Literary Fiction Books
Immerse yourself in our Literary Fiction collection at Thryft, featuring works by revered authors and fresh voices alike. Discover stories that explore the depths of human experience and provoke thoughtful reflection. Ideal for both established aficionados and newcomers eager to explore the literary world.
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Alasdair Gray's "The Ends of Our Tethers" is a collection that illuminates the quirks and depths of human experience. The stories often blend a wry sense of humor with a touch of the surreal, making it a great pick for readers looking for something that's both intellectually stimulating and entertaining. The insightful commentary on life’s absurdities makes these tales resonate with anyone familiar with the bittersweet complexities of life.
Just Arrived
Kazuo Ishiguro
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Faber
And
Faber
Nocturnes: Five Stories of Music and Nightfall
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Goodreads rating: 3.51
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"Nocturnes" could be the companion for your reflective evenings. Ishiguro's skillful storytelling intertwines music and twilight to delve into the human spirit's complexities. The book's lyrical prose and poignant exploration of time's passage extend an invitation to the reader—a chance to witness lives at crossroads within serene and thoughtful vignettes.
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If you've ever wondered about the paths untaken or the enduring nature of certain relationships, "One Day" might resonate deeply with you. As you follow Emma and Dexter's journey across two decades, you are invited to explore the complexities of love, friendship, and the poignant reality of time passing. Each year's snapshot is a chance to reflect on your own moments of growth and connection.
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If you're intrigued by the complexity of human relationships and the ways in which art can both reveal and conceal our deepest selves, "Martin Sloane" might just resonate with you. It's a deep dive into the emotional intricacies of love, loss, and the mysteries that can define our connections with others. Michael Redhill delicately unpacks the layers of a relationship with profound empathy, crafting a narrative that's as haunting as it is beautiful. Give it a read if you're ready for a story that's both intellectually stimulating and emotionally rich.
D.B.C. Pierre
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Faber
&
Faber
Vernon God Little: A 21st Century Comedy in the Presence of Death
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Goodreads rating: 3.61
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If you appreciate satire that balances darkness with wittiness, "Vernon God Little" is a must-read. You'll be thrust into the chaos of Vernon's world, where the everyday absurdity of American life is magnified through a tragic and comically twisted lens. DBC Pierre masterfully crafts a narrative that's as entertaining as it is sharp—a commentary on the media, justice, and identity in the face of adversity.
Tuan Yeow, Johann S. Lee |
Cannon
International
Peculiar Chris
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Goodreads rating: 3.71
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If you're looking to explore the complexities and challenges of coming out in a conservative society, "Peculiar Chris" could resonate deeply with you. This book provides an authentic glimpse into the Singaporean gay experience, merging cultural nuances with universal themes of identity and acceptance. It's a pioneering work in LGBTQ+ literature from Singapore, offering a raw and honest perspective that's as enlightening as it is moving.
Salman Rushdie
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Vintage
Two Years Eight Months and Twenty-Eight Nights
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Goodreads rating: 3.39
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Salman Rushdie's "Two Years Eight Months and Twenty-Eight Nights" is an enthralling blend for those who relish in stories that transcend the ordinary. If you've got a taste for narratives that twist reality with fantasy, layering myths into modern-day scenarios, then this is a tale that promises to captivate your imagination. It’s a unique journey that dips into the rich lore of jinn, all while exploring the complexities of love and the power of stories within the vibrancy of New York City.
Jonathan Safran Foer
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Penguin
Books
Everything Is Illuminated
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Goodreads rating: 3.89
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"Everything Is Illuminated" weaves together humor and pathos in a tale that is as much about the journey as it is the destination. Jonathan Safran Foer’s inventive storytelling and his play with language make for a read that not only confronts historical tragedies but also explores the intricacies of human connections. This book resonates with readers who appreciate a narrative that is both emotionally rich and linguistically playful.
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In a stark, troubling, yet ultimately triumphant celebration of self-determination, award-winning author A. Manette Ansay re-creates a stifling world of guilty and pain, and the tormented souls who inhabit it. It is 1972 when circumstance carries Ellen Grier and her family back to Holly's Field, Wisconsin. Dutifully accompanying her newly unemployed husband, Ellen has brought her two children into the home of her in-laws on Vinegar Hill--a loveless house suffused with the settling dust of bitterness and routine--where calculated cruelty is a way of life preserved and perpetuated in the service of a rigid, exacting and angry God. Behind a facade of false piety, there are sins and secrets in this place that could crush a vibrant young woman's passionate spirit. And here Ellen must find the straight to endure, change, and grow in the all-pervading darkness that threatens to destroy everything she is and everyone she loves.
