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A review by e_gracereads
The Secret History by Donna Tartt
challenging
dark
emotional
mysterious
reflective
sad
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
4.0
I actually really enjoyed this? It’s entirely outside of my usually high fantasy or horror genres — this whole dark academia thriller thing left me a little skeptical at first. One thing that’s important to note: all of the characters are completely fucking insufferable. They are all absolutely miserable human beings. If you like books for characters you’ll love, this is probably not the book for you. They are incredibly complex, and the plot is AMAZING, but likable characters they are not. I highly recommend this book if you’re stepping into the dark academia genre for the first time — it was a wild ride.
Graphic: Addiction, Alcoholism, Classism, Murder, Suicide, Suicidal thoughts, Alcohol, Toxic friendship, Blood, and Suicide attempt
Moderate: Drug abuse, Eating disorder, Drug use, Gaslighting, Panic attacks/disorders, and Emotional abuse