A review by tisalwayssunny
The Secret History by Donna Tartt

challenging dark emotional tense slow-paced

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

5.0

It’s amazing how Tartt avoids being derivative — especially when her successors have not been able to do the same . Despite launching a whole genre of “dark academia”, the book is all about the limitations and dangers of living for an aesthetic.  Yet, there’s a tumblr post w/1000+ notes where the OP says “Fall is my favorite season not in a pumpkin spice way but in a ‘the snow in the mountains was melting and bunny had been dead for several weeks’ kinda way”.  Which is funny because only 1/3 of the book is spent in the fall & winter. In fact, the crux and climax of the book is set in spring!! Tartt, despite her critiques, is just that effective at pulling you in & creating an ambiance. It’s quite a long book but the story never feels stretched out. In fact, I’m left with more questions despite the nice little wrap up. Truly so much to enjoy and unpack with each read! I look forward to my next re-visit.