Luke Jennings
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Mulholland
Books
Killing Eve: No Tomorrow
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Goodreads rating: 3.99
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Fans of high-octane spy narratives, this one's for you. "Killing Eve: No Tomorrow" picks up the relentless cat-and-mouse game between Eve and Villanelle, enveloping readers in its gritty world of espionage. What sets this sequel apart is its layered exploration of the characters' psyches, alongside a pulsating plot that promises a showdown that's as psychologically complex as it is action-packed. If you're enticed by a blend of intense character development and spy-thriller tension, this book might just be your next page-turner.
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If you're fascinated by the concept of ordinary life clashing with the extraordinary, "The Leftovers" is a compelling read. Tom Perrotta excels at revealing the fabric of humanity through the lens of the surreal. As the Rapture-like event throws society into chaos, you'll find yourself drawn into the intricacies of how people navigate loss and uncertainty. From family dynamics to the search for meaning, this book illustrates the profound resilience and fragility of the human spirit.
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"War Trash" brings to life the often untold experiences of a Chinese prisoner of war during the Korean conflict. It's a personal and poignant narrative that delves deep into cultural identity and the resilience of the human spirit amidst the harrowing ordeals of war. If you're looking to understand more about the historical intricacies of China's military past, and enjoy a story that's as enlightening as it is emotionally gripping, this book will resonate with you.
Just Arrived
Philip Gabriel, Haruki Murakami |
Vintage
Kafka on the Shore
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Goodreads rating: 4.12
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If you're drawn to the beautifully strange and enjoy losing yourself in stories that transport you beyond the mundane, "Kafka on the Shore" is a perfect match for you. Murakami's skill in weaving the surreal with the hyper-real ensures that you'll be questioning the nature of reality page after page. This book isn't just a read; it's an experience, one that combines the philosophical with the whimsical in a way only Murakami can achieve.
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If you enjoyed "Pachinko," Min Jin Lee's "Free Food for Millionaires" might just captivate you with its sharp observation of Korean-American life juxtaposed with themes of ambition, class, and identity. Through the lens of a daughter of immigrants trying to find her way among New York City's elite, you'll explore complex characters that are both flawed and deeply human. It's a vivid social commentary with a heart, just waiting to resonate with you.
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If your curiosity leans toward how a rural setting grapples with the extraordinary, "UFO in Her Eyes" might just be the book for you. Xiaolu Guo intertwines the everyday with the bizarre, crafting a story that satirizes bureaucracy and transforms a simple farmer’s life into a spectacle. This mix of political commentary with a dose of the fantastic is sure to keep you pondering long after the last page.
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This book is a captivating blend of historical fiction and magical intrigue. It takes you back to the golden age of magic, where Charles Carter, a talented magician, finds himself entangled in a web of secrets and danger after a fateful performance for President Harding. As you follow Carter's journey, you'll be mesmerized by the intricate illusions, thrilled by the chase, and amazed by the author's seamless blend of reality and fiction. Get ready for a thrilling ride that will keep you guessing until the very end.
Jonathan Franzen
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Fourth
Estate
Paperbacks
The Corrections
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Goodreads rating: 3.84
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Franzen's "The Corrections" masterfully unravels the messy, intertwined lives of the Lambert family with sharp wit and deep insight. If you enjoy rich character development and a narrative that captures the absurdities of modern life, this may be the next book on your list. It's not just a story—it's a mirror to the quintessential American life, reflecting personal and societal struggles that resonate long after the last page is turned.
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Winter, by Ali Smith, is a beautifully written story about survival, history, memory, and warmth. The author's writing style is graceful and mischievous, infused with a much-needed humor, happiness, and hope. The book teaches us the importance of surviving harsh winter seasons with our loved ones, and how to stay strong during difficult times. It's a luminously beautiful story that will leave you feeling uplifted and inspired.
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"Terra Amata" offers a poetic, deeply immersive journey into the essence of human existence through the eyes of Chancelade. Its vivid descriptions of the natural world and meditations on our connection to the earth will resonate with anyone looking to find profundity in the everyday. This read would suit those who love rich, sensory language and existential contemplation.
