The Secret History by Donna Tartt is one of the best literary thrillers I’ve ever read

My thoughts on the best literary pageturner I’ve ever read.

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[anfauglir]

I was 13 when my father bought me this book. I’m now 38 and have read it at least once every single year. My copy is worn out and broken in two halves, but I’ll keep it for as long as I can.

[anotherbibliophilereads]

I read the secret history earlier this year for an in person book group. A lot of people in the group didn’t like the book because they didn’t believe college students could drink that much. I assured them that they can. I am basically the same age as Donna Tartt. I actually enjoyed this book much more than I thought I would. What I really liked about it is that the group essentially thought they were like Dostoevsky’s Raskolnikov and that they could get away with something that other people couldn’t, and it made me ashamed that I didn’t take into Greek in college I think I really would have enjoyed it.

[dianaisme]

I only just read it this februrary, but this book is my favorite. I'm in love with Donna's writing, I'm currently reading The Goldfinch by her now. Henry is facinating and my favorite of the bunch. I hope to find more books like The Secret History in the future. Weirdly enough I didn't think I would even like that much, but wow just wow

[ChrisSaenz]

I don't know how I missed this book all these years! Being from Vermont (and now in Texas) I'm really enjoying the book! She's an amazing writer ... very engaging!! It's a true escape for me. Thanks for having no spoilers!!! And thanks for a great review!!!

[breyerproblems]

I just finished The Secret History.. I can still taste the stale cigarettes and shallow bourbon glasses 😂 such a great book!

[erinjackobssss]

This feels right up my alley, thanks for the rec

[look-yonder]

Hi William, I stumbled upon your short of The Secret History, and your enthusiasm was infectious; it inspired me to read this book as well. Donna Tartt's writing was captivating – the characters and worldbuilding are intricate and well-crafted. It's been a while since a book has left such a lasting impression on me. I also saw your appreciation for The Stranger; Albert Camus is my "husband" (heh). I wanted to thank you and tell you that your channel is a delight. I'm excited to read more of your recommendations. I feel like some bandit looting treasures from your brain!

[raenich]

I loved the secret history and it's one of my fave reads from last year. Am keen but also a bit hesitant to pick up the Goldfinch so I'm looking forward to hearing your thoughts on it. Would also love to see you review other dark academia novels from recent years like If We Were Villains and Babel.

[Stephendunelunch]

I’m currently on hold for this at my library. Very excited for it!

[Paul]

Nice review. I read Secret History when it first came out and I think I will give it another read. Great books deserve multiple reads.

[markoneill]

Thanks for the review. I’m really glad I found your channel. I loved Secret History. Time for a reread!

[poslekise]

I finished this novel yesterday, and kept searching for reviews to see what other people thought about it. I must say you're the first person who went into any details/serious analysis. Most videos just stick to the summary and barely touch on anything relevant. I wish your video was longer.

[BrandonsBookshelf]

For some reason I have been avoiding this book. Thanks for giving me the kick I needed.

[milleraynsmoak]

Please give the goldfinch another try!! It is my favorite Tartt novel and I think you will take to it more now that you've read TSH. Theo is such a special and compelling character.

[conorkrystad]

The Secret History is definitely the center of "dark academia" best I can tell.
I only read it about a year after graduating college and it brought me right back campus. My friend group was tight knit from the beginning and the group dynamics between all the characters was the best.
I believe that this book is about the worship of the aesthetic to the detriment of the ethical, which makes its popularity on TikTok very funny to me lol.

[rawxsa]

Currently reading …. Just started book 2. I love this novel so far.

[nosemeocurreunnombredeusua]

I've been looking for a novel with interesting and complex characters for a while. I've seen this everywhere, but I thought I wouldn't be into it. You kinda changed my mind tho.

[enie]

I read it 3 times in the span of 30 years. My favourite book of all times !!!

[AuthorNic]

I loved this book. Got it from the library on a whim, had to buy it once I finished it.

[KelanJ]

I highly recommend checking out the works of Elena Ferrante. Please let us know what you think of them.