We Have Always Lived in the Castle by Shirley Jackson

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In the wizarding world of Harry Potter, each Hogwarts house is known for its unique traits, and none are as misunderstood—or as intriguing—as Slytherin. Often depicted as cunning, ambitious, and willing to do whatever it takes to succeed, Slytherins have a sharp intellect, a knack for strategy, and a deep sense of loyalty to those they deem worthy. They are natural leaders, often drawn to power, but they are also fiercely protective of their own. While some may associate Slytherin solely with villainy, the house produces strong-willed, resourceful individuals who are capable of great things. As a big Harry Potter fan, I thought it would be a fun idea to recommend some intriguing books Slytherins should read!

If you find yourself resonating with the ambition and complexity of Slytherins, you’ll love these book recommendations that capture the essence of what it means to be part of this house. From characters who navigate treacherous social landscapes to those who stop at nothing to achieve their goals, these stories will keep you hooked from start to finish.

Related: Books for Ravenclaws

10 Books Slytherins Should Read

1. The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde

Dorian Gray is young, handsome, and enchanted by his own beauty. When a portrait is painted of him, he wishes that he could remain forever youthful while the painting ages in his place. As Dorian indulges in a life of excess, pleasure, and moral corruption, the painting begins to reveal the true cost of his actions. With its themes of ambition, vanity, and manipulation, this darkly seductive novel is perfect for Slytherins who appreciate a protagonist willing to play by his own rules—no matter the price.

2. The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas

Edmond Dantès is betrayed by those he trusted and wrongfully imprisoned for years. But when he escapes, he reinvents himself as the wealthy and enigmatic Count of Monte Cristo, meticulously plotting revenge against those who wronged him. This epic tale of patience, power, and calculated vengeance is a must-read for any Slytherin who enjoys a character who plays the long game—and wins.

3. Vicious by V.E. Schwab

Victor and Eli were college roommates who discovered that near-death experiences can unlock extraordinary abilities. But when their experiments go horribly wrong, the two become mortal enemies—each convinced they are the hero of the story. As they hunt each other down, their morally gray decisions blur the lines between good and evil. Slytherins will love the clever, ruthless nature of these characters and the novel’s exploration of ambition and power.

4. Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn

Amy Dunne disappears on her fifth wedding anniversary, and all evidence points to her husband, Nick. But as the media frenzy builds, the truth about their marriage begins to unravel in shocking and twisted ways. Amy’s calculating mind and strategic thinking make her a quintessential Slytherin character. This psychological thriller is filled with deception, manipulation, and unexpected twists—perfect for readers who appreciate a well-played game of wits.

5. Six of Crows by Leigh Bardugo

A gang of outcasts led by the brilliant and ruthless Kaz Brekker embarks on an impossible heist with the promise of an enormous reward. Each member of the crew has their own motivations, secrets, and ambitions, but only by working together can they hope to pull off the job. This fast-paced fantasy novel is full of strategic planning, betrayals, and power plays—making it an ideal read for Slytherins who love a well-crafted scheme.

6. The Secret History by Donna Tartt

A group of elite college students studying classics at a prestigious university become entangled in a dark secret that leads to murder. As the protagonist reflects on how ambition, exclusivity, and power led to their downfall, the story delves into themes of loyalty, deception, and moral corruption. This haunting novel is perfect for Slytherins who appreciate an intellectual mystery with a sinister edge.

7. We Have Always Lived in the Castle by Shirley Jackson

Merricat Blackwood and her sister, Constance, live in isolation after most of their family perished from poisoned sugar. When a distant relative arrives, their carefully constructed world is threatened, and dark secrets begin to surface. This eerie and gothic novel is a gripping character study of a protagonist who is fiercely protective of her home and willing to do anything to maintain her world—an attitude Slytherins can certainly respect.

8. The Cruel Prince by Holly Black

Jude Duarte may be human, but she refuses to let the deceitful, dangerous world of the Faerie Court break her. Determined to carve out her own place among the cunning and powerful, she learns to play the political game, outwitting even the most ruthless of enemies. With its themes of ambition, manipulation, and the quest for power, this novel is a perfect match for Slytherins who admire strong, strategic protagonists.

9. The Lies of Locke Lamora by Scott Lynch

Locke Lamora is a master thief and con artist who, along with his band of tricksters, steals from the elite of Camorr. But when a dangerous rival threatens their operation, Locke must use every ounce of his cunning to survive. This book is packed with clever schemes, witty banter, and high-stakes deception—an irresistible read for Slytherins who enjoy a well-planned heist.

10. Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier

A young woman marries the wealthy and mysterious Maxim de Winter, only to find herself living in the shadow of his deceased first wife, Rebecca. As she unravels the secrets of Manderley estate, she realizes that nothing is as it seems. This gothic classic is full of suspense, power struggles, and psychological tension, making it a gripping read for those who love an eerie, slow-burning mystery.

Book Recommendations for Slytherins

Slytherins, do you have a favorite book that embodies the cunning, ambition, and resourcefulness of your house? Share your recommendations in the comments! And don’t forget to follow me on Pinterest for even more bookish content. If you enjoyed this book list, be sure to check out my other Harry Potter-inspired book recommendations.

Happy reading 📚
Hannah