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If you enjoy a sense of uncanny mystery wrapped in elegant prose, "After Me Comes the Flood" by Sarah Perry might just be what you're looking for. This novel pulls you into an atmospheric and psychological puzzle. The seductive charm of its characters and the grand, dilapidated setting will captivate you, making it perfect for those who love to scrutinize the shadows for hidden depth and intentions.
Michel Faber
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Canongate
Books
The Crimson Petal and the White
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Goodreads rating: 3.89
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"The Crimson Petal and the White" sweeps you into the grimy but beguiling underbelly of Victorian London, with a narrative that's both intimate and expansive. Sugar's story is a compelling dance on the tightrope between self-preservation and ambition. Michel Faber's rich prose and vivid character development make the 19th-century setting pulsate with life, offering a fresh lens on the era's society and moralities. It's for the historical fiction enthusiast who craves depth, detail, and a touch of darkness.
Philip Gabriel, Haruki Murakami |
Vintage
Sputnik Sweetheart
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Goodreads rating: 3.83
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This book would be a great read for someone who is fascinated by the unexplainable aspects of love and the universe. Haruki Murakami weaves a captivating story that explores the depths of human emotions and existential questions. The way he effortlessly blends romance, mystery, and a touch of surrealism makes "Sputnik Sweetheart" a truly mesmerizing and thought-provoking read. Prepare to be transported to a world where the boundaries between reality and fantasy blur, leaving you questioning the nature of love and the vastness of the cosmos.
Just Arrived
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"Lincoln in the Bardo" is one of those rare reads that merges the sorrow of loss with an unexpected comedic touch. It's perfect if you're intrigued by history yet open to an inventive twist on the Lincoln legacy. Witnessing Abe Lincoln's anguish through a chorus of ghostly voices provides a multifaceted perspective that's both poignant and oddly entertaining. As Saunders weaves this supernatural narrative, you'll find yourself pondering the profound alongside the afterlife's absurdities.
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"The Terranauts" offers you a window into what happens when human ambition and idealism clash with confinement and reality. You'll find yourself immersed in the lives of the characters as they navigate through psychological, social, and environmental challenges inside an artificial biosphere. It's a thought-provoking read that mirrors a reality show set against an ecological backdrop, raising questions about our place in the natural world and our interactions with each other.
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If you've ever fallen in love, deeply and thought-provokingly, "The Only Story" might echo within you long after the final page is turned. Julian Barnes has a way of delving into the fabric of early romance and its long-term consequences that feels both universal and intimately personal. His narrative reflects on the complexities of love and memory, tempting you to question your own past experiences and the stories you tell yourself. This is not just a novel, it's a mirror onto the heart's intricate tapestry.
Wee Kiat
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Landmark
Books
Eat Company Sleep Bunk Berth
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This book would be a good read for someone interested in exploring the intricacies of modern Singaporean life. With its focus on the everyday experiences of its characters, readers can get a sense of what it's like to live in a bustling city while navigating the challenges of personal relationships and professional aspirations. The unique and distinctive feature of this book is the way it weaves together diverse perspectives to create a multifaceted portrait of Singaporean society.
Nick Hornby
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Penguin
Books
Ltd
About a Boy
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Goodreads rating: 3.8
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"About a Boy" weaves a heartfelt story of unlikely friendship that challenges the conventional definitions of family and maturity. If you're drawn to tales that delve into personal growth and the beauty of forming connections in unexpected places, this Nick Hornby novel has a warmth and wit that might just resonate with you. The dynamic between Will and Marcus offers both laugh-out-loud moments and poignant insights, making it a rich reading experience.
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If you're in the mood for a book that blends supernatural thrills with a dash of cerebral intricacies, "Slade House" might just be your next favorite read. Imagine a story that pulls you into its gravity with each passing decade, the walls of reality thinning until you're not sure where the next turn might lead you—perfect for a stormy night where you want to lose yourself in a different kind of chill.
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"The Tenth Muse" will resonate if you're drawn to stories that weave personal identity with professional pursuit, all while echoing the historical notes of WW2. Katherine's quest to solve an enigma in mathematics is as much about cracking complex proofs as it is about understanding her own life's intricate patterns. For anyone who appreciates a narrative that challenges the mind and heart, this novel is a rich tapestry of intellectual adventure and human struggle.
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Gravity could be a good read for someone who enjoys emotional and introspective stories about love and loss. The book explores the journey of a young woman as she copes with the tragedy that severs her connection with her childhood best friend. Through this journey, she embarks on a journey of self-discovery, ultimately finding her own sense of gravity in the world. Fans of Robert M. Drake's previous works would likely enjoy this novel.
