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A review by certifiedpizza
The Secret History by Donna Tartt
challenging
dark
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? It's complicated
4.0
This is a scattered review.
I'll be honest with you. There is too much to stomach, and not everyone will be able to stomach it. The plot is scarring, and the characters have been despicable for most of the journey. They keep on indulging darkness — everything we know of as darkness.
But I couldn't put the book down.
I kept on turning the pages. It wasn't the greatness of the writing. It was the distinct displeasure that the events made me feel. I was seeking closure.
I started reading this 72 hours ago. Here I am now, writing a review.
I did not receive that closure. But frankly, in the process, I reached the epilogue, and found myself fond of everything I was so willing to hate. The end came, and it felt like walking out of a funeral.
This book is appalling. Irredeemably so. Perhaps that's what makes it brilliant.
I'll be honest with you. There is too much to stomach, and not everyone will be able to stomach it. The plot is scarring, and the characters have been despicable for most of the journey. They keep on indulging darkness — everything we know of as darkness.
But I couldn't put the book down.
I kept on turning the pages. It wasn't the greatness of the writing. It was the distinct displeasure that the events made me feel. I was seeking closure.
I started reading this 72 hours ago. Here I am now, writing a review.
I did not receive that closure. But frankly, in the process, I reached the epilogue, and found myself fond of everything I was so willing to hate. The end came, and it felt like walking out of a funeral.
This book is appalling. Irredeemably so. Perhaps that's what makes it brilliant.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Alcoholism, Homophobia, and Murder
Moderate: Addiction, Animal death, Death, Drug abuse, Emotional abuse, Gun violence, Incest, Mental illness, Misogyny, Panic attacks/disorders, Racism, Sexism, Religious bigotry, Suicide attempt, and Injury/Injury detail
Minor: Self harm, Sexual assault, Suicide, Vomit, Pregnancy, and Toxic friendship