Contemporary Fiction

Here in our Contemporary Fiction section at Thryft, discover compelling narratives from groundbreaking authors that challenge, entertain, and inspire us. From thought-provoking tales to emotional sagas, find your next page-turner here!

471 Results

Switch between grid and list views for a better book browsing experience!

471 Results

No results

No results

Bright Shiny Morning
James Frey | John Murray

Bright Shiny Morning

from $8.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.84

from $8.90

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

"Bright Shiny Morning" is a visceral tapestry of Los Angeles, capturing the city's multifaceted charm and chaos through interwoven narratives. It's a book for those fascinated by the thin line between success and despair in the urban jungle. Frey's unique storytelling grips you with intense characters and their poignant, often shocking, life stories, unpacking the contradictions of the American Dream.
A Good Keen Man - Thryft
Barry Crump | Hodder Moa

A Good Keen Man

Regular price $8.68 from $5.90 Save up to 36%

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 4.01

Regular price $8.68 from $5.90 Save up to 36%

Unit price
per

In stock: Very Good

If you've ever felt the lure of the wild, Barry Crump’s "A Good Keen Man" could be your next favorite read. It brings the New Zealand wilderness to life with wit and authenticity, perfect for anyone wanting to escape into a world of outdoor adventure and understated Kiwi humor. You'll feel like you're right there in the bush with Crump.
Vinegar Hill - Thryft
A. Manette Ansay | Harper Perennial

Vinegar Hill

Regular price $8.90 from $4.90 Save up to 46%

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.39

Regular price $8.90 from $4.90 Save up to 46%

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

"Vinegar Hill" is more than just a journey back to 1972 Wisconsin; it's a deep dive into the resilience of the human spirit. As you navigate through Ellen Grier's life, you're sure to resonate with her plight—living under the weight of oppressive in-laws and a community bound by harsh, judgmental faith. Ellen's struggle for self-determination and her courage in the face of grim realities promise to inspire and provoke thought about the battles we all fight for personal freedom.
David's Story
Zoë Wicomb | Kwela Books

David's Story

from $8.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.37

from $8.90

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

"David's Story" delves into the complex layers of South African history and identity. Zoë Wicomb weaves a narrative that's as personal as it is political, providing a unique lens into the struggles of the country's past. It's a fitting book for anyone seeking to understand the human side of apartheid's legacy through the eyes of compelling, richly detailed characters.
Riverrun - A Novel - Thryft
Danton Remoto | Penguin Random House Sea

Riverrun - A Novel

Regular price $5.90 from $3.90 Save up to 51%

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.93

Regular price $5.90 from $3.90 Save up to 51%

Unit price
per

In stock: Very Good

This book would be a good read for someone who is looking for a captivating memoir that explores the rite of passage in the life of a young gay man. Riverrun stands out with its unique format, incorporating flash fiction, talk stories, vignettes, recipes, and poems, making it a vivid and diverse reading experience. Danton Remoto's global debut is a must-read for those interested in personal journeys and coming-of-age stories.
The Hungry Tide
New
Amitav Ghosh | Harper Collins

The Hungry Tide

from $8.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.98

from $8.90

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

"The Hungry Tide" whisks you away to the enigmatic Sundarbans, a maze of tiny islands in Eastern India, where the lives of outsiders and locals intertwine amidst the treacherous tides. Amitav Ghosh's storytelling is immersive, weaving together the struggle for survival, the rich tapestry of the region’s history, and the complexities of human and animal life. This novel is perfect if you revel in layered stories that mix personal drama with larger environmental and cultural dynamics.
What I Did: A Novel
Christopher Wakling | William Morrow

What I Did: A Novel

from $9.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.36

from $9.90

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

"What I Did" plucks on the tender strings of anyone who's faced the repercussions of a split-second decision. It's a gripping narrative that reminds us our most innocent actions can spiral into profound consequences. This read grips the heart with its portrayal of how a child's simple decision can echo through a family, making it a resonant choice for anyone intrigued by the complexities of human actions and relationships.
Outsiders - An Anthology - Thryft
Kirsty Logan, Alice Slater, Jen Campbell  | 3 Of Cups Press

