Looking for books that offer the same level of mystery, intrigue, and magical fictional worlds as The Secret History? Look no further than this list of nine books carefully selected for fans of Donna Tartt’s classic work of fiction. From mysteries set in Oxford to captivating dark academias, this list has something for every reader seeking a similar journey to that of The Secret History.
1. Ninth House by Leigh Bardugo
Galaxy “Alex” Stern is a character in Leigh Bardugo’s Ninth House. She is a former drug user and high school dropout who has been given a full-ride to Yale University. However, her acceptance comes with a price – the ability to communicate with ghosts. Alex is thrown into the secretive underground of Yale, where she must quickly learn how to navigate the deadly rituals if she hopes to survive her freshman year.
Ninth House is a must-read for fans of books like The Secret History. It is filled with dark and disturbing twists and turns that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. The book unlocks the hidden door to Yale’s most exclusive society, revealing the sinister secrets that lurk within its ivy-laced walls. With an unputdownable adventure waiting, readers will be captivated by the world that Bardugo has created.
2. The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt
Donna Tartt’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, The Goldfinch, tells the story of thirteen-year-old Theo Decker who, after a tragic event, finds comfort and solace in a captivating painting.
The novel explores Theo’s journey through unfamiliar worlds, including the fascinating world of art and the darker sides he discovers along the way. Fans of Tartt’s The Secret History will appreciate this fabulously written story of tragedy and redemption. The novel’s cover features an image of the painting that inspired the book, “The Goldfinch” by Carel Fabritius.
3. Black Chalk by Christopher Yates
Black Chalk is a gripping novel that follows six Oxford University students as they play a game with high stakes and devastating consequences. The game takes a deadly turn, resulting in tragedy that forever changes the remaining players.
Over two decades later, they reunite to play the final round. With its mind-bending twists, psychological edge, and unforgiving consequences, Black Chalk is a must-read for fans of books like The Secret History. The novel is accompanied by an intriguing cover image that captures the dark and mysterious tone of the story.
4. Bunny by Mona Awad
Bunny by Mona Awad is a darkly humorous satire of toxic female friendships, combining elements of Stephen King’s Carrie with Heathers. The story follows Samantha Heather Mackey, a scholarship student in a prestigious New England MFA program who feels like an outsider among her wealthy and elitist peers.
However, her life takes a sharp turn when she receives an invitation to the secretive Smut Salon, where she discovers the dangerous world of the Bunnies, a group of sinister and mysterious women with their own rituals and secrets. For readers who enjoy captivating and sinister books like The Secret History, Bunny is a perfect choice.
5. The Bellwether Revivals by Benjamin Wood
In The Bellwether Revivals by Benjamin Wood, Oscar Lowe’s life takes a dramatic turn when he meets Iris Bellwether and her brother Eden. Iris, a medical student, and Eden, a charismatic musician, introduce Oscar to a world of privilege and academia.
However, Oscar soon uncovers a darker side to this exclusive world. The novel is a thrilling story of secrets and suspense, appealing to readers who enjoyed The Secret History by Donna Tartt.
6. Stoner by John Williams
John Williams’ Stoner is a poignant novel that tells the story of William Stoner, an impoverished English professor who rises above his financial struggles to lead a life of literary passion and a respectable marriage.
However, beneath the surface of his seemingly successful life lies a world of regrets and consequences that forces Stoner to confront his true desires. This emotionally charged work of literature is a timeless classic that will leave readers captivated.
If you enjoyed The Secret History, Stoner is a must-read that will provide an unforgettable experience. The cover of the book features an image of the author.
7. Special Topics in Calamity Physics by Marisha Pesshl
Special Topics in Calamity Physics is a coming-of-age novel that follows Blue van Meer, a high school student who finds herself in the middle of a strange murder mystery. The novel is known for its witty and dry humor, as well as its memorable characters. It is a perfect read for fans of The Secret History.
The story is set in the prestigious St. Gallway School, where Blue finally finds a clique called the Bluebloods. However, her idyllic life takes a turn for the worse when she becomes embroiled in a bizarre murder investigation.
Pesshl’s debut novel is beautifully written, with a sharp and cutting humor that will make readers laugh out loud. The unforgettable characters and intricate plot make this novel a must-read for anyone who loves a good mystery.
8. A Separate Peace by John Knowles
John Knowles’ classic novel, A Separate Peace, is a poignant story about the challenges of growing up during World War II. The book is set in a New England boarding school, where Gene, a reserved intellectual, and Phineas, a daring athlete, form an unexpected friendship.
As they navigate the complexities of adolescence, they are forced to confront the harsh realities of life. The novel’s academic setting and emotional themes make it a must-read for fans of coming-of-age stories. The story’s timeless themes continue to resonate with readers of all ages.
9. These Violent Delights by Micah Nemerever
Paul, grieving over his father’s death, finds comfort in Julian, a charming classmate. However, Paul struggles to meet Julian’s high standards.
As their friendship becomes an obsession, they embark on a journey beyond their imagination. These Violent Delights explores the complexities of love, obsession, and the blurred lines between them. The novel’s cover art depicts a hand holding a knife, hinting at the violence that lies within the story.
10. The Likeness by Tana French
In this second installment of the Dublin Murder Squad series, Tana French presents a thrilling murder mystery centered around Cassie Maddox. Cassie is called back to Dublin to investigate a chilling murder that bears an eerie resemblance to her, with the victim even carrying an ID card with Cassie’s past alias, Alexandra Madison.
As Cassie delves deeper into the investigation, she realizes that she may hold the key to solving the case. Fans of thrilling murder mysteries and The Secret History will find The Likeness to be a must-read.
11. Babel by R.F. Kuang
In Babel, R.F. Kuang’s novel, Robin Swift is taken to London by Professor Lovell and discovers that he has the opportunity to attend Oxford University. However, his love for his homeland comes at a cost.
Kuang’s writing is a magnificent blend of history, emotion, and complicated characters, delving into themes of imperialism and colonialism while highlighting the importance of language. The novel is a thrilling read, and readers will be captivated by the story of Robin’s journey to Babel University.
Summary
There are several books that are like “The Secret History,” which is a novel by Donna Tartt. These books typically explore themes of privilege, secrecy, and the darker side of human nature. Some examples include “The Likeness” by Tana French, “The Secret Place” also by Tana French, “The Basic Eight” by Daniel Handler, and “The Disreputable History of Frankie Landau-Banks” by E. Lockhart. These books offer similar suspenseful and psychological explorations of the human condition.