The Secret History by Donna Tartt

A group of six classics students at a small, elite Vermont college, led by a charismatic professor, become entranced by the study of Greek culture and decide to recreate a Dionysian ritual, which ends in a tragic accident. The group, bound by their shared secret, begins to unravel as paranoia and guilt take hold. The novel explores themes of beauty and terror, the allure of the esoteric, and the destructive consequences of obsession.

The 188th greatest book of all time

Ranking Details:

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Total Points: 2063

Since this book was first published in 1992, there is a penalty of 28.8%. The age adjusted score is 1468.86.

This is to prevent newer books from reaching super high on the ranked list of the greatest books of all time. The greatest books should also stand the test of time.