As Good As Dead

Detective Hawkins is Pip’s principal contact in the police force. Describe his behavior. What is his attitude toward Pip? In what ways does he help her investigation? In what ways does he obstruct it?

Police procedures feature heavily in the second half of the book as Pip stages her crime scene. Give several examples of the evidence that must be put in place or removed if Pip’s version of the murder is to be credible.

Justice is a major factor in all of Pip’s investigations. Why does she feel that the system often fails in this regard? What is her justification for taking matters into her own hands?

What motivates Jason Bell to commit murder? Why do you think his criminal activities went undetected for so many years? Why does he target Pip?

Duct tape is a recurring motif in the novel that appears at many points and is used by multiple characters. Give several examples of its use and meaning. How does it factor into the graphic elements of the novel?

What role does Ravi play in Pip’s investigations? Does he always go along with her plans? If not, why not? How does Ravi’s temperament compare to Pip’s? Do they complement or antagonize one another? What does his final message to Pip mean at the novel's end?

Pip’s use of her podcast in the third book runs contrary to her earlier intentions for it. Discuss her tactics in book three as contrasted with books one and two. What is she trying to accomplish with the podcast in season three?

Describe the evolution in Pip’s behavior from her initial podcast days. How is she different by the conclusion of the trilogy? What led to this change? In your opinion, are her actions in book three justified?