Holly Jackson's debut is a compelling YA mystery that follows Pip Fitz-Amobi, a sharp-witted high school senior who chooses to investigate a local murder for her capstone project. Five years ago, popular student Andie Bell was supposedly killed by her boyfriend Sal Singh, who then committed suicide—case closed. But Pip isn't convinced, and her methodical investigation gradually unravels the official story.

Jackson excels at crafting a genuine mystery with legitimate twists and red herrings. Pip is an engaging protagonist whose intelligence feels authentic rather than precocious, and her determination to seek justice drives the narrative forward at a steady clip. The author skillfully builds tension while exploring themes of prejudice, social media's impact on truth, and how communities protect their own.

The small-town setting of Little Kilton feels lived-in, with well-developed secondary characters who have believable motivations beyond advancing the plot. Jackson also handles serious topics like domestic violence and suicide with appropriate gravity.

However, the book occasionally suffers from pacing issues in its middle section, where Pip's investigation sometimes feels repetitive. Some plot conveniences strain credibility—Pip gains access to information and people perhaps too easily for a teenager. The romance subplot with Ravi Singh, Sal's younger brother, feels underdeveloped and occasionally intrusive to the mystery elements.

Additionally, while the book tackles important social issues, it sometimes veers toward being preachy rather than letting themes emerge naturally. This book will strongly appeal to readers who enjoyed the investigative elements of 'Riverdale' or fans of traditional mysteries who want a younger protagonist. It's perfect for readers aged 14 and up who appreciate methodical detective work and aren't put off by some mature content. Mystery lovers seeking complex plotting will find much to enjoy, though those preferring faster-paced thrillers might find certain sections slow. Readers who dislike YA conventions or prefer adult mysteries with more sophisticated prose should probably look elsewhere.