Outsiders - An Anthology

Regular price $10.90 from $6.90 Save up to 39%

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 4.17

Regular price $10.90 from $6.90 Save up to 39%

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

"Outsiders - An Anthology" is a beacon for those who feel on the fringes. Rich with stories that speak to the experience of being an outlier, this collection offers perspectives that might echo your own or open your eyes to the myriad ways one can be an outsider. It's the kind of book that can change the way you see the world and your place within it.
Flesh and Blood
Michael Cunningham | Touchstone

Flesh and Blood

from $8.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 4.05

from $8.90

Unit price
per

In stock: Very Good

If you're drawn to the depth and complexity found in family narratives, "Flesh and Blood" might resonate with you. Michael Cunningham stitches a rich tapestry from the threads of each family member's life, weaving traditional dramas with the vibrant colors of modernity's challenges. It's not just a family history; it's a poignant exploration of evolving social norms and personal identities that could touch anyone looking to understand the breadth of human connections and transformations.
Rise And Shine - Thryft
Anna Quindlen | Random House

Rise And Shine

Regular price $6.90 from $3.90 Save up to 56%

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.32

Regular price $6.90 from $3.90 Save up to 56%

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

If you are seeking a moving story about sisterhood, self-discovery, and growth, Rise And Shine by Anna Quindlen is a great choice. The novel explores the lives of two sisters, Bridget and Meghan Fitzmaurice, who are TV personalities. In the midst of a crisis, the sisters must come to terms with their own selfishness and the values they hold dear. The unique feature of this book is its portrayal of the complex bond between sisters and how it can inspire a life-changing transformation.
The Law of Second Marriages
Christine Chia | Math Paper Press

The Law of Second Marriages

from $8.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.89

from $8.90

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

Christine Chia's "The Law of Second Marriages" is a candid reflection on the complexities of relationships. Her prose is poetic, yet sharply honest, digging into the nuances of starting anew and the sometimes blurred lines between truth and deception. It's a compact read that doesn't waste a word, perfect for anyone who appreciates the beauty of brevity and the depth of personal introspection.
The Art of Mending : A Novel - Thryft
Elizabeth Berg | Ballantine Books

The Art of Mending : A Novel

Regular price $5.90 from $3.90 Save up to 51%

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.66

Regular price $5.90 from $3.90 Save up to 51%

Unit price
per

In stock: Very Good

"The Art of Mending" is a heartfelt family drama that delves into the complexities of relationships. It explores how small gestures of forgiveness and love can heal even the most significant wrongdoings. Readers who enjoy emotional and introspective stories will find this novel appealing. The author's exquisite language and empathetic portrayal of human experiences make the book a must-read.
The State We're In: Maine Stories - Thryft
Ann Beattie | Scribner

The State We're In: Maine Stories

Regular price $8.90 from $5.90 Save up to 34%

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.02

Regular price $8.90 from $5.90 Save up to 34%

Unit price
per

In stock: Very Good

If you're drawn to complex characters and the intricacies of human relationships, 'The State We're In' could be your next great read. Ann Beattie's mastery of the short form shines through as she interweaves tales of women at different life stages, all linked by the setting of Maine. It's not just about place; it's a deep dive into personal narratives that shape our perceptions and emotional landscapes. Perfect for those who appreciate the subtleties of story-telling and the profound truths hidden in seemingly mundane interactions.
Seven Types of Ambiguity
New
Elliot Perlman | Faber

Seven Types of Ambiguity

from $7.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 4.01

from $7.90

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

If you appreciate novels that aren't just tales but journeys through the human psyche, "Seven Types of Ambiguity" might just captivate you. Perlman's skillful intertwining of perspectives envelops you in a web of emotional and intellectual intricacies. It's a novel where the richness of character depth and the philosophical musings on modern life are as stimulating as the plot twists themselves. This book could be a gem for someone who delights in a substantial, thought-provoking read that lingers long after the last page is turned.
Great Circle
Maggie Shipstead | Doubleday

