A review by feralbookwife
The Secret History by Donna Tartt

challenging dark emotional mysterious reflective medium-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

3.75

I have never craved a cigarette so much. A visceral, pretentious read filled with coming of age angst, greed, ego, and a dash of nihilism. Be sure to be in the mood to enter this world before starting it all the characters will feel insufferable.

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Content Warnings

Graphic: Alcoholism, Homophobia, Physical abuse, Racial slurs, Panic attacks/disorders, Classism, Domestic abuse, Toxic friendship, Addiction, Animal death, Drug use, Ableism, Mental illness, Murder, Death, Drug abuse, Gun violence, Grief, Self harm, Animal cruelty, Incest, Suicide attempt, Misogyny, Rape, Suicide, Toxic relationship, Violence, Xenophobia, and Racism