A lively, fun adaptation of Holly Jackson’s YA mystery blends Agatha Christie with a dash of Heartstopper for a captivating teen detective series

BBC Three’s adaptation of Holly Jackson’s A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder is a refreshing, enjoyable watch that will appeal to fans of young adult mysteries and teen drama alike. The show, based on the beloved YA series, combines the classic whodunit vibes of Agatha Christie with the charm and wit of Heartstopper, resulting in a fast-paced, fun treat for Gen Z viewers.

The story unfolds in the picturesque yet secretive town of Little Kilton, where we meet Pip Fitz-Amobi, a bright, determined teen who is about to start her final year of school. Played by Emma Myers (known for her role as Enid in Netflix’s Wednesday), Pip embarks on a personal project to investigate the murder of Andie Bell. Five years ago, Andie vanished and her boyfriend Sal was accused of her murder before taking his own life. With the case officially closed, Pip—who had always been fond of Sal—refuses to believe the story, and sets out to prove his innocence.

A blend of Agatha Christie and Heartstopper may seem unusual, but it works remarkably well. The series is an old-school murder mystery, set in a small British town that exudes a sense of danger and intrigue, where Pip’s investigation leads her from lively nightclubs to quiet school libraries, uncovering more than she bargained for. While Pip’s investigative methods are ethically questionable—impersonating others and snooping through possessions—her relentless pursuit of the truth is undeniably entertaining.

The show’s setting in the UK is a stroke of genius, as the eerie atmosphere of a small, secretive town adds layers of mystery and tension to the plot. Pip’s relationship with Ravi (Zain Iqbal), Sal’s younger brother, who joins her on the investigation, provides a compelling emotional core to the story, as their partnership blossoms against the backdrop of growing danger. Iqbal, a newcomer, has great chemistry with Myers, even if his character mainly serves as a handsome foil to Pip’s steely determination.

What truly stands out is the show’s youthful energy, captured through its ensemble cast of up-and-coming actors, many of whom are making their screen debuts. Their friendships, especially among the girls, feel authentic, capturing the essence of Gen Z camaraderie. There’s a lovely dynamic at play, and their chemistry is palpable, with their interactions offering a refreshing portrayal of young relationships.

Some moments might make older viewers feel nostalgic, particularly Pip’s resistance to underage drinking—this is a fresh generation doing things their own way. The punky, energetic soundtrack, with tracks from Wet Leg and Moderat, perfectly complements the series’ tone, making it even more engaging for a younger audience.

Myers delivers a stellar performance as Pip, balancing innocence with an unwavering determination to uncover the truth. And while Ravi’s role might seem more like a love interest, he adds a nice touch to the story. A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder is an all-around crowd-pleaser, blending mystery, romance, and an upbeat energy that will captivate both loyal fans of the book series and new viewers alike.

The series will be available to stream on BBC iPlayer starting July 1 at 6 am, with episodes airing on BBC Three later in the month.