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!
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Xiaolu Guo
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Chatto
&
Windus
A Concise Chinese-English Dictionary for Lovers
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Goodreads rating: 3.56
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Imagine you're diving into a world where each word is a stepping stone to understanding an entirely new culture. "A Concise Chinese-English Dictionary for Lovers" isn't just a love story; it's an exploration of the intimate connection between language and perception. As a 23-year-old, Z's journey will resonate with anyone who's ever been a stranger in a new place, fumbling through the complexities of both a foreign language and love. With its inventive format and heartfelt narrative, it's a novel that promises to leave you reflecting on the power of words to both unite and divide us.
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Katherine Scholes
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Pan
Macmillan
The Stone Angel
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Goodreads rating: 3.95
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If you've ever grappled with returning to a place brimming with memories, Katherine Scholes' "The Stone Angel" would resonate deeply with you. It's a poignant tale of confronting the past that Stella has tried to outrun, entwined with a current mystery and an evocative Tasmanian setting that almost breathes with life. This book isn't just about reconciling with memories; it's about the transformative power of coming home.
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Recommendation: This book is highly recommended for readers who enjoy dark and suspenseful thrillers. The unique angle of the story, which revolves around blackmail, corruption and torture over the trade of Hitler's scandalous home movie, makes it an addictive read. Multiple characters from different walks of life come together to find this sought after piece, all while running the risk of untimely deaths. Don DeLillo's portrayal of everyday life situations mixed with a touch of surrealism will leave readers hooked till the last page.
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The Cook could be a good read for someone who loves food and cooking. The book takes you on an immersive journey of Mauro's life through the eyes of a friend, documenting his self-discovery, and the emotional and physical sacrifices it takes to make it to the top of the culinary world. The author's poetic prose and vivid descriptions give a sense of the physical and emotional labor that goes into cooking, making this book an unforgettable read for foodies and travelers alike.
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Amanda Lee Koe
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Epigram
Books
Ministry of Moral Panic
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Goodreads rating: 4.06
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If you're drawn to stories that blend cultural nuances with unflinching honesty, "Ministry of Moral Panic" is a remarkable journey through Singapore's heartbeats and undercurrents. Amanda Lee Koe's characters resonate with emotional depth, making this award-winning collection a literary discovery for those who appreciate nuanced storytelling with a distinctive voice.
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Iain Banks
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Hachette
The Quarry
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Goodreads rating: 3.61
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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.
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Catherine Lim
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Times
Books
International
Serpents Tooth
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Goodreads rating: 2.95
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Serpents Tooth is a gripping mystery novel that will keep readers hooked with its intricate plot twists and turns. Lim Catherine's writing style is rich with vivid descriptions that will transport readers into the world of the novel. If you're a fan of suspenseful stories and enjoy trying to solve mysteries, Serpents Tooth is the perfect book for you.
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You Jin, Sylvia Li-Chun Lin |
Epigram
Books
Teaching Cats to Jump Hoops
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Goodreads rating: 3.11
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This book is a heartwarming and inspiring read for anyone interested in education and how it can positively impact students' lives. You Jin's portrayal of a determined teacher trying to connect with her students, including misfits, loners, and rebellious dropouts, is both funny and touching. Her commitment to making a difference will inspire readers to believe in the power of education as a force for change.
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You might find "The Kite Runner" incredibly moving if you're interested in stories that weave personal redemption with the vivid backdrop of a nation's turbulent history. Khaled Hosseini's rich narrative reveals not just the bond and betrayal between two boys, but it also opens a window into Afghanistan's soul. It's one of those rare novels that captures heartbreak and hope, with characters that linger with you well after the last page.
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Daniyal Mueenuddin
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Random
House
India
In Other Rooms, Other Wonders
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Goodreads rating: 3.76
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This collection of interconnected stories by Daniyal Mueenuddin will resonate with you if you're drawn to rich, nuanced storytelling. It's a tapestry that weaves together the lives of diverse characters across class lines in Pakistan, offering a hauntingly beautiful glimpse into their loves, losses, and the complexities of their social fabric. The raw humanity displayed in each narrative makes "In Other Rooms, Other Wonders" a profound read that stays with you long after you've turned the final page.
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Amy Tan
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G.
P.
Putnam's
Sons
Saving Fish from Drowning
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Goodreads rating: 3.46
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"Saving Fish from Drowning" walks a tightrope between the mystical and the satirical, making it a captivating read for those who fancy humor with a hint of poignancy. Amy Tan paints a vivid picture of a misadventure in Myanmar, narrated by a ghost, which allows for both biting critique and an exploration of deeper existential themes. If you're game for a novel that juggles cultural commentary with the absurdity of human folly, you might find this book a curious addition to your collection.
