A review by littleredwinter
The Secret History by Donna Tartt

adventurous dark emotional mysterious reflective tense medium-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

5.0

The characters feel like complicated, fully formed human beings. They’re not lovable per se but that’s the point. 

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Content Warnings

Graphic: Alcoholism, Suicide, Violence, Blood, Suicide attempt, Toxic friendship, and Alcohol

Moderate: Drug abuse, Drug use, Gore, and Murder

Minor: Homophobia, Incest, Mental illness, Panic attacks/disorders, Physical abuse, Sexual content, Antisemitism, Kidnapping, and Grief

One character makes homophobic and antisemitic remarks. The characters come from wealthy white families and it’s strongly implied in certain spots that their families are somewhat racist and classist.