The Bookish Ashley

Spencer Hastings, the intelligent, ambitious, and perfectionistic character from Pretty Little Liars, is known for her love of learning, sharp wit, and drive to excel in everything she does. Her reading list would reflect her intellectual curiosity, passion for history and psychology, and her interest in solving mysteries and understanding the complexities of human nature. Here’s a selection of books that Spencer Hastings would likely enjoy.

1. “The Secret History” by Donna Tartt

Why Spencer Would Read It: Spencer would be captivated by this dark, intellectual novel about a group of elite college students who become involved in a murder. The book’s exploration of morality, guilt, and the consequences of their actions would fascinate her.

Synopsis: This psychological thriller follows a group of students at an elite college who, under the influence of their charismatic professor, become involved in a murder, leading to a downward spiral of secrecy and guilt.

2. “Gone Girl” by Gillian Flynn

Why Spencer Would Read It: Spencer would be drawn to the complex plot, unreliable narrators, and psychological twists in this thriller. The book’s exploration of marriage, deception, and identity would keep her on the edge of her seat.

Synopsis: This psychological thriller tells the story of a husband and wife whose marriage unravels after the wife’s mysterious disappearance, revealing dark secrets and surprising twists along the way.

3. “Pride and Prejudice” by Jane Austen

Why Spencer Would Read It: Spencer would appreciate Austen’s sharp social commentary, wit, and exploration of complex relationships. The book’s themes of pride, prejudice, and societal expectations would resonate with her.

Synopsis: This classic novel follows Elizabeth Bennet as she navigates issues of manners, morality, and marriage in early 19th-century England, ultimately finding love with the enigmatic Mr. Darcy.

4. “The Art of War” by Sun Tzu

Why Spencer Would Read It: Spencer would find value in the strategic thinking and timeless wisdom offered by this ancient text. Its principles of strategy, leadership, and conflict resolution would appeal to her analytical mind.

Synopsis: This ancient Chinese military treatise offers strategies for warfare and conflict resolution, emphasizing the importance of adaptability, strategy, and understanding one’s opponent.

5. “Rebecca” by Daphne du Maurier

Why Spencer Would Read It: Spencer would be intrigued by the gothic atmosphere, mysterious plot, and the psychological tension in this novel. The story’s exploration of identity, jealousy, and the haunting presence of the past would captivate her.

Synopsis: This gothic novel follows an unnamed young woman who marries a wealthy widower, only to find herself living in the shadow of his first wife, Rebecca, whose presence still looms over their estate, Manderley.

6. “Blink: The Power of Thinking Without Thinking” by Malcolm Gladwell

Why Spencer Would Read It: Spencer would enjoy the exploration of intuition, decision-making, and the subconscious mind. The book’s insights into how we make quick decisions would align with her interest in psychology and human behavior.

Synopsis: This non-fiction book examines the power of intuition and snap judgments, exploring how our brains process information in the blink of an eye and how these quick decisions can be both beneficial and flawed.

7. “1984” by George Orwell

Why Spencer Would Read It: Spencer would be drawn to Orwell’s dystopian vision of a society under constant surveillance and control. The novel’s themes of power, manipulation, and resistance would resonate with her.

Synopsis: This dystopian novel depicts a totalitarian regime where the government, led by Big Brother, exercises complete control over every aspect of life, exploring themes of surveillance, propaganda, and individual freedom.

8. “Crime and Punishment” by Fyodor Dostoevsky

Why Spencer Would Read It: Spencer would be fascinated by Dostoevsky’s exploration of guilt, morality, and the psychological turmoil of his characters. The novel’s deep philosophical questions and intense psychological drama would appeal to her.

Synopsis: This classic novel follows Rodion Raskolnikov, a young student in St. Petersburg, who commits a murder and grapples with the psychological consequences of his actions, exploring themes of guilt, redemption, and moral dilemmas.

Spencer Hastings’ bookshelf would be filled with books that challenge the mind, explore complex moral questions, and offer deep insights into human nature. These novels, ranging from psychological thrillers to classic literature, would provide her with the intellectual stimulation and intricate plots she loves. From the strategic wisdom of Sun Tzu to the haunting mysteries of Daphne du Maurier, Spencer’s reading list is as ambitious, complex, and thought-provoking as she is.