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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Exterminator! A Novel - Thryft
William S. Burroughs | Penguin

Exterminator! A Novel

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Goodreads rating: 3.73

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"Exterminator!" is vintage Burroughs—an unflinching satire that slices through societal underbellies with razor-sharp wit. If you're a fan of the Beats or if societal critiques wrapped in eccentric, disjointed storytelling excite you, then this mosaic of madness and experimentation is for you. Burroughs' distinct blend of dark humor and hallucinatory prose will make you rethink norms while navigating its bizarre literary ride.
The Lost Diaries of Adrian Mole, 1999-2001 - Thryft
Sue Townsend | Penguin Books Ltd

The Lost Diaries of Adrian Mole, 1999-2001

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Goodreads rating: 3.79

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Recommendation: - This book is a laugh-out-loud funny and heartwarming diary of Adrian Mole, a single parent facing the challenges of raising two young boys. With a witty and relatable narrative, you'll find yourself sympathizing with Adrian's daily struggles while also enjoying his humorous observations. If you're in need of a light-hearted and entertaining read that captures the realities of parenthood, this book is for you.
Dear Mr. President : Stories and a Novella - Thryft
Gabe Hudson | Vintage

Dear Mr. President : Stories and a Novella

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Goodreads rating: 3.65

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If you're drawn to the surreal juxtaposition of gritty war realism and fantastical elements, "Dear Mr. President" would intrigue you. Gabe Hudson stitches together the absurdity of war-induced transformations—physical and psychological—through humor that's as unsettling as it is sharp. It's a read that promises to challenge your perceptions of war's impact with an imaginative twist.
Noughts & Crosses - Thryft
Malorie Blackman | Random House Childre

Noughts & Crosses

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Goodreads rating: 4.19

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"Noughts & Crosses" presents a stark inversion of historical racial power structures, offering a compelling exploration into themes of discrimination, love, and resistance. It's a potent narrative that not just thrills with its forbidden romance but also provokes deep contemplation on the nature of prejudice. If these themes resonate with you, this book can be a powerful and moving experience.
The Garlic Ballads - A Novel - Thryft

The Garlic Ballads - A Novel

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The farmers of Paradise County have been leading a hardscrabble life
unchanged for generations. The Communist government has encouraged them to
plant garlic, but selling the crop is not as simple as they believed.
Warehouses fill up, taxes skyrocket, and government officials maltreat even
those who have traveled for days to sell their harvest. A surplus on the
garlic market ensues, and the farmers must watch in horror as their crops
wither and rot in the fields. Families are destroyed by the random
imprisonment of young and old for supposed crimes against the state. The
prisoners languish in horrifying conditions in their cells, with only their
strength of character and thoughts of their loved ones to save them from
madness. Meanwhile, a blind minstrel incites the masses to take the law
into their own hands, and a riot of apocalyptic proportions follows with
savage and unforgettable consequences. The Garlic Ballads is a powerful
vision of life under the heel of an inflexible and uncaring government. It
is also a delicate story of love between man and woman, father and child,
friend and friend—and the struggle to maintain that love despite
overwhelming obstacles.


Authors: Mo Yan, Howard Goldblatt
Publisher: Arcade
Publication Date: 2012
How the Dead Live - Thryft
Will Self | Penguin Books

How the Dead Live

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Goodreads rating: 3.58

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"How the Dead Live" isn't your typical ghost story; it's for those who like their supernatural laced with acid satire. Will Self takes you on a bizarre journey through an afterlife full of as much, if not more, vibrancy and vulgarity as life itself. If you appreciate a narrative that challenges the norms with sharp humor, Lily Bloom's post-mortem adventures are sure to entertain and provoke thought.
Oh, Play That Thing - The Last Roundup
Roddy Doyle | Vintage Books Usa

Oh, Play That Thing - The Last Roundup

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Goodreads rating: 3.28

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If you relish historical fiction teeming with wit, Roddy Doyle's "Oh, Play That Thing" will transport you to 1920s America alongside the clever, cheeky Henry Smart. Doyle weaves a captivating narrative blending adventure, crime, and music—jazz becomes Henry's baptism into a new world. A pilgrimage through a vividly drawn era, with a soundtrack by none other than Louis Armstrong, awaits you in these pages.
Solar: A Novel - Thryft
Ian McEwan | Random House

