudy skies of my reading experience, and that’s the relationship between Pip and Ravi. Their dynamic was the bright spot, the rhythm that kept my heart engaged. As I navigated this somewhat tedious plot, my interest was salvaged every time their paths intertwined. The chemistry and loyalty they share made me root for them through the chaos, and I found myself cherishing their connection, especially in moments of despair and chaos. As they both faced risks, their unwavering support for one another became the heartbeat of the story, reminding me that sometimes love is the saving grace amid turmoil.
While the eerie atmosphere I craved was practically nonexistent, there was that one scene with Pip’s headphones that sent chills down my spine. It was as if the book momentarily remembered it was supposed to evoke dread—and for that brief moment, I was hooked. However, that feeling was too fleeting, leaving me wishing for more.
Unfortunately, Jackson’s writing fell flat for me this time. The narrative felt bland, lacking the sparkling prose I had come to adore. There was potential for deeper explorations of character backgrounds and motivations, but the storytelling often felt rushed and superficial. I longed to know what drove the characters to the extremes they encountered.
Despite my frustrations with As Good As Dead, I think it will resonate with readers who appreciate a character-driven story, especially one that highlights the complexities of love amid chaos. It’s not perfect, but if you’re willing to overlook its shortcomings, you might find something endearing in Pip and Ravi’s bond.
In the end, while I cannot give it the glowing praise I’d hoped to, As Good As Dead earned a couple of stars—primarily thanks to the heart that filled the pages whenever Pip and Ravi were together. If you’re a fan of their relationship or have found solace in the series thus far, it could still be worth a read. Just don’t go in expecting spine-tingling moments.
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