Dark Academia Books That Are Too Addictive

Date:17/09/2025

Dark academia books mix mystery, intellect, and gothic vibes. Here are some addictive reads you won’t be able to stop turning pages! 

1

The Secret History – Donna Tartt 

A cult classic about a group of students at an elite college who get entangled in a dark secret. 

2

If We Were Villains – M.L. Rio  

Shakespeare, murder, and elite acting students. This gripping novel is a perfect dark academia page-turner. 

3

Bunny – Mona Awad 

Strange, eerie, and unsettling — this novel blends satire and dark gothic vibes in a unique academic setting. 

4

Ninth House – Leigh Bardugo 

Secret societies at Yale, dark magic, and mysteries — a must-read modern dark academia thriller. 

5

Dead Poets Society – N.H. Kleinbaum 

Based on the famous film, this story explores passion for literature, rebellion, and self-discovery.