Review by kayleenm7 - The Secret History

kayleenm7 's review for:

The Secret History by Donna Tartt

5.0

dark reflective tense medium-paced

Plot or Character Driven: A mix

Strong character development: Complicated

Loveable characters: Complicated

Diverse cast of characters: No

Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

Wow. I understand why some people have qualms with this book, but I still believe it is a masterclass in suspense, the unreliable narrator, and the absolute picturesque use of imagery. Tartt’s tongue-in-cheek humor keeps the book from feeling overly heavy. The mind games the characters play with each other mirror the way Tartt strings the reader along. I felt utterly sucked in, utterly perplexed, and justified the most unconscionable acts despite knowing better. I fell in love with the characters, once again, while seeing their flaws laid bare (or were they considering Richard’s twisted narration?). Everyone should read this at least once. And I personally, can’t wait to reread it.

Content Warnings