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If you've ever felt caught in the endless chase for success and material fulfillment, "A Dance of Moths" might resonate with you. Goh Poh Seng crafts a story that mirrors the Kafkaesque quest for identity amidst societal pressures. Kian Teck's journey is a cautionary tale of modern life's hollow trophies, which could be a compelling read for anyone questioning the true essence of happiness and success.
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Nell Freudenberger
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Vintage
Lost and Wanted : A novel
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Goodreads rating: 3.43
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If you're intrigued by the intersection of science and the supernatural, "Lost and Wanted" could resonate with you. It weaves together the cerebral world of a physicist with the emotional turmoil of unexpected loss, challenging the protagonist's—and possibly your own—views on reality versus the unexplainable. This is especially compelling if you appreciate stories that are as much about human relationships as they are about the enigmas of the universe.
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James Runcie
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Bloomsbury
Publishing
Plc
East Fortune
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Goodreads rating: 3.61
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"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.
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"Bestiary" could be a profound journey for you if the blend of magical realism and rich cultural heritage intrigue you. You'll explore the complexities of family and identity through the lens of Taiwanese American folklore, all wrapped in a poetically charged narrative. K-Ming Chang's vibrant storytelling will likely leave a lasting impression if you're drawn to tales that marry the mythic with the all-too-human desires and secrets.
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Ministry of Moral Panic could be a good read for someone who is interested in unconventional, thought-provoking stories that explore the complexities of Singaporean culture and society. The book's unique and distinctive feature is its use of moral ambiguity and frank exploration of sexual themes. Readers may appreciate the way author Amanda Lee Koe challenges traditional notions of morality and societal norms.
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"Corridor" takes you through the vivid corridors of Singapore, painting an intimate portrait of its people. If you're keen on stories that resonate with emotional depth and a keen eye for the struggles against modernity, Alfian Sa'at's unvarnished narratives will captivate you. It's like holding a mirror to the delicate balance between progress and the personal, where every page offers a slice of life that's both uniquely Singaporean and universally human.
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Tom Cho, Julie Koh |
Math
Paper
Press
BooksActually’s Gold Standard 2016
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Goodreads rating: 3.8
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If you're looking to broaden your literary horizons, "BooksActually’s Gold Standard 2016" serves as an excellent gateway. The richness of East and Southeast Asian storytelling is on full display here, with each author bringing a unique perspective and voice to the anthology. It's a rare opportunity to simultaneously dive into a multitude of cultures, experiences, and narratives that will likely introduce you to new thoughts and worlds.
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Chloe Benjamin
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Penguin
Random
House
Usa
Ex
The Immortalists
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Goodreads rating: 3.71
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"The Immortalist" could resonate with you if you're intrigued by life's existential questions and the ripple effects of our choices. The novel masterfully interweaves the stories of four siblings, each uniquely influenced by a single prophecy. Its rich narrative might make you ponder the tension between fate and free will, and how the belief in one's destiny can become self-fulfilling. It's a compelling read for anyone who appreciates family sagas and the mingling of life's what-ifs with reality.
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The Guest Cat could be a good read for someone looking for a heartwarming and thought-provoking story. This book captures the magic of small moments and the impact they can have on our lives. Through the presence of a cat, the author explores themes of connection, renewal, and the beauty of the everyday. It's a gentle and poetic novel that will leave readers feeling both nostalgic and inspired to appreciate the little joys in life.
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Recommendation:
- This book is a haunting exploration of identity, desire, and societal constraints. Han Kang's stunning prose weaves a tale that is both unsettling and beautiful, leaving readers questioning the boundaries of our own existence. If you're looking for a thought-provoking read that challenges societal norms and delves into the depths of human desires, then The Vegetarian is a must-read.
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.
Contemporary Fiction refers to literature set in the current day, often exploring themes relevant to today’s societies, cultures and struggles. Contemporary Fiction mirrors the present world and its challenges.
Try Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, Haruki Murakami and Sally Rooney, whose works bring unique voices to the genre, capturing and offering diverse perspectives on modern life. Also we stock popular, bestselling contemporary authors such as Taylor Jenkins Reid, Jojo Moyes and Mitch Albom here!
Yes, definitely! We believe in highlighting local and regional voices. Explore our collection of Asian Contemporary Fiction for novels by Singaporean and Asian writers.