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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Crazy Rich Asians
Kevin Kwan | Allen & Unwin

Crazy Rich Asians

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Goodreads rating: 3.9

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If you're in the mood for a story that feels like a mix of a glamorous soap opera and a cheeky satire, "Crazy Rich Asians" might just be the next book on your list. You'll dive into a world that's so extravagant it almost feels fictional, only it's not. Kevin Kwan has a way of capturing the extravagance of Singapore's elite with such wit that you'll laugh as much as you'll gasp. It's especially perfect for those who love a good romance with a heavy dose of family drama and cultural clashes.
The Hungry Tide
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Amitav Ghosh | Harper Collins

The Hungry Tide

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Goodreads rating: 3.98

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"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.
Living Next Door To Alice - Thryft
Marisa Mackle | Headline Book Publishing

Living Next Door To Alice

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Goodreads rating: 3.25

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This book is a must-read for those seeking a mix of humor, drama, and personal growth. The unique appeal lies in the clash between Tanya, an ordinary person, and the supermodel Alice, who brings a wave of unexpected chaos to her life. The book beautifully captures the challenges and insecurities we all face, while highlighting the power of embracing our true selves. Get ready for a rollercoaster ride of emotions as you join Tanya on her journey of self-discovery and triumph.
Inheritance From Mother
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Minae Mizumura | Other Press

Inheritance From Mother

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Goodreads rating: 3.79

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If you've ever felt conflicted by familial duty and personal fulfillment, "Inheritance from Mother" resonates deeply. Mizumura's incisive narrative cuts to the heart of generational and cultural expectations, crafting a story that questions societal norms and the intricate roles within family. It's an enlightening read for anyone grappling with their own identity amidst traditional obligations.
he : A Novel - Thryft
John Connolly | Hodder & Stoughton Ltd

he : A Novel

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Goodreads rating: 4.0

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If you're touched by the magic of old Hollywood and the poignant behind-the-scenes lives of its stars, "he" is a must-read. John Connolly dives deep into the heart and soul of Stan Laurel, exploring the complexities of his partnership with Oliver Hardy. It offers both a celebration of artistic genius and a compassionate examination of the private cost of fame. You'll come away feeling like you've glimpsed beneath the surface of these cinematic legends, making your laughter upon watching their films all the more heartfelt.
The Perfect Story - Thryft
Low Kay Hwa | Goody Books Pte Ltd

The Perfect Story

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Goodreads rating: 4.04

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"The Perfect Story" resonates with anyone who appreciates the intense, often isolating pursuit of artistic creation. It delves deep into the psyche of a writer willing to surrender to his craft entirely. If you've ever been captivated by the dedication it takes to create something truly remarkable, you'll find this exploration of obsession and the blurred lines between reality and fiction both unsettling and fascinating.
Colorless Tsukuru Tazaki and His Years of Pilgrimage
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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.
Bloodletting & Miraculous Cures - Stories - Thryft
Vincent Lam | Anchor Canada

Bloodletting & Miraculous Cures - Stories

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Goodreads rating: 3.52

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This book is a must-read for anyone fascinated by the world of medicine. Through interconnected stories, Vincent Lam takes readers on a gripping journey into the lives of medical students and doctors, revealing the challenges, triumphs, and moral dilemmas they face. With a black humor that cuts through the intensity, Lam provides a brutally honest and realistic look into the medical profession, making this book an eye-opening and thought-provoking read.
TransAtlantic - Thryft
Colum McCann | Bloomsbury Publishing Plc

TransAtlantic

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Goodreads rating: 3.82

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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.
The Summons - Thryft
John Grisham | Arrow/children S (a Division Of Random House

The Summons

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Goodreads rating: 3.72

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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.
Taipei
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Tao Lin | Knopf Doubleday Publishing Group

Taipei

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Goodreads rating: 3.33

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"Taipei" might resonate with you if you're drawn to narratives that encapsulate the essence of millennial anxiety and the search for meaning in a hyperconnected world. Tao Lin crafts a story that's at once a candid portrayal of modern relationships and a broader commentary on contemporary life's peculiar mix of ennui and excess. The novel's raw honesty and Tao Lin's distinctive prose could give you a new lens through which to view the ordinary and the profound.
Surveillance: A Novel - Thryft
Jonathan Raban | Pantheon

Surveillance: A Novel

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Goodreads rating: 2.79

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"Surveillance" might speak to you if you're intrigued by the tension between personal freedom and societal security — a theme that's only grown more relevant since 9/11. Jonathan Raban crafts a story that dives into the life of a journalist and single mother navigating this transforming world. It's darkly humorous and offers astute commentary on contemporary society, perfect for readers who appreciate a blend of wit and critical insight.
When We Were Orphans
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Kazuo Ishiguro | Faber & Faber

