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A review by ringofkeyz
The Secret History by Donna Tartt
dark
emotional
mysterious
tense
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.75
there's a reason why this book is so highly recommended.
donna tartt is able to paint a scene so well with the language that she chooses. the characters feel real - while they could all fall into stereotypes quite easily (henry, the serious, studious boy with a dark nature. bunny, the playboy coasting by on forcing others' hand to generosity. etc.), they never come off as caricatures. their personalities and struggles feel believable and, even though they're all horrible people when it comes down to it, you're able to sympathize with them when need be. and those types of characters make a story.
donna tartt is able to paint a scene so well with the language that she chooses. the characters feel real - while they could all fall into stereotypes quite easily (henry, the serious, studious boy with a dark nature. bunny, the playboy coasting by on forcing others' hand to generosity. etc.), they never come off as caricatures. their personalities and struggles feel believable and, even though they're all horrible people when it comes down to it, you're able to sympathize with them when need be. and those types of characters make a story.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Alcoholism, Death, Addiction, and Murder
Moderate: Homophobia, Racism, Self harm, Physical abuse, and Suicide