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Saltburn is a cinematic masterpiece that has everyone talking. The film follows Oxford student Oliver Quick, portrayed by the talented Barry Keoghan, as he becomes consumed by his infatuation with the popular and wealthy Felix Catton, played by the charming Jacob Elordi. With jaw-dropping scenes that push the boundaries of taboo, combined with clever satire that takes aim at the elite, Saltburn is a captivating psychological thriller that will definitely leave you amazed, and probably even inspire you to search for similar books in bookstores.
If you’re someone who can’t get enough of Saltburn and its viral TikTok fame, you’ll love these recommended books that capture the same addictive essence. From tales of obsession to the allure of wealth, our hand-picked selection will satisfy your craving for gripping narratives and unforgettable characters. Get ready to immerse yourself in a world of excitement with our curated list of books like Saltburn.
Related: Popular Dark Academia Books | Books Like The Secret History | Psychological Thriller Books
The Talented Mr. Ripley by Patricia Highsmith
In The Talented Mr. Ripley, Patricia Highsmith masterfully crafts a gripping story of seduction, obsession, and narcissism. The iconic novel introduces us to Tom Ripley, a charming and determined individual who is enlisted by a wealthy tycoon to retrieve his philandering son, Dickie Greenleaf, from his reckless exploits in Italy. But what begins as a mere intrigue soon spirals into a dangerous fixation, propelling Ripley towards perilous outcomes.
These Violent Delights by Micah Nemerever
Are you in the mood for a twisted and tumultuous love story, like the one between Oliver and Felix in Saltburn? If so, then These Violent Delights by Micah Nemerever is a must-read. This gripping debut novel follows the destructive relationship between two college students whose intense infatuation leads them down a perilous path. Brace yourself for a story of passion, obsession, and irreversible consequences.
Brideshead Revisited by Evelyn Waugh
Experience the opulent world of the wealthy in Brideshead Revisited. This captivating tale follows a young man as he returns to a once-thriving manor and is consumed by memories of his dear friend Sebastian Flyte and his noble family. Reminiscent of Saltburn, this story draws readers in with its dazzling allure and enticing narrative.
The Secret History by Donna Tartt
If you enjoy the dark academia aesthetic of Saltburn, then you should definitely read The Secret History. It is a gripping psychological thriller that tells the story of an elite group of eccentric students at a New England college who engage in more than just typical college activities and end up on a dangerous path. Like Saltburn, Donna Tartt’s novel explores themes of privilege, class, and elitism, making it a perfect read to follow up with.
Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier
Daphne du Maurier masterfully crafts a mesmerizing story of opulence, hidden truths, and the haunting grip of the past. Similar to Oliver’s unexpected journey to Saltburn, our narrator in Rebecca embarks on a whirlwind fling that culminates in her becoming the new bride of Maxim de Winter and lady of the sprawling estate, Manderley.
The Line of Beauty by Alan Hollinghurst
In this eloquently written novel that explores themes of class and wealth, a recent Oxford graduate from a middle-class background finds himself thrust into the lavish lifestyle of the wealthy, after he moves into the luxurious estate of a former classmate whom he had long admired during their school years. This bestselling tale is a must-read for fans of Saltburn and other novels that delve into the complexities of social hierarchy.
Bunny by Mona Awad
If you enjoyed the lack of inhibitions in the characters in Saltburn, Bunny might be the perfect choice for you. The story revolves around a prestigious university, home to a small and elite group of students who call themselves Bunny. When a scholarship student receives an exclusive invitation to join this group, she is drawn into a sinister and seductive world, blurring the lines between reality and fantasy.
The Shards by Bret Easton Ellis
Are you on the hunt for books like Saltburn? If so, you won’t want to miss The Shards by Bret Easton Ellis. This gripping tale follows a prep school student who becomes consumed with both a new classmate and a serial killer terrorizing Los Angeles. Similar to Oliver in Saltburn, Bret’s fixation on Robert Mallory is all-consuming and borderline obsessive. So, if you can’t get enough of intense and captivating narratives, The Shards is a must-add to your book collection.
The Rules of Attraction by Bret Easton Ellis
Another novel by Bret Easton Ellis that fits under the Saltburn umbrella is The Rules of Attraction, a satirical work of literary fiction that revolves around the complicated love triangle of three students studying at an affluent college.
The Go-Between by L.P. Hartley
As one of the literary inspirations for Saltburn director Emerald Fennell, The Go-Between should definitely be on your list. L.P. Hartley’s novel tells the story of a twelve-year-old boy named Leo Colston who spends his summer of 1900 at his friend’s grand estate. However, things take a turn when Leo’s friend’s sister enlists him as a messenger in her secret love affair, causing a profound impact on his life.