When We Were Orphans

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Goodreads rating: 3.53

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This book is a captivating exploration of identity and memory. Through the lens of a detective story, Ishiguro delves into the complexities of personal history and the unreliability of our own recollections. The protagonist's relentless pursuit to uncover the truth about his parents' disappearance is a gripping and emotionally-charged journey that will leave readers contemplating the nature of self-discovery and the impact of unresolved mysteries.
Paris Trance - Thryft
Geoff Dyer | Abacus

Paris Trance

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Goodreads rating: 3.64

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If you've ever fantasized about an intoxicating life abroad filled with deep connections and a touch of hedonism, "Paris Trance" could be your next escape. The narrative captures the vibrant pulse of Paris through the experiences of two expat couples, delving deep into friendship, love, and the inevitable consequences of living on the edge. Geoff Dyer's prose invites you into a dreamlike state where the lines between reality and desire blur, capturing the essence of youth and its vibrant recklessness.
Lesson in Violence - Thryft
Jordan Harper | Simon & Schuster Ltd

Lesson in Violence

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Goodreads rating: 4.04

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If you’re intrigued by gritty tales of resilience, "Lesson in Violence" could captivate you. The raw emotion and survival instincts in the father-daughter relationship are electrifying, and Polly's unique perspective adds a poignant depth. As they navigate a merciless world, their developing bond is both heart-wrenching and intensely thrilling, making this a hard-hitting page-turner you're likely to remember.
River angel - Thryft
A. Manette Ansay | William Morrow

River angel

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Goodreads rating: 3.53

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"River Angel" isn't just another book; it's a journey into the complexities of belief and the ways a single event can ripple through an entire community. If you're searching for a read that combines mystery with a deep dive into human relationships and spirituality, A. Manette Ansay's nuanced treatment of these themes will surely captivate you. It's for anyone looking to ponder the presence of miracles in our modern world.
Waiting - Thryft
Ha Jin | Vintage Books

Waiting

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Goodreads rating: 3.54

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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.
Yellow Dog - Thryft
Martin Amis | Vintage

Yellow Dog

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Goodreads rating: 2.79

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For those with a taste for the edgier side of literature, "Yellow Dog" by Martin Amis might just hit the spot. It dives deep into the psyche of its characters, uncovering the murky depths of human flaws against a backdrop of societal dysfunction. It's unflinching, thought-provoking, and laced with a biting humor that challenges you to look at the world and its moral compass from a tilted perspective.
Vinegar Hill - Thryft
A. Manette Ansay | Harper Perennial

Vinegar Hill

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Goodreads rating: 3.39

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"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.
The Wonder Spot - Thryft
Melissa Bank | Viking Adult

The Wonder Spot

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Goodreads rating: 3.31

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Struggling with ambivalent feelings toward the passions and identities that are important to other members of her Jewish Pennsylvania family, Sophie Applebaum makes observations about her family life over the course of twenty years. By the author of The Girls' Guide to Hunting and Fishing. 300,000 first printing.
Evidence - Thryft
Jonathan Kellerman | Headline Publishing Group

Evidence

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Goodreads rating: 3.89

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If you're into crime novels that make you feel like you're unraveling a high-stakes puzzle, "Evidence" by Jonathan Kellerman might just be your next page-turner. Kellerman knows his craft and takes you deep into the lives of the impossibly rich with a twisty plot that keeps the truth just out of reach until the very end. It's not just about the who-done-it; it's the insightful peeks into human psychology and society that make Alex and Milo's journey a compelling read.
Notes from an Exhibition - Thryft
Patrick Gale | Tinder Press

Notes from an Exhibition

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Goodreads rating: 3.87

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"Notes from an Exhibition" is a captivating read. It delves into the enigmatic life of Rachel Kelly, oscillating between her brilliant artistry and her personal trials. Gale masterfully explores the aftermath of her death through the eyes of her family, revealing the powerful impact of Rachel's life on her loved ones. It's both a celebration of creative passion and a poignant family drama, promising an emotive journey through the canvas of human experience.
All Days Are Night - Thryft
Peter Stamm | Granta Books

All Days Are Night

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Goodreads rating: 3.16

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If the themes of resilience and the search for meaning in the wake of a life-altering event resonate with you, then Peter Stamm's "All Days Are Night" could be a compelling read. Stamm's unadorned prose cuts to the heart of human experience, reflecting on beauty and loss in a way that's as stark as it is beautiful. As you follow Gillian through her journey of reconstruction, you might find a deep appreciation for the fragile and intricate nature of rebuilding one's life.
Ghost Girl, Banana
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Wiz Wharton | Hodder & Stoughton

Ghost Girl, Banana

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Goodreads rating: 4.04

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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.
Frankie & Stankie
Barbara Trapido | Penguin

