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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Well-Behaved Indian Women
Saumya Dave | Berkley Books

Well-Behaved Indian Women

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Goodreads rating: 3.78

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If you're drawn to stories of strong, complex female characters wrestling with cultural expectations, "Well-Behaved Indian Women" could resonate deeply with you. Saumya Dave weaves an intricate tapestry of the lives of three generations, capturing the balance between individual desires and familial responsibilities. This book offers a window into the struggles and triumphs that come with pursuing one's dreams amidst the weight of cultural heritage.
My Name Is Lucy Barton
Elizabeth Strout | Penguin

My Name Is Lucy Barton

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Goodreads rating: 3.58

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"My Name is Lucy Barton" is particularly resonant if you're drawn to nuanced family dynamics and the unwavering quest for self-understanding. Elizabeth Strout's deft storytelling pulls you into Lucy's world, where hushed hospital room conversations reveal deep-seated emotional truths. It promises a poignant look at the silent fissures in family life and the quiet strength needed to bridge them.
A Long Way Down
Nick Hornby | Penguin Books

A Long Way Down

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Goodreads rating: 3.44

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Nick Hornby’s "A Long Way Down" could be a match for you if you appreciate stories that blend wit with weightier themes. It's not just a novel—it's a raw, sometimes uncomfortably humorous look at life, choices, and the not-so-simple act of living. The balance of Hornby's humor with moments of sincere reflection could make you ponder your perspectives just as much as it entertains you.
The Corporate Wife - Thryft
Elizabeth Harrington | Fontana

The Corporate Wife

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Goodreads rating: 0.0

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If you find yourself intrigued by the intricacies of personal sacrifices for career advancement, 'The Corporate Wife' could resonate with you. Experiencing the life through the lens of a marriage tethered to corporate success in the early 90s offers not just a compelling narrative but also a thought-provoking commentary on societal expectations and personal identity. Elizabeth Harrington's exploration of this dynamic might just be the engrossing read you're looking for.
Room : Film tie-in - Thryft
Emma Donoghue | Picador

Room Film Tie-In

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Goodreads rating: 4.08

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Imagine life confined to a single room, with the only world you know being the one your mother has created for you. "Room" will make you reconsider what it means to be free and the power of a mother's love that can turn the darkest of places into a home. It’s an emotional rollercoaster that redefines the bonds of love and the spirit of survival in unimaginable circumstances.
The Tenth Muse
Catherine Chung | Little, Brown

The Tenth Muse

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Goodreads rating: 4.03

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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.
The Topeka School
Ben Lerner | Picador

The Topeka School

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Goodreads rating: 3.51

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"The Topeka School" could be your next thought-provoking journey. It's a book that artfully weaves the personal with the political, taking you through the complexities of family dynamics against the backdrop of a changing America. Ben Lerner's sharp examination of toxic masculinity, language, and psychology makes it resonate with anyone curious about the forces shaping contemporary society.
Free Food for Millionaires
Min Jin Lee | Head Of Zeus

Free Food for Millionaires

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Goodreads rating: 3.85

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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.
The Maid's Room
Fiona Mitchell | Hodder & Stoughton

The Maid's Room

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Goodreads rating: 3.67

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"The Maid's Room" takes you behind the polished façades of upscale homes, offering a perspective rarely focused on in contemporary fiction—the lives of domestic workers. If you enjoy narratives that cast light on the struggles and hidden stories of those often overlooked, this book brings that in spades, grounding you firmly in their world with intimate storytelling and rich character development. It's a poignant exploration of social dynamics and personal resilience that will resonate with anyone who appreciates a story with emotional depth and moral complexity.
Milkman
Just Arrived
Anna Burns | Faber & Faber

Milkman

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Goodreads rating: 3.53

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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.
Weird Fucks
Lynne Tillman | Peninsula Press

Weird Fucks

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Goodreads rating: 3.13

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If you're drawn to the raw and unfiltered aspects of the human psyche, especially through the lens of the early 1970s, "Weird Fucks" by Lynne Tillman won't disappoint. It's a candid portrayal that offers rich, provocative snapshots of one woman's encounters with an array of men, laying bare the complexities of sex, desire, and identity. This book beckons to those who appreciate a deep dive into personal narratives that are as eccentric as they are enlightening.
Animal
Lisa Taddeo | Bloomsbury Circus