Solar: A Novel

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Goodreads rating: 3.28

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Ian McEwan's 'Solar' might surprise you with its blend of dark humor and scientific discourse. It's an unexpected ride through the life of a flawed genius facing the enormity of climate change. Michael Beard is a compelling character whose chaotic personal life paradoxically serves as a nuanced backdrop for the sobering environmental themes. If you're drawn to character-driven narratives with a poignant, yet satirical look at human fallibility, 'Solar' could be a bright spot on your reading list.
Another Night, Another Day - Thryft
Sarah Rayner | Macmillan

Another Night, Another Day

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Goodreads rating: 3.7

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If the complex tapestry of human emotions intrigues you, 'Another Night, Another Day' is a journey you'd want to embark on. Sarah Rayner crafts a poignant narrative about overcoming personal struggles, through the supportive bond formed among individuals who were once just strangers. It showcases the power of connection and the beauty of finding solace in shared experiences, wrapped in a story that's both moving and relatable.
Blame - Thryft
Simon Mayo | Penguin Random House

Blame

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Goodreads rating: 3.74

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Recommendation: "Blame" is a thought-provoking read that tackles important issues such as social injustice and resilience in the face of adversity. This YA suspense thriller is a must-read for those who enjoy stories of overcoming insurmountable obstacles and defying societal expectations. The unique premise of the book, where the characters are imprisoned due to the crimes of their parents, adds a distinctive edge to this captivating story. Simon Mayo's writing style is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end."
The Thousandth Floor - Thryft
Katharine McGee | Harpercollins

The Thousandth Floor

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Goodreads rating: 3.66

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"The Thousandth Floor" could be a good read for anyone who enjoys a YA novel with a setting that is both futuristic and familiar. This book is a thrilling and dramatic ride full of secrets, scandals, and betrayals. The unique and distinctive feature of this book is the incredible world-building and the sheer imagination that has gone into creating the thousand-story tower in which the story takes place. With multiple points of view, readers get a glimpse into the lives of characters from every level of society, and the interconnectedness of their stories keeps the suspense building until the very end.
The Originals - Thryft
Cat Patrick | Egmont Electric Monkey

The Originals

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Goodreads rating: 3.81

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This book would be a captivating read for fans of dystopian novels with a unique twist. The story follows three clones living secret lives as one person, but when love enters the picture, everything changes. Cat Patrick’s "The Originals" explores themes of identity, deception, and the power of love in a world where being true to oneself comes with dire consequences. Prepare to be swept away on a thrilling and emotional journey as the secrets behind the clones are unraveled.
The Queen in Hell Close
Sue Townsend | Penguin Books

The Queen in Hell Close

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Goodreads rating: 3.59

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If you enjoy a good laugh wrapped in sharp satire, Sue Townsend's "The Queen in Hell Close" serves it up with glee. Imagine upending the world of the British royals and placing them in everyday, humdrum life on a council estate. It gives a playful yet biting perspective on class and society that you might find both humorous and thought-provoking.
The Towering Sky - Thryft
Katharine McGee | Hccb

The Towering Sky

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Goodreads rating: 3.95

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If you've been following the luxurious, high-stakes escapades that envelop the characters of Katharine McGee's series, "The Towering Sky" brings all the riveting threads to a satisfying conclusion. As you've climbed the societal ladder with them, expect this finale to deliver on the pent-up tensions and resolutions that can either make or break the elite residing in the thousand-floor tower that symbolizes much more than just architectural grandeur.
Mongrels - Thryft
Stephen Graham Jones | William Morrow/harpercollins, [

Mongrels

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Goodreads rating: 3.93

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This spellbinding coming-of-age story follows a young boy who must navigate a world that shuns his family because they're werewolves. With a mix of humor and darkness, "Mongrels" takes readers on a fascinating journey as the boy grapples with his identity and struggles to understand his place in a complex world. Perfect for those who appreciate unique and surreal storytelling, this book offers a compelling exploration of resilience and belonging.
The Loneliness Of Distant Beings - Thryft
Kate Ling | Little, Brown Books For Young Readers