Great Circle

from $12.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 4.11

from $12.90

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

If you're drawn to stories of bold adventures and complex, trailblazing characters, "Great Circle" is a journey you shouldn't miss. Through Marian Graves' life, which arcs like the flight path she's determined to conquer, you'll experience a poignant quest for freedom. Spanning eras and intertwining with Hadley Baxter's modern-day Hollywood, the novel invites you on an exploration of ambition and identity that resonates long after the final page.
Ghost Girl, Banana
New
Wiz Wharton | Hodder & Stoughton

Ghost Girl, Banana

from $11.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 4.04

from $11.90

Unit price
per

In stock: Like New

If you're drawn to stories that feel like they speak directly to your heart, "Ghost Girl, Banana" could resonate with you. Wiz Wharton delicately unwraps the complexities of family and identity, merging humor and poignancy in a way that lets the narrative glow. It's a contemporary tale that might just redefine how you think about what it means to find where you belong.
East Fortune - Thryft
James Runcie | Bloomsbury Publishing Plc

East Fortune

Regular price $8.90 from $7.90 Save up to 20%

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.61

Regular price $8.90 from $7.90 Save up to 20%

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

"East Fortune" offers an insightful and tender look into the lives of three brothers who confront life's unexpected turns. It's a relatable exploration of aging, identity, and the complexity of familial relationships. If you've ever felt at a crossroads or sought to understand the weave of luck and choice in shaping life, this book resonates with those themes beautifully. James Runcie's storytelling will draw you into the poignant reality of the Henderson brothers, which might mirror your own reflections on life.
Caramelo
Sandra Cisneros | Bloomsbury

Caramelo

from $8.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.93

from $8.90

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

Caramelo is a treasure for anyone who appreciates storytelling that weaves family legacies with cultural tapestries. Sandra Cisneros paints a vibrant portrait of the Reyes family's yearly pilgrimage from Chicago to Mexico City, filled with sensory details that make you feel part of the journey. Her rich characters, especially the perspective of curious Lala, bring to life the complexities and colors of Mexican-American identity and heritage. If you're looking to get lost in a story that feels both intimate and grand, Caramelo promises to wrap you in its narrative like the treasured rebozo at its heart.
Rituals - Thryft
Cees Nooteboom | Harvill Pr

Rituals

Regular price $8.90 from $3.90 Save up to 56%

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.66

Regular price $8.90 from $3.90 Save up to 56%

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

If you're drawn to books that weave philosophical musings with everyday life, "Rituals" might captivate you. Cees Nooteboom's writing gracefully bridges the gap between the mundane and the profound, as it dissects the routines that give shape to existence. It's like peeling back the layers of ordinary activities to reveal the existential questions they're quietly asking.
Blessings - Thryft
Anna Quindlen | Random House

Blessings

Regular price $7.90 from $3.90 Save up to 56%

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.63

Regular price $7.90 from $3.90 Save up to 56%

Unit price
per

In stock: Very Good

This book is a heartwarming story about the power of community and the unexpected paths life can take. The unique appeal of "Blessings" lies in its exploration of the secrets of the past and how they shape the present. You'll be captivated by the beautifully crafted characters and their journeys of personal change. Anna Quindlen's masterful storytelling will leave you reflecting on the meaning of family and the choices that define us. Get ready for a touching and thought-provoking read that will warm your heart and remind you of the importance of love and forgiveness.
Oscar and Lucinda
New
Peter Carey | Faber Faber Ltd