Animal

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Goodreads rating: 3.7

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"Animal" might unsettle you, but it's intentionally so. It's the kind of book that burrows under your skin with its raw, visceral storytelling. If you're drawn to complex, morally ambiguous characters like Joan that challenge societal norms and evoke deep, sometimes uncomfortable introspection, this book will linger in your thoughts long after you turn the final page.
Free Food for Millionaires
Min Jin Lee | Head Of Zeus

Free Food for Millionaires

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Goodreads rating: 3.85

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If you're intrigued by the complexities of cultural identity and the allure of New York's high society, "Free Food for Millionaires" might just captivate you. Min Jin Lee weaves a tapestry of divergent lives, evoking emotions that resonate with anyone who has grappled with finding their path in a world that's both dazzling and unforgiving. Dive into Casey's journey and confront the realities of privilege, aspiration, and the immigrant experience.
We Need New Names
Just Arrived
NoViolet Bulawayo | Back Bay Books

We Need New Names

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Goodreads rating: 3.75

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"We Need New Names" sings the song of displacement and resilience through the eyes of Darling, a young girl finding her path from a turbulent Zimbabwe to the complexities of America. Bulawayo's narrative is raw, evocative, and studded with a mix of youthful innocence and mature insight, offering you a layered, thought-provoking experience that stays with you long after turning the last page. This might resonate with you if you're looking for a story that captures the essence of bittersweet transition and the search for identity in a new world.
The House of Hidden Mothers
Just Arrived
Meera Syal | Red Fox

The House of Hidden Mothers

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Goodreads rating: 3.73

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If you're moved by stories that weave personal struggles with cultural challenges, "The House of Hidden Mothers" might just resonate with you. It's a profound exploration of motherhood against the backdrop of modern-day India and the diaspora in London, delving into identity and the lengths we go for family. This book could be a good read for those who appreciate novels that tackle complex human emotions and societal issues with sensitivity and depth.
Strange Fits of Passion
Just Arrived
Anita Shreve | Abacus

Strange Fits of Passion

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Goodreads rating: 3.81

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"Strange Fits of Passion" is for you if you're drawn to stories that delve deeply into the complexity of human emotions and relationships. Anita Shreve's background in journalism shines through in her precise, evocative prose, promising a gripping narrative full of twists and revelations. It's a page-turner that explores the darker sides of love and obsession, offering a cathartic journey through its characters' tumultuous lives.
Dear Thief
Harvey Samantha | Random House

Dear Thief

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Goodreads rating: 3.44

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"Dear Thief" is one of those rare reads that entices you into the depths of human emotions and the complexities of a broken friendship. As the protagonist pours her heart out through letters that may never be read, you're invited to unpack a history of betrayal, and perhaps find a reflection of your own pasts and the power of forgiveness. Samantha Harvey has crafted a literary piece that is both intimate and profound, making it a compelling read for anyone who's ever longed to reconcile with the unchangeable.
The Woman Upstairs
Claire Messud | Knopf Doubleday Publishing Group

The Woman Upstairs

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Goodreads rating: 3.31

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"The Woman Upstairs" is mesmerizing for those who find themselves drawn to stories of passion and personal evolution. Nora Eldridge will resonate with anyone who's ever felt on the outside, looking in. The emotional journey and the richly drawn characters by Claire Messud will surely tug at your heartstrings and may lead you to question your own boundaries and desires.
Chickpeas to Cook and Other Stories
Just Arrived

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If you have a penchant for stories that blend the flavors of life with the literal taste of food, then "Chickpeas to Cook and Other Stories" could be a delightful read for you. The book's charm lies in its ability to merge culinary narratives with the intricate aspects of human experiences, akin to a well-seasoned dish that pleases both palate and soul.
Out of Fashion: An Anthology of Poems

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If fashion's ever-evolving tapestry captivates you, 'Out of Fashion' offers a unique lens to view it through. Carol Ann Duffy has curated a collection that weaves the thread of clothing into the fabric of poetry, providing not just a read but an experience that resonates with the tactile and the aesthetic. Both fashion aficionados and poetry lovers will find common ground in these pages, as it dresses the naked word in layered meaning.
The Book of Fate
Just Arrived

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This book promises an immersive dive into the depths of Iranian culture and history, through the intimate lens of Massoumeh's life. It's a read that will captivate you with a personal story set against the backdrop of significant political upheaval. If you find yourself drawn to narratives that blend the personal with the political, and offer insight into the lives of women in societies far different from your own, "The Book of Fate" could be a profoundly moving choice for your next read.
Venus Crossing
Kalpana Swaminathan | Penguin

