28/05/2025
Holly Jackson is best known for her bestselling debut novel A Good Girlās Guide to Murder, which catapulted her into the spotlight of young adult fiction. The book, which follows the clever and determined Pip Fitz-Amobi as she investigates a supposedly solved murder, showcases Jacksonās knack for creating immersive, fast-paced mysteries. The novelās success led to a popular trilogy including Good Girl, Bad Blood and As Good As Dead, as well as the novella prequel Kill Joy. Her stories often blend traditional mystery tropes with modern elements like podcasts, social media, and true crime obsessions, making them especially engaging for contemporary readers.
Jacksonās writing style is distinct for its crisp pacing, layered plotting, and realistic teenage voices. She often structures her narratives through mixed media ā including interview transcripts, diary entries, text messages, and evidence files ā which creates a dynamic reading experience and deepens the sense of realism. Her characters are multifaceted and morally complex, with protagonists who are resourceful, inquisitive, and often grappling with ethical dilemmas. Jackson skillfully builds suspense by revealing information in carefully timed doses, drawing readers into a web of intrigue that unfolds with every chapter.
Beyond the A Good Girlās Guide to Murder series, Jackson has continued to evolve her style while staying true to the genreās roots. Her standalone novels Five Survive and The Reappearance of Rachel Price explore high-stakes survival and twisted family secrets, respectively, further showcasing her talent for psychological tension. Each book maintains her signature blend of suspense, realism, and emotional depth. In 2025, Jackson is set to release her first adult thriller, Not Quite Dead Yet, marking an exciting expansion of her storytelling into new territory while retaining the dark, clever tone that defines her work.