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A review by mirandababbitt
The Secret History by Donna Tartt
3.0
Donna Tartt’s “The Secret History” is, as expected, a masterclass in elegant and immersive prose. However, in comparison to the captivating grip that her Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, "The Goldfinch," had over me, I found "The Secret History" slightly less enthralling, although still an artful piece of literature.
I won't sugarcoat it - there were instances in this book where I felt the pacing significantly waned. It's hard to pinpoint exactly why. Perhaps while Tartt was crafting a vivid world for some readers, there were times for me when it felt as if we were stuck in molasses - exquisitely described molasses, but molasses nonetheless.
That said, Tartt definitely excels in the art of surprise. "The Secret History" is brimming with moments I didn't see coming, gradually revealed in layers. These surprises make me think I’ll to return to the novel for a second read.
Overall, though, I just can’t give more than 3 stars. I considered rating it higher, especially after reading others' enthusiastic reviews, but it didn’t quite measure up to “The Goldfinch” as I had anticipated. It remains a thrilling read nonetheless, with the final few chapters being particularly “I can’t put this down”. However, certain sections in the middle had a lulling effect that slightly disconnected me from the narrative.
I won't sugarcoat it - there were instances in this book where I felt the pacing significantly waned. It's hard to pinpoint exactly why. Perhaps while Tartt was crafting a vivid world for some readers, there were times for me when it felt as if we were stuck in molasses - exquisitely described molasses, but molasses nonetheless.
That said, Tartt definitely excels in the art of surprise. "The Secret History" is brimming with moments I didn't see coming, gradually revealed in layers. These surprises make me think I’ll to return to the novel for a second read.
Overall, though, I just can’t give more than 3 stars. I considered rating it higher, especially after reading others' enthusiastic reviews, but it didn’t quite measure up to “The Goldfinch” as I had anticipated. It remains a thrilling read nonetheless, with the final few chapters being particularly “I can’t put this down”. However, certain sections in the middle had a lulling effect that slightly disconnected me from the narrative.