Venus Crossing

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Goodreads rating: 3.27

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Venus Crossing seems like it might resonate with you if you're drawn to the subtleties of human emotion and the moments that alter our lives fundamentally. Swaminathan's narrative prowess lies in her ability to weave stories that not only confront the impossible but also make it a part of everyday existence. It's a mix of the mundane and the profound – a literary journey through grief, empathy, and survival that challenges and captivates. If you're looking to dive deep into the essence of what it means to be human, this collection could be a powerful experience.
Lake Like a Mirror
Natascha Bruce, Ho Sok Fong  | Granta Books

Lake Like a Mirror

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Goodreads rating: 3.31

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If the complexity of human experiences intrigues you, "Lake Like a Mirror" could be a powerful read. The author, Ho Sok Fong, threads nine stories with a delicate touch, each revealing the inner turmoil and societal pressures faced by different women. Set against the rich backdrops of Malaysia and Taiwan, this collection not only provides a cultural voyage but also an intimate exploration of what moves us beneath the surface.
Once We Were There
Bernice Chauly | Epigram Books

Once We Were There

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Goodreads rating: 3.28

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"Once We Were There" could resonate deeply with you if you're drawn to stories that blend the personal with the political, capturing the intimacy of a relationship against the backdrop of societal turmoil. Bernice Chauly doesn't shy away from portraying the grittier side of life, making it a poignant read for those who appreciate a novel that delves into the darker corners of human experience, while still retaining the tender grasp of love.
The Witch of Portobello
Paulo Coelho | Mcgraw Hill

The Witch of Portobello

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Goodreads rating: 3.56

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If you're at a crossroads in life or simply seeking a deeper understanding of your true self, "The Witch of Portobello" could resonate with you profoundly. Through Athena's enigmatic story, Coelho weaves the themes of self-discovery and authenticity with a magical touch that's both inspiring and thought-provoking. It might just challenge you to confront what it means to live passionately and authentically.
Harvesting the Heart
Jodi Picoult | Allen & Unwin

Harvesting the Heart

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Goodreads rating: 3.65

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If you've ever felt overwhelmed by the expectations and complexities of parenthood and personal growth, "Harvesting The Heart" will resonate with you. Jodi Picoult delves into the intimate struggles of a young woman, crafting a story that's as much about finding oneself as it is about the sacrifices made for family. It's a must-read if you appreciate novels that explore the depths of the human heart with honesty and compassion.
New York - Thryft
Edward Rutherfurd | Century

New York

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Goodreads rating: 4.17

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Imagine being swept through the ages with intimate portraits of people who've shaped New York's heartbeat. Edward Rutherfurd's "New York" is a masterful journey linking personal stories and historical events, serving as a metaphor for the American experience itself. It's not just a read; it lets you live through the evolution of America's most iconic city. If you're fascinated by how individual lives intersect with grand historical narratives, this book is a portal through time.
Luck
Joan Barfoot | Vintage Canada

Luck

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Goodreads rating: 3.17

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If you're drawn to stories that weave humor and despair to explore the complexities of life, "Luck" could resonate with you. Joan Barfoot's masterful narrative delves into the lives of three distinct women as they confront an unexpected death. It's an insightful look at how we deal with grief and the absurdities life throws at us, all served with a side of sharp wit that might just be your kind of comfort read in discomforting times.
Mothers and Daughters - Thryft
Kylie Ladd | Allen & Unwin

Mothers and Daughters

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Goodreads rating: 3.29

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This book provides an insight into the complicated but beautiful relationship between mothers and daughters. It shows how they can navigate through the rough waters of adolescence while strengthening their bond. The setting of a tropical paradise only adds to the beauty and complexity of the story. Readers who enjoy exploring complex familial themes with relatable characters will thoroughly enjoy this book.
My Life as a Man
Just Arrived
Philip Roth | Vintage Books Usa

My Life as a Man

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Goodreads rating: 3.72

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Philip Roth's "My Life As A Man" is an intriguing exploration for anyone who's been caught in the complexities of an intimate relationship that's both toxic and inescapable. The duality of love and loathing, with the blend of autobiographical elements, makes this a layered read that Roth enthusiasts and lovers of character-driven narratives will appreciate. It dives deep into the psyche of a flawed protagonist, reflecting broader human experiences in a way only Roth can masterfully achieve.
Lillian on Life
Alison Jean Lester | G.p. Putnam's Sons