Frankie & Stankie

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Goodreads rating: 3.62

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"Frankie & Stankie" is not just a window into the past struggles against racial injustice—it's a vibrant portal. As you follow Dinah and Lisa on their journey from innocence to a more acute awareness of their society's deep-seated inequalities, you experience the paradox of growing up in a world where the division of race is stark but the spirit of youth is universal. This novel's honest portrayal of childhood amidst social turmoil is both poignant and illuminating, perfect for those who appreciate historical depth woven seamlessly with personal growth.
A Prisoner of Birth
Jeffrey Archer | Pan Macmillan

A Prisoner of Birth

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Goodreads rating: 4.19

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"A Prisoner of Birth" isn't just a gripping legal drama; it's a rollercoaster ride through the British justice system that keeps you rooting for the underdog. Archer weaves a tale of stark contrasts: privilege versus poverty, power versus helplessness. But at its heart, it's the indomitable human spirit fighting for truth and revenge that makes this book more than just a story—it's an experience of resilience that stays with you.
Hullabaloo in the Guava Orchard - Thryft
Desai | Gardners Vi Books Ams006

Hullabaloo in the Guava Orchard

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Goodreads rating: 3.47

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If you're into novels that mix humor with a touch of the magical, "Hullabaloo in the Guava Orchard" could be your next favorite escape. Kiran Desai crafts a world where the ordinary twists into the extraordinary, creating a delightful commentary on society and human nature. It's perfect if you need a good laugh blended with insightful observations of life in a small Indian community, all set under the canopy of a guava tree.
Snow Queen The
Michael Cunningham | Farrar, Straus And Giroux

Snow Queen The

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Goodreads rating: 3.08

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If you enjoy delving into the complexities of the human soul and the pursuit of something greater amidst the struggles of life, "The Snow Queen" by Michael Cunningham might just resonate with you. It's not just about the brush with the divine or the gritty reality of urban life; it's about the characters' deeply personal journeys towards understanding, making it a meaningful read that could leave you contemplating long after the final page.
Street Lawyer - Thryft
John Grisham | Doubleday

Street Lawyer

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Goodreads rating: 3.88

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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.
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 Forgotten Affairs of Youth							- The Isabel Dalhousie Novels - Thryft
Alexander McCall Smith | Abacus

The Forgotten Affairs of Youth - The Isabel Dalhousie Novels

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Goodreads rating: 3.9

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For those who relish a blend of philosophy with their mysteries, Isabel Dalhousie's character will likely charm you. Each page of "The Forgotten Affairs of Youth" is a window into Isabel's nuanced moral world, giving the detective genre a contemplative, almost genteel twist. Alexander McCall Smith’s storytelling here is as much about internal landscapes as external intrigue, creating a reading experience that satisfies both the intellect and the heart.
Serious Men - Thryft
Manu Joseph | Harper Collins

Serious Men

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Goodreads rating: 3.77

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"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.
The Chocolate Lovers' Wedding
Carole Matthews | Sphere

The Chocolate Lovers' Wedding

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Goodreads rating: 4.28

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If you’re a romantic at heart who cherishes stories where friendship and love intertwine with life's complexities, “The Chocolate Lovers' Wedding” would be a delightful treat. Carole Matthews has a knack for creating relatable characters whose personal struggles and joys will resonate with you. It's as comforting and uplifting as a good talk over a cup of hot cocoa with your best friends, which could be exactly the warm embrace you're looking for in a read.
Bornholm Night-Ferry - Thryft
Aidan Higgins | Dalkey Archive Press

Bornholm Night-Ferry

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Goodreads rating: 3.58

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"Bornholm Night-Ferry" offers a deep dive into the complex emotions and turbulent realities of a secret affair. The poignancy of love too intense for everyday life is revealed through beautifully penned letters and fleeting encounters. It's an intimate exploration of illicit romance that carries the weight of both its passion and its consequences. If the raw intricacies of human relationships captivate you, this book's lyrical prose and haunting storyline promise a compelling read.
Pure
Andrew Miller | Sceptre

Pure

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Goodreads rating: 3.6

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"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.
Stand By Me - Thryft
S.D. Robertson | Avon

Stand By Me

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Goodreads rating: 3.96

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This book is a heartwarming tale that explores the power of friendship and its ability to endure even the toughest of times. It beautifully portrays the bond between Lisa and Elliot, reminding us of the importance of having someone who always has our back. The emotional journey of these characters will leave you with a tear in your eye, but also a renewed sense of hope and the value of true friendship. A perfect read for those who appreciate stories about enduring connections and the resilience of the human spirit.
Thirst for Love
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Alfred H. Marks, Yukio Mishima  | Vintage Classic

