Reviewing: Kill Joy by Holly Jackson

Read time – 3 minutes

Edition

🎧 Listened in audio
📢 Narrated by Bailey Carr, Raymond J. Lee, Bruce Mann
⏱ Duration: 3 hours

Book Blurb:

Pippa Fitz-Amobi isn’t thrilled about joining her friends for a 1920s-themed murder mystery party, but soon she’s swept into the intrigue. As the fictional mystery unfolds, Pip navigates red herrings, hidden alliances, and surprising reveals in a setting that mirrors the skills she’ll later use in her real investigations. Kill Joy serves as a prequel to A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder, offering a standalone experience that gives readers a glimpse into Pip’s sharp mind before the stakes get higher.

Let’s talk about the book:

I’ll be honest: I didn’t have high expectations going into Kill Joy by Holly Jackson, mostly because A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder just didn’t click for me. But at just three hours long in audio, I decided to give it a try. And wow, this novella worked for me in a way the main novel never did.

The setup is simple but surprisingly fun. A group of teens are drawn into a 1920s-themed murder mystery dinner party, each one taking on a role in the game. Holly Jackson makes the fake investigation just as engaging as a “real” one. It becomes a layered game of clues and secrets—you know it is make-believe, but Pip Fitz-Amobi approaches it with the same relentless curiosity that defines her character throughout the series. Following her through the red herrings, the mistakes, and the final reveal kept me hooked from start to finish.

The audiobook narrators—Bailey Carr, Raymond J. Lee, and Bruce Mann—deliver distinct, lively performances that give the ensemble cast real energy and personality.

The ending felt especially satisfying. Without giving spoilers, I appreciated Jackson’s choice. It was grounded and realistic, though I would have been just as happy with a more traditional twist. What impressed me most was how well Kill Joy stands on its own. Even if you never read A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder, this novella works perfectly as a standalone. For once, I genuinely enjoyed being inside Pip’s head, no baggage required.

If you’re looking for a short, clever, and entertaining YA mystery audiobook, Kill Joy is a great pick. It is the perfect listen for fans of murder mystery games, Holly Jackson’s storytelling, or anyone wanting a fast-paced introduction to Pip Fitz-Amobi’s world.

Would i recommend it?

If you’re craving a quick, twisty mystery with a sharp teen detective, Kill Joy is your next listen. It’s fun, smart, and doesn’t overstay its welcome. Add this to your TBR for a delightful escape into a murder mystery game that feels thrillingly real.

Your turn to be the detective:

Would Kill Joy make you want to host your own murder mystery dinner party, or did it just inspire you to queue up another twisty mystery instead?

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