The Secret History

After two reads, this has become one of my favorite books. If I'm being completely honest, I simply enjoy the aesthetic of Tartt's writing. Her attention to detail when it comes to the changing of the seasons, the way characters dress, their mannerisms, their habits. The same attention to detail, and darkness, can be found in Wilde's The Picture of Dorian Grey which is probably why I was drawn to The Secret History .

I understand how people could find the characters grating or unrealistic, especially considering that the story takes place in the late 80's. However, I've come across quite a few eccentric people in my own life so the characters of TSH don't seem too out there for me.

I also think that the unlikeable characters and all their faults are the point of this story. It's a cautionary tale, not a guidebook for adolescence. Again, this is shared with The Picture of Dorian Grey .

I'll most likely read this book a third time, and will update my review as needed.