A review by mackdaddy
The Secret History by Donna Tartt

dark mysterious reflective 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

4.5

The best way I can put it is that this book immerses you so deeply that it feels like a lived experience. As Richard looks back on this time in his life you feel the same pangs of nostalgia that he feels. You too studied Classics at Hampden College and met this peculiar group of people who changed the course your life. You too yearn for the days spent in this little Vermont town, with its harsh winters and green pastures. Although this wasn't a perfect read (too slow in moments, entire plot points that I question *) I felt everything so fully (or is it really more remotely?, which in some ways is more compelling given the nature of the story) that it stands out as a distinctly mesmerizing read.

*
why wouldn't they have just cleaned up at Francis' country house rather than driving all the way back to Henry's apartment covered in blood? <\spoiler>
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