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"The White Tiger" might surprise you with its raw, unfiltered dive into India's class struggles. Aravind Adiga doesn't sugarcoat his homeland's issues, and that honest storytelling could grip you from start to finish. Balram’s compelling narrative, from a life of servitude to a self-made entrepreneur, offers a perspective shift that stays with you long after you've turned the last page. If you enjoy stories that challenge the status quo with wit and suspense, this book is likely to be a memorable read.
Paul Ruta, Paul Tan, Stephanie Ye |
Math
Paper
Press
From the Belly of the Cat
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Goodreads rating: 3.85
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If you find comfort in the mysterious allure of cats and enjoy the rich, textured tapestry of Singaporean culture, "From the Belly of the Cat" is your perfect literary companion. Each story in this collection offers a unique perspective that intertwils the quirks of cats with the human experience, making it a delightful read for cat lovers and fans of culturally immersive fiction alike.
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If you're intrigued by the resilience of the human spirit through challenging times, 'Giving Alms' could resonate deeply with you. The book's exploration of personal struggles and societal issues in Myanmar offers a rare glimpse into a world where human pain and hope coexist, all succinctly packaged in three short but powerful narratives. It might not just be a read; it could be an emotional and eye-opening journey.
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"The Muse" could be a rich, engrossing read for you if you're captivated by narratives that weave together history, art, and mystery. Jessie Burton excels in crafting a story that slinks through time, connecting characters with a beguiling painting as their focal point. Her vivid portrayal of two different eras—one in the throes of the Spanish Civil War, the other grappling with the cultural revolution of the '60s in London—might just make this novel a fascinating literary piece for your collection.
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If you're drawn to stories that dive deep into the human spirit amidst the gravest of circumstances, "Speak, Silence" will resonate with you. Kim Echlin's narrative encapsulates the strength found in unity, especially among women who've endured the unthinkable. It's a journey through pain, love, and the pursuit of justice, illuminated by prose that carries both the weight of tragedy and the light of hope. Perfect for readers looking for a poignant, thought-provoking read that lingers long after the final page.
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"Sightseeing" is a journey through the heart and soul of Thailand, where each story unfolds a separate facet of life's complexities amidst cultural shifts. If you're drawn to narratives that weave together the personal and the societal, offering both a touch of humor and a profound examination of familial and romantic relationships, then Rattawut Lapcharoensap's poignant debut may resonate with you. It's not just a book; it's an immersion into an Edenic setting forever changed by modernity.
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"The Namesake" resonates deeply for anyone who's ever felt caught between worlds. Lahiri's prose is exquisite and precise, capturing the nuances of the immigrant experience and the search for identity. It's a poignant read that eloquently explores the complexities of family, tradition, and belonging.
Just Arrived
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If you're captivated by narratives that weave through the complexities of societal pressure and the intensity of unwanted attention, "Milkman" will engage you deeply. Anna Burns has created an atmosphere where the protagonist's struggles feel both intensely personal and universally relatable, especially in a world where rumors can dictate one's life. The seamless blend of political undertones with the struggles of individual identity will keep you turning pages.
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Bill Unwin, in his 50s, looks back over his life and past. From his university rooms, he studies old family diaries from the mid-Victorian era. Excerpts from the diaries throw light on his own life - his feelings of hurt, revenge and family betrayal.
J.H. Low
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Marshall
Cavendish
Editions
Mr Goodchild
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Goodreads rating: 2.88
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This book would be a good read for someone who enjoys psychological thrillers with an intriguing twist. Through its captivating narrative, Mr Goodchild explores the dichotomy between appearances and reality, gradually unraveling the deep-seated secrets that lie beneath the surface of a seemingly ordinary life. By delving into the protagonist's inner struggle and the mysterious voice haunting him, the book keeps readers on edge, questioning what is real and what is imagined. Prepare to be caught in the grip of suspense as Mr Goodchild's journey unveils the hidden truths that can change everything.
Rachel Joyce
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Black
Swan
The Unlikely Pilgrimage Of Harold Fry
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Goodreads rating: 3.94
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If you've ever felt the pull of the road less traveled, Harold's story will resonate with you. It's an exploration of the human experience, as much as it is a physical journey across England. Through each step Harold takes, he unveils layers of his past, and with it, the poignant truths about love, regret, and hope. This book isn't just a geographical odyssey; it's a deeply moving narrative that mirrors the detours we all take in life.
