The Secret History

Reading this after Bunny was definitely a good choice, the vibes are similar, but this was one of the most interesting stories I’ve ever read. It goes deeper than Bunny into the world of academia, though without the added element of “magic.”

Each character was unlikeable and egotistical, yet I couldn’t get enough of them. The book takes place in Vermont and spends a lot of time establishing atmosphere, with the plot driven mostly by dialogue and scenery.

Richard, the main character, was fascinating to follow. He’s extremely intelligent but comes from a poor family, unlike most of his classmates. He wants to fit in so badly that he’ll do nearly anything to achieve it. But fitting in, for Richard, isn’t just about acceptance, he wants what the Greek studies students have: their own little world, their selective professor, and most of all, wealth. He prides himself on reading people, yet his interpretations are often contradictory. He wants to belong, but he also wants power, to feel part of something secret and important.

The other students, Bunny, Camilla, Charles, Henry, and Francis, are wealthy and locked in their insular bubble, each with their own faults. Richard is willing to overlook, even praise, their flaws in order to be accepted, which ultimately leads to tragedy.

I really enjoyed the themes of wealth inequality, control, power, and loss. The book perfectly encapsulated them and stands as an amazing example of dark academia.

5/5 Stars