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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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.
Disgrace - Thryft
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J.M. Coetzee | Vintage Books

Disgrace

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Goodreads rating: 3.85

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This book could be a good read for someone who appreciates a brutally honest exploration of the human condition. The author delves into the depths of human nature, showcasing the complexities and flaws that exist within us all. Through the story of David Lurie, readers are confronted with uncomfortable truths and forced to reflect on the power dynamics, relationships, and societal issues that shape our lives. Coetzee's writing style is stark and unflinching, making "Disgrace" a riveting and thought-provoking read.
The Girls - Thryft
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Emma Cline | Vintage

The Girls

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Goodreads rating: 3.5

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"The This novel delves into the complex emotional landscapes of adolescence, entangling you in Evie's struggle to find identity and acceptance, all set against the sinister backdrop of a cult. Emma Cline's literary craft shines as she weaves a story that's both a chilling historical fiction and an insightful commentary on girlhood and longing. Transporting you to the 1960s with its evocative prose, 'The Girls' promises to haunt long after the last page.
Welcome to Our Hillbrow - Thryft
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Phaswane Mpe | University Of Kwazulu Natal Press

Welcome to Our Hillbrow

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Goodreads rating: 3.71

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Hillbrow is a microcosm of the changing South African psyche. This novel links Hillbrow, rural Tiragalong and Oxford, and contains the shattered dreams of youth, sexuality and its unpredictable costs, AIDS, xenophobia, suicide, the omnipotent violence that cuts short the promise of young people, and the Africanist understanding of the life.
Dear Life: Stories
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Alice Munro | Vintage International

Dear Life: Stories

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Goodreads rating: 3.75

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If you've ever marveled at the undercurrents of everyday existence or the seismic shifts brought about by seemingly minor events, "Dear Life" speaks directly to that fascination. Alice Munro's deft storytelling unveils the rich complexities of human nature and the pivotal moments that alter our paths. It's like catching a glimpse of the profound in the mundane, a narrative mirror that reflects both the beauty and fragility of life.
The Wren, the Wren
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Anne Enright | Random House Uk

The Wren, the Wren

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Goodreads rating: 3.55

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If you're looking to dive deep into the complexities of family relationships and personal histories, "The Wren, the Wren" by Anne Enright might just be the novel that keeps you turning pages. Recipient of high acclaim, it mirrors real life's intricacies with Enright’s masterful storytelling. This book could be your escape into the poignant world of memorable characters and the poignant exploration of the bond between a mother and a daughter.
Protect And Defend - Thryft
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Protect And Defend

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President-elect Kerry Kilcannon quickly appoints a new Chief Justice to the
Supreme Court--Caroline Masters. While the Senate spars over her
nomination, an abortion rights case makes its way toward the judge--and
will explode into the headlines. Suddenly, the most divisive issue in
America turns the president's nomination into an all-out war. Knopf.


Author: Richard North Patterson
Publisher: Random House
Publication Date: 2002
Best of Singapore Erotica - Thryft
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L.Q. Pan, Richard Lord  | Monsoon Books Pte. Ltd.

Best of Singapore Erotica

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Goodreads rating: 2.75

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This book is a captivating collection of erotic writing that celebrates the sensuality and passion of Singapore. With a diverse range of authors and writing styles, it offers a tantalizing exploration of desire and intimacy. Whether you're a fan of Singaporean literature or simply looking for a steamy read that pushes boundaries, this anthology is sure to ignite your imagination and leave you craving more.
Women of Algiers in Their Apartment - Thryft
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Clarisse Zimra, Assia Djebar, Marjolijn De Jager  | University Of Virginia Press

