Not Quite Dead Yet Holly Jackson has officially taken center stage as the Good Morning America (GMA) Book Club pick for August 2025, and fans of the author are already calling it her most gripping novel yet. Released on July 30, this chilling thriller is dominating headlines and social media feeds across the globe.
Following the success of her internationally bestselling series A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder, Holly Jackson returns with a brand-new standalone novel that explores secrets, survival, and sinister intentions in the English countryside. Within just days of its release, Not Quite Dead Yet climbed the top of Amazon’s crime fiction chart and became a trending search term on Google.
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Why ‘Not Quite Dead Yet’ by Holly Jackson Is Taking Over Book Talk
Jackson’s fanbase—especially on TikTok and Instagram—has exploded with early reviews, live readings, and spoiler-free breakdowns. In the novel, protagonist 17-year-old Bel Price narrowly survives an attempted murder. But when her attacker vanishes without a trace, the quiet town that once felt safe begins unraveling one sinister thread at a time.
Here’s why it’s being hailed as her most shocking work yet:
- Unexpected setting: A summer arts retreat in the Cotswolds turns into a chilling crime scene.
- Fast-paced format: The story is structured as a countdown, adding intensity to every chapter.
- Emotional depth: Themes of trauma, family loyalty, and the fragility of truth run deep.
- Twist-heavy narrative: Early readers say they didn’t see the ending coming.
Author Holly Jackson Reacts to GMA Selection
On July 21, Jackson shared her emotional reaction on Instagram after GMA officially announced Not Quite Dead Yet as its August Book Club pick. In a heartfelt video, she said:
“I’m overwhelmed and honored. This book means so much to me, and I can’t wait for readers across America to join Bel on her terrifying journey.”
The GMA panel, including Robin Roberts and Michael Strahan, praised Jackson’s unique ability to keep readers guessing. They highlighted how this book showcases her growth as a writer while staying true to the high-stakes, emotionally rich thrillers that built her global reputation.
Holly Jackson’s Career: From Debut Hit to Book Club Fame
| Year | Book Title | Recognition |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder | #1 Sunday Times Bestseller |
| 2020 | Good Girl, Bad Blood | YA Thriller of the Year nominee |
| 2021 | As Good As Dead | TikTok’s Favorite Thriller |
| 2023 | Five Survive | NYT Bestseller, Target Book Club Pick |
| 2025 | Not Quite Dead Yet | GMA Book Club Pick |
Not Quite Dead Yet Holly Jackson: Book Summary & What to Expect
Set against the deceptive calm of the English countryside, Not Quite Dead Yet opens with Bel Price surviving an attack during a summer arts program. As she tries to unravel the mystery behind her brush with death, suspicion clouds her every relationship—family, friends, and even strangers.
The narrative structure—unfolding over 15 days—keeps readers on edge, and the chilling psychological undertone is reminiscent of Gone Girl and Sharp Objects.
Without giving spoilers, readers can expect:
- A strong, resilient female lead
- Multiple plot twists that upend expectations
- Unsettling truths about privilege, secrets, and trust
- A haunting final reveal that reframes the entire book
Fan Reactions and Community Buzz
From Reddit forums to TikTok’s #BookTok, the buzz is massive. Readers are calling it “unputdownable” and “a masterclass in suspense.”
TikTok user @crimefictionqueen: “This is Jackson at her absolute best. I didn’t sleep till I finished it.”
Reddit user u/truecrimefan77: “Not Quite Dead Yet gave me chills. Easily her darkest story so far.”
Meanwhile, bookstores across the U.S. have sold out of first editions, with Barnes & Noble reporting restock delays due to demand.
Is a Movie Adaptation Coming?
Though nothing official has been confirmed, industry insiders hint that Jackson’s latest thriller is already drawing attention from major streaming platforms. Given her past collaboration with BBC Studios and Amazon Prime, fans are speculating that a screen adaptation may be announced by the end of the year.
Final Thoughts
Not Quite Dead Yet Holly Jackson is already one of 2025’s most talked-about books, and it’s only gaining momentum. With GMA’s spotlight, TikTok’s influence, and a plot that keeps you guessing until the very last page, this thriller is one to watch—and read.
Have you read Not Quite Dead Yet? Share your thoughts in the comments below and let us know if you guessed the twist!