Oscar and Lucinda

from $7.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.73

from $7.90

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

"Oscar and Lucinda" is a tale that will transport you to the 19th-century seascape bridging England and Australia, entangling you in a deeply human story of passion, ambition, and the complexities of faith and love. It's not just the historical details that will captivate you, but the sheer unpredictability of Oscar and Lucinda's journey, both physical and emotional, that renders this book a classic. If you enjoy vivid historical settings combined with intricate human relationships, this might just be your next favorite read.
Blue Shoes and Happiness: The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency Series
New

from $8.26

Unit price
per

In stock: Very Good, Well Read

If you're into gentle mysteries with heartwarming characters, "Blue Shoes and Happiness" will be a delight. Picture yourself unwinding after a long day with Precious Ramotswe's latest case, where her shrewd intuition and kindness shine brighter than ever. It's a read that feels like a warm, reassuring cup of tea.
The Good Husband of Zebra Drive
New
Alexander McCall Smith | Abacus

The Good Husband of Zebra Drive

from $5.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 4.08

from $5.90

Unit price
per

In stock: Very Good

If you've got a soft spot for coziness infused with gentle humor, this installment of the No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency will warm your heart. You'll find yourself in Botswana alongside Mma Ramotswe as she navigates both the complexities of human relationships and mystifying cases. It's a book that feels like a cup of tea with an old friend—comforting, familiar, and always welcome.
Colorless Tsukuru Tazaki and His Years of Pilgrimage
New

from $8.90

Unit price
per

In stock: Very Good

If you've ever felt adrift in your own life, as if the anchors of friendship and certainty have slipped away, Murakami's "Colorless Tsukuru Tazaki" explores this terrain with a delicate mix of melancholy and mystery. There's something haunting about Tsukuru's quest to understand his past, and the narrative takes you deep into the intricacies of human relationships. This book isn’t just a story; it’s an experience, weaving the abstract and the concrete, the magical and the mundane, into a tapestry that might just resemble the complexities of your own life.
Selected Stories - Thryft
José Y. Dalisay Jr. | The University Of The Philippines Press

Selected Stories

Regular price $5.90 from $3.90 Save up to 51%

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.11

Regular price $5.90 from $3.90 Save up to 51%

Unit price
per

In stock: Very Good

This book would be a great read for anyone interested in exploring the diverse nuances of Filipino life and culture. Through the masterful storytelling of Jose Y. Dalisay Jr., each story captures a unique snapshot of different aspects of Filipino society. From the struggles of everyday people to the complexities of relationships and the impact of historical events, these stories offer a rich and immersive experience. The author's writing style is both vivid and thought-provoking, making this collection a must-read for those who enjoy exploring different cultures through literature.
The Association of Small Bombs - Thryft
Karan Mahajan | Vintage

The Association of Small Bombs

Regular price $10.86 from $6.90 Save up to 41%

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.57

Regular price $10.86 from $6.90 Save up to 41%

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

This book could be a gem for you if the human side of tragic events intrigues you. Karan Mahajan delves deep into the psyche of terrorism's aftermath, not just on victims, but on the perpetrators as well. The narrative is fearless and empathetic, making "The Association of Small Bombs" a profound read that addresses the complexities of political violence and its far-reaching consequences. It could change the way you perceive the news, empathy, and justice.
Serious Men - Thryft
Manu Joseph | Harper Collins

Serious Men

Regular price $11.59 from $6.90 Save up to 45%

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.77

Regular price $11.59 from $6.90 Save up to 45%

Unit price
per

In stock: Very Good

"Serious Men" will resonate with anyone who's ever felt stuck in life, dreaming of something greater. Manu Joseph manages to weave humor and poignancy to tell the story of Ayyan Mani, a man whose schemes of breaking free from societal chains are as audacious as they are entertaining. This book might just make you laugh, think, and root for an underdog who's playing a high-stakes game.
Until I Find You - Thryft
John Irving | Ballantine Books

Until I Find You

Regular price $6.90 from $3.90 Save up to 56%

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.66

Regular price $6.90 from $3.90 Save up to 56%

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

I would not recommend this book to any user as it lacks any redeeming qualities. The plot is dull, the repetitive story arc is unoriginal, and the characters are uninteresting. The author tries to create amusing aspects but fails miserably resulting in a tedious read. Steer clear!
A Cannibal in Manhattan - Thryft
Tama Janowitz | Picador