Lillian on Life

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Goodreads rating: 3.46

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If you've ever felt the tug between tradition and the path less traveled, "Lillian on Life" could resonate with you deeply. Alison Jean Lester offers a narrative that's rich with introspection and brimming with the flavors of different eras. Lillian's story could be particularly compelling if you appreciate character-driven novels that delve into the complexities of love, personal growth, and the pursuit of happiness against societal norms.
Rise And Shine - Thryft
Anna Quindlen | Random House

Rise And Shine

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Goodreads rating: 3.32

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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.
Under the Visible Life
Kim Echlin | Hachette Book

Under the Visible Life

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Goodreads rating: 4.02

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If you feel a kinship with stories of resilience and the transformative power of music, you might find "Under the Visible Life" striking a chord with you. The dual narratives give a complex, yet harmonious look into the lives of two women bound by their unwavering passion for jazz. Their struggles with cultural identity and personal freedom in the mid-20th century are as compelling as they are heartrending, offering a narrative that's both culturally rich and emotionally profound.
Woman Of The Hour - Thryft
Jane Lythell | Head Of Zeus

Woman Of The Hour

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Goodreads rating: 3.51

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"Woman Of The Hour portrays the life of a TV producer and her struggle to maintain the nation's favorite show, all while dealing with a challenging personal life. The book provides a thrilling insight into the world of live TV, with Jane Lythell's personal experiences giving an added authenticity to the narrative. A must-read for anyone interested in the high-pressure realm of show business."
Men from the Boys - Thryft
Tony Parsons | Harper Collins Ome

Men from the Boys

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Goodreads rating: 3.62

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For anyone pondering the complexities of modern manhood, "Men from the Boys" offers a candid and often witty examination of life’s second-act challenges. Tony Parsons closes his trilogy with a relatable narrative that dives deep into themes of family, loyalty, and the ever-evolving definition of what it means to be a man, all wrapped in the warmth of sympathetic humor and realism. If ever you've faced crossroads or questioned the 'adult' choices you've made, this book is like having a chat with an old friend who understands.
FORGIVE ME PB - Thryft
Amanda Eyre Ward | Harper Perennial

FORGIVE ME PB

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Goodreads rating: 3.45

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This book would be a good read for someone who is drawn to emotional and thought-provoking stories that explore themes of forgiveness and self-discovery. Through the protagonist's journey as a journalist covering a murder trial in South Africa, the book delves into the complexities of love, memory, and motherhood. The author weaves together past and present, making the reader question the limits of forgiveness and the power of personal growth. It is a story that will stay with the reader long after they turn the final page.
The Hope Factory
Lavanya Sankaran | Headline Publishing Group

The Hope Factory

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Goodreads rating: 3.39

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"The Hope Factory" isn't just a compelling dive into the contrasts of modern India, it’s a mirror reflecting personal ambition against the backdrop of societal limitations. Anand's struggles to expand his business are relatable to anyone who has chased a dream, only to encounter the complex entanglements of wealth, ethics, and survival. Kamala's story brings a poignant perspective on the razor-thin edge between aspiration and survival for the less fortunate. This book could be a powerful choice for readers who appreciate narratives where personal lives are inseparable from the larger socio-economic forces.
The Believers
Zoë Heller | Penguin Books, Limited (uk)

The Believers

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Goodreads rating: 3.38

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"The Believers" takes you deep into the heart of a family shaken by a crisis. As Audrey grapples with her husband's secret past, you explore the complexities of love, truth, and the bonds we think are unbreakable. It's a thought-provoking read that remains tender and sharply observant, peeling back the layers of family and belief to reveal the chaos and compassion within.
Pussy - Thryft
Howard Jacobson | Jonathan Cape

Pussy

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Goodreads rating: 3.16

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Imagine holding a mirror up to recent political absurdities, and with Howard Jacobson's biting wit, that mirror becomes a satirical masterpiece. "Pussy" isn't just about laughter; it's a labyrinth of reflections on power, vanity, and the media's role in shaping modern mythology. Dive into its pages, and you'll find more than entertainment – you'll find a sharp, unforgettable commentary on an era that almost defies belief.
The Rest of Her Life - Thryft
Laura Moriarty | Hyperion