Women of Algiers in Their Apartment

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Goodreads rating: 3.56

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"Women of Algiers in Their Apartment" is an impactful read for those interested in exploring the lived experiences of oppressed women, particularly those in postcolonial societies. Assia Djebar's writing style is both innovative and lyrical as it illuminates the struggles faced by Algerian women - from being cloistered to grappling with the implications of reticence, the connection of language to oppression and the impact of war on both women and men. This book's strength lies in its unapologetic portrayal of the plight of urban Algerian women as they navigate a postcolonial society that has denied and subjugated them even as it celebrates the liberation of men. Highly recommended for those interested in women's stories of struggle and victory.
You Can't Get Lost in Cape Town - Thryft
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Zoë Wicomb | Virago

You Can't Get Lost in Cape Town

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Goodreads rating: 3.57

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Zoë Wicomb's complex and deeply evocative fiction is among the most distinguished recent works of South African women's literature. It is also among the only works of fiction to explore the experience of "Coloured" citizens in apartheid-era South Africa, whose mixed heritage traps them, as Bharati Mukherjee wrote in the New York Times, "in the racial crucible of their country. "Wicomb deserves a wide American audience, on a part with Nadine Gordimer and J.M.Coetzee." - Wall St. Journal Wicomb is a gifted writer, and her compressed narratives work like brilliant splinters in the mind, suggesting a rich rhythm and shape."- Seattle Times "[Wicomb's] prose is vigorous, textured, lyrical. . . . [She] is a sophisticated storyteller who combines the open-endedness of contemporary fiction with the force of autobiography and the simplicity of family stories."-Bharati Mukherjee, New York Times Book Review For course use African literature, African studies, growing up female, world literature, women's studies Zoe Wicomb was born in 1948 and raised in Namaquland, South Africa. After 20 years voluntary exile, she returned to South Africa in 1991 to teach at the University of the Western Cape. She currently lives in Glasgow and teaches at the University of Strathclyde, Scotland. Marcia Wright is professor of history at Columbia University and a member of the executive committee for the Women Writing Africa series. Carol Sicherman is professor emerita of English at Lehman College, CUNY.
Once We Were There - Thryft
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Bernice Chauly | Epigram Books

Once We Were There

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Goodreads rating: 3.28

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Once We Were There by Bernice Chauly is a perfect read for those who like a mix of love, heartbreak, tension, and recovery. The book's unique aspect is its depiction of the dark side of city life, where babies are sold and girls are trafficked. The novel will make the reader feel the pain of losing an innocent child and the struggles of second chances. The book's narrative style is slow, which helps create a profound insight into the lives of the characters. When you finish reading, you will be left feeling stunned at how real the story felt.
Granta 81 - Thryft
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Ian Jack | Granta

Granta 81

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Goodreads rating: 3.63

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As you seek fresh perspectives in contemporary fiction, "Granta 81" stands out as a compilation that captures the early 2000s literary zeitgeist. Woven through the pages are the unique styles and stories of celebrated authors at the dawn of their careers, inviting you to discover the diversity and dynamism that defined a generation of British novelists. This might just be the wellspring of inspiration you've been looking for, especially if you enjoy exploring different authors in one sitting.
Everything Is Illuminated - Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close - Thryft
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This book could be a good read for those who are interested in history and its profound influence on people's lives. Everything Is Illuminated tells the story of a young man's journey to Ukraine to discover the past of his Jewish grandfather, while Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close explores a young boy's journey of healing and self-discovery after losing his father in 9/11. Both stories intertwine in a cleverly crafted narrative that leaves readers with a deep appreciation of the human experience. Jonathan Safran Foer's writing is poignant and thought-provoking, always leaving readers with new questions to explore.
Facing The Light - Thryft
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Adèle Geras | Orion

Facing The Light

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Goodreads rating: 3.56

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"Facing The Light's intricate plot and character development make it a page-turner for those who enjoy family dramas. The book delves into the dark sides of family life, as the secrets of Leonora's past come to light and shake the foundation of her relationships with her daughters. Adele Geras' writing expertly captures the complexity of familial relationships and will leave readers feeling like they know the characters personally."

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.