The Secret History by Donna Tartt
$29.97
“The Secret History” by Donna Tartt is an exciting novel about a group of smart college students. They get caught up in a murder mystery at a fancy New England college. The book looks at guilt, obsession, and how being really smart can have some serious, dark consequences.
Book Summary
In 1983, Richard Papen moves from his hometown in Plano, California, to Hampden College in Vermont because of a beautiful brochure. He joins an exclusive ancient Greek program taught by Professor Julian Morrow, along with five wealthy students: Henry, Bunny, Francis, and twins Charles and Camilla. Richard hides his economic background initially but eventually becomes friends with them, especially after spending time at Francis’s country house.
During winter break, Richard stays at the college, working for a psychology professor in a cold warehouse. He gets sick and is rescued by Henry. Later, Richard discovers that Henry and the others planned to escape the country but couldn’t afford it. They had a wild party, killed a farmer, and kept it a secret from Bunny, who found out and blackmailed them.
Henry contemplates poisoning Bunny but decides to push him off a ravine during a hike. Richard wasn’t supposed to be there, but Bunny shows up, and they push him off the edge.
Bunny’s body is found days later, leading to FBI involvement, suspected drug dealings. When they return from Bunny’s funeral, the group starts drifting apart. Charles becomes reckless, Francis suffers from anxiety, and Richard realizes their manipulative actions.
Charles grows paranoid about Henry and disappears. Richard and Francis search for him and discover that Camilla and Henry have a romantic relationship. In a chaotic confrontation, Henry shoots himself after whispering something to Camilla.
After Henry’s death, Francis, Charles, and Camilla leave the college, leaving Richard as the only graduate. Richard visits Francis and Camilla after Francis’s suicide attempt, but Charles and Camilla stop talking. Richard remains in love with Camilla and continues to dream about Henry, despite the passage of time.
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