The Rest of Her Life

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Goodreads rating: 3.42

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This book would be a good read for those who appreciate thought-provoking stories that explore the complexities of motherhood and its impact on family dynamics. Laura Moriarty's The Rest of Her Life delves into the emotional turmoil and moral dilemmas faced by Leigh, a mother struggling to navigate the aftermath of her daughter's tragic mistake. The author gives readers a raw and compassionate look at the fragility of relationships and the lengths a mother will go to in order to protect her child, making it impossible to put down.
The Cure for Modern Life
Lisa Tucker | Atria Books

The Cure for Modern Life

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Goodreads rating: 3.34

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If you're feeling a bit disillusioned with the corporate grind, Lisa Tucker's "The Cure for Modern Life" might speak to you. It's a story that delves into the complexities of what it means to do good in a world driven by profit and self-interest. For a moment of reflection on your own life choices and the often invisible impacts they have, give this book a read. You'll get more than a powerful story; you'll be prompted to look at the world, and maybe yourself, a little differently.
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.
Something Special - Thryft
Iris Murdoch, Michael McCurdy  | Vintage

Something Special

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Goodreads rating: 3.03

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If you enjoy tales that unearth the intricate dance between aspirations and the oft-hard lines of reality, "Something Special" might resonate deeply with you. Iris Murdoch's distinctive charm is woven throughout this narrative, capturing the essence of a young woman's longing for 'something more' amidst the cultural backdrop of 1950s Dublin. This short story, unique in Murdoch's oeuvre as it treads into the short form, provides an intimate gaze into a single, defining moment that brims with sly humor and a hint of melancholy.
S.
John Updike | Fawcett Crest

S.

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Goodreads rating: 3.35

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If you're feeling a tad stuck in routine, "S." could be just the escape. It's not just about Sarah abandoning her comfortable life; it's a sharp and satirical look at the search for meaning beyond the picket fences that might mirror a yearning in many of us. Updike has a reputation for wit and depth, and you'll get plenty of both here as you journey with Sarah and possibly reflect on your own life's pilgrimage.
In Every Mirror She's Black
Lola Akinmade Åkerström | Apollo

In Every Mirror She's Black

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Goodreads rating: 3.81

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"In Every Mirror She's Black" resonates for those eager to dive into a nuanced portrayal of three women confronting their dreams and realities in a society seemingly progressive yet rife with underlying challenges. The raw emotions and interconnected stories outlined by Lola Akinmade Åkerström offer depth and a powerful commentary on identity and belonging that's incredibly relevant today. If you're keen on stories that explore cultural dynamics with unflinching honesty, this book's for you.
A Family Daughter - Thryft
Maile Meloy | Scribner

A Family Daughter

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Goodreads rating: 3.47

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Recommended for readers interested in exploring family dynamics, A Family Daughter delves deep into the intricate relationships between the members of the Santerre family and the impact of their choices on their lives. The story spans over several decades and continents, making it a compelling and reflective read that will stay with readers long after finishing it.
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.
A Crackle of Flames, A Circle of Rainbow - Thryft

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If raw and unflinching poetry speaks to you, "A Crackle of Flames, A Circle of Rainbow" by Mohamed Latiff Mohamed may strike a chord. Each poem throbs with the visceral experiences of those cast aside in society. It’s poetry that doesn’t shy away from the bleak and somber realities, gripping readers with its intensity and truth. For anyone looking to explore a potent, socio-political commentary through verse, this could offer a compelling, immersive experience.
Purple Hibiscus
Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie | 4th Estate

Purple Hibiscus

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Goodreads rating: 4.18

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"Purple Hibiscus" could be a profound experience for you if you're drawn to stories that explore the complexities of family dynamics, personal growth, and political tension. As Kambili's narrative unfolds, you'll find yourself immersed in a world where love and tyranny coexist, prompting reflections on freedom, resilience, and the meaning of home. Plus, Adichie's prose is a delight to read—crafted with care and full of emotional depth.
Facing the Light
Adèle Geras | Orion

Facing the Light

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Goodreads rating: 3.56

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If you're drawn to stories where a single event unfolds layers of hidden truths, "Facing the Light" might resonate with you. Celebrations at Willow Court reveal more than just familial affection. With an artist's legacy casting shadows on the present, Adele Geras's novel invites you to a family gathering that becomes a revelation, and potentially a redemption, for an entire lineage. Witnessing the unraveling of tightly held secrets against the backdrop of a grand English home could be as captivating as it is thought-provoking.

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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.