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A review by earthtomanda
The Secret History by Donna Tartt
challenging
dark
mysterious
tense
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
Honestly, still trying to figure out how I felt about this book. Very far from what I was expecting, but still intriguing and (at times) quite captivating.
The brilliant writing and general concept kept me engaged, but I actively disliked most of the characters. However, that may have been the point?
The twist near the end of the book left me sick to my stomach, and I really had to convince myself to finish it afterwards.
As a side note: if you’re looking for rounded and complex female characters, this isn’t the book for you. The few female characters are all portrayed through the narrator’s very skewed and limited lens of perception.
The brilliant writing and general concept kept me engaged, but I actively disliked most of the characters. However, that may have been the point?
The twist near the end of the book left me sick to my stomach, and I really had to convince myself to finish it afterwards.
As a side note: if you’re looking for rounded and complex female characters, this isn’t the book for you. The few female characters are all portrayed through the narrator’s very skewed and limited lens of perception.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Addiction, Alcoholism, Death, Misogyny, Sexism, Suicide, Blood, Murder, and Toxic friendship
Moderate: Animal cruelty, Animal death, Drug abuse, Drug use, Gun violence, Homophobia, Incest, and Medical content
Minor: Rape and Vomit