A Cannibal in Manhattan

Regular price $8.90 from $4.90 Save up to 46%

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.23

Regular price $8.90 from $4.90 Save up to 46%

Unit price
per

In stock: Very Good

You might find "A Cannibal in Manhattan" to be a wildly entertaining satire that cleverly flips the script on what we consider "civilized" versus "primitive". Through Mgungu's eye-opening experiences in New York, the book pokes fun at both the simplicity of island life and the absurd complexities of urban high society. If you enjoy a narrative that marvels and mocks at the same time, this novel's sharp wit and social commentary will not disappoint.
Pure
Andrew Miller | Sceptre

Pure

from $8.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.6

from $8.90

Unit price
per

In stock: Like New

"Pure" transports you to the brink of the French Revolution. Imagine walking through Paris as it balances on the edge of monumental change, with a story that encapsulates the transformation of the era. Through the eyes of Jean-Baptiste Baratte, you'll engage with a narrative that's as much about the physical task of clearing Les Innocents as it is about the societal decay. It cleverly interweaves personal struggle, societal upheaval, and the poignant reminder that progress often comes with a price. If you're intrigued by historical fiction that digs deep into the undercurrents of change, this is a thought-provoking journey you wouldn't want to miss.
Thirst for Love
New
Alfred H. Marks, Yukio Mishima  | Vintage Classic

Thirst for Love

from $8.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.64

from $8.90

Unit price
per

In stock: Very Good

"Thirst for Love" by Yukio Mishima is a potent exploration of unrequited love and loneliness. It's for you if you crave an emotionally charged narrative that delves deep into the complexities of human desire. Mishima masterfully captures the essence of longing that can transform into obsession, set against a backdrop that details the societal constraints of the time. This book will engage your senses and provoke your empathy.
Bolinas - Thryft
Thomas M. Barron | Garbage Wagon

Bolinas

Regular price $5.90 from $3.90 Save up to 51%

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 4.36

Regular price $5.90 from $3.90 Save up to 51%

Unit price
per

In stock: Like New

Bolinas is a page-turner for mystery lovers, with a plot that keeps readers guessing until the end. The unique small-town setting and unusual characters add to the book's appeal.
We Need New Names
NoViolet Bulawayo | Back Bay Books

We Need New Names

from $10.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.74

from $10.90

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

We Need New Names is a striking read that's hard to put down. It's particularly resonant for anyone seeking to understand the immigrant experience through fresh, vibrant storytelling. NoViolet Bulawayo crafts Darling's world with such authenticity and raw emotion that you'll be drawn into each page, living alongside Darling as she navigates her ever-changing landscapes.
Everything I Don't Remember
Jonas Hassen Khemiri | Scribner Uk

Everything I Don't Remember

from $8.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.73

from $8.90

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

If you're drawn to stories that challenge the conventional narrative and offer a puzzle you feel compelled to solve, "Everything I Don't Remember" is a fascinating pick. You'll be immersed in an inquisitive journey, piecing together the life and mysterious death of a young man. It's a mix of investigative prose, engaging wit, and deep reflection on how we remember people, perfect for readers who love a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant whodunit.
The Summons - Thryft
John Grisham | Arrow/children S (a Division Of Random House

The Summons

Regular price $8.90 from $4.90 Save up to 46%

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.72

Regular price $8.90 from $4.90 Save up to 46%

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

If you're into gripping legal thrillers with a personal twist, John Grisham's "The Summons" could well be your next page-turner. You'll follow Ray Atlee on a journey back home that quickly turns into an unexpected mystery, with the surprise of a hidden fortune and the suspense of unseen threats. It's the kind of book that will make you question how well you know the people closest to you, while it keeps those pages turning late into the night.
Jasmine - Thryft
Bharati Mukherjee | Virago