Thirst for Love

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Goodreads rating: 3.64

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"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.
挪威的森林
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If you're seeking a book that wraps you in the intimate struggles and emotional landscapes of youth, "Norwegian Wood" is a beautiful choice. Murakami's prose invites you into a delicate world of love, nostalgia, and the pains of growing up. It's a compelling narrative that offers a blend of melancholy and beauty that has the power to linger in your thoughts long after you've turned the last page.
The Untouchable
John Banville | Picador

The Untouchable

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Goodreads rating: 3.94

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If you're drawn to the shadowy world of spies and the complexities of loyalty, "The Untouchable" will grip you. Its web of intrigue and Banville's literary finesse make it a standout read. Peeling back layers of a double life, it's for the reader who thrives on depth and the thrill of deceit. The prose alone, with its almost poetic quality, is worth the journey through this treacherous landscape.
Western Lane
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Chetna Maroo | Picador

Western Lane

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Goodreads rating: 3.5

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Empty string
A Horse Walks Into a Bar
Jessica Cohen, David Grossman  | Vintage Publishing

A Horse Walks Into a Bar

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Goodreads rating: 3.52

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Imagine a stand-up set unfurling into an unexpected narrative pulling you deep into the troubled psyche of a comic. Grossman's mastery lies in blending laugh-out-loud moments with a dive into somber childhood memories. As you encounter Dov's life through his raw, almost frenzied performance, you'll find yourself enveloped not just in his humor, but in a moving tale of survival and memory. It's a book that beckons the empathetic reader, promising an experience both profound and jarring.
The Field - Thryft
Robert Seethaler | Picador

The Field

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Goodreads rating: 3.52

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"The Field" brings a poignant exploration of existence through voices that no longer walk among us. It's a touching mosaic of memories, each unique and deeply human, composing the narrative of an entire community. Imagine a book where the past echoes alongside the present, stitching together the fabric of an entire town through whispers from beyond the veil; that's the haunting beauty of Seethaler's writing.
The Rice Mother
Rani Manicka | Hodder

The Rice Mother

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Goodreads rating: 4.16

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"The Rice Mother" unfolds as richly as a tapestry, with Lakshmi's poignant story etching itself into your heart. As you turn each page, you'll find yourself steeped in the vivid cultural backdrop of Malaya, wrestling with the complexities of familial devotion and the harsh realities of poverty. It's a narrative that's as resilient and powerful as the matriarch it portrays, sure to resonate with anyone who appreciates family epics told with raw honesty and lush detail.
Girl in Hyacinth Blue
Susan Vreeland | Macmurray & Beck

Girl in Hyacinth Blue

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Goodreads rating: 3.74

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If you've ever felt captivated by the mysterious aura that surrounds a piece of art, "Girl in Hyacinth Blue" is for you. Susan Vreeland skillfully intertwines the past and present, reflecting on the profound impact art can have on various lives across centuries. Each story surrounding this painting is a brushstroke in an elaborate canvas, painting how beauty and humanity persist despite adversity. It’s a compelling voyage through time, and with every page, you might find a bit of yourself within the colors of this literary masterpiece.
Blessings - Thryft
Anna Quindlen | Random House

Blessings

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Goodreads rating: 3.63

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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.
Do Not Say We Have Nothing
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Madeleine Thien | Granta Books

Do Not Say We Have Nothing

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Goodreads rating: 3.92

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"Do Not Say We Have Nothing" might resonate deeply if you're intrigued by the personal sagas set against momentous historical events. Madeleine Thien masterfully intertwines music and silence, giving you a read that feels like a haunting melody about devotion and survival amidst the turbulent waves of China's Cultural Revolution. It's an emotionally rich journey that has captured the hearts of readers, evidenced by its Man Booker Prize shortlist recognition.
Diary of a Madman and Other Stories

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If you've ever wanted to delve into the influential mind that shaped modern Chinese literature, this is your chance. Lu Xun's stories are rich with piercing wit and a deep understanding of the human condition. The translation captures the essence of his irony and style, making these classic tales resonate with contemporary readers and offering a keen insight into China's cultural shifts.
What I Did: A Novel
Christopher Wakling | William Morrow

What I Did: A Novel

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Goodreads rating: 3.36

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"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.
Dancer
Colum McCann | Phoenix

Dancer

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Goodreads rating: 3.94

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"Dancer" artfully weaves the grace and intensity of ballet with the poignant journey of Rudolf Nureyev, a master of movement who leapt beyond the confines of his circumstances. Colum McCann's skillful prose lifts Nureyev's story off the pages, making it a dance in itself. If you're drawn to narratives of perseverance, artistry, and the complex sacrifices for excellence, this novel will resonate deeply with you.
The State We're In: Maine Stories - Thryft
Ann Beattie | Scribner

The State We're In: Maine Stories

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Goodreads rating: 3.02

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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.

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.