A review by not_machiavelli
The Secret History by Donna Tartt

adventurous dark emotional funny inspiring mysterious reflective sad tense fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? No
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

My first (and favourite) Donna Tartt novel -- it still astounds me that the woman who wrote this also wrote The Goldfinch. The two attract such different crowds, in my experience. This novel has inspired me in so many ways, and it continues to provide relief from the real world whenever I read it. Julian is, to me, the best worst character there is.

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Content Warnings

Graphic: Blood, Domestic abuse, Drug abuse, Drug use, Gore, Incest, Misogyny, Murder, Suicidal thoughts, Suicide, Suicide attempt, Toxic relationship, and Violence

Moderate: Alcoholism, Animal cruelty, Animal death, Antisemitism, Body horror, Homophobia, Islamophobia, Mental illness, Panic attacks/disorders, Racial slurs, Racism, Rape, Religious bigotry, and Sexual violence

Minor: Biphobia, Cannibalism, Car accident, Chronic illness, Cursing, Eating disorder, Emotional abuse, Forced institutionalization, and Gun violence