Jasmine

Regular price $8.68 from $5.90 Save up to 36%

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.47

Regular price $8.68 from $5.90 Save up to 36%

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

"Jasmine" offers a potent journey, capturing raw transformation against the backdrop of cultural upheaval. Bharati Mukherjee immerses you in the protagonist's complex reinvention, a narrative rife with the struggles and aspirations of an immigrant. You'll find it grips your heart with its poignant explorations of identity and resilience.
Western Lane
New
Chetna Maroo | Picador

Western Lane

from $9.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.5

from $9.90

Unit price
per

In stock: Like New

Empty string
Street Lawyer - Thryft
John Grisham | Doubleday

Street Lawyer

Regular price $13.90 from $8.90 Save up to 39%

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.88

Regular price $13.90 from $8.90 Save up to 39%

Unit price
per

In stock: Very Good

If the law and its moral quandaries intrigue you, "Street Lawyer" will be a compelling read. Grisham offers a thought-provoking dive into the plight of the homeless through the eyes of a high-flying attorney whose life takes an unexpected turn, making you ponder the thin line between right and wrong. It's not just a legal drama, it's a journey of conscience and redemption that might just challenge your own views on society.
The Chemistry of Tears
Peter Carey | Faber & Faber

The Chemistry of Tears

from $9.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 2.96

from $9.90

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

If you're into stories that blend the poignancy of loss with the intricacies of clockwork, "The Chemistry of Tears" is a compelling pick for you. Peter Carey masterfully mixes the story of a grieving horologist with the historical tale of an automaton, creating a layered narrative that speaks to the heart and the imagination. It's an exquisite exploration of how we seek solace and meaning amidst the machinery of life and death.
The Reluctant Fundamentalist
New
Mohsin Hamid | Mariner Books

The Reluctant Fundamentalist

from $8.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.73

from $8.90

Unit price
per

In stock: Very Good

"The Reluctant Fundamentalist" is a compelling narrative that takes you on a journey through the complexities of identity and the immigrant experience. Mohsin Hamid's storytelling, framed as a conversation in a Lahore cafe, offers a perspective not often found in Western literature. The novel's introspective dive into the protagonist's life before and after a world-changing event will resonate if you're intrigued by themes of belonging, love, and cultural divide.
The Hundred Secret Senses
New
Amy Tan | Harper Perennial

The Hundred Secret Senses

from $8.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 4.0

from $8.90

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

The way Amy Tan weaves the spiritual with the everyday makes "The Hundred Secret Senses" quite compelling. It's not just a story about sisters or family dynamics; it's about how the past, and sometimes even the supernatural, can shape our lives in ways we don't expect. Kwan’s unfaltering belief in the supernatural, set against Olivia’s desire for normalcy, creates a fascinating contrast that could deeply resonate with anyone who's grappled with family differences and the search for self-understanding.
The Widower
Ray Kluun, Kluun  | Pan Macmillan

The Widower

from $8.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.24

from $8.90

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

"The Widower" might resonate with you if you've ever faced immense loss and found yourself adrift, seeking solace in transient escapes. Kluun doesn't just recount a story of grief; he delves into the chaotic process of finding a new normal when your world has been irrevocably altered. Dan's raw and relatable odyssey—geographical and emotional—could offer a profound sense of companionship and understanding to anyone navigating their own sea of grief.
The Quarry
Iain Banks | Hachette

The Quarry

from $8.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.61

from $8.90

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

If you're someone who treasures novels with a blend of dark humor and rich character study, "The Quarry" by Iain Banks might speak to you. It dives into complex themes with a backdrop that is both sobering and wryly observant. And as one of the last works by Banks, it holds a unique poignancy that might make the experience even more resonant for fans and new readers alike.
The Travelling Tea Shop
Belinda Jones | Hodder & Stoughton

The Travelling Tea Shop

from $8.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.65

from $8.90

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

Imagine a road trip with a twist of sweetness, both in the company you keep and the treats you bake. "The Travelling Tea Shop" is a delightful mix of culinary adventure, the complexities of family dynamics, and the unexpected ingredients of love. It's as comforting as your favorite dessert, with enough heart to satisfy anyone looking for both warmth and a dash of escapism. If you’ve got a taste for food-inspired stories and cross-country journeys, you'll find this book a recipe for joy.
Uncommon Type
Tom Hanks | Dutton