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If you've ever felt adrift in love or life, Hanif Kureishi's "Midnight All Day" might resonate strongly with you. These stories cut to the core of human relationships, illuminating the intricate dance between desire and disillusionment. Kureishi's craft in portraying the nuances of emotional disorientation is both sobering and engaging, making it a compelling read for anyone fascinated by the complexities of the human heart.
Barbara Kingsolver
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Faber
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Pigs In Heaven
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Goodreads rating: 4.0
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Pigs in Heaven is a poignant novel that explores the lengths a mother would go to protect her child. It highlights the complexities of family ties and the importance of individual perspectives. The book is a great read for those who enjoy heartwarming family stories blended with a hint of history.
David Mitchell
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Sceptre
The Thousand Autumns of Jacob De Zoet
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Goodreads rating: 4.03
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If you're drawn to lush historical settings, "The Thousand Autumns of Jacob de Zoet" offers a captivating excursion into an era when the East and West were tentatively mingling. David Mitchell's narrative will steal your heart with its rich detail and intricate plot, perfect for a reader who loves being immersed in a different time and reveling in a cross-cultural love story.
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If you found "The Beach" by Alex Garland thrilling, "The Tesseract" offers a similar rush, setting its gripping narrative in Manila's dark underbelly. You'll be quickly drawn into the interconnected stories of characters from different facets of life—gangsters, a family, street children—as they converge in a dramatic climax. It promises to keep you hooked, turning each page until the very end, and might leave you contemplating the complexities of fate and human connection.
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If you relish stories that uncover the extraordinary within the ordinary, Tessa Hadley's collection will speak to you. Hadley skillfully transforms everyday moments into pivotal experiences, capturing the universal in the specific. It's a read that promises to leave you with a renewed appreciation for life's quiet yet defining moments.
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If you've got a penchant for stories that defy traditional structures and play with timelines, "How to Be Both" might just resonate with you. Ali Smith beautifully merges the past and present, creating a layered tale that feels both innovative and deeply human. Her craftsmanship in weaving together distinct voices with art and history at their core will likely captivate anyone interested in the fluidity of time and narrative.
Karien van Ditzhuijzen
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Monsoon
The Black and White House
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Goodreads rating: 3.33
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If you're drawn to the idea of a haunted house as a backdrop for human connections across cultural divides, "The Black and White House" could be a compelling read for you. It taps into the loneliness that comes with being in a new environment and contrasts it with local struggles, creating a richly woven narrative. You'll find yourself intrigued by how the supernatural possibly influences the characters' relationships and decisions, a suspenseful element that adds depth to this tale of friendship and adversity.
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If you have a fondness for rich storytelling, "The O. Henry Prize Stories 2017" could be a feast for your imagination. Every story is a standout, handpicked from a sea of literary talent. It's perfect for those short on time but hungry for varied and thought-provoking fiction. Plus, the insights from the authors themselves add a layer of depth to each piece that's sure to engage your literary palate.
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If you're fond of timeless tales woven with warmth and charm, the narrative of "Village School" by Miss Read would feel like a cup of tea by a cozy fire. Through the lens of a schoolmistress, the book paints a quaint portrait of rural England, offering an escape into simplicity and nostalgia. It's perfect for those who cherish the idyllic and the gently humorous.
Dive Deeper into the Literary Realm
At Thryft, our Literary Fiction collection brings you an array of gripping narratives and powerful prose. We curate books that challenge, provoke, and inspire readers to think beyond the ordinary. From time-tested classics to modern masterpieces, each piece offers a new journey into the complexities of life and humanity. Whether you're seeking a profound story or a gentle reminder of life's beauty, our selection is here to enrich your reading experience.
In our Literary Fiction collection, you'll find works by both renowned authors like Salman Rushdie and Jhumpa Lahiri, as well as intriguing novels by emerging writers.
While Contemporary Fiction focuses on modern themes and everyday life, Literary Fiction prioritises narrative style, character depth, and emotional impact. If you're interested, explore our Contemporary Fiction collection for more modern tales.
Absolutely! Many authors combine literary fiction with elements of fantasy or historical fiction. You can explore genres like Fantasy or Historical Fiction for unique cross-genre books.
You can discover up-and-coming authors through our curated selection, where promising new voices are displayed alongside literary greats. Occasionally, check our Literary Fiction page for the latest additions.
Indeed, many literary fiction books delve into philosophical and existential themes. For more titles on such topics, visit our Literary Fiction Philosophy collection as well.