WEEKLY BOOK RECS: 6 book reviews and suggestions every week
Hey, loves! With the last chilly days of winter blending into early spring, there’s no better time to sink into the moody, atmospheric vibes of dark academia. Whether it’s brooding characters, elite schools, or morally gray choices, these books are here to pull you into a world of secrets and shadows. So, grab a cup of coffee, wrap yourself in your coziest blanket, and let’s dive into this week’s recs! 🖤📚
1. The Secret History by Donna Tartt
Rating: 4.8/5
Genre: Literary Fiction, Mystery
Tropes: Elite Students, Found Family, Moral Decay
Main Characters: Richard Papen, Bunny Corcoran, Henry Winter
What It’s About:At an exclusive college in Vermont, a group of eccentric students becomes entangled in murder and betrayal as their obsession with Greek philosophy spirals out of control.
Review:This dark academia classic is an absolute must-read. Tartt’s writing is lush and immersive, pulling you deep into the morally ambiguous world of these flawed but fascinating characters. The tension builds beautifully, and the blend of mystery and psychological drama will keep you hooked. If you’re new to the trope, this is the perfect starting point.
2. Ninth House by Leigh Bardugo
Rating: 4.6/5
Genre: Urban Fantasy, Mystery
Tropes: Secret Societies, Ghosts, Magic Meets Academia
Main Characters: Alex Stern, Darlington
What It’s About:Alex Stern, a troubled young woman, is given a second chance at life when she’s recruited to monitor Yale’s secret magical societies. But as she delves into their occult practices, a murder mystery unravels, and Alex must confront her dark past.
Review:Bardugo’s Ninth House is dark, gritty, and totally captivating. The mix of magic and academic politics makes this book a standout in the genre. Alex is a flawed, fierce heroine, and her journey will have you rooting for her every step of the way. Perfect if you’re looking for something with an edge and a bit of supernatural flair.
3. If We Were Villains by M.L. Rio
Rating: 4.7/5
Genre: Literary Fiction, Thriller
Tropes: Shakespearean Drama, Found Family, Tragedy
Main Characters: Oliver Marks, James, Meredith
What It’s About:At an elite arts college, a group of Shakespearean actors becomes entangled in a real-life tragedy when one of their own turns up dead. Years later, Oliver Marks tells the story of what really happened.
Review:This book is The Secret History meets Shakespeare, and it’s glorious. The tension between the characters is palpable, and Rio’s love for the Bard shines through every page. The layers of betrayal, love, and ambition make this a page-turner that’ll stay with you long after the final act.
4. Babel: Or the Necessity of Violence by R.F. Kuang
Rating: 4.8/5
Genre: Historical Fantasy, Social Commentary
Tropes: Colonialism Meets Academia, Language as Power, Found Family
Main Characters: Robin Swift, Ramy, Victoire
What It’s About:Set in 1828 Oxford, Babel follows Robin Swift, a Chinese orphan who joins a prestigious translation institute. But as he uncovers the dark underbelly of academia and colonialism, Robin must choose between loyalty and revolution.
Review:Babel is a stunning masterpiece that blends academia with sharp social critique. Kuang’s exploration of language and power is as thought-provoking as it is heartbreaking. The found family dynamic is beautiful, and the stakes are sky-high. If you want a book that challenges your perspective while delivering all the dark academia vibes, this is it.
5. Vicious by V.E. Schwab
Rating: 4.6/5
Genre: Urban Fantasy, Thriller
Tropes: Frenemies, Superpowers, Morally Gray Characters
Main Characters: Victor Vale, Eli Ever
What It’s About:Victor and Eli, once college roommates and friends, become bitter enemies after their experiments in creating superpowers go horribly wrong. A decade later, Victor escapes prison to take down Eli once and for all.
Review:This isn’t your traditional dark academia, but it captures the vibe with its university setting and morally complex characters. Schwab’s writing is sharp and addictive, and the story explores power, obsession, and revenge in all the best ways. If you love antiheroes and morally gray dynamics, Vicious is your next obsession.
6. The Atlas Six by Olivie Blake
Rating: 4.5/5
Genre: Fantasy, Dark Academia
Tropes: Secret Society, High Stakes, Betrayal
Main Characters: Libby Rhodes, Nico de Varona, Callum Nova
What It’s About:Six of the world’s most talented magicians are invited to join the Alexandrian Society, a secretive institution that protects the world’s lost knowledge. But only five will make it through the initiation, and betrayal lurks around every corner.
Review:This book is a total vibe. The characters are so layered and morally ambiguous, and the tension between them keeps you hooked. The magic system is fascinating, and the plot twists will have you gasping. If you’re a fan of dark academia with a magical twist, this one’s for you.
Which of these moody, atmospheric reads is calling your name? Let me know in the comments, and don’t forget to tag me in your #DarkAcademiaReads posts @apolloimperium! 🖤✨📚
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