Uncommon Type

from $11.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.43

from $11.90

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

If you're charmed by Tom Hanks's on-screen presence, imagine how his creativity translates into writing. "Uncommon Type" is a mosaic of America, its quirks, and its humanity, with Hanks's wit and heart stringing each story together. It's perfect for anyone who enjoys narratives that feel both grand and intimate, familiar yet wondrous.
Pao
Kerry Young | Bloomsbury Usa

Pao

from $14.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.69

from $14.90

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

"Pao" is a novel with heart and heritage, plunging you into a vibrant, gritty Jamaica far from the postcards. Kerry Young delivers a poignant narrative told through the eyes of Pao, a character caught between the roles of a criminal godfather and a tender-hearted man. This read promises more than just thrills; it's an exploration of identity and a front row seat to a historical juncture in Jamaica's story. The allure of Pao's duality, matched with the rich backdrop of cultural fusion, gives this book a distinctive flavor that's both enlightening and entertaining.
The Story of a Brief Marriage
Anuk Arudpragasam | Granta Books

The Story of a Brief Marriage

from $10.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.81

from $10.90

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

"The Story of a Brief Marriage" deeply immerses you in the raw reality of life during wartime. Its beauty lies in how it captures the fleeting moments of connection and humanity between two strangers thrust into an arranged marriage amidst chaos. The prose is meditative and nuanced, and it is impossible not to be moved by the characters' search for understanding in a world that seems to be falling apart around them. If you're drawn to novels that make you ponder the human condition, this book's quiet intensity and emotional depth will stay with you long after you turn the last page.
Waiting - Thryft
Ha Jin | Vintage Books

Waiting

Regular price $6.90 from $3.90 Save up to 51%

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.54

Regular price $6.90 from $3.90 Save up to 51%

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

This book is a must-read for those who appreciate captivating storytelling and a deep exploration of the complexities of love. "Waiting" provides a rare glimpse into the clash between tradition and modernity in China, where the protagonist's unwavering love for a woman outside of his arranged marriage is tested year after year. Ha Jin's piercing vision beautifully captures the tensions between societal expectations and personal desires, making this novel an emotional and thought-provoking journey.
TransAtlantic - Thryft
Colum McCann | Bloomsbury Publishing Plc

TransAtlantic

Regular price $8.90 from $5.90 Save up to 37%

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.82

Regular price $8.90 from $5.90 Save up to 37%

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

If you’re someone who loves diving into the complex tapestry of history through personal lives and epic journeys, "TransAtlantic" is a book that could enchant you. McCann masterfully intertwines tales across time, from daring flights to political quests and the pursuit of freedom. His poetic prose and the deeply human stories at the heart of this novel make it a captivating read that not only entertains but also offers profound insights into the interconnectedness of our stories.
MIR 10 - Thryft
Evie Wyld, Jackie Kay, Colin Grant  | Birkbeck

MIR 10

Regular price $8.90 from $5.90 Save up to 40%

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.6

Regular price $8.90 from $5.90 Save up to 40%

Unit price
per

In stock: Very Good

"MIR 10" is like taking a world trip from your armchair, tapping into a vibrant tapestry of cultures, experiences, and emotions. The anthology breaks the mold, showcasing how diverse voices can weave unforgettable narratives that resonate with anyone looking for fresh, authentic storytelling. Each piece promises to challenge your views or tug at your heartstrings, making it a precious find for literary explorers.

Explore Modern Narratives

Whether you’re drawn to gritty urban plots or stories focused on tender relationships, novels in our Contemporary Fiction section echo the complexities of today’s world. Immerse yourself in stories that capture significant human experiences, by insightful authors from around the globe. This is our gateway to modern narratives shaping the future of literature.