The Loneliness Of Distant Beings

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Goodreads rating: 3.47

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This young adult science fiction novel blends interstellar travel with a heart-warming romance, exploring the theme of loneliness in a unique and perceptive way. The book's standout feature is its vivid and detailed world-building, which immerses readers in a thrilling intergalactic adventure. Overall, The Loneliness of Distant Beings is a recommended read for anyone looking for a poignant and captivating sci-fi love story.
Super-Cannes - Thryft
J.G. Ballard | London: Flamingo

Super-Cannes

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Goodreads rating: 3.7

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"Super-Cannes" is for those who love probing beneath the glossy surface of utopias. Ballard's Eden-Olympia is a playground for the elite, but it slowly spirals into something much darker. It's a powerful social commentary on modern capitalism masked as a psychological thriller. If you're drawn to books that offer a razor-sharp dissection of the human psyche within seemingly perfect worlds, this one will grip you as the layers peel away to reveal the unnerving truth lying beneath.
Man in the Dark - Thryft

Man in the Dark

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Recommendation: "Man in the Dark" is a thought-provoking book that delves into the depths of a troubled mind, weaving together a haunting parallel reality and the painful aftermath of personal tragedy. Through the eyes of August Brill, this novel forces you to question the boundaries between imagination and reality, while navigating the complexities of grief and the power of storytelling. Auster's masterful prose will keep you engrossed until the very last page, leaving you contemplating the nature of existence and the healing power of human connection.
The Wall: A Modern Fable
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William Sutcliffe | Bloomsbury Publishing Plc

The Wall: A Modern Fable

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Goodreads rating: 3.72

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"The Wall" is a poignant modern fable that echoes our collective fears about isolation and the necessity of human resilience. If you find yourself drawn to stories that reflect on societal issues through an individual's struggle, this book could offer you both a mirror and a window. Its stark, powerful narrative will likely stay with you, prompting deeper reflection on the walls we encounter in life, both literal and metaphorical.
No Safety In Numbers - Thryft
Dayna Lorentz | Speak

No Safety In Numbers

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Goodreads rating: 3.54

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This book would be a good read for those who enjoy survival stories with a dystopian twist. The unique feature of the book is how it shows the breakdown of the social order and how people can change in dire circumstances. Users would review the book positively for its vivid portrayal of the mall which serves as the setting for the story.
The Year's Best Science Fiction Twenty-Ninth Annual Collection

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If you love exploring diverse realms and complex ideas, this collection is a treasure trove. It's perfect for dipping into a variety of the year's top sci-fi narratives, handpicked for their creativity and vision. You'll be introduced to the forefront of speculative fiction, where each story offers a unique adventure that reflects the best the genre has to offer.
In the Country of Last Things - Thryft
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Paul Auster | Faber And Faber

In the Country of Last Things

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Goodreads rating: 3.91

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This book is a must-read for fans of dystopian fiction. With its spare and ritualistic prose, it creates a chilling reflection of our own world. The author's masterful storytelling keeps you hooked until the very end, leaving an indelible impact on your mind. Prepare to be haunted by the vivid imagery and thought-provoking themes that this book presents.
The Accusation
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Bandi, Deborah Smith  | Profile Books

The Accusation

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Goodreads rating: 3.99

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"The Accusation" isn't just any book—it's a rare glimpse into the ostensibly opaque North Korea, penned by an author risking it all to shine light on their experiences. The narratives here aren't just stories; they're acts of bravery, signals of defiance, and whispers of hope that crossed borders to reach you. It's a read that challenges, educates, and grips you with the raw truth of human endurance under the most watchful eye imaginable.
The Marriage Act
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John Marrs | January 5, 2023

The Marriage Act

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Goodreads rating: 3.85

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"The Marriage Act" is a chilling portrait of governmental overreach into the most intimate aspects of our lives. If you're enraptured by the thought of a state that enforces matrimonial bonds and the high-stakes drama that unfolds from such a society's need for conformity, this book is likely to resonate with you. John Marrs crafts a gripping narrative that's both a love story and a cautionary tale, perfect if you enjoy exploring the impact of extreme policies on personal freedoms.
Klara and the Sun
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Kazuo Ishiguro | Faber & Faber

Klara and the Sun

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Goodreads rating: 3.75

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Recommendation: Klara and The Sun is a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant novel that explores the complexities of human relationships through the perspective of an Artificial Friend named Klara. Ishiguro's writing is delicate and haunting, and Klara's observations are absolutely captivating. This book is perfect for readers who appreciate introspective and character-driven narratives that challenge them to think deeply about what it means to be human.
The Bone Clocks - Thryft
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David Mitchell | Sceptre

The Bone Clocks

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Goodreads rating: 3.84

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Recommended for fans of surrealist fiction and engaging narrative. Immerse yourself in a world of murderous feuds and precognition phenomena through the eyes of Holly Sykes, as David Mitchell delivers a spellbinding masterpiece that meditates on mortality and chronicles our self-devouring times.
Klara and the Sun : The Times and Sunday Times Book of the Year - Thryft
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Klara and the Sun could be a good read for someone who wants to explore the complexities of love and AI in a rapidly-changing world. Through the eyes of Klara, an Artificial Friend with exceptional observation skills, the book delves into the concept of love and the challenges it poses in a society influenced by technology. Kazuo Ishiguro brings a unique perspective to this thought-provoking narrative, posing the question of what it truly means to love in a world where human emotions and artificial intelligence intersect.
The Power
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Naomi Alderman | Little, Brown And Company

The Power

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Goodreads rating: 3.76

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"The Power" by Naomi Alderman could be a thrilling read for anyone who enjoys dystopian fiction with a radical twist. It turns societal norms on their head, giving women the ability to cause pain or even death with a flick of the fingers. This book will make you view the world through a startling new lens as it delves into the implications of a complete power shift between genders. It's a narrative that's as engaging as it is thought-provoking, perfect for readers looking for a story that challenges the status quo.
Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas : A Savage Journey to the Heart of the American Dream - Thryft
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This wild and crazy ride is not for the faint of heart. With its vivid and hallucinatory prose, Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas takes you on a drug-soaked journey through the underbelly of American society. Hunter S. Thompson's fearless and unconventional style of journalism, known as gonzo, immerses you in the chaotic and darkly humorous world of excess and disillusionment. Strap in and get ready for a rollicking adventure that will leave you questioning the very foundations of the American Dream. It's a mind-bending experience you won't soon forget.
Divided Kingdom - Thryft
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Rupert Thomson | Vintage

Divided Kingdom

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Goodreads rating: 3.48

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Divided Kingdom is a thought-provoking dystopian novel that presents a unique take on political divisions and societal decay. This book is recommended for readers who enjoy exploring political and social issues through fictional narratives. Rupert Thomson's writing style is both engaging and vivid, allowing readers to fully immerse themselves in the story.
More Than This - Thryft
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Patrick Ness | Walker Books

More Than This

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Goodreads rating: 3.95

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More Than This is a novel that explores the question of what happens after we die. It is filled with surprises and suspense as the protagonist navigates a world that may or may not be real. Recommended for readers who enjoy thought-provoking, mind-bending stories that keep you guessing until the very end.
Blind Faith - Thryft
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Ben Elton | Bantam

Blind Faith

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Goodreads rating: 3.71

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Blind Faith is a thought-provoking commentary on the dangers of a society that values tradition and conformity above rational thought and individuality. It challenges readers to question their own beliefs and to consider the consequences of blindly following authority. The book's most unique and distinctive feature is its blending of elements of dystopian and satirical fiction, resulting in a darkly humorous but unsettling read. If you enjoy books that make you think and challenge your assumptions, Blind Faith is definitely worth reading.
Girls with Razor Hearts - Thryft
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Suzanne Young | Simon Pulse

Girls with Razor Hearts

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Goodreads rating: 3.8

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This book is a thrilling and subversive read that takes place in a near future where girls fight back against their oppressors. It explores themes of trauma, friendship, and the cost of freedom. You'll be captivated by the resilience and courage of the girls as they navigate a world that is both unwelcoming and cruel. Girls with Razor Hearts will empower and inspire you to stand up for what you believe in. Get ready for a rollercoaster of emotions and a powerful story that will stay with